INSIDE: Amusement Today celebrates ANNIVERSARY 20th anniversary ISSUE TM & ©2017 Amusement Today, Inc. PAGES 30 & 31 April 2017 | Vol. 21 • Issue 1 www.amusementtoday.com Old Town enhances its Lamberink's portable Sky Eye Wheel skyline with Fabbri wheel AT: Pam Sherborne becomes a new star at Florida State Fair AT: Pam Sherborne [email protected] [email protected] KISSIMMEE, Fla. — A TAMPA, Fla. — Indepen- new 82-foot-tall Fabbri wheel, which opened Jan. 26, is the dent ride operator Michael icing on the cake for the im- Wood of Wood Entertainment proved, updated and expand- had high hopes for the readiness ed Old Town USA complex. of the Lamberink RL45 portable Old Town, a retail complex wheel at the Florida State fair, and amusement attraction lo- which ran Feb. 9-20. "We would cated along Kissimmee's tour- have liked to open on time," he ism corridor that originally said. opened in 1986, was purchased Unfortunately, that didn't in 2014 by Los Angeles-based happen. But was during the Travel Corp. Since then, the four days the fair was open and new owners have been work- the wheel wasn't, the process of ing on improving the area to assembling the Sky Eye Wheel the tune of about $10 million. became its own attraction. The new wheel is valued at $1 "We would look around and million. The Fabbri-built wheel for have people just watching as we "The wheel has been very Old Town in Kissimmee is 82 put it up," Wood said. "The peo- well received," said Joe Cad- feet tall, features balloon- ple working on it said they felt mus of Ridewerks, the com- shaped gondolas and a like stars. Some people would pany that erected it. stunning LED light show ask us questions about the con- Although Old Town pur- package from Fun LED/Losi struction of it and said they chased the new wheel and Elettronica. would be back when it was op- owns it, the Arie family, which AT/GARY SLADE; erating. In fact, we recognized owns Fun Spot of America COURTESY RIDEWERKS many of them." amusement parks, is operating But, not being able to do it. Fun Spot in Kissimmee is what they said they were going located adjacent to Old Town's to, i.e., have the 150-foot wheel, southern tip. The family owns touted as the largest portable another Fun Spot in Orlando. wheel in North America at that When Travel Corp. pur- time, up by the opening of the chased Old Town USA, one of fair on Feb. 9 wasn't preferable. the first moves made by the The loss of revenue hurt as well. Florida State Fair fairgoers who rode on the new Lamberink new owners was to remove Wood and Frank Zaitshik, the few rides that existed in RL45 portable wheel, now named Sky Eye Wheel, could see of Wade Shows, provider of that southern area of the com- 15 miles in all directions from the top. The wheel debuted the Florida State Fair midway, plex. Then, they took down the at the Florida fair, which ran Feb. 9-20, but wasn’t operating entered into a partnership last fence between Old Town USA until Monday, Feb. 13, due to shipping delays. Standing at year to purchase and operate and Fun Spot so guests could 150 feet in the air, the wheel is touted as the tallest portable the wheel, which cost about two pass between the two facilities. of its rides into that southern wheel operating in North America. It is owned jointly by in- million Euros. Delivery dates Last spring, Old Town area of Old Town USA and dependent ride operator Michael Wood of Wood Entertain- USA and Fun Spot owners an- continue to operate them. That did change a little early on, but ment and Frank Zaitshik of Wade Shows. The latter is the nounced an agreement where- the final date was set for Jan. 31. midway provider of the Florida State Fair. by Fun Spot would move four 4See OLD TOWN, page 5 4See SKY EYE, page 6 COURTESY KATIE LOWE

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EDITORIAL: Gary Slade, [email protected] FLINT’S VIEW: Bubba Flint Tidbits This month's April issue marks Amusement Today's official 20th anniversary issue. We don't know where the time went, but it certainly seems to go by as fast as launch coasters do today. AT's Tim Baldwin takes a look at our 20 Slade years of publishing on page 30. We have a number of fast facts presented there, but wanted to share one separately. AT has published a total of 11,378 pages in its first 20 volumes. If you took the length of each page, and laid them end-to-end, you would have enough newsprint to lay between the rails of our 2016 Golden Ticket Awards' Best Steel Coaster: Carowinds' Fury 325 (6,602 feet long) and Best Wooden Coaster: Lake Compounce's Boulder Dash (4,725 feet long) and still have 1,000 feet of newsprint to spare for a family coaster. Thank you to all of the parks and suppliers that have supported AT through the first 20 years. Our success is a result of your support, help and friendship. Most of EDITORIAL: Andrew Mellor, [email protected] all, thank you to the unsung heros of AT, our dedicated Staying power! staff, for their hard work in making sure our monthly In the many years I’ve been involved in hotel or other accommodation.At Alton issues present the current news and trends, are factually the amusement and theme park industry, Towers in the U.K., for instance, a new accurate and presented in the most professional, easy-to- it’s been fascinating to watch parks around CBeebies themed hotel is set to open. read design format. the world develop and to see what different New hotels are also being built at Lego- • owners and operators do to entice guests land parks in Florida, California and Congratulations to Leanna Muscato, who has back year after year. Germany. In January, the California re- Obviously rides and attractions are at sort broke ground on North America’s become the first female president of the Pennsylvania the forefront of their minds as they look Mellor first Legoland Castle Hotel which is set Amusement Parks Association (PAPA), which dates back to add something new every year or two, to open in spring 2018, while its Ger- to 1935. Leanna is a third-generation Knoebel family while new facilities such as F&B venues, merchan- man counterpart is developing the Pirate Island member and becomes the latest from the family to serve dise outlets and other secondary spend offerings Hotel. At Puy du Fou in France, the park will open as the association's president, following Dick Knoebel are also regularly introduced or redeveloped to, its fifth hotel this year, while Efteling in the Neth- and Buddy Knoebel. See PAPA recap story, page 27. hopefully, improve the bottom line each season. erlands is due to open a new holiday village at the As parks have grown in size, of course, many end of May. • have reached attendance levels that have justified These are just a few of what I am sure will We want to remind everyone that next month's issue investment not only in major attractions, and so be many new accommodation offerings this year will be our annual What's New Guide, compiled by Jeffrey forth, but also in accommodation facilities of one at parks worldwide, as well as nowadays being Seifert, with listings of new rides and installations at form or another. Be it a simple campground area, an important income stream for operators. They parks and attractions, carnivals and on cruise ships. We chalets, log cabins or a full service hotel, the past also, of course, encourage guests to extend their invite all amusement facilities, carnivals, suppliers and 10 to 15 years have seen a huge increase in parks stay, which in turn means they are on site longer providing accommodation and we continue to see and therefore spend more. cruise lines to send us your new ride and attraction info. such developments within the industry each year. With so many parks now of a size where a We MUST have the attraction name, location and supplier Further examples abound in 2017 too, with single day visit doesn’t really do them justice, it’s name. Attraction entries are due by April 5. Please send many parks in various parts of the world introduc- something of a no-brainer that accommodation your entry to: [email protected]. ing their first such offering or adding to existing developments are so popular.

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Amusement Today is an independent, privately- Founder, Publisher and Editor Social Media & Editorial Print Issue & Extra Extra owned trade newspaper published 14 times Gary Slade • (817) 460-7220 x3 Dean Lamanna Desktop Edition Production per year by Amusement Today Inc., P.O. Box [email protected] [email protected] Website Maintenance 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005. Print issues are John Robinson • (513) 256-1441 $50 per year and are mailed Presort Standard Postage (permit No. 2069) Pre-Paid Fort Worth, Accounting & Classified Editorial [email protected] Texas. The entire contents of this newspaper, Sammy Piccola • (817) 460-7220 x1 Tim Baldwin and its related websites, are Copyrighted and [email protected] [email protected] Association Memberships Trademarked 2017 by Amusement Today Inc., AIMS International, ASTM, IAAPA, IISF, IRT/ all rights reserved. Advertising B. Derek Shaw • (717) 650-8330 iROC, NAARSO, NEAAPA, NJAA, OABA, PAPA, PACE, TTIA, WWA Sue Nichols • (615) 477-5432 [email protected] Address: P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas [email protected] 76005-5427, USA Pam Sherborne • (615) 308-3310 Industry Affiliated Charities Deliveries: 2012 E. Randol Mill Road #203, [email protected] Give Kids the World Village, Arlington, Texas 76011, USA Special Projects & Editorial Morgan's Wonderland, Phone: (817) 460-7220 Jeffrey Seifert • (817) 460-7220 x2 Monthly Contributors National Roller Coaster Museum & Archives Fax: (817) 265-NEWS (6397) [email protected] Dan Feicht, Bubba Flint, Harold Hudson, Websites: www.AmusementToday.com, Andrew Mellor, Richard Munch, www.GoldenTicketAwards.com Janice Witherow 4 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017

INDUSTRY SEEN Pac-Man goes big at MINUTE Main Event Entertainment DRILL 2 AT: Janice Witherow

Brett Clark stands by the Wet 'n Wild Orlando Park Map sign that was donated, along with other park signage, to the National Roller Coaster Museum & Archives. AT/GARY SLADE Brett Clark, Universal Orlando Resort Brett Clark began his career with Universal The last time I danced was… Orlando as a lifeguard at Wet ‘n Wild in 1996. For the Attraction Operation Awards, where After holding numerous roles throughout we danced in front of 1,300 Attractions Team the park, he was promoted to the position of Members at Universal Orlando. operations manager and eventually transitioned to Universal Studios Florida (USF) in 2014 Spring is officially here. My favorite where he oversaw multiple attractions, including springtime activity is… In time for National Pac-Man Day on April 3, Plano, Tex- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Diagon Being on the soccer field coaching my kids’ as-based Main Event Entertainment has installed the Alley, E.T. Adventure and several others around soccer teams. World's Largest Pac-Man Game at all 32 of its entertain- the park. Most recently, Brett has stepped into ment centers in the U.S. Featuring a 13-foot-high game the role of manager, park services, in which he is It’s 7 a.m. Where would we typically find you? screen and LED billboard technology, the arcade exclu- responsible for the park services operations for Running or taking the kids to school. sive, from Namco has new elements that enhance the USF. He is involved in many industry organizations original game experience. Earnings climb higher, thanks and serves on several boards. Brett is known as If I could go back in time, I would visit this to a “co-op” mode that allows two players at once. The a natural leader with a strong ability to foster era… 1970s. equipment also contains Namco's popular Galaga game. relationships and has a keen eye for detail. COURTESY MAIN EVENT ENTERTAINMENT I always try to avoid… Traffic. Title: Manager, Park Services. When telemarketers call me at home, I… CHARACTER CORNER Years with Universal Orlando Resort: 20. Silence the phone. Marvel McFey, Astroworld Best thing about the industry: The one thing I always have in my kitchen Working in the most amazing atmospheres cupboard is… In 1972, AstroWorld (Hous- and having the ability to deliver unforgettable A bag of Cheetos… when my kids leave me ton, Texas) introduced a memories every day! some! new park mascot, Marvel McFey. The flamboyantly Favorite amusement ride? Favorite national sports team... costumed character even Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. Florida Gators. had his own theater — the appropriately named Marvel If I wasn’t working in the amusement industry, If I had an extra day in my week, I would… McFey Theater where he I would be… Sit on the beach. and several of his friends A race director for running events such as the performed a rousing mu- New York City Marathon. The last item I purchased under $1 was… sical revue. McFey was A Matchbox car. well-known outside of the Biggest challenge facing our industry... park, having made appear- Supply and demand of experienced leaders in My coolest vacation ever was… ances at Astros games in the the theme park industry. More college programs Sitting on the beach in Sanibel Island. nearby Astrodome. McFey need to offer theme park tracks to set up our entertained at AstroWorld young leaders, such as the Rosen College in My favorite home-cooked meal is… for more than a decade, Orlando. Crab cakes. making his final appearance in 1984. When Six Flags The thing I like most about amusement/water The person I would most like to sit next to on acquired the Marriott Great park season is… an airplane is… My wife, Kelly. America properties and the The joy and excitement on guests’ faces as they parks’ rights to the Looney enter the front gate. I have always wanted to… Surf in Hawaii. Tunes characters, McFey was out and Bugs Bunny was in. Favorite appetizer: Lobster bisque. Pick one: skiing in the mountains or swimming CARTOON/BUBBA FLINT in the ocean... HISTORY/JEFFREY SEIFERT When I say politics, you say… Don’t care! Swimming in the ocean. April 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5

OLD TOWN FAST FACTS Ridewerks expands with exclusive agreements Continued from page 1 Old Town USA Wheel GIBSONTON, Fla. — Representatives of is when the two companies Kissimmee, Fla. Ridewerks, a company known for disman- also announced the agreement • tling, servicing and reconstructing amusement for Fun Spot owners to operate Height: 82 feet rides, announced in February that the compa- the wheel. Number of gondolas: 18 ny is now the exclusive North American repre- This new Old Town Wheel sentative of Italian ride manufacturers Fabbri is replacing a previous wheel Foundation footprint 60 feet by 31 feet Group and Preston & Barbieri. that sustained damage from Ridewerks also has a contract to sell the inclement weather and re- • Fun LED brand lighting, a brand manufac- moved from the property in Ride cost/restrictions tured by Losi Elettronica, another Italian com- 2013. $6 adults, $3 children/ The new Old Town Wheel 42 inches high pany. has 18 covered balloon-shaped • Jim Glover has joined Joe Cadmus and gondolas. One of the gondolas LED lighting Ridewerks to help on the sales side of the busi- Jim Glover (left) and Joe Cadmus, Ridewerks is ADA accessible. 5,600 LEDs installed by ness, while Camus will handle the operations pose for the camera by their sign at Interna- It has been donned with a Fun LED, a brand side. tional Independent Showmen's Foundation lighting package that features manufactured by Both Cadmus and Glover have about 25 Trade Show and Extravaganza, held Feb. 5,600 LEDs. The LEDs were Losi Elettronica, Italy years of experience in the amusement industry 7-11, Gibsonton, Fla. Ridewerks is now the supplied by Fun LED, a brand • and worked together earlier in their careers. exclusive North American representative for that is manufactured by Ital- Owner/Operator Cadmus founded Ridewerks as a techni- Fabbri Group. AT/GARY SLADE ian-based Losi Elettronica. Old Town/FunSpot USA cal service company in 2010. Glover was most Ridewerks was contracted • recently with Hopkins Rides and Whitewater leasing program where a zoo or small attrac- to erect the wheel. Gina Gug- Manfacturer/Installation West. tions installation may want to offer a carou- lielmi, Intermark Ride Group, Fabbri Group, Calto, Italy/ Glover said Ridewerks actually expanded sel or train ride to visitors but don't have the brokered the original wheel Ridewerks, Florida with the new respresentations at the first of the funding for purchasing. Leases could extend purchase. year but they have been working out the kinks to five or even 10 years. The new wheel is located before making the formal announcement. Ridewerks representatives took the op- carousel. near the entrance of Old Town Fabbri Group has just installed a new portunity at the 2017 International Indepen- USA, adjacent to a new gate. Other improvements to wheel at Old Town, an amusement park and dent Showmen's Foundation Trade Show and Rides cost $6 for adults and $3 Old Town USA include: new outdoor shopping mall in Kissimmee, Fla. Extravaganza, held Feb. 7-11, to discuss the for children 42 inches high. entry sign facing main high- Rides brought in from Fun way, updated infrastructure; That wheel is equipped with the Fun LED company expansions. They exhibited a bum- Spot are the Tilt-A-Whirl, man- buildings repainted; restrooms lighting system. per car donned with Fun LED lights at the ufactured by Larson Interna- remodeled and resurfacing of "I plan to start going out and visiting the show as well as a Fabbri gondola similar to tional; a Frank Hrubetz & Co. the existing parking lot and country soon," Glover said, in regards to sales the ones used on the new Fabbri wheel at Old Paratrooper; a Crazy Couch by the addition of over 600 new of the rides. Town, Kissimmee, Fla. Skyline Attractions and a mini spaces in an adjacent lot. In addition, Ridewerks also has a ride —Pam Sherborne 6 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017

The first ride for fairgoers hap- sit on any kind of surface that SKY EYE FAST FACTS Continued from page 1 pened at 2:30 p.m., Monday, can take a load of 40 pounds per Feb. 13, after a thorough safety square-inch. Sky Eye Wheel That didn't happen. inspection by Florida state offi- "Basically, if you can drive Florida State Fair It came in four crates, with cials. a loaded transport onto the sur- Tampa, Fla. the last two arriving in the U.S. There was no extra cost for face, you should be able to set it • two days late and then hit with Florida fairgoers to ride the Sky up," he said. Height some customs issues. The last Eye Wheel. It took seven regular There is still some work to load was delivered to the fair- ride tickets and was included in do before committing. First of 45 meters (150 feet) grounds on Monday, Feb. 6, just pay-one-price wristbands. all, Wood said, they have to fin- Weight days before fair opening day. "That is probably one of ish dismantling it. 360,000 pounds "And, the last crate deliv- the few places we will do that," "We just have a bunch to go Number of gondolas ered on Monday was the one we Wood said, later. through right now as far as as- 36 with six riders each needed first," Wood said. "There The response to the new sembly and transport," he said. Trailer Transports was not even any way to start wheel was great. Wood said the They want to have the ride Work is in progress to erecting it until then." final Saturday and Sunday of the loaded in a way that assembly get the entire wheel load As soon as they got fair, Feb. 18 and 19, they were is efficient. For example, it took down to 11 trailers it, they began erecting the keeping up with the numbers five trucks to transport the gon- Footprint 360,000-pound ride. per hour for a capacity report. dolas to the grounds. They want 60 by 80 feet As they laid it out and put it From the moment the Sky During the operating hours on to bring that down to two trucks, • together, there were some pieces Eye Wheel made its debut at those two days, they had about but to do that, they will have to Co-Owners that didn't fit exactly as they the Florida State Fair, it was 1,000 riders per hour. It got as build a fixture on which to hang Michael Wood, were supposed. touted as the largest trans- high as 1,100 per hour. them. They want to package the Wood Entertainment "We had to deal with that," portable wheel at 150 feet The wheel has 36 gondolas gondolas along with the pieces and Frank Zaitshik, Wood said. "We took our time in height. The wheel is co- that can seat up to six people they need to assemble them. Wade Shows with those issues. We were go- owned by Wood Entertain- each. "We would like to do that • ing to put people on it. It had to ment and Wade Shows. The next firm contract they on the fairgrounds in Tampa," Manufacturer be safe." COURTESY FLORIDA STATE FAIR have for the Sky Eye Wheel is Wood said. Lamberink In addition, the lighting the Wisconsin State Fair, West Then, they plan to load the The Netherlands package had to be installed. That the Pioneer Award. Allis, Aug. 3-13. remainder of the ride on flat- included about 524,000 LED That announcement came "We would like to try to do beds to move them to Gibson- lights. Denny's Electronics had during the International Inde- something over Memorial Day ton, Fla., where they will use a "We need to get it to between that job and had to do it on site. pendent Showmen's Founda- weekend and maybe try to fill in facility that is owned by long- 40,000 and 45,000 pounds per Dennis Bartosik, owner of Den- tion Trade Show and Extrava- the gaps after that," Wood said. time amusement industry vet- truck. We just need to think it ny's Electronics, wasn't able to ganza on Wed., Feb. 8. He was Because of the ride size, eran Bobby Myers. There, they all out and methodically go show up for the announcement able to attend OABA's Friday they have to look at possible will make the rest of the trans- through it." by the Outdoor Amusement evening banquet, however. locations carefully. It is 60 feet port adjustments. Wood said they want to Business Association (OABA) Wood said the wheel was in depth and 80 feet wide, but "We will have to weigh ev- transport it with either 10 or 11 that he had been honored with complete on Sunday, Feb. 12. it makes 150-foot circles. It can ery single piece," Wood said. trucks. April 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7 8 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017 INTERNATIONAL

 Efteling to add spectacular Symbolica ride for 2017— Page 9 Movie Park Germany’s new coaster set to Star Trek AT: Andrew Mellor [email protected] BOTTROP-KIRCHHEL- LEN, Germany — The open- ing of a new roller coaster at Movie Park Germany this spring will see the introduc- tion of the only Star Trek- themed coaster to a theme park anywhere in the world. Set to open for the begin- ning of the park’s 2017 sea- son, the triple launch ride, from German manufacturer Mack Rides, will focus on the Star Trek: The Next Genera- tion series and will go by the name of Star Trek: Operation Enterprise. Located at the main entrance of the park, the new coaster will be the second highest structure at Movie Park and, according to general manager Thorsten Backhaus, has changed the Movie Park’s latest major venue’s skyline. collaborated closely with li- ride addition, Star Trek: Op- “The twisted halfpipe censor CBS Consumer Prod- eration Enterprise (above), and the 30 meter high top hat ucts in the U.S. to develop will appeal to teens and will give guests the adren- the new coaster, along with a young adults alin rush of their lives. Star brand new Federation Plaza as well as families. The Trek: Operation Enterprise is themed area. Surrounding a Mack-supplied coaster a triple launch coaster, which former film museum, the fu- is in final phases of means that instead of slowly turistic Star Trek set brings construction (right) and climbing the first incline the the Starfleet Academy world is situated at the entrance coaster is launched at high to life. Federation Plaza also to the park (below right). speed three times. It’s the first has a brand new shop selling COURTESY time we’ve ever incorporated a range of associated items. MOVIE PARK GERMANY this kind of launch concept in “Guests access the Acad- one of our coaster rides.” emy from the plaza through The coaster will provide the doors of a 1,000 square guests with a warp speed meter (10,764 square feet) experience thanks to a spec- hall with different themed tacular track, a twisted half- rooms where they enter the pipe with a 40 meter eleva- all-generation Star Trek uni- tion that is the only one of its verse to become Starfleet ca- kind in Europe and a 10.5 ton dets,” said Backhaus as he transfer track system. It will explained the story behind feature three inversions in to- Star Trek: Operation Enter- tal, a zero-G roll and an over- prise. “Our guests are then banked curve among other sent on a mission as Starfleet features in a track 2,362 feet cadets to save the entire crew in length. Top speed will be of the U.S.S. Enterprise be- almost 90 kmh (56 mph). fore the Borg can assimilate Movie Park Germany has them.” April 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9 Efteling to add spectacular Symbolica ride this year AT: Andrew Mellor [email protected]

KAATSHEUVEL, the Netherlands — The Dutch theme park Efteling is nearing completion of its latest accom- modation offering while also progressing well with work on the spectacular new Symbolica, Palace of Fantasy attraction. Both new developments are part of this year’s celebrations of the park’s 65th anniversary. Symbolica will be located Symbolica will be the largest covered family attraction at in the center of the park at the Efteling and is being created at a cost of €35 million ($37 end of the Pardoes Promenade. million). COURTESY EFTELING The new holiday village Loonsche Land will open on May 31, Due to open in the summer, the exact date of Efteling’s 65th anniversary. Both detached building work on Efteling’s the ride, guests will be able to sche Land. Set to open on May (above) and semi-detached (below) holiday homes will be latest major addition began in choose one of three different 31, the exact date of Efteling’s available to Efteling guest as part of the new Loonsche Land early 2016. It will be the largest routes, each of which will of- 65th anniversary, the village accommodation. COURTESY EFTELING covered family attraction in the fer a different adventure with will provide accommodation park and is being created at a interactive elements through above, on and below ground cost of €35 million ($37 million). the Palace of Fantasy. Designed on a site of almost eight hect- With a theme of imagina- with an eye to the smallest of ares. With 1,000 beds, guests tion, visitors will be invited to detail and full of fantasy, special will be able to walk to the have an audience with the king effects and specially composed park each morning from their of the realm of Symbolica, King music throughout, Symbolica holiday home, hotel or themed Pardulfus and rediscover their will be aimed at an internation- room. All 65 holiday homes, imagination on an adventure al audience and all ages. 20 themed rooms and 75 hotel through secret corridors and In addition to Symbolica, rooms within the village will be magical rooms, as well as on a Efteling is also in the process of furnished with natural materi- trackless dark ride (reportedly completing another accommo- als, in keeping with the natural from ETF Ride Systems) featur- dation offering in the shape of environment in which it is situ- ing six seater vehicles. Once on the new holiday village Loon- ated. Puy du Fou marks 40th year with new hotel, show and restaurants AT: Andrew Mellor [email protected]

LES EPESSES, France — The French theme park Puy du Fou is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2017 and, to help mark the occasion, has an- nounced the addition of a new hotel, a spectacular new show and two new restaurants. France’s second largest theme park, with an attendance in 2016 of 2.2 million guests. Puy du Fou offers guests an ar- The new hotel, La Citadelle, will be Puy du Fou's fifth hotel ray of exceptional live shows and will offer guests a medieval experience. It will offer a and entertainment as its key medieval-themed experience taking guests back to the Mid- draw — 60 daytime and eve- dle Ages. COURTESY PUY DU FOU ning shows in total. Addition- ally, there is a variety of other beds in 74 classic rooms and 26 entirely new show, Le Grand Puy du Fou’s newest show is Le Grand Carillon, a musical facilities, including four period spacious comfort rooms. Carillon, a musical spectacle spectacle based upon traditional melodies. In the center of villages and 27 restaurants, for The comfort rooms will based on traditional melodies. a traditional 18th century village stands an imposing 16-me- the whole family, all created differ from the standard rooms In the center of a traditional ter-high (52.5 foot) bell tower. During each performance, within themed settings and in a number of ways and are 18th century village stands an this intricately designed tower will gradually uncover some woodland and garden areas. aimed at couples, whereas the imposing 16-meter-high (52.5 100 bells while four actors leap in the air to the instruments' The new hotel, La Cita- classic rooms are aimed at fami- foot) bell tower. During each rhythm. COURTESY PUY DU FOU delle, will be the park’s fifth lies. As such the comfort rooms performance, this intricately hotel and will offer a medieval will feature a king size bed and designed tower will gradu- Accompanying the new in the park, at the exit of the experience to take guests back come with room service, while ally uncover around 100 bells La Citadelle hotel, l’Ecuyer Theatre of Giants, the new La to the middle ages. Located in the classic rooms will contain that are housed within it. Over Tranchant restaurant will wel- Mijoterie du Roy Henry will the Cité Nocturne area on the a double bed and bunk beds. the course of 10 minutes, four come guests into an authen- host diners in sumptuous Re- edge of the park, its interiors La Citadelle will also be home actors leap into the air to the tic medieval castle’s kitchen naissance décor, following in will be adorned with rich fab- to one of the new restaurants, rhythm of famous and popular where the staff, dressed in the the footsteps of Henry IV and rics complemented by thick L’Ecuyer Tranchant. French melodies, which have costumes of kitchen clerks, his native Béarn, with further traditional woods, while it will Puy du Fou has also an- been skillfully re-orchestrated will provide a buffet inspired buffet-style options for both also provide an additional 448 nounced the creation of an by Puy du Fou. by medieval tables. Elsewhere lunch and dinner. 10 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017 April 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 11

WATER PARKS & RESORTS

 World's Largest Swimming Lesson set for June 22 — Page 12 China’s Bali Water World expands with new attractions Wiegand Maelzer of Germany supplies stainless steel and fiberglass slides AT: Jeffrey Seifert [email protected]

FUSHUN, China — Bali Water World premiered its new indoor expansion in January just in time for the celebration of the Chinese New Year. Originally opened in 2011, the water park has enjoyed much success as part of the HotGo Park resort that includes the water park, a ride park, hotels, spa, sports world, aquarium, shopping and dining venues. Wiegand Maelzer pro- vided four exciting new at- tractions including Freefall, the tallest freefall stainless Above, the elaborate out- steel body slide in Asia, door expansion will feature standing at more than 52 25 slides themed in and feet. The tube slide, Rain For- around a volcano when est, is a multi-media stain- completed in May. At right, less steel slide that winds its is the yellow submarine for way through the rain forest kids to play in as well as the along a 450-foot path and stainless steel play struc- features LED lighting and ture complete with tipping sound effects. Adventure bucket. In the far left of the Pakrisan is made from Fi- photo the 52-foot-tall berglass Reinforced Plastic Freefall slide can be seen. (FRP) and features six clear Below right, this extra-wide acrylic sections that surprise waterslide can accommo- both the rider and onlookers date multiple guests sliding as guests whiz by overhead. at the same time. River Rafting is a wide stain- COURTESY less steel body slide with five WIEGAND MAELZER rapid downhill sections that provide moments of airtime very first Wiegand slide, with each successive drop. manufactured in 1981, is Along with the five new still in use today. The stain- slides, Wiegand supplied a less steel slide is fabricated children’s slide and a water from a 2 mm steel sheet. The play structure with a subma- seams are welded once, then rine boat. polished to an ultra-smooth A large outdoor expan- surface. The slides do not sion is expected to open in require any annual servicing May of this year. That new and are corrosion and wear section will be built into the free. Although the initial side of a manmade hillside investment is higher with and volcano and will include stainless steel slides, the in- multiple slides, a wave pool, vestment is quickly recouped private cabanas, and loung- by the fact that no annual ing areas. Wiegand Maelzer service is required. Wiegand is providing 25 slides and is unable to provide the life a wave machine for the ex- expectancy of its stainless panded outdoor section. steel slides — the oldest is Wiegand stainless steel now entering its 37th season, slides offer unmatched du- and none of the installations rability and longevity. The have worn out yet. 12 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017 World's Largest Swimming Lesson set for June 22 NEWSSPLASH AT: Jeffery L. Seifert OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — The 2017 World’s [email protected] Largest Swimming Les- The City of Braselton, Ga. will open a new announced come to fruition. Nordic Water Uni- son (WLSL) has been set splash park this summer thanks to the gener- verse is expected to become the fifth-largest for June 22. This will be the osity of a local businessman. Jack Frost, who water park in the world as part of a 207-acre eighth year for the global (54 percent) either can’t owns a local memorial funeral home donated development encompassing an amusement event and Team WLSL will swim or don’t have all of $100,000 to the city to fund the project. The ride area, hotel, and recreational nature park. be setting its sights on a the basic swimming skills. city chose a local company, KorKat to build the The Wyndham Hotel Group has already signed new goal – reaching more •Parental supervision is attraction, which is expected to take about 15 onto the project and construction could begin than one billion with the key: According to Safe Kids weeks to complete. as early as this year. message Swimming Les- Worldwide 2016 report, de- • Plans call for the project to be built in five sons Save Live by 2019. spite the fact that lack of Aquatico Inbursa Water Park in Veracruz, phases with a completion date of 2028. The first Local WLSL events supervision played a role Mexico, celebrated its grand opening in Feb- phase, which will include the water park, vaca- take place at hundreds of in the majority of drowning ruary even though the park had opened last tion homes, amusement rides, shops, cafes, restaurants, conference facilities and the Wyn- locations in more than 20 deaths, less than half of par- year. The park has been operating in preview mode since late last summer. On February 16, dham Hotel is slated to open in 2020. different countries on five ents (49 percent) indicate the park was officially inaugurated by the Leo- • continents over the course they remain within arms’ poldo Dominguez, the secretary of tourism. "I Construction has begun on a new recre- of 24 hours. The purpose of reach of their child in the am sure that the Inbursa Water Park will be a ation center in Langley Township, B.C, Canada. the event? Provide kids and water trigger for local and national tourism, because The Aldergrove Credit Union Community parents exposure to life-sav- The WWA and Team it is a world-class amusement park with innova- Centre will include an outdoor aquatic center ing water safety skills and WLSL encourages aquatic tive attractions and a family atmosphere," said with a six-lane competition swimming pool, div- build awareness about the facilities and trainers to help Dominguez. ing pool and hot tub as well as waterslides, tidal vital importance of teaching parents connect the dots be- WhiteWater West of Canada supplied pool, lazy river and children's waterplay struc- children to swim to prevent tween learning to swim and many of the park's attractions including a Mas- ture. The outdoor water park will be open in the drowning. staying safer in and around ter Blaster, AquaLoop, Boomerango, Constric- summer months, but the new competition pool The World Waterpark the water. Join Team WLSL tor, Wizzard Mat Racer, SuperBowl and Aqua- will stay open all year with a canopy cover in the winter months. The pool will be heated by di- Association founded the for this global, life-saving Play water play structure. • verting heat produced by the chiller equipment WLSL event in 2010, and event by registering as an Great Wolf Resorts of Wisconsin, has ac- that is used to make ice for the skating rink in- works with dozens of life- official 2017 WLSL Host -Lo quired another existing property for conver- side the recreation center. saving and drowning pre- cation. sion. Following last month's announcement The CA$30 million facility is replacing the vention organizations to that Great Wolf was converting the Waterpark aging Aldergrove Community Arena, as well as support Team WLSL and its About The World’s of America in Bloomington Minn., the com- the Aldergrove Outdoor Pool. The project was mission to spread the mes- Largest Swimming Lesson pany has announced plans to acquire KeyLime funded in part by a CA$9.88 million grant from sage Swimming Lessons The World’s Largest Cove in Gurnee, Ill. The facility is expected to Infrastructure Canada. The Township of Lang- Save Lives because: Swimming Lesson was cre- close by this spring for an extended renovation ley will cover for the remaining costs. The rec •The problem is real: ated as a platform to help that will include adding 20,000 square feet to center project has been in the works for more Per the CDC, drowning re- the aquatics industry work the existing 65,000 square-foot indoor water than a year, but was put on hold waiting for the mains the leading cause of together to build aware- park facility. grant. Once the grant money was confirmed, ground breaking took place at a ceremony on unintended, injury related ness about the fundamen- The current 414-room resort will be re- developed and reopened in 2018 with a rus- February 6, 2017. The rec center is expected to death for U.S. children ages tal importance of teaching tic North Woods theme typical of Great Wolf open in June of 2018. 1-4, and the second leading children to swim to prevent Resort properties. The company also plans to • cause for children under 14; drowning. Since its incep- add amenities that visitors expect from a Great A property management firm involving dis- drowning is an even great- tion, more than 195,000 chil- Wolf Lodge such as expanded food and bev- tant relatives of Walt Disney — father and son er threat in other countries dren and adults have par- erage options, miniature bowling, a climbing Barry and Josh Disney — is looking to develop around the world. ticipated in WLSL lessons wall and/or ropes course, themed, kid-friendly a hotel, shopping center complex in Nashville, •Many lack basic swim- generating more than half guest rooms and lobby entertainment. Other Tenn. that would include a rooftop water park. ming skills: In 2014, a survey a billion media impressions possibilities include a kids spa, fitness center, If built, the 40-story, World One Hotel, would completed by the American about the vital importance arcade and MagiQuest. be downtown Nashville's largest hotel with 829 Red Cross found that more of learning to swim. "We see a lot of opportunity in the Chi- rooms. Plans also include a 2,500-seat theater, than half of all Americans •wlsl.org cago market," Bryson Heezen, Great Wolf science center, shopping center, as well as the development director, said at a meeting with water park. Gurnee officials. "This is where the $65 million "We have tremendous love for Nashville investment is going to be spent — it's going and are hoping to make it a home for us," Dis- to be creating this tradition that brings families ney said. back to Gurnee every year or multiple times a The site chosen for the hotel is currently year." owned by Frank May, who at one time had Renovations to the property are expected planned to build a Hard Rock Hotel on that to take about a year to complete. parcel of land. May purchased the land in 2015, The Village of Gurnee is located north of but has yet to develop it. Chicago, near the Wisconsin border, between Nashville has attracted a number of hotel the major metropolitan markets of Chicago investors hoping to capitalize on increased oc- and Milwaukee. The village is home to Six cupancy in the Nashville market, however with Flags Great America and the Gurnee Mills in- so many projects underway, some developers door shopping mall. have faced challenges getting financing from • lenders. Høje-Taastrup, a western suburb of Copen- In January of this year, Ryman Hospitality hagen, Denmark, may be home to a massive in- announced plans to invest $90 million in a water door water park if the ambitious plans recently park for its Gaylord Opryland Hotel. April 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 13 14 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017 April 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 15 16 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017 PARKS, FAIRS & ATTRACTIONS  Lagotronics to supply Lake Compounce dark ride upgrade — Page 20 / Fairs — Pages 22-25 Guardians of the Galaxy attraction bows in May Disney California Adventure primed for a super-heroic season AT: Dean Lamanna [email protected]

ANAHEIM, Calif. — With the next installment of the hit Marvel/Walt Disney Studios movie franchise Guardians of the Galaxy landing in North American theaters May 5, a new attraction at Disney Cali- fornia Adventure (DCA) that carries its sci-fi/action theme — and expands its storyline— has been given an opening date: May 27. Housed in the looming el- evator ride structure formerly known as The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, which has been undergoing an extensive makeover since last winter, Guardians of the Galaxy— Mission: Breakout! continues the story of a ragtag band of intergalactic rebels who must join forces to defeat a universe-conquering warrior. New renderings of the attrac- tion’s interior suggest that guests will be fully immersed in the story both preceding and during the ride. The opening of Guard- ians of the Galaxy kicks off a season of new experiences The debut of Disney called Summer of Heroes in you have what it takes to join California Adventure's DCA’s Hollywood Land sec- the Avengers.” Guardians of the Galaxy tion. From May 27 through In addition to costumed ride, featuring an Sept. 10, guests will be able to character encounters and extensive pre-boarding meet and interact with some themed food and merchan- exhibit (see renderings), will of their favorite Marvel Super dise, several new year-round launch a summer of Marvel Heroes. and limited-time experiences Super Heroes-themed “It’s going to be a thrilling and offerings will launch experiences at the park. summer at the Disneyland Re- at DCA’s Hollywood Land COURTESY sort,” said David Duffy, direc- this summer. These include DISNEYLAND RESORT tor of creative entertainment. Guardians of the Galaxy: “You can choose an awesome Awesome Dance Off, dur- Hawkeye assemble young boring Disneyland will see announced.) The last chance encounter with Star-Lord, ing which Star-Lord will fire “recruits” (guests) for a series the return of the Disney- for guests to enjoy the classic Black Widow, Spider-Man, up his old-school boom box of tests to determine if they land Railroad and Rivers of Main Street Electrical Parade Hawkeye or Captain Ameri- for a rock-and-roll bash; and have what it takes to join the America attractions as well during its limited-time return ca; step up to meet Groot for Avengers Training Initiative, Avengers. as the “Fantasmic!” night- to the park is June 18. the first time; and find out if for which Black Widow and Also this summer, neigh- time spectacular. (Dates to be •disneylandresort.com April 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 17 18 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017 v AMUSEMENT PARK Knoebels Amusement Resort adding MARKET PLACE unique Over the Top ride for 2017 Supplied by SBF/Visa Group and Rides 4-U

ELYSBURG, Pa. — Al- though winter has just wrapped up, Knoebels Amusement Resort is getting ready for the warmer months to come. Knoebels announced that an addition for its 2017 season is a ride dubbed “Over the Top.” America’s largest free- admission amusement park announced that the addition is new, but longtime visitors might recognize some charac- teristics of a former ride. Ac- n cording to Dick Knoebel, the Knoebels announced that a new ride named Over the Top ride, which has been given the is scheduled for a late spring/early summer opening at the name Over the Top by Knoe- park. The ride will reach more than 21 feet in height when Naughton bels, stood out to the Knoebel in operation, providing riders with an over-the-top sensation Insurance, Inc. family at the IAAPA Attrac- while standing; motion is both clockwise and counterclock- tions Expo in November. wise. To date, the SBF/Visa Group-supplied ride is the only EST. 1947 “One of the reasons it one of its kind set for operation in Pennsylvania this year. caught our attention is that it Above is an artist’s rendering of the attraction. Specializing in Insurance Programs for gives riders a sensation simi- COURTESY KNOEBELS Amusement Parks, Water Parks and lar to that of the old Flying Family Fun Centers. Cages,” said Knoebel. “In ad- dition, we received the stamp www.naughtoninsurance.com of approval from younger family members who never experienced the Cages and still spoke highly of the thrill.” Gull Wing Industries Knoebel is referring to Working with the Carnival the Flying Cages, or Cages, Industry since 1989 that were common 50 years Contact us at: ago and operated at Knoeb- www.gull-wing.com els from 1964 until the park’s Handstamp Building was con- structed in 1986. A rider was Pack-Man 175 kw or 250 kw challenged to shift his or her Quiet Power–Tractor or weight back and forth inside Trailer Mounted the cage, while standing, in an attempt to make the cage go over the top. Visitors can 309 N.E. 1st Street P.O. Box 128 Alta, IA 51002 find one of the original Cages Knoebels’ new-for-2017 ride caught the Knoebel family’s at- GFlex 400 Amp Toll Free: 800-838-1482 Fax: 712-200-1936 in the Knoebels History Muse- tention partly because it reminded them of the Flying Cages um, and during its Hallo-Fun or Cages, ride that operated at the park from 1964 until event, when a Cage reemerges 1986. With this being the case, Over the Top will have a as a decoration. Cages-like theme at Knoebels. Pictured here is a historical Fortunately, riders will photo of the Cages during operation at Knoebels. not be tasked with propelling COURTESY KNOEBELS the new ride. The over-the-top motion will be part of the rid- make way for the new ride,” of its kind set for operation in er experience, as will the fact said Ososkie. “Visitors might Pennsylvania this year. that riders will be standing. notice some repositioning, but The ride deal was com- The ride will have a Cages- we’re happy to have enough pleted by Len Soled's Rides like theme at Knoebels, and space to keep everything and 4-U and is being supplied by will move both clockwise and will hopefully bring even SBF-Visa Group. counterclockwise. more interest to all of the other In other Knoebel's news: According to Knoebels fun to be had in that area.” •New track, in the tunnel spokeswoman, Stacy Ososkie, Visitors need to be at least area of the popular Phoenix Over the Top will be located in 48 inches in height to ride Over roller coaster has been com- the area of Wipeout, Fandan- the Top. The ride will reach pleted. go, and Cub Cars rides, and more than twenty-one feet in •A new public restroom the Monkey Madness game. height when in operation, and facility is being built at the “There was a lot of interest can operate with 12 riders at a park's main entry, across from Keep our amusement park industry strong! on our Facebook teaser posts time. It is scheduled for a late the Impulse steel coaster. It Buy products and services from these suppliers. questioning whether or not spring/early summer open- replaces the current restroom we’re removing anything to ing. To date, it is the only one facility. April 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 19 20 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017 Space Center Houston launches Lagotronics Projects to supply dark Apollo 11 display later this year ride upgrade to Lake Compounce BRISTOL, Conn. — Lagotronics Proj- ects recently announced its latest project and first in the United States. For the 2017 season the Dutch company will update the Ghost Hunt dark ride at Lake Compounce in Bristol, Connecticut, with new shooters, targets and gaming system. “We are thrilled to grow our pres- ence in the North American market and excited to work with the team at Lake Compounce,” said Mark Beumers, CEO represents the Dutch company in North of Lagotronics Projects. “They have a fan- America. “They have fantastic technology Space Center Houston (Texas) is the first of four stops tastic park and we are proud to be a part and game play; we know it will be a hit of a new exhibit featuring the Apollo 11 command mod- of the many improvement projects at the with riders at Lake Compounce. ule, which will leave the Smithsonian on a national tour property next year.” The project comes at an exciting time for the first time since 1971. It will be the only location The goal of the new equipment is to for the Dutch company. This year Lagotro- where guests can see the space capsules for both the both increase uptime and guest enjoyment nics debuted its GameChanger interactive first and last lunar landings. The awe-inspiring “Destina- of the attraction. The new interactive sys- attraction at Shimao’s Skyscrapers City, an tion Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission” exhibit, on display tem uses LEDs, which are safer and much interactive dark ride at Wanda Mall Nan- Oct. 14, 2017, through March 18, 2018, at Space Cen- more reliable than older-style guns. In ad- chang, a dark ride upgrade at Chessing- ter Houston, is part of the nonprofit’s 25th anniversary dition, the removal of moving parts from ton’s World of Adventures and showcased jubilee. The center is the first and only Smithsonian Af- the gun’s interior makes the Lagotronics the Hand Symbol Control and Swipe Con- filiate in greater Houston. Above, The Apollo 11 com- Projects systems unique to those offered by trol at the attractions industry’s largest ex- mand module Columbia was picked up on July 24, 1969, other suppliers. The guns offer increased positions. by the USS Hornet, prime recovery ship for the historic accuracy and audio feedback when fired, “We are excited about what the future lunar landing mission. The Apollo 11 command module in order to increase the enjoyment of those will bring. Lagotronics Projects has been — the only portion of the historic spacecraft to safely brave enough to collect ghouls for points. on the cutting edge of the attractions in- return humans to Earth — will leave the Smithsonian’s “Everyone is excited about the Lago- dustry for some time and we are looking National Air and Space Museum for the first time in 46 tronics Projects system coming stateside,” forward to sharing more of our exciting in- years for the national tour. COURTESY SPACE CENTER HOUSTON said Adam Sandy, chief business develop- novations with the world,” said Beumers. ment officer at Ride Entertainment, who April 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 21 New tech overlays for roller coasters, drop tower Six Flags and Samsung step up VR ride collaboration at parks AT: Dean Lamanna completely immersive VR envi- [email protected] ronment and a fighter spaceship VRoundup cockpit materializes — envelop- With Six Flags and the GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas ing riders in a tunnel of light. amusement industry in gen- — Having introduced virtual While the train gains speed, eral now investing heavily in reality (VR) on a number of riders are launched into the virtual reality (VR) applica- roller coasters across the U.S. in middle of a space battle, coming tions, here are some recent 2016, Six Flags Entertainment in riders make key decisions the mainstream.” under attack from flying drones business developments in- Corp. and Samsung Electron- during the course of the ride firing lasers and missiles. After volving this rapidly evolving ics America, Inc., are furthering that can affect their scoring at An immersive universe swinging through tight chan- technology: their joint VR-enhanced ride the end. The new Galactic Attack nels, narrowly dodging drones •Itasca, Ill.-based Fam- endeavor this year with new ex- “Six Flags is proud to be overlay certainly is dynamic. and artillery fire, riders finally ily Entertainment Group, periences at several parks using partnering with Samsung to When riders choose the are brought into one of three a designer, developer and Samsung Gear VR powered by develop the newest, most inno- VR option for their coaster ex- drone bays, each of which offer operator of family amuse- Oculus. vative thrill ride experience in perience and don the needed a different ending. ment gaming facilities, has The New Revolution Ga- the theme park industry,” said headsets, they are introduced to partnered with indoor water lactic Attack, a scenario that Brett Petit, senior vice president the device’s pass-through cam- ‘Doom’ with a view park resort company Kala- finds riders battling to save of marketing and sales for Six era functionality. This aspect of The success of the VR ap- hari Resorts to create Arena the planet from an impending Flags. “This mixed reality tech- wearing the headset makes rid- plication in “refreshing” some — The Ultimate Virtual Real- alien drone invasion, debuted nology is truly groundbreak- ers aware of their surroundings older coasters has encouraged ity Experience, powered by on coasters in late February at ing and like nothing our guests by allowing them to see their Six Flags to explore how to Zero Latency. The attrac- both California Six Flags parks: have ever experienced.” actual environment — includ- make the technology work on tion opened this winter at Magic Mountain in Valencia (on Added Marc Matthieu, ing the person seated next to other rides. The first such alter- Kalahari locations in Wiscon- The New Revolution) and Dis- chief marketing officer for them — along with the VR con- nate attraction overlay, Drop of sin Dells, Wis., and in Penn- covery Kingdom in Vallejo (on Ridgefield Park, N.J.-based tent. Doom VR, was introduced on sylvania’s Pocono Mountains Kong). It also has been rolled Samsung: “We are always aim- As they get settled into Acrophobia at Six Flags Over — representing only the sec- out at Six Flags Over Texas in ing to create immersive, never- the ride, a heads-up display on Georgia (SFOG) in Austell on ond and third warehouse- Arlington (Shock Wave) and at been-done before experiences the pass-through camera view March 11. scale, multiplayer VR game Six Flags Mexico in Mexico City with our Samsung VR ecosys- shows data such as current sta- The first permanent drop arenas in the U.S. (Medusa). tem as the focal point, so these tus of weaponry, time codes, tower VR ride in the U.S. — ar- •Spaces, Inc., the Playa The next-generation tech- new experiences at Six Flags fuel cells and a countdown riving in time for the park’s 50th Vista, Calif.-based VR com- nology offers for the first time are completely complemen- clock. Rising along the lift hill, anniversary season — Drop of pany launched last year and what Samsung calls a “mixed tary to that key objective. We a swirling wormhole comes into Doom VR offers a sci-fi -/ hor led by former heads of VR reality” experience. Another are thrilled to continue to work view. As riders crest the lift, the ror scenario in which riders are for DreamWorks Anima- first: complex gameplay where- with Six Flags and bring VR to mixed reality view changes to a piloting a futuristic gunship un- tion, has raised an addition- der attack by mutant spiders. al $6.5 million. This funding The experience begins with round, which follows a pre- a high-speed, 100-story virtual viously announced $30 mil- vertical ascent while teeter- lion joint venture with Chi- ing off the edge of a helicop- nese theme park operator ter, with riders’ field of vision Songcheng Performance filled with a 360-degree rotating Development Co., Ltd., view of massive city skyscrap- was led by Songcheng with ers under siege by enormous additional investment by spiders. A high-intensity gun Comcast Ventures and oth- battle against a giant arachnid ers. Spaces has a vision to ensues, causing the creature to help usher in a new era VR- unleash baby spiders that virtu- enabled theme parks and ally crawl all over each rider. attractions. A thrilling 100-story fiery •Austin, Texas-based plunge between towering sky- Virtuix, which specializes scrapers provides a temporary in active VR and developed escape before the final show- the Omni motion platform, down, in which a spider the has launched a partner- size of a van — jaws gnashing ship with Fun VR Tech, a — rears up in full attack mode. new division of Universal “We continue to explore Space (UNIS) that distrib- new opportunities utilizing utes VR experiences to the Samsung Gear VR technology, commercial entertainment and this drop tower concept market. It expands Virtuix’s Raising the bar for VR rides, is a great example of the abil- successful collaboration Six Flags and Samsung have ity to change content for differ- with UNIS in China, where it introduced the technology ent rides,” said Dale Kaetzel, has installed its Omni Arena with a mutant spider scenario president of SFOG. “We look gaming attraction in dozens on Acrophobia at Six Flags forward to having our guests of locations. Fun VR Tech Over Georgia (clockwise experience Drop of Doom as we now is selling Omni Arena from above left) and kick off the beginning of a very in North America and South unveiled a "mixed reality" special year.” America, with plans to ex- alien attack presentation on Drop of Doom VR is includ- pand to additional global The New Revolution at Six ed free with park admission for markets. Flags Magic Mountain. a limited time. —Compiled by Dean Lamanna COURTESY SIX FLAGS •sixflags.com 22 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017 2017 Florida State Fair sees two revenue records set

The 2017 Florida State Fair, Tampa, held Feb. 9-20, Focus on family STATE FAIRS set new records in gate and midway revenues and tipped the scales "It was really very cool," drew an attendance of 440,718 (unaudited), which Hayes said. "And, I think represented a 11.4 percent increase over 2016. The AT: Pam Sherborne most people got it." midway, provided by Wade Shows, fielded 126 rides [email protected] The fair also offered -an including the new portable Lamberink RL45 wheel. other new ride, the Super COURTESY FLORIDA STATE FAIR TAMPA, Fla. — The Flor- Slide, the slide that was cre- ida State Fair, held Feb. 9-20, ated by Rides 4-U as the main was certainly heralded by of- attraction for the festivities ficials as a complete success. surrounding the 2015 Na- Although attendance tional Football League Super was not at a record level, the Bowl in New York City. The 2017 unaudited figure was fair purchased the ride and 440,718, an 11.4 percent in- it is now a permanent attrac- crease over 2016. tion on the grounds. Setting new records this The new slide replaced year were both the gate rev- a slide that had been on the enue and the midway rev- grounds since the 1970s, but enue. Unaudited numbers was damaged in a storm in showed the all-time gate rev- 2015. enue as $3,433,381, represent- "We also continue to ing a 13.8 percent increase spruce up our grounds and over 2016. The unaudited add more shaded areas," midway revenue came in at Hayes said. "Plus, Wade $4,782,830, a 12.5 percent in- Shows added new guest and crease over 2016. shade areas to the midway. The guest area offered sun SEE RELATED STORY screen, diaper changing sta- PAGE 1 tions and phone charging sta- tions. Our guests really ap- "Advance sales experi- preciated that." enced a 21.1 increase over last This was the first event year's numbers," said Laurie for Florida State Fair Author- Hayes, manager, marketing ity (FSFA) Executive Director and communications, Florida Cheryl Flood at the helm. State Fair. "I think one thing “I am so excited we were that helped increase our at- able to share the fair with tendance was our emphasis so many fellow Floridians,” on family entertainment. We said Flood, after the event. added promotions such as a “We placed a renewed fo- grandparents day and a non- cus on family entertainment, profit appreciation day." booking Shopkins and other The other aspect of the kids’ entertainment. We had fair luring fairgoers this year a huge success the last week- was the midway with 126 end with a Peppa Pig Meet Frederiksen 1/7x3 b/w 3/14/02 11:22 AM Page 1 rides this year. Wade Shows and Greet.” is the midway provider. And, In addition to those chil- Hayes said, they don't take dren’s characters, the 2017 lightly how the new portable fair featured one of the larg- Lamberink RL45 Sky Eye est varieties of entertainment Wheel brought thrill seekers they have had. It included: “The #1 Leading Slide Manufacturer in America” FREDERIKSEN to the fair this year. Sea Lion Splash; Sweet: A “World’s Largest 5 Lane, One Trailer Slide - 108 Ft.” INDUSTRIES, INC. "The new wheel sure Tasty Journey — a muse- 5212 St. Paul St. gave us a new iconic picture," um quality exhibit explor- • Financing and Leasing Available ing candy in pop culture; • Trades Considered Tampa, Florida 33619 Hayes said, of the 150 foot • Order Slide Bags or “New Rain” Bags (813) 628-4545 tall wheel. K-9s in Flight; Circus Holly- • 6 New Slides In Stock FAX (813) 621-3679 The Sky Eye Wheel, wood under the big top; the • Have 20 Used Rides www.funslide.com owned in partnership be- Welde’s Big Bear Show; the • 90 Ft. Fiberglass Slide tween Frank Zaitshik, Wade Winter National Champion- Shows, and Michael Wood, ship Lawnmower races; the • 65 Ft. Fiberglass Slide Wood Entertainment, was be- Florida State Fair Champion- ing touted as the largest por- ship Tractor Pull; Budweiser table wheel in North America Clydesdales; Mildred W. and during the fair. Doyle E. Carlton; Jr. Cracker The Florida State Fair was Country; concerts and top the first date for the ride and quality agricultural exhibits. because of unexpected de- Agriculture remains at lays, it wasn't completed un- the heart of the fair, according til Sunday, Feb. 12, and didn't to fair officials. begin operating until the next Fair management already day after inspections. is at work planning the 2018 But, the building of the fair, set for Feb. 8-19. ride became an attraction. April 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 23

FAIR BRIEFS until being named assistant general manager in 2008. Digital Edition manager, will replace him. Goodman said he feels App She will take over Jan. 1, 2018. he is leaving the fair in good now Smith has served as the hands. available! fair assistant general manager As the state's largest event, since 2008, but has worked at the South Carolina State Fair is the fair for more than 30 years. a self-supported, nonprofit or- She began in the home and ganization. It employs 21 peo- craft department in 1983 and ple full time and hires an addi- was eventually named super- tional 300 seasonal employees intendent in that department. during the fair each October. She assumed a full time This year's 148th anniver- position in 2000 as director sary fair will run Oct. 11-22 in of entertainment and exhibits Columbia. N.A.M.E. will pro- Lisa Gagnon and continued in that position vide the midway. Gagnon named head of Houston Livestock Show marketing HOUSTON, Texas—For- mer vice president of mar- keting for the Houston Super Bowl Host Committee, Lisa Gagnon, was named an ex- ecutive director of marketing, public relations and presenta- tions at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. For the past two years, Gagnon has guided the mar- keting efforts for one of the largest sporting events in the world, Super Bowl LI. In her role as vice president of mar- keting, Gagnon oversaw all brand and marketing activi- ties for the Houston Super Bowl Host Committee, includ- ing Super Bowl LIVE. Prior to the host com- mittee, Gagnon served as the director of brand for waste disposal and environmen- tal services company Waste Management. During her seven-year tenure with Waste Management, she managed all aspects of the company’s cor- porate brand, advertising and sports sponsorship efforts. She also worked at John- son & Johnson where she worked on the Tylenol brand on new product development and sports sponsorships. South Carolina State Fair to have new general manager at start of 2018

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Gary Goodman, who has served for 33 years as the general man- ager of the South Carolina State Fair announced his re- tirement in February. At the same time, the South Carolina fair board an- nounced that Nancy L. Smith, currently the assistant general 24 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017 MIDWAY Journey to Mars opened doors MARKET PLACE for ARM's VR drop tower 15,000 riders enjoy tower was never any shorter than a two-and-a-half hours. ride during Houston "Some had to wait three-and- Super Bowl Host one-half hours in line," Gill said. Those numbers of riders and Committee's festival watchers were spread across 10 AT: Pam Sherborne days, but Gill said all those days [email protected] weren't even full days. "They were pretty much half HOUSTON, Texas — ARM's days during the week but full 90-foot-tall portable drop tower days on the weekend," he said. took a little more than 15,000 rid- "But, we got some great expo- ers on a Journey to Mars from sure. Television stations were Jan. 27-Feb. 5, resulting in a lot of there and radio was there. We exposure for the manufacturer's had a couple of astronauts to already popular ride. come out and ride it. We had a The drop tower was con- team of engineers out here from tracted by the Houston Super the Johnson Space Center. Dr. (El- Bowl Host Committee to become len) Ochoa also came out here." the centerpiece for the LIVE Fan Ochoa, who is a veteran of Festival, a free event leading up four space flights, is the director to this year's National Football of the Johnson Space Center. League Super Bowl LI, held at "This has given us a whole NRG Stadium on Feb. 5. The fes- new outlook as to what can be tival was held at Houston's Dis- done with the drop tower," Gill covery Green Park. said. "It has opened many doors." With virtual reality that in- Those doors include knock- cluded authentic space footage ing on amusement and theme supplied by NASA, riders of park gates with a package featur- Journey to Mars blasted off into Fireworks weren’t all that ing specific VR theming. space, experienced some of the blasted off on ARM’s themed Gill said there are some great space frontier, and then drop tower, Journey to Mars, things in the works, but he wasn't were dropped on the 50-yard line which was the centerpiece at at liberty to discuss them at this in the NRG Stadium just in time this year’s NFL Super Bowl LI time. for the big game. Fan Festival LIVE, produced The drop tower used at the "The ride went over extreme- by the Houston Super Bowl Houston event is back at the ARM factory and will be sold. ly well," said ARM's Mike Gill. Host Committee, held for Ideas, a media and experi- Besides the 15,000 riders 10 days leading up to and ence design company based in during the event, there was an through the day of the big additional 17,000 people who Orlando, Fla., is the company game on Feb. 5. that reached out to ARM about didn't actually ride the tower but COURTESY ARM who were able to experience the providing the ride. HD Interac- VR footage in a separate area. from one-half hour to one and tive, a Tampa-based software That means a little over 32,000 one-half hour just to view the VR. development company, provided P.O. Box 238 had the VR experience. Lines ran The line to actually ride the drop the virtual reality. Merino, CO. 80741

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Journey to Mars, ARM’s themed drop tower, received a tremendous amount of exposure during its 10-day run at this year’s NFL Super Bowl LI Fan Festival put on by the Houston Super Bowl Host Committee. Mike Hopkins (left) was just one of the astronauts who came out from Johnson Space Center to ride the ride; a team of engineers from the center also tried it out (right). Using VR and authentic space footage from NASA, riders on the 90-foot- Keep our amusement park industry strong! tall tower also blasted off into space. "The drop tower was an extreme success," said ARM’s Buy products and services from these suppliers. Mike Gill, "and certainly put a new spin on the different ways the drop tower could be used." COURTESY ARM April 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 25 26 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017

BUSINESS, SAFETY & CLASSIFIED  Obituary — Page 28 / MarketWatch — Page 29 / SAFETY — 32-36 / CLASSIFIEDS — Pages 39 Extreme Engineering names Ride Entertainment as official distributor SACRAMENTO, Ca- product. Extreme Engineer- satisfied customers and thrill IAAPA awards for best prod- lif. — A landmark partner- ing and Ride Entertainment seekers through this respect- uct display in 2015 and 2016 ship to distribute Extreme both share an active history ed and rewarding partner- and was recently honored Engineering’s award win- with the International Asso- ship.” by USA Today as a Top At- ning Cloud Coaster has ciation of Amusement Parks Developed and designed traction. The 2017 track de- been formed with one of the and Attractions (IAAPA), by the entertainment ex- sign features a new tandem world’s leading attractions which further connected the perts at Extreme Engineer- cart system so participants industry products distribu- two companies together to ing, the Cloud Coaster is an can enjoy the ride together, tors, Ride Entertainment. form this new and exciting innovative part zipline and as well as exciting lifts and As the official distributor of relationship. part flying roller coaster. upgraded MBS braking tech- the Cloud Coaster, Ride En- Ride Entertainment is a The world’s first cart-less nology. tertainment will increase vis- leader in providing thrilling roller coaster gets its riders’ Jeff Wilson, CEO of Ex- ibility and availability of the products to the attractions adrenaline pumping using a treme Engineering stated, world’s first cart-less roller industry, having earned in- unique custom lift system to "We are honored to see our coaster. ternational recognition for raise riders slowly, simulat- one-of-a-kind and treasured As the world's largest ad- innovation and commitment ing the traditional anxious product distributed by an venture product supplier for to quality entertainment, feeling at the start of a large internationally recognized the amusement and resort in- and will be the exclusive roller coaster, then taking off amusement and adventure dustries, Extreme Engineer- Cloud Coaster distributor in and giving the triple sensa- powerhouse. Given their ing desired a distribution the Middle East, including Ride Entertainment has been tion of flying, zip-lining and stellar reputation as an in- agent for the Cloud Coaster distribution towards large named as the official distrib- rocketing up and down. dustry leader, it is as inven- with a longstanding history amusement parks and water utor for Extreme Engineer- The Cloud Coaster also tive as it is logical to partner and worldwide reach. As one parks such as Six Flags, Uni- ing's popular Cloud Coaster. holds the esteemed title of with Ride Entertainment to COURTESY of the largest distributors in versal and Disney world- RIDE ENTERTAINMENT being the only zipline coast- distribute our groundbreak- attractions to the amuse- wide. er on the market using lifts, ing and award-winning ment industry with a world Adam Sandy, chief busi- venture and amusement pio- which allows tandem riders Cloud Coaster. We look for- renowned reputation, Ride ness development officer for neers to promote growth in to be pulled up a track on ward to seeing our cherished Entertainment was an ideal Ride Entertainment stated, distribution of their innova- motors to zip up hills for a product soar to new heights match for distributing their “We are thrilled to unite with tive Cloud Coaster. We look truly unique ride. The Cloud through this exciting new re- unique and groundbreaking one of the world’s largest ad- forward to serving countless Coaster won back-to-back lationship.” The Giant Company partners with ITPS DUBLIN, Ireland — Paddy Dunning, 929-square-meter (10,000-square-foot) build- chief executive officer of The Giant Compa- ing and visitors who enter the attraction will ny Ltd., based in Dublin, Ireland, announced experience a cutting-edge interactive explo- a partnership with International Theme ration of “giants” from folklore and mythol- Park Services, Inc. (ITPS), a leisure consult- ogy and present-day icons. ing company based in Cincinnati, Ohio. The Dennis Speigel, president of Interna- two firms will collaborate to introduce and tional Theme Park Services said, “The Giant market The Giant attraction to the leisure in- offers the perfect opportunity for a city to pay dustry, including theme parks, amusement homage to its hometown legends, including parks, water parks, family entertainment sports heroes and famous musicians, or for a centers, museums, retail and dining centers, theme park to showcase its iconic characters and more. like Superman or celebrities.” The Giant was informally unveiled at a Eric Fraad, director of development for press conference in Orlando on November The Giant, said, “We are excited to work with 17, 2016 at the IAAPA Attractions Expo. The Dennis and ITPS. Their longstanding and ex- Standing 114 feet in height, The Giant, delivers a unique and official launch is planned for later in 2017. cellent reputation as a leader in the leisure inspiring experience to its visitors. The first Giant is planned The Giant attraction, at 35 meters (114 feet) in and attractions business makes them the to open later this year with the goal of building a minimum height delivers a unique and inspiring expe- perfect partner to assist us in unveiling our of 20 over the next decade. COURTESY THE GIANT CO. rience to its visitors. The Giant stands atop a unique Giant attraction.”

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PHONE: (716) 839-4791 FAX: (716) 839-4506 AMERICAN INC. EMAIL: [email protected] www.nap-inc.com SERVING THE AMUSEMENT INDUSTRY WE’VE KEPT YOUR RIDES IN MOTION SINCE 1982 April 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 27 NJAA show draws nearly 500; NAARSO training held ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — The annual NJAA amusement operators. issues took place. The preshow session on Thurs- East Coast Gift and Variety Show was again held Kimberle Samarelli, executive director of the day by the Legalized Games of Chance Control at the Golden Nugget Resort and Casino near New Jersey Amusement Association described Commission was held. The speakers made a pre- the famed Boardwalk and just off the Atlantic City the overall show vibe: “The feeling on the show sentation on the Certification and Policy Update. Marina. This was the eighth time at that venue. The floor was positive and upbeat because the weather The Wednesday evening Scholarship Fund show is held mid-February in conjunction with the at the Jersey shore over the prior Presidents Day Cocktail Party was again held on the trade show East Coast/Mid-Atlantic regionalized NAARSO weekend was fabulous and record-breaking.” floor. This third annual mixer proved to be a big (National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Samarelli was asked if there were any new success. “We raised over $5,000 to help fund our Officials) Outreach Safety School. There were 130 products or services that exhibited this year. “We scholarships we give out annually. The number var- attendees for the training. This is the ninth time the had a waffle vendor come in from California called ies depending on applicants, but we always give NAARSO training has been offered. Le Waf and the product was extremely well re- away at least three,” said Samarelli. Thirty vendors occupying 100 booths showcas- ceived.” Samarelli was posed the question regarding ing ice cream novelties, plush and licensed toys, While the majority of attendees are from New any changes for the 2018 show. “As of right now arcade games, staff shirts and uniforms, and nov- Jersey, the show attracts other amusement indus- we have such a well-oiled machine and our vendors elty items, along with other amusement industry- try folks from neighboring New York, Pennsylvania are so happy to be at the Golden Nugget in At- related products were on display. More than 500 and Delaware, as well as Massachusetts and other lantic City that we have no venue change, but we amusement industry staff, owners and operators northeastern states. always look for new vendors and giveaways.” attended the show housed in the 16,900-square- In front of the 10 a.m. trade show start on The 2018 East Coast Gift and Variety Show foot Grand Ballroom. The show, established in the Wednesday, a ride regulations briefing and panel occurs February 20 and 21 with NAARSO training mid-1970s, provides close-to-home buying and discussion to discuss the RCMT (Recognized Cer- February 20-22, 2018. business-to-business opportunities for New Jersey tified Maintenance Technician Program) and other —B. Derek Shaw Leanna Muscato elected first female president of PAPA AT: B. Derek Shaw Fund. The winner donated his suppliers. She has been busy [email protected] portion back to the fund. Each recruiting a few at the recent year four $1,000 scholarships NJAA East Coast Gift & Va- HERSHEY, Pa. — Nearly are awarded to students who riety Show in Atlantic City, 100 members and guests of the work at any of the participat- as well as at the dinner open- Pennsylvania Amusement ing member parks/attractions. ing night of the PAPA spring Parks Association (PAPA) met The second day included meeting. “I think we should the last two days in February the annual breakfast member- go out and get some of our for its annual spring meeting ship meeting with association food distributors — the fact at Hershey Lodge and Con- business highlighted. Areas is the diversity of this group vention Center. Fourteen of reported on included: legis- is not just amusement parks the 21 member Pennsylvania lative progress, Amusement anymore,” she explained. parks/attractions participat- Ride Safety Advisory Board, Upon conclusion of the ed, along with 20 member sup- the fall PACE (Parks and Car- PAPA spring meeting, over pliers/manufacturers. Guests nivals Education) Ride Safety 45 attendees participated in included staff from the Penn- Seminar, water park issues, Getting together in the Forebay Lounge at Hershey Lodge the ever-popular roundtable sylvania Restaurant & Lodg- PAPA website and scholarship for conversation and fun (l to r): Leanna Muscato, incoming discussions in the conference ing Association (PRLA); the reports. The last item of busi- PAPA president Knoebels Amusement Resort; Earl Heller, room of the Service Center at Pennsylvania Department of ness included the installation Rides-4-U Inc.; Jess Nugent, director of operations, Sesame Hersheypark. This is the sixth Agriculture, Bureau of Rides of the 2017-18 slate of officers. Place; Jeff Davis, immediate past president PAPA, vice presi- year the session has been held and Measurement Standards Leanna Muscato, third gener- dent of operations for Sesame Place and Mike Coleman, coordinated by Gary Chubb, and the Pennsylvania Depart- ation Knoebel family member, sales representative, Zamperla, Inc. AT/B. DEREK SHAW senior director of maintenance ment of Community and Eco- was elected president. She is at the park. nomic Development. New the first woman in the history choose a member park to visit for the state, but also to make “It went very well,” said member organizations this of the organization to serve in or attraction to visit. We’ll con- sure they have the information Chubb. “It is pretty much an year include Extreme Engi- that role. tinue to develop that website. that we are already paying our open discussion, within limi- neering; Kalahari Waterpark; Looking back, outgoing We have a good solid base and fair share of taxes. We were tations, of course. Nobody is Magic Moments USA, Ltd.; President Davis took his role we’re moving forward.” able to effectively commu- giving away any trade secrets. NXT Capture; Ridewerks and very seriously: “I was respect- The second accomplish- nicate that out and that was We talked about things that the Turkey Hill Experience. ful of the position because the ment includes advocacy ef- withdrawn from the budget,” are pertinent to the industry.” The day started with a organization has been around forts. “Last year when the said Davis. This was the 83rd spring PAPA board of directors meet- since the 1930s. You look at the governor presented his bud- Incoming president Lean- meeting of the Pennsylvania ing followed by a reception list of names of the past presi- get proposal, there was a line na Muscato was also the first Amusement Parks Associa- and banquet that evening. dents and there are some big item in there for the inclusion woman to serve on the board tion. The organization was The invocation before the names on there. You see that of amusement park tickets as ten years ago. “I’m a bit over- formed in 1935 with R.L. meal was provided by Buddy and you realize you are re- a sales tax. That’s always been whelmed. I have strong sup- Plarr from Dorney Park serv- Knoebel, Knoebels Amuse- sponsible for the reputation of excluded because we have port with the organization. I’m ing as the first president. The ment Resort and also a past this organization.” other enabling taxes like the very close with a lot of people 2017 PAPA Summer Meeting PAPA president. The evening Davis highlighted two amusement tax that are sepa- on the board and they all said will be held at Waldameer proceedings were led by Jeff accomplishments he is most rate. We were able to work they are only a phone call or e- Park & Water World, Erie, Davis, Operations Manager proud of during his two year with other organizations and mail away.” Other third gener- Pa. July 17 and 18. The PACE of Sesame Place and 2015-16 term. “One is our website. have PAPA’s voice heard and ation owners, Dick [Knoebel] Ride Safety Seminar is sched- PAPA president. (paamusementparks.com). make sure our legislators un- and Buddy [Knoebel] have uled for October 30 – Novem- The organization again We continue to develop that derstood our opposition to served in that capacity in the ber 2 in Bloomsburg Univer- held a 50/50 Raffle for its website so that it is a source of that and why. Obviously we past. sity, Penn. with a “hands-on scholarship fund. As a result, information not only for our are worried about the effect it One of Muscato's goals day” at Knoebels Amuse- $700 was raised for the Bar- members but for those that are was going to have on tourism for the organization is to se- ment Resort, Elysburg, Penn. bara J. Knoebel Scholarship looking to visit our state and which is a big income source cure more members, including on October 31. 28 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017 OBITUARIES DXB Entertainments, Merlin Group Michigan’s Adventure's announce new Legoland Dubai Hotel To become the first Legoland family moments, the 250-room hotel will Mary Lynn Jourden, 71 have themed rooms to suit all Lego lovers. Hotel in the Middle East It will be built on approximately 300,000 MUSKEGON, Mich. — Mary Lynn Jourden, the square feet of land earmarked for Legoland co-founder of Michigan’s DUBAI, U.A.E. — DXB Entertainments expansion as part of the Dubai Parks and Adventure amusement park PJSC (DFM: DXBE) the Dubai-based leisure Resorts destination. passed away at her home on and entertainment company, and Merlin Raed Kajoor Al Nuaimi, DXB Enter- February 18, 2017. She was Entertainments Group (LSE: MERL), a Lon- tainments’ chief executive officer said: “The 71. In 1968, she and her hus- don-based theme park and attraction opera- addition of a Lego themed hotel at Dubai band, Roger Jourden, pur- tors, are bringing the first Legoland Hotel Parks and Resorts will bring the total hos- chased a petting zoo in Mus- to the Middle East. The ultimate family-fun pitality offering at the destination to over kegon, Michigan, known hotel will open at Dubai Parks and Resorts, 750 rooms. With more than 100 rides and as Deer Park. The Jourdens the Middle East’s largest integrated theme attractions spread across three theme parks, expanded the park, add- park destination. The hotel will be located one water park and Six Flags Dubai open- ing rides and renaming it to adjacent to the existing Legoland Dubai ing in 2019, we expect families to spend sev- Deer Park Funland in 1972. theme park. eral days at the destination to enjoy all the Mary Lynn did every- Mary Lynn Jourden The first Legoland Hotel in the Middle amazing experiences we offer. We are very thing at the park from pre- East and the seventh to open worldwide will pleased to partner with Merlin Entertain- paring food in the concession for their own park. Camille completely immerse guests in the creative ments to deliver a fun-filled and convenient stands to running the park’s eventually becoming vice world of Lego as it’s designed to bring chil- place for families to stay as well as long- finances. She kept a phone president and general man- dren’s imaginations to life. Every room will term value to our shareholders.” line in her home kitchen, and ager. Son Roger Jourden II have Lego models and theming for guests Chief New Openings Officer at - Mer would often book company built Duck Creek RV Resort to continue their Legoland Park adventure lin Entertainments John Jakobsen, com- picnics from her home, while across the street from the into the evening. From the disco elevator to mented: “Themed accommodation is an preparing much of the food park. the Castle Play Area, Legoland designers increasingly important part of the holiday for those groups that she By the 1980s, the park have integrated Lego storylines for every and short-break visit, and we’re delighted booked. had become a modern guest to create a memorable adventure. to continue our partnership with DXB with "My father was the own- amusement park with less The Legoland Dubai Hotel is a 60/40 the development of this hotel, the first of its er of the park but my mom emphasis on the petting zoo. joint venture between DXB Entertainments kind in the Middle East region, which will was the silent person who It was renamed Michigan’s PJSC and Merlin Entertainments, and will allow families and children to continue their gave and did so much for the Adventure in 1988, and the be operated by Merlin Entertainments once amazing Legoland experience after the Park park," said Camille Jourden- couple’s daughter, Camille opened. Designed to create unforgettable closes.” Mark, daughter and current Jourden-Mark assumed the vice president and general role of general manager. Agreements inked for additional manager of Michigan's Ad- Mary Lynn continued to venture. "He couldn't have work behind the scenes at done it without her." the park until 2001, when Six Flags-branded park sites in China Michigan’s Adventure Michigan’s Adventure was GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — Six Flags En- nership with Riverside Investment Group.” was very much a family run sold to Cedar Fair. tertainment Corporation (NYSE: SIX), and Riv- “Six Flags is the world leader in thrilling park. Each of the Jourden’s Mary Lynn was also a erside Investment Group Co. Ltd., announced entertainment for families and teens,” said children grew up there, at founding member of Prince on Feb. 21 the signing of definitive agreements Tang Jun, Riverside CEO. “We look forward first living in a small house of Peace Catholic Church to build more Six Flags-branded parks. The lat- to bringing the best and most innovative roll- that was inside the park. in North Muskegon. She is est parks will be located in Bishan, a district of er coasters, rides and attractions to visitors Daughters Camille and Lisa survived by her three chil- Chongqing, and are expected to open in 2020. throughout China.” Jourden started working dren, Carol "Lisa" (David) “The development of two additional Six The first Six Flags-branded theme park and there by selling deer-food- Arnouts, Camille (J. Steve Flags-branded parks (theme park and water water park in China are anticipated to open in filled ice cream cones to Mark) Jourden-Mark and park) in Bishan, speaks to our commitment 2019 and will be located in Haiyan, Zhejiang visitors. The family would Roger (Casey) Jourden II, to create memorable experiences for families province, near Shanghai. The parks will feature take trips to other amuse- sister Julie Mark Schmidtke, worldwide,” said John Odum, president of Six record-breaking roller coasters, live shows, ment parks and industry former husband Roger Jour- Flags International Development Company. thrilling water attractions and more. trade shows to gather ideas den and nine grandchildren. “We are excited to build on this vision in part- •sixflags.com/haiyan April 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 29 BUSINESS WATCH MARKETWATCH Six Flags, Icee sign multi-year food service pact GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — Six Flags Entertainment Corpo- COMPANY SYMBOL MARKET PRICE HIGH LOW 03/06/17 52-Week 52-Week ration (NYSE: SIX), has announced a seven-year food service and sponsorship marketing partnership with Ontario, Calif.-based frozen The Blackstone Group BX NYSE 29.52 31.69 22.45 beverage provider The Icee Company. Six Flags will expand its fro- zen beverage program in each of its theme parks, creating signa- Merlin Entertainments Group/ MERL LSE 492.20 507.50 316.79 ture beverage destinations featuring Icee’s new Mix It Up stations as Legoland well as seasonal drink flavors during summer and holiday celebration Cedar Fair, L.P. FUN NYSE 67.46 69.81 55.89 periods. Six Flags also will debut a souvenir drink bottle with spe- cially priced refills for season pass holders. Icee will receive exposure Comcast Corp./ CMCSA NASDAQ 37.44 38.43 29.03 throughout the Six Flags Media Networks. NBCUniversal Media

The Walt Disney Company DIS NYSE 110.67 111.99 90.31 Several amusement companies provide results •LONDON — Merlin Entertainments plc, (LSE: MERL) report- Dubai Parks & Resorts DXBE:UH DFM 1.01 1.77 0.99 ed on March 2 its results for the year ended Dec. 31, 2016. Revenue was £1,428 million and EBITDA was £433 million. In the U.S., the EPR Properties EPR NYSE 74.80 84.67 61.87 company reported generating revenue of £404 million up from £336 million in 2015. Fuji Kyoko Co., Ltd. 9010 TYO 1019.00 1568.00 979.00 •ORLANDO — SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: SEAS) re- ported on Feb. 28 its financial results for the fourth quarter and full Haicahang Holdings Ltd. HK:2255 SEHK 1.70 1.95 1.52 year 2016 results. Total revenues for the fourth quarter 2016 were $267.6 million, compared to $267.9 million in the fourth quarter of Leofoo Development Co. TW:2705 TSEC 8.60 9.00 6.62 2015. Net loss was $11.9 million, or a loss of $0.14 per diluted share, compared to a net loss of $11.0 million, or a loss of $0.13 per diluted MGM Resorts International MGM NYSE 26.55 30.62 19.55 share, in the fourth quarter of 2015. Total revenues were $1.34 billion Parques Reunidos Servicios in 2016, compared to $1.37 billion in 2015. Net loss was $12.5 mil- ES:PQR MCE 15.77 17.41 11.99 Centrales S.A. lion, or a loss of $0.15 per diluted share, compared to net income of $49.1 million, or $0.57 per diluted share, in 2015. Total attendance SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. SEAS NYSE 18.38 21.84 11.77 for 2016 declined by approximately 471,000 guests, or 2.1%, primar- ily due to a decline at the company's Florida and Northeast park lo- Six Flags Entertainment Co. SIX NYSE 59.84 62.69 47.61 cations, partially offset by an increase in attendance at its Texas park locations. Attendance at the company's California park locations was Skyocean International HK:0593 SEHK 16.92 17 7.95 relatively flat in 2016 when compared to 2015. •GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — Six Flags Entertainment Corpora- Tivoli A/S DK:TIV CSE 528.00 543.00 375.80 tion (NYSE: SIX), announced on Feb. 22 that 2016 represented its seventh consecutive year of record financial performance as revenue Village Roadshow VRL ASX 3.45 5.57 3.22 grew $55 million or 4 percent to $1.3 billion. The full-year revenue STOCK PRICES ABOVE ARE GENERALLY QUOTED IN THE FOREIGN growth resulted primarily from a 5 percent increase in the number CURRENCY IN WHICH THE COMPANY IS LOCATED of guests visiting Six Flags parks and the success of the company’s pricing strategy and international licensing program. Attendance at Worldwide Markets: ASX, Australian Securities Exchange; CSE, Copenhagen Stock Exchange; LSE, London Stock Exchange; NYSE, New York Stock Exchange; NASDAQ, National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations; SEHK, Hong Kong Stock Six Flags properties in 2016 grew by 1.6 million to 30.1 million, a re- Exchange; SZSE, Shenzhen Stock Exchange; TSEC, Taiwan Stock Excange, Corp.; TYO/TSE, Tokyo Stock Exchange cord high for the current portfolio of parks, driven by the continued —SOURCES: Bloomberg.com; Wall Street Journal success of selling season passes and memberships, whose holders DIESEL PRICES accounted for 60 percent of total visitation. On a constant currency basis, which excludes the foreign exchange translation impact from Region As of Change from the company’s parks in Mexico and Canada, revenue grew $69 mil- (U.S.) 03/06/17 1 year ago lion or 6 percent. Net income for the year decreased by $36 million or East Coast $2.633 +$0.556 24 percent primarily driven by an increase in non-cash compensation Midwest $2.502 +$0.519 expense associated with the probable achievement of the company’s Gulf Coast $2.429 +$0.522 Project 600 performance award, a long-term growth goal established Mountain $2.625 +$0.698 in 2014. West Coast $2.779 +$0.682 • SANDUSKY, Ohio — On Feb. 15 Cedar Fair Entertainment California $2.956 +$0.640 Company (NYSE: FUN), reported record financial results for the year ended December 31, 2016. The company reported record full-year CURRENCY net revenues of $1.29 billion, up 4% from 2015; net income of $178 On 03/07/17 $1 USD = million, or $3.14 per diluted limited partner (LP) unit, up $65 million from a year ago. 2016 Adjusted EBITDA was a record $481 million, 0.9432 EURO up 5% from last year. 0.8149 GBP (British Pound) Attendance at Cedar Fair's parks was a record 25.1 million 113.84 JPY (Japanese Yen) guests, a 3% increase from 2015; average in-park guest per capita 1.0094 CHF (Swiss Franc) spending increased 2%, to a record $46.90. 1.3179 AUD (Australian Dollar) Higher occupancy rates and average daily room rates at the 1.3393 CAD (Canadian Dollar) company's resort properties contributed to the record out-of-park revenues of $146 million, a 6% increase from a year ago. 30 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017 Amusement Today celebrates 20th anniversary ARLINGTON, Texas — the business. The 2-Minute Drill of our entire team for jumping ers, parks sharing their news, This issue marks the 20th an- column has allowed me to inter- on board to promote this impor- our subscribers and friends niversary of Amusement Today. view some of the most interest- tant topic. I'm also pleased to within the industry. Most of all Much has changed in the fol- ing people — and have a lot of see the outpouring of support I must thank all of the AT staff lowing two decades. In fact, at fun along the way. I am so grate- — in promoting safety — from for their dedication, hard work that time, the first iPhone was ful to be part of the AT team. We the entire industry.” and professionalism that makes still a decade away from reach- work hard, laugh a lot and are Reflecting on 20 years of AT, the news leader that it has ing the market. Many of today’s all celebrating the 20th anniver- publication, Slade smiled, “I can become. I look forward to all of common conveniences weren’t sary of Amusement Today.” only be thankful for the contin- us continuing the ride.” even ideas in 1997. To date, Witherow has spot- ued support from our advertis- —Tim Baldwin Publisher lighted 144 2-Minute Drills on and Editor- industry professionals, having in-chief Gary produced the first column in FAST FACTS Slade found the November Pre-IAAPA is- COMPANY FORMATION encourage- sue, 2005. Amusement Today, Inc., founded January 1997 by: ment from in- The first issue ofAmusement Certainly, the Golden Tick- Gary Slade, Virgil Moore III and Rick Tidrow dustry friends. Today (above) debuted in et Awards have become syn- (Slade acquired full ownership in Jan. 2001) Originally Slade April 1997. Reporter Dean onymously tied with AT. First • leaping into Lamanna's Dec. 2012 cover published in the fall of 1998, the PUBLISHING MILESTONES the new venture with former story (below) documented awards eventually transformed 1997 business collegues from the Hurricane Sandy's devastat- into the Networking Event of APRIL: First Issue, 24 pages divided into four sections: Breckenridge American newspa- ing industry impact. AT FILE the Year. In 1999, Amusement To- International, Amusement Parks, Water Parks and Business per Virgil Moore III and Rick day took First Place in IAAPA’s with debut of Riding the Market, park stock market chart Tidrow, who assisted with the Services category for the intro- MAY: Debut of The List (chart), O.D. Hopkins Shoot-the-Chutes AUG.: Debut of Classified Advertising page accounting and circulation, thus duction of the Golden Ticket NOV.: Debut of Advertorial Section on Custom Coasters Intl. allowing Slade to focus on the Awards to the industry. DEC.: Debut of Opinion page and monthly cartoon advertising and editorial side “We offered to host the 1998 of the upstart publication. Slade Golden Ticket Awards after a APRIL: Debut of the What's New Guide had found support and inspi- few years of it simply being a JUNE: Debut of first Bonus Section, VisionLand ration from close friend Bruce news release,” said Paula Wer- AUG.:Debut of Golden Ticket Awards with 14 categories Neal, legendary public rela- ne, director of communications DEC.: Debut of industry Holiday Recipes tions director at Six Flags Over at Holiday World. “I remember 2000 Texas. Slade credits Neal (also scheming with Janice Witherow NOV.: Debut of Pre-IAAPA issue featuring IAAPA Attractions Expo news and Exhibitor Listing, by booth number a long-time media member) for about this (as only two PR types 2001 naming the publication Amuse- can) that it would be a great way AUG.: Holiday World & Splashin' Safari hosts first ment Today. Further encourag- to enhance the awards’ brand. Golden Ticket Awards ceremony, new industry event is born ing support from Schlitter- It’s amazing to see what Gary 2004 bahn’s Sherrie Brammall and and team have done over the NOV.: AT debuts the AIMS News & Notes page, Wonderland Park’s Paul Roads sections (International, Amuse- years to grow the awards into launching AT's safety, maintenance editorial coverage convinced Slade he was on the ment Parks, Water Parks and a multi-day networking event.” 2005 right path. Business) appearing in the ini- Skyline Attractions’ Chris APRIL: Debut of Midway section, rounding out AT's editorial “I recall like it was yester- tial issue, it was also joined by Gray added, “I have now been coverage to all areas of the amusement industry 2009 day sitting with Gary in the a listing of amusement industry going to the Golden Tickets for APRIL: First full-color issue throughout entire publication lobby of a hotel in New Orleans stock market listings, something more than 10 years. During that 2012 during the IAAPA trade show,” that had not been done before. time, it has become one of the DEC: AT kick's off 12-months (32 total pages) of Superstorm Sandy said Janice Witherow, former At the November trade best networking events outside coverage, supporting NJAA's effort to "Restore, Rebuild and PR manager at Cedar Point. show, IAAPA awarded Amuse- of the IAAPA trade show. We Reopen" following the damage to the amusement piers. “He was so excited about the ment Today with an Impact also like to use the event as a 2017 idea he had for starting Amuse- Award for Best New Product/ fun getaway for our Skyline JAN: AT debuts the National Roller Coaster Museum & Archives ment Today. We sat for hours Services. team. It helps to refresh and Progress Report page to help inform the amusement industry of brainstorming, and he laid out Over time, Classifieds, Mid- invigorate everyone with a fun the donations and progress being made on the museum effort APRIL: AT begins publishing entire issue on 50 lb. coated stock the paper right then and there way and AIMS News & Notes weekend that also connects us providing a cleaner, brighter look not found on newsprint in his mind. Who would have appeared. Columns featuring all to the industry’s core lead- • thought 20 years later AT would the National Roller Coaster ers.” AWARDS be what it is today? Gary has Museum & Archives, now With 14 issues printed each 1997 such dedication, grit, a big heart maintained by board member/ year, the most by any trade AT wins the Impact Award for Best New Product/Services and love for our industry… it’s historian Richard Munch, and publication in the amusement AT also earns an Honorable Mention at the Expo obvious in each issue. It’s fun 2-Minute Drill spotlighting in- industry, AT has covered the 1999 to think what Amusement Today dustry professionals coordinat- numerous trade shows, the AT takes First Place in IAAPA's Services Category for the might look like 20 years from ed by Witherow have become devastation of Hurricane Sandy introduction of the Golden Ticket Awards to the industry now!” monthly staples in the issues. and the industry’s descent into 2000 AT receives an Honorable Mention in IAAPA's Services Category Other industry publica- “When Gary approached and emergence from the re- for its Bonus Section coverage on two new parks openings: tions at the time focused on the me to help coordinate the Gold- cent recession. Accented with Jazzland, New Orleans, La. and Magic Springs, Hot Springs, Ark. people within the industry, but en Ticket Awards and come up cartoons, special sections and 2002 AT’s approach was to balance with a Q & A series that would obituaries, the publication has AT Publisher Gary Slade wins IAAPA's Public Affairs Award people in the industry with cov- feature someone in the industry strived to offer something for • erage of product. With so many each month, I had just resigned every industry professional. NUMBERS operators unable to travel to from the position of public rela- A recent focus is an empha- 14 issues published each year, most per year in industry see the rides offered at the time, tions manager at Cedar Point sis on safety and maintenance 74 pages related to Safety, Maintenance produced in 2016 covering industry installations — a job I truly loved — to stay education. “Nobody is address- 144 industry profiles (2 Minute Drill) by Janice Witherow seemed vital, especially in the home with my newborn son,” ing safety like AT has,” said 452 total number of Golden Ticket Awards presented to date 740 largest total page count in a single year (Vol. 16) age when the internet was just said Witherow. “I hesitated at Slade. “It’s such an important 11,378 total number of pages produced in first 20 years beginning and Youtube had yet first, but knew it was a great op- side of the industry that can’t be to be invented. With numerous portunity to keep my fingers in shared enough and I'm proud April 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 31 32 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017 SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & EDUCATION Amusement ride safety: Riders and Supervising Companion AT: Harold Hudson FINAL PART IN A SERIES: Special to Amusement Today RIDERS

Try as we might, when it comes to safe- the risks are. We don’t know what ty, we can’t do could happen. everything by Let’s discuss some of the ourselves... We things we should do on our side need the active of the safety partnership and some cooperation of of the things the rider should do guests and rid- on their side of the safety partner- ers to make the ship. park and rides Hudson as safe as pos- Rider instructions sible. We typically provide rider In each of the areas discussed instructions through printed fly- in previous installments, we as op- ers/pamphlets, signage, verbal erators had control or major influ- instructions, recorded spiels and Amusement ride device signage can come in all sizes and ence over the factors affecting ride sometimes, in less structured man- formats, from this duel language sign (above) for the Future safety. Those areas were: ner, via web sites or social media. Flight Journey to Mars at the recently held Super Bowl Fan •Design/Engineering The reasoning is that for a rider to Experience in Houston to this sign on the Six Flags Over appropriate advisory signs or warn- •Fabrication be our partner he/she must know Texas Shock Wave featuring six graphic icons to match the ing signs based on the attributes of •Installation what is expected of them and what rider restriction language. COURTESY ARM; AT/TIM BALDWIN the amusement ride or device. These •Operations is his or her responsibility as our recommendations should be clear and •Maintenance safety partner. A rider cannot be a a ride or device who is qualified by a signs create signage overload and concise, but are not intended to be the •Riders good partner in safety if they don’t reasonable age or other means to un- the tendency becomes to not even final wording of the signs that may be Now, the last area that affects understand the rules and what is derstand rider instructions, assist a look at the sign. generated and displayed at the ride or ride safety is Riders and in this expected of them. Signage is the patron or child under 48 in. in height Alphabet soup signs are signs device. area, working in partnership with no. 1 communication method. in complying with rider instructions, that have so much information on This allows the manufacturer the guests or riders is essential. Recorded spiels are a good and who meets all other criteria for them that it is foreboding and con- to specify important rider eligi- We do have a moral obliga- way to present a consistent mes- riding. fusing. As a consequence, many bility information or information tion to address ride safety in all sage in queue lines and loading In the non-mandatory Ap- people don’t read the sign at all. that the rider should be aware of areas, with all we have at our dis- areas. The trick is to find a way to pendixes, ASTM further states: ASTM standards require that op- but leaves it up to the operator to posal and to the best of our ability. make them not so monotonous. ASTM F2291, Par. 6.4.2.2 When erators provide rider eligibility design the sign and make a final This includes safety issues where Some suggestions to do this in- a supervising companion is employed requirements and instructions that decision as to how the manufac- riders are our partners. We need clude: create several different to accompany children under 48 in. are readable. Specifically, ASTM turers recommendations are incor- to do our best to solicit the riders messages all conveying the same in height on rides that accommodate states: porated. help in keeping the rides and park critical information, use different both children under 48 in. in height ASTM F770, Par. 4.6 Signs safe for them and our employees. voices, e.g., male/female and dif- and adults, the supervising compan- presented by the owner/operator Enforce the rules ferent people. Anything to elimi- ion must either: for instruction to the public shall be Whatever the rules or restric- Why a partnership? nate the continuous drone that 1: Comply with a service proven prominently placed, bold in design, tions are, enforcement is vitally im- Why? Because we work hard, everyone tunes out. practice of the operating facility which with wording short, simple, and to the portant. Enforcement of park and train hard and plan hard to make Signage relates to qualifying supervising com- point. ride rules should be thorough and the ride as safe as we can; but in Every park typically does a panions, or Let’s say that again… signage complete because it does little good the end, we put the guest/rider on good job of ride signage, advis- 2: Meet all the criteria for riding should be simple, clear and to the to instruct guest/riders and not board and hope that they obey the ing riders and supervising com- alone and be approximately 14 years point. I hate to reference a specific enforce those instructions. Human rules and don’t do anything fool- panions of requirements to ride of age or older. (See X6.2). A ride park but go look at one of the “gold beings being what they are, they ish. Obeying the rules and using and the necessary conduct while analysis may lead to alternate require- standard” parks. They typically quickly learn what they can and common sense is their side of the on the ride. Supervising Compan- ments. have clear and simple signs…. and cannot get away with. It’s like the partnership. We educate, instruct ion may be a new term for some, not too many of them! old saying “give them an inch and and plead with the rider, but if but it is the term that should be It is strongly suggested that ASTM also makes it incum- they take a mile.” Enforce the rules they do not hold up their side of used for anyone accompanying all facilities start using the “Super- bent on the manufacturer to deter- and don’t let the guest/riders run the partnership, safety can be com- another person on a ride. Specifi- vising Companion” term. mine and recommend information the park. That is our job. promised. It’s not that when the cally, ASTM standards define this Regarding signage, the two that should appear on signs: Enforcing the rules should be rider is not a good partner safety person as: biggest issues commonly seen are ASTM F2291, Par. 6.7 Signage done in a guest friendly manner, risk sky rockets, but it’s that all of ASTM F2291, Par. 3.1.26 su- too many signs and what I call — The manufacturer shall determine a sudden, we don’t know what all pervising companion — a person on “alphabet soup signs.” Too many and may make recommendations for 4See RIDERS, page 33

Ride vehicle restraints come in many forms but generally do not pose any problems for the ride attendant's ability to check the device to make sure it is properly secured. From left, the new between the leg t-bar on the Fury 325 at Carowinds provides a more open feel for the riders while this u-shaped bar that wraps around the legs, provides Snow White roller coaster riders at Disney a more traditional feel. Far right, new safety system technology is now alerting control panel operators and ride attendants what gondolas are secure on this new Ferris wheel at Old Town in Florida. AT/GARY SLADE April 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 33 SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & EDUCATION RIDERS a “partnership effort” is restraint er, if he or she tires hard enough. Our job is to make sure the as the top line, “we can’t do ev- Continued from page 32 systems. This is the area where Today’s ride manufacturers do rider is educated, the restrain is erything by ourselves…” many riders cease to be a partner. an amazing job of designing re- operating properly, closed prop- When it comes to the rider, almost a humble manner … un- A restraint may be well de- straints and rider containment erly, locked properly and physi- we need a partnership. A partner- til it is necessary to get tough. But signed, but it won’t function features that keep the rider safe. cally checked by the operator. ship with the rider. Our side of please don’t start out tough. Work as designed if it’s not properly If riders simply listen to instruc- After that our job is to watch for the partnership is providing clear your way from humble to forceful closed and locked. An operator’s tions, respect the design and use anyone who might be riding im- instructions, monitoring guests’ to tough to demanding. Hopefully side of the partnership is to make common sense they will be safe, properly and be trying to defeat and riders’ actions closely and en- operators don’t reach demanding. sure the restraint is properly used. they will be your partner. On the the restraint. Anyone who delib- forcing the rules. The rider’s side Guest in every park have to know The rider’s side of the partnership other hand, a double-jointed rider erately disobeys instructions or of the partnership is absorbing who is in charge and it is best to es- is to not try to defeat the system. may be able to squirm out of any attempts to defeat a safety system the instructions, obeying the rules tablish that understanding early on. If they attempt to get out of the re- restraint system ever built but is not your partner. and using common sense. straint, the partnership has gone they will likely have to work at it. Let’s strive for an actual part- The legal issues awry. Yes, even the best restraints In this case, the rider is not your The bottom line nership, promote safety, look for In every case, wording and may be defeated by the right rid- partner. The bottom line is the same safe behavior and be safe. placement of signs is critical to communicating to your partner, the rider. The quality and place- ment of advisory and warning signs are also critical from a legal standpoint. In many lawsuits, the issue boils down to the accusa- tion that you failed to “sufficiently warn” the guest? I recommend you work with: •ANSI Z535 safety alerting standards •ADA signage requirements •Your attorney The first two will help op- erators and sign makers better address font type and sizes. The third, your attorney, should ap- prove all signage so that he or she can defend you, if needed.

Not a partner? Sometimes a guest or rider may knowingly or unknowingly not be your partner in safety. We should always keep in mind that human beings are human beings. There are two types of human be- ings you should look for — those who have never been to a park or ridden a ride and those who have been there many times. The latter is your best customer but may also be your biggest problem. The point is that some guests are very familiar with your rides, and in some cases, they think it’s okay to explore, see what happens if… In other words, there are rid- ers that are bored with the ride be- cause they have been on it a hun- dred times and they may look for added thrill by doing something different, something foolish.- Op erators should be on the lookout for these people and, if caught, al- though they are your best custom- ers, they should be banished from the park. Seriously, this is “enforc- ing the rules.” This is refusing to have someone in your park that is not a partner in safety. There are many things you need to do to make sure your part- ner, the rider, is working as a part- ner. Just to list a few: •Clear signage •Clear verbal instructions •Critical instructions written and available in most common languages •Consistent enforcement of rules

Restraints systems need partners Not listed above but really 34 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017 SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & EDUCATION Safety a major focal point with attendees during Gibtown show AT: Pam Sherborne [email protected]

GIBSONTON, Fla. — Tom Drake and Dale Mc- Intosh, owners, Computer- ized Accounting Technics (C.A.T.), Orlando, Fla., have provided carnival owners and concessionaires with ac- counting software since 1985. And, they have exhibited at the International Indepen- dent Showmen's Foundation (IISF) Trade Show and Ex- travaganza every year since Lars Koch, Eworks Pro, saw a lot of both former and current Harold Gillam, owner, Tig Artistics, stands in front of some then. clients at the IISF show this year. He said he was glad to put of his newest products, entrance canopies, at the IISF show "We have over 100 cli- some faces to the names. AT/PAM SHERBORNE in February. AT/PAM SHERBORNE ents," Drake said. "Most of the people that come by our sist company owners in keep- tory and type of lighting. The orders." over 5,000 bulletins, as well booth already are our cus- ing track of all of its business, company's manufacturing Tig Artistics LLC, Old as other ride documentation. tomers, but we are here every from what is making money division continues to offer Monroe, Mo., a company Pete Downs, Waterloo year." to what isn't, to maintaining "tailor made" chase or steady known for its fencing used Tent & Tarp, Waterloo, Iowa, C.A.T.'s software pro- inventory files. lighted channel systems for around rides, etc., on the mid- said his company has been grams offer the outdoor They write the programs building exteriors/interiors, way, exhibited one of its new very busy. In fact, they have amusement industry an ar- and customize them to fit window outlines, marquees, products at this year's IISF been so busy, they have to ray of features that not only needs. and amusement rides. event, said Michelle Baker. plan customer ship dates records, accounts and main- Safe-Strap Company, Eworks Pro, based in That was a canopy-sized en- much further out than they tains inventory, payroll and Fort Myers, Fla., is another Winter Park, Fla., has pro- try unit, which comes in two expect or even prefer for a ticket sales, it also includes company that filled a need vided LEDs and LED pack- different sizes. customer-oriented business. a maintenance manager that in the safety of the outdoor ages since 2000. Lars Koch, Tig Artistics also manu- "We have been shipping records and tracks repairs amusement industry. In 1983, who attended the 2017 IISF factures portable lemonade 70 to 100 units a month," and maintenance for rides, Safe-Strap introduced its first event, said the project that re- and concession stands. Downs said, adding unless trucks and other equipment. safety strap assembly for ally "put the company on the Ridebooks was at the they receive very large orders It creates safety inspection rides, replacing ropes, chains map" was the lighting pack- IISF Trade Show discussing and it could be more than procedures and work sheets and cleats. Using webbing- age on the Vekoma wheel at that company's method of that. and has maintenance sched- based restraints as well as Morey's Pier, Wildwood, N.J. enabling clients to be able to Waterloo's new Snack uling. new technology, the compa- 11 years ago. search its data base for ride Shack is a product that can be So, as AT began speak- ny continues to re-define the "Will (Morey) wanted manuals, bulletins, govern- used as a facade for a trailer ing with companies that ex- ride seat belt. something new and I sug- ment notices and more. A or can be used on its own. hibited safety products at Along with the strap it- gested the LED lights," Koch paid app, Ridebooks has in- But, the idea is to increase this year's event, held Feb. self, the company also offers said. "But, then he asked for a formation on over 400 manu- 7-11, C.A.T. couldn't be over- buckles, end plates, harnesses package. So, after a lot of re- facturers, over 1,500 rides and 4See GIBTOWN, page 35 looked. and attachers. search, I was able to develop Drake and McIntosh start- Action Lighting, Boze- a package with the controller ed in the amusement indus- man, Mont., also exhibited and software. Will just want- try with a photo trailer and at the IISF show this year. ed all or nothing. Once we traveled on Johnny's United One of the company's new- learned to do that, that was a Shows, a carnival now out of est products is rope neon huge boost to our business." business. The two saw a need lighting, but that is just one Koch said the company is and saw computers could as- of the company's huge inven- the primary LED vendor for Chance Rides. Fred's Tents & Cano- pies, Waterford, N.Y., exhib- ited six tents outside and had an inside booth as well this year at the IISF show. At the inside booth, the company exhibited and sold table and slide bags. The tents shown outside ranged in size from 10 by 10 feet to 10 by 20 feet. Tents have become a common site as facility security check- points. The company's Heather Natalie Ott was on-hand for Ridebooks at the IISF trade Frank said Fred's Tents & show this year. The company provides an app to clients en- Canopies has exhibited at abling them to search the company’s data base for ride man- Tom Drake, left, and Dale McIntosh, founded Computer- IISF's trade show for 27 years. uals, bulletins, government notices and more. The data base ized Accounting Technics in 1985 to offer a computer soft- "This year has been a good contains over 400 manufacturers, over 1,500 rides and over ware for carnival owners and concessionaires in the outdoor show," said Frank, during the 5,000 bulletins, as well as other ride documentation. amusement industry. AT/PAM SHERBORNE event. "We have taken a lot of AT/GARY SLADE April 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 35 SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & EDUCATION GIBTOWN Continued from page 34 food output for vendors. It is created to have one customer line for ordering and pay- ing, and then another line for food pickup. Dale Hershberger, Au- dio Innovators, Riverview, Fla., exhibited his products this year that include audio messaging units to promote safety and revenue gen- erating. A sampling of his products include: Motorola and Kenwood two-way ra- dios; audio accessory for all Audio Innovators' Dale Hershberger takes a break during brands of two-way radios; the IISF Trade Show and Extravaganza. AT/PAM SHERBORNE and message repeaters used for amusement ride safety, public transportation go- kart tracks, water parks, and James Judkins, JKL Work- more. force agency, was so busy James Judkins, JKJ From left, Cody Downs, Pete Downs, Lisa Newman, and Eric this year at the IISF show Workforce, Harlingen, Texas, Hamann, Waterloo Tent and Tarp, stand in front of one of discussing the H-2B seasonal was extremely busy at this the company's newest products, the Shack Stand, at the IISF foreign labor program. He year's IISF show. He con- event. AT/PAM SHERBORNE not only led formal sessions ducted sessions regarding at the event, but spent the H-2B seasonal foreign la- as more traditional seasonal cause of delays caused by the much time fielding emails bor visa program, which ran businesses in hospitality, changeover in the U.S. ad- and phone calls in his booth. for hours. He has worked in landscaping and pet board- ministrations. But, the actual AT/PAM SHERBORNE this area for many years, pro- ing and grooming. process is still the same. He cessing these visas for the This is a difficult year is able to navigate employers complex mobile or itinerant for his business as well as through the USDOL ETA, US- seasonal businesses, as well the businesses he serves be- CIS, DOS and DHS processes. 36 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017 SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & EDUCATION Pa. Ride Safety Seminar trained over 335 inspectors Training is offered twice a year AT: B. Derek Shaw [email protected]

HARRISBURG, Pa. — The Pennsylvania Ride Safety Seminar trained and tested amusement ride inspectors in Pennsylvania and New Jer- sey February 28 – March 2. Conducted by the Pennsyl- vania Department of Agri- culture Bureau of Ride and Measurements Standards, Four of the 80 instructors of the spring ride safety seminar the training is for Class 1 and include: seated, Charma Wilderson, general manager of Above, Mike Mingle of NEO Amusements, Inc. Cuyahoga Falls, 2 Ride Inspectors and Gen- Safe Strap Company, LLC; Standing (l to r): Lenny Adams, Ohio, instructs a class on general repair of inflatables. Below, eral Qualified Inspectors and principal, Adams Amusements: Al (A.J.) Slaggert, father of some of the students gather around the large-scale chart of Specialized Inspectors and seminar training coordinator Phil and Steve Konig, CEO of the three-day ride safety seminar. those needing recertification. Assembly Specialty Products, Inc. AT/B. DEREK SHAW AT/B. DEREK SHAW Course areas included: Inflat- able Rides, Extreme Sports, that are the most beneficial for is the owner of Mobile Mid- Water Attractions, Haunted their career path, job descrip- way Safety Institute. Attractions, Roller Coasters, tion, abilities, and employer The instructors for the Go Karts, Bumper Boats and benefit. This spring, there were three day training are all vol- more. a total of 197 course options, unteers with a wide spectrum with some new ones added of specialties that impact the as well. “Absolutely, we try to amusement industry, from all be as current as we can,” said around the country. “We have Slaggert. Sometimes a popular over 80 instructors for this Al Slaggert with Mo- class gets modified such as the course. Remember every hour, bile Midway Safety Institute active shooter one presented there are eight different classes (MMSI) was asked the differ- by the Pennsylvania State Po- being taught at this seminar. ence between the classes in lice. “While it is not new, there Every year we try to bring in the spring versus fall. “It’s the are some twists that were new people,” explained Slag- audience. In the fall we don’t brought into that presentation. gert. have the haunted house peo- This is an evolving thing.” The Courses are broad-based ple we get now. This training training and testing is inde- while some classes target very session isn’t just for amuse- pendent of the Pennsylvania specific subjects. Instructors ment rides. This is for amuse- Department of Agriculture; with a high quality of knowl- ment venues, water parks, however it is sanctioned by edge and professionalism are tal understanding of their cation is recognized in many haunted houses, ziplines (and) them. This is the 12th year obtained so good interaction specific operations. This all states across the country in- family fun centers.” and 24th time Slaggert’s son, with participants can occur. contributes to learning and cluding New Jersey. Those Seminar participants Phil Slaggert has overseen the The idea is for attendees to improving as an industry. inspectors are training for choose the specialty courses training in Pennsylvania. Phil leave with a good fundamen- Slaggert went on to ac- that states’ Recognized Certi- knowledge a few outside fied Maintenance Technician, influences creating training (RCMT). There are many in- challenges. “Everything in the spectors who don’t work in safety field right now is in a Pennsylvania; however they state of flux. Weather is a big register in Pennsylvania to phenomenon. Three years ago have the certification on their we barely touched on weath- ride from inspectors trained in er, but we’ve had tents come the Keystone State. down. We have had inflatables The Pennsylvania De- blow away. We’ve had to ad- partment of Agriculture has dress these issues. We have to inspected and registered know how to predict weather. amusement rides under the We are doing a lot of weather Amusement Ride Safety Act programs,” said Slaggert. since 1984 and regularly par- “Also, we have to be concerned ticipates in education and out- with traffic controls suddenly. reach seminars that include A year ago we didn’t have to classes and hands-on dem- worry about vehicles. We have onstrations. The next Penn- to have to worry about put- sylvania Ride Safety Seminar ting up some type of a barrier is scheduled for November to protect our clients. We have 7-9 at the Red Lion Hotel and to be alert to the fact that there Conference Center, Harris- is always something new com- burg, just off I-283 on Lindle ing along.” Road. The Pennsylvania certifi- •paridesafety.com April 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 37

ThisM spaceuseu is provided courtesym of Amusement P Todayrogress, a corporate partner of the National R Roller Coasterep Museumort & Archives. Tom Major donates Six Flags THIS MONTH IN HISTORY memorabilia to museum archives Presented by the National Rollercoaster Museum Tom Major, a 33-year ca- AT: Richard Munch reer veteran with Six Flags Corporation recently do- APRIL nated some of his Six Flags •1908: To mark the 10th anniversary of Olentangy Park, in Colum- memorabilia to the National bus, Ohio, management offered the state’s first looping coaster, Roller Coaster Museum for the Loop the Loop, opening on April 26. Designed and built by archiving. A small sampling inventor Lina Beecher (1841-1915), the single-track, single-car de- shown here are clockwise vice enjoyed great success its first season. While most riders were from top: wall map of Six considered daredevils, many only tried the experience once. After Flags Over Mid-America several accidents, where riders were hurt, the ride began to lose from park opening in 1971; popularity. Its reputation eventually reduced ridership, and some- Tom Major (left) and good time after the 1912 season it was removed. While critics considered friend Harold Hudson; on a it a failure, it was a great improvement over earlier looping devices. Six Flags business trip in Ger- many, l to r, are: Tom Major, •1917: As reported in Billboard magazine, the work on Lake View Park, Omaha, Nebraska’s newest amusement park, was being Reinhold Spieldiener, Larry rushed to completion for opening in early June. The report, re- Cochran and Peter Schnabel leased on April 14, said that the Munchhoff Brothers, former op- and this photo of the coaster erators of nearby Krug Park, had purchased the land. In regard to legend Anton Schwarzkopf its most essential ride: “One of the chief features now under con- taken from the same early struction is the large Jack Rabbit underfriction coaster, which is one 1980s trip. of the very latest rides being built. This coaster is said to be a great COURTESY TOM MAJOR; deal more exciting and thrilling than the old style, due to the fact AT/GARY SLADE that the cars are run in trains with three cars each.” John Miller, who was also behind the mile long Giant Coaster at Paragon Park in Massachusetts, designed the new ride while employed by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company. Miller also built an Old Mill in time for the opening.

•1931: A new roller coaster at Mid City Park, Menands (Albany), N.Y. opened on April 26. The new Wildcat contained an assortment of banked and swoop curves, and at 85 feet high was one of the largest coasters built during the Depression. It replaced John Mill- er’s earlier Deep Dip design from 1920 (the site of this coaster be- came an artificial lake). Designed by Herbert Schmeck of the Phila- delphia Toboggan Company, the ride operated until 1934, when it closed as a result of the lack of visitors mostly attributed to difficult financial times. Ironically it would stand for nearly a quarter century before being demolished in 1959 for a shopping center. 38 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017 'Children's Fairyland' chronicles 10-acre theme park in Oakland, Calif. OAKLAND, Calif. — Al- BOOK REVIEW much like the Belle Island Zoo to spend an enchanted eve- though not as prevalent as they that served as its inspiration. ning. used to be, small theme parks zation of which he was a mem- Children have an opportu- The final chapter looks to dedicated to children dot the ber. At that time, the club was nity to interact with differ- the future of the park. After American landscape. Unlike for local businessmen (women ent animals including horses, more than 60 year of service, the big themers with high pro- were later admitted) dedicated donkeys, goats, chickens and some of the original attrac- file rides, these smaller parks to creating a better Oakland. sheep. tions need to be rebuilt or up- may not be known outside the Members met once a week at 7 As nursery owners, the graded. Fortunately the park region they serve. a.m. for breakfast. Navlets included beautiful gar- was granted nonprofit 501 (c) One such park is Chil- The breakfast club em- dens in the original park and (3) status in the 1990s, and the dren's Fairyland in Oakland, braced the idea and persuaded that tradition continues today local community continues to Calif. The subject of a new ad- the Oakland Parks Commis- with a number of rare plants support the park with fund- dition to the Images of America sion to get involved. and an on-site greenhouse. raisers and memberships. Collection: Children's Fairyland. Chapter one starts with After the opening of the Children's Fairyland was Conceived by a group the selection of a 10-acre site park, it continued to grow with written by Randal J. Metz who of local businessmen who within Lakeside Park, along new attractions as illustrated has worked at the park for 47 dreamed of a storybook park the shores of Lake Merritt. The by the photos in chapter four. years. Metz currently serves as where children could create, chapter shows the principals Live entertainment has ris wheel, two carousels and director of the park's Open Sto- imagine, play and learn, the involved with getting the park been an important part of the trolley. The park deliberately rybook Puppet Theater. He also park opened in 1950. from drawing board to reality, park offerings including the avoids thrill rides of any kind, runs the Puppet Company in The book's introduction along with construction and Storybook Puppet Theater, relying instead on the various the San Francisco Bay area and explains how Arthur and opening day photos. which claims to be the longest- sets, animal attractions and performs puppetry through- Alma Navlet, owners of Oak- The second chapter fea- running puppet theater in the gardens to entertain. out the state. He has published land's largest nursery, visited tures a selection of photos from United States. Chapter five The seventh chapter in- three books on Fairyland and Belle Island Zoo in Detroit, the archives showing the origi- shows the various forms of cludes photos of the events that puppetry. Mich. The children's play area nal park along with photos of entertainment offered by the take place throughout the year. Children's Fairyland is pub- featured fanciful storybook set- the park today to show how park which include clown acts, Fairyland has special celebra- lished by the Arcadia Press and tings that inspired the Navlets many of the original attractions street performers, and chil- tions for Mothers' Day, Fathers' is available at local and online to create something similar for remain unchanged. dren's theater. Day, Chinese New Year, Public book retailers or directly from the children of Oakwood. Chapter three includes Chapter six deals with the Safety Day, May Day and Cin- Arcadia at arcadiapublishing. Arthur Navlet presented photos of the park's flora and park coming of age, including co de Mayo, and summertime com. The book retails for $21.99 his idea to the Lake Merritt fauna. Since its inception, the the addition of modest rides "overnighters" allowing guests —Jeffrey L. Seifert Breakfast Club, a social organi- park has included live animals, such as a boat ride, small Fer- to set up tents inside the park April 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39 CLASSIFIEDS

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Call Len or John (908) 526-8009 FAX: (908) 526-4535 40 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2017