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September 7 & 8, 2018 TM & ©2018 , Inc. www.GoldenTicketAwards.com August 2018 | Vol. 22 • Issue 5 www.amusementtoday.com brings Pixar Pier delivers dazzle at Gosetto Mystery Mansion to U.S. Disney California Adventure Two-level, suspended AT: Dean Lamanna [email protected] from Italy is ANAHEIM, Calif. — As if the parades and party hats weren’t a hit with park guests enough, the plethora of Pixar Animation Studios characters AT: Pam Sherborne unleashed June 23 at the official opening of Pixar Pier at Disney [email protected] California Adventure (DCA) made certain the revamped attrac- tions area impressed kids and adults alike. FARMINGDALE, N.Y. The celebration, occurring during the Resort’s — They didn't really want already amped-up Pixar Fest summer celebration, which runs a total scare, so when Ad- through Sept. 3 (Amusement Today, June 2018), showed off ventureland Long Island DCA’s newly burnished, mostly-reimagined and cleverly spot- officials began looking into enhanced former Paradise Pier section. what they wanted in a new Pixar Pier’s producer, Jeffrey Shaver-Moskowitz of Walt dark ride, they came up Disney Imagineering (WDI), said planning and completion of with Mystery Mansion. the project took barely one year. “We went around and around They also came up with on it, asking ourselves, ‘Can we really pull this off?’” he told AT, a hit, according to the park's explaining that the accelerated pace was necessary to coincide Steve Gentile. Not only did with the theatrical release of Incredibles 2 and the launch of Pixar Adventureland get an at- Fest, both already in the works. “We had hundreds of Imagineers traction for all ages, but also 4See PIXAR, page 5 a first in the U.S. The new dark ride, which opened A new Gosetto two-level, suspended-gondola dark ride, Memorial Day weekend, is the first of its kind in the U.S., opened at the beginning the first two-level, suspend- of this season at Adventureland Long Island, Farmingdale, ed-gondola attraction in the N.Y. The ride features 12 suspended gondolas and 531 feet U.S. from the Italian manu- of track. Park officials said the response to the new attrac- facturer Gosetto. tion has been great. "It is a beautiful piece COURTESY GOSETTO & ADVENTURELAND LONG ISLAND that we got from Gosetto," Gentile said. "We are ex- wanted to make sure Mys- dren. Gosetto supplied the tremely happy with it and tery Mansion didn't just complete building, ride sys- we are seeing our guests are scare. Replacing the Ghost tem and 12 / happy, too." Mansion, Mystery Mansion tricks. Gentile said there is a offers the young and young Gentile said the park is huge amount of substance at heart new thrills, chills, working on scenery to fill in to the new attraction. and laughter. between the Gosetto tricks, Pixar Pier has added "Everything is magni- "We wanted people to but that part in not finished beloved animated ficient," he said. "And, the have fun, a few scares and a yet. He expects once the sea- characters, eclectic design Gosetto family is a class act. few laughs," he said. son is over and his staff is touches and diverse dining They are wonderful to work It seems Mystery Man- able to take a breather, they options to the former with." sion has fit the bill. will be able to get it done. Paradise Pier at Disney The new attraction has The attraction features The attraction has many California Adventure. something for everyone. 12 suspended gondolas, unique features, not the COURTESY Adventureland is a family which can hold two adults DISNEYLAND RESORT park, said Gentile, so they or one adult and two chil- 4See GOSETTO, page 4

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AT NOTEBOOK: Gary Slade, [email protected] FLINT’S VIEW: Bubba Flint Free skin cancer screening Hopefully, the hot summer sun is blessing all our amusement and water- based facilities with good weather and good attendance. As we are always warned of the damage the summer sun can do to our skin (one only needs to be reminded of our late, great Slade friend George Millay and his skin cancer battles), AT was notified that our local Texas Rangers baseball team recently offered to give its entire full-time and seasonal staff the opportunity to come to the stadium (on a non-game day) for a free skin cancer screening — with no appointment needed. What a great thing to give back to your team of employees who work long hours in the sun during the schedule of games. Perhaps this is a promotion fitting not only for our operators to offer, but our operators as well. The opportunity to help a fellow employee catch the early signs of this ugly disease should INDUSTRY OPINION: Tim Baldwin, [email protected] bring a sense of goodwill to any owner or What is the queue telling the guest? manager. And hearing the words "no signs of I recently attended a convention park opens, walk each queue to check cancer" surely will bring a sense of relief to those where someone was telling a story its condition. Later in the day, check employees. After all, if the employee took the about an experience he had with a again when there are guests. Has trash time to take the free screening, then there is no park general manager. The gentlemen built up? How comfortable is it? Is it doubt that skin cancer has crossed the mind of had developed a good relationship. shaded, and how cool is it on a hot that employee. I'm sure our water park lifeguards During one visit, the manager sug- afternoon? would be among the first to attend the free gested they ride a coaster. The person I often wonder if people “at the Baldwin screening. telling the story suggested they use top” ever stand in a line. When a man- the queue line instead of short-cutting ager has the ability to walk up the exit If your facility decides to conduct a free skin through the exit. to consult with employees or hop on a ride, cancer screening, be sure to let us know about it The manager noticed a foul odor in the why would he or she ever stand in a line? — we'd love to share it with others in the industry. queue building. He asked his friend, “Does The truthful answer: To see what it is like. Email us at: [email protected]. it always smell like this?” The response: Park guests spend more time in lines than • “Sometimes worse.” The manager then probably any other activity. What are the Just a quick reminder that if you have not yet noticed gum covering a wall later in the queue. queues telling the guests? “We care about registered to attend the Golden Ticket Awards on Within a week, he had concealed the gum wall you”? “We want you to be comfortable”? Sept. 7 & 8 at in Branson, Mo., and rerouted the queue away from the smelly “We’re glad you’re here”? Or… “Deal with it”? you can do so by going to GoldenTicketAwards. area until it could be corrected. As someone who loves this industry and has Standing in the queue can be a learning stood in many lines, I have witnessed extremes com. Thanks to our host park and our supporting experience. What does the guest see and feel? wonderful and horrible. This Saturday, set an sponsors (, Rocky Mountain Construc- And from a safety standpoint, what can guests alarm for 3 p.m. to remind yourself to go stand tion and S&S Worldwide), this event remains free get their hands on? in a line. Your experience probably will be the to all industry professions to attend. We hope to Here’s a challenge every park manager or same as that of the thousands of park guests see you there! management team should take. Before the who do so every day.

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Amusement Today is an independent, privately- Founder, Publisher & Editor Managing Editor Production Manager owned trade newspaper published 14 times Gary Slade • (817) 460-7220 x3 Dean Lamanna • (817) 460-7220 John Robinson • (513) 256-1441 per year by Amusement Today Inc., P.O. Box [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005. Print issues are $50 per year and are mailed Presort Standard Postage (permit No. 2069) Pre-Paid Fort Worth, Accounting & Classified Editorial Monthly Contributors Texas. The entire contents of this newspaper, Sammy Piccola • (817) 460-7220 x1 Tim Baldwin • (972) 697-9745 Dan Feicht, Bubba Flint, and its related websites, are Copyrighted and [email protected] [email protected] Richard Munch, Janice Witherow Trademarked 2018 by Amusement Today Inc., all rights reserved. Assistant Office Manager, Circulation Jeffrey Seifert • (817) 460-7220 x4 Association Memberships Savannah Breen • (817) 460-7220 x5 [email protected] ACE, AIMS International, ASTM, IAAPA, IISF, Address: P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas IRT/iROC, NAARSO, NEAAPA, NJAA, OABA, 76005-5427, USA [email protected] • (717) 650-8330 PAPA, PACE, TTIA, WWA Deliveries: 2012 E. Randol Mill Road #203, B. Derek Shaw [email protected] Arlington, Texas 76011, USA Advertising Industry Affiliated Charities Phone: (817) 460-7220 Sue Nichols • (615) 477-5432 Pam Sherborne • (615) 308-3310 Give Kids the World Village, Morgan's Wonderland, Fax: (817) 265-NEWS (6397) [email protected] National Museum & Archives Websites: www.AmusementToday.com, [email protected] www.GoldenTicketAwards.com August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3 OBITUARIES MINUTE John Holer, founder of Marineland in Niagara Falls, passes at age 83 DRILL NIAGARA FALLS, Ont., Canada — John Holer, founder and AT: Janice Witherow 2 owner of Marineland, died at home on June 23 at age 83 after an Stephen Ball, extended illness. A regional tourism industry leader who believed attraction alter- Stephen Ball started his full-time natives were needed around the falls, Holer estab- career in the department at lished the earliest incarnation of his park in 1961 Frontier City, holding various positions at and grew its success and size through a combination the Oklahoma City amusement park before of marketing savvy, emphasis on animals and, in landing in his current role as general man- 1983, a sprawling Arrow Huss steel roller coaster ager. Stephen is known for developing char- called Mountain. acter in the workplace and as a high-energy Over the decades, the park’s performing and leader who “goes the extra mile.” He also exhibit animals included dolphins, beluga whales Holer serves as Frontier City’s resident historian, and orcas (one, named Keiko, later appeared in the which is an especially important role now 1993 movie Free Willy), as well as land-based animals such as birds, that the park is celebrating its 60th season. and . Holer considered all of them “family.” He credits his strong faith and love of family A native of Slovenia who immigrated to Canada in the late as keys to his success. 1950s, Holer worked with a circus that traveled in Europe and North America. After he opened his park, he earned a reputation among his Title: General Manager employees for generosity and hard work. He resisted several offers by large amusement companies to buy the property. Number of years in the amusement While credited with creating thousands of jobs and giving back to the community, Holer and Marineland faced controversy peri- industry: 28 odically — particularly in recent years, when allegations of animal mistreatment surfaced. Whistleblowers fueled investigative reports Best thing about the industry: in 2012, and animal welfare activists worked to get the park closed. Our job is to create fun! A 28-year amusement industry veteran, Stephen Ball is Frontier City’s general Marineland, which complied with changes mandated by the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA), Favorite amusement park ride: manager and resident historian. AT FILE maintained that there was no truth to the allegations. Animal cruelty I love park trains. charges later filed by OSPCA were dropped during court proceedings You’re at the beach. Do you stay on the last year If I wasn’t working in the amusement sand or hit the waves? I’m more of a The park subsequently filed a $21 million suit against OSPCA for industry, I would be… Spending summers landlubber. I’d rather sit in the shade and what it alleged were the agency’s attempts to damage its business. with my family. read a book or take a nap. Holer is survived by his wife, Marie, and son, Peter. He is prede- ceased by another son, John Mark, Jr., who died in 2013. Biggest challenge facing the industry… I would describe my backyard at home On June 27, Marineland was closed for the day while funeral The negative effects of social media. As as… A place to work when I’m not at work. services for Holer were held at Our Lady of Peace Church in Niagara a society, we seem to be addicted to any Falls. Holer’s attorney said operations at the family-owned park were form of outrage. If something doesn’t The worst movie I’ve seen lately is defi- expected to continue without change through this season. go as planned in our industry, the whole nitely… MAILBAG world finds out about it in an instant. And No Escape. I like most of Owen Wilson’s movies, but this was not one of them. anything perceived as negative can leave To the Editor: a long-lasting impression on our visitors, I want to say “Thank you” for featuring me as the first Woman even when nothing bad actually happened. Favorite spectator sport: College foot- of Influence [featured in Amusement Today, May 2018]. I have been ball, especially when the Oklahoma overwhelmed with the positive and uplifting responses. The thing I like most about amusement Sooners are playing! Mary Christine Smith, President park season is… The first day of the season, Allied Specialty Insurance, Inc. followed closely by the last day of the season. When drinking water, do you like yours An XL Group Company with or without ice? Lots and lots of ice. Treasure Island, Fla. Favorite junk food: Chocolate. On a rainy day, I like to… Watch the To the Editor: I typically celebrate my birthday by… weather radar to see when it’s going to end. Thank you so much for featuring my book, All Clear, in the Trying to keep it a secret. [June] issue of Amusement Today! Such an honor! If you could be in a band, what instru- I sincerely appreciate the depth of the article and how you The best place I have ever watched a ment would you play? captured so many of the critical themes of the book. If anyone was sunset is… On the white sand beach at Drums, because I tend to be the loudest on the fence about this book being for them or not, I think you Marco Island, Fla. person in the group. cleared that up! Thanks again! Matt Heller, ICAE The last time I cooked a meal, I whipped My all-time best “blooper” moment Performance Optimist Consulting up… Steaks on the grill. would have to be… Losing the train when [email protected] I was the engineer. When going somewhere, are you usu- ERRATA ally early, on time or late? Being an Eagle The habit I would most like to break is… Scout taught me that being early is being Learning when to stop talking and just In our 2018 What’s New Guide (AT, May), the supplier on time; being on time is being late; and listen. named for the i-Ride Panoramic Flight Simulator listed with being late is being in trouble. on Australia’s Gold Coast and Amikoo Theme The TV show I can’t live without is… I’m Park in Quintana Roo on Mexico’s Mayan Riviera was incorrect. I wish I could be paid to… excited for the return of Last Man Standing. The supplier of the ride at all locations is Brogent. Fill out this survey. It’s one of my all-time favorite TV shows. In our July People column (p. 34), a photo of Ralph S. Alberts, Co., Inc., team member Andy Vogelsong, who has If I could visit anywhere in the world, Favorite breakfast food: Cheesy scram- been promoted to customer sales and service representative, it would be… I’ve always wanted to visit bled eggs and bacon from Waffle House. was misidentified. Ireland. AT regrets the errors. 4 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018

GOSETTO FAST FACTS Continued from page 1 least which is the U-shaped Ride/Park portion of the 531-foot track Gosetto that takes riders bursting Suspended Dark Ride, through a door on the sec- Adventureland Long Island ond level, and out and over Opened the park's major May 2018 thoroughfare. Then, they are (Memorial Weekend) back inside for more scares and thrills. Dimensions Mystery Mansion stands 98 feet long by 44 feet, 40 feet tall and is 98 feet long 40 feet tall by 44 feet wide. The cycle time is three mintues. The Guests at Adventureland Long Island, Farmingdale, N.Y., are enjoying a brand new attraction Structure capacity runs between 480- this year. Mystery Mansion, from the Italian manufacturer Gosetto, is the first two-level, 2 levels, with uphill and 600 riders per hour depend- suspended-gondola in the U.S. COURTESY GOSETTO & ADVENTURELAND LONG ISLAND downhill track ing on the number of riders in each gondola. rollbacks on the uphill, mag- ply (UPS) and rack systems, ride option built for their Suspended Gondolas Safety features include: netic brakes on the downhill, ATSM compliant, and fire needs and budget." 12, seating adjustable lap bars, anti- uninterrupted power sup- resistant fiberglass on the Adventureland's sus- 1 adult and 2 children gondolas. pended dark ride is the or 2 adults Gina Guglielmi, U.S. fourth Gosetto has built with sales representative for Gos- a fifth in production now. Ride Time/Capacity etto, said the appeal of Gos- Other Gosetto U.S. plans 3 minutes with 480–600 etto dark ride systems is this summer include a trav- people per hour, they can be built for any size eling version monorail dark depending on the number park. ride for Bob Myers, an inde- riders in gondolas "Gosetto can supply just pendent mobile ride operator. the ride system with ani- "We are in discussions Track Length matronics, tricks and inter- for Gosetto dark rides and 531 feet active features supplied by fun house systems with cus- others or Gosetto supplying tomers in North America for Animatronics/Stunts the complete ride system," 2019 and beyond," Gugliel- 12 Supplied by Gosetto, Mystery Mansion features 12 animatronics/tricks supplied Guglielmi said. "This offers mi said. additional enhancements by Gosetto, with additional enhancements by the park. customers an affordable and •adventureland.us by park COURTESY GOSETTO & ADVENTURELAND LONG ISLAND completely customized dark •gosetto.com August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5 PIXAR pub cuisine and signature cock- tails. Continued from page 1 The Lamplight Lounge cel- ebrates the artists and storytell- working on it. It’s kind of a ers who have brought Pixar sto- miracle.” ries to life. Guests will discover Not all of the changes aris- the artistic marks that Pixar ing from WDI’s close collabo- “regulars” have left throughout ration with Pixar are evident the lounge, including concept on first glance across Paradise art, memorabilia and collectible Bay, DCA’s manmade lake; the Pixar character toys. area has kept some of its early- Creative food and bever- 1900s seaside resort look. But age locations extend all along on closer approach, the new Pixar Pier. Adorable Snowman details emerge in both subtle Frosted Treats, offering soft- and pleasantly surprising ways. The Incredicoaster, formerly serve cones and parfaits, was WDI’s Debbie Gonzalez, California Screamin’, now inspired by the lovable mon- Pixar Pier’s creative direc- sports a Pixar-themed ster from Monsters, Inc. Jack- tor, told AT that a research narrative, a midcentury-style Jack Cookie Num Nums in trip along the California coast loading station and newly Incredibles Park features baby helped jump-start the process. repainted trains, among Jack-Jack’s favorite chocolate “We pretty much went to every other enhancements. chip-studded treat. boardwalk and pier along the AT/DEAN LAMANNA At Toy Story Boardwalk, way,” she said. “We were really guests can sample the fare at struck with Santa Cruz Beach Poultry Palace and Señor Buzz Boardwalk. We loved the archi- Incredicoaster, formerly known Churros. Poultry Palace, which tecture — not just the color of as California Screamin.’ (The looks like the fun, oversized what’s there now but looking 6,072-foot-long multi-launch, meal box and juice box featured back at research photos from single-loop steel roller coaster riders is that of being pulled play booths. in the Pixar short, “Toy Story the turn of the [last] century. was custom-built for DCA by into the action scene. Scheduled to open in late Toon: Small Fry,” offers turkey What we wanted to do was and originally opened The storyline connects fans summer, Bing Bong’s Sweet legs and chicken drumsticks. marry some of the colors they with the park’s debut in 2001.) with the latest feature install- Stuff will offer traditional Señor Buzz Churros offers have on the pier today with the “The coaster was very pop- ment, Incredibles 2, which hit boardwalk confections such as the quintessential Disneyland architecture of that time. ular, but it really didn’t have a theaters in mid-June. The saltwater taffy and cot- Resort treat. Farther along “Pixar is fun — it’s irrever- story to it,” Shaver-Moskowitz coaster’s new lighting, charac- ton candy. the path, guests will discover ent, it’s colorful. We were look- said. “This was a really great ter figures and special effects Just past Pixar Promenade Anger from Inside Out at Angry ing at how to bring all the color chance to tell a new story.” add to the thrills, as does a is Inside Out Headquarters. Dogs, where hot dogs with from the films into Pixar Pier.” Billed by the resort as the new soundtrack by Academy Inspired by Joy, Sadness and the spicy ingredients are served first ride-through attraction in Award-winning composer emotions of Disney-Pixar’s Inside piping hot. Cinematic scenery the world to feature charac- Michael Giacchino. Out, this neighborhood will open The remaining areas of Guests enter Pixar Pier ters — Mr. and Mrs. Incredible, The greater highlights of a new flat ride in 2019 called Inside the original Paradise Pier, through a miniature light- Violet, Dash and Jack-Jack, the more thematically realized Out Emotional Whirlwind, to be including Paradise Gardens, dotted marquee and over a along with Edna Mode — from ride — aside from its unusu- tucked inside the Incredicoaster’s , bridge flanked by flag-tipped, the hugely popular movie fran- ally generous, airtime-packed west-end turnaround. Jumping Jellyfish, Goofy’s Sky Victorian-era cupolas, beyond chise, the Incredicoaster takes course — include a new mid- School, Golden Zephyr and which lie four whimsical guests on a wild adventure century-style queue and wing- Animated eats The Little Mermaid — Ariel’s “neighborhoods.” involving a chase after the elu- roofed loading station, as well Guests looking for food and Undersea Adventure, have been The first is Incredibles Park, sive baby Jack-Jack. With the as scenes featuring Pixar char- beverage with a side of story spun off into a new DCA land inspired by Disney-Pixar’s The coaster’s four-second accelera- acters at the start and end of will find them at the Lamplight called Paradise Gardens Park. Incredibles and home to the tion to 55 mph, the effect for the experience and inside three Lounge (formerly Ariel’s Grotto Because the riches at Disneyland’s midcourse tunnels (the exten- and Cove Bar), just inside Pixar once less-favorably regarded sis- sion and full enclosure of which Pier’s main entrance. The two- ter park now are copious enough required adding 50 tons of steel level, lakeside restaurant / bar to spread around. to the coaster’s structure). serves California-casual gastro- •disneyland.com Adjacent to Incredibles Park is Toy Story Boardwalk, home to the existing, interac- tive Toy Story Mania! 4D attrac- tion. Jessie’s Critter , inspired by cowgirl Jessie’s wil- derness friends in the “Woody’s Roundup” TV show from Toy Story 2, is slated to open here next year. Next to Toy Story Boardwalk is the lakeside Pixar Promenade, which celebrates several Pixar stories. The former Mickey’s Fun Wheel has been transformed into the Pixar Pal-A-Round, tak- ing guests for a scenic spin on its 24 Pixar character-adorned The Lamplight Lounge gondolas (some gliding Coney offers California-casual fare, Island / -style on ’s Debbie Gonzalez and Jeffrey including the savory Carne closed-loop coaster rails, some Asada Roll, along with Pixar Shaver-Moskowitz led the Pixar Pier creative team. Early stationary) adorned with Pixar memorabilia and a relaxing renderings, including those for the Poultry Palace, and a characters. The area also fea- lakeside atmosphere. scale model of the entire project are displayed in the park’s tures the new Games of Pixar COURTESY Blue Sky Cellar. Pier, where guests can test their DISNEYLAND RESORT AT/DEAN LAMANNA; COURTESY DISNEYLAND RESORT skills and win a prize at pay-for- 6 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018 Amusement Today, Silver Dollar City invite industry to Golden Ticket Awards Attendees encouraged to register for event and reserve hotel now Registrations are being received for the 2018 Golden Ticket Awards. As the “Networking Event of the Year,” the celebratory weekend is sure to be filled with worthwhile experiences and numerous takeaway opportunities. While visiting host park Silver Dollar City, attendees will not only be able to experience behind- the-scenes tours spotlighting the park’s award-win- The ceremonies will be held aboard the Showboat ning Christmas event, culinary department and Branson Belle (above). Attendees of the 2018 craftmaking, but also two days to enjoy all the one- Golden Ticket Awards will get up close and of-a-kind attractions that make Silver Dollar City so personal with the Silver Dollar City's new Time unique, including the new-for-2018 Time Traveler. Traveler (right). COURTESY SILVER DOLLAR CITY Event tours require advance registration. It is recom- mended to claim your spot soon as to not miss out! at Branson Landing Hotel are the two event host For first-time visitors, a tour into Marvel Cave below hotels. the park is highly recommended. It is the attraction Concluding the two-day event will be the awards that started it all, and it is a wonderful journey. show on the Showboat Branson Belle. Onboard attend- Amusement Today invites working industry pro- ees will enjoy dinner, entertainment and the presen- fessionals — park owners, operators, managers, tation of the acclaimed awards while touring Table paring a weekend nothing short of spectacular. The ride manufacturers, suppliers and vendors — to Rock Lake. 21st annual Golden Ticket Awards are calculated register for the Golden Ticket Awards soon and, While in the area, Branson provides an abun- from an international poll conducted by Amusement in particular, to secure hotel reservations. In years dance of industry attractions, shows, the beautiful Today. The celebration will be an event like no other. past, host hotels have sold out. Visit goldenticketa- new Top of the Rock facility and plenty of shopping Dates of the event are September 7 and 8, but Branson wards.com for detailed information and rates. Hilton to extend your stay to make it even more meaningful. welcomes you to sit back and stay as long as you like. Branson Convention Center and Hilton Promenade Silver Dollar City and Amusement Today are pre- —Tim Baldwin August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7 8 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018 PARKS, FAIRS & ATTRACTIONS  Frontier City turns 60 — page 14 / Peppa Pig joins — page 16 / Midway Scene — page 26 Pavilion Park at purchases new rides

AT: Pam Sherborne [email protected]

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — For the last several years, the entertainment complex Broadway at the Beach has consistently ranked as one of the top tourist spots in . Apparently, Bill Prescott, owner of Pavilion Park, the amusement park on the prem- ises, doesn't want passers-by to forget that, nor does he want them passing by. Toward this effort, for the 2018 season, Prescott purchased and installed two very visible rides, the KMG XXL pendulum named The Beast and a Lamberink RL33 wheel called Broadway 360 degrees. He also installed a themed KMG Discovery called Tsunami. Pavilion Park at Broadway at the Beach features three dif- ferent areas spread out across the 350-acre complex. There is Pavilion Park East, where many of the original rides from the Amuse- ment Park have been relocated from the Ocean Blvd. site. Pavil- ion Park Central is where riders Pavilion Park at Broadway at the Beach (top right), Myrtle Beach, S.C., installed three new rides for the 2018 season, two will find most of their thrills. of which are very visible. The park has seen a very positive response from the new KMG XXL ride called The Beast (above). Pavilion Park West has been This is the first KMG XXL ride in the U.S. and was built as a park model. The park also installed a new Lamberink RL33 wheel created specifically with the (below) this season. It stands 157 feet tall and has 36 enclosed gondolas. COURTESY BROADWAY AT THE BEACH younger set in mind. The 130-foot-tall Beast is lo- has a potential hourly capacity "It is a great piece," Soled the gondola somersaults. cated in Pavilion Park Central. of 600 people. The ride swings said. It also is hard to miss the The Netherlands-based com- 120 degrees and the gondolas The fact that it was built as park's new 360-degree Obser- pany describes the XXL as the can reach a height of 150 feet. a park model certainly gives it a vation Wheel named Broadway "big brother of the Afterburner "The Beast opened in broader range. 360. This is an RL33 wheel from and the Freakout." This is the April," said Prescott. "We have Pavilion Park's new Tsu- Lamberink, The Netherlands. first KMG XXL in the U.S. and been very, very happy with it. It nami ride is also located in the It stands 156 feet in the air and it was built as a park model. is a big ride. The lighting pack- Central area. This ride has one sports 36 enclosed gondolas. KMG traditionally specializes age is great." gondola, which can hold up to Each gondola can hold up to six in rides that can be easily set up Len Soled, Rides 4-U, the 20 riders. Depending on its ride riders. It is located in Pavilion and torn down for the mobile company that brokered the time, it is capable of an hourly Park West. The lighting package market. sale between the Netherlands- throughput of 800 people. includes more than one million It has four gondolas with based KMG and Prescott, is The Tsunami, which is al- lights synchronized with music. each being able to carry five rid- happy to be receiving such most 33 feet high, is a gondola The total number of rides at ers for a 20-person capacity. De- positive responses from park mounted between two inde- Pavilion Park, including all ar- pending on ride time, The Beast management. pendently moving arms so that eas, is now close to 30. August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9 10 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018 Multiple manufacturers provide new capital — wet to dry Six Flags opens several new rides across the continent AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected]

GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — Six Flags Theme Parks had a wide launch of attractions across the nation this sum- mer. The assortment boasts multiple suppliers making for a diverse array of additions, some being world’s firsts. in Agawam, Mass., enjoyed a Memorial Day weekend debut of Harley Quinn Spinsanity, a giant with guests seating outward. As seen at other parks, Harley Quinn has become one of the most popular DC-branded Six Flags Great Adventure debuted the world’s first park supplied the world’s first Giga Loop, characters. Manufactured model of a Tourbillon, dubbed Cyborg Cyber Spin. Mardi Gras Hangover, to . COURTESY MARK BRUNNER COURTESY DUANE MARDEN by , Harley Quinn came with its own set of colors in this attraction is a modern strangers to Six Flags parks, ing up with new ways that we compared to previous models Valencia, Calif., debuted the Tilt-a-Whirl from Larson but Mardi Gras Hangover are able to handle the com- that had been named after The larger pendulum mid-July. Six International. From French, stands above the others. Not ponents, the all-electric drive Riddler and Wonder Woman. Flags has opened four Giant “tourbillon” translates to only does this loop tower and controls is an aspect that “With regards to the Discovery rides within the “whirlwind.” 100 feet tall, the dubbed we are excited about because continued partnership of Six chain in the past three years. “One of the unique items Giga Loop is equipped with of the reduction in noise and Flags Theme Parks, it has The operational swing height about the new La Ronde Tilt- a counterweight opposite of smoother ride it provides.” been an honor to be includ- of those attractions is 147 feet. A-Whirl is converting the the train which helps reduce As the largest loop ride ed in their capital plan for Dubbed a Giga Discovery by manuals and warning decals the horsepower required to Larson has ever produced, 2018,” said Ramon Rasario, Zamperla, the new CraZanity into French with English being operate the ride. Two iner- a programmed, all-electric director of sales, Zamperla. swings to a height of 170 feet, the smaller, less dominant lan- tial rings tied together side drive system including an “Collaborating with them and making it a record for a pen- guage,” Jeff Novotny, presi- by side are utilized on Mardi automatic system to feed the DC brand they bring to dulum ride. Both types of dent, Larson International Gras Hangover. air to release the passenger the table has made for some rides seat 40 passengers. The told Amusement Today with “The team here at Larson restraints and electric feed for really recognizable and thrill- of the Giga version is a smile. “Utilizing a Google can't emphasize enough how monitoring the restraint posi- ing attractions over the years. 75 mph in contrast to 70 mph translation program worked much of a fun challenge this tions was used. Between the Harley Quinn with a Giant Discovery. fairly well in converting the project was,” said Hunter “A big thank you goes out Spinsanity in New England The new attraction comes language. The new Tilt-A- Novotny, engineer. “Although to Tom Iven with Six Flags and the record-breaking as the centerpiece to a newly Whirl also has one dedicated we've manufactured well over who pushed us to build the CraZanity at Six Flags Magic revamped boardwalk games ADA accessible vehicle with a 100 of these coaster-like loop bigger ride along with nam- Mountain, we’re proud to be area, which also sees the side door for ease of transfer.” rides, this one in particular ing the new ride the Giga a partner in providing thrills return of a ride. Also from Larson is the required us to rethink a lot Loop,” said Jeff Novotny. to the masses at Six Flags Six Flags Great world’s largest Fireball loop of how we do things in our The sections of track were parks.” Adventure in Jackson, N.J., at Six Flags Great America. production line simply due to Speaking of CraZanity, debuted Cyborg Spin, the first Such looping rides are no its mass. In addition to com- 4See SIX FLAGS, page 12 park installation of a gyro- scopic thrill ride. Supplied by Harley Quinn abc rides, the ride name is Spinsanity at Six Tourbillon. Great Adventure’s Flags Over Texas attraction is the first ride is the second named after the DC character gyroscope thrill Cyborg. It opened mid-June in ride to open a revamped DC Comics area from abc rides. anchored by last year’s Justice AT/TIM BALDWIN League dark ride. in Arlington, Texas, opened a similar ride in mid- July. It, however, is named after Harley Quinn, once again called Harley Quinn Spinsanity. Part of the allure of these rides is the visual impact as three rings rotate on their own axis making for CraZanity at Six Flags Magic a dramatic show that borders Mountain is a record-setting, on the artistic. 17-story-tall pendulum ride On a related note, La that reaches speeds of 75 Ronde opened Tourbillon mph. AT/DEAN LAMANNA in Montreal, Quebec, but August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 11 12 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018 SIX FLAGS Following its opening in Continued from page 10 late June, an innertube con- cern delayed operation of the so heavy that Larson had to new ride. As AT goes to press, invest in larger forklifts just to it was uncertain if the ride handle the increased weights. reopened. New attractions also Amusement Today reported found their way into Six Flags’ on two of Six Flags coasters water parks. in previous issues. Wonder in Woman Golden Lasso Coaster Upper Marlsboro, Md., com- from Rocky Mountain pletely replaced its aging lazy Construction opened at river with the new Wahoo Fiesta Texas (San Antonio, River, a larger and longer river Texas) in May and appeared that has interactive elements in our June issue. Six Flags along the way. The upgrade Over Georgia (Austell, Ga.) was courtesy of ADG. opened a second RMC project, Six Flags Harbor in Arlington, Texas (left), reimagined an underutilized kids area Six Flags Hurricane Twisted Cyclone, in May and into a more interactive splash zone with 40 features. Six Flags America introduced an entirely Harbor (Arlington, Texas) was reported last issue. new Wahoo River, a lazy river that is longer and larger than the park’s aging original version. AT/TIM BALDWIN; COURTESY S. MADONNA HORCHER reworked an underused area Six Flags Mexico (Mexico of the park. What was once City) has debuted the chain’s couldn’t have fit better with a shallow wading pool with most recent coaster thriller. its unique structure forming little activity is now alive with Wonder Woman Coaster from a ‘W’ which we were able smaller children, as well as the S&S Worldwide is the sixth to highlight by painting the entire family, running through version of this 4-D Free Spin structure blue on one side and splashing in 40 play fea- genre of ride to open for Six and red on the other making tures supplied by Splash Pads Flags. This is the first to be it clear what the theme was. USA. The new area is called themed to Wonder Woman. The Wonder Woman Coaster Splashwater Beach. “It was great opportunity is the smoothest and quietest Six Flags St. Louis to work with Six Flags on 4D Free Spin to date as we’ve installed a fusion of two water- another successful 4D Free been able to master the art of slide attractions at Hurricane Spin Coaster opening, said this type of coaster manufac- Harbor included with park Preston Perkes, executive turing and installation.” admission. Built by ProSlide, director of administration, Yet to open as this issue Typhoon Twister features a S&S. “Bringing the unique went to press is Harley Quinn 50-foot plunge into a 40-foot thrill of free spinning on a Crazy Train at Six Flags diameter bowl slide that sends coaster to Mexico is some- Discovery Kingdom. That Wonder Woman Coaster at Six Flags Mexico features the riders into a wave wall that thing we were excited to do. installation will be covered in letter “W” in the supports of the ride painted in red and delivers weightlessness. The Wonder Woman theme a future issue. blue. COURTESY SIX FLAGS MEXICO August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 13 14 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018 Frontier City celebrates 60 years with new ride, upgrades New Soaring Eagle zipline generating thrills for park guests AT: Pam Sherborne [email protected] OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — Frontier City management "I spoke with park manager took on the 60-year celebration Stephen Ball a couple of weeks of the park with gusto, install- ago and he said they had had a ing a new Soaring Eagle zip line great weekend with the ride," and providing a multitude of Davis said. "They are super other upgrades and renovations happy." for park visitors this season. The installation is a fairly The most visual addition is typical one for the company, the 520-foot-long zipline, which located in Logan, Utah. It does is located near the front of the have an elevated platform, park, running over the main which is done on installations This season, Frontier City walkway guests take from the that need clearance underneath is celebrating 60 years of Mystery River to for people to pass. fun and thrills with plenty the Old 89’er Express East Train The company is currently of What's New through- Station. working on a large project in out the park. The Soaring Soaring Eagle's Vice Presi- Pigeon Forge, Tenn., and has Eagle (above) delivers aerial dent Cody Davis said he re- already installed two other thrills. At right from top, the ceived a very positive response ziplines in 2018. They have Mystery River Log Flume re- from park management. several more to build this year. ceived a new coat of paint. The Savoy Cafe was just one of many building in the park to get spruced up while the family favorite Winged War- rior received new artwork. AT PHOTOS

Since the inception of Soaring Eagle in 2010, there are about 65 ziplines in various locations. The O.D. Hopkins-built Mystery River Log Flume re- ceived a new paint job for this season. The painting was done by MicroCor Technologies, Inc., Odessa, Texas. Until the Frontier City job, the company had only done work on salt mines, aquatic marine equip- ment and oil field equipment. But Steve Rivas, a partner in the company, said this won't be the last one. "One of our sales persons was just calling around and historic B&W film footage, and William H. Robinson, Inc. ended up calling Frontier City," a live music and dance show, •An extra section of stair- Rivas said. "They were interest- David Blackburn Productions case/safety catwalk was added ed in what we did so we went produced "Celebrate — A Mu- to the park's Schwarzkopf-built down, met with them, took sical Revue," performed daily Silver Bullet roller coaster. The some samples and ended up in the the Opera House. Other new catwalk is located at the with the job." new-for-2018 shows include the very top/crown of the lift hill Rivas said his staff began "Red Hot Country" and rotating and extends the next support the job by sandblasting the new shows in the Two John's column junction, giving the entire structure with a water Saloon. park extra safety if the leading vapor blasting system. This •Multiple buildings were cars of the train were to ever blasting produces the finish the refurbished in the front half of stop beyond the chain lift. The company looks for to start ap- the park. Adding to the western engineering work on the safety plying paint. thematic expereince for park design was performed during The paint used is manufac- guests are improvements to The the last year for Premier Parks tured by MicroCor exclusively. Savoy Cafe; Two Johns Saloon; by long time industry engineer, Rivas is the inventor. The com- Homesteader Supplies; The Mark Glynn, Glynn Geotech- pany has used the paint for the Bonton Confectionary; Trap- nical Engineering in Lockport, last six years. Multiple coats pers Trading Post, T.J. Ivens N.Y. The park has also pur- are normally needed. Each coat Boarding House and the Over- chased, earlier in the year, the is applied before the prior coat land Stage & Freight. former Greezed Lighting train dries, creating an interlaced •New Indian bird-themed from Cliff's Amusement Park single coat. artwork was added to the parks with plans to add a second In other park news: Winged Warrior (Larson Flying operating train to the historic •To celebrate the park's 60 Scooters ride). The layout was coaster. years, both in a short video with designed by Cincinnati-based •frontiercity.com August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 15 16 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018 Peppa Pig, other new additions enhance Gardaland’s season AT: Dean Lamanna [email protected]

VERONA, Italy — Cartoonish pigs, pirate adven- tures and 4D seismic thrills featuring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson are among the high- lights at Gardaland this sum- mer. The 43-year-old amuse- ment park, owned by Merlin , has intro- duced new forms of fun for every member of the family. At the forefront of Gardaland’s latest attractions, and representing a nearly $6 million investment, Peppa Attractions at Gardaland’s new Peppa Pig Land, inspired by Pig Land is an area inspired the popular children’s animated TV show, include a kiddie by the animated, British- train and a pirate-themed boat ride. produced television program COURTESY GARDLAND RESORT Peppa Pig, which is broadcast in 180 countries. partnership with Peppa Pig theme, Gardaland’s land- brand owner Entertainment mark, 1992-built I Corsari One extends to other parts attraction, a dark boat ride of the resort property, includ- from Intamin housed beneath ing themed rooms at the a giant -shaped Gardaland Hotel. entrance, has undergone The new section, next In Peppa Pig Land, guests upgrading that includes new to Fantasy Kingdom, has can see and interact with the audio, music and sound allowed Gardaland to expand show’s characters in tangible, effects, plus the addition of the park’s children’s offerings life-size form at Peppa Pig projection mapping along “so that families and younger House and within the them- parts of its course. The ride Bros. disaster movie about shows at the park, with two ones alike can enjoy an even ing of three children’s rides: also has been given a fresh a massive California earth- new stagings this season: more involving and unforget- Peppa’s Big Balloon Ride, with storyline titled “I Corsari: La quake. It applies 3D tech- “Gardaland on Broadway,” pre- table experience,” said Aldo eight balloon-shaped gondo- Vendetta del Fantasma” (“The nology, moving / vibrating senting a medley of memorable Maria Vigevani, Gardaland’s las; Grandpa Pig’s Train Ride, Corsairs: The Revenge of the seats and an array of physi- musicals, and “5 Elements,” CEO. “In Italy, Peppa Pig is with five colorful carriages Ghost”), featuring buccaneer- cal effects (airbursts, explo- a journey into a secret world adored by children, but it (each capable of holding two ing apparitions. sive flashes, sprays of mist) at the heart of Planet Earth. is also very appreciated by adults and two children); and The park has raised its to footage of actor Dwayne Through Sept. 9, the park is adults as a bearer of important Pirate Island Boat Ride, which thrill factor further with a Johnson facing toppling sky- extending its operating hours educational values. Which is carries passengers in small brand-new attraction: San scrapers and a raging tsuna- until 11 p.m., providing five why we have deemed her to watercraft around a whimsi- Andreas 4D Experience, a mi. SimEx-Iwerks created the extra hours for exploration and be perfect for Gardaland.” cal pond. 15-minute, action-focused dis- experience. adventure daily. He added that Merlin’s Staying on the pirate tillation of the 2015 Warner There is no shortage of •gardaland.it/en ‘Panda’-monium reigns at Uni Hollywood’s new DreamWorks Theatre UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. — Some high, and with seven Christie 4K Boxer cinema projectors lively, kicks have been unleashed on the Universal and 360-degree surround sound, physical effects Studios Hollywood backlot, courtesy of a popular including water and wind make viewers feel more animated panda . like participants in the tale. Following a soft opening on May 29, a new The storyline actually begins as guests enter attraction formally named DreamWorks Theatre the theater’s preshow area, where they meet an Featuring : The Emperor’s Quest array of DreamWorks characters who kick off the officially debuted June 15. The technologically attraction’s narrative. From there, guests enter the advanced immersive experience is the movie theme main auditorium, now outfitted with ultra-plush, park’s first major addition since NBCUniversal’s fully articulated seats that pivot and swivel in tan- acquisition of DreamWorks Animation in August dem with the projected action. (Special glasses 2016. It replaces the 4D theater experience, are not required for the five-minute theater expe- which opened in 2003 and closed last year. rience. Created and produced by DreamWorks The structure housing the DreamWorks Animation and , and inspired Theatre has been redesigned in Mission Revival- by the Kung Fu Panda film franchise, the multi- The new DreamWorks Theatre, featuring style architecture that recalls 1920s Hollywood. sensory attraction incorporates interior projec- a special effects-filled Kung Fu Panda film “We are thrilled to bring exciting new enter- tion mapping designed to envelop guests in 180 experience, officially opened in mid-June at tainment options to our guests,” said Karen Irwin, degrees of adventure. The technique depicts Universal Studios Hollywood. park president and COO. “Kung Fu Panda: The a series of visually dynamic scenic designs that COURTESY UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD Emperor’s Quest is a fun, spirited story and the transform theater space and frame the screen on-warrior panda, , embarks on a perilous ideal attraction to kick-start Universal Studios story. mission involving raging rapids, river pirates, Hollywood’s collaboration with DreamWorks The plot unfolds on the morning of The magic and, of course, kung fu to deliver the rare Animation.” Emperor’s Great Feast of Heroes, when the drag- Liquid of Limitless Power to the Palace. Coupled —Dean Lamanna August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 17 ‘Being Dolphin 4D’ offers journey of exploration, conservation

AT: Dean Lamanna said. “I am grateful to have such Suicide Squad) created comput- a Flex4K camera that captured “Dolphins are incredibly [email protected] incredible partners that made it er-generated scenes that allow several extreme slow-motion popular, and we are always possible — from the shooting viewers to experience how dol- sequences; it was carried by looking for new ways to bring TORONTO, Canada — of wildlife scenes in challeng- phins are able to “see” with custom underwater propulsion our guests stories that help SimEx-Iwerks Entertainment, ing open-ocean conditions to sound. Visual effects designer vehicles that allowed the record- them learn more about these a global leader in 4D theater the extremely complicated post- Boyd Shermis (Fear the Walking ing equipment to “fly” with amazing animals,” said Mike experiences, has partnered production process, everyone Dead, Journey 2: The Mysterious dolphins. The team at Prime Frueh, senior vice president of with Pacific Grove, Calif.-based brought their all.” Island) rendered echolocation Focus (Pacific Rim Uprising, licensing and distribution for Talbot Films to create a new Talbot enlisted the help of from the dolphin’s perspective, Beauty and Beast) converted the SimEx-Iwerks. “Bob Talbot’s cinematic attraction: Being motion picture industry lead- while composer Cliff Eidelman original footage into the highest experience and success gave Dolphin 4D. ers, many of whom were work- (Oceanmen — Extreme Dive, Free quality 3D, and expert colorists us great confidence that he A visually ambitious look at ing concurrently on Hollywood Willy 3) delivered an ethereal and editors at Efilm (A Wrinkle would create a beautiful and one of the ocean’s most complex film projects. musical score. in Time, Blade Runner 2049) pro- unique film.” and charismatic animals, the Spinvfx (Game of Thrones, Vision Research provided vided the finishing work. •iwerks.com film features a first-of-its-kind photography approach from the perspective of the dolphin — encouraging viewers to (per its promotional tagline) “dream, dive and discover” during the aquatic journey. The film moves from the dark, temperate Pacific waters off the California coast to the vivid-blue Caribbean Sea. An orchestration of light, sound and 4D effects enhances the viewer’s sensation of swimming beneath and leaping through the waves. The National Aquarium in Baltimore, where SimEx-Iwerks maintains regional offices, host- ed the world premiere of Being Dolphin 4D in late April. Shortly thereafter, it began showing at theme parks, , aquariums and other venues. Bob Talbot, the film’s award-winning director and co-producer (the IMAX films Oceanmen — Extreme Dive, Dolphins), is a renowned pho- tographer and cinematographer who also advocates for marine conservation. He designed the production specifically for 4D presentation in order to trans- port viewers into the world of wild dolphins. “This truly was a passion project for all involved,” Talbot

Being Dolphin 4D uses cutting-edge film and exhibition technology to give viewers a sea mammal’s-eye view of underwater “flight.” COURTESY SIMEX-IWERKS ENTERTAINMENT 18 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018 New virtual reality experience offers bird’s-eye view of Paris FlyView attraction in downtown utilizes HTC Vive headsets AT: Dean Lamanna [email protected] PARIS, France — Since spring, a VR attraction has been offering thrill seekers a new way to experience the City of Light. FlyView Paris, located at Place de l’Opéra in down- town, provides 360-degree views of the famous monu- ments, scenery and skyline of the city without computer After three years in development, FlyView Paris debuted in its namesake city in late March. The jetpack flight-themed VR graphics. The 11,000-square- experience, which provides an aerial tour of the City of Light, represents the realization of a childhood dream for its founder, foot indoor “launch area” for Arnaud Houette. COURTESY FLYVIEW PARIS the experience can accom- modate up to 50 guests in the physical sensation of brings together poetry and standing position in sta- soaring, including flying innovation to create another tionary, individual jetpacks forward, slowing for pan- high-quality cultural activ- mounted on actuators — oramic views, moving side- ity in Paris. I hope to share making it one of the world’s ways and dropping down it with as many people as largest VR installations. for closer looks at monu- possible.” The simulated adven- ments. The experience lasts About 100 technicians ture begins in the attrac- 13 minutes. worked for three years to tion’s lobby, which resem- For Arnaud Houette, create FlyView Paris. The bles an airport terminal founder of project won the city’s first- complete with check-in FlyView ever permission for film- counters, flight attendants Paris, the ing via drone over and in and screens announcing unique aerial close proximity to various upcoming flights. Once the tour repre- monuments, including the “passenger” steps into the sents a child- Arc de Triomphe, Champs backpack and is outfitted hood dream Elysees, Eiffel Tower and with a VR headset (supplied come true. Houette Notre Dame de Paris. by HTC Vive), it’s takeoff “I want The attraction is open time for a flight above the to offer Parisians and visi- seven days a week. It is suit- rooftops of Paris. tors an exhilarating adven- able for visitors at least four The synchronization of ture that is both accessible feet tall and is accessible to authentic visuals and plat- and unforgettable,” he said. those with reduced mobility. form movement conveys “This incredible experience •flyview360.com Sprawling VR theme park opens in China’s Guizhou province Striking sci-fi design adds Times Network Media. Reports have placed the initial cost of the 330-acre otherworldly atmosphere project, portions of which are still to $470 million project being developed and completed, at $470 million. It welcomed its first GUIYANG, China — Oriental guests in late April. Science Fiction Valley, an elabo- Chen Jianli, park CEO, said fierce rate and expansive (and expensive) competition in the Chinese theme theme park devoted almost entirely park market, particularly in the VR to virtual reality-based attractions, attractions sector, made building the recently debuted in the capital city of destination good business sense. China’s Guizhou province. “We are trying to give custom- At present, the property has a ers a new experience by combining total of 35 VR attractions. Virtual modern technologies such as VR and roller coasters and shooting-action AR [augmented reality] with tradi- scenarios are among the offerings. tional recreational facilities,” Jianli A dramatic focal point of the told Reuters. “The sci-fi part of it is property is a 53-meter-tall, 750-ton important for the feeling it creates.” Transformers-inspired robot structure, Jianli also expected the unusual which provides a panoramic view of theme park to bring major tourist the surrounding terrain along with spending and a range of support- a number of VR activities — plus a ing businesses to the otherwise poor bungee-jumping platform on its mas- region. sive, outstretched arm. “It will change the entire tour- The futuristic architecture of Oriental Science Fiction Valley, including an The park is a collaboration ism structure of Guizhou province as impressively looming robot structure containing several attractions, is a between the province and Shuimu well as China’s southwest,” he said. good fit for the VR and AR activities that fill the high-tech theme park. Animation, a subsidiary of Oriental —Dean Lamanna COURTESY ORIENTIAL SCIENCE FICTION VALLEY August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 19 Colorado's Heritage Amusement Park closes for good GOLDEN, Colo. — It was up a banner in its place. Public rarely smooth sailing for the perception, however, was that particular site. What once start- everything had closed. ed in 1960 as a grand plan to Rides on offer included be the Disneyland of Colorado, several children’s rides, an Eli that project was downsized to Bridge and Ferris a smaller venue called Magic wheel, a classic Sellner Tilt-A- Mountain. The first theme park Whirl, and two junior coasters outside California was not a from E & F Miler and Wisdom. success. It shuttered the gates The future of those rides is after the first season. uncertain at this time. Ten years later, the 600-acre Other activities included site was purchased and opened A Victorian flair was given to the shopping village when it opened as Heritage Square (right). go-karts, ziplines, , as Heritage Square in 1971. pony rides and miniature golf. This E & F Miler coaster (left) was one of the rides available to visitors. Themed to a Victorian Village, Although notice was short, COURTESY KEVIN KNAPP; MAC RUSH there were various shopping and many headed to the park for entertainment options. A Music no plans to close its doors. In Via Facebook, the amuse- Not wishing to speak to one last look. A family deal was Hall and alpine slide are attrac- reality, it was seen as an oppor- ment park owner eventually the media, the landlord sim- offered at a special price of $58 for tions fondly remembered by tunity for potential expansion. announced the park’s closing in ply let the final days play out, four passes during the final week. longtime residents. And while it However, the landlord required late June: giving local fans one last time “There’s a long history of has operated since then, the facil- the park owner to stop using We have recently reached to visit. With the removal of generations that have had fun ity has had numerous tenants. the name “Heritage Square.” a settlement with our landlord, other entertainment options at at that location. To see it go, for Heritage Amusement Park Bader knew the landlord want- Martin Marietta Materials. After the Square in 2015, the atten- a lot of these people, is to see a has operated the last 20 years by ed the park out, despite the 20 years in business, it is with dance at the park continued part of their life go,” said Bader. Alan Bader. lease not running out until 2039. both sadness and excitement that to decline. Perhaps indirectly “Of course, you can keep the Three years ago, the prop- Obstacles seemed to be placed we announce Heritage Amusement affecting that was - memories, but you can’t share it erty’s owner closed everything in the park operator’s way in Park and the Garden Grill will lord’s removal of the sign for with the next generation. So, it’s but the amusement park. In an attempt to force Heritage permanently close its doors on the amusement park. The park been hard; it’s been sad.” 2015, Bader indicated there were Amusement Park to close. Saturday, June 30th, 2018 at 7pm. operator’s response was to put —Tim Baldwin 20 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018

American Coaster Enthusiasts dedicates about $1 million a year to mana- tee rehabilitation. celebrates 40th anniversary The 65-acre ZooTampa features more than 1,300 animals and draws nearly one million vis- Park itors annually. • Post-its City Parks and Recreation an- nounced last month that the rides in Lower City Park will close permanently on Sept. 23 to make way for a city-owned adventure playground. The playground is scheduled for construction next year in late spring and early AT: Pam Sherborne summer. No specifics have been given about [email protected] the playground components. At the recent Coaster Con 41, seven of the nine living presi- The 107-plus acres of the Lower City dents of American Coaster Enthusiasts were present, the Park include trails, two ponds, sports facili- largest number ever for one event. The organization was A new $7.9 million home for three North ties, picnic and play areas and a variety of celebrating its 40th anniversary in Virginia, the birthplace American River Otters opened earlier this sum- other activities. of ACE, the world’s largest coaster enthusiast organization. mer at the County Zoo in Milwau- The main reasons for closing the rides Above (from left): Jerry Willard, Dave Altman, Mark Cole, kee, Wis. Called Otter Passage, the outdoor include the repair challenges and the lack of Carole Sanderson, Bill Linkenheimer III, Randy Geisler and exhibit combines nearly 1,700 square feet of Americans with Disabilities Act compliance. Richard Munch. Below, Amusement Today’s Tim Baldwin grass, rock and mulch with a 6,000-gallon pool The four rides are a merry-go-round dating to moderated a Q&A of the presidential panel during the por- and a 4,000-gallon pool to create a dynamic the early 1900s, a train ride, a small kiddie Fer- tion of the convention at . environment for the highly social and energet- ris wheel and a kiddie plane swing ride. Ac- COURTESY S. MADONNA HORCHER ic animals. cording to the parks and recreation depart- One-year-old female otters Emerald, Clo- ment, manufacturer information about the ver and Shamrock arrived at their new home rides could not be found in its records. from separate zoos. The Milwaukee County The attractions were sold to the city in Zoo intends to welcome a male otter in the 1999 by the Drollinger family, which had oper- near future, with the hope of establishing a ated the rides for decades. sustainable breeding colony. Free weekend rides will be offered in Au- The otters have the comfort and opportu- gust and September to commemorate the im- nity to explore their new environment, which pending closure. comes complete with a splash pad, a 15-foot • slide and a flowing stream connecting the A new family entertainment center has pools, all providing numerous up-close view- opened in Manteo, N.C., on the Outer Banks. ing opportunities for visitors. Featuring activities suitable for all ages, Jump- The zoo also has a new entry plaza that masters Trampoline Park, offers trampolines reinforces its brand and key messages of at ground level and surrounded by padded conservation while also offering guests new floor / deck space. The mechanisms that pro- comforts, such as expanded and closer park- vide the bounce are positioned beneath the ing, beverage and snack opportunities, and bed of the trampolines, reducing the risk of otter-themed merchandise. The expansion is exposed springs and hard landings on floors. the latest effort of the zoo’s 20-year master In addition, there are three American Nin- plan, which addresses improvements in animal ja-style obstacle course lanes, climbing walls, exhibits, visitor attractions, amenities, service a trapeze swing where one can let loose and facilities and operations. land on a large airbag, a foam cube pit and The is home to sparring with foam sticks in cushioned gear. more than 2,100 mammals, birds, , amphib- There are fitness classes daily and a Toddler ians and reptiles with more than 345 species Time, which allows the younger set can jump represented. without competition from their older siblings. • Jumpmasters also promotes trampoline In other zoo news, officials at Florida’s dodgeball, and during the winter it will spon- ZooTampa (formerly the Lowry Park Zoo) sor adult and youth leagues. The sporting ac- kicked off the season by launching Roaring tivity involves trampolines that are screened Springs, presented by Pinch A Penny pool in so that players can bounce aggressively to supplies and service. Representing the zoo’s escape or attack the ball. largest expansion in 10 years, the attraction Food service at the FEC includes pizza-by- debuted June 9 following the introduction the-slice from a local pizzeria, as well as hot of a refreshed, contemporary identity for the dogs and nachos. zoo featuring a new logo and revitalized vi- • sion. Roaring Springs allows guests to become Fantasy Island in Grand Island, N.Y., explorers, boarding boats and gently drifting opened the season with a new children’s area, along a crystal-clear spring surrounded by na- Fairy Tale Forest. The newly reimagined sec- tive landscape and wildlife. The journey takes tion features rides and attractions for kids and a sudden turn when the elevation drops and families. guests experience a three-story splashdown. The project was inspired by the former Afterward, the journey continues along a trail “Garden of Fables” area, which debuted at showing Florida’s largely hidden wildlife, with the park in 1961. glimpses of black bears, alligators, panthers, New entertainment offerings include Key deer and other native species. Oakley the Talking Tree, an interactive story The expansion is part of an ongoing effort time adventure; “If the Shoe Fits,” a live show by officials to remain an integral part of the where guests are introduced to Fantasy Is- Tampa Bay community while also promoting land’s newest aspiring royalty; and Tea Time wildlife preservation. In addition to this year’s with the Princess, a meet-and-greet experi- new expansion, plans are already underway to ence in Fairy Tale Fortress, the park’s newly improve life-support systems at the David A. renovated gift shop. Straz Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center, which Fantasy Island features over 40 rides and accepted 35 injured manatees in 2016. The attractions. August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 21 22 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018 San Diego County sees large gate, food revenue numbers AT: B. Derek Shaw ing approximately $10.6 mil- [email protected] . The top ride was The Big Wheel, brought in by Ray DEL MAR, Calif. — As in Cammack Shows and manu- previous years, the San Diego factured by Carousel Holland. County Fair — the largest The Crazy Mouse, owned county fair in the U.S. — once by Steve Vander Vorste and again saw a lively attendance manufactured by Reverchon, and tallied some impressive came in second; following in numbers in various areas of its third was G-Force, owned by operations. Southern Cross Rides and The 26-day event, which manufactured by KMG. ran June 1 through July 4, saw Special promotions num- 1,561,236 guests push through bered no less than 29 deals and The Big Wheel (right), from Ray Cammack its turnstiles. However, the discounts. The annual Care N’ Shows and Carousel Holland, was the top ride number fell short of the record Share Toy Drive broke existing at this year's San Diego County Fair. A spec- of 1,609,481 fairgoers in 2016. records, with more than 15,500 tacular variety of rides and attractions has “The economy helped the stuffed animals collected for long characterized the event. fair in the sense that there’s children in need. COURTESY STEFAN HINZ (TOP); low unemployment and peo- Three specialty drink fes- AT/SUE NICHOLS ple seem to have money to tivals included the San Diego spend,” said Tim Fennell, fair International Beer Festival canceling headphones, fidgets Entertainment was plen- from the state’s Division of general manager and CEO. “It with over 6,800 attendees over and weighted lap pads. tiful. Major grandstand acts Occupational Safety and hurt the fair in the sense that three days. The Toast of the New attractions included included Sugarland, Hanson, Health. Che Salinas from there is low unemployment Coast Wine Festival enter- the Cocoa Cabana speakeasy, Nancy Wilson of Heart, Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, and we had difficulty filling tained 1,762 guests at two with candy-infused cocktails Kansas, Barenaked Ladies, LLP, attended as well. Jim positions.” tasting sessions, while The in a tropical oasis, and multi- Little Big Town, The O’Jays Hall of Butler Amusements, This year’s theme, “How Distilled and Cocktail sensory display called A Tasty and Larry the Cable Guy. who serves as president of the Sweet It Is,” was evident Festival hosted 1,539 guests. Journey. This exhibit featured The July 4th finale show- CalPRO Steering Committee, throughout the grounds. Other special events includ- sugary scents and treats as cased a patriotic “Hometown led the meeting. A large part Observed Annie Pierce, the ed a two-day Bloom n’ Art well as interactive games and Heroes” parade, featuring Lee of the discussion focused on event’s public information Garden Party, a one-day Asian colorful candies. Greenwood, best known for the re-inspections of amuse- officer: “Whether it was sam- Festival, Festival de Mariachi Among the many new singing “God Bless the USA.” ment rides that already had pling rainbow-colored uni- and, for the LGBTQ+ commu- food offerings were deep-fried Nearly 100 people who were an annual permit to operate. corn foods, soaking up the nity, Out at the Fair. filet mignon, ramen burritos, recognized by the community (Info: dir.ca.gov.) ocean views from atop the KultureCity, a company bacon-wrapped baklava, cin- for their service as teachers, The San Diego County , discovering how that provides sensory inclu- namon roll sundaes, lasagna volunteers and first respond- Fair, established in 1880 to nature’s sweet fruits grow and sion programs in public ven- nachos, doughnut grilled- ers participated in the event. bring the county’s farmers ripen, petting adorable farm ues across the U.S., partnered cheese sandwiches, lobster The annual meeting together to share ideas, com- animals or riding scream-wor- with the fair for the first tacos, chocolate-dipped jerky, of the California Portable pete for the best pies and thy carnival rides, it was truly time. Two locations on the spaghetti donuts and macho Ride Operators Association citrus fruits, and stage horse one sweet fair.” grounds provided safe spaces nacho bacon unicorn dogs. (CalPRO), was held during races, continues to celebrate Thrill seekers enjoyed for guests with sensory needs Nearly 48,000 ears of corn the fair. In addition to CalPRO agriculture and community more than 80 rides on an inde- as well as calming, low-key were prepared by Corn Star, members, guests included pride. pendent midway. Ride mid- sensory input activities. The while an estimated 35,000 tur- Scott Prather and Bobby Park •sdfair.com way revenue increased up two fair also provided free sensory key legs were sold by Juicy’s. percent over last year, total- toolkits that included noise- The signature draft beer was Tangerine-A-Fair IPA from Mike Hess Brewing; the com- pany went through 86 kegs. Candy Factory’s Unicorn Nitro Popcorn used 2,640 liters of liquid food-grade nitrogen to freeze the candied popcorn to minus-321 degrees. Pink’s sold 3,000 pounds of hot dogs and 7,900 pounds of French fries. Food revenue was up Funhouses and fun foods always are among the fair's most well over two-and-a-half per- The annual meeting of the California Portable Ride Opera- anticipated offerings. The event's theme this year, as indi- cent, totaling about $24.5 mil- tors Association was held mid-June at the Del Mar Fair- cated right at the entrance: “How Sweet It Is.” lion. grounds during the San Diego County Fair in mid-June. COURTESY STEFAN HINZ (LEFT); AT/SUE NICHOLS AT/SUE NICHOLS August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 23 24 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018 Carnival struts some of its stuff at 2018 Fair Park Fourth Talley Amusements ramps up for 2018 AT: Pam Sherborne [email protected]

DALLAS, Texas —Talley Amusements went all out at this year's one-day Fourth of July event on the grounds of the State Fair of Texas. Well, close to it anyway, said Mary Talley, who along with her husband, Tom Tal- ley, owns the show. Talley Amusements pro- vided 35 rides for the Fair The lighting package on Mary Talley's new Lamberink wheel (left) lights up the sky during Fair Park Fourth, State Fair of Park Fourth, including four Texas, Dallas. The Top O' Texas Tower (right) was one of four rides owned by the State Fair of Texas operated during the wheels and a Zyklon Fair Park Fourth celebration. Manufactured by Intamin AG, the observation tower has a height of 500 feet. AT/GARY SLADE coaster. It also provided be- tween 13-14 food locations Fitzgerald said. "There were show incorporates the fourth and owned by Talley Amuse- ogy. We are the first carnival and a large beer tavern that probably about 40,000 for the and fifth generation of their ments, is a permanent ride on to use this technology. " has approximately 60 taps. whole event." family in the carnival busi- the grounds. It also was oper- She took the system to The carnival also brought Fair Park Fourth enter- ness. Her great grandfather, ating during the event. Fair Park Fourth. During its Magic Money system, an tainment, along with the Bill Hames, was the first be- The carnival also pur- those five hours when the RFID-based cashless digital carnival, included patriotic ginning in the business in the chased a Spider from Battech midway is packed, there was ticketing and event manage- performances, live music, early 1900s with a single ride. and a new Super Sizzler from not one single problem. ment system. strolling performances, wa- "Our sixth generation is in Wisdom Rides. The show's And, with Magic Money's "It is a lot of work for ter inflatables, a zipline, face school right now," she said. Wisdom Starship was com- RFID-based rider safety tech- one day," said Talley, who has painters and the fireworks So, now with an empty pletely rebuilt. nology, Talley is outfitting her played the shows. nest at home, Talley Amuse- Additional generators rides with chips that are locat- event for the The State Fair of Texas op- ments is ready to take the bull and new trucks and trailers ed at crucial areas. last five years. erated four of its rides during by the horns and give every- were purchased. "The ride operator has Gates opened the event: Top O' Texas Tow- one a good look at what their "We had to have new to scan each chip before the at 12 noon er, manufactured by Intamin show is about. trucks and trailers to move ride will open," she said. "Of and it is pret- AG; the Dentzel carousel; "We are innovative and our new rides," Talley said. course, all of our rides are ty much over Texas Skyway, Dopplemayr agile," she said. "We have in- "The new Ferris wheel is a manually inspected. This just with the fire- Talley and Log Ride, Arrow. vested a tremendous amount five-trailer ride just in itself." gives us another check and works show at 9:30 p.m. The The workload for this of money into the show for Talley Amusements is balance." midway crowd usually comes one-day event is enormous, this season. We have 50 plus sporting new canvases from Safety is a huge focus for between 5-9 p.m. but those with Talley Amuse- rides, enough to do the job." Waterloo Tent and Tarp. the carnival. But, is it worth it? ments have never been ones to Among the new equip- Talley has been extremely "We have a crisis man- "Yes," Talley said. "It's a shy away from challenges. ment purchased this season happy with her new Magic agement plan for every situ- good deal." "We aren't like other big was a new Lamberink RL33 Money RFID-based cashless ation," Talley said. "We have There was a good crowd shows," Talley said. "Tommy wheel. This was one of the four system. For the 2018 season, she our rides inspected many there that day, said Rusty and I didn't inherit the fam- wheels at the July 4 celebra- purchased ticketing vending ma- times, and every year I hire Fitzgerald, senior vice presi- ily show. We began our busi- tion. The show also brought a chines, two new five-man booths National Association of Frederiksen 1/7x3 b/w 3/14/02 11:22 AM Page 1 dent, operations, State Fair of ness 20 years ago with four Mulligan Wheel, by Mulligan and several single booths. Amusement Ride Safety Texas. rides and we worked up Engineering, and a Century "I did a lot of research be- Operators (NAARSO) level "We probably had about from there." Wheel, by Chance. The Texas fore I went with Magic Mon- three inspectors to come on- 10,000 on the midway," But, Talley said, their Star, manufactured by S.D.C. ey," she said. "I went online site for safety training. They and spoke with carnival own- do group training as well as “The #1 Leading Slide Manufacturer in America” FREDERIKSEN ers that had other cashless sys- one-on-one training. “World’s Largest 5 Lane, One Trailer Slide - 108 Ft.” INDUSTRIES, INC. tems. I looked at everything "We are dotting every 'i' 5212 St. Paul St. I could find. This one, by far, and crossing every 't.' " • Financing and Leasing Available has the most updated technol- •talleyamusements.com • Trades Considered Tampa, Florida 33619 • Order Slide Bags or “New Rain” Bags (813) 628-4545 • 6 New Slides In Stock FAX (813) 621-3679 • Have 20 Used Rides www.funslide.com • 90 Ft. Fiberglass Slide • 65 Ft. Fiberglass Slide

Talley Amusements brought its Beer Haven stand to this year's Fair Park Fourth. There are about 60 taps found in the tap room area. AT/GARY SLADE August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 25 26 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018 MIDWAY MIDWAYSCENE MARKET PLACE AT: B. Derek Shaw [email protected]

Kansas Gov. Jeff Coyler has signed a Perry; and the National Peanut Festival in bill that allows all state sales taxes collected Dothan, Ala. At 65 feet tall with seven slide during the 10-day Kansas State Fair to go lanes, it is billed as the tallest portable slide toward capital improvements. Five percent in the U.S. The carnival also plans to supply of the 6.5 percent tax now will go directly into 100 new park benches. the State Fair Capital Improvements Fund. • Coyler signed the bill on the condition that Three new rides will appear at the 2018 the fair would remain in Hutchinson, where State Fair of Texas: ( Mftg./ it has been located for 105 years. Based on Amtech, via Talley Amusements, Inc.), 2017 revenue, the projected amount would Haunted Castle, (Gosetto Srl via Fair Ride be worth more than $400,000. The monies Entertainment, formerly Myers International will be used to remodel, refurbish and con- Midways) and Airmaxx (KMG Rides, via Mr. struct new buildings. Running Sept. 7-16 this Ed’s Magical Midways). The independent year, the fair uses North American Midway midway fair runs Sept. 28-Oct. 21. Entertainment as ride provider. • • California Exposition & State Fair has G. Kent Yelverton, a civil engineer who appointed Joe Robillard as acting chief worked 26 years with the N.C. Department of police. Robillard, who has been with of Agriculture and Consumer Services, has Cal Expo since 2007, will hold the interim been named manager of the North Carolina position until a successor for Robert Craft State Fair in Raleigh. He replaces Wesley is named. Craft served with the fair for 40 Wyatt, who recently retired. In addition to years. The California State Fair took place the 11-day fair, the 344-acre fairgrounds July13-29, with Butler Amusements provid- host more than 500 events annually. The ing the rides. fair runs Oct. 11-21, with rides supplied by • Powers Great American Midways. A Huss Pirate, billed as the largest • traveling pirate ship ride, “rocked” its DRS Skinners’ Amusements of debut at the State Fair Meadowlands in Crystal Lake, Ill., recently took delivery of East Rutherford, N.J., in early July. The a Battech Enterprises Downdraft ride. German fairgrounds ride was restored by The attraction, sporting an LED lighting Strates Shows after a long absence from package from Winston-Salem, N.C.-based the midway. CMD Enterprises, is a newer version of a • Hurricane ride and represents a total invest- The Montgomery County Fair held its ment of more than $500,000. Last season, first fair at its new 72-acre site in Dayton, Skinners’ purchased a Black Widow ride Ohio, in mid-July. Two of several large build- from Battech. The carnival, dating back to ings in the planning were completed and 1910, is one of the oldest in the region and unveiled at the event: a 26,000-square-foot mostly plays locations within 40 miles of its main event center and a 16,000-square-foot home base. exhibit hall. Large tents were used for exhib- • its that could not be housed in either build- The Erie County Fair in Hamburg, N.Y., ing. Big O Amusements brought 24 rides to has partnered with Buffalo-based Flying the location, which has 2,000 parking spac- Bison Brewing Co. to provide a limited- es. The new site is more than twice the size edition adult beverage named for the fair of the former location adjacent to Miami — a first in New York State. Erie County Fair Valley Hospital in downtown Dayton. American Pale Ale is the winning brew of • two local homebrewers who participated in Seventy Texas FFA Association (Future the fair’s annual Home Brew Competition. Farmers of America) members were pre- Try-It Distributing is making the product sented with $1.4 million in scholarships available through Buffalo-area Tops Friendly from the Houston Livestock Show and Markets and 17 Western New York locations Rodeoduring the 90th Texas FFA State of Consumers Beverages (both partners of Convention in Fort Worth on July 11. Each the fair), as well as other retail outlets. The student will receive a $20,000 scholarship fair’s 2018 edition takes place Aug. 8-19. For from the rodeo to apply toward a four-year the 94th year, James E. Strates Shows is undergraduate degree at a Texas college delivering the midway by rail. or university of their choice. The recipients • represented 59 cities in the Lone Star State Reithoffer Shows will play for the first and will major in 25 different fields of study, time in Tennessee at the Wilson County with the top three majors being animal sci- Fair in Lebanon, Aug. 17-25. Family-owned- ence, agribusiness and biology. The Texas and-operated for five generations, the show FFA was chartered in 1929 and contributes will provide 23 kiddie rides, 18 major rides to a model of secondary agricultural educa- and 14 spectacular rides (with nine classi- tion in which students take part in class- fied as “super spectacular”). New this year room instruction and supervised agricultural is a Euroslide from SBF-Visa Group that experiences. Scholarship recipients were will play Wilson and three other dates on selected by association officials based on Keep our amusement park industry strong! Reithoffer’s route: New Mexico State Fair the students’ involvement with the program, Buy products and services from these suppliers. in Albuquerque; Georgia National Fair in academic achievements and financial need. August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 27 America’s Fun Park finds its niche on the Branson Strip MIDWAYSCENE BRANSON, Mo. — The One of the advantages again in 2018. Cadmus reported tourist destination of Branson of working with a carnival to AT that when the fall arrives, is no stranger to newly devel- operator is the ability to keep a walk-through haunt will take oped attractions. In the case of things continually changing. the coaster’s place for an autumn America’s Fun Park, fate had As Amusement Today spoke to flair at the park, as well as a hay its hand in the creation of the Cadmus, he reported they were maze installed for the festival. new recreation spot. In 2012, a already in the process of setting “There will be a ‘pumpkin park’ hit the city of Branson up multiple new rides at the type of atmosphere,” he said. and caused irreparable dam- park. Other pieces will arrive The park will then tran- age to a shopping outlet called after Labor Day. “The flexibility sition starting Nov. 4 to a Branson Heights Shopping of a carnival gives us the free- Christmas atmosphere. January Center. It was the end for that dom to move things in and out,” and February will serve as a business venture. he said. brief off-season to prepare for a The intent of the nine-acre The Windstorm is contract- re-opening for Spring Break. America’s Fun Park will continue to move different rides in site is to evoke memories of ed to play the State Fair of Texas — Tim Baldwin and out to keep its lineup fresh.. COURTESY JOE CADMUS/AFP county fairs enjoyed by so many families for generations. Director of Operations Joe Cadmus had spent time with other recreation attractions in the area. The owners of the property approached him for ideas. As somewhat of a mid- dleman, Cadmus brought in Steve and Brian Vander Vorste, who own and operate traveling midway rides. Vander Vorste is a partner in the America’s Fun Park facility. Cadmus describes the park’s niche as “a carnival with park appeal.” “Our all-day wristband is $20,” said Jason Reynolds, gen- eral manager. “It’s a great deal. We see our busiest hours after the sun goes down. There is a buildup around 8:00 and 9:00. The a.m. crowd tends to return in the evenings.” The initial lineup of attrac- tions is very family friendly and not aimed at the daring thrill seeker. Represented in the mix: an Eyerly Spider, Wave Swinger, Majestic bum- per cars, Wisdom Tornado, a Sellner Tilt-A-Whirl and a Manco Giant Slide. Offerings for the little ones include: Eli Bridge Little Scrambler, Allen Herschell Sky Fighter, Venture Granny Bugs, Fajume Wacky Worm, Sartori Road Runner and an SBF Duck Boat. Three rides are standouts. The Windstorm, built by SDC, is regularly scheduled at the State Fair of Texas. The park also fea- tures a dark ride by Mack and a 50-foot Chance carousel. “The biggest draw is the coaster. The Wave Swinger is up against Highway 76. It and the Windstorm have high vis- ibility,” said Reynolds. Groovy Train is another large coaster, this one a Super Cyclon model from Interpark. Fair food and midway games help complete the guest experience. “Except for (one), we built all the midway games our- selves,” said Reynolds. “We did it in-house.” Games are not ticket redemption, but prize-oriented. 28 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018

WATER PARKS & RECREATION  Funtasticks Family Fun Park adds water play structure — page 30 / News Splash — page 30 Three Wibit inflatable obstacle courses now afloat in Texas AT: Jeffrey Seifert [email protected]

COLLEYVILLE, Texas — From its award-winning water parks to its Gulf Shore beaches and numerous inland rivers and lakes, Texas is known for its wide variety of water activ- ities. So it should come as no surprise that inflatable, float- ing obstacle courses are pop- ping up around the state. Three such installations have been supplied by Wibit Sports, headquartered in Bo- cholt, Germany. The company, Altitude H20 parks, utilizing the inflatable, floating obstacle founded in 1996, specializes in course from Wibit Sports, recently opened in Grapevine and the installation, operation and Houston, Texas (above, top right). The Wibit product is also maintenance of aquatic play- featured at Lake Travis Waterloo Adventures (right). grounds. COURTESY ALTITUDE H2O; LAKE TRAVIS WATERLOO ADVENTURES Altitude Trampoline, a Colleyville-based operator of Park, is a city-owned recre- ing on the pillowy structure. trampoline parks across the U.S. ational area that also offers Altitude H2O offers ob- and U.K., is the newest support- camping, picnic spots, sandy stacle course activities in blocks er of Wibit products to the Lone beaches and water paddle of time. Sessions begin on the Star State. The company re- sport rentals. Wake Nation hour and include 15 minutes of cently ventured into the water Houston, as its name implies, instruction followed by 45 min- park arena with the equipment, offers cable wake-boarding utes of playtime. The first ses- opening two Altitude H2O and waterskiing. The fun (and sion typically starts at 10 a.m. diameter, multi-obstacle at- tower, trampoline, picnic areas parks — one in Grapevine, be- exercise) of the Wibit equip- and the last session at 6 p.m. traction to the lake. and lounge chairs. The water tween Dallas and Fort Worth, ment finds visitors, after don- The third obstacle course Admission includes a boat park is a sister park to Lake and the other at Wake Nation ning safety swim vests, swim- in Texas has been installed at ride, Adventure Island, and 45 Travis Zipline Adventures. Houston in Rosharon. ming out to the floating cours- Lake Travis Waterloo Adven- minutes on the obstacle course For more information on The Grapevine location, es, where they can bounce-leap tures, just outside Austin. The itself. Guests have unlimited Wibit Sports and its products, just off the shoreline of Grape- over hurdles, climb and gener- park has partnered with Wibit access to the Island, which in- visit the website below. vine Lake at Meadowmere ally try to maintain their foot- Sports to bring the 600-foot- cludes a free fall slide, jumping •wibitsports.com Two new attractions wash in at Raging Waves this summer 58-acre Illinois water area includes four new kiddie park adds waterslide, slides and a zero-depth pool which is more than double the themed kids’ ‘island’ size of the park’s existing kid- die pools. Additional interac- YORKVILLE, Ill. — One tive play features include a co- of the largest water parks conut rain curtain, palm tree in Illinois, with nearly five sprayers and a large dozen acres of slides, a lazy that spouts water. river, a wave pool and more, Raging Waves is also tak- Raging Waves completed its ing the opportunity to give largest expansion to date this guests a little education. A The dual-slide Wild Wallabies, with its eye-catching magenta-and-green color scheme, summer. Quokka (rhymes with “mo- opened to the public at Raging Waves on June 27. COURTESY RAGING WAVES New this season, is a pair cha”) is a small, teddy bear- of brightly colored water- sized marsupial that is exclu- our award-winning water- Boasting 26 waterslides in southwest of Chicago, Rag- slides called Wild Wallabies. sive to the island of Rottnest slide, Wonambi, to our latest all, Raging Waves also offers ing Waves, which opened in Guests over 42 inches can in- off the coast of Australia. The additions with Quokka-Nut a quarter-mile long lazy river 2008, was named “Best of the dulge their competitive spirit soft, furry animals interact well Island and Wild Wallabies, and private cabanas. Midwest” in 2010 and 2011 as they race one another on with humans and have become Raging Waves provides fun, When hunger strikes, by Midwest Living magazine, the twisting, turning 600-foot- popular with tourists. enjoyment and lasting memo- guests can visit one of park’s while USA Today rated it “the long chutes. “Since opening in 2008, ries for guests of all ages.” several food outlets, including top Illinois Summer Destina- Quokka-Nut Island is an we have continued to bring in Both of the new attractions Shark Bite, Hungry Croc and tion” in 2009 and MSN anoint- addition geared toward the new and innovative attractions were supplied by ProSlide of Surfside Subs. The park also ed it “Best Waterpark in Illi- park’s littlest mates (ages two for Raging Waves guests to Ottawa, Canada. Quokka-Nut has snacks kiosks featuring piz- nois” in 2017. It attracts more to five). Located within Kid- enjoy,” said Randy Witt, park is a customized KidZone and za, ice cream and other treats. than 300,000 visitors a year. diebunga Bay, the water play founder and co-owner. “From Wild Wallabies is a body slide. Located 45 minutes — Jeffrey L. Seifert August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 29 30 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018 Funtasticks family park NEWSSPLASH adds water play structure AT: Jeffrey L. Seifert TUCSON, Ariz. — Bringing more “cool” to its attractions [email protected] mix, Funtasticks Family Fun Park has installed an interactive Hyland Hills Water World, the venerable • water play attraction. water park just north of Denver, has added Big Splash Water Slide Park, in Delta, The new multi-activity structure, called Cactus Springs, Glacier Run to its impressive line-up of more B.C., just outside of Vancouver was getting has several levels featuring waterslides and giant tipping water than 50 water-based attractions. ready to open its latest addition just as this buckets that dump 1,000 gallons on fun-seekers every 10 min- Glacier Run officially opened to the pub- issue was going to press. The new CA$1.5 utes. The attraction also has bubbler jets, water wheels, water lic on June 14, 2018, with a spirited dance million Boomerango waterslide is being curtains and waterfalls, which are ideal for children and fami- party that included Denver-area mascots such billed as the largest in western Canada. lies to enjoy together. as Rocky from the Denver Nuggets basketball Supplied by WhiteWater West of B.C., the “Cactus Springs is an amazing new water attraction that team, and Water World's own new mascot, water park is conveniently located about 25 guests will love and are sure to get wet,” said Bill Pegg, park Walliver. Water World introduced Walliver, kilometers (15 miles) from the manufacturing general manager. “It adds an interactive, family-friendly attrac- the nephew of famous Wally the Walrus, as facility. Big Splash Water Slide Park tion to beat the heat, and it complements the excitement… of the his successor. After 38 years of representing opened last year on the site of the former ‘clean-safe-fun’ experience we provide to each of our visitors.” Water World, Wally is going to retire. Splashdown Waterpark. Owned and operated by ProParks Management Co., Unlike most mat racers, Glacier Run takes “It was important for us to introduce a LLC, of Orlando, Fla., Funtasticks unveiled Cactus Springs advantage of the natural hilly terrain at Wa- number of thrilling new features that would in late June. The structure was supplied by WhiteWater West ter World. Instead of a slide tower and lots make our park unforgettable,” said Harold Industries, Ltd., of Richmond, B.C., Canada. of stairs, guests walk up a meandering path Frederiks, general manager. “From the Boo- In addition to Cactus Springs, attractions at the park include built alongside the attraction. Water World merango, to renovated slides and pools, we kiddie rides, go-karts, bumper boats, laser tag and an arcade. opted to install a mat conveyor system that cannot wait for guests to come experience •funtasticks.com delivers the slide mats to the top of the at- everything we have to offer this season.” traction, so guests do not have to carry them. • Once at the top, the multilane racer Pearls Kingdom opened on June 3 in quickly dispatches guests — eight at a time the Emirate of Sharjah. The former Al Jazeera — so riders can race against friends. Park is undergoing an extensive renovation Each dip on the slide drops riders into to become the Al Montazah Amusement and a brief compression, then riders experience Water Park. weightlessness as they crest the top of the Similar to Abu Dhabi's Yas Waterworld, next drop. The low lane separators make it Pearls Kingdom, as the name implies, is also easy for riders to see their friends in the next themed to pearl diving and a magical pearl lane, while keeping them safely contained that can save the kingdom from misfortune. within their own lane. A long, flat, non-skid Pearls Kingdom offers 35 attractions in- runout at the end gradually brings riders to a cluding a wave pool, slide towers, water play stop, and provides a safe walking surface for structures, lazy river and a quiet grotto pool competitors to exit the attraction. for relaxation for adults 18 and older. The • park also features a main food and bever- The Mitchell Indoor Aquatic Center, age outlet which can service 1,000 guests per Mitchell, S.D., officially opened to the public hour, as well as three kiosks around the park July 3, just in time for the Independence Day serving fast food, desserts and refreshments. holiday. The $8 million center includes com- Each of the attraction clusters features a mini- petition and leisure pools, two diving boards, theme with a creative name such as Pirate's Cactus Springs brings an array of all-ages water play activi- a rock climbing wall, area, play struc- Den, King's Palace, Great Oasis and Sea of ties to Funtasticks’ menu of family amusements. tures and two waterslides. The facility was de- Treasures. COURTESY FUNTASTICKS FAMILY FUN CENTER signed to feature 50 percent recreational use The water park is designed to accommo- and 50 percent competitive use. A spectator date 7,000 visitors with up to 200 in the wave seating area with 194 stadium seats and five pool and 100 children, ages 4 to 14 years, in Galaxy Multi Rides stirs tables is located parallel to the competition the specially designed kids areas. pool. The Mitchell Aquatic Club provided $1 The Isle of Legends theme park is sched- interest with Inflatapark million in funding for the new project, the rest uled to open later this year. comes from a lodging tax approved by the • PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. — voters back in 2015. Mountain Creek Waterpark in Vernon, Galaxy Multi Rides, a maker • N.J., is setting a new safety precedent by re- of mechanical and inflatable Great Wolf Lodge, Gurnee, Ill., held its ceiving an "exceeds" safety score two years attractions based in the U.S. and grand opening on June 21, 2018. An invite- in a row. U.K., with an additional sales only, grand-opening, ribbon-cutting ceremo- The water park received an unannounced and service location in Australia, ny featured Grammy-Award winning, Chicago observation audit on June 25. Mountain Creek turned heads with the unveiling native Chance the Rapper. Great Wolf usually participates in Ellis & Associates’ Compre- of its Inflatapark concept at a partners with charities and celebrities for its hensive Aquatic Risk Management Program conference of the International resort openings. Chance raised $75,000 for (CARMP), designed to reduce risk in aquatic Association of Trampoline the SocialWorks’ Kids of the Kingdom sum- facility operations. CARMP boasts a mission Parks in Amsterdam, mer program, Chance’s youth-empowerment to eliminate drowning events through Proac- Netherlands, in May. charity. The resort opened to the public the tive Aquatic Risk Management. The sprawling indoor play combined with interactive following day. “Our mission as a company is to enhance inflatable attraction is formed electronic games and mechani- The water park originally opened as the lives of our team, guests and partners, of interconnected sections that cal attractions. Inflataparks are Key Lime Cove in 2008. It was purchased and we take the safety of both our staff and contain multiple inflatable destined be the next big thing in by Great Wolf Lodge Resorts in April 2017, each person who walks through our wa- games and interactive mechan- indoor play venues.” renovated and remodeled to give it the Great ter park very seriously,” said Cheryl Swift, ical activities. Whincup added that Wolf theme and expanded by approximately Aquatics Manager, Mountain Creek Resort. “The Inflatapark concept is Galaxy is installing three 20,000 square feet. “The results of this recent audit are proof on trend throughout the U.K.,” Inflataparks in the U.K. and Great Wolf Resorts invested more than of that commitment, and something the re- said Mike Whincup, the compa- four additional units in the U.S. $60 million into the property to bring it in line sort and aquatics team share a tremendous ny’s marketing director. “We offer by the end of the year. with the Great Wolf brand. amount of pride in.” a unique combination of inflatable •galaxymultirides.com August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 31 NEWSSPLASH 32 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018

BUSINESS & NEWSMAKERS  Women of Influence: Adrienne Dixon Rhodes of — page 34 Marketing savvy shows in rolls with dark ride coaster QINGDAO, China — Morey’s beach bar, signage Interactive technology and show control system supplier WILDWOOD, N.J. — Morey’s Piers is putting a fresh spin on Alterface recently completed the dog days of summer with a Fido-friendly food service concept work on an interactive indoor the company introduced in June. The multi-pier seaside amusement roller coaster in the amusement- park has also signaled its marketing savvy this season with a new filled Wanda Mall — part of public information system. the Qingdao Oriental Movie Welcoming patrons with dogs, the PigDog Beach Bar is Morey’s Metropolis film and television newest family-friendly dining venue. Located at the eastern end of production complex. Mariner’s Landing Pier and accessible through Raging Waters Water It is the first such attraction Park, the casual, open-air eatery serves up barbecue classics, cock- for the company, which collabo- tails and local beers on tap. rated with Pico Beijing, a brand Qingdao Wanda, a new dark The menu offerings appeal to sand-and-surf activity-fueled activation and themed environ- appetites — including the signature PigDog Dog, a foot-long all- ride coaster in the Wanda ment design firm, for approxi- Mall, located in the port city beef hot dog topped with smoked pulled pork and jalapenos on a mately half of the two-year proj- of Qingdao, incorporates potato roll. ect’s development and comple- Alterface’s interactive and This summer, Morey’s also strengthened sales and marketing tion time. across its 18 acres of beachfront fun with the installation of a digital Called Qingdao Wanda, the show control technology. signage network from Mvix of Sterling, Va. The system connects innovative dark ride interweaves The attraction is filled with more than 30 screens and video walls mounted on ticket booths and ancient Chinese storytelling gameplay, colorful sets and restaurant facilities at Morey’s. involving spirits and warriors special effects. The remotely managed, easily updated information platform with thrills derived from both its COURTESY ALTERFACE has solved a problem for the park’s sales staff, which often found coaster motion and seven mixed- that they spent more time explaining pricing options to visitors than media scenes, each of which rep- selling tickets. resent a popular Chinese legend “The digital signs are increasing incremental revenue while about a powerful god. Riders, decreasing expenses,” said Tim Samson, director of marketing at working together as teams, set Morey’s, noting that transaction times have been reduced 50 per- out to defeat the preternatural cent while tickets sales have increased. “It’s really become a signifi- forces in each scene. cant revenue center for us.” “It’s a great story with com- —Dean Lamanna pelling gameplay,” said Louis Vanhomwegen, project manag- Morey’s Piers er for Alterface, which is based introduced PigDog in Belgium and has offices in Beach Bar, offering Beijing and Xiamen, China, as pooch-friendly, well as in the U.S. “This attrac- supported by over 40 3D pro- and CEO. “Mixed-media rides open-air casual tion combines interactive shoot- jection screens,” Vanhomwegen require a different set of skills, dining, in June. ing and a roller coaster experi- said, adding that the ride vehi- and a lot of companies are cur- COURTESY ence plus special effects, includ- cles have “buttkickers” that rently asking our help to move MOREY'S PIERS ing liquid nitrogen and hot wind vibrate the bench seats and are faster on that learning curve. [to convey fire]. We have not yet controlled by the company’s “Increased and closer col- found another attraction similar show management system. “For laboration between manufac- to this.” example, in the first scene the turers and customers seems to Southern Amusement Expo The immersive environ- god is smashing a boat with a be the path of the future, and ment begins with the queue, big sword. At the moment the towards success. We are very extends to all U.S. Southeast which deploys video and audio boat is hit, the seats are vibrat- pleased that we accomplished elements to provide a general ing. It all [makes] the ride more this with the Qingdao Wanda DULUTH, Ga. — On Sept. 13-14, the 10th annual Southern sense of the storyline. Guests immersive and memorable.” ride and teams.” Amusement & Entertainment Expo, sponsored by the Georgia then enter a preshow area to “Alterface regards a strong Alterface installations can Amusement & Music Operators Association, will expand its reach practice their gameplay and dark ride not as a collection of be found in in throughout the southeastern U.S. by welcoming amusement indus- shooting skills at individual components but as a precisely Brühl, Germany; Ferrai World try operators from Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, North Carolina screens. crafted expertise that combines Abu Dhabi; in and South Carolina. The expo, to be held at the Atlanta Airport “Alterface designed and the power of technology with Charlotte, N.C.; and Legoland Marriott, will feature manufacturers’ latest machines as well as live installed all image generators the visitor’s cultural back- Discovery Centers, among and silent auctions, as well as educational sessions. Visit gamoa.org and the shooting system across ground and expectations,” said other locations worldwide. for registration, lodging and general information. the different scenes, which are Ben Cornet, company founder •alterface.com EUROPEAN SPARE AND REPLACEMENT PARTS IMPORTER SINCE 1982 NORTH AMERICAN PARTS INC. 61C AERO DRIVE, BUFFALO, NEW YORK USA 14225

PHONE: (716) 839-4791 FAX: (716) 839-4506 EMAIL: [email protected] www.nap-inc.com SERVING THE AMUSEMENT INDUSTRY WE’VE KEPT YOUR RIDES IN MOTION SINCE 1982 August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 33 MARKET WATCH BUSINESS WATCH

COMPANY SYMBOL MARKET PRICE HIGH LOW Cedar Fair revenues dip slightly through holiday 07/13/18 52-Week 52-Week SANDUSKY, Ohio — Cedar Fair Entertainment Co. reported The Blackstone Group BX NYSE 35.21 37.52 29.57 preliminary net revenues through July 8 of approximately $563 mil- lion on 11.1 million guest visits, average in-park per capita spend- Merlin Entertainments Group / MERL LSE 404.70 492.50 317.10 ing of $45.87 and out-of-park revenues of $70 million. This period Legoland represents approximately 40% of the company’s total operating Cedar Fair, L.P. FUN NYSE 60.08 70.82 57.15 days for 2018. When compared with the same period a year ago, net revenues were down 2%, or $10 million, the result of a 3%, or Corp./NBCUniversal CMCSA NASDAQ 34.70 44.00 30.43 314,000-visit, decrease in attendance. This was partially offset by a Media 3%, or $2 million, increase in out-of-park revenues, including resort The Walt Disney Company DIS NYSE 110.00 113.19 96.2 accommodations, and a slight increase in average in-park per capita spending when compared with the same period last year. “Although Dubai Parks & Resorts DXBE:UH DFM 0.35 0.87 0.32 early-season attendance at our seasonal parks… has not met our expectations, we are encouraged by the positive guest response EPR Properties EPR NYSE 66.13 74.15 51.87 to our new rides and attractions,” said Richard Zimmerman, Cedar Fair’s president and CEO, noting that out-of-park revenues continued Fuji Kyoko Co., Ltd. 9010 TYO 3160.00 3560.00 2232.00 to perform well. “Demand within our resort properties has been very strong, particularly at , where we recently opened a new Haichang Holdings Ltd. HK:2255 SEHK 1.87 2.30 1.55 158-room tower at the historic Hotel Breakers.”

Leofoo Development Co. TW:2705 TSEC 6.38 8.51 6.34 Village Roadshow moves to reduce large debt MGM Resorts International MGM NYSE 30.95 38.41 27.88 MELBOURNE, Australia — Entertainment company Village Roadshow, Ltd., operator of Movie World and theme Parques Reunidos Servicios ES:PQR MCE 13.58 17.00 11.69 parks on Australia’s Gold Coast, temporarily suspended trading of Centrales S.A. its shares in July in order to “provide information about a potential , Inc. JP:6357 TYO 1635.00 1864.00 827.00 capital-raising.” It was expected to issue more shares to help pay down its debt, which one report pegged as high as AU$425 million, SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. SEAS NYSE 21.82 22.96 10.42 in the face of a steep decline in first-half 2017-18 financial year gross earnings — to $49.8 million, down from the previous year’s $78.4 mil- Six Flags Entertainment Co. SIX NYSE 69.52 73.38 51.25 lion. Among the assets the company has unloaded to reduce debt is Wet’n’Wild Sydney, which it reportedly sold to Madrid, Spain-based DreamEast Group Ltd. HK:0593 SEHK 10.34 15.88 8.46 Parques Reunidos for $40 million. As of early July, Village’s stock price was at its lowest in eight years; the drop was attributed to low Tivoli A/S DK:TIV CSE 660.00 688.00 545.00 attendance at the company’s parks because of weather and other factors. Executives took a 25 percent pay cut as Village wrote down Village Roadshow AU:VRL ASX 1.77 4.21 1.73 the value of its parks. STOCK PRICES ABOVE ARE GENERALLY QUOTED IN THE FOREIGN CURRENCY IN WHICH THE COMPANY IS LOCATED

Worldwide Markets: ASX, Australian Securities Exchange; CSE, Copenhagen Stock Exchange; LSE, London Stock Exchange; NYSE, Media company CEOs ruled earnings roost in ’17 New York Stock Exchange; NASDAQ, National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations; SEHK, Hong Kong Stock Exchange; SZSE, Shenzhen Stock Exchange; TSEC, Taiwan Stock Excange, Corp.; TYO/TSE, Tokyo Stock Exchange NEW YORK, N.Y. — With a median pay of $28.7 million last —SOURCES: Bloomberg.com; Wall Street Journal year, CEOs at media and telecom companies earned more than twice as much as other chief executives in the S&P 500, accord- DIESEL PRICES ing to The Wall Street Journal. Atop the list of companies with Region As of Change from amusement industry or related holdings, Jeffrey Bewkes of Time (U.S.) 07/09/18 1 year ago Warner, Inc., earned $49 million in 2017, while the Walt Disney East Coast $3.238 +$0.715 Co.’s Robert Iger earned $36.3 million and Brian Roberts of Midwest $3.176 +$0.755 NBCUniversal parent company Comcast earned $32.5 million. Gulf Coast $3.004 +$0.693 Randall Stephenson, CEO of AT&T, which has acquired Time Mountain $3.370 +$0.786 Warner, earned $28.7 million. West Coast $3.471 +$0.818 California $3.970 +$1.103 names upcoming hotel CURRENCY BLACKPOOL, U.K. — Blackpool Pleasure Beach has selected a name for a previously announced guest lodge it is building adja- On 07/13/18 $1 USD = cent the park, set to open next spring. The 120-room, £12 million 0.8576 EURO property will be called The Boulevard Hotel. “We are delighted to 0.7584 GBP (British Pound) announce the name of our new hotel and its facilities, said Amanda 112.52 JPY (Japanese Yen) Thompson, OBE, managing director of the resort. “We want to 1.0028 CHF (Swiss Franc) build on the success of The Big Blue Hotel and be able to offer 1.3502 AUD (Australian Dollar) another stylish hotel which exceeds the expectations of both leisure 1.3169 CAD (Canadian Dollar) and business visitors.”

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and 34 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018 Adrienne Dixon Rhodes President Lake Winnie Amusement Park INFLUENCE Chattanooga, Tenn. A view from the top… Lake Winnepesaukah opened June 1, 1925, to 5,000 visitors. That was one year after Carl and Minette Dixon purchased the land located in Rossville, Ga., just across the Tennessee border. The first attractions were the lake, picnicking, boating and fishing. Now touting over 40 rides and attractions, as well as Soak Ya, a water park that opened in 2013, it certainly has a different look than in 1925. But, the mission has remained the same: bringing families together. Accomplishments and affiliations… •Member of International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) •Member of Family Owned Amusement Parks (FOAM) •Lake Winnepesaukah was awarded the Small Business of the Year in Chattanooga in 2003 Sticking to principles, tradition CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — Adrienne appreciation she receives from guests Dixon Rhodes doesn't think she has give a glimpse at just how far those been influential in the amusement park ripples have traveled. industry. The granddaughter of the park "Now, at my age, I ride a golf cart founders, she said she really hasn't had through the park," she said. "People are the time to be active in industry associa- forever stopping me just to say thank- tions and organizations. you. Thank you for keeping the park She has tried to remain active in open. Thank you for keeping the park her local church and is a member of the a wholesome place to bring the entire Daughters of the American Revolution. family. Thank you for facing the chal- But as president of Lake lenges over the years and bending only Winnepesaukah Inc. since 2002 when to a certain degree. her mother, Evelyn Dixon White, passed "Thank you for all the memories." away, she has had very little time for out- There have been so many memories side participations. from generations of families the park She does have time for her fam- now has a memories program where months old. Her grandmother left Rhodes her ily, of course. That is her focus in work people can come together and tell their "My grandmother took over and home, where she lived with her husband, and in play. That has been her family's stories. never missed a beat," Rhodes said. "She Leonard "Buddy" Rhodes, and had two focus since June 1, 1925, the day Lake In 1924, after spending years in the had been running the office since open- daughters, Talley and Tennyson. Winnepesaukah opened. ice and coal business, Carl and Minette ing anyway, but she hung on and was In her mother's declining years, "We are in our 93rd season here and Dixon purchased land in Rossville, Ga., very determined." Rhodes used to hand deliver docu- what we value most is safety, courtesy for the sole purpose of creating a family As Rhodes grew, she said she was ments to her that needed signing, pass- and cleanliness," Rhodes said. "We have park. They renamed the lake on the prop- always by her grandmother's side. ing under the Boat Chute several times tried to create wholesome family fun. erty, calling it Lake Winnepesaukah, a "I adored her," she said. a day. There is no other language to describe it Native American word meaning bountiful Her earliest memories of being in "One day, my mother looked at me better than that. waters or beautiful lake of the highlands. the park are of swimming in the lake. Her and said she just didn't want to do all "We stick to our principles," she The next year when the park family lived with her grandmother until that any longer," Rhodes said. "She said, said. "When I am hiring maintenance and opened it included swimming in the her mother, who had taken over the food 'Adrienne, just do your job.'" security people, it makes me feel good lake, picnicking, boating and fishing. In operations, built her own home. The Rhodes has been grooming the if they have children and maybe even 1927, Carl Rhodes built the park's first path to get to the front door was under upcoming two generations to take over, grandchildren, because I know that they ride, the Boat Chute, a ride still oper- the Boat Chute. her own daughters and her grandchil- understand. ating today. According to the park's Even though Rhodes feels she has dren, which include two daughters, of "We want happy people and smiling website, the National Amusement Park never left Lake Winnepesaukah, she course, and one grandson. faces." Historical Association has recognized did, but only for the time it took to Looking back, Rhodes said there Yet, perhaps, Rhodes has underesti- that ride as the oldest mill chute water receive a college degree in business have been many changes to the park. mated her influence, her personal legacy. ride in the U.S. administration. They grew slowly, however, focusing on It is hard to imagine that, now at "My grandfather was not an engi- She attended Bradford College the good things, staying with the family. 86 years old, her positive energy and neer or anything, he was just that kind of located in Haverhill, Mass., just north Lake Winnepesaukah's survival has principals haven't spread beyond Lake person," Rhodes said. "Over the years, of Boston for her first two years. Then been a labor of love. Winnepesaukah much like ripples in the little by little, we have replaced all the received her degree from the University "My grandfather gave us the lega- water, ripples that are only stopped by wood, but it is still one of our most popu- of Chattanooga, which is now the cy," Rhodes said. "He wanted families the earth but continue on as spreading lar rides." University of Tennessee Chattanooga. to have somewhere to go. We have just grains of dirt and sand. Rhodes' grandfather passed away When her grandmother passed tried to continue that." And, just maybe the many words of in 1933, when she was only eight away in 1958, her mother took the helm. —Pam Sherborne August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 35 36 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018 IMAX with Laser experience expands via Cineworld and AMC AT: Dean Lamanna [email protected] NEW YORK, N.Y. — Imax Corp. has announced 87 of the exhibitor’s highest- agreements to install its performing IMAX Theatres next-generation immersive at AMC locations in the U.S. laser projection experience In both cases, the IMAX in commercial multiplexes with Laser systems include across the U.S. and Europe renewed 12-year lease operated by Cineworld terms and are expected to Group, PLC, including be installed between 2018 its Regal Entertainment and 2022. The exhibitors also Group subsidiary, and AMC will be undertaking the ren- Theatres. ovation of the locations and The announcement coin- adding enhancements such cides with the launch of as 12-channel IMAX immer- IMAX with Laser, the com- sive sound, luxury plush pany’s most advanced com- rocker seating, redesigned mercial projection system entryways and in-theater The next-generation IMAX with Laser experience features a 4K laser projection system for designed to transform the branding. increased resolution, sharper images and a greater array of colors. COURTESY IMAX CORP premium blockbuster mov- “In addition to the eco- iegoing experience. nomics of the new laser “There is no doubt in experiences.” images when experienc- Imax Corp.’s agree- system remaining attractive my mind that IMAX with Added Adam Aron, ing today’s biggest block- ment with Cineworld has and coming with 12-year Laser provides the best CEO and president of AMC: busters. The next-gener- Cineworld and Regal loca- lease extensions, we believe blockbuster moviegoing “AMC and Imax Corp. con- ation 4K laser projection tions adding IMAX with Laser this powerful new product experience and will be our tinue to stay at the forefront system features a new opti- systems to 26 new IMAX will, over time, help ensure leading premium offering,” of presentation innovation, cal engine and a suite of Theatres and upgrading 29 that IMAX remains the pre- said Cineworld CEO Mooky and this announcement rep- proprietary technologies existing IMAX sites, includ- mium cinematic experience Greidinger. “Imax Corp. resents a momentous step delivering increased resolu- ing 15 currently open and 14 of choice among moviego- and our collective organiza- forward for our guests who tion, sharper and brighter sites not yet completed. ers, studios, filmmakers and tion have worked together love seeing their movies in images, and deeper contrast The company’s arrange- theater partners alike,” said for more than 20 years, and IMAX at AMC.” as well as the widest range ment with AMC calls for the Richard L. Gelfond, CEO of we both understand how to IMAX with Laser pro- of colors available. installation of the system in Imax Corp. create best-in-class customer vides audiences with vivid •imax.com Attractions now utilizing Satisfi Labs’ AI conversation platform NEW YORK, N.Y. — Satisfi the Smokies, also in Gatlinburg; tions with guests. We’re ecstatic Labs, a leading artificial intelli- the Roger Williams Park Zoo at the enthusiasm our partners gence (AI) conversation platform in Providence, R.I.; and the have shown for the platform and creator, has announced its expan- National Baseball Hall of Fame the high volume of engagement sion into tourism and attractions. in Cooperstown, N.Y. they’ve seen from visitors.” The company’s products cre- “Over 375 million people Satisfi Labs is known in the ate engaging experiences and in North America visit theme sports industry for having created improved customer service for parks annually, and as that num- AI conversation platforms for pro- visitors. Each venue has a cus- ber increases, the demand for fessional teams within organiza- tom platform that is designed to cifically related on the attraction a seamless experience grows as tions including MLB, NHL, NFL enable a superior guest experi- they are looking to visit. well,” said Don White, CEO and and NBA. The company also has ence including ticketing, exhib- Locations that have recently co-founder of Satisfi Labs. “The expanded into the retail space, it details, food and beverage launched the company’s technol- integration of AI and superior with launches at Mall of America, options, and more. All of the ogy include Ripley’s Believe It or tech is integral for parks, muse- the Irvine Company and other platforms are location-based, so Not! Odditorium in Gatlinburg, ums and other venues to create major retailers. guests are provided answers spe- Tenn.; Ripley’s Aquarium of valuable and successful interac- •satis.fi MediaMation to build second MX4D Esports Theatre in Chicago TORRANCE, Calif. — MediaMation, Inc., “As esports continues its rapid expansion in the and Hollywood Esports are planning to open U.S., cinemas have a unique ability to host week- an esports theater — their second — at Cinemas ly events and tournaments through Hollywood Entertainment Lawndale 10 in Chicago. Esports’ utilizing of MediaMation’s innovative The project follows the debut last fall of the esports venue technology,” said Henry Leong, partnership’s MX4D Esports Theatre at TCL president and CEO of Cinemas Entertainment. Chinese Theatres in Hollywood. The inaugural Leong expects to duplicate the success of TCL Los Angeles location was designed to convert Chinese Theatres’ MX4D Esports Theatre, which between “Cinema Mode” and “Esports Mode” has been hosting tournaments, events and viewing in under one hour, allowing cinema operators to company’s motion and special effects technology parties during the week. enjoy dual revenue streams from MX4D films and and adds an innovative package of patent-pending “Hollywood Esports has built a loyal follow- esports tournaments and events. (It opened with features that are designed to support esports,” ing of fans,” said Alwyn Kushner, president and the launch of Wargaming’s World of Tanks North said Dan Jamele, co-founder and chief informa- COO of TCL Chinese Theatres. “We have seen a American Championship esports tournament.) tion technology officer of MediaMation, which crowd of over 100 enthusiasts, many of whom are The theater’s combination of design and equip- has been building immersive high-tech theaters driving more than 30 miles, coming to the theater ment is key to its operational versatility. for tourist attractions and parks for more than 25 on weekday nights to participate in events.” “Our MX4D Esports Theatre starts with the years. —Dean Lamanna August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 37 VRstudios, Ashland Technologies contribute ‘Jurassic World’ VR attraction on the stomp at Dave & Buster’s AT: Dean Lamanna hardware, motion control [email protected] software, content and man- DALLAS, Texas — Since agement platform. The two mid-June, virtual dinosaurs companies are continuing to have been on the rampage work together to produce at all 114 Dave & Buster’s supplier of wireless, multi- additional content experi- locations in North America. player VR turnkey solutions ences for the system. The family entertain- for location-based entertain- “We are honored to be ment center chain has intro- ment businesses, deployed a trusted partner to Dave & duced Jurassic World VR its VRcade Attraction Buster’s,” said Kevin Vitale, Expedition to its attractions Management Platform CEO of VRstudios. “Their mix. The new virtual real- (AMP) to operate and man- new attraction is a break- ity platform capitalizes on age the proprietary attrac- through for extending com- the concurrent feature film tion. AMP’s cloud-based mercial availability of true release of Jurassic World: architecture and multiplayer virtual reality to Fallen Kingdom, the fifth features enable it to centrally locations around the coun- The new Jurassic World VR installment of Universal manage and power the attrac- try. AMP enables the seam- Expedition, now available Pictures’ 25-year-old dino- tion at all Dave & Buster’s less integration of technol- at all Dave & Buster’s saur thriller franchise, which locations, which, according ogy and content from best- locations, ties had scared up well over $700 to VRstudios, makes this in-class providers, includ- in with the hit million in global box office platform the world’s largest ing Hewlett-Packard, HTC, Universal Pictures receipts by the end of June. deployment of commercial Universal Studios and The summer feature The wireless, commer- multiplayer VR. Virtual Reality Company.” Jurassic World: cial-grade interactive gam- AMP’s utilization is Ashland Technologies, Fallen Kingdom. ing system and motion the result of a larger proj- which specializes in machin- COURTESY VR STUDIOS platform of Jurassic World ect between VRstudios and ing, fabrication, cutting / VR Expedition incorporate Dave & Buster’s. Working welding, powder-coating Dave & Buster’s locations in technology and equipment together from the new and assembly for amuse- a relatively short time frame produced by VRstudios VR attraction’s inception, ment rides and other proj- was in keeping with the of Redmond, Wash., and VRstudios was entrusted ects, assembled the motion company’s deadline-driven Ashland Technologies, to manage the sourcing platform for Jurassic World reputation among its inter- Inc., of Hegins, Pa., among and integration of its key VR Expedition. Ashland’s national park and ride-man- others. components, including the ability to assemble units ufacturing clients. VRstudios, a leading proprietary simulator, VR from raw material for all of •daveandbusters.com Luna Park aims for higher visitorship with towering new ride , N.Y. — Luna Park has added more “lift” to its season with a tower ride that further accentuates the iconic skyline.

tinuing Luna Park’s tradi- tion of preserving famous Stretching 137 feet former ride names when skyward, Astro Tower introducing new attrac- provides free-fall thrills and tions (e.g., Steeplechase and an aerial view of Coney Much more than a scenic Thunderbolt). Island’s amusement-filled attraction, the new 137-foot- “From the Cyclone to shoreline, as well as tall landmark, called Astro the Astro Tower, Luna Park another high-visibility Tower, provides a dynamic brings together the classic lure for Luna Park. experience filled with dra- and state of the art in amuse- COURTESY LUNA PARK matic free-fall drops, bounc- ment attractions at the heart es and rotation. Located next of the Coney Island,” said to the Endeavor ride and Fernando Velasquez, park mum rider height require- across from Thunderbolt general manager. “Only here ment of 42 inches and roller coaster at W. 15th St. can you experience the most seats up to 12 passengers and , outrageous thrill rides in the per cycle. During evening the Zamperla-manufactured world only steps from the hours, riders and spectators thriller opened to the public beach, the boardwalk and can enjoy a dazzling show May 26. the subway in America’s created by 5,258 LED lights The ride’s name honors favorite playground.” adorning the structure. Coney Island history — con- Astro Tower has a mini- —Dean Lamanna 38 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018 Dynamic Attractions signs five-year PEOPLE Space Center Houston has welcomed 33-year NASA vet- strategic deal with Asian customer eran scientist John B. Charles, Ph.D., as the Texas nonprofit’s first scientist in residence. ORLANDO, Fla. — The Dr. Charles will help interpret space research ride designers and steel work- into guest experiences and education programs ers based at the Central Florida via exhibits, presentations, experiential activities and Vancouver, Canada, facili- and curricula. His role will emphasize and inte- grate the human health and performance aspect ties of Dynamic Attractions of space exploration into the center’s learning Charles are busier than ever, thanks to environment. Additionally, he will appear regularly at the center’s contracts the company recently “Thought Leader Series,” bringing together the brightest minds in signed with a customer in Asia. space exploration to speak with the public. The five-year strategic cooperation agreement initially The California Attractions and Parks Association (CAPA) has calls for Dynamic Attractions named Erin Guerrero executive director. With to deliver two large state-of- nearly 20 years of experience in and around the the-art ride systems over the state capitol, Guerrero will be responsible for advo- next two years, with additional cating on behalf of the organization and its mem- rides possibly to be supplied The All-Terrain Dark Ride and Dynamic Motion Theater bers with the legislature, governor and regulatory agencies. In her most recent role as vice president during the agreement’s term. are among the multimedia ride systems from Dynamic for legislative affairs for the California Building While most details of the deal Attractions garnering international industry attention. Industry Association, Guerrero was the lead advo- Guerrero are confidential, the company COURTESY DYNAMIC ATTRACTIONS noted that the customer is a cate for the home building industry. CAPA represents a wide variety of theme park conglomerate with theme, amusement and water parks throughout the state. multiple park projects in vari- ous stage of development. John Hallenbeck has joined the International Association Under the ride contracts, of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) as vice presi- dent of North American operations. A 25-plus-year industry Dynamic Attractions will sup- veteran, Hallenbeck previously served as ply one of its proprietary sys- managing director of project development at tems to two different theme Hershey Entertainment & Resorts. Earlier posi- parks currently under con- tions include vice president of revenue opera- struction. The company com- tions at Dubai Parks and Resorts and senior pleted the design and manu- vice president of attractions for Universal facturing requirements in two Studios Singapore, Southeast Asia Aquarium, prior contracts. Adventure Cove and Dolphin Island, located Hallenbeck “The ride system they have within Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore. purchased is significantly more advanced than any other in end of the fiscal year. focus, and having the capa- The board of trustees of the Exploratorium, a learning labo- this genre currently in opera- “We are tremendously bility to engineer and deliver ratory and exhibit space on Pier 15 in San Francisco, Calif., has tion,” said John Kageorge, honored with the trust that this iconic ride systems concur- elected Roberta Katz, Ph.D., to serve as board communications director for client has placed in us with the rently gives [us] a significant chair; she assumes the role as the institution Dynamic Attractions, adding marquee attraction in multiple competitive advantage.” approaches its 50th anniversary in 2019. Dr. that the initial contracts under parks,” said Hao Wang, com- Dynamic Attractions, a wholly Katz is a senior research scholar in both the the arrangement are valued at pany president and COO. “It owned subsidiary of Empire Department of Communication and the Center USD $56 million. reinforces Dynamic’s strategic Industries, Ltd., has designed for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences The agreement grants product portfolio and opera- and fabricated top attractions at Stanford University, where she conducts research on the values, worldviews and behav- Katz Dynamic Attractions pre- tional positioning to support at theme parks operated by iors of young people. She holds a doctorate in anthropology ferred vendor status and is the expanding global theme Disney and Universal Studios, from Columbia University. expected to result in a third park industry. Delivering on among others. •dynamicattractions.com ride system award before the our commitments is a primary Michael Mercadante, president and senior exhibit designer of Design in Cambridge, Mass., will become international board president of the WhiteWater, Life Floor partnering on Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) in November after sitting president David Willrich global non-slip surfaces distribution of audiovisual and multimedia house DJ Willrich, Ltd., completes his second term. Mercadante RICHMOND, B.C., Canada — Water WhiteWater’s designs and offerings as the has served on the TEA International Board of parks product and attraction manufacturer safest in the industry,” said Geoff Chutter, Directors for the past six years, on the Executive Mercadante WhiteWater West Industries, Ltd., has the company’s president and CEO. Committee of the Board for the last five years and, most recently, as entered into an exclusive distribution agree- Added Life Floor CEO Jonathan Keller: treasurer and head of the TEA Finance Committee. Mercadante has ment with Minneapolis, Minn.-based Life “Working with WhiteWater, the market lead- worked exclusively in interpretive exhibit design since 1983. Floor to bring the latter’s non-slip cushioned er, was an obvious choice to access a wider surfaces to the global water park market. market, but we’ve also found that the mis- Urban Air Adventure Park recently added three-decade Six The announcement was made in June sions which drive our companies are very Flags veteran Jay Thomas to its team as chief commercial officer. In during Asian Attractions Expo 2018 in Hong aligned. Both companies are single-minded this newly created role, Thomas will work from Urban Air’s Dallas, Kong. about delivering fun safely with the highest- Texas, headquarters — leading commercial strat- Life Floor’s patented foam-rubber floor- quality products available.” egy as well as the development and optimiza- ing system significantly reduces slips and While Life Floor’s non-slip “soft fall” char- tion of the company’s 209 parks currently open falls — the primary cause of water park acteristic is its biggest benefit, its durable tiles or under construction. He will oversee franchise injuries. When a fall does occur, bumps and also will not absorb water or other liquids. The relationships, marketing, sales, operations, safe- bruises are minimized by the product, which award-winning product’s closed-cell construc- ty, product development and customer service to has become a favorite of park operators tion also is resistant to staining, chlorine and drive global business growth and market share. including Carnival Cruise Line, Cedar Fair, UV exposure, and it does not support micro- His previous position with Six Flags was vice Thomas Great Wolf Resorts and Legoland. bial growth. president of international park development, which followed his role as president of Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, Calif. “The partnership further confirms —Dean Lamanna August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39

ThisM space useuis provided courtesym of Amusement P Todayrogress, a corporate partner of the National R Roller Coasterep Museumort & Archives. Idlewild Park's historic FROM THE ARCHIVES COLLECTION coaster cars donated

Common Coney Island postcard depicts the Loop the Loop coaster NRCMA recently accepted the donation of a train from Rollo on Surf Avenue, in Brooklyn, N.Y. The creation of Edwin Prescott of Coaster at Idlewild & Soak Zone in Ligonier, Pa. It is one of Massachusetts, there was an admission price of 10 cents to enter the two original trains that operated on the ride from 1938 1906: the grounds below the twin loop steel structure. Entry included a to 2016. Built using wood harvested from the property, the single ride, but a majority of the public chose only to watch the coaster (and their more daring friends) coaster, designed by Herbert P. Schmeck of the Philadelphia go through its paces. Opened during a hailstorm of publicity in 1901 (the public actually implored the Toboggan Co. (PTC), is a 1,100-foot-long junior out-and-back local police to close the ride), it remained a fixture in Coney until it was replaced by the Giant Racer in model topping out at 27 feet. The coaster has received new 1911. Of interest is the sender’s message: "A ride on this is fine after a heavy meal. You do not have PTC trains. — Jeffrey Croushore; COURTESY NRCMA to worry as there is a hospital on the premises. Will try it tonight." — Richard W. Munch 40 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018 August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 41

SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS  Fair associations in Ohio launch ride safety initiative — page 44 / AIMS News & Notes — page 46 Paving the road to success for SeaWorld’s Electric Eel coaster Planning, practicality tors relating to guest com- during loading, there is a play crucial roles in fort and information, as well separate entrance next to the as aesthetics, played into the exit gate. A special harness park’s new attraction planning of the ride’s queue, allows amputee guests to AT: Dean Lamanna which — with its white sand enjoy the ride safely. [email protected] and breeze-swept plantings A ride restraint test seat — resembles a seascape. for larger guests placed at the SAN DIEGO, Calif. — Koontz acknowledged there start of the queue has been Before landing SeaWorld San were “multiple rationales” well received, according to Diego firmly on Southern for the design. Koontz. “It has allowed us to California’s thrill ride map “While we always design clearly explain the restraint this summer, Electric Eel queue lines to anticipate system, which has created — the park’s new 15-story- capacity, for Electric Eel, positive interaction oppor- tall, triple-launch steel roller guests will notice the ride’s tunities between our guests coaster — required two years queue line also meanders,” and ride staff,” he said. of careful planning, includ- he said. “The sinuous queue In other SeaWorld San ing the negotiation of state simulates the winding and Diego operational news, the regulations and city codes twisting motion of the eel, park has been honored as and various operational con- and it also allowed us to “Recycler of the Year” by the siderations. place a variety of educational city for the 20th time. In 2017, The result of that collec- En route to becoming SeaWorld San Diego’s newest information [placards] along SeaWorld recycled eight tons tive effort has been a real landmark, the 150-foot-tall Electric Eel had to clear city and the pathway for our guests to of E-waste and 850 pounds of crowd-pleaser for SeaWorld’s state building codes in addition to complying with the park’s take in before they get to the neoprene wet suits (twice the guests. The compact yet own approved master plan. AT/DEAN LAMANNA loading station.” 2016 amount), and it achieved sensational installation Once there, video screens a 32-percent increase in over- from Baltimore, Md.-based four sites on the property, of the coaster, which fell under provide further safety infor- all recycling to nearly 85 per- , Inc., also the coaster’s development the Light Pollution Law of San mation about the boarding cent. The park also diverted adds a new landmark to the adhered to the California Diego’s municipal code. procedure, including the 99 percent of construction park’s skyline and provides Coastal Commission’s “All lighting on Electric securing / removal of loose and demolition waste from the dynamic finishing piece Coastal Development Permit. Eel, other than what is items and the operation of local landfills. to SeaWorld’s three-acre As with all attractions in the required for safety, was the restraint system, which •seaworld.com Ocean Explorer attraction park, the ride’s foundation placed below 60 feet and positions snugly at the pelvis and exhibit area. was designed to the required pointed down,” Koontz said. and incorporates a soft shoul- The road to this success building codes and seismic “This actually makes for a der harness allowing for less- was nearly as winding as the tolerance for the region. very dramatic ride after the obstructed sightlines. ride itself. But according to The regulatory adherence sun sets.” For physically challenged the park, it was a smooth one. extended to the A combination of fac- guests who need assistance “We spent months engag- ing with the community, as well as civic and business groups, on the ride with infor- mational presentations and open forums,” said David Koontz, SeaWorld’s director of communications, explain- ing the process to Amusement Today. “Throughout, we found there was excitement about the prospect of this new ride at the park. In addition to complying with SeaWorld’s approved master plan, which allows for Electric Eel’s attractive queue incorporates shaded areas and informational signage, as well as a ride restraint test seat for exceptions to the city’s 30-foot larger guests. The coaster’s snug pelvic restraint and soft shoulder harness promote comfort and improve rider sightlines. coastal zone height limit in AT/DEAN LAMANNA (QUEUE); COURTESY SEAWORLD SAN DIEGO 42 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018 World’s Largest Swimming Lesson raises safety awareness across six continents On June 21, an estimated 45,000 young swimmers from Boston to Bahrain to Benin, West , teamed up from afar for the ninth annual World’s Largest Swimming Lesson (wlsl.org). The purpose of the event, which took place over a 24-hour period at more than 700 water parks, pools, YMCAs and swim schools in 44 U.S. states and 29 countries, was to expose kids and parents to life-saving water safety skills — and to build awareness about the critical importance of teaching children to swim to help prevent drowning. Participating alongside instructors and parents, and serving as spokespersons, were Olympians Amanda Beard, Rowdy Gaines and Lenny Krayzelburg. An instructor at Splash! La Mirada Regional Aquatics Center in Southern California (shown) was among the hundreds of professionals overseeing swimmers during the event. Program organizers continue working to connect the dots between the real risk of childhood drowning, the need for basic water competency skills and the fact that parents must remain vigilant at all times when supervising children in and around water. The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson was launched by the World Waterpark Association in 2010; more than 236,000 children and adults have participated in the event since its inception. COURTESY WORLD WATERPARK ASSOCIATION Follett, LLC expands ice machine line EASTON, Pa. — Follett, LLC, a lead- •Horizon Elite 1010 and 1410, the line’s er in ice-making and ice storage equipment, first releases, are available in air- and water- has launched a full line of its award-winning cooled self-contained and remote single- and Horizon Elite Chewblet ice machines. three-phase models. The Horizon Elite line has a patented scale- •Horizon Elite 1810, an upgrade of inhibiting design that offers food service opera- Horizon 1650, joins the company’s Elite line tors superior performance at low cost even in with added ice production; while Horizon Elite challenging conditions. Horizon Elite’s design 2110, already the highest-capacity Chewblet reduces scale buildup while at the same time ice machine, has increased production to over using 35-50 percent less water than comparable 2,000 pounds daily. Both are available in single- Follett’s line Horizon Elite cube-type ice machines. and three-phase remote condensing models. Chewblet line includes The latest Elite line: Follett has designed and manufactured ice (clockwise, from top) the •Horizon Elite 710, an upgrade of Horizon machines, ice storage bins, refrigeration and ice Horizon Elite 710, Horizon 700, provides a simple choice for applica- / beverage dispensing equipment to the food Elite 1010/1410 and Hori- tions with medium ice demand. Available in service and healthcare industries since 1948. zon 1810/2110 models. COURTESY FOLLETT, LLC 115V/60Hz air-cooled models. •follettice.com August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 43

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

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

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

· Offering Limited SpeciaLty and train the trainer classes on Sat. & Sun., Jan. 26 & 27, for $100. · Annual membership meeting will be on Sunday, Jan. 27 (Kingston Plantation Hilton) at 1:30 p.m. Full brochure will be posted later in 2018! www.naarso.com 44 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018 Buckeye State launches ride safety initiative SAFETY MARKET PLACE New four-point Ohio inspection. program addresses “These four steps will insure rides identified as inspection protocol having possible corrosion problems will be thoroughly AT: B. Derek Shaw inspected and documented to [email protected] be in compliance with ride manufacturer’s specifica- COLUMBUS, Ohio — tions before operating in Ohio The July 2017 ride •First: Per ASTM this season,” German said. accident at the Ohio State International (ASTM) stan- “Moreover, [it] will be further Fair, determined to have dards, ride manufacturers enhanced by revised ASTM been caused by undetected will provide service bulletins standards. The organization corrosion inside a gondola addressing the corrosion issue is currently evaluating new support beam, increased with steel construction to ride guidelines to address amuse- awareness among manufac- owners. ment ride corrosion as it per- turers, operators and inspec- •Second: Ride own- tains to the manufacturer, tors industry-wide. ers will perform a compre- maintenance and inspection In Ohio specifically, the hensive inspection, as man- of amusement rides.” tragedy led to aggressive dated by manufacturers, out- “The Outdoor engagement between gov- lined in the service bulletins. Amusement Business ernment regulators, national Comprehensive inspection Association [OABA] and some safety organizations and records must be maintained 1,000 technical experts who makers of amusement rides and include details on which participate in setting ASTM — resulting in the develop- areas have been inspected; F-24 Committee standards ment of a comprehensive ride type of inspection method are working diligently and safety program. Being pro- and acceptance criteria; date quickly to review additional moted via a campaign called inspection was performed; requirements that should be Moving Forward, Safely, the specific observations and find- added to pertinent, existing new program is sponsored ings during inspection; and amusement ride standards,” jointly by the Greater Ohio identification of who inspect- noted Robert Johnson, presi- Showmen’s Association, ed the ride. dent and CEO of OABA and Ohio Fair Managers and •Third: Ride owners will an ASTM board member. the Ohio Festivals & Events provide the Ohio Department David Drake, president of Association. of Agriculture, Division of the Greater Ohio Showmen’s “The Ohio amusement Amusement Ride Safety, the Association, added that the industry has moved decisively service bulletin along with effort “will produce better to reaffirm best practices and service bulletin inspection regulations, increased test- follow a four-point protocol records during the inspec- ing and specific inspections insuring a system of checks tion process by Department by Ohio Ride Safety inspec- and balances as it pertains to of Agriculture ride inspectors. tors, and enhanced amuse- amusement ride safety,” said •Fourth: As part of the ment ride operations — mak- Eric German, spokesperson inspection process, the Ohio ing Ohio fairs and festivals for the three organizations. Department of Agriculture, as safe as humanly possible. “Any ride accident is of con- Division of Amusement Ride Our goal this festival season, cern to the industry. An acci- Safety, will verify that opera- and every festival season, is dent resulting in injury or loss tors are compliant with any zero accidents, and complete of life is totally unacceptable.” new bulletins or updates to public confidence in Ohio’s The key points of the manufacturer’s specifications amusement industry.” checks-and-balances protocol: issued since the ride’s last •mygosa.net

Keep our amusement park industry strong! Buy products and services from these suppliers. August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 45

Auxel’s Unixon software offers ride SAFETY maintenance, management solutions MARKETPLACE ARCUGNANO, Italy — Auxel SRL has been involved Proudly working with the following in the design of electrical control American-made companies: systems for amusement rides of all types and sizes for the last four decades. •Premier Rides The company’s focus on •Sally Dark Rides safety and technology develop- •Swannee River ment has allowed it not only to Railroad Co. use industrial applications to •Owen Trailers improve ride control systems, but also to invest significantly in •Philadelphia Toboggan the field of asset management. Coasters, Inc. More recently, Auxel intro- duced a software product called Unixon, a system for asset Facebook.com/IRMRides maintenance and management. Through checklists and reports, Auxel’s Unixon system is a According to Giulia Battistello, multi-functional tool for asset maintenance and management. an Auxel sales represenative, COURTESY AUXEL SRL Unixon arose from the indus- try’s need for enhanced ride was mainly focused on mainte- tures can add photos, videos mainenance and safety. nance planning and checklists, and data taken from fieldwork “Many years ago, when subsequently we have realized at any time. computerized maintenance sys- the need to expand its func- Unixon’s user-friendly tems were not so widespread, we tions in order to cover other interface helps ensure acces- started programming the opera- aspects of fieldwork and even sibility for users of all levels tor panels with a so-called check- back-office work. Amusement — from administrator to engi- list,” Battistello said. “In this parks, as with any company or neer, from technician to opera- way, at each switching-on of the operating site, also include [per- tor. “They can access the sys- ride, the park team could only sonnel], costing and budgeting tem from any fixed or mobile operate the ride with guests after operations.” device,” Battistello said. “Its the execution of the maintenance The Unixon software allows combination of asset mainte- checks. The positive response to for constant monitoring and nance and management with this application made us decide consistent scheduling, perform- management of human resourc- to invest in the development of a ing and reporting of any main- es, downtimes, operation activi- dedicated software.” tenance and operations activity ties, budgets, warehouses and Customer feedback, indeed, through checklists, reports and spare parts makes it a turnkey was essential. tasks for an unlimited number solution.” “It is precisely from the of assets. Beyond rides, such These capabilities, she parks that we can understand assets can include vehicles, added, make Unixon “a com- our shortcomings, acquire buildings, machines, pools and plete and multi-functional tool knowledge and study how to more. The system also allows for the management of complex make a product as flexible as for storage and viewing of any operating sites, such as amuse- possible to meet their needs and documentation (files, drawings, ment parks, water parks, aquar- requirements,” Battistello said. schematics, etc.) in digital for- iums and zoos.” “If in the first stages Unixon mat, while its interactive fea- •auxelrides.com APSP’s Commercial Council Meeting meeting sets stage for successful year ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) held its first Commercial Council Meeting on May 2 in Denver, Colo. The inaugural gathering of industry leaders marked a new era of advancing the commercial pool and spa segment and addressing its needs. During this meeting, the council outlined its first-year goals and created strategies to accom- plish them. It committed to working toward influencing codes and standards that will affect all code officials, builders, designers and other stakeholders in the segment. They council set forth a plan to develop courses for contractors and code officials. The courses will be designed to help contractors learn how to work with code officials and help code officials learn to inspect public pools and spas. The council also indicated that it is looking for ways to protect the commercial pool segment from the often costly burdens associated with overregulation. To move this initiative forward, they established a new task force to work with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and National Swimming Pool Foundation to synchronize the Model Aquatic Health Code with the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code. “This meeting was instrumental in laying the foundation for the Commercial Council,” said Derek Downey, principal of Solana Beach, Calif.-based Legal Pools, who serves as council co- chair. “We will be able to create important initiatives that will improve this segment and the pool and spa industry.” Industry members are invited to become involved as a council member or task force partici- Keep our amusement park industry strong! pant. For more information, visit apsp.org. —Dean Lamanna Buy products and services from these suppliers. 46 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2018

Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers International, Ltd. P.O. Box 92366 • Nashville, Tenn. 37209 Phone: (714) 425-5747 • Fax: (714) 276-9666 Karen Oertley • [email protected] www.aimsintl.org Holly Coston, (714) 697-6654, [email protected] Early registration is now open! The 2019 AIMS Safety Seminar will be held Hobby Airport (HOU), south of Houston served by of Wapello Fabrications, who strived for quality, January 13-18 in Galveston, Texas, at the Galveston Southwest and other major airlines. From there, it safety and ASTM standards throughout her career. Island Convention Center at the San Luis Resort. is an easy drive or shuttle ride to Galveston Island. OABA members can contact [email protected] for AIMS has secured a special discounted hotel rate More information can be found on our website. more information and AIMS scholarship applications. for attendees, $115 per night at the adjacent The seminar is a must attend for both opera- All AIMS Safety Seminar scholarships cover Galveston Hilton. The setting is perfect for the tors and manufacturers, as well as suppliers who the $595 tuition fee, which includes class materi- AIMS Safety Seminar, with all classes being held in need to stay abreast on the latest trends and topics als, an opening reception, all lunches and breaks, one central area, a great hotel in the beautiful San surrounding the industry’s No. 1 priority worldwide a completion certificate, and Continuing Education Luis Resort, plenty of nearby places to eat and shop, — SAFETY. hours. Additional fees for testing and certification plus the added attraction of Galveston’s Pleasure and travel expenses are not included. Pier and Schlitterbahn Waterpark nearby. Scholarships to the Safety Seminar Early registration is now open at www.aimsintl. are available! Upcoming events org. Registration is $595 and includes all class mate- Thanks to the generosity of two great indus- The AIMS International Annual Board Meeting rials, two breaks and lunch each day and an opening try associations, scholarships to the AIMS Safety will be held on September 6, 2018 prior to the 2018 reception on Sunday night. Students can also sign Seminar are available to qualified individuals. Golden Ticket Awards, presented by Amusement up now for AIMS Certification Levels I-III testing IAAPA (The International Association of Today, at Silver Dollar City. in Maintenance, Operations, Ride Inspection, and Amusement Parks and Attractions) provides five The AIMS International Safety Award will Level I Aquatics. In addition, students can sign scholarships to the AIMS Safety Seminar in memory be presented during the Golden Ticket Awards on up for the following series: Leadership, Aquatics, of Alan Ramsay who was an avid industry supporter September 8, 2018, aboard the Showboat Branson Security, Carnival, ASTM, and new-for-2019 FEC. and safety advocate. Applications can be found on Belle. The award will be presented to an individual OSHA 10 and CPO Certifications are also offered. the AIMS website at www.aimsintl.org. or organization that demonstrates leadership, inno- Those who register and prepay will have VIP OABA (the Outdoor Amusement Business vation, and foresight in improving safety in the access to class selection when full registration Association) offers four scholarships to the AIMS amusement industry. opens in October. Safety Seminar for OABA members who are first- Come see us at the AIMS booth #4527 at the For those who like to plan ahead, we rec- time Safety Seminar attendees. One of these scholar- IAAPA Attractions Expo, November 13-16 in Orlando! ommend attendees book flights into Houston ships is dedicated in memory of June Hardin, owner Enjoy your summer and stay SAFE!

Space for this AIMS page is provided courtesy of Amusement Today as a corporate partner of AIMS Intl. Content is provided by AT & AIMS. August 2018 AMUSEMENT TODAY 47 CLASSIFIEDS

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