sign in sign up
<<
Home , Casino Pier, Cyclone (Revere Beach), Enterprise (ride), Funtime (manufacturer), Goliath (La Ronde), Icon (roller coaster)

 Q&A WITH SEAWORLD’S JIM ATCHISON — PAGES 40-41  AIMS NEWS & NOTES — PAGE 42

© TM Your Amusement Industry NEWS Leader! Vol. 17 • Issue 4 JULY 2013 INSIDE Over Texas debuts Six Flags Great Adventure record setting Texas SkyScreamer...Page 9 opens most significant addition in park’s history

STORY: Pam Sherborne [email protected]

JACKSON, N.J. — Sa- fari Off Road Adventure, Six Flags Great Adventure’s tra- ditional Wild Safari attraction revamped, remade and revi- talized, became totally less traditional for the 2013 season and response, according to Six Flag officials, has been tre- mendous since opening May AT/GARY SLADE 24. SeaWorld Orlando unveils long awaited Six Flags doesn’t release monetary figures but Kris- Antarctica Empire of the Penguin...Page 14 tin Siebeneicher, Six Flags Giraffes are just one of the 1,200 animals guests taking the spokesperson, said this is the new Safari attraction may see. The Safari Off Road Adven- most significant improvement ture is included in admission into the park, but to feed the to this park in its giraffes in Camp Aventura costs a little extra. 40-year history. COURTESY SIX FLAGS GREAT ADVENTURE The new 350-acre attrac- tion left its Wild Safari old for- mat — more of a ride-through Safari-themed section — to a totally new format where pa- trons are driven in a giant Sa- fari truck with a truck guide. The ability to take guests off-road and right up to the animals, along with personal guides, has offered an expe- rience totally unique to Six Flags Great Adventure. “Wild Safari remained un- Six Flags Great Adventures new Safari Off Road Adventure, COURTESY SEAWORLD ORLANDO changed for 38 years, and we which opened May 24, allows guests to get up close and Fun Spot America opens in Orlando are thrilled to begin an excit- personal with the animals, even these large rhinos, one of ing and unprecedented new See Bonus Section B the 80 different species on the Safari 350 acres of land. 4See OFF ROAD, page 4 COURTESY SIX FLAGS GREAT ADVENTURE SUBSCRIBE TO Dated material. material. Dated NEWSPAPER

POSTMASTER: PLEASE RUSH! 24, 2013 May Mailed Friday, (817) 460-7220

PERMIT # 2069 # PERMIT

FT. WORTH TX WORTH FT. com

PAID amusementtoday CONTINUING COVERAGE: SUPERSTORM SANDY

US POSTAGE US PRSRT STD PRSRT SEE PAGES 32–33 2 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013 NEWSTALK OPINIONS CARTOON LETTERS AT CONTACTS EDITORIAL: Gary Slade, [email protected] CARTOON: Bubba Flint USA Today founder remembered As the summer season swings into full gear, there are plenty of pats on the back to go around the industry. A few worth men- tioning for a job well done are: •John Arie, Sr., for having the faith that a traditional can indeed survive in the back yard of the big Orlando Slade themers. An all-time record revenue opening day of Fun Spot America is just the way to prove the crit- ics wrong. And to / Rides Intl. and Great Coasters Intl. for the job each did in bringing family coaster thrills to Fun Spot America. •John Fitzgerald, Six Flags Great Adventure, for over- seeing the park’s largest capital investment ever, to rein- vent the always popular animal safari park. Now, included with admission to the theme park, guests on Safari Off Road Adventure get to view the animals closer than ever before in open-air Safari vehicles out in the middle of the animal’s habitat. •Raffi Kapreyalan, Knott’s Berry Farm, for his vision to not only bring the back to it’s original glory, but actually makes it better, thus enshrining EDITORIAL: Scott Rutherford, [email protected] this “heirloom” attraction the way ride creator Bud Hurlbut would have wanted. Title to come... •John Reilly, for the beautiful job that transformed Story to come... Soak City into the new Aquatica San Diego. As John was quick to point out, there are advantages to being the third, as in the third Aquatica to open in the company’s water- park profile. •David Riddles, for having to open the largest new ride capital in the park’s history — just one week after the devistation left from the Moore, Oklahoma Rutherford — only to have to endure a second tornado a week after opening the ride. Kudos also for all the work the park did in fund-raising efforts that benefitted the Ameri- can Red Cross, which continues to be on the scene helping families who have lost everything. •And to all the piers, parks, arcades, and other amuse- ment attractions along the who did manage to get their facilities open following the much publicized Superstorm Sandy that ripped the state’s amusement at- tractions into shreds. —Gary Slade

Gary Slade is the founder and publisher of Amusement Today. During his vast newspaper career, he spent three-years in the quality control department at the North Texas-area printer for USA Today.

AMUSEMENT TODAY STAFF Gary Slade, Founder Tim Baldwin Sammy Piccola Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Editorial Accounting / Circulation (817) 460-7220 [email protected] (817) 460-7220 [email protected] [email protected] Deliveries Member of: Pam Sherborne 2012 E. Randol Mill Rd., Suite 203 IAAPA, AIMS International, PAPA, Stacey Childress / Childress Media Editorial Sue Nichols Arlington, Texas 76011 NEAAPA, NJAA, OABA, WWA, TTIA, Web & Graphic Design [email protected] Advertising NAARSO and IISF [email protected] (615) 662-0252 Subscription rates are: 1 year (14 issues) $75 in the USA; $100 elsewhere; 2 years (28 issues) $140/$180; Scott Rutherford [email protected] 3 years (42 issues) $200/$250. Send check or money order (U.S. funds only, drawn on a U.S. bank) to John Robinson / W.H.R. Inc. Amusement Today, P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005-5427. Your cancelled check is your receipt. Editorial Please allow up to six weeks for your subscription request to be processed and the first issue mailed. Daily E-mail Newsletter [email protected] Bubba Flint [email protected] Cartoonist Amusement Today is an independent newspaper, published monthly by Amusement Today Inc., P.O. Jeffrey L. Seifert [email protected] Box 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005. Presort Standard Postage (Permit No. 2069) pre-paid at Fort Worth, Texas. The entire contents of this newspaper and its related websites are copyrighted and trademarked Editorial / Special Projects by Amusement Today 2013, with all rights reserved. [email protected] POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Amusement Today, P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas Contributors: Dean Lamanna, Eva M. Neterowicz, Andrew Mellor, Richard Munch, Janice Witherow, WHR Inc. 76005-5427. July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3 THIS MONTH IN HISTORY MINUTE •1884: The first communication Presented by cable between Great Britain and the United States was installed in 1884. The final section of the then 2 DRILL famous Bennett-Mackey cable COMPILED: Janice Witherow landed about 600 feet from the Jeffrey Siebert, Oriental Hotel on the afternoon of October 18, in Brighton Beach If you know Jeffrey Siebert, (), , N.Y. you know a guy who is full of energy and has a genuine •1899: Several cars on the roller passion for the amusement coaster at River View Park, out- industry. Since November, www.RollerCoasterMuseum.org side Baltimore, Maryland, collid- Jeffrey has taken on the role of director of marketing for ed with another on July 21. Six Flags Fiesta Texas in San The train returned on the wrong track and met a waiting train at high Antonio, where his creative . Nine passengers were seriously injured and were aided by talent is being put to good physicians then rushed to the hospital. One of the injured, a 22-year- use. His career path has old woman, had a depressed fracture of the frontal bone of the skull spanned from (now-defunct) and a broken nose, besides other painful cuts and bruises about the Americana Amusement Park face and body. Except for this one injury, none of the injuries were in to (then-Paramount’s) considered life threatening. and Schlitter- bahn Waterpark Resort. A •1904: Formerly Sharpshooter Park, the famous Riverview Park true family man, Jeffrey loves would open for the first time under its new name, on July 2, with a adventures with his wife Lisa Jeffrey Siebert shows off his prized name tag collection, in- Figure 8 Toboggan. The park would flourish just northwest of Chi- and their two children. cluding two tags from the now defunct Americana Amuse- cago, and become world famous for its eclectic collection of wooden ment Park. His passion for parks and their history is evident Title roller coasters, at one time operating seven different coasters. The Director of Marketing. in the photo above. COURTESY THE SIEBERT FAMILY FILES park, still revered in Chicago, would close forever after the 1967 sea- son. Number of years in the industry If I could read anyone’s mind, it would be … •1924: In late July, Frederick Church & Frank Prior announced 20 years (first year was 1994). I’ve been a fan since Walt Disney. I would have loved to have had a that Harry G. Traver would get exclusive rights to all Bobs coaster day one! glimpse at the true inner genius. built east of the Mississippi River and Canada. The rides would be designed by Church, and installed by Traver Engineering Company. The coolest place I have ever vacationed would Best thing about the industry Traver had already closed contracts to install Bobs coasters in Revere have to be … New ride and service innovation. Beach, outside Boston, , at Savin Rock, in West Haven, I love the fact that innovation is at The United Kingdom. My wife Lisa and I love Connecticut and Palace Gardens in Detroit, Michigan. He said that the heart of the Six Flags culture. traveling through the UK. Sandusky, Ohio, is a close second. he also had five other contracts still pending. Favorite amusement ride I can’t pick just one. The Beast: In my opinion, the all-time greatest professional •1941: A complaint filed in White Plains, New York, by a dozen lo- favorite wood coaster. : athlete hands-down is … cal families in Rye, specifically sought an injunction against the late favorite steel coaster. And Indiana Michael Jordon. operation of two roller coasters, the Airplane and Dragon Coaster, Jones at Resort. Siebert and the ride at neighboring , claiming that the Are you more of a wine and cheese or beer and noise disturbed their sleep and made the neighborhood undesirable. If I wasn’t working in the amusement industry, I pretzels kind of guy? The residents requested that the rides cease operation by 10 p.m. would be Actually, beer and cheese… more specifically, a on weekdays, and 11 p.m. on weekends. The residents would fail to A college professor. I truly enjoy learning and shar- beer and dip guy. force earlier night closings, when on July 28 a judge overturned the ing with the next generation. The celebrity baby I would most like to baby-sit is … complaint, based on the failure of the complainants to properly file a Biggest challenge facing our industry The e-Trade “talking” baby. class action suit against the County Park Commission. Unfortunately, How do we continue to thrill and surprise the next even today, the residents continue to be involved, this time in pos- generation of guests? What once was considered a In one word, my job is … sibly reducing the size of the amusement park, under the guise of major thrill ride is now, in many cases, considered a Amazing! increasing profits. family ride. I know it’s going to be a good day when … • 1978: On July 4 the Tornado opened at Adven- The thing I like most about amusement/water The sun is shining, my family is happy and our park tureland in Altoona, Iowa. It was the first large-scale coaster for the park season is guests are rolling in for a day of fun. four-year-old park and the first original design from William L. Cobb The non-stop energy and excitement of what’s next, who had previously worked with John Allen and Dan Rosser on The what does the next day have in store and what is On Sundays, I love to … Great American Machine at and the next opportunity to dazzle our guests. Relax and then have a family adventure for the day. Screamin’ Eagle at Six Flags Over Mid-America. Two years earlier Cobb had built the Texas Cyclone, based on the original Coney Is- It’s July! My Independence Day plans are to I can do a pretty good impression of … land Cyclone. Designed as an out and back, the Tornado is situated Spend the day with 20,000 of my closest theme Mr. Magoo (but please don’t ask). park friends and watch our great fireworks extrava- at the corner of the property and follows makes gradual 45 degree ganza. My last home improvement was … curve rather than the typical straight out and back configuration. Putting up new ceiling fans in our kids’ rooms. A —Compiled by Richard Munch, NRCMA and Jeffrey Seifert, AT Are you … a morning person or a night owl? princess fan and a space-themed fan in case you Yes! were interested.

TM The TV character that best reflects my personality P.O. Box 5427 is … You live in Texas. What three things should ev- Arlington, Texas 76005-5427 5-time Award Winner Part Michael Scott from The Office (somewhat eryone see in your home state? (817) 460-7220 crazy), part Alice from the Brady Bunch (always tid- The Riverwalk in San Antonio, Gulf beaches and Six Fax (817) 265-NEWS (6397) ing up after our guests and at home too), and part Flags Fiesta Texas (not necessarily in that order). National Geographic Explorer Guy (curiosity). Find us on Facebook My favorite month of the year seems to be … facebook.com/amusementtoday My latest splurge was July! I love everything about it … hot, sunny and for our pool (shhhhh… it’s our 8-year- full of fun. old and a 4-year-old’s birthday surprise). Follow us on Twitter If I had an extra day in the week, I would do this twitter.com/amusementtoday Favorite candy bar with it … Hershey Bar… hands down, unless you are riding Take more one-day family trips. We can’t get the SooperDooperLooper, then hands up! enough. Subscribe to our YouTube channel Get a free QR Code scanner for your phone youtube.com/amusementtoday by visting www.mobiletag.com. 4 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013 OFF ROAD Continued from page 1 Six Flags Great Adventure Safari Off Road Adventure Size/Species Vehicles chapter for Six Flags Great Ad- 350 acres/close to 80 unique species Fleet of 18 seating 30 to 35 guest in rugged, Animals open-air safari vehicles, venture,” said John Fitzgerald, 1,200 from six continents including elephants, customized from surplus 5-ton Army trucks. park president. rhinoceros, bears, lions, tigers, kangaroos, Features extended truck beds with row seating, “Guests are truly enjoying zebras, exotic birds and snakes customized audio/video package, animal print pattern getting closer to our animals Tour Type/Length exterior and themed props Off-road, splashing through ponds, climbing hills Attraction Cost than every before,” Siebe- and venturing over rugged terrain/45 minutes plus Not released, but is the largest attraction cost neicher said. “The greatest in the park’s 40-year history compliments we are getting are coming in from our amaz- ing truck guides.” Six Flags Great Adventure is boasting 1,200 animals in the new Safari section with 80 different species from six con- tinents including elephants, rhinos, tigers, giraffes, and lions. There are 11 different themed areas, one of which, Camp Aventura, allows guests to walk freely in the Safari, a major change from the for- mer attraction. This is the first were constructed. inside the theme park. The time in the park’s history that There are now 18 rugged trucks are loaded in the Fron- New Jersey vendors help create guests can now disembark open-air safari vehicles, which tier Adventures section of the their rides in the Safari area. have been customized from theme park at a new loading new Safari Off Road Adventure Camp Aventura is about surplus five-ton army trucks. station. halfway through the adven- The truck beds have been ex- The is also an entertain- Six Flags Great Adventure used as many local vendors ture, which lasts anywhere tended and feature row seat- ment element to the Safari, as was possible to create the new Safari Off Road Adven- from 45 mintues to an hour. ing with customized audio/ the story of the Wilds Family, ture. According to Kristen Siebeneicher: “As you know, At Camp Aventura guests can visual packages, animal print a family of conservationists our state was greatly impacted by Sandy and we get up close and personal with patterns on the exterior and who build and run the Safari wanted to support local businesses and workers in our own some of the smaller residents themed props. The trucks can as their family’s animal pre- community. New Jersey’s campaign is ‘Stronger Than the such as potbellied pigs, a two- hold between 30 to 35 guests. serve. The Wilds help narrate Storm ‘ and these businesses really pulled together and toed sloth, exotic birds and Siebeneicher said the the tour from flat-screen tele- worked hand-in hand with us to produce an incredible new reptiles, a 120-pound albino park recruited a team of truck visions on each truck. VIP-style animal experience for our guests.” Burmese python, and a vari- guides that had to complete Park officials were putting Here is a list of vendors for Safari Off Road Adventure: ety of baby animals currently a lengthy audition and train- the finishing touches on the •Eastern Surplus and Equipment Company provided being raised. ing process with the resident attraction in early June, which the fleet of 18 surplus, 5-ton army trucks and helped cus- “Right now, we have a animal experts and an acting included the new private ca- tom design theme baby llama and a blackbuck coach. tering area. This was expected •Force Concrete supplied all concrete including new, calf we are hand raising when “They provide an infor- to be completed by the third massive lion moat (the fencing was removed so guests can their mothers couldn’t care mative play-by-play of exactly week of June. see directly into the lion area without a visual barrier) for them,” Siebeneicher said. what our guests are seeing, Opening soon in the area •Hartley Industries supplied the carpentry for two “Our guests can feed and and can answer the myriad is a new zip line, which will loading stations, retail building, new giraffe deck (feeding pet some of the animals and of questions our guests throw take guests soaring above the area), and roofing have their pictures taken with their way,” she said. “Since Safari and the animals. •Jersey Central Power & Light electrical work them. This includes feeding every tour is slightly different Soaring Eagle Inc. is the •Jackson Township Municipal Utilities Authority sup- our towering giraffes from our (they drive to where the ani- manufacturer of the zip line, plied new water and sewer lines to Camp Aventura (this was new giraffe deck.” mals are), they have to adjust with Six Flags Entertainment formerly a very remote area of the Safari) The giraffe feeding is an to each and every trip. The installing it. The zip line is 600 •Jersey Shore Steel supplied all queue rails, handrails, additional cost at $5 per per- tour guides come from a vari- feet long, with a 90-foot tower and magnetic gates son and $4 for Season Pass ety of different backgrounds, and a speed of up to 28 mph. •SunRise Unlimited provided clearing, demolition, the Holders. from teachers to students, ac- It has the ability to carry new access roads, and new off-road elements The other 10 themed areas tors, comedians, animal ex- two seating passengers and •Sun Electric provided electrical work are: The Americas, Afrikka, perts and animal lovers.” it pulls riders up and back- •Millstone Electric provided electrical work Wilds Plains, Serengeti Grass- The new truck guides wards to the top of the tower, •Jammer Door supplied the new automatic electric lands, Kingsland, Black Bear weren’t the only new employ- which is high above the Terra gates that divide each section of the Safari to keep animals Ridge, Terra Ursus, Bird Sanc- ees hired for the section. A Ursus (European brown bear) safely separated tuary, Didgeradoo Pass and fleet of truck drivers who have section and then zooms them •Weber Group fabricated the new, themed section Tigris Asiana. CDLs were hired and ani- forward and down, over the portals, and the giant obelisk at Camp Aventura (all signs, Following the fall 2012 mal educators were hired for bears and Camp Aventura. designs and theming elements were designed in-house by closing of the drive-through Camp Aventura. The zip line will carry an Les Hudson, VP of Design for Six Flags Entertainment); Wild Safari, Six Flags Great “Plus, we have two op- additional cost. Pricing is $12 •Birdsall Engineering supplied general engineering for Adventures officials began the erations crews that run the for a single riders and $20 for the project major renovation that includ- landing stations, a merchan- double riders. Season pass •Hatch Mott McDonald provided engineering for wa- ed a redesign of various simu- dise store, snack stand, Kodak holders will get a $5 price ter and sewer lated natural habitats and the photographers and retail per- break at $15 per ride for dou- •Central Jersey Mechanical provided plumbing, water creation of Camp Aventura. sonnel, ” Siebeneicher said. ble riders. and sewer assistance New waterways for the trucks The new section is no lon- Although no definite date •Carl’s Fencing supplied all new fencing, particularly to cross were added. New ger an extra cost attraction as has been set for the opening of the extensive fencing around new Camp Aventura pathways for the off-roading it was with Wild Safari. It is the zip line, it will open this •Soaring Eagle Inc. manufactured the zip line (Six Flags were created, and new them- included with the theme park summer. Entertainment is the installer). ing, new portals and signs admission. It is accessed from —Source: Six Flags Great Adventure July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5 2013 Events Schedule now at GoldenTicketAwards.com 6 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013 INTERNATIONAL PARKS ATTRACTIONS RESORTS SUPPLIERS coaster first to feature 14 inversions! Record-breaking looper opens at Resort STORY: Andrew Mellor Far left: Alton [email protected] Towers Resort’s ALTON, U.K. — The newest coaster world’s first 14 loop roller dominates the X coaster made its debut at Al- Sector area of the ton Towers Resort in Staf- park. Left: a fordshire, U.K., in May — and 16 passenger went straight into the record vehicle books! navigates its , built by Ger- way through the man manufacturer Gerst- 3,838 foot long lauer, has officially received course. Below: the Guinness World Record the twisting and status for the most inversions turning track that in a coaster anywhere in the makes up the world, breaking the previous record-setting 14 record of 10 inversions held inversions on The by a number of other coasters, Smiler makes for including the -built a forest of steel at another Merlin supports and Entertainments owned U.K. track. venue, , near Lon- COURTESY ALTON TOWERS don. The new attraction has mately 53 mph (85 kmh). Min- been built at a cost of £18 mil- imum rider height is 53 inches lion (U.S. $27 million) and is (1.4 meters). the park’s biggest ever invest- Commenting on the at- ment. It is situated in — and traction, Alton Towers’ Kath- totally dominates — the X Sec- erine Duckworth said: “We tor area on the site of the old have been saying that The Black Hole indoor coaster, a Smiler will ‘marmalise’ your Jet Star 2 from Anton Schwar- mind for a long time and to- zkopf, and took over eight day we can officially reveal months to construct. And in that it is set to do the same to addition to all those inver- your body. The combination sions, the Smiler also features of 14 loops with a variety of a series of ‘twisted psycholog- elements such as optical illu- ical effects including optical sions, designed to mess with illusions and blinding lights your mind, make The Smiler designed to mess with your a truly unique roller coaster. mind,’ according to the park. This is by far the most exciting The new coaster utilizes roller coaster for Alton Towers four, 16-seater trains with rid- Resort to date. It is twice as big ers seated four across in four as and our biggest rows, one behind the other. ever investment.” The duration of each ride is John Wardley, a ride con- 165 seconds along the 3,838 sultant on The Smiler who foot (1,170 meters) long track, has also been involved in the which features a highest drop creation of many of the rides energy that has been poured working in the industry for boundaries. Who knows what of 98 feet (30 meters) and a at the park, commented: “The into creating this world first over 35 years and this roller we will have to do to top this maximum speed of approxi- amount of time, money and attraction is huge. I’ve been coaster really does push the one!” July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7 Wallace & Gromit come to Pleasure Beach $8 million Thrill-O-Matic ride replaces Gold Mine STORY: Andrew Mellor lots of people so we thought it [email protected] would be an ideal fit to have their first ride here at Black- BLACKPOOL, U.K. — pool Pleasure Beach,” said The U.K. seaside park Black- Amanda Thompson. “We are pool Pleasure Beach (BPB) has very proud of the ride and we chalked up a ‘world first’ with know that families will want the official opening of the first to ride it again and again to Wallace and Gromit themed see all their favourite charac- Where once the old Gold Mine ride stood in the centre of the site, ride ever to be built. ters.” the new highly-themed Thrill-O-Matic now stands. The Thrill-O-Matic, as it COURTESY BLACKPOOL PLEASURE BEACH is called, is the culmination of two year’s work by the BPB and Aardman Animations teams in conjunction with Wal- lace and Gromit creator Nick Park and several key suppli- ers. These included designer Nick Farmer of Famer Attrac- tion Development, along with U.K. companies KD Decora- tives, Paragon Creative and WGH Leisure Transportation. Officially opened by BPB managing director Amanda Thompson, deputy managing director Nick Thompson and Nick Park, the new dark ride Above left, each set in the Thrill-O-Matic ride has been rec- represents an investment of reated in great detail, like this breakfast scene. Above right, £5.25m (U.S. $8 million) and riders will recognize numerous scenes from the Wallace and replaces the old Gold Mine Gromit films as they move around the new attraction, includ- ride which had entertained ing this Mutton-O-Matic animation. visitors to the park for approx- COURTESY BLACKPOOL PLEASURE BEACH imately 40 years. Seated in a four-seater, slipper themed cars modelled on Wallace’s slippers, riders are transport- ed into the world of Wallace and Gromit with the attraction taking them through a series of scenes based on all the Wal- lace and Gromit short films, namely A Grand Day Out, The Wrong Trousers, A Close Shave and A Matter of Loaf and Death, and the feature length film, The Curse of the Were Rabbit. Huge effort has clearly gone into the creation of the numerous scenes within the four minute-plus ride and it literally has to be ridden a number of times to truly ap- preciate all the theming, props and special effects which so vividly recreate scenes such as rooms in Wallace and Gromit’s house, Wallace’s various inventions and, of course, the many characters themselves. The ride track fol- lows the same layout as in the Ready to take the first ride on the Thrill-O-Matic are Black- previous Gold Mine ride but pool’s deputy Managing Director Nick Thompson (back left), a completely new ride system Aardman’s Merlin Crossingham (back right), Wallace and has been employed. Gromit creator Nick Park and Blackpool’s Managing Director An array of Wallace’s inventions are depicted within the ride “Wallace and Gromit have Amanda Thompson. such as this Bunny-O-Matic machine. a special placed in the heart of COURTESY BLACKPOOL PLEASURE BEACH COURTESY BLACKPOOL PLEASURE BEACH 8 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013 Vekoma Hurricane coaster hits Denmark’s Faarup Sommerland JYLLAND, Denmark — Faarup Sommer- at 46 mph and suddenly burrows into an un- land chose Danish Constitution Day of June 5 derwater tunnel. From here, rider’s are treated to introduce its newest roller coaster, the Hur- to a high-speed ascending banked turn that ricane (Orkanen). whips them back into daylight and through Manufactured by Dutch ride supplier Ve- the remainder of the course, which is peppered koma, the company that also provided the with an exhilarating and creative mix of ride park’s popular Mine-Express coaster in 1992, elements. the Hurricane is a 1,486-foot-long custom- Faarup Sommerland worked closely with designed Family Suspended Coaster that fea- Vekoma to produce a coaster that offered plen- tures a number of unique attributes including ty of excitement for its demographic. The high having much of the layout constructed above degree of rider freedom is reinforced by the a large lake. fact that the track was built so the trains would “Faarup is a place for the whole family, be in close proximity to trees, the ground and and therefore the Hurricane is an attraction the water, which seems to magnify the sense for both young and old people who have the of speed. courage to gain an extraordinary experience,” “We are very proud with the addition of said Faarup Sommerland Managing Director the Hurricane in Faarup Sommerland. This Per Dam Jensen. “The Hurricane fully lives ride featuring an underwater tunnel, an over- up to its name by being the epitome of speed banked horseshoe, two horizontal loops and and excitement in a new way, whilst not being numerous changes in direction is unique in Faarup Sommerland’s 2013 season is highlighted by the to wild for anyone to dare try it. It is a family its kind,” said Vekoma Senior Designer Stefan opening of the Hurricane, a custom-designed Family Sus- thrill at its very best.” Holtman. “Further this ride is terrain-follow- pended Coaster supplied by Vekoma. The 1,486-foot-long The Hurricane ride experience begins with ing, keeping its speed and excitement until coaster features a number of unique attributes including an the 10-car train climbing to a height of just over you enter the station. The Hurricane is defi- underwater tunnel, an overbanked horseshoe, two horizon- 63 feet. After the train slips over the crest of nitely a ride which you want to ride over and tal loops and numerous changes in direction. the lift, it plunges toward the water’s surface over again.” COURTESY FAARUP SOMMERLAND Samsung Everland takes guests on safari in new Lost Valley YONGIN, South Korea — designed amphibious vehicles the heart of the Lost Valley Hidden Entrance, which intro- feature here, which as well as A new safari experience cre- produced by Porcellio Manu- and gets each visitor person- duces visitors to the history of its stunning visual effect also ated at a total cost of U.S.$50 facturing Ltd in the U.K. to a ally involved. Dan pearlman the location and includes the serves as living quarters for million has been opened at design by dan pearlman. therefore created a fictional Wildlife Trail, which leads to the animals. Samsung Everland in South This latest addition to place that utilizes all of the the first camp of the original The Wet Savannah fea- Korea. the park was planned and topographical features in the settlers which also serves as tures the Great Water Hole Designed by dan pearl- constructed over a two year area but which also gives the lodging for the Wildlife Watch while a bridge for feeding the man experience architecture period and sets a worldwide impression that the valley has Team. giraffes enhances visitor in- in Berlin, Germany, the Lost benchmark for experience ar- been in existence for ever. Just past this building is teraction with the fauna. This Valley is a one-of-a-kind safari chitecture, according to dan The legend created, based where the amphibious ve- is followed by the Flamingo attraction. It takes guests on a pearlman, while also building on a fictional story of when hicles await guests who once Swamp, the last stop on the journey to a place ‘shrouded in on the reputation of the Sam- man and animals lived togeth- aboard are taken through the tour, which both educates and legend’ and featuring an im- sung Everland brand as one of er in a peaceful co-existence, elephant forest, along a gigan- entertains. pressive array of animal and the top ten leisure parks in the serves as the basis for the tic waterfall, to the Temple Hourly capacity around plant life, as well as a unique world. overall plan and character of of Tau, a white lion whose the Lost Valley is 1,200 pas- history and landscape which The fully integrated safari the Lost Valley and is reflect- spirit protects the valley. A sengers and visitors get to see visitors discover and experi- adventure is based on a leg- ed throughout the park. The 1,260 meter long, intricately around 30 different species of ence in one of eight specially end that takes guests deep into experience begins with the designed rock wall is a major animals during their tour.

Visitors are transported around the Lost Valley in specially designed amphibi- The Lost Valley experience is based on a legend of when ous vehicles. Around 30 different species of animal can be found in man and animals lived together in a peaceful co-existence. COURTESY DAN PEARLMAN Samsung Everland’s latest attraction. COURTESY DAN PEARLMAN EXPERENCE ARCHITECTURE / EXPERENCE ARCHITECTURE/ COURTESY DAN PEARLMAN EXPERENCE ARCHITECTURE / SAMSUNG EVERLAND SAMSUNG EVERLAND SAMSUNG EVERLAND July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9 PARKS & ATTRACTIONS RIDES ENTERTAINMENT REVENUE SUPPLIERS Six Flags Over Texas swings into record books -supplied SkyScreamer redefines skyline Texas SkyScreamer stands 403 feet tall at Six Flags Over Georgia ATLANTA, Ga. — Six STORY: Jeffrey L. Seifert Flags Over Georgia’s mon- [email protected] strous Goliath once ruled as the southern ARLINGTON, TEXAS — themer’s tallest attraction. As the oft-overused adage goes Not anymore. The park’s “everything is bigger in Texas” new 24-story SkyScreamer and this case it’s certainly true. tower assumed On Thursday, May 23, 2013, that honor when it opened with much fanfare, Six Flags to the public on Memorial Over Texas previewed the Tex- Day weekend. as SkyScreamer to the media, Located in the park’s local dignitaries and a couple Lickskillet area on the site of dozen coaster enthusiasts. of the former Wheelie, a At 403 feet it is the tallest struc- Schwarzkopf that ture between Dallas and Fort operated 1977-2012, Sky- Worth, and certifiably the tall- Screamer takes 32 riders est swing ride in the world. seated two-abreast in open- Twenty-four riders sit two air swings to a height of 240 across in open-air swings at- feet. At the highest point, tached with chains to a 60-foot the swings form a 98-foot- wide gondola. As the gondola wide circle, reach speeds of rises into the air it starts to spin 40 mph and offer spectacu- eventually reaching speeds up lar views of the park as well to 35 mph swinging the chairs out to form a 124-foot diameter as the Atlanta cityscape in circle. At that height the din of the distance. traffic and sounds of the park “SkyScreamer is un- disappear — replaced by the like any other ride at Six sounds of the Texas wind. At its Flags Over Georgia,” said 40-story peak, guests have the park president Dale Kaet- ultimate view of the Arlington, zel. “The sheer height alone Dallas and Fort Worth skylines. will draw attention and the Adam Sandy, sales di- excitement of soaring over rector for the Ride Entertain- the entire park in open air ment Group, Funtime’s North swings will be a unique ex- American sales representative, perience for thrill-seekers of Six Flags Over Texas de- noted, “I was amazed because all ages.” Six Flags Over Georgia’s buted the worlds’ tallest on a clear day riders can easily SkyScreamer was manu- skyline has been rede- swing ride on May 23. see both Dallas and Fort Worth. factured by Funtime Indus- fined with the opening of Standing 403 feet tall the In the park, you are eye-to-eye tries of Austria. Maryland- SkyScreamer, 240-foot-tall Texas SkyScreamer is the with the Superman towers and based Ride Entertainment tower swing ride supplied creation of Austria-based the famed Oil Derrick.” Group handled the sale and by Funtime Industries Funtime, and is represented “We are thrilled to add the installation of the ride. of Austria. The new ride in the U.S. by Ride Enter- tallest swing ride in the world “We are excited to open accommodates 32 riders tainment Group. Below, to our premier line up of rides another StarFlyer at a Six seated two-abreast open- former park show star De- and attractions,” said Steve Flags park. This is our 6th air swings that revolve at idre Thornell entertains for Martindale, park president of with the company and the speeds of 40 mph. Six Flags Over Texas. “It offers guests on media day with 7th is the 400-foot Texas COURTESY her style of country music. 4See SFOG, page 10 REG/MARK ROSENZWEIG 4See SFOT, page 10 AT/GARY SLADE Creating Memories & Profitability

• abc rides switzerland • Cogan Kiddie Rides • Moser Rides • Used Rides & Games • Wattman Trains Nashville Zoo Train www.intermarkridegroup.com Voodoo Interactive Raft, abc rides Hoopla, Moser Rides Wattman Mini Express TEL 615.370.9625 FAX 615.370.8852 10 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013 SFOT SFOG Georgia you see a little bit of Continued from page 9 everything- from the classic Continued from page 9 John Allen wooden out-and- the most unique ride experi- ence for an attraction of this SkyScreamer at Six Flags back coaster to the park’s kind, and also lives up to the Over Texas,” said Adam new icon, B&M’s Goliath. Texas mantra that everything is Sandy of Ride Entertain- “Six Flags has been a bigger in the Lone Star state!” ment Group. “The StarFlyer great partner for Funtime Texas SkyScreamer’s tower is really a great ride for Six and we have enjoyed work- is painted red, white and blue Flags over Georgia. We feel ing with them to enhance with a globe that is surrounded it rounds out a strong ride the ride,” added Sandy. with the words “Six Flags” and collection by giving them “They have a strong engi- topped with the park’s iconic another attraction to offer neering group that has been flags. The tower has redefined families and thrill-seekers a good sounding board as the park’s skyline. alike. The 44-inch (accom- Funtime has worked to con- SkyScreamer was manu- panied) rider height require- tinue to improve the experi- factured by Funtime Industries ment allows a wide range of ence for both park guests of Austria; Maryland-based Ride Entertainment’s Adam Sandy, left, and Les Hudson, vice guests to soar over two hun- and the teams that maintain Ride Entertainment Group president of design for Six Flags Entertainment Corp. en- dred feet in the air. When the ride.” handled the sale and installa- joyed the opening of the Texas SkyScreamer. flying above Six Flags Over —Scott Rutherford tion of the ride. AT/GARY SLADE Six Flags Over Texas historic celebrates 50 years STORY: Jeffrey L. Seifert from Arrow Development. he said. “Even with the [email protected] Karl Bacon and his team built of just 25 feet (big for 1963) I ARLINGTON, Texas — a heck of a ride, but as a pro- thought it was the greatest On June 18, 1963, Six Flags totype ride, it was not without ride in the world. Judging by Over Texas opened the world’s problems.” Cochran said. the success it had on the park first log flume from Arrow “The ride ran from day and industry, I was not alone Development. At a cost of one, but it was up and down in my thoughts.” $300,000 it was a significant in- for about the first month while From that auspicious vestment for the young park, Arrow tweaked the water flow beginning 50 years ago, the but one that paid off. Placed from the pumps. They also de- flume ride has become an in the Spanish section of the termined they had an error on amusement park staple. Ar- park, El Aserradero (The Saw- the depth of the trough in the row Development led the mill), promised riders an excit- loading station. Arrow shut way, selling 67 Log Flumes ing journey through a water- the ride down for a few days and Hyper Flumes from 1963 filled trough followed by a so a quick rebuild could be to 1994. Other manufacturers 44-foot splashdown. done. But with any new ride, such as Barr Engineering, O.D. Water rides had been it wasn’t long before the ride Hopkins, Intamin and Mack amusement park staples for was running like clockwork Rides and Reverchon started at least 100 years. Shoot-the- and thrilling the guests.” Co- producing flumes as well. Chute and rides that chran said. Congratulations to Six Testing of the world’s first Log Flume is underway at Arrow And just how was his first Flags Over Texas for its half a had been around since the Development’s Mountain View, California facility. early 1900’s took rather simple ride on the El Asserado? “It century of wet thrills on the El COURTESY NATIONAL ROLLER COASTER MUSEUM / was fantastic, thrilling ride.” Asserado log flume. approaches to the handling of COLLECTION water flow. Shoot-the-Chute rides plummeted down a was one of the few dynamics they would get soaked. The ramp into a splash pool be- that can work from scale. He result was a curved area in the low and were merely pulled experimented with small-scale front of the log that directs wa- backward out of the water, models and learned how wa- ter back towards the front and maneuvered by an on-board ter behaved at high speeds off to the sides. This creates a ride attendant, or relied on the and eventually learned how it spectacular splash, gradually current from the splashdown could be controlled. Once ev- slows the logs, and keeps rid- to float back to the station. erything worked properly at a ers from getting too wet. Old Mill rides (also themed as small scale, it would work the Six Flags’ El Asserado the Tunnel of Love) utilized a same at a larger scale. proved so popular that a sec- moderate current produced There was also a lot of ex- ond flume was added in 1968. by a turning mill. Some of the perimentation with the shape Completely independent, it later models offered drops but of the boat. Despite the dan- shares the same name and the chute portion of the ride ger, it was common for loggers queue as the original. Because was always a gentle flowing to hop on board a log or spe- the first flume is not easily current often augmented with cially designed boat and ride a handicap accessible, the park The El Asserado log scenes and tunnels. genuine log flume (sometimes always opens the newer flume flume was originally It wasn’t until the early for miles) either for thrill or to first, adding the original 1963 built for $300,000 1960’s that Karl Bacon of Ar- inspect for damage. flume only on busy days or for and is themed to row Development started Bacon wanted to capture that special events. a sawmill. The ride researching hydrodynam- type of thrill and designed Amusement Today contact- debuted on ics and took the use of water the boats to look like hol- ed Larry Cochran, former Six June 18, 1963. as a ride conveyance to new lowed out logs. They quickly Flags CEO and original log Right, construction levels. During his research, learned however, that some flume ride supervisor about of ride as seen in he contacted the U.S. Navy type of spoiler was needed in that fume’s opening. 1963. for information and they lead the front to channel the water “The Six Flags Over Tex- COURTESY NRCMA / him to the fact that water flow away from the passengers or as log flume was a prototype SFOT COLLECTION July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 11 12 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013

Classic family attractions expanded and polished Knott’s Berry Farm revamps Boardwalk area, log ride STORY: Dean Lamanna Special to Amusement Today Mouse, Larson Flying Scooter, highlight new rides BUENA PARK, Calif. — Parks in super-competitive markets like Southern Cali- fornia typically shoot for the “Wow!” when unveiling new attractions each year. This sea- son, Knott’s Berry Farm took a different approach — care- fully considering its crop of hardy amusement perennials and then asking itself: How do we maximize what we’ve got? Tinkering with beloved attractions and cozily familiar corners is always a gamble, and Knott’s hasn’t left much to chance. A visually dynam- ic three-ride expansion of its The new Boardwalk Pier at popular Boardwalk section, Knott’s Berry Farm features which fills the gaping hole left two new rides, the Mack by the removal of the long-dor- Rides supplied mant, circa-2000 Intamin Peril- (above and left) and the Lar- ous Plunge, and a renovation son Intl. supplied Surfside of its classic Timber Mountain Gliders (above right). At Log Ride display disciplined right, the park refurbished meticulousness — crucial in a its Eli Bridge compact, pedestrian-friendly which had been in storage park that delivers charm and for several years. Below, two fun built on decades of experi- photos show the new Boark- ence. walk Pier by day and then by Media day festivities at night. Knott’s on May 30, held in AT/GARY SLADE; front of its new Boardwalk BOARDWALK PIER Pier collection of rides and at- COURTESY KNOTT’S tended by a host of local dig- nitaries who helped cut a long, boysenberry-colored length of taffy to mark the Boardwalk expansion’s opening, empha- sized the park’s commitment to tradition. “The goal of any theme park is not only to pro- vide exciting rides and at- tractions, but also to create Kaprelyan an environ- general spiff-up includes sharply twisting, wild mouse- said. dio, and a general exterior cos- ment that makes you feel like bright new paint in striking type roller coaster (Mack metic upgrade with new paint you have been transported color combinations on most Rides); Surfside Glider, a zip- Restoring and artificial evergreens. to somewhere special,” said rides and buildings — making py flying scooter swing ride Timber Mountain Log Ride Telling the story of a late Raffi Kaprelyan, vice presi- it spit-shiny and fresh. It also with two-passenger planes One of the most beloved 19th century logging commu- dent and general manager of makes the visual connection (); and the theme park attractions any- nity and sawmill, the three- Knott’s, who got his start in with the brand-new Board- Pacific Scrambler (Eli Bridge), where in Southern California, level Timber Mountain was the industry here 33 years ago. walk Pier, which is partly a restored classic returned to the Timber Mountain Log the brainchild of theme park “Thanks to our creative team accessed via a wooden foot- the park after years in storage. Ride, has been given a make- pioneer Wendell “Bud” Hurl- at Knott’s, this area makes you bridge over the modified for- Kaprelyan noted the bal- over landing north of $5 mil- but nine years after his suc- feel like you have been walk- mer Perilous Plunge pond (re- ance that Boardwalk Pier lion. The refurbishment of the cessful introduction of the ing along a seaside boardwalk. named Boardwalk Bay), feel brings to this otherwise thrill flume / dark ride hybrid and Calico Mine Ride at Knott’s. It enhances our entire park cohesive and cool. ride-packed section of the its landmark mountain enclo- Completing the five-month and works to compliment our The three new rides here, park. “This addition brings a sure, built in 1969 at a total makeover was San Bernardi- themed areas.” all positioned within or adja- group of family attractions to cost of $3.5 million, included no, Calif.,-based Garner Holt cent to the repurposed pond, the Boardwalk so that families an overhaul of its extensive, Productions, a major creator Bolstering the Boardwalk are traditional amusement have opportunities to share animatronic character-stocked of theme park and museum The Boardwalk section’s park favorites: Coast Rider, a their experiences together,” he scenes, new and enhanced au- 4See KNOTTS, page 13 July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 13

tainly worked KNOTTS for Ethan Continued from page 12 Wayne, son of animatronics (including pro- screen legend lific work for Disney parks John Wayne, worldwide). The company who attend- supplied hundreds of state-of- ed the origi- the art animated figures and nal July 1969 Wayne props — most modeled di- opening of the rectly from the existing scenes, log flume with his dad and re- FAST FACTS human figures and props, but turned to the park on May 30 Name/Park also includ- to help celebrate its reopening. Timber Mountain Log ing some new Being present on Timber Ride/Knott’s Berry Farm, ones. Mountain’s very first day as Buena Park, Calif. “We ap- a seven-year-old “was one of proached the my clearest early memories of Type project almost doing something fun with my Themed Log Flume from a pres- father,” Wayne told the media The Timber Mountain Log ervationist’s day crowd. “It’s been a long Butler Ride at Knott’s Berry Farm Original Opening/Cost standpoint,” time, but… I can still feel the reopened following a com- July 11, 1969/$3.5 million said Bill Butler, creative de- excitement I felt that day as a plete $5 million makeover. sign director for Garner Holt. little boy. It’s a memory, but The mountain was repaint- Reopening/ “How do we take this attrac- it’s also a connection to my ed, new pine trees added Makeover Cost tion, which is in a state of father, who I lost when I was and all 10 animated scenes May 30, 2013/ disrepair, and bring it up to a 17.” replaced with new figures. $5 million plus standard that would see that Beyond making memo- Other structural work on it would last for the next 45 ries, the attraction also became the ride as well as refurbish- Mountain Height years — and also enhance it? an industry touchstone. ment on all the logs was 75 feet So we went to the source: Bud “The Timber Mountain also performed. Hurlbut. He had said in an in- Log Ride not only embod- AT/GARY SLADE Flume Length/ terview in the mid-1990s that ies the spirit of Knott’s Berry Final drop Height he really wished he could’ve Farm, but it also set the bar 2,100 feet/42 feet gotten back to [his Knott’s] at- for all themed attractions that tractions to add new technolo- came after,” said Raffi Kapre- Duration/Capacity gies… we wanted to enhance lyan, who worked for Bud 4 min./1,800 pph and continue to tell the story Hurlbut from 1979-83 and of the 1880s logging camp in noted that the flume continues Number Scenes/ the Sierra Nevada and add to as the park’s most popular Animated Characters that new animatronics tech- ride, carrying more than 2.7 10/39 nologies that would really guests annually. “Bud made change the way we’re able to numerous contributions to Scene Order create characters and scenes.” Knott’s Berry Farm, but I think 1) Sawmill (low lift) The improvements cer- that the Timber Mountain Log Ride remains his crowning 2) Dog and Man on Porch 3) Desert Valley FAST FACTS achievement.” 4) Tunnel with Hitchhiker Other Knott’s ‘hot spots’ 5) Caves Name/Park Aside from the park’s 6) Campsite Knott’s Berry Farm, bigger attractions news, mak- 7) Long Dark Tunnel California-based Garner Buena Park, Calif. ing its summer debut at the 8) Hootenanny Holt Productions supplied Charles Schulz Theatre is 9) Workshop 39 new animated figures for Ride Area “Snoopy…Unleashed!” — an 10) Fire in the Hole 10 scenes for Knott’s Boardwalk Pier, located in ice-skating spectacular incor- (high lift) Timber Mountain Log Flume Boardwalk section porating Peanuts characters, which reopend on May 30. (2 new rides, 1 rebuilt professional skaters, elaborate Number of Log Vehicles Shown here is Desert Valley ride) sets and music. 36 (above); Hitchhicker (right) Also new this summer is and Fire in the Hole New Rides Boom Town, a roving troupe Reservoir Size/Depth (bottom). •Coast Rider of nine acrobats offering a 350,000 gallons/15 feet AT/GARY SLADE Wild Mouse Coaster unique interpretation of life in Mack Rides the small town of Calico in the Ride Refirbishment/ Waldkirch, Germany 1860s. New Animation Supplier 52 feet tall/1,339 feet Visitors will also find a Knott’s Berry Farm/ long tangible but unadvertised on- Garner Holt Productions, 37 mph/2.5 minutes long going improvement through- San Bernardino, Calif. 10 cars, 4 riders per car out the park: the replacement •Surfside Gliders of hundreds of square yards Designer/Manufacturer Flying Scooter of bumpy asphalt tarmac with Bud Hurlbut Larson International more level, uniform and visu- Buena Park, Calif. Plainview, Texas ally appealing walking sur- with Karl Bacon 28 feet tall/10 rpm/ faces — particularly in Ghost Arrow Development Co. almost two minutes long Town, where new landscap- Mountain View, Calif. 8 vehicles, 2 riders per car ing and floral accents will help (Arrow Flume No.13) —Source Knott’s Berry Farm —Source Knott’s Berry Farm tame the summer heat. 14 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013 Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin takes guests on chilling adventure SeaWorld Orlando’s massive attraction is 1/3 of park’s size ORLANDO, Fla. — SeaWorld and its sister themselves among a colony of Adelie, gentoo, properties are well known for creating amaz- king and rockhopper penguins in a 30-degree ing rides and attractions. However, the newest habitat filled with wind, snow, rock and chilly offering at SeaWorld Orlando — Antarctica: water. New technologies combine to create a Empire of the Penguin — is absolutely unique freezing, but dry climate, allowing guests to in its approach and execution to entertainment, spend time in the penguins’ amazing world. education and enviromental conservation. The habitat that is home to nearly 250 penguins Guests’ gradual immersion into the chill- also includes a 170,000-gallon, 16-foot-deep ing continent begins the moment they step into saltwater pool where guests can watch as they Antarctica, which takes up one-third of the en- dive and ‘fly’ underwater. tire Orlando property. Antarctica is a realm in Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin also in- SeaWorld where icebergs, snowcaps and howl- cludes educational elements. Kids can “mea- ing winds dominate the landscape. They’ll also sure up” to all 18 species of penguins carved meet a very special penguin named Puck, and into the rocks in the plaza. They can engage in it’s through his eyes that guests learn about kid-height and kid-friendly interactive touch SeaWorld Orlando’s Antarc- penguin life along with beauty and inherent screens and talk with SeaWorld educators to tica: Empire of the Penguin dangers of this frozen land at the bottom of the learn more about the importance of community combines state-of-the-art world. and how penguin colonies work together and interactive ride technologies rely on each other for survival. (bottom two photos) and The Ride up-close animal encounters At the heart of the new attraction is a first- Dining and Retail (above) for adventures that of-its-kind trackless ride system that allows Culinary delights can be found at Expedi- are different each time. guests to become one with the storyline as they tion Café, where American, Asian and Italian During the attraction’s three follow Puck’s adventures. Each mobile simula- (the three major signatories of the Antarctic years of construction, it re- tor vehicle allows guests to choose one of two Treaty) cuisines are featured in a mess hall quired nearly 400 designers, levels of exploration — Wild Expedition or setting. A hydroponic garden produces fresh craftsmen, animators, a sym- Mild Expedition — for various degrees of ride herbs that chefs incorporate into the menu. phony orchestra, penguin intensity. Designers say each version has mul- Outside seating available under canvas type experts, scenic and lighting tiple variations for a feeling of unpredictability. sails, and two Quonset-type huts provide seat- designers and “When our little hero penguin learns to ing for guests dining on a mix of cooked-to-or- ride experts to create. waddle and slide, we’ll feel what it’s like as the der food and quick-serve delights. COURTESY SEAWORLD car moves and reacts to the storyline. When he Glacial Collections gift shop is the place to takes his first swim or barely escapes danger, shop for all penguin lovers. The retail shop’s our guests will feel as if they’re right there with color scheme of black, bright yellows, oranges him,” explains Brian Morrow, SeaWorld Parks and whites, and the penguin-shaped displays & Entertainment creative director. “On this ad- welcome guests to browse the cache of splen- venture, we learn that we’re a lot like penguins. did penguin-related items. Hero Puck is antici- We’ll find we need each other and our families pated to be the popular take home treasure. His to survive.” journey, his love of family, and his connection, The trackless ride system was supplied by especially to children, make him a very desir- Oceaneering International, which was also re- able keepsake. sponsible for other popular attractions includ- AT toured the new attraction in June just as ing The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, the hot Florida sun was gearing up for a scorch- Transformers: The Ride, and The Curse of Dar- ing summer. After the experience, we spoke Kastle. Each of the vehicles seat eight riders with SeaWorld Orlando Public Relations Rep- in two rows. Once dispatched from a loading resentative Sharon Moore about how guests dock, they begin a graceful dance as if gliding were reacting to the park’s largest expansion on ice, taking their passengers through sev- project to date. “They love it. In many cases I eral scenes that follow Puck on his adventure. believe it exceed their expectations. There are The story is told through the use of animation so many levels to the experience,” said Moore. and special effects such as wind, sound and “From the story of Puck’s birth and his adven- temperature change. The gradual lowering of tures, the ride portion and the up-close encoun- the ambient temperature from the mid-90s of ters in the Penguin habitat to the unique din- a typical Florida summer day is accomplished ing and penguin-themed retail, this attraction in 10-degree increments as guests pass through is one that truly offers something for virtually each section of the attraction. By the time they every visitor. We’re quite pleased with how complete the “ride” portion, their bodies are guests are responding.” fully acclimated to the constand 30-degree en- Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin is an all- viroment required by the penguins. family experience that can be found only at Sea- Local Orlando composer, Mike Avila spent World Orlando. “We’ve taken our guests and over a year creating the original musical score fans on astounding journeys,” concluded Terry for Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, which Prather, SeaWorld Orlando’s president. “But was performed by a 65-member piece orchestra no one has ever experienced what we’re bring- and recorded in a Seattle church. The vocals for ing to Orlando this year. The first-of-its-kind the theme song “One World, One Family” were ride, the cold, the wind, the thrills and danger recorded by award-winning county music art- of Antarctica, coupled with getting up close to ist, Lauren Alaina. penguins in their freezing world is something only SeaWorld can do.” The Penguin Family —Scott Rutherford Stepping off the adventure ride, guests find July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 15 16 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013 Larson Flying Scooter takes flight at Six Flags Great Escape STORY: Scott Rutherford The Great Escape’s guests Hudson, vice president de- [email protected] quickly discovered the inter- sign at Six Flags, about the LAKE GEORGE, N.Y. active aspect of the Screamin’ artwork, name and thematic — Six Flags Great Escape re- Eagles. Rebecca Close, com- aspects that make the Screa- cently became the latest North munications manager, Six min’ Eagles such an attractive American park to introduce Flags Great Escape Resort addition. “It was a collabora- the classic Flying Scooter to Properties, explains how visi- tive process. First the name its ride arsenal. The new at- tors are embracing the new at- was selected by a group in- traction, dubbed Screamin’ traction. “Guest reaction to the cluding Corp. Design, Mar- Eagles, was supplied by Tex- new ride has been really excit- keting and The Great Escape as-based Larson International ing for us here at The Great team. We wanted a name that and opened to the public on Escape. Its location in the Fest reflects the flying nature of the May 30, 2013. Area allows guests to soar over experience,” explained Hud- Situated in the park’s Fest the river that runs through son. “The direction we wanted Area section near Alice in the park really adding to the to take with the design of the Wonderland, the new Screa- feeling of flying,” said Close. cars and structure was to pro- min’ Eagles provides guests “They also love that it can be mote the ride as edgy and cool with a unique aerial adventure as thrilling as they want it to so that it appealed to teens Six Flags Great Escape re- as well as a bird’s eye view of be. Many have ridden mul- as well as families. A combi- cently launched the Screa- the River Dee. tiple times to really get the nation of a fierce eagle and min’ Eagles, a modern take The Screamin’ Eagles hang of the moveable front flames fit the bill, and Iwas on the classic Flying Scooter experience begins with rid- wing to get the most exhilarat- very pleased with the execu- ride. Supplied by Texas- ers boarding one of eight ve- ing ride. Guests also continue tion by Larson. In the end [it’s based Larson International, hicles that are suspended on to comment about how great a] cool looking ride.” Screamin’ Eagles provides cables from radiating sweeps. it looks when in operation. It While the Screamin’ Ea- guests with an interactive As the ride begins to rotate, adds a feeling of excitement gles looks great during the aerial adventure as well each ‘pilot’ utilizes a move- as you approach that portion daytime, it really comes to life as a bird’s eye view of the able forward rudder to gain of the park. Screamin’ Eagles when the sun sets thanks to a River Dee. Night riders are altitude and maneuver their has completely changed the dynamic light package sup- dazzles with an array of LED vehicle through dips, dives face of our Fest Area and is the plied by Florida-based amuse- lights, supplied by Denny’s and plunges at speeds up to perfect addition to our park.” ment industry illumination Electronics. 40 mph. AT also spoke with Les 4See SCOOTER, page 18 AT/JOEL STYER Gravity Group’s Hades 360 barrel rolls into Mt. Olympus STORY: Scott Rutherford shape. [email protected] “Special attention was WISCONSIN DELLS, Wis. given to the structural framing — The Gravity Group is fully of the ride,” continued Miller. accustomed to sending rid- “We wanted to maintain the ers through unique elements feel of a on their wooden roller coast- with trussed structure flying ers. The Ohio-based company past you as you go through has produced several wooden the roll. At the same time, we coasters that are easily catago- wanted to give the structure rized as ‘intense.’ They have an open feel and so we can- no qualms with including nu- tilevered the track so there is merous instances of airtime nothing below you when you and banking the track up to 90 are upside down. The result degrees on their projects. is something quite unique and So, it should come as no thrilling.” surprise that TGG pushed The barrel roll element oc- the envelope even further by curs just after the 12-car Tim- incorporating a complete in- berliner train exits the first un- version on Hades, a wooden derground tunnel. Once riders coaster they opened at Mt. complete the inversion they Olympus Water & Theme Park are then treated to a new high- in 2005. Previous attempts to speed 110-degree overbanked send wooden coasters through turn that positions the train a vertical loop or for a rapid dive back under- have used steel as a primary A 12-car Timberliner train whips through the barrel roll on the new Hades 360 at Mt. Olym- ground and run to the station. structural track component pus Theme Park. Designed by The Gravity Group, the inversion is followed by a high-speed When asked what, if any- rather than simply a running 110-degree overbanked turn. In addition to the new elements, nearly 90 percent of the thing was done in addition surface for the wheels. Hades coaster’s layout features new wooden track. COURTESY THE GRAVITY GROUP to the inversion and other 360 is unique because it uses a neers from The Gravity Group ferent. The result was Hades ward to today and we have reworked sections, Laskaris fully wooden track, making it had with Nick Laskaris, owner 360. all the tools required to make said: “Just as with any other the only traditionally laminat- of Mt. Olympus Theme Park. “Since the 1990s, we had it happen, from our new Tim- wooden coaster, it can get ed wooden-tracked inversion Work on the ride’s turn- been talking with Nick about berliner trains that can handle rough the older it gets. So I de- in existence. around was being proposed going upside-down on a the corkscrew’s rapidly twist- cided change about 90 percent The decision to add an and rather than merely re-pro- wooden roller coaster,” said ing track to the sophisticated of Hades course to brand new inversion to Hades resulted file the track, it was decided to Chad Miller, an engineer at computer programs required track. All the underground from a discussion that engi- try something completely dif- The Gravity Group. “Fast for- to design just the right track 4See HADES 360, page 18 July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 17 Falcon’s Fury riding into Busch Tampa Intamin to supply with unique thrill element TAMPA, Fla. — For more than five decades Busch Gar- dens Tampa has delivered some of the world’s most exciting thrills that have set the stage, and Busch Gardens is ready to drop big news. In spring 2014 Busch Gardens Tampa is taking guests’ experiences to new heights with Falcon’s Fury, the first drop tower of its kind in the world. Additionally, with no connect- ing structures, it will be the tallest freestanding drop tower in North America.

Falcon’s Fury No bird can match the speed of a falcon in its hunting dive. The falcon is the fastest animal on Earth, reaching speeds of 200 mph. Designers were inspired by this bird of prey during the development of the new attraction. Falcon’s Fury will stand at 335 feet and take riders soaring 60 mph straight down. Located in the Timbuktu area, Falcon’s These renderings show the Fury will be visible from any location in the park and even look, and design of the new across the Tampa Bay area. The ride is being supplied by In- Thunderbolt, a custom roller tamin/IntaRide. coaster being supplied by At the ride’s highest point Busch Gardens has added an for Luna Park’s element of surprise. Like its bird of prey namesake, riders will 2014 season. pivot 90 degrees in midair to a face-down dive position. An COURTESY CAI instant later they’ll plunge 60 mph at 3.5 Gs straight down with speed and power like they’ve likely never experienced Concept art for Busch Gar- NYCEDC announces new before. dens new Falcon’s Fury, Construction in the Timbuktu area of the park has al- coming to the Tampa Thunderbolt for Luna Park ready begun, and Falcon’s Fury is scheduled for completion themer in 2014. BROOKLYN, N.Y. — New Island with a fantastic new in spring 2014. COURTESY BUSCH GARDENS York City Economic Develop- attraction, boosting the local ment Corporation (NYCEDC) economy and helping create announced a new major roller jobs in the neighborhood still coaster, Thunderbolt, will be recovering from Hurricane built at Coney Island and open Sandy.” for next year’s summer season. “As we continue to honor Thrilling riders with our commitment to deliver- speeds of 65 miles per hour, ing entertainment and thrills the 125 foot tall roller coaster, to locals and tourists visiting featuring more than 2,000 feet New York, we’re excited to of track, will sit near the histor- announce our newest roller- ic B&B Carousell and the new coaster, Thunderbolt,” says Steeplechase Plaza, and mark Valerio Ferrari, president of another important milestone Central Amusement Interna- in Coney Island’s rebirth. tional, LLC. “This is going to The new Thunderbolt will be the first steel custom roller be built and operated by Cen- coaster in Coney Island since WHO and WHY tral Amusement International the debut of the Cyclone in (CAI), the operator of Luna 1927.” REAMUSEMENT? Park, entirely through private CAI was selected to build Are your workloads continuing to increase investment. The announce- the coaster following a Request and staffing at a minimum? ment comes just two weeks af- for Proposals (RFP) issued by ter the mayor officially opened the New York City Economic REAMUSEMENT is the quality choice for you. We will be Coney Island for the 2013 Development Corporation your partner in completing maintenance “rehabs,” renovations, or new construction. summer season and unveiled (NYCEDC) in the Fall of 2012 the new Steeplechase Plaza, seeking development on the Our goal is to provide quality maintenance of your trains, ride units, and a two-acre public open space West 15th Street site. Thun- structures to minimize the turnaround time to ensure your guests have the featuring the recently restored derbolt is designed as a one- maximum entertainment experience. B&B Carousell in a state-of- of-a-kind ‘out and back’ steel the-art pavilion. coaster, taking riders in a ver- Our Services “With our recent opening tical lift reaching a staggering Rebuild ride units per manufacturer’s specifications • Rebuild ride units to meet all codes and certifications • Fiberglass repairs • Carpentry repairs • Repainting • Inside storage • Welding if of the beaches, the B&B Carou- height of 110 feet. Once riders discovered after NDT testing • Refurbish flat ride components and ride units • NDT inspections sell, and now the Thunderbolt reach the top of the lift, the for the ride units per the manufacturer’s specifications • Assist with on-site set up if roller coaster, Coney Island train will be unleashed onto maintenance staff needs assistance • General contractor and/or assist with construction is once again demonstrating the first vertical drop and then projects • Ride erection needs its incredible resilience,” said through a series of elements NYCEDC Executive Director and inversions while traveling 1310 West Fourth Street Contact: Kyle E. Kimball. “For a decade, at 65 mph. The ride will then Mansfield, OH 44906 Jack Falfas | (419) 202-7876 [email protected] the City has made investing in make its return through a se- Office: (567) 247-8204 Gary Gast | (567) 247-8204 [email protected] Coney Island a priority. The ries of “bunny hills” that will Fax: (419) 529-4288 Randy Payne | (567) 247-8204 Thunderbolt roller coaster will give riders a floating sensation build upon that commitment until the train returns back www.reamusement.com by providing visitors to Coney into the station. 18 AMUSEMENTWe will provide TODAY high res print Julyable 2013artwork for digitally printed graphics Before Six Flags Great favorite: Canyon Blaster in Escape would debut its new SCOOTER Reverse. This thrilling twist Larson Flying Scooter ride, Continued from page 16 on the classic Arrow Devel- Date: Screaming eagles Theme 081412 Designed By: L Hudson / S Rhodes File Name: Screaming Eagles Ride Theme 081412 the name and specialists Denny’s Electron- opment-designed Canyon thematic design package had ics. “The LED lights were sup- Blaster mine train will feature to be decided. Here, the final plied by Denny’s, who does a several cars of the ride’s train approved colors and art de- great job for us on all of our being reversed. Operating in sign for the Screamin’ Eagles rides,” said Larson’s Jeff No- July for a limited time, the ex- is seen as created by Les votny. “This U.S. supplier de- perience will send guests reel- Hudson and Six Flags Design. livers on time and produces a ing through the family coast- The finished ride, which mir- first-rate product every time.” er’s 1,800-foot-long course rors this concept In addition to the new backwards. The Canyon exactly, opened to thrilling Screamin’ Eagles, Six Flags Blaster train will offer both the success on May 30. Great Escape also plans to reversed and forward-facing COURTESY LES HUDSON/ mix things up even more with seating option. SIX FLAGS DESIGN the re-introductionark: The Great Escape of a guest Drawing Name: Screaming Eagles Theme Project: ride P CONFIDENTIAL: NOT APPROVED FOR RELEASE OR DISTRIBUTION. screamingAMUSEMENT eagles ride theme HADES 360 Continued from page 16 MARKET PLACE sections and the corners are brand spanking new. The ma- jority of the work was done Aerial Tramway Design & Manufacture in-house under the supervi- sion of Jeff Mason. We worked SkyTrans Mfg.,L.L.C. with this crew before. This a great bunch guys who do an 106 Burnham Intervale Road Contoocook, N.H. 03229 excellent job.” Phone: (603) 746-4446 Fax: (603) 746-4447 Hinting that perhaps that another wooden coaster proj- •Specializing in sales & refurbishment of used aerial tramways ect at Mt. Olympus could be •Replacement parts for aerial tramways and amusement rides in the cards, Laskaris added: •New ride control systems and modifications “Hopefully, we’ll see them •Rebuilt used chairlifts - one year guarantee again soon ...” Before Hades 360 even (603) 746-4446 opened, Laskaris saw a 50 per- Parts and Service Jerry Pendleton or Dan Pendleton cent increase in summer hotel bookings. “It looks like a lot of people are excited about the ride,” he added. Structural Technologies Inc. Serving the Guests staying at one of amusement industry the Mt. Olympus Resorts re- ceive free admission to the New Construction with speciality park’s seven roller coasters, 40 Renovations steel fabrication water slides and nine go-kart Daily Maintenance Relocations tracks. For more details, visit: Track Replacement www.mtolympuspark.com. Demolition Inspections Emergency Work P.O. Box 686 • Springville, Utah • 84663 (801) 489-3652 | Fax (801) 489-5852 380 Bad Man Hill Rd. • Paxinos, PA 17860 (570) 590-3255 or (570) 590-9880 | [email protected] www.intermountainlift.com

The Timberliner trains, also suppled by The Gravity Group, create more open thrills for riders as they de- scend down the 140-foot tall first drop on Hades 360. The revamped coaster opened in May at Mt. Olympus Water & Keep our amusement park industry strong! Theme Park. COURTESY Buy products and services from these suppliers. THE GRAVITY GROUP July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 19 WATERPARKS & RESORTS INDOOR FACILITIES AQUATIC CENTERS RECREATION SUPPLIERS Oklahoma’s White Water Bay opens largest expansion Waterpark dodges tornados, loses power for one day; some team members hit hard STORY: Jeffrey L. Seifert said General [email protected] Manager Da- OKLAHOMA CITY, vid Riddles. Okla. — White Water “Hopefully Bay added a combination next year will ProSlide Wave and Cannon- be adding Bowl for the 2013 summer more.” The Riddles season — the largest expan- carpet was sion to the park in 20 years. provided by Dubbed RipQurl and Pipe- Shaw Floors, a company that line Wave, the combination specializes in indoor and of these two exciting rides outdoor floor coverings for from one ride platform is the home and commercial use. first of its kind in the coun- Shaw used a special dye to satisfy the needs of White try. White Water Bay has Water Bay. The carpet was RipQurl utilizes two- opened the 2013 season passenger rafts with inline purchased though Davis with its largest expansion in seating and features a 317- Carpet, a local dealer in Yu- 20 years. A duel slide tower foot long, 41-foot descent kon, Oklahoma. from ProSlide features the through a winding tun- Amusement Today also company’s popular Wave nel before emerging into a asked Riddles about the ef- and CannonBowl slides. bowl, where the rafts revolve fect the recent tornadoes Below left, as part of the around the outside perim- have had on the park. “We park’s improvements, guest eter before being dropped are a community park and found more than 5,000 through a corkscrew exit. are helping with donations to square feet of new Guests on Pipeline Wave the American Red Cross. We carpeting to walk on around can board two-person face- had a couple of employees the wave pool. to-face WhirlyWheel rafts who had families that were AT/GARY SLADE or single tubes. The initial affected but for the most part plunge takes riders through our team faired pretty well,” a 201-foot log tunnel drop- said Riddles. Just a week af- ping 41 feet where they gain ter the interviews, AT learned speed then blast into a high- the park lost one day of op- ly-banked curve, experienc- eration on Saturday, June 1, ing a moment of weightless- after losing power from the ness before plunging into second round of tornadoes second tunnel that leads to that tore through Oklahoma the splash pool. on the evening of May 31. The park also added White Water Bay, Okla- about 5,000 square feet of homa’s largest waterpark is new carpet to the area in front open daily through August of and all around the wave 14, 2013. The park is owned pool. “We listen to what are by CNL Lifestyles Properties guests have to say and decid- and operated by Premier At- ed to upgrade the wave pool tractions Management. area with brand new carpet,” 20 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013

Latest in SeaWorld’s colorful waterpark chain debuts AT/GARY SLADE Expansive beach, tropical exotica highlight Aquatica San Diego STORY: Dean Lamanna Special to Amusement Today

CHULA VISTA, Calif. — An oasis has sprung to life in the semi-arid environs of this sprawling city in the southern San Diego metropolitan area, not far from the Mexico bor- der and less than a half hour from SeaWorld San Diego. With its official opening June 1, the newest property in SeaWorld San Diego’s marketing team of Paty de Saraco, the South Seas-themed Aquat- left, and Kat Danganan have created the Splash Team and ica SeaWorld’s Water-park work together to post blogs and other news events, like chain sent water and guests Aquatica’s opening, to electronic media. Their video blogs Above, the Aquatica San Diego team, l to r: Lisa Aiu, direc- cascading down its serpentine can be found on InsideSeaWorld.com. tor of park operations; John Reilly, park president SeaWorld AT/GARY SLADE slides and set its wave pool San Diego; David Cromwell, vice president; Carlos Cuevas, in much-anticipated motion. isting slides as well as install- chitectural style and vibrant director of revenue and Kevin Cook, director of mainte- Aquatica San Diego, like its ing new water activities. The graphics throughout the park nance. Below, the Aquatica thematic touches can be found sister parks in San Antonio, park’s biggest attraction, the — as well as the animal con- through wildlife, landscaping, and vibrant color on building Texas, and Orlando, Fla., fea- 500,000-gallon Big Surf Shores nection, which really ties us to and slides. tures guest experiences from wave pool — boasting five-foot SeaWorld.” AT/GARY SLADE serene to extreme — combin- swells — has been graced with In addition to Cromwell, ing leisurely and high-speed a huge beach that doubles the the grand opening “lei cut- water play with the kind of park’s previous seating capac- ting” was attended by no- up-close, educational animal ity and comes complete with tables including Chula Vista experiences that anchor the private cabanas. Some 43,000 Mayor Cheryl Cox, County SeaWorld brand. square feet of white sand have Supervisor Greg Cox, San Lush landscaping heavy been added here. Diego Regional Chamber of with palm trees and flow- In a pre- Commerce President and CEO ers, combined with naturally opening chat Jerry Sanders, and San Diego integrated exhibits featur- with AT, Da- SeaWorld President Park Pres- ing Caribbean flamingos and vid Cromwell, ident John Reilly. freshwater turtles, have re- vice president Aquatica San Diego will placed much of the hardscape of Aquatica have on-site animal care spe- that characterized the former San Diego, cialists among its peak team of Knott’s Soak City waterpark, explained that Cromwell 450 employees. The park will which Orlando-based Sea- the goal was be open daily through Labor World Parks & Entertainment to create a “resort-like experi- Day and weekends in Septem- bought from Cedar in a ence” for families. ber. reported $15 million transac- “We want a visit here to Other attractions high- tion late last year. be so relaxing, enriching and lights: Beginning just this past exciting that people will come •HooRoo Run: Two en- January, SeaWorld under- back and generate good word closed and two open-air slides took a rapid and extensive of mouth,” said Cromwell, a make for a thrilling 80-foot de- transformation of the 17-acre San Diego native who worked scent. developed portion of the 67- his way up to his current posi- •Kiwi Curl: Three 60-foot- acre property, creating a new tion from a high school sum- tall slides that test the adrena- entrance, adding retail and mer job at SeaWorld. “Along line — with the option of slid- dining facilities, transplanting with comfort-enhancing ing in the dark. thousands of full-grown trees amenities and services, the •Walhalla Wave: This 78- and shrubs, and renovating Aquatica brand brings with it foot ride is designed for fami- and brightly repainting the ex- a distinctive, peaked-roof ar- 4See AQUATICA, page 22 July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 21 MEDIA

22 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013 NEWSPAPER RiverRush debuts at ’s Splash Country EMPLOYEE IN GOOD STANDING B. JEFFREYDEREK SHAW L. SEIFERT STORY: NEWSSPLASH Jeffrey L. Seifert EDITORIALEDITORIAL [email protected] COMPILED: Jeffrey L. Seifert, [email protected]

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — MEDIAMEDIAFamous Indian actor Salman Khan filmed a fight scene RiverRush, Dollywood’s new- CREDENTIALforCREDENTIAL his upcoming movie “Mental” at Dubai’s Wonderland est attraction opened to season VALIDVALID ThemeTHROUGHTHROUGH and2012 Waterpark2010. Though no details were released, passholders on Friday May 10, Salman was filmed taking on several men in a major scuffle, 2013 and to the general pub- after which the actor was drenched in sweat and bleeding lic, the next day. The $6 mil- profusely. The actor is known to frequent Dubai and has re- GARY SLADE lion ProSlide HydroMagnetic PUBLISHER,ferred AMUSEMENT to the TODAY Emirate as his favorite holiday destination, so Rocket is the largest capital it comes as no surprise that he choose Dubai as the location improvement made to Splash for his next movie. Country since it opened in • 2001. Silverleaf Resorts Inc. announced in May plans to build The new attraction, nes- a $10 million indoor waterpark at its Fox River Resort in tled in the trees, covers more Sheridan, Illinois. The 19,000 square-foot facility will feature than an acre of hillside in a the usual aquatic play structure with tipping bucket, lazy river newly developed section of and multiple body and tube slides. A 10,000 square-foot en- the park, between the park’s try building will house food outlets, an arcade, gift shop and Big Bear Plunge whitewater- changing rooms. The project has already broken ground and rafting-inspired slide and is expected to open by summer 2014. The Fox River Resort Bear Mountain Fire Tower, is one hour from Chicago and near Starved Rock State Park. and takes advantage of the The private club features a large selection of amenities for its natural terrain. Riders ascend members including two swimming pools, a golf course, ten- nis courts and horseback riding. up the slope on 237-foot con- • veyor belt that elevates the Aquatica Orlando is once again offering an unlimited four-person raft nearly four after-2 p.m. admission pass for the same price as a single stories from the initial loading day’s admission. The pass is good for the rest of 2013 and point. The excitement com- there are no blackout dates. The pass is $50 for children 3–9 mences with a quick turn off and $55 for adults. the lift and first plunge of 25 • feet at a 45-degree angle. The Soak City Waterpark at Kings Island in Mason, Ohio, will wild ride continues over the be offering Dive-In movies on Friday nights from June 21 to 1,175 feet of fiberglass channel July 26. The park will show movies that appeal to guests of all dashing through tunnels, hair- ages on two large screens located above the 650,000-gallon pin turns, four magnetically- Tidal Wave Bay wave pool. Soak City and the Dive-In mov- boosted uphill climbs and ies are included with admission to Kings Island amusement three downhill plunges. park. Dolly Parton was on • hand to open the ride and The Chimelong Waterpark in Guangzhou, China, held helped dispatch the first rid- a unique publicity stunt to open the waterpark for the 2013 ers. “Growing up, playing in season. 10,000 female guests, all clad in bikinis, formed a gi- the creeks and streams here in ant snake-like “2013” in front of the park’s wave pool. Chime- the Smoky Mountains, I could long has been doing a bikini stunt every year since 2008. This only dream of something like year the snake-like 2013 coincides with the year of the black a water coaster. But look at us water snake in Chinese Astrology. now” said Dolly Parton. “I • don’t ride these rides, I’ve got When the brand-new Wet ’n’ Wild Las Vegas waterpark too much to lose, like my hair, opened in May, the park auctioned off inaugural rides on four Riders enjoy the thrills of this ProSlide HydroMagnetic Rock- my makeup,” added Parton. of its attractions. The auction took place on eBay between et that recently debuted at at Dollywood’s Splash Country “Even though I don’t ride, I May 16 and May 23 of the park’s Rattler, Constrictor, Hover as RiverRush. Half Pipe and Royal Flush Extreme attractions. The package like to create these things for COURTESY DOLLYWOOD’S SPLASH COUNTRY people to enjoy.” also included four tickets to the grand opening event and “Our guests love the new flights of stairs. A boardwalk guests per hour. use of a private cabana for the evening, souvenir gift bag ride,” said Pete Owens, pub- ramp leads to the loading RiverRush has its own and complimentary meal service. Proceeds from the auctions lic relations director. “It com- station making the attraction game available for both IOS benefited the Andre Agassi Foundation for Education. • bines a technology most of handicapped accessible. Each and Android operating sys- The New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority unani- them have never experienced ride lasts about one minute tems as part of the Dollywood mously approved plans to allow the 22-acre theme and wa- with the incredible terrain and and 20 seconds. With four- Adventures/Dollywood Ex- terpark to be added to he controversial American Dream beauty of the park. “ person rafts and a conveyor plore applications. The app is mega-mall at the Meadowlands in New Jersey. The ground With a conveyor lift there loading system the ride has available at Google Play or the lease has been transferred to Triple Five, the owner of the a theoretical capacity of 720 iTunes app store. is no need for guests to climb Mall of America in Minnesota and the West Edmonton Mall in Canada. Site preparatory work was approved and the 5.41 •Loggerhead Lane: and drenches everyone every AQUATICA acres needed for the water park have been listed in need of Guests can swim or drift in an five minutes. redevelopment. Continued from page 20 inner tube down a winding Adult admission to Aquat- The New York Giants and Jets, having long opposed the lies to enjoy together (height 1,250-foot long lazy river, with ica San Diego is $38 for ages 10 project, filed a lawsuit in June to have it shut down. At stake requirement is 42”) in a gigan- more than a dozen Caribbean and up; ages 3-9, $30. Cabana are the parking spots around the stadium, which the teams tic tube. flamingos enjoying life along rentals extra. For information now control and can generate upwards of $12 million a sea- •Tassie’s Twister: Plunge the route. on season passes and various son. American Dream plans to add 30,000 parking spaces down a 75-foot water slide in •Walkabout Waters: This admission packages and cross- within walking distance of the stadium. a multi-person raft through four-story interactive attrac- promotions between Aquatica East Rutherford Mayor James Cassella slammed the two thousands of gallons of water tion offers hands-on fun with and SeaWorld San Diego, as teams for being “greedy” and “selfish” and putting their in- before dropping into a six-sto- slides, hoses, jets and geysers. well as operating hours, visit terests ahead of taxpayers. ry funnel. A 500-gallon water bucket tilts www.aquaticasandiego.com. July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 23 24 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013 Lake Winnie has cool hit with new Soak Ya! waterpark expansion STORY: Scott Rutherford joying getting soaked at Lake [email protected] Winnie!” ROSSVILLE, Ga. — Lake Located on the west side Winnepesaukah’s much- of the amusement park be- anticipated May 27 debut of tween the Cannon Ball and the Soak Ya! waterpark provies lake, Soak Ya! major features that after 88 years it is still one include: of the coolest area locations to •Crazy River with Beach spend the season. The Memo- . rial Day debut of the five-acre •Wave action and mul- waterpark expansion is the tiple surprise features on the culmination of an aggressive River. five-month construction that •Eight body and tube returned the North Georgia slides. amusement park, which be- •Coke Float Crossing gan as a swimming attraction •Kiddie Splash Park in the 1920s, to its water heri- •Retail, concessions and tage lounge areas •Changing area with lock- ers.

The new waterpark fea- tures “Made in the USA” slides and other waterplay equipment designed, engi- “ neered and manufactured by Lake Winnepesauka kicked kicked off the unofficial start North Carolina-based Aqua- off the unofficial start of of summer on Memorial Day Blue International. The facil- summer on Memorial Day with the grand opening of ity was designed by architect with the grand opening of SoakYa! waterpark. Guests of Christopher M. Jones of North its new SoakYa! waterpark, all ages are thoroughly en- Palm Beach, Fla. and Aquatic the first major expansion joying the Adventure River, Development Group of Ca- of the amusement park while the more adventurous hoes, N.Y. Aquatic Builders since the 1960s. The five- are flocking to the body slides Ltd., a division of the master- acre waterpark features and tube slides,” said Talley plan design and engineering “Made in the USA” slides Green, public relations direc- firm, lead the park’s construc- and other waterplay equip- tor and fourth generation of tion. More than 100 construc- ment designed, engineered the family-owned and oper- tion jobs were filled by local and manufactured by North ated park. “The kiddie area contractors including Adman Carolina-based AquaBlue is teeming with pint-sized pa- Electric, Inc., Architectural International. trons playing in the fountains Surfaces, B&B Steel Erection COURTESY LAKE and trying their first rides Company, Inc., Brown Broth- WINNEPESAUKA/WHR INC. down slides designed just for ers, Inc., Chazler, Inc., Increte them. The shady lounge seat- Systems, Integrated Concrete, ing provides areas for relaxing Metal Masters Mechanical for both children and adults. Contractors, Modern Heat- Our guests are definitely en- ing and Air Conditioning, Sequatchie Concrete Service, Inc., Silvers Plumbing and Mechanical, Inc., and Young’s Paving. Of local economy inter- est, Soak Ya! provided close to 60 new new seasonal posi- tions at the park. Advertising and marketing for the park is provided by William H. Rob- inson, Inc. of Hamilton, Ohio. The Soak Ya! waterpark is the first major expansion of the amusement park since the 1960s when Lake Winnie doubled in size and added two signature attractions: the antique wooden and the popular wooden Can- non Ball Roller Coaster. The A young boy has fun on new waterpark is the first of these floating bottle caps a three-phase expansion that while hanging onto the net, is expected to triple the water suspended above. entertainment complex’s size COURTESY LAKE WINNEPESAUKA/WHR INC. in years to come. July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 25 26 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013

WWA SympoJoinSium & usTrAde ShoW Sept. 30 - Oct. 3, 2013 • WeSt palm Beach, FlOrida, U.S.a. RegisteR by 7.24 foR lowest eaRly biRd Rates!

people aRe talking! “WWA is an invaluable resource to discover new products. A huge benefit to us!” – JameS JUdy, palace entertainment “WWa provides a perfect atmosphere for meeting new contacts...a successful show for all that attend.” – nate OlSOn, WriStBand reSOUrceS “Within the first hour of the education component, I learned enough to pay for my trip expenses four times over. How many conferences can boast that kind of payback?” – Jim KUnaU, hUrricane alley WaterparK

“Great turnout of serious attendees. Meeting decision-makers is valuable!” – cheri KOth, Shade creatiOnS

Feel free to contact us! call us at +1-913-599-0300

WWASHOW.Org July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 27 BUSINESS REVENUE PEOPLE SAFETY SUPPLIERS Parks launch new shows to drive attendance, increase length of stay Busch Gardens Tampa debuts “Madagascar Live!” TAMPA, Fla. — Busch Gardens Tampa’s newest live stage show “Madagascar Live! Operation: Vacation” premiered on May 18 in the park’s Stanleyville Theater. Guests party along the char- acters from DreamWorks Ani- mation’s hit Madagascar fran- chise, including Alex the Lion, Gloria the Hippo and King Ju- lien on a vacation adventure at Busch Gardens Tampa. To celebrate the arrival of Mickey Mouse, in classic sorcerer’s apprentice mode, and a cast the laugh-out-loud, high-en- of beloved Disney characters that includes King Louie from The ergy family show, the Tampa Jungle Book embark on a series of musical adventures through park hosted a premiere party a magical sorcerer’s map in “Mickey and the Magical Map,” a weekend on May 18-19, com- new live show at Disneyland’s Fantasyland Theatre. plete with on-the-hour dance COURTESY PAUL AUYEUNG AND PAUL HIFFMEYER/ DISNEYLAND parties and meet and greets, in addition to the show’s pre- “Madagascar Live! Operation: Vacation” is a new live show New themed area, stage show miere. that premiered on May 18 in the park’s Stanleyville Theater. “We are thrilled to partner Singers, dancers and a live band join the rollicking Mada- enhance Disneyland Fantasyland with DreamWorks Animation gascar characters Alex the Lion, Gloria the Hippo and King to bring the hugely popu- ANAHEIM, Calif. — In telling in a new direction,” Julien as they amp up the party to full throttle. the realm of What’s New, said Michael Jung, theatrical 4See MADAGASCAR, page 28 COURTESY BUSCH GARDENS the 2013 summer season is a development executive for breather of sorts for the Dis- WDIC. “At Disney, we love Six Flags Discovery Kingdom premiers new neyland Resort after its mas- the challenge of continuously sive success in redefining and looking at our classic tales and Cirque Dreams Splashtactic in Dolphin Theater reintroducing Disney Cali- most recent stories to see how VALLEJO, Calif. — With fornia Adventure (DCA) last we can bring live entertain- remarkable precision, the year. Yet the debut of two new ment and excitement to to- uniquely skilled artists, aeri- attractions at DCA’s flagship day’s audiences.” alists and acrobats of Cirque sister park, Disneyland, con- “Mickey and the Magical Dreams take the Dolphin Har- tinues to build on that impres- Map” features Mickey in his bor Theater stage in an all-new sive momentum. timeless role as the sorcerer’s aquatic production that com- Launched on Memorial apprentice, while wise sorcer- bines feats of strength with Day weekend, the live “Mick- er Yen Sid (“Disney” spelled the graceful leaps and bows ey and the Magical Map” backward) directs his Map- of bottlenose dolphins. Cirque lights up the just-refurbished makers — a singing-dancing Dreams Splashtastic — the Fantasyland Theatre. The am- ensemble capable of taking Most Amazing Show Above bitious musical production, dreamers to any place imag- H2O, opened to the public from Walt Disney Imagineer- inable and painting a map on May 25 in a limited run ing Creative Entertainment so large it spans the theater’s engagement, a first foray into (WDICE), was conceived for entire stage. (The innovative Cirque Dreams Splashtastic, a new presentation recently this depth of entertainment by children of all ages and marks prop has more than 35,000 made its debut at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom. Created, the park. the return of Disney storytell- square inches of LED screen produced and directed by acclaimed Broadway Director and “We are excited to bring ing to the 28-year-old outdoor surface.) Cirque Dreams founder Neil Goldberg, the production com- the distinct magic of Cirque venue. Apprentice Mickey lets bines feats of strength with the graceful leaps and bows of Dreams to our Northern Cali- “Each new show we cre- his curiosity get the better of bottlenose dolphins. fornia,” said Don McCoy park ate is a chance to push story- 4See MICKEY, page 28 COURTESY SIX FLAGS 4See CIRQUE, page 28 28 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013

MICKEY MADAGASCAR Continued from page 27 Continued from page 27 him as he stumbles upon the lar Madagascar characters to map’s magical powers, which Busch Gardens,” said Park take him and the audience on President Jim Dean. “Both a fantastic journey of imagina- Busch Gardens and Dream- tion. Theatrical stage wizardry Works share a core the mission unveils worlds of color, ad- to provide quality entertain- venture and beloved charac- ment to audiences. This show Madagascar Live! features ters. is certain to have families en- stunning costume and is sure The Mapmakers are out- gaged and amused and will to entertain audiences with fitted in some of the most elab- round out the triple play of it’s mix of comedy, music and orate costumes ever presented amazing shows, thrilling rides dancing. in a live Disney show. and unique animal encounters COURTESY BUSCH GARDENS “The costumes needed that our park delivers.” ditioned theater. to have a modern infusion of The energetic stage show SeaWorld San Diego was style and edginess while still Disney princesses including Cinderella await Disneyland encourages families to sing, also debuting Madagascar retaining an antique qual- guests at the new Fantasy Faire, an immersive, European- clap and dance along to origi- Live! just as AT went to press. ity that comes with Fantasy- flavored storybook world that extends Fantasyland and nal songs and party favorites For SeaWorld, some of the land,” said Matt Davidson, brings its timeless tales to life. Guests also are treated to on a 20-minute musical ad- show’s dialog has changed senior costume designer. “I an interactive, vaudeville-style storytelling experience at the venture. Singers, dancers and and the stage set has more blue have always liked the inven- Royal Theatre. a live band join the rollicking ocean-like colors, compared tiveness of Steampunk, which COURTESY PAUL HIFFMEYER/DISNEYLAND Madagascar characters as they to the green jungle colors at comes from the Jules Verne, amp up the party to full throt- Busch Gardens. The Seaworld H.G. Wells world of futuristic- tle. And as part of each show, theater underwent a complete styled technology being pos- guests can meet the characters makeover to accomodate the sible in the Victorian era. The following the performance in show, including the adding of aesthetic uses lots of copper, Stanleyville Theater, which a stage, costume storage area antique brass, leather and riv- has been renovated and is and dressing rooms for the ets. It’s kind of a warm, hand- now an enclosed and air-con- cast. crafted look that fit perfectly.” The 22-minute show, with a summertime schedule of CIRQUE five performances daily for as Continued from page 27 many as 1,800 guests at a time, president. “This beautifully incorporates appearances and executed show truly elevates songs by King Louie from the entertainment value for The Jungle Book (“I Wan’na our guests who can expect an Be Like You”) and by Sebas- electrifying experience.” tian from The Little Mermaid This dynamic visual (“Under the Sea”), and from spectacle showcases physi- Pocahontas (“Just Around the cal prowess as the performers Riverbend”) and Mulan (“Re- bring together a series of high- flection”), among others. flying stunts and daring aerial For part of its history, the acts above water. In the water, Fantasyland Theatre served dolphins will emulate some of as an area where guests could the artistry in their own way, meet Disney princesses. With as marine mammal trainers the opening of the new Fan- guide them through a series of tasy Faire area in Fantasyland air tent structure accommodat- from Beauty and the Beast, show-stopping behaviors. last March, they now enjoy a ing more than 300 guests (not has a food wagon, Maurice’s The show is created, pro- whimsically customized home including perimeter standing Treats, across from the Royal duced and directed by ac- of their own. room). The venue utilizes ele- Theatre — selling bread twists claimed Broadway Director Fantasy Faire’s architec- ments from this location’s for- in a choice of chocolate, straw- and Cirque Dreams founder ture immerses guests in an mer Carnation Plaza Gardens berry or cheddar cheese garlic, Neil Goldberg and was de- enchanting European fairytale stage, which hosted school as well as a signature bever- signed to celebrate “aquatical” village where characters and and community music groups age, Boysen Apple Freeze — strength of both the popu- Cirque Dreams Splashtastic stories from Disney animated as well as decades of headlin- a blend of 100 percent apple lar marine mammals and the features amazing balance movies come to life. Design ers such as Count Basie, Tom- juice and wild berry flavor. hand-picked international and movements, most of highlights include timbered my Dorsey and The Osmonds. Between the Royal The- cast, who hail from nine coun- which are seen by perform- and stone walls, chimney In addition to familiar atre and the Royal Hall, there’s tries. ers suspended over the chill- vents, arched windows and songs from Disney animated Fairy Tale Treasures, offering “Our goal was to com- ings waters of the Dolphin tiled rooftops with steeply films, shows at the Royal The- Princess-themed gifts and sou- plement the personalities of Harbor Theater. pitched gables. The village is atre feature a live piano player venirs. Detailed woodwork the dolphins and performers COURTESY SIX FLAGS located next to Sleeping Beau- in the style of a silent movie features acorns and sculpted through playfulness, extraor- brand represented an oppor- ty’s Castle and extends Fanta- accompanist. To keep the fun squirrels, with some squirrels dinary feats, synchronicity tunity to bring a Broadway- syland’s boundaries. going at the story’s conclu- holding up acorns as if they and unparalleled showman- caliber production to the park In the Royal Hall, Fan- sion, beloved characters in- were jewels. ship,” said Goldberg. “Cirque for the enjoyment of audiences tasy Faire brings tales to life cluding Belle, Rapunzel and By extension, Disney fans Dreams Splashtastic will be of all ages. through live characters repre- Flynn Rider remain on hand will likely perceive the park’s one of those unique and mem- Cirque Dreams Splashtas- senting Cinderella and others. to greet the audience. new “Magical Map” show and orable entertainment attrac- tic — the Most Amazing Show Interactive storytelling with Fantasy Faire’s visual and Fantasy Faire section as jewels tions rarely experienced.” Above H2O is included with vaudeville-style Renaissance aural treats are rounded out by added to an already dazzling The partnership with park admission and will run thespians is the highlight at some innovative sweets. Mau- theme park crown. Goldberg and his acclaimed two shows daily until August the Royal Theatre — an open- rice, Belle’s inventor father —Dean Lamanna Cirque Dreams entertainment 11, 2013. July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 29 OBITUARIES Fajume Rides’ Mike Safiev COMPILED: Scott Rutherford, dies in car accident [email protected] EL SALVADOR — Mike decades, they have exported Busch Gardens Tampa welcomed three Fun Pass – a bundled package for visitors to lion cubs to the more than 12,000 animals at enjoy the park and its top attractions. Nestled Safie, Jr., vice-president of hundreds of rides to countries the Florida themer. The two females and one inside the park are a number of amusement- Fajuma Rides died in a fatal all over the world. male arrived at Busch Gardens from South Af- style family attractions where visitors can do car accident in El Salvador on In addition to the manu- rica May 18.Guests will soon be able to see everything from walking through the Botanical May 8. He was 53. facturing business, the fam- the cubs in the Edge of Africa area of the park. Garden to riding a historic, antique carousel Safie, Jr., was vice-presi- ily operated over 200 rides Once they are large enough, the Busch Gar- to experiencing childhood fairy tales in Story- dent of the many Safie-owned with five carnivals that play dens animal care team will start introducing land. family businesses begun by through Central and South the cubs to the lion and hyena habitat of the • his father, Mike Safie, Sr. The America. Edge of Africa attraction. Cedar Fair Entertainment Company and Safie family is best known in Friends wishing to offer • Panama Jack announced a five-year agree- the carnival industry for the condolences may do so via e- Quassy Amusement Park has unveiled ment, extending Panama Jack’s reign as Ce- ride company Fajume Rides, mail ([email protected]) or its new website (www.quassy.com), which has dar Fair’s Official Sun Care Partner of its parks. which they began in 1983. The by mail at the following ad- been in a behind-the-scenes development for The extended agreement includes product of- amusement ride manufactur- dress: months. The new website relies heavily on ferings such as sun care products, sunglasses, ing company made the popu- Fajume Rides, Prolonga- park photos and brief descriptions to promote hats and Panama Jack soft goods, to be of- lar Wacky Worm family roller cion Calle Arce #2320, San Sal- the many amenities the 105-year-old property fered for sale within Cedar Fair’s expansive coaster. Over the past several vador, El Salvador C.A. has to offer. Besides photo highlights of rides network of parks. and Splash Away Bay waterpark, the site incor- • porates videos of major attractions such as the Auntie Anne’s Pretzels has added Former IAAPA chairman award-winning Wooden Warrior roller coaster amusement parks to its nontraditional venue and the new Quassy Quest Laser Maze. portfolio. This spring, the 25-year-old soft • pretzel icon opened locations at three amuse- Boyd Jensen dies at 86 Legoland Discovery Center Dallas/Fort ment parks including , Worlds of ST. GEORGE, Utah — involved in local and national Worth’s Lego Star Wars Episode IV Miniland Fun and Kings Island after entering into an model display opened to the public on June 8, agreement with Cedar Fair Entertainment Boyd F. Jensen, fomer IAAPA political campaigns. Numer- 2013.Young Padawans and their families can Company. chairman, passed away in St. ous organizations and individ- explore a large-scale, interactive Lego model • George, Utah, on May 29, 2013. uals benefited from his sincere display, chronicling the adventures of Star The Subway restaurant chain enjoyed He was 86. devotion to charitable and phil- Wars: Episode IV A New Hope. Join the Rebel a busy period in the first quarter of 2013. It Born the anthropic causes, and he was Alliance as they plot to destroy the Galactic opened more than 600 new locations around May 23, 1927, recognized for those contribu- Empire’s powerful Death Star. the world and crossed the milestone of 39,000 in Salt Lake tions through awards and hon- • locations. In the non-traditional development City, Utah, he ors related to his professional The Las Vegas Strip will get a whole lot category, the Subway chain now has 9,000 was the fourth and community service. As a sweeter when Hershey’s Chocolate World such restaurants, of which more than 160 of five chil- member of The Church of Je- retail experience opens at New York-New opened during the first quarter in places such dren. In 1945, sus Christ of Latter-day Saints, York Hotel & Casino this winter. The flagship as airports, department stores, hospitals and though WWII Jensen he served a mission to , store will occupy two floors, boast a 70-foot park and recreational facilities. Stores recently was ending, his ancestral home—he loved façade and provide guests with an experiential opened at California’s Great America, Santa like his brothers, he enlisted in all things Swedish. He served concept that will immerse them in the candy Clara, Calf.; Glacia Children’s Museum, Tam- the Navy and served proudly faithfully in many church call- brands they love. This store spot will be locat- pa, Fla.; and the Villages Resort Waterpark, for two years. Upon complet- ings, including positions of ed between the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Flint, Texas. ing his service, he studied at leadership. Together, he and Bridge and feature a towering Hershey’s Milk • the University of Utah, earn- Beverley served an inner city Chocolate bar, an 18-foot Reese’s Peanut But- opened its Rivers ing his bachelor’s degree in mission in Salt Lake City, Utah. ter Cup and dazzling entrances in the shape of Edge Picnic Grove for an overnight outdoor business and a law degree. He As a family, the Jensens ex- Hershey’s Kisses Chocolates. adventure. Both Boy and Girl Scouts traveled retained his membership in press deep love and apprecia- • from all corners of New England on Satur- Blueprint Entertainment has announced day, June 8 for this once in a lifetime over- the Utah Bar for more than 50 tion to the many amusement the takeover of the Belgian science center night experience. With over a hundred tents years. industry members, especially Earth Explorer from erected, campers could gaze at the stars and Boyd’s career was devoted Boyd’s Lagoon family and the at ECSITE in Gothenburg, Sweden. With this coasters at the thrill capital of New England. to his public relations work for Freeds, with whom he worked acquisition the chairmen of Blueprint Enter- Each camper received an honorary Camporee Lagoon Corp., where he even- collaboratively for so many tainment, Mike Boris and Andreas Waschk, are Badge for participating in the event. tually became executive vice years. They have brought now operating three science centers in Ger- • president and worked more so much joy to him over the many and Belgium and have thus created the The Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Or- than 60 years. Boyd loved his course of his life. It was more leading private management company for sci- lando will be opening 18 kids’ suites themed work in the amusement park than work. It was a culture of ence centers in Europe. around the popular Despicable Me film fran- industry and his relationships hard work, service, and ines- • chise and their theme park attraction, Despi- within IAAPA, for which he timable fun. Also the IAAPA For the second year in a row, Morgan’s cable Me Minion Mayhem. Available begin- served on numerous commit- family was always in Boyd’s Wonderland in San Antonio, Texas has won a ning October 1, the suites will bring children tees and as chairman of the thoughts, and his respect and certificate of excellence from TripAdvisor, the right into the movie and the bedroom of Mar- board. This gave him the op- affection for IAAPA staff and world’s largest travel website, for earning ex- go, Edith and Agnes. portunity to interact with na- volunteers knows no bounds. ceptional traveler ratings over the past year. • tional and international lead- Boyd and his wife, Bever- This prestigious award, which places Morgan’s Disneyland is celebrating 50 years of ers and visit amusement parks ley, were married for nearly Wonderland in the top-performing 10 percent the iconic audio-animatronic attraction the around the world with his 58 years and are the parents of of all businesses worldwide on TripAdvisor, is Enchanted Tiki Room. Annual passholders wife, Beverley. five children, 29 grandchildren, given to businesses that consistently earn high can receive a special recreation of the 1963 Community service was and 18 great grandchildren. ratings from TripAdvisor travelers. Enchanted Tiki Room brochure, available also one of his priorities. He Contributions in Boyd’s • while supplies last, which includes the original New Orleans City Park, recognized as graphics, copy and even a special message served on his local school dis- name may be made to the in- one of the largest, most expansive urban pub- from Walt Disney. trict and the Utah State School dustry charity Give Kids The lic parks in the country is now offering a Family Board for many years and was World. 30 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013

www.aimsintl.org

Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers International, Ltd. • 3026 S. Orange • Santa Ana, Calif. 92707 Phone: (714) 425-5747 • Fax: (714) 276-9666 • E-mail: [email protected] • Web: www.aimsintl.org Sponsorship opportunities available for 2014 AIMS Safety Seminar in Orlando Kelly Bernish embossed on the official are an important part of ev- AIMS business consultant AIMS Safety Seminar instruc- ery seminar. These up-and- [email protected] tor gifts. Last year’s Maglites coming young profession- were a huge hit with our in- als help with every detail to AIMS International Now that structors! bring the best seminar to all conducts first the schedule The Platinum Level Op- of our attendees. The im- has been set tion 2 is the “Ballroom and portant Silver sponsorship international and registra- Lunch” sponsor. In recog- at $1,000 is our “Sponsor an certification test tion has be- nition the Ballroom will be Ambassador” level. Spon- in Singapore gun, AIMS is named for this sponsor. sors at this level will help once again Gatherings during the semi- and telephone correspon- provide food and lodging SINGAPORE — AIMS happy to Bernish nar are abundant and this dence) and of course recog- for these volunteers. The International is pleased announce our sponsorship is where they happen. The nition on the AIMS website, official AIMS Ambassador to announce that the first opportunities for the 2014 sponsor’s name and logo will aimsintl.org. Additional rec- shirts will be branded with international certification AIMS Safety Seminar, set be displayed on all materi- ognition will be in the stu- this sponsors information. test for maintenance and for January 12-17 in Orlan- als outlining activities at the dent and instructors packets operations was held on do, Florida. Our sponsors Ballroom as well as signage and special recognition will Bronze Level June 5th, 2013. are a very important part of at the Ballroom. Additional- be given at the opening re- (2 options at $500) Testing was coordi- the overall success of this an- ly, sponsors at this level can ception and closing lunch. Finally, the Bronze Level nated with the IAAPA nual safety seminar. A spe- also choose to be the spon- A brochure area will be pro- offers the “Snack and Audio Asian Attraction Expo cial thank you to our first of- sor for the Lunch for a day or vided in the registration area Visual” sponsor two options and Universal Studios ficial 2014 sponsor and new the Welcome Reception. for sponsor’s literature. at $500 each. This level will Sentosa Resorts in Sin- member, Bissswiss, known All sponsorship levels, be an official named spon- gapore. Testing requires for their observation wheel including the Platinum lev- Gold Level sor for either the a.m. or the presence of AIMS expertise. If you haven’t el will be recognized in all (multiple available p.m. daily snack as well as board members and was done so yet, please join the national, and international at $2,000 each) recognized for sponsoring conducted by current AIMS LinkedIn Group for up- marketing efforts, including AIMS Gold Level spon- the audiovisual needs of the Roger Berry, AIMS Inter- to-date sponsor announce- email blitz marketing that di- sorships include “Classroom seminar. national president, and ments. rectly targets prior students, and Registration” sponsor- Mark Moore, past presi- This year sponsorship facility management, and a ship at $2,000 each. At this Sponsorships can be dent. levels include Platinum, compilation of leads gener- additionally tailored to the AIMS will also be ex- level the sponsor logo will tending testing opportu- Gold, Silver and Bronze lev- ated from various sources appear throughout the semi- needs of any company and nities at the IAAPA Euro els. including our manufacturer/ nar on one of classrooms and budget. Please join AIMS in Arttactions Show this fall supplier base as well as more importantly, one of the making our industry safer for in Paris. Platinum Level press releases to the vari- busiest areas of the seminar, everyone by sponsoring this Anyone interested (2 options at $5,000 each) ous trade and online news the registration area, will be world class safety educa- in testing should refer to The Platinum Level entities. Other recognization branded with this sponsor’s tional event! For more infor- the AIMS website www. Option 1 is the “Be the In- includes direct mailing of logo and information. mation regarding sponsor- aimsintl.org for qualifica- structor” sponsor. Benefits materials to various clients, ships or to become an AIMS tions and applications, or include official sponsorship direct contact via represen- Silver Level member, please contact us contact Holly Coston at of one of our classrooms tation and trade show activi- (multiple available at: [email protected] (714) 425-5747 for more throughout the seminar, as ties (i.e. ASTM, IAAPA Expo, at $1,000 each) or visit the AIMS website at information. well as your name and logo EAS Expo, facility visitations, The AIMS Ambassadors aimsintl.org.

Space for this AIMS page is provided courtesy of Amusement Today as a corporate partner of AIMS Intl. Content is provided by AT & AIMS. Please direct comments to [email protected] July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 31 32 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013

NEW JERSEY AMUSEMENT ASSOCIATION SUPERSTORM SANDY Restore, Rebuild and Reopen

President Barack Obama, Prince Harry of Wales, N.J. Governor Chris Christie visit New Jersey piers President Obama visits Jenkinson’s Boardwalk; declares Jersey Shore ‘Open for Business’ POINT PLESANT BEACH, N.J. — On May game, Touchdown Fever. After Governor 28, 2013 Jenkinson’s Boardwalk was paid a Christie won President Obama a prize, they visit by President Barack Obama and his host shook hands with nearly everyone in atten- for the day, New Jersey Governor Chris Chris- dance. While continuing their stroll down the tie. President Obama was visiting the Jersey boardwalk they were joined by the N.J. First Shore seven months after Superstorm Sandy Lady, Mary Pat Christie and the Christie’s chil- to view recovery efforts first hand. After a dren who taught the president how to play brief meeting with members of the Storino the Frog Bog. Family, owners of Jenkinson’s, the president The visit lasted approximately half and governor ventured onto the boardwalk an hour before the duo left for President where they were greeted by excited onlook- Obama’s scheduled speech in nearby Asbury ers. Park where he officially declared the Jersey President Barack Obama vists Jenkinson’s Boardwalk in Obama also spoke with Ed Jarrett, sculp- Shore ‘Open for Business’. Point Plesant, N.J. on May 28. tor of Sandy Castle, and played a boardwalk COURTESY NJAA Prince Harry visits , plays and wins at Ball Toss; sees coaster demolition

SEASIDE HEIGHTS, N.J. courteous to the Prince and showed “that great American — Casino Pier was honored the government officials.” spirit”. to have Prince Harry of Wales said Casino Pier’s Marketing Casino Pier’s Director of stop at the park on May 14 Manager Maria Mastoris. Operations, Lou Cirigliano during his tour of the recov- The large crowd of guests was lucky enough to see his ering Jersey Shore, ironically assembled on the freshly cut daughters, Taylor and Al- on the same day that Weeks boardwalk as Prince Harry lie, play against Prince Harry Marine, bagan dismantling and his escort, New Jersey at the Ball Toss game. Sure the Star Jet roller coaster Governor Chris Christie, enough, the Prince won a from the Atlantic Ocean. shook hands with the Ca- stuffed blue elephant and a “It was meaningful to sino Pier staff, residents of Hello Kitty doll for the girls! know that a Prince from an- Seaside Heights, cleanup “It may have been a short other country cared enough volunteers and local officials. visit, but it brought great ex- to see in his own eyes how Prince Harry was very cordial posure to the shore and let Prince Harry plays a Ball Toss game at Casino Pier with Al- New Jersey was destroyed by and shook each hand of the people know we are open lie Cirigliano (left) and Taylor Cirigliano (right) while new Superstorm Sandy. The event guests on the Pier, even tell- and ready for business!” Jersey Governor Chris Christie looks on. went extremely smoothly and ing a woman that the region’s Mastoris said. COURTESY CASINO PIER everyone in the town was determination to rebuild

Governor Christie visits Keansburg Amusement Park KEANSBURG, N.J. — New Jersey Bill Gehlhaus, who showed the governor Governor Chris Christie visited Keansburg how far the 108-year-old park has come Amusement Park during his Memorial Day since being ravaged by the storm. The ma- weekend tour of the Jersey Shore. jority of attractions are operating, games Despite the chilly and damp weather and arcades are new, and the beloved car- that blanketed the coastline during the ousel has been completely rebuilt. holiday weekend on Friday and Saturday, During the Memorial Day holiday, the the sun came out on Sunday. “I brought the message that the Jersey Shore is back and sun with me,” Christie joked as he greeted open for business not only resonated in Ke- New Jersey Governor Chris Christie (center) poses for the cam- a large group of park guests. ansburg, but throughout the entire state. era with Keansburg Mayor George Hoff (left) and Keansburg’s Bill Gehlhaus. COURTESY NJAA Christie met with the park’s co-owner

Space for this NJAA Superstorm Sandy page is provided courtesy of Amusement Today as a corporate partner with the NJAA. Please direct comments to: [email protected] July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 33

CONTINUING COVERAGE | SUPERSTORM SANDY Coastal N.J. park operators are ‘open for business’ Shore resorts work to dispel lingering post-storm misconceptions STORY: Dean Lamanna accompanying perception approach ever since Obama’s Special to Amusement Today that the entire shoreline was very first post-storm visit to ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. destroyed. Many chambers New Jersey last November. — This Jersey Shore enter- of commerce and individual The problem, according tainment center, as do other amusement operators took to Jeff Guaracino, ACA’s chief amusement-oriented beach heavily to social media, which strategy and communications communities from Keansburg they themselves can control, officer, became evident with south to Cape May, wants you to fix that image. Some busi- the live news coverage of the to know that it is fully up, run- nesses enlisted the aid of more storm. ning and ready for summer far-reaching public relations “In the middle of the hur- — and it has been since well firms in Philadelphia and New ricane, we knew that the vis- before Memorial Day. York City. iting media — especially the More than seven months At the state government broadcast media — were not after Hurricane Sandy, pub- level, the problem was not un- familiar with the city or the lic misperceptions about the anticipated. By late last year, main Boardwalk versus the general post-storm state of Christie had established the unused portion of it [in the the Garden State were still Governor’s Office of Recov- North Inlet, the only section lingering. While New Jersey ery and Rebuilding, which, damaged]. The national media together with the New Jersey immediately assumed that the Governor Chris Christie was While several businesses remain closed or are very actively Division of Travel and Tour- damage had occurred to the happily showing President rebuilding, amusement park operators — including Jenkin- ism, has launched a $25 mil- famed [main stretch] of the Barack Obama around the son’s Boardwalk (above) in Point Pleasant Beach and Morey’s lion marketing and advertis- Boardwalk that people know newly restored Jenkinson’s Piers (below) in Wildwood — want the public to know that ing campaign to restore the and love. To make matters Boardwalk in Point Pleasant Summer 2013 is in full swing. Beach on May 28, many beach Jersey Shore’s prized leisure worse, the broadcasters were AT PHOTO; COURTESY MOREY’S PIERS communities and amusement and vacation reputation. using stock footage of previ- operators were still working Meanwhile, amusement ous summers showing the diligently to spread the ba- operators and tourism bu- crowded Boardwalk and Steel sic message: We are open for reaus are collaborating like Pier, and then cutting to where business. never before to convey a com- they were doing live reports, Before the holiday week- mon message. saying, ‘This is the Boardwalk end arrived, Kimberle Sa- In Wildwood, Morey’s today.’ It was misleading and marelli, executive director of Piers — long a promotional just wrong.” the New Jersey Amusement leader for the city and neigh- Inaccurate reporting on Association, felt that that re- boring North Wildwood and the city’s condition was aggra- gional and national media Wildwood Crest — has inten- vated when Obama landed at — having descended on the sified its networking efforts. Atlantic City International Air- hardest-hit towns along the “We continue to work port, where the national media central and northern coast in with our local tourism depart- had gathered to document the droves since the storm’s im- ments, chambers of commerce start of his initial post-storm mediate aftermath — should and fellow businesses to fur- damage assessment tour — have been doing much more ther promote the message that although that actually did not to spotlight rebuilding and re- our shore communities are begin until he boarded a heli- covery. “We should be seeing open for business,” said Mag- copter for Seaside Heights, to more pictures of the beautiful gie Warner, manager of digital the north. to do.” which culminated just a few boardwalks being built and media and public relations for “People don’t always That work, requiring a days before Memorial Day what’s already reopened,” she Morey’s. know their geography,” total expenditure falling be- weekend with a national press said. In Atlantic City, a non- Guaracino said, “and they tween $500,000 and $1 million, release urging media once Although grateful that profit consortium of local weren’t able to make the dis- included taking out a full- more to correct the record they were spared a direct hit businesses called the Atlantic tinction between the nation- page ad in The New York Times, about the condition of Atlantic by Sandy, South Jersey seaside City Alliance (ACA), estab- ally famous Steel Pier and, running TV and radio spots, City’s Boardwalk, the misper- resorts from Atlantic City on lished in 2011 to broaden the for example, Seaside Heights, messaging via social media, ception number has dropped down were especially frus- resort’s appeal beyond a day- which landed on the cover of collaborating with Steel Pier to below 15 percent in key trated by ongoing emphasis tripping gambling destination, People magazine. So we had a and other business on special markets. on scenes of damage and the has been taking a corrective lot of perception repair work events, and conducting week- “The job is yet not done, ly research studies. The latter but it’s vastly improved,” revealed early on that 44 per- Guaracino said. cent of the country thought To take its own measure the Boardwalk had been de- the Jersey Shore’s recovery stroyed. progress, the International As- “Even more shocking, sociation of Amusement Parks that number was higher in our and Attractions (IAAPA), led close-by tourism theater states by its Wildwood-based chair- of New York, Pennsylvania, man, Will Morey, will revisit Delaware and Maryland,” park operators in the state on Guaracino noted. “So it was a June 27. IAAPA has continued Wildwood, North Wildwood and Wildwood Crest — collectively known as The Wildwoods major concern for us that half to work with state and federal — issued this promotional banner in the spring to ensure that prospective visitors knew the our customer base thought we officials to provide assistance beach towns were fully ready for seasonal fun. were damaged in the storm.” and services where needed. COURTESY GREATER WILDWOODS TOURISM IMPROVEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Thanks to ACA’s efforts, 34 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013

Region As of Change from MARKETWATCH (U.S.) 06/10/13 year ago East Coast $3.839 $0.021 Prices Prices 52 Weeks RIDING THE Company One Month Ago 06/13/13 High Low Midwest $3.877 $0.012 Gulf Coast $3.748 $0.050 MARKET Cedar Fair L.P. $43.97 $40.40 $44.29 $27.50 Mountain $3.865 -$0.008 MGM Mirage $15.34 $14.96 $15.95 $8.83 West Coast $3.870 -$0.032

Six Flags Ent. Corp. $79.09 $74.68 $80.62 $49.80 DIESEL PRICES California $4.008 -$0.058 CBS Corp. $51.53 $47.36 $52.46 $29.85 Walt Disney Co. $66.58 $64.30 $67.89 $46.21 TOP 7 MOST TRADED On 06/13/13 $1 USD = CURRENCIES 0.75121 EURO Apollo Global Mgt. LLC $27.34 $24.03 $28.14 $12.00 0.6385 GBP (British Pound) Blackstone Group $23.45 $21.14 $23.80 $11.76 96.26 JPY (Japanese Yen) Village Roadshow $5.25 $5.12 $5.46 $2.95 0.9242 CHF (Swiss Franc) NBC Universal $23.46 $23.68 $24.13 $19.24 1.0537 AUD (Australian Dollar) CURRENCY SeaWorld Entertainment Inc. $38.88 $37.13 $39.65 $30.26 1.0191CAD (Canadian Dollar)

PEOPLE WATCH KeyLime Cove promotes three Holiday World names Vice Presidents developed Technical Operations and KeyLime Cove, the Gurnee, Ill. indoor waterpark re- Holiday World park president, Matt Eckert, recently After-Sales Department at Polin, which sort, announced promotions of Melanie McCole to Hu- announced the promotion of three members of the staff was created following a recently com- man Resources manager, Devin Johnson to front Office to the position of vice presidents for the Santa Claus, pleted reorganization at the company. Manager, and Anthony Quiroz to Housekeeping Man- Indiana park. Sofuoglu previously served as ager. “As we continue to grow, it’s important that we have head of the Project Management and McCole brings more than 10 years of hospitality ex- a strong, experienced management team in place,” says Installation Divisions at ThysennKrupp perience to her new role overseeing crew member rela- Eckert. “Our three new vice presidents have proven Elevator and Escalator, a division of tions. She was formerly the Human Resources coordina- themselves as leaders and innovators here at the park.” ThyssenKrupp AG, a German multina- Sofuoglu tor. Holiday World’s new vice presidents are: tional conglomerate corporation based Johnson is responsible for overseeing the front desk; Mike Kamp has been named vice president of Op- in Essen Germany. the hotel telephone system, PBX; and bell service op- erations. Kamp joined Holiday World In his new position at Polin, Sofuoglu will manage erations. Prior to his promotion, he was the front desk as director of Maintenance & Safety three departments now housed under one umbrella. supervisor. in 2004; he was promoted to General Those areas-Project Management, Engineering, and In- Quiroz is responsible for the cleanliness of the 414- Manager of Guest Experience in 2007. stallation & After-Sales-were consolidated after the com- room resort. Previously, he was the night supervisor for His new responsibilities include park pany’s recent reorganization effort. the Housekeeping department, and held various house- operations and construction. keeping positions since KeyLime Cove opened its doors Alison Montee, has been named Gateway Ticketing UK appoints in 2008. vice president of Support Services. Kamp new operations executive Montee joined Holiday World in 2011 Gateway Ticketing Systems UK, an- Premier Rides wins award as director of Accounting & Finance. nounced the appointment of Tom Lee Premier Rides, Inc., Baltimore, Md., was presented Her new responsibilities include over- to its team of staff based at the com- the prestigious Maryland International Business Leader- sight of the park’s financial manage- pany’s Hammersmith, , offices. ship Award by Governor Martin O’Malley on May 2, ment, plus human resources, safety and Lee, whose title will be operations 2013, during the 17th Annual World Trade Center Insti- IT. executive, joins Gateway from another Lee tute (WTCI) Ceremony held at the American Visionary Eric Snow, has been named vice provider of ticketing software to the at- Arts Museum in Baltimore, Maryland. The award rep- president of Marketing, Sales and tractions industry where he was responsible for the suc- resents innovation, international success, and excellence Guest Entertainment. cessful implementation of ticketing systems for a variety in leadership; qualities and accomplishments possessed Snow began his career at Holiday Montee of different clients. He brings to Gateway 11 years’ ex- by Premier Rides that were demonstrated to receive the World during high school, when he perience of working with customers to understand their award. served as a seasonal ride operator and unique needs and requirements, translating these into Founded in 1989, and jointly financed by private marketing intern. He returned to the practical and deliverable solutions. His past experience business and the State of Maryland, the WTCI is one of park full-time in 2007 as Director of covers both the attractions and airlines industries. the largest international business networks of its kind in Admissions and more recently served Commenting on the appointment, Gateway Ticket- the United States. The WTCI’s mission is to drive the as Director of Special Events. His new ing Systems UK’s operations director Andy Povey said: growth of Maryland’s flourishing global business com- responsibilities include oversight of “Tom joins us at a very exciting time for Gateway UK. munity. special events, communications, and Over the next few months we will be adding to the 34 Jim Seay, president of Premier Rides, said, “We are admissions. Snow sites we already have in operation across the U.K. and extremely proud to have won this award and are very working to achieve our goal of being the first point of call grateful for the WTCI’s recognition. This award is confir- Volkan Sofuoglu joins Polin team for any park, museum, zoo, gallery or visitor attraction mation of all of the Premier team members’ dedication & Pool Systems, Istanbul, Turkey, when it comes to increasing revenue by engaging with and focus to successfully expand our business into the recently announced the addition of Volkan Sofuoglu their visitors.” international market.” to its management team. Sofuoglu will head the newly

Find us on Facebook facebook.com/amusementtoday

Follow us on Twitter twitter.com/amusementtoday

SLA Continued from page 41 Subscribe to our YouTube channel youtube.com/amusementtoday July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 35 36 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013 July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 37 MIDWAY CARNIVALS STATE REVENUE SUPPLIERS Weather doldrums Carnival owner experiences weather Rain, rain go away says Myers International Midways a little too close for comfort STORY: Pam Sherborne [email protected] ALMA, Mich. — This She then went to collect the spring has been filled with mail and, as she passed her COLUMBIA, Tenn. — severe storms bringing rains, motor, decided to get her “The weather’s just stupid,” hail, high winds, and torna- laundry basket from inside said Bobby Myers, the first of does to many parts of the and take it into the house. June as weather maps showed country. Those in the outdoor “In the time it took me to a long line of severe weather amusement business industry go into the motor home and marching towards him and his know that every year they are get the laundry basket, the carnival playing in this south- on the road the weather is like- weather completely changed,” ern middle Tennessee town. ly to play some sort of factor in she said. “When I got back out Myers, Myers Interna- their lives. of the motor home, I looked tional Midways, said rain has Yet, there are always those into the sky and half of it was plagued him since they start- first times. green and the other half was ed their route the middle of Joyce Brady, who owns pink. Then, about a quarter of March so much so that he re- Playworld Amusements with a mile down the road, I saw a ally has no good early indica- her husband Jeff Brady, expe- funnel just drop down out of tors of the season. rienced a first in May. the clouds. The winds were “We just haven’t had Here is her story: up and before I could run into enough dates without rain,” Playworld Amusements, my house, I saw my kayak get he said. “It goes back to an old based in Alma, Mich., stays picked up like a toothpick.” saying, ‘What happens after within about 100 miles of She dropped the laundry three days of rain is Monday.’” home during the first part of basket and ran inside. Myers International Mid- the season. After Memorial She grabbed her two dogs ways starts their season in mid- Limited to about 18 rides at this early June date at Cool Day weekend, their dates be- and raced for the basement, January, supplying equipment Springs Galleria, Franklin, Tenn., Myers International Mid- come longer in length and the dialing her cell phone so she to Belle City Amusements for ways likes to put some of their best forward. Seen here, are locations of these dates are could speak with her husband. some early year dates. The car- the show’s KMG Freak Out, foreground to the right; Dartron further away. “He said where he was the nival then goes to the Florida Cliff Hanger, center, and in the background at right, their Joyce Brady takes advan- skies were blue,” Joyce said. State Fair the first of February. Mulligan Wheel. tage of these close-to-home “I just wanted to tell him that “We then pick up with AT/SUE NICHOLS dates. Many times she will I loved him. I wanted to say our own route in mid-March,” He had about the same I see what they are doing and it drive their motor home to something nice.” Myers said. “We are split into number of rides at the Colum- isn’t much. I’m carrying fewer their home, collect the mail Then, she called her sister two units until after Labor bia date. They were prepared games now than ever before. and take care of other busi- and went into panic mood. Day when we start playing for bad weather there and had “It is a pretty scary time in ness while her husband stays But, Joyce said, the funnel our larger dates.” already decided to move on this business right now.” on the road with the rest of the apparently did not stay on the Myers runs one of the out early if the forecasts did Because of that, Myers carnival. ground very long. She heard show’s units while his mother, come to fruition. The next date has diversified. He has several On Monday, May 20, she the weather quiet and she re- Gloria Myers, runs the other, was in Kentucky. other businesses, which he can did just that. (This was the alized it was over. When she along with some help from Myers hadn’t purchased depend on. He has shopping same day the EF5 twister hit emerged from her basement, David Starkey. any new equipment for this centers, restaurants, duplexes Monroe, Okla.) the house was like it should be. The carnival owns be- season. He has, instead, decid- and bars. One very lucrative She knew the weather And, except for her outdoor tween 46 and 48 rides and will ed to wait and see how it goes. business has been his Lifetime forecasters were predicting furniture being thrown about swap them back and forth be- Myers said the carnival in- Products company. severe weather. Of course, and the clothes from her laun- tween the two units through- dustry has become increasing- “We are building about she says now, her experience dry basket strewn across her out the first part of the season. ly hard and the unpredictable 30 bunkhouses a year now,” seems like nothing compared lawn, everything was okay. On some of the dates, such weather of the last few years he said. “It is doing very well. to what happen in Oklahoma. The storm had knocked as the mall dates, they are re- hasn’t helped. He does have We build everything from the Yet, it was scary for her. over an abundance of trees, ally limited to the number of some food concessions as well ground on up. It is gotten to When Joyce arrived at however, community-wide. rides. For example, they had as games. He books others in. the point that if you order one her home in Alma, she took Power was off except for right about 18 rides at a date at Cool “The games business has today, it will be mid-October her two small dogs inside her in the center of Alma. She de- Springs Galleria, Franklin, become really tough,” he said. before you get it.” house from the motor home. 4See BRADY, page 38 Tenn. “Because I have some of these, 4See MYERS, page 38 Factory wholesale pricing! • Over 100 designs available! • Made in the USA

Toll Free: (800) 395-9980 • email: [email protected] • www.sippersbydesign.com 38 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013 BRADY MEYERS Wisconsin State Fair creates food contest Continued from page 37 Continued from page 37 STORY: Pam Sherborne will choose the winner of three and Presumed Taste. cided to drive over to their He feels more secure hav- [email protected] Golden Spork Awards on The eight finalists include: winter quarters about seven ing these other businesses just Tuesday, July 30. All submis- Cajun Mac-n-Cheese, Tropics miles away. It took her 45 min- in case he ever needs to go to WEST ALLIS, Wis. — sions will be available for pur- at the Fair; Deep Fried Peanut utes to get there due to fallen them. Unique and unusual new chase at the Wisconsin State Butter & Bacon Nuggets with trees. But, everything there Yet, he does hope things foods are commonplace at the Fair, which will take place Berry Weiss Jelly, Saz’s; Iced was fine, too. improve. Wisconsin State Fair, West Al- Aug. 1-11. Irish Coffee Float, Slim Mc- Her first was: “I have been Myers Midways hasn’t lis, Aug. 1-11, but this year the The inaugural Sporkies Ginn’s Irish Pub; Mac Attack, on the road for a long time and raised their ticket prices, but selection has risen to a new Competition has promot- West Allis Shrine Club; Mela have been in about a dozen Myers said that is not because level with the introduction of ed creativity and ingenuity Fritta Gelato On-a-Stick, La tornadoes along the way,” she they needed to. the Fair’s First Annual Food Frederiksen 1/7x3 b/w 3/14/02 11:22 AM Page 1 among Fair food vendors, Coppa Gelato; Rasta Shrimp said. “This was the first time “We have needed to, but Competition: The Sporkies. who were encouraged to add Sliders, Tropics at the Fair; I have ever heard that freight people can’t afford it the way Eight finalists have been some flair and pizzazz to their Slaw-Tered Chicken, Island train sound.” it is,” he said. “This may be a selected from over 40 entries, entries. To be considered for Noodles; and the Thanksgiv- very determinate year.” and a panel of celebrity judges the competition, vendors had ing Waffle, Slim McGinn’s to submit a new food item as West. “The #1 Leading Slide Manufacturer in America” FREDERIKSEN well as a detailed description, A panel of celebrity judges “World’s Largest 5 Lane, One Trailer Slide - 108 Ft.” INDUSTRIES, INC. ingredient list and photos. will taste, deliberate and even- 5212 St. Paul St. Vendors were challenged to tually choose winners in each • Financing and Leasing Available Tampa, Florida 33619 create the most inventive and of the following categories: • Trades Considered exotic culinary creations they Best Tasting, Most Creative • Order Slide Bags or “New Rain” Bags (813) 628-4545 could engineer. and Grand Champion. • 6 New Slides In Stock FAX (813) 621-3679 An internal panel of Wis- The final judging and • Have 20 Used Rides www.funslide.com consin State Fair Park employ- presentation of The Golden • 90 Ft. Fiberglass Slide ees conducted the preliminary Spork Award for each of the • 65 Ft. Fiberglass Slide judging based on a rigid score- three categories will take place card with three judging crite- Tuesday, July 30 at the Bank ria – Appearance & Presenta- Mutual Amphitheater at Wis- tion, Creativity & Originality consin State Fair Park.

New Electric Rim-Drive with more lights, more flash

Signature Series Light Package – For the first time, the Wis- LED Lights available consin State Fair, West Allis, Easier size for set-up and is holding a food contest. tear-down Called The Sporkies, this new annual food competi- More Built-in Safety Features tion was open to the ap- proximately 200 food ven- Easy to train and operate – dors that participate at the Simple joystick control state fair. Here are photos Another “family ride” of two of the eight finalists, also available... the Irish Coffee Float, (left) Big Eli Construction Zone from Slm McGinn’s Irish Pub, and (above) deep fried peanut butter and bacon 1-800-274-0211 fax 217-479-0103 nuggets served with Berry Weiss jelly by Saz’s. [email protected] elibridge.com COURTESY WISCONSIN STATE FAIR

Through the smiles, the seasons & the miles – Financing everything for the outdoor amusement industry since 2000. Prairie Financial Paul Muller [email protected] A division of Mark Walker Wade Muller [email protected] prairiefinancialinc.com [email protected] 816-554-3863 July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39 40 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013

midwaylights COMPILED: Pam Sherborne, [email protected]

A small group of middle school-age boys are al- As Official Dairy Sponsor, Prairie Farms milk will rect fair patrons to gates that aren’t congested, and leged to have broken into the 4-H and FFA offices be served throughout the Fair Park, including a lo- reconfiguring traffic cones to make vehicles move on the Clay County Fairgrounds, Spencer, Iowa, cation in the Wisconsin Products Pavilion. During more smoothly. and taken spray paint cans, which they used to mark “Welcome to the Prairie Day” on Aug. 8, families The fairgrounds usually has about 19,000 park- on buildings. can enjoy free product samples, and fun activities ing spots. But not for the Kentucky State Fair. The group of boys, who were spotted behaving and contests for all ages in Central Park. North American Midway Entertainment pro- suspiciously by a walker on the grounds, reportedly In addition to its new partnership with the fair, vides the carnival for the fair. broke into the 4-H and FFA offices and stole cans of Prairie Farms will also serve as the Official Cream • spray paint. Damage included spray painting on the Supplier for the Wisconsin Bakers Association. Prai- Wahkiakum County commissioners appointed Horse Barn and damage to the ticketing and infor- rie Farms cream will be used to make the more than Patty Dursteler as manager of the Wahkiakum mation booths. 350,000 Cream Puffs that are sold each year during County Fair, Cathlamet, Wa. Clay County Fair Manager Jeremy Parsons said the Wisconsin State Fair. Dursteler is a long-time fair volunteer. She is a bunch of lights were broken under the grandstand This year the Wisconsin State Fair will cele- also a member of the fund-raising Wahkiakum Fair and The Depot and the Clay County Conservation brate 162 years of tradition that is rooted in offer- Foundation, and she agreed to take a sabbatical cabin area sustained damage as well. A window was ing families diverse entertainment and agricultural from that board while she serves as fair manager. broken out of the announcers’ booth at the outdoor education at a great value. Prairie Farms is a farmer- Commission Chair Blair Brady said Dursteler arena. owned dairy cooperative founded in 1938 currently will have a six month contract with a maximum of 70 “We’re still putting a dollar amount on the van- celebrating their 75th anniversary. hours in two months, in an effort to keep the posi- dalism,” Parsons said to a local news agency. “We’re • tion from falling under the county’s contract with its definitely looking at thousands of dollars. In the face of a wildfire, multiple earthquakes union employees. “I feel like the fairgrounds should be a great and rain, the Silver Dollar Fair, Chico, Calif., closed • park area where people can come walk their dogs, with higher attendance figures than last year. Coleen Gilboy has gone from being the office or walk or ride bikes, but sometimes I have to ques- Fair Director Scott Stoller said after the fair that manager for the Ledbetter Law Firm to director of tion that when things get damaged,” he said. “There his “conservative” estimate for the fair attendance the Verde Valley Fair, Cottonwood, Ariz. are no plans to shut the grounds down, but it does was 61,125, up about five percent from 2012. Gilboy was hired and was on the job at the cause one to think.” “We weathered the storm and earthquakes,” Verde Valley Fair just days before the wraps were The Clay County Fair is set for Sept. 7-15, 2013. said Stoller. off the 2013 fair, which ran April 30-May 4. Browns Goldstar Amusements will provide the midway for Before the fair opened, California firefighters Amusements provided the midway. the event. Rides expected on the midway this year camped out there while fighting the Panther Fire, She admits she is still amazed at the huge num- include the ARM’s , Chance’s Pharaoh’s which consumed 8,000 acres northwest of Butte ber of volunteers who come together and are in- Fury, Zamperla’s Ruckin Tug and Sellner/Larson Meadows. Firefighters left before the fair began. volved in presenting the fair. International Dizzy Dragons. On Thursday night, a magnitude 5.7 earthquake • • was registered in Greenville and felt in Chico. There Home beer makers have entered this year’s This year is the first time in the history ofOak - were multiple aftershocks felt, one of which mea- New York State Fair, Syracuse, Homebrew Compe- land County Fair, Davisburg, Mich., that the fair will sured 4.9. tition in record numbers. open on a holiday and organizers have been very Stoller said while it did rain Monday, most of the New York State Agriculture Commissioner Dar- excited about the possibilities. heavy rain occurred before the fair opened and then rel Aubertine said for this year’s competition, 140 The event will run from July 4-14. A fireworks when it was near closing. exhibitors have submitted 407 different home- show is planned during the evening of July 4 and While rain impacted Monday’s attendance, brewed beers. That’s up from 74 exhibitors and 267 midway promotions are also planned. The midway is those who came out enjoyed cooler weather and entries last year. provided by Playworld Amusements. shorter lines. All shows, rides and the demolition Two bottles of the winning beer, and the beer’s An old favorite, the off-road demolition derby, is derby took place, Stoller said. recipe, will be taken to the F. X. Matt Brewing back and will be held on July 5, after being taken off • Company in Utica. There, the beer will be analyzed the schedule for the last few years. After issues with automated gates in 2012, the and, with the winning brewer on hand, the recipe Other events include a variety of musical enter- Kentucky State Fair Board is working on a plan to will be brewed in F. X. Matt’s new state-of-the-art tainment, rodeo and Trucks. ease traffic congestion into the 2013 state fair. The pilot brewing lab. • Kentucky State Fair, Louisville, is set for Aug. 15- The resulting beer will be bottled and entered There’s a new twist to the Colorado State Fair’s 25, this year. in the ProAm Competition in the Great American cashless smart card system that fair officials hope In 2011, automated parking gates were installed Beer Festival in Denver, Colorado. will help ease the sting fairgoers to the Pueblo event with the intention of getting fair-goers into the Ken- The New York State Fair is set for Aug. 22-Sept. may feel with the new process. tucky Fair and Exposition Center faster. 2. James E. Strates Shows will provide the midway Fairgoers will be able to use smart cards for up They didn’t. The automated machines took too like it has done for the past 60 years, plus. to five years after they purchase them and any smart long to accept bills, and sometimes patrons had to • card balance of more than $50 can be reimbursed insert bills multiple times. Traffic began to congest With Indiana being the second largest popcorn during the first two weeks after the fair’s 11-day run at gates. producer in the U.S. , the Indiana State Fair, In- in August. Now, with hopes of avoiding that situation at dianapolis, has decided to celebrate popcorn at this Fair General Manager Chris Wiseman told fair this August’s Kentucky State Fair, board member year’s fair, set for Aug. 2-18. board members Wednesday during their monthly Ron Carmicle will chair a task force to find ways to With the Year of Popcorn campaign, fair of- meeting that state law prohibits entities from keep- make parking go more smoothly. ficials have devised a variety of ways popcorn will ing overage accumulated from unused smart cards. Options include cheaper parking prices for be celebrated including, of course, having popcorn “Under state law that money has to be kept with people who park further away from the convention readily available for snacking. us for five years,” Wiseman had said. “We have to center buildings — such as grass lots across from One very unique way fair officials are celebrat- recognize those cards for five years and at the end Phillips Lane or possibly at Papa John’s Cardinal Sta- ing is to show off a very large popcorn ball. Fair of- of five years, we have to turn that money over to the dium using a shuttle, Fair Board President Rip Rip- ficials, along with Year of Popcorn sponsor Weaver state’s unclaimed property program, which we get a petoe said. Popcorn, have created the “World’s Largest Pop- percentage of.” “What we want to be able to do is take away corn Ball” that will be unveiled at the 2013 event. • that inconvenience, because we’re in the experi- This 5,200-pound spectacle will be housed in the Officials at Wisconsin State Fair, West Allis, set ence business,” Rippetoe said. “If we don’t have a Ball State Ag/Hort Building. for Aug. 1-11, 2013, were excited to announce a new good experience coming into a place, odds are that The A-maize-ing Popcorn Adventure, a pop- partnership with Prairie Farms, which encompasses just by human nature we’re not going to enjoy that corn maize as opposed to a corn maize, will be set serving as both the Official Dairy Sponsor of the Fair event.” up for patrons enjoyment. as well as the Day Sponsor on Thursday, Aug. 8. Other options include using social media to di- July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 41 42 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013 Powers Great American Midways Powers Great American Midways has played the Ap- seeing good season indicators ple Blossom Festival, Win- STORY: Pam Sherborne slightly into the northeast. chester, Va., for the last 12 [email protected] He played the Apple Blos- years and this year was one DANBURY, Conn. — So som Festival, Winchester, Va., of the best. Here, set up far, so good for Powers Great April 30-May 5, and had one side by side are two of the American Midways. of the best years he has had in carnival’s newest rides, the Corky Powers, who was the last 12 years he has played ARM Vertigo, far right, and playing the Danbury Fair Mall there. the Wisdom Genesis, center. at the first of June, has been “We have had rain over To the far left, is a carnival seeing people ready to spend the last three weekends, but ice cream concession. on the carnival, weather per- when the rain lets up, people AT/SUE NICHOLS mitting. are spending money,” he said. His early route takes him “If it stays the way it is, I think 2013 will be a good year.” Powers has a total of 58 MIDWAY rides, which are split into two units until the last part of July MARKET PLACE when the two are combined to play the bigger dates. No dates were added this year, Powers said. “It will be a carbon copy from last year,” he said. He would benefit from some move of some of his North American Representative dates, but he knows that is hard and he is happy to play Amusement Sales, Inc. the route he has right now. Powers did add some ad- Texas Office: JRide Sales ditional rides this season. He 405 Dodson Lake Dr. JReplacement Parts received an ARM Rock Star Arlington, TX 76012-3442 JService and Wisdom Genesis at the Telephone: (817) 275-9393 • Fax: (817) 860-7373 end of 2012. He is awaiting ar- www.fabbrigroup.com • [email protected] rival of a Falgas train ride and he has on order a retrofit of a Wisdom Rampage. “And we are always up- dating our trucks and trans- Gull Wing Industries portation equipment,” Pow- Working with the Carnival ers said. “We added nine new Industry since 1989 tractors this year.” Contact us at: www.gull-wing.com Powers said he and his staff spend a lot of time dur- ing the off-season in not only working, and refurbishing Pack-Man 175 kw or 250 kw Quiet Power–Tractor or rides, but also making strides Trailer Mounted in beautifying the midway. The carnival upgrades land- scaping, adds light towers and looking at ways to add ad- 309 N.E. 1st Street P.O. Box 128 Alta, IA 51002 GFlex 400 Amp Toll Free: 800-838-1482 Fax: 712-200-1936 ditional shading. He has also invested in LED lighting. His midway is now about 95 per- cent LED. “It has been a costly in- vestment but I think it will pay off in the end,” he said. They also invest in new wraps with Chuck Waters coming in to do those for him. “The rest of the refurbish- ments we do ourselves,” he said. Have Midway news of interest you would like featured in midway lights E-mail it to Pam Sherborne Keep our carnival and fair industry strong! psherborne@ Buy products and services from these suppliers. amusementtoday.com July 2013 AMUSEMENT TODAY 43 THIS JUST IN MARKETPLACE Silverwood open two new rides COEUR D’ ALENE, Idaho — Sil- verwood Theme Park has opened two EQUIPMENT OPPORTUNITIES SERVICES new rides for the 2013 summer season. AUCTION FOR SALE The first, SpinCycle, a 104 foot tall monster thrill ride that has a cy- lindrical-shaped vehicle which seats 24 people facing outward, with legs dangling and wearing only a harness. The vehicle rotates 360 degrees at 13 revolutions per minute while at the same time it swings like a giant pen- dulum all the way upside down 104 feet above the ground. SpinCycle is from SBF/Visa Group, represented in North America by Len Soled at Rides 4U. The second ride, named Barn- stormer, is a family-fun ride from Zamperla that gives youngsters the feeling they are flying freely among the clouds. Located in Gar- $120,000 field’s Summer Camp, Barnstormer seats 20 passengers and can easily accommodate adults as well as children. FOR SALE FOR SALE Both rides will opened on May 25 and represent a $2.2 mil- lion investment. WHITEWATER 10 YEAR INSPECTIONS 3rd party insurance and safety inspec- $5,000 tions. California QSI inspections. Former Tropic Capital sells loan portfolio to Boulevard Disney Safety Manager. Amusement and TREASURE ISLAND, Fla. — Allied International Holdings, waterparks. Inc. (Allied) is delighted to announce that Tropic Capital Corp. www.safetycertify.com (Tropic) recently sold the majority of its loan portfolio to Bou- (916) 772-2698 levard Bank. Prairie Financial (Prairie), a division of Boulevard OPPORTUNITY Bank will service the loans on behalf of the bank. In a press re- lease, Allied issued the following statements: “We think very NEED RIDE HELP IN ALL AREAS highly of Prairie’s management team and are confident that the Supervisor to lead crew of five. Move Prairie staff will service these accounts with the same courtesy and maintain Chance/Wisdom rides; 1) Century Wheel/Pharaoh’s Fury, , and care that the Tropic staff has offered over the years.” Merry Go Round 2) Super Sizzler “While Tropic succeeded for many years in servicing the outdoor amusement industry, the recent costly financing and • Basic hydraulic/electrician knowledge regulatory environment made it non-economic for Tropic to • CDL Class A license helpful • Drug test mandatory meet the increased demand for lending. As such, Allied decided • Seasonal position for approximately • to discontinue extending financing for rides and equipment and 9 months, could develop into annual to focus all efforts on what Allied does best for the industry we employment know and love. As an essential part of our industry’s fabric for • Competitive salary and benefits package over 30 years, Allied shares an expertise in understanding the risks and needs associated with the operations of these special- Email resume or work experience to ized entertainment businesses. This in-depth and comprehen- [email protected] sive knowledge gives Allied a very special and unique ability FOR SALE to meet insurance needs which other providers simply do not 1 year old BSR built SMOKEY MOUNTAIN AMUSEMENTS 4 player Short Range Basketball 1997 Chance Yo-Yo trailer mounted...... $200,000 INC. Needs Ride Help In All possess.” Departments: Like New Condition ARM Full Tilt- flying Dutchman themed trailer “The exceptional combined team of Allied Specialty Insur- for outdoor use and counter Ride Superintendent - For Green Unit. ance and T.H.E. Insurance look forward to many more years of mounted ...... $379,000 Electrician - For Green Unit. included utilizing our operational and risk management expertise to ben- $10,000.00 OBO 2000 Zamperla Rocking Tug trailer mounted...... Contact: efit customers and the industry we consider family with the ser- ...... $99,000 Brian (Beaver) Bitner Call Mark for details 386-453-5029 vices that have defined Allied. We are excited about your past SBF/Visa Super Truck trailer mounted...... $39,000 (919) 272-5627 Billy Clark business success and look forward to helping you to continue FOR SALE Wisdom Sizzler trailer mounted...... $149,000 (863) 738-1689 to grow.” “60 Horse Chance - Chance Sea Dragon trailer mounted ...... $149,000 Outside row of Bradley & Kaye horses. ReMix 2 trailer mounted ...... $425,000 2 loads (4 pup trailers) $425,000 WhiteWater AquaSphere set to debut Zamperla Fiesta Express Coaster trailer mounted .. VICTORIA, Australia — WhiteWater West has announced 2008 Tivoli Remix II, T/M. Excellent ...... $79,000 the commission of a new and thrilling family slide complex to Condition $490,000 Highlite 70ft Wheel trailer mounted...... $259,000 Australia’s newest multi-purpose aquatic centre, The Frankston Call EJ Dean 978-375-2542” Sky Trail/Ropes course park model...... $39,000 Regional Aquatic Center. Zamperla Swing 20 park model...... $14,900 Currently under construction and set to open in mid-2014, 2008 CAPCO CENTER TRAILER the center will feature WhiteWater’s AquaSphere, a 79-meter Like-new condition, 18’x8’, removable Zamperla mini jet 10 sweep park model... $19,000 Full-time ride mechanic for busy hitch, all hydraulic, goes to ground level, S & S Frog Hopper park model...... $34,000 family amusement center located in long thrill slide, combined with a 114-meter long Constrictor extra awning lights. and an interactive AquaPlay. KMG trailer mounted ...... $799,000 mt. Laurel, N.J. Skilled in small en- gine repair. Experience preferred. Frankston City Council Mayor, Cr Sandra Mayer said: “We Wisdom Starship 2000 trailer mounted...$225,000 $40,300 - Call EJ Dean (978) 375-2542 Benefits include health and dental are incredibly thrilled to unveil the world’s first AquaSphere at Wisdom Gee Whiz trailer mounted...... $124,000 insurance and 401k plan. Salary commence with experience. our center and know it will be an outstanding attraction for the local community”. Call Len or John To set up an interview contact “We chose WhiteWater because of their excellent reputa- (908) 526-8009 Amanda Lahn at 856-273-9061 ext. tion for innovative attractions and designs”, said Bruce Mackay, FAX: (908) 526-4535 16 or email information to [email protected]. Frankston Regional Aquatic Center manager. 44 AMUSEMENT TODAY July 2013