INSIDE:

Main Event scores in out- of-home sector PAGE 28 TM & ©2017 Amusement Today, Inc.

March 2017 | Vol. 20 • Issue 12 www.amusementtoday.com Amusement Expo International plays in Dallas for 2017 New education classes offered prior to show floor AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected] ment Expo, renamed a couple ing session that Tuesday will DALLAS, Texas — It’s of years ago to the Amuse- feature speaker Tim Zahn, often said: “Everything is ment Expo International, in- American Amusement Ar- bigger in Texas.” Whether tentionally to reach beyond cades, with his presentation: wholly true or not, this year’s the borders and bring in at- “Making a Big Impression Amusement Expo Interna- tendees outside the United with a Small-Footprint FEC.” tional (AEI) could potentially States.” “I think there is a lot to offer testimony to that ex- Prior to the trade show learn there,” says Jack Cook, pression. floor opening on March 15, a president of Bob’s Space Rac- Peter Gustafson, execu- full-day education program ers, an annual exhibitor. “At- tive vice president of Ameri- is on offer for registered- at tendees should definitely Amusement Expo International 2017 has moved its show can Amusement Machine tendees at host hotel Sheraton look at some of the work- from Las Vegas to Dallas for the first time. The move appears Association (AAMA), said, Dallas on Tuesday, March 14. shops. IAAPA does a great to be a positive one as pre-show exhibition space bookings “I’m happy to report that the Tony Leone, sales mas- job with meetings and this are the largest ever. This is the event's seventh year. AT/FILE exhibition space is more than ter with the Sales Funnel show does a great job with any previous show. We had seminars, will be the keynote meetings. For anyone who is try Gala, which is open to all 135 exhibitors and vendors to find more [hotel] space to speaker. Leone will share in- new in the industry, it is defi- showgoers with badges. promoting the latest in games, house people.” sights and proven methods nitely a place to learn about “The gala is a cool evolu- products and services. “We’ve had to redraw on how to achieve goals of things and get started in the tion,” said Gustafson. “It used The event is cosponsored the floor plan like six times,” organic growth, differentiat- right direction. It is very easy to be after the first day of the by AAMA and AMOA. It is laughed Kelly Glasgow, ing a company from the com- to get started in the wrong di- trade show, but we have put co-located with the National event coordinator for W. T. petition, improving customer rection in this business.” it to immediately follow the Bulk Vendors Association Glasgow, Inc., the organizers loyalty, building employee Gustafson agreed. “If I educational program. The re- and Laser Tag Convention that manage the event. retention and more. was a first-time attendee, I sults have been well beyond 2017. “The first Expo was held The day of seminars will would hit the education pro- our expectations. The people “We’re trying to create in 2010,” said Gustafson. include “Trends and Attrac- grams. If you are a brand- literally move from the edu- greater relevance for attend- “That was the coming to- tions Within FECs,” “Culti- new FEC operator, that’s cation sessions right into the ees,” said Gustafson. “With gether of two independent vating the Next Generation where you will want to start. gala. So, the conversations these various gatherings trade shows — the Amuse- of Pool/Dart League Play- There is the more traditional started in the educational grouped on one show floor, ment & Music Operators As- ers,” “Exploring Emerging operator with the nightclubs program flow right into the AEI offers more for those in sociation (AMOA) Show in Growth Opportunities,” and movie theaters and so gala. You can listen and net- attendance.” the fall and the Amusement “How to Compete with the forth. But, we have a grow- work and continue the con- “I think people should at- Showcase International (ASI) National Chains,” “The Evo- ing attendee [base] with the versation.” tend both IAAPA and AEI,” in the spring. As we saw the lution of FECs and How to FEC community. So we have Wednesday and Thurs- said Cook. “IAAPA is a big economy starting to struggle Not Get Left Behind,” as well two education tracks. The day, March 15 and 16, the show where you can get lost in the preceding decade, we as several other classes dedi- presenters are people who expo moves to the Kay Bai- if you are trying to cover ev- saw attendance go down. We cated to best practices. Work- are successful at what you do ley Hutchinson Convention erything. If you are an FEC got our friends together and shops will be centered along every day.” Center (formerly the Dallas operator, this show is focused decided: One industry, one two paths: Amusement Route The evening of March 14 Convention Center). There, show. We created the Amuse- and FEC Focus. A joint clos- will shine with an All Indus- attendees will see more than 4See EXPO, page 5 Dated material. material. Dated

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EDITORIAL: Gary Slade, [email protected] FLINT’S VIEW: Bubba Flint Family fun centers thriving across U.S.

There is no doubt about it: Travel to just about any city in the U.S. and its almost a sure bet that one will find a family fun cen- ter, thriving under the glow of colored LED lights. Arcade games, laser tag and ropes courses await kids and early teens. Within Slade the same you can brush up on your bowling skills on sleek new lanes outfitted with colorful lighting, vid- eo and music for individual or group play. All this fun soon works up an appetite, so food and drink are now offered with menus that rival any high-end sports bar or family restaurants. Top it off with some miniature golf, a go-kart track, and/or a zipline experience, and it's easy to see that today's guests don't have to travel far to enjoy a day, night or weekend out from their normal activities. Main Event Entertainment, Dave & Busters, Topgolf, SpeedZone, Boomers and many other big chains are just part of the reason the FEC industry is seeing an upward attendance trend. INDUSTRY OPINION: Dean Lamanna, [email protected] As Amusement Expo International gets underway for the first time in Dallas, Texas, a packed trade show floor Out-of-home entertainment’s rapid evolution of exhibitors awaits attendees with the latest and greatest With Amusement Expo International tak- emphasizes a kind of active comfort — at- ing place in Dallas, Texas, this month, it’s as tracting young adults as well as families in arcade equipment, food and beverage, and new game good a time as any to take stock of the industry and group outings with sleek décor, hand- technologies. sector known as out-of-home entertainment. crafted cocktails and upgraded menus. Now, it's time to get back to the bowling lanes and Or, perhaps, to buy stock in it: Per reports in Coin-Op Game Room of San Diego, Ca- chasing that elusive perfect 300 game! January, Chuck E. Cheese’s, the 40-year-old lif., delivers vintage “barcade” chic on a family entertainment center (FEC) chain leader, more intimate urban neighborhood scale; was being readied for an initial public offering additional locations have opened in Sacra- Safety Seminars see record attendance valued at more than $1 billion. Lamanna mento and San Francisco. Throughout this issue, AT recaps several late-January/ But there’s more to the business than a Meanwhile, a just-announced project cheeky animatronic mouse-scot. From pizza-serving in Nashville, Tenn., demonstrates that innovation is early-February safety seminars. All seem to be reporting FECs to roomier, more amenity-filled entertainment limitless in this sector. August Moon, a 40,000-square- one great common theme: record student attendance! venues with better dining, full-service bars and Wi-Fi foot mock indoor drive-in with dining, seating in clas- AT is the only trade newspaper promoting and sup- along with bowling, laser tag and virtual reality (VR)- sic cars and movie set-style atmospherics (including porting industry safety in every issue throughout the based experiences, out-of-home entertainment is a piped-in “meadow air” scent) beneath an air-sup- evolving — and growing — in response to new tech- ported dome, is expected to open in 2018. year, having published 74 pages of news and advertising nology and changing consumer social habits. Brent Bushnell, son of Chuck E. Cheese’s found- related to safety, maintenance and education in 2016. The sector’s location-based nature, versatility er (and Atari co-founder) Nolan Bushnell, also is As AT continues this coverage in 2017, we invite all and pay-as-you-play affordability are its primary as- wading into the entertainment center realm with an suppliers, parks and safety-related associations to keep us sets. Entertainment centers of all kinds are provid- immersive, art-meets-science endeavor called Two updated with your news, people items and crew photos. ing fun that doesn’t require massive acreage — and Bit Circus — a VR/augmented reality-heavy, partly doesn’t dent the average patron’s budget. They offer robot-staffed “micro amusement park” that will de- If you have a product or service related to amusement an impulsive, convenient recreational fix. but in Los Angeles later this year before a planned industry safety, AT is your advertising outlet for promoting Expanding chains such as bowling-anchored, nationwide rollout. directly to industry professionals. If you are not yet a sub- Plano, Texas-based Main Event Entertainment (see “The latest tech,” said Bushnell recently, “has scriber, please call us at (817) 460-7220 to sign-up today. story, page 28) and metro Atlanta, Ga.-based Stars just blown the doors open on a whole new world….” and Strikes have taken the FEC to a hipper level that Can’t wait to see what lies across the threshold.

Call (817) 460-7220 for advertising, circulation or editorial inquiries

Amusement Today is an independent, privately- Founder, Publisher and Editor Social Media & Editorial Print Issue & Extra Extra owned trade newspaper published 14 times Gary Slade • (817) 460-7220 x3 Dean Lamanna Desktop Edition Production per year by Amusement Today Inc., P.O. Box [email protected] [email protected] Website Maintenance 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005. Print issues are John Robinson • (513) 256-1441 $50 per year and are mailed Presort Standard Postage (permit No. 2069) Pre-Paid Fort Worth, Accounting & Classified Editorial [email protected] Texas. The entire contents of this newspaper, Sammy Piccola • (817) 460-7220 x1 Tim Baldwin and its related websites, are Copyrighted and [email protected] [email protected] Association Memberships Trademarked 2017 by Amusement Today Inc., AIMS International, ASTM, IAAPA, IISF, IRT/ all rights reserved. Advertising B. Derek Shaw • (717) 650-8330 iROC, NAARSO, NEAAPA, NJAA, OABA, PAPA, PACE, TTIA, WWA Sue Nichols • (615) 477-5432 [email protected] Address: P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas [email protected] 76005-5427, USA Pam Sherborne • (615) 308-3310 Industry Affiliated Charities Deliveries: 2012 E. Randol Mill Road #203, [email protected] Give Kids the World Village, Arlington, Texas 76011, USA Special Projects & Editorial Morgan's Wonderland, Phone: (817) 460-7220 Jeffrey Seifert • (817) 460-7220 x2 Monthly Contributors National Museum & Archives Fax: (817) 265-NEWS (6397) [email protected] Dan Feicht, Bubba Flint, Harold Hudson, Websites: www.AmusementToday.com, Andrew Mellor, Richard Munch, www.GoldenTicketAwards.com Janice Witherow March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3 California’s Great America gets MINUTE city green light on master plan DRILL AT: Dean Lamanna • [email protected] 2 COMPILED: Janice Witherow SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The new year may be young, but California’s Great America (CGA) already finds itself fulfilling Terry Capener, Lagoon Amusement Park a resolution to strive for greater things. And especially greater Having a career in the heights. amusement industry was never Thanks to the go-ahead it has received from the City of San- what Terry Capener intended. ta Clara on its carefully considered, long-in-the-making 20-year He was well on his way to be- master plan, the Cedar Fair operation is poised to receive the coming a physician while study- kind of major investment and attractions development recently ing at the University of Utah enjoyed by its company sister park in Charlotte, N.C. Medical School when his career path took a big turn. Terry had The good news for the four-decade-old park arrived shortly worked at Lagoon Amusement after 1 a.m. on the morning of Jan. 25, when the Santa Clara City Park in Salt Lake City, Utah, as Council unanimously approved the master plan advanced by a 16-year-old flipping buffalo Cedar Fair. This followed several months of work on an envi- burgers and then held various ronmental impact report (EIR) and a period of public review. supervisory positions, eventually Part of the approval calls for rezoning that will allow CGA, becoming the director of food which sits on 112 acres under long-term lease to Cedar Fair, to services — all while preparing undertake major improvements within its existing footprint. for a career in medicine. But he These will include a year-round shopping and entertainment just couldn’t shake the desire to Terry Capener worked his way up from burger flipper to district designated Great America Marketplace outside the park work long-term at Lagoon and vice president and general manager of Lagoon Amuse- gate and expansion of its water park. It also will allow for new made a life-changing decision ment Park, dropping plans for a career in medicine along rides and roller coasters as high as 250 feet. (CGA’s tallest ex- to leave medical school for the the way. AT/ TIM BALDWIN isting ride, : Scream Zone, reaches 227 feet above amusement business… and he ground level, according to a diagram in the master plan.) hasn’t looked back since. Terry’s passion, energy The food I crave most often is… Mexican. As formally described in the final EIR: “The Great America and can-do spirit make him a favorite of all who Theme Park Master Plan Project, including the rezoning, would The concert I would really want front-row seats work for him. continue to allow existing attractions and operating practices to is… Title: Vice President/General Manager CHER. And if I could meet her all the better! and would provide flexibility to allow: the installation of new

No seriously… anyone reading this with connec- rides, replacement of aging rides and attractions, extension of Number of years in the industry: 38 the operating season, modified operating practices, and addi- tions… call me! tional hours of operation of the Great America theme park and Best thing about the industry... My go-to breakfast is usually… Isn’t it great that we are in the business of FUN! amphitheater.” A Diet Coke and a big piece of chocolate cake. While others make widgets, springs and the like, No time frame has been offered for the completion of spe- Breakfast of champions! cific or suggested new attractions, which could ultimately num- we are making memories, and producing fun every single day. In 10 years I hope to be… ber about 20.

Doing exactly what I am doing right now. I al- Although CGA was not ready to announce the news official- Favorite amusement ride... ready have my dream job. ly as Amusement Today went to press, pending the completion Can you have just one favorite? I love Cannibal at of some details related to the approval process, word spread Lagoon, It’s a Small World at Disney World, and People say I remind them of… quickly via park and roller coaster blogs — including that of the at . Randy Travis or Kurt Russell. I’ll take either! Northern California chapter of American Coaster Enthusiasts,

the representative of which spoke before the city council in sup- If I wasn’t working in the amusement industry, If I could live next door to any TV family it port of the park’s plans. I would be… would be… Either working as a personal travel guide or in The Starks. The Wardens of the North. Winter is Also attending the city council meeting were Matt Ouimet, charge of The Plaza Hotel in New York City. coming! president and CEO of Cedar Fair, and Raul Rehnborg, vice pres- ident and general manager of CGA, among others. Biggest challenge facing our industry... The most useful invention in the last 10 years There was some opposition to the master plan, including Staffing and regulations. has to be… from a few residents surrounding the park who feared that noise The Squatty Potty—it’s like a vacation in the The thing I like most about amusement/water and traffic would worsen with bigger rides and crowds and lon- bathroom! ger operating hours. But such characteristics have already been park season is… well known to the area, particularly since the completion of I get to do different “stuff” every day. In most At the ballpark… hot dogs or peanuts? jobs, you basically get to do one thing. In the Peanuts. Hot dogs are of the devil. Levi’s Stadium adjacent to CGA in 2014. amusement park industry, especially in my capacity, The rezoning is expected to make it easier for the park to in- I get to do a myriad of different things every day. Are you a little bit country or a little bit rock vest in upgrades as it continues to mitigate impacts on its neigh- and roll? bors, as it did by adding a soundproofing tunnel to the first drop To me, the most influential person in history is… Did I mention Cher? of its 2013-built wooden coaster, Gold Striker.

John Pemberton. One hundred and thirty years Meanwhile, work continues on the park’s floorless roller ago he invented the nectar of the Gods: Coca-Cola. Favorite Fast Food? Taco Time. coaster, Patriot, a technical makeover of Vortex, the landmark Favorite dessert? Three things I would like to do in my lifetime Bolliger & Mabillard stand-up coaster built in 1991. It will open Chocolate cake with fluffy white frosting! are… this season. Be a great dad, be a great husband, and be a —Additional reporting by Nicholas Laschkewitsch When I say exercise, you say… great human being. Pass me that Diet Coke and that large plate of The new trains for cookies. My motto is… Patriot, a floorless ”Remember who you are and what you stand makeover of the The last movie I saw was… for,” or “If that’s lunch….we’ve had it!” stand-up coaster Rogue One. My son had to keep explaining to me Vortex, arrived at how it all fit in with the other 500. Growing up I wanted to be… California's

A physician. Started medical school at the Uni- Great America in When on an airplane, I typically… versity of Utah, but the amusement industry kept January. Read. I love reading and don’t find much time to pulling me back in. Eventually I said no to sick do so at home, so when I am on an airplane, don’t COURTESY people and opted for “fun” instead. CALIFORNIA'S expect great conversation! GREAT AMERICA 4 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017 Amusement Expo International 2017 Exhibitor Listing • Dallas, Texas AMI Entertainment Network, LLC...... 331 Fish Game Kings...... 1051 PayRange Inc ...... 1037 ARC Arenas...... 741 Fish Game Kings...... 1057 Play Meter Magazine...... 301 ATM Merchant Services...... 655 Flagship Carpets...... 737 Play Time Toys, Inc ...... 451 AVS Companies...... 851 Funovation, Inc ...... 557 Player One Amusement Group...... 560 a la carte Media...... 950 Gaelco Darts USA Inc ...... 751 PlaySmart...... 454 Adrenaline Amusements...... 911 Galaxy America Inc . - Galaxy Multi Rides. . . . . 905 Primero Games, LLC...... 743 Aluvii Inc ...... 1038 Global Amusements, Inc ...... 836 Pro-Games S .C ...... 1116 American Alpha, Inc ...... 100 Gold Standard Games/Shelti ...... 508 Pyramid Technologies, Inc ...... 309 American Amusement Machine Assoc .(AAMA). 1119 Harbortouch ...... 705 QNC/Quik n' Crispy Greaseless Fryers...... 500 American Changer ...... 306 Heartland MicroPayments...... 1137 Quattronics .com...... 1146 Amusement & Music Operators Assoc .(AMOA).1129 Wayne E . Hesch Educational Foundation. . . . . 117 QubicaAMF Bowling Products...... 739 Amusement Products...... 758 HMS Monaco ...... 305 Redemption Plus...... 338 Amusement Resources...... 1141 Hoffman Mint ...... 310 RePlay Magazine...... 340 Amusement Today...... 1109 Hot Games ...... 902 Rhode Island Novelty, Inc ...... 202 Andamiro USA...... 441 IAAPA ...... 406 Ride Development Company...... 1060 Apple Industries ...... 731 IGPM Group ...... 863 Rides-4-U, Inc ...... 750 Arachnid 360...... 330 Incredible Technologies ...... 621 S & B Candy and Toy Co . Inc ...... 917 Art Attack ...... 718 Indoor Playgrounds International...... 659 STW Entertainment Ventures ...... 1011 AstroSystems, Inc ...... 351 The Inflatable Depot...... 1105 Sacoa Playcard System...... 251 BMI Merchandise, Inc ...... 637 Innovative Concepts in Entertainment Inc. . . . 207 Sega Amusements International Ltd ...... 231 Bandai Namco Amusement America...... 131 Innovative Technology Americas, Inc ...... 858 Semnox Solutions LLC ...... 755 Banilla Games...... 605 Intercard, Inc ...... 1021 Silent Partner Software, LLC ...... 312 Barron Games International ...... 551 International Currency Technologies ...... 713 Smart Industries Corp ...... 316 Battle Company ...... 954 International Play Company...... 401 SMART Software...... 463 Bay Tek Games...... 531 Jennison Entertainment Technologies...... 841 SpaOnTheGo .com ...... 711 Benchmark Games ...... 141 JRS Ventures...... 810 Speedy's One Stop Repair Service...... 400 Betson Enterprises ...... 317 Keystone Amusement Enterprise...... 854 Stern Pinball, Inc ...... 313 Big Daddy Games, LLC...... 651 King Plush...... 601 Sureshot Redemption...... 930 Bissell...... 860 KLOPP: Money Handling Equipment...... 738 SUZO - HAPP ...... 631 Bob's Space Racers Inc ...... 831 LAI Games...... 931 Symotor Seiko Ltd ...... 658 Bowling Center Management...... 852 LaserBlast ...... 342 TACK Electronics, Inc ...... 501 Cannonball Air Blaster ...... 1052 Laser Tag Museum ...... 1153 Team Combat, Inc ...... 458 Captain's Auction Warehouse...... 716 Laserforce International...... 941 Team Play, Inc ...... 921 CardConnect...... 855 LASERTAG .COM by ZONE...... 409 TouchMagix Media Pvt . Ltd ...... 1143 Cardinal Xpress...... 1043 LaZer Runner Laser Tag Systems...... 856 TouchTunes Music Corporation...... 415 Coastal Amusements Inc ...... 431 Live Oak Bank...... 600 Tourist Attractions & Parks Magazine...... 752 Cogan Srl...... 837 Lock America, Inc ...... 346 Trainertainment, LLC...... 344 Coin Tech S .A ...... 404 M .P . Group srl...... 759 TRESTLE and J&R GAMES...... 1050 Crane Payment Innovations (CPI)...... 505 MCM Elements...... 613 Triotech...... 405 Creative Works, Inc ...... 558 Maryland CNC ...... 1017 Unit-e Technologies ...... 250 Cypress ATM...... 314 McGowan Insurance-Amusement Group. . . . . 754 Universal Space (UNIS)...... 641 Delta Strike Laser Tag...... 656 National Prize and Toy ...... 559 VSR Industries...... 1047 Digital Centre America Inc ...... 1000 NECA ...... 734 Valley Dynamo...... 107 Elaut/Coast to Coast...... 1035 Neo Fantasy ...... 1147 Venco Business Solutions...... 341 Elaut/Coast to Coast...... 1031 Northeast Insurance Center, LLC ...... 939 Vending Times, Inc ...... Electromatic International, Inc ...... 957 Omega Pattern Works...... 547 WhirlwindVR ...... 657 Embed USA...... 945 PDQ Merchant Enterprises, Inc ...... 457 Wik Sp .zo .o...... 1115 Family Fun Companies...... 343 Party Center Software...... 1040 Zozi Advance...... 963 FetchRev...... 840 Patriot Gaming & Electronics ...... 455 Zydexo Games ...... 857 Firestone Financial ...... 730 Payment Alliance International...... 509 March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5 EXPO Amusement Expo IAAPA FEC Summit 2017 draws Continued from page 1 International 2017 Kay Bailey Hutchinson much more on the equip- Convention Center 150-plus from 27 states, 10 countries ment. You can definitely not Dallas, Texas [have to] wear yourself out.” • ALEXANDRIA, Va. — FEC NEWS gives operators an opportuni- Since 2010, AEI has been Co-sponsored by: One hundred and fifty (150) ty they might not have other- in Las Vegas. Gustafson ad- American Amusement family entertainment center event LLC, addressed the wise to share information and mitted that changes are al- Machine Association & (FEC) industry professionals process of designing on-site make their businesses better." ways met with some anxiety, American Music from 27 states and 10 coun- events with maximum prof- David Novstrup, owner of but the growth in exhibit Operators Association tries gathered in Scottsdale, itability in mind. Using real Wylie Thunder Road in Aber- space indicates this was a Co-located with: Arizona, for IAAPA FEC world examples, McNeal also deen, South Dakota. good move. Bulk Vendors Association & Summit 2017, the industry's guided IAAPA FEC Summit "We're in a changing en- Cook added, “I’m defi- Laser Tag Convention 2017 leading international confer- 2017 attendees through the vironment with more com- nitely glad it is coming to • ence for FEC owners and op- pros and cons of hosting spe- petition. We need more ideas Dallas. We’ve been in Vegas Conference: erators. The two-day summit, cial events on site. Additional on how to grow and stay on for a long time. We expect March 14, 2017 which is organized and host- breakout sessions covered a top. We want to be the place new customers. Dallas is a 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. ed by the International Asso- variety of topics, including that people want to go." Clint great, great place for FECs. All Industry Gala: 5 - 7 p.m. ciation of Amusement Parks motivating employees, risk Paraday, general manager at For example, Orlando is the Trade Show: and Attractions (IAAPA), management, and consumer Odyssey Fun World in Tinley best place for IAAPA be- March 15 & 16, 2017 took place at the We-Ko-Pa behavior, and featured an at- Park, Illinois. cause you have all the small 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Resort & Conference Center, tractions/arcade town hall. "The true desire to see parks, big parks, FECs, etc. Jan.29 – Jan. 31. In addition to hearing others succeed is like no other Dallas is just like that. You On Jan. 30, attendees speakers, attendees took part here." Brian Cohen, vice pres- have the Chuck E. Cheese's This is important for new op- heard from keynote speaker in a networking event at Oc- ident of operations of Enter- corporate offices there, Dave erators.” Amy Bruske, president of tane Raceway and an optional tainment Properties Group in & Busters corporate offices, Registration hours are 8 Kolbe Corporation. Special- post-tour to area FECs, in- Dallas, Texas. Main Event Entertainment a.m.–5 p.m., Tuesday, March izing in human resources cluding Amazing Jake's, Main "We love seeing new corporate offices — so those 14 (at the Sheraton); 8 a.m. consulting, Bruske shared her Event Tempe, Tilt Studio, and things and doing compari- are the key players for FECs. – 6 p.m., Wednesday, March professional expertise and led FlipSide. sons. If we see a good idea, So now people can come to 15; and 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., participants through a cut- IAAPA FEC Summit 2017 we can multiple it by 10." Fe- the show and visit one of Thursday, March 16, with the ting-edge assessment model provided a collaborative and lipe Arteaga, of New Projects those places just like people latter two days of the trade to help owners and operators engaging setting for FEC op- at Happyland in Santiago, can come to Orlando and show taking place at the select the right members for erators to share, grow, and en- Chile. visit Disney, Universal, Sea- Kay Bailey Hutchinson Con- their team. gage with one another to im- This year, 24 sponsor World, Fun Spot, and see it vention Center. Expo hours On Jan. 31, keynote speak- prove their overall business companies contributed to the in operation and have that those two days are 10:00 a.m. er Kerrell McNeal, owner and operations. success of the annual IAAPA equipment available to them. – 6:00 p.m. operator of the next great "The IAAPA FEC Summit event. 6 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017 Main Event opens facility in Jacksonville putting turf to match the shape of the golf holes. This JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Dallas-based Main Event FEC NEWS streamlines and speeds up the construction process, Entertainment, a fast growing bowling-anchored dining for an additional fee, a custom layout on the owner’s and entertainment destination, opened a new location site can be provided if the owner provides site topog- in Jacksonville, Fla. on Feb. 7. raphy,” comments Arne Lundmark. The new entertainment center, located at 10370 “The Kit includes a pre-loaded budget spread Philips Highway, marks the second Main Event in Florida sheet, whereby the owner can fill-in the blanks based and the 32nd location systemwide. The almost 50,000 on local costs, which auto-populates the spreadsheet square-foot complex creates the new ideal place for with the final numbers,” comments Erin Wilson, AGS groups to get together, share laughs and let their fun Controller and creator of this program. “We have in- out. cluded all things needed to build the course such as The Jacksonville center, located in the previous sub-base material, putting turf, edge system, hole Latitude 360 space, has been completely renovated and cups, labor hours, concrete, equipment rental and features elements of the brand’s newest design proto- optional features such as props and obstacles to add type that offers a rich, energetic and social experience more fun to your new course. We can even provide The U-Build-It kit from Adventure Golf Services for guests. The décor features a combination of natural an on-site supervisor to assist for an additional fee,” added Wilson. and contemporary finishes that help create a fun and vi- Adventure Golf Services offers U-Build-It sually rich environment that is appealing to both young TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — Campground owners, Xtreme Action Park begins expansion adults and families. smaller hotel owners and other entertainment venues FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Xtreme Action Park The center features a state-of-the-art bowling ex- are now able to build their own small and low cost con- has announced details on Phase Two of its ongoing ex- perience with 22 ice-white lanes and multicolored LED crete mini golf courses with the U-Build-It Mini Golf pansion. As part of this multimillion dollar project, the lighting, laser tag, billiards, shuffleboard, more than 60 Kit from Adventure Golf Services President Scott Lun- venue has doubled in size and now offers more than big-screen TVs and a games gallery featuring more than dmark recently announced. 10 interactive attractions and event spaces that cater 100 of the latest interactive and virtual video games. “The need for this concept was identified by our to a wide range of corporate activities and special oc- Main Event also offers an elevated culinary experience sales staff as they received inquiries from venues, with casions. Previously 90,000 square feet, Xtreme Action featuring innovative American fare and handcrafted limited budgets and/or space. These clients have asked Park will now offer over 210,000 square feet of excit- cocktails in a high-energy bar and an Italian-inspired for a small 18-hole concrete miniature golf, which they ing, themed attractions under one roof. menu at LaBella’s. can build. Since its launch in 2015, Xtreme Action Park has “Main Event is truly a unique dining and entertain- The U-Build-It Mini Golf Kit sells for $5,000 and been wowing its visitors from around the world with ment experience that allows guests of all ages to en- provides each owner with everything needed to build the longest and fastest indoor asphalt race rack. The joy great food, play an assortment of incredible games a 2,100-square foot 18-hole course, according to AGS track offers a “real” race experience with European and engage in exhilarating activities,” said Main Event CEO & Chief Designer Arne Lundmark. “One of the gas powered karts on a half mile poured asphalt track Entertainment CEO Charlie Keegan. “We are thrilled to difficult aspects for an owner to build a course is the for superb handling and grip with carts that can reach open our doors and begin sharing our ‘Eat. Bowl. Play.’ ability to layout the course while maintaining the same speeds of 45 mph. experience with the Jacksonville community. We look golf hole shapes, contours and topography as speci- With the goal of becoming the largest indoor en- forward to becoming a staple of the local entertainment fied in the plan or design. We have addressed this is- tertainment center in the country, Xtreme Action Park and dining scene.” sue. The kit includes computer precision cut mini golf has been expanding in several phases. March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7 INTERNATIONAL

Experience debuts at — Page 8 U.K.’s Alton Towers ramps up CBeebies content for 2017 New wooden coaster additions will both open on from Great Coasters, March 25 for the new season, joining the existing line-up set to open in 2018 of 12 other attractions in the AT: Andrew Mellor area. [email protected] CBeebies is the U.K.’s most watched children’s STAFFORDSHIRE, Eng- channel and this year the land — Alton Towers Resort themed land will be en- in the U.K. is to add fur- hanced by the addition of ther to its popular CBeebies the Go Jetters Vroomster Land for the 2017 season Zoom ride, supplied by U.K. with an extended line-up of company Garmendale Engi- rides, attractions and live neering, on which riders can entertainment to add to the join various Go Jetter charac- new CBeebies themed hotel ters to fly around the world which is due to open in the in a Vroomster vehicle. With summer. their own controls, young- And while younger sters will be able to guide guests will be entertained their vehicle up and down as with these new additions they launch from the Jetpad. this year, details are also In the Furchester Hotel now beginning to emerge of Live Show guests can again a new wooden coaster for the join various characters at The park in 2018. Furchester Hotel for an inter- The Go Jetters ride has been supplied by U.K. company Garmendale Engineering. CBeebies Land at Al- active experience with sing- COURTESY ALTON TOWERS RESORT ton Towers is the first ever ing and dancing. such attraction and is an The CBeebies experience be home to rooms themed on meet-and-greet opportuni- ahead to 2018, the park is set immersive experience for will be further enhanced with a number of popular charac- ties will also be on offer. to introduce another major children and young families the opening of the CBeebies ters and television programs. attraction in the form of a which aims to inspire learn- Land Hotel in July. The 76- A comprehensive entertain- Wooden coaster planned wooden coaster from Great ing through play. The latest room, fully themed hotel will ment schedule and character And looking further Coasters International. With construction costs set to be in the region of £15 million (U.S. $19 million), time scales noted in the planning ap- plication show that the new ride is scheduled to open at the start of the 2018 season. Currently going by the project name of SW8 (Se- cret Weapon 8) it will be the park’s first wooden roller coaster. It is being con- structed on the site of the old Mack-built Log Flume ride which has now been re- moved after 34 years of op- eration. It closed for the last time at the end of the 2015 season with the park con- firming shortly before the The Furchester Hotel Live Show (above left) will be offered at the new Furchester Hotel. The new CBeebies Hotel (above start of the 2016 season that right) will feature a number of themed rooms. COURTESY ALTON TOWERS RESORT it would not reopen. 8 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017 Iron Man Experience debuts at Hong Kong Disneyland AT: Andrew Mellor [email protected]

LANTAU ISLAND, Hong Kong — Disney Parks’ first Marvel-themed ride, Iron Man Experience, made its debut on January 11 at Hong Kong Dis- neyland. The experience provides a high-flying adventure along- side Iron Man. The story behind the attraction is that following a previous showcase in New York in 2010, Tony Stark (aka Iron Man) has now selected Tomor- Above, the 45-passenger Expo Edition Iron Wing Mark VIII rowland at Hong Kong Disney- takes guests on the Iron Man Experience during which they land to host the new Stark Expo fly alongside Iron Man in the Hong Kong sky. An assortment to show off the latest high-tech of Iron Man merchandise is available as part of the new Iron creations from . Man Experience (right). The innovations are exten- COURTESY HONG KONG DISNEYLAND/ sively displayed in four exhibi- tion halls: the Hall of Legacy, the unbreakable Stark Ever- Wing Mark VIII, to embark on the Hall of Protection, the Hall glass, the MyJARVIS intelli- the Iron Man Experience and fly of Energy and the Hall of Mo- gent home system, StarkVision alongside Iron Man in the Hong bility. Iron Man’s artificial -in Glasses and a collection of Iron Kong sky for a panoramic view guests choose from a range of The park and hotel restau- telligence computer system Wings designed for different of the innovatively-powered 70-plus Hong Kong Disney- rants have also prepared more J.A.R.V.I.S. and Wendy Wong, functions. There are opportuni- Hong Kong — and land-exclusive Iron Man mer- than 25 Iron Man-themed food vice-president of Stark Indus- ties to meet Iron Man in person a battle against the evil forces of chandise items and more than and beverage choices for guests tries Asia, are the guides who during the adventure and to try in the immersive multi- 250 Marvel-themed memora- to refuel after a trip on Iron take guests through the wide on the Iron Man armor virtu- sensory motion experience. bilia items. In the Expo Shop, Man Experience. And from range of exhibits, from Captain ally. Iron Man Experience is Iron Man fans get to try on Iron now to June 30, guests staying America’s prototype shield to Guests then board Tony complemented by a range of Man’s armor suit in the inter- in the park’s two themed hotels the Iron Man Mark III suit, the Stark’s latest innovation, the Iron Man-themed fun. The active experience Become Iron can add on the Iron Man Room first miniaturized Arc Reactor, 45-passenger Expo Edition Iron brand-new Expo Shop lets Man at The Stark Expo Decoration package. Super-Villains unleashed at Warner Bros. Movie World Intamin redesigns its popular Suspended Twin Hammer ride to fit requested theme AT: Andrew Mellor [email protected]

QUEENSLAND, Australia — A new themed area, DC Com- ics Super-Villains Unleashed, has been wowing guests since open- new precinct will showcase the mediately convinced everyone ing at the start of the summer Super-Villains from the DC Uni- involved as being the best choice season at Warner Bros. Movie verse,” he said. “On the Dooms- for the target audience. Intamin World in Australia. day Destroyer guests are taken then completely redesigned its In what is a world-first DC on a thrilling 21 meters (69 feet) existing Suspended Twin Ham- Super-Villains themed precinct, high adventure where they reach mer, resulting in an all new ride park guests are able to embark speeds of up to 36 kmh (22 mph) to not only meet today’s norms on a journey with some of the and experience 2.4 negative G and standards but especially In- most iconic DC super-villains forces. tamin’s own claim of supplying in an interactive themed area, “An exciting feature of the state-of-the-art rides only. where, in the park’s own words, Super-Villains Unleashed pre- “The result is an impressive “it’s good to be bad.” cinct is the interactive elements round ride attraction, which de- The signature attraction where guests can assist super- spite the thrilling nature of any The Doomsday Destroyer and centerpiece ride for the new villains such as The Joker and ride going upside down, features ride from Intamin is the area is the Doomsday Destroyer, Lex Luthor in their mission to a still comfortable ride experi- centerpiece of the new a version of Intamin’s all new cause mass destruction through- ence. Intamin is proud to having DC Comics Super-Villains Suspended Twin Hammer, and out the park with the use of inno- contributed to the success of the Unleashed area. The ride park general manager Greg Yong vative RFID technology.” new Super Villains themed area takes guests on a hair- noted at the time of opening that Commenting on the new and highly enjoyed the good co- raising 21 meters (69 feet) the new precinct offers a range ride, Intamin’s Sascha Czibulka operation with the team at War- high adventure. of unique and interactive experi- said: “Intamin was contracted by ner Bros. Movie World during COURTESY WARNER BROS. ences for the whole family. Village Roadshow Theme Parks the execution of this prestigious MOVIE WORLD “There has always been a fo- with the task to supply a spectac- project. The ride is extremely cus on DC Super Heroes at War- ular and thrilling round ride. The well received by the visitors,” ner Bros. Movie World, but this Suspended Twin Hammer im- said Czibulka. March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9

WATER PARKS & RESORTS Frontier City adds Proslide complex to Wild West Water Works — Page 12 Amaazia Water Park opens on 4.5 acres in Surat, India Polin supplies more than a dozen uniquely themed attractions AT: Jeffrey Seifert [email protected]

SURAT, India — Amaazia Water Park, the first phase of a larger Amaazia Theme Park project, opened December 2016 in this historic port city known for its diamond indus- try. The water park portion of Amaazia, which covers 4.5 acres, can accommodate up to 3,000 visitors daily. It is the first section of an elaborate, multi-element amusement park that is currently in de- velopment. The second phase of the facility will include a full-scale family entertainment center that caters to people of all ages. These new sections — which will feature a Bol- lywood theme — will include and tourism infrastructure. The Amaazia Water Park an indoor amusement park, The park's development was (above) at 4.5 acres is bird park, snow park, shop- estimated at U.S. $26,327,500 amazingly compact ping mall, hotel, banquet halls, (€25,000,000). Amaazia will considering the number of rooms for weddings and other eventually cover 16 acres. attractions it offers. Also functions, a three-screen cin- The far-reaching facility is be- seen in the left side of the ema and "7-D" theater. ing developed by Sanderson photo are the two The city of Surat, which Group of Malaysia, an inter- different racing slide dates to the 15th century, is national thematic entertain- complexes that allow for one of the fastest developing ment design and construction competitive fun and keep cities in the world. The city corporation. The firm is recog- the lines moving. (Right) has been an important trade nized for successfully deliver- The colorful water play and transit port for hundreds ing projects for entertainment structure, decorated with of years and established itself giants such as Disney, Uni- whimsical animal figures, as a major hub for diamond versal Studios, DreamWorks, provides a variety of cutting and polishing in the Nickelodeon, Sea World, Rip- activities for the park's early 1900s. Recently, Surat ley's, Chimelong, Meraas, Vil- younger crowd. has experienced a growth in lage Roadshow and Fox Stu- COURTESY POLIN the technology sector thanks dios, among many others. WATERPARKS to investments from IBM and Guests entering the wa- Microsoft. The city has a mod- ter park will encounter an Polin Waterparks include: a ern infrastructure with almost Amazonian rain forest of bril- 73-foot tall Looping Rocket 65 percent of the 4.5 million liantly colored tropical birds, a with launch capsule, Black residents connected to the in- whimsical menagerie of wild Hole, Blackhole/Turbolance ternet. Its combination of his- animals — from a pride of li- combo-slide, Uphill Naviga- toric temples and architecture ons to elephants, koala bears, tour/Blackhole combo, Space with 10,000 watts of hi-fidelity theme song. Sanjay Movalia, along with modern, upscale polar bears and water buffalo Boat, Twister Racer/Windigo sound, psychedelic laser lights, executive director of Rajhans attractions has significantly in- — and aquatic decorations combo, Freefall and Body and perfectly choreographed Group, and Alpesh Kotadia, creased the tourism potential in bright, playful hues. Polin Slide combo and a B-9 water showers of warm water. executive director of Rajgreen of the city, allowing for grandi- Waterparks installed nearly a play structure with tipping The chief minister of the Group, also attended the inau- ose projects like Amaazia to be dozen waterslide attractions bucket. The park also features Gujarat State in India inaugu- guration. developed. to match the South American a wave pool and lazy river that rated the park in December Being in the southern part Amaazia is owned by the theme, including the popular includes a dark, themed sec- 2016 with a host of other digni- of India, the park is in the trop- Rajgreen Group of Companies, King Cobra waterslide and a tion with animated sea crea- taries in attendance, including ics climate zone with year- a large-scale business con- large children's water play at- tures. Rain Mist — a specially the deputy chief minister and round warm temperatures and glomerate in India that special- traction. created dance floor that gives popular singer Badshah, who can operate throughout the en- izes in hospitality, amusement Other highlights from a multi-sensorial experience composed and sang Amaazia's tire year. 10 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017 March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 11 12 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017

NEWSSPLASH COMPILED: Jeffery L. Seifert [email protected]

Ryman Hospitality Properties has an- Ricky and Teressa King and their son, Ty. The nounced an addition to the Gaylord Opry- park will feature a number of slides that are be- land Resort in Nashville, Tenn. — a $90 mil- ing designed and manufactured by Adam Soto lion indoor/outdoor water park to be called of Advanced Coatings in Plainview. "Adam Soundwaves. Although plans are still in the is helping design slides, fabricate the molds developmental stage, Ryman is showing a and actually create slides that we are going to massive park with 111,000 square feet placed mount on the tower," said Teressa King. Soto indoors and 106,000 square feet dedicated is currently seeking a utility patent for his slide to the outdoor portion. An indoor water park design. of that size would place it among the top five In addition to the water features, the park largest in the U.S. The addition of a water park is constructing a building that will house a res- would bring back to Opryland an amusement taurant, bar and arcade. venue — absent since the closure of Opryland • USA in 1997. Plans for the Colorado Grand Resort & Frontier City's Wild West Water works is expanding in 2017 Colin Reed, the CEO of Ryman Hospital- Hotel, one of two indoor water park and re- with the addition of a triple slide complex standing 66 feet ity Properties said, "The closing of that theme sort projects for Colorado Springs, have been tall and featuring translucent slide sections from ProSlide park I really don’t think was particularly a sen- scrapped. The project has been on the draw- Technologies. COURTESY FRONTIER CITY sible move to take customers who come for a ing board since 2012. In January of this year, leisure experience away and put an outlet mall Randy Scholl, the Colorado businessman be- Frontier City announces in its place. You can see the occupancy decline hind the project has closed his construction in this hotel in the summer months when that company and announced that he and his wife new thrill slide complex park was closed.” plan to retire. Preliminary plans show a multi-level venue Colorado Springs has had its fair share of that will include a lazy river, rapid river, activity failed hotel/indoor water park resorts. The de- for Wild West Water Works lagoon, sun deck, adult-only pool and plenty veloper of a planned Renaissance Hotel and in- OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — Frontier City’s Wild West Wa- of slides catering to thrill seekers, including door water park abandoned the half-construct- ter Works is growing by 1,249 feet of high-speed thrill slides one being described as a "dramatic family ed hotel in 2009 when he ran out of money. from ProSlide in the summer of 2017. ride." The park will, of course, feature plenty Wisconsin-based Great Wolf Resorts eventu- On the all-new Gully Washer, riders will plunge off of a of live music and entertainment. As with sev- ally purchased the half-finished project and 66-foot-tall tower down three enclosed body slides, blasting eral resort water parks, Soundwaves will be opened Great Wolf Lodge Colorado Springs through narrow loops and twisting tunnels on one of the most only available to guests staying at the Gaylord on December 16, 2016. Scholl said the arrival exhilarating water rides around. This brand new triple slide Opryland Resort, and will not be open to the of a competing resort just a few miles away, complex features back-to-back turns, thrilling dips, and tight public. was not a factor in his decision. 360 degree curves that will have riders screaming until the very • The Colorado Grand Resort was to have end. Volcano Bay, the new water park under 165 rooms and a 60,000 square-foot indoor Gully Washer is the fourth new attraction to come to Fron- construction at Universal Studios Orlando, water park. It would have been the anchor ho- tier City in four years and the first major addition to Wild West has set an opening date — May 25, 2017. The tel of Polaris Pointe, a 200-acre retail devel- Water Works since its opening in 2012. It will join the area’s in- 3-acre water park will feature 18 attractions in- opment that is already home to a variety of teractive water structure — the largest of its kind in Oklahoma cluding the Krakatau Aqua Coaster, which will stores including a Bass Pro and Sprouts Natural with 198 play elements, eight slides, and a 1,000-gallon tipping have guests winding in and out of the park's Grocers. Gary Erickson, the master developer bucket. Wild West Water Works also features a spacious lounge centerpiece volcano "Krakatau," on canoe-like of Polaris Pointe, sold 10 acres of adjoining deck, ample shade structures, changing/shower facilities, lock- rafts propelled by magnetic induction. Other property to Scholl for the development of the ers, and concessions and is included with a Frontier City admis- high-profile attractions include drop capsule resort. The total 15.7-acre property is being sion or a Double Park Season Pass. body slides that will drop from the top of the marketed by a local brokerage firm. “We are extremely excited to add this super-soaking thrill volcano. Krakatau will feature multiple water- • ride to our skyline,” says Stephen Ball, Frontier City’s general falls by day that will transform into simulated BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort in manager. “Wild West Water Works is one of the park’s most lava flows at night. Airlie Beach, Queensland, Australia, is adding popular attractions, and we are eager to add more fun and • a water park. The new addition will feature a thrilling ways for our guests to keep cool during Oklahoma’s Liseberg, the amusement park in Gothen- number of slides with varying heights, speeds hot summer months.” burg, Sweden, is hoping to expand its facil- and lengths to accommodate a wide variety Frontier City will open for the season on April 8th. Wild ity with a hotel and indoor water park to be of visitors seeking respite from the heat. The West Water Works will open on May 13th. opened in 2021. The proposals, submitted to slides will come off elevated platforms that are the city last year were recently made public by linked by bridges. Liseberg. The park plans to invest $28 million Airlie Beach is on the west coast along the on the hotel/water park resort and is hoping to Great Barrier reef. This largest coral reef in the get approval on the project in the next two to world is famous for its multicolored corals and three months. the waterslides are themed to reflect those Specific attractions for the water park beautiful colors. The park will also include a have yet to be announced, but plans call for at large resort pool, water play structure with tip- least 10 waterslides. The resort would be built ping bucket and mini-slides for younger guests. south of the existing park, feature 453 rooms, BIG4 is a chain of more than 180 holiday multiple restaurants and a spa. parks that are popular with families. They are • located throughout Australia near tourist desti- The owners of Royal Splash Texas are tar- nations and offer different types of accommo- geting a mid-May opening for the new water dations ranging from deluxe multi-room cabins park in Plainview, Texas. As of the end of Janu- to basic tent sites. ary, the pool area had been excavated and TQ Aquatics of Townsville, Australia, is slide towers were already erected. The park providing design and construction of the water is being developed by a local business family ­ park and pool. March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 13 14 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017 March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 15 PARKS, FAIRS & ATTRACTIONS Legoland Florida adds Ninjago themed area — Page 16 / Fairs — Pages 19-26 Traders Village Grand Prairie adds three new rides Larson Giant Loop opens first; Chance rides to follow AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected] Village Vortex, the attraction around on parts. In the flea GRAND PRAIRIE, Tex- was named from an internal market business, our focus as — Opened in 1973, Trad- employee contest. isn’t primarily on the rides, so ers Village (flea market) has Two rides from Chance when we need parts, it’s nice found a successful formula in will shortly follow. Within a to have them here domesti- bringing in millions of shop- few weeks of the loop’s de- cally,” Anderson told Amuse- pers each year. This success in but, a new Chance Yo-Yo and ment Today. the original location — Grand Wipeout will complete the “We offer a single ride Prairie, Texas — has prompt- new ride lineup. ticket for $2.29. Right now, ed the opening of two other “We’re going to see how our all-day wristband sells sister properties in Hous- it goes in Grand Prairie and for 9.99. This is a value-ori- ton (1989) and San Antonio look at putting them in at ented market. When we add (2011). All three facilities offer Houston and San Antonio,” all three rides, we’ll probably rides. said Anderson. go up to 12.99,” he added. Open only on Saturdays For a flea market, a new When AT asked if a three- and Sundays year-round, three-package addition could dollar jump might be too Traders Village has a season be viewed as a big invest- much too fast, Anderson said, slightly more than 100 days ment. However, the facility “I think when people see the weather permitting. With the does more than 3.5 million new rides we’re adding, I properties closing by sunset, visitors a year, so it seems like think they’ll be fine with that. Traders Village President Tim a logical move. When you look at the compe- Anderson terms the operating Traders Village has had a tition of people who sell all- day packages, I couldn’t find Traders Village Grand Prairie President Tim Anderson is seen “Once we started adding rides, we found one less than $25.” in front of the flea market's newest ride, Village Vortex, that the length of stay changed. Not only were To make way for the new a Larson International Giant Loop. The ride opened in people buying more, they were also buying rides, three existing shelters February. AT/TIM BALDWIN were removed. Those aging more food and drink. It adds another level to structures were replaced by out and handle more special- important to us. Plus, fami- our shopping base. It brings in additional shop- three new shelters in an ex- ized foods. lies like a little thrill to them. pers, which is good for the dealers. They make pansion of the property. “Traders Village was orig- I think the drop ride (Larson more money because of the rides.” “Once we started add- inally founded as a flea mar- Super Shot) needed a partner —Tim Anderson, ing rides, we found that the ket, but we are trying to do and I think the loop is that length of stay changed,” said it a little bit bigger, a little bit ride. I think the drop ride Traders Village President Anderson. “Not only were better and a little bit cleaner combined with the new loop people buying more, they than anyone in the world — makes that wristband more schedule as “compressed.” good relationship with Lar- were also buying more food and I think we do. Things that interesting to adults than Anderson thinks of the son and Chance with previ- and drink. It adds another set us apart are all our special what we had before,” he add- rides as an amenity to the ous ride purchases. The park level to our shopping base. It events and our festivals, and ed when explaining the ride facility. “At Traders Village, had nine rides, a play struc- brings in additional shoppers, it is also the rides. That’s not selection. the rides are not necessarily ture and two inflatables, prior which is good for the dealers. something the competition “We’re in the real estate center stage. We’re first and to this year's additions. They make more money be- has,” Anderson said. business — we lease space to foremost in the flea market “Both Larson and Chance cause of the rides.” “I was looking at family- people — so you don’t want business,” he said. have been very responsive. Traders Village Grand oriented attractions. Things to invest too much real es- This spring, the property They are both domestic man- Prairie has 65 food stands, the that would be attractive to a tate into rides. Both the drop is adding three new rides. ufacturers and for us, we are majority of which are owned wide selection of people — tower and the loop are good First to open was a Larson Gi- looking for simple solutions. by the property. About one- mom, dads, kids, teens. The footprint rides; they’re very ant Loop in February. Dubbed We’re looking for quick turn- third of the outlets are leased 48-inch ride restriction was compact,” said Anderson. 16 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017 v AMUSEMENT PARK Legoland Florida Resort expands MARKET PLACE with new Ninjago themed area TrioTech supplies n new dark ride AT: Tim Baldwin Naughton [email protected] Insurance, Inc. WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — EST. 1947 The Legoland Florida Resort Specializing in Insurance Programs for continues to grow and expand. Amusement Parks, Water Parks and The new Lego Ninjago World Family Fun Centers. recently opened this winter and new lodging accommoda- tions are on the horizon. www.naughtoninsurance.com The theme park capital- ized on the popularity of Legoland Florida has made a concentrated effort to teach Lego’s Ninjago line of prod- guests the interactive motions before they even arrive to the ucts. The main draw of the new park. COURTESY LEGOLAND land is Lego Ninjago The Ride. This will be the fourth such at- The hand technology really song from the TV show they al- traction to open at the chain of feels like you’re becoming a ready know. But they learn the parks. “We have [previously] ninja. It’s basically industrial- moves in a fun way.” opened Ninjago in Billund, izing what our kids are famil- Landscaping, Lego mod- California and Malaysia,” said iar with today, but taking it to els of key characters, character David Brady, senior public a much, much bigger scale into meet-and-greets and the oblig- relations manager, Legoland the theme park realm.” atory Wu’s Warehouse gift Florida. “We are just about to When asked about im- store are also in the area. open it in Windsor as well. The provements over previous in- “The landscaping by far is goal is for it to be a franchise stallations, Brady told Amuse- our biggest difference,” Brady attraction at all the parks.” ment Today: “As far as the ride said, pointing out what makes TrioTech is the manufac- vehicles and the hand technolo- the Florida installation unique. turer of choice once again for gy, that’s the same. What we’ve “With the heritage of Cypress the dark ride installation. The done in Florida is to take a hard Gardens, there is an expecta- true signature of these immer- look at how people understood tion of beauty. We made a con- Aerial Tramway Design & Manufacture sive rides is that they are quite the pre-show video and tried scious effort when we devel- physical. In comparison to in- to educate guests before they oped the site plan for trees and SkyTrans Mfg.,L.L.C. teractive dark rides that use even get to the park on how bushes and bamboo to make light guns, here riders aim for to do the hand gestures best it authentic. We really wanted 106 Burnham Intervale Road Contoocook, N.H. 03229 targets using only their hands recognized by the sensors. We ours to feel much more lush. Phone: (603) 746-4446 Fax: (603) 746-4447 and arms in martial arts ges- actually developed five signa- Over the years, it will even tures. ture hand motions. We labeled grow in more and feel even •Specializing in sales & refurbishment of used aerial tramways “If you want people to them like a kung fu movie. We more organic. We have 80 years •Replacement parts for aerial tramways and amusement rides come to an amusement park put a lot of emphasis prior to of history of botanical gardens. •New ride control systems and modifications you have to give them ‘more’ the opening through Facebook, It would be remissive to not — the large screen, the move- our blog and social media. The take advantage of that legacy.” •Rebuilt used chairlifts - one year guarantee ment, and kids learn very idea was that kids would be Other differences include (603) 746-4446 quickly how to interact. Along familiar with the moves before more shading than sister prop- Parts and Service Jerry Pendleton or Dan Pendleton with interacting with the tech- they even set foot in the park. erties in response to Florida’s nology, it is a chance for par- The pre-show video itself has warm climate. The queuing ents to interact with their kids, been updated to help give the is also indoors and air condi- with the children teaching the guests the best experience.” tioned. parents,” said Ernest Yale, CEO Kidz Bop, the No. 1 music “I’m the father of two of TrioTech. brand for kids, was recently daughters. Even before Ninja- “What makes the interac- called upon to create an exclu- go World was being developed, tion so unique is if you go and sive music video. “Lego Nin- they were watching Ninjago look at the competitive mar- jago: Masters of Spinjitzu,” the on Cartoon Network,” said ket set, it’s a traditional kind theme song for the dark ride Jackson. “Legoland not only of point-and-click apparatus,” attraction, teaches kids the five features male characters, but said Keith Carr, North Ameri- basic moves to score the high- also strong female characters. can project director — Resorts, est during the ride experience. That’s one thing we focused Merlin Magic Making. “We ac- “They are phenomenally on when we launch attractions. tually entertained that idea for popular. They are considered This land is appealing to both a very long time when we were the No. 1 music brand for kids. boys and girls.” first looking at doing this ride. In Florida, we consciously mar- The ride operates with ten But we wanted to push the en- ket ourselves for kids. [Kidz pairs of vehicles. Each player is velope. We do like to take risks Bop] is a great brand kids iden- assigned his or her own color in a calculated manner to help tify with. It was a nice syner- so that each rider is aware elevate the game and push the gy,” said Brady. “With this mu- of their performance on the Keep our amusement park industry strong! envelope so to speak, so it felt sic video, it was a subtle way to screen. The theoretical capac- Buy products and services from these suppliers. very right to incorporate these teach the kids about the move- ity the park is trying to reach is hand gestures into this ride. ments. The kids sing the theme 1,000 riders per hour. March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 17 18 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017 March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 19 Weather causes slight attendance dip at Fort Worth Stock Show 23-day run hosts 1,219,300 guests; Talley Amusements debuts KMG ride AT: Pam Sherborne "We had some weather [email protected] issues this year," Talley said. "We were rained out the first FORT WORTH, Texas — weekend and if you can't get Several days of rain and your weekends, it is really cooler than normal tempera- hard to make it up. tures caused attendance at "We had some really this year's Fort Worth Stock cool weather, too" she said. Show and Rodeo to slip be- "Today, I have a long sleeve low 2016 numbers. shirt on and I'm hot." Final 2017 attendance Weather reports showed was 1,219,300, down from that the first weekend tem- last year's record attendance peratures hovered in the of 1,257,900 by 38,600. The mid-40s with traces of rain event ran Jan. 13-Feb. 4. Friday, Jan. 13 and 14. But The last two years at the on Sunday, 15, over three show set attendance records. inches fell. The 2015 attendance was Talley fielded about 50 1,248,5000. rides on the six-acre midway, Talley Amusements fielded Mary Talley, whose Tal- including two new ones for 50 rides at this year's ley Amusements provided the show. Those rides were Ft. Worth Stock Show the midway, said on Sunday, the Beast, manufactured by and Rodeo, Jan. 13-Feb. Feb. 5, immediately after the KMG, and a Tivoli Orbiter 4. Due to rain and cool event, that she didn't know called the Predator. temperatures the first exactly what her final figures Others doing business at weekend of the event, would show but she knew the Fort Worth Stock Show attendance dipped, with she was down from 2016. and Rodeo on the grounds 38,600 less visitors than in 2016. The Century Wheel, right, manufactured by Chance Rides, is a popular ride among Stock Show visitors. AT/SAMMY PICCOLA

of the Will Rogers Memorial Center reported mixed busi- ness reviews — some up, some down and some the same, as 2016. The Will Rog- ers Memorial Center encom- passes over 86 acres with over 40 acres under roof. Commercial exhib- its cover about four acres spread across the grounds with over 200 vendors. One business that re- New to the 2017 Ft. Worth Stock Show and Rodeo midway ported an increase in busi- lineup was the Beast, manufactured by KMG and brought ness was Wild Rags by Lois, in by carnival provider Talley Amusements. The ride is the located in the Burnett Build- newest version of KMG's Afterburn ride. AT/SAMMY PICCOLA ing in a corner space that is run. Some of them include: for $240,000; the Reserve passed by horse owners as PRCA Rodeo; Best of the Grand Champion steer sold they ride or walk their hors- West Ranch Rodeo; Best of for $100,000 while both the es from the stalls to the Will Mexico Celebracion; Cow- Grand Champion lamb and Rogers Coliseum. Wild Rags boys of Color Rodeo; Bulls goat sold for $40,000 each. by Lois carries silk scarves Night Out, and Fort Worth Agricultural shows worn by both male and fe- Super Shootout. abound as well. Some of male riders, horse tack and The rodeos draw about the free educational enter- some veterinary and groom- 1,200 professional rodeo ath- tainment pertaining to ag- ing supplies. letes. riculture includes: the FFA Wild Rag owners Along with the rodeos, Children's Barnyard, Petting changed the layout of the there are a gamut of other Zoo, a Milking Parlor and business for this year's show, equine and livestock shows Planet Agriculture, a walk- creating more open display and competitions. Approxi- through, interactive display area. Apparently that helped mately 28,000 head of live- reconnecting visitors with increase sales for them. stock are annually on exhibit farming and ranching. The Fort Worth Stock throughout the show. The 4-H and FFA Wild- Show and Rodeo holds a In the Stock Show 2017 life Contest also was offered. number of different type Sale of Champions, the The 2018 dates are Jan. of rodeos throughout its Grand Champion steer sold 12-Feb. 3. 20 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017 Nearly 1,700 turn out for PSACF/PSSA Convention Trade show participation up with 174 booths AT: B. Derek Shaw [email protected]

DERRY TOWNSHIP, Pa. — The annual convention and trade show brings together board members, volunteers and staff from most of the 109 county and local fairs held throughout the Common- had hospitality rooms. A few wealth each year. It is also an of the carnivals also offered opportunity for a few dozen similar social opportunities. carnival/midway owners/ Weather wreaked havoc Longevity rules as the PSSA is celebrating their 50th anniversary. Of the original 250 char- operators, along with food/ with attendees during the fi- ter members, 12 are living and four were in attendance and recognized. (l to r) Wylie Irwin, game concessionaires, attrac- nal days and load-out during Rodney Bowers, Clem O’Jevich and Dan Wuchter. COURTESY BEV GRUBER, PSSA tions, entertainers and suppli- the 2016 convention. Harry ers to show off their wares. The Reffner, PSACF secretary and tertainment of all types and theme for the 2017 convention also with Bedford County Fair variety, from musical acts, that took place January 18-21 commented tongue-in-cheek, impersonators, kid shows, was “Country Scenes – Blue about the 2017 event. “Her- magicians, comedians and Ribbon Dreams.” shey in their contract this year clowns, western shows and The 32,000 square-foot has promised no 30 inches of more. The 19 acts were both Great American Hall at Her- snow and I’ll see if they abide self-booking and agency man- shey Lodge and Convention by that!” Attendees enjoyed aged talent. Many of these Center was the venue for weather in the low fifties dur- acts were also on the trade the two and a half day trade ing the entire event. show floor each day, either show from Thursday through In addition, educational strolling or in a booth. noon Saturday As usual, the seminars, daily workshops Thursday evening’s ban- trade show floor was brisk and table topics along with quet, held by the PSACF, fea- Immediate Past President Steve Swika III poses with Show- with activity. Eight carnival banquets each evening com- tured introductions of all 60 man of the Year Sheila Bartlebaugh and her husband, Allen operators had booths: Bates pleted the schedule of events. Fair Queens who were vying with Bartlebaugh Amusements, Madisonburg, Pa. Brothers Amusement Compa- Some of the topics included: for the 2017 Pa. Fair Queen ti- COURTESY BEV GRUBER, PSSA ny, C&L Shows, Dreamland “Off season at your - fair tle. Pennsylvania Department Amusements, Lisko Family grounds,” “Are you really of Agriculture Secretary Rus- Moffett with Variety Attrac- fairs in Pennsylvania, upon Midway Amusements, Mid- handicapped accessible?” and sell Redding made a few re- tions left earlier in the day request, during the upcom- way Rides of Utica, Penn Val- “Alcohol at your fair — help marks to the attendees, “Our for The Illinois Association of ing season. 60 contestants ley Shows, Powers & Thomas or hinder.” Two sessions were fairs are the gateway to agri- Agricultural Fairs convention representing their local/ Midway Entertainment and quite popular: Security and culture for millions of visitors in Springfield.) Sheila Bartle- regional fair participated in Tons of Fun Show. Reithof- Handguns on the Fairgrounds each year. Whether it’s the fair baugh from Bartlebaugh’s three days of judging activi- fer Shows along with Variety and Social Media 202. volunteers who host success- Amusements, Madisonburg, ties before a winner to this Entertainment, the fair asso- Wednesday evening was ful community celebrations of Pa. was named Showman of 31st annual event was se- ciation and the showmen all the night to showcase en- agriculture and family living the Year. A check was present- lected and crowned. Mad- each year, or the showmen ed to the Pennsylvania Farm eline McEachin, representing who partner and bring specta- Show Foundation for $21,620 the Butler County Fair, took cle, food, and entertainment, – half the proceeds from the those honors. everyone at this convention Showman’s Herschel Carou- Incoming PSSA presi- plays a role in the success sel and Hampton mini trac- dent Carper reflected on the of agriculture and our com- tor ride that operated during past season, “As long as the monwealth.” New officers for the eight day Pennsylvania weather was decent, the car- 2017 include President David Farm Show earlier in Janu- nivals and food concessions Hallstrom with the Clearfield ary. Deserving students were did alright – not fantastic, but County Fair and Dr. Sally Nolt presented scholarships. The OK.” Looking toward this with the Elizabethtown Fair. banquet also featured the in- season, Carper said, “With a Ruth Britcher, with the Perry stallation of the 2017 PSSA different incoming president County Fair was the Fair Per- President Randy Carper, with with (his) hopes and desires son of the year honoree. Well Carper Concessions, Inc., of employment, that should known country artist, Jo Dee Huntingdon, Pa. Entertain- help us.” Carper shared his Messina, provided the enter- ment was provided by the goal for his term, “Just try tainment. Beach Bumz along with Ha- and do everything I can to The PSSA banquet took waiian fire dancers. make the Showman Associa- place Friday evening with a Saturday evening was tion a better organization and Hawaiian luau theme that the Queen Coronation ban- that’s hard to beat, because kicked off their 50th year as an quet. Since there is no “of- they are good.” organization. Out of 250 char- ficial” state fair, the banquet The 2018 edition takes Bob and Kathy DeStefano, principals of Dreamland Amuse- ter members, 12 are living and serves as the opportunity place January 17-20 at Her- ments, were first time exhibitors at the two-and-a-half-day four were in attendance and to announce the 2017 queen shey Lodge. trade show. AT/B. DEREK SHAW recognized. (A fifth, George who visits any of the 109 •pafairs.org March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 21 22 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017 Ferris Wheels, ride mix, dominate outside space at Gibtown AT: Pam Sherborne More ride companies at ents." [email protected] the show this year included Other companies such as Majestic Manufacturing Co., Waterloo Tent & Tarp, Inc., GIBSONTON, Fla. — It New Waterford, Ohio, Zam- Waterloo, Iowa, were writ- was a busy week for those at- perla, Boonton, N.J., and Eli ing orders every day of the tending and exhibiting at the Bridge Co., Jacksonville, Ill. show. That company has been International Independent There were over 140 ex- so busy that they have had to Showmen's Foundation (IISF) hibiting companies according push back delivery orders. Trade Show and Extravagan- to this year's IISF exhibitor's "And, that is a hard thing za, held here Feb. 7-11. directory including companies for us because we are so cus- For example, Poland- that sell tents and tarps, safety tomer-service based," said based Luna-Park, had five equipment, fencing, trailers, Pete Downs, owner. "Our ship sells and one potential on food, plush and merchandise. date is out to about June right Friday, Feb. 10, alone. Luna- Final attendance numbers now." Park's Isabella Zamojska op- were not available by AT's Fred's Tents & Canopies, timistically hoped the show's press time. Waterford, N.Y., had six tents last day would produce at The IISF is the fund raising set up outside ranging in size least one more sell. arm of the International Inde- from 10 feet by 10 feet to 20 Len Soled owner of N.J.- pendent Showmen's Associa- feet by 10 feet, said Heather based Rides-4-U said last No- tion (IISA). The annual event Frank. The company also dis- vember's International Asso- not only includes the trade played table covers and slide ciation of Amusements Parks show, but also seminars and bags. & Attractions (IAAPA) trade workshop sessions pertinent Owen Trailers, Riverside, show was very strong for his to the outdoor amusement in- Calif., displayed two of its dark company and, "we have con- It was going to be a long day on the final day of the 2017 dustry. The Outdoor Amuse- rides, the Haunted House was tinued to do well." IISF Trade Show and Extravaganza, held Feb. 7-11, Gibson- ment Business Association sold to Pride Amusements "We now have had the ton, Fla., for this crew. That is because they will be taking the (OABA) and the Showmen's and Infernal Combustion sold opportunity to close two Ferris Wheel down and the show owners will move it. Seen League of America (SLA) also to All Around Amusements. spinning coasters (SBF/Visa here, from left, front row, Tim and Pam Casper, PBJ Happee take the opportunity to have Florida-based Bob's Space Group)," said Soled, whose Day Shows, Marion, Ark., and Carlo Guglielmi, Ital Interna- annual meetings and recep- Racers showed off its popu- company represents KMG, the tional, Nashville, Tenn., who brokered the ride for Techni- tions during the IISF Trade lar Bob's Fishing Hole, Water Netherlands; S&S Worldwide, cal Park. Second row, from left, are Cristianano Gruppioni, Show and Extravaganza. Gun Fun, among other offer- Utah; and SBF/Visa Group, Technical Park, and Cody Casper, PBJ Happee Day Shows. Most exhibitors at this ings. Italy, as well as used rides. AT/ PAM SHERBORNE year's show felt it was defi- Lars Koch, Eworks Pro, On exhibit in Gibson- nitely a "must be there" event. (Winter Park, Fla.) whose pri- ton was SBF/Visa Group's Amusements and Newton attractions set up outside in- Representatives may not come mary vendor is Chance Rides, Groovy Bus and Puppy Love, Shows. cluded: Colorado-based Wis- home with new business, but was glad to be at the IISF both sold, and a Drop 'n Twist •Ferris Wheels to: Lisko dom Rides Inc. displayed an they were able to visit with ex- show. The company has been going to Hammerl Amuse- Family Midway Amuse- Alien Abduction and a Polar isting ones. in the ride lighting business ments. The KMG Rock It on ments Inc.; Jack Jeffrey; D.C. Express, the latter going to For example, Dale McIn- since 2000. the grounds was purchased by Lynch Shows and James Gang Blue Sky Amusements. tosh, Computerized Account- "But what really put us on Crescent City Amusements. Amusements. Battech Ent. LLC in Salem, ing Technics, Orlando, Fla., the map was when we put an Kolmax-Plus and its two Kolmax displayed two Ore., displayed several rides said he and Tom Drake have LED ride package on a Veko- subsidiaries, Flachs Rides and Tea Cups this year, one with a including its new Black Wid- been exhibiting for 32 years. ma wheel 11 years ago," Koch Jung Max Rides, were also new fork lift design to make it ow sold to Skinner's Amuse- They represent over 100 car- said. very busy writing orders. Last easier to load and unload. The ments; Downdraft, saw two nivals. Action Lighting, Boze- year was the first year this company also had a new fold- orders taken for that ride dur- "And, while we may not man, Mont., was exhibiting Czech Republic ride manufac- up design for its elephant ride. ing the show; Zero Gravity, get any other new business its new and updated rope turer exhibited rides, although Some of the sales posted for going to Arnold Amusements while we are here" McIntosh lighting, along with its other representatives were on hand Kolmax included: and the Cliff Hanger, going to said, "we get to visit with products, said the company's during the 2015 show. •Bumper Cars to Pow- PBJ Happee Day Shows. many of our long-time cli- Robert Stone. "We had 26 orders after ers Great American Midways; Technical Park, represent- last year," said Kolmax Plus's Windy City Amusements; All ed by Ital International, Nash- Irena Zvarova, adding not all Around Amusements; and ville, Tenn., sold a wheel to of those sells were completed Playland Amusements. PBJ Happee Day Shows. due to production limitations •Tea Cups to: River City Chance Rides, Wichita, not planned by the company. Amusements; Powers Great Kan., exhibiting for the first "But, we already have a wait- American Midways; Amuse- time in several years, took an ing list for next year and the ments of America and All indoor space to display one of year after next." Around Amusements. its new Zipper seats. Jeff Mill- Teresa Rimes, the IISF or- •Flying Elephants to Fun- er said the new seat can be ret- ganizer, was excited about the time Shows. rofitted on existing seats. It has 2017 show. Indoor space was Kolmax subsideries sales over the shoulder restraints as was selling briskly prior to the included: Flachs Rides with well as a larger viewing capac- show and she anticipated hav- the Ferris Wheel, sold to ity for riders. ing more rides and attractions Windy City Amusements, "If we want to sell to the outside than have been there Mac's Carnival and Attrac- mobile industry," Miller said, in quite some time. tions and River City Carnival. "we have to be here. And, since Luna-Park displayed its Jung Max Rides Choo Choo we have built a lot of wheels This was Kolmax-Plus's second year to bring rides to exhibit Children's Carousel and Ferris Train, was sold to Great Amer- over the years and since peo- at the IISF Trade Show and Extravaganza, held this year Wheel. Zamojska said their list ican Midway Entertainment. ple seem to want one, we also Feb. 7-11, Gibsonton, Fla. Seen here, from left, are Alena of sales at the show included: Other ride companies, are offering 35 meter and 45 Tkadlecova, Rudolf Kamenicky, Kolmax-Plus owner, and •Children's Carousels aside from Luna-Park, Rides- meter wheels to the portable Irena Zvarova. AT/PAM SHERBORNE to Frazier Shows; Schmidt 4-U and Kolmax Plus, with market." March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 23

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

Two significant changes will come to the 2017 The 148th Nebraska State Fair will be from Arkansas State Fair, Little Rock. The fair will be Aug. 25 through Sept. 4 in Grand Island. one day longer, and the carnival company has • changed. The City of Tyler, Texas, released the final Ralph Shoptaw, the fair's general manager, three concepts of its Rose Complex Master Plan said the fair will run this year Oct. 12-22. The fair at the end of January — all of which would require has been a 10-day event starting on a Friday since the East Texas State Fair to move from its location 1969, he said. The fair, now in its 78th year, ran six just off Front Street in downtown Tyler. days before 1969. Along with the fair, the Rose Complex current- The new carnival operator is North American ly houses the Rose Garden Center, Harvey Con- Midway Entertainment (NAME). The carnival and vention Center, and Tyler ISD football and baseball the fair have a five-year contract. fields. Deggeller Attractions had been the carnival During a community input meeting, a consul- operator for the previous 22 years, Shoptaw said. tant on the project explained the overlapping of Shoptaw said the extra day will expand the these venues in a tight space creates issues. scope of the fair and give patrons one more day No matter which design they choose, the city to enjoy it. hopes to create more parking, renovate or relocate Two days of rain dampened attendance Harvey Convention Center, develop retail and add numbers in 2016, down from 473,106 in 2015 to a park in the complex. 450,702 last year. The consultant said the improvements rolled NAME also plays the Tulsa State Fair, which out over 20 years would also include "a transition this year runs from Sept. 28 to Oct. 8. The relative plan" for the East Texas State Fair to a new space proximity of Tulsa to Little Rock will allow the com- when its lease with the city expires in 2026. pany to get to Little Rock in time for the Arkansas There are community concerns over what will fair. happen to the fair. • John Sykes, president & CEO of the East Tex- The Great New York State Fair, Syracuse, as State Fair, said the organization faces space and has been a priority for New York Governor Andrew facility limitations in its current location and pur- Cuomo over the last several years. He has now ex- chased a larger piece of land 12 years ago in hopes tended that support down to the 56 local fairs. of moving. However, the non-profit has not been The governor announced there would be $5 able to raise enough money. million going to the 56 fairs, slightly more than According to a time line posted on the city's $89,000 each for infrastructure improvements. website, the committee plans to finalize the Rose State officials said the whole idea is to improve the Complex Master Plan by June. agricultural part of the fair. • This is the first time in nearly a decade the All that time spent at the Erie County Fair, local fairs will receive infrastructure improvement Hamburg, N.Y., could pay off for students who funds. have participated in the fair and agricultural re- Each fair must submit projects to the state De- lated activities. partment of Agricultural and Markets for approval. A total of $30,000 in scholarships is being dis- The funding can be used to build, repair, replace, tributed through three programs to eligible high acquire or install fairground buildings, facilities or school and college students. equipment that are used to house or promote ag- -The Erie County Fair scholarship seeks stu- riculture. dents enrolled or enrolling in a college or univer- Projects must be finished and the awarded sity who have participated in the fair. Participation funds must be spent by March 31, 2021. Any mon- includes, but is not limited to, employment, exhibi- P.O. Box 238 ey remaining after that date will be divided equally tion, volunteering, marching band or other perfor- among the awardees, who can then submit plans mances. Applications are due April 7. Merino, CO. 80741 for additional projects. -The Erie County Agricultural Society scholar- In other New York fair news, it was announced ship is limited to students who are pursuing an ag- 800-634-6097 970-522-7515 Fax: 970-522-2902 in January that the New York State Fair will have riculture related career. Students must be enrolled an additional day starting this year, going from 12 or enrolling in a college or university and must be [email protected] www.wisdomrides.com days to 13. Dates this year are Aug. 23-Sept. 4. able to describe how their field of study will help • them in their agricultural endeavors. Applications WasteCap Nebraska has bestowed a GoZero are due April 7. zero-waste designation on the Nebraska State -The Erie County Agricultural Society, in con- Fair, Grand Island, for excellence in diverting junction with the New York State Association of waste from the landfill by recycling and compost- Agricultural Fairs and the New York State Show- ing at the 2016 state fair. people’s Association, will award up to 10 scholar- “In 2016, we had 1,047 pounds of materials ships of $1,000 apiece for students who participate recycled or composted," said Jaime Parr, facilities in agricultural related activities at the fair. director. "This creates a 93 percent diversion rate, Those eligible for awards must be current which tops the 90 percent needed to be consid- New York State high school seniors or students ered a zero-waste business. This is our third des- enrolled in college who are pursuing a degree in ignation since 2014, because we divert everything a field related to agriculture, fair management or we can from the local landfill. The animal manure the outdoor amusement business. Applications are and bedding are composted, fryer oil from our due April 14. food vendors becomes biodiesel, and we also re- Information and applications are available at cycle our cardboard, aluminum and plastic.” local high schools, the local Erie County Fair main By being one of the leading events in waste office or by contacting Maria Lucero at the fair of- reduction, the Nebraska State Fair demonstrates fice, (716) 649-3900, Ext. 6413. to all Nebraskans the importance of working to- Information on the state scholarship also is ward a zero-waste future, fair officials said in a available at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Erie Keep our amusement park industry strong! press release. County and at www.nyfairs.org/scholarship.htm. Buy products and services from these suppliers. 24 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017 During the annual Pennsylvania Farm Show PSSA and Pa. Department of Agriculture raise scholarship funds

AT: B. Derek Shaw logo serve as goodwill ambassa- [email protected] dors to those who pay the $2.00 donation per ride. Allen Bartle- HARRISBURG, Pa. — For baugh, principal of Bartlebaugh over a century the Pennsylvania Amusements and a PSSA board Farm Show, the premiere agri- member, explains the process, culture event in the Common- “All the money gets divided wealth, takes place early in the between the two scholarship new year. The past 13 years, the funds. We’re here every day for Pennsylvania State Showman’s the whole week (eight days). We Association (PSSA) has worked did have Steve Swika’s carousel in concert with the Pennsylva- here up until this year, but with nia Department of Agriculture his passing away and the es- Farm Show Foundation to raise tate and everything, we weren’t valuable scholarship funds for able to use it this year. Mike and deserving youth to further their Tom from Skelly’s Amusements education in the agriculture and stepped up to the plate and let amusement industries. us use their machine, which is This year Skelly’s Amusement donated use of their 1958 Al- This is accomplished by set- near the butter sculpture and a the same machine, just with a lan Herschel three-abreast carousel to raise funds for the Pa. ting up and operating two rides, Hampton farm tractor flat ride different scenery package on it. ShowmanFrederiksen and 1/7x3 Farm b/w Show 3/14/02 scholarship 11:22 funds. AM PreviouslyPage 1 S&S a 1958 Allen Herschel three- in the WEIS Exposition Hall. We still have the capacity which Amusements provided a similar model. Nearly $43,000 was abreast carousel in the Fam- PSSA volunteers wearing shirts is nice (30 horses, two chariots).” raised this year between the two rides that also included a ily Living area of the Main Hall with a “Dollars for Scholars” Hampton tractor flat ride.AT/B. DEREK SHAW 4See FARM, page 25

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Michelle Browell, social me- dia and special events coor- dinator for the DelGrosso’s Kim Blee, manager First Aid Companies was on hand at Knoebel’s Amusement Re- promoting the amusement sort was greeting attendees park, pastas and non-profit with scratch-off game cards fundraising programs the or- good for free tickets and ganization offers. The park is discounted tickets and wrist- celebrating its 70th anniver- bands. sary this year. AT/B. DEREK SHAW AT/B. DEREK SHAW March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 25 FARM for the DelGrosso’s companies. Show is the nation’s largest Rose Festival sees a Continued from page 24 The park is celebrating its 70th indoor agricultural event, fea- season in 2017. turing 6,000 animals, 10,000 funtastic future ahead Regarding the Hampton farm Knoebels Amusement Re- competitive exhibits, and 300 tractor flat ride Bartlebaugh sort was represented by Kim commercial exhibitors within PORTLAND, Ore. - The Portland Rose Festival is thrilled said, “Powers and Thomas actu- Blee, First Aid Manager. This is one million square feet of space to announce that Funtastic Traveling Shows has renewed its ally are the ones that let us use the fifth time the park has par- on 24 acres with 11 halls and 3 contract to extend the partnership into 2022. The agreement with the popular carnival company means great stability for this ride. Eddie sent it up from ticipated in the annual farm arenas. This is Pennsylvania's one of the Festival's major events, CityFair, and compliments North Carolina for us.” show to promote their park, equivalent to a state fair, minus the eclectic foods, diverse concerts and fun kids programming The two rides were staffed campground and golf course. the rides (except for the two at the Rose Festival's scenic riverside location. by over 80 people from various Blee (and others throughout the fundraiser ones.) Estimated at- "Funtastic Traveling Shows has been a true partner for carnival operations, making it eight days) were handing out tendance is over a half million more than a decade," says Jeff Curtis, Rose Festival Chief Ex- a combined effort by the show- scratch-off game cards good for people during the eight day run ecutive Officer. "We feel fortunate to be able to work with a men. “There’s eight or 10 shows free tickets and discounted tick- which ends the Saturday before local company that prides itself on safety and customer ser- that send people here. Powers ets and wristbands. Martin Luther King Day each vice that aligns perfectly with Rose Festivals goals." and Thomas are now winter The Pennsylvania Farm January. quartered in North Carolina. Skelly’s are winter quartered in New Jersey,” said Bartle- baugh. “A lot of the Pennsyl- vania shows send people here. LAM Enterprises sends people, Goodtime sends people, Ma- jestic Midways, Otto’s Amuse- ments, Floyd Foods, Bartle- baugh Amusements, Packard’s Concessions, Snyders Conces- sions – a lot of the membership kick in and help too. It’s a team effort for the Showman’s Asso- ciation.” Bartlebaugh talked about the total revenue generated from this annual undertaking, “We’re donating somewhere in the neighborhood of $20,000 a year to the scholarship funds, the farm show and ours. The carousel does quite well and this one (tractor ride) is coming along. This is the third year (for it).” Donna Kramer, PSSA trea- surer, explained the history of the collaboration, “Our organi- zation in 2005 thought that since in Pennsylvania our amusement rides come under the jurisdic- tion for inspection by the Penn- sylvania Department of Agri- culture, wouldn't it be a great opportunity to showcase our end of the agricultural business and be part of the Farm Show in Harrisburg.” That was the beginning of the partnership. In 2017, over $43,000 was raised and split equally between both scholarship programs, bringing the total funds raised in 13 years to more than $445,000. Also participating as com- mercial exhibitors in the Main Hall were two Pennsylvania Amusement Parks: Knoebels and DelGrosso’s, the latter pro- moting their family of compa- nies. “We are at the farm show promoting the amusement park, DelGrossos’ Foods pasta sauce and its fundraisers to the Harrisburg area, trying to raise brand awareness here and to reach out with our fundraising and get some more people to the park next summer,” explained Michelle Browell, social media and special events coordinator 26 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017 March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 27

BUSINESS, SAFETY & CLASSIFIED MarketWatch — Page 29 / Obituaries — Page 30 / SAFETY — 32-36 / CLASSIFIEDS — Pages 38, 39 Chain’s first North American hotel of its type Legoland California breaks ground on castle-themed lodging AT: Dean Lamanna entertainment from Legoland [email protected] “This hotel will characters and a Lego retail completely immerse store. CARLSBAD, Calif. — A A separate theme park en- new source of family-friendly guests in a castle ex- trance for the exclusive use of “medieval times” is coming to perience from the hotel guests will be an added Southern California, courtesy convenience. of the Legoland California Re- minute they enter With occupancy at its exist- sort. the grand hall, to ing, toy building brick-themed The ever-growing theme dining in an amazing 250-room hotel averaging 80 park destination just north percent annually and 100 per- of San Diego, which already sit-down royal res- cent in the summer, according is home to the four-year-old taurant and engag- to resort officials, demand for Legoland Hotel, is building a additional park lodging has second, castle-themed lodge ing in courtyard en- been strong. Rates at the new with 250 premium rooms, in- tertainment by the premium lodge are expected cluding 20 suites. It will open pool.” to run about 10 percent higher in the spring of 2018. than at the Legoland Hotel, —Peter Ronchetti, Legoland The project’s Jan. 18 which offers both standard and Legoland California California's groundbreaking was hosted by premium accommodations. second hotel will be Legoland California’s general “The success of the first the global chain's manager, Peter Ronchetti, who met by a Lego wizard before Legoland hotel has helped pro- first castle-themed was joined in the ceremony by taking a “magical levitating lift” pel Carlsbad’s tourism econ- lodge in North Carlsbad Mayor Matt Hall, two (elevator) to one of three floors, omy to record-setting levels,” America. Opening young shoveling “apprentices” where differently themed room said Mayor Hall. “Now with a in mid-2018, it will and several costumed charac- adventures await. second one on the way, our res- offer 250 premium ters. In the Knight rooms, guests idents can look forward to even rooms and suites. “I am excited to say that will be surrounded by dragons greater tax revenues, which go COURTESY next year, Legoland Castle Ho- and knights as they prepare to the funding of day-to-day LEGOLAND tel will be opening right where to go into battle to defend the city services like parks, librar- CALIFORNIA we stand today,” said Ronchet- king’s castle and protect his ies and police.” RESORT ti, gesturing to an area that once treasure. And in the Princess •legoland.com/california served as employee parking rooms, woodland animals such for the resort. “This hotel will as butterflies, squirrels, owls completely immerse guests in a and songbirds — all made from castle experience from the min- Lego bricks — will await dis- ute they enter the grand hall, to covery. dining in an amazing sit-down For fans of magic, the Wiz- royal restaurant and engaging ard rooms will show guests in courtyard entertainment by how to protect the king’s trea- the pool.” sure through “giggling po- Resort representatives tions” and spells. have described the Legoland Other features unique to Castle Hotel experience as an the Legoland Castle Hotel in- upgraded one, with more at- clude a two-story slide in the mospheric detail and costumed lobby for kids, Lego build- character interaction with visi- ing stations in each children's tors. sleeping area, interactive play Upon entering the ho- elements in an expansive court- tel, guests first will step into a yard, interactive water play grand hall, where they will be features by the pool, premium

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 28 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017 Bowling-anchored fun center chain expands CEO: Upgrades underpin success of Main Event Entertainment AT: Dean Lamanna [email protected]

PLANO, Texas — Grow- ing up in the small seaside town of Yarmouth, Maine, 12 miles north of Portland, amusements in it is no lon- Charlie Keegan didn’t have ger enough — you have to a lot of amusement options. go after adults as well as the In fact, the closest park to family business to win. And which his family ventured you have to go multicultural, was one currently known as multidimensional; you have Funtown Splashtown U.S.A, to appeal to affluent, because some distance down the affluent is 70 percent of the coast in Saco. spend. That’s where we see Today, Keegan doesn’t the market, and where we The latest in arcade game have to look farther than his are focused. technology (left), plus office for fun. As president How would you de- bowling, billards, laser and CEO of metro Dallas- Charlie Keegan, CEO scribe your business model, tag, full bar service and based Main Event Entertain- Main Event Entertainment and how has it evolved? handcrafted food offerings ment, he leads a growing It was recognized 20 are featured at Main Event chain of bowling-anchored business at age 13 and later years ago that the tradi- Entertainment's current 32 centers that is delivering earned a hospitality degree tional league-based business locations — including North both classic and cutting- from Florida State University. model of bowling was not re- Forth Worth, Texas (above), edge diversions to more than Keegan fielded some ques- ally relevant anymore. Main and Oklahoma City, Okla. 20 million guests annually tions from AT about how he Event created a broader set (below). across the U.S. and his 5,000 employees are of entertainment offerings COURTESY Founded in 1998, with accomplishing just that. anchored by bowling, with- MAIN EVENT ENTERTAINMENT its first location in Louisville, Entertainment centers, out leagues, draught beer or Ky., Main Event features an in all their variety, have be- smoking. The locations are “Eat. Bowl. Play” experience come a major amusement all super-regional, instead of for families, young adults and industry growth sector in neighborhood, and they’ve groups that transcends the recent years. What’s driving all been successful with that typical family entertainment this? formula. center (FEC). In addition to Digital disruption. No What we’ve really tried state of the art bowling, bil- longer do you sit around the to do in the last 10 years is liards, big-screen televisions, table and have dinner and just make it a little more rel- gravity ropes, multi-level do your traditional social- evant, and to get the product laser tag, and dozens of vir- izing, because everybody’s ready for sort of a national tual and interactive games, on a device. People want to footprint. That’s what we’re its venues — ranging in size outsource their socialization, doing now. from 45,000 to 75,000 square or just get together and do How, specifically, is -im feet — offer chef-inspired things. proved food service helping dining, bars that serve hand- If you look not just at you do that? crafted cocktails, and con- FECs, but at the landscape of Ten years ago, we basical- temporary interior design out-of-home entertainment, ly had bowling alley/snack virtual reality [VR]. a model of what we think that fosters a higher-end so- you’re seeing upgraded bars. Today, we have three VR has been boom- it takes to drive a success- cial atmosphere. movie theaters with upgrad- distinct food offerings. We ing over the last year or so. ful Main Event. Using that Keegan joined Main ed seating and upgraded have a handcrafted grill and Do you see this technology as a domestic overlay, we Event, a subsidiary of Aus- food and beverage, or a Top- bar menu. We’ve taken what playing an increasing role in have identified trade areas tralia-based attractions golf upgraded driving range. was, in our original centers, your centers? throughout the continental company Ardent Leisure, Or what we’ve done at Main a snack bar and recast it in For sure. The technology U.S. that we think can sup- 10 years ago following an Event to upgrade a bowl- sort of a fast-casual pizza of- is not yet multiplayer, while port our centers. extended run with Kansas ing offering. There’s a paral- fering. So now you have full you could maybe have 30 We have a shopping list, City, Mo.-based Applebee’s lel with these emerging and service and you have quick people playing in a laser tag a prioritized list of trade ar- International, Inc. And he successful concepts: Every- service with value. Those are arena. But it’s getting there. eas that we want to go to, is energized by the out-of- body wants to be upgraded. the two distinct offerings for And it’s a much more im- and a strategic plan. It’s a home entertainment brand Everybody wants upgraded the walk-in guests. And then mersive experience. We’re combination of building out he has helped shape. With 32 food and beverage, for ex- we have a catering offering watching, and we’re incubat- existing markets and going centers operating as Amuse- ample, because if you go out for group events. ing. We see some upside po- to new markets in a pacing ment Today went to press (a with a group of people, you What are your facilities’ tential, but the product has to that we can manage. Taking location had just debuted in get together around food and most popular activities? be right. it international is an obvious Jacksonville, Fla.; see page beverage to socialize. We’re a bowling-an- What criteria do you use extension of our business, at 6), the company was on track So you’re tapping into chored entertainment venue, in evaluating potential new the right time. to open a new location every the young adult and singles but we have sort of a bal- locations? What do you enjoy most month through the middle of demographic? anced portfolio of offerings We have identified the about leading Main Event this year. Today there are more — with food and beverage, core customers that go to our Entertainment? “We continuously raise single adults than there are games and amusements, bil- centers — what they’re psy- It’s a fabulous business. the bar for ourselves and married adults. If you really liards. All of our centers have chographic profile is, where People come in and they our industry,” said the chef- want to compete, the idea a two-story laser tag arena they come from, how far they want to spend money to have trained executive, who began of putting a big-box build- except for Orlando, where drive, how much they spend. fun. What’s not to like? working in the restaurant ing up and putting some we’re experimenting with And we’ve created a bit of •mainevent.com March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 29 BUSINESS WATCH MARKETWATCH Spaces Inc. raises addition $6.5 million PLAYA VISTA, Calif. — Spaces Inc., the virtual reality and COMPANY SYMBOL MARKET PRICE HIGH LOW mixed reality company launched in 2016 by VR pioneers from 02/10/17 52-Week 52-Week DreamWorks Animation, has raised an additional $6.5 mil- The Blackstone Group BX NYSE 30.35 31.69 22.45 lion in funding, led by China-based Songcheng Performanc- es Development Co. Ltd., with additional investment from Merlin Entertainments Group/ MERL LSE 486.40 494.90 316.79 Comcast Ventures, the venture-capital affiliate ofComcast Legoland Corporation, and other leading venture capital groups. Cedar Fair, L.P. FUN NYSE 63.11 65.23 50.21 Combined with a previously announced $30-million Spaces-Songcheng theme-park joint venture, the new in- Comcast Corp./ CMCSA NASDAQ 75.15 76.87 55.59 vestments accelerate Spaces’ vision to build a bold new era NBCUniversal Media of VR-enabled parks and attractions. Spaces and Songcheng DIS NYSE 109.26 111.99 89.61 plan to announce details about their theme park projects soon. Dubai Parks & Resorts DXBE:UH DFM 1.15 1.77 1.01

EPR Properties EPR NYSE 75.33 84.67 59.23 At a glance... •ANAHEIM, Calif. — Visit Anaheim, the official destina- tion marketing organization of Anaheim, confirmed on Feb. 1 Fuji Kyoko Co., Ltd. 9010 TYO 1034.00 1568.00 979.00 that Anaheim has set a new visitor volume record in 2016. For Haicahang Holdings Ltd. HK:2255 SEHK 1.78 1.95 1.52 the fourth year in a row, Anaheim broke the previous record by welcoming more than 23 million visitors. Leofoo Development Co. TW:2705 TSEC 8.66 9.00 6.62 Overall visitor growth in Anaheim is up 2.3 percent from 2015, leading to a nearly 33 percent growth since 2011. Ana- MGM Resorts International MGM NYSE 28.53 30.62 17.33 heim visitors also spent 7.2 percent more in Orange County in 2016 than the previous year, contributing $8.1 billion to the Parques Reunidos Servicios ES:PQR MCE 16.40 17.41 11.99 local economy. Over the last five years, total visitor spending Centrales S.A. jumped 74 percent. •LAS VEGAS, Nev. — For the third consecutive year, Las SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. SEAS NYSE 18.94 21.84 11.77 Vegas continued historic visitation growth, setting a new all- Six Flags Entertainment Co. SIX NYSE 60.50 62.69 47 time record. Las Vegas welcomed 42.9 million visitors in 2016, surpassing 2015’s record-setting 42.3 million. In addition to Skyocean International HK:0593 SEHK 14.92 16.88 7.95 hosting millions of leisure travelers, the destination celebrat- ed record-breaking convention visitation in 2016, welcoming Tivoli A/S DK:TIV CSE 482.00 499.50 356.50 more than 6.3 million business travelers during the year.

Village Roadshow VRL ASX 3.89 7 3.75 MAILBAG STOCK PRICES ABOVE ARE GENERALLY QUOTED IN THE FOREIGN Wet 'n Wild Orlando debate continues CURRENCY IN WHICH THE COMPANY IS LOCATED Hi Gary, Worldwide Markets: ASX, Australian Securities Exchange; CSE, Copenhagen Stock Exchange; LSE, London Stock Exchange; NYSE, I enjoyed reading the letter from Gary Goddard in the AT Jan- 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 uary 2017 issue and can certainly understand his question, as I have —SOURCES: Bloomberg.com; Wall Street Journal often had similar conversations about just what makes something the “first.” DIESEL PRICES Having researched the industry’s history for over 30 years, I have Region As of Change from realized that industry-changing events do not occur in a vacuum. (U.S.) 02/06/17 1 year ago Rather it tends to be an evolutionary process capped by a catalytic East Coast $2.719 +$0.531 event. Although Disneyland is considered the first theme park, it Midwest $2.492 +$0.563 was actually the pinnacle of a process that started with places such as Knott’s Berry Farm, Storytown USA and Santa Claus Land. Gulf Coast $2.403 +$0.507 The same process also led to the creation of Wet ‘n Wild. Mountain $2.515 +$0.601 There were numerous evolutionary steps leading up to that cata- West Coast $2.748 +$0.675 lytic moment. In 1969, Phil Dexter opened Big Surf in Arizona California $2.944 +$0.575 with his newly invented wave pool as its sole attraction. Through CURRENCY the early 1970s independent waterslides began to appear and in 1976 River Country opened. It was a groundbreaking attraction, On 02/10/17 $1 USD = but was one feature of the much larger Walt Disney World Resort. 0.9361 EURO What made George Millay’s project the industry’s catalytic event 0.7980 GBP (British Pound) was that it was a free-standing business and a destination in and 112.42 JPY (Japanese Yen) of itself. Imitators sprung up almost immediately and the industry 0.9973 CHF (Swiss Franc) would never be the same. 1.3098 AUD (Australian Dollar) Jim Futrell, Historian 1.3138 CAD (Canadian Dollar) National Amusement Park Historical Association [email protected] 30 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017

OBITUARIES Texas ”corny dog king“ Skip Fletcher dies at 82 FLOWER MOUND, Fletcher, Fletcher's father cook a meal in the kitchen drey Gardsbane, Monica Texas — Neil Odrey Fletch- and uncle, respectively. for three months," Fletcher Welling, Jace Fletcher and er Jr., known as “Skip, the They sold the dogs for 15 was quoted as saying by Amanda Bandy; 12 great Corny Dog King,” age 82, cents each. local news agencies. "We grandchildren; brother, passed away on Jan. 31, in When the brothers died were taste-testing corny Bill Fletcher; and his dog, Flower Mound, Texas, after in 1980, Skip Fletcher and dogs!" Cousteau. a battle with pneumonia. his brother, Bill Fletcher, Family and friends said He is preceded in death Fletcher was born on took over the business. he was known for his end- by his brother, John Fletch- February 12, 1934 in Dallas, Fletcher's now sells less generosity, giant per- er, and sons, Dutch, Craig Texas, to his parents, Neil 600,000 corny dogs annual- sonality and contagious and Rodney Fletcher. and Minerva Fletcher. ly at the State Fair of Texas enthusiasm for life. Memorial donations Fletcher’s Corny Dogs alone and debuted a veg- He is survived by wife, may be made to the State Skip Fletcher were first sold at the State etarian corny dog in 2015. Glenda (GG) Fletcher; son, Fair of Texas Youth Live- Fair of Texas, Dallas, in Fletcher has been quot- parents' kitchen as they Aaron Fletcher; daughters, stock Auction and Scholar- 1942, by Vaudeville per- ed as saying he grew up perfected their recipe. Beckey and Amber Fletch- ship Program. formers Neil and Carl as "chief taste taster" in his "My mother didn't er; grandchildren, Au- Industry concessionaire veteran Bobby Leonard Carnival truck salesman Ed Murphy dies at 88 passes away in Florida BELLEVILLE, Ill. — Ed- ciations were many. Some he was a past president. five great-grandchildren; GIBSONTON, Fla. — ward F. Murphy, 88, of Bel- of those include: the Show- Murphy also served in three daughters-in-law and Carnival in- leville, Ill., man's League of America, the United States Navy. two sisters. dustry vet- passed away St. Louis Chapter, where He was preceded in Memorials may be made eran Bobby on Jan. 26, he served as treasurer for death by his loving wife of to the scholarship fund of Leonard 2017 at Me- 26 years and established the 61 years, Shirley Smith Mur- the Showmen's League of morial Hos- Scholarship Fund; Show- phy; two sons, Daniel Mur- America, St. Louis Chap- passed away pital here. man's League of America; phy and Timothy Murphy; ter, c/o Phil Tomber, 2311 January 27, Born Oct. Outdoor Amusement Busi- and his parents, Rudolph T. Chestnut St., St. Louis, Mo. 2017. Leonard 5, 1928, Mur- Woodfield ness Association, which Murphy and Mary Duggan 63103. Leonard phy was president and CEO honored him by inducting Murphy, Wodohodsky, Ill. Condolences may be was a life-long concession- of Modern Motors of Bel- him into the Hall of Fame; He is survived by a son, expressed online at www. aire and was a supporter of leville for 56 years. and the Arizona Show- Michael Murphy of St. Lou- lakeviewfuneralhm.com. the International Indepen- His professional asso- man's Association of which is, Mo.; six grandchildren; dent Showmen's Associa- tion in Gibsonton. A service was held on Playday Amusement's Robin Woodfield dies at 58 Jan. 31, 2017, at the Interna- TOMS RIVER, N.J. — She and her there was Playday Amuse- Surviving is her husband tional Independent Show- Robin M. Woodfield, 58, a husband, ments. of Toms River, N.J.; her broth- men's Association club in games concessionaire for 38 Douglas They also leased Casino er, Douglas Roberts and his Gibsonton. years at Casino Pier, Seaside, Woodfield, Pier's Sand Castle Building wife Marjorie of N.J.; many Memorial donations N.J., died Dec. 5, 2016, at her owned and and owned the Twisted Fish loving nieces and nephews may be made to the SRV home. operated 24 and other concessions. and Ginger her dog. Scholarship Committee, Woodfield, who was born games on the Woodfield is predeceased Condolences may be sent P.O. Box 3359, Riverview, in Dover, N.J., in 1972, gradu- Pier. Their Woodfield by her parents Matthew and by visiting www.ryanfuneral- Fla. 33568. ated from Toms River North. company Aurelia Roberts. home.com. IALDA charter member Kurt Anselmi dies after battle with cancer LAKE ANGELUS, Mich. ily’s business in Waterford, is in 1988. With his guidance as Kurt was the co-author of the doorsman. His favorite place — Kurt Anthony Anselmi where he met and fell in love Managing Partner, the firm Roller Skating Risk Manage- was the mountains of the passed away with his wife Terry. They con- grew over the last 29 years to ment Guidelines which were West where he enjoyed hunt- at his home tinued their passion for the more than 20 lawyers and is endorsed by the RSA. He was ing, skiing and riding his mo- surrounded sport through coaching and now one of the 50 largest law the co-author of dozens of ar- torcycle. by his family eventually taking over the firms in Michigan. Kurt was ticles on Risk Management Kurt is survived by his on January 19, business. Kurt was inducted one of the most prominent, ac- and served on the RSA Risk loving wife Terry Lee (Camp- after a lengthy into the Roller Skating Asso- complished and respected at- Management Committee. bell), children Terese and Tony battle against ciation Hall of Fame in 2016. torneys in the amusement in- Kurt presented Risk Manage- Anselmi, and his beloved brain cancer. Anselmi Kurt was a 1972 graduate dustry. In 1991, Kurt was one ment and Litigation seminars Mother Marilyn Anselmi, Kurt’s of Waterford Township High of six charter members of the at the RSA convention, the Sisters Kim (Mark) Majoros, youth was spent devoted to School. He received his bach- International Amusement World Waterpark Association Holly Anselmi, Brother Tobin the sport of roller skating elor’s degree from University and Leisure Defense Associ- trade show and the IAAPA (Kim) Anselmi, father-in-law where he was a perfection- of Michigan (1976) and Juris ation (IALDA) and served the Attractions Expo. Few people John Campbell and Sister-in- ist in style, grace and ath- Doctor degree with Honors Association as president and knew as much about the sub- law Kim (Matt) Decovich. He leticism. Kurt won many na- from Detroit College of Law member of the board of direc- ject of Risk Management as was a loving Uncle to Stepha- tional championships in both (1981). Kurt was licensed to tors. He was the author of the Kurt. nie (Dan) Levine, Zachary singles and pairs, and was practice law in the States of Michigan Roller Skating Safe- Kurt lived life to the full- Anselmi, Daniel Anselmi and a U.S. World Team member Michigan, Colorado and Ohio. ty Act of 1988, the first of its est and was admired by many Ashely (Brent) Meschke. Kurt multiples times. Roller skat- Kurt co-founded An- kind in the Country. Ten other for his adventurous spirit. He was proceeded in death by his ing at the Rolladium, his fam- selmi and Mierzejewski P.C. states followed Kurt's lead. was a true and passionate out- Father Albert H. Anselmi. March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 31 KCL Engineering and Ride Ent. join forces to offer LED lighting

STEVENSVILLE, Md. — the attractions industry. We KCL Engineering, LED KCL Engineering, a leader look forward to providing a lighting supplier to in custom lighting solutions, wide variety of custom light- 's Monster has chosen Ride Entertain- ing solutions; from basic LED roller coaster, has teamed ment as their sales partner in installations that give an ex- with Ride Entertainment to the attractions industry. isting attraction new life to offer LED lighting services KCL burst onto the scene park-wide solutions seen no- to the amusement industry. this year with three notable where else in the world.” COURTESY projects at Iowa's Adven- •KCLEngineering.com RIDE ENTERTAINMENT tureland Park, the most in- •RideEntertainment.com novative being a first of its kind LED lighting system on the park’s new Gerstlauer roller coaster, The Monster. The coaster, which stands 131 feet tall, can be seen throughout the park by day, and at night the ground and track-mounted lights make the attraction a focal point.. Beyond an illumination solu- tion, on a coaster designed to confuse riders, the lighting systems adds another layer of intrigue and unpredict- ability. “When Adventureland shared the concept for The Monster, we had a vision to bring the entire structure to life through dynamic track lighting. Perhaps the fact that this was our first large-scale ride lighting project worked in our favor as we truly felt no limitations. We simply came up with an idea and en- gineered our way to it,” said KCL's Professional Engineer Kris Kunze, The Monster’s lead lighting designer. “As soon as I saw what KCL could do I knew we needed to work with them,” laughed Adam Sandy, Chief Business Development Of- ficer at Ride Entertainment. “We are always on the look- out for innovation in the at- tractions industry and what they created for Adventure- land was unlike anything I have seen. We are thrilled to see where they take their unique illumination con- cepts next,” he noted. The Iowa-based en- gineering company is no stranger to working on high-profile projects world- wide. KCL Engineering has implemented LED solutions for Yankee Stadium, Safeco Field, and numerous sky- scrapers around the globe. “Working with Ride En- tertainment is an absolute honor,” declared Kunze. “Their partnership provides immediate immersion into 32 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017 SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & EDUCATION Amusement ride safety: maintenance AT: Harold Hudson PART 5 IN A SERIES: Special to Amusement Today OPERATIONS

When it comes to ride safety, we can’t say that be assumed but must be constantly one area of en- checked, tested and affirmed. deavor is more Ride maintenance is the process important than of “maintaining or preserving the another, but we ride” and it is essential to ride safety, At left, a maintenance worker can stress that performance, reliability and ulti- at Six Flags New England maintenance mately, the life of the asset. Ordinary checks the drive tire tread is very, very, use, which is typically many hours on this Gerstlauer spinning very important. Hudson per day, can degrade performance coaster, Pandemonium. Above, Maintenance is and safety, two things that are really this ride part at Carowinds has the last area, where we as operators, important to any ride operator. returned from NDT testing. have direct input to the safety equa- The ride maintenance func- AT/FILE tion. When we get to next month's tion should be continuously moni- last area of endeavor, riders, we must tored with the goal of improving the work in a partnership arrangement competency and skill of the staff as quired results is used. optimal. A well-trained staff comes Note: Addressing Service/Safety with the rider. well as overall safety. With this goal about by selecting people with di- Bulletins is an ASTM requirement. The The six (6) areas we have identi- the resulting ride performance and Be vigilant rect or relevant experience and then latest bulletins may be obtained from fied are: safety is not only maintained but im- Keeping careful watch for possi- training them on the equipment they equipment manufacturers or National •Design/Engineering (Nov.) proves every day. ble danger or unsafe conditions is an must maintain. Vigilance means that Association of Amusement Ride Safety •Fabrication (Dec.) important part of park safety. Every they perform inspections and main- Officials at naarso.com. •Installation (Jan.) Learned lessons maintenance operation needs plans, tenance functions in a strict manner, Management also needs to be •Operations (Feb.) Smart operators want to im- processes and procedures as well as according to their training, never vigilant. They should ask them- •Maintenance (March) prove their processes and procedures an understanding of best practices omitting anything that is prescribed selves: •Riders (April) based on lessons learned. NASA de- in order to do an exceptional job. In but keeping their eyes open for any •Do I have procedures in place In all our previous discussions, fines lessons learned as “knowledge addition, being on the lookout for is- issue. that ensure that my maintenance we always confirmed that it is our or understanding gained by experi- sues that are not on the checklist is To be vigilant, your ride mainte- staff receives orientation and training moral responsibility to address safe- ence.” The experience may be posi- vitally important. Some parks make nance process should consist of sev- on the equipment for which they are ty in each of these areas with all we tive, as in a continuously successful the mistake of believing that when eral components, all of which affect responsible? have at our disposal and to the best operation or negative, as in a mishap the checklist is completed the work safety. Those components are: •Do I have procedures that assure of our ability. I want to confirm that or failure. Most well learned lessons is done and that’s all that’s needed. •Training; maintenance and inspections are per- again because guest and employee have the qualities of being: A vigilant maintenance technician is •Daily, weekly and monthly ride formed per manufacturers specifica- safety is of paramount importance. •Significant — they have a real im- always looking for anything that is inspections; tions? pact on operations; “out of place” and always looking •In operation ride inspections; •Do I provide continuing educa- Good maintenance, •Valid — they are technically cor- for anything that is not on the check- •Daily, weekly and monthly pre- tion that will aid my staff in doing a an essential rect; list but could affect safety.We cannot ventative maintenance activity; better job? ingredient for safety: •Applicable — they identify a spe- over emphasize this point… don’t •Annual ride refurbishment; •Do I monitor the performance of To ensure that a machine, in cific design, process, or decision that just look at what is on the check list. •Attention to and incorporation my staff? our case a ride or attraction, operates reduces the potential for failures and Keep your eyes open for anything of published Service/Safety Bul- •Do I maintain proof of training at a high level of performance with mishaps. that is not right! letins; and certification? low downtime and high standards In other words, ride mainte- A well-trained staff that is al- •Investigation of issue reported of safety, there has to be a system nance should be guided by good ways on the lookout for safety is- by operations, maintenance, riders Pressure of the clock in place for checks, inspections and practices and augmented with ex- sues and utilizes best practices is or spectators. The maintenance department planed preventative maintenance re- perience. If a particular issue occurs typically starts work very early in gimes and protocols. These systems frequently, then the inspection of that the morning or in some cases, they must include manufacturers recom- area should be intensified. Intensi- work around the clock. The issue mended maintenance and inspec- fied because we have been put on is that typically all rides must open tions as well as learned lessons and notice by our experience or operating on time, and this is often 9 o’clock best practices. It is the responsibility history. or earlier on special occasions. Dur- of the maintenance staff to ensure While learning from experience ing pre-opening inspections the ride that the prescribed checks and main- is important to not forget that any and ride components are checked tenance activities are performed. alteration to an established proce- for any signs of damage or unac- When maintenance functions dure or process should be fully docu- ceptable wear and when necessary, are performed well, they not only mented and coordinated with the components are replaced based on make the park work better but make ride manufacturer, responsible agen- this inspection. Performing these it safer for guest and employees. cies and/or technical professionals. daily safety inspections takes time ASTM F24 standards are the In addition, routine review of your and when problems are found, the standards of the industry and have maintenance procedures to confirm corrective actions can take additional been adopted by most states and lo- their conformance to the latest F24 and unscheduled time. However, the cal jurisdictions. ASTM standards standards is prudent. primary objective is always SAFETY, are for manufacturers as well as for diligence and getting the job done Above, this mainte- owner/operators … so everyone Best practices safely, regardless of the opening should become familiar with the F24 Lessons learned leads to best nance worker is tied hour. In other words, the clock is standards and work to be compliant practices and the amusement indus- off in multiple places pressure, but it is not the boss. Safety with their requirements. F24 stan- try is keen on best practices. Keen during his morning is the boss. dards can be obtained from astm.org. for good reason: we want to be the inspection of the lift best we can be and this can occur chain on the Twister Refurbishment Expectations are high more readily if we share our expe- coaster at Knoebels Typically rides are refurbished Just as they should, our guests riences and borrow/use the suc- Amusement Resort. (rehabbed) on an annual basis and come to the park expecting the rides cessful experience of others. The At right, this disabling if possible, during the off season… to be safe and well maintained. If a term best practices is defined as: “A lock station at Busch if there is one. Webster defines refur- ride or ride area appears to be in poor method or technique that has con- Gardens Williamsburg bishment as to “make like new” and condition then the perception is that sistently shown results superior to helps maintenance that is what the effort intends to do. it is unsafe and for your guest, per- those achieved with other means.” staff as locks and keys Make like new in order to make safe ception is reality. In fact, safety, good Best practices do not mean that an are all properly num- and reliable… that is the thought and maintenance and housekeeping run industry standard or manufacturers bered to match the the goal. hand-in-hand and it’s hard to have requirement is violated but that the back area ride lock out one without the other. Neither can best approach to achieving the re- areas. AT/FILE 4See MAINTENANCE, page 35 March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 33 SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & EDUCATION

The AIMS Safety Seminar AIMS Safety Seminar opening session featured Jim Seay, president of attendance climbs again Premier Rides, left, delivering the key note AT: Pam Sherborne are able to sign up for about address and Greg Hale, VP [email protected] 200 classes during the week. and chief safety officer of This year Jim Seay, pres- the Walt Disney Company ORLANDO, Fla. -— ident of Premier Rides, pre- presenting the opening Karen Oertley, executive di- sented the opening keynote remarks. Hale is also the rector, AIMS International, address. Greg Hale, chief current chairman had just begun, in late Janu- safety officer of theWalt Dis- of IAAPA. ary, to go through reviews 4See AIMS, page 34 AT/GARY SLADE from attendees of the 2017 AIMS Safety Seminar, but she already felt comments were getting better every year. That sentiment seemed to be echoed in attendance to the seminar as well — at- tendance that is trending up- wards. This year attendance was 378 compared to the 340 reported last year and the 300 in 2015. The 2017 AIMS (Amuse- ment Industry Manufactur- ers and Suppliers) Safety Seminar was held Jan. 8-13 at the Doubletree by Hilton at SeaWorld, Orlando. "I am proud to say we also have had an increase in sponsors with 30 this year," Oertley said. "Our Platinum Sponsor is Mobaro Park." Mobaro Park, headquar- tered in Denmark, provides mobile safety and mainte- nance for attractions. Oertley said attendee reviews of the safety semi- nar show that they love be- ing in Orlando and feel the seminar is getting better ev- ery year. She gives credit to Holly Costan, AIMS seminar manager, who she describes as the "glue that holds it all together." AIMS International is a non-profit organization dedicated to industry safety. It consists of manufacturers, suppliers, organizations, and individuals that have an in- terest in supplying products or services to the amusement industry. The annual AIMS Safety Seminar is a comprehensive safety-training experience for individuals responsible for the care and safety of the amusement industry's guests. It offers both sit- down and hands-on classes. Attendees build tailored course curricula that best suit their needs and the needs of their employers. Class scheduling can be challeng- ing for students because they 34 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017 SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & EDUCATION AIMS Continued from page 33 2017 Skycoaster Safety Symposium a huge success AT: Pam Sherborne ney Company, and current equal sized groups that [email protected] chairman of IAAPA, gave move between the different opening safety remarks. target groups. Attendees had the op- KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Fun Spot America Theme portunity to go to SeaWorld Mark Rosenzweig, Ride Parks has the two tallest Sky- Orlando and receive behind- Entertainment Group, was coasters in the world. The the-scene tours of that park's very pleased at the turnout Kissimmee park has been new Mako roller coaster. of the 2017 Skycoaster Own- home to the world's tallest Seminar organizers er's Meeting and Safety installation since 1997. At strive to present new class Symposium that was held 300 feet tall, this iconic thrill topics every year. Some of at Fun Spot Family Theme ride is a well-recognized lo- the new topics this year in- Parks in both Kissimmee cal landmark. cluded security, active shoot- and Orlando. The Orlando property is er, terrorism, and guest be- "We are very, very thank- home to a 250-foot-tall lattice arch design that debuted as havior. ful for our host's accommo- Skycoaster safety attendees had three areas of instruction part of the park's major ex- Certification testing is dations," Rosenzwig said. ranging from cable and wench guidelines to flyer cable con- pansion back in 2013. offered in these four areas: "We were able to meet at Fun nection/operations. Here Mike Berge, High Energy Sports, Skycoaster is in its sec- ride inspector certification, Spot in Kissimmee and in gives details on the flight suits during a pre-flight segment Orlando. ond year of a two-year 25th maintenance certification, at the seminar. AT/GARY SLADE operations technician certi- "Everything went really, anniversary celebration, fication, and aquatics opera- really well," he said. focuses on acclimating op- Cable Inspections to Hy- which saw a new anniver- tions technician. There are a There were over 50 parks erations teams with the ins draulic Winch and Landing sary logo created with cus- number of levels offered un- represented during the Feb. and outs of operating this at- Unit maintenance proce- tomized patches sewn onto der each program. 1 and 2 symposium with traction. dures. all flight suites, both newly Certification is useful for 75 plus in attendance from The event features a se- Rosenzwieg describes placed into service and those securing additional business parks as far away as the U.K. ries of hands-on workshops, the symposium as a round returned from their annual opportunities and jurisdic- The safety symposium ranging from Flight Suit and robin, where there are three inspection. tional accreditation as well as for personal development. NAARSO Safety Forum sets new attendance record The 2017 AIMS Safety AT: Pam Sherborne very beneficial," Patton said. Seminar scholarship re- [email protected] NAARSO's classroom cipient for the Mark Moore sessions held earlier in the Craftsperson Scholarship ORLANDO, Fla. -— week are followed by certifi- was David Corcoran, Tayto NAARSO's 30th annual cation testing. This certifica- Park, Ireland. Safety Forum scored a touch tion program is recognized IAAPA scholarship rec- down this year drawing a and used by approximately ipents for the Alan Ramsay record crowd during its Jan. 18 states or provinces (in- Scholarship were: Morgan 30-Feb. 3 event held at the cluding Dubai, Canada, and Harp, The Track, Bran- Sheraton Orlando North. Singapore) as an identifier son; Brian Poppe, Holiday According to NAARSO's of individuals authorized World; Danielle Gillespie, (National Association of to provide jurisdictional or Calaway Park; Frank Ham- Amusement Ride Safety Of- third party inspections. edl, Universal Orlando and ficials) Connie Patton, total General Primary Cur- Deanna Johnson, LJM & As- attendance this year was 431 riculum covers basic inspec- sociates. of which 368 were students. tion points and techniques OABA scholarship re- There also was a record as well as basic electric, hy- cipients for the June Hardin number sitting for the certifi- draulics, and other related Memorial Scholarship were: Seen at the 30th annual Safety Fourm are NAARSO's board of directors cation exams, Levels I and II. subjects. A.J. Jardine, Thomas Carni- and officers. Front row from left: Len Cavalier, executive director; Jon- "Everything went very General Secondary Cur- val; Trevor Grady, Thomas athan Brooks, president; John Pierce, secretary; Tony Rossi, treasurer. smooth," Patton said. "It has Second row: Laura Woodburn, public relations; Heather Eichenbaum, riculum includes a schedule Carnival; D.J. Villarreal, been a great week." constitution & ethics; Ed LaSalle, budget & audit (co-chair); Jack Silar, of elective classes covering Ray Cammack Shows; and NAARSO is a non-profit membership (co-chair) and chairman of the board; Bill Costagliola, ed- different topics that focus on Alejandra Orozco, Ray association dedicated to the ucation (co-chair); Frank Guenthner, employee safety (co-chair). Third inspection of specific types Cammack Shows. advancement of amusement row: Tom Jones, codes & standards (co-chair); John Dodson, education of devices, codes and stan- (co-chair); Michael Mehlhorn, ASTM liason; John Hartman, employee ride and device safety. It of- dards, employee safety, and safety (co-chair). Back row: Clyde Wagner, past president; Jim Caskey, fers annual safety forums membership (co-chair) and Joe Gallagher, inspector qualifications & other topics not related to that provide classroom edu- certification. AT/GARY SLADE basic ride inspections. cation and inspection and The Operational Curric- operations certification. was held this year at Fun cial behind-the-scene tour ulum includes both Primary The annual Safety Fo- Spot America Orlando. of King Kong Skull Island and Advanced Operations rum is broken into three sec- "That was very good," there." classes. This curriculum is tions: Primary, Secondary Patton said. "We really ap- King Kong Skull Island targeted for those who wish and Operational. Participant preciate them accommodat- is the park's newest attrac- to further their operational paths for these two days ing us." tion. NAARSO Safety Forum knowledge. are determined by previous An added feature this attendees were able to go Testing for all levels and training experience and/or year was the opportunity for through the ride with Uni- curriculums are done at the Catching up at AIMS after a years in the industry. The fo- attendees to visit a second versal ride experts and were end of the forum. seminar are Pete Owens, Dol- rum features both classroom amusement facility. able to experience it as well. Patton said the 2018 lywood and Susie Storey, Sea- participation and hands-on "We went to Universal's "We also had dinner Safety Forum will be held World Parks & Resorts Orlando. training. Islands of Adventure Park," there and everyone had a re- Jan. 28-Feb. 2 at Dixie Lan- AT/GARY SLADE The hands-on portion she said. "We had a spe- ally good time and felt it was din', Baton Rouge, La. March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 35 SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & EDUCATION Ride operators converge on Knott’s for iROC training course AT: Dean Lamanna safety audits conducted by IRT [email protected] during operating season. Returning speakers in- BUENA PARK, Calif. — For cluded Lisa Stephani, a Dallas, the second consecutive year, the Texas-based educator whose International Ride Operator amusement industry passion Certification School (iROC) was was sparked early through her held at Knott’s Berry Farm. The work for her father’s Formula K program took place Feb. 7-10. Family Fun Park, near Kalama- Students in the innovative zoo, Mich. “train the trainer” course, which “I can’t think of anything is presented annually by Inter- I’d rather do,” Stephani said. national Ride Training (IRT), Dino Fazio, director of pier operations and training at Mo- “I love watching people grow, are given the opportunity to en- rey's Piers in Wildwood, N.J. (left), provided instruction and I love what they do for the hance their operational leader- for the iROC school at Knott's Berry Farm. Students were industry. There’s nothing more ship and teaching skills, as well trained at rides in the park after hours. AT/DEAN LAMANNA fun than somebody coming up as to share work experiences to you after a presentation and and network with other indus- aging members Patty Beazley encounter ‘torpedoes’ in the area access control, restraint saying, ‘Wow! I can use this.’” try leaders. The size of the 2017 and Cindee Huddy, who in workplace, but our message and device security verification, op- IRT’s Patty Beazley echoed conference exceeded last year’s, 2000 began offering the training goal with iROC is that you can erator communication, operator that sentiment. drawing about 100 attendees — and safety education that has overcome those challenges. And safe zones, pre-dispatch safety “It’s very rewarding,” she including ride operations train- evolved into iROC, gave their a lot of that is through a great checks and situational/emer- said. “It makes me feel good ers, supervisors, managers and 2017 program the theme “Full foundation of training.” gency preparedness. knowing that we’re helping directors — from throughout the Steam Ahead!” The coursework reflected This year’s school intro- young operators to be their best. U.S. and Canada and from as far “We want to help our stu- its creators’ own background duced eight new classes cover- It’s important for the amuse- as Norway. dents be the best trainers and in theme park operations and ing 50 new training techniques ment industry, but I also look New this year, iROC in- supervisors for ride operations,” commitment to industry safe- and exercises led by 16 faculty a bit deeper: We’ve taught that structors could earn credit hours Huddy told Amusement Today ty — incorporating 10 critical members and speakers. Course young person some life skills. applicable to IAAPA’s certifica- during a midday conference components: professionalism, updates were based on iROC That makes all the difference to tion program. break at the Knott’s Berry Farm guest engagement, rider screen- participant surveys and best me.” IRT co-founders and man- Hotel. “We know that they will ing, ride loading/unloading, practices observed during park •ridetraining.com MAINTENANCE make certain your older ride is safe, Many rides require that main- a “Lockout/Tagout Policy and Pro- there are several things you can do: Editor's note tenance technicians from several cedure” and the workers should be Continued from page 32 •Check with other operators A new company on hand disciplines make safety inspections trained in its use. who have the same or similar ride to during the recent NAARSO on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. The annual rehab can include a find out what they are doing. Safety Fourm, Ride Books, Technicians that are trained in me- Fall protection complete disassembly and inspection •Use your staff's experience has now placed many ride chanical, electrical, carpentry and fi- OSHA requires that fall protec- of every assembly and particularly, to identify critical components that manuals (including older berglass, etc. Each are an important tion be provided at elevations of four ride vehicles or “rolling stock,” an should they fail, the consequence rides) online giving the main- part of a safe operation and each may feet in general industry workplaces important and critical element of the would be significant. These should tenance staff member instant become more efficient and better con- and six feet in the construction in- ride. Ride vehicles are usually com- be NDT'd annually. access to many ride manuals trolled with a CMMS system. dustry. The ASTM F24 committee pletely rebuilt each year. In all cases, •Use your staff's experience via their smart phone or other has also issued a standard that spe- any component that exhibits out of with similar rides that have NDT Safety awareness cifically addresses amusement rides. electronic device. For more limits wear or damage is repaired or requirements to generate similar re- Employees should be reminded Familiarity with OSHA and ASTM information visit: www.ride- replaced. Inspection includes visual quirements. of their individual responsibility to standards regarding fall protection inspection, measurements and non- •Retain an industry expert or books.com. follow safe work practices and to will help your park meet the law as destructive testing (NDT). professional engineer who analyzes There are several compa- protect themselves, co-workers and well as industry standards… and be At least once per year, criti- the ride and generates a NDT re- nies offering CMMS systems. guest, at all times. General safety safer for workers and guest. cal portions of rides must be NDT quirement. One company with CMMS rules dictate that workers: inspected. NDT can include Dye In any case, make certain you park experience that had •Perform work in accordance with Housekeeping Penetrant; Magnetic Particle; X-Ray; are using best practices based on the their information on display manufacturers recommendations; One last word on housekeeping. Ultrasonic Radiographic and other best industry information available. at the AIMS Safety Seminar •Use proper tools and equipment If a ride or ride area is littered and methods that do not damage the In some cases this may be you and was Mobaro Park. For more for the job; dirty, the work may be the same but component. Each of these techniques your long term experience. information visit: www.mo- •Check safety devices, tools and what about safety? Housekeeping is equipment before use; important and should be an integral are designed to identify minute im- baropark.com. perfections or fatigue cracks that are New technology lends a hand •Avoid rings, jewelry, long hair or part of the maintenance operation. not visible to the naked eye. NDT is Making sure all systems are a clothing that may be caught in equip- Some key points related to house- a critical aid to prevent a failure that go before the public takes a ride re- manuals, daily, weekly and monthly ment; keeping are: could compromise safety. quires a large amount of resources checks and preventative mainte- •Use proper safety gear for the job; •Keep work areas clean and Ride manufacturers are re- and planning. Recently the mainte- nance schedules. The CMMS system •Use the buddy system when ap- tidy; quired by ASTM F1193 Standard nance function has been aided by leads the maintenance technician propriate; •Don’t allow trash or litter to ac- Practice for Quality, Manufacture, specialized computer programs that through every step providing in- •Utilize lockout devices; cumulate; and Construction of Amusement guide the maintenance technician structions and illustrations that leave •Practice good housekeeping; •Mark fire extinguishers and Rides and Devices, Section 12.4. through each aspect of their inspec- nothing to chance. All the mainte- Lockout/Tagout other safety apparatus properly; (astm.org) to define components re- tion and maintenance tasks. This aid nance technician has to do is follow To reiterate something from the •Identify hazardous materials quiring NDT inspection, the type of also makes it more difficult to forget real time instructions. Operations article, for employee safe- and store them properly; NDT and the inspection frequency. or overlook something important in In addition, a CMMS system ty, the first thing that must happen is •Keep exits clearly marked and This information must be provided the process. Something that could records and keep track of all activity the “Lockout” of the ride. Lockout unobstructed; with the ride and is usually in the present a safety issue. thus providing an automatic and ac- procedures is an article on its own so •Handle flammable materials ride manual. Computerized Maintenance curate record of work performed… a we won’t cover all the wherevers and properly; Quite possibly your a facility Management Software (CMMS) has big plus in any maintenance opera- wherefores but suffice it to say that •Make sure tools and equip- may have a ride that is older or the made scheduling and performing tion. Accurate records allow manage- every ride needs to be “deenergized” ment are clean and in good condition. original manufacturer no long ex- maintenance and safety tasks on ment to review and confirm work is before performing any work. This is A well-maintained ride is a ist. Theoretically these rides have a rides and equipment much easier to done and confirm your parks dili- not only important for the safety of clean, neat and orderly ride but above similar requirement but it may not manage. Hand held devices store all gence when/if defending any litiga- the maintenance workers but it is an all, is more likely to be a safe ride. be listed in any documentation. To the pertinent information including, tion. OSHA law. Every park should have 36 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017 SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & EDUCATION PEOPLE WATCH 2017 SkyNext event set for March 10 &11 Nick Thompson becomes 3rd generation chair BLACKPOOL, U.K. — Nick Thompson, Two day event caters deputy managing director of Blackpool Plea- to young amusement sure Beach, has become the first ever third generation chairman of the British Associa- industry professionals tion of Leisure Parks, Piers and Attractions (BALPPA). He follows in the footsteps of his Sky- ORLANDO, Fla. — father and grandfather who both previously Next is quickly becoming a held this prestigious post. Thompson “must-do” event for those into the industry. as representatives from IAA- Nick was announced as chairman of BALP- who are seeking a career in the Past speakers have includ- PA and the Themed Enter- PA, which is a 2-year post, at the association’s annual AGM amusement industry. Bill Kitchen tainment Association ed , inventor of (TEA). and dinner, which took place aboard the Sunborn in London, SkyNext's 2017 event has the popular Skycoaster; Sally Other leading supplier and last month. been scheduled for March 10- Corporation's Rich Hill, Fun park speakers are pending. Nick’s grandfather, Leonard Thompson, was one of the 11 in Orlando, Fla. More than Spot America's John Arie, An evening event has founding members of association, and the original chairman, 70 attendees are expected this Jr.; Universal Studio's Greg been scheduled at nearby in 1936. He then held the position again almost 25 years year. Senner; Walt Disney World's SeaWorld Orlando. This will later in 1963. Nick’s father, Geoffrey Thompson carried on Last year, more than 50 Katherine Kelly; SeaWorld include a presentation from the family tradition, holding the post of chairman in 1981 and young professionals from Entertainment's Jeff Hornick; Mark Patton, SeaWorld's rides again in 1992. 15 states and three countries Dynamic Attraction's Mike engineer, great food and ride Founded in 1936, BALPPA is the non profit-making trade spent the weekend at the Sky- Haimson and many more. It’s time on the Mako coaster. association representing the interests of owners, managers, line Attractions facility in a two day event with present- For more information on suppliers and developers in the U.K.’s commercial leisure Orlando. With presentations ers talking on a variety of sub- attending this event geared for parks, piers, zoos, family entertainment centres (indoor play from theme park and manu- jects, but mostly their story of future amusement industry and soft play centres) and static visitor attractions sector. facturing veterans, network- how they got into the industry leaders, contact: ing opportunities galore, back- and what they are doing now. Chris M. Gray stage tours of new and existing SkyNext's 2017 confirmed Skyline Attractions, LLC Family Ent. Group welcomes directors attractions and entertaining speakers include: Ride En- 3923 Forrestal Ave ITASCA, Ill. — Family Entertainment Group (FEG), an outings, SkyNext provides tertainment Group's Adam Orlando, Fla. 32806 operator of family entertainment and amusement facilities, an avenue for anyone who is Sandy, Mark Rosenzweig and Office (407) 587-0080 has added three talented team members to meet the needs serious about the 'Business of Jake Kilcup as well as Mo- Cell (407) 808-2347 of the growing company. FUN' to start making inroads rey's Pier's Jack Morey as well •skylineattractions.com Director of Marketing, Scott Brown, will be responsible Katharine Morgan for the marketing program and the execution of brand devel- California is site for 2017 opment for FEG corporate and its properties. becomes president Director of Analytics, Jesse Wu, comes to FEG with a IAAPA Leadership Conference of ASTM Intl. wealth of experience in marketing automation and analytics. Conference set for March 8-10 in Anaheim/Hollywood Director of Human Resources, Victoria Duff, will be over- NORFOLK, Va. — On seeing strategic planning and alignment of human capital ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Top-level international attrac- Feb. 1, Katharine (Kathie) management. tions industry leaders will "Be Inspired" when they gather Morgan began serving as to learn how attractions in Anaheim/Hollywood, California, president of ASTM Inter- Faarup Sommerland appoints new CEO update and transform their facilities and technology to national, one of the world’s build staying power during IAAPA Leadership Conference largest stan- NORTH JUTLAND, Denmark — The new owners and 2017. The conference, which will take place March 8-10, dards devel- board have chosen the person to lead Denmark's Faarup 2017, marks the seventh consecutive year the International opment or- Sommerland. Beginning April 1, Per Dam Jensen will be the Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) ganizations. park's new CEO. has presented the event. Morgan will Chairman Ole Mølgaard said, "We are Attendees will hear from Bob Weis, president of Walt lead a team very pleased to announce Per as the new CEO. Disney Imagineering, the creative design and develop- that supports He knows Faarup, we know him and we know ment arm of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. He will share thousands Morgan what he stands for. He shares the board's and his decades of industry knowledge on how to develop and of members, the new owners' desire to continue the robust deliver extraordinary products and experiences that en- customers, , and development of Faarup Sommerland as one of hance guests' emotional connection to the brand. Weis has other stakeholders world- North Jutland's premier experiences and one been vital in designing Disney theme parks and attractions wide. She succeeds James A. of Denmark's best amusement parks. His pre- Jensen around the world, including the recently completed Shang- Thomas, who served in the vious experience means he can quickly take up hai Disney Resort and the expansion of Disney California role for 25 years. the position, and the new owners and board are confident Adventure Park. “I am thrilled and hum- they have found the right person for the position." Conference participants will take part in education ses- bled to serve as president Per Dam Jensen is 49 years old and has many years of sions, network with industry colleagues, and experience of an organization that has management experience in the entertainment and amuse- guided tours of some of the area's most popular attrac- played such a foundation- ment park industries. He has worked for Faarup before, as a tions, including Aquarium of the Pacific, Disney California al role in meeting societal seasonal employee, human resources manager, board mem- Adventure Park, Great Wolf Lodge, Knott's Berry Farm, needs for over a century,” ber and CEO in 2012-13, before he chose to resign from his The Queen Mary, and Universal Studios Hollywood. Morgan said at the organi- position to become CEO of the film and music company,San - "As the number of options for how people can spend zation’s first major meeting drew Metronome. He lives in Løkken with his wife and two their leisure time increases, our industry must remain fo- of 2017 in Norfolk, Va. “We children. cused on the future by utilizing new technologies, enhanc- will build on the legacy of Jensen commented on his new role: "I have previously ing experiences, and upgrading facilities," said IAAPA Jim Thomas, attracting even stated that to lead Faarup Sommerland was a dream position President and CEO Paul Noland. "The presentations, be- more of the world’s top tech- — and it still is. Faarup has a special place in my heart, and even though I'm very happy with my current job, I was incred- hind-the-scenes tours, and networking sessions at IAAPA nical experts to our commit- ibly pleased to be approached and asked if I was interested Leadership Conference 2017 will deliver fresh perspectives tees while also serving peo- in leading Faarup. The circumstances are different now from and unique ideas that will inspire attendees to enhance ple and organizations that before, and I was never in any doubt. I'm really looking for- their guest experience offering to further drive their busi- rely on our standards and ward to applying myself to the development of Faarup with ness." services.” the new board, owners and the incredibly talented staff of •IAAPA.org/leadershipconference Morgan is a 33-year vet- eran of ASTM International. permanent and seasonal workers." March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 37

ThisM spaceuseu is provided courtesym of Amusement P Todayrogress, a corporate partner of the National R Roller Coasterep Museumort & Archives. Recent equipment donations and deliveries THIS MONTH PLAINVIEW, Texas — An ear- ly Christmas gift to the museum IN HISTORY arrived on December 21, 2016. Presented by the National Rollercoaster Museum The mystery car (right) came from COMPILED: Richard Munch the collection of Charles Can- field of Santa Cruz Beach Board- MARCH wåalk. The park is researching the origins of the remarkable side •1907: On March 26, a Providence, Rhode Island, newspaper adver- friction car, although it is believed tised a stock opportunity related to the new park in East Providence. to have operated at either Euclid The advertisement stated: ”Vanity Fair, when completed and open to Beach, Cleveland, Ohio, or Crys- the public on Saturday, May 25 next, will be devoted to public enter- tal Beach, Ridgeway, Ontario. tainment, represented by such 20th century attractions as Fighting the An update will follow when the Flames, Scenic Railway, Shooting-the-Chutes, Old Mill, Circle Swing, museum determines its true ori- Roller Coaster and Dancing Pavilion.“ Shares sold for $50.00 with an gins. Shockwave permanently closed in the 2017 season by Vekoma, the estimated earning capacity of 8 percent per annum. The brainchild of Designed by the Japanese August 2015. This lead car (below Morey’s Organization generously George Boyden (who had financed Crescent Park earlier) Vanity Fair firm Togo, Shockwave opened left) from the ride was donated to offered and delivered the track operated only six seasons, closing after a major fire in 1912. in 1986 at Kings Dominion in Do- the National Roller Coaster Mu- section (below) for a future ex- swell, Virginia. At the time it was seum in late 2016 by Kings Do- hibit. The new track is expected •1913: Idora Park in Oakland, California, opened on March 22 for its Togo’s third stand-up type coast- minion/Cedar Fair. to provide a smoother ride expe- 11th season. In the background, along Shattuck Avenue, construction er. At 95 feet high, the 2,231-foot- A loop section of the action rience. The Morey’s have been a continued for another month on one of the largest (at the time) wood- long ’s unique packed The Great Nor’Easter, great supporter of the museum, en racing roller coasters built in California. The big ride, named the ride was enjoyed by millions dur- the 1995 suspended coaster at having already donated numer- Race Through the Clouds, was advertised to be over a mile in length ing its 30 seasons of operation. Morey’s Pier, Wildwood, New ous other ride vehicles, includ- and claimed speeds of 90 miles per hour. The $65,000 ride, using Jersey, arrived in Plainview recent- ing a beautiful vehicle from their 1,000,000 board feet of lumber, formally opened on April 27, 1913. A ly. With 90 percent of the track Huss Condor ride. collaboration between Ingersoll Amusement Park Company and the being removed and replaced for —Richard Munch L. A. Thompson Scenic Railway Company, the big ride followed the trend of America’s newest interest in racing coasters – more would be built during a 20 year period than at any other time in history. Idora Park would be raised in late 1929 as a new residential neighborhood would eventually consume the North Oakland park.

•1941: Reported in the March 21 edition of the Dallas Morning News, Barbara Hutton was to be married to actor Cary Grant. Babs Hutton was the heir to the Woolworth Empire, the granddaughter of found- er Frank Woolworth. The article mentioned that Hutton and Grant were spending a lot of their spare time at Ocean Park, California, the Coney Island of the west coast. Hollywood was noticing that both enjoyed the area so much that crowds were showing up on week- ends hoping to catch a glimpse of the happy couple, as well as other celebrities. Ironically Grant used to be a stilt walker in Coney Island, New York, luring passing crowds on Surf Avenue to enter Steeple- chase Park. It is likely where, as a young man, he picked up his love for the amusement field. 38 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017 Indianapolis Motor CLASSIFIEDS Speedway to host AUCTION Americana auction CLASSIFIED Amusement equipment included in March 11 Ad Rates auction conducted by Norton Auctioneers „$20 minimum, up to 30 words INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — A unique auction will be held at ($1 per additional word) the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on March 11, 2017, involv- ing a host of items not seen by the public in more than 40 years. „DISPLAY AD: The auction includes a rare Herschell-Spillman 30-horse, $50 per column inch all-wood carousel, and a second Allen Herschell 30-horse, ½ & ½ carousel. „Due 10th of the month Two vintage National Amusement Device miniature trains prior to issue date are featured items that will be auctioned off, along with 12 brass and cast iron bells, an original Horse Drawn Hansom Cab, and a classic Albert Decap dance organ built in Belgium in the 1930s. Three Zinc Cigar Store Indians, American Star High Wheel Bicycle, several vintage steam pumpers used for fire-fighting early in the 20th century and an actual 1826 prairie schooner wagon are also in the auction catalog. These items are being sold as non-collection assets unrelat- ed to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Foundation’s mission because they do not relate to racing or automobiles in any way, and were never intended to be displayed in the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum. “The spectacular items in this one-of-a-kind auction tell im- portant stories about life in America in the days of our grand- parents and great grandparents, and deserve to be displayed and used in an appropriate setting. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum was never intended to be that setting and it is time they find a home where they can be enjoyed as treasured examples of American life of 75 to 100 years ago, or more” said Betsy Smith, executive director of theINSIDE: non-profit Indianapolis Motor Speedway Foundation that operates the museum. Proceeds from the auction will be IAAPAinvested Attractions in the future of Expo 2016 recap the museum, to celebrate more than a centurySEE SECTION of the B innovation, thrill, and adventure of motor racing at the Indianapolis Motor www.amusementtoday.com Speedway. The sale will be held in the Pavilion at the Indianapolis Mo- tor Speedway. TM & ©2017 Amusement Today, Inc. For more information on the auction items contact Norton January 2017Auctioneers | Vol. 20 • Issue 10 at (517) 279-9063, e-mail: dan@spiethandsatow. Mark comMoore or log Memorial onto www.nortonauctioneers.com. Fundraiser tops $322,490 National Roller Coaster Museum plans new building honoring Moore; industry donations ongoing The Mark Moore Memorial Fundraiser kicked off Nov. 17, - at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2016 with a $100,000 donation Karen from Uremet, the company founded by the late Mark Moore. On hand to receive the generous donation were several board members of the National Roller Coaster Museum & - Archives (NRCMA), along with representatives from Uremet time," said regarding AIMS Executivethe increase Director in sessions on and Moore's family. The fundraising campaign — still ongo Oertley - ing — has since welcomed additional donations, bringing active shooters and terrorism. in $322,490 total as of press time. NRCMA is proposing to AIMS International is a non-profit organi - double the size of its current archive facility. zation dedicated to industry safety. It consists AT: Pam Sherborne 4SEE STORY/HOW TO DONATE, PAGE 46 of manufacturers, suppliers, organizations [email protected] and individuals that have an interest in sup plying products or services to the amusement NORTH AMERICA — As 2017 gets un - Follow us! industry. derway, so do the various annual seminars In early December, Oertley said seminar focusing on safety, maintenance, certification registration was ahead of last year during the 2017 MARKS START OF SAFETY SEMINARS - and education. same time period. Holly Coston is the AIMS Here is a preview of five upcoming key seminar manager and Karen Strahl is the cer seminars: tification manager. Classes are taught by vol- AIMS Safety Seminar unteers. Orlando, Fla. The 2016 seminar hosted about 350 at FOR SALE Jan. 8-13, 2017 tendees. The annual AIMS International Safety 2017 AIMS Safety Seminar will offer The - Seminar is a comprehensive safety-training a variety of new topics during its annual run experience for individuals responsible for the set for Jan. 8-13, at the Doubletree by Hilton at care and safety of the amusement industry's Holly Coston (left), AIMS Sea-World, Orlando, Fla. guests. International seminar man- Some of the new areas to be covered in Attendees build4 tailoredSee SEMINARS, course curricula page 4 ager, and Karen Oertley, clude security, active shooter, terrorism, total AIMS executive director, productive maintenance programs, ASTM promoted the upcoming standards and guest behaviors, as well as AIMS Safety Seminar during classes specific to ride accessibility, climbing IAAPA Attractions Expo. walls, family entertainment centers and more. The seminar is set for Janu- "I guess it is a sad commentary of our ary 8-13 at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Orlando at SeaWorld in Florida.

AT/PAM SHERBORNE

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PAID US POSTAGE US Check outSTD thePRSRT latest premium new and used rides at: facebook.com/internationalridesmanagement or call (609) 425-1220 to receive a current list. March 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39 CLASSIFIEDS

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT

Dixie Landin' Theme Park is located in Baton Rouge, La., and is accompanied by Blue Bayou Water Park. Dixie Landin' has more than 28 rides and attractions including coasters, kiddie rides, and typical family rides and attractions. Blue Bayou features over 20 water attractions including numerous water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. Maintenance Mechanic with electrical experience needed at SEEKING Joyland Amusement Park in Lubbock, Texas. ssistant eneral anager irector of perations - This is a full-time position with opportunity for advancement. • A G M /D O Will help maintain and repair rides Candidate must have at least 5 years experience with operations in both water and amusement parks or more than 5 years in one with and related equipment. Millwright- knowledge and ability to manage both. type experience preferred. Ability to follow written and oral direc- • Ride Operations Director - This is a full-time position with opportunity for advancement. Candidate must have at least 3 years tions. Ability to work heights and experience as a supervisor/manager and knowledge of safe operation of rides. follow safety guidelines. Experi- ence with lighting systems, 3-phase • Aquatics Manager - This is a full-time position with opportunity for advancement. Candidate must have at least 3 years electrical knowledge and ability to experience as an aquatics supervisor/manager and an Ellis & Associates instructors license.. trouble shoot electrical controls. Pay will depend on experience. Salary commensurate with experience, education, & training. Includes paid vacation & annual bonus along w/ other compensations. Send resume via email to: Please email resume to [email protected] [email protected]. EOE

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT FOR SALE SEEKING Assistant Director NEW JERSEY of Maintenance, Water Park Manager, SHORE & Maintenance Technicians AMUSEMENT PARK Beech Bend Park in Bowling Green, Kentucky is seeking an Assistant Director of Maintenance, a Water Park Manager, as well as Maintenance Technicians to join our operations team . Family-owned Beech Bend Park is family owned and features more than 3 dozen rides, Splash Lagoon waterpark and a full service & operated campground situated between Nashville, Tennessee and for 32 years! Louisville, Kentucky . Beech Bend Park offers: A premium attraction with: - Salary commensurate with experience, education & training. - Full medical and dental insurance. •19 rides - 401(k) with company matching features •large family - Paid vacation and annual bonus FOR SALE FOR SALE Casino Arcade with See more about the positions and the company at thousands of prizes beechbend .com/employment . 1957 Miler •18 boardwalk games Contact: Charlotte Gonzalez, General Manager Kiddie Coaster •Food Court or Dallas Jones, President at 270-781-7634 . Please email resume to beechbendpark@msn .com 5 car train • 71 feet long •Victorian Ice Cream Parlor with subject line “Employment .” 35 feet wide • 7 feet tall •Employee housing Lift chain 2 years old FOR SALE Axels 5 years old Turn-key operation 5 year old Urethane paint SHALLER GO CARTS Moser Flipping Action Arm P/M . . . $99,000 and fully-certified, Park model, • 22 Single, 7 Doubles Chance Century Wheel P/M . . . $199,000 experienced staff. • All with 9 H P. . Honda but easily portable • Proleg Kartrol Chance Pharoahs Fury T/M . . . $550,000 Track Control System Wisdom Tornado T/M ...... $139,000 • Appr . $8,000 in parts incl . Very fun kiddie coaster Please call • Located: Central California Tivoli Orbiter T/M ...... $399,000 $31,000 Len Soled at Rides-4-U • Operated until 11/27/2016 2010 ARM Vertigo T/M ...... 400,000 for further details! $42,000 • (209) 549-7888 ARM Happy Viking T/M ...... $89,000 Contact: David Dean Kolinski Slide T/M ...... $39,000 Joyland Amusement Park (908) 526-8009 FOR SALE Zamperla Tea Cup T/M ...... $49,000 (806) 763-2719, #13 [email protected] 2016 KMG Out T/M . . $725,000 7 BEAUTIFUL CAROUSEL HORSES Zamperla Power Surge T/M . . . $299,000 Wood • Large glass eyes • Hair • Tail Zamperla Shocker T/M . . . . .$250,000 . Expo Wheel T/M ...... $299,000 All Restored $1,000 each Call Len or John (908) 526-8009 Bob Kissel • (812) 839-3255 FAX: (908) 526-4535 8253 E. Lee Hill Rd. • Madison, IN 47250 40 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2017