INSIDE: Extreme Engineering's Jeff Wilson rethinks coaster technology See page 36
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April 2016 | Vol. 20 • Issue 1 www.amusementtoday.com $250 million indoor water park resort opens Great Wolf Lodge raises a winning howl in Southern California
AT: Dean Lamanna — the region’s first — and 603 [email protected] spacious suites to Orange Coun- GARDEN GROVE, Calif. — ty’s themed entertainment hub. Combining fanfare and family It will generate an estimated $8 affair, and mixing in plenty of million in annual tax revenue for splash, a wiley-but-welcoming the City of Garden Grove. wolf mascot and a whole lot of “Southern California is one happy kids, Great Wolf Lodge of the top destinations for family Southern California opened here fun in the country — and we are March 4. thrilled to bring our unique ex- There was good reason for perience to the area,” said com- the excitement. This is the first pany CEO Rubén A. Rodríguez California location for Madison, plan and two years to complete. in remarks to the gathered me- Wis.-based Great Wolf Resorts, It is the largest of the brand’s 13 dia and guests. Inc. (GWR), North America’s resorts. Added Chad McWhin- largest chain of indoor water It also exemplifies the old ney, CEO and co-founder of park resorts. Built at a cost of real estate maxim: “Location, McWhinney: “We are proud $250 million, the project — a location, location.” With a Har- to partner with the respected Great Wolf Resorts CEO Rubén A. Rodríguez, flanked by partnership between GWR and bor Boulevard address about team at Great Wolf Resorts to Southern California project partner Chad McWhinney and Colorado-based real estate de- a mile south of the Disneyland expand upon McWhinney’s company mascot Wiley the Wolf, welcomes media and velopment company McWhin- Resort, Great Wolf Lodge brings guests to the new Great Wolf Lodge in Garden Grove. on ney — took about a decade to a world-class indoor water park 4See GREAT WOLF, page 4 March 4. COURTESY GREAT WOLF RESORTS Six Flags, Samsung roll out coaster-enhancing VR system High-tech thrills to be applied to nine rides AT: Dean Lamanna from the basic coaster experience. [email protected] “This remarkable technology is a definite GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — Six Flags En- game-changer for theme park rides,” said John tertainment Corp. is raising the thrill factor on Duffey, president and CEO of Six Flags. “It rep- several of its U.S. roller coasters this season with resents everything our brand stands for — de- a special effects-filled, on-ride video system -up livering the most thrilling and innovative rides grade. and attractions in the world.” The theme park company, in partnership Marc Mathieu, chief marketing officer for with Ridgefield Park, N.J.-based consumer elec- Samsung, agreed. tronics maker Samsung Electronics America, “What makes this partnership so compel- Inc., is augmenting the attractions with fully im- ling for consumers and the broader tech indus- mersive virtual reality (VR) experiences using try alike is that both companies are committed A virtual reality system developed by Six Flags and Samsung Samsung Gear VR, powered by Oculus. With the to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible will be bringing new excitement to nine of the theme park aid of gyros, accelerometers and proximity sen- — and bringing a VR coaster to life is certainly chain’s U.S. roller coasters this season. The optional game- sors, the optional-use headset system synchro- a new and thrilling proposition,” Mathieu said. play gear offers two different action-adventure experiences nizes the realistic, 360-degree action of a virtual “This transforms the modern roller coaster into a synched to each ride’s course elements. reality world with each ride’s drops, twists and totally new, one-of-a-kind sensorial experience.” COURTESY SIX FLAGS ENTERTAINMENT CORP. loops — creating a new kind of adrenaline rush 4See SIX FLAGS, page 4 Dated material. material. Dated
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EDITORIAL: Gary Slade, [email protected] FLINT’S VIEW: Bubba Flint Two decades of trade publishing witness the growth of gadgetry This issue of Amusement Today marks the beginning of the company's 20th year of publishing news for the greater amusement industry. It's been a roller coaster-like ride — one full of memories, friendships and electronic change. Slade It's remarkable that only two decades ago the Internet and email were still in their infancy and the broadcast media were struggling to read a website correctly on air: http: or www. period com or dot com? Thank goodness dot com fell into favor. It should have been an easy guess that the birth of the Internet would lead to so many computer innova- tions that almost all Americans now carry a PC with them in the form of a smartphone. The smartphone now gives the print media the im- mediacy of posting photos on their newspaper web- sites live from where news is happening. Technology is INDUSTRY OPINION: Dean Lamanna, [email protected] changing the media industry as fast as it is the world. Enthusiasts move beyond fun to forge lasting legacy Now, the latest turn in the evolution of the smart- As host of the landmark late-1970s tele- human needs at once personal and uni- phone has arrived in the amusement industry in the vision documentary America Screams, the versal. form of virtual reality headsets. late Vincent Price happily discussed and rode “I was never good at sports as a — among other great thrill machines — the kid,” he says in his thoughtful narration, During spring break, Six Flags Over Texas (and then-record-breaking new Revolution and “but I felt I could prove my braveness by Georgia), in cooperation with Samsung, were among Colossus “rolly coasters” at (pre-Six Flags) riding big coasters.” the first of nine Six Flags parks to debut virtual reality Magic Mountain in Valencia, Calif. Some of those coasters, in fact, were The film, produced by Scott Campbell created by the titular “star” of The Leg- (VR) technology on roller coasters — giving riders a Lamanna new fully immersive experience. (See story, page 1.) and Gary Kyriazi at the height of the theme acy of Arrow Development. The primarily park boom and just as an organization called the ACE-funded, feature-length film, produced by Kris- The key to the headsets is a smartphone located American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) was gaining topher Rowberry and directed by Nicholas Lasch- inside each of them. The smartphone provides a pre- speed, was among the first to chronicle the history kewitsch, traces Arrow from its inception through loaded movie, a screen for watching and the technol- of amusements in America. its multiple incarnations over seven decades — il- ogy that makes the entire system work — all in live Nearly 40 years later, a new crop of amusement lustrating the company’s importance and ongoing time. It’s so live, in fact, that the front of the train is documentaries has appeared. Like America Screams influence in the business of fun. and umpteen TV programs that followed, they’re An inadvertent revelation of these documen- watching the same footage a few seconds ahead of anchored in our obsession with thrill-seeking. But taries (both are available on YouTube) is that yes- the back of the train. The headset picks up the riders they’re also the products of maturing enthusiasts terday’s enthusiasts have become today’s industry seat location before leaving the station and then keeps using their experience, passion and expertise to leaders, designers, manufacturers and historians. the signal and the rider’s position on the coaster track preserve — in digital amber — amusement history. They are, for example, the driving force behind the in sync during the experience. For Signature Attraction, Australian filmmaker Texas-based National Roller Coaster Museum and Malcolm Burt spent three years traveling interna- Archives — which, bringing history full circle, just In our youth, we read about the same technology in tionally to interview sociologists, professors and fel- negotiated Six Flags Magic Mountain’s generous comic books. And while they may not realize it, today’s low enthusiasts about the appeal of parks and roller donation of vintage coaster cars from Revolution youth are living our comic book world. coasters. While “escapism” is the common answer, and Colossus. Burt pushes beyond that to discuss how they fulfill Vincent Price is surely smiling somewhere.
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Amusement Today is an independent, privately- Founder, Publisher and Editor Editorial Print Issue & Extra Extra owned trade newspaper published 14 times Gary Slade • (817) 460-7220 x3 Tim Baldwin Desktop Edition Production per year by Amusement Today Inc., P.O. Box [email protected] [email protected] John Robinson • (513) 256-1441 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005. Print issues are [email protected] $50 per year and are mailed Presort Standard Accounting & Classified Dean Lamanna Postage (permit No. 2069) Pre-Paid Fort Worth, [email protected] Texas. The entire contents of this newspaper, Sammy Piccola • (817) 460-7220 x1 Website Maintenance [email protected] Stacey Childress and its related web sites, are Copyrighted and B. Derek Shaw • (717) 650-8330 Trademarked 2016 by Amusement Today Inc., [email protected] [email protected] all rights reserved. Advertising Sue Nichols • (615) 477-5432 Pam Sherborne • (615) 308-3310 Association Memberships Address: P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas AIMS International, IAAPA, IISF, IRT/iROC, [email protected] [email protected] 76005-5427, USA NAARSO, NEAAPA, NJAA, OABA, PAPA, Deliveries: 2012 E. Randol Mill Road #203, Monthly Contributors PACE, TTIA, WWA Arlington, Texas 76011, USA Special Projects & Editorial Phone: (817) 460-7220 Jeffrey Seifert • (817) 460-7220 x2 Dan Feicht, Bubba Flint, Andrew Mellor, Industry Affiliated Charities Fax: (817) 265-NEWS (6397) [email protected] Richard Munch, Janice Witherow Give Kids the World Village, Web Sites: www.AmusementToday.com, Morgan's Wonderland, www.GoldenTicketAwards.com National Roller Coaster Museum & Archives April 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3 THIS MONTH MINUTE IN HISTORY DRILL Presented by the National Roller Coaster Museum 2 COMPILED: Janice Witherow COMPILED: Richard Munch Eric Dziedzic, Story Land APRIL 2016 Eric Dziedzic enters a fan- •1885: What is considered the first recorded accident on tasyland every time he goes to a roller coaster, a party of school children were injured work. As general manager of when the platform collapsed on a circular roller coaster Story Land in Glen, N.H., Eric oversees all areas of this idyllic in Toledo, Ohio. The April 14 incident threw 25 children a amusement park where story- distance of 20 feet, fatally injuring one boy and seriously book characters come to life hurting about a dozen others. The early wooden ride was and scenes from favorite child- listed at about 22 feet in height, with the station plat- hood books are re-created form 13 feet above the ground. Built by P.M. Stevenson for families to enjoy. Eric is a of Toledo, the ride operated in a great circle, and had hands-on manager who leads just opened for the first time that day. his staff with a personal ap- proach that also carries over •1904: The water from Jamaica Bay and two Brooklyn to the welcoming way in which Eric Dziedzic, general manager of Story Land in Glen, N.H. Rapid Transit trolley cars were the heroes of a $25,000 Story Land guests are greeted. He is involved in several community and indus- The first thing I do when I get to my office afternoon fire which threatened Bergen Beach (Brook- try organizations, and while not working, family is… lyn, New York) with destruction on April 14. The trolley time ranks at the top of his list of how he enjoys Say hello/good morning to everyone in the cars made it possible for the fire engines to get to the spending his time. building and reflect on how lucky I am to be remote property, and the rising tide accommodated the able to work around such wonderful, talented firefighters, providing them with sufficient water to fight Title: people. the flames. Planned by Percy G. Williams, the resort General Manager. The neatest place I have seen a sunrise is… opened in 1896, and operated an early L.A. Thompson Number of years with Story The summit of Mount Washington. Scenic Railway. Today, the Belt Parkway runs through the Land? property, a forgotten amusement center in the history of Seven. You are going on a safari. What three things Kings County (Brooklyn). would you take with you? Best thing about the indus- A camera and my wife and kids. try... Dziedzic •1920: The April 28 edition of the New York Clipper Change, every day brings new The best pizza I ever tasted would have to claimed that there were more than 500 parks in the Unit- challenges, new experiences, and the opportu- be… ed States, with 15 in Canada. Pennsylvania led all states nity to create new memories. Mashed potato pizza from Little City Pizza in with 58 parks; New York had 48 and Ohio, 44. The article Simsbury, Conn. included a listing of all states, with the following hav- Favorite amusement ride? ing six or more parks: Alabama, eight; California, 13; The Cuckoo Clockenspiel at Story Land! The At home, my television is most often set to… inner workings of the clock (all done in house) The best sports teams in the world … either Colorado, six; Connecticut, 17; Georgia, seven; Illinois, are spectacular; if we are talking thrilling, I would the Boston Red Sox or New York Giants, de- 29; Indiana, 19; Iowa, 18; Kansas, eight; Kentucky, six; have to say Boulder Dash at Lake Compounce. pending on the season. Maine, seven; Maryland, 12; Massachusetts, 28; Michi- gan, 20; Minnesota, six; Missouri, eight; New Hampshire, If I wasn’t working in the amusement industry, Favorite childhood book? six; New Jersey, 28; Rhode Island, seven; Tennessee, six; I would… Blueberries for Sal. Texas, 12; Virginia, seven; West Virginia, 10 and Wiscon- Love to think I would own a boat with deep sea The person I would most like to be stuck in sin, 14. charters. an elevator with is… Biggest challenge facing our industry? David Blaine. It would make the time go by •1922: The contract for a new roller coaster at Peck’s Creating the best experience for our guests much quicker. Park in Arnolds Park, Iowa, was signed the week of April while dealing with skyrocketing prices, tumultu- Favorite reality show? 24th by Dr. Alonzo L. Peck. The new coaster was de- ous economies, and crazy weather patterns. “Survivor.” signed to replace the existing coaster at the park on the The thing I like most about amusement/water shores of Lake Okoboji. John A. Miller, of the firm of Mill- It’s a Friday night. Where would we typically park season is… er & Baker, of Bridgeport, Connecticut, who had been at find you? Seeing all of the hard work and planning from the park for several days, had just completed the plans I wish I had a more romantic answer, but in real- the off-season culminate into the best product and specifications for the new ride. He would state that ity it would either be dance class (not for me) and most wonderful memories for our guests. the plans were along the same lines as all recent Miller or hockey practice with my kids. Summertime is also when I am most likely to and Baker designs — built for safety, speed and thrills. On spend quality time with one of the smartest men In 10 years, I would like to be… May 1, a large force of workers began tearing down the I know, Rolf Paegert. Watching my children achieve their dreams! old coaster, as the new ride would be built on the same Favorite springtime chore? My ideal business wear is… site. Ownership announced that the new ride, the Jack Setting up the trampoline I am very casual… comfortable shoes, khakis Rabbit, would be completed and in operation by summer. and a nice button down shirt. When I say politics, you say… •1999: Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, opened Nothing at all. On my way to work, I usually… the Tennessee Tornado steel coaster on April 17. De- Listen to the radio and enjoy the view. I live in The best thing about living in New Hampshire is… signed by Alan Schilke for Arrow Dynamics, the ride an unbelievable area that should be seen by The White Mountains! What a spectacular area is one of the last major roller coaster built under the Ar- everyone. with so much to do for everyone, especially row name. With three inversions, the 2,682-foot-long, when it is centered around a trip to Story Land. Favorite weekend getaway? 163-foot-high coaster took the place of an earlier Ar- Anywhere with my family. In the White Moun- Take your pick: iced tea or lemonade? row Development ride, the Thunder Express Mine Ride tains, I can step out my door and in minutes Lemonade. (which had been relocated from Six Flags St. Louis, be floating down the Saco River, hiking Mount Missouri). The coaster continues to thrill guests at Dolly- The last time I went shopping, I bought… Washington or playing at Story Land! Can you wood, and contains the largest loop on an Arrow design, Pig Candy. (Google it!) think of a better place to get away? at 110 feet high. 4 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2016 GREAT WOLF FAST FACTS Continued from page 1 Name/Location strong history of developing Great Wolf Lodge/ properties in Southern Califor- Garden Grove, Calif. nia. We are honored by the op- Type portunity to create a develop- All-suite hotel ment of this caliber….” with indoor water park The centerpiece of Great Wolf Lodge is a 105,000-square- Number of Suites foot indoor water park. Kept at 603 a comfortable 84 degrees year- round, the airy, 75-foot-tall com- Number of plex contains 10 waterslides and embark on an adventure-filled Great Wolf Lodge, along five pools for children and par- scavenger hunt. Girls looking with 603 suites, offers a Waterslides/Pools 105,000-square-foot indoor 10/5 ents alike. Attractions include for manicures and beauty treat- the six-story Howlin’ Tornado ments with an ice cream theme water park featuring the Key Contractors funnel slide and Wolf Rider can visit Scooops Kid Spa. And Howlin' Tornado funnel slide (above right) and the & Suppliers Wipeout body surfing experi- Story Time, held each evening in Wolf Rider Wipeout (right). Aquatic Design Group; ence, as well as a massive wave the Grand Lobby, is a warm fam- Being located in drought- Architectural Design pool called Slap Tail Pond and a ily way to cap the day. conscious Southern Califor- Consultants; lazy river, Crooked Creek. Accommodations are de- nia, the park uses a state- Neuman Pools; Admission to the indoor signed for clans of all sizes, of-the-art water filtration, ProSlide Technology, Inc.; water park is free and exclusive- especially with youngsters' en- treatment and recirculation Turner Construction; ly for the use of resort guests. joyment in mind. Themed Wolf Great Wolf Lodge offers Den and KidCabin suites feature system. COURTESY Ware Malcomb; GREAT WOLF RESORTS Water Technology, Inc. many “dry” attractions and ac- bunk beds in a private, club-like and Weber Group tivities, too. The motion simula- sleeping area. The larger Grand able inside the resort at the area’s tor-based Howly Wood XD The- Bear and Grizzly Bear suites of- only Dunkin’ Donuts outlet. Employees ater transports riders directly fer additional bathrooms and Month-long seasonal events in audio/video technology and 650 (full and part-time) into the movie action. The nine- bedrooms and sleep up to eight planned by Great Wolf Lodge in- customizable catering options. hole Howl at the Moon Mini guests. clude Howl-O-Ween in October “We offer value, conve- Co-owners Golf and Ten Paw Alley bowling Even dining is an adventure and Snowland in December. The nience, and endless amounts Great Wolf Resorts, Inc., lanes encourage family-friendly here. Among several themed eat- latter will feature daily snow of fun — all under one roof,” Madison, Wis. and competition, while the Northern eries, guests can try the breakfast showers in the Grand Lobby. said GWR’s Rodríguez. “With McWhinney, Loveland Lights Arcade stocks more than and dinner buffet at the Loose In addition to its accommo- spring break right around the Denver, Colo. 100 interactive video and point- Moose Family Kitchen buffet or dations and amusements, Great corner and summer vacations redemption games. a specialty menu at the Lodge Wolf Lodge has more than 20,000 soon thereafter, we look forward Cost/Opened On the activities side, Wood Fired Grill. Handcrafted square feet of flexible meeting to welcoming many families to $250 million/ MagiQuest, a kid-friendly live pizza and pasta are the high- space. The resort’s conference Great Wolf Lodge Southern Cali- March 4, 2016 action interactive game, gives lights at Hungry as a Wolf. And center comes complete with a fornia.” players magic wands as they grab-and-go favorites are avail- dedicated group entrance, built- •greatwolf.com SIX FLAGS identified as Superman Virtual Reality Coasters. Revolution at 40: freshened-up Continued from page 1 In this storyline, riders will be fully immersed in the comic book world of Metropolis, where and shoulder-restraint free Six Flags and Samsung began launching they will encounter Lex Luthor and his army of VALENCIA, Calif. — Celebrating its the high-definition VR coaster experiences in LexBots. The villain wields an anti-gravity gun 40th anniversary this year, Revolution, March and will continue to roll them out into to create chaos throughout the city, causing cars, the world’s first modern, full-circuit verti- summer. taxis and buses to float in mid-air around the cal looping roller coaster, has been given Six of the nine coasters enhanced will be rider’s vehicle. As the LexBots continue shoot- an impressive facelift by Six Flags Magic additionally dubbed New Revolution Virtual ing at the vehicle, Superman uses heat vision to Mountain. The ride has been rechristened The Reality Coasters due to the creative content of destroy the anti-gravity gun, causing all objects New Revolution. In addition to an optional the system they are receiving. In this VR sto- to suddenly fall — including the train as it takes virtual reality experience applied in a proj- ryline, riders are transported into a futuristic the first drop of the roller coaster. ect partnership between Six Flags Enter- battle to save Earth from an alien invasion. Rid- This superhero adventure experience will tainment Corp. and Samsung Electron- ers are the co-pilots in their own fighter jets as debut on these Superman-branded coasters: ics America, Inc. (see story, page 1), the makeover includes a new white-and-blue they strap in for air-to-air combat and, using •Superman: Krypton Coaster at Six Flags track paint job, landscaping and entrance the world’s first-ever gameplay technology on Fiesta Texas in San Antonio. improvements, and — most significantly a coaster, can fire their weapons at the alien •Superman: The Ride at Six Flags New — spanking-new, fabricated-in-house fiberglass red trains (see inset photo) mother ship and its swooping drones. England in Agawam, Mass. with an Old Glory theme and no bothersome shoulder restraints. This elite fighter squadron experience will •Superman: Ride of Steel at Six Flags Amer- “We are thrilled that one of our signature coasters is getting the inno- vative ride updates that Six Flags is known for,” said Bonnie Sherman Weber, be introduced on the following six coasters: ica in Upper Marlboro, Md. park president. “With the new trains and beautiful paint colors, The New •Shock Wave at Six Flags Over Texas in Ar- Beyond theme parks, VR technology, which Revolution has been transformed into today’s newest technological marvel lington (sneak-previewed to season pass hold- some observers predict will become a $30 bil- and is certain to be around for many more generations of coaster fans to ers March 10). lion industry by 2020, is making rapid inroads enjoy.” •Dare Devil Dive at Six Flags Over Geor- into all areas of entertainment. Among other adjustments made for comfort, safety and a smoother ride experience, the new trains are fitted with snug lap and calf bars and gia in Austell (sneak previewed to season pass For example, Southern California’s an- promise to offer more “airtime.” The coaster’s maximum speed will remain holders March 12). nual, hugely successful Coachella Valley Music at about 55 mph, with a running time of two minutes along its 3,457-foot- •The New Revolution at Six Flags Magic and Arts Festival — more commonly known long, terrain-hugging course Mountain in Valencia, Calif. (sneak-previewed as Coachella and typically including a Ferris Designed by Werner Stengel and manufactured by Anton Schwarz- to season pass holders March 26). wheel, interactive exhibits and holographic per- kopf, Revolution opened on May 8, 1976, as the Great American Revolution in honor of the country’s bicentennial. The coaster, a star of movies and TV •Ninja at Six Flags St. Louis in Eureka, Mo. formances — will be offering ticket holders a shows, has thrilled about 48 million riders in its four decades of operation. •Steamin’ Demon at Six Flagss Great Es- VR alternative to viewing its lineup of live mu- Although media and season pass holder previews for The New Revolu- cape in Lake George, N.Y. sic acts when it takes place over two consecu- tion were scheduled in late March, an official public opening date had not •Goliath at La Ronde in Montreal, Canada. tive weekends this month. been set as Amusement Today went to press. —Dean Lamanna Three additional rides will be alternately •sixflags.com April 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5 INTERNATIONAL
WhiteWater Attractions' new Super Flume debuts at Everland — Page 6 Parc Asterix adds themed Zamperla Disk’O Coaster AT: Andrew Mellor [email protected] The new Discobélix from Zamperla will PLAILLY, France — Parc entertain visitors in the Ancient Greece Asterix, situated 30 km north themed area of the park. of Paris, France, continues to COURTESY PARC ASTERIX expand and add new attrac- tions with the start of the 2016 season witnessing the intro- duction of Discobélix. The ride has been sup- plied by Zamperla and is one of the company’s Disk’O Coasters. Opened on the first day of the new season on April 2, it is located within the Greek themed area and takes riders on a journey to the ancient city of Olympia where children and adults get the chance to enter the world of the Asterix at the Olympic Games comic by experiencing “In the life of a theme straight into one of Goscinny Parc Astérix team. Surround- flame to be lit — all under the a discus throw first-hand, with park, there’s an ongoing and Uderzo’s comics. Once ed by props that would be at amused eye of an immense Obelix himself! policy of development and we had chosen the attraction, home among Ancient Greece’s Obelix, 6 meters (20 feet) tall The story behind the ride adapting the product to visi- we just needed to find a place finest treasures, the new ride and the spitting image of an is of when Obelix ripped a tors’ expectations,” explains for it in Asterix and Obelix’s constantly brushes past the ancient discus-thrower. bronze disc off a giant statue Thierry Bourgeois, the park’s world. That’s where Julien columns of the imposing With a diameter of 10 me- of a discus thrower and threw project manager and artistic Bertévas, our scenographer, Greek temple which houses ters and a track length of 80 it so hard it remained in per- consultant. “We regularly con- comes in.” part of the queuing area. As meters, Discobélix seats 40 rid- petual motion. Now Parc As- duct visitor surveys and, at the The idea of Obelix and it travels back and forth, the ers, represents an investment terix visitors can take their same time, strive to make sure the Ancient Olympic Games discus ricochets off a pool of of €3 million ($3.25 million) place on the spinning discus that they feel at all times as quickly became a clear focus water before pivoting at the and involved seven months of for a fun ride. though they’ve been dropped for Julien Bertévas and the top of a steep slope, causing a construction work. Dreamworld opens world’s first Hot Wheels-branded coaster AT: Andrew Mellor ics, the coaster was named the [email protected] Cyclone at its new home until QUEENSLAND, Australia being renamed and re-themed Dreamworld’s — The world’s first Hot Wheels at the end of last year as the Hot newly themed Hot Wheels themed roller coaster, the Hot Wheels SideWinder. SideWinder coaster Wheels SideWinder, opened re- At 40 meters (131 feet) high originally began life at Luna cently at Dreamworld Australia and reaching speeds of up to 85 Park, Sydney, and came as part of the park’s new Motor- kph (53mph), the Hot Wheels to the Queensland park in sports Experience themed zone. SideWinder is one of the tall- 2001 as the Cyclone. The ride was first installed est high-speed coasters in the COURTESY DREAMWORLD at Dreamworld in 2001, having southern hemisphere and one of been purchased from Luna Park the “Big 9” thrill rides at Dream- in Sydney where it opened in world. 1994. Built by Arrow Dynam- 4See DREAMWORLD, page 6 6 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2016 WhiteWater Attractions’ new Super Flume debuts at Everland AT: Jeffrey Seifert [email protected]
YONGIN-SI, South Ko- rea — WhiteWater Attractions has created a top-notch attrac- tion for Korea’s largest theme park. Everland Theme Park in Yongin-Si, has replaced their 30-year-old flume ride with a Super Flume: Thunder Falls. The new Thunder Falls greatly increases the experi- ence provided by the previous 30-year-old ride. The larger boats allow park guests to ride with more of their friends South Korea's Everland and family members, while Theme Park recently also providing a longer ride opened Thunder Falls, a experience with a more thrill- heavily themed super flume ing finale. The best part is that ride designed to give 1,400 guests do not have to wait pph. The overall design and in the queue as long thanks theming was supplied by to the higher capacity of the PGAV Destinations. eight-passenger boats. The COURTESY PGAV AND replacement of the four-pas- WHITEWATER senger boats has substantially boosted Everland’s ride ca- pacity. The resulting through- put averages 1,400 riders per hour. PGAV Destinations of St. Louis, Missouri, designed the overall attraction. The new ride takes advantage of the hilly terrain, and features turn- tables and backward drops. A turntable off the largest lift al- lows the boat to pivot almost 270 degrees to line up with the large drop finale. The design is efficient as no flume water is ever built in terms of the num- The addition, or in this up a notch. guests lining up again and needed at the top of the lift to ber of unique features integrat- case, replacement of, a water “We’ve packed a huge again.” transport the boat to the drop. ed into the ride experience. It ride in a traditional theme number of fun features into Everland has been enter- The only water that needs to is also the first Super Flume park gives guests a place to the 485 meter long ride, com- taining guests since it opened be pumped to the top of the ride manufactured under the escape the sweltering heat of ments Mark Miller, flume ride in 1976 and today ranks 16th drop is “showwater” to give WhiteWater Attractions brand. the summer sun. Flume rides specialist, WhiteWater Attrac- in the world for theme park the final drop a waterfall ef- The flume technology is from such as Thunder Falls have tions. attendance, entertaining over fect. The turntable also serves Hopkins Rides, which has been a traditional staple in “The full one-eighty direc- 7.3 million guests annually. as a blocking system, releasing more than 45 years of amuse- theme parks for years, pro- tion changes combined with The resort includes the Ever- the boat only when the runout ment industry experience. viding ride diversity and the varying degrees of drops, from land Theme Park, zoo, spec- at the bottom of the drop is Hopkins Rides is a division of quintessential splash every five meters up to a whopping tacular gardens, and the Ca- clear. WhiteWater West Industries park needs. Although tradi- 20 meters, creates an experi- ribbean Bay Water Park. It is Thunder Falls is White- Ltd. and part of the WhiteWa- tional, the new Super Flume ence that is full of surprises. South Korea’s largest theme Water Attractions’ largest ride ter Attractions Family. has taken the guest experience This Super Flume will have park.
DREAMWORLD replica and original Brock cars of well-known entertainment seeking next-level, adrenaline- Continued from page 5 including some of his most fa- brands that have a strong pres- pumping experiences. Hot mous drives like the Big Banger, ence in-park. From theming our Wheels is all about making it With new train bodies sup- — V8 Supercar simulators fea- coaster to in-park promotions epic and the Hot Wheels Side- plied by Vekoma, riders are turing famous V8 circuits, the and merchandise, Hot Wheels Winder certainly is an epic ride.” seated in a series of Hot Wheels Grid Burgers and Sports Bar will add an exciting new dimen- Other key partners in themed cars complete with rac- and the Trackside retail outlet, sion to the park.” Dreamworld’s new Motorsports ing harnesses and music, which offering the latest racing gear On behalf of Mattel, John Experience include Dunlop, V8 is pumped through speakers and Hot Wheels merchandise. Louie, VP and country manager Supercars, RACQ and the Brock installed next to the riders. Key Commenting on the part- Australia/New Zealand, said: family. features include a loop and side- nership with Hot Wheels, “Hot Wheels provides hours of The Hot Wheels-themed winder section, and the ride is Dreamworld CEO Craig Da- fun and creative play for fami- coaster takes riders up to one of the headline attractions vidson said: “We are delighted lies through its cars and track 40 meters high and in the Motorsports Experience. to welcome Hot Wheels as one sets and now the Hot Wheels reaches speeds of This also features the world’s of our key partners in our new SideWinder at Dreamworld is up to 85 kph. largest collection of Peter Brock Motorsports Experience and a an awesome new experience COURTESY DREAMWORLD cars in Brock’s Garage — 28 valued addition to our stable for kids and parents who are April 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7 8 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2016
WATER PARKS & RESORTS
Schlitterbahn Galvestion announces world's tallest water coaster — Page 9 Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon opens at Malaysia's Sunway Park AT: Jeffrey Seifert Canada supplied all of the [email protected] attractions for the Lost La- goon. Highlights include SUBANG JAYA, Malay- SpongeBob Splash Adven- sia — Sunway Lagoon, an ture, a water play structure 88-acre theme park in Selan- with a jungle-ruin façade gor Province, Malaysia, has including orange pineap- opened the Nickelodeon Lost ples and everyone’s favorite Lagoon. Sunway Lagoon, al- buck-toothed porifera just ready popular with its vari- above a tipping bucket. For ous parks and spectacular those not quite big enough theming, is hoping to attract for the water play structure, even more families and chil- Splish Splash, an interactive dren with the addition of water spray area, offers gen- SpongeBob SquarePants and tler thrills. his Bikini Bottom friends. Older kids and adults Nickelodeon Lost La- can tackle the larger thrill goon is Asia’s first Nickel- rides like Kubarango, a odeon themed land and Via- WhiteWater Boomerango, com’s first partnership with Jungle Fury family raft ride, a theme park in Malaysia. Moolalah River Adventure The 10-acre addition comes and Primeval tube slides with 14 attractions and was along with a mix of body built at a cost of RM100 mil- slides. Those looking for lion (U.S. $23.8 million). The more excitement can chal- Above, The lush, tropical greenery and hillside setting are new site takes advantage of lenge Monsoon 360, and added. “Sunway is extreme- clearly seen in this photo showing the jungle-ruin themed the topography of a natural choose either an AquaLoop ly passionate about deliver- aquatic play structure at the top. Below, more jungle-ruin hillside, and the thick, lush, or Flatline Loop, both with ing exceptional experiences theming accents the splash down pool. jungle-like environment was an AquaDrop capsule. to their visitors and we are COURTESY SUNWAY LAGOON carefully preserved. The “This was a fantastic very proud to have helped theming has a very “lost opportunity to collaborate them achieve that at their civilization” appearance, but closely with the design team new Nickelodeon Lost La- the so-called “civilization” at Nickelodeon, who con- goon water park.” is that of the famous Nickel- ceived the initial concept Sunway Lagoon opened odeon cartoon characters. In for the ‘Indiana Jones meets in 1997 and has grown to addition to SpongeBob, there SpongeBob’ themed Aqua- become Sunway Resort City are attractions themed to Play RainFortress, comment- encompassing an amuse- Dora the Explorer and Teen- ed Michael Ayotte, project ment park, extreme park, age Mutant Ninja Turtles. manager, WhiteWater West scream park, Surf Beach wa- The attractions are Industries Ltd. “WhiteWa- ter park, interactive Wildlife equipped with the latest ter’s theming department Park, Sunway Resort Hotel in reactive technology and ran with the concept and and Spa, Sunway Pyramid include waterslides, water exceeded all expectations by Shopping Mall, Sunway play structures, retail shops, bringing SpongeBob to life Pyramid Convention Center games and food outlets. Me- through their skilled carv- and Sunway Pyramid Tower andering walkways, rest ing and painting skills,” he East and West hotels. spots and lots of greenery add to the immersive atmo- sphere. A mass sliming event — a Nickelodeon tradition — occurs daily at 4 p.m. “Nickelodeon Lost La- goon will enable kids and families in Malaysia and around Southeast Asia to connect with our brand and Nickelodeon’s iconic charac- ters in a unique and mean- ingful way that will further deepen their relationship with Nickelodeon,” said Mark Whitehead, executive vice president and manag- ing director, Viacom Interna- tional Media Networks Asia. Left to right: Jungle Fury offers fun for the entire family. Thrillseekers can enjoy sliding backward on Kubarango and WhiteWater West of Moolalah River Adventure is an exciting raft ride. COURTESY SUNWAY LAGOON April 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9 Exact height of Massiv being kept secret until spring Schlitterbahn Galveston Island building world's tallest water coaster GALVESTON, Texas — Schlitterbahn Waterparks & Resorts is building the world’s tallest water coaster at its award-winning Galveston Is- land waterpark. Called Massiv, the Ger- and the maximum weight for man word for massive, the a single rider is 300 pounds. water coaster will be in place Riders are required to carry in time for the water park’s the tube up the stairs with 10th anniversary celebration them. this summer. Schlitterbahn Massiv utilizes Master Galveston Island is home to Blaster technology, which more thrill rides than any oth- was invented 22 years ago by er Schlitterbahn Waterpark, Schlitterbahn’s wizard of wa- making it the perfect home for ter, Jeff Henry. This technol- this record-breaking ride. ogy was licensed to WhiteWa- The exact height of Massiv ter West, of British Columbia, is being kept secret until later Canada, which is the company this spring. Schlitterbahn has constructing Massiv. indicated that riders will need “We are thrilled to be to climb 123 steps to the ride bringing this iconic ride to dispatch area. The length of Galveston Island,” said Ron the ride is 926 feet with seven Sutula, general manager for Massiv Monster Blaster is the new-for-2016 water coaster currently under construction at green translucent sections and Schlitterbahn Galveston Is- Schlitterbahn Galveston Island. When completed, the 926-foot-long ride will be the world’s four uphill water blasts. The land. “It’s a massive anniver- tallest water coaster. The exact height of Massiv is being kept a secret until later this spring. finale will include a thrilling sary present to all our guests, This season marks the 10th anniversary for the indoor/outdoor water park located on the triple-down. and is going to be a blast to Texas Gulf coast. COURTESY SCHLITTERBAHN GALVESTON ISLAND Riders will need to be at ride!” least 48 inches in height. The Schlitterbahn Waterpark ing Amusement Today’s cov- park, for the last eight years. park and it will be the tallest combined weight of both rid- Galveston Island has won eted Golden Ticket Award Massiv will be twice as ride in the park. ers cannot exceed 400 pounds numerous awards, includ- for world’s best indoor water long as any water slide in the —Jeffrey Seifert 10 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2016 Typhoon Texas Water Park nears completion in Katy, Texas NEWSSPLASH AT: Jeffrey Seifert COMPILED: Jeffrey L. Seifert [email protected] [email protected] KATY, Texas — Typhoon Texas, a new water park next to the Katy Mills Mall in Katy, Texas, is gearing up for a grand opening Six Flags Entertainment has reached of White Water Bay. “We’re excited to finally on May 28. In February the park started accepting applications for an agreement with Mexico to operate the get this project underway and offer families the nearly 800 seasonal part-time jobs it will need to keep the park 67-acre Parque Aquatico Oaxtepec which a fun, new area to spend their days in at the staffed throughout the summer. Katy is west of Houston and part of closed several years ago. Hurricane Harbor Bay.” the Houston, Woodlands, Sugar Land metropolitan area commonly Oaxtepec, located in the District of Morales • known as Greater Houston. It is the fifth largest metropolitan area is expected to open in 2017. Six Flags is plan- Raging Waves Water Park in Yorkville, in the United States. ning a multi-million dollar investment in the Illinois, is adding a ProSlide TornadoWave to The water park, built at cost of $45 million, will feature a num- property that will include several new attrac- the park for the 2016 season. In keeping with ber of attractions from White Water West of British Columbia, Can- tions as well as new culinary and retail estab- the park's Australian Theme, the new attrac- ada, that range from an AquaSpray play ground to a seven-story lishments.Typhoon Texas tion will be called Wonambi — after a pre- AquaLoop/Flatline Loop combo tower with AquaDrop capsules. • historic snake native to the Outback. Other sections of the park were supplied by Brannon Corporation In March,Water United Park Parks unveiled its $2 “Wonambi...is one of the most dynamic of Tyler, Texas. Brannon's aquatic portfolio includes multiple parks million-plus vision for the revitalization of and thrilling rides that a water park has to of- and aquatic centers in Texas and Oklahoma including the Hawaiian Daytonanears Lagoon complewater park in- Daytona fer,” said Randy Witt, Raging Waves co-own- Falls and Splash Kingdom parks. Beach, Florida. Plans include an overall face- er. “When it comes to offering thrills, Raging The entire Typhoon Texas Water Park is Texas themed, per- lift, newtion attractions, in broaderKaty, food Tex selections- Waves leads the way in the Midwest.” haps a little over the top for outsiders, but Texans are very proud and improvedas amenities. United Parks, which Raging Waves, a 45-acre, family owned of their state and their water parks. The front entrance, known as also operates Hydro Adventures in Poplar water park, opened in 2008. Wonambi is the Sundance Square, features a huge planter in the shape of Texas, and Bluff, Mo. is headed by company CEO Jack largest addition to the park since it opened. Texas icons are everywhere. Texas flag-like red, white and blue col- Falfas. Falfas has more than 40 years of in- • ors with a lone star emblem will grace rooftops and shade cloths. dustry experience including a number of sig- Hawaiian Falls Waterparks recently an- Even the red white and blue Boomerango slide will feature a lone nificant park turnarounds, including one that nounced a partnership with Jeff Ellis & As- star embedded in the fiberglass. That slide complex, themed to the led to a tenfold increase in the profitability of sociates (E&A) to provide the International often tumultuous Texas weather, is known as Monster Storms and the legendary Knott's Berry Farm in Orange Lifeguard Training Program (ILTP) to the Ha- features a Boomerango as well as an AquaSphere with Constrictor County, Calif. waiian Falls properties. combination slide. "We're truly excited for the Daytona Hawaiian Falls began hiring lifeguards in The Snake Pit features multiple slides including body slides, raft Beach community to get its first look at what February to man the seven water parks it op- slides and WhiteWater's latest interactive attraction – slideboarding we have planned for Daytona Lagoon," Fal- erates in Texas. The lifeguards will undergo – which has riders playing a video-like game while sliding through fas said. "The park has created so many great rigorous training before the Hawaiian Falls an enclosed tube chute. memories for Daytona Beach residents and season begins Memorial Day weekend, with At seven stories, the Duelin’ Daltons features three AquaDrop visitors over the years, and we've worked very continual training, as well as unannounced capsules, two drop into either an AquaLoop or Flatline loop that are hard to preserve the park's original charm auditing by E&A, occurring throughout the intertwined with each other. The third is straight drop into a speed while adding new attractions and amenities summer. The parks close Labor Day for the chute. Lone Star Racers, an eight-lane Whizzard Twist will offer high that will make Daytona Lagoon a must-visit year. capacity as eight thrill seekers negotiate a twisted top section then attraction for many years to come. E & A was founded in 1983 with a mission align next to each other for the racing finale. • of reducing the loss of life due to drowning. An AquaPlay Rainfortress known as the Gully Washer, Lazy-T Polin Waterparks has been honored by The company has a highly respected pro- lazy river and Tidal Wave Bay wave pool complete the water at- Turkey's leading online career and recruit- gram and in the past three decades has be- tractions package. Dressing rooms, shops, eateries — including the ment job platform, Kariyer.net, with its Re- come the most trusted company in the world River Grille Smokin’ BBQ and Ray’s Pizza and Italian Ices — round spect for Humans Award. The award was to eliminate drowning events through Proac- out the property. A Birthday Barn is available for special celebrations created to promote the successful efforts of tive Aquatic Risk Management — a philoso- along with specially priced birthday packages. businesses in the area of human resources. It phy Hawaiian Falls specifically sought out in A state-of-the-art filtration system will be employed to provide honors companies that make it a priority to aquatics safety professional training. the cleanest water possible. The park will need 3 million gallons of treat job applicants at every level of hiring • water to fill all the attractions. with the utmost dignity and consideration. The City of Wallkill, New York, may soon The park will open with 25 developed acres and has plenty of Companies who qualify for the award welcome a new indoor water park. Delegates room for future expansion. Daily operation is 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. with must fulfill specific criteria, including: Fast from Orange County have made visits to Wis- special events, including dive-in movies, extending into the eve- response to candidates' applications, high consin Dells in recent months and at least ning. The park’s grand opening is scheduled for May 28, although rates of employment, and largest number of four groups who manage water parks in the the park may be in soft opening as this issue goes to press. The actual applicants. Dells area have taken an interest in Wallkill. season has not been announced, but water parks in this part of the Kariyer.net is respected for having the According to the town supervisor, the aver- country can open as early as March and stay open well into October. largest applicant database in the country. The age occupancy rate for hotel rooms in Wallkill firm presented the award to Polin during its is 80 percent. La Quinta and Hilton are both 15th Annual Respect for Humans Awards cer- planning to add properties to the city. emony, which took place during the Human Walkill is located about 75 miles north- WHAT DO YOU SELL FOR Resources Summit on Feb. 17 at the Lütfi west of New York City, and is within a two- Kırdar International Convention and Exhi- hour drive from New York City, Albany and bition Center in Istanbul. Hartford, Connecticut. • • The kids' area at Oklahoma City's White Oman is about to open its first water park. FUN? Water Bay is getting a new name and a new Majarat Oman is a 25,000 square-foot indoor look. The former Kids Kove will become Bare- water park built at the Al Sawadi Beach in the footin' Bay. Along with a thorough update, a Barka province. Designed by the Sanderson new water play structure with 35 hands-on Group of Australia, the 40-million-riyal (U.S. spray elements, two mini slides and a giant $110-million) park can accommodate 1,200 tipping bucket will be added to the area. visitors daily. Oman, which lies just to the “Bringing new life to our kids’ area has south of the United Arab Emirates, plans to GET A FREE SAMPLE at Big Squirt! Inc. been a top request from our guests in recent step up tourism with the addition of at least www.bigsquirt.com/freesample 1741 Torrance Blvd., Ste. D or call 1-888-388-8872 Torrance, CA 90501 years,” says David Riddles, general manager five more water parks in the coming years. April 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 11
COMPILED: Jeffrey L. Seifert [email protected] 12 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2016 April 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 13 PARKS, FAIRS & ATTRACTIONS
Disney California Adventure opens Luigi's Rollickin' Roadsters — Page 18 / Fairs — Pages 19-22 Tiny Towne takes FECs to the next level — drivers’ education AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected] NORCROSS, Ga. — Think quick! There are currently 11 designated colors used in road signs. Most people probably don’t know this fact. Parents bringing their children to Tiny Towne just might find them- selves surprised that even they have a little to learn when they can’t identify all 11 — and that’s only one of the steps. This new concept is what makes Tiny Towne one of the most innova- tive FECs in quite some time. It’s a win-win-win; the kids love to drive, parents love to see them learning while hav- There are three sizes of ve- Above, an overview of Tiny ing fun, and the owner of the hicles. The youngest children Towne is seen from the VID facility enjoys a nice return on are not required to take tests party deck. Right, Business investment with a newfangled to be able to drive. One track is Representative Steve Boney, idea. separate from the main town, (left) and owner Pierre Ingenious as it is, the idea with only one stoplight. Tiny Maalouf stand aside one of had been in development for cars and booster cars alternate Tiny Towne’s patrolling “offi- years. Owner and founder on the track. These two vehicles cers.” Bottom right, another Pierre Maalouf explained that are based upon the driver’s amusement that all visitors he experimented with the con- size. can participate in is the Tiny cept in his home country of The real fun comes when Towne Express Train. Lebanon. In its first installation bigger kids (age 10 or 57 inches COURTESY TINY TOWNE; here in the U.S., the technol- in height) want to take on the AT/TIM BALDWIN ogy is now developed for the streets of Tiny Towne. In order educational component to be for that to happen, kids have laughs Maalouf. The facil- in place. Not only do kids have to pass a course with 100 per- ity has multiple party rooms as fun learning to drive, but they cent accuracy. Full disclosure, well as a VIP (oops, make that actually look forward to learn- on AT’s visit, three questions VID – Very Important Driver) ing. The technology created were missed by this author. The upper deck that overlooks the in-house for the facility allows primary goal of Tiny Towne town from above. Likewise, patrons and management to ac- is to teach children to be good there are your other obligatory complish many goals. drivers starting at a young age. staples — an arcade and snack Upon arrival, kids obtain In reality, students who have bar — as well as a train ride that their learner’s permit. Once cre- had exposure driving at the goes around the driving course. ated (just like a license with the FEC will undoubtedly be safer After all, students need to be driver’s photo), it is embedded drivers once obtaining a real able to react correctly to a rail- with the technology informa- driver’s license. Before taking road crossing. Of note, the food tion to where all tests taken, the larger cars on the streets of outlet doesn’t just heat up fro- all classes attended, and the Tiny Towne, students must also zen product, but offers freshly driver’s hours of experience complete a simulator experi- prepared offerings from Philly (as well as any tickets received) ence. sandwiches to pizza to grilled are stored electronically on the FECs are common places chicken salads. learner’s permit. The software for birthday parties, and Tiny An advantage Tiny Towne also takes care of all financial Towne is no exception. “Every has over other FECs is the field transactions (cars, arcade, train child that is invited shows up rides) except for food and drink. if the party is at Tiny Towne,” 4See TOWNE, page 14 14 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2016
AMUSEMENT MARKET PLACE
Aerial Tramway Design & Manufacture SkyTrans Mfg.,L.L.C. 106 Burnham Intervale Road Contoocook, N.H. 03229 Phone: (603) 746-4446 Fax: (603) 746-4447 Above, students must pass their driver’s exam with 100 percent accuracy. All education •Specializing in sales & refurbishment of used aerial tramways courses are free. Above right, Tiny Towne offers three sizes of cars to cater to all ages. •Replacement parts for aerial tramways and amusement rides COURTESY TINY TOWNE •New ride control systems and modifications •Rebuilt used chairlifts - one year guarantee TOWNE lation of any posted signs or There is even notification Continued from page 13 rules of the road, they can re- to all drivers of operating hours (603) 746-4446 ceive a warning or ticket. A where kids can learn to drive in Parts and Service Jerry Pendleton or Dan Pendleton trip advantage. While a typical ticket comes with a reduction of reverse. center is sheerly recreational, points earned at their level, not AT was particularly im- Tiny Towne actually teaches to mention their vehicle being pressed with the architectural and caters to school groups. motionless for a matter of min- detailing of the facility. As it The logo has the ‘e’ in Towne utes as the driver just watches turns out, Maalouf has an archi- smaller and raised like an ex- their time tick away on their tecture background and put it ponent. When asked, Maalouf screen. For a child, this is quite to use when Tiny Towne trans- explained that it is “fun to the the consequence. formed a former 34,000 square power of education.” He even “We’re not here to give foot Winn Dixie grocery store goes to say older students don’t tickets,” explains Maalouf. “We into the facility it is today. He shy away from the name Tiny don’t want to take the fun time also repurposed many materi- Towne. It’s all about learning to away. Most of the time they als that remained on property drive, so even high school stu- make mistakes. Our officers are into touches in the mock city dents are engaged. trained to be nice and explain streets. With learning being a pri- what they did wrong. Next One of the most remark- mary focus, parents are excited time they will get a ticket. Those able successes of Tiny Towne to see the educational aspects drivers doing it right earn extra might be its operations. The are all free. People can walk speed.” Speed is earned after 30 FEC uses Smart Car golf carts in, test their knowledge and minutes of driving safely, which for its large vehicles, upgraded bone up on safety details, all at lets you advance to the next with the facility's technology. no cost. It’s upon entering the higher level, of which there are The trackless train was sup- cars that patrons actually use seven in all. plied by True American Clas- credits. Whether first timers or Steve Boney serves as an sics in Statham, Ga. Car mainte- returning visitors, customers executive business developer nance is low; so low in fact that purchase credits in which to and looks for new locations for management says any costs per enjoy the cars, train and arcade the Tiny Towne philosophy. Al- day are negligible, less than two games. Different packages - of ready in the works are centers dollars involving battery life, fer discounts and gift cards are in Brazil and Canada. “There’s tires, etc. The batteries alone even available. nothing out there that has this come with a four year warran- But make no mistake, all type of progression,” he says. ty from the manufacturer. The this learning going on doesn’t “There’s nothing like it that ties park also boasts such a safety stop the fun for these emerging into the schools. And then it has record that insurance on the motorists. Tiny Towne is totally that social benefit that helps so- facility dropped 20 percent af- about driving. Parents continu- ciety in the long run.” ter the first year of operation as ously go up to Maalouf, who is Tiny Towne received the Tiny Towne didn’t have a single frequently seen engaging the award for Best New Business in incident. This incredible re- patrons, and tell him how much Norcross in 2015. cord has been maintained since their kids love coming back. Classes offered range from the property opened in July of The way the program is set up, Blind Spots, Driving with 2014. Maalouf notes the drastic the more driving experience a Teenagers, Shapes and Colors, difference between his concept child has and the more classes Following Too Close, How to compared to “jumping” type he or she has attended results Avoid Accidents, etc. There are facilities. in a higher level rating on each 11 in all. The ultimate goal is Tiny Towne appears to be individual learner’s permit. to have your learner’s permit on the verge of solid growth. In The higher the rating, the faster exchanged for a Tiny Towne reality, each FEC of this nature the cars are engineered to go. driver’s license. To do so, driv- makes the streets and roadways And who doesn’t want to drive ers must attend all 11 courses, safer. “I had a parent come up faster? It just encourages repeat which are free. All tests must to me and say ‘My son now business. be passed with 100 percent ac- gives me tickets. He let’s me It’s serious, too. Anyone curacy. “That’s tougher than the know when I am doing some- tempted to engage in horse- state of Georgia,” smiles Boney. thing wrong.’ This is one of play will quickly find out that Students are encouraged to the best stories I’ve received,” their vehicle becomes disabled. study the questions they’ve smiles Maalouf. “She is a much “Officers” are also driving the missed and retake the test. Par- better driver now than before Keep our amusement park industry strong! town, patrolling for anyone allel parking is required, and all her son first came here. We are Buy products and services from these suppliers. not following driving laws. If tests combined total 150 ques- selling amusement, but deliver- a driver is found to be in vio- tions. ing education.” April 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 15
... & Smile lifting flights!
Hair-raising heights ... PO BOX 638 • PLAINVIEW, TEXAS 79072 • (806) 293-1353 • WWW.LARSONINTL.COM 16 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2016 ‘Lego Movie’ sequel adds sensory effects U.S. Legoland Parks and Discovery Centers premiere 4D film AT: Dean Lamanna walt lends his voice to the character of Risky [email protected] Business, whose evil secret scheme requires the heroes to call on the Master Builder skills WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — A theme park of a surprise ally to save the day. Voice actor bearing a resemblance to Legoland is the A.J. LoCascio replaces the feature’s Chris dynamic setting of The Lego Movie 4D A New Pratt in the role of construction worker Em- Adventure — a sequel to the surprise-hit met Brickowski. 2014 computer-animated feature The Lego The 12-and-a-half-minute movie plays Movie, which drew more than $450 million several times a day at each Legoland loca- at the box office. tion. The film itself is in 3D, with “fourth The multisensory film-based attraction dimension” effects such as wind, water and debuted at Legoland Florida Resort here fog thrusting the action off the screen and in late January and at Legoland California into the audience. Resort in Carlsbad in early February. Those Los Angeles-based Pure Imagination openings were to be followed by a rollout of Studios created The Lego Movie 4D A New the production at Legoland theme parks and Adventure with input from writer-directors Legoland Discovery Centers worldwide. Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, who made The all-new plotline picks up after the the feature film two years ago. Also having story told by the sharp-witted feature film, contributed is Rob Schrab, who is directing with the Lego characters Emmet, Wyldstyle, a feature-length sequel for general theatrical Unikitty, MetalBeard and Benny reuniting distribution in 2018. Merlin Entertainments at the invitation of a villainous character, and Warner Bros. Consumer Products part- Risky Business, who plans to open a theme nered on the production of the attraction. park called Brick World. Merlin Entertainments, meanwhile, has Returning to voice the parts they origi- submitted plans for a second, castle-themed nated are actors Elizabeth Banks (leading hotel at Legoland California to the city of The toy characters Wyldstyle, Emmet and Unikitty from The lady Wyldstyle), Nick Offerman (armed-to- Carlsbad. The resort’s current 250-room, Lego Movie are back in The Lego Movie 4D A New Adven- the-teeth pirate MetalBeard), Charlie Day Lego-toy themed hotel has enjoyed an av- ture, a sequel in the form of a multisensory film-based attrac- (spaceman Benny) and Alison Brie (uni- erage 80 percent occupancy rate since its tion created exclusively for Legoland Parks and Discovery corn/anime feline Unikitty). opening in 2013. Centers. COURTESY MERLIN ENTERTAINMENTS Actor, writer and comedian Patton Os- •legoland.com April 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 17 18 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2016 New ride exchanges a ‘flat’ for a cartoon Fiat Roadsters replace Flying Tires at Disney California Adventure
AT: Dean Lamanna aboard miniature Italian road- [email protected] sters inspired by late 1950s open- top, two-seater micro cars. ANAHEIM, Calif. — La- Each car then performs the dies, gents and kids, start your traditional dances of Carsoli, engines: Luigi’s Rollickin’ Road- moving independently to its own sters are now motoring at Disney choreographed routine across a California Adventure (DCA). trackless “dance floor” to upbeat Officially opened March 7, music and Luigi’s singing. (As in the much-anticipated new ride the Cars movies, Luigi is voiced replaces Luigi’s Flying Tires. The by actor Tony Shalhoub.) The ve- former levitating bumper car at- hicles represent an equal number traction, which debuted in 2012 of male and female characters, along with Cars Land as part and each has its own personality of DCA’s major expansion, was and name. closed after about two years due “Here at Luigi’s, the road- to technical problems and deflat- sters seem to have a mind of their ed guest expectations. own,” said Kevin Rafferty, execu- In terms of style, reliability tive creative director of Walt Dis- and history, the Flying Tires was ney Imagineering and a 38-year virtually a retread of the Flying company veteran. “When you Saucers, a ride that ran in Dis- come back to ride again, chances neyland’s Tomorrowland from are you’ll enjoy an experience 1961-66. that’s different than the last time Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters, you rode — especially since each Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters, like other attractions in Cars of the cars has a signature move a uniquely choreographed, Land, begins with a story. It quite they love to perform.” musically augmented ride literally revolves around Luigi The trackless platform upon that takes place on a track- — the friendly, vintage Fiat 500 which the cars move — the first less “dance floor,” debuted from Disney/Pixar’s Cars films. of its type for a Disney attraction March 7 in Cars Land at Twenty of Luigi’s cugini in the U.S. — is approximately Disney California Adventure. (cousins) are visiting from Car- 125 feet long and 70 feet wide. It replaces the technically soli, Italy, to help celebrate Race Unlike a traditional bumper car troubled Luigi’s Flying Tires. Day in Radiator Springs with ride, the vehicles themselves are COURTESY DISNEYLAND music and dancing at Casa della controlled via a Wi-Fi system and RESORT/PAUL HIFFMEYER Tires. Guests are invited to join are programmed not to collide. the 90-second party by hopping •disneylandresort.com Indiana Beach Boardwalk Resort undergoing transformation
MONTICELLO, Ind. — manufacturer, Chance tionally, Pepsi-Cola is now Indiana Beach Boardwalk Rides of Wichita, Kansas. the official soft drink- pro Resort is making renova- The massive refurbish- vider at all Indiana Beach tions at an aggressive pace ment is in the final stages concession stands. in preparation for the start of completion and the ride Ideal Beach RV Re- of the 90th anniversary sea- is expected to be reinstalled sort will debut in 2016 as son. at the park by spring. IB Crow Campground, a A long list of upgrades The Shafer Queen pad- Family RV Resort and will and renovations have been dle wheel boat, is receiving be the second home of the ongoing since new resort a complete makeover from iconic mascot, IB Crow. The owner, Apex Parks Group, bow to stern. Fresh paint, campground will not only purchased the resort in improved seating, and have a new name, but will September 2015. From a an engine and transmis- also undergo facility im- new main gate to the camp- sion overhaul will allow provements and upgrades. ground ferryboat landing, the Shafer Queen to cruise Apex CEO Al Weber improvements are unfold- Lake Shafer proudly with said, “We are so excited to ing throughout the resort. her guests for many years be a part of updating and “We cannot wait for the In- to come. upgrading this iconic In- diana Beach fans and Mon- An Indiana Beach fa- Under new resort owner, Apex Parks Group, Indiana Beach diana resort. With respect ticello locals to come out vorite, the Tig’rr Roller- is receiving multiple off-season upgrades and renovations, for the past and an eye on and see their favorite park coaster is undergoing track including this Tilt-A-Whirl. COURTESY INDIANA BEACH RESORT the future, these important looking like it did back in and passenger car renova- changes at Indiana Beach the glory days,” said park tions for the 2016 season. for guests. The park is re- concession stands will have should not only improve general manager John Col- The Tig’rr will be paint- ceiving fresh paint, up- new and improved menus the guest experience but lins. “There will be a few ed in a colorful theme to graded lighting, updated to allow for easier, guest- give guests reason to come other surprises along the match the name of this clas- boardwalk, plus many friendly ordering. back time and again. The way, too.” sic roller coaster. other improvements. The Many food favorites park team is so excited to The Giant Wheel, an All entrance, ride, and VIP parking lot will be en- such as Beach Tacos, Pron- have everyone come out iconic Indiana Beach ride, concession signage will hanced and there will be to Pups, and Elephant Ears and see the new Indiana was dismantled in Novem- be upgraded to reflect a renovations to the lodging will once again be available Beach Boardwalk Resort.” ber and sent to the ride’s brighter and cleaner look area. Additionally, many for guests to enjoy. Addi- •indianabeach.com April 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 19 Attendance slightly up, revenue dips at 2016 Florida State Fair Wade Shows enjoys second year as midway provider AT: B. Derek Shaw [email protected]
TAMPA, Fla. — The 2016 edition of the Florida State Fair did well in spite of a few weather setbacks. The 12-day fair had a total attendance of dent), Dreamland and Land 395,435, up 1.7 percent from of Fun. Zaitshik was quick last year (388,830). “This is im- to add, “We got great people pressive due to the inclement that augment our equipment weather — either rain, wind, here. We’re not a one man cold or a combination thereof, team. This is not a Wade Show that persisted for the first six event. It’s a Wade Show with days of the fair,” said Cheryl the help of a lot of really great Flood, acting executive direc- people.” tor of the Florida State Fair. When asked about new This is the second year that Wade Shows has been the sole provider for the Florida State John Prestianni, senior rides for this edition of the Fair. They served in the capacity of midway manager, utilizing a few rides from four other director of finance for the fair fair, Flood replied, “Care was operators. Below, Corky Powers (left), owner of Powers Great American Midways was on commented on where the rev- taken to ensure that entire the fair grounds with Frank Zaitshik, owner of Wade Shows. Powers had a few of his rides families could enjoy rides of enue side of things came in. on the midway. COURTESY STEVE O'DONNEL; AT/B. DEREK SHAW He said, “Midway revenue every level of thrill together was slightly down this year at the 2016 Florida State Fair. with the Redneck Burger — by 3.4 percent to $4,251,000. The Super Cyclone (Pinfari a creation that included fried We had very poor weather the coaster), Jungle Twist (Wis- bologna and baked beans – first weekend, but set midway dom spinning coaster) and coming in a distant second.” records on the last three days Balloon Wheel (Zamperla) of- There was even more new of our fair, which enabled us fered fun for parents and kids fair food as Hayes continued, to get close to our prior year’s alike, while the Stampede, “Also generating a great culi- numbers.” Hurricane and Disk’O (Zam- nary buzz was the new funnel The Florida State Fair is perla) ensured that the more cake pizza, the Double Barrel one of the first fairs to take daring riders would not be burger (a burger patty sand- place early each year. Boast- disappointed. The traveling wiched between two dough- ing 115 rides with 37 of those roller coaster, the Comet II nuts — with another half being kiddie rides, it is also (Schwarzkopf), also returned doughnut in the middle for one of the larger ride mid- this year to the delight of good measure) and the PB&J grounds in time for the 2016 Day Luncheon and the Ag- ways in the country. For the many.” The new completely and bacon quesadilla. For fair edition. “The Special Events ricultural Hall of Fame Ban- second year, Wade Shows had illuminated gondola Dream goers with more of a sweet Center renovation continued quet. In addition, our asphalt- the entire midway, working Wheel car with LED lights tooth, there was the deep- with the completion of the re- paving project continued as like a midway manager with (Technical Park) was also on fried birthday cake pop or a stroom improvements and the we upgraded several areas help from a few independents the midway. yummy glazed Amish dough- interior painting. This build- of our parking lot roadways. to complete the ride offerings. There were numerous nut (hold the burger).” ing houses the Arts and Craft The Expo Hall was upgrad- “They have done a very nice new attractions at the fair. Numerous other enhance- Marketplace and also was the ed to include new meeting job at improving our midway The White House Experience ments were made to the fair- location of the Governor’s rooms,” said Flood. presentation and continue to featured presidential memo- bring in an amazing diversity rabilia from the Franklin D. of special rides,” said Flood. Roosevelt era through today, Frank Zaitshik, owner of along with replicas of the Oval Wade Shows was pleased as Office and White House Brief- well. “I’ve played this fair as ing Room. The display even an independent ride operator featured a selection of former since 1992. Then last year was first ladies’ dresses. the first year as the sole carni- Amusement Today asked val provider. We have a com- Hayes about the food aspect mitment to the fair to provide of the fair. He replied, “It the “best of the best,” meaning wouldn’t be the Florida State that even though we can pro- Fair without the debut of out- vide all the rides, what we do rageous — and outrageously is we take a certain percent- delicious — new concoctions. age of the rides for us and the For the second year, the Flori- balance are rides that we feel da State Fair held the People’s would be a tremendous asset Choice Burger contest, allow- to the fair.” The Myers family ing patrons to cast an online brought in the new Gosetto vote for their favorite burger four-story Fun House called from a list of remarkable New York, New York. Other imaginings. Bacon continues rides came from Powers Great to rule as evidenced by the American Midways, Michael selection of the Bacon Bomb Wood (outgoing OABA presi- Burger as the Fair favorite, 20 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2016
MIDWAY CARNIVALlights MARKET PLACE COMPILED: Pam Sherborne [email protected]
Officials of the Illinois Department of to get underway in August and take two years Agriculture, Springfield, said in February that to complete. The center will stay closed dur- planning for the 2016 Illinois State Fair, Aug. ing the construction. 11-21, held in Springfield, and the 2016 Du- Also under his leadership, the fair board Quoin (Ill.) State Fair, Aug. 26-Sept. 5, con- moved toward financial stability, gradually re- tinues despite upheavals in leadership along ducing the amount of the state subsidy. with restructuring plans. An interim CEO will be named by the fair The restructuring has involved combining board until it decides on a process to name a P.O. Box 238 the operations of the two fairs. In addition, replacement. Kevin Gorden, longtime operations director • Merino, CO. 80741 at the state fair, was named as division man- Officials of the Brown County Fair, Ab- ager of Fairs and Promotional Services. He will erdeen, S.D., set to run this year August 15- 800-634-6097 970-522-7515 Fax: 970-522-2902 oversee the management of both the Illinois 21, have decided to use ShowClix to better State Fair and DuQuoin State Fair. manage ticket sales, and hopefully remove [email protected] www.wisdomrides.com In February, Shawn Mayernick, 36, of the headache of customers buying tickets for Springfield, was named assistant state fair Brown County's largest event. manager in Springfield where he will focus on A credit card breach forced the Brown the Illinois State Fair. Mayernick has worked County fair to use an in-house ticketing service for the Prairie Capital Convention Center for sales last fall. But that system over sold ro- since 2013 where he was director of business deo tickets. It caused a tremendous amount partnerships for the center. of confusion and a lack of space, something The search for an assistant state fair man- they're hoping to avoid this year. ager in DuQuoin is ongoing. Fair Manager Derek Ricci is hoping Show- The last state fair manager, Patrick Bu- Clix is the solution. chen, left his job overseeing both state fairs in "One of the things that ShowClix will al- September. At the time, he cited interference low us to do is be better engaged on social from Gov. Bruce Rauner’s office and said he media," Ricci was quoted as saying in a local was forced to resign. The administration said newspaper. "They've got some social media that Buchen had a hard time communicat- components that we can generate through ing with other employees and was creating a Facebook and Twitter." “toxic atmosphere” in the workplace. Ricci said making customers buy separate In addition to dealing with the reorgani- passes for the rodeo will eliminate mistakes zation and leadership challenges, the Illinois made in the past. Fair officials are expecting State is still behind on paying some vendors about 300,000 visitors this year. from the 2015 fair. Vendors who provided • services to the 2015 state fair — things like The Ottawa County Fair Board, Holland, garbage collection, portable toilet rentals, Mich., has petitioned Park Township to allow hay and straw for the animals and sculpting alcohol sales at the annual week long event the butter cow — still hadn't been paid at the and potentially other concerts through the first of this year because a state budget hadn't year. been passed. Without a budget, there is no Park Township owns the fairgrounds and spending authority. township ordinance bars alcoholic beverages According to a news story in State Jour- on municipally owned property. Officials were nal Register, vendors are owed about $1.59 expected to consider the request that would million from the 2015 fair. The largest amount likely require adjustments both to the law and is $252,000 owed to judges, superintendents to the 20-year lease between the fair board and show employees, the figures show. and township. The lease is up in 2020. • The idea came from the township. To cel- Clifford "Rip" Rippetoe, president and ebrate its centennial, Park Township waived its CEO of the Kentucky State Fair Board, is own policy for one day in August and had a leaving the state job to head up the staff of beer tent during its celebration at township- the San Diego (Calif.) Convention Center. owned Winstrom Park. Rippetoe's decision was disclosed in a • press release from the fair board last month. With state lawmakers and Baltimore Coun- He had been in the fair board post since Janu- ty Council members considering bills to limit ary 2013, when he was hired at $250,000 a gambling at the state fairgrounds in Timonium, year. He starts work as president and CEO of Maryland State Fair officials are seriously con- the San Diego facility April 15. sidering a move out of the county, according The Kentucky board oversees the opera- to a March 4, 2016 story in the Baltimore Sun. tion of the state-owned Kentucky Exposition William C. Marlow, an attorney for the Center and the downtown Kentucky Inter- Maryland State Fair and Agricultural Soci- national Convention Center. It has a staff ety, which owns the fairgrounds and operates of more than 200 and a multi-million annual the annual state fair, was quoted as saying: budget. "We are not the Timonium fair. We are not the Rippetoe, who is from Las Vegas, said that Baltimore County fair. We are the state fair … it was a personal decision to be closer to his We're looking elsewhere." children and grandchildren. During his tenure The state fair property is about 89 acres at the fair board, he helped orchestrate fund- with a mix of manufacturing and business Keep our amusement park industry strong! ing to expand and renovate the downtown zoning. It's valued at about $50 million for tax purposes. Buy products and services from these suppliers. convention facility, a $180 million project due April 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 21 22 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2016 Storms dampen grounds, but not spirits, South Florida Fair AT: Pam Sherborne sions and midway revenues [email protected] on eight of the 17 days,” Vym- latil said. WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. This year's South Florida — Despite multiple tornado Fair experienced more than watches and warnings, thun- five inches of rain during its derstorms and nonstop rain on 17-day run. The weather-im- consecutive days, South Flori- pacted days were Friday, Jan. da Fair officials are declaring 15, when tornado warnings this year’s fair a success. were announced in the early The wet 2016 edition of afternoon and .49 inches of the fair ran January 15-31. rain fell; Friday, Jan. 22, which South Florida Fair and brought 1.31 inches of rain; Palm Beach County Exposi- Wednesday., Jan. 27, resulted tions Inc. President and CEO in 2.44 inches of rain; and .71 Rick Vymlatil said the unau- inches of rain came down on dited, unofficial numbers for Thursday, Jan. 28. the 2016 event reflected an in- The carnival midway, pro- crease in per capital spending vided by Wade Shows, was on 12 of the 17 days of the fair completely closed for two pointing to an improved area days due to safety concerns. economy. Pricing remained The weather also resulted in The 2016 South Florida Fair, West Palm Beach, which ran January 15-31, was dampened the same for fair admission the midway only being open when storms dumped five inches of rain during the 17-day fair. The rainy weather resulted in and rides. for approximately five hours the midway being closed for two days and opened with limited hours on two others. Yet, in All totaled, the fair’s 2016 on two other days of the fair. spite of all that, officials were very pleased with the overall results, specifically in the area of edition may be one of the top The sun shone on the clos- revenue. Wade Shows provided the midway. COURTESY SOUTH FLORIDA FAIR three fairs in the fair’s 104- ing weekend, but despite ex- open at all on two days and factured by Pinfari; Disk'O, the evening of January 14 with year history from a gross rev- periencing record attendance had two other days that were manufactured by Zamperla; its Ride-A-Thon. Admission enue. Unaudited attendance on the final weekend, it was severely impacted by weather, Jungle Twist, Wisdom; and and rides cost $10 with a cou- numbers showed a 28 percent still not enough to make up for that's not a bad result,” Vym- New York New York Fun pon that could be obtained drop from the 558,675 visitors those four weather-impacted latil said. House, Gosetto. from the fair’s website. in 2015 to 402,620 this year. days. Wade Shows provided Guests also were treated That evening included a “On days that were not “Given the five inches of over 200 rides, games and at- to four stages of music and fireworks show. impacted by weather, fairgo- rain we experienced on four tractions including four new entertainment, as well as The agriculture and live- ers flocked to the fair, estab- days during the fair and the rides. Those rides were Super grounds entertainment. stock programs featured more lishing new records for admis- fact that we just about didn't Cyclone Roller Coaster, manu- The event kicked off on than 1,000 exhibitors. 2016 Fort Worth Stock Show unveiled grounds improvements AT: Pam Sherborne [email protected]
FORT WORTH, Texas — Fort Worth Stock Show, along with city officials, unveiled three completed components of a grounds overhaul prior to this year's running of the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, Jan. 15-Feb. 6. Those components were the 300-foot-long Tower The newly renovated Cattle Barn 2 was unveiled at the 2016 Promenade that runs be- Fort Worth (Texas) Stock Show and Rodeo, January 15-Feb- Here is a look at the new 300-foot-long Tower Promenade tween Cattle Barns 1 and 2, ruary 6. Featuring electric outlets for each cattle tie and, during this year’s Fort Worth (Texas) Stock Show and Rodeo, an all-new Milking Parlor, new lighting and ventilation systems, the Cattle Barn 2 reno- which ran January 15-February 6. The promenade connects and a fully renovated Cattle vations are a prototype for planned renovations to Cattle the parking lots on the south side of the Will Rogers com- Barn 2. Barns, 1, 3, and 4, as well as the swine and sheep barns in plex to the north side. The wide, arched pedes- 2020. COURTESY FORT WORTH STOCK SHOW & RODEO COURTESY FORT WORTH STOCK SHOW & RODEO trian walkway was built to make it easier for thousands Barn 2 was basically taken and wider walkways. said. "We have had to station ovation projects complete at of visitors to get from park- down to the frame and re- Improvements were people there so that it doesn't the same time the new arena ing lots on the south side built. It features electrical also made to the Stockman’s get overcrowded during the is ready in 2020. of the Will Rogers complex outlets for each cattle tie "so Cafe. programs running through- The cost for this first part to the north side without it will now be very hard to Going into the last week- out the day of the show. of the project, Tower Prom- having to work their way overload the system." end of the show, Brockman "We have been very, very enade, Cattle Barn 2 and through a barn. Originally built in 1948 said the new Milking Parlor, excited about this," he said. Milking Parlor, was $14.5 "It will eventually take as were many of the barns, which is attached to Cattle Cattle Barn 2 renovations million. Estimated cost for visitors to our new multipur- Cattle Barn 2, also features Barn 2, was staying packed. are a prototype for planned the multi-purpose arena is pose arena that is set to open improved lighting, ventila- "We have bleacher style renovations to Cattle Barns $450 million, with the city in 2020," said Matt Brock- tion and space for the ani- seating for up to 120, a state- 1,3 and 4 as well as the swine funding $225 of that and the man, publicity manager. mals as well as improved of-the-art sound system and and sheep barns. remainder coming from pri- Brockman said Cattle hallways and rest rooms, digital screens," Brockman Officials want all the ren- vate funding. April 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 23 BUSINESS, SAFETY & CLASSIFIED Obituaries — Page 29 / MarketWatch — Page 32 / Safety — Pages 33 - 35 / CLASSIFIED — Page 39 Disney Springs expansion attracts more retail, restaurants LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. — Disney Springs, the open-air, waterfront retail and restaurant complex de- signed to bring a touch of so- phistication to Walt Disney Resort, is rapidly doubling in size — expanding to of- fer more than 150 shopping, dining and entertainment options. More than 30 new ten- ants recently have been an- nounced. Among the high- profile brands joining the plaza are Anthropologie, Lacoste, Under Armour, Kate Spade New York, Sephora and Lucky Brand. They are slated to open in phases beginning May 15. Inspired by Florida’s waterfront towns and natu- ral beauty, Disney Springs has four distinct outdoor neighborhoods — The Land- will be located in Town Disney Springs is providing ing, Marketplace, West Side Center, which offers a mix even more opportunities for and Town Center — all in- of shops and eateries along guests to relax and enjoy terconnected by a flowing with a promenade where themselves. When complet- spring and vibrant lakefront. guests can relax, refresh and ed in 2016, the expanded Guests can enjoy a colorful reconnect. It features Span- open-air shopping, dining assortment of restaurants ish Revival-style architecture and entertainment complex and high-quality retailers, drawing from a rich history will double its offerings including premium, afford- of explorers who landed in from Disney and other note- able luxury and fast fashion Florida centuries ago. worthy brands. options. New dining options in COURTESY WALT DISNEY “Disney Springs has Town Center include D-Luxe WORLD RESORT quickly become a favorite Burger, a Disney-owned destination for our guests concept offering gourmet hancements are being made — and they are going to burgers made from a signa- to the complex. love what’s to come,” said ture blend of beef, unique As guests enter Town George A. Kalogridis, resort toppings and freshly baked Center, they will be warmly pointed rooftop lounge over- Godmother-in-Training. This president. “Guests will en- buns; Amorette’s Patisserie, greeted at the Welcome Cen- looking Disney Springs. country parlor-inspired loca- joy an experience unlike any featuring the art of pastry- ter, where guests can relax Relocating to the Mar- tion will include an enlarged other in Central Florida with making; Tablas Frontera, and take in the landscaping ketplace is Bibbidi Bobbidi salon and a photo room to even more opportunities to a contemporary Mexican- and waterfront views. In the Boutique, which is moving capture memories. shop in unique and distinc- themed restaurant from re- Marketplace, Fulton’s Crab from World of Disney into The Disney Springs ex- tive stores and enjoy world- nowned chef Rick Bayless; House will open a new con- a new, expanded space near pansion project, which is class dining. Disney Springs and Homecoming — Florida cept this fall. The re-imag- Once Upon a Toy. Here, nearing completion this year, offers something for every- Kitchen and Shine Bar by ined restaurant will welcome guests ages 3-12 will receive will create an estimated 1,200 one and does it in a way that chef Art Smith, showcasing guests with a bow-to-stern the royal treatment — get- construction jobs and nearly only Disney can. It truly is farm-to-fork cuisine inspired update including interiors ting made up like their fa- 4,000 full- and part-time op- the place to be.” by the Sunshine State. reflecting the luxury of mod- vorite Disney princess with erational roles. Twenty-eight new stores Additional aesthetic en- ern yachting and a lushly ap- the help of their own Fairy —Dean Lamanna
EUROPEAN SPARE AND REPLACEMENT PARTS IMPORTER SINCE 1982 NORTH AMERICAN PARTS INC. 61C AERO DRIVE, BUFFALO, NEW YORK USA 14225
PHONE: (716) 839-4791 FAX: (716) 839-4506 EMAIL: [email protected] www.nap-inc.com SERVING THE AMUSEMENT INDUSTRY WE’VE KEPT YOUR RIDES IN MOTION SINCE 1982 24 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2016 Cedar Fair responds to reports of possible park sale New attractions affirm Great America’s desire to ‘stay put’ AT: Dean Lamanna The Great America parcel was weekends, running daily Dec.19-23 [email protected] formerly owned by the City of Santa and 26-30. Clara’s Redevelopment Agency, with “WinterFest will be one of North- SANTA CLARA, Calif. — Having which the park negotiated its long- ern California’s most spectacular win- commenced its 40th anniversary sea- term lease. The land is now held by the ter events — delivering a unique expe- son on March 25, California’s Great Successor Agency to the Santa Clara rience where friends and families can America is looking forward to a busy Redevelopment Agency, which — un- create memories and traditions during 2016 operating schedule that includes der a state mandate — will be putting the holiday season,” said Raul Rehn- a recently announced winter holiday it and other former redevelopment necessary control of the property to borg, park vice president and general event, WinterFest, and the opening of holdings up for sale later this year. pursue our long-term vision. In addi- manager. “Mass Effect and WinterFest a new motion simulator-based attrac- Amusement Today obtained the fol- tion, we have created enough financial are the first of many exciting additions tion called Mass Effect: New Earth 4D lowing statement via Great America flexibility to exercise our right of first planned for Great America in the com- Holographic Journey. from the park’s Sandusky, Ohio-based refusal for the purchase of the property ing years.” But shadowing the park’s celebra- parent company, Cedar Fair, clarifying and that option will be considered as WinterFest will transform the tory mood and promotion of its ex- its local business position: the land sale process moves forward.” park into a winter wonderland where- panding list of attractions have been “We believe that Great America Cedar Fair’s major investment in in guests can skate in front of the iconic rumors and some media reports sug- has compelling potential for future de- Great America’s new Mass Effect 4D Carousel Columbia, admire extensive gesting a possible sale of Great Amer- velopment as an amusement park and attraction, which was expected to de- displays of lights and décor, view live ica. The 116-acre park, operating since entertainment venue. Consistent with but shortly after AT went to press, and holiday shows, see Santa’s workshop 1976, sits on increasingly valuable our long-term vision for Great Amer- WinterFest, for which it is budgeting and Mrs. Claus’s kitchen, and enjoy leased land adjacent to the two-year- ica, we have filed a rezoning applica- several hundred thousand dollars, ap- scrumptious holiday fare, as well as old Levi’s Stadium (home of the NFL tion with the City of Santa Clara that pear to affirm the company’s commit- experience 18 rides and attractions. San Francisco 49ers football team and would allow for the addition of new ment to remaining in Santa Clara. The winter scene will be domi- site of this year’s Super Bowl) — and attractions, shows and events that will In fact, WinterFest is designed to nated by one of the San Francisco Bay developers have been circling for some enhance the guest experience. extend the park’s operating season Area’s tallest Christmas trees, flanked time in the red-hot Silicon Valley real “In light of the fact that our ground through the end of the year. The five- by giant toy soldiers greeting guests. estate market. lease runs through 2074, we have the week celebration begins Nov. 25 on •cagreatamerica.com OdySea Aquarium rising in Arizona, major hires announced SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. al and Entertainment Desti- merly of Atlantis Resort rience working with both with multi-award-winning — On track for a summer nation Area, which is part & Dolphin Cay in Nassau, land and sea animals. They MacGillivray Freeman opening, OdySea Aquar- of the Salt River Pima-Mar- Bahamas, and a 28-year in- will oversee the aquarium’s Films of Laguna Beach, Ca- ium has completed the icopa Indian Community. dustry veteran, has been 5,000 animals and approxi- lif., to produce a signature extensive steelwork and “This is truly an en- appointed general manag- mately 300 different spe- film for the facility’s 3Dthe - many of the towering, or- gineering marvel and a er. He will oversee all op- cies. ater. —Dean Lamanna nately stamped concrete major accomplishment,” erations at OdySea. OdySea has contracted walls that comprise the said Amram Knishinsky, Also new to the senior three-story, 200,000-square- Ph.D, the project’s founder. management team are Da- foot facility. “We are now ramping up vid Peranteau, curator of Amusement Today was our team that will actively husbandry, and Jessica Pe- invited on a construction manage the aquarium as ranteau, curator of animal tour of the state-of-the-art we rapidly progress on this behavior. They join Ody- buildingFrederiksen in 1/7x3 February. b/w It3/14/02 is highly 11:22 innovative AM Page project.”1 Sea from Six Flags Great the centerpiece of a 35-acre, The aquarium has made Adventure & Safari in $200 million complex with- several major hires. Jackson, N.J., and bring a in the Talking Stick Cultur- Greg Charbeneau, for- combined 40 years of expe-
“The #1 Leading Slide Manufacturer in America” FREDERIKSEN “World’s Largest 5 Lane, One Trailer Slide - 108 Ft.” INDUSTRIES, INC. 5212 St. Paul St. • Financing and Leasing Available • Trades Considered Tampa, Florida 33619 • Order Slide Bags or “New Rain” Bags (813) 628-4545 The 200,000-square- • 6 New Slides In Stock FAX (813) 621-3679 foot OdySea Aquarium • Have 20 Used Rides www.funslide.com in Scottsdale (above) is • 90 Ft. Fiberglass Slide tentatively set to open • 65 Ft. Fiberglass Slide in July. Aaron Stude- baker, representative of the Talking Stick Cultural and Entertain- ment Destination Area, and OdySea's Ran Knishinsky stand before the attraction's giant, under-wraps martini glass-shaped tank. COURTESY ODYSEA/ McCARTHY BUILDING COMPANIES (ABOVE); AT/DEAN LAMANNA April 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 25 Auction conducted by Rides 4U Everything sells at Miracle Strip Amusement Park auction PANAMA CITY BEACH, the first of February and ended parks owners were evicted on 1995 Frederickson Trailer; Others were a 1985 Zam- Fla. — A successful silent auc- February 22. It was first an- from the land in November for from Allen Herschel a 1958 perla Tea Cup Ride; 2011 Out- tion of the rides and attractions nounced that all rides had to not paying rent. Miracle Strip Red Baron, 1964 Carousel, 1949 door Jumpling Pillow; 1959 of Miracle Strip Amusement be removed by February 29, Amusement Park originally Car Ride, 1955 Sea Plane Ride; Mangles Dry Boat Ride; 1969 Park in February has left the but the purchasers were given opened in 1963. 1970 Philadelphia Toboggan Chance Trabant; Six 1990 Skee former park site empty. to March 9. Some of the rides sold in- Company Boat Ride and 1963 Ball Co. Skee Ball machines; Len Soled, Rides 4U, After reopening in 2014, cluded SDC 51 Meter Galaxy Starliner Roller Coaster; 1966 1937 Alan Herschel Caterpillar Somerville, N.J, the company Miracle Strip Amusement Park Coaster; 1991 Sellner Tilt-A- Floyd Baxter Scooter Structure Ride; E-Z-Go Club Golf Cart which conducted the auction, closed last September among Whirl; 2 Eli Bridge rides, 1975 with Soli & Duce cars; 1977 and a Com-Pac Water Ride. said there was not a piece of rumors of the park being sold. (Eli 16) rim drive park model Eyerly Loop-O-Plane and a —Pam Sherborne equipment left unsold. And, That never took place. The wheel and a 1974 Scrambler 1975 Rock-O-Plane. everything had been moved away by the first week of March. "The rides and attractions were bought by both carnivals and parks," Soled said. "It went really well. Everyone, buyers and landowners, were satisfied with the way things went." The silent auction began at Betson opens Charlotte, N.C. vending facility CARLSTADT, N.J. — Betson Enterprises, a divi- sion of H. Betti Industries Inc., recently announced the opening of a new facility located in Charlotte, North Carolina. This new office is located at the former Choice Equipment Sales, Inc. loca- tion, 2701 Hutchinson Mc- Donald Road, Suite M, Char- lotte, North Carolina. The 12,000 square foot facility will serve as Betson's primary vending equipment reconditioning and distribu- tion center. This expansion will allow Betson Enterprises to better service their cus- tomers as business contin- ues to grow. "We look forward to expanding our sales efforts into an already established Southeastern vending mar- ket as well as serving our current customer base bet- ter out of this dedicated facility," commented Chris- topher Betti, National Vending sales manager of Betson Enterprises. For more information regarding this location, con- tact Christopher Betti at (201) 806-7728 or email at: [email protected] Betson Enterprises is a division of H.Betti Indus- tries and is headquartered in Carlstadt, New Jersey and has 14 distribution offices nationwide. •betson.com 26 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2016 Annual NJAA trade show hosts 30 vendors, 500-plus attendees ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — The annual NJAA East in the mid 1970’s at the Aztec Hotel in Seaside Heights, always helps both the trade show and NAARSO.” The Coast Gift and Variety Show was recently held for the N.J. Vendors operated out of their rooms, with attendees 2017 East Coast Gift and Variety Show occurs February seventh time at the Golden Nugget Resort and Ca- traveling room to room. 22-23 and NAARSO training will be February 21-23, 2017. sino near the famed Boardwalk and just off the Atlan- Attendees typically travel from all over the mid-At- Other NJAA events this year includes the 57th An- tic City Marina. The show is held each mid-February in lantic region, as far south as the Carolinas and north from nual Dinner Dance, May 9th; 19th Annual Give Kids the conjunction with the East Coast/Mid-Atlantic regional- New England. World Golf Outing, September 20, at Sea Oaks Golf ized NAARSO (National Association of Amusement Ride On Wednesday evening a Scholarship Fund Cocktail Club, Little Egg Harbor, N.J.; and the NJAA annual mem- Safety Officials) Outreach Safety School, attended by 125 Party was held on the trade show floor, for the second bership breakfast meeting, November 17, in Orlando, people. time. “It was a huge success. People (vendors) love to Fla., during the IAAPA Trade Show. The 30 vendors occupied nearly 100 booths in the grab a cocktail and appetizers and write orders. It is great The 2016 NJAA East Coast Gift and Variety Show 15,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom. Over 500 amuse- to network and socialize amongst friends and close the was sponsored by: Allied Insurance; Bruno and Com- ment industry staff, owners and operators were in at- show and go to dinner,” said Samarelli. pany, Haas & Wilkerson Insurance; Jersey Paper and tendance. Exhibitors included ice cream, plush, licensed On Thursday, before the start of the trade show, a Naughton Insurance, Inc. toys, games of chance, staff shirts and uniforms, novelties ride regulations briefing and panel discussion to discuss The New Jersey Amusement Association is a pro- and other vendors. This show was established to provide the RCMT (Recognized Certified Maintenance Technician active organization, identifying concerns, while working close-to-home buying and business opportunities for Program) and other issues took place. for the safety, health and overall economic betterment New Jersey amusement operators. Before the trade show opened on Friday a 10 a.m. of the amusement industry. The New Jersey Amusement Kimberle Samarelli, executive director of the New session by the Legalized Games of Chance Control Com- Association Scholarship Fund, Inc., a separate non-profit Jersey Amusement Association described the overall mission was held. The speakers presented on the Certifi- corporation was formed in October, 1988. Scholarships show feeling, “Excellent. It was very upbeat and positive cation and Policy Update. to one or more students employed in the industry have vibes and happy faces on the show floor.” In summary, Samarelli feels, “It was very well at- been presented annually since 1990. The gift and variety show started as a motel show tended. Running the NAARSO training at the same time —B. Derek Shaw PAPA Spring Meeting again held in Chocolatetown, USA AT: B. Derek Shaw a 50/50 Raffle for their scholar- of the regular things we do, like [email protected] ship fund. As a result, nearly $730 scholarship and the PACE ride HERSHEY, Pa. — Ninety was raised for the Barbara J. Knoe- seminar and the legislation that is members and guests of the Penn- bel Scholarship Fund. The winner, out there, we need to stay focused sylvania Amusement Parks As- Carl Crider, Jr., general manager on sales tax and funding for tour- sociation (PAPA) met February of DelGrosso’s Park & Laguna ism.” The organization also con- 29 and March 1 for their annual Splash Water Park, donated his tributed funding for marketing spring meeting at Hershey Lodge portion back to the fund. Each research with the Pennsylvania and Convention Center. Fourteen year four, $1,000 scholarships are Tourism Partnership. of the 19 member Pennsylvania awarded to students who work at The Case for Tourism Fund- parks/attractions participated, any of the participating member ing Executive Summary was along with 18 member suppliers/ parks/attractions. Upon conclu- distributed to members. In six manufacturers. Guests included sion of dinner, many attendees years the state lost $324 million staff from thePennsylvania Asso- retired to The Forebay Lounge to in state taxes by defunding tour- ciation of Travel & Tourism and continue networking and imbib- Jeff Davis, Sesame Place, is the president of PAPA while ism. (Funding was at 7.3 million in the Pennsylvania Department of ing. Leanna Muscato, Knoebels Amusement Resort, serves as 2015, down from $29.8 million on Agriculture Bureau of Ride and The second day started with 2009.) Pennsylvania has lost $7.7 vice president of PAPA. AT/B. DEREK SHAW Measurements Standards. New the annual breakfast member- billion in visitor spending the last member organizations this year ship meeting. Association busi- three meeting points. “The tour- AT asked Davis about his first six years, ranking the state last in include Extreme Engineering; ness included reports in various ism study that was just released year in office: “It’s been a great the country for state tourism fund- AAA Mid-Atlantic; In Gate Solu- aspects of the industry: legislative really hits it home. When you tell year.” He went on to share his ing relative to industry size. The tions and Tons of Fun Shows. progress, Amusement Ride Safety people those numbers it is kind thoughts on an on-going, state- study contends that tourism is not The first day started with a Advisory Board, the fall Parks of eye opening and shocking. We wide issue. “The sales tax exemp- an expense, rather an investment PAPA board of directors meeting and Carnivals Education (PACE) love that we offer these scholar- tion that has been proposed in the in Pennsylvania. The full report followed by a reception and ban- ride safety seminar, water park ships. Although it is only a thou- state budget of removing that sales can be found at prla.org/patour- quet that evening. The invocation issues, PAPA website and human sand dollars in an expensive edu- tax from amusement park tickets, ismstudy. before the meal was provided by resource issues. While this is nor- cational system, every dollar got that’s when you see the strength of Summing things up Davis Franklin Shearer, retired Her- mally handled by the chair of each to help with students. We have re- the organization. When you have commented, “We don’t run with sheypark general manager. The committee, this time it was ably ally been working on the website to rally around a topic together — an executive staff –— any staff, so evening proceedings were led by handled by president Jeff Davis (paamusementparks.com).” The everybody is speaking one voice. it’s truly a volunteer organization, Jeff Davis, Operations manager who streamlined the proceedings. website is volunteer led and has Even though we are competitors which makes it even more incred- of Sesame Place and 2016 PAPA “The biggest highlight was that I been improved and updated. understanding this is something ible, having been around 81 years. president. kept it short,” quipped Davis. He The “Sweetest Place on we need to do for the good of the It keeps us very close to the topics The organization again held went on to provide a summary of Earth” is traditionally where the industry and for tourism in Penn- at hand.” meeting is held. Davis explained sylvania that helps us all. That’s Upon conclusion of the PAPA the thinking. “In the spring we when I think you see the strength spring meeting, over 35 attendees always meet in Hershey. It is kind of an organization.” participated in the ever-popular of central in the state. Of course Davis talked about his 2016 open roundtable discussion in the it’s cold out, so nobody is open. priorities: “We are close with the Press Room of the Giant Center, In the summer we rotate it to the tourism funding for the state. We next door to Hersheypark. This is different member parks. So it’s re- want to make sure that we have a the fifth year the roundtable ses- ally a great opportunity to see a seat at the table and a voice in that. sion has been held. The discus- park that maybe you haven’t seen We are working with Pennsylva- sion, coordinated by Gary Chubb, before. I know my park president nia Restaurant & Lodging Asso- senior director of Maintenance at has never been to Knoebels. I ciation (PRLA) and Pennsylvania Hersheypark covered the entire have never been to Waldameer Association of Travel & Tourism gamut. Topics included: ADA Wa- which is in 2017, so it’s kind of a (PATT) to make sure that we are ter Park Compliance, drone poli- neat way to see each other’s facili- doing our part as an industry to cies, metal detectors, employee ties and for the hosting facilities really push that. If we could have recognition, early and late season The always popular round table discussions took place after — kind of a show off which is fun the funding that we had 10 years staffing, best food items along the official portion of the PAPA meeting in the press room of to do with your counterparts. It’s ago ($30-35 million dollars), we’re with new retail items and more. the Giant Center, Hershey, Pa. AT/B. DEREK SHAW like having a party at your house.” all going to benefit from it. On top April 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 27 Knott’s Boysenberry Festival serves up innovative flavors
BUENA PARK, Calif. — Knott’s Berry Farm is shifting its focus to fun-seeking foodies for its annual two-week Boysenber- ry Festival. This year’s event be- gan showcasing the eponymous fruit — the historically home- grown cross between four dif- ferent berry species — on March 19 and will continue presenting creative variations on its zesty flavor through April 3. Set in the park’s Ghost Town section, which currently is ramp- ing up its own 75th anniversary celebration, the festival features The annual Knott's Boysenberry Festival, which runs through over 70 boysenberry-inspired April 3, is presenting an array of goodies incorporating the dishes, desserts and drinks. All this culinary indulgence tain has been transformed into tasty hybrid berry, including a boysenberry chicken and sau- Taste treats run an impressive takes place against a backdrop a floral waterfall adorned with sage sandwich (above left), raspberry BBQ ribs (above) and gamut — from deep-fried alliga- of special festival entertainment. colorful flowers and boysenber- boysenberry cheesecake. COURTESY KNOTT'S BERRY FARM tor bites and fries with boysen- From sun up to sun down, live ries. For a piece of living history, berry aioli to boysenberry BBQ music, dueling fiddlers, “vine” Walter and Cordelia Knott’s short ribs (slathered with Knott’s dancing, a dance party called original roadside boysenberry own Berry Market-brand sauce) Jammin’ in the Dark and a Par- stand offers guests the opportu- to boysenberry trifle. ty in the Park with the Peanuts nity to purchase authentic boy- (Yes, this is your opportuni- characters can be enjoyed by senberry plants. ty to sample boysenberry meat- guests of all ages. Festivalgoers Knott’s Boysenberry Festi- balls!) also can watch or participate in val is included with admission The park’s Wine and Craft daily pie-eating contests and to the park, which has extended Brew Tasting Garden offers shop for handmade gifts at doz- its hours from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. plenty to wash it all down: boy- ens of craft vendors. for the event. Food-tasting ex- senberry wine, boysenberry ci- In addition to boysenberry- periences are offered at an addi- der and Belgium boysenberry themed banners and décor, the tional cost. beer are available for the slaking. iconic Charleston Circle foun- —Dean Lamanna 28 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2016 ZiX, Intermark Ride Group selected Ride Entertainment names sales partners for Skycoaster brand STEVENSVILLE, Md. About the companies the towering 300-foot (91.5 — Ride Entertainment has meter) model found in Flori- selected ZiX and Intermark Ride Entertainment is da. By requiring the riders to Ride Group to represent a leader in providing sales, pull the “ripcord” to start the their world-famous Sky- operations, financial partner- experience, it was the first in- coaster attraction in Mexico, ships, and installations to the teractive thrill ride. Central and South America. attractions industry. Adam Sandy, Ride Enter- They will offer customers Skycoaster is the pre- tainment’s chief Business De- both sales and revenue share mier extreme thrill ride in velopment officer, is excited opportunities for the thrilling the attractions industry. The about continuing the ride’s attraction. company has given more current momentum. “Sky- “The ZiX and Intermark than 30 million flights at coaster has seen a rejuvena- partnership was a natu- nearly 100 sites on six conti- tion in popularity under Ride ral choice for us because of nents since the ride’s incep- Entertainment’s decade-long these company’s strong ties tion in 1992. ownership. We saw three to these markets,” said Mark ZiX is a company spe- ride openings in 2015, two of Rosenzweig, managing di- cializing in the amusement them in Mexico at Six Flags rector of Skycoaster. “We feel industry focusing on amuse- Mexico and El Rollo Water- that they will be able to grow ment parks, waters parks park, and we feel that this is the ride’s regional presence. and events. a market for extreme thrills It is already the most popular Intermark Ride Group that has not been served to extreme ride in the world, we is an international sales, mar- date. We are excited to see the cannot think of a better way keting and consulting com- growth continue,” he said. to celebrate Skycoaster’s 25th pany specializing in new and “We are thrilled to be Anniversary than to partner used ride equipment for the partnering with a power- with a great team like this. amusement-theme park and house brand like Skycoaster "This partnership has attractions industries. for the rapidly growing Latin been fantastic for us and we American park and attrac- look forward to seeing it thrilling customer-active ex- tions market,” stated Gina grow" added Rosenzweig. perience in parks. Together Guglielmi, Intermark Ride "ZiX is known for bringing we'll make an enormous shift Group. “We see huge poten- South America the most cut- in the market from Tijuana tial for expanding the reach ting-edge attractions. Inter- (Mexico) to Ushuaia (Argen- of this dynamic attraction in mark Ride Group has been tina)." Mexico, Central and South our partner for a decade, Skycoaster attractions America. We look forward Above, the 180-foot-tall monopole Skycoaster at Parque de helping us in our expansion can be found on six conti- to working with Skycoaster la Costa in Argentina. Ride Entertainment has selected ZiX all over the Americas, and nents in a myriad of sizes, and the Ride Entertainment and Intermark ride Group as sales partners for the Skycoast- Skycoaster is the ultimate from 100 feet (30.5 meters) to team,” she said. er brand. COURTESY RIDE ENTERTAINMENT XL Group plc announces completion of Bay Tek completes purchase of Skee-Ball Allied International Holdings, Inc. acquisition Plans to keep five foot Spin-N-Win," Hampton market for sale. DUBLIN, Ireland — XL Group plc (NYSE: XL) an- said. "We used to have a full Bay Tek also plans to ex- nounced on February 1 that its indirect wholly-owned Skee-Ball products, size basketball game, but we hibit the Skee-Ball products at subsidiary, XL Reinsurance America Inc., has complet- retire all others retired that one some years ago the Licensing Expo set for June ed the acquisition of Allied International Holdings, Inc., because we couldn't compete 21-23 at the Mandalay Bay the holding company of Allied Specialty Insurance, Inc. PULASKI, Wis. — Bay Tek in that area." Convention Center, Las Vegas, and T.H.E. Insurance Company, a leading insurer of the Games Inc., new owners of The fifth game will be the Nev. outdoor entertainment industry in the U.S. Skee-Ball Inc., will move five Centennial Alley Skee-Ball In news reports released XL CEO Mike McGavick said: “We’re pleased to of- of Skee-Ball's 10 games into game. at the time of the sale in Feb- ficially welcome our Allied colleagues to XL Catlin. Their their product line and retire "At the end of the day, we ruary, Joseph W. Sladek, underwriting expertise in this niche specialty risk busi- five. At least those were the are really excited about all of who bought Skee-Ball in 1985, ness along with their exceptional client service further plans last month. this," Hampton said. "It will called the sale a "bittersweet enhances our ability as a leading provider of specialty in- "We are not 100 percent help to further diversify our goodbye." surance and reinsurance to meet the ever evolving needs sure, at this time, but that is line." A purchase price was not of clients in the entertainment industry.” what we are looking to do," Bay Tek and Skee-Ball rep- disclosed. T.H.E. Insurance Company, which had approximately said Holly Hampton, director resentatives have been work- Skee-Ball was invented $70 million of gross written premium in 2014, provides of marketing and innovation ing together to make the tran- and patented by J.D. Estes of general liability, workers comp, inland marine, auto-li- for Bay Tek. sition as smooth as possible. Philadelphia in 1909. The first ability, and certain property insurance to clients in the Bay Tek's purchase of Hampton said it is Bay Tek's Skee-Ball alleys were sold and amusement and entertainment industry, including car- Skee-Ball was final February policy to offer relocation pack- distributed to the outdoor nivals, amusement parks, fairs and festivals, hot air bal- 23. ages to workers of acquired amusement industry market loons, fireworks, concessionaires, family entertainment Four of the five games Bay companies. by Maurice Piesen in 1914. centers and waterparks. The privately held company was Tek plans to keep were to be "But, there is usually a Bay Tek Games is a family founded in 1983 and has an AM Best A- rating. exhibited at the Amusement very small percentage that ac- owned and operated company “We’re proud to be an official part of XL Catlin,” said Expo held, as AT went to press, tually pick up and move," she founded in 1977. Other acqui- Mary Chris Smith, chairman and president of Allied Spe- at the Las Vegas (Nev.) Con- said. sitions by Bay Tek include Coin cialty Insurance, Inc. “Given the success of Allied and XL vention Center. Those games When Bay Tek purchased Concept, purchased in 1997; Catlin’s individual track records in the specialty under- are the classic Skee-Ball game, Skee-Ball, it also purchased the Seidel Amusements in 1999; writing area, we are confident that together this is a win- two basketball games and the latter's building in Chalfont, Meltec Games, 2003; Victory ning combination for Allied, XL Catlin and our clients.” six-foot Spin-N-Win. Pa. Bay Tek is in the process Lane Ideas, 2004, and Wood "We plan to retire the four- of putting that building on the Chuck Woods LLC, 2006. April 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 29 Former Disneyland president, ad guru Jack Lindquist dies at 88
ANAHEIM, Calif. — OBITUARIES the good fortune to know Jack Lindquist, the former Jack will always remember president of Disneyland pany roles in succeeding the kindness, humility and and longtime executive with decades — including head dedication that made him The Walt Disney Company, of marketing and entertain- such an important part of died of natural causes at his ment for Disney parks in the this company and a true Dis- home on February 28. He U.S. and overseas — before ney legend,” said Robert A. was 88. he was named president of Iger, chairman and chief ex- A native of Chicago who Disneyland in 1990. ecutive officer for The Walt found work as a child actor Among the promotional Disney Company, in a state- in Hollywood, Lindquist innovations he developed ment. graduated from the Univer- were Disney Dollars, Grad Last November, sity of Southern California Nights, off-site ticket sales Lindquist was named to the and began his career with and the wildly popular International Association The Walt Disney Company “I’m going to Disneyland / of Amusement Parks and following the debut of Dis- Disney World!” campaign. Jack Lindquist at Disneyland, where he served as president Attractions’ Hall of Fame for neyland in 1955. His job as He led the push for the ex- beginning in 1990. COURTESY THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY his Disney work, executive the park’s first advertising pansion of Disneyland into mately became Disney Cali- cades with the company in mentorship and larger con- manager led to greater, in- a full-fledged resort with fornia Adventure, before he 1993. tributions to the business. creasingly influential com- a second gate, which ulti- retired after nearly four de- “Those of us who had —Dean Lamanna Mendel S. "Mickey" Kaliff, Terry Van Gorder, 82; former head of Kaliff Insurance and Magic Mountain, Knott’s Berry Farm COTTAGE GROVE, Rapids, Indian Trails and WWII veteran, dies at 92 Ore. — Terry Van Gorder, Mystery Lodge. Under a former president of his direction, Knott’s won SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Magic Mountain theme the Applause Award — a Mendel S. "Mickey" Kaliff, 92, of Kaliff Insurance Co., a park in Valencia, Calif., prestigious international family owned and operated and Knott’s Berry Farm theme park industry hon- insurance company founded in Buena Park, Calif., died or presented biannually. in 1917, died February 16, 2016 March 2. He was 82. Van Gorder also was in San Antonio, Texas. Kal- Van Gorder, born in instrumental in the con- iff's parents, Cecelia Soloman Palo Alto, Calif., was a ception, planning and Kaliff and Morris H. Kaliff, Yale University graduate development of Knott’s founded the company, which who served in U.S. Naval Camp Snoopy at the Mall has grown over the years to Intelligence before de- Terry Van Gorder of America in Blooming- one of the top providers of veloping deep roots in the 1934-2016 ton, Minn. specialty entertainment in- amusement industry. Hav- Valencia. Following his retire- surance coverage in the areas ing learned golf course From 1971-79, Van ment in 1998, Van Gorder that include fairs and festivals, construction and mainte- Gorder served as presi- relocated to Cottage carnivals, inland marines, nance from his father, he dent and CEO of Magic Grove, Ore., with his wife, properties, concessionaires, Mendel S. "Mickey" Kaliff joined the Newhall Land Mountain, and from 1981- Elaine. In addition to his circuses, liquor, rain, autos, & Farming Co. in 1964 — 98, he was president and wife, he is survived by haunted houses and directors Small Business Administra- rising to senior vice presi- CEO of Knott’s Berry Farm. his former wife, Priscilla and officers. tion, Hall of Fame Show- dent. During this time While with the latter park, Lowe, and his son, Eric; Kaliff was an alumnus of men's League of America, he built Valencia Golf he conceptualized and his daughter, Catherine, the Texas Military Institute Name of Lloyd's of London, Course and designed and and son-in-law, Ed Faci- and the University of Texas. Planned Parenthood, and co- oversaw the creation of at- In WWII, he was commis- vert member of Texas Cava- built Vista Valencia and tractions including Knott’s ana; plus two grandchil- sioned 2nd Lieutenant U.S. liers. Vista Chica golf courses, Camp Snoopy, Kingdom dren and two great grand- Army at age 18, Parachute In- Kaliff is survived by his as well as Indian Dunes of the Dinosaurs, Wild children. fantry, assigned to the Office cherished wife of 36 years, Ge- Motor Recreation Park in Water Wilderness/Bigfoot —Dean Lamanna of Strategic Service and served mey Gilbert Hutchison Kaliff, behind enemy lines in North children Melissa Kaliff, Melani Burma. Kaliff Skybell and spouse Nic, After the war, he joined Mitchell Kaliff and spouse his father's insurance busi- Bruce Smiley-Kaliff, Matthew ness. He retired in 2000. His Kaliff and spouse Beth; step- son, Mitchell H. Kaliff, is now children Dr. Renee Hutchison, the company owner. Gregory Hutchison and pre- Kaliff served as officer or deceased by stepson Jeffrey director of: American Israel Hutchison; sister Dorothy Ka- Public Affairs Committee, An- liff Jonas and companion Josh- ti-Defamation League, Ameri- ua Pierce, six grandchildren can Civil Liberties Union, and friend Charles Skibell. Presidents Council Brandies A reception in celebration University, Incarnate World of Kaliff's life was held March College, Texas Bank, People 6, at the Kaliff Building, San to People International, U.S. Antonio, Texas. 30 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2016 PEOPLE WATCH Walt Disney SeaWorld Entertainment announces leadership changes Imagineering ORLANDO, Fla., — SeaWorld dens Williamsburg and Water Country gains Bob Weis Entertainment, Inc. announced on USA park president, has been named as new president February 19 changes in its operational SeaWorld San Antonio park president management team at its corporate head- effective February 19. He succeeds Dan GLENDALE, Calif. — quarters and its San Diego, San Antonio Decker, who is leaving the company. The Walt Disney Com- and Williamsburg locations. The com- Lum will be responsible for leading the pany has announced the pany also announced the creation of its other company parks and the corporate company's Texas parks, SeaWorld and promotion of Bob Weis Resorts Development Group. office. Aquatica. Lum has been with the com- to president of Walt Dis- John Reilly, SeaWorld San Diego "Chris is a highly respected vet- pany since 1999 and has held various ney Imagineering, re- park president, has been promoted to erinarian and scientist under whose leadership roles within the company, placing Bruce Vaughn, chief parks Operations officer replacing leadership our animal care programs including vice president of Finance for with a few months cross Daniel B. Brown, who announced his and contributions to conservation have Busch Gardens Tampa before being over during the transi- retirement, both effective April 1. helped further advance the care for ani- promoted to Busch Gardens Williams- tional period. With a big Dr. Christopher (Chris) Dold, vice mals in zoological settings and in the burg park president in 2010. push to boost the theme president of veterinary services, has wild. I am confident that both John and The company is considering both parks with new attrac- been promoted to chief Zoological of- Chris can drive forward our strategic internal and external candidates for the tions and improvements ficer. He succeeds Brad Andrews, who priorities," Manby added. vacancies created by the promotions to existing parks, plus the will continue to serve the company as As Chief Zoological Officer, Dold described above. opening of the Shanghai Zoological director emeritus, helping will lead the company's team of zoolog- Disney Resort, led to to drive the company's conservation ical professionals and oversee all ani- Resort Development Group Bob’s promotion. efforts, support new product develop- mal programs that provide comprehen- The company announced the forma- Bob Chapek, chair- ment, and assist during the transition. sive care for the marine and terrestrial tion of its Resort Development Group man of Walt Disney These changes are effective April 1. animals at the company's parks, as well and the appointment of Steve Iandolo Parks and Resorts, an- "These leaders bring to their new as the animals assisted as part of the to the position of vice president of Re- nounced the changes in roles an extraordinary depth of knowl- company's rescue program. Dold joined sort Development, effective February an internal memo. “Since edge and talent and the right expertise the company in 2005 as a senior veteri- 1. Iandolo is responsible for leading the creativity is at the heart to deliver on our strategic priorities," narian at the company's SeaWorld Or- resort construction and development of what we do,” the said Joel Manby, president and chief lando theme park. effort that was introduced in November memo said, “we need to executive officer of SeaWorld Entertain- as part of the company's plan for or- relentlessly innovate and ment, Inc. "John is a strong and expe- Other staff changes ganic and strategic growth. Iandolo has evolve our organization.” rienced operator who has proven his The company also announced nearly 30 years of successful experience There have been leadership, both at Busch Gardens Wil- that Marilyn Hannes, vice president in design and construction in the hos- some other reshuffles liamsburg and amidst a challenging op- of Global Sales, has been promoted to pitality industry. While with Universal of top staff with Craig erating environment at our California SeaWorld San Diego and Aquatica San Studios Parks and Resorts, he was cre- Russell now working in location." Diego park president effective April 1. ative director for the development of Project Integration and As Chief Parks Operations Officer, Hannes has served in a number of roles Orlando's Royal Pacific Resort, Hard Kathy Mangum will now Reilly will have operational oversight since joining the company in 1997, in- Rock Hotel and Portofino Bay Hotel. be responsible for the over all of the company's theme parks. cluding vice president of Marketing Iandolo joined the company in Febru- creative side of Disney Reilly has led SeaWorld San Diego's and Sales for the company's California ary from Herschend Family Entertain- Cruise Line and Disney- park operations since 2010 and has parks. ment where he was vice president, Hos- land Paris. held a variety of leadership positions at In addition, Carl Lum, Busch Gar- pitality Development. Six Flags Entertainment names Jim Reid-Anderson executive chairman
John Duffey promoted to president fey. “We are es, John Bement, has retired to president and CEO; and CEO, extremely from Six Flags following 48 both effec- well-posi- years of dedicated service. Marshall Barber named tive Febru- tioned for Bement has been honored chief financial officer ary 19, 2016. long term by Reid-Anderson for his in- Duffey has growth and credible work, and received GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas also been shareholder the company’s prestigious — Six Flags Entertainment appointed a Reid-Anderson John Duffey has been instru- value cre- Barber Angus Wynne Lifetime Corporation announcedINSIDE: on director of the company. mental in our past success ation.” Achievement Award, which
February 18 thatAl Weber, its board “The company has and is a proven leader with- The company also an- has only been awarded to a Apex make market inroads Marshall Bar- of directors has splitSee pages execu30-31 - strong momentum and tre- in the company, and this is nounced that handful of people who have tive leadership roles at the mendous growth opportu- an excellent time to transi- ber has been promoted to devoted their lives to en- www.amusementtoday.com company by naming Jim nities over the next decade, tion respon- chief financial officer. Barber hancing both Six Flags and Denny's Electronics' Jim Reid-Anderson the comAllen said in- mid-Januaryand I am proud to have sibilities has built a successful career the theme park industry. that his company hadn't made final plans for the Gib- one to Butler Amusements town show, but knew they pany’s executive chairmanwould be exhibiting newerhelped our team deliver and devel- at Six Flags over the last 20 David McKillips, for- TM & ©2016 Amusement Today, Inc. and another to Mr. Ed's Mag- ical Midways, at the Gibtown products such as their small, show. roundish turbo lights. and promoting JohnRamon Rosario, Duffey Zam- "We have themrecord in six guest satisfaction, op others years, serving most recently merly senior vice president February 2016 | Vol. 19 • Issue 11 perla, said his company has LED and nine LED," Allen had a very busy year and will said. "We have new control- lers to go with them." be glad to be at the Gibson- Allen said industry-leadingbusiness is innova- on our man- as the company’s vice presi- of corporate alliances, was 15 new exhibitorsfun have houses. Gina signed Guglielmi, up ton show. Zamperla plans to busy. Intermark Ride Group, is turing and Waterloo Tent and exhibit a Balloon Fiesta, the "In the last seven days, representing Gosetto and Tarp. 36-foot-tall ride that debuted Len Soled of Rides 4-U at IAAPA Expo. The compa- we have addedtion, five new all-time high employee dent financial planning & named the new senior vice 2016 IISF Tradewill be at Showthe show. and Extravaganza looking strong agement "We will be focusing on products to our plate," he AT: Pam Sherborne said the IISF event has al- ny also will have on display said. [email protected] our dark rides and fun hous- ways been good for him. It an Air Race, a kiddie version The IISF Trade Show will GIBSONTON, Fla. — Te- es for the carnival business," is sort of a last chance order of the Sky Race ride, and a satisfaction, and our sixth analysis. He is extremely president of in-park services run 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Tuesday, team as we she said. "We also are focus- opportunity for some shows. Happy Swing. resa Rimes, part of the pro- "Sometimes, if they go Bob's Space Racers' Tony Feb. 9 through Friday, Feb. duction team responsible for ing on our new portable fam- Cassata said his company 12. Saturday, Feb. 13, times putting on the International ily spin coaster and Dance ahead and order at this show, will bring a Whopper Water are 11 consecutivea.m. - 4 p.m. year of record continue experienced, having previ- and Brett Petit, senior vice Independent Showmen's Party interactive ride." they will get it before the 4th The week also will in- Exhibitors to the trade race game, trailer mounted, of July," Soled said. SPOTLIGHT:SPOTLIGHT: Duffey 01 Foundation (IISF) Trade 01 ark re ie TM & ©201 Amusement Today, Inc. ark re ie Of course, that is notTM & ©201 Amusement al Today, Inc.- clude an array of educational ages - and a water ages race - game in the show run the gamut of prod- MayMay 20152015 || Vol.Vol. 1919 •• IssueIssue 22 Show and Extravaganza, Europa-ParkEuropa-Park celebratescelebrates fourfour decadesdecades www.amusementtoday.comwww.amusementtoday.com sessions and nightly social ofof successsuccess withwith newnew attractionsattractions company's lineup configu- ways the case. SoledA : msaid a d n last ucts for the mobile amuse- tba d [email protected]