 EXCLUSIVE LOOK AT S&S 4D FREE SPIN — PAGES 14 & 16

© TM Your Amusement Industry NEWS Leader! Vol. 17 • Issue 11 FEBRUARY 2014 Gibsonton gearing up for the NJAA’S 19th annual trade event Atlantic City welcomes back 46th annual IISF trade show East Coast Gift & Variety Show STORY: Pam Sherborne is pretty much nonstop for STORY: Dean Lamanna [email protected] planners. [email protected] This year the Trade Show GIBSONTON, Fla. — The Extravaganza, located on the ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. club grounds of the Interna- club’s Gibsonton grounds, — One year ago, this sea- tional Independent Show- runs from Feb. 4-8. Hours are side entertainment Mecca men’s Association (IISA) the year,” said IISA’s Teresa 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on those days. served as a focal point for may be at its busiest during Rimes. “But, now with carni- Since many show attend- amusement industry heal- ready running ahead of last the 46th annual Internation- vals staying on the road lon- ees, as well as exhibitors, wait ing and camaraderie when year as Amusement Today al Independent Showman’s ger, our actual operating time until late to register, the 2014 — just three months after went to press, were expect- Foundation (IISF)Trade Show has decreased.” pre-registration numbers are Hurricane Sandy wrecked ed to be ongoing until the Extravaganza held the first So, the club does what unavailable, but Rimes feels it much of the Garden State’s start of the event. week of February, but IISA it can during those months. will be about the same as last coastline — the New Jer- The trade show was club members are finding it When they are over, Rimes year. Numbers have dropped sey Amusement Association established to provide more profitable to stay busy said they have experienced off over the years due in part (NJAA) presented its annual close-to-home buying and all year long, especially dur- quite a bit of success rent- to technological advances East Coast Gift & Variety business opportunities, as ing the four and half to five ing out the back part of the that, Rimes said, allows the Show. well as direct interaction months of the carnival off lot and buildings for parties, industry to do just about ev- For its 19th year, the and networking with season. weddings and such. erything they want to do on- event returns to the Golden suppliers specializing in “We used to be operating But, as the club gears up line. Nugget resort and casino plush, novelties, licensed for more like six months of for the annual trade show, it Yet, she feels there are the for two days of exhibition toys, gifts, rides, games, loyal attendees and exhibitors and buying Feb. 19-20. insurance, uniforms, and, as long as they remain And very likely, there will be staffing, ticketing, food and that way, “we will keep on renewed industry optimism much more. existing.” for a still-recovering region. Attendees converging Some of the exhibitors “Last year, it was an on the Golden Nugget’s expecting to be on hand this emotional show,” said Grand Ballroom include year feel that 2014 will be a NJAA Executive Director amusement owners, good year for the industry Kimberle Samarelli, noting partners, managers and as a whole. Len Soled, Rides that the traditionally buyers, plus workers who 4-U, said 2013 was a superb intimate event drew about staff arcades, games, year for his business and 2014 nearly 100 exhibitors and concessions and food has started out promising. about 1,000 attendees outlets at amusement parks. “We did start out 2014 from as far as New England Vendors are encouraged to very positive,” Soled said. and Virginia despite the promote the event to their “The IAAPA (International hardships created by the customers. Association of Amusement disaster. “There was a “This is the trade Bob’s Space Racers will be on hand at the upcoming Inter- Parks & Attractions) trade real need for connection show that keeps everyone national Independent Showmen’s Foundation 2014 Trade show was strong. The phone within our industry, and connected within our Show Extravaganza. One of the products the company will has been ringing off the hook. those attending were there industry within the tri-state exhibit is this three-games-in-one event trailer, one of the So, we will be giving it the old to show resilience and area,” Samarelli said. newest Bob’s Space Racers has built over the last two years. college try again this year.” resolve. The show helped Two key seminars COURTESY BOB’S SPACE RACERS 4See IISF, page 4 communicate that we were have been organized and going to be okay and that have been scheduled to we were moving forward.” prevent conflicts with show Samarelli, now in her operating hours. The Annual SUBSCRIBE TO eighth year of organizing Ride Regulations Update and overseeing the event, will take place Wednesday, Dated material. material. Dated AMUSEMENT TODAY describes it as a “very busy Feb. 19, at 10 a.m., and the buying show” that draws Legalized Games of Chance primarily from the North- Update will be conducted NEWSPAPER POSTMASTER:

PLEASE RUSH! 24, 2014 Jan. Mailed Friday, (817) 460-7220 east corridor — including Thursday, Feb. 20 at 10 a.m. PERMIT # 2069 # PERMIT the New York and Philadel- Some fun is planned,

FT. WORTH TX WORTH FT. com phia metro areas, as well as too, of course. On

PAID amusementtoday US POSTAGE US New Jersey. Registrations Wednesday, Feb. 19, NJAA

PRSRT STD PRSRT for this year’s meeting, al- 4See NJAA, page 6 2 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014 THIS JUST IN Knott’s enhances NEWSTALK OPINIONS CARTOON LETTERS Camp Snoopy with CARTOON: Bubba Flint trio of Zamperla rides

BUENA PARK, Calif. — side-by-side on 16 swings for a 2014 marks the beginning of an spin that whisks riders up to 18 exciting time in Knott’s history feet above the ground. Charlie as its treasured Camp Snoopy Brown’s Kite Flyer will replace celebrates the big 30 with a Snoopy Bounce. complete restoration of the en- •Pig Pen’s Mud Buggies tire land. lets tykes climb aboard their As AT was go- very own all-ter- ing to press, Knott’s rain vehicle for an Berry Farm officials adventurous ride announced three around the High new rides coming Sierras. Six four- to the land of High seater ATVs will Sierra fun: Charlie spin, bounce, and Brown’s Kite Fly- bump up to 24 er, Pig Pen’s Mud guests at a time, Buggies and Linus while Pig Pen looks Launcher. The ad- on from his center dition of the three perch. Pig Pen’s new family rides, Mud Buggies will built by Zamperla, demon- replace Log Peeler. strates Knott’s commitment to •Linus Launcher recreates reinvestment in one of the most that classic Peanut’s moment EDITORIAL: Scott Rutherford, [email protected] beloved children’s areas ever when Snoopy grabs Linus’ created. blanket and launches him on a Networking history •Charlie Brown’s Kite wild ride. On Linus Launcher, Flyer invites campers to “fly a guests lay on one of 12 blankets It’s no secret that historians, avid collectors and fans who are kite” with Charlie Brown and as they fly round and round. social media has changed the all eager to exchange their knowledge and soar above the land’s winding Up to 24 guests lay side-by-side world. Web-based networking explore their passion for the amusement indus- paths and babbling streams while Snoopy launches them up services have made it pos- try. — but watch out for the kite- almost 10 feet in the air. Linus sible for millions of people Countless are the instances I’ve found eating tree! This 32-passenger Launcher will replace Charlie to instantly connect with oth- something in one of these groups that is adventure allows guests to sit Brown’s Speedway. ers who share similar interests completely new to me. And for a dedicated Rutherford and activities across political, researcher, there is a rare and special kind of economic and geographic bor- joy in such discoveries ... particularly for some- ders. one who is as passionate about the history of Of course, there are the inevitable roller coasters, amusement parks and carnivals downsides to the technology. Many users of as myself. Often these treasures – rare pho- Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, for example, tos, newspaper clippings, or simply a relevant are guilty of over-sharing – that relentless, anecdote – are gleaned from the personal col- overwhelming need to post each and every lections and memories of individuals who spent mundane occurrence in one’s daily life. their entire lives working in the early years of But one of the more positive benefits of the industry that holds such fascination for social networking has been the wealth of infor- many of us. mation, especially that of a historical nature, There’s an educational component to this being brought to light and shared. Prime aspect of social media as well. These detailed In the picturesque rendering of the enhancements to Knott’s examples that appeal to some of my unique discussions amount to a bountiful contribution Camp Snoopy, the three new attractions are stunningly de- interests stem from several groups I subscribe of knowledge that ultimately benefits the entire picted: Pig Pen’s Mud Buggies (front left); Charlie Brown’s to on Facebook: Forgotten Carnival Rides, human collective. It affords us a rare glimpse Kite Flyer (front right); Linus Launcher (back right). All three Royal American Shows and Wooden Coaster into history and therefore helps to keep the rides are being supplied by Zamperla. Connoisseurs. past alive for many generations to come. COURTESY KNOTT’S BERRY FARM Each of these groups has brought together AMUSEMENT TODAY STAFF Gary Slade, Founder Dean Lamanna Sammy Piccola Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Editorial Accounting / Circulation [email protected] [email protected] (817) 460-7220 [email protected] Deliveries Member of: Stacey Childress / Childress Media Pam Sherborne 2012 E. Randol Mill Rd., Suite 203 IAAPA, AIMS International, PAPA, Web & Graphic Design Editorial Sue Nichols Arlington, Texas 76011 NEAAPA, NJAA, OABA, WWA, TTIA, [email protected] [email protected] Advertising NAARSO and IISF (615) 662-0252 Subscription rates are: 1 year (14 issues) $75 in the USA; $100 elsewhere; 2 years (28 issues) $140/$180; John Robinson / W.H.R. Inc. Scott Rutherford [email protected] 3 years (42 issues) $200/$250. Send check or money order (U.S. funds only, drawn on a U.S. bank) to Amusement Today, P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005-5427. Your cancelled check is your receipt. Daily E-mail Newsletter Editorial Please allow up to six weeks for your subscription request to be processed and the first issue mailed. [email protected] [email protected] Bubba Flint Cartoonist Amusement Today is an independent newspaper, published monthly by Amusement Today Inc., P.O. Tim Baldwin Jeffrey L. Seifert [email protected] Box 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005. Presort Standard Postage (Permit No. 2069) pre-paid at Fort Worth, Texas. The entire contents of this newspaper and its related websites are copyrighted and trademarked Editorial Editorial / Special Projects by Amusement Today 2013, with all rights reserved. [email protected] [email protected] POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Amusement Today, P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas Contributors: Andrew Mellor, Richard Munch, Janice Witherow 76005-5427. February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3 THIS MONTH IN HISTORY •1907: In mid-February Ar- Presented by MINUTE thur Jarvis of the Coaster Con- struction Co., announced that his company was erecting a new 2 DRILL Figure 8 coaster at Wonderland STORY: Janice Witherow Park, at Revere Beach, Massa- Curt Jones — Dippin’ Dots chusetts. Charles G. Sheel was the supervisor of construction. Microbiologist and The park, inland from the fa- entrepreneur Curt My wildest dream is … Jones first pursued the To live in a world where our resources don’t have to be mous beach (America’s first pub- concept of ice cream used to protect ourselves or to enforce silly laws, but lic beach), opened in 1906 with innovation in 1987. As instead are used in a way that gives everyone a chance an L.A. Thompson Scenic Rail- www.RollerCoasterMuseum.org the founder and CEO of to live life to the fullest. way. It would close after seven the ultra-popular Dip- seasons. pin’ Dots, today Curt It’s time to mow your lawn … do you use a push or heads one of the fastest riding mower? growing and intriguing I ride when I can, push when I have to. •1908: Sixteen persons were injured on the Scenic Railway companies in the United Growing up, my mentor was … at the new White City (Lakeside Park), in Denver, Colorado, on States with legions of I was lucky enough to grow up on a farm in southern- February 24. It would turn out to be a truly odd incident in that the ice cream fans that ex- most Illinois and many of our neighbors were unique in pand around the world. what they were good at. We had mechanics, machin- park had not officially opened to the public, and that a group of rid- Curt and his Dippin’ ists, river boat captains, fishermen, school-teachers, etc. ers were permitted rides during the dead of winter! Of the group, Dots brand have been It would be hard to pick just one. five passengers were seriously injured when the train jumped the featured in hundreds track and hurled the occupants to the flooring 10 feet below. One of news articles and Favorite sandwich passenger received a fractured skull. The accident may have been appeared in segments P,B & J. Each slice of bread is covered with maple syr- on Food TV, The Travel Channel and Oprah Winfrey pro- up; one slice is then covered with grape jelly; the other avoided if the train had slowed on the curve (this ride had a brake- filed Curt in a story on entrepreneurs. He has received with crunchy peanut butter. The slices are put together man) although it was noted that there was no guard rail, as the ride numerous awards and honors for his inventive spirit and and sliced from one corner to the opposite corner. It’s was not complete. White City would officially open May 30, 1908. success. Curt’s attention to detail, gift of dreaming big not as good sliced any other way. and motivating others have helped make Dippin’ Dots a global phenomenon. People are always surprised when I … •1924: Announced on February 11, the celebrated Giant Rac- Tell them I had an Aunt Minnie Goins and an Aunt Min- ing Coaster “Race Thru the Clouds” in Venice, California, was to Title nie Cummins. I had one goin’ and one comin’. One was be razed to make way for a new building. Prior & Church oper- Founder and CEO. my dad’s aunt and one was my mom’s aunt. Equally ated the popular attraction, built in 1910, when Venice was just surprising was my dad’s dad was named Bert and he beginning to be developed. Land values and the fact that larger Number of years with Dippin’ Dots had a brother named Ernie. 26 years. and more extreme coasters could be found on the ocean piers less At a party, I can’t wait until … than 2,000 feet away, signaled the end of the once unique ride that Best thing about the industry Someone walks up and wants to have a conversation. covered several acres of ground in the heart of the city. While it It is fun, exciting, and the people are nice to work with. had catered to an amusement-loving public, it would be razed to The movie that really tugs at my heartstrings is … make way for a large business area, according to the local press. Favorite amusement park ride The Notebook. A couple of my favorites from the past were “Fire in the Hole” at Dollywood/Silver Dollar City and Grizzly River My favorite nightcap is … •1936: Strike Me Pink, a comedy starring Eddie Cantor and Rampage at the former Opryland U.S.A. Ice cream. Ethel Merman, was released in late January, but many of the re- views would hit the newspapers in early February. One acute re- If I wasn’t working in the amusement industry, I Pick one: fruit or vegetables would be … Vegetables. view said the film was “a riot of fun that moves at roller-coaster A researcher in finding cures for cancer and/or other speed.” That may have been the most accurate assessment of diseases or helping to solve other issues such as how to When I say Duck Dynasty, you say … the film, as the final scene included an impossible chase over the find, produce, or protect our food and water resources The loading crew at the Dippin’ Dots factory! Cyclone Racer, at the Pike in Long Beach, California. The land- on Planet Earth. mark coaster, in its sixth season, would dazzle the audience who Best all-time sports moment? Biggest challenge facing our industry I have more than one so I’ll narrow it down to one team had to think “how did they do that?” The pop-eyed actor as a Recessions – I hope we don’t see another one for a (the St. Louis Cardinals) and tell two stories: timid amusement park manager ultimately won the chase, escap- while. ing from the coaster to a hot air balloon. 1. During the Mark McGwire/Sammy Sosa race to break The thing I like best about amusement park season the Roger Maris home run record, I went with my dad is … and some friends to see a game. We watched McGwire •1951: The Los Angeles Times reported on February 10 that The excitement of a new year – the unknowns, the pos- hit #54. About a week later, I was given a message to a new amusement park was in the development stages in Santa sibilities. call a guy named Mark Lamping. The name sounded Barbara, California. Unfortunately, the plans for a large civic audi- familiar – he was the President of the Cardinals at the torium and amusement park received a major setback when the Favorite meal to cook time. He said that his kids had enjoyed Dippin’ Dots at city council voted against the park. The original proposition, which Coconut meringue pie - and yes that is a meal in my a recent Devil Ray’s game in Tampa. They had also had book! With home-made ice cream, of course. it at the water park over in Grafton, Ill. (Raging Rivers), was to be voted on in May, was designed to bring similar attrac- just across the river from St. Louis. After sharing that tions like those in Santa Monica directly to the people of the city, The last thing I do before going to sleep at night is I had been a Cardinal’s fan since the ‘60’s, he offered just north of Los Angeles. The negative press eventually killed the … me tickets to the game on Labor Day. The Cardinals plans, as the local residents felt that such an operation did not I like to get in bed, tilt the lampshade toward me for played the Cubs (and Sammy Sosa) and McGwire have a place in the city. more light (drives my wife Kay crazy), and read a few was at 60 home runs – tied with Ruth and one behind pages of a book. Maris. I warned my family that we might be sitting in —Compiled by Richard Munch, NRCMA historian the right field stands because everyone wanted a ticket to that game. Mr. Lamping put us right behind home My favorite retreat is … plate about five or six rows from the field. McGwire The movies. hit number 61 to tie the record. A week later, I called TM Mr. Lamping to thank him again. He said – did you see P.O. Box 5427 On television: do you prefer comedies or dramas? your picture in Sports Illustrated? They had snapped a Arlington, Texas 76005-5427 5-time Award Winner Comedies - unless the drama is based on a true story. picture from center field and there we all were, as clear (817) 460-7220 as a bell – right in the picture! Fax (817) 265-NEWS (6397) The last item I purchased over $50 was … 2. In 2011, Kay and I were able to attend Game 6 of I’ve always been a fan of the iPhone, but never a fan the World Series. We saw one of the most miraculous Find us on Facebook of the protective covers, so I just came from the Apple comebacks in the history of the game, when David facebook.com/amusementtoday store with a replacement for the one I dropped a few Freese hit a triple in the 9th inning to tie the game and days ago. then a home run a couple of innings later to win the game. I always point out that David Freese let a ball The one thing that is always in my wallet is … bounce off his head earlier in the game but he came up Follow us on Twitter My driver’s license. with a way to overcome an embarrassing error, trans- twitter.com/amusementtoday lated : “Don’t let your mistakes get in the way.” Least favorite month of the year January. Subscribe to our YouTube channel Get a free QR Code scanner for your phone youtube.com/amusementtoday by visting www.mobiletag.com. 4 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014 lingame, Pride Amusements, IISF after the show and the Jungle Continued from page 1 Twist will go to Doyle Gill’s Soled plans to bring with midway, Australia. him two KMG Freak Outs, Zamperla’s Kristina Rop- with one going to Butler er said her company plans Amusements and the other, to exhibit their new ride, All Around Amusements, Sky Ride, as well as a Happy after the trade show. He Swing and maybe a Jump will exhibit an SBF Groovy Around. Bus, which will go to Arnold Tony Cassata, Bob’s Space Amusements. He also will Racers, said in the first week have two S&S Frog Hoppers of January that they hadn’t to- on hand. One will go to Stew- tally decided what they plan arts Amusements and the to exhibit but, “I can give you other to Fantasy Amusement something real close.” Company. “We will take a Whopper “I will also have a Visa Water game, a Fishing Hole Spring Coaster, which sev- and an event trailer,” Cassata eral people are interested in,” said. “The event trailer is the he said. “We will run it at the newest trailer we have done show with the opportunity to in the last couple of years. It Among the rides Zamperla plans to bring to the 2014 IISF Extravaganza, Gibsonton, Fla., is sell it at Gibtown.” is suited for rental companies this new Sky Race swing ride as seen during the IAAPA Attractions Expo. Mai Wisdom, Wisdom that rent out trailers for par- COURTESY ZAMPERLA Rides, said 2013 was a tough ties and corporate picnics.” try fee. & Ball, Hall of Fame Inductee, 12 noon, with a mass to fol- year, but she is hoping that The week of the IISA trade The Trade Show opens and Awards Presentation is low; Ladies of the IISA Draw- 2014 will be better. show kicks off on Feb. 2 with the next day, with an Exhibi- set for Thursday evening at ing for 50/50 Ticket at 10 p.m.; “We are booked through the traditional Super Bowl tor Cocktail Party running the close of the show at the and finally the Museum Cor- April right now,” she said at Party and Trade Show Kick- from 5:30-7 p.m. IISA’s Carousel Pavilion. poration Drawing for $10,000 the first of January. “We are Off Party on the grounds. For Wednesday after the Live entertainment will cash ticket at 10:30 p.m. expecting a contract to be On Monday, the club close of the trade show, there be offered in the main bar Fri- In the first week of Janu- signed soon that will book us will host the 5th Annual Big will be a Jamboree — Mu- day evening. ary, Rimes was quickly ap- through May. We will see.” Hearted Jerry’s Memorial seum Building Fund at the On Saturday there will proaching her deadline to Wisdom Rides will ex- Golf Tournament, held at the IISA Club Rooms. It will run be Showmen’s Shrine Annual complete the scheduling of hibit a new Stampede and Summerfield Golf Course. 6-8 p.m. and a steak dinner is Meeting, 10 a.m., at the Car- the education seminar por- Jungle Twist this year. The There will be a 12:00 noon available. ousel Pavilion; Cemetery As- tion of the week’s activities. Stampede will go to Ed Bur- Shot-Gun Start, with a $65 en- The IISA Annual Banquet sociation Memorial Service at 4See IISF, page 5

QUALITY SAFETY VALUE ASSURANCE Load Wheels since 1975 Guide Wheels Upstop Wheels CNC Hub Manufacturing Flume Wheels Nylon Wheels & Parts Solid Urethane Parts

www.maclan • 800.788.3951 [email protected] • Lakeland, FL February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5 club members had been very Wisdom Industries will IISF busy planning some of Janu- exhibit a Jungle Twist Continued from page 4 ary events leading up to the and a Stampede to trade show and events sur- the IISF Extravaganza She was positive that James rounding that. Events in Jan- set for Feb 4-8. This is Judkins, president, JKJ Work- uary included the annual cir- the Jungle Twist that force Agency, would conduct cus, held on Jan. 11; Bike Fest, Wisdom brought to informational sessions on 18; Children’s Gasparilla Day the 2013 IISF show. the H-2B Visa and those ses- Parade, 18; Around the World The ride going to the sions would most likely run Charity, 20; and other dinners 2014 event has already on the same days as last year, and a chili cook-off. been sold and will be Wednesday and Friday, Feb. 5 On Tuesday, Feb. 11, the on its way to Australia and 7. week after the trade show, the after the show for the “We are hopeful that we IISA will meet for the installa- midway of Doyle Gill’s will also have the Safe Serve tion of officers at 7 p.m. at the Amusement Inc. and the Fork Lift sessions we Gibsonton club grounds. AT/PAM SHERBORNE have had before,” she said. “Guy Sherbourne (Oregon Rides) and Patti Sullivan (Eli Bridge) plan to have a round table, open forum talk to an- swer questions and talk about their products with attendees. This is the first year for that.” Sherbourne will address the Eyerly products. Since his purchase of the rights to the Eyerly products in 1990, Sherbourne has been provid- ing Eyerly clients with ser- vice, parts and support. His company also built a Toon Car ride based on an earlier concept. In other club news, Rimes said David “Doc” Rivera, who was acting curator at the Carnival Museum last year during the time of the show, was hired full time in that po- sition last spring. “He has since completed a lot of exhibits that were started and he is doing a great job getting the museum ready for visitors during the trade show,” she said. The IISA

Among the rides Len Soled, Rides 4-U, will exhibit at this year’s IISF Extravaganza set for Feb. 4-8, Gibsonton, Fla., will be two S&S~Sansei Frog Hoppers. One of the Frog Hoppers at the show has been bought by Stewarts Amusements and the other to Fantasy Amusements. AT/PAM SHERBORNE 6 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014

NJAA Continued from page 1 NJAA event will hold its 24th Annual reservations Scholarship Kick-off Cocktail Party at 5:30 p.m. “It’s a great are ‘Golden’ opportunity to join NJAA ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — members and our board Planning to attend the NJAA of directors to unwind and East Coast Variety & Gift participate in a great social Show and / or register for event,” Samarelli said. NAARSO certification in At- For those needing lantic City? A block of rooms to renew their National has been secured by NJAA Association of Amusement at the Golden Nugget resort Ride Safety Officials and casino, which is the site (NAARSO) certification, of both happenings in Febru- training will be available the ary. week of the trade show. The The rate is $69 nightly mandatory completion date Feb. 17-21, and it can only be for certification is March 31. applied by using the group Getting on with business password AMUSE when mak- ing reservations online or will be the implied focus of giving the group code ANJA this year’s gathering at the to the hotel’s reservation de- Golden Nugget. Atlantic City’s Golden Nugget resort and casino will host the 19th Annual NJAA East Coast partment at (800) 777-8477. “People are still looking Gift & Variety Show Feb. 19-20. COURTESY ATLANTIC CITY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU The cut-off date for all forward to the new and hotel reservations is Feb. 1. innovative — but there’s The phones have been things to our own everyday 19, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on After that date, reservations going to be a strong sense of ringing and the registrations operations. There’s nothing Thursday, Feb. 20. For a com- will be accepted on an avail- moving forward,” Samarelli are coming in, she added. better than a successful plete schedule and additional ability basis only and subject said. “Even after the storm “It’s like a big family show… and personally, I just information, including NAAR- to prevailing rates. Registra- and the big boardwalk fire reunion,” Samarelli said. “We like to see everyone happy!” SO certification training reg- tion for the trade show itself (in Seaside Park last fall), our all get to share ideas and what Exhibit times for the 18th istration and prices, visit nja- is available through at least members are excited about we’re doing in different areas Annual NJAA East Coast Gift musements.com. Feb. 18. For more informa- what 2014 and the future of the business, and to see & Variety Show are 11 a.m. to tion, visit njamusements.com. hold.” how we might apply those 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. —Dean Lamanna February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7 INTERNATIONAL PARKS ATTRACTIONS RESORTS SUPPLIERS Luna Park Sydney unveils ARM/Larson Super Shot STORY: Andrew Mellor been an integral part of Syd- [email protected] ney for nearly 80 years and will provide residents with a SYDNEY, Australia — The whole new perspective of the tallest and fastest ride ever to city skyline. be installed at Luna Park in Installed on the edge of Sydney, Australia, made its Sydney’s harbor, riders are debut at the park in Decem- taken to a height of 50 meters ber. (164 feet) above sea level for Hair Raiser, a 12-seat Su- a bird’s eye view of the city per Shot drop tower from U.S.- before being dropped back based Larson International down to the ground at a speed Flambards has provided entertainment to visitors of all ages and ARM, opened on Boxing of 80 kph (50 mph) in less than with its aircraft displays, theme park and museums since it Day and is the first new per- a second. was founded in 1976. Here the Thunderbolt thrills guests. manent attraction on the site Commenting on the proj- COURTESY FLAMBARDS since the park’s re-opening in ect, Larson International’s The new 12-seat Hair Raiser 2004. According to the park, Jeff Novotny said: “The Su- drop tower at Luna Park Livingstone Leisure acquires the attraction is set to become per Shot drop tower for Luna Sydney takes riders up to a the ‘epicentre’ of its historic Park Sydney was a very tight height of 50 meters above U.K.’s Flambards theme park and famous portfolio or rides schedule from date of order, sea level. and amusements that have 4 COURTESY LUNA PARK STORY: Andrew Mellor placed on the market in May See LUNA PARK, page 8 [email protected] last year, Managing Director CORNWALL, U.K. — Af- James Kingsford-Hale stated: ter 37 years in the ownership “Deciding to sell has been an of the family that founded the enormously difficult decision. venue, Flambards theme park My daughter Susie is getting in Cornwall, U.K., has been married this year and she and sold to Livingstone Leisure. her fiancé understandably Established in 1976 by have their own plans for the Douglas and Audrey Kings- future. Following the passing ford-Hale as the Cornwall of my mother Audrey last year Aero Park, Flambards quickly (in 2012) and given that my fa- grew from an exhibition hall ther, Douglas, is now 82 and with a vast collection of avia- I’m 54 this year — without an tion memorabilia, aircraft and obvious successor to take the gardens into 27 acres of rides reins — we feel it’s the right and entertainment for all ages. time to part with a business The well-known Flambards’ that has been an important Victorian Village, in particu- part of our family lives. Our lar, has gained an interna- greatest sadness will be hav- tional reputation for being a ing to say goodbye to our unique visitor experience, as staff who have quite simply has Britain in the Blitz, an au- been amazing. We certainly thentic re-creation of a street couldn’t have achieved every- during World War II that was thing we have without them.” officially opened by Dame Livingstone Leisure is led Vera Lynn in 1984. by Ian Cunningham and his At the time the park was 4See FLAMBARDS, page 8 The view from the top of the Hair Raiser tower is quite simply stunning! COURTESY LUNA PARK 8 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014 LUNA PARK Continued from page 7 to installation, going through a unique Australian approval process, to commissioning. The team of people we worked with at Luna Park were ab- solutely great. The ride was set up in early December and opened to the public the day after Christmas.” For ARM, Mike Gill noted: “The staff at Luna Park made what was a very tight sched- ule, very manageable. The combined effort from all par- ties made it all happen just as planned. The Hair Raiser at Luna Park Sydney is very comparable to other interna- tional models installed around the world such as in Manilla, Saudi Arabia and Columbia, South America, although their ride offers a few unique design features that were required to The recently announced Twentieth Century Fox World theme park is scheduled to open in 2016. meet the Australian Amuse- COURTESY FOX CONSUMER PRODUCT/RESORTS WORLD GENTING ment Ride Code.” Another recently com- pleted drop tower from Lar- Twentieth Century Fox/Genting Malaysia son and ARM, this time in the U.S., called the Texas Super Shot, was also recently com- announce plans for new studio park in 2016 missioned and was under con- struction at the Trader’s Vil- STORY: ing our brand and engaging Lim said: “With its mix of Andrew Mellor lage in Grand Prairie, Texas as [email protected] audiences in new and excit- rides, attractions and movie- AT was going to press. ing ways.” fantasy appeal, Twentieth PAHANG, Malaysia — The new park will consist Century Fox World will defi- The name and location of the of more than 25 rides and at- nitely pave the way for the first ever Twentieth Century tractions of a cinematic na- continued growth of Resorts FLAMBARDS Fox theme park has been an- ture. Visitors will experience World Genting with a next Continued from page 7 nounced by Twentieth Cen- attractions that include action, level family entertainment business partner Michael En- tury Fox Consumer Products adventure, animation and experience which will attract right and at the time the sale and partner Genting Malay- the first of its kind in the sci-fi genres and incorporate tourism dollars to Malaysia.” was announced, there were sia. world and Twentieth Cen- special effects from world- The Twentieth Century no immediate plans to change Scheduled for a 2016 tury Fox Consumer Products renowned movies such as Ice Fox World theme park will any of the existing facilities. opening, Twentieth Century President Jeffrey Godsick Age, Rio, Night at the Museum replace the existing outdoor However, in time the com- Fox World will be built at commented: “The opening of and Alien vs. Predator. theme park which ceased pany does plan to develop the Resorts World Genting in the first Twentieth Century Describing Twenti- operations in September last park and museums and to in- Malaysia and the announce- Fox World theme park at Re- eth Century Fox World as year to make way for the new vest in the park. ment came at the same time sorts World Genting takes our a unique and compelling development. Resorts World Flambards is the second as that of the RM5 billion rich history of storytelling to world-class theme park, Genting’s indoor theme park, attraction to be acquired by (approx U.S. $1.5 billion) a whole new level and will Genting Malaysia Chairman however, remains open to the Livingstone Leisure which Genting Integrated Tourism provide an exceptional enter- and Chief Executive Tan Sri public. plans a series of acquisitions Plan (GITP). This will see a tainment experience. People in the coming years, according major 10-year masterplan for from around the world will to Cunningham. The company the development, expansion, gather here in Malaysia to be- also currently owns and oper- enhancement and refurbish- come part of the story and to ates Cotswold Birdland Park ment of hotels, theme park experience the magic and ad- and Gardens in Gloucester- and infrastructure at resorts venture of their favorite Fox shire, U.K. World Genting. properties.” The GITP, which will “Genting as a develop- be carried out in phases, in- er of the world’s top resort cludes the development of destinations is a natural and the RM1 billion (U.S. $304 valued partner for Twenti- million), 25-acre Twentieth eth Century Fox,” said Greg Century Fox World and the Lombardo, vice-president of proposed establishment of location based entertainment Genting Premium Outlets. for Twentieth Century Fox The Honorable Prime Minis- Consumer Products. “The ter of Malaysia, YAB Dato’ Sri creation of a world-class en- Mohd Najib Tun Razak, at- Flambards Race Track is tertainment destination in Visitors to Twentieth Century Fox World will experience tended the launch which was always popular among a vital market like Asia is a attractions based world-renowned movies such as held at the Genting Grand Ice Age. families and children. landmark step in Fox’s global COURTESY FOX CONSUMER PRODUCT/ COURTESY FLAMBARDS Hotel in Genting Highlands. theme park strategy, extend- RESORTS WORLD GENTING The theme park will be February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9

Mondial opens Sky Riser tower during large fair in Dusseldorf

Dutch ride manufacturer Mondial scored another hit with the introduction of its new Sky Riser observation tower. The attraction made its debut and grand opening at The Largest Fair on the Rhine in Dusseldorf, Germany last summer. This unique portable ride utilizes the latest lifting technology with a glass-enclosed capsule to deliver breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views from a height of 410 feet. The Sky Riser has been quite successful at every place it has been featured throughout Germany and is proving to be a popular addition to Mondial’s ride arsenal. At night, the tower features LED lighting on both the tower structure as well as the moving gondola to light up the sky. COURTESY MONDIAL ABC Rides supplies family freefall tower ride to Fantasiana SALZBURG, Austria — Fantasiana theme park turned to ABC Rides Switzerland to provide the ride system for its new indoor freefall attraction. Opened late last summer, the Knights Ride Tower was de- signed to appeal to families with children. It features 4-D special effects along with var- ious other show elements on different height levels with a free-fall experience at the end. The tower itself is mount- ed on an H-steel frame, which is attached to the ground foundation. Up to 10 passen- gers, secured by a lap bar, are accommodated in the ride’s single gondola. The attrac- tion’s program begins by rais- ing the gondola to the first of four different levels. On each floor, a story is told by means of animation and other show and sound effects including the boarding area. Above three photos, ABC Rides leg ticklers. On the fourth lev- The new Knights Ride Switzerland provided the new el, just as the story comes to Tower officially opened to Knights Ride Tower attraction an end, each passenger is sur- Fantasiana guests on August for Fantasiana theme park in prised with a gentle slap on 13, 2013. It joins a number of Salzburg, Austria. Designed for the back. Then, the gondola other family-friendly attrac- children and families, the tower suddenly disengages from the tions including a Ferris wheel, combines show performances supporting hook and drops Castle Dracula walk-through, (right) on four different height nearly 55 feet to ground level. Dino train and a Wild West- levels with a five-story freefall Permanent magnets bring the themed section. experience at the end. gondola to a smooth halt at COURTESY ABC RIDES 10 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014

P O BOX 638 • Plainview, Texas 79072 (806) 293-1353 • www.larsonintl.com

Fire Ball Super Shot

Flying ScootersTM Tilt-A-Whirl TM February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 11 PARKS & ATTRACTIONS RIDES ENTERTAINMENT REVENUE SUPPLIERS Keansburg Amusement Park replacing coaster lost to Sandy Workers at New Jersey’s KEANSBURG, N.J. — Keansburg Amuse- provide their guests. Keansburg Amusement ment Park began construction on its new- “Today marks the beginning of our instal- Park have begun laying for-2014 steel roller coaster in mid-January. The lation of our new Pinfari looping coaster which the foundation for the compact Pinfari Zyklon ZL42 — once operated will provide more safe thrills than any coaster park’s new-for-2014 Pinfari as Looping Star at Beech Bend Park — will we have ever had at Keansburg Amusement Zyklon ZL42 steel looping stand 36 feet tall, feature 1,197 feet of track and Park,” said Bill Gehlhaus, co-owner of Keans- roller coaster. The Zyklon a single vertical loop. burg Amusement Park and Runaway Rapids. is replacing the park’s Keansburg Amusement Park purchased “Added to our new Wave Swinger and our re- Schwarzkopf Wildcat the Italian-made Pinfari ride to replace the clas- themed spook house, we plan to be at 100 per- coaster that was damaged sic 1969-vintage Schwarzkopf Wildcat coaster cent for the upcoming season which starts in in Hurricane Sandy. The that was heavily damaged in Hurricane Sandy. March.” Pinfari coaster, which once Workers dismantled and removed the Wildcat Owned by the Gehlhaus family, Keansburg operated as Looping Star at in March 2013 to make room for the Zyklon. Amusements and Runaway Rapids continues Beech Bend Park, stands 36 The Gehlhaus family, which owns the park, its 109-year tradition of offering family fun on feet tall, features 1,197 feet has stated that they chose the Pinfari coaster the Jersey Shore. of track and a single vertical based on the company’s commitment to safety •www.keansburgamusementpark.com loop. COURTESY KEANSBURG coupled with exhilaration they expect it will

Aquatic Development Group providing Disney breaks ground on Avatar North America’s longest mountain coaster CHARLEMONT, Mass. — Berkshire East Ski Area, a long-standing, northeast fam- ily ski destination has com- mitted to adding Aquatic Development Group’s ADG Mountain Coaster to its activ- ity mix. Family owned and oper- ated for 35-years, Berkshire East has placed a strong em- phasis on growing its year- round and summer activity base. Over the past few years, the ski area has added zip line ORLANDO, Fla. — Using Na’vi-inspired shovels and canopy tours, mountain bik- assisted by a Na’vi, (left to right) George Kalogridis, ing and wind turbine tours to president of Walt Disney World Resort; Meg Crofton, its summer activities. president of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Operations, The new ADG Mountain United States and France; Tom Staggs, chairman, Walt Coaster will take Berkshire Disney Parks and Resorts; a Na’vi; Jon Landau, Avatar East to the next level. At a total Producer; Bruce Vaughn, chief creative executive of Walt Disney Imagineering; and Joe Rohde, creative executive, track length of 5,350 feet, com- The Berkshire East Ski Area in Charlemont, Mass. is adding a Walt Disney Imagineering, pose Jan. 8, 2014 during prised of 1,575 uphill feet and new mountain coaster for 2014 from Aquatic Development the ceremonial groundbreaking of an Avatar-inspired 3,775 downhill feet and with Group. At a total of 5,350 feet long, it will be the longest land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The multi-year and a 400 foot vertical drop eleva- ride of its type in North America. largest expansion in Disney’s Animal Kingdom history, tion difference, this coaster COURTESY ADG the new land will invite Walt Disney World Resort guests will be billed as the longest in paralleled level of safety. The resents the state of the art in to experience the wonders of Pandora when they fly North America. It is expected ADG Coaster incorporates an mountain coaster technology. with the banshees, encounter the Na’vi and explore a to open mid-summer 2014. on-board, collision avoidance ADG had been selling moun- rich cultural environment with mountains that float and The ADG Mountain system as well as automatic tain coasters since it acquired interactive plants that glow at night. Coaster provides a thrilling speed restrictors to control top Vermont-based Alpine Prod- COURTESY WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT guest experience with an un- speed; Berkshire’s coaster rep- ucts LLC in 2011.

Creating Memories & Profitability

• abc rides switzerland • Cogan Kiddie Rides • Moser Rides • Used Rides & Games • Wattman Trains Nashville Zoo Train www.intermarkridegroup.com Voodoo Interactive Raft, abc rides Hoopla, Moser Rides Wattman Mini Express TEL 615.370.9625 FAX 615.370.8852 12 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014 AMUSEMENT MARKET PLACE COMPILED: Scott Rutherford, [email protected] NEW Europa-Park finished its 2013 season at the Best Places to Work in Pa. awards ban- with a new record number of visitors at al- quet on Dec. 5, 2013, at the Lancaster County PORTABLE most five million people. The German park’s Convention Center. The award was presented winter opening has proven to be a strong visi- by Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett to MAZES! tor magnet. Europa-Park owner Roland Mack Gateway co-founder, Peter Grumblatt, before Steel Framework is reports that the extended season has paid off an audience of close to 1,000 attendees. Gate- Easy to Assemble & Break-down. with close to 500,000 additional visitors. On way has been named one of the Best Places to NEW Mazes by: peak days, the park entertained up to 25,000 Work in Pa. for two years in a row. The award visitors, the likes of which had only ever been was designed to identify, recognize and honor Ask about our Maze Themes: Aqua, Miner’s, Safari Aqua seen in the summer. He added that Europa- the best places of employment in Pennsylva- and Ropes Mazes. Park is becoming more and more attractive for nia that are benefiting the state’s economy and older visitors. workforce. World’s #1 Maze Builder • • 970.531.5334 / www.AmazenMazes.com Marine wildlife artist and conservationist As part of ongoing efforts to help build Dr. Guy Harvey is partnering with the South better futures for children and families in Cen- Carolina Aquarium to display a complete tral Florida, the Walt Disney World Resort range of his artwork in Canvases for Conserva- recently donated a record $36.5 million in tion. The South Carolina Aquarium is honored cash and in-kind support to local nonprofits. to be the first aquarium to feature a large col- This represents an increase of almost $6 mil- lection of Guy Harvey’s artwork. Canvases for lion from 2012. The record amount included Conservation will additionally feature one of funding for programs that offer basic needs Dr. Harvey’s loggerhead turtle originals. This assistance, education and youth development, original will be displayed alongside pieces fea- as well as resources for local hunger relief ef- turing wildlife native to South Carolina, such as forts, conservation initiatives and help for U.S. a bald eagle, rainbow trout, alligator, redfish, veterans, among others. Disney Cast Members marlin and sharks. also supported local community initiatives by • donating more than 308,000 hours of service SeaWorld’s Sea of Surprises themed float in 2013. won the prestigious President’s Award at the • 125th Annual Rose Parade on New Year’s The Kentucky Science Center has begun Day. This award is presented to the float with renovations to its 25-year-old theater by up- the “Most Effective Floral Use and Presenta- grading from IMAX 15/70mm film projection tion.” The 55-foot-long float was a festive trib- to a 4K digital platform with such exciting fea- ute to SeaWorld’s 50th celebration kicking off tures as 3-D capability, new assisted listening this year, and featured some of the park’s most technology and a first for Kentucky Precision popular animals. Hundreds of thousands of White Screen technology. This state-of-the-art flowers and natural materials made up the col- digital technology ensures the highly immer- orful reefs, waves, coral and sea life displayed sive viewing that has made Kentucky Science on the float. SeaWorld San Diego employees Center’s theater a downtown destination for donated time to work alongside float builders so many years, putting moviegoers right in the and help apply live flowers. center of the action. Film offerings will now in- • clude traditional 2-D science and history based Suzo-Happ recently announced that it films as well as an expanded array of 3-D selec- has completed the acquisition of two product tions, Hollywood feature films and even local lines from Crane Co., the Currenza C2 coin re- documentaries with partners like KET and oth- cycler for the European marketplace and the ers. Bill-to-Bill banknote recycler for the global • marketplace. The rights to the Currenza C2 Dubai-based Majid Al Futtaim Cinemas is family of coin recyclers have been licensed by in talks with Korean group CGV to launch the Suzo-Happ for the European marketplace on VOX 4DX system that lets cinema-goers see, an exclusive basis whereby Crane Co. will no hear, feel and smell the latest blockbusters in longer sell these products in Europe. The Bill- key Gulf states Qatar, Oman, Bahrain besides to-Bill banknote recycler business, including all Sharjah and Lebanon. VOX 4DX, the most im- assets, technology and patents, has been ac- mersive, engaging cinema-going experience, quired by Suzo-Happ. Crane Co. will provide was launched in Dubai last month with phe- PATTY BEAZLEY transition services in order to facilitate the inte- nomenal results. The first VOX 4DX enabled (615) 714-2617 gration of both product lines. sensory cinemas opened over the recent holi- • day period at Mirdif City Centre and Deira City CINDEE HUDDY After years of planning, the New York Centre to a 5,000-strong crowd of fans in the (615) 545-8109 Aquarium at Coney Island has finally broken first week who flocked to experience this inno- ground on the massive 57,000-square-foot vative technology. Ocean Wonders: Sharks! exhibit, which will fea- • www.creativeoperationalconcepts.com ture a coral reef tunnel that will give guests a Legoland Florida salutes the men and 360-degree view of ocean life when it officially women serving in the U.S. Armed Forces with • RIDE OPERATOR CERTIFICATION opens to the public in 2016. The $157-million the continuation of Military Appreciation • MANUAL WRITING • SUPERVISOR & LEADERSHIP TRAINING PROGRAMS exhibit will offer more than 100 species of ma- Days throughout 2014. As an appreciation for • OPERATIONAL SAFETY AUDITS rine animals, both local and from around the their service, all active duty military personnel world, including sharks, rays, sea turtles, thou- including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, sands of schooling fish and other crustaceans. Coast Guard, National Guard and Reservists • are now entitled to free single-day admission Gateway Ticketing Systems, Inc. climbed to Legoland Florida and the Legoland Water- Keep our amusement park industry strong! 14 places in the Best Places to Work in Pa. list to park. Buy products and services from these suppliers. number 56. Gateway’s ranking was recognized February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 13 14 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014

Spin-Inducing Fins AMUSEMENT TODAY Spin-InducingEXCLUSIVE! Fins Speed Trim Fins Speed Trim Fins (F) Front Flip (F) Front Flip (()B) Back Flip S&S 4D Free Ride 110 – 2014 (()B) Back Flip S&S 4D Free Ride 130 – 2014 F1 Flip Location (Design) F1 Flip Location (Design) P1 Potential Flip Location P1 Potential Flip Location B1 Blockpoint Location B1 Blockpoint Location 90 Degree Lift 2 1 F1 2 1 F1 (F) (B) F2 (F) (B) F2 P1 (F) (B) (F) 90 Degree 2 1 P1 (B) Lift 2 1 2 1 2 1 F3 P2 F3 P2 Raven 1 1 (F) P3 B1 1 2 (B) F4 1 (F) 2 (F) 2 2 (B) 1 2 (B) P3 2 1 Raven 2 1 1 2 P4

2 1 Raven Raven Raven B1 B2

Station Brakes 1 2 Station Brakes 1 2 1 2 Hei gh t = 1 09 f t (5) 8 Passe n ger V ehi cl es Ride Tim e = 50 Secon ds Height = 130 ft (5)8 Passenger Vehicles Ride Time = 60 Seconds Length = 1016 ft Dispatch Interval = 30 sec Max G force = 2.8 Length = 1265 ft Dispatch Interval = 30 sec Max G force = 2.8 The 4DMax Free Velocity Spin = 38 MPH is available inLoad/Unload two sizes Time =with 80 sec the largest model standing 130 feet tallMax with Velocity 1,285 = 38 MPH feet of track.Load/Unload COURTESY Time = 80 sec S&S~SANSEI Footprint = 270 ft x 36 ft Capacity = 960 pph Footprint = 280 ft x 36 ft Capacity = 960 pph S&S develops customizable new coaster concept — 4D Free Spin STORY: Tim Baldwin [email protected]

LOGAN, Utah — The folks at S&S~Sansei Technolo- gies, Inc. are noticeably excit- ed. Their expressions tell that stallation. Size and cost can be they are quite proud, know- prohibitive in many cases. ing they are on to something “The 4D coaster experi- particularly cool. Or cutting ence has been such a success edge. Or the latest thing. that we wanted to find a way With good reason. Amuse- to maintain the unique and ment Today visited the facil- exclusive ride experience ity in Logan, Utah following with a more mainstream bud- interviews with S&S~Sansei get and a smaller footprint,” at their booth at IAAPA last says Rich Allen, president November. On site is the test- and CEO of S&S. In the pro- ing prototype for what the cess, in AT’s opinion, they company is marketing as 4D have greatly improved upon Free Spin. The name is a vari- the original concept. ation of the 4th Dimension So what distinguishes 4D Coaster. Those up on their Free Spin from the original? coaster jargon will remember Much. The small footprint is that the 4th Dimension coast- derived from the track layout er has seats cantilevered off being stacked vertically. Sim- Above, the test section of the track shows the profile of the hills. Below,AT staffers are the sides of both sides of the ply stated, the vehicles make shown seated in the test car and flipping over during the course of the test ride coaster track. The ride uses no turns. The track utilizes the AT/TIM BALDWIN; S&S/QUINN CHECKETTS what is termed a 5th rail to proven I-Box Track concept, rotate vehicle seats into flips but on a larger scale. Contrary and dramatic seating posi- to the 4th Dimension Coast- tions throughout the ride. ers, 4D Free Spin will operate Kevin Rowher, vice presi- with a two-car “train” that al- dent, Sales and Marketing lows the client the option of for S&S, told AT: “S&S has having riders seated in pairs years of experience with the facing each other, or can be 4D since acquiring the assets placed all facing forward. A of Arrow Dynamics in 2003. moving platform at the station From optimizing the initial allows five vehicles (seating 4D Coaster trains at Six Flags eight each) to be in constant Magic Mountain — X — and motion delivering consistent creating X2 and subsequently capacity. Alan Schilke of Ride supplying 4D Coasters in Ja- CenterLine and Fred Grubb the tracks. The real difference place, the dampeners can af- fort claim. Hopping aboard pan and China, S&S has un- of Rocky Mountain Construc- in 4D Free Spin is not only do fect the frequency of the rota- the test track, this Amuse- derstood and been innovative tion developed the I-Box track the riders flip independently, tion. “What we have ultimate- ment Today reporter found in the 4D ride experience.” system and together hold the but also that the client can ly created is an adjustable, but the ride to be smooth and the To date, three 4th Dimen- rights on the U.S. Patent. create a wilder or milder ride controlled, rotation in both restraints extremely comfort- sion Coasters have been man- To be honest, there are a engineered by metal plates directions, that is extremely able with an open field of ufactured. Part of the rarity, few companies manufactur- S&S refers to as dampeners. thrilling and yet comfortable view. With such an enjoyable the company admits, is due ing roller coasters that have Without them, riders can flip to ride,” says Allen. ride experience, naturally to the price tag on such an in- riders placed on both sides of dramatically. When put in AT can attest to the com- 4See S&S, page 16 February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 15

S & S SANSEI Technologies INC

GO CRAZY FOR El LOCO BIG 4D would like to introduce you to his OPENING THIS MONTH LITTLE BROTHER, CIRCUS ADVENTUREDOME LAS VEGAS

NEW for 2014

S & S SANSEI Technologies INC 350 W. 2500 N. Logan, UT 84341 435. 752.1987 16 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014

while other passengers can quite pleased at this advance- S&S experience a wilder ride.” ment of the ride experience. Continued from page 14 Impressively, the pairing of The ride is so customizable, several rides were in order. riders on each end of the axle in fact, that each of the four Senior Mechanical Engi- can actually have differently “spoons” — as they call the neer Mike Worley told AT, controlled experiences. Test- pairs of seats cantilevered “We have track mounted ing has also been done with from the vehicle — can be en- (aluminum or copper) fins to passengers of different body gineered to offer its own ride engage the magnets as the ve- types, weights and sizes. experience. hicles go by to either engage “Through magnetic tech- Two models have been or reduce spin.” Comment- nology, every rider gets just developed at this point in ing that they had different the right amount of thrill ev- time. One stands 109 feet approaches to the rotation, ery time they ride, regardless with a track length of 1,016. A he adds, “We thought the of weight,” explains Rowher. slightly enlarged model offers most unique and robust idea “Experience has taught us 1,265 feet of track standing at Due to the cold weather, the test dummies are filled with RV was to use magnets — they how to create a more consis- a height of 130. Both use the antifreeze as plain water would end up frozen solid. always work, they are low tent and superior ride expe- moving loading platform in maintenance, you don’t have rience through independent the station and are planned AT/TIM BALDWIN to do anything with them — seat balance technology. The to operate with five vehicles. increase or reduce the number than a ‘little brother’ to its that has been the focus of the pivot center of gravity is in Hourly capacity is 960 rid- of flips with an adjustment to larger 4D Coaster brother,” R&D and understanding that the front part of the stomach, ers per hour. Each layout has the dampeners. Because the beams Rowher. “Its superior system.” making for a natural spin ro- been engineered to have a de- track layout is stacked ver- performance and optimized Gerald Ryan, director of tation, not behind the rider termined amount of rotations, tically, the footprint to the value deliver huge fun for the Technical Sales, adds, “You which causes ‘whip’ and un- but also has points of “poten- larger version is 36 feet by 280 family!” canFrederiksen set up each 1/7x3 pod b/wto where 3/14/02 necessary 11:22 AMpressure Page 1 in the tial” flips, which could add feet, while the smaller model “I am very excited for our one set of passengers have chest, stomach and front of more to the thrill. At any time, is 36 by 270 feet. latest creation to debut in a a more dampened rotation, shoulders.” Clearly S&S is each customer can decide to “The 4D Free Spin is more U.S. park,” adds Allen.

“The #1 Leading Slide Manufacturer in America” FREDERIKSEN com “World’s Largest 5 Lane, One Trailer Slide - 108 Ft.” INDUSTRIES, INC. amusementtoday 5212 St. Paul St. • Financing and Leasing Available • Trades Considered Tampa, Florida 33619 • Order Slide Bags or “New Rain” Bags (813) 628-4545 • 6 New Slides In Stock FAX (813) 621-3679 • Have 20 Used Rides www.funslide.com • 90 Ft. Fiberglass Slide • 65 Ft. Fiberglass Slide February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 17

It’s what’s on the inside that counts.

100% guaranteed

CPI Amusement Splash Higher.

1098 Windy Hill Road Kyle, Texas 78640 | 512-295-2683 | www.cpiamusement.com 18 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014 February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 19 WATERPARKS & RESORTS INDOOR FACILITIES AQUATIC CENTERS RECREATION SUPPLIERS Wet ‘n’ Wild Sydney off to a wavy start

STORY: Jeffrey L. Seifert [email protected]

SYDNEY, Australia — Despite a technological glitch with online ticket sales and res- ervations — then a cancelled event, Wet ‘n’ Wild Sydney, looks promising enough to be- come a popular summer desti- nation. The AUS $120 million (U.S. $108 million) waterpark officially opened to the public on December 12, 2013, after several days of soft openings. Opening weekend brought in 34,406 admissions, bringing the total for the first week, in- cluding the preview days, to more than 65,000 people. In addition, Wet ’n’ Wild Syd- ney sold 155,000 season passes priced at $124.99 for gold pass- es and $99.99 for silver. According to the park, the reaction has been outstanding were left on hold for more than Above, the eight-lane and exit interviews conducted 20 minutes and then cut off. Whizzard Twist at Wet‘n’ with customers indicate the Park Director Chris Warhurst Wild Sydney offers multiple highest possible rating. Gra- apologized for the problems twists and turns before ham Burke, co-chairman and and said staff were doing their patrons race to the finish. co-CEO of Village Roadshow, best to attend to public book- Seen at right is the Rattler, said, “We couldn’t have got off ings. He said the staff had been with its varying tube widths to a better start both in terms swamped by thousands of calls resulting in multiple of ticket sales and phenom- by phone and emails daily. exciting oscillations enal reaction from our custom- Shortly after getting during the ride. ers. The standout has been the through the opening weekend COURTESY night time shows with both problems, the park was hit WET ‘N’ WILD SYDNEY families and teens rocking with another PR nightmare as through under the stars until a New Year’s Eve festival was Wet’n’Wild Sydney, Darrin 11 p.m.” cancelled with just six hours Davies, said: “Our priorities However, news reports notice. The park had sold 8,700 are always safety and comfort and Facebook tell a different tickets for the event — ranging in the waterpark. We had some story. from $110 to $200 — but event transport and logistics issues Despite having booked promoter One Cube Entertain- we raised with One Cube and tickets by phone and online ment decided to cancel the fes- they made the decision to post- several weeks earlier, many tival earlier in the day due to pone the event.” hopeful patrons had not re- a “major technical production The original announce- ceived their opening-day tick- issue.” Wet ‘n’ Wild issued the ment stated that One Cube was ets. The park’s Facebook page statement: ‘’We have made the simply going to postpone the was littered with complaints very difficult decision to -post event to Australia Day, a na- about service and claims that pone our New Year’s Eve event tional holiday on January 26, no one was answering phone at Wet’n’Wild Sydney. This de- 2014, but after multiple angry calls or emails. Some people cision is in the best interest of responses from ticket holders, who did manage to get through our patrons.’’ One Cube decided to offer full A spokesman for 4See SYDNEY, page 22

• • •

MEDIA

20 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014 NEWSPAPER EMPLOYEE IN GOOD STANDING WATERPARKS B.NEWS JEFFREYDEREK SHAW L. SEIFERTSPLASH EDITORIALEDITORIAL MARKET PLACE COMPILED: Jeffrey L. Seifert, [email protected] The long-proposedMEDIAMEDIA Schlitterbahn Wa- wading pool in Pioneer Park no longer meets terpark FortCREDENTIALCREDENTIAL Lauderdale, appears to have safety requirements and would be more ex- WHAT DO YOU SELL FOR cleared one moreVALIDVALID obstacle.2010 The 64-acre site, pensive to retrofit than to replace. A new adjacent toTHROUGH THROUGHthe Fort 2012Lauderdale Executive spray park offers a better solution as it is eas- Airport, was originally given to the city for ier to maintain and can be used for a longer aviation uses. City officials believe they finally period of time during the year. With no stand- have a proposal that will generate a positive ing water, the spray park will not require the responseGARY from SLADE the Federal Aviation Admin- constant supervision that was needed by the FUN? PUBLISHER, AMUSEMENT TODAY istration. The FAA is responsible for making wading pool. Construction of the $550,000 sure the airport gets good money for any land project is expected to begin in April and the it leases. The FAA gave the city the property city plans to unveil the park on July 4. in 1947 for aviation uses. If it’s used for some- • thing else, than a fair-market rent must be CNL Lifestyle Properties has expand- paid. The current proposal calls for Schlitter- ed its recently acquired Wet ‘n’ Wild brand GET A FREE SAMPLE at Big Squirt! Inc. www.bigsquirt.com/freesample 1741 Torrance Blvd., Ste. D bahn to lease the land for $810,000 annually. to two more of its existing properties. CNL or call 1-888-388-8872 Torrance, CA 90501 Once the FAA approves the lease, the park acquired the North American rights to use can file for local approvals and construction the Wet ‘n’ Wild brand from the Australian can begin. Firm Village Roadshow Theme Parks, at • the end of November. The Palm Springs wa- Jeff Coy, president of JLC Hospitality terpark, which originally opened as Oasis Consulting reported on Hospitalitynet that Water Park in 2001, and most recently op- 23 North American hotel waterpark projects erated as Knott’s Soak City was purchased opened in 2013 — an eight percent increase from Cedar Fair in August of last year, and over the previous year. Of those 23, 14 were will be renamed Wet ‘n’ Wild Palm Springs. new openings and the remaining nine expan- Splash Town Houston, which CNL acquired sions of existing properties. in November 2010, will be renamed Wet ‘n’ Only two hotel waterparks closed last Wild Splash Town when it opens for the 2014 year: The Hilton Center in Milwaukee, Wis. season. CNL Lifestyle properties owns 12 wa- converted its indoor waterpark into meeting terparks throughout the United States. The space. The former Sheraton Chicago North- name changes brings the total number of Wet west & CoCo Key Waterpark is temporar- ‘n’ Wild branded properties owned by CNL to ily closed while the property is redeveloped. four; the other two are located in Arizona and The existing Sheraton Hotel is being con- Hawaii. Village Roadshow operates the Wet verted into apartments and two new hotels ‘n’ Wild parks in Australia as well as Wet ‘n’ are planned along with an expansion of the Wild Las Vegas. indoor waterpark. The first hotel, a Sheraton • Four Points, is already under construction. Parks officials in the city of Denton, Tex- However, no time line has been announced as, have persuaded the City Council that a for the second hotel or the reopening of the $4.1 million upgrade to the city-owned Water waterpark. Works Park be presented to the citizen bond • advisory committee. The waterpark has not The first of what is expected to be a se- had any new features added in its ten-year ries of small footprint indoor surf parks is set history. A concession stand originally planned to open in Nashua, N.H. Utilizing American was cut from the budget and the parks de- Wave Machine’s SurfStream, the facility partment has offered limited concessions can generate a continuous wave from gentle from a trailer. However, the health depart- whitewater to 6-foot barrels with an actual ment declared the trailer no longer compli- curl. Bruce McFarland, president and founder ant and that it cannot be used this upcoming of American Wave Machines, said, “This is the season. Concessions are typically the second- first of a series of our small footprint indoor highest revenue stream for a waterpark. surf parks opening in North America in the The parks department also stated that coming months and adding to our growing the limited attractions are no longer appeal- worldwide commercial surf park network.” ing to children and the city’s own recreation • programs take Denton youth to other water- Currently under construction and sched- parks in the area. uled to open in 2015, the new 453-room The proposal adds a wave pool to the hotel and indoor waterpark at Camelback park along with a much-needed permanent Mountain in the Pocono Mountains area of concession stand and five-story interactive northeastern Pa. is the largest indoor water- water play structure. park ever constructed in a single phase in the • U.S. The 170,000 square-foot entertainment In December, South Whitehall Township center features a 125,000 square-foot indoor commissioners gave final approval to Dorney Our top priority is your bottom line adventure waterpark, a 30,000 square-foot Park and Wildwater Kingdom to replace the dry recreation area and four restaurants. The 1985 Rip Tide Run attraction with an $8 million waterpark will boast 19 slides, a wavepool, waterslide complex. The six-slide “Snake Pit” Knoxville: Ken Bell — (865) 661-9712 and a FlowRider surfing attraction. The eight- will feature three drop-capsule body slides Atlanta: Jim Hartley — (770) 725-1400 story Camelback Lodge & Indoor Waterpark standing 65-feet tall with a near vertical drop is the largest capital improvement in the 50- and sideways spiraling in an enclosed tube. www.paams.com year history of Camelback Mountain Resort. Three tube chutes including a Constrictor and • twin Boa Blasters round out the attraction The parks department of the City of Puy- with all slides provided by WhiteWater West. Keep our amusement park industry strong! allup, Washington, will replace a downtown Dorney is also redeveloping other parts of the Buy products and services from these suppliers. wading pool with a spray park. The popular park including a new locker room building. February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 21 22 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014 guests. No place to park, long the park. SYDNEY lines to get in and even longer Attractions from White- Continued from page 19 lines for the attractions were Water West include quadruple refunds instead. The promise the most common grievances. AquaLoops, a Boomerango, of refunds did little to appease Guests stated that without a dueling Master Blasters, a Su- the thousands of customers — fast pass, the standby lines per Bowl, an Abyss, a six-lane some of whom had flown in hardly moved and some wait- mat Whizzard, two family raft just for the event — who sud- ed in the scorching sun for rides, two wave pools, two lazy denly found themselves with- more than two hours just to the park has a lot of promise if pass — have been enjoying rivers, an AquaPlay structure out plans for News Year’s Eve. ride a single attraction. Even the staff were better trained in more than 40 slides and attrac- and multiple tube and body With 30 days experience the wave pools and lazy rivers customer service, and perhaps tions including major installa- slides. of daily operation, the South were so full, that guests had to a limit was placed on daily at- tions from WhiteWater West ProSlide provided a Tor- Wales waterpark was still hav- wait to get in. Wet ‘n’ Wild ‘n’ tendance. and ProSlide. WhiteWater West nado Wave, Tantrum, and T5 ing teething problems. Social wait seemed to be the new ta- Guests who are willing to provided the original master enclosed Tornado 60, all shar- media and travel review sites gline. Most guests have noted wait out the lines — or shell plan, and Wisconsin-based Wa- ing one tower and a common were full of complaints from that the potential is there and out additional money for a fast ter Technology Inc. designed splashpool. Another tower fea- tures a ProSlide Double Bowls- eye, Curler and Riptide, again sharing the same splashdown pool. The park also features two upcharge attractions. A 251-foot-tall double Skycoaster — currently the tallest double Skycoaster in the world — was supplied by Ride Entertain- ment Group. Australian-based LatiTube supplied The Surf Deck, a surfing attraction that can produce waves up to 6 feet. Wet’n’Wild Sydney also features RFID technology that has been integrated into the park’s infrastructure to allow all guests to make purchases throughout the day without needing their smart phone or wallet. Every guest receives a silicon wristband embedded with an RFID chip that they can load with money and use throughout the day for pur- chases and locker rentals. Sea- son pass holders are given a multi-use band good through- out the season while general admission guests receive a tem- porary band that is snapped on. Optional items such as the up- charge attractions or a fast pass can also be loaded onto the My- Band, as it is called by the park. All guests can upgrade their wristband once inside the park to bands in multiple colors and designs. The MyBand system was developed by RFID n Print of New South Wales, Australia. Wet ‘n’ Wild Sydney is open daily from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. and people can come any time and stay as long as they like. There are four main ar- rival points described as Early Bird, The Lunch Time Shift, Twilight Time, and After Dark. Village Roadshow is no stranger to the amusement industry, operating several theme parks as well as Wet ‘n’ Wild Las Vegas and Wet ‘n’ Wild Water World in Gold Coast, Australia. Hopefully Wet ‘n’ Wild Sydney will even- tually find their groove and manage to provide the positive guest experience their patrons deserve. February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 23 24 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014 February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 25 BUSINESS REVENUE PEOPLE SAFETY SUPPLIERS The SeaWorld Store opens at SeaWorld San Diego Store is first area to open in new Explorer’s Reef

SAN DIEGO, Calif. — The SeaWorld Store, SeaWorld San Diego’s new flagship store, is now open. Located near the front of the park, it is the first area to open at Ex- plorer’s Reef. Guests can shop underneath giant coral forma- tions for gifts, souvenirs and collectibles inspired by ma- rine life in the new, open-air marketplace concept. SeaWorld’s newest and largest retail store gives guests the opportunity to shop for all of the latest SeaWorld mer- chandise the park has to offer. From Shamu-themed gifts, to souvenirs inspired by playful dolphins and majestic sea tur- tles, to cool arctic collectibles, SeaWorld San Diego’s newest and largest retail store, the the SeaWorld Store has every- SeaWorld Store, gives park guests the opportunity to shop thing under one roof. for all of the latest SeaWorld merchandise the park has to Explorer’s Reef is a offer. Located near the front of the park, it is the first area to 16-month project that is com- open at Explorer’s Reef. Guests can shop underneath giant pletely transforming the ma- coral formations for gifts, souvenirs and collectibles inspired rine park’s arrival experience by marine life in the new, open-air marketplace concept. by connecting park guests to COURTESY SEAWORLD SAN DIEGO the sea like never before. It will open on March 21, 2013, just in time for SeaWorld’s 50th Celebration. SeaWorld guests will be transported into an undersea realm as they pass beneath an iconic and stun- ning wave sculpture. Once inside the park, visitors are immersed in a vibrant tropical coral reef that will give them the feeling of walking on the ebration will feature a Sea of bottom of the ocean. They will Surprises starting March 21. have the opportunity for up- SeaWorld parks in San Diego, close interactions with shark Orlando and San Antonio will pups, rays, crabs and cleaner share the excitement through- fish in four new state-of-the- out an 18-month celebration art freshwater and saltwater that highlights some of the touch pools. most memorable SeaWorld SeaWorld’s 50th Cel- experiences.

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

PHONE: (716) 839-4791 FAX: (716) 839-4506 EMAIL: [email protected] www.nap-inc.com SERVING THE AMUSEMENT INDUSTRY WE’VE KEPT YOUR RIDES IN MOTION SINCE 1982 26 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014 Six Flags Great Adventure IAAPA’s Asian Expo 2014 set for Beijing BEIJING, China — More the future of the attractions in- honored for safe serving than 5,000 people from 60 na- dustry in the region.” JACKSON, N.J. — Six Flags Great Adventure was named tions will gather at the China Asian Attractions Expo 2013’s Community Business Partner of the Year by the DART National Convention Cen- 2014 will offer attendees Coalition of Ocean County and presented with proclama- ter in Beijing for four days unique perspectives of some of sales, education, and net- of Beijing’s historic attractions tions from both the State Senate and General Assembly and working at the Asia-Pacific during visits to the Forbidden the Office of the Ocean County Freeholders for its outstand- region’s largest international City including Tiananmen ing commitment to the safe serving of alcohol. trade show for attractions in- Square and the Great Wall of N.J. Senator Robert Singer presented the award to Six dustry professionals, Asian China. Flags Great Adventure Food Service Manager John Heitzen- Attractions Expo 2014. Asian Asian Attractions Expo roeder and Supervisor Dave Stewart at a recent DART Co- Attractions Expo is produced 2014 will also offer attendees a alition meeting. The Jackson theme park was bestowed the by the International Associa- showcase the attractions -in top-notch education program honor for its 100 percent proofing policy regardless of age tion of Amusement Parks and dustry’s latest innovations for available in both English and to ensure minors are never served alcohol, and its limiting Attractions and will take place executives, supervisors, and Mandarin Chinese. Session of sales per I.D. to ensure proper consumption. This is the June 17-20, 2014. managers of world renowned topics include employee en- second year Six Flags has participated in the DART program, The attractions industry theme parks, waterparks, in- gagement and retention, im- which is part of the Barnabas Health Institute for Prevention in the Asia-Pacific region is tegrated resorts, museums, proving the guest experience, and aims to reduce substance abuse among Ocean County growing quickly as many new family entertainment centers, marketing trends, what’s new youth and the community as a whole. resorts, waterparks, theme zoos, and aquariums looking in Asia, and more. These sem- “We are proud of both the award and our food service parks, and other attractions for the next great guest experi- inars will give attendees the team. They epitomize our commitment to the safety of our are in development. As the ence to bring to their facilities. instruction they need to apply guests,” said park President John Fitzgerald. industry has boomed in re- “There is tremendous the attractions industry’s best Six Flags Great Adventure is currently closed for the 2013 cent years, Asian Attractions interest in Asian Attractions practices in their facilities. season and will reopen April 5, 2014. Expo has grown with it and in Expo 2014 and the trade show Registration for Asian At- 2014 will host the most exhibit is on pace to set another re- tractions Expo 2014 begins space in the event’s history. cord,” said IAAPA President February 14, 2014, and is open New developments in and CEO Paul Noland. “In- to attractions industry profes- SUBSCRIBE TODAY! theme park rides, waterpark dustry professionals within sionals only. Asian Attractions attractions, coin-operated and the Asia Pacific region - un Expo 2014 is not open to the skill games, technology, and derstand that the learning, general public. Additional in- more will be on display on the the business connections, the formation about Asian Attrac- record-setting 8,000-square- ideas, and the innovations tions Expo 2014 is available meter trade show floor. More that take root during Asian at www.IAAPA.org/AsianAt- than 275 companies will Attractions Expo will shape tractionsExpo. IAAPA Leadership Conference 2014 set SAN FRANCISCO, Ca- Pixar Animation Studios, who and families,” said Gould in lif. — The IAAPA Leadership has collaborated with Walt a recent interview with IAA- Conference 2014 will take Disney Imagineering to bring PA’s Funworld magazine. place March 5-7 in San Fran- the stories behind the Pixar “The IAAPA Leadership cisco, California, and provide characters and worlds to life Conference will provide prac- owners and management of within Disney theme parks, tical tools to help any attrac- amusement or theme parks, resorts, and cruise ships. His tions industry business,” said waterparks, family entertain- credits include Toy Story Ma- IAAPA President and CEO ment centers, zoos, aquari- nia!; Turtle Talk with Crush; Paul Noland. “Whether you ums, science centers, or mu- Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor; run a large-scale theme park seums the tools to identify Crush’s Coaster; Monsters or a brand new family enter- their stories and discover in- Ride & Go Seek; World of tainment center, you will gain novative ways to use them Color; Toy Story Playland and valuable insight into how you to engage their guests. The Cars Land. can grow your business.” conference will also provide “In a time when everyone Additional information attractions industry manufac- has phenomenal entertain- regarding IAAPA Leadership com turer and supplier companies ment literally in their pockets, Conference 2014 registration, amusementtoday insights as to how to turn sto- parks hold an incredibly spe- event details, and sponsorship ries into engaging guest expe- cial and maybe even more im- opportunities are available at MOBILE EDITION COMING SOON! riences. portant place in people’s lives www.IAAPA.org/Leader- Conference attendees will now because it’s a place they shipConference2014. (for print subscribers only) learn from Roger Gould, cre- go and have a shared physical ative director, theme parks, experience with their friends

• Seasonal payment options FINANCINGFINANCING FUNFUN SINCESINCE 1965!1965! • Secured working capital loans • Shows of all sizes No one knows how to finance the outdoor • Financing for new and used rides amusement industry like Firestone! • Financing available for concession trailers, game trailers, generators and more To learn more, call us at 1-800-851-1001 ext. 42 or email us at [email protected] February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 27 Benson’s Arthur Provencher dies at 83 HENNIKER, N.H. — Ar- hard work in Benson’s and if friends, Val and Harry Left- Rick Hagen dies at 49 thur Julien Provencher, died the banks or investors would wich of Queensland, Aus- CEDAR He then married Terri Denny. peacefully at his home in Hen- have worked with him, the tralia. He recently served as FALLS, Iowa They later divorced. niker, Dec. 19, 2013. He was face of the amusement indus- president of the Circus Fans -— Mark R. Hagen graduated from 83. Arthur married his wife, try in New England as we of America. Arthur was an “Rick” Ha- Cedar Falls High School in Barbara Beales Provencher, know it today, would be a lot avid collector of elephants, gen, 49, of 1982 and attended Hawkeye in 1985 and lovingly cared for different. Thanks Arthur — at one time owning tens of Cedar Falls, Community College for tool her in their Henniker home My little company has done thousands of elephant items died at home and die. He was employed for the three years preceding quite well since you were my and artifacts from around the Wednesday, Hagen with the Stag Shop, Saturn her death in February of this first client back in 1983!” world. He was a competitive Dec. 11, Tool and Die, Waterloo Tent year. Arthur had an inventive ballroom dancer and played 2013. and Awning as a sales rep and Arthur is and entrepreneurial spirit both the piano and the organ. A long time employee of Hy-Vee. Waterloo Tent and Tarp, Ce- He was survived by a best known as and started his first business Arthur was active with the dar Falls, Pete Downs, com- daughter, Amber Rose Hagen the last owner while still attending Nashua men’s group at St. Andrews pany president, sent a mes- of Cedar Falls; his father of of Benson’s High School, from which he Episcopal Church in Hopkin- sage to AT about Hagen’s Stone Mountain, Ga.; a spe- Animal Park graduated in 1949. He served ton. passing. cial friend, Tracy Wumkes of in Hudson, in the U.S. Army from 1951 He leaves behind his son, In that email, Downs Cedar Falls; five sisters, Mi- N.H. from until 1953 when he returned three stepsons, seven grand- stated: “Rick began his career chelle “Shelli” Hagen and Ju- 1979 until Provencher to Nashua and worked for children and three great- with Waterloo in 2005 as a lee Miller, both of Cedar Falls, its closing Beebe Rubber until 1970. grandchildren, and count- Carnival business sales repre- Debbie (Brian) Buchanan of in 1987. Benson’s brought During the 1970s Arthur was less nieces and nephews. His sentative. Ozark, Ala., Vicki Protraske Arthur much joy during his granted two patents related niece, Cynthia Provencher, “He later became terri- of La Crosse, Wis., and Julie ownership period and for to other successful businesses of New Boston, provided ex- tory manager as his business Hagen of Apache Junction, years later. He reveled in that he started and then sold. ceptional care to Arthur in his volume continued to grow. Ariz.; three brothers, Daryl sharing memories of Benson’s In 1970, Arthur started Star home for the last six months. Rick was well liked and a re- (Connie) Waters of Waterloo, with family, friends, and Rental in Merrimack, which He was preceded in death spected asset to the Water- Dave Waters of Cedar Rapids strangers alike. he owned and operated until by his parents, Bruno and loo family. Our prayers go out and Tim Hagen of La Crosse. “Arthur loved animals purchasing Benson’s. Elmire Provencher; and his to Rick’s family and friends, He was preceded in and the park business. He For many years Arthur five brothers, Louis, Ralph, Rick will be missed.” death by his mother. had big ideas for Benson’s, was active with international Omer, Gerard, and Roland Hagen was born March Services were held De- his employees were dedicat- amusement organizations Provencher, all of Nashua. 30, 1964, in Cedar Falls, the cember 17 at Prairie Lakes son of Richard L. and Delores Church, with burial in Green- ed to him and his park and he which afforded him the op- Memorial donations may A. Anderson Hagen. He mar- wood Cemetery, both in Ce- was dedicated to them,” said portunity and enjoyment be made to Hope Elephants, ried Lisa A. Auer on May 14, dar Falls. WHR’s Bill Robinson. “He in- of traveling the world with P.O. Box 2025, Hope Maine 1994. She died Oct. 22, 1998. vested a lot of his money and his wife, Barbara, and close 04847.

IInn mmEEmorymory ofof TTwowo wwondondEErfulrful ffrrIEIEndsnds && mmEEnnTTorsors ...... whowho foundfound grgrEEaaTTnnEEssss IInn somsomEE “B“BIIgg IIddEEasas!”!”

aarrTThurhur TThomashomas E.E. sspackmanpackman J.J. pprovrovEEnchnchEErr 1913-20131913-2013 1930-20131930-2013

50 1428 Maple Ave. • Hamilton, OH 45011 • 513.737.9012 • www.TheBigIdeaPeople.com 28 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014 New Arcadia book offers a glimpse of Arizona’s Legend City STORY: Jeffrey L. Seifert [email protected]

As more books of this na- ture come into being, those fascinated with the history of amusement parks are now realizing just how often this familiar story is recounted. Inspired by a trip to Disney- land, a local entrepreneur has dreams of building a similar- style regional park in his Phoe- nix-area hometown. Many people know that tale as the beginnings of Six Flags Over Texas, which even- tually grew to become one of All photos reprinted with per- the largest theme park opera- mission from Images of America tors in the world. But success- Legend City, by John Bucker and Arcadia Publishing. es like this were few and far between. Some parks such as University graduate. In 1961, Carowinds, were quickly as- Crandall assembled a group similated into other successful of prominent businessmen chains, but many such as Leg- to form Legend City Inc. He end City, struggled for years. purchased an 87-acre parcel of The story of Legend City is land, on the border of Phoenix A beautiful dancing-waters fountain with flowers and colored lights greeted guests just in- not a happy one. Faced with and Tempe, by selling one mil- side the front gate. The park’s Von Roll skyride is visible in the background. financial challenges from Day lion shares of stock at $2 per One, the unforgiving Arizona share. 11 months later a sec- Village and the Modern Sec- sun, bankruptcies and mul- ond issue of stock for the same tion. Chapter two devotes 45 tiple ownership changes, the amount took place. Of the $5 pages of remarkable photos to park managed to survive for million needed for the proj- illustrate the various rides and two decades before finally suc- ect, $4 million came from the attractions of Crandall’s fabu- cumbing to economic realities. purchase of shares of stock by lous family fun park. Sadly, Just released mid-January, more that 10,000 Arizonians. however Crandall’s dream Images of America Legend City Within days of purchasing was in jeopardy from the day uses photographs to tell the the property, Crandall started it opened. sad tale of one man’s attempt mapping out his plan for the Park music director Serge to bring a world-class theme park utilizing the unique to- Huff would later say of his park to the Phoenix metropoli- pography of the land, which friend Crandall, “Louis was an tan area. Although resulting in included two ravines. A for- artist and dreamer of the high- broken dreams and economic mal groundbreaking cere- est quality, unfortunately, he failure, the park entertained mony was held on December was a trusting, kind-hearted countless Arizonians and 30, 1961, and construction individual who assumed ev- forged an enduring place in the continued for the next year eryone else was as honest and hearts and minds of local resi- and a half. During that time, dedicated as he was. A busi- dents. Legend City is part of Crandall visited other regional nessman he was not.” Gate re- an immense series of Arcadia parks such as Six Flags Over ceipts fell short of projections Among the live entertainment offered at the park were Images of America books that Texas and California’s Frontier and the rides frequently broke 1800s-style can-can dancers at the Golden Palace. commemorate a town, region, Village, absorbing ideas for his down requiring expensive or, as in this case, an attraction new park. When Legend City repairs. More stock was sold with vintage photographs cap- was finally completed in 1963 and the park limped through tioned to tell a story. the final configuration had a second season, but the debt The book is authored by changed somewhat from his continued to ride and Legend John Bucker, who was raised original plan, but most of what City went into receivership. in the Phoenix area in the 1960s was planned was present in By August of 1964, leadership and 1970s. Bucker started a one form or another. changes were made and Louis website tribute to Legend City Crandall’s original vision Crandall was out. He left for in 2001 and has assembled an was for a family fun park ex- Provo, Utah later stating “It extensive collection of images tolling famous legends in Ari- was the blow of my life when of the long-lost Arizona park. zona history, particularly from Legend City went under, I lost The 127-page book is divided the frontier days — in essence everything I had.” The park into five chapters that chrono- an Arizona version of Dis- struggled for two more years logically cover the park from ney’s Frontierland. The con- until September 1966 when its inception, heyday, bank- cept was modified to include Legend City closed down and ruptcies and reorganizations, non-frontier attractions such entered formal bankruptcy twilight years, and finally the as sky rides and turnpike cars. with a debt of over $1 million. legacy of the park. At its opening, Legend City Legend City sat dormant One of the most popular attractions was the River of Leg- Legend City was the was divided into six regions: for more than two years be- ends ride where guests floated by scenes of prehistoric brainchild of Louis Crandall, a Gay ‘90s, Boom Town, Ghost fore being revived by U-Haul beasts, peaceful Indian villages, warring Indians, falling boul- Mesa native and Arizona State Town, Indian Village, Mexican 4See BOOK, page 29 ders and magical caves. February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 29

BOOK Continued from page 28 entrepreneur Leonard “Sam” Shoen. When the park re- opened in May of 1969 Cran- dall’s elaborate theme park had morphed into a mere amusement-ride park. Chap- ters three and four illustrate the changes that had taken place as the park continued to take on more of a carnival atmosphere and Crandall’s original vision had long dis- appeared. More ownership changes would take place un- Manufactured by Crown Locomotives, the train (above) carries passengers across one of the high trestles that spanned the til 1977 when it was purchased natural valleys. Below, a proud Louis Crandall stands at the front gate of his brand-new Legend City Theme Park. by the Capell family, owners City closed its gates for the last since the real Disneyland was of the travelling carnival Dot time on September 4, 1983. Just less than a day’s drive away. Amusements. The Capells had two decades after its glorious Arcadia’s new publica- grand plans for the park, and and optimistic grand opening, tions provides an exhilarating for the first time the park was Legend City was no more. and fascinating photographic actually making money — as Although many attribute journey into the Valley of the much as a million dollars each the fall of Legend City to the Sun’s ill-fated theme park that season. By the end of the de- searing Phoenix heat, other was just a few decades ahead cade, however, the infrastruc- factors were at play. Phoenix of it time. ture had become dilapidated in the 1960s had just a fraction Images of America Leg- and the land on which the of the population that it has end City retails for $21.99 and park sat was becoming more now, and it was still several is available at local bookstores, valuable. The Salt River Project years away from developing a online retailers or through had its eye on that location for tourism industry. When Leg- Arcadia Publishing at www. its new corporate headquar- end City opened, Phoenix was arcadiapublishing.com, (888) ters and made an offer in 1982 just not ready to host a world- 313-2665. and acquired the land. Legend class theme park particularly 30 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014

Region As of Change from MARKETWATCH (U.S.) 01/13/14 year ago East Coast $3.940 -$0.062 Prices Prices 52 Weeks RIDING THE Company One Month Ago 01/13/14 High Low Midwest $3.854 $0.020 Gulf Coast $3.780 -$0.044 MARKET Cedar Fair L.P. $48.25 $51.36 $52.22 $36.00 Mountain $3.886 $0.225 MGM Mirage $21.20 $25.25 $26.10 $11.72 West Coast $3.891 -$0.009

Six Flags Ent. Corp.* $35.98 $36.93 $40.31 $30.49 DIESEL PRICES California $4.085 $0.022 CBS Corp. $58.42 $60.94 $64.06 $37.63 Walt Disney Co. $69.62 $73.27 $76.84 $50.18 TOP 7 MOST TRADED On 01/13/14 $1 USD = CURRENCIES 0.7314 EURO Apollo Global Mgt. LLC $30.13 $35.63 $36.51 $19.20 0.6065 GBP (British Pound) Blackstone Group $29.04 $32.09 $32.83 $16.66 104.15 JPY (Japanese Yen) Village Roadshow $7.43 $7.45 $8.05 $4.15 0.9021 CHF (Swiss Franc) *Six Flags stock split on NBC Universal $26.84 $26.73 $28.09 $21.01 1.1111 AUD (Australian Dollar) CURRENCY June 27, 2013 SeaWorld Entertainment Inc. $29.31 $30.10 $39.65 $27.48 1.08875 CAD (Canadian Dollar)

PEOPLE WATCH SeaWorld Ent., Inc. announces record ASTM elects Franceen Gonzales to board The Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari Service Award recipi- ASTM International has announced that ents are: Tom Berg, carpenter shop manager, 35 years; Bethany performance Franceen Gonzales, vice president, Waterpark Bailey, sales manager, 10 years; Sean Strahl, roller coaster main- Business Development of WhiteWater West, has tenance manager, 10 years; Steven Weedman, IT technician, five ORLANDO, Fla. — Sea- been elected to the ASTM International board of years; Andy Buehler, marketing coordinator, five years; Adam World Entertainment, Inc. directors. Her term will run for two years starting Kuntz, carpenter, five years;Tony Perkins, director of mainte- (NYSE: SEAS) recently an- January 1, 2014. nance, five years; Dale Skinner, maintenance technician, five nounced preliminary revenue The ASTM International board of directors, years and Tim Suiter, waterpark maintenance technician, five results for fiscal year 2013. The which consists of 25 people, is responsible for Gonzales years. results are subject to comple- the worldwide affairs of the society which is the tion of the company’s audit globally-recognized leader in the development and delivery of Ride Entertainment promotes Adam Sandy procedures. international voluntary consensus standards. Approximately Adam Sandy has been promoted to the Driven by record fourth 12,000 standards are used around the world to improve product chief business development officer for Ride En- quarter total attendance at the quality, enhance safety, facilitate market access and trade, and tertainment Group, based in Stevensville, Md. company’s three SeaWorld- build consumer confidence. Previously the company’s sales director, Sandy branded parks, total revenue “I am certainly honored and humbled by the confidence be- will now oversee Ride Entertainment’s sales and for 2013 is expected to be ap- ing placed in me. ASTM International is made up of more than contracting, financial partnerships, and market- proximately $1.46 billion 30,000 of the world’s top technical experts and business profes- ing efforts across all brands. which would represent a full- year record for the company in sionals representing 150 plus countries. These volunteers tire- “Adam has been a great asset to Ride Enter- Sandy lessly contribute literally millions of man hours annually all in the tainment as it has grown. We started as a sales its 50-year operating history. name of making the world a better and safer place. I am proud company, selling some of the world’s best roller coasters and Additionally, the compa- to be among them,” expressed Gonzales. thrill rides to amusement parks. Ride Entertainment is now a ny reaffirmed its full-year 2013 A member of ASTM International since 2001, Gonzales multi-faceted group serving entertainment-based industries like Adjusted EBITDA guidance serves on Committees D22 on Air Quality, F15 on Consumer theme and waterparks, and education-based experiences such range of $432 million to $442 Products and F24 on Amusement Rides and Devices. She is cur- as zoos, aquariums, and museums,” said Ed Hiller, the compa- million. rently Recording Secretary for the Main F24 Committee and Sec- ny’s CEO. “He is a natural choice as we continue to grow not “We are very pleased retary of the F24 Executive Subcommittee. She was Chairman of only our sales, but also our services as the largest revenue share with our fourth quarter per- Subcommittee F24.70 on Water-Related Amusement Rides and partner across several industries,” he noted. formance, particularly for the Devices from 2006 to 2009. Sandy has been with the Ride Entertainment Group for over SeaWorld-branded parks in a decade and spearheaded some of the company’s largest proj- Orlando and San Diego, which Holiday World honors nine employees ects with both corporate groups and family-owned parks. In helped us to achieve record revenue for the year,” said Jim Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari recently honored nine em- 2001 he started as a sales associate at Amusement Business be- Atchison, president and CEO ployees for their many years of service at the Santa Claus, Indi- fore joining Ride Entertainment as senior sales associate three of the company. ana themer. years later, and was made sales director in 2008. The fourth quarter also “Each year, we present Service Awards to employees who He graduated from DePauw University in Greencastle, Ind. saw several other notable have been with our park family for multiples of five years,” says with a Bachelor of Arts. Sandy currently serves on the Hall of events for the company, in- Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari president Matt Eckert. “This Fame committee for the International Association of Amusement cluding Standard and Poor’s year’s honorees represent 85 years of service. It’s this core of Parks and Attractions, and the board of directors for the B&O upgrade of the company’s longtime staff members that helps to make the transition smooth Railroad Museum. He lives in Baltimore, Maryland with his wife corporate credit rating as well each spring as our employee numbers swell from 80 to more and daughter. as the completion of an un- than 2,000 — we’re very fortunate to have them on our team.” derwritten secondary offering by the selling stockholders af- filiated with The Blackstone Group L.P. of 18 million shares of the company’s common stock and the concurrent re- purchase by the company of 1.5 million shares of the com- pany’s common stock directly from such selling stockholders. SeaWorld also achieved a different kind of milestone in 2013 when the company’s SLA stranded animal rehabilitation Continued from page 41 program passed the 23,000-res- cue mark. February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 31 32 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014 Core Cashless to install system at Jenkinson’s South LENEXA, Kan. — Locat- Core introduced the end- account registration. By sup- kinson’s. “Working with Core ed on the Jersey Shore, Jen- lessly flexible Paydia cash- plying the facility with one Cashless will also allow us to kinson’s South sits right on less payment platform at the comprehensive solution, Core take the next step into a sus- the beachfront and provides IAAPA Attractions Expo in looks to make a positive fiscal tainable future by helping guests with everything from Orlando this past November. and environmental difference us to reduce our carbon foot- arcades to amusement rides. The new product suite will at the park. print.” Soon they’ll be giving guests allow Jenkinson’s guests to “Jenkinson’s South is ex- Core will begin installa- the latest in cashless technol- use cashless payment at mid- cited to work with Core Cash- tion of the new solutions this ogy, as they have chosen Core way games, arcades, redemp- less to move our operations winter and will look to be fin- Cashless to provide the park tion centers, a waterpark, and toward the future of enter- ished in April for the park’s with a wide variety of mobile food and beverage locations. Paydia for all online sales, in- tainment,” said Toby Wolf, operating season. and revenue solutions. Jenkinson’s will also be using cluding gift cards and guest director of marketing at Jen- Kenwood introduces pocket-sized radio

SUWANEE, Ga. — Now available for the 2014 park sea- son, Kenwood has introduced its latest two-way radio in the ProTalk line, the ProTalk LT (PKT-23). The new devices were specifically designed for venue management and recre- ation. Weighing only 3.9 ounc- es, with 1.5 watts of trans- mit power, four channels and a built-in 1430 mAh Li- Ion battery for up to 15 hours of operation, the radios are small enough to carry in a pocket, clip on a belt or hang from a lanyard. The PKT-23 is only 3.3-inches tall, 1.8-inches wide and less than an inch in depth. The small size is comparable to a credit card. The ProTalk LT has a standard micro USB port for charging and programming, and can also be charged in the conven- tional charging cup provided. The radio meets all eleven military standards for durabil- ity and features enhanced Ken- wood audio quality, making it suitable for use in any business environment. Depending on conditions, the PKT-23 has a range of up to five miles and can reach up to 17 floors in high-rise buildings or cover up to 225,000-square-feet in steel and concrete structures. Com- petitively priced, the ProTalk LT has a two-year warranty and a selection of headset and other optional accessories, ac- cessible through a 3.5mm sin- gle pin audio jack. •www.kenwoodusa.com February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 33 MIDWAY CARNIVALS STATE FAIRS REVENUE SUPPLIERS IAFE ushers in 2014 chair and names award winners STORY: Pam Sherborne [email protected] LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Deb- bie Dreyfus-Schronk, assistant executive director & chief op- erating officer of the San An- tonio Livestock Exposition (SALE), San Antonio, Texas, was elected the 2014 chair of the International Associa- tion of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) during the 123rd IAFE Annual Convention. The convention ran Dec. 7-11 at the Paris Hotel. Debbie Dreyfus-Schronk, Jessica Klumpp, Gibson “Gib” Gosser, Jerry Hammer, Dreyfus-Schronk is a na- 2014 IAFE Chair Rising Star Award Executive of the Year Award Hall of Fame Award tive of Louisiana and graduate of Louisiana State University was employed by the Hous- throughout the world. •Gibson “Gib” Gosser, recommended by their asso- with a degree in psychology. ton-based American Brahman Some of those included: executive secretary of the Ken- ciation and are judged on their She attributes her love for ag- Breeders Association (ABBA) •Jessica Klumpp, Flor- tucky Association of Fairs & participation and involvement riculture and the fair industry where she gained an extensive ence (S.C.) County Fair, was Horse Shows was named the in their local, state, and the to her grandfather, who raised background in the purebred honored with the Rising Star Federation of State and Provin- Federation of State & Provin- Angus cattle, managed the and commercial cattle indus- Award, which was created by cial Fair Association’s Execu- cial Associations of Fairs. family farm, and ran a small tries. the IAFE Young Professionals tive of the Year. The Executive •The Heritage Awards grocery store in the rural town Also during the 2013 Initiative (YPI) to recognize of the Year Award goes to an goes to five exceptional indi- of Krotz Springs, La., where event, the IAFE awarded nu- leadership and industry con- association executive who has viduals in the field of fair man- she grew up. merous awards to fairs and tributions of IAFE members, been in this position for at least agement. The 2013 Heritage Prior to serving SALE, she members of the fair industry age 40 and younger. five years. They have to be 4See IAFE, page 36 Florida State Fair officials expecting positive results TAMPA, Fla. — As the Florida State Fair gets under- way for the 2014 run, fair of- ficials are proud of not only the rides and attractions on the grounds this year, but also the many renovations and im- provements done throughout the year leading up to the big event. The fair runs Feb. 6-11 this year and will offer over 110 rides from about 10 vendors to celebrate the event’s 110th anniversary. The vendor with the most rides on the midway this year is Wades Shows, set to bring between 20 to 30 rides, among them being a new ride to the fair, the Comet II. Wade Shows brings in several new rides for patrons at the Florida State Fair, set for Feb. 6-11. One of those is this Comet The Comet II, manufac- II, manufactured by Schwarzkopf and previously owned by Murphy Brothers Exposition. This is the third major coaster for tured by Schwarzkopf and Wade Shows. COURTESY FLORIDA STATE FAIR 4See FLORIDA, page 34 Factory wholesale pricing! • Over 100 designs available! • Made in the USA

Toll Free: (800) 395-9980 • email: [email protected] • www.sippersbydesign.com 34 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014

midwaylights COMPILED: Pam Sherborne, [email protected]

The Rockingham County Fairgrounds, said planning is underway for this year’s fair, Harrisonburg, Va., will add seven acres of new which will run Sept. 10-21, including putting parking area this year. The goal is to increase out offers earlier than usual for entertainers. overall parking capacity during the annual fair. He also said officials are considering charging “This is a significant increase in parking for “preferred parking” areas during this year’s capacity,” said Jeff Ishee, general manager, fair. Parking has been free the past two years. Rockingham County Fair Association. Murphy Brothers Exposition provides The new lot is located immediately ad- the midway at the annual event. jacent to the main entrance drive and will be • capable of handling at least 750 additional ve- The Michigan State Fair continues its re- Another new ride for Florida State Fair patrons this year is hicles. Attendance at the 2013 fair set a new vival in Novi at the Suburban Collection Show- this Rainbow ride manufactured by Huss. The ride is being record at 88,885. place for 2014. It will carry a new sponsor’s brought in by Wade Shows. The fair runs Feb. 6-11. The fair association negotiated the deal name, The Fifth Third Bank Michigan State Fair. COURTESY FLORIDA STATE FAIR with a neighboring farmer who agreed to rent The event has evolved and grown over the about $250,000. The doors are the acreage on a multi-year term. last two years, so much so that it needs a full FLORIDA glass, which has added light The “Keep it Green” parking lot has al- time committed professional event manager. Continued from page 33 and should improve the over- ready been seeded with orchard grass and will The executive director will be responsible previously owned by Murphy all patron experience. only be utilized for parking during the week of for directing the State Fair and all operational Brothers Exposition, is the Parnell said they have the annual fair, set for Aug. 11-16. The remain- activities leading up to the event, implementa- third major coaster for Wade completely rebuilt and ex- der of the year it will be used to produce hay tion of the event and post-event activities. Shows. This adult-size coaster panded the Waterfront Café as feed for livestock. • features banked turns, quick over the past year. The café is The Rockingham County Fair received Iowa State Fair officials decided to shelve drops and fast speeds. It is be- now a 3,600-square-foot facil- three Awards of Distinction from the Inter- their idea of cashless food concessions for the ing touted as the largest por- ity. New restrooms have been national Association of Fairs and Expositions 2014 event after the idea was met with im- (IAFE), during its annual convention in Decem- mediate complaints. Two days after the board table coaster in the U.S. added there as well as new la- ber 2013. The competition involved more than announced their plan to go to the cashless sys- Other new rides for the dies restrooms in the Charles 1,100 fairs around the world. tem last month, the decision was reversed. M. Davis Special Events Cen- fair from Wade Shows in- The theme for the 2014 fair will be “Year of The idea was for fairgoers to purchase cludes the Hit in 2000, by ter in time for this year’s fair. the Farm Family.” 50-cent tickets online or at the fairgrounds to Mack; the Rainbow by Huss; “An area not quite as no- • use for food concessions. But fair patrons com- and Surf’s Up, Zamperla. ticeable to the general pub- During its first meeting in 364 days, the plained that they were afraid this system would Myers International Mid- lic but will greatly enhance New Mexico State Fair Commission learned lead to a potential additional line for them at ways will bring Wisdom the customer experience is last month that revenues for the 2013 state fair the fair. And, even though fair officials said any Rides Monster Trucks to the new and improved electrical in Albuquerque declined nine percent com- unused tickets could be used for future events, Florida State Fair for the first throughout the grounds,” Par- pared with the 2012 fair. fair patrons felt they would never be able to time. Another new ride for nell-Longphee said. “We have Citing unaudited figures, Bill Nordin, keep up with the tickets after the event. the fair is the Magic Maze, by much more shore power espe- Expo New Mexico’s chief financial officer, said The local newspaper, the Des Moines Reg- Owen Trailers, being brought cially in areas that were pow- revenues from the Sept. 11-22, 2013, fair were ister, conducted an informal survey and of the in by Lauther Amusements. ered by generators in the past. $4,736,251, compared with $5,205,445 from 1,600 votes received, nearly 83 percent op- Musical and grounds en- The electrical project is a three the previous year’s fair. Attendance declined posed the plan. tertainment will keep patrons year project and will upgrade nearly four percent from 2012. Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad’s and Lt. Gov. busy, as will exhibits, displays all electrical on our 330-acre Nordin said revenues took a hit because of Kim Reynolds suggested that the fair board and concessions. property.” heavy rains during the three opening days and listen to the outpouring of criticism. Fair offi- Terri Parnell-Longphee, In addition, there has on the fair’s final day. Despite the decline, he cials, in a statement, said the board would con- said, the Expo’s finances are improving. sider the governor’s comments. sales and marketing director been $200,000 worth of foot- “It’s been published many times that we Before the decision was announced to for the Florida State Fair Au- ing installed in the Equestrian were losing money back in 2010 and 2011. shelve the idea, State Fair CEO Gary Slater Gran Prix ring and a brand thority, said renovations on You’ll see that it turns to the black in 2012. expressed frustration at the public’s reaction the grounds would certainly new bridge has been built It continues in the black in 2013, though in a to the original plan. Fair officials don’t believe benefit visitor experience. that connects the Entertain- lesser amount,” Nordin told the governor-ap- the move would result in long waits for tickets. According to Parnell- ment Hall and the south inner pointed commission. Despite this, he said most of this week’s clamor Longphee, bathroom renova- grounds to Florida Center and Expo New Mexico, the 236-acre venue was based on unfounded anger that customers tions in Expo Hall have been Special Events Center. This that hosts the fair, is a state enterprise fund would have to suffer through long lines. completed. In addition, there new bridge, which is really a that must pay for itself. Though the state Legis- “When you don’t get the opportunity to are now two new family rest- causeway, is substantial as it lature does not fund Expo directly, it gives the say that in a social media world ... it just backs rooms in the building. Touch- will allow both pedestrian and fairgrounds capital outlay money to maintain you into a corner,” Slater said. “You don’t have less technology for hand dry- vehicle traffic and has a higher and improve its facilities. Expo officials say the much power, you don’t have much ability to ing was installed. This project load capacity extremely help- state fair typically accounts for about one-third get the real story out there, because every- was about $700,000. ful during the fair and non-fair of the fairgrounds’ annual budget. body thinks you’re trying to get them.” New guest doors were events for concessionaires and Expo general manager Dan Mourning installed in the Expo Hall for various vendors. Through the smiles, the seasons & the miles – Financing everything for the outdoor amusement industry since 2000. Prairie Financial The outdoor amusement Division of Boulevard Bank Paul Muller [email protected] Mark Walker A division of [email protected] Wade Muller blvdbank.com/outdoor-amusement [email protected] 816-554-3863 February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 35 36 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014 IAFE Carnivals ink Continued from page 33 Police release update on fair accident new 2014 dates Award winners were Byron RALEIGH, N.C. — Within a day after the tained the search warrant to look for evidence Anderson of the Washington Vortex ride malfunctioned at the North Carolina indicating Macaroni and the ride operators Several carnival/show County Agricultural Society State Fair and injured five people last fall, inves- knew the machine was malfunctioning. Weaver owners have announced new in Lake Elmo, Minn.; Doug tigators suspected that someone had tampered stated in the court affidavit that he wanted to fairs signing for 2014. They in- Brand of Seward County Fair with the ride’s safety mechanism, according to a seize information related to the operation and clude: search warrant made public last month. maintenance of the ride, any tools or devices in Seward Neb.; Roger Hen- Belle City Amusements According to a story that ran in the local used to bypass the standard operation of the richs of the Gage County Fair newspaper there, News Observer, investiga- ride and all communication — handwritten or landed some new fairs for in tors obtained the warrant on Oct. 25, the day electronic — between Macaroni and his em- the 2014 season. At the first of Beatrice, Neb.; Allen Paul- after the accident, to seize handwritten notes, ployees, according to the court affidavit.” January, those dates included son of the Clearwater County inspection reports and five jumper wires they The Vortex riders had unbuckled their the Manatee County Fair, Pal- Fair in Bagley, Minn.; and and think were used to bypass safety mechanisms safety restraints and were exiting when the ma- metto, Fla., Jan. 16-26; and the Paul Vaassen of the Iowa State and keep the machine in operation, according chine started to move and then speed up. A Sarasota (Fla.) County Fair, Fair, Des Moines. to a court affidavit made public with the war- ride employee and four members of one family March 14-23. •Jerry Hammer, execu- rant. were thrown from the ride before the operator Dixieland Carnival tive vice president and gen- Two days after the accident, sheriff’s depu- stopped it. Their injuries ranged from minor to signed nine new fairs as of eral manager of the Minnesota ties arrested ride operator Tim Tutterow, 46, critical, Weaver wrote. the first week of January 2014. State Fair, St. Paul, was induct- who was at the switch when the accident oc- After questioning Macaroni, Tutterow and They are: Adair County Fair, ed into the IAFE Hall of Fame. curred. The Vortex owner, Joshua Gene Maca- other ride employees, sheriff’s investigators de- Columbia, Ky. July 4-12; Nel- roni, 32, was later arrested. Both have been termined that they were all aware that the Vor- The highest honor bestowed son County Fair, Bardstown, charged with three counts of assault with a tex was malfunctioning. The Vortex’s glitches by the IAFE, the Hall of Fame deadly weapon inflicting serious injury. were related to “the deployment and release of Ky.; Pulaski County Fair, Award is presented annually The Vortex is manufactured by Technical the safety harnesses (and) restraints for the pas- Somerset, Ky., July 19-26; and in recognition of an individu- Park. sengers,” Weaver wrote. Southern Kentucky Fair; Bowl- al’s distinguished achievement The news report went on to state: “Wake —Compiled by Pam Sherborne ing Green, Ky., July 28-Aug. 2. in, or contribution to, the fair County Sheriff’s investigator D. Weaver ob- Other August dates were still industry. 4See CARNIVALS, page 38 February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 37 38 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014

MIDWAY Bates presented with Lifetime MARKET PLACE Achievement Award

Eric Bates, seen here with his wife Dee Bates, was presented the 2013 Life- time Achievement Award by the Greater Ohio Showmen’s Association at the annual meeting held last month in Columbus, Ohio. COURTESY AMY BATES CARNIVALS Continued from page 36 to be announced. Miller Spectacular Shows had picked up seven new fair contracts in 2014 by the first week in January. The dates are: Taylor County, Camp- bellsville, Ky., May 31-June 7; Murray-Calloway County, Murray, Ky., June 9-14; Union County, Sturgis, Ky., June 16- 21; Allen County, Scottsville, Ky., June 22-28; Hart County, North American Representative Munfordville, Ky., June 30- July 5; Hardin County, Eliza- Amusement Sales, Inc. bethtown, Ky., (TBA), and Texas Office: JRide Sales Barren County, Glasgow, Ky., 405 Dodson Lake Dr. JReplacement Parts July 16-20. Las Vegas-based Todd Arlington, TX 76012-3442 JService Armstrong Shows renewed Telephone: (817) 275-9393 • Fax: (817) 860-7373 its contract at the Gregg Coun- www.fabbrigroup.com • [email protected] ty Fair, Longview, Texas, to play the 2014 event. The 2013 Gregg County Fair had more than twice the number of visi- tors than in 2012, prompting fair organizers to sign a five- year contract with the carni- val. Attendance in 2012, when several evenings were rained out, was between 30,000 to 35,000. Attendance at the 2013 fair, which ran from Sept. 6-14, was 83,246 people. Mr. Ed’s Magical Mid- Providing ways will play the 2014 Lin- Mobile And Permanent Food Preparation And Sales Solutions. coln County Fair, Merrill, Wis., for the first time this HITCH-HIKER MFG. 330.542.3052 year. The fair has been set July 30-Aug. 3, 2014. The carnival Keep our carnival and fair industry strong! has signed a contract to play this fair for three years. Buy products and services from these suppliers. —Pam Sherborne February 2014 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39

MARKETPLACE AmusementToday.com AUCTIONS EQUIPMENT OPPORTUNITIES SERVICES AUCTION FOR SALE OPPORTUNITY FOR SALE “60 Horse Chance Grand Carousel- Outside row of Bradley & Kaye horses. 2 loads (4 pup trailers) $425,000

Reverchon Flume II – Excellent condi- tion, 8 boats, new liner, 5 trailers. $535,000

Call EJ Dean 978-375-2542

BAND ORGANS 125 Wurlitzer band organ Maywith 13 2010 brass AMUSEMENT TODAY 39 horns, 14 whistles and drums. All origi- September 2009 AMUSEMENT TODAY 39 nal - needs tuning.

$15,000 Looking for a qualified and experienced NEED RIDE HELP IN ALL AREAS Bob Kissel - (812) 839-3255 all around maintenance person that Supervisor to lead crew of five. Move posses traveling amusement rides main- and maintain Chance/Wisdom rides; 1) tenance and repairs. Full time position Century Wheel/Pharaoh’s Fury, Zipper, CLASSIFIEDSCLASSIFIEDSfrom April- October or year round in the Merry Go Round 2) Super Sizzler www.AmusementToday.com www.AmusementToday.comNew England area. Wage depends on experience. Starting pay $15- $20/hour. • Basic hydraulic/electrician knowledge FOR SALE • CDL Class A license helpful To place an ad call (817) 460-7220Paratrooper: $24,000 To place an ad call (817) 460-7220Please email resume to: • Drug test mandatory Troika: $65,000 [email protected] or mail to • Seasonal position for approximately Calypso: $22,000 FOR SALE FOR SALE Fanelli Carnival 9 months, could develop into annual eMploYMenT FoR Sale FoR Sale House of GlassFo Maze:R Sale $1,000 FoR Sale eMploYMenT FoR Sale FoR Sale PO BOX 249 SeRVIce S employment Smokey Mountain Dual Flume Water Slide: $15,000 Smokey Mountain East Coast Beach Location Rindge CannedNH.03461 Spiel Repeaters • Competitive salary and benefits Amusements Inc. Bayern Curve: $19,500 Amusements Inc. Great for game booths and ride queue package needs Ride Help - In All Departments lines. Complete with 24-watt amp needs Ride Help - In All Departments 12 Rides Ride Superintendent - For Green Unit [email protected] and weather-tight speaker. Up to fourCan Ride Superintendent - For Green Unit 13 Games 2-minute custom sayings or one self- Email resume or work experience to Electrician - For Green Unit Angola, Indiana SMOKEY MOUNTAIN AMUSEMENTS Electrician - For Green Unit Profitable, owner looking to diversify repeating custom canned spiel. [email protected] Contact: with existing operations. INC. Needs Ride Help In All Contact: Brian (Beaver) Bitner Departments:$350 - Go to www.ACsound.net® for Brian (Beaver) Bitner and (919) 272-5627 If interested, please contact: Ridemore Superintendent information or - Forcall Green Anthony Unit. at WHITEWATER 10 YEAR INSPECTIONS (919) 272-5627 Billy Clark - (863) 738-1689 Len Soled Electrician - For(865) Green 742-1394 Unit. 3rd party insurance and safety inspec- Billy Clark - (863) 738-1689 MAY Winter Quarters Now Open! Rides-4-U, Inc. Winter Quarters Now Open! FOR SALE Follow us on Twitter Contact: tions. California QSI inspections. Former (843) 362-0022 TFN Paratrooper twitter.com/amusementtoday(908) 526-8009 help grow yourDisney business? Safety Manager. Amusement and (843) 362-0022 TFN Brian (Beaver) Bitner

$24,000Spin out T/M (Huss) ...... $299,000 (919) 272-5627SeRVIceS waterparks. LOOPINGLOOPING COASTERCOASTER IndianaEclipseTwister/ Location-Fabbri Maverick T/M= (Moser) ...... $399,000 ...... $599,000 Billy Clark [email protected] (863) 738-1689 www.safetycertify.com eQUIpMenT WanTed eQUILaunchpM LoopenT Shuttle Wan CoasterTed SkyDrop Master Tower -ARM T/M (ARM) T/M ...... $179,000 ...... $299,000 Subscribe to our YouTube channel J&D Carnival Services offering ser- Launch Loop Shuttle Coaster youtube.com/amusementtoday1998 TM Chance Gondola Wheel vices to you for a low, low price. (916) 772-2698 ArrowArrow Dynamics Dynamics all steelsteel with with OTHERDropRio Grande Tower RIDES -ARM(Zamperla) AVAILABLE T/M ...... $399,000 ...... $19,000 $410,000 - Completely rebuilt July SLIDES SLIDES G-ForceG-Force 4, 56’ high xx 635’635’ longlong RioCrazy Grande- Dance Zamperla (Fabbri) ...... $325,000 T/M ...... $19,000 2009. All eight motors and gearboxes We offerYOU the following services: BETCHA! Wanted used 90+ft. slides, Built in1977, 1977, Excellent excellent condition condition in are made to 100% / over 6,000 new •Ride setup portability not needed. Wanted used 90+ft. slides, Scooter 1800 T/M (Majestic) ....$224,000 Indiana.Indiana. $100,000$200,000 Chaos -Chance T/M ...... $99,000 LED lights, new electrical wiring, new •Ride tear down portability not needed. •Ride painting FUNHOUSES ForFor photos photos and details: ScooterCrazy Bus 1400 T/M -Majestic (Zamperla) T/M ...... $99,000 ...... $109,000 PIC drive. All updates. Ask•Ride washing us how you can tap into over Wanted used “Carnival Funhouses”, [email protected]@vestil.comFUNHOUSES Tornado T/M (Wisdom) ...... $99,000 Crazy Bus -Zamperla T/M ...... $99,000 Please call Gene Dean: (978) 375-2542 •Ride repair work mobility not necessary 22 Other Rides 22 Other Rides Drop Tower (Moser) ...... $89,000 or e-mail [email protected] •Concession250 million cleaning potential customers. Wantedwww.funspotpark.com used “Carnival Funhouses”, Tornado -Wisdom T/M ...... $129,000 Contact Sunny (612) 332-5600 Industry•Concession news work delivered mobilityAngola, not Indiananecessary Americana Carousel 28’ (Chance) ...$119,000 and much, much more. TFN Orient Express -Wisdom ...... $139,000 Traffic Jam T/M (SBF) ...... $219,000 TO SIGN UP FOR affinitymm.com/twitterbook Contact Sunny 612 332-5600 Turbo Force -Zamperla T/M ...... $199,000 THIS2 Bob FREE Space NEWS Racers SERVICE WeWe will travel travel the the East East Coast. Coast. Our Our Vertical Water Race Games TFN 1989 Orbiter T/M ...... $205,000 GO TO WWW.AMUSEMENTTODAY.COM office hourshours areare M-FM-F 88 a.m.a.m - 5 p.m., BINGO / BEANO GAMES FOR SALE Americana Carousel 28’ ...... $199,000 1 14-player, 1 12-player park models directSaturday 9 a.m. - noon. to your desk! wanted for Bangor State Fair, Bangor, Truck Stop (Zamperla) ...... $18,000 in mint condition. Saturdy 9 a.m. - noon. Traffic Jam -SBF T/M ...... $219,000 Publication & Ad Design Maine 7/30-8/8 and Skowhegan Fair, FoR Sale Sea Ray T/M (Mulligan) ...... $249,000 AMUSEMENTTODAY.COM 1. SKEE BALLS CallPoint-of-Purchase (207) 825-3944 ask Materials for Jamie Design or Skowhegan, Maine 8/12-8/21. Call Funny Freight T/M ...... $29,000 AMUSEMENTTODAY.COMRetiring - Priced to Sell! Danielle. Or call our cell at 2. CLAW MACHINES Kamikazi T/M (Fabbri) ...... $149,000 AMUSEMENTTODAY.COMGreat price. Call (718) 266-8384 or Web & Flash(207) 659-4069.Design Communications Gene Dean - Fiesta Shows 3. STACKERS KiddieMini Rocking Scrambler Tug T/M -Eli (Zamperla) T/M ...... $ .....$49,000 29,000 AMUSEMENTTODAY.COM(718) 614-0597 (978) 375-2542 Chance 4.Sea SPORTS Dragon ARENAST/M...... $149,000 TV & Radio www.affinitymm.com DizzyDrop TowerDragon 806- (Sellner) Moser ...... $54,000 T/M ...... $99,000 AMUSEMENTTODAY.COM [email protected] Moser5. Top AIR Spin HOCKEY T/M...... TABLES$449,000 AMUSEMENTTODAY.COM WhateverSubscribe Your Project Calls For today to KamakaziPower Surge -Fabbri T/M T/M(Zamperla) ...... $149,000 ....$349,000 (817) 564-3843 JUN 6. POOL TABLES AMUSEMENTTODAY.COMFor Sale: Waterslide molds from AMUSEMENT TODAY Zamperla 7.Mini VIDEO Jet 10 GAMES Sweep P/M...... For Sale: 1987 Huss Condor Sellner Apple T/M ...... $29,000 reputable company. Four complete CLASSIFIEDS Call Len or John systems ready for production with ...... Great Condition. $19,000 receiveYOUR USED RIDE 14 issues of claSSIFIed QUARTERTIME AMUSEMENTS Call(908) Len 526-8009 or John two additional systems available. ZamperlaTower Swing rehabbed 20 P/M in...... 2004.$14,900 (908) 526-8009 claSSIFIed MARKETPLACE P/M. Excellent ride for FAX: (908) 526-4535 Please contact [email protected] deadlIneS ZamperlaCall Michael: Fire Chief (410) T/M .358-8311...... $99,000 FAX: (908) 526-4535 mid-sizedpark. deadlIneS MAYAmusement Today per year! S & S Frog Hopper T/M...... $59,000 AMUSEMENT TODAY’S Ride is operating and available Classified pages close the 10th of Zamperla FamilyOctober Coaster 1st. T/M...... AMUSEMENT TODAY’S month prior to the issue date...... Location - Eastern USA.$79,000 Classified pages close the 10th of month prior to the issue date. Rates: Chance Pharaohs Fury T/M Completely •Regular classified ad– • Rates: 99-year-oldRebuilt...... Carousel w/1924$695,000 Wurlitzer $20 minimum up to 30 words; organ. Located in USA. Major rehab •Regular classified ad– com $1 per additional word. Moserin 2004. Flipping Indoor Action location. Arm AvailableP/M...... $20 minimum up to 30 words; amusementtoday •Display classified ad –$50 September 2009. $1 per additional word. It’s ...... $169,000 per column inch. A 1-point •Display classified ad –$50 Four rows, 35 jumpers, 23 standers, or call us at: rule will appear around ad. Tivoli Remix T/M...... $425,000 per column inch. A 1-point 2 chariots. www.amusementtoday.com •Company logos, screens and Zamperla Truck Stop T/M...... $24,000 rule will appear around ad. reverses also are available on Available through International Ride •Company logos, screens andEasy (817) 460-7220 display ads upon request. CallManagement Len or John reverses also are available on { } (908) 526-8009 display ads upon request. Call (609)SUBSCRIBE 920-0252 or (609) TODAY 827-1316 RECEIVE 14 NEWS-PACKED ISSUES PER YEAR STAY INFORMED AT CLASSIFIEDS FAX: (908) 526-4535 YOUR USED RIDE MARKETPLACE AT CLASSIFIEDS YOUR USED RIDE MARKETPLACE GAMES FOR SALE LOOPING COASTER MAIL THIS FORM TO: AMUSEMENT TODAY • P.O. BOX 5427 • ARLINGTON, TEXAS 76005 USA TO SUBSCRIBE FAX THIS FORM TO: 817.265.6397 • SUBSCRIBE ONLINE: www.amusementtoday.com SUBSCRIPTION1. SKEE BALLS FORMLaunch Loop Shuttle Coaster 2.R CLAWNew MACHINES Subscription Arrow Dynamics all steel with R3. RenewalSTACKERS G-Force 4, 56’FIRST high AND LAST x 635’ NAME long CREDIT CARD NUMBER 4. SPORTS ARENAS R Change of Address Built 1977, Excellent condition in 5. AIR HOCKEY TABLES Indiana. $200,000 6. POOL TABLES USA OUTSIDE USAFor photosCOMPANY and NAME details: EXPIRATION DATE 3-4 DIGIT SECURITY CODE 7.R VIDEOOne Year GAMES $50 $70 [email protected] R Two Years $90 $130 ADDRESS NAME AS IT APPEARS ON CARD (Company Name and/or Cardholder Name) QUARTERTIME AMUSEMENTS P.O. Box 5427 R Three Years $130 $190 P.O. Box 5427 Arlington, Texas 76005-5427 CITY, STATE, ZIP CODE (or Province and Postal Code) TELEPHONE NUMBER (REQUIRED) Call Michael: (410) 358-8311 Arlington, Texas 76005-5427 • R Payment Enclosed AMUSEMENT • (817) 460-7220 COUNTRY EMAIL ADDRESS Charge to Credit Card: (817) 460-7220 Fax (817) 265-NEWS (6397) TODAY SIGN ME UP FOR FREE EMAIL NEWS ELI #5 FERRIS WHEEL Fax (817) 265-NEWS FREE(6397) • QUESTIONS? CALL AT: 817.460.7220 NEWS! R EXTRA! EXTRA! YOUR DESKTOP EDITION RRSerial# 1161-69 R • We accept: G/M, sand blasted CLASSIFIEDS ready for repair and paint We accept: 45-foot trailer YOUR I WANT TO HELP BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTABLE DONATION IN THE AMOUNT BELOW TO PRESERVING MAKE A YES! THE NATIONAL ROLLER COASTER MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES. MORE INFO: ROLLERCOASTERMUSEUM.ORG $6,000 cash ROLLER COASTER USED RIDE HISTORY DONATION R $10 R $25 R $50 R OTHER AMOUNT: $ Call John Fanelli (978) 343-4881 MARKETPLACE 40 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2014

AIR RACE

WATERMANIA

MOTOCOASTER Antonio Zamperla Spa Vicenza - Italy Phone: 0444 +39 998400e-mail: [email protected] www.zamperla.com