INSIDE: SeaWorld debuts jet ski-themed ANNIVERSARY launch coaster

TM & ©2017 , Inc. PAGE 20

August 2017 | Vol. 21 • Issue 5 www.amusementtoday.com Mine Blower bursts onto the scene at Fun Spot Gravity Group. Korey Kiepert, engineer delivers dynamite and partner with The Grav- action at Kissimmee ity Group, commented on the snug fit: “We had to optimize AT: Tim Baldwin the ride for the site. The far [email protected] end is narrower than the front end; the challenge was to fit KISSIMMEE, Fla. — “The many passes into the ride. Be- Mine Blower is an amazing cause of the Timberliners, we ride in such a small footprint can have a super-tight radius that really packs a punch. at the top of the .” This is a one-of-a-kind custom Standing at 83 feet tall, A nine-month, $14 million project at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk has resulted in this formal coaster that you can’t ride Mine Blower begins with a park gateway and two new thrill rides. COURTESY SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK anywhere else in the world,” snappy turn off the lift - said John Arie, Jr., chief op- ing directly into an 80-foot Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk expands erating officer of Fun Spot first drop that belies its height. America Theme Parks. The 65-degree plunge starts New main entrance way for a welcoming arched named Rice to the position A small footprint is cor- the ride off with a huge bang brings added room entry that leads into a bright, two years ago. “We’re always rect. Shoehorned into a piece that continues into an upside- open plaza stretching across focused on enhancing the of land that used to hold a down barrel roll directly over for rides, food, fun to the beach side of the prom- guest experience, so that was go-kart track, Mine Blower is enade. an underlying theme.” the latest installation by The 4See FUN SPOT, page 5 AT: Dean Lamanna Two new thrill rides — a Rice told Amusement Today [email protected] Mega Disk’O called that the project, more than a Shockwave and an ARM dual- decade in the planning, was SANTA CRUZ, Calif. — arm Screamer named Typhoon based on factors ranging from Northern California’s beloved — occupy high-profile posi- guest surveys and spending seaside amusement institu- tions in the new plaza, while patterns to how people gen- tion, Santa Cruz Beach Board- a new food experience, a new erally interact with the park. walk (SCBB), is celebrating its birthday party room, more SCBB’s in-house creative team 110th anniversary this sum- ticket windows, and several collaborated with several out- mer with a just-completed $14 relocated and upgraded at- side design firms and vendors million facelift that includes tractions and games round out to arrive at plans that were expanded offerings and new- the impressively reimagined both practical and aestheti- found space for showcasing and reorganized area. cally appealing. major rides. “The goal of the project “Over that 10-year period, Central to the nine-month was to take a part of the park there were a lot of changes,” improvement project was a — our main entrance — that, Rice said. “But we kept mas- new main entrance for the to a large degree, was sort of saging it. If you look back at park, which never had a for- an afterthought and create a all of the different concepts on mal gate facing Beach Street grander sense of arrival,” said paper, from where we started across from its parking lots. Santa Cruz Seaside Co. (and to where we ended up is very An older building containing At Fun Spot in Kissimme, Fla., an inversion sends riders up- SCCB) President Karl Rice, different. But it was a very games and attractions was side down directly over the station on the new Mine Blower the grandnephew of company razed over the winter to make coaster. COURTESY FUN SPOT CEO Charles Canfield, who 4See SCBB, page 6 Dated material. material. Dated

NEWSPAPER

POSTMASTER: PLEASE RUSH! July 27, 2017 Thursday, Mailed

PERMIT # 2069 # PERMIT FT. WORTH TX WORTH FT.

PAID com US POSTAGE US REGISTRATION OPEN!s.

icketAward PRSRT STD PRSRT enT www.Gold 2 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3 NEWSTALK

EDITORIAL: Tim Baldwin, [email protected] FLINT’S VIEW: Bubba Flint The barefoot challenge

Earlier this summer, I enjoyed several visits to various water parks. Some were all- day affairs and others were just brief stops for an hour or two. I have enough experience under my belt to know that some type of water shoes can be a valuable benefit. But Baldwin when planning to be on site for a brief time, I don’t always have the footwear in hand on each visit. And looking around, I see more than half of water park visitors are barefoot as well. While this is nothing new, there is no denying that a problem exists — a major one. At virtually every water park I visited, I saw many guests hopping about because concrete walkways became sizzling hot. Painfully so. And, yes, I can bear witness from personal experience. Within weeks I noticed how vast the range of effort was placed into alleviating the problem. Some parks offered shaded areas to ward off the severity and some purposefully sprayed the walkways down to cool them off. Sadly, more often than not, there was no relief to be EDITORIAL: Andrew Mellor, [email protected] found for guests feeling their feet scorched to excruciating levels. Quality counts I found the apathy to this problem to be quite We all appreciate a quality product, people return home and inevitably disheartening. The solution can’t just be: “We have no matter what it might be. From a de- they want to see similar standards if footwear for purchase in our gift shops.” The guest cent cup of coffee or a meal in a clean, they visit a theme park, for example, experience then spirals downward from pained to pained well-maintained establishment, to the more locally. But sadly, those high so badly they feel gouged by having to purchase extra purchase of an item or a day out in pleas- standards are not always to be found. items for their children. ant, cared-for surroundings, we all recog- Of course, not all locations can To water park operators everywhere, I offer this nise when things are done right and stan- be expected to match the quality of challenge: Before the hot days of summer come to a close, dards are good. Mellor some of the major players in our in- make a move to where it is mandatory that all supervisors With the ease of travel that we all dustry for a number of reasons, but must walk barefoot in the middle of the afternoon. Even enjoy these days, the world is a much smaller having visited a major theme park recently place, enabling us to sample different locations which one would expect to lead the way in if it is for only 15 minutes. If management is subjected to and experiences literally all over the world. creating experiential value, it was disappoint- the hot walkways for even a fraction of the time guests When it comes to theme parks, water parks and ing to see many areas of the venue that were are, problem areas will certainly be determined. From this FECs, people regularly enjoy such facilities in clearly lacking in the care and attention that challenge, hopefully progress can be made and the guest different countries and can therefore compare could make such a difference to the visitor ex- experience can climb even higher. them with those back home – and often do. perience. And this was not a park that would Guests obviously appreciate that the likes struggle for the budget to do so. Details on "The Networking Event of the Year" of Disney and Universal have extremely high There’s nothing worse than seeing a park have been released and amusement industry parks and standards which are at the very top of the tree which doesn’t really seem to care, or rather suppliers are invited. The Golden Ticket Awards, presented when it comes to the parks industry, but many an operator not making the effort. Tired, un- annually by Amusement Today and hosted this year by other venues also maintain excellent standards cared-for areas, buildings, facilities and even & Quassy , are set for throughout their facilities and set the bar when attractions detract terribly from a property and Sept. 8 and 9 in Bristol, Conn. View the schedule of events it comes to overall excellence. clearly give a bad impression. High standards or register at: www.GoldenTicketAwards.com. Having experienced such top-class venues, and quality count and should surely be at the expectations are not surprisingly raised when forefront of every operator’s mind at all times.

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 Monthly Contributors National Museum & Archives Fax: (817) 265-NEWS (6397) [email protected] Dan Feicht, Bubba Flint, Andrew Mellor, Websites: www.AmusementToday.com, Richard Munch, Janice Witherow www.GoldenTicketAwards.com 4 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017

THE INDUSTRY SEEN MINUTE crew gives time to kids DRILL 2 AT: Janice Witherow

Employees of Quassy As manager of communications for Over Texas, Sharon Parker maintains a Amusement Park in Mid- high energy level. COURTESY dlebury, Conn., shared their goodwill during the Sharon Parker, Six Flags Over Texas United Way of Greater Wa- Sharon Parker loves being busy and active − Favorite place to unwind: Home – either in my terbury’s Day of Action on that’s a good thing, since her job as manager of craft room or in our family room listening to my June 21. The volunteers, communications at Six Flags Over Texas keeps husband yell at the game on TV and my kids who spent time reading her hopping. Prior to joining the Six Flags team in running around. and working on art proj- 2007, Sharon worked in television news, so making What would you say is a big waste of time? ects with preschoolers, in- the switch to communications in the amusement Negative people. They truly are the pits. cluded (above, front row, industry was a natural. Her upbeat personality, from left) Zak Lavish, Erica boundless energy and ability to multi-task with This always makes me smile: Seeing my kids Stephen, Jamie Cormier, ease are all virtues that are obvious upon meeting eyes light up when they see me or driving in to Lisa Sherwood and Angi her … plus, she’s just pure fun to be around! work and seeing the park skyline. Colella; (back row, from Title: Manager of Communications. My idea of a good surprise: Coming home and left) Mitch Fallon, Alex For- realizing my hubby has cooked dinner and already Years at Six Flags: 10 years and 2 months. tuna, Adrianna Thompson fed the kids OR when my boss does my monthly and Lizz Crabtree; and (at Best thing about the industry: The list is long, forecast budget for me. but I can sum it up by saying it’s the passion. right) Mitch Myers. What would you rather give up … ice cream or COURTESY QUASSY Favorite amusement ride: . popcorn? Popcorn. AMUSEMENT PARK If I wasn’t working in the amusement industry, Yuckiest thing ever eaten: Liver and onions. I would be: Living on a beach, but I need to Which do you usually listen to, your head or make money, so I’ll go with my second passion CHARACTER CORNER your heart? My heart, but I’m learning to allow — sports. I’d totally dig working in the athletics the two to talk to one another before I act. Prof. Cyrus Cosmo, Six Flags Over Texas department for a college team. What topic makes your brain ache? Biggest challenge facing our industry: In 1975, Six Flag Over Texas Dishonest people. I don’t get it and I don’t believe Sensational journalism. It’s disheartening to see introduced Prof. Cyrus Cosmo. in it. So many things can be easily discussed, and misguided information flippantly shared about an The creation of native if a mistake is made it can be rectified, if you just industry that has an overall excellent track record, Paul Osborne, a local entertain- tell the truth. er and magician, the Professor is so meticulous about its operations and prides was described as a “part-time itself on keeping its guests safe. If you could invent one thing that could make the world a better place what would it be? inventor, full-time showman and The thing I like most about amusement/water Mandatory dance breaks. Dancing fires up your permanent purveyor of fun and park season is … I absolutely love seeing the positive endorphins and can make you feel better fantasy.” He worked electronic excitement on people’s faces as they’re heading and make you happy. marvels in the Cyrus Cosmo into the park and realizing that I play a part in Wonder Show, a production their having a good day. What month of the year best describes who of magic and illusions. Every you are? I’m year-round, baby! Non-stop! evening the Professor boarded Favorite childhood television show: Popeye. the Cosmobile and led the Whenever Popeye would open a can of spinach, The last movie I saw was: Wonder Woman. If Incredible Electric Light Brigade I’d run to the kitchen and grab a pickle (it was the everyone had her compassion, looks and the Parade. He was responsible closest green item I could snag quickly) and eat it. ability to kick butt without breaking a sweat, I truly for two rides that debuted in believe this world would be a better place! If you could learn something new tomorrow 1975. Rotoriculous, a Reverchon and succeed at it for life, what would it be? indoor Super Himalaya, featured My next vacation is to: Galveston, Texas. Learning a second language. It’s on my list of music and lighting effects. For , Moody Gardens, and Galveston’s the smaller patrons, the C. Cos- things to accomplish, and I have two Rosetta Stone Pleasure Pier! Yes, my family visits amusement and mo Flying Machine Co. offered a language sets waiting to be put to good use. water parks when we go on vacation. gentle flight on antique aircraft. The most comfortable place in my home: In one word, my job is: Supercalifranchilisticexp- The Professor amazed guests for Wherever my family has set up camp. ialidocious (translation: AWESOME!). five years, and was retired after the 1979 season. Favorite outdoor activity: Softball, but my People say I remind them of: I’ll go with the CARTOON BUBBA FLINT; reflexes have told me otherwise, so now it’s just Energizer Bunny. I just keep going and going and HISTORY JEFFREY SEIFERT good ol’ fashion running around with my kids. going… August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5 FUN SPOT be a good fit for the property. Continued from page 1 “Our things are a little more extreme here,” said Tuten. the station — one of the rides At night, programmable most dramatic visual state- LED floodlights projected on ments. This inversion rock- the white structure make the ets immediately into a sharp, ride a standout upon arrival overbanked turnaround and while in the park. which proceeds directly into Arie said, “Our guests are a double-down. This opening raving about their experience act is unmistakably intense. when they get off the ride and The remainder of the ride look at the pictures of them- continues to speed through selves while they were up- the course that ducks in and side down in the barrel roll. out of the steel structure. Both This coaster in such a short ends of the compact twister time has proven to us to be a feature overbanked turns, huge success!” the steepest of which is 115 Mine Blower officially degrees. The track length is Above, LED flood lights opened on June 23, 2017. 2,290 feet and top speed is just make for a fantastic view shy of 50 mph. from across the small pond Fun Spot “You are always doing at night. At left, the bar- something — going round rel roll makes Mine Blower expands brand and round or up and down, the only wooden coaster in even upside down!” said with an inversion. into Arie. “This thing is so thrill- COURTESY THE GRAVITY FAYETTEVILLE, Ga. — ing that when you hit the GROUP/MICHAEL GRAHAM Fun Spot America is extend- brake [run] you think about AND FUN SPOT ing its reach beyond the what your favorite part of Central Florida area. As the the ride is but can’t iden- sport a bottle rocket type of company begins its growth tify where it was because so explosive thematic on the to become more of a chain much just happened to you.” front of the lead car. The trains of parks, it recently pur- “The beauty of this ride are built by GravityKraft, a chased Fun Junction USA in is that our trains allow us to sister company of The Grav- Fayetteville, Ga., just south do things we weren’t able to ity Group. of Atlanta. Fayetteville is do several years ago,” said “This is the smallest ride a town of approximately Kiepert. “We’re able to make we’ve done to date that fea- 16,000 people. tighter turns and inversions tures an inversion. Typically, Fun Junction already now. We really tried to be ef- our rides that feature inver- has go-kart tracks, rides ficient with our use of track sions are over a hundred feet and miniature golf. The park on this project.” with the name Mine Blower. of Wile E. Coyote riding the tall,” Kiepert told Amusement opened in 1990. The ride was engineered “We were looking at a lot ACME rocket,” he said. “We Today. “We had to be creative “We wanted to expand to feature 12 moments of air- of different ideas and - con will eventually have tunnels in how we designed the inver- our brand and culture out- time during the layout. cepts. Mine Blower is kind added along with dynamite sion. John Jr. thought it would side of the Orlando mar- Pat Tuten, creative direc- of a combination of a mine and TNT theming.” be cool to have the inversion ket,” said John Arie Jr., tor for Fun Spot, came up and that cartoon idea Two Timberliner trains over the station.” chief operating officer, Fun “Right now our concen- Spot America Theme Parks. Trader's Village opens pair of tration was on getting the Fayetteville is a growing city ride open,” said Bart Parsons, that shows huge potential director of special projects, for an amusement park. This Fun Spot. “Later on this year existing location has been we hope to add the tunnels. operating as a family busi- That will bring online more ness for almost 30 years. It excitement.” has a lot of the hands-on Parsons also said two flat ownership in the daily ops, rides were relocated to make which is just how we are in room for the Mine Blower our ops. We see what the project and that they would Williams family has done be reintroduced later this over the years, and it is re- year. He noted the Kissimmee ally impressive and makes it location does more per-ride a lot easier for us to step in sales in contrast to armbands and operate the business.” compared to the Orlando Fun Because of the large Spot location. “It’s sort of a area of real estate, Fun fun place to hang out at night, Spot management is ex- particularly when people cited about the oppor- come into town and have just tunity to master plan the Following the installation of Village Vortex (a Giant Loop) over the checked into their hotels.” development. winter months, two new rides by Chance Rides were added in early summer to Traders Fun Spot Kissimmee “This park has almost Village in Grand Prairie, Texas. A sparkling new Yo-Yo and have expanded could be considered to have 100 acres, which really the complement of rides on the flea market’s midway. Traders Village President Tim the higher thrill attractions of helped us make the deci- Anderson is pleased with the new additions. “They have exceeded expectations,” the two Florida properties as sion,” Arie told Amusement Anderson told Amusement Today. He went on to say the larger midway has the property it features the world’s largest Today. “We have so many contemplating opportunities to stay open later or to cater to private events. Traders and the steepest options when it comes to Village currently is open Saturdays and Sundays 52 weeks a year. AT/TIM BALDWIN bank on any go-kart in the expanding.” world. Mine Blower seems to 6 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 SCBB tributed to the project. terproofing and various ways Continued from page 1 With SCBB so historically to keep our basement facilities anchored in the community, dry.” healthy process, and what we Rice acknowledged that mak- Such concerns are all in a have today is the best itera- ing such major changes to the day’s work for the 35-year-old tion. It’s very exciting to see it park had to be undertaken father of two young children, come to fruition.” with care. who joined the family busi- Rice credited Dublin, “Our guests and those ness in 2012 and has loved Ohio-based attractions de- who’ve worked here a long riding the park’s classic Gi- sign firm Roto and its work time come to know the Board- ant Dipper roller coaster since with the SCBB team for pro- walk and take a level of own- childhood. viding “the key ingredient… ership of it — which is a great “My job primarily is to en- we brought Roto in a couple thing. But when we propose sure that the company and the years ago, toward the end of changes of any sort, we need park are moving in the right the process, and they added to be very mindful of how direction,” said Rice, who some fresh perspective. It was they may impact the park and The Boardwalk's expanded entrance plaza plays host to a holds an M.B.A. in finance and important for us to have mul- people’s perception of it.” new Zamperla Disk'O (above, foreground) and a new A.R.M. real estate from the University tiple perspectives, because the Rice indicated that he was dual-arm Screamer (below). of California , and Boardwalk doesn’t necessarily most eager to see how park COURTESY SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK oversees about 1,300 employ- have one theme or style. So, guests would interact with the ees during peak season. “At we wanted a cross-representa- new entrance plaza and its at- this point in time, I’m more in- tional group of folks thinking tractions. volved in the financial and ad- about design.” “It’s far more open than ministrative side of the busi- Daniels Wood Land, Inc., the rest of our park,” he said. ness. I let the folks who know a family-owned design and “We’re physically and geo- how to operate the park on a theming company based in graphically challenged; we day-to-day basis do just that, Paso Robles, Calif. (featured don’t have a lot of open, fluid and I try not to get in their way on the Animal Planet TV se- space. Any time we can place too much.” ries Redwood Kings), worked new rides in the park where The family legacy aspect on exteriors for games and at- we don’t have to take some- of the business, Rice noted, tractions inside the new main thing else away is a good thing also requires constant tending. entrance. A number of local for us.” “The Boardwalk is a re- vendors and contractors, in- Rice added that the cen- ally important part of who we cluding William S. Bagnall Ar- ter of the new plaza, currently are,” he said. “And we try to chitects, Slatter Construction home to the whirling machi- promote that kind of emotion- and Nielsen Studios also con- nations of the 60-foot-tall, al connection with the people wildly lit Typhoon ride, will giving Fright Walk a dungeon- date utilities, infrastructure who work here. It’s a great be “a showcase for new rides like twist (and maximizing the and maintenance personnel. source of pride for us to know FAST FACTS as we move them in and out.” use of the park’s real estate) by Essential to the park’s opera- that we’re employing genera- Name/Park Contacted by SCBB in the placing most of it beneath the tions, this space can be tough tion after generation of people, Main Entrance Plaza spring of 2016, ARM (U.S.A.), promenade. to protect against the high wa- of young kids, where often this Santa Cruz Inc., supplied the plaza’s inau- “It’s literally in the base- ter table and occasional tidal is their first job. We’re teaching Beach Boardwalk gural centerpiece. ment,” Rice said of the haunted flooding that are exacerbated them skills that hopefully will Santa Cruz, Calif. “They were looking for walkthrough. “We’re playing by the park’s location at the benefit them throughout their • a ride with a high presence that up as part of the attrac- outflow of the San Lorenzo lives. Rides/Info and visual impact,” said Mike tion: You still enter at the main River into Monterey Bay. “From the family, employ- SHOCKWAVE Gill, president of the Winters- level, but then you descend “The combination of those ee and philanthropic stand- Type: Mega Disk’O ville, Ohio-based amusement down a staircase into depths forces poses interesting chal- points, we’re also very proud Max. Height: 65 ft. company. “They were also of the underbelly of the park. lenges,” Rice said. “For prob- of the fact that we can take Seating: 24 interested in face-to-face seat- It adds a unique element to ably as long as we’ve been some of our success and create PPH: 600 ing that provided customer the attraction. The experience here, we’ve dealt with water a positive impact in the com- Manufacturer: Zamperla, interaction, as well as a fully is a little longer, too — there intrusion in our basements. munity.” Vicenza, Italy suspended vehicle. We were are more gags and scares, and We invest in pumping and wa- •beachboardwalk.com TYPHOON able to fill all of those desires it’s generally a higher-level-of- Type: Dual-Arm Screamer in Typhoon. Working with the detail attraction.” Max. Height: 60 ft. Boardwalk team was an abso- Similarly, a more thor- Seating: 32 (16 per arm) lute pleasure.” oughly themed façade and in- PPH: 550 Adjacent to Typhoon, on terior — along with some new Manufacturer: ARM, Inc., the edge of the plaza, Shock- technology — greet guests at Wintersville, Ohio wave is no slouch visually; it The Vault, wherein a second • is elevated on a new ride deck laser arena has been added to Design/Construction and produces distinctive mo- meet demand. Roto, Dublin, Ohio; tion (and, at night, an exotic Other elements of the proj- Daniels Wood Land, Inc., LED light show) of its own. ect include a new food conces- Paso Robles, Calif.; “It’s very prominent when sion called Cruzin’ Crêpes, William S. Bagnall you’re arriving at the Board- offering made-to-order crêpes Architects, walk,” said Karl Rice. filled with sweet or savory Santa Cruz, Calif.; fillings, as well as serving Nielsen Studios The demolition required Architecture & Design, for the new gateway and pla- flavored teas. Two midway Santa Cruz, Calif.; za necessitated the relocation games, Ring Toss and Pitch In, Slatter Construction, and rebuilding of two exist- also are part of the mix. Santa Cruz, Calif. ing attractions: Fright Walk, An expensive, publicly • a popular fixture since 2004, unseen part of the project Shrieks and treats are in fresh supply at the Boardwalk with Opening Day and The Vault Lazer Maze. is the additional basement the upgraded, newly dungeon-ized Fright Walk and the May 27, 2017 The park seized the opportu- space created not just to house made-to-order Cruzin' Crêpes. nity to improve both — even Fright Walk, but to accommo- COURTESY SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7 8 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 INTERNATIONAL

 AAE recap — Page 9 / debuts Dawson Duel Alpine coaster — Page 11 Ireland’s opens Viking-themed Interlink super flume AT: Andrew Mellor [email protected]

ASHBOURNE, Ireland – Tayto Park near Ashbourne in , close to Dublin, Ireland’s one and only theme park, has con- tinued its development this season with the opening on June 16 of its latest major at- traction, the Viking Voyage .

Superbly themed, as the name suggests, as a voyage One of the outstanding elements of the theming work is the Viking helmet through which with the Vikings, the park’s riders are taken on one of the lift sections. Meanwhile (left), the reverse drop section comes latest addition is a super out of the monastery. In suitable company, Tayto Park owner Ray Coyle (below) cuts a ribbon flume ride from water ride to mark the official opening of the new Viking Voyage super flume ride. specialist Interlink. It fea- AT/ANDREW MELLOR; COURTESY TAYTO PARK tures a 700-meter-long route which incorporates three major elements along the way. Meandering through intricately themed Viking villages and scenery which put guests at the center of a great Viking adventure the flume provides the park with a hugely impressive new ad- dition to its ride arsenal. With a total project cost of €8m ($8.9m), Viking Voy- age has guests board one of 12, six-seater boats for their approximately eight-minute journey which, among other things, takes them up a lift hill and through a Viking helmet into a central moun- 4See TAYTO, page 9 August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9 TAY TO rides in more recent years, Continued from page 8 along with a major , the Cú Chulai- tain, through caves, up an- nn from The Gravity Group, other lift hill into a monas- a big water ride was perhaps tery and through a variety always going to be the next of suitably themed land- major addition. scapes and villages. On the “We are delighted with way, riders also experience the end result,” commented three major elements in the general manager Charles shape of a drop into a speed Coyle, who added that the curve, a reverse drop out of ride is expected to increase the monastery and a final the current annual visi- 12-meter (39-feet) high drop. tor numbers of more than The attraction has a theoreti- 750,000 by 10 per cent. cal capacity of 700 riders per hour. An aerial view of part of the Since opening in 2010, new Viking Voyage ride at Tayto Park has expanded Tayto Park shows the and invested in new attrac- speed turn section tions on an annual basis and in the foreground. having added a series of flat COURTESY TAYTO PARK AAE reflects growth of industry in Asia-Pacific region AT: Andrew Mellor [email protected]

MARINA BAY SANDS, Singapore – The continued growth of the attractions in- dustry within the Asia-Pacific region was evident once again at this year’s Asian Attractions Expo (AAE) which took place at the Sands Expo and Con- vention Center at Marina Bay Sands from June 13 to 16. proximately 1,700, including According to IAAPA, more 50 participants for the sold out than 50 percent of the buyers at- IAAPA Institute for Attractions tended for the first time, while Managers and 90 attendees at participation in education ses- the also sold out IAAPA Safety sions almost doubled from the Institute. 600 attendees took previous year. The event also part in the opening night recep- featured the second largest tion held at Universal Studios Above, exhibiting companies came to AAE 2017 from 34 dif- trade show floor in event - his Singapore, while 280 heard a EDUTour to Mega Adventure. ferent countries. High tech products could be found on the tory at 10,170 net sq.m. keynote address from Andrew IAAPA also hosted Ms. show floor in abundance at this year’s AAE. Not surprisingly AAE 2017 attracted more Kam, vice-president, Wanda Low Yen Ling, Singapore’s se- Virtual Reality products were a popular draw on the trade than 7,500 participants, includ- Cultural Industry Group and nior parliamentary secretary, show floor.COURTESY IAAPA ing 5,100 buyers and 375 exhib- president, Wanda Themed En- Ministry of Trade and Indus- iting companies from 34 differ- tertainment, at the Leadership try and Ministry of Education ent countries, the total number Breakfast. at AAE. She addressed a full of attendees from theme parks, A new Lunch and Learn house during the event’s Open- waterparks, FECs, zoos, aquar- event which covered the use ing Ceremony and attended iums and other venues repre- of intellectual properties and two press events on the trade sented a 42 percent increase maintaining show quality at- show floor, while also talking over AAE 2013 when the event tracted 100 participants, while to a number of exhibiting com- was last held in Singapore. around 90 people took part in panies during her visit. Attendance for the edu- an EDUTour to Singapore Zoo “As the industry in Asia cational conference was ap- and 70 people participated in an continues to grow, we see a lot of new faces coming to Asian Attractions Expo. These new attendees are very engaged and eager to learn from the indus- try and the association. Edu- cation has been fantastic and extremely popular. The desire for industry knowledge contin- ues to grow in this area,” said IAAPA second vice-chairman David Rosenberg, ICAE, from Monterey Bay Aquarium. Asian Attractions Expo 2018 will be held in Hong Kong at the Hong Kong Exhibition WhiteWater’s Geoff Chutter pictured with visitors to his and Convention Center from company’s booth at AAE. COURTESY IAAPA June 5 to 8. 10 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 Shanghai Disney Resort hosts anniversary celebration SHANGHAI, China - Shanghai Disney Resort of Enchanted Storybook Castle, as well as actual guest and Attractions (IAAPA), Visual Effects Society (VES) marked its first anniversary on June 16. Floating lan- videos and images of magical memories from their and China Association of Amusement Parks and At- terns representing good fortune for the past, present visits to the authentically Disney, distinctly Chinese tractions (CAAPA). and future hovered above Shanghai dur- destination. Shanghai Disney Resort was one of the most ing a celebration at the resort's Enchanted Storybook has proved to be enormous- ambitious projects in the history of The Walt Disney Castle. ly popular with guests from home and abroad, wel- Company. One year ago, the wonder and imagination "Shanghai Disney Resort's first anniversary is coming more than 11 million guests in its first year of of Disney greeted the people of China in magical new cause for great celebration for everyone involved in operation. The resort exceeded every one of The Walt ways as the gates opened to Shanghai Disneyland, a bringing this spectacular dream to life," said Bob Iger, Disney Company's expectations, from theme park at- theme park like no other with the biggest, tallest castle chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company. tendance to guest satisfaction. in any Disney park, the first pirate-themed land and "We're grateful to the people of China for making With its tremendous popularity with guests from Disney's most technologically advanced park to date. this unique destination a tremendous success – more across China, the resort has already announced its Shanghai Disney Resort is filled with immersive than 11 million guests have already visited, and we first post-opening expansion, a new immersive land Disney storytelling, thrilling attractions, spectacular look forward to welcoming many more in the years themed to the Toy Story franchise, set to open in 2018. live entertainment and memory-making experiences to come." The innovative attractions and entertainment at designed to inspire and delight Chinese guests. The Guests were entertained by the Mandarin version Shanghai Disneyland have earned top honors from world-class vacation destination includes a theme of "When You Wish Upon a Star" as a montage of pho- across the theme park industry over the past year, park with six themed lands, two imaginatively de- tos and videos highlighting events of the first year at including the Themed Entertainment Association signed hotels, a Disneytown shopping and dining dis- Shanghai Disney Resort were projected on the façade (TEA), International Association of Amusement Parks trict, and Wishing Star Park recreational area. DP Leisure announces development of sixth 360 Play FEC FARNBOROUGH, U.K. - with sites in Milton Keynes, tion includes a new Vue cine- a key feature at all 360 Play the other 360 Play sites across Following the continued suc- Stevenage, Leicester, Basildon ma, casual dining restaurants sites, will once again be made the UK. The venue will em- cess of its five existing venues, and most recently Redditch, and a Premier Inn. The addi- up of individual play units ploy around 40 new opera- DP Leisure (DPL), operator of the newest 20,000-square-foot tion of 360 Play will bring a such as a fire station, super- tional staff recruited locally, the 360 Play children’s enter- 360 Play unit will be located whole new offer to the area as market, pizza parlour, vets, provide year round employ- tainment Center brand, has in Farnborough at the Meads a destination for families, put- car garage/body shop and ment. announced that it will open a Shopping Centre. ting leisure trips back in the dressing up shop. This role “We are delighted to an- sixth UK site in 2017, this time The development is heart of Farnborough. play and free play element is nounce plans for our sixth 360 in Farnborough Town Centre owned by St. Modwen and The opening of 360 Play designed to stimulate the cre- Play site which continues the in Hampshire. the complex is home to a Farnborough is scheduled ativity in young minds, while roll out of the brand around Already firmly estab- Sainsbury’s food store, The for late 2017 and once again also providing an opportuni- the U.K.,” said Founder and lished as a leading brand name Gym, coffee shop chain -Star the design and master plan- ty for parents to get involved Managing Director Duncan within the U.K.’s children’s bucks and other retailers. The ning of the project will be in play with their children. Phillips. “The Town Centre entertainment center sector, wider Town Centre regenera- carried out by DP Associates 360 Play Farnborough will location is, like our recently (DPA), the sister company to also incorporate some new el- opened Redditch site, a move DP Leisure, which will project ements yet to be announced, away from our more familiar manage the build. The new along with a party zone offer- type of site on leisure parks Centre site will be home to all ing a dedicated area for chil- but we are confident it will the classic 360 Play elements, dren’s parties. be another successful ven- which have proved so popu- IE Park/SOLI Bumper ture. Key location drivers in lar with families with young Cars Managing Director An- choosing the site have been children over the years. Pre- drea Munari commented: the great communications manufacturing of many of the “We congratulate 360 Play links the area has with the M3 key play elements and struc- for once again choosing IE corridor from the M25 out to tures that will be accommo- Park’s products for their sixth Basingstoke, which bode well dated within the new location project in Farnborough. Both for our normal visitor catch- is already underway in work- products for this latest proj- ment area of up to a 45 minute shops at DPL’s headquarters ect are custom designed – a drive away. We are confident in Milton Keynes. special mix of junior and mid- our offering will complement The design and content size Sport 1 themed dodgem what is currently available will follow the company’s cars and a themed to those coming to the Town Above, the masterplan drawing of 360 Play Farnborough. tried and tested formula of as the ‘Circus Roundabout’ Centre and will become a key The new facility will be loaded with popular 360 Play a wide range of activities for – and will integrate perfectly element for visiting families elements and activities. COURTESY DP LEISURE all young children, from tod- with the concept and the fam- with young children. dlers up to the age of 12, and ily entertainment Center busi- Alastair Budd of land- with everything designed so ness model that has already lords St. Modwen, said: that adults can join in too, it proved so successful at 360 “This is a terrific addition will be a true family day out Play’s five other sites. As- al to the Meads. We have been offering. ways, we wish Duncan Phil- building a rounded Town Among the key attrac- lips and the entire 360 Play Centre offer in Farnborough tions will be a three-story play team all the best with this lat- with a strong line-up of structure, family est venture and thank them shops, convenience stores, and a carousel. The rides are for once again choosing IE coffee bars, dining and lei- being supplied by specialist Park as the supplier for these sure. 360 Play will add a new Italian manufacturer IE Park/ key attractions.” dimension to this and bring SOLI Bumper cars which has Also new will be an area something really different supplied the same attractions where “the outside comes in- to attract a core family au- to all the previously opened side” as there is no option at dience. We’re really looking Centers. Additionally, the this site for a dedicated out- forward to the opening.” 360 Street creative play zone, door area, as found at some of •360play.co.uk August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 11 Bellewaerde debuts Europe's first Dawson Duel alpine coaster AT: Andrew Mellor [email protected]

IEPER, Belgium – The first dueling Alpine coaster to open in Europe made its debut earlier this season at Bellewaerde in Belgium. Dawson Duel was de- signed and built by Josef Wiegand GmbH and Co. and represents an investment by the park of €4m (approxi- mately $4.5m). In addition to being the first such ride to open in Europe, it is the first alpine coaster not to be con- structed on a natural hillside, instead being custom built on stilts.

Situated in the park’s Canada zone, the name of Dawson Duel is the first the ride pays homage to duelling Alpine Coaster to Dawson City in Canada and open in Europe. Les Galeries de la Capitale the annual international dog COURTESY BELLEWAERDE sled race in which the city plays an important role. To invests in new Méga Parc ride, guests must first walk Hourly capacity on the at- through a wooded area up to traction is 800 and guests a height of 25-meter to a tow- must be a minimum of 1m er structure where the ad- (3.28 feet) to ride. venture begins. From there, “After a long preparation stunning views can be en- time and an intensive con- will be a challenging duel. joyed before guests embark struction phase, we can final- The investment in this at- on their journey back down ly introduce this double Euro- traction is one of the biggest to the lower ground level. pean first to the public,” said since 1999 and emphasizes The attraction consists park General Manager Ste- the trust our parent compa- of two parallel tracks of 450 faan Lemey, “a typical family ny Compagnie des Alpes has meters (1,476 feet) which attraction where young and in Bellewaerde.” allow visitors to duel with old can experience fun and The park also recently each other as they race down adventure together in a green announced plans to build a to the finish in one of 20, environment. new indoor water park. De- two-seater gondolas. Riders “This unique attraction velopment work on the €17m QUEBEC CITY, Quebec – On July 5, Les Galeries de la reach a maximum speed of is custom-made for our fa- ($19m) project is expected Capitale announced the construction of a new Méga Parc 40 km/h (25mph) on their milial target group, whereas to take approximately 18 for $52 million. The popular amusement park people have journey and experience the walk to 25 meters high as months, with opening pre- known and loved for more than 30 years will be fully re- two downward helix turns. well as the race downwards dicted for the spring of 2019. vamped and transformed into an entertainment zone in- spired by the Industrial Era. Construction, slated to begin on September 5, will extend over a period of 18 months during which mall shoppers will have access to a full lineup of temporary entertainment options. With the complete Méga Parc overhaul, Les Galer- ies de la Capitale will deliver a ground-breaking and sur- real experience straight out of the Industrial Revolution— through the lens of the fantasy world of steampunk. Kids of all ages will travel back in time to the turn of the 19th century in an alternate age where technology has evolved in a completely different way. Steam-powered machines, factories, and steel are omnipresent in this retro-futuristic industrial environment. The new Méga Parc will feature more than 18 attrac- tions, and most of the existing rides and attractions will be replaced. Those that are kept, including the rollercoast- er and merry-go-round, will get a facelift in line with the new theme. The whole family — toddlers, kids, teens, and adults alike — will enjoy the new selection of rides, which range from gentle fun to adrenaline-pumping action. Dawson Duel is the first dueling alpine coaster to open in Europe.COURTESY BELLEWAERDE 12 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017

WATER PARKS & RESORTS

 NEW H2OBX water park opens in North Carolina — Page 15 Wet’n’Wild Splashtown beams down Alien Chaser ProSlide supplies said, “We wanted a ride peo- ple could ride together. It has high-speed, themed been well received. [The sau- saucer thrill slide cers] were new. We have a lot of rides, and we look and see AT: Tim Baldwin what’s out there. Even from [email protected] our side, we like new too! There weren’t any in Texas SPRING, Texas — Af- and we thought it was re- ter a rebranding in 2014, ally different for the Wet’n’Wild Splashtown in market. That’s what attracted the Greater Houston metro us to it.” area introduced fresh new “Shapes can be really colors and comforts for visi- cool,” said Philip Hayles, tors. Following that success- vice president business de- ful re-launch, the park has velopment, ProSlide Technol- attracted the attention of ob- ogy Inc. “That was proven servers who wish to join in when the funnel was such a the fun. Aliens, to be exact. runaway hit on our . Park management and These saucers let ProSlide ProSlide Technologies have breathe new life into the tra- unveiled a popular new at- ditional serpentine water- traction called Alien Chaser. slide. They just look fantastic ProSlide’s new “saucer” line — the drop and dive sensa- of slides appears to be a hot tion makes for a great visual Alien Chaser is one of a few trend. This new installation throughout the ride for the waterslides in North Amer- is delivering exhilarating riders awaiting their turn. ica that feature ProSlide’s thrills. Plus, it’s incredibly fun.” new saucer elements. Riders “It’s really fast,” said To make room for the new bank high in the curves on Jody Kneupper, general man- addition, management used this high speed experience. ager. “I think that is surpris- an existing tower and retired AT/TIM BALDWIN ing some people. They aren’t two slides on the structure. expecting that.” Previously, Runaway Rapids the pictures. [In line] you At 60 had three slides that were see the speed as they come feet in height similar in experience and through those turns and the and 429 feet ridership had decreased over drops into the saucers …it’s a long, the sla- the years. Keeping one of the thrill ride.” lom “drop three, management admits As spectators look on and dive” that every attraction has its from the stairs, they can ap- slide zigzags fans, so the decision to keep preciate the whimsical sets of its way to a Kneupper one would still satisfy those eyes that are placed into each splash pool. who enjoyed the attraction saucer which represent an The slide features three sau- but allowed for something alien visage. cers that place riders banked new to be installed. The stair- “When we knew we A pair of riders must be ers per hour. Alien Chaser high on the curves as it zips case that was in place allows were going with the name within a 400-pound weight is one of only a handful of in and out of tunnels. The riders to reach both Runaway Alien Chaser and theme, we limit and a single rider can- slides in the double dip finale sends riders Rapids and Alien Chaser. tried to go with something a not exceed 250 pounds. that incorporates the saucer two at a time into the splash- “I was one of the first little more different in choice Z-Pro was the supplier for element from ProSlide. down pool at top speeds. All riders on it. When you look of colors,” said Kneupper. tubes on the new attraction. Wet’n’Wild Splashtown riders must be 48 inches or at it, you can see the steep- “We liked the combination of The line is kept moving turned to Launch Logic for taller in height. The ride offi- ness of those saucers,” said black and lime green in the briskly by dispatching pairs its dispatch lights and Au- cially opened on June 16. Kneupper. “Even when we saucers and then adding the of riders every 20-30 seconds, dio Innovators for the safety When it came to selection purchased it, we didn’t quite purple to the slides… it was a making for a theoretical ca- repeaters. The ride was in- of the attraction, Kneupper know how steep it was from group effort.” pacity between 250 – 300 rid- stalled by USA Inc. August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 13 14 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 NEWSSPLASH AT: Jeffery L. Seifert [email protected]

Connecticut's Quassy Amusement Park is effect July 1, imposes inspection and permit re- gearing up for a large 2018 water park expan- quirements on amusement rides. The law defines sion. ProSlide Technology of Ottawa, Canada, a waterslide that is at least 15 feet in height and will provide three high-profile slides off a new uses water to propel a patron through the ride as tower to be constructed at the north side of the an amusement ride. It was likely aimed at blaster- property. The largest of the three new slides will type waterslides that have uphill portions, but the be a TantrumTwist which will accommodate two- legislation, as it is written, is confusing to park person rafts. Riders will twist through an enclosed owners. It isn't very clear whether or not the wa- river before dropping into a funnel ter on some slides is propelling people forward. slide, where they will oscillate back and forth. The Many officials in cities across the state con- Schlitterbahn Corpus Christi, Texas remaining two slides will both be Pipeline serpen- tend gravity, not water, is the main force propelling tine slides designed for one- or two-person rafts. riders. Lawmakers haven't officially addressed this opens Hopkins Construction should be well underway as this is- confusion, causing cities to close their waterslides sue goes to press. until they can get a determination as to whether Schlitterbahn Riverpark & Resort in Corpus Christi, Texas, “We’re thrilled that we can start the project or not they need an inspection. As is typical with opened the last attraction that was originally planned for the later this summer and have it completed for the newly passed regulations, there are not enough in- park. Padre Plunge, a Hopkins Shoot the Chute ride began water park’s opening next year,” said park Presi- spectors in place to provide the inspections need- operation in May of this year with a soft opening. The ride dent Eric Anderson. ed. Critics note the timing of the law — July 1 — in has quickly become popular with its thrilling drop and 20- The water park expansion will be the single- the middle of the busy season, has made it difficult foot wall of water generated at the splashdown. Although largest investment in the park’s history, Anderson for parks to adhere to the new regulations and get parks get new attractions every few years, Padre Plunge is noted. their waterslides back up and running. Tempera- likely to be the last addition to the water park for a while. “Within the past several years, we have in- tures start to climb into the century mark in July Groundbreaking of the resort took place in February 2013, vested heavily in the park with new water attrac- and some cities fear their waterslides could remain but the park was retooled several times. The current park is tions, amusement rides and infrastructure im- closed for the rest of the season. nearly triple the size that was originally envisioned. Grand provements,” Anderson added. “Two new rides • opening of the park was held April 2016 with the comple- were added this year as well as our new candy The city of Oswego, N.Y., will build a new tion of the park’s Transportainment River system. Officials shop and administration offices.” water park thanks to an award from the State of for Schlitterbahn Waterparks & Resorts said the park is now • New York. Last year Oswego was one of ten cit- where they want it to be in terms of attractions. Although With the opening of at the Uni- ies to receive $10 million from Governor Andrew popular in amusement parks worldwide, a Shoot the Chute versal Orlando Resort, Kingdom in Cuomo's Downtown Revitalization Initiative. Un- in a water park is very rare. This particular ride originally Louisville had to surrender its record for world's der the program, communities are awarded $10 operated at Alabama Adventure, Bessemer, Ala., and was tallest drop capsule slide. At 121 feet, Deep Wa- million to develop downtown strategic investment plans and implement key catalytic projects that acquired by Schlitterbahn several years ago. The only other ter Dive at the Kingdom's Bay Water Park held the record since 2014. But records are advance the community’s vision for revitalization. full-fledged water park that operates a Shoot the Chute made to be broken and this past June, Universal's Oswego will use the money to renovate the Chil- is Noah’s Ark in Wisconsin Dells, Wis. Two other parks — Ko'okir Body Plunge narrowly overtook Kentucky dren's Museum as well as create the indoor Lake , Kansas City, Kan., and , Hershey, Kingdom with a drop capsule ride that is 4 feet Ontario Water Park to connect to an existing ho- Pa., have Shoot the Chute rides that are shared with the wa- taller — a record-breaking 125 feet. tel and conference center near the Lake Ontario ter park and theme park. COURTESY SCHLITTERBAHN RESORTS The record holder for the world's tallest body waterfront. slide —­ without a drop capsule — is debatable. "This funding is more than an investment in Insano, at Beach Park in Brazil, stands 135 feet Oswego — it’s an investment in the future of the tall and features an equal length drop. It is also entire region," Governor Cuomo said. "These in- the world's fastest, with thrillseekers topping out vestments will help make this downtown an eco- at 65 mph. Kilimanjaro at Aldeia das Aguas Park nomic engine that will support local businesses, Resort, also in Brazil, does not stand as tall as In- foster growth, and have ripple effects that will sano, but utilizes the side of hill to achieve its out- keep Central New York rising for decades to rageous 164-foot drop. Top speed on that slide is come." approximately 60 mph. • • Following an eight-year absence, Califor- Hydro Adventures, Poplar Bluff, Mo., has nia's Wild Rivers water park may finally make a opened a brand-new 2,500-square-foot Laser- comeback. Officials from Irvine, Calif., have finally tron Laser Tag arena, classic Route 66 mini bowl- approved an agreement with the owners of Wild ing lanes and added arcade games to the Mega Rivers to build a 30-acre water park at the Orange Arcade. The Lasertron arena can support both Country Great Park. Construction is expected team and individual competition. The Route 66 to begin by summer 2018 with a goal to open by bowling lanes are QubicaAMF's popular High- summer 2019. way 66 mini bowling lanes that require 40 percent The original Wild Rivers water park was forced less space than a traditional bowling alley. With to close in 2011 when owners of the land, Irvine the addition of the several new arcade games this Company LLC, refused to renew the park's lease season, the Mega Arcade now offers a total of 45 in favor of building apartments on the property. games. Plans to redevelop the park have been ongo- Hydro Adventures opened in 2003 as Bluff ing since 2012 in or near the Orange County Great Falls Water Park. It was purchased in 2014 by Unit- Park. The park had planned to re-open in 2014, ed Parks and has continued to expand significant- but that was delayed until 2015, then plans were ly with the addition of new water rides and several cancelled altogether in 2016 over land approval is- dry attractions including two roller coasters, sev- sues. Three months later the Great Park Board un- eral flat rides and an FEC-style games arcade. der control of the city of Irvine proposed two sites • within the park. It appears that all of the hurdles Recent oversight regulations passed by Kan- have been cleared and the park can finally begin sas lawmakers have resulted in confusion among construction. Orange County Public Park occupies property owners and the closing of multiple wa- 28.8% of the land that once belonged to the Ma- terslides across the state. A new law which took rine Air Corps Station El Toro. August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 15 New H20BX water park opens in North Carolina WhiteWater, ADG provide variety of themed attractions POWELL’S POINT, N.C. — The much-anticipated H2OBX Waterpark opened June 22 in the Outer Banks (OBX) recre- ation area on the coast of North Carolina. Designed with classic coastal architecture at the fore- front, Aquatic Development Group provided the unique water park design to reflect the feel of the Outer Banks, offering resort-style comfort along with traditional family fun. H20BX, the newest waterpark in North Carolina, sprawls across 20-plus acres near the Wright Memorial Bridge, the northern gateway to This aerial view of the sparkling new water park just prior to opening shows a number of slides and attractions ready to thrill the Outer Banks coastal region. guests in the Outer Banks recreation area. COURTESY H20BX The convenient location allows 70 percent of the inbound and novative water ride attractions. lets at the park. Commission, and a local Outer outbound Outer Banks tourism Twin Tides Wave Pool delivers “H2OBX will certainly be Banks resident and practicing traffic a window view of the an ocean-simulated current, tide showcased by the World Wa- attorney. new water park, including slide and waves that guests love, but terpark Association in a class of “This has been an extraor- towers and pools. unlike traditional wave pools, it its own. We take great pride in dinary project because of my The $46 million H2OBX of- features "dual beachfront” en- having the opportunity to de- own personal involvement and fers a new attractions venue in trance points on opposite ends. liver the most progressive and vested interest in H2OBX,” said Carolina coastal tourism that Deep Six Adventure is mosphere. 50 private cabanas exciting water park attraction Ellis. “I’m extremely proud of hopes to attract some of the hun- an adventure attraction that fea- offer first-class amenities and to open on the Outer Banks,” the talented and diligent team dreds of thousands of families tures climb, crawl and balance luxury guest service in a private said Brian Czarnecki, vice presi- at ADG and the work put forth who vacation in the Tide Water soft mat obstacles from Wibit oasis setting. Shaded seating ar- dent of sales and marketing for by so many others who have cre- and Outer Banks regions. Sports. These floating obstacle eas, and multiple food and bev- H2OBX. “We are thrilled to be ated such a unique waterpark. ADG, along with the In- courses have become extremely erage outlets deliver variety and welcoming our first guests and H2OBX is incredibly innovative diana-based Weber Group, popular with the young, hip, ac- quality, from snacks to gourmet. honored to show off this incred- because we had the full force of carefully designed and themed tive generations in recent years. For food and beverage, ible park.” the industry’s best people be- INSIDE: H2OBX to embrace the culture Additional attractions in- H20BX turned to Global Man- H2OBX developers Ken El- hind it.” of the Outer Banks in a relaxed clude multiple slide complexes agement Amusement Profes- lis, Arthur Berry III, Tim Gantz —Jeffrey Seifert IAAPA Attractions and scenic environment. Vaca- from WhiteWater West including sionals for its expertise in the and Jeff Malarney each bring Expo 2016 recap tioners, families and water park a Boomerango and Flatline Loop operation of food and beverage substantial experience in water- SEE SECTION B enthusiasts will be immersed in with AquaDrop. River rides and service at some of the country’s park development, planning, www.amusementtoday.com the rich history of coastal Caro- Calico Jack’s Cove, an immer- most iconic water park venues. operations and market tourism. lina as H2OBX pays tribute to sive, multi-level, pirate-themed, Aside from the usual grab-and- Ken Ellis, president and CEO of legendary pirates, boat building play structure, both offer wa- go options — pizza, chicken ADG is also co-owner with Ar- TM & ©2017 Amusement Today, Inc. and the Wright brothers, while terslides specially designed for tenders, burgers and hot dogs — thur Berry III of Camelback Re- Follow us enjoying modern amenities and children and multiple interac- guests will be able to enjoy local sort, home to Aquatopia indoorJanuary 2017 | Vol. 20 • Issue 10on exciting new attractions. tive water effects. Several fusion specialties such as Carolina BBQ water park and CamelbeachMark Moore Memorial Fundraiser tops $322,490 H2OBX delivers many waterslides, boast special effects platters, wraps and fish tacos. outdoor waterpark. Tim GantzNational Roller Coaster Museum plans new building honoring Moore; popular attractions as well including aqua-lucent lighting to Flyboys Bar features 12 beers on is the former owner and operaindustry- donations ongoing as several slides all deliver- increase the thrill factor. tap including local craft beers tor of Noah’s Ark, and Jeff TheMa -Mark Moore Memorial Fundraiser kicked off Nov. 17, at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2016 with a $100,000 donation from Uremet, the company founded byand the late Mark Moore. ing varying degrees of thrills, In keeping with the resort as well as specialty drinks and larney, former Navy JAGC, hasOn hand to receive the generous donation were several board members of the National Roller Coaster Museum & - lengths, drops, turns and in- feel, ADG carefully designed wines. Healthy food choices like been involved in the North CarArchives- (NRCMA), along with representatives from Uremet time," said AIMS Executive Director Karen and Moore's family. The fundraising campaign — still ongo- Oertley regarding the increase in sessions on - ing — has since welcomed additional donations, bringing active shooters and terrorism. tensity suitable for guests of all H2OBX’s park layout to include fruit, fruit cups, salads, yogurt olina vacation rental industry,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 ages. Many of the attractions numerous places to relax and and more can be found through- recently serving two terms on 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 at H2OBX offer ADG’s own in- spend the day enjoying the at- out the food and beverage out- the North Carolina Real Estate NORTH AMERICA — As 2017 gets un - 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 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

Dated material. material. Dated

RUSH!

Mailed Tuesday, December 27, 2016 27, December Tuesday, Mailed

NEWSPAPER

PLEASE POSTMASTER:

PERMIT # 2069 # PERMIT

FT. WORTH TX WORTH FT.

PAID

US POSTAGE US PRSRT STD PRSRT 16 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 World’s Largest Swimming Lesson helps spread awareness

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — Thousands of children at "The World's Largest Swimming more than 600 locations in 27 Lesson is a perfect way to engage countries, from Australia to with the community and help people Zimbabwe, Bahrain to Brazil, and Panama to Poland, came understand how crucially important it is together on June 22, 2017, to learn how to float, roll over, recover to help spread an important safety message in their com- your breath and swim to an exit to munities, Swimming Lessons prevent drowning." Save Lives. Amusement Today —Rowdy Gaines, three-time Olympic Medalist is proud to have been a me- and champion for WLSL Event dia sponsor of the event to help spread the word that a U.S. as the summer season important it is to learn how significant number of drown- officially kicked off. The -pur to float, roll over, recover ing deaths can be prevented. pose of the events? Provide your breath and swim to an Rowdy Gaines, three-time Olympic Gold Medalist and event The 8th Annual World's kids and parents exposure to exit to prevent drowning." spokesperson, works with a young swimmer at the World's Largest Swimming Lesson life-saving water safety skills Tragically, in the U.S., Largest Swimming Lesson at Seaworld's Waterpark took place at water parks, and build awareness about drowning remains the lead- in Orlando. The park was one of more than 600 locations in community pools and swim the vital importance of pa- ing cause of accidental death 27 countries around the globe that participated in the event schools in 47 states in the rental vigilance and teaching for kids ages one to four and to help spread the word Swimming Lessons Save Lives. children to swim to help pre- the second leading cause for COURTESY WWA vent drowning. kids under the age of 14, due "Seeing so many kids in large part, to a lack of basic Red Cross, one of WLSL's WLSL lessons, and organiz- from so many different cul- water safety and swimming supporting organizations, ers have shared the impor- tures, all focused on this same skills and a lack of constant found more than half of tance of swim lessons more mission is really inspiring," adult supervision while kids Americans (54 percent) ei- than half a billion times. By said Rowdy Gaines, three- are in the water. Internation- ther can't swim or don't have 2019, organizers hope to time Olympic Gold Medalist ally, the World Health Orga- foundational swimming make more than one billion and champion for the WLSL nization estimates drowning skills needed to prevent people fully aware of the on event. "The World's Largest is one of the top five causes drowning. importance of enrolling chil- Swimming Lesson is a per- of death for people aged 1-14 The WLSL is working to dren in swim lessons. fect way to engage with the in 48 of the 85 countries it change that. Since its incep- WLSL 2018 takes place community and help people monitors. tion in 2010, almost 200,000 on June 21, 2018. understand how crucially In 2014, the American children have participated in —Jeffrey Seifert August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 17 18 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 PARKS, & ATTRACTIONS  Pandora expansion creates a 'must do' at Disney's Animal Kingdom — Page 28 / Fairs — Pages 30-34 Firecracker restoration is an adventure for Holiday World's calypso crew

AT: Pam Sherborne until 2008 when that park closed. The crew first discovered [email protected] It had been sitting for almost there had been no drainage system a decade when last November a on the ride so it had been sitting SANTA CLAUS, Ind. — management team from Holiday in water for quite some time. The Holiday World & Splashin' Safari World went up to look at it. The water had rusted the steel frame. opened its 71st season with a bevy decision was made to purchase it In addition, they realized the of new attractions and renovations. and restore it. former park owners had convert- One new attraction is the After the purchase, Holiday ed the carnival model into a park Firecracker calypso ride that was World sent its calypso crew to dis- model by wielding everything to- manufactured by Robles Bouso mantle it and bring it to its new gether. The crew had to rent a chop in 1972. With its now patriotic home. The six were Sean Strahl, saw to get it apart. theme and color, it sits in Holiday Andy Kreyling, Jon Stogner, Sean "And, I guess they had paint- World's Fourth of July section. It's Bull, Billy Sosh and Tony Perkins. ed it a few times because there dazzling reflective colors and the "We pulled up to the gates were layers of paint just sitting on brand new LEDs on the cars have and had to wait for someone to the pad," Strahl said. brought on a great response from let us in," recalled Sean Strahl, the They took pictures of every This is how the 1972 Firecracker looks today at Holiday parkgoers, said Paula Werne, di- park's maintenance planner. "We step while dismantling it. These World & Splashin' Safari. The vintage ride, purchased from rector of communications. just drove through the park. Ev- photos became extremely impor- the shuttered Fun Spot Amusement Park and Zoo, Angola, The smooth spinning action erything had grown up, the trees, tant when they later put it back Ind., had been out of operation for almost a decade. The keeps riders coming back. weeds. We pulled up to the ride together without any manuals or complete restoration was done in-house. By looking at the ride now it and that was when we wondered instructions. COURTESY HOLIDAY WORLD is hard to tell the somewhat dubi- what we had gotten ourselves into. The crew did accomplish their ous start it had when it arrived at "Some of the guys didn't think goal by getting the ride down in a as the ride is spinning. No com- Canada. the Holiday World warehouse last we could do it in a week, because week, but the adventure for the ca- pany could be found that made Lauren Koch Crosby was in- November from the now shuttered that was all we had was a week to lypso crew was far from over. them. He ended up having to hire volved in picking out the paint for Fun Spot Amusement Park and get it down," Strahl said. After getting the ride to the a company, Mohler Technology, the cars. They wanted to paint the Zoo in Angola, Ind.. With rusted But the calypso crew waded Holiday World warehouse, the Boonville, Ind., to custom make cars blue and red. But, finding the steel and tremendous amounts of in that afternoon and into the cars were removed. They stripped them. That went for the brush exact red turned out to be a little water damage, a worn-out crew night on that first day. They turned off the car lights, and began sand- holdings, too. difficult. of six park employees, that would their cars around and used head- ing and repairing them. Strahl had the task of finding "At first we were just looking soon to be known as the calypso lights so they could see what they Because the ride's frame had the lights. How hard could that be? at metallic colors," Crosby said. crew, had their doubts. were doing. rusted, it had to be completely "Everyone thought they were "But, when you do that, all the red Holiday World's Firecracker "Everyone pulled together," replaced, which took employ- Volkswagen lights," he said. "So I is a deep, deep, deep red, not a first opened in 1972 at LeSourds- Strahl said. "Everyone knew what ing three different local machine took one over to a place in Boon- true red. That was when we found ville Lake Amusement Park near they had to do." shops to get the job done. ville, that is all the guy does is the flake." , Ohio. It operated there Almost daily, though, through Perkins couldn't find the work on Volkwagons. But he said Small metal flakes can be until 2002. It later moved to Fun that process, it seemed they were needed slip rings, the rings that they weren't Volkswagen lights." used in paints to give it that re- Spot and remained in operation faced with new challenges. provide the electricity to the cars The suggestion he got was to flective property without using an look at Mercedes-Benz or BMW. actual metallic paint. In this case, Mercedes-Benz had some small they could use a true red with the lights that were red, white and metal flakes to get the desired col- amber with chrome around them. or and look. They measured about three and Things finally seemed to be one-half inches, which were a little coming together. But, as they be- larger than the original lights, but gan to put the cars back on the they could work. platform, they discovered another Strahl went to the Internet to problem with the ride. find and purchase some, but could "That was when we discov- only locate a few here and there. ered that all the holes (for the cars) He needed 144 lights. had been hand-drilled and they Somewhere along the way, weren't drilled straight," Strahl there was a suggestion to look at said. semi trailer lights. Strahl found They couldn't get the cars on. four-inch lights and found he They had to fill in all the original Left, Holiday World's calypso crew stand on the Firecracker platform while dismantling it last could get red, white and blue al- holes and drill new ones. November. From left are Sean Strahl, Andy Kreyling, Jon Stogner, Sean Bull, and Billy Sosh. ternating LEDs − sold. They were "But, we got that done in a Tony Perkins is seen (right) loading the cars of the 1972 Firecracker. AT/PAM SHERBORNE made by Trux Accessories out of day," he said. August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 19 v Skyline Attractions sells first Skywarp AMUSEMENT PARK ORLANDO, Fla. — Skyline Attractions has altered the landscape of thrill rides with its latest MARKET PLACE maker − Skywarp. As part of the com- pany’s third anniversary, Skyline is excited to announce the sale of its first of many Skywarps, Aerial Tramway Design & Manufacture which will make its public debut in the sum- mer of 2018. This exciting experience offers 32 SkyTrans Mfg.,L.L.C. passengers a unique journey as they board the 106 Burnham Intervale Road competing ride vehicles. The train begins rock- Contoocook, N.H. 03229 ing back and forth, building up to full speed Phone: (603) 746-4446 Fax: (603) 746-4447 before completing several thrilling forward and Skywarp's small footprint allows placement reverse rotations through the twin Immelmann •Specializing in sales & refurbishment of used aerial tramways in nearly any location. inversions. COURTESY SKYLINE ATTRACTIONS •Replacement parts for aerial tramways and amusement rides The unique concept was first shown to the •New ride control systems and modifications world at the 2016 IAAPA Attractions Expo in Or- lows for the placement of the attraction in nearly •Rebuilt used chairlifts - one year guarantee lando, Fla. Skywarp was one of the most unique any location, and topping out at 62 feet in height, concepts displayed at the annual event. This in- it can even fit in many indoor locations. (603) 746-4446 novative attraction combines the speed, inver- “The flexibility of Skywarp, combined with Parts and Service Jerry Pendleton or Dan Pendleton sions, and capacity of a big coaster with a fraction the excitement it delivers to guests, makes it a of the necessary investment needed. The clever great addition to any park. We are thrilled to be design of Skywarp allows it to deliver the thrills a placing the first of what we believe will be many modern rider expects, with the reliability, ease of Skywarp attractions,” commented Chris Gray, maintenance and ultra-compact footprint that fits cice president at Skyline Attractions. “Visitors can in nearly any park. see us at booth 5808 at the 2017 IAAPA Attractions "Skywarp has everything that operators of Expo as we unveil where the first Skywarp will be all sizes desire: Big impact, big thrills, big visibil- taking guests on a wild ride,” he continued. ity, and big capacity with a small footprint and a Ride Entertainment is the sales partner for small price," said Evan Souliere, founding partner Skyline Attractions. of Skyline Attractions. •skylineattractions.com The small 120-foot-by-30-foot footprint al- •rideentertainment.com SeaWorld Orlando adds evening, coaster dazzle ORLANDO, Fla. — Sea- dates until Sept. 4. World Orlando has turned up Also in mid-June, Sea- the flash this summer, -roll World Orlando introduced ing out cutting-edge forms of a new roller coaster VR ex- showmanship and immersive perience, Unleashed technology for a new evening — turning Kraken, the park’s celebration and a roller coaster 2000-built, Bolliger & Mabil- virtual reality (VR) overlay. lard (B&M) steel floorless The park’s after-dark sum- coaster into an elaborate “mo- mer presentation, “Electric tion platform.” Ocean,” offers a menu of activi- All three of the ride’s ties and entertainment. Guests 32-passenger trains have been are invited to participate di- equipped with VR headsets rectly in the fun with interac- that are both mechanically and tive RFID (radio-frequency electronically integrated into identification) accessories that Live performers and charac- the seats. glow, blink and react to musi- ters in LED-lit costumes light The VR experience, which cal beats. up the night during Club Sea is optional, takes riders on an Some highlights: Glow at SeaWorld Orlando. exploratory journey under the •Shamu’s Celebration: COURTESY sea. The story unfolds as they SEAWORLD ORLANDO Light Up the Night — This on- sail along the track, complete going show continues to inspire •Ignite — Erupting at with deep dives, steep turns guests and is an ideal warm-up the end of the night across the and seven inversions — shar- for “Electric Ocean” festivities. park’s lake, this all-new fire- ing encounters with giant sea •Club Sea Glow — A fam- works display incorporates la- creatures and the legendary ily-friendly dance party star- ser projections and water effects Kraken sea . ring top DJs and 35 live per- that shoot 100 feet skyward, all The VR technology and formers, including puppeteers, synchronized to music. content for Kraken Unleashed specialty acts and characters in “Electric Ocean”-branded was supplied by Guildford, LED-lit costumes. presentations debuted in mid- U.K.-based Figment Produc- •Sea Lions Tonite — A re- June at both SeaWorld Orlando tions, which created a VR turning favorite, this skit about and SeaWorld (see overlay for the B&M flying a SeaWorld visit as seen through Amusement Today, July 2017). coaster Galactica (formerly the eyes of sea lion superstars The Florida version runs dai- known as Air) at Clyde and Seamore also fea- ly through Aug. 5, while the in Staffordshire, England, last Keep our amusement park industry strong! tures one of the park’s favorite year. differently-programmed Cali- Buy products and services from these suppliers. acts, the SeaWorld Mime. fornia version runs on selected —Dean Lamanna 20 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 SeaWorld San Antonio installs new Intamin coaster Wave Breaker: See more on The Rescue Coaster ideo rack features jet ski theme V T at AmusementToday.com AT: Tim Baldwin [email protected] SeaWorld San Antonio al- ready offers two high-speed SAN ANTONIO, Texas thrillers — , a 150- — SeaWorld parks continue foot mega-nonlooping coaster to reimagine its brand placing by Morgan Manufacturing; more of an emphasis on con- and Great White, a Bolliger & servation, environment and Mabillard inverted looping animal rescue. While marine coaster. Wave Breaker provides life shows still play a part in a smooth family ride with just a family’s visit, the revamped enough thrill to reach all demo- direction is intertwined with graphics. Its placement over new rides and new guest expe- the water is the ride’s most riences. dramatic element. SeaWorld San Antonio had “We’ve seen appeal for not installed a new high-profile Above, riders experience two launches reaching speeds up Wave Breaker across the ride since Journey to Atlan- to 44 mph. Jet ski-style seating (left and below) makes Wave board,” said Lindsey Camp- tis (Mack Super Splash water Breaker the only ride of its type in North America. More than bell, public relations manag- coaster) in 2007. 90 percent of the ride is positioned over water. er. “The thing about it is it’s The theme park company AT/TIM BALDWIN AND GARY SLADE the only coaster of its kind in had turned to Intamin pre- North America. It’s a thrilling viously with a multi-launch ride. Enthusiasts are enjoying coaster at Busch Gardens Tam- how smooth and unique a ride pa in 2011. SeaWorld returned it is, but at the same time you to the ride manufacturer again also see families enjoying it. since Intamin had previously Kids nine or 10 are going on supplied a jet ski theme at a it with their parents and really park in Australia. As SeaWorld having a great time. It’s a fan- was pursuing this direction, tastic thrill for our park, but it the collaboration of the two en- is very family friendly, which tities appeared to be a good fit. is a good for our San Antonio The message of “rescue” audience.” is front and center. SeaWorld “That particular ride ve- Park President Carl Lum said, hicle and it being a one-of-a- “One of the primary purposes kind in North America riding of SeaWorld is to help guests experience made this a good understand that it is impor- fit for SeaWorld,” added Lum. tant to help save animals in the Positioned over the park’s Within the shaded queue is an Being built over the water “This particular design really wild. Mankind has not been central lake, Wave Breaker: assortment of signs and video didn’t come without challeng- integrates very well the mes- the best steward of the ocean. The Rescue Coaster officially presentations spotlighting spe- es. sage of helping to save ani- There are a lot of challenges opened on June 16. cific rescues and animals that “We had to partially drain mals in the wild.” our oceans have now with pol- Visitors are drawn into are regularly saved. Stories are our lake,” said Lum. “We had Wave Breaker can operate lution and overfishing. I think the rescue theme in numerous told from some of the 30,000 to responsibly discharge that with three trains. Track length it’s important that while guests ways as they queue for the new rescues the SeaWorld Rescue water and get it back into lakes is 2,600 feet, standing at a top enjoy a great ride, they also can coaster. A large video board Team has been involved with and areas here in San Antonio height of 61 feet. Riders must understand how they may be entrance focuses on the res- for more than half a century. to where it would go back in be 48 inches in height or tall- able to help. All of us can be cue of threatened and injured Once in the station, riders the aquifer. We had to build er and are launched to a top better stewards.” animals, as well as ride stats. board 16-person coaster trains a temporary bladder dam to speed of 44 mph. that resemble jet skis. Follow- keep half the lake dry while “Wave Breaker provides ing dispatch, passengers enter we put in ride foundations and a coaster experience unlike a show room where they are footers in. From a construction anything in the current theme given their rescue assignment. standpoint, it was very chal- park landscape,” said Sea- Once their mission is estab- lenging. Our engineering team World Vice President of Theme lished, a door opens and the did a great job figuring out Park Development Mike Den- train is launched into a series how to get all that done safely ninger. “Once you hit Wave of twists, turns and dives that and responsibly.” Breaker’s first launch, you’ll take place over the water of the When originally an- be moving fast throughout park’s lake. nounced at the end of summer the entire ride. When you “The sensation of speed in 2016, the plan was to use combine that consistent high you get and being on a jet ski linear motors in the launch. In speed with the banked and in a straddle style position time, that became a tire-driven serpentine turns throughout over the water is one of the launch. the ride track that is 90 percent things that make the ride very “The tire launch is proven. over the surface of the water, unique,” said Lum. The technology accomplishes you get an unparalleled ride The theme of animal rescue was a good fit for the Wave Mid-ride, the trains enter the same objective. We worked experience.” Breaker jet ski coaster manufactured by Intamin. Seen here a second launch that offers an- closely with Intamin, and their “When people come back at the ride's opening are (from left) SeaWorld Parks and En- other series of curves and ma- recommendation was a good to the station clapping and tertainment executives Mike Denninger and Joel Manby and neuvers before returning to the one. The ride has great up time,” cheering, that’s a barometer Sandor Kernacs, Intamin/IntaRide. AT/GARY SLADE station. Lum told Amusement Today. right there,” said Lum. August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 21 22 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 Eye of the Storm attracts riders and non-riders at

AT: Pam Sherborne difficult, but including loading made a number of improvements [email protected] and unloading time, Johnson said to existing buildings, among them they have estimated about 480 an expansion of our commissary, LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Man- persons per hour. a new entrance to the 5D Cinema agement at Kentucky Kingdom "All in all, including purchase Store, a remodeling of the King- opened the 2017 season with a va- of the ride itself, site preparation, dom Collections merchandise riety of improvements and addi- foundation, electrical work, instal- shop, and the addition of three tions, but it seems the 73-foot-tall lation, etc., the cost was just under new ticket windows at the park’s Larson International Giant Loop $1 million," Johnson said. "It is entrance." is capturing most of the attention. located on the site of the former New lockers were added near The new ride, called the Dragsters attraction, which was the park entrance and in the water Eye of the Storm, has attracted closed years ago, so there was park. A ride photo booth was in- an abundance of riders and non- space available for the new ride stalled at the suspended loop- riders alike since it opened on the without displacing another." ing coaster. first day of this season on April 29. The installation was a joint Park management has been very pleased with the response "We created a new water And, the response has been great, effort of both Larson Interna- to the brand new 73-foot-tall Giant Loop, manufactured by park entrance near the Thunder tional and Kentucky Kingdom. Run coaster and transformed a according to Julie Johnson, Ken- Larson International. COURTESY KENTUCKY KINGDOM tucky Kingdom's director of sales Kentucky Kingdom purchased former service road into a new and marketing. the ride in 2016. The actual instal- Johnson said. The Eye of the Storm is on the midway and alternate path to "There’s a set of bleachers lation, once the groundwork was The Eye of the Storm and path leading to the Storm Chaser. Storm Chaser, as well as to the right in front of the ride and lots laid, took only three days. other 2017 improvements are just "That’s why we called it 'Eye Carousel Courtyard area of the of folks like to sit and watch, even Kentucky Kingdom is located part of the millions of dollars Ed of the Storm!' ” Johnson said. park," she said. "This makes cir- if they don’t dare ride," Johnson just outside the park's front gates Hart, park CEO, and a group of Other Kentucky Kingdom culation through the park more said. of the Kentucky Expo Center, investors are pumping into the additions and improvements this convenient for our guests." The Eye of the Storm can home to the Kentucky State , Kentucky Kingdom. In 2013, the year include two children’s rides, To enhance their experience seat up to 24 riders who sit back which runs from mid to late Au- Board and Rowdy Racers and Loony Balloo- further, a number of new tables, to back. It rocks back and forth, gust. Johnson said at last year's the investment group reached an ny, both classics by Zamperla that chairs, benches, and umbrellas eventually looping over 360 de- fair, park staff became intrigued agreement with the group com- were rebuilt by the park's Techni- were added throughout the park. grees, going both backward and with a portable version of the gi- mitting $43.5 million into the park. cal Services team. Attendance in 2016 was ap- forward. The duration of the ride ant loop that was on the fair mid- But, by last year, the group A food stand called “Shiver proximately 800,000, representing is controlled by the operator. way, where, she said, it was the already had surpassed that figure Me {Chicken} Tenders” was add- a 30 percent increase over the pre- "Right now our operators are most popular ride. The midway is by $10 million with the addition ed to the water park and a new ceding year. instructed to keep the ride dura- provided by N.A.M.E. of the Storm Chaser coaster. That Craft Beer Garden opened featur- "It’s still early in the season, tion to between 60 and 90 sec- "We thought the larger (sev- coaster, built by Rocky Mountain ing a selection of distinctive beers yet we are very pleased with the onds," Johnson said. en-story) park version of the gi- Construction (RMC), was the sec- from local and regional breweries. attendance to date and are enjoy- For that reason, calculating ant loop would make an exciting ond Kentucky Kingdom coaster to "We installed three new soft ing strong momentum," Johnson an exact hourly capacity is a bit addition to Kentucky Kingdom," open in a three-year time span. drink stations," Johnson said. "We said. August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 23 24 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 25 26 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 Sally Corp.’s latest install boasts Harley Quinn, greater gameplay ’s ‘Justice’ in a ‘League’ of its own AT: Dean Lamanna July 11, Bonnie Sherman Weber, [email protected] president of SFMM, told Amuse- ment Today that the technical VALENCIA, Calif. — Com- achievement and family appeal ic book and cartoon characters of conveys a mes- are having a field day at theme sage to competitors that have parks nationally, and especially similar high-profile, consumer- in Greater Los Angeles, this sum- branded attractions: “Six Flags is mer. And proving its determina- here, and we’ve arrived.” tion to compete on the intellec- “We’ve taken the traditional tual property-fueled attraction and pushed the limits front while maintaining its re- to create the most innovative and gional thrill ride dominance, Six multifaceted attraction this park Flags Magic Mountain (SFMM) has ever built,” Weber said, laud- has delivered the finest-tuned ing not only the creative collabo- version yet of the two-year-old, ration between Sally Corp., Six award-winning Justice League: Flags corporate and SFMM’s in- Villainess Harley Quinn (right) sets the new Justice League Battle for Metropolis concept. house crew but the two-decade- apart from the others. COURTESY SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN The park’s next-gen iteration plus licensing partnership be- of the 4D gaming dark ride, the tween Six Flags and Warner Bros. Metropolis from the Super Vil- show establishes the plot for the but was reflected by the phalanx seventh Battle for Metropolis in- Consumer Products / DC Enter- lains. The latter include Lex Lu- ride action, which is highlighted of top brass present at the media stallation from Jacksonville, Fla.- tainment. “We are so fortunate thor, the Joker and his henchmen, by a virtual loop, an intense preview. Among others were based Sally Corp., follows others to work hand in hand with this and Harley Quinn. scene in a subway station and in- John Duffey, (now former) CEO that opened this past spring at amazing team to bring the best of With vehicles supplied by terspersed animatronics. of Six Flags Entertainment; John in Austell DC to Southern California.” Oceaneering Entertainment Sys- Justice League, located adja- Wood, CEO and chairman of Sal- and Six Flags Great Adventure in The multi-sensory, four-min- tems, interactive gameplay ele- cent to the Riddler standup roller ly Corp.; Peter van Roden, senior Jackson, N.J. Unlike the previous ute, high-definition 3D game ex- ments provided by Alterface coaster, serves as a backdrop for a vice president of global themed rides, the one at SFMM features perience incorporates 4D wind, and digital animation created by five-acre area of the park that has entertainment for Warner Bros. the Joker’s favorite sidekick, the fire, fog and special effects as Pure Imagination Studios, Justice been made over as Metropolis. It Consumer Products; and Sam villainess Harley Quinn, in a new guests, seated in whirling, pitch- League presents a nonstop bar- includes the new Metro Park Pub Rhodes, director of design for Six finale and a slightly larger (at ing six-passenger vehicles, battle rage of targets that allows guests and other attractions, eateries, re- Flags Entertainment. 23,624 square feet) Hall of Justice alongside the iconic DC Super to score points against fellow tail and costume characters that Sally’s John Wood told AT show building. Heroes — , , passengers during a high-speed support the new theme. that his company, now in its 40th During an all-out media pre- Wonder Woman, the Flash, Green chase through the streets of Me- The importance of Justice view party for Justice League on Lantern and Supergirl — to save tropolis. A newly reworked pre- League’s Southern California de- 4See SFMM, page 27 August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 27 SFMM Continued from page 26 Gully Washer surges into year, could have rested on its lau- AT: Tim Baldwin rels after successfully introduc- [email protected] ing the ride — the first to marry motion-based vehicles, 3D and OKLAHOMA CITY, gameplay — at Six Flags Over Okla. — Visitors to Frontier Texas and Six Flags St. Louis in City are enjoying the 60th 2015. Instead, it has pushed the season of the small Oklaho- envelope. ma theme park. This summer, “Every time we’ve had a the park got a little more eye- chance to redo Justice League, catching, both for guests and we look for ways to improve it,” traveling motorists on adja- he said. cent Interstate 35. “This year, for Atlanta and New Jersey, we did live motion- Turning to ProSlide, park capture video [via Pure Imagi- management has installed nation Studios] to improve our Gully Washer, a triple-slide computer-generated character Turbo Twister tower that graphics. We also added target- stands 66 feet tall. Three ser- ing and changed a little bit of the pentine slides offer a com- dialogue. But for Magic Moun- bined length of 1,249 feet. The tain, both Six Flags and Sally tagline used: Take a ride on wanted to really show off. So, the Wild Slides! we threw everything we had at In contrast to many theme this one.” parks that have nearby water asking for. We wanted some- For the 2017 season, SFMM’s version, according parks, Frontier City’s sister thing tall, something that was Frontier City added to its to Wood, has more animatronics, park is on a a thrill, and it goes really well water park area with the 180-degree wraparound screens corner of Oklahoma City di- with the [play structure] we addition of Gully Washer. (instead of merely curved ones) agonally opposite the theme already had installed.” This triple-slide Turbo as wide as 44 feet and to-the-hilt park approximately 20 min- “The rain fortress has Twister was supplied by programming for optimal move- utes away on the other side of done really well with younger ProSlide. It stands 66 feet ment. It has the same number the city’s downtown. kids, so the idea was to ex- tall and offers a combined of scenes as other versions (10), Like most states in the pand that market into more of 1,249 feet of sliding thrills. although some have been reshuf- south, theme parks can be the teens and adults to have Also new was this fled for improved transitional completely refurbished and dramatic effect. quite hot in the summer. something fun and exciting to While the park offered two do,” said Ball. coaster train (below) for the Six Flags’ Sam Rhodes, who . The train rehab has worked on all of the Jus- water rides — a rapids ride Because of the height of was completed tice League rides, said the com- and flume — in 2012, they the tower and the placement this past winter by pany skipped a 2.0 version and grabbed the bull by the horns next to the Wildcat roller jumped right to “3.0” for SFMM. and addressed the heat. A wa- coaster, riders on each now Philadelphia Toboggan “We learned a lot of things ter play structure named Wild have an interaction between Coasters, Inc. with the other rides, and we also West Water Works was built the two attractions because of AT/GARY SLADE wanted to make sure that we to offer more splashing enter- their proximity to each other. were competitive in this mar- tainment. Play structures are No rides or attractions ket,” he said, referring to the typically marketed at young- were removed to install the general upgrades, surprises and er guests, and the 1,000-gal- new waterslides. Manage- Harley Quinn’s edginess. “We’ve lon tipping bucket, seven ment made good use of added gaming throughout the slides and various water gad- previously unused land to entire ride, where on the other gets marvelously entertained expand the water park offer- ones we only have it in every the smaller guests willing to ings. Unlike a full day water other room.” don swimsuits, while par- park, Frontier City’s offerings Meanwhile, the two other ents could relax in the shade increase a length of stay to Six Flags properties that received Justice League this year are nearby. the theme park by allowing a pleased with the patron raves the Now offering more for small portion of the day to be ride has been earning. kids of all ages, Gully Washer dedicated to cooling off -en “It’s an incredible addition delivers more thrills for those tertainment. to Six Flags Great Adventure, with higher expectations. Rid- In addition to Gully because our guests are a mix ers 48 inches and taller can Washer, the park has also had of thrill-seekers and families,” experience tight curves, back- other improvements around said Kristin Siebeneicher, the to-back turns and twisting facility. “We’ve really had our park’s communications director. tunnels. All three slides have hands busy this off-season,” “Aside from being our first inter- two-tone colored segments. said Ball. “We’ve made up- active dark ride, Justice League Purple, green and orange grades and improvements is cutting-edge and thrilling — a slides are each built with dark to the food locations, dining fabulous attraction that every- and light sections so that pas- and some of the gift shops.” one can enjoy.” sengers can experience mo- Enhancements included new We ARE your Dale Kaetzel, president of ments of light as well as peri- floors, new tables, new back- Six Flags Over Georgia, echoed ods of darkness. of-house equipment and new that observation. General Manager Stephen counters to speed up service Safety News Source! “Justice League can be rid- Ball told Amusement Today, “It and improve quality. den by everybody from grand- was a very simple installa- The Wildcat wooden parents to kids, and the reaction Subscribe Today! we’ve gotten from guests really tion and went very smoothly. coaster also received a com- has validated that. It’s just great.” We’re really happy with how pletely refurbished train —Additional reporting things turned out. ProSlide hit from Philadelphia Toboggan www.AmusementToday.com AT/Tim Baldwin the mark with what we were Coasters Inc. 28 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 Pandora expansion creates a ‘must do’ at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

AT: Tim Baldwin Two main attractions are [email protected] featured in Pandora. Flight of Passage is an incredibly immer- ORLANDO, Fla. — At sive flying theater. Na’vi River 580 acres, Disney’s Animal Journey is a float-through dark Kingdom not only is the larg- ride that allows passengers to est theme park at Walt Disney enjoy the bioluminescent flora World, but could debatably be and fauna of the famed film. the largest theme park in the Dining and retail are also world. When the park opened in the area, with the restaurant in 1998 (on Earth Day), it was options being individually clearly a different direction for customized for each guest and Disney. Taking a page from served very efficiently. A big the Busch Gardens playbook, seller is a pet . Sold with the park featured a focus on a true Harry Potter influence, a animals, conservation and the banshee “chooses” its owner. environment. The architecture, Street entertainment will also lush landscaping and them- appear sporadically in the out- ing placed the park among door areas throughout the day. the world’s most beautiful. However, the monumental But with all these accolades, it theming of floating islands in was quickly determined to be the sky, spectacular landscap- The Na’vi River Journey a “partial day visit” for most ing and other-worldly objects (above) takes passengers visitors who quickly hopped to simply captivate every onlook- into the bioluminescent another of the resort’s parks for er into the area. It cannot be world of the Na’vi. Guests the evening. In fact, for a long overstated. queueing for Flight of Pas- period of time, the park closed Flight of Passage takes sage observe a floating before dark. guests through an elabo- animatronic avatar in hiber- All that has changed. New rately themed journey in its nation. Below, the theming attractions and extended hours queue starting with stun- in the Pandora area have now cemented the park as ning landscaping (some real; captivates onlookers. an all-day experience if one is to some themed) and continuing COURTESY WALT DISNEY see and do all the activities and through caverns, forests and WORLD; AT/TIM BALDWIN attractions on offer. mining operations. Once in a The newest and most spec- scientific lab, guests become abuse humans have played in tacular addition is Pandora — onlookers of all sorts of fasci- affecting Pandora’s ecosystem. The World of Avatar. Instantly a nating equipment, as well as Who cares? It’s all about riding worldwide destination for fans a life-size avatar animatronic a banshee! But it’s all a master- of the 2009 film by James Cam- floating in hibernation liquid. stroke of storytelling, quite pos- eron, the new land is mesmer- At this point, visitors have been sibly Disney’s finest. izing for those who have not so engrossed into entering this Once in the simulator the- even seen the movie — the first other world, that the storyline ater, riders are linked to their to ever gross more than $2 bil- has become unnecessary. As avatar which allows each guest lion. Even without knowledge it is, the premise goes that the to fly on the back of a banshee. of Avatar, the uninitiated quick- park experience takes place 100 The industry has seen its share ly catch on with the storyline as years following the film, and a of flying theaters and -simu fantastic thematic details are on new group — the Pandora Con- lators, but Flight of Passage display throughout the entire servation Initiative — has been takes it further in a big way. new land. established to monitor years of There is 3-D, there are scents, there is motion, but this at- traction allows guests to actu- The perfect pet from Pandora ally feel negative Gs as they duck and fly through another world. Even more impressive, each rider can feel the banshee Festival of the Lion King also Eventually, a whole land was breathe and pulse between his took place here. That show was envisioned and the conserva- or her legs. Lines, particularly moved to a new theater in the tion component seemed to be early in the day, can reach sig- park once construction began. a good fit for Disney’s - Ani nificant waits. Still, following Documented reports from mal Kingdom over the resort’s each flight, screams of “It was the 1990s speak of Camp Min- Hollywood-themed park. worth it!” erupt regularly. nie-Mickey being a “placehold- Cameron’s company, Light- There are four theaters, er” for an area under develop- storm Entertainment, worked each seating 64 avatars (in four ment called Beastly Kingdom, in conjunction with Walt Dis- rows of 16). The journey lasts a section dedicated to mytho- ney Imagineering to develop four-and-a-half minutes plac- logical animals such as dragons the area. Industry speculations ing hourly throughput esti- and unicorns. By the turn of the price the new land at close to mates between 2,400 – 3,000 an millennium, those plans were half a billion, although Disney hour. placed aside as Imagineers felt has not released any monetary The must-have item at Pandora is the pet banshee. Part Construction of Pandora there were other stories to be figures. of the retail niche is that banshees “choose” their own- began in 2014. Prior to this, told more effectively. At night, Pandora takes on ers. Popular with kids and adults alike, guests can po- the area was known as Camp Film director James Camer- a new mystique as walkways, sition them on their shoulders and make them move Minnie-Mickey. It served as on was approached in 2011 for plants and thematic objects throughout their visit. AT/TIM BALDWIN a meet-and-greet location for the prospect of Avatar-themed glow and deliver a surreal ex- costumed characters. The show attractions to be developed. perience in the darkness. August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 29 Animal Kingdom debuts Joyland adds Dragon coaster As Joyland opened for the summer, younger “Both coasters are very different,” he said. Rivers of Light kids were finding new ways to smile and giggle. “The Miler coaster had a lift chain while the Wis- New for 2017 was the Dragon Wagon. dom Coaster uses tires to push the train up the Brokered through International Rides Man- first hill. The Wisdom model has a dip and a spi- agement (Wildwood, N.J.) at last fall’s IAAPA ral, while the Miler just had dips." Expo, the children’s coaster finds a fresh new —Tim Baldwin home in Lubbock, Texas. Previously, it had operat- ed at Santa’s Village AZoosement Park in Dundee, Ill. That park had acquired it from another facility in Illinois, Go Bonkers. The new coaster replaced an older children’s coaster, the Dipsy Doodle. That coaster, a long- serving Miler coaster dating back to the 1950s, was retired for good. “Well, we didn't really set out to replace the Dipsy Doodle,” said David Dean, president of Joyland Park. “We became aware of the Wisdom Dragon Coaster for sale and it seemed like a good opportunity to add something new and fresh to our list of rides. Kids — as well as adults — re- ally liked the Miler coaster and its action, but it The Wisdom Dragon coaster, relocated from was a bit noisy. Sometimes the noise would keep Santa's Village AZoosement Park, added kids from trying it for the first time. We thought something new for kids and families visiting Helping to solidify Disney's Animal Kingdom as being an replacing it with the Wisdom coaster would add Joyland. AT/GARY SLADE all-day experience is the new nighttime show, Rivers of something new for kids and families." Light. Debuting in February, the show features an original The Dragon Wagon is one of three coasters at soundtrack, projections, floats, boats, fountains and fire. the park, the other two being an SDC Galaxi and Housed in a new 5,000-seat amphitheater, the show an Allen Herschell Mad Mouse. features a collaboration with Disneynature to incorporate "So far, we have received positive feedback rare nature cinematography showcasing tender animal from both kids and families that have ridden it. moments adding authenticity to the storyline. Many are Kids really like the dragon theme, and I must never-before-seen moments from Disneynature films. The agree that it is a cute ride," added Dean. show opened as part the largest expansion in the history While it was slightly sad to say goodbye to of Disney’s Animal Kingdom which culminated with the Dipsy Doodle, Dean said it had served both Joy- opening of Pandora. COURTESY land and McKenzie Park well. 30 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 2017 San Diego County Fair draws over 1.5 million fairgoers

Number of contest factured by Reverchon. The participants, food items Big Wheel, brought in by Ray Cammack Shows and manu- continues to grow factured by Carousel Holland, AT: Pam Sherborne placed second, followed by [email protected] G-Force, owned by Southern Cross Rides and manufactured DEL MAR, Calif. — The by KMG. San Diego County Fair drew its About 2,500 people braved second largest attendance this the Bungee Plunge this year. year, with a total of 1,565,933 The oldest jumper was 71 and fairgoers passing through the the youngest was eight years gates during the 26 days of the old. About 50 people got cold event that ran June 2-July 4. feet at the top. The 2016 fair still holds the Special festivals at the fair largest attendance record at this year were: the 2017 San 1,609,874, but fair officials were Diego International Beer Fes- certainly pleased with their 1.5 tival, which drew 6,055 attend- million-plus fairgoers this year. ees over the three-day event; The largest day attendance this the 2017 Toast of the Coast year was Sunday, July 2, with Wine Competition and Festi- 93,874 fairgoers. An authentic cattle drive through the downtown streets of San Diego, Calif., kicked off this val, which drew 1,058 guests To go along with this year's San Diego County Fair, Del Mar, Calif., June 2-July 4. The cattle drive was 20 miles at two tasting sessions during year's theme, "Where the West away from the fairgrounds and included 200 head of cattle, 40 cowpokes and nearly 20 the one-day event; and the is Fun" and to spread the fair scruffy and super fit herding dogs. This was a first-time event for the fair. 2017 Distilled, Spirit and Cock- word, fair planners organized COURTESY SAN DIEGO COUNTY FAIR tail Festival, which hosted 652 a first-time-ever authentic guests at the one-day event. cattle drive through the sky- fairgoers to enjoy spirits and San Diego County Fair or- scrapers of downtown San craft cocktails from some of ganizers not only focus on new Diego. The cattle drive was San Diego's award-winning attractions, midway rides, and presented, 20 miles away from distilleries, and Native Ameri- special festivals, but also on the fairgrounds and included can dancing, with Eric Run- educational and agricultural 200 head of cattle, 40 cowpokes ningpath of the Navajo Nation activities. Some of the educa- and nearly 20 scruffy and - su performing traditional Indian tional activities this year in- per fit herding dogs. grass dance. cluded special promotion days “We wanted to bring some- New foods top many fair- for groups such as Girl Scouts, thing unique to our greater San goer's schedules. Some of those student showcases, scout Diego community to promote included: Bacon-wrapped groups that help the fair staff this year’s fair,” said General asparagus, a new spicy and raise the flag daily, a field trip Manager/CEO Tim Fennell. sweet "vittle" offered at the Having a little fun during the 2017 San Diego County Fair, program, and a school staff ap- "The cattle drive fit right in Bacon A-Fair; Krispy Kreme Del Mar, are from left Greg Stewart, general manager, Cen- preciation day. with our western theme while, Chicken Ice Cream Sandwich, tral Washington Fair, Yakima, Wash.; Tim Fennell, general Agricultural is celebrated at the same time, supported dinner and dessert at the same manager and CEO, San Diego County Fair, Del Mar, Calif.; by exhibits as well with the our mission to educate about time at Chicken Charlie's; and and Steve Chambers, executive director, Western Fairs Assn. fair's livestock auction. This local agriculture." Peanut Butter Meatballs, also AT/SUE NICHOLS was the 68th auction for the Other new attractions this from Chicken Charlie's. San Diego fair. It raised over year included: the Jade Pea- There were 48 rides in the Kids Zone. The top ride this year was $500,000 for 4-H and FFA cock Speakeasy, held on Fri- the Fun Zone area of the San Diego County Fair the Crazy Mouse, owned by day and Saturday nights, for midway this year and 45 in is an independent midway. Steve Vandervorst and manu- 4See SAN DIEGO, page 31

FAST FACTS Top 10 rides 1. Crazy Mouse, Steve Vandervorst, Reverchon 2. Big Wheel, RCS, Carousel Holland 3. G-Force, Southern Cross Rides, KMG 4. Magnum, Wood Entertainment, Mondial 5. Skyflyer, Bishop Amusements, Zamperla 6. Olympic Bobsled, Helm & Sons, SDC 7. Fast Trax Slide, State Fair Spectacular, Fabbri Ray Cammack Shows' Rave 8. Alien Abduction, Wave came in at the ninth RCS, Wisdom spot on the top 10 rides at 9. Rave Wave, the San Diego County Fair, RCS, Reverchon Del Mar, Calif. The ride was 10. Infield Carousel, Connie Everett's pretzel trailer was just one of the many food concessions at this year's San manufactured by Reverchon. Helm & Sons, Chance Diego County Fair, Del Mar, Calif. The trailer was manufactured by Hitch-Hiker Trailers. AT/SUE NICHOLS AT/SUE NICHOLS August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 31 MIDWAYLIGHTS COMPILED: Pam Sherborne [email protected]

A new app introduced for the Kentucky Last month, Gov. Jerry Brown signed SB- State Fair, Louisville, is helping fairgoers get their 94, which combined the medical and recreational hands on advanced tickets to the 2017 fair, which marijuana laws into one set of rules. The massive runs August 17-27. bill includes a section that allows for cannabis The free app is available on Google Play and sales on state-owned fairgrounds, either at coun- the App Store. A fairgoer not only can get ad- ty fairs or during private events, provided certain vanced tickets from the app, but they also are able conditions are met. These include securing proper to plan their fair trip with a complete schedule and permits and, in the case of county fairs, having discover Tastes of the Fair favorites among other a designated enclosed space for pot. No recre- features. ational marijuana sales are legal until Jan. 1, 2018. • According to an online story on The Fres- Helm & Sons' Olympic Bobsled ride ranked number six in Another fair, the Illinois State Fair, India- no Bee site, the CEOs of the Fresno, Kings, Tu- the top 10 rides at the 2017 San Diego County Fair, Del Mar, napolis, is continuing its trek into the digital age. lare and Madera county fairs had reactions that Calif. AT/SUE NICHOLS Last year, the fair unveiled a new mobile app that ranged from cautious suspicion to disgust when allowed fairgoers to customize their visit to the asked about the new rules. Three said a final deci- SAN DIEGO trailer truck filled with pota- state fairgrounds. This year, the fair is offering an sion would come after their governing boards had Continued from page 30 toes for their Curly Fried Cone. online payment option for gate admission, park- time to analyze the new rule, but the largest of the •Candy Factory used 14 ing passes and mega passes with more features to four offered a definitive response. youth, by selling 121 hogs, 74 tanks of liquid nitrogen for be added as this year's fair dates approach. The “The Big Fresno Fair (Fresno, Calif., with lambs, 46 cattle, and 53 goats. their Nitro Candy Popcorn. Illinois State Fair runs August 4-20. 2017 dates set October 4-15) has no plans at this Fireworks America of •Chicken Charlie sold The fair will be able to scan fairgoers' phones time to allow any cannabis-related vendors at the Lakeside California designed over 30,000 Peanut But- as well, instead of having to print a hard ticket. annual Big Fresno Fair, nor hold or permit canna- the 4th of July Fireworks Show. ter Meatballs, 10,000 Bacon Of course, that also is an option through the app. bis-related events at the Fresno Fairgrounds as "Technology is allowing the Illinois State Fair part of our year-round rental facility operations,” The 20-minute display con- Wrapped Chicken Legs, and sisted of 220, 2.5-inch shells; to evolve," said State Fair Manager Kevin Gor- John Alkire, CEO for The Big Fresno Fair, told the close to 7,000 Krispy Kreme Ice don. "Scanning tickets is something we have been news site. 515, three-inch shells; 209, Cream Chicken Sandwiches. able to do that at the Grandstand for a couple of Alkire’s stance is in line with both the city that four-inch shells; 122, five-inch •Corn Star grilled 48,000 years now, and we hope expanding this service to surrounds the state-owned fairgrounds and the shells; 96, six-inch shells; 32, ears of corn. our 12 gates will be an added convenience for our county that shares its name. The City of Fresno eight-inch shells; 1,200 units of •Dixie’s Donuts fried more fairgoers." voted last month to move forward on various pot- fire from bombardment, and than 281,000 mini donuts. • related bans, while the county has maintained 2,394 aerial shots. •The Fair’s signature craft The Utah State Fairpark, Salt Lake City, fin- strict rules that include a $1,000-per-plant fine For its popular fried po- beer, the Blood Orange IPA ished its newest addition last month, a 10,000- that has led to several court battles. tato treats, vendor Australian from Hess Brewery was a hit, seat arena. Madera (Calif.) District Fair CEO Tom Mitch- Battered Potatoes used more with 76 kegs of the beer con- State lawmakers approved the $17 million fa- ell said his fair does not have a policy regarding cility last July, after years of debate on the future cannabis sales, as it is waiting for guidelines from than 14,000 pounds of pota- sumed, which equates to over toes, 8,400 pints of oil, 240 gal- of the Fairpark and whether the state should step the state to decide either way. He noted that 12,000 beers. in to save the home of the Utah State Fair. Madera has not received any requests to host a lons of ranch dressing, 60 cases •Pignotti’s new food When lawmakers met last year, Gov. Gary marijuana-related event. The 2017 version of that of cheese sauce, 200 pounds of item also was a hit. They sold Herbert said: "We either need to invest money fair is set for Sept. 7-10. bacon, and 150 pounds of sour over 1,000 orders of deep into it and fix the buildings and the structures out In Hanford, home to the Kings Fair and where cream. fried . there — or raze the buildings and subdivide it and voters will decide in 2018 whether to allow some Other numbers of pounds •Pink's sold 2,600 pounds sell it off." commercial pot activity, Fair CEO Angie Avila and food units include: of hot dogs and 7,500 pounds When breaking ground on the project last said the fair’s governing board will consult with •Bacon-A-Fair used more of French Fries. fall, officials said the new arena is expected to the City of Hanford and its police department, as than 30,000 pounds of bacon Of the 154 Cell Phones make Fairpark more self-sustaining by drawing well as state guidelines from the California Divi- this season in their various of- turned into the Guest Services additional revenue from larger events. And, hope- sion of Fairs and Expositions, before making any fully, the new building will draw more year-round decisions. The 2017 fair ran in mid-June. ferings. Department, fair employees •Biggie’s Meat Market events. Tulare County has a few legal medical can- have been able to return all The bulk of the cost for the new arena was nabis dispensaries, but Tulare County Fair CEO used three-fourths of a semi- but 26. shared by four groups: $10 million from the state, Pamela Fyock said she’d likely echo Alkire’s com- $3 million from Salt Lake City and Salt Lake Coun- ments after talking it over with her board. The FAST FACTS ty, and $3 million from The Church of Jesus Christ 2017 fair is set for Sept. 13-17. of Latter-day Saints. • San Diego County Fair Jeff Kooring, the Fairpark's sales and mar- Once again, it seems discussions are taking contests and special events by the numbers keting director, said the arena will hold rodeos, place about moving the Tennessee State Fair motorsports events, concerts, demolition derbies, from its site in Nashville, where it has been held 40: Number of babies entered in three Baby Derby Contests and equestrian events. for the past century. This move, some say, would 62: Number of participants in the The LDS Church agreed to donate to "ex- most likely place the event outside of Metropoli- Father/Child Lookalike Contest press our appreciation for your leadership on the tan Nashville to another county. A state commis- 88: Number of National Anthem singers project to upgrade the fairgrounds and feel confi- sion is set to consider relocating it. at Opening Ceremonies dent that it would be a marvelous blessing for the This is not the first time in the recent past this 140: Number of Scout Troops that participated people of the state of Utah," according to a letter issue has come up for the Tennessee State Fair. in the Flag Raising at Opening Ceremonies from the church's Presiding Bishopric. The fair has seen years of struggling attendance 170: Number of kids learning magic "This was a really good opportunity to bring that has lagged behind the fairs in Wilson and Wil- the private sector and the public sector together liamson counties. at the Abra-Kid-Abra Magic Camp to continue taking care of this place, which is really The Tennessee State Fair's 2016 attendance 207: Number of pieces of bubble gum chewed important to not only the community on the west was 101,000. The Wilson County Fair, Lebanon, in the Bubble Gum Blowing Contest side, but also the whole state of Utah,” said Sen. Tenn., drew 467,236 fairgoers last year and the 240: Number of pies consumed Luz Escamilla, D-Salt Lake City. “I truly believe Williamson County Fair, Franklin, Tenn., drew at the daily Coco’s Pie Eating Contest this will help bring more life to the west side." 204,000. Both of the latter fairs were impacted by 254: Number of cars in the Car Shows at the Fair • rain in 2016. 890: Number of participants at Three O’Clock Fun contests A minor clause in a recently passed California The goal is to have the Tennessee State Fair 1,097: Number of participants in the Flag Raising program at State Senate bill could lead to a dramatic increase fair moved by 2019. This year the fair is set for daily Opening Ceremonies (Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Marines) in funnel cake sales at county fairs across the state. Sept. 7-18 in Nashville. 32 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 MIDWAY On the Road: Penn Wood Shows MARKET PLACE

Penn Wood Shows personnel were on hand at the recently held Fireman's Carnival in Gettysburg, Pa. Show here are (l to r): Jeff Koontz, partial show owner, Linda Koontz and Heidi Long, Penn Wood Shows owner. AT/B. DEREK SHAW

Penn Wood Shows recently bought and re- furbished five rides from Mickey “Mildred” Billets with Billets Amusements, York, Pa. Shown at right is one ride, a Hrubetz Para- trooper. Also refurbished were a Lost Treasure Fun House; and a Kiddie Roller Coaster (all manufactured by Hi- Light). The previous year, the Watkins Tempest was refurbished. The show had 19 rides for the five-day spot. Ironically Billets Para- trooper was on the same lot in 1969 (as they had the show,) returning again, this time with LED light- ing. bottom right, Penn Wood Shows plays spots primarily in south central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The show hopes to add 2-3 rides for the P.O. Box 238 2018 season, with possibly Frederiksena Chance 1/7x3 b/w as one3/14/02 11:22 AM Page 1 Merino, CO. 80741 of the attractions. AT/B. DEREK SHAW 800-634-6097 970-522-7515 Fax: 970-522-2902

[email protected] www.wisdomrides.com “The #1 Leading Slide Manufacturer in America” FREDERIKSEN “World’s Largest 5 Lane, One Trailer Slide - 108 Ft.” INDUSTRIES, INC. 5212 St. Paul St. Gull Wing Industries • Financing and Leasing Available • Trades Considered Tampa, Florida 33619 Working with the Carnival (813) 628-4545 Industry since 1989 • Order Slide Bags or “New Rain” Bags Contact us at: • 6 New Slides In Stock FAX (813) 621-3679 www.gull-wing.com • Have 20 Used Rides www.funslide.com • 90 Ft. Fiberglass Slide • 65 Ft. Fiberglass Slide Pack-Man 175 kw or 250 kw Quiet Power–Tractor or Trailer Mounted

309 N.E. 1st Street P.O. Box 128 Alta, IA 51002 GFlex 400 Amp Toll Free: 800-838-1482 Fax: 712-200-1936

Keep our amusement park industry strong! Buy products and services from these suppliers. August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 33 Powers & Thomas Rain dampens Poor Jack Amusements dates; , new Black Widow shining Midway Entertainment AT: Pam Sherborne parts of the carousel that there nice during the day, but will be- [email protected] aren't that many now," Boh- come cloudy and rain often in lander said. "I think the iron in the afternoons -- "right when we MILTON, Ind. — Since it the horses are where most of the are getting ready to open." was founded in 1967 by the Boh- original parts are." "It has definitely impacted lander family, Poor Jack Amuse- During the second week in us this year," he said. "But, over- ments has had many rides come July, Poor Jack Amusements had all it has been pretty good, as and go, but there are three rides split into three units, something long as the weather holds." that started with the show 50 they don't do regularly. They do Along with having the years ago that still operate every run two units often in the sum- Scrambler overhauled for this season and every date, the Eli mer and come together for the season, a new Black Widow ride Bridge Scrambler, Eyerly Rock- bigger dates. from Batech was purchased. For O-Plane and Allan Herschell They play Indiana and have the 2016 season, a new Wadkins carousel. four fairs in Ohio. Bohlander Expo Wheel was added as was a This past winter, the show said there is no lack of business tractor ride from Dalton. owners decided to take their in the area. Other equipment also has Scrambler, which was actually "Fifteen years ago, the Indi- been purchased such as a new Amy Powers and R.J. Thomas, principals of Powers and built in 1962, back to Eli Bridge ana fair association had 50 fairs bunk house last year along with Thomas Midway Entertainment pose in front of their and have it overhauled and re- registered that played in the several new trucks. new Hitchhiker Ice Cream location when AT caught up to racked to fit a 28-foot trailer. state," he said. "This year there The show owns about 34 them at the Fireman's Jubilee in Springdale, Pa. "My brother, Gary, and I feel are 13." rides. It mostly stays within AT/B. DEREK SHAW our Scrambler has been our most It has been wet so far this an 80-to-100-mile radius to the profitable piece of equipment season for the show. Bohlander headquarters in Milton, Ind. over the years," Tim Bohlander said the summer weather in In- There is one date which is 140 said. "We have other rides that diana has a tendency to be quite miles away. have earned more money but the operating and maintenance costs have detracted from the profits. "The Scrambler has given us the best return on our dollar," he said. Much of the steel in the Scrambler remains intact. The gears in the center of the ride and a lot of the iron remains the same as well. They did replace the cars, but Bohlander said they Powers and Thomas Midway Entertainment added this really didn't need to. new Chance Rides, three-abreast carousel featuring "But, they were 50 years old Bradley & Kaye outside horses along with a distinctive and sort of looked 50 years old," Poor Jack Amusements, headquartered in Milton, Ind., is now decorative top. AT/B. DEREK SHAW he said. "They also put on a new the proud owner of a 28-foot-tall Eli Bridge trailer-mounted LED lighting package." Scrambler. Seen here in front of the trailer-mounted ride is, Of the three original rides to from left Phillip Berry, William Howard, John Spaulding, and the show, the Rock-O-Plane prob- Tim Bohlander, all with Poor Jack Amusements, along with ably has most of its original parts. Patty Sullivan, president/CEO, Eli Bridge, and Gary Woods, "We have replaced so many Eli Bridge shop supervisor. COURTESY TIM NOLAND

Powers and Thomas Midway Entertainment has the con- tract in Springdale, Pa., for the six-day run of the Fire- man’s Jubilee always occurring around the July 4th holi- day. This year it had 15 rides at that location, seen here. AT/B. DEREK SHAW 34 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 35

BUSINESS, SAFETY & CLASSIFIED  Obituaries — Page 38 / MarketWatch — Page 40 / SAFETY — 43-45 / CLASSIFIEDS — Pages 46 and Water World Hosts PAPA Summer Meeting First female president annually provide three $7,000 by Fred Strathmeyer, Jr. Deputy Carnivals Educational) ride See more on of organization scholarships Secretary with the Pennsylvania safety seminar will occur Oct. to deserving Department of Agriculture, 30-Nov. 2 at a hotel to be deter- VideoTrack leads event students. The Bureau of Ride Safety. In summing mined in Bloomsburg, Pa. foundation is up his comments, Strathmeyer Hands-on training will be avail- at AmusementToday.com AT: B. Derek Shaw hoping to offer said, “[We are] the leader of safety able at Knoebels Amusement [email protected] three addi- in the nation.” Resort in Elysburg, Pa. This tional scholar- There was also discussion portion of the program is held knowledge among members, ERIE, Pa. — Nearly seventy ships this year. Romano about possibly changing the outside — rain or shine. This uphold a good public image members of the Pennsylvania Romano also name of the organization to better annual seminar is held in conjunc- and exert influence upon legisla- Amusement Parks Association discussed an initiative with reflect the interests of all mem- tion with the Pennsylvania State tion. R.L. Plarr of Dorney Park (PAPA) convened on July 17- Colorado Springs, Colo.-based bers. While amusement parks Showmen’s Association (PSSA) served as the organization’s first 18 for the organization’s annual Junior Achievement Worldwide have traditionally been the prima- and offers both 24- and 32-hour cer- president. In 1946, roller coaster Summer Meeting at Waldameer to aid those students and help ry members, these days there is tification training sessions. The edu- designer Herbert P. Schmeck Park and Water World. them gain real insight into work- representation from water parks, cational portion of the seminar is of Philadelphia Toboggan Day One started with a ing in the amusement industry. family entertainment centers, ride led by instructors from NAARSO. Company served as president. golf tournament at Whispering On Day Two, following a con- manufacturers, suppliers, fam- Inspector testing also is offered for Each year, the Summer Meet- Woods Golf Club in Erie, generat- tinental breakfast at Waldameer, ily campgrounds, miniature golf Pennsylvania Certified Inspectors ing travels to a different member ing a substantial amount for the behind-the-scenes tours of the courses and other attractions. and/or NAARSO levels. Contact facility in Pennsylvania, while the Barbara J. Knoebel scholarship park were conducted by Paul Muscato was asked about Gary Chubb at Hersheypark for Spring Meeting is held annually fund. This fund annually helps Nelson, Steve Gorman and Brian being the first woman at the helm more information. at the Hershey Lodge in Hershey, student employees of PAPA mem- Gorman. The tours were tai- of PAPA. “There are not that many PAPA formed in 1935 to Pa. The next Spring Meeting is ber parks in the form of scholar- lored to members’ specific inter- women of my generation that have promote the industry, exchange Feb. 26-27. ships for educational purposes. ests. These included a look at the been involved with amusement Water World water park area and parks as long as I have,” she said. a lights-on walk through the clas- “I started at age five or six.” sic, Bill Tracy-designed Whacky Organizational success is one Shack dark ride. goal during her two-year term. The PAPA Board of Directors “We want to see growth meeting took all across the industry,” said place mid-morn- Muscato. “In order to do that, we ing. Leanna need to become strong.” She has That evening, attendees Muscato of already recruited a few new mem- socialized over dinner at the Bel- Knoebels bers to the organization who are Aire/Clarion Hotel, which is Amusement suppliers with whom she works in within walking distance of the Resort, current her position at Knoebels. park. Pre-dinner remarks were PAPA president Muscato Muscato was quick to point delivered by Erika Scheffer, and the organi- out the mutual cooperation Above, Waldameer's Steve Gorman (third from left) shares director of state advocacy for zation’s first female leader in its between member organizations. insights on the park's water park expansion and plans with IAAPA, who explained the orga- 82-year history, presided. “That’s one of the best things PAPA members. Below, PAPA members and attendees en- nization’s decision to relocate its Discussion included about PAPA: We share informa- joy dinner together on the first night of the annual summer headquarters from Alexandria, the recent Amusement Park tion. We are not in competition. meeting.AT/JOHN W.C. ROBINSON Va., to Orlando. Land has been Legislative Day at the state capitol I give them my good hints, they purchased in Orlando, with in Harrisburg and the announce- give me their good hints, and that groundbreaking scheduled for ment of three new member compa- makes us all stronger and better next January and a move-in date nies to PAPA. Committee reports in the industry.” She added that during the second quarter of 2019. included the new bylaws that were this applies across the board with The majority of the government approved, changing the wording, games, rides, food and other areas. affairs team will remain in the “life” members to “hall of fame” Finally, Muscato said she Washington, D.C., area. members, waterpark issues includ- wanted member parks to main- Scheffer also discussed an ing media coverage of water borne tain their focus on creating a posi- FAA bill regarding drones over illness early in the season and the tive experience guests and to con- amusement park air space and the need for another member to serve tinue providing value, safety and J-1 visa program. on the Amusement Ride Safety enjoyment in a family-friendly Gina Romano, representing Advisory Board. environment. the IAAPA Foundation, said they A few remarks were also made The 2017 PACE (Parks and

EUROPEAN SPARE AND REPLACEMENT PARTS IMPORTER SINCE 1982 NORTH AMERICAN PARTS INC. NORTH 61C AERO DRIVE, PARTS CHEEKTOWAGA, NEW YORK USA 14225

PHONE: (716) 839-4791 FAX: (716) 839-4506 AMERICAN INC. EMAIL: [email protected] www.nap-inc.com SERVING THE AMUSEMENT INDUSTRY WE’VE KEPT YOUR RIDES IN MOTION SINCE 1982 36 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 Chance Rides names new president Weldon, Williams & Lick, Inc. WICHITA, Kan. — Chance Rides recently an- ufacturing operations, Aaron was previously the completes acquisition of nounced that Aaron Landrum, 41, has joined the general manager at PCC Aerostructures - Brittain company as president & chief operating officer effec- Machine, a large structural component machining Worldwide Ticketcraft tive June 26, 2017. operation in Wichita, Kansas. Prior to PCC, Aaron FORT SMITH, Ark. — Erik Covitz, founder and CEO of Aaron will report directly to was the general manager at Circor Aerospace & De- Worldwide Ticketcraft (WWTC), and Jim Walcott, president CEO/Chairman, Dick Chance, fense in Hauppauge, New York designing and pro- and CEO of Weldon, Williams & Lick, Inc. (WW&L) jointly an- and oversee all operations of the ducing highly engineered defense, aerospace, and nounce the closing of the acquisition of Worldwide Ticketcraft company including Engineering, medical products. by Weldon, Williams & Lick, Inc. to better serve their respective Production, Customer Service, Fi- “We are thrilled to have Aaron onboard and I customers. This move will consolidate the entrepreneurial drive nance, and Sales and Marketing. couldn’t feel more optimistic about the future suc- Additionally, Aaron will work cess of Chance Rides under Aaron’s stewardship,” of WWTC with the strength and capacity of WW&L. Combining the best practices of each company will offer the admissions closely with Dick and his son, John Landrum said Dick Chance. “I will continue to have an active Chance, to execute the company’s role in the business while my primary focus shifts to industry a full suite of products and smart solution choices. strategic and growth objectives. the strategic direction of the company.” Worldwide Ticketcraft will remain in Florida and continue to With more than 18 years of experience in man- serve their customers with an expanded product line. Covitz will serve as vice president of Market Development for WW&L Merlin promotes Jones to new role where he will focus on bringing new products and services to the customers of both companies. WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — Adrian Jones, who into the globe’s fifth Legoland theme park, which “This is very exciting news for our customers and employ- has led Resort through nearly opened to enthusiastic crowds Oct. 15, 2011. ees,” said Walcott. “It’s truly an honor to have the opportu- seven years of growth and expansion, has accepted In a three-decade career with nity to join with Erik Covitz and his entire team at Worldwide a new role as divisional director of Midway North U.K.-based Merlin Entertain- Ticketcraft.” America, parent company Merlin Entertainments ments, Jones previously served Covitz added, ”The resources that Weldon, Williams & Group announced. as divisional director of Midway Lick brings to our company and customers will drive our future Jones will be responsible for a rapidly expand- Attractions in the western United growth and new opportunities for our employees.” ing portfolio of two dozen U.S. and Canadian at- States, where in 2008 he opened Weldon, Williams & Lick, Inc. continues to be an industry tractions that include iconic brands such as Ma- Legoland Discovery Center near leader in ticket design and printing for more than 100 years. dame Tussauds, Sea Life Aquarium and Legoland Chicago, Ill., the first in North Jones Weldon, Williams and Lick, Inc. was founded in 1898 and of- Discovery Center. America; and in 2009, Madame fers a complete array of admission tickets, parking permits, Named general manager of the future Legoland Tussauds Hollywood, the first of the premier celeb- event ticket printing and distribution services, hang tags, cre- Florida in August 2010, Jones oversaw a dramatic rity wax attractions to be built from the ground up dentials, kiosks, and RFID products. The company is a leading transformation of the former Cypress Gardens site in 200 years. provider of high quality printed ticket products for interna- tional events, leading professional and collegiate sports, and marquee productions. Worldwide Ticketcraft was founded in 1999 and head- quartered in Boynton Beach, Fla. Worldwide Ticketcraft is a customer-focused, service-driven leader in the ticket design and printing business. In 2006, Worldwide Ticket and Label ac- quired New York based, Ticketcraft, Inc. and merged both com- panies to form Worldwide Ticketcraft. The company produces hundreds of millions of thermal and digital products each year, including reserved seating, point of sale, season books and pre- designed tickets. August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 37

ThisM spaceuseu is provided courtesym of Amusement P Todayrogress, a corporate partner of the National R Roller Coasterep Museumort & Archives. Information boards take shape THIS MONTH NRCMA has started the process of getting information boards created and placed on display by each donated vehicle that is in storage, or on display, in the current archival facility in Plainview, Texas. To create display stands, the staff recycled IN HISTORY wood from the Texas Cyclone (AstroWorld) wooden coaster and sprayed a clear coat to protect the original paint. Future Presented by the National Rollercoaster Museum guests will also see the Douglas Fir growth rings on the stands where cuts to the boards have been made. The information signs were written by Jeffrey Seifert and designed by John Robinson, both AT staffers. Boards seen below are (clockwise AT: Richard Munch from top left): Recycling Texas Cyclone, Texas Splashdown (SeaWorld San Antonio); City Jet (Gillian's Wonderland Pier) and Little Dipper (Memphis Kiddie Park). AUGUST RECYCLING: LOG, SIGNAGE AND TROUGH FROM •1918: On the evening of August 11, the grandstand at the Waco TEXAS CYCLONE TEXAS SPLASHDOWN Cotton Palace race track, in Waco, Texas, was completely destroyed (OPERATED 1976-2005 • ASTROWORLD) (OPERATED 1989-2011 • SEAWORLD SAN ANTONIO) by fire. The adjacent roller coaster and other buildings were also These information stands Originally opened in 1987, this flume dates back to the days of damaged, with the loss estimated at about $10,000. Begun in No- have been recycled from extra Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, the textbook publishers who owned the Sea World marine life parks. In 1986, HBJ purchased, what was then Circus World vember 1894, the Cotton Palace was organized to feature local live- Texas Cyclone wooden support structure theme park in Haines City, Florida. HBJ rethemed the park and reopened it that the NRCMA has in its inventory. in 1987 as Boardwalk & Baseball. New attractions included Grand Rapids, stock, agriculture (highlighting the cotton industry), concerts and flo- The stands have not been repainted thus an with an extended elevated section. HBJ built ral exhibits. It lasted all but one year, when a fire in January 1895 took a fourth Sea World in San Antonio, Texas, that opened in 1988. In 1989 HBJ showcasing both the ride’s original paint, sold its theme park division to Busch Entertainment Corp. Busch closed out most of the buildings. It reopened in 1910, with larger facilities and the detail of the Douglas Fir wood grain Boardwalk & Baseball and relocated the flume to Sea World of Texas. for exhibits, including the amusement section known as the War Path It operated there until 2011. on the cut sections. Once complete, they were featuring a , wood roller coaster, merry go round and clear coated for added protection. . Ironically, while most structures were rebuilt after the fire, another major blaze destroyed more exhibit buildings the following April. The Cotton Palace eventually closed in October 1930, linked to dropping cotton prices related to the Great Depression. •1922: Rendezvous Park, in Atlantic City, N.J., was the scene of an unusual incident in which a man was apparently hurt by a falling fire bucket from the Scenic Railway at the boardwalk park. Bill MacAfee was found unconscious late August 16 in his cot, after being struck on DONATION COURTESY ASTROWORLD (2005) DONATION COURTESY SEAWORLD SAN ANTONIO (2011) the head by the metal container. Typically, these buckets were filled

PARK SIGN FROM LEAD CAR FROM with sand or water, to put out any fire. Employed as a handyman by KIDDIELAND AMUSEMENT PARK CITY JET the concessionaires, MacAfee had established sleeping quarters un- (OPERATED 1929-2009 • KIDDIELAND AMUSEMENT PARK) (OPERATED 1996-2014 • GILLIAN’S WONDERLAND PIER) der the ride for almost a year. It was never explained how the bucket Kiddieland Amusement Park opened in 1929 in Melrose, Ill., a suburb of Chicago. The City Jet, also known as a Jet Star 400, was the fourth coaster of fell onto the sleeping man, nor if he ever recovered at the local hos- The park was home to a number of rides for children and adults including a 1950 the Jet Star series from coaster designer . Although Herbert P. Schmeck-designed Little Dipper wooden coaster. Throughout its 81-year designed to be portable, many operated at the same location for multiple pital from the head injury. history, the park was lovingly maintained, and rides were continually washed, waxed seasons. The Jet Stars were known for having high-speed, highly banked and dusted to keep them looking like new. The park became a summertime tradition turns. The City Jet was slightly smaller than a Jet Star 2, but its stronger •1922: Bertram Wilson, general manager of Sea Breeze Park, Roch- for families in the Chicago area. Unfortunately, it all came to end on September 27, support structure allowed it to run two cars chained together to form a 2009. A decades-long dispute among the heirs of the original founding family finally ester, N.Y., was interviewed for the local newspaper on August 11. took its toll. Members of the family who owned the land, decided it was too valuable small train. This City Jet first operated at Steel Pier in Atlantic City from to be used for an amusement park and refused to extend a lease around 1973 to 1976 when it was moved to Gillian’s Wonderland Pier. He said, “If the people who use the roller coaster would obey instruc- allowing the remaining family members to operate the park. For the 2004 season, Gillian’s purchased two new trains from Most of the rides were sold off and relocated, with the Little Dipper roller coaster Wieland Schwarzkopf and donated this car to the NRCMA. tions, they would not keep us on a nervous edge most of the time. moving to nearby in Gurnee. Gillian’s sold the City Jet at the end of the 2004 season We have to watch people who are using these devices all the time. and the fate of this City Jet is unknown. Some of them apparently have not the slightest conception of what danger is, for they will go down in a standing position, ride backwards or kneel inside the cars.” He stated that this made him nervous most of the time and concluded, “the proper way to use a toboggan is to sit down and not attempt any funny business, but on average one out of every half dozen persons resort to some freak stunt. I have no doubt if they thought they could get away with it without breaking their necks, they would attempt to ride standing on their heads!" DONATION COURTESY KIDDIELAND (2009) DONATION COURTESY GILLIAN’S WONDERLAND PIER (2004) 38 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 OBITUARIES PEOPLE WATCH

Former Park and Bell’s RWS Entertainment Group so that our customers can reap the benefits and appoints Deborah Eicher to team attract and satisfy the visitors who frequent their park manager Jack Johnson dies NEW YORK, N.Y. — RWS Entertainment world-class destinations. Dan brings a wealth of Group, a New York-based live entertainment pro- experience in driving technology advancement FREDERICKSBURG, Texas — Jack Johnson, former manager of duction company that creates custom entertain- and managing highly ambitious teams. He is a now-defunct Playland Amusement Park in San Antonio and Bell’s ment, live events and brand experiences for top proven strategist with operational expertise and I Amusement Park in Tulsa, Okla., passed away on June 1 after a lengthy resorts, cruise lines and theme parks, announced look forward to seeing his ambitious, transforma- battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). He was 80. tive projects flourish." Johnson was born in Chicago in 1936. His adoptive parents, James on July 11 the appointment of Deborah Eicher E. (Jimmy) and Vivian Johnson, moved to San Anto- as head of International Business Development. nio’s Alamo Heights when he and his twin sister, Jill, Eicher will be based in London and lead RWS’ on- Falcon's Creative Group adds Wallace were six years old. The elder Johnson opened Play- going business expansion efforts in global markets ORLANDO, Fla. — Falcon’s Creative Group, land Park in San Antonio in 1943. with an emphasis on Europe, Asia and the Middle the Orlando-based creative services firm special- Jack Johnson studied at several local colleges be- East. izing in the design and production of themed ex- fore completing his education at Trinity University in Eicher brings over 17 years periences, has announced the addition of industry San Antonio, where he earned a B.S. degree in physics. of commercial and marketing veteran Mike Wallace as its new creative director. Upon graduation, he received a commission into the Johnson experience in the leisure and In his role at Falcon’s Creative Group, Wallace U.S. Army as a second lieutenant. He was honorably entertainments industry, has an will be responsible for leading and overseeing the discharged as a captain after serving two years at Fort Sill, Okla. MBA, ICAE and is on the board company’s creative team, which consists of an ex- Returning to San Antonio, Johnson became a member of the city’s of directors of the IAAPA Foun- perienced, interdisciplinary group of designers, Rotary Club and managed Playland Amusement Park until it closed in dation. Eicher recently worked animators, writers and architects representing de- 1981. as Global Business Development Eicher cades of experience in every facet of themed envi- From 1981 to 1986, Johnson lived in Tulsa, where he managed Bell’s Director at Scruffy Dog Ltd., HB ronmental concept, design and construction. Amusement Park. He relocated to Fredericksburg and became head of Leisure and was President, Global Industry Rela- Prior to joining Falcon’s Creative Group, Wal- the engineering department at Hill Country Memorial Hospital. Follow- tions and Business Development for Picsolve fo- lace spent nearly 10 years at , ing his departure from that position, Johnson worked at Herbort Auto cusing on the U.S., Far East, and Middle East. the design and engineering Supply/Carquest until he suffered a stroke several years later. group within Universal Parks Dick Knoebel, owner of Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elys- “I’m thrilled to be working with such a tal- burg, Pa., described Johnson as “a great friend. Jack was a great host ented team at RWS Entertainment Group,” says and Resorts, where he worked and was definitely an amusement industry person.” Eicher. “I look forward to heading our global ex- as an architectural designer, facil- Knoebel, who bought Playland Park’s still standing Rocket wooden pansion and offering our Broadway caliber enter- ity design manager, resort master roller coaster and moved it to his own property from Texas in the mid- tainment productions to theme parks and attrac- planner, and field art director for 1980s — successfully refurbishing the ride and renaming it — tions around the world.” some of the theme park’s most recalled that Johnson traveled to Pennsylvania to attend the coaster’s “Deborah’s past success and experience with- impactful projects. Wallace grand reopening. in the leisure and attractions industry make her “Mike’s architectural back- “Jack stated: ‘It never ran this good in San Antonio.’” the perfect candidate to lead RWS’ expansion ef- ground and field experience make him an ideal Johnson had many interests that kept him busy, including collect- forts on an international level,” said Ryan Stana, choice to lead a group of artists and designers who ing and restoring antique cars, working on and repairing old engines CEO and founder of RWS Entertainment Group. are imagining concepts that will translate to real- and machines, and operating ham radio. He was a history buff who “We are confident in her ability to introduce RWS’ world creations,” said Cecil D. Magpuri, presi- assembled an extensive library of Civil War history. services to businesses abroad and be a valuable dent and chief creative officer at Falcon’s Creative Johnson is survived by his wife of 56 years, Betty Johnson, and member of our fast-growing company.” Group. “The relationship between the creative their two daughters —Jennifer Johnson of Fredericksberg and Ju- team and the architects and engineers who trans- lie Pici of Austin — as well as his sister, Jill Johnson, who resides Picsolve appoints Dan Maunder as form creative ideas into reality is crucial for a proj- in Kerrville. new Chief Technology Officer ect’s success, so having someone with Mike’s ex- pertise on both sides of the development process LONDON — Picsolve, a leading digital con- Jack Niedzwiecki, 89, ran Knoebels bumper cars is extremely valuable to our team. We are thrilled tent creation partner for world-class visitor desti- to have him.” SHAMOKIN, Pa. — "Turn The Wheel To Your Left!, NO! Your nations, recently announced the appointment of OTHER Left! Don't You Know Your Right From Dan Maunder, who joins the company as Chief Your Left?" Those words and many other similar Technology Officer. With more than 15 years’ expe- George Reider joins Magic Memories instructions were uttered many times to thousands rience in technology and product development, he ORLANDO, Fla. — Magic Memories, the of riders of the Auto Skooters at Knoebels Amuse- will be responsible for Picsolve’s overall technol- leader in capturing, creating and sharing memo- ment Resort by John (Bumper Car Jack) Niedz- ries, announced the appointment of George Re- wiecki of Shamokin, Pa. Jack suffered from con- ogy strategy as the company continues to develop its innovative offering and further its growth into ider as North American Chief Executive Officer. gestive heart failure. He was 89. Reporting to Group CEO Chris Warhurst, George For over 35 years Jack was employed by Knoe- new markets and sectors. Niedzwiecki will be responsible for the growth and direction of bels in various capacities, more recently at the Maunder will be responsible for overseeing Magic Memories’ operations in the United States vintage Lusse bumper car ride, which he ran until 2014. Lately he the company’s research and development, digital was tasked with prepping each car in the morning before the park product development and technology teams and and Canada. This announcement follows Magic opened for the day and then worked the rest of the morning in the will be a key driver in its digital transformation Memories’ recent appointment of two Silicon Val- shop where other bumper cars were being repaired and recondi- ambitions. He will be instrumental in the continu- ley veterans to its board, Jeff Ryan and Sanjay tioned. Jack still took great pride in keeping “his” bumper cars pol- ous development of Picsolve’s visionary imaging Dholakia. ished with a new car-like finish. Jack had always said he wanted to technology ensuring full integration with custom- “George's appointment marks another excit- go with his boots on, working. That is where he was found prior to er systems, all of which is supported through the ing milestone in the development of our North the park opening on June 28th. of its open standard ecosystem and digi- American operations,” said Warhurst. “The com- Funny, kind and generous are just a few of the many attributes tal infrastructure. bination of his retail ecommerce experience with he had. Jack had legions of fans – not just amusement park enthusi- Maunder joins Picsolve with a wealth of IT our growing business will create a solid founda- asts, but also the general patrons of the park who enjoyed being in industry leadership experience from consumer- tion on which to build our future efforts.” his company during their visits. In fact his likeness is found inside centric brands. He most recently served as the VP “I am thrilled and honored to join such a dy- the bumper car building saying “No Head-Ons” and outside the of Software Development at Experian Consumer namic and passionate leadership team,” said Re- ride entrance is a “To ride the Skooters without an adult you must Services, the credit experts, helping the compa- ider. “Magic Memories has experienced tremen- be as tall as I am 54 inches” sign, affectionately referred to as “Flat ny’s American, U.K. and Europe markets derive dous growth and success, and I am committed to Jack.” Early on, Jack served in the U.S. Navy and was a member leading the North American team down its cur- of two different local fire companies. In addition to his wife of 53 insight and customer understanding from data, as well as supporting its rebrand. rent path using innovative strategies to enhance years, Marge, he is survived by two sons, John and Kevin. the experiences of our team members and guests.” “Bumper Car Jack was a major fixture of the park, an attrac- Picsolve CEO Alan Wright said, " As a world- Magic Memories was founded in 1995 in New tion himself. He was known internationally. Jack definitely will be leading digital content creation partner, we’re fo- Zealand. missed,” said Dick Knoebel. cused on driving innovation within our business August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39 SeaWorld Ent. releases corporate responsibility report Zipper manufacturer in business to stay Inaugural report Highlights from SeaWorld's 2016 Cove and are WICHITA, Kan. — It Corporate Responsibility Report include: accredited members of the Association was recently incorectly re- highlights company's • SeaWorld is a world leader in ani- of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), reflect- ported in an article written key initiatives mal rescue, having rescued and reha- ing SeaWorld's commitment to applying by Carolyn Kury de Cas- bilitated more than 2,000 animals in 2016 world-class standards of animal care. tillo, a reporter with Global • ORLANDO, Fla. — SeaWorld Enter- alone. The company recently announced SeaWorld's commitment to conser- News, that the manufac- tainment, Inc. (NYSE: SEAS), a leading a major milestone in 2017 – over 30,000 vation includes efforts to reduce the en- turer of the Zipper is no theme park and entertainment company, ill, injured, orphaned or abandoned vironmental footprint of its operations. longer in business. The released its 2016 Corporate Responsibil- animal rescues since the company was Over the last three years, SeaWorld's Zipper originally went into ity Report on June 27, 2017. The report founded. parks have improved their rate of recy- production in 1968. Chance • provides an overview of the company's Caring for imperiled animals has cling by 20 percent and reduced their en- Rides is the successor of everyday operations that support its always been a core value of SeaWorld. ergy usage by approximately 4 percent. the original Zipper manu- • mission to provide experiences that mat- Each year, the company dedicates its Employees of SeaWorld are en- facturer and the company ter, inspiring people to protect animals experienced animal care personnel, in- gaged and committed to the company's has been providing mainte- and the wild wonders of our world. cluding veterinarians, trainers and spe- purpose and mission. Nearly 90 percent nance support with replace- The inaugural report showcases the cialists, to fulfill the company's purpose. of SeaWorld's employees stated they un- ment parts and service ever actions SeaWorld is taking to ensure the This commitment, together with materi- derstood and believed in the company's since. Chance Rides has health and well-being of the animals in als, facilities and equipment, has been core purpose. also manufactured newer • its care, rescue and protect animals in the valued at approximately $10M annually. Half of SeaWorld's leaders are original models as well as • wild, minimize the environmental im- In addition to this in-kind support, women and 43 percent of its leaders are refurbishing some of the pact of its operations and create a strong in 2016 SeaWorld provided $3.5M in cash minorities, a reflection of SeaWorld's models seen on the midway culture where employees are engaged donations to conservation organizations commitment to create an inclusive work- to make original rides run and connected to the company's mission. and local community nonprofit organi- place that reflects the diversity of the like new. In 2016, a newer "People want to know that they are zations. SeaWorld has also supported millions of guests who visit its parks ev- seat design for the Zipper supporting companies and causes they the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conser- ery year. was released further en- believe in," said Joel Manby, President vation Fund since its founding in 2003. "This first Corporate Responsibility hancing the classic ride. and Chief Executive Officer of SeaWorld In 2016, the fund granted $1.6M in sup- Report is an important step in SeaWorld's The company sales Entertainment, Inc. "We are demonstrat- port for wildlife research, habitat pro- commitment to be open, transparent and manager, Jeff Miller, is ing that our parks can be fun and thrill- tection, animal rescue and conservation proactive in how we engage and com- working with North Ameri- ing while also being educational and in- projects around the world, bringing the municate on key issues," said Manby. can Midway Entertainment spirational. When our guests visit one of total granted by the Fund since it began "We hope it will provide a platform for to make sure that they have our parks, we want them to know they to more than $14M. In fact, the Fund has ongoing conversation and feedback from all they need to keep their are helping support the rescue of thou- supported over 1,100 projects in 75 coun- our stakeholders." ride assortment thrilling sands of animals every year, as well as tries and on all seven continents. Visit www.SeaWorldEntertainment. their fans for years to come! ongoing research and conservation ef- •All three SeaWorld parks (Orlando, com to read the full report. •chancerides.com forts around the world." San Diego and San Antonio), Discovery •seaworldentertainment.com 40 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 BUSINESS WATCH MARKETWATCH Wanda Group sells park, hotel assets BEIJING, China —The Wall Street Journal reported on July 12 that COMPANY SYMBOL MARKET PRICE HIGH LOW 07/13/17 52-Week 52-Week Dalian Wanda Group would be helping to finance almost half of the $9.28 billion sale of its theme parks and hotels to Sunac China Hold- The Blackstone Group BX NYSE 33.87 34.55 23.33 ings Ltd. Regulatory filings show that Wanda will take out a three-year bank loan of 29.6 billion yuan ($4.35 billion) to lend to Sunac. Sunac will Merlin Entertainments Group/ MERL LSE 479.00 537.50 422.5 use the borrowed funds to pay Wanda, and in return, gain ownership Legoland of its theme park business. Both companies declined to provide further , L.P. FUN NYSE 71.65 72.56 56.23 details than those outlined in the public filing.

Comcast Corp./ CMCSA NASDAQ 39.31 42.18 30.02 West End Media Groups adds two parks NBCUniversal Media FRISCO, Texas — T.J. Donnelly, owner manager, West End Media Group (WEMG) has announced recent contracts with Magic Springs The Walt Disney Company DIS NYSE 104.29 116.10 90.31 Theme and Water Park in Hot Springs, Ark., and Wild Waves Theme and Water Park in Federal Way, Wash. According to Donnelly, WEMG Dubai Parks & Resorts DXBE:UH DFM 0.76 1.77 0.73 will be working to enhance promotions and advertising of the parks through a bartering arrangement, primarily with radio stations targeted EPR Properties EPR NYSE 71.78 84.67 65.50 to reach the clients’ customers. In addition, WEMG will work with radio stations to design enhanced “on air” contests and promotions that give Fuji Kyoko Co., Ltd. 9010 TYO 1177.00 1478,99 950.00 WEMG park clients further value added exposure. Donnelly reports such arrangements typically gain 70 percent more coverage than traditional Haicahang Holdings Ltd. HK:2255 SEHK 1.71 1.95 1.53 media buys offered by ad agencies that work directly with theme parks. Since his company was founded in 1981, it has placed more than $410 Leofoo Development Co. TW:2705 TSEC 8.21 9.00 7 million in advertising and promotions for its clients. “We are pleased to add these two water and amusement parks to MGM Resorts International MGM NYSE 31.95 34.34 22.87 our inventory of ticket trades for the media and to our client list,” says Parques Reunidos Servicios Donnelly. Currently WEMG has over $6 million in prepaid advertising ES:PQR MCE 16.70 17.45 11.99 Centrales S.A. credits plus goods and services in its inventory. Other clients include , Denver, Colo.; Frontier City and White Water Bay, SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. SEAS NYSE 15.40 20.13 11.77 Oklahoma City, Okla.; Kentucky Kingdom, Louisville, Ky.; Nashville Shores, Nashville, Tenn.; Wet 'n' Wild Splashtown, Houston, Texas; and Six Flags Entertainment Co. SIX NYSE 59.61 65.19 47.61 Wet 'n' Wild parks in Phoenix, Ariz.; and Palm Springs, Calif.

Skyocean International HK:0593 SEHK 13.60 17.4 8.1 In Brief... •The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS) board of directors declared A/S DK:TIV CSE 597.00 676.00 425.00 on June 28, 2017, a semi-annual cash dividend of $0.78 per share, paid July 27, 2017 to shareholders of record at the close of business on July 10, Village Roadshow VRL ASX 3.99 5.54 3.22 2017. “We are pleased to deliver another strong dividend to sharehold- ers, following a 15 percent increase in diluted EPS for the second quar- STOCK PRICES ABOVE ARE GENERALLY QUOTED IN THE FOREIGN ter,” said Robert A. Iger, chairman and CEO, The Walt Disney Company. CURRENCY IN WHICH THE COMPANY IS LOCATED •Six Flags Entertainment Corporation announced its board of di- Worldwide Markets: ASX, Australian Securities Exchange; CSE, Copenhagen Stock Exchange; LSE, London Stock Exchange; NYSE, rectors has appointed Jim Reid-Anderson, who has been serving as Ex- 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 ecutive Chairman of the company since February 2016, as the company's —SOURCES: Bloomberg.com; Wall Street Journal new Chairman, President and CEO effective immediately, replacing John M. Duffey who has retired from the company. Reid-Anderson formerly DIESEL PRICES served as Chairman, President and CEO of Six Flags from August 2010 Region As of Change from through February 2016. Under his leadership the company set a new (U.S.) 07/10/17 1 year ago strategic direction, achieved all-time high guest and employee satisfac- East Coast $2.523 +$0.099 tion ratings and significant operational improvements, and drove a ten times return on investment for shareholders. Among other leadership Midwest $2.421 +$0.036 roles, Reid-Anderson previously served as Chairman, President and Chief Gulf Coast $2.311 +$0.050 Executive Officer of Dade Behring Inc., a manufacturer and distributor Mountain $2.584 +$0.139 of medical diagnostics equipment and supplies, where he also drove a West Coast $2.653 +$0.057 ten times return on investment for shareholders along with significant California $2.867 +$0.069 employee morale improvements and customer satisfaction increases. •Picsolve, a digital content creation partner for world-class visitor CURRENCY destinations, has announced its innovative imaging technology will be at On 07/14/17 $1 USD = the heart of Berlin’s latest attraction, Little BIG City, letting consumers 0.8761 EURO capture and instantly share their experience. Little BIG City invites visi- tors to discover the most epic events that have shaped Berlin’s history 0.7736 GBP (British Pound) through 3D interactive miniature sets, projection mapping and other 113.18 JPY (Japanese Yen) special and interactive effects. 0.9653 CHF (Swiss Franc) •The 5th Annual International Association of Trampoline Parks 1.2956 AUD (Australian Dollar) Conference & Trade Show will be held at the Westin Mission Hills in 1.2739 CAD (Canadian Dollar) Palm Springs, Calif. on Sept. 19-21, 2017. To register: indoortrampo- lineparks.org. August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 41 Catching up with the man behind a billion screams Stan Checketts still innovating, diversifying via Soaring Eagle AT: Dean Lamanna August at Glenwood Caverns ride tower into the hole and [email protected] Adventure Park in Colorado fastened it. It was pretty crazy. and Foxwoods Casino Resort Can you describe the LOGAN, Utah — At age in Mashantucket, Conn., the attraction? 76, Stan Checketts, it seems, is company’s crew of 15 — head- You walk into this mill- just getting started. ed up Cody Davis, Soaring type building, and it’s cover- Never mind that the Eagle’s vice president and the ing a haunted mine. There’s renowned thrill ride inventor CEO’s right-hand man — has a lot of cobwebs and creepy holds more than 20 major pat- been busy. stuff. Then you get into these ents and a couple of Guinness Checketts exudes the con- seats — it’s a row of six — and World Records. Or that the fidence of someone who has get strapped in. You don’t feel hydraulic and pneumatically made mistakes and learned this, really, but you’ll move powered tower and coaster from them. He credits his up maybe six inches… and marvels he has engineered faith, his family and especially then the floor quietly slides have been delighting people in his wife of 35 years, Sandy out from under you as the 28 countries around the globe — the other “S” in “S&S” — room darkens. And we drop for more than four decades. with keeping him energized, you into the hole. [laughs] There’s just no quitting for upbeat and centered. Not to The ride bounces at the a man who knows that the mention adventurous: the bottom and then you’re lift- future is as close as his next couple enjoys tooling around ed back up. I hear they have big idea. the wide-open West on Stan’s something scary at the base Life itself has been a wild Honda Goldwing as part of Sandy and Stan Checketts of the shaft, but that should ride for Checketts, who grew the Logan-based Renegade take flight on one of Stan's remain a surprise. up poor in Providence, Utah, Rebels motorcycle club. popular, highly efficient Peering into the mine of and later became the toast of As Checketts likes to say: zipline installations. childhood memories, what nearby Logan when he found- "'Can't' is a four-letter word." COURTESY SOARING were some of your favorite ed his extreme ride company, Amusement Today man- EAGLE ZIPLINE, INC. amusements growing up? S&S Sports, Inc. (now S&S- aged to get the passionate You know, I didn’t have

Sansei Technologies) there fun-maker to sit still for a ZIPLINE INC that. My dad was a security in 1994. half-hour chat. cop and tried lots of things. “I sold How has business been at point. with limbs free] on one side But he never made it in any- S&S a cou- Soaring Eagle? The huge thing that distin- and our Daring Drop thing and went bankrupt. So, I ple different We’re still putting ziplines guishes our zipline from most ride on the other. We’re put- didn’t go to amusement parks. times, and all over. Our product is unique of the others is that it has a ting one of those in at the I’d go out to the barn or up to took it back a and really cool — a thrill ride cart that carries two people Foxwoods in Connecticut. the lakes and make all kinds couple times,” as opposed to a traditional seated side by side. The ride We’ve also done tower instal- of big swings to jump from. said Checketts, [gravity] zipline. It’s efficient, has only seatbelts, so your legs lations in Myrtle Beach [N.C.] [laughs] Just crazy stuff. who partnered Checketts too: It launches from and and arms are free, but it also and Branson, Missouri. When I got older, I knew I on the estab- returns to the same loading has sensors and is completely Additionally, Soaring had to make money. I became lishment of a new company, point, so you need only one monitored, so it meets ASTM Eagle is offering a full thrill a journey wireman, doing Soaring Eagle Zipline, Inc., employee instead of eight or standards. Our ziplines are tower with dive, drop, sad- electrical jobs. I had to go to in Logan in 2010. “Right now, 10 to operate it. safe, fun rides. dle and zipline rides all in school on nights to get my S&S has a lot of work going The ride goes forward in We’ve sold more than 60 one structure. We’re build- certificate, and then I served as and it’s doing fabulous. I’m one direction and backward in of them around the world. ing a 200-foot version right an apprentice for three years. excited for them.” the other, so you get a different People really love them. now to go into Pigeon Forge, Eventually, I bought a truck Checketts is excited for kind of thrill from each. It can What else has your com- Tennessee. and trailer, sold everything I Soaring Eagle, too. With major even be installed at ground pany been up to? Most of your innovations had and took my two little new ride installations opening level with a 100-foot or higher One neat thing we’ve have been well above ground. kids on the road. between late July and mid- pole at the opposite, distant developed is our Aerial Dive How did your Haunted Mine Back in those days, with swing ride, which we put Drop project at Glenwood a union card, you could call on the edge of a cliff three Caverns Adventure Park ahead to a business agent in, years ago at Cave of the come about? say, Corpus Christi, go down Winds Mountain Park over My buddy who’s the and give him your card and in Manitou Springs, Colorado. owner there, Steve Beckley, he’d put you to work that day. They named it Terror-Dactyl. whom I’ve known for years, I’d work a week, two weeks, You sit in a two-person already had two of my ziplines and move on. I went from one cart attached to a cable, and and a Screamin’ Swing ride end of the country to the other then you’re comfortably har- from my S&S days perched and learned so much. If you nessed with my less-restric- on a 1,300-foot cliff. He asked name the product, I helped tive restraint system. The cart me if I could do a drop ride build the factory that made hydraulically leans forward into a mine, and I said, “Heck, the product. until you’re looking down at yeah!” So, we got together and What brought you back to the bottom of a canyon. And designed it. making devices for fun? off you go, swinging down He brought a crew in with Quite a bit later in life, I about 200 feet. It’s intense, and dynamite and jackhammers heard about these guys jump- it’s one of my favorite things and dug out a 110-foot-deep ing off of bridges on bungee that I’ve ever designed. hole in the ground. They had cords in New Zealand. I got all We’ve been doing tow- to keep blasting and chipping excited about that. That’s what Stan Checketts (far left) confers with the Haunted Mine Drop ers of 120, 150 feet with our at the rock, and they actually motivated me to start making construction crew at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park in Saddle Sling ride [two rid- to shovel a lot of it into buckets bungee equipment and tow- Glenwood Springs, Colo. ers, secured back to back, by hand and winch it up out COURTESY GLENWOOD CAVERNS ADVENTURE PARK. flung and flipped skyward there. We then lowered the 4See CHECKETTS, page 42 42 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 An increase in ridership had Chance Giant Wheel VRoundup Amusement Today high- spinning during Men's College World Series lights recent news and devel- Chance Century Wheel opments in the virtual reality LOCATION BASED (VR) amusement business brought in for event by ENTERTAINMENT sector: Crabtree Amusements •According to a spring ties during the series," Doolan report by VR/augmented AT: Pam Sherborne said. "They have an area for reality (AR) market research [email protected] college-age fans so they are firm Greenlight Insights, trying to create this more fami- VR revenues across all indus- OMAHA, Neb. — This ly-friendly area." tries utilizing the technology was the second year Michael Doolan said they had are forecast to reach $7.2 bil- Doolan contracted with the some inflatables out there, but lion worldwide by the end Metropolitan Entertain- the wheel was the only ride. of this year. Head-mounted ment Convention Authority There were food trucks avail- displays alone are expected (MECA) to provide a wheel able in several different areas. to represent about $4.7 bil- to baseball fans attending the The CWS Fan Fest, pre- lion of that total. By 2021, the Men's College World Series sented by Capital One, also is report predicted, global reve- (CWS) here at the TD Ameri- located adjacent to the baseball nues could reach $74.8 billion trade Park, which ran June diamond and offers a bevy of — thanks in part to increased 17-28. activities. It is free for fans of spending in location-based The wheel was set adja- all ages. Capital One is one of entertainment. cent to the baseball park on the NCAA's sponsors. •London-based startup grass to the north of the Centu- Doolan said last year and Improbable has raised more ryLink Center (the city's con- this year, a crew from Crab- than $500 million from in- vention center). It is a 90-foot tree's show brings the wheel vestors, including the Japa- Chance Century Wheel owned to the site, sets it up and oper- nese telecommunications by Pat Crabtree, Crabtree ates it. and internet corporation Amusements. Doolan said he "I stay there with it the At 90 feet, this Chance Giant Wheel could be seen without any SoftBank. The independent produces the operation of the entire time as well," he said. trouble during the Men’s College World Series, TD Ameritrade company, founded five years wheel for MECA, contracting "It is a change of pace for me. Park, Omaha, Neb. Michael Doolan was the operator of re- ago by Herman Narula and with that organization as well I like it." cord during the festivities outside of the baseball park. Doolan Rob Whitehead, who were as Crabtree to bring the wheel The Giant Wheel has 20 uses the company name Fun Time Inc. for corporate events and fellow computer science stu- to the location. MECA is the gondolas and is equipped with Doolan Amusement Company for his amusement ride compa- dents at Cambridge Univer- nonprofit, which operates the a Maxtron lighting package. ny. AT/PAM SHERBORNE sity, is focused on building CenturyLink Center and TD They open everyday dur- large-scale virtual worlds Ameritrade Park. ing the CWS at noon and run it for adults, $3 for children, or a some food trailers and oper- and simulations for a variety Doolan definitely saw an until at least 11 p.m. They have pack of 10 tickets for $20. ates that business under Dool- of clients — primarily game increase in ridership this year to close down at midnight. Doolan said he doesn't an Amusement Company Inc. makers. compared to 2016. The Men's Doolan gets a flat rate price know if he or a wheel will be His amusement com- •Universal Parks & Re- College World Series, a Na- for the wheel and is paid by back for 2018. He didn't find pany operates as an inde- sorts has submitted a patent tional Collegiate Athletic As- MECA. That organization sells out until April of this year he pendent company during the that seeks to apply VR/AR- sociation (NCAA) event, drew the ride tickets. In 2016, they would be back for the June peak times of the year, book- capable goggles to ride sys- its largest attendance in 2017 in charged $5 a ride. A story in a event. ing in with such shows as tems. Described as “systems its 70-plus-year history. There local newspaper quoted some At one time, MECA had Cole Amusement Company, and methods for generating were 357,646 fans who turned city representatives wanting to even considered a zip line. Amusements of America, augmented and virtual real- out for the games. There could get more people on the wheel Members of the MECA board Powers Great American Mid- ity images,” the patent per- have been many more taking by providing free rides. want to keep the focus on fam- ways, Fiesta Shows and Rock- tains to both indoor and out- part in the activities outside "We offered free rides one ily and community. well Amusements, traveling door park settings. the baseball stadium. MECA's day," Doolan said. "It was an Doolan operates events the eastern states. His show • in event is only a part of that. off day when there was no such as this one under the is headquartered in Jensen Doswell, Va., debuted a "They (MECA) are trying game." company name of Fun Time Beach, Fla. Pokémon Go-style mobile to create another area of activi- Otherwise, tickets ran $5 Inc. He also owns 12 rides and He does some dates alone. AR game for park visitors in mid-May called The Battle CHECKETTS world, including the Big Shot of a dragon slayer. [laughs] Knott’s Berry Farm. When I for Kings Dominion. The Continued from page 41 on top of the Stratosphere We live in Providence, right think about all the people who game, developed by Lutter- Tower in Las Vegas. up against the mountains. have screamed and smiled worth, U.K.-based Holovis ers, for which I got my first And the rest, as they say, Because we’ve got 11 kids and laughed on rides I helped for iOS and Android devices, patents. That got me going in is history. Are you content and 35 grandkids, I built a big create — we’ve determined calls for users to declare al- this business. with your success? recreation center with a bowl- the collective ridership to be legiance to one of the park’s Did you have a guiding When I traveled all over ing alley and pool tables and over a billion — I just choke five roller coasters — each industry principle? as a journey wireman, I’d ask all these things like they’ve up. I can hardly comprehend represented by an animated I just asked myself, Okay, these guys I worked with, got at amusement parks. it. But it’s a good feeling. avatar. The teams compete what thrills people? What “What do you do?” “Oh, You’ve gone from creat- What thrills me is when I via trivia and AR mini- thrilled all my kids when I’m a plumber.” And I’d say, ing fun for yourself as a kid see people enjoying my inven- games triggered by visual they were little was when “Well, what do you like to to amusing your family to tions. One of the funniest elements around the park, I threw them in the air and do?” “I go home, drink beer thrilling the general public. things is when I go to a park earning points for the alli- caught them. I thought, Well, and go to bed.” Well, I swore That’s an amazing, full-circle and stand by one of my rides ance. This is the second Ho- hell — just throw people 185 to God that I would never accomplishment. to watch, and some kid will lovis-produced game for the feet in the air and then catch have that attitude. You know, I’m sitting say, “Are you going to ride it, park’s operator, Cedar Fair them. That’s a true story. And Every day, I love my here in my conference room Mister? You’re not too old.” Entertainment Co., which that’s how the wife with all my heart. We looking at pictures of the And I think, You smart little introduced The Battle for Ce- tower ride was born. I built disagree sometimes; she’s Stratosphere and the big tower sucker… I stood on top of it! dar Point last year. about 200 of those around the very loving and I’m kind rides I did at and •soaringeagleziplines.com —Compiled by Dean Lamanna August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 43 Portable structure supplier creates proactive safety system For bounce houses, SAFETY “It is user configurable,” McVey explained. “You can set other equipment it for when it goes on, when it susceptible to wind ed noticing a commonality in goes off, what it says, how it such news accounts. flashes — it’s wide open.” AT: B. Derek Shaw “There was a police officer The system allows for site- [email protected] herding people back into the specific readings of wind that tent, which is totally opposite can be set to manufacturer’s GREENVILLE, Wisc. — of what you should do,” he specifications for portable Strong wind conditions can said, noting that the evacua- equipment, typically starting develop unexpectedly and tion plan had called for the use at 15 mph. rapidly. Therefore, it is criti- of the adjacent school gymna- The WIND unit has two cal for owners and operators sium. “Unfortunately, we lost alarms. One is an amber-flash- of tents, bounce houses, in- a life. ing light (or pre-alarm) that flatables and other lightweight “At that point, I said [to goes off when wind starts to Peter McVey, principal of Greenville, Wisc.-based McVey Tent portable structures to have myself], ‘It is time to get the become an issue (25-35 mph and Expo, is shown with his weather safety system called WIND quick, concise monitoring and human intervention out. No range). When wind speed (Wind Information Notification Device), designed for outdoor alerting for the safety of their one [with my product] is in- achieves evacuation level (40 events. AT/B. DEREK SHAW patrons and themselves. volved in decision-making, mph and higher), a strobing Peter McVey, principal alerting people or directing white beacon and loud evacu- flashing. This works in concert the Mid-Atlantic Tent Rent- of McVey Tent and Expo, de- people.” ation siren, together with an with the voice message to get ers Association Show in New scribes himself as a “tent di- McVey’s product is called announcement pre-recorded people out quickly and safely. York, N.Y. Two models are saster junkie.” He specializes WIND (Wind Information No- by the facility, kick in. These McVey feels his innovation available: one for tents and a in outdoor safety. tification Device). It is a wind three features continue loop- is more foolproof, removing smaller unit for bounce hous- “Any time a tent goes speed sensor that provides an ing as long as dangerous con- human error. “The idea was to es. down that I hear about, I get early warning in the event of ditions persist. make an infallible system that “Acceptance is huge,” said on the internet and try and escalating weather conditions. The WIND system also tells you what to do and shows McVey, who expected the unit figure out what went wrong,” And much like the common sends a text message to a cell you how to do it — to let peo- to start appearing at events McVey said. “Was it wind, rain smoke detector, the WIND phone indicating that a wind ple have a good time and not with 250 or more attendees, in- or human error?” system saves lives by alerting event is in progress at a spe- have to worry about what’s cluding public gatherings, al- A few years back, McVey organizers, staff and guests cific location. Additionally, it going on around them.” cohol-serving fetes and street learned of a tent fatality at a early about possibly danger- emits a radio signal to all the Production of the WIND festivals. “There is no down civic festival in Wood Dale, Ill. ous weather as it occurs, giv- exit lights in the facility, en- system commenced last No- side to this at all.” By then, he had already start- ing people time to seek safety. suring that they are on and vember after its unveiling at •mcveytent.com 44 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 SAFETY, MAINTENANCE & EDUCATION Fiesta Texas makes upgrades to improve ride capacity AT: Tim Baldwin reached on the park’s Scoo- [email protected] by-Doo Ghost Blasters. “The ride is easier to op- SAN ANTONIO, Texas erate. The operator runs the — On a recent visit to Six main panel and can check lap Flags Fiesta Texas, Amuse- bars; it’s just easy. It allows ment Today sat down with them more time to focus on Sean Lynch, electrical lead, the guests,” he said. “From and discussed some accom- the guest perspective, hav- plishments park manage- ing the cars [move] through ment has been extremely the station at a reasonable happy with. pace gives them a ‘sense of “When we say: ‘Innova- urgency’ to get in the ve- tion is in our DNA,’ we re- hicles. Because the dark ride ally mean that,” said Lynch. and queue are air-condi- “We do a lot of continuous tioned, we can now comfort improvement and innova- more guests … get them out tion. A lot of little things add of the heat, get them cooled up to a big impact, as well down. When they go back as large improvements. Our out into the park, their ex- goal is to make the guest ex- perience is better. And once perience better, but also the again from maintenance, the team experience better, too ride has less wear-and-tear — whether that is the ride and there are fewer service Fiesta Texas worked with the timing operator or the maintenance calls.” of the rapids ride turntable (above) to person. We try to go for the In the past, Lynch had increase the attraction's capacity by 39 win-win when possible.” noticed guest loading issues percent. The park's electrical lead, Sean Lynch illustrates a prime with the park’s (Intamin) Lynch (left), is seen with one of the example of this win for all rapids ride, Gully Washer. property’s other heroes. parties involved was the “This was another win- COURTESY SEAN LYNCH/ changes made to two load- win for everybody. We did ing areas in the stations of two main things. First, and the Scooby-Doo (Sally) dark most importantly, we slowed ride and the Pandemonium down the turntable loading which was actually a simple market are designed for of- minutes. We tell it if the park () spinning coast- platform. This decreased the process to do — had a 39 fices, hotels, schools, malls is open or closed on a certain er. number of stops and starts percent increase in through- … but with the theme park day, the hours, and the sys- “Pandemonium is now of the turntable. It seems put.” industry, we have a lot of tem automatically adjusts a dream ride to work,” said most of the turntables in the Lynch says internally the variation in our operations. the loads for the operating Lynch. “It’s so easy for our industry run too fast in the park has a “rule of 12.” If a Sometimes we are only open hours.” guests. We were able to im- loading area. By slowing it ride moves 12 guests or few- on weekends, sometimes This programmed sys- prove rider throughput by down, we actually reduced er, they seriously consider daily, sometimes long week- tem affects air conditioning, 33 percent. For the main- the stops and starts which moving stations on all new ends … so the decision was lighting both indoors and tenance department, there increased the throughput. It installations. Today, the park made to upgrade our energy outdoors, ceiling fans, audio is a lot less wear-and-tear sounds a little bit counter- currently operates five rides management system and we systems, etc. and maintenance calls, even intuitive. The next thing we with moving stations. decided to do it in-house. “With the ride audio sys- with the larger number of did is we added a function Lynch also explained We used standard off-the- tems, we want those to come dispatches. We believe that to the lift hill that automati- improvements to the park’s shelf components; we then on at the last possible min- one of our foremost things cally spaces the rafts for the energy management sys- wrote our own program and ute,” said Lynch. “When the is to make the job easier and operator. That way the boats tem. He jokes that the origi- tailored it to a theme park. maintenance departments make the job better. When are coming through the sta- nal system when the park For example, when we cre- are checking out the rides, you do those two things, it tion at a consistent pace; opened in 1992 was the pro- ate our operating schedule we want it to be as quiet as makes the job faster. It also they don’t bunch up togeth- verbial square peg forced at the beginning of the year, possible so they can hear makes things cost effective.” er and then have vast spaces into a round hole. I can do all the schedules any problems. This way we An improvement of 30 between them. The combi- “Energy management for all the days of the year aren’t competing. We’re us- percent capacity was also nation of these two things — systems that are on the in one sitting in less than 30 ing our IT network, which has been a huge asset. It has become the corporate model. Any park in our system who is trying to upgrade their en- ergy management system is directed to copy ours. We are cross-pollinating those good ideas to other parks. That makes me very proud of our team here at Fiesta Texas.” Lynch goes on to say fans in the park are set not only for time, but also tempera- ture, which is more efficient By using a moving station, the park’s Pandemonium coaster (left) increased throughput and reduced maintenance calls. An ele- and even more so is geared vated platform, makes it easier to board a moving dark ride vehicle at flush level. COURTESY SEAN LYNCH/SIX FLAGS FIESTA TEXAS toward guest comfort. August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 45

Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers International, Ltd. P.O. Box 92366 • Nashville, Tenn. 37209 Phone: (714) 425-5747 • Fax: (714) 276-9666 Karen Oertley • [email protected] www.aimsintl.org Holly Coston, (714) 697-6654, [email protected] AIMS Safety Seminar early registration is now open! The 2018 AIMS Safety Seminar will be held Jan- found on our website. $595 tuition fee, which includes class materials, an uary 7-12 in Galveston, Texas at the Galveston Island The seminar is a must attend for both operators opening reception, all lunches and breaks, a comple- Convention Center at the San Luis Resort. AIMS has and manufacturers and suppliers who need to stay tion certificate, and Continuing Education Units (CEU). secured a special discounted hotel rate for attendees, abreast on the latest trends and topics surrounding Additional fees for testing and certification and travel $115 per night at the adjacent Galveston Hilton. The the industry’s No. 1 priority worldwide - SAFETY. expenses are not included. setting is perfect for the AIMS Safety Seminar, with all classes being held in one central area, a great ho- Scholarships are available! Upcoming events tel in the beautiful San Luis Resort, plenty of nearby Thanks to the generosity of two great industry as- The AIMS International Annual Board Meeting places to eat and shop, plus the added attraction of sociations, scholarships to the AIMS Safety Seminar will be held on September 7, 2017 in Bristol Connecti- Galveston’s Pleasure Pier and Schlitterbahn Water- are available to qualified individuals. cut prior to the 2017 Golden Ticket Awards, pre- park nearby. IAAPA (The International Association of Amuse- sented by Amusement Today, at Lake Compounce Early registration is now open at www.aimsintl. ment Parks and Attractions) provides five scholarships and Quassy Amusement Park. The board will have org. Registration is $595 and includes all class mate- to the AIMS Safety Seminar in memory of Alan Ram- the opportunity to enjoy lunch with board members rials, two breaks and lunch each day and an opening say who was an avid industry supporter and safety ad- of the National Roller Coaster Museum Association reception on Sunday night. Those who register and vocate. Applications can be found on the AIMS web- (NRCMA), who are also holding their annual BOD prepay will have early access to class selection when site at www.aimsintl.org. meeting. registration opens in October. Once registration is OABA (the Outdoor Amusement Business As- The AIMS International Safety Award will be open, students can also sign up for AIMS Certifica- sociation) offers four scholarships to the AIMS Safety presented during the Golden Ticket Awards on Sep- tion testing on Levels I-III in Maintenance, Operations, Seminar for OABA members who are first-time Safety tember 9, 2017, at Lake Compounce. The award will Ride Inspection and Level I Aquatics as well as several Seminar attendees. One of these scholarships is dedi- be presented to an individual or organization that add on series and certifications cated in memory of June Hardin, owner of Wapello demonstrates leadership, innovation, and foresight in For those who like to plan ahead, we recommend Fabrications, who strived for quality, safety and ASTM improving safety in the amusement industry. attendees book flights into Houston Hobby Airport standards throughout her career. OABA members can Come see us at the IAAPA Attractions Expo, (HOU), south of Houston served by most major air- contact [email protected] for more information and November 14-17 in Orlando. AIMS will be at booth lines and Southwest. From there, it is an easy shuttle AIMS scholarship applications. #4527. ride to Galveston Island. More information can be All AIMS Safety Seminar scholarships cover the Enjoy your summer and stay SAFE!

Space for this AIMS page is provided courtesy of Amusement Today as a corporate partner of AIMS Intl. Content is provided by AT & AIMS. 46 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017 CLASSIFIEDS

AUCTION FOR SALE

Check out the latest premium new and used rides at: facebook.com/internationalridesmanagement or call (609) 425-1220 to receive a current list.

FOR SALE

Moser Flipping Action Arm P/M.....$99,000 EMPLOYMENT Chance Century Wheel P/M.....$199,000 Chance Pharoahs Fury T/M..... $550,000 CLASSIFIED ADS MIDWEST REGIONAL THEME PARK Wisdom Tornado T/M...... $139,000 $20 minimum, Tivoli T/M...... $399,000 up to 30 words looking for an experienced 2010 ARM Vertigo T/M...... 400,000 ($1 per additional word) ARM Happy Viking T/M...... $89,000 ideo rack  V T Retail Manager Kolinski Slide T/M...... $39,000 DISPLAY AD: $50 per Zamperla Tea Cup T/M...... $49,000 column inch (a 1-point rule will Salary based on experience 2016 KMG Freak Out T/M.... $725,000 appear around ad) ($50,000 - $70,000) Zamperla T/M.....$299,000 Zamperla Shocker T/M...... $250,000 Due the 10th of the Expo Wheel T/M...... $299,000 Submit resume to: month prior to Call Len or John issue date Lynn Hagan (908) 526-8009 Call Sammy [email protected] FAX: (908) 526-4535 www.Rides4U.com (817) 460-7220 August 2017 AMUSEMENT TODAY 47 48 AMUSEMENT TODAY August 2017