INSIDE: Remembering the first lady of Wonderland Park, Alethea Roads SEE PAGE 41 TM & ©2016 Amusement Today, Inc.

September 2016 | Vol. 20 • Issue 6.1 www.amusementtoday.com Indiana Beach Boardwalk Resort on the upswing under Apex Parks Group 4SEE PAGE 26

RMC Lightning Rod blazes new terrain at Dollywood AT: B. Derek Shaw Pete Owens, director of com- [email protected] munications for the Dollywood Companies. He continued, “In PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. Lightning Rod we achieved two — After numerous setbacks, — first wooden launch coaster Lightning Rod appears to have and fastest wooden coaster.” opened at Dollywood. Most When asked why this type of recently, park officials have roller coaster was selected, Ow- described the wooden launch ens said, “Thematically, a wood coaster's status as being in “tech- coaster made the most sense, nical ride rehearsal” (an op- and the design best utilized the erational mode that lets riders unique terrain we have in the know that they will have an op- best way. The launch and the col- portunity to ride, however the lection of elements in this ride ride might close to allow adjust- design were all factors.” ment for optimal operation). Rocky Mountain Construc- Dollywood’s planning cycle tion was the manufacturer of typically starts about two years choice due to its track record of The control system por- before a new ride attraction innovative designs. “RMC’s pat- tion of the new attraction was Lightning Rod riders are opens. Jukebox Junction was the ented track technology and the handled by Irvine Ondrey Engi- blasted up a 200-foot-tall location in the park that was se- capability it adds to the design neering. “We had been in touch hill before racing along lected. Amusement Today asked elements, were key factors,” Ow- with Rocky Mountain Construc- 3,800 feet of hillside track why that particular location: ens said. “If you add Alan Schil- tion since IAAPA the year before at speeds of up to 75 mph. “We were looking for a ride that ke’s knowledge of our park (he on their need of a control system COURTESY DOLLYWOOD; would fit the 1950s theme of the designed Tennessee Tornado for engineering firm. And given the BOBBY NAGY area, provide a family thrill expe- Arrow) and his understanding of size of the project, and the desire rience and would bring another what we wanted to provide our 4See DOLLYWOOD, page 4 superlative to the park,” said customer, RMC was the choice.”

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MAILBAG FLINT’S VIEW: Bubba Flint Polin issues open letter to industry friends This note has one purpose: to deliver our endless thanks to you. Most days, our team works on creating experiences that we hope make YOU — and your guests — smile. But, over the last few days, it was YOU working to make US smile. And, for that, we are incredibly grateful. Your outpouring of concern and compassion regarding our safety during the mid-July uprising events in Turkey gave us great hope and optimism for the future — not only for our country but for the world as a whole. As a company, we've always believed strongly in peace, democracy and human rights. We are thankful to report that all members of the Polin team are safe. As we face the future, your kindhearted messages will remind us of the many wonderful people who share our vision for a future of peace and hopefulness. You give us strength to remain focused on our goal of bringing joy to people's lives and delivering posi- tive, happy experiences. We are so proud to have developed such a large number of strong friendships with good people in countries all over the world. We know that no matter what our different cul- tures or locales, we are all connected through our hopes, our be- liefs for a better, peaceful world and single-minded hearts. We remain committed to our promise of offering the best products and service to you all — our thousands of past partners, current partners and future partners all over the world — and we will be working even harder to build a better world for everyone INDUSTRY OPINION: Andrew Mellor, [email protected] with whatever means we have. Again, thank you for your messages, e-mails and generous ges- Thanks for the bathtub memories tures of kindness. We are so grateful to have you in our world. Change is a fact of life and we all face of thousands of visitors who have fond Kind regards, it in many different ways as the years go by. memories of enjoying trips in its bob- The Polin Team, Kocaeli Dilovasi, Turkey It’s something the theme park and attrac- bing bathtubs. • tions industry witnesses constantly, too, as First opened in 1990 and manufac- Mark Moore's ASTM contributions remembered each year parks add new attractions, rede- tured by Mack Rides, Bubbleworks has Gary, velop whole areas or renew and revitalize since completed over 15 million circuits I just read my hard copy of AT and enjoyed reading your edito- different facilities. and welcomed over 32 million people rial on Mark Moore’s passing and his industry contributions. I got to A surefire fact in the industry is that Mellor aboard its bathtub-themed boats, im- know Mark at ASTM meetings and his task group, which was formed rides come and go. Some last for many, pressive figures in anyone’s book. to bring about training standards in this industry. I hope his hard work many years, indeed in some cases for decades, But after 26 years it’s probably time to call and dedication will continue by someone who is equally as passion- while others, for whatever reason, have shorter it a day. Of course, something new and I’m sure ate about amusement ride training as Mark was and new ASTM stan- life spans in their original homes before being re- equally as enjoyable will replace it in the near fu- dard on this subject get consensus approval by the members. moved and maybe reinstalled elsewhere. What- ture. As with any such ride, and particularly those Thank you, ever the reasons behind an attraction’s removal, that have been operating for so long and have Robert W. Johnson, President it is often a sad time for many guests who have become somewhat iconic, it’s a shame but it’s a Outdoor Amusement Business Association, Inc. ridden a ride over the years, perhaps when they fact of life that things eventually need updating • were younger with their parents and now as par- and, in this industry for certain, replacing or at MAILBAG POLICY ents themselves with their own kids. least renewing in some way (Bubbleworks was in A case in point that recently came to the fore fact revamped 10 years ago when a new sponsor Amusement Today welcomes letters from our readers. Please is a ride at Chessington World of Adventures in got involved with the ride). send letter to: Amusement Today, P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas the U.K. The park announced that the popular So on behalf of all those millions of guests 76005-5427. Letter may also be emailed to: gslade@amusement- Bubbleworks dark water ride, originally called who have ridden this fun ride over the years, today.com. Please include your name, address and current email Professor Burp’s Bubbleworks, is to close at the thanks for the memories and here’s looking for- address so we can contact you for a clarification if needed. Letters end of this season, much to the disappointment ward to whatever will replace it. may be condensed and edited for style, content and usage.

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Amusement Today is an independent, privately- Founder, Publisher and Editor Social Media & Editorial Print Issue & Extra Extra owned trade newspaper published 14 times Gary Slade • (817) 460-7220 x3 Dean Lamanna Desktop Edition Production per year by Amusement Today Inc., P.O. Box [email protected] [email protected] John Robinson • (513) 256-1441 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005. Print issues are [email protected] $50 per year and are mailed Presort Standard Postage (permit No. 2069) Pre-Paid Fort Worth, Accounting & Classified Editorial Texas. The entire contents of this newspaper, Sammy Piccola • (817) 460-7220 x1 Tim Baldwin Website Maintenance and its related websites, are Copyrighted and [email protected] [email protected] Stacey Childress Trademarked 2016 by Amusement Today Inc., [email protected] all rights reserved. Advertising B. Derek Shaw • (717) 650-8330 Sue Nichols • (615) 477-5432 [email protected] Association Memberships Address: P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas [email protected] AIMS International, IAAPA, IISF, IRT/iROC, 76005-5427, USA Pam Sherborne • (615) 308-3310 NAARSO, NEAAPA, NJAA, OABA, PAPA, Deliveries: 2012 E. Randol Mill Road #203, [email protected] PACE, TTIA, WWA Arlington, Texas 76011, USA Special Projects & Editorial Phone: (817) 460-7220 Jeffrey Seifert • (817) 460-7220 x2 Monthly Contributors Industry Affiliated Charities Fax: (817) 265-NEWS (6397) [email protected] Dan Feicht, Bubba Flint, Andrew Mellor, Give Kids the World Village, Web Sites: www.AmusementToday.com, Richard Munch, Janice Witherow Morgan's Wonderland, www.GoldenTicketAwards.com National Roller Coaster Museum & Archives September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3 THIS MONTH MINUTE IN HISTORY Presented by the National Rollercoaster Museum DRILL COMPILED: Richard Munch 2 COMPILED: Janice Witherow Timo Klaus, KumbaK – The Amusement Engineers SEPTEMBER For Timo Klaus, the transition from working in the wind turbine •1900: An article in the Washington Post on September 30 high- industry to being employed in the lighted the U.S. Patent Office, in Washington D.C., where thou- amusement industry was a natural sands were lining up to complete paperwork to register their inven- progression. In 2000, Timo was tions. It suggested that "the Patent Office was the Mecca of many one of the founders of the Dutch odd geniuses. More extraordinary members of society turn up at company KumbaK, and he is able the Patent Office in one hour than in all the other public buildings to use his vast experience in tech- nical improvements, maintenance of the city in a month. They hail from all parts of the globe." Some and inspection of large and com- of the inventions noted in 1900 included a cow milking machine, ice plicated technical equipment to chipping devices, hair restorers, a rapid butter cutter, various toys, provide specialized support to the ink that doesn’t dry up, portable egg beaters and of course unique amusement industry. He also cur- and novel Scenic Railways. Since the 1870s, beside the hundreds rently serves as the President of of roller coaster related patents, thousands of other patents have the board of directors for AIMS Executive VP Timo Klaus being interviewed by Telegraaf been submitted that cover amusement devices from Carousels to International. Timo’s pleasant de- TV in the KumbaK trade show booth. COURTESY KUMBAK meanor, responsiveness and tech- Ferris Wheels to portable carnival rides. nical expertise make him a tremendous asset to the and Autumn (and Spring) provide those perfect many industry efforts and projects he is involved with. days. In addition, I like the changing of the colors •1927: Considered the last of Traver’s triplets built during the sum- of the trees and the fact that nights are getting mer of 1927, the Traver Engineering Company opened their last Title... Executive Vice President. colder giving me the opportunity to light the coaster of the year on September 10, at Palisades Amusement fireplace. Number of years in the indus- Park in Fort Lee, N.J. Christened the Cyclone, it would be Harry try... Biggest pet peeve... G. Traver’s fourth installment of the year, and the company’s most Since January of 2000, so 16 People not using their natural senses and ability to difficult design challenge. Under the supervision of James Mitchell, and a half years. talk, but only using their telephones for all commu- nications and experiences. multiple delays in building the ride continued to move the opening Best thing about the industry... further into summer. At 106 feet tall, with nine curved drops, it op- Working with the friendly, The sport I enjoy playing the most is… erated into October before the season ended, then only sporadi- professional and safety-driven Klaus I only just started, but I really like playing golf. cally over the next five seasons. It was advertised for sale in 1933 people in our industry to bring the best possible experiences to our guests. All-time favorite sitcom... after a small fire. Even though the great ride never operated to its Difficult choice, but I guess the answer would be full potential, it is still considered the most intense roller coaster Favorite amusement park ride... “Friends.” Although, I also remember having ever operated at the park. Of note: a local couple rode the ride 23 A fast, preferably non-looping, coaster (steel or watched “M*A*S*H” many, many times. Would times in a row on opening day. wooden). “The Muppets” also classify as a sitcom? If so, that would make the decision even more difficult. If I wasn’t working in the amusement industry, I •1946: The Los Angeles Times newspaper cover story on Septem- would be… Of the Seven Wonders of the World, the one I ber 23 spotlighted the ongoing demolition of the amusement park Then I think I might still be working in the wind would most like to see is… and pier in Venice, Calif. The article "Playland of the Past becom- turbine industry. I worked in this industry, being re- I visited the Colosseum in Rome, which truly is an sponsible for sales and services, in The Netherlands impressive building and which I definitely would ing dust and rumble" suggested that ghosts were stalking the pier for a big Danish manufacturer from 1994 want to see again. Of the other six, I think the as demolition progressed. The article referred to the late Abbot until the end of 1999. Great Wall of China remains the most impressive Kinney who had built the Venice amusement pier in 1906. It sug- human built structure. gested that none of the mystic crystal ball gazers among its con- Biggest challenge facing our industry... Because of the ever-changing guest expecta- Best fast food... cessionaires predicted that 40 years later wrecking crews would be tions and guest behavior, more sophisticated and None. I prefer “slow cooking.” Nothing fast when tearing down what had been erected at the cost of millions. Today complicated ride and safety systems are required. it comes to food. Best things for me are stews that only three seaside resorts remain on the west coast in Santa Cruz, Finding the people to create, maintain and operate take many, many hours to simmer to perfection. Santa Monica and San Diego. these systems safely is a huge challenge. Favorite Prince song... The thing I like most about amusement/water I don’t know that many songs by Prince, but I do •1959: Of all Nikita Khrushchev's requests during his tour of the park season is… like “Purple Rain.” U.S., the one that perhaps struck the most common chord was his All the activity and happy faces. desire to visit Disneyland, in Anaheim, Calif. On September 19 the I get most of my daily news from… The best summer movie I saw was… Internet. I read my newspaper and business news Russian Premier would discover that his wish would not be grant- I liked the new Jungle Book; animation was of a all from the internet. ed, based on security concerns. To this day no one knows if Walt superb quality. Disney himself denied the leader visitation, but it was likely some- If I had one extra hour in the day, I would… thing that angered Khrushchev and his entourage as witnessed by Favorite pizza topping... Spend it with my family. I’m not a pizza lover, but I think I would stop eating some of Hollywood’s biggest names during a luncheon at Twenti- Take your pick: fruit or vegetables? pizza altogether if the tomato sauce was skipped. eth-Century Fox Studios. Naturally newspapers and news outlets Vegetables, although pineapple and mango are around the world played the denial up with great headlines, like The aisle I find myself in most often at the gro- very tempting to me. The New York Times which quipped: The Never-Never Land that cery store is… The vegetables, I think. Although the meat and If I could travel anywhere in the world, it would Khrushchev Never Saw. fish areas are also very interesting. And then don’t be to… forget the wine aisles. Probably the most interest- My job brought me to many places in the world •1977: A major storm ripped through Fairyland Park in Kansas and I would love to return to many of them to actu- ing because of the variety of choices. City, Mo. on September 15, causing extensive damage to the 54 ally enjoy and experience together with my wife. year old park. The park had been losing its battle with the newly The book I am reading right now is… However, a must-see for me would be seeing the I just re-read Pillars of the Earth and started read- Northern Lights. opened Worlds of Fun park just north of the city and the Brancato ing the Harry Potter series again immediately after. family made the decision to close the park. This included its steel When I want some peace and quiet, I go… I just finished number four and am now reading framed wooden roller coaster, the Wildcat, which had opened in I find my peace and quiet at home. Now that the number five,Order of the Phoenix. What a kids left our home, it actually sometimes is too quiet. 1967 under the design/build team of Aurel Vaszin and Edward beautiful imaginary (?) world! Leis. Later, members of the American Coaster Enthusiasts, led The household I chore I least enjoy is… It’s September! As summer winds down, I look by Gary Slade, successfully influenced management at Frontier forward to… I really don’t know. I know what I like most: cooking. City, in Oklahoma City, Ok., to move the decaying ride. Utilizing The autumn. Summer is nice, but I find it too hot My nickname growing up was… the genius of John Pierce, rebuilding began in 1989, and the roller most of the days. I prefer 20 to 25 degrees Celsius “Bolle” in primary school; I was a little chubby. coaster would reopen in 1991, under the familiar name: Wildcat. 4 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016 DOLLYWOOD communication took a bit of ex- •Upon cresting the hill, rid- Continued from page 1 perimentation once we were on ers slide into a false drop, crest site, but we were able to get that the next hill and then drop 165 to get the full design team ready set.” feet. They reach the top speed of early, we were selected for the Owens discussed the ups 73 mph at the bottom of the drop job,” explained Brian Ondrey, and downs of getting this project and immediately cross over the P.E., president of the firm. This finished. “There were some chal- track and move up into an over- was their first project with Rocky lenges to the project. First, there banked wave turn where riders Mountain Construction. Ondrey was a very aggressive timeline float off their seat and then exit had worked with Dollywood for a ‘first-of-its-kind’ coaster. the curve, dropping and crossing in the past on the Thunderhead Second, the terrain in which the under the track. Here, they climb project. ride is located was challenging into an overbanked left-hand Irvine Ondrey Engineering for the foundation and construc- turn and then immediately roll had a significant role in the ven- tion teams. Third, the manufac- over to a right-hand overbank. ture. “Our portion of the Light- turer applied ground-breaking The crest of an airtime bump ning Rod project was providing technology never before used on Riders on Dollywood's new Lighting Rod experience near- and cross over of the bottom of the designs, equipment, sensors, a wooden coaster. There are in- the lift-hill are next before enter- ly 20 seconds of airtime during their ride. The $22 million and programming for control- herent challenges to being first, ing the quadruple down which wooden launch coaster is located in the Juke Box Junction ling all of the motors and brakes but the result is an amazing ride wraps around the hill. section of the park and is themed to the hot rod craze of the on the ride. In addition, our sys- experience for the guest that is •A final crossing under the tem needed to interface with the smooth, fast and full of airtime. 1950s. COURTESY DOLLYWOOD; BOBBY NAGY lift hill leads to a non-inverted launching system to send com- Now that the ride is open, the frame a picture in which Light- tory that serve as the ride’s queue half-loop which turns upright mands and receive feedback for reviews by our guests are exem- ning Rod is the fastest hot rod buildings,” related Owens. and slides into the brake run the launch,” said Ondrey. plary.” in the area — fast as lightning. What’s a typical ride cy- completes the ride. The ride was not without its Rocky Mountain Construc- The area is an homage to Dolly’s cle like? Owens gave AT these “This project took a monu- pre-opening challenges as On- tion owner Fred Grubb said, “The hometown in late 1950s,” said points: mental amount of effort from drey relates, “Any time you are opening was pushed back due to Owens. The area is complete •After Revere’s Service everyone involved and we were dealing with a prototype, there getting the launch tuned. This is with the Pines Theatre, Red’s Station, oncoming riders enter thrilled to have been a part of it,” are challenges. For us on this a new and innovative ride, the Diner and an attraction called Lightning Rod for a speed trial. said Ondrey. He continued, “Pro- project, we had two main chal- first of its kind. When you design Rockin’ Roadway (a Morgan Here, they are seated, put on a totypes in general will require lenges. We were working with and build the first, there can and electric car ride themed in 1950s racing seat belt, pull the lap re- more time and effort to complete, a new manufacturer for us, and will be things that need tuning style classic cars). The theming straint down and hold on! but it was totally worth it hearing we had to work out the details and tweaking.” has elements that reflect stories •Riders hear the engine cheers and applause from each on the communication with the The name Lightning Rod fits from Dolly’s childhood and pro- racing and as the train reaches train coming into the station dur- launching system. We found out into the feel of the Jukebox Junc- vide a step back in time for park the bottom of the hill, the LSM ing the technical rehearsal.” quickly though, the RMC team tion section of the park, “The sto- guests. “Lightning Rod adds an- launch pushes the train up the “Dollywood has been a very was easy and a lot of fun to work ryline that is focused on the Hot other piece to that theme with a 200-foot lift hill to the top of a good partner to build new inno- with. The launching system Rod culture in the 1950s and 60s new service station and auto fac- ridge at 45 mph. vation,” said Grubb. September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5 6 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016 September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7 INTERNATIONAL

 Phantasialand opens new themed world, multi-launch coaster, family coaster — Pages 10 & 11 Wildfire spreads its thrills at Sweden’s Kolmården Park turned to (433 feet) above sea level, a top speed of 113 kmh (71 Rocky Mountain mph) and an almost verti- cal free fall. Ride time is for unique thriller two minutes and it features AT: Andrew Mellor three inversions, a maximum [email protected] height of 57 meters (187 feet) and a 50 meter (164 foot) KOLMÅRDEN, Sweden plunge at an angle of 83 de- — June witnessed the open- grees. ing of a unique new roller “Wildfire is what we call coaster when the Swedish a ‘mega coaster.’ It’s extreme- park Kolmården, part of the ly big, fast and nerve-shred- Parks and Resorts group, de- ding,” says Fred Grubb, buted its latest major attrac- founder of Rocky Mountain tion, Wildfire. Construction. “It’s the only The spectacular wooden one of its kind anywhere coaster, designed and built in Europe. The challenge by the U.S. company Rocky of building in Kolmården’s Mountain Construction unique natural setting was (RMC) in conjunction with to adapt the ride to the sur- Vekoma Rides, is the fastest rounding terrain. Our new and second-highest wooden rail design for wooden roller coaster in Europe and fea- coasters makes it possible to tures a host of elements that build under these conditions Wildfire has been built into the stunning terrain at Sweden's Kolmården, which adds to the are now thrilling and ex- like never before. Wildfire is relentless excitement of the coaster's 1,300-meter-long track layout. COURTESY KOLMÅRDEN citing guests as they travel going to set records in the along its 1,300-meter-long roller coaster world.” lows for various features that that the dream of Wildfire try and we’ve done it,” said (4,265-foot) track in what is Wildfire is the first roller had previously only been could be made a reality. Parks and Resorts owner Jo- surely one of the most spec- coaster to be built by RMC possible with steel rails, in- That was a fantastic feeling han Tidstrand. tacular locations possible for outside the U.S. and has been cluding the aforementioned and together we’ve created Wildfire is located- be a roller coaster. made from Swedish wood. It inversions. the greatest wooden roller tween Safari and Marine With views out over the is also the company’s longest “After a number of meet- coaster the world has ever World and represents an in- Baltic Sea, Wildfire offers a ever and the new rail design ings with Rocky Mountain seen. The vision was to set vestment of SEK 135 million breathtaking ride 132 meters incorporated into the ride al- Construction, we realized the benchmark for the indus- (U.S. $15.6 million).

Wildfire features a 50 meter drop at 83 degrees and takes riders through three inversions.COURTESY KOLMÅRDEN 8 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016 INTERNATIONAL BRIEFS Shanghai to host 2017 Asian Attractions Expo SHANGHAI, China — The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) announced Asian Attractions Expo 2017 will take place at the Sands Expo and Convention Center at Marina Bay Sands Singapore June 13-16, 2017. Asian Attractions Expo is the largest conference and trade show for the multibillion-dollar attractions industry in Asia attracting more than 8,000 participants from 65 countries across the globe.

The Parisian Macao opening date set MACAO — Sands China Ltd. (HKSE: 1928), the majority- held subsidiary of global integrated resort developer Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE: LVS), announced on July 26 that its elegant French-themed property, The Parisian Macao, will open its doors on Sept. 13, 2016. The launch of the newest addition to the Sands China Ltd portfolio of properties on the Cotai Strip marks yet another major milestone in the company's efforts to support Macao's develop- ” ment as a world center of tourism and leisure. The Parisian Ma- cao brings Sands China's total Macao investment to more than d U.S. $13 billion (MOP 104 billion) to date. l Inspired by the magic and wonder of the famed City of O Light, The Parisian Macao prominently features a half-scale au- L thentic recreation of the Eiffel Tower. The property's full array of e t u integrated resort facilities includes 3,000 guestrooms and suites, s b “ m convention and meeting space, international restaurants, spa, re o kids' club, health club, pool deck and Aqua World themed water at N he r park, 1,200-seat theatre, among other amenities. Its retail mall, ne e F w l w s. Shoppes at Parisian, will offer the latest in fashion and couture ife Rideons into your attracti in a setting reminiscent of the streets of Paris, with an eclectic mix of street artists and entertainers heightening the authentic KumbaK is specialized in the experience. upgrading of existing amusement rides and solving technical problems of all types – whether it be to increase safety, reduce costs of ownership, or to bring a new ride experience to your guests for minimal expense.

Please come and visit us at the EAS 2016 in Barcelona Booth 1158 to see how we can help you!

Aqua World water park, located within the new Parisian Macao, opens on Sept. 13. It is a subsidiary of Sands China Ltd. COURTESY PARISIAN MACAO

MCC Group named to park construction team JAKARTA, Indonesia — MNC Land, a property develop- er in Indonesia, has signed an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) Framework Agreement with one of China’s biggest construction conglomerates, the China Metallurgical Corporation (MCC) Group, for the design and build of a world- class integrated theme park resort in Lido, Bogor. MNC Land also received a Letter of Interest from the Chinese Export and Credit Insurance Corporation (SINOSURE), paving the way for project financing from China. The integrated theme park resort, which also features two hotels and an entertainment precinct, is part of MNC Land’s broader plan to develop a groundbreaking new 3,000-hectare lifestyle and entertainment hub destined to become the “Pride of Indonesia.” Road works are underway to extend the Bogor- Sukabumi tollroad, providing easy access from Jakarta and of- fering an unprecedented escape to Indonesia’s ultimate live, work and play destination. Earlier this year, cutting-edge Hollywood-based design firm Opak Creative commenced schematic design works on t +31 (0)495 - 58 31 00 the 55-hectare park located in the spectacular natural setting of i www.kumbak.nl Lido. Envisioned as an extraordinary, immersive world of mag- e [email protected] ic and adventure, the park will feature thrilling rides and shows that bring to life powerful, original stories woven with elements of Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage. September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9 Movie Park Germany opens The Walking Dead attraction AT: Andrew Mellor eration with AMC in the USA and the food cans with wrappers are made ex- [email protected] Pay-TV Channel Fox in Germany for actly as in the series.” the approval and consultation process.” Other contractors involved in the BOTTROP-KIRCHHELLEN, Ger- The 700-square-meter (7,535-square- project included Props.nl, Nightlife and many — A new horror walk-through foot) attraction was created for the park IMAScore (sound). experience based on the highly success- by Dutch theming and design special- “Until now we only had horror ful U.S. television series "The Walking ist Jora Entertainment, the first time the themes in October during our Hallow- Dead" is now entertaining — and scar- two organizations have collaborated on een Horror Festival,” added Backhaus. ing – guests to Movie Park Germany. an attraction. The company has created “We will be celebrating 18 years of the The Walking Dead Breakout is the over 15 horror experiences to date and festival this year, which is the biggest culmination of almost a year’s prepa- Project Manager Marjolein Smids com- of its kind in Europe. The festival’s ration and has guests walking through mented: “Based on the ideas of Movie increasing success has shown us that recreated scenes from the five seasons Park Germany and AMC, we designed there is continual interest from guests of the TV series with the Walkers (zom- the new attraction. It's the first time that for this type of content. Now horror bie-like characters) providing the thrills we made a haunted experience togeth- fans can come to the park throughout and scares live and up close. er with a brand. For us this is a dream the entire season and not only on spe- “In total we have over 15 very de- project. We are all big fans of 'The Walk- cific days in October.” tailed and original-like rooms which ing Dead' and to bring the series to life The new attraction is part of Ger- are based on the TV series seasons is already one of the highlights of this many’s largest film and amusement The 700-square-meter at- chronologically,” explains Park Gen- year! park’s strategy to have a good balance traction was created for the eral Manager Thorsten Backhaus. “We “AMC wanted a perfect replica of in its portfolio for teenagers as well as park by Dutch theming and started with the hospital from the first the series and that has created enor- families. Starting on June 19, horror design specialist Jora Enter- season and continued on to the prison, mous challenges. Known walkers are fans ages 16 and up can get an extra tainment. then on to Terminus, just to name a few copied one on one from the series and adrenaline kick in the new attraction. COURTESY examples. There was a very close co-op- all the details had to match – even the The up-sell price is €5 ($5.4). MOVIE PARK GERMANY 10 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016 Phantasialand opens new themed world and multi-launch coaster

AT: Jeffrey Seifert of freedom in combination with mechanical whirl that definitely [email protected] over-the-shoulder lap bars with- catches the attention of onlook- out shoulder restraints, which ers. BRÜHL, Germany — Fol- will allow bigger passengers to The actual coaster layout lowing more than four years ride. crosses itself at 58 points for to- of planning and two years of •A maximum elevated seat- tal of 116 intersections. There is construction Phantasialand has ing position resulting in dan- a consistent flow of movement opened the new themed area gling feet. snaking through Klugheim can- Klugheim, and the highly-an- •A barrier-free passage be- yon. Taron does not feature a ticipated multi-launch coaster, tween the seats to accelerate the lift hill, but instead offers two Taron. The new area replaces load/unload process. launches. The second launch is the former Silver City western- •A lightweight train de- taken without stopping from themed area of the park. Lost sign. With the exception of the the first. Top speed on the ride is in the transition was the old Sil- seat brackets there are no welds, more than 72 mph, making it the bermine dark ride, a saloon and since all the other parts of the fastest multi-launch coaster in two eateries. train are made from solid/ the world. The consistent speed The mythical village of forged components. has the trains covering a lot of Klugheim that took its place is Phantasialand's newest themed section, the village of Czibulka added, “The re- track in a short amount of time. based on Norse mythology and Klugheim, offers places to shop and eat as well as two very duction in weight has a positive Thankfully there is a lot of track sits at the edge of a craggy can- unique and heavily-themed roller coasters. impact on the ride experience, to be had — 4,330 feet of it, mak- yon landscape of basalt rock. AT/TIM BALDWIN in particular in the case of a ing it the longest multi-launch Klugheim was the brainchild of launch coaster because it allows coaster in the world. theme park designer Eric Da- ence building linear accelerated wanted a seat that was raised to increase the launch intensity. But Taron is not the only at- man of Studio Daman, Belgium. coasters, tracing its roots all the off the floor so the riders’ feet But it also has the advantage for traction in Klugheim, another Daman has been the creative way back to the early Schwarz- dangled, giving them a sense of the operator, since it reduces the coaster Raik, also occupies the force behind many of the park’s kopf shuttle loops of the 1970s. freedom. They wanted the floor maintenance efforts. Not that all rocky canyon (see sidebar story signature attractions including Intamin’s own Rheinhold Spiel- to be smooth and at the same of those features are completely page 11). In the shadow of the the Colorado Adventure Mine diener developed the flywheel/ level as the station so guests new, but they definitely have mighty canyon, the village of Train, Black Mamba, Wuze- clutch drive system that acceler- could easily get in and out with- not been combined in one train Klugheim features shops and Town, Maus au Chocolate and ated the trains from 0 to 60 mph out having to step down, or up yet. We are proud of the result restaurants, including Rutmor's Chiapas. in 4.0 seconds. Along the way or over anything. And, finally and are convinced that we will Taverne, Kornmüller's Crȇpes Basalt, an igneous rock Intamin developed a number they wanted a lap bar that came see this type of train on many and Heisser Baldur, all serving formed from lava flows, is dark of linear launch mechanisms in- down from overhead, was com- new Intamin coasters in the near up hearty feasts, rustic snacks gray in appearance and usually volving linear induction motors fortable on the lap, and was future.” and tankards of ale. forms in spectacular columns. (LIMs), linear synchronous mo- clear of the upper body once in Klugheim also has its own In keeping with the land's The rock canyon of Klugheim is tors (LSMs), and hydraulic tur- position. themed music and there are remarkable detail, the village reminiscent of the natural rock bines. Phantasialand required Sascha Czibulka of Intamin sound effects for the coaster. One was constructed of rough-hewn formations found in Norway that the coaster operate during told AT, “Phantasialand had a hour of music was produced by lumber and the buildings are and Iceland. To create the ex- the winter months as the park is very clear vision of the train fea- IMAscore's lead composer An- adorned with mystic symbols traordinary landscape, Phanta- open all but three months of the tures for Taron, since the over- dreas Kübler and lead sound and dragon heads — handcraft- sialand brought in the creative year. That meant the ride had to all target was for the smooth- designer Sebastian Kübler. ed from solid beams of Douglas team headed by rock builder be able to run with an outside est possible ride experience in Speakers are hidden through- Fir. Helder Lopez of Universal temperature as low as -10 de- combination with a maximum out the village to play the sound Phantasialand brought to- Rocks, Portugal. Lopez’ handi- grees Celsius (14 degrees Fahr- of freedom. The park liked our track. One speaker, that plays gether artisans and craftsman, work can be seen throughout enheit). For that, the best option previous launch coaster trains, just a lady's voice, is only in one rock builders and ride suppliers the park, most recently in the was to use LSMs. but wasn’t too excited with the building within Klugheim. It is from across the globe to create impressive rocky backdrops of Phantasialand worked restraints. In closest cooperation designed to sound as if someone an extraordinary themed world Chiapas. A massive steel struc- closely with Intamin developing with Phantasialand we have de- is in an upper balcony singing unlike any other. It is a world ture serves as the foundation not only the remarkable coaster, veloped a completely new train along with the music. Of course, that is both mythological yet for the steel mesh that was then but also the unique trains. Proj- with several features never com- the lady only joins in when she somehow very real, fantastical, covered in a special concrete ect Developer Sebastian Jonas bined in a train/seat before.” wants to. Two sound effects are yet down to earth, a world that and shaped and molded to form explained to Amusement Today The trains feature: triggered with each of the two could exist somewhere else — the rock face. The result is a exactly what the development •Ergonomically shaped launches. The sound can best yet doesn't. It can only be found stone monument that looks like team at the park desired: They seats guaranteeing a maximum be described as an amplified at Phantasialand. it has been there for thousands of years. But not all of the rock is manmade. Genuine basalt from Mendiger Basalt, a quarry just 68 kilometers from Phantasial- and, supplied the rocks that are scattered across the floor of the canyon, looking as if they rolled down from the face of the ravine walls. In the middle of the can- yon, is the multi-launch coaster Taron. Early on in the plan- ning stages Phantasialand knew what it was looking for in a coaster — a fast, launched coaster that could wind its way through the rocky landscape Above, Taron snakes its way through basalt rock landscape then plunges into the heart of Klugheim. For that Phanta- of the village. Right, once in the station there are no obstructions to impede loading. sialand turned to Intamin AG The coaster features a new innovative train design from Intamin that was requested of Schann, Lichtenstein. Inta- by the park. AT/TIM BALDWIN, JEFFREY SEIFERT min has many years of experi- September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 11 Phantasialand's Raik serves up family fun in small space Family boomerang now in operation with a seventh elevator floor indicators from a classic junior coasters. Plus, we under construction in Sweden. bygone era. But, instead of indi- didn’t have the right location in coaster supplied by Phantasialand’s installation was cating floors, the dial indicates the park for turning our dreams Vekoma Rides Mfg. a little bit longer and a little bit the location of the train. This into a reality. Now we have our taller than all the others, mak- same dial motif is repeated on new themed area Klugheim, AT: Jeffrey Seifert ing it the largest of this genre the front of train. When parked which is the ideal spot for our [email protected] of coaster. Because of its unique in the station, a light smoke is family boomerang, Raik, to live BRÜHL, Germany — When layout and longer track length, pumped into the train front fur- up to its full potential” explains Phantasialand added the new the end track is also outfitted ther adding to the mystery that Sebastian Jonas, project devel- Klugheim themed area to the with drive wheels to give the awaits. As the train is pulled oper at Phantasialand. “Raik park, it wanted to make cer- train a boost up toward the end backward out of the station, the is the perfect bridge between a tain there was an attraction of the track. dial moves backward and lights fully-fledged family coaster and that would appeal to the whole Dubbed Raik, an old Norse in the station change to red. a classic junior coaster. Riding family, particularly the smaller word meaning to stroll or wan- Once released the dial moves backward and forward gives roller coaster fans and adven- der, the new attraction was forward and the lights change double fun and the attraction turers who were not yet ready to squeezed into the basalt rock to green. Upon the train’s return offers excitement for children, conquer Taron. To fulfill its need canyon that also houses the mas- the dial again turns the reverse teens and adults creating a great for a family coaster in a limited sive Taron coaster. Not only did direction and the lights are red, family experience and an un- amount of space Phantasialand the track intertwine with Taron, changing to green as the train forgettable ride experience. The turned to Vekoma Rides Manu- the lift hill and the endpoint of crests the lift hill and reverses ride starts with the train being facturing BV of the Netherlands. the track both penetrate the riv- direction. Once brought to a lifted backwards out of the sta- Vekoma’s family boomerang er rapids ride, River Quest. To The lift hill and end point of stop, the dial points upward to tion and up towards the lift hill. roller coaster provided the right accomplish that feat, sections of Raik extend into the building the zero position. Guests in the “This means that you can’t see amount of thrills in a moderate- existing concrete walls had to be that houses the River Quest station queued for the next train when the lift hill ends and the sized coaster perfect for the new removed to expose the opening ride. AT/TIM BALDWIN witness the entire sequence ride really gets going. That re- Klugheim area. between River Quest’s elevator of events as the train screams ally heightens the nerves,” em- First introduced in 2011 as lift hill, and the section of build- The positioning of the ride through station at 60 kph (37 phasizes Jonas. Ben 10 — Ultimate Mission at ing that holds the water chan- gives it spectacular near miss ef- mph), helping to build anticipa- With the pinch wheel lift Drayton Manor Theme Park in nel. Once exposed, the coaster fects with rocks, bridges, walls, tion for their ride. hill positioned under cover, the Staffordshire, England, the- Ve track was carefully placed, the Taron track, and if the tim- “We have always been pas- ride can operate in all kinds of koma family boomerang offers then everything was covered in ing is right, Taron itself. sionate about creating an at- weather — even freezing tem- a smooth ride both backward hand-hewn and rough cut lum- The station is outfitted with traction for our younger roller peratures. As with Taron, Raik and forward with a minimal ber to match the rustic Norse a large half-circle dial with large coaster fans. However, we were is expected to stay open even in footprint. Six of these rides are buildings of Klugheim. roman numerals reminiscent of never won over by any of the the winter season.

CONGRATULATIONS WITH THE OPENING OF YOUR NEW FAMILY BOOMERANG ‘RAIK’

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16259 Vekoma ADV Amusement Today HP OPM DEF.indd 1 22-07-16 13:20 12 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016 Six Flags partners for development of second park in China GRAND PRAIRIE, Tex- Flags brand, we are con- as — Six Flags Entertain- About Riverside Investment Group fident these projects will ment Corporation (NYSE: BEIJING, China – Riverside Investment Group Co. Ltd. provide strong economic SIX), and Riverside Invest- was founded in 1993. With China’s fast-developing cultural growth in China.” ment Group Co. Ltd., a and tourism industries and urbanization process, Riverside The letter agreement leading real estate devel- Group has become a leading real estate developer, focus- is subject to negotiation of oper in China and exist- in China, is another step ing on overall health care, tourism, culture, entertainment definitive documents. ing partner of Six Flags, forward in executing our industries and high-end residential buildings. It is also an The first Six Flags- announced on July 20 the long-term strategy to ex- investor, constructor and operator of middle and high-end branded theme park in Chi- signing of a letter agree- pand our brand outside of communities, participating in the whole industrial chain na is anticipated to open in ment for the potential de- North America and bring from planning and design to construction, business attrac- 2019 and will be located in velopment of a second Six Six Flags thrills to millions tion and operation. Riverside Group’s projects are twice Haiyan, Zhejiang province, Flags-branded theme park of new guests,” said John the recipient of the U.N. International Garden Communi- near Shanghai. It will fea- in China together with a Duffey, president and CEO. ty Gold Award, best represented by its world-class R&D, ture a number of record- water park. The two parks “Riverside is an excellent the pursuit of perfection, the respect to culture and the breaking roller coasters, inheritance of civilization, all of which make it the leader in will be located in Bishan, a partner and we share a unique thrill experiences, China’s real estate industry. district of Chongqing, with common vision to develop incredible live shows and •lvcgroup.com a surrounding population multiple Six Flags-branded more. For additional infor- of approximately 120 mil- parks in China.” mation about the Haiyan lion people. “As the exclusive stra- two parks in Chongqing of erside Investment Group. park, visit www.sixflags. “Developing two parks tegic partner of Six Flags western China, the biggest “With the ongoing support com/haiyan. in Chongqing, the most in China, we are excited city in the world,” said Li of the Chinese government •sixflags.com populous municipality about the development of Zhe, chairman of the Riv- and the strength of the Six Barcelona set to host 2016 EAS AT: Andrew Mellor [email protected] BRUSSELS, Belgium — The Spanish city of Barcelona will play host to this year’s IAAPA- produced 2016 Euro Attractions Show (EAS), with the event once again on course to deliver a re- cord-breaking trade show floor. EAS takes place at the Fira Gran Via Convention Center in Barcelona from September 20- 22 and at the time of writing more than 435 companies from The venue for this year’s EAS 60 countries were due to exhibit is the Fira Gran Via Conven- at the event on its largest ever tion Center in Barcelona. show floor of 12,000 net square COURTESY FIRA DE meters (129,000 net square feet). BARCELONA The premier conference and trade show for the theme park and attractions industry in Eu- industry leaders and owners rope attracts strong attendance from facilities such as Disney- from manufacturers and suppli- land Paris, Efteling, Europa- ers from throughout the region Park, PortAventura, Parque and further afield and has with- tracting exhibiting companies Warner Madrid, Siam Park, out doubt become a must attend and buyers from other regions Leolandia and more. Subjects event for operators in this part too, including eastern Europe, to be covered will include lodg- of the world. the Middle East and Africa, due ing and resort development, the The exhibit floor will offer in part to the fact that organizer development of dining experi- buyers more than 100 different IAAPA’s European operations ences, the implementation of products and services related has taken on the entire EMEA intellectual property, event or- to the leisure and attractions region and is now known as ganization, revitalizing existing industry which will include all IAAPA EMEA. Overall atten- attractions and developing VIP kinds of dry rides, water related dance figures will therefore no guests programs. attractions, design and theming doubt reflect this move and over Away from the show itself, services, ticketing technology, 9,000 attendees (both exhibitors other opportunities for attend- show and production equip- and visitors) are expected to ees will include a back-stage ment, coin-operated machines, make the trip to Barcelona. tour of PortAventura and the food and beverage offerings, EAS will also offer attend- upcoming Ferrari Land (due to character costumes and much ees a comprehensive education- open in 2017), a visit to Barce- more — in fact pretty much any- al program covering some of lona Aquarium and a post EAS thing an operator may need for the latest trends and best prac- tour over three days to loca- the successful operation of an at- tices in the leisure and tourism tions such as Parque de Atrac- traction venue. industry. Scheduled presenta- ciones Madrid, Zoo Aquarium As well as from European tions will be provided by a di- Madrid, Parque Warner Madrid countries, EAS is also now at- verse group of global leisure and Isla Magica. September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 13 14 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016 September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 15 WATER PARKS & RESORTS

 Premier Parks acquires Wild Water Kingdom — Page 18 / SFHH (NJ) opens Caribbean Cove — Page 18 Beech Bend adds ProSlide complex to water park AT: Pam Sherborne of the new lockers. [email protected] Beech Bend park opened for the 2016 on May 7. Splash BOWLING GREEN, Ky. Lagoon opened May 21. — The four new water slides Both parks began full-time now up and running at operation Memorial Day Beech Bend Park and Splash weekend. Lagoon were described as a Aside from the new wa- game changer for the water ter components, Splash La- area. goon offers attractions - in "They are awesome cluding a Lazy River, Surf's slides," said Charlotte Gon- Up Wave Pool, Ragin' Rap- zales, whose family owns ids water slides, a large lei- and operates the park in sure pool, and Tiki Island southern Kentucky. "We play area. have heard nothing but rave Gonzales said they had reviews. Each one is an awe- wanted more water slide some addition." attractions for a few years The four slides, cus- now. tom-made for Beech Bend "But we had to be care- by ProSlide Technologies, ful," she said. "We are a fami- opened July 8. This is the ly-owned park. We can't bite largest water park expansion off more than we can chew." in the park's history, costing Gonzales said they did in excess of $5 million. increase admission by $4 New for 2017, Beech Bend's Splash Lagoon water park opened this massive $5 million slide this year. The four new water at- tower from ProSlide. The tower features the first installation in North America of the Flying tractions are the Flying Sau- "We haven't had a price Saucer and hybrid Tornado slides. COURTESY BEECH BEND cer (touted as ProSlide's first increase since 2010," she installation in North Ameri- It is about 500 feet long with two-person tubes. Riptide, the name given said. "We decided with our ca) PipelineWave, Cannon- with an elevation of about The CannonBowl has to the hybrid slide, combines extra expenses it was time to Bowl and a hybrid Tornado. 55 feet. According to the been named the Polyne- a funnel and a wave wall to do it." Beech Bend owners ProSlide web site, this slide sian Plunge. It drops rid- create variety and, hopeful- Prices this year are named their Flying Saucer has an hourly capacity of 600 ers from the top of the slide ly, more thrills. $31.99 for ages 60 years and the Cyclone Saucer. Riders riders on two-person tubes. tower into a swirling bowl. In addition to the new above; $33.99 for persons on two-person tubes speed Tidal Wave is the name The high speed slide swirls slides, Gonzales said they de- 54 inches and above; and through dark tunnels and given to the Pipeline Wave. riders along the outer wall cided to replace all the lock- $31.99 for children under 54 rocket into the wide open ex- It positions riders face to but slows as riders reach ers in the water park area. inches. Season passes cost panse of three massive sau- face as they surge up a wall the center before dropping The old lockers required key $159.95. There are a number cer features. The steep angle and hang weightless before through the bowl's exit. It entry but, for visitor ease, of special promotions and of the saucers create a drop- rocketing back down. It has has an hourly capacity of 360 the new ones all are keyless. discounts throughout the and-dive sensation. an hourly capacity of 360 on two-person tubes. Best Lockers is the supplier season. Beech Bend adds family coaster; Kentucky Rumbler gets upgrades

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — The dry side of Gonzales said there also was a significant Beech Bend Park and Splash Lagoon wasn't length of the coaster where there was some neglected by owners this year even though retracking. the water park did get the largest portion of "We spent about $125,000 on the coast- updates. er upgrades," Gonzales said. Charlotte Gonzales, whose family owns The Kentucky Rumbler is 96 feet high, and operates the Beech Bend facility, said reaches a speed of 50 mph, with a track for the 2016 season, they completed an length of 2,827 feet, and encompasses three Beech Bend's signature ride, upgrade to the Kentucky Rumbler wooden station flybys, 30 crossovers and 12 airtime Kentucky Rumbler (left), roller coaster during the winter months and moments. completed an upgrade that installed a new ride in fall of 2015. The new ride is a Spinning Out coaster, included areas of track work The renovations to the Kentucky Rumbler manufactured by SBF/Visa and sold by Rides and a complete rehab of coaster involved upgrading and updating the 4U. Themed like a race car spinning out of the train by Great Coast- cars. In fact, Gonzales said: "We replaced ev- control in a back to back seating configura- ers International. Above, erything from the car platform up." tion, the cars spin freely throughout the ride this Spinning Out coaster "That includes the sides, the grill on delivering a different experience each time was delivered by SBF/Visa front, seating," she said. the weight distributions changes. Group through it's U.S. Great Coasters International, the compa- The new ride was up and running when sales team of Rides 4U. ny that originally constructed the coaster at a the 2016 season began May 7. COURTESY BEECH BEND cost of $4.6 million in 2006, did the upgrade. —Pam Sherborne 16 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016

Kings Island’s new entry plaza increases ease and throughput for arriving guests, and it in- cludes automated lanes for season pass holders. COURTESY KINGS ISLAND September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 17

ALL DESIGN. ALL THE TIME. We’re committed to the development of one aspect above all else - the future of the water park industry.

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This dedication to water ride innovation has driven ProSlide to the top of the industry; recognized by IAAPA with 12 first place Best New Water Park Product awards, in the last 15 years.

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Visit us at EAS: Booth 1801, WWA: Booth 601, IAAPA: Booth 5140. 18 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016

Google Earth view of Wild Water Kingdom. COURTESY GOOGLE EARTH Premier Parks acquires Wild Water Kingdom; will reopen in May 2017 LAKEWOOD, N.J. — Premier Parks, LLC, an operator of mul- Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, located next to Great Adventure theme park in Jackson, N.J., tiple theme and water parks across the U.S., has acquired Wild Wa- has opened this new interactive water playground. The highlight of the section is a multi- ter Kingdom. The 100-acre water park and entertainment facility, level AquaPlay structure from WhiteWater West. Below, park guests enjoys the water action which has not operated since 2014, is located in Brampton, Ontario, of the dumping bucket and the spray nozzles, jets and other features. Canada, in the greater Toronto area. COURTESY SIX FLAGS GREAT ADVENTURE Premier Parks is led by Kieran Burke, former chairman and CEO of Six Flags Incorporated, and operates 12 theme and water Caribbean Cove water playground opens parks including two resort properties with lodging, marina, and an adventure park. This portfolio also includes Wet ‘n’ Wild water at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor (N.J.) parks in Hawaii, Palm Springs, Phoenix and Houston. “Premier Parks is excited about the opportunity to completely JACKSON, N.J. — On July 14, just in time nozzles, jet water guns climbing nets and slides rebuild Wild Water Kingdom into a first class water park that Ca- for the bulk of the summer heat, Six Flags Hur- are featured on the tower and in the pool that nadians can be proud to call their own,” said Kieran Burke, CEO of ricane Harbor at Six Flags Great Adventure surrounds it. A quintessential tipping bucket Premier Parks. opened a new interactive water playground. atop the two-story structure provides a peri- “Design teams have been hard at work and we look forward to Caribbean Cove features a shallow beach- odic dousing to kids, tweens and even adults, announcing our specific plans for the park in the very near future.” entry wading pool with a shimmering white playing below. The enormous population base of the Toronto market, lack of sand beach. Surrounding the pool are 300 new “Hurricane Harbor brings the vibrant col- stand-alone water parks, and the Canadians’ fondness for a resort lounge chairs and new shade structures. The ors, iconic images and white sand beaches of experience were all contributing factors in the decision to purchase cove has a single access path so parents will the Caribbean to our new family water play- Wild Water Kingdom. Premier Parks also has familiarity with the not have to worry about their child wander- ground. Caribbean Cove is a fantastic comple- Canadian market due to the advertising and sales efforts of its theme ing out of the area. The area is decorated with ment to our world-class lineup of innovative and water park resort, Darien Lake, just outside Buffalo, N.Y., which island-inspired theming including palm trees and extreme water slides. It offers fun for ju- attracts hundreds of thousands of Canadian visitors annually. and an oversized parrot. nior thrill seekers and their families,” said Six The highlight of the section is a multi-level Flags Great Adventure President John Fitzger- About Premier Parks AquaPlay structure from WhiteWater West. ald. LAKEWOOD, N.J. – Premier Parks operates 12 theme and More than 55 interactive features such as spray — Jeffrey Seifert water parks throughout the United States including Wet ‘n’ Wild Hawaii (Kapolei); Wet ‘n’ Wild Palm Springs; Wet ‘n’ Wild Phoenix; Wet ‘n’ Wild Splashtown (Houston); Frontier City theme park and White Water Bay (Oklahoma City, Okla.); Darien Lake Theme and Water Park Resort (Darien Center, N.Y.); Rapids Water Park (West Palm Beach, Fla.); Nashville Shores Water Park (Nashville, Tenn.); Tree Top Adventure Park (Nashville, Tenn.); Ocean Breeze Water Park (Virginia Beach); Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park (Den- ver, Colo.); and Clementon Park and Splash World (Clementon, N.J).

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GET A FREE SAMPLE at Big Squirt! Inc. www.bigsquirt.com/freesample 1741 Torrance Blvd., Ste. D or call 1-888-388-8872 Torrance, CA 90501 September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 19 20 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016

Neptune Benson, a Rhode Island-based com- ter park is included for hotel guests. A limited number pany that provides water filtration and disinfection for NEWSSPLASH of day passes are also available for those not staying the municipal and recreational water markets, has ac- at the hotel. quired VAF Filtration Systems. Colorado-based VAF • engineers and manufactures automatic self-cleaning COMPILED: Jeffrey L. Seifert The parks and recreation department of the city of water filters and control valves. The addition of VAF [email protected] Odessa, Texas, is planning to build a dinosaur-themed compliments Neptune Benson’s existing product offer- splash park. Odessa is in the center of the Permian Ba- ings and bolsters Neptune Benson’s offerings within in- sin, a geological area known for its large deposits of dustrial and municipal markets, allowing the company rocks and fossils from the Permian era. Plans call for to offer filtration solutions ranging from 1500 microns a Junior League Jurassic Jungle spray ground more down to submicron filtration. Clothes Connection is operated by the Birdville than 180 feet in diameter, with an archway of dinosaur • Independent School District PTAs, to supply clothes bones, a triceratops playground and palm trees with The residents of Burlington, Wis. will have the op- and shoes to students who are in need. NRH20 hosted slides — all of which spew water. There will also be portunity to decide the fate of the city's existing pool. the shoe drive in conjunction with the dive-in movie jumping fountains, along with lights and animations. Built in 1961, the current pool has effectively reached Cinderella. Guests received a free ticket with the do- The fountains and lights will be programmable for wa- the end of its usefulness. The Burlington City Council nation of a pair of new or gently used shoes — glass ter shows. The estimated cost for the total project is has looked at four proposals, one of which simply re- slippers excluded. $1.9 million. The city's Junior League is providing sup- places the existing facility. The remaining three call for Team members expected to receive a couple hun- port for the project, hence the name. turning the area into a water park with a six-lane lap dred pairs of shoes, but were astounded when they Odessa Parks and Recreation Director Steve Pat- pool, several slides, a lazy river and a water play area, had collected an overwhelming 2,372 pairs of shoes. It ton said, "This is an incredible project unlike anything possibly with a water play structure. was the largest donation Clothes Connection had ever in the area." City council members are hoping to get the infor- received in a single day. The Odessa City Council praised the idea after a mation to the voters and place a referendum on the • briefing in July. Patton said he hopes to have the proj- ballot for the Nov. 8 general election. Codder Resort and Spa in Hyannis, Mass. has ect ready for bids in September with a targeted open- “We have a very conservative community here,” expanded its existing indoor wave pool into more of ing date in May. said 1st District Alderman John Ekes. “The community a water park with the addition of two 160-foot water • needs to get all the information on this and digest it.” slides, a lazy river, and a water play area specifically Quick Dip... If the referendum is successful, construction would for toddlers and younger children. The previous wave •Evoqua announced its Neptune Benson brand start next September and the new facility could be pool area was 10,000 square feet — small for a resort was selected as part of a $50 million, 15 month ren- completed by the spring of 2018. water park — which limited its appeal. The new Cod- ovation project to the historic, 10-acre civic space in • der's Indoor Water Park adds another 20,000 square the heart of downtown Cleveland. The fountain, which NRH2O water park in North Richland Hills, has feet, bringing the total area to 30,000 square feet. The spans approximately 5,000 sq. feet features 117 undu- been a part of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex area water park also added a new cafe serving snacks bev- lating jets and 117 LED lights. for 22 years. The park was looking for an opportunity erages and a full service bar. It also features a retract- •The 13th annual World Aquatic Health Confer- to give back to the community and teamed up with able clear roof making it both an indoor and outdoor ence is scheduled for Oct. 19-21, 2016 at the Sheraton Clothes Connection to host a shoe drive. water park depending on the weather. Entry to the wa- Music City in in Nashville, Tenn. September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 21 22 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016 September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 23 PARKS, FAIRS & ATTRACTIONS

 Indiana Beach gets facelift from new owner Apex Parks — Page 26 / Fairs — Pages 33-36 New coaster adding 'Timber' to Kings Island's woods

KINGS MILLS, Ohio – Unveiled during a 2009, when the park's then-new Diamondback star-covered press event on July 28, construc- coaster came in as the #2 "New Ride" in the tion is underway on a new wooden roller world, with Worlds Of Fun's GCI-built Prowl- coaster adventure for visitors to Kings Island. er taking the #1 spot. Scheid simply added, Mystic Timbers is custom-designed and "We don't like to lose." built for the topography of Kings Island by "We needed a low-to-the-ground, speed- Great Coasters International, Inc. (GCI) of hungry coaster that could be enjoyed by Sunbury, P. many," Scheid detailed. Themed to an area surrounding a lumber The mysteries of Mystic Timbers have yet company becoming overrun by a mysteri- to be fully revealed. The ride climaxes with ous medusa-like overgrowth of vines as na- the trains passing through a haunting shed, ture reclaims its land, Mystic Timbers will be but what's in the shed is not being revealed. 3,265 feet in length, reach 109 feet in height The park is promoting the hashtag #WhatsIn- and weave along steep cliffs, down ravines, TheShed as guests ponder the wonders it may cross over water and go through an extreme hold inside. S-turn, among a forest of trees, at speeds up With the addition of Mystic Timbers, Kings Islands new Mystic to 53 mph. Kings Island’s wooden roller coasters will Timbers will feature “Mystic Timbers is naturally exciting be- combine to measure 18,804 feet of track, which 3,285 feet of wooden cause of its setting in a densely wooded area,” will be the most at any amusement or theme track, making multiple Kings Island’s vice-president and general park in the world. passes over the existing manager Greg Scheid said. “The natural rug- Scheid made certain to tease that Kings Is- Whitewater Canyon. ged terrain and tunnel ensures a unique and land was not yet done with the additions for The mystery of "What's memorable ride experience.” 2017. "This is our first of two major announce- in the shed?" (right) Scheid commented that the addition of ments for 2017." remains to be answered. Mystic Timbers has been in the works since —John W.C. Robinson COURTESY KINGS ISLAND Hersheypark adds a trio of S&S towers for 2017

AT: B. Derek Shaw Kissing Hill Tower section of when the project was first [email protected] the 110-acre park, each tower discussed with his company, HERSHEY, Pa. — Her- will operate independently, Barto said, “It was little over sheypark announced on launch at varying times and a year ago.” Barto thinks this August 2 that it is adding have its own ride staff. Triple installation may lead to other arguably what will be the Tower will be located where parks across the country to first in the world and new the Red Baron, Frog Hop- jump on board. “I think there to the industry — a trio of per and Convoy kiddie rides is an opportunity for that as drop towers, with varying are currently. Convoy and it is a unique configuration heights — for next season. Frog Hopper will move to and that is what S&S is very S&S Worldwide, Inc. (Logan, the Arrow Dynamics/Huss excited about. It is a different Utah) is the vendor provid- Condor (Flying Falcon) area, twist on an existing, proven ing the new Triple Towers: Hersheypark's new-for-2017 S&S towers will stand 80, 131 as that attraction will be re- ride in the industry. We’re 80, 131 and 189 feet respec- and 189 feet tall. COURTESY HERSHEYPARK moved (and stored) for even- very excited about it. We are tively and will be known as: tual use in the future. This honored and humbled to Hershey’s Kisses, Reese’s or Turbo Drop depending on America and Europe for S&S. will become only the sec- have an opportunity to work and Hershey Bar. Individual how it is programmed dur- Being billed as “the first ond ride Hersheypark will with Hershey Entertain- ride capacity is 12 (3 each ing a particular day) while choose-your-thrill triple have in storage. The other ment and Resorts. This is my side), 16 (4 each side) & 20 the other two will be double tower in the United States,” is a 12-gauge Mini Train Co. hometown park and to have (in the round), respectively shot towers. “The largest the new attraction will pro- (Mini Train). The Red Baron an opportunity to have a ride with a combined theoretical tower will allow multiple, vide an experience for each will be re-located across from here and to work with an or- ride capacity of 1,400 people different experiences for the member of the family with the entrance to the Board- ganization that’s very special per hour. The tallest tower is guest,” relayed Pete Barto, varying heights, thrill levels walk water park. to S&S. We’re honored, hum- a combo tower (Space Shot director of sales for North and speeds. Located in the When AT asked about bled, proud and excited.” 24 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016 Tickets remain for boat cruise benefiting NRCMA 2016 Golden SANDUSKY, Ohio — As a special fundraiser for the National Roller Ticket Awards Coaster Museum & Archives (NRCMA), Cedar Point and Amusement To- day have organized a boat cruise on the Jet Express for Saturday, Sept. 10. registration The Jet Express will take riders on a gorgeous 45-minute cruise on Lake Erie, circling the Cedar Point Resort giving unique views of this his- well underway toric amusement property. Help support the amusement industry's fastest growing museum col- Cedar Point to lection by purchasing a ticket! Tickets are $75.00 per person and will be sold until the boat is sold host awards event out. The tour departs from the Cedar Point Marina at 11 am sharp. The September 9 & 10 boat cruise will last approximately 45 minutes. Jet Express tickets may be purchased online at: SANDUSKY, Ohio — GoldenTicketAwards.com Amusement Today and Cedar Point invite working profes- sionals in the amusement in- dustry such as park owners, Golden Ticket Awards operators and management and ride manufacturers, de-

2016 Event Itinerary GOLDEN TICKET 2016 signers, suppliers and ven- AWARDS dors, to join the fun at “The V.I.P. Friday, September 9 (The park is closed to the public.) Networking Event of the Cedar Point Year” during the 2016 Golden 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Event Registration at Cedar Point’s Hotel Breakers. Ticket Awards on Friday and Saturday, Sept. 9-10. 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. – Specialty Cedar Point Tour – “Cedar Point Legacy & Landmark Tour with a Twist.” “This is a great network- Attend a guided behind-the-scenes bus tour around the Cedar Point Peninsula showcasing the park’s ing opportunity for our in- historic landmarks, with a twist! Cocktails and conversation provided. dustry,” says Gary Slade, publisher and editor-in-chief 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. – Specialty Cedar Point Tour – “Cedar Point Behind-the-Screams Tour.” of Amusement Today. “It’s also See how the park transforms itself into The Haunt and The Great Pumpkin Fest during its annual the perfect way to celebrate HalloWeekends with behind-the-scenes access to the horrifying, frightfully delightful staff, props, the end of the summer season costumes, makeup and more. with friends and colleagues.” 4:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. – Networking opportunities in the Hotel Breakers historic Rotunda. The host park, Cedar Point amusement park and 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. – Coasters & Cocktails Reception in the Valravn Plaza. resort in Sandusky, Ohio, is Ride Cedar Point’s new B&M Valravn dive coaster, sip on park-inspired micro brews, wine and signature busy gearing up for an un- Valravn treats, chat with industry friends and be prepared for some fun surprises. forgettable two days. The set- ting on a picturesque Lake 6:30 p.m. – An exclusive Skeleton Crew performance in Celebration Plaza. Erie Peninsula will provide a one-of-a-kind backdrop for 7:30 p.m. – Chef’s Table Food Feast at the Lakeside Pavilion. the event with all the feel of a 9 p.m. – End-of-Evening Gathering at the Surf Lounge in the Rotunda, Hotel Breakers, just off the Main relaxing beach resort coupled Lobby. with a dramatic skyline of thrill rides and roller coasters. Saturday, Sept. 10 (Special Park Early Opening! Park hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.) “The Golden Ticket Awards have grown into 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. – Park Play Day! so much more than just an Enjoy Cedar Point at your leisure. Explore The Roller Coaster Capital of the World in VIP style! awards show over the years,” says Slade. “Along with the 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. – Golden Ticket Cruise on the Jet Express. team at Cedar Point, I’d like See The Roller Coaster Capital of the World from Lake Erie’s perspective on this 45-minute excursion. to personally extend an invi- Limited seats are available, first-come, first-served. Cost is $75 with proceeds benefiting the National tation to our industry to check Roller Coaster Museum and Archives. out the GTAs… and be part of 5:30 p.m. – Golden Ticket Awards Red Carpet LIVE. a truly remarkable weekend.” Pre-Show Cocktail Reception at Lakeside Pavilion. Get ready to walk the red carpet as Cedar Point To check out the itiner- prepares a Golden Ticket Awards like no other! ary and hotel information and and rates for the Golden Tick- 6:30 p.m. – Golden Ticket Dinner in Lakeside Dining Room at Lakeside Pavilion next to WindSeeker. et Awards, as well as to reg- ister, please log on to www. 8 p.m. – 19th Annual Golden Ticket Awards presented by Amusement Today in the Cedar Point GoldenTicket Awards.com. Convention Center Cedar Point’s beautiful Hotel Breakers will serve as the host 10 p.m. – Post-Party on the Cedar Point Beach and Hotel Breakers Fire Pit Patio. hotel for the event. Sunday, Sept. 11 (Optional Add-on Day – On Your Own!) This is the 19th annual year for the Golden Ticket 11 a.m. – Standard Check-Out at 11 a.m. or extend your stay for another night! Awards; they are presented Stay and play at The Roller Coaster Capital of the World or add-on an excursion to the laid-back Lake Erie to the “Best of the Best” in island of Put-in-Bay at special GTA attendee rates. the amusement industry and are calculated from an inter- national poll conducted by REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! www.GoldenTicketAwards.com Amusement Today. September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 25

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! www.GoldenTicketAwards.com 26 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016

Resort gets facelift from new owner Apex Parks Group Indiana Beach amusement park again the ‘walk’ of the town AT: Dean Lamanna on the colors needed for that [email protected] ride and the park’s waterslides and buildings. MONTICELLO, Ind. — Although Indiana Beach Long a Hoosier State amuse- isn’t a theme park, the consis- ment tradition, Indiana Beach tent quality of such detailing Boardwalk Resort has been we’ve done a lot of things right, helps unify and bring “flow” to enjoying a reintroduction, and and we still have room to make the property’s aesthetics, said a significant resurgence, this improvements.” Bastrup. season — its 90th. And it’s un- der new ownership that likely Polishing a prized gem Success in progress would have garnered its found- First known as Ideal Beach, Apex's single-biggest initial er’s approval. the park’s site on the shore of expenditure within the park has Aliso Viejo, Calif.-based Lake Shafer offered a sandy been the rehab of the 90-foot, Apex Parks Group, which an- expanse for sunbathing along circa-1980s Ferris wheel, which nounced its purchase of Indiana with boating and refreshments was dismantled and shipped to Beach last September, has un- when it was established in 1926 Indiana Beach ride fa- its manufacturer, Chance Rides, dertaken the upgrading of the by Earl Spackman. The leisure vorites like the Cornball in Wichita, Kan. Between the property’s services and aesthet- spot grew through the 1940s, Express (above) and repairs and the addition of a ics — including its 40-plus rides adding attractions and a ball- Baby Baron (right) have new multi-pattern LED lighting and attractions. room — and becoming a cher- been upgraded and re- package, “we put almost three Indiana Beach fits in with ished diversion for area resi- freshed, thanks to new quarters of a million dollars the two-year-old company’s dents. color schemes devel- into the wheel,” said Gregg Bor- goal to acquire and maximize Earl’s son, Tom, who had oped by R&R Creative man. “But it really lights up the the potential of established run the original lakeside re- Amusement Designs, park and makes the place spe- family entertainment centers freshment stand and eventually which most dramati- cial again, especially for those and medium-sized amusement became the park’s manager, cally revived the park's who have their boats out on the parks across the U.S. Apex care- decided to market the location waterslides (below). lake at night.” fully maintains and enhances more widely to surrounding COURTESY APEX PARKS GROUP Properly fencing the park each property’s local flavor White County and state visitors for safety and moving it to a while retaining much, if not all, by adding speed boating and secured-gate admission system of its existing staff. the first permanent rides. In hasn’t pleased some of those Indiana Beach holds a par- 1950, four years after his father boaters, who had grown accus- ticular charm with the compa- died, Tom renamed the place tomed over the years to dock- ny’s management team. Indiana Beach. ing casually along the park’s “It’s a fantastic property,” The park, which expanded boardwalk to grab eats and said Gregg Borman, senior to include hundreds of camp- then sail off. Borman noted that vice president of operations for sites, numerous vacation cottag- a solution would be worked out Apex and a 37-year industry es and other lodging, remained during the off-season. veteran. “It’s got a lot of iconic popular for another half a cen- Apex also has taken over features, a great history. When tury. Reportedly, it was generat- most of the Indiana Beach’s you mention Indiana Beach in ing some $60 million in regional food service, which had been the community or anywhere economic impact at its peak in largely run by concessionaires. within a 200-mile radius, every- the years before the Spackman “We’re in the park business, so body knows it. People love the family sold it to an operator of we know how to do food,” Bor- park.” RV campgrounds in 2008. The man said. “That automatically Borman and his fellow change of ownership began a In addition to using local trup set to work walking the improved our revenue and Apex executives felt that love gradual period of decline at In- contractors and retaining more property and analyzing every profitability picture.” every time they visited Indiana diana Beach, during which pa- park staff year-round for main- aesthetic aspect of it. Three original food stands Beach – during both the run-up trons’ complaints went unheard tenance, Apex backed up its “It’s an eclectic park and operated independently have to their making an offer on the and its economic ripple shrank commitment to Indiana Beach the weather had beaten every- been retained: Elephant Ears, park and after closing the deal by half. by enlisting R&R Creative thing up, so I made changes Pronto Pup (corn dogs) and the last summer. Along with that Communication is key to Amusement Designs of Ana- big and small,” Bastrup said. famous Taco Shoppe, which has regional passion came the spe- Apex’s course correction for the heim, Calif., and the expertise “I added about 60 new custom- been featured on The Food Net- cial challenge of protecting a park. of its president, Rick Bastrup. designed signs, most with mul- work. nine-decade tradition. “We met with the mayor “Rick has done a lot of tilayered lettering and shadow- With millions invested in “We knew our guests had of Monticello and the county work with the major players in ing, as well as colorful banners Indiana Beach thus far, Apex is expectations,” he said. “We commissioners right after we our industry and understands at the park entrances and along already seeing results. Season were reading about them on the came in,” Borman said. “They traditions,” Borman said. “He’s the walkways. The rides and pass sales number 10,000 above Indiana Beach history Facebook wanted us to tell them what an easy guy to sit down with queues, the buildings, the con- last year’s total, while general site and elsewhere. They talked we wanted to do with Indi- and tell him a vision. We had crete walks — I came up with admission and group bookings about what they disliked about ana Beach because the former him come up with ideas for fresh color schemes for all of also are up. how the park was operated in owner didn’t deliver on any- every ride, stand and element, them.” “The guests know we’re the recent past. thing they promised. Between and he’s been an outstanding Bastrup even scanned and in it to make this park better “So, we had one shot to the experience [Apex CEO and partner in the development of color-matched actual tiger hues — and they’re very thankful,” really get this right. We knew former Paramount Parks CEO] this park.” for Tig’rr, a 1984 Schwarzkopf Borman said. “We want to see that everything we did to the Al Weber and I brought to the Once it was agreed that In- Jet Star and one of six roller Indiana Beach returned to the park this year was going to be table and the money we were diana Beach was a “boardwalk coasters in the park. He worked nostalgic pride that everybody to be critically reviewed by our investing, we convinced them resort” (which Apex has made directly with Newport, Ky.- has told us about it.” guests. Based on their feedback, we believed in the park.” an official part of its name), Bas- based Baynum Painting, Inc., •indianabeach.com September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 27 28 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016 Twilight Zone thrill ride getting a movie makeover Disney California Adventure to greet Guardians of the Galaxy AT: Dean Lamanna creatures and his latest ac- success to create this [email protected] quisitions from across the immersive experience,” universe,” explained Joe Feige said. “With its debut ANAHEIM, Calif. — Rhode, WDI’s portfolio timed to the release of the Come next summer, The creative director. “He has film’s sequel, we are eager Twilight Zone Tower of imprisoned the Guardians to present the attraction Terror will give way to the of the Galaxy and they’re to the millions who visit Guardians of the Galaxy at hanging in display cases [DCA] and place them in Disney California Adven- over a giant abyss. The the center of the action.” ture (DCA). captor doesn’t know it, Disney’s decision to A collaboration be- but Rocket Raccoon has es- undertake the ride make- tween the creative minds caped and is enlisting the over has been met with behind the Marvel Enter- aid [of park guests] to help dismay by some — even tainment’s comic books / the Guardians in a break- spurring at least one online feature films and Walt Dis- out scheme.” petition. ney Imagineering (WDI), Riders will be thrust “This might be the the new attraction — called into multiple scenes cre- worst marketing idea Guardians of the Galaxy: ated by the rise and fall of since new Coke,” said Scot Mission Breakout! — will the attraction’s gantry lift, Squires, a self-described entail a complete make- all to the beat of music in- Disney fan and marketing over of the 2004-opened spired by the 2014 film’s consultant based in Mid- Tower of Terror. popular soundtrack. land, Mich. “While Guard- The ride will “drop” The Guardians of the The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, a fixture at Disney Cali- ians of the Galaxy looks park guests into the story Galaxy announcement was fornia Adventure since 2004, will be rethemed and reintro- like a great idea on paper, it alongside its ragtag band made in late July at San Di- duced as Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout! next doesn’t fit with the [park’s of wisecracking intergalac- ego Comic-Con by Kevin summer. COURTESY DISNEYLAND RESORT California] theming.” tic characters. Feige, president of Marvel Park guests can enjoy “The setting is a kind Studios, which, along with The attraction will anchor Disney Imagineering team The Twilight Zone Tower of fortress that’s owned the whole of Marvel Enter- a growing universe of Mar- has found a way to harness of Terror until it closes for by the mysterious Collec- tainment, is now owned by vel Super Heroes at DCA. the spirit which drove the redo in early January. tor, and it’s packed with The Walt Disney Company. “The incredibly talented Guardians of the Galaxy’s •disneylandresort.com September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 29 30 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016 September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 31 32 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016 The Twister spins into Lake Winnie AT: John W.C. Robinson in May, we released a video [email protected] on our Facebook page of the CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. ride in action which received — The South's favorite fam- over 1,500 likes in less than one ily amusement park upped its weekend." thrill ante in 2016 with the addi- Since its debut, the ride tion of the Twister to Lake Win- continues to be one of the most nepesaukah Amusement Park. popular in the park for both "The Twister gives us a new riders and onlookers. thrill ride with action unlike any Adjacent to the park's other in the park," stated Talley traveling Moser Maverick to front gate, Twister intimidates Green of Lake Winnie. The park the Lake Winnie lineup. Now, and entices incoming guests capitalized this unique action its unique spins and twists are all at once. Green offered, "We by coining the tagline "Can you delighting Lake Winnie guests. have guests watching it spin in stomach it?" in its marketing "This exciting addition had awe, approaching it timidly to campaigns guests flipping for it before ride, and then exiting exclaim- Rides 4U of Somerville, we even opened," proclaimed ing 'This is probably the best The wild motions of the Twister offer new thrills to guests at N.J., helped bring the former Green. "Prior to opening day ride I've ever ridden!'" Lake Winnepesaukah AT/JOHN W.C. ROBINSON Universal Orlando unchains Skull Island: Reign of Kong AT: Tim Baldwin ogy to propel the story. To be mobile. The giant ape’s move- [email protected] frank, the action and scenes ments capably express human can be quite intense. Young emotion. ORLANDO, Fla. — After children are sure to latch Some of the components weeks of technical rehearsal, onto parents. As the tale pro- of the ride could be consid- Universal’s Islands of Ad- gresses, Kong enters the fray, ered among Universal’s best venture officially opened rescuing the transport and its work. This mega-attraction Skull Island: Reign of Kong explorers. can deliver a thrilling first im- on July 13. Situated in the Ju- The final room brings the pression. Once the storyline is rassic Park themed area, this 200-horsepower transport revealed and is known to visi- new dark ride attraction is an close to an exceptionally large tors, many guests might pre- amalgamation of everything — more than three stories tall fer reriding the physical rides Universal enjoys throwing at — animatronic Kong outside such as coasters and water at- their guests: 3D technology, the vehicle. His movements tractions in more repeat fash- motion-based seating and are fluid and the overall- ef ion, but Skull Island: Reign of over-the-top theming. The highly themed Skull Island: Reign of Kong is the new- fect is very impressive, par- Kong should be on the must- The Universal/Legend- est mega-attraction that opened this summer at Universal’s ticularly with the loud roar re- do list of every Universal visi- ary Pictures feature, Kong: Islands of Adventure. AT/TIM BALDWIN verberating through the room tor. And, with five uniquely Skull Island, isn’t planned to be and visitors feeling his breath. different animatronic drivers released until March of 2017, ous depths of the realm. To onlookers, it appears each Kong actually stands 18 feet to retell the ride's story, multi- and it has a star-filled cast. But As one gets closer to the vehicle has a driver, but in re- wide at the shoulders and his ple rides will be on all guests' the industry giant isn’t hold- boarding station, the them- ality, each vehicle has an ani- head is larger than an auto- wishlists. ing back the thrills until then. ing really kicks into high gear. matronic figure in the driver’s While that film continues the One room has a soothsayer seat and the ride uses a highly reboot of the King Kong fran- animatronic that goes from ut- sophisticated trackless sys- chise, the monstrous character tering incoherent prattle until tem. Universal is tight-lipped is synonymous with filmmak- unseen voices begin to chant in regard to its manufacturing ing dating back to the mon- for Kong. Flames rise, the partners, but it must be said ster pictures of the black-and- volume increases, and theme that the staging of the experi- white era of cinema. Whether park visitors are suddenly ence is top-notch. opening this attraction serves rapt, wondering what might Huge gates open and to generate buzz for the film, happen next. expedition vehicles coura- or conversely, talk of the film The queue can be unpre- geously enter. Once inside, makes the opening of the at- dictable from there, as real enormous props and scenes traction all the more relevant characters mix with media- are followed by segmented may be a matter of opinion. based natives to keep would- rooms simulating different ar- Regardless, it is the biggest be explorers guessing as they eas of the mysterious island. addition to the park since travel further into the caverns. Wearing 3D goggles, riders it launched The Wizarding Thematically, it is among Uni- see vivid projections on both World of Harry Potter in 2010. versal’s finest. Upon reach- sides of the vehicle giving As the story goes here, ing the station, 72 passengers the impression of looking out explorers board 40-foot-long strap in for each voyage. With the open sides into an unex- transport vehicles of the Eight multiple vehicles traversing plainable, dangerous world. Above, the massive Wonder Expedition Company through the attraction, those With the driver’s cabin clev- transport vehicles carry to discover creatures of un- numbers can keep the queue erly positioned in the front of up to 72 riders at a time. known origin. Upon entering moving. the view, Universal is able to Right, Universal’s new Kong the queue, radio broadcasts Once out of the caves, simulate not only fantastical attraction combines motion blare promotional successes the massive, 17-ton transport environments, but also speed, simulation, 3D technology, of such excursions. Further vehicles drive past the camp and dramatic movement on and intricately themed along, guests enter the cata- housing many queuing guests the side of a cliff. props and sets. COURTESY UNIVERSAL combs that take them deeper before entering the mountain- Three principal scenes ORLANDO RESORT and deeper into the mysteri- ous façade of the attraction. use the media-based technol- September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 33 34 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016 2016 Calgary Stampede rainiest ever; guests get one dry day AT: Pam Sherborne rodeo and before the Chuck- [email protected] wagon Races on many days. "But it was a difficult CALGARY, Alta. — The year for the weather," Con- weather reports coming nell said. from the Calgary Interna- The total number of visi- tional Airport during July tors on the last Friday and 8-17, the days of the 2016 Saturday of the fair were Calgary Stampede, showed down 39 percent and 27 per- that the only day without cent, respectively, from 2015. any rain was the first day of The Calgary Stampede's the event. all-time attendance record Officials, however, were was set in 2014 during its very pleased with the turn- 100th anniversary run with out, still being able to hit an attendance of 1.4 million. the one million mark. There The Calgary Stampede were 1,088,039 visitors offers an array of activi- this year, compared to the ties and attractions, but has 1,168,509 visitors in 2015. maintained a heavy empha- About 18 percent of the sis on rodeo and cowboys. guests were first-timers com- Stampede marketing boasts pared to 16 percent in 2015. it is the "World’s Richest Still, it was one of the Tournament Style Rodeo." wettest years on record. Oth- It features six main FAIRS er than that first day, record events that happen daily in- amounts were measured. cluding: ladies barrel racing, The 2016 Calgary Stam- Amounts went from a trace bareback, tie-down roping, pede, which ran July 8-17, on July 10 to about an inch steer wrestling, saddle bronc was the wettest Calgary and a half on July 15. and bull riding. Stampede on record. NAME Stampede officials de- New events this year in- provided the midway with cided to let visitors into the cluded: 58 rides including one new fair for free on the final day •The Dog Bowl, which ride, the Spin Out, manufac- of the fair between 10 a.m. was presented by The Ca- tured by KMG. Right, there and noon. Also offered that nine Stars, was located on were 34 new foods at the day were one-half price the midway and received 2016 Calgary Stampede, standing-room rodeo tick- great reviews, said Neil July 8-17. Final 2016 fair at- ets. On that day, there were Hilts, media relations coor- tendance was 1,088,039. 151,695 visitors compared to dinator; COURTESY the same day in 2015 when •The International Pa- CALGARY STAMPEDE 106,803 visitors passed vilion transformed the Big through the gates. Four Building to a cultural At the conclusion of the hotspot with performances, throw an axe, play paint ball of the Stampede, CEO War- vendors and more; or duel on climbing walls. ren Connell said: "Our stam- •The Coca-Cola stage, The midway, provided pede spirit is alive and doing which featured dozens of by North American Midway very well in Calgary." popular artists and Entertainment, provided 58 He said the rain did •Adventure Park, lo- total rides including a new sort of cooperate with skies cated at the south end of the one, the Spin Out, manufac- holding until after the day's park, gave guests a chance to tured by KMG. Temple Fire Company Fair, Easton, Pa., celebrates 53rd year Left: A.E.B. Amusements, Easton, Pa. has the midway for the annual Temple Fire Compa- ny Fair. Now in its 53rd year, the midway features a dozen rides from A.E.B. Newly refurbished this past winter is their Venture Cobra and Hrubetz Round-Up. Right: Diane Welsh (r), owner of Diane’s Concessions and daughter Amber run indepen- dent game concessions. Based out of Philadelphia, Welsh’s op- eration consists of three game units and two Hi-Strikers. For- merly known as “Duck Pond Diane,” in addition to A.E.B., she plays with Skelly’s Amuse- ments, Inc. and Bartlebaugh Amusements, Inc. AT/B. DEREK SHAW September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 35 Attendance at 2016 California State Fair falls but successes reported AT: Pam Sherborne [email protected] FAIRS SACRAMENTO, Calif. cellations from Chaka Khan — California State Fair of- and Salt n Pepa. Both had ficials felt that Sacramento’s been advertised extensively. weekend heat wave and re- The late cancellations didn't cent national tragedies took allow enough time for the a toll on attendance despite replacement acts to promote. efforts to advertise more on Yet, there were some social media for the July 8-24 successes this year. For ex- event. ample, there was a 20 per- Total attendance this cent increase in funds raised year was 673,237, down 14 at the Junior Livestock Sale percent from 2015's record of Champions, a 21 percent total of 787,833. Paid atten- increase in the number of dance fell by 11 percent from competitive entries, and a 7.2 577,646 last year to 511,224 percent increase in advance this year. admission ticket sales. State Fair spokeswoman Attendance for the The Sabrina Rodriguez said the Best of California Brewfest 17-day event usually has drew 2,015 guests, up 31 per- some of its heaviest turnout cent from the previous year’s Frederiksen 1/7x3 b/w 3/14/02 11:22 AM Page 1 in the closing weekend, but 1,535 guests. The number of Butler Amusements provides the midway at the California State Fair, Sacramento. This year triple-digit temperatures hit entries increased by 11 per- the carnival supplied 70 carnival rides as well as a new permanent attraction, the Sky Ride. Sacramento on the fair's final cent. The Sky Ride cost Butler Amusements $1.1 million. It gave rides to 52,997 guests this year. Saturday and Sunday. Butler Amusements’ COURTESY CALIFORNIA STATE FAIR She told a local news 70 carnival rides were agency that fair organizers again strong in generat- “The #1 Leading Slide Manufacturer in America” FREDERIKSEN also speculated recent shoot- ing $4,696,400 in revenues, “World’s Largest 5 Lane, One Trailer Slide - 108 Ft.” INDUSTRIES, INC. ings and attacks may have down only $32,307 from 5212 St. Paul St. also deterred people from 2015’s record setting year. • Financing and Leasing Available • Trades Considered Tampa, Florida 33619 attending a heavily popu- The newly installed $1.1 mil- (813) 628-4545 lated event despite actions lion Sky Ride carried more • Order Slide Bags or “New Rain” Bags they took to prevent fairgo- than 52,997 guests. • 6 New Slides In Stock FAX (813) 621-3679 ers from bringing weapons, Exit survey data showed • Have 20 Used Rides www.funslide.com such as providing metal de- that 92 percent of visitors • 90 Ft. Fiberglass Slide tectors at entrances. were satisfied with their state • 65 Ft. Fiberglass Slide “Despite how safe the fair experience and more fair is, we have had a lot of than 95 percent felt their recent tragedies around the state fair was a good value, country when it comes to up from 74 percent in 2015. large groups of people… Food and beverage some people may be more sales during the 2016 event likely to stay home,” Rodri- grossed $9.4 million, just 2.6 guez was quoted as saying. percent behind 2015’s record There also were late can- setting year of $9.6 million.

Total attendance at the 2016 California State Fair, Sacramen- to, July 8-24, fell 14 percent compared to last year's total. But, fair officials reported many successes. Officials attrib- uted the decrease to triple-digit temperatures on the last weekend of the event and recent national tragedies. COURTESY CALIFORNIA STATE FAIR 36 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016

MIDWAY CARNIVALlights MARKET PLACE COMPILED: Pam Sherborne [email protected]

The Illinois Treasurer's office auctioned fairgoers. Concerts this year were moved from some unclaimed property at this year's Illinois the Chris Beck Arena to the smaller Community State Fair, Springfield, which ran August 11-21. Theater Stage. Fairgoers could attend the con- Items included some rare and interesting certs with a paid fair admission. items. Officials said prior to the fair there was There also was increased entertainment tar- a rookie card of late Chicago Cubs star Ernie geting the fair's large Latino following. Banks, an 1856 flying eagle cent and an Elvis Other changes this year was the relocation Presley concert stub. There also was a Cartier of the Hall of Flowers display. The popular ex- watch and a pair of new 1997 Air Jordan shoes. hibit had be tucked in the corner of the fair's This was the first time in a decade that the exhibit hall, but Bartling moved it to the center office held an auction live at the fair. The last live of the hall. auction was in 2006. The wine and beer garden was decorated Items are put up for auction after 10 years with giant movie tickets and framed movie still of attempts to locate owners. The office has had photos, to match this year’s fair theme, “Lights, three online auctions so far this year. Camera, Fair!”celebrating the famous movies The midway is provided by North Ameri- shot in Sonoma County over the decades. can Midway Entertainment. A package deal for horse racing fans that • included box seats and a buffet meal also was a Prized pigs and ribbon-worthy crafts could new offering at the 2016 event. earn youngsters a bit less at the North Dakota The carnival midway was provided by Helm State Fair, Minot, held annually in July. & Sons. State agencies are proposing cuts to staff, • equipment, travel and other areas, including fair The 2016 Washington State Fair, Puyallup, prize premiums, to comply with 10 percent cuts is expanding its dates this year, running Septem- ordered by North Dakota Gov. Jack Dalrymple ber 2-25 and giving guests four weekends and P.O. Box 238 as they begin to submit their general fund bud- other additional options to plan their trips. The get requests for the next two years. fair will close on Tuesdays to give staff and ven- Merino, CO. 80741 With nowhere else to cut, North Dakota dors time to rest and restock. State Fair Manager Renae Korslien said the Stacy Howard, the fair's new public rela- 800-634-6097 970-522-7515 Fax: 970-522-2902 State Fair Association had no choice but to tions manager, made the fair announcements in slash premiums by more than $50,000. July. Howard took over the position after the res- [email protected] www.wisdomrides.com "Which is sad, because most of that money ignation of 30-year veteran Karen LaFlamme. goes to the 4-H and FFA kids," Korslien was The Washington State Fair will end the sum- quoted as saying in the online Inforum news mer with a special End of Summer Bash on Labor agency out of Fargo, N.D. Day. The entire fair will be donned with island There were 49,000 projects entered into sounds and island fun complete with tropical the 2015 fair and numbers for the 2016 fair, drinks, food and a free concert by Jimmy Buf- which ran July 22-30, were not known by AT's fet. deadline. There will be an abundance of other Labor Attendance at the 2015 event was 305,093, Day offerings and promotions. And, of course, slightly lower than last year's 314,446. special day promotions will be available through- • out the entire run of the fair. Officials at the California Mid-State Fair Other offerings this year include the Super- suggested prior to the 2016 event, which ran hero Headquarters exhibit, Discover the Dino- July 20-31, that this year's visitors may want to saurs, the Timber Gulch exhibit and new foods arrive a few minutes early due to enhanced se- such as Branks BBQ and the Original House of curity screening at all entrances. Donuts. For many years, fair officials at the Paso Funtastic Shows provides the midway at Robles event provided security personnel at all the Washington State Fair with approximately entrances who would do a search of handbags 70 rides. and any items that might carry other items in- • side. This year the International Association But, this year, they took it a step further of Fairs and Expos (IAFE) will hold its annual by adding a wanding system, which officials said convention November 27-30, at the Paris Hotel are really just metal detectors to determine if and Bally's Hotel, Las Vegas, Nev. Educational there are any metal items that are being carried workshops already confirmed for the 2016 event onto the grounds. include: Officials included the new security not be- ● Double Jeopardy – The Cost of Doing cause of increased concerns, but felt it put the Business. fair more in line with other regional events. ● An informative presentation on YQCA, Davis Enterprises provides the midway at a new and revolutionary quality assurance pro- the California Mid-State Fair. gram for agricultural exhibitors and the safety of • the food chain. The 2016 Sonoma County Fair, Santa Rosa, ● Board & Staff – Who Leads What. Calif., which ran July 22-August 7, was impor- ● Show Us the Money, presented in a new tant for Becky Bartling, hired last December as and fun way to help fair officials find money the fair’s new chief executive officer. It marked needed for facility projects. her official public debut as the head of the fair. The Tech area will be expanded to be a Tech Keep our amusement park industry strong! One of the changes Bartling made for this Pavilion and will offer a session on livestreaming, among other technical topics. Buy products and services from these suppliers. year's event was to offer free entertainment to September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 37

BUSINESS, SAFETY & CLASSIFIED MarketWatch — Page 40 / Obituaries ­— Page 41 / Safety — Pages 43-45 / CLASSIFIED — Page 47 Association Summer Meetings report More than 100 attendees at Canobie Lake Park for NEAAPA's 103rd meeting AT: Ron Gustafson Special to Amusement Today

SALEM, N.H. — More than 100 members of the New Eng- land Association of Amuse- ment Parks & Attractions (NEAAPA) were on hand July 26 at Canobie Lake Park for the 103rd Anniversary Summer Meeting of the organization. The day-long event kicked off with exclusive ride time (10- 10:45 a.m.) on the classic Yankee Cannonball wood roller coaster. The landmark Philadelphia Toboggan Co. ride first oper- NEAAPA Board of Directors gather for a meeting during the Canobie Lake Park offered a variety of tours during NEAAPA’s organization’s summer gala at Canobie Lake Park in Salem, Summer Meeting on July 26. 4See NEAAPA, page 39 N.H. COURTESY NEAAPA/RON GUSTAFSON COURTESY NEAAPA/RON GUSTAFSON Nearly 100 make trip to Knoebels Amusement Resort for two-day PAPA event AT: B. Derek Shaw [email protected]

ELYSBURG, Pa. — Nearly 100 members of the Pennsyl- vania Amusement Parks As- sociation (PAPA) met July 18 and 19 for their annual Sum- mer Meeting at the idyllic Knoebels Amusement Resort. Each year the summer meet- ing travels to a different park while the spring meeting is annually held at the Hershey Lodge (Pa.). Richard Jackson, vice president of North American opera- The first day started with tions of IAAPA and Roxanne Pope, assistant to the president a golf tournament at Knoeb- of IAAPA made a presentation to Dick Knoebel after the els Three Ponds Golf Course opening evening dinner. IAAPA recognized Knoebels for 90 Drew Kanaskie, Ride Technician, took a group of 25 attend- generating over $1,500 for the years of excellence in the amusement industry. ees through a lights-on tour of the Pretzel ride Haunted Barbara J. Knoebel scholar- COURTESY KNOEBELS Mansion. AT/B. DEREK SHAW ship fund. This fund annu- ally helps student employees competitors, however, there’s behind-the-scenes tours were mid-morning. Jeff Davis, solved. There was discussion of PAPA member parks in the a lot of sameness and sharing. conducted by Rick and Brian Sesame Place and current about PAPA joining the Penn- form of scholarships for educa- I don’t think this exists quite Knoebel for interested attend- PAPA president, presided. sylvania Restaurant & Lodg- tional purposes. Twenty PAPA the same way in other states.” ees. They included a tour of Mike Fehnel, general man- ing Association (PRLA), as members and guests partici- The networking and renewing the various shops, inside the ager of Dorney Park filled an that is now the organization pated. That evening attendees of friendships continued in the Haunted Mansion and also open seat on the board. The more closely aligned with the socialized and ate at the Pine outside courtyard well into the inside Black Diamond roller Pennsylvania Association of amusement industry in Penn- Barn Inn, Danville. During wee hours of the next day. coaster. Travel & Tourism (PATT), of sylvania. PRLA also has effec- opening remarks Jeff Davis, After a tasty breakfast on The PAPA board of direc- which PAPA was a member, president of PAPA said, “We’re Tuesday in the Oasis Cafeteria, tors meeting also took place is in the process of being dis- 4See PAPA, page 38 EUROPEAN SPARE AND REPLACEMENT PARTS IMPORTER SINCE 1982 REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! NORTH AMERICAN PARTS INC. www.GoldenTicketAwards.com NORTH 61C AERO DRIVE, PARTS CHEEKTOWAGA, NEW YORK USA 14225

PHONE: (716) 839-4791 FAX: (716) 839-4506 AMERICAN INC. EMAIL: [email protected] www.nap-inc.com SERVING THE AMUSEMENT INDUSTRY WE’VE KEPT YOUR RIDES IN MOTION SINCE 1982 38 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016 New Skyslide at U.S. Bank Tower a fun diversion for all ages Tallest skyscraper fleeting, views. further cushion the land- “We are so proud to ing on a gymnastics-style in the West offers have finally opened our mattress. The slide goes doors to guests from around straight out from the wall of view to a thrill the world to celebrate what the building for a couple of AT: Dean Lamanna is sure to become an iconic vertigo-inducing feet before [email protected] California landmark,” said hanging a sharp right into Lucy Rumantir, president the dive. It’s over in a flash LOS ANGELES, Calif. and CEO, The Americas, — but not before eliciting a — Continuing the global for OUE (short for Over- giddy gasp, scream and/or trend of “glass box” attrac- seas Union Enterprise, Ltd., laugh. tions that capitalize on the a Singapore-based real es- Skyslide requires a sepa- thrill, and fear, of heights — tate development company rate $8 ticket in addition to typically above deep river that purchased the tower in the $25 observation deck ad- gorges and atop skyscrapers 2013). mission. Enjoyed in combi- — an enclosed, see-through A $50 million project, nation with the unmatched slide has been affixed to the OUE Skyspace Los Angeles L.A. mountain range-to- side of the tallest building welcomed some 10,000 peo- Santa Monica Bay pan- west of the Mississippi Riv- ple its first weekend. About orama afforded by the two er. 2,400 of those visitors tried observation levels, which Skyslide is part of the out Skyslide on opening include a 2,800-square-foot new OUE Skyspace Los day, June 24, alone. outdoor terrace, a restaurant Angeles 360-degree indoor A month later, during and a bar, the total admis- / outdoor observation deck a late-afternoon weekday sion reflects a one-of-a-kind that debuted near the top visit from Amusement Today, experience. A time-lapse of the 1,081-foot U.S. Bank Skyslide patronage was im- digital photography wall in Skyslide, located on the Tower in late June. The pressively nonstop. Visitors the lobby illustrating L.A.’s 70th floor of the U.S. Bank 45-foot-long slide, which enjoyed watching the reac- landmarks and diverse Tower in downtown Los was assembled offsite and tions of Skyslide’s riders as neighborhoods is a kind of Angeles, continues to lure helicoptered into its position much as whooshing down anticipation-building bonus. a steady flow of visitors between two upper floors, the slide itself. OUE Skyspace Los An- following its successful is made of glass panels Riders take the plunge geles is open late nightly and debut on June 24. 1.25-inches thick — allow- on rubberized yoga mats, available for special events. AT/DEAN LAMANNA ing riders unobstructed, if which protect the glass and •skyspace-la.com

PAPA feature article being prepared been a hit on the afternoon of and tele-medicine programs. Continued from page 37 for the 2017 Explore Pennsyl- the second day of the spring Rounding out the annual 2017 meeting dates set vania publication of the Penn- meeting each year. The think- gathering was another tasty The 2017 PAPA Spring tive lobbying resources. The sylvania RV & Camping As- ing is that it might be nice for meal prepared by the Knoe- Meeting will be held at the organization’s bylaws were re- sociation on RV’s/camping PAPA member parks to get to- bels culinary staff. Entertain- Hershey Lodge in early March. vised with approval that day. and Pennsylvania amusement gether for a day-long roundta- ment was provided by the The The 2017 PAPA Summer Meet- The last revision was in 1997. parks. Also discussed was the ble in the December or January Avalons, the in-park entertain- ing will occur at Waldameer The original set of PAPA by- new PAPA Hall of Fame; park timeframe. ment that week. To add to the Park and WaterWorld, Erie, laws was in effect from 1936- security measures (including Richard Jackson, vice performance, Leanna Knoe- Pa. The tentative dates are July 1997. open carry policies); and the president of North American bel Muscato got up and per- 17 and 18. Other committee reports PokemonGo craze as it relates operations of IAAPA was in formed Palisades Park (rewrit- included legislative issues; hu- to guest communications. attendance and made a brief ten to Knoebels Groves lyrics) 2016 PACE Safety Seminar man resources; scholarships; Stacey Ososkie, PR manager presentation to the board. with the quintet. (She has a The 2016 PACE (Parks and water parks and PAPA web- for Knoebels said, “I never New this year is help from potentially budding career in Carnivals Educational) Ride site. The association is mov- thought I’d be talking about IAAPA with statewide issues a different direction!) Many Safety Seminar will occur Oc- ing toward paperless spring Pokémon in my grown up and initiatives. Stephanie See, attendees then stayed to enjoy tober 24 to 27 at the Clarion and summer meeting registra- adult life!” director, State Advocacy, is the the rides, shows and attrac- Hotel, Erie, Pa. “Hands-on” tions and also e-mail blasts to There was also interest in person who is heading up this tions Knoebels Amusement training will be available at members. New business in- perhaps offering a stand-alone operation. The member orga- Resort has for kids of all ages, Waldameer Park and Water- cluded a presentation about a roundtable session that has nization also offers food co-op young and old. World, Erie, Pa. This portion of the program is held outside, rain or shine. This annual sem- inar is held in conjunction with the Pennsylvania State Show- men’s Association (PSSA) and offers both 24 and 32 hour certification training sessions. The educational portion of the seminar is led by instruc- tors from NAARSO. Inspec- tor testing is also offered for Pennsylvania Certified Inspec- tors and/or NAARSO levels. Gary Chubb at Hersheypark is the contact. September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39 NEAAPA FunTime USA rebuilding approved Continued from page 37 GULFPORT, Miss. — FunTime USA amusement park received ated at Lakewood Park in Wa- approval on its third try from the Gulfport City Council to rebuild terbury, Conn., in 1930 and was the amusement park following its destruction in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. moved to Canobie Lake for the Business co-owners Romy Simpson and Rafe O'Neal said they 1936 season. hope to have the park open by Memorial Day 2017 on a 5.5-acre Morning refreshments were tract on Gulfport waterfront directly across the street from it's for- provided by NEAAPA member mer corner location at U.S. 90 and Cowan. A Ferris wheel and other High Mountain Enterprises. new rides will be added to the ride mix with the favorites: bumper Noon lunch was served in boats and go-karts. the park’s North Grove over- Plans to rebuild the park had been met with opposition from looking the lake where gift bags nearby residents who cited noise and traffic as their reasons for con- were presented by Interna- Most NEAAPA members exited around dusk following a full cern. The council voted 4-3 to reject the appeals by the neighbor- tional Ride Training and NXT day at Canobie Lake Park. hood group, thus clearing the way for the park to return following Capture. COURTESY NEAAPA/RON GUSTAFSON years of entertaining families prior to Hurricane Katrina. A variety of tours were con- ducted during the afternoon fo- cusing on operations, games, re- tail food service entertainment and Canobie Lake’s Halloween Screemfest. NEAAPA’s board of direc- tors met at 4 p.m. with President Ryan DeMaria of Canobie Lake Park presiding before a large contingent of the organization’s members. A cocktail hour and dinner, both sponsored by NEAAPA members Premier Rides, Inc., of Baltimore, Md., and Rhode Island Novelty, of Fall River, Mass., followed the board meet- ing in the Portofino Restaurant and North Grove respectively. A group photo taken with a drone camera capped off the event. The next NEAAPA social events will be held during the Nov. 14-18 IAAPA Attractions Expo in Orlando, Fla. •neaapa.com

NEAAPA Secretary Ed Hodg- don (left) and longtime New England News Editor Ron Gustafson got together for a quick “hello” as the orga- nization kicked off its 103rd Anniversary Summer Meet- ing at Canobie Lake Park in Salem, N.H. Ed is marketing director at Funtown Splash- town USA in Saco, Maine, while Ron is director of mar- keting and public relations at Quassy Amusement & Wa- terpark in Middlebury, Conn. New England News is the of- ficial newsletter of NEAAPA. COURTESY NEAAPA 40 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016 BUSINESS WATCH MARKETWATCH SeaWorld Ent. reports 2016 first half results ORLANDO, Fla. — SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: SEAS), COMPANY SYMBOL MARKET PRICE HIGH LOW reported On Aug. 4 its financial results for the first half and second 08/08/16 52-Week 52-Week quarter of 2016. During the first half of 2016, the company generated The Blackstone Group BX NYSE 27.63 38.22 22.31 revenue of $591.4 million, a decrease of $14.8 million, or 2 percent, compared to the same period in 2015. The company generated a Merlin Entertainments Group/ MERL LSE 468.60 483.80 316.79 net loss for the first half of 2016 of $66.3 million, or a loss of $0.78 Legoland per diluted share, and an Adjusted Net Loss of $31.5 million, or a loss Cedar Fair, L.P. FUN NYSE 60.79 63.40 48.45 of $0.37 per diluted share. Second quarter attendance was down 494,000 guests due to a decline in attendance at the company's Flor- Comcast Corp./ ida park locations along with a shift in the timing of holidays in 2016, CMCSA NASDAQ 67.07 68.36 50.01 NBCUniversal Media which impacted nearly all of its park locations. The Walt Disney Company DIS NYSE 95.75 120.65 86.25 Cedar Fair reports record first half results SANDUSKY, Ohio — Cedar Fair Entertainment Company Dubai Parks & Resorts DUBAIPAR:UH DFM 1.76 1.77 0.86 (NYSE: FUN), announced on Aug. 3 recordnet revenues for the six Fuji Kyoko Co., Ltd. 9010 TYO 1241.00 1568.00 1043.00 months that ended June 26. Net revenues were $446 million for the six months, an increase of $22 million, or 5 percent, compared Haicahang Holdings Ltd. 2255HK SEHK 1.56 1.84 1.21 with the six-month period ended June 28, 2015. The increase in revenues was the result of a 4 percent increase, or 337,000-visit, Leofoo Development Co. TW:2705 TSEC 9.12 11.35 8.22 increase in attendance to 9.0 million guests, a 1 percent, or $0.59, increase in average in-park guest per capita spending to $45.16, MGM Resorts International MGM NYSE 24.64 25.29 16.18 and a 7 percent, or $3 million, increase in out-of-park revenues to $54 million. Cedar Fair remains confident in its long-term business Parques Reunidos Servicios ES:PQR MCE 12.15 15.53 12.1 strategy and its ability to reach its long-term Adjusted EBITDA Centrales S.A. goal of $500 million earlier than its original target of 2018. SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. SEAS NYSE 13.16 21.84 12.58 Six Flags first half revenue up 11 percent Shenzhen Overseas Chinese Town 000069 SZSE 7.01 11.09 5.88 GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — Six Flags Entertainment Corpo- Co., Ltd. (OCT) ration (NYSE: SIX) announced on July 27 another period of strong Six Flags Entertainment Co. SIX NYSE 53.62 62.69 41.6 financial performance with revenue for the first six months of 2016 growing $51 million or 11 percent to $522 million, driven primarily Skyocean International 00593HK SEHK 10.20 12 7.95 by a 7 percent increase in attendance, a 3 percent increase in guest spending per capita and a 104 percent increase in international li- Tivoli A/S DK:TIV CSE 455.00 499.50 330.40 censing revenue. On a constant currency basis, revenue for the first six months of 2016 grew $57 million or 12 percent. Net Income for Village Roadshow VRL ASX 5.28 7.68 4.95 the same time period increased $19 million and Adjusted EBITDA grew $21 million or 19 percent to $132 million. STOCK PRICES ABOVE ARE GENERALLY QUOTED IN THE FOREIGN CURRENCY IN WHICH THE COMPANY IS LOCATED Parques Reunidos to manage two Vietnam parks Worldwide Markets: ASX, Australian Securities Exchange; CSE, Copenhagen Stock Exchange; LSE, London Stock Exchange; NYSE, MADRID, Spain — Parques Reunidos (ES: PQR) was awarded 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, Tokyo Stock Exchange the management contract for two new parks in Ha Long City, Viet- —SOURCES: Bloomberg.com; Wall Street Journal nam. The 10-year deal was signed with the vietnamese investment DIESEL PRICES group Sun Group and marks the entry of the company in the Asian market. The agreement includes advice and management by the Region As of Change from leisure group of the new area called Ha Long Ocean Park, which (U.S.) 08/08/16 1 year ago will consist of two parks (theme and aquatic) when they open on East Coast $2.321 - $0.392 214 hectares of land in the first half of 2017. Midwest $2.275 - $0.240 Gulf Coast $2.184 - $0.303 Comcast reports 2nd quarter results Mountain $2.396 - $0.244 PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ: CMC- West Coast $2.454 - $0.252 SA) on July 27 reported results for the quarter ended June 30, 2016 California $2.707 - $0.253 that included: consolidated revenue increased 2.8 percent; operating income decreased 1 percent; operating cash flow increased 3 percent CURRENCY while net cash provised by operating activities was $4.3 billion. On 08/09/16 $1 USD = In its theme park division, revenue increased 47 percent to $1.1 billion and operating cash flow increased 40.5 percent to 0.9019 EURO $469 million in the second quarter of 2016. Pro forma revenue 0.7655 GBP (British Pound) increased 10.6 percent, reflecting higher per capita spending at 102.27 JPY (Japanese Yen) the parks and the successful opening of Hollywood's The Wizard- 0.9812 CHF (Swiss Franc) ing World of Harry Potter attraction. For the six months ended 1.3103 AUD (Australian Dollar) June 30, 2016, revenue from the theme parks segment increased 1.3164 CAD (Canadian Dollar) 51.8 percent to $2.2 billion and operating cash flow increased 46 percent to $844 million compared to 2015. September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 41

OBITUARIES Lloyd "Mokey" Choate Wonderland Park's co-founder Alethea Roads dies at 100 passes away July 25 AMARILLO, Texas — Ale- worked at Wonderland Park. for six Hopkins rides, most SEARCY, Ark. — Lloyd thea Isabel Mikesell Roads, She continually stressed posi- notably the company's first "Mokey" Choate Sr., age 73, of 100, of Amarillo died Tuesday, tive work ethics in an unas- log flume, and its first roller Judsonia, Ark., died July 25, 2016 July 26, 2016. A memorial ser- suming manner. Alethea was coaster, the double looping in Searcy, Ark. vice was held on August 1, known for her hard work and Texas Tornado. Choate at St. Paul United Methodist perseverance; and to those Wonderland's mission of owned Star Church in Amarillo. who knew her, she was one of providing an enjoyable experi- Amusements, Alethea was born Nov. the wisest, kindest and most ence to its patrons will contin- Judsonia, 8, 1915, in Pittsburgh, Pa., to interesting people you will ue to ensure its popularity and Ark., which Robert and Ruth Mikesell. She ever meet. success as a major Amarillo was started married Paul E. Roads on May Alethea was a member tourist attraction throughout in 1942 by his 23, 1943 in Neodesha, Kan. On of IAAPA, which awarded the years to come thanks to 65 father, Rob- Choate August 12, 1951, Alethea and Roads the 2003 Lifetime Ser- years of dedication and hard ert "The Kid Paul opened Kiddieland Park Alethea Roads vice Award. In 1972, she and work of its founders, Alethea Burns" Choate, an Athletic Show in Amarillo, renamed Wonder- Paul began the Family Owned & Paul Roads. wrestler prior to starting the land Park in 1967. Kiddieland family-owned and operated and Managed Park Associa- Alethea was preceded in show, and mother, Camella Rose- amusement park in Texas. tion anne Winch Choate. opened with three rides — a (FOAM). She was active death by her husband, Paul; a This year was the first year kiddie car ride (built by Paul One of Alethea's best in her church, Sunday School, son, Danny; her parents; and a since the show began that it Roads), kiddie boats, and a lit- ideas was the School Ticket her coffee group, Leukemia brother, Paul. didn't go out on the road. tle dipper roller coaster. Paul Fundraiser Program that ben- Society, and Red Hats. In 2008, Survivors include her He was the youngest of did the maintenance, took care efits all grade schools and she was awarded the Amarillo daughter, Paula Borchardt and four children, all of whom have of advertising and worked full middle schools in Amarillo. Women's Lifetime Achieve- husband, Paul, of Amarillo; preceded him in death: Melba time at the Air Base until 1967. The schools sell ride passes to ment Award. four granddaughters, Rebecca Campbell, an independent ride Alethea ordered supplies, sold Wonderland and keep 30 per- It was through the FOAM and Randy Parker of Ama- operator; Jennette Saunders, tickets, kept the books, man- cent of their sales. group that Alethea and her rillo, Kristen and Ken Hodges owner of Razorback Amuse- aged personnel, and was in Alethea took time in the husband met O.D. Hopkins, of Waco, Dr. Keira and Jason ments along with her husband, charge of customer relations. 1950s to be a Cub Scout & Girl then a builder of chair lifts for West of Fort Worth, and Paige Jelly Saunders; and Robert Alethea was the only person Scout leader. She always had ski resorts. Following the in- and Eric Rumph of Hoboken, Choate. in the office until her daugh- time for both her children and stallation of the Hopkins Sky N.J.; and nine grandchildren. He is survived by one son, ter began helping in the 1970s. all the teenagers who worked Ride (ski lift) at the park in Memorial donations may Lloyd Choate, Jr. (Tonya Cho- Alethea's daughter, Paula, & for her. In the early years, she 1977, a relationship was built be made to St. Paul United ate), Judsonia; two daughters, son-in-law, Paul Borchardt would pick up the workers with Hopkins and company Methodist Church, 4317 I-40 Luanne Quattlebaum (Alan & granddaughter, Rebecca and bring them to work. Ale- salesman Jerry Pendleton that West, Amarillo, Texas 79106 or Quattlebaum), Judsonia, Phyl- Parker, now run the park.To- thea was well known for her would make Wonderland the Khiva Shrine 305 SE 5th Ave, lisha Swindle (Jeremy Swindle), day, Wonderland is the largest support of young people that prototype proving grounds Amarillo, Texas 79101. Searcy; six grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren, Alethea Roads remembered... nieces, nephews and cousins. "I have had the pleasure of knowing Alethea Roads for over 40 • Visitation was held July 28 years. She has been like a second mother to me for all those years. "Alethea Roads and her husband Paul were living proof at Valley Baptist Church, Searcy, I met Alethea and her husband Paul in 1974 and my friendship that two people, willing and able to work hard, could make Ark., with funeral services July with them, Paula, and P.D., and the entire family has been extraor- their mark in our industry. Alethea was a wonderful lady who 29, by Powell Funeral Home of dinary. My family and I were always treated like one of her family. I was not only wise but understanding. She loved her family, Searcy. am admittedly at a loss for words, however I will always remember church, community and Wonderland. Alethea will be missed by her smile and laughter forever. May family and I have lost a dear all those who knew her. She also made the worlds best peanut Tara Pugh, 36, and wonderful friend. May she rest in peace." brittle." passes away July 12 —Jerry Pendleton, Skytrans Mfg. —Paul T. Nelson, Waldameer Park, Inc. • • LITHIA, Fla. — Tara Mi- "Alethea Roads was like my second mother, as she was for "My memories of Alethea Roads are that of a soft spoken chelle Heatherly Pugh, 36, of so many others. She always inspired others to be their best and lady with great knowledge of our industry. I was lucky enough Lithia, Fla., passed away on always saw the good in other people. She was always so posi- to meet her and her late husband Paul many years ago during a July 12, 2016. tive and upbeat. What a wonderful inspiration she has been for small parks open floor discussion workshop which I chaired dur- ing an IAAPA convention. Mrs. Roads, along with her late hus- She and her husband, Rob- so many people, including myself. She will be greatly missed but always remembered." band Paul, helped form an organization of small, family-owned ert (Beau) Pugh owned Pugh —Kristi Dean, Joyland Amusement Park amusement parks. The organization’s sole purpose was to help Concessions, traveling most • one another through sharing management, operations and of the time with Reithoffer "Alethea Roads and her husband Paul are legends in the fam- marketing knowledge and experiences. That group of small Shows. ily-owned and operated amusement parks. What they were able family owned parks is still going strong today! With the passing She is survived by hus- to build in Amarillo is a tribute to their hard work, dedication and of Alethea Roads, all small family owned amusement park say band and sons, Clark and Park- business model that built a park that thrives on the local, repeat goodbye to a great leader." er; mother, Carla Rigby; father, visits. Their forward thinking and willingness to share their suc- —Bill Robinson, William H. Robinson, Inc. Coy Heatherly Jr.; grandmoth- cessful business model helped many other small parks survive with • er, Barbara (Jim ) Evans; broth- the creation of their small park group. The knowledge gained by "It is with great sadness that we learned of Alethea Roads er, Coy Max Heatherly; step- its elite membership, during their annual meetings, made our in- passing. She and her husband were the creators of a wonderful, brothers, Rande (Joelle Rigby) dustry a far better place. Alethea will be missed by all of us lucky family-run, amusement park in Amarillo, Texas. Our thoughts Rigby; Robby (Tish Rigby) enough to have known her." and prayers go out to her family in their difficult time." Rigby; aunt, Teresa (Al Rimes) —Dick Chance, Chance Rides Mfg. —Charles Canfield, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Rimes; uncle, Jeff (Jeanie • • Mathews) Mathews; in-laws, "As many of us in the small parks community know, Mrs. Roads "Alethea was a fixture among the family-owned amuse- was instrumental in setting up an organization dedicated to family- ment parks. Together with her husband Paul, they built one Robert "Bobby" (Debbie Pugh) owned parks back in the early ‘70s. The annual meeting among of the few surviving family parks in America. Their success is Pugh; as well as many nieces, those park owners continues to this day and is a vital networking a testiment to their vision, hard work and business model that nephews, cousins and friends. opportunity for all of us. She will be missed by all that knew her as many today can't duplicate." Services were held July 20, someone dedicated to family, friends and this industry." —Dick Knoebel, Knoebels Amusement Resort at Serenity Meadows, River- —Eric Anderson, Quassy Amusement & Waterpark view, Fla. 42 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016 Unique ThrillCorp observation tower approved for San Diego Centerpiece of Port Authority Commission incorporates design work by San Diego’s SkySpire will include a restaurant. selected a $1.2 billion proj- San Diego-based AVRP/Sky- feature gondolas that spi- ThrillCorp is a partner in $1.2 billion ect proposal to transform port Studios, aims to become ral around the tower as they a consortium called 1HWY1, 70 prime downtown acres an iconic tourist attraction for transport guests to a top-level led by Protea Waterfront De- bayside project along the water. The project the city. interactive observation expe- velopment as the managing is anchored by SkySpire, “We are proud to add our rience. member. The winning pro- AT: Dean Lamanna a 480-foot-tall observation tower to the already stun- “You get unobstructed posal was one of 11 the Port [email protected] tower from ThrillCorp, Inc., ning San Diego waterfront 360-degree views as you as- Authority received for the of Orlando — a developer of skyline,” said Bill Kitchen, cend,” Kitchen said. “Guests site. The Port Authority and SAN DIEGO, Calif. — vertical thrill rides and enter- chairman of ThrillCorp and can disembark at the top to Protea are expected to com- The future of this city’s bay- tainment experiences. inventor of the company’s enjoy the beauty of San Diego plete a final review of the front is looking up in some As one of the most visible SkySpire product, which he and learn about the area and proposal by October, with the spectacular ways. elements of the redevelop- likened to “a kinetic sculp- its history.” development process begin- In July, the San Diego ment project, SkySpire, which ture.” A second upper level will ning immediately thereafter. “Our team did a tremen- dous job assembling and pre- senting… a compelling vision that includes a curated col- lection of unique land uses in a well-thought-out design,” said Michael Kitchen, Thrill- Corp’s chief development of- ficer. “The Port of San Diego set a high bar of expectation and we are very grateful to have been deemed to meet it." In addition to the Sky- Spire, the proposal includes a 178,000-square-foot interac- tive aquarium, hotels totaling 1,077 rooms, beaches, mari- nas, offices, retail, dining and other entertainment. The project approval came at an ideal time for ThrillCorp, which recently began offering shares to the public under a Crowd- fund Regulation A+ offer- ing. Company founder Bill Kitchen previously invented and developed Skycoaster giant swings and iFly indoor skydiving venues, which have sold millions of tickets and generated more than $2.5 billion in revenue for their operators • thrillcorp.com

Artist's rendering of Thrill- Corp's 480-foot-tall SkySpire observation tower propesd for 70 acres in downtown San Diego. COURTESY THRILLCORP, INC. September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 43 A.R.M. Inc. issues statement Vekoma Rides Parts & Services B.V. announces on Super Shot incident WINTERSVILLE, Ohio — A.R.M. (USA) collaboration with roller coaster wheel suppliers Inc., the manufacturer of the Super Shot ride involved in the July 25 accident which VLODROP, The Netherlands — On MAINTENANCE occurred at the Frederick County, Virginia August 1, Vekoma Rides Parts & Servic- FAST FACTS Fair wants to extend its prayers and well es B.V. announced in a statement that it Vekoma's wheel partners wishes to the woman who was injured. In ad- had selected two roller coaster wheel sup- dition, A.R.M. is compelled to address inac- pliers to be its preferred vendors. curacies and misinformation reported in the The statement read: news concerning the event. Contrary to early Vekoma Rides Parts & Services B.V. news reports, there has not been a structural controls the quality and safety of the de- failure of the passenger seat frame, main ve- sign, production and installation process- Vulkoprin nv hicle frame, or a failure of a cable or hydrau- es of all re-designs, upgrades, rehabs and Attn: Nancy Verbeke lic brake. Based on information from post parts of services of their rides. Critical a client are: Herderstraat 4 accident inspectors who have viewed the components are made to be traceable from •Safety: The highest safety standards Industriepark Zuid subject ride, the sole cause of the accident parent material through finished part and are ensured due to our close collaboration 8700 TIELT, Belgium was a failure to properly assemble the ride meet the highest quality demands accord- and because our partners apply to our Phone: 32 (0)51 403 806 before use. ing to the relevant standards. high standards. Fax: 32 (0)51 401 567 A.R.M. is a well respected U.S. ride man- All of our manufactured and pur- •Quality: Direct contact and your Email: [email protected] ufacturer which has been in business for more chased parts are of the highest quality feedback will enable our partners to con- • than 18 years. The company has designed and because of that we choose our ven- tinue and improve the quality standard of and manufactured hundreds of rides, which dor partners very carefully. After a me- wheels. have safely thrilled carnival and amusement ticulous screening process we are proud •Lead times: Through direct contact park guests across the U.S. A.R.M. has man- to announce a new collaboration with our and shipments often lead times can be re- ufactured over 60 Super Shot rides, which partners for supply of our wheels on all duced. have had an impressive safety record. Vekoma coasters. Our new wheel vendor •Price: Our partners will be able to The transportable Super Shot, like all partners are Vulkoprin nv in Belgium give you competitive prices for a high portable amusement rides, must be properly Maclan Corporation and Maclan Corporation in Lakeland, standard quality product. Attn: Maegan Wallace assembled and inspected before operation. Fla. This collaboration will be effective The company wants to assure its other Super 1808 South Combee Rd. Vekoma Rides Parts & Services BV al- immediately so all your future questions, Shot owners that by following the manufac- Lakeland, Fla. 33801 ways strive for highest customer satisfac- quotes or orders of wheels can be placed turer’s assembly, inspection and maintenance Phone: (800) 788-3951 tion. With this collaboration we can pro- directly with these suppliers. Of course procedures, their ride is safe for operation. Fax: (863) 667-1245 vide you with the valuable opportunity our team will always remain at your dis- For further information please contact: Email: [email protected] to contact these wheel suppliers directly. posal for any questions you may have. Mike Gill at: [email protected]. The most paramount benefits for you as •vekoma.com 44 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016

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] Safety education and training saves lives ORLANDO, Fla. — If your job or that of your em- tions Expo in Orlando, November 15-18. There, we ployees includes responsibility for the care and safety 7 will also be collecting items for our Silent Auction of amusement industry guests, attending the AIMS which is held during the Safety Seminar. Plan now to Safety Seminar is a must. It’s the No. 1 Safety ed- bring branded items and memorabilia from your park ucation seminar worldwide for those working in the or attraction to the IAAPA show and drop them off amusement industry, and it will be held January 8-13, A IMS at our booth. Items can also be sent to AIMS in ad- INTERNATIONAL 2017 in Orlando, Fla. vance. Contact us at [email protected] for shipping Acclaimed for its diverse curriculum (more than ORLANDO instructions. 200 different classes) and the quality of instructors (more than 120 industry experts), the AIMS Safety Become a seminar sponsor Seminar offers a broad range of safety training and AIMS International is a non-profit association education classes that can be tailored to your needs. dedicated to improve industry safety through lead- Many new classes are added each year to keep tions in safety and security. Consider the many benefits ership in education. Sponsorship of this important students up to date on current trends in the industry. in sending members of your team including designers, annual Safety Seminar helps provide improvements This year, several classes will feature much needed engineers, and project managers. They’ll learn from to our classroom and educational equipment. You training and education on security including focus on the industry's finest about the latest trends and factors can play a part in enhancing our student experience increased awareness as well as emergency procedures. in amusement industry safety and network with those while gaining exposure for your product or services. Certification testing is offered for Maintenance, who have first hand knowledge of their work. Sponsor benefits include prominent logo placement Operations, Aquatics, and Ride Inspection. on signage and electronic monitors throughout the Early registration for the 2017 AIMS Safety Semi- AIMS at industry events seminar, the opportunity to distribute literature in nar is $595 until October 1. Register at www.aimsintl. We welcome the opportunity to meet our col- the registration area, and recognition on our web- org. leagues at numerous industry events that take place site and other channels throughout the year. We during the fall season. You’ll find a strong AIMS pres- are happy to work with you to tailor a sponsorship The Safety Seminar is ence at the Euro Attractions Show in Barcelona, program specific to your needs. For more infor- for suppliers too… Spain and the ASTM meeting in Scottsdale, Arizona, mation on sponsorship, contact Karen Oertley at It is essential for industry manufacturers and sup- both in October. Make sure to stop by the AIMS In- [email protected]. pliers to stay abreast of the latest issues and applica- ternational booth #4327 during the IAAPA Attrac- —Karen Oertley Space for this AIMS page is provided courtesy of Amusement Today as a corporate partner of AIMS Intl. Content is provided by AT & AIMS. September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 45 S&S–Sansei Technologies breaks ground on new Utah facility

AT: Dean Lamanna next year. “The building was mainly a financial one to this to compact specialty coasters. coaster was all about the fastest, [email protected] designed in size to not only ac- point — one that has helped The in-house evolution started longest and tallest. Our small- commodate the growth we’re 22-year-old S&S, which sur- two years ago with its introduc- footprint coasters are very, very NORTH LOGAN, Utah — experiencing currently, but also vived several changes in owner- tion of the 4D Free Spin coaster appealing to most parks — they Evidencing major growth both to accommodate future growth. ship, move forward. and continues through this year don’t have to maneuver things in its business and in the amuse- “Our ownership, Sansei “We have not collaborat- with the LSM Triple Launch El around or use up a lot of land. ment industry, S&S–Sansei Technologies, has been 100 per- ed on projects together as we Loco Coaster. Next year, the “The price point is right in Technologies broke ground on cent behind it. They’ve been ex- would like. That process has be- company will deliver a Family that sweet spot, too. It has cre- a new building July 20. tremely supportive.” gun, and we’re finally learning Inverted Coaster. ated an awful lot of interest.” Executives from Japan- Timco characterized the what we can do together.” “What we’ve been con- S&S rides can be found in based Sansei Technologies and relationship between S&S and S&S–Sansei also has seen its centrating on successfully are more than 30 countries, includ- Utah-based S&S Worldwide Sansei, which is primarily a product focus shift away from small-footprint coasters with ing parks in the U.S., Asia, Eu- (which became a subsidiary of projects vendor for Disney and tower rides, which now account unique ride elements,” Timco rope and the Middle East. Sansei in 2012) along, with other Universal Studios parks, as for less than half of its projects, said. “For the longest time, the •engineeringexcitement.com S&S employees, attended the ceremony. Tim Timco, president of S&S Worldwide, told Amuse- ment Today that a recent tripling in business led to the company’s decision to leave its present North Logan building for a new, custom-built facility four blocks away. “Our business has really taken off the last two years,” Timco said. “We have 26 proj- ects in the works right now, and our capacity is filled through the better part of 2018. Things are very strong — not just for S&S but for the industry as a whole. We’re reaping the benefits of that.” The new facility will be 100,000 square feet and includes an adjacent five acres of vacant land, where the company will erect and test prototypes. About 35 percent of the space will be administrative, with the rest devoted to design and manufac- turing. “We’re going to almost dou- ble in size as far as capacity,” said Timco, adding that he ex- pected operations to be moved into the new facility by this time

Tim Timco, president of S&S Worldwide, and Koichi Ya- maguchi of Sansei Technolo- gies break ground for the new S&S-Sansei Technolo- gies facility in North Logan, Utah. COURTESY S&S-SANSEI 46 AMUSEMENT TODAY September 2016 New Amusement Parks book offers light read on park history America's amusement in- these parks became the stuff Parks, is small, 64 pages discuss traditional theme dustry emerged from simple of lasting memories, icons of cover to cover, and a mere 6 parks both lost and those swimming ponds, family America: Playland Park in inches wide by 8 inches tall. that remain. The final chapter picnic areas and community San Francisco, Elitch Gar- The subject alone could — takes a look at what is next in gathering spots. Although dens in Denver, Riverview and has — filled multiple the amusement industry but the first major entrepreneur- in Chicago, Riverside in In- volumes. This book attempts at only four pages, it is more ial-driven amusement re- dianapolis. to chronicle the evolution of of an essay than a chapter. sort, known as Jones Woods, Many of America's grand early amusement parks into Although well-written, here, grew from the banks of New amusement treasures have the mega-themers of today. again, there seemed to be York's East River in the 1800s, vanished, and many other Unfortunately that is a lot to much more potential, leaving the Golden Age of Ameri- parks are struggling for sur- accomplish in such a short the reader to wonder why the can amusement parks began vival. But while many of work. author didn't expound to fill with the mid-1800s develop- the parks have disappeared, The work is divided into an entire chapter. ment of a Brooklyn penin- amusement park memories six chapters, with the first Unfortunately that seems sula into America's Playland: are alive and are firmly part two, Genesis and Beyond Co- to be the theme of the entire Coney Island. Coney Island of nostalgic America. As long ney Island, providing a look book. The writing is very also paved the way for oth- as the clatter of the old coast- at how amusement parks well done, the included pic- er developments, including er cars fosters nervous antici- came into being. The author tures and illustrations pro- America's oldest continu- pation and the thumping of and articles related to his- talks about the early pleasure vide a nice accompaniment, ously operating amusement the carousel band organ re- tory and amusement parks. gardens of Europe, but oddly but it goes by too quickly. park, Lake Compounce in mains, there will be a market He studied business admin- there is no mention of the It does however, make for Bristol, Conn., and the de- for these American classics. istration and sociology and world-famous Tivoli Gar- an interesting read, perhaps funct Rocky Point Park in With thoroughly researched has taught at several colleges dens, the park that served as something for that next air- Warrick, R.I. text and historic images, au- and universities, including inspiration for many of to- plane trip to an amusement By 1893 and the opening thor and park enthusiast Jim Indiana State University, Vin- day's modern theme parks, park. of the Chicago World's Co- Hillman captures the sights, cennes University and the including Disneyland. The book retails for lumbian Exposition, Ameri- smells, and vitality of Amer- University of Phoenix. Ac- Chapter three is a short $9.95 and is available from cans were becoming famil- ica's grand amusement park cording to his Amazon bio, four-page chapter about the Bloomsbury Publishing iar with the marvels of the traditions. when not writing, he can be difficulties amusement parks (bloomsbury.com) and on- midway. By the early 1900s, Hillman is a director and found riding roller coasters encountered during the line retailers Amazon.com amusement parks dotted the the events coordinator of the and eating funnel cakes at Great Depression and World and BarnesandNoble.com. landscape and several larg- National Amusement Park America's amusement parks. War II. Chapter five discusses An electronic version is also er cities had more than one Historical Association. He is Hillman's latest book, how the theme park evolved. available on Nook. commercial park. Many of the has written several books simply titled Amusement The next two chapters —Jeffrey L. Seifert September 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 47 CLASSIFIEDS

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