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www.AmusementToday.com

Vol. 14, Issue 1 APRIL 2010 $5.00

INTERNATIONALSEE PAGES 5-8

AMUSEMENTPARKS

SEE PAGES 9-13

WATERPARKS

SEE PAGES 14-18

BUSINESS

SEE PAGES 19-24

MIDWAY/CLASSIFI

SEE PAGES 23-3

P R S R T S T D

U S P O S T A G E

P A I D

F T . W O R T H T X

P E R M I T # 2 0 6 9

N E W S P A P E R

P O S T M A S T E R : D a t e d m a t e r i a l .

P L E A S E R U S H !

M a i l e d F r i d a y , M a r c h 2 6 ,

2 0 1 0

@2010 Golden Ticket Awards • Busch Gardens Williamsburg • Williamsburg, Virgini

San Antonio’s Kiddie Park saved!Pam Sherborne Amusement Today

There is a little acre inSan Antonio, Texas, that hascaused some big news amongthose in the community andhas spread throughout theamusement industry. That news — the reopen-ing of San Antonio’s oldestamusement park, Kiddie Park.The significance — it is one ofthe oldest kiddie parks in theU.S. It opened in 1925 andmany San Antonio nativesremember their first visit tothe small park as children.But, over the years, as oftenhappens, small parks such asthis one fall into despair. If itweren’t for the dream of Radand Ashley Weaver, that smallpart of the amusement indus-try might be no more. Theyare now the new owners.

“We used to ride by thatpark all the time,” said AshleyWeaver. “My husband remem- bers going there as a boy. Weused think of all the possibili-ties there. When it came up forsale, we decided to buy it.” The couple took owner-ship of the facility, only forchildren under 12 years of age,in August, 2009. They kept thefacility open during the fall,all along doing improvements,

AT PHOTOS / GARY SLADE

Above, Ashley Weaver, owner and GM of Kiddie Park in

San Antonio, proudly shows off the park’s new entrance.

Below, Kid Steam hand cars were added new this season

with the reopening of the historic kiddie park.

Brain Surge

New Chance Morgan ridedebuts at Mall of Americ

Scott Rutherford Amusement Today

4See KIDDIE, page 3

The first park modelof Chance Morgan’s newUnicoaster flat ride was

unveiled March 20, 2010 atNickelodeon Universe insideMinnesota’s sprawling Mallof America. This intriguing new inter-active attraction, inspired bya concept from SkyCoaster

inventor Bill Kitchen, tures eight sweeps rading from a central coluAt the end of each swis a two-seat gondola wover-the-shoulder restrai

Sixteen riders per cycle ulever between the seat pto control the forward/bward flipping motion ofindividual gondolas as ttravel around an undula

4See MALL, pag

PHOTO COURTESY M

BrainSurge, the first example of Chance Morgan’s n

Unicoaster flat ride, opened to rave reviews on Ma

20 at the Mall of America’s Nickelodeon Universe.

SEE PAGE...22

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2 AMUSEMENT TODAY April 2010

Well, the long-awaited spring seasonis finally upon us and I guess it’s time forme to dust off my Preservation Soapboxand climb up for a sermon.

This time it’s about Bay BeachAmusement Park in Greenbay, Wisconsin,and their “purchase and relocation” ofthe famous 1915 vintage John Miller-designed/Harry Baker-built ZippinPippin wooden roller coaster from the Mid-South Fairgrounds aka Libertyland in Memphis,Tenn.

While I applaud their efforts to save a classicwooden roller coaster from oblivion, my concern

over this one is: Just what are they preserving?It’s a known fact that the late Elvis Presleywas fond of renting out the park and privatelyriding the Pippin (that’s what the coaster wascalled in the pre-Libertyland days). He reported-ly took a spin with daughter Lisa Marie six days

before his death. On the surface, it seems like amarketable PR coup for Bay Beach to claim thatElvis’ beloved coaster will reopen in Wisconsinin 2011. But will it be, really?

According to various reports, Bay Beachis purchasing the idea of and rights to rebuildthe Pippin instead of physically relocating the

actual structure the King enjoyethose years ago. While they can stheir money on whatever they c(the reported price tag was $35,00the rights and a total of nearly $3 mto complete the project), I find mwondering if they were aware of candidates that were in much bshape for relocation?

Chief among these are the Miracle Starliner (recently rebuilt and in excellendition at Florida’s recently-closed CyGardens); Geauga Lake’s wonderful Big Dor even the Americana Screechin’ Eagle

three are proven rides that deserve to sDare I say that all three are far more entertacoasters than the now-gone Pippin, whicnow been completely demolished.

Whatever the outcome of this saga building of the new ride is a plus for all paThough the lights went out in Memphis foworld’s second oldest roller coaster, it’s

bet that the Badger State’s Zippin Pippwill most likely be one that Elvis could notresisted.

Amen.

Gary Slade

Founder and [email protected]

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Preservation: material or memory?Scott Rutherford

Located just a few blocks from the site of the former PlaylandAmusement Park, north of downtown San Antonio, Kiddie Parkhas a long rich history, one that has outlived its neighbor downthe road. Dating back to 1925, Kiddie Park is Texas’ oldest operatingpark, and it is not only a San Antonio favorite, but is a part of thelocal culture and area’s history. Why you ask? Because generations of San Antonio families have made thetrip to this simple, laid back, one-acre parcel to make their rstride on a carousel, ferris wheel, or umbrella ride a must do. Go-ing to Kiddie Park is like watching time stand still. It continues tooperate the old classics and in doing so has the old-time charm togo with it. When Kiddie Park closed during the summer season lastyear, its future looked bleak. The property was showing its age,

its safety record was starting to become a concern among localfandom and it wasn’t a fun and festive place children under 12years were enjoying. That’s when Rad and Ashley Weaver stepped in and didwhat was right for the local community. They saved Kiddie Park

by acquiring the entire property from its former owner. Theyspent long tireless hours cleaning up the facility. They rebuiltrides that were in need of maintaince, they painted, they addednew fencing and landscaping, they added a new ofce andrestroom facility, and they gave the park a San Antonio limestonerock entrance that would make any person calling Texas homeproud to walk through. Kiddie Park was back and better thanever. While Ashley serves as the park’s general manger, and isthere to oversee the day to day operations, she did the rightthing by surrounding herself with many qualied people on herstaff. She may not have had any previous park experience, but

she did have the one thing that one cannot overlook: she andher husband cared enough about this park, about the childrenwho visited it, and their local community to borrow the moneyneeded that would ultimately allow it to reopen. At a time when our industry has seen far too many tradition-al parks close for various reasons, this is certainly the feel goodstory our amusement industry has been long overdue to readabout. Amusement Today salutes Rad and Ashley Weaver for savinga San Antonio instution and ensuring that a whole new genera-tion of visitors will have their stories to tell in the future.

—Gary Slade

Kiddie Park reopens

Rutherford

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April 2010 AMUSEMENT TODA

KIDDIEContinued from page 1

bringing the existing rides upto codes and up-to-date. Theydisassembled the old coaster, but kept the remaining origi-nal rides. Then, they closed aroundthe Christmas holidays andthrough the month of January.

They made a real push to getmost of the remaining renova-tions and construction com-plete.

The grand opening washeld March 8. “I think the most excit-ing part of this has been thegreat response we have gottenfrom everyone,” she said. “Ithas been wonderful and veryfun.” The Weavers have con-structed a new office and newrestrooms, the latter equippedwith a sink and toilet just kid’ssize. They have revitalized the

concession stand and added alocal favorite Double Dave’sPizza Works. The stand alsoserves the regular fare suchas hot dogs, popcorn, cottoncandy, small corn dogs, BlueBell ice cream, sodas, nachosand candy inside an old-fash-ioned jar. The have new landscap-ing and new fencing. Thereused to be two entrances intothe park and now there is justone. And, that one has beenremade with San Antonio line-stone columns and iron gates.

There are nine ridesincluding a 1918 HerschelSpellman carousel. There isa Ferris Wheel. There are the1925 rides: a car ride, airplaneride, boat ride, bus ride, horse-drawn carriage ride, helicopterand flying saucer ride, and anew Jet Steam hand car ride. The Weavers have no for-mal experience in the amuse-ment park business, but AshleyWeaver said she feels they will be able to give it a good shot.Her husband is in charge ofnew business developmentfor McComb Enterprises so heused to business management.The Weavers have partneredwith Brent Conger, who willalso be the general manager.Weaver, herself, has visitedmany amusement parks overthe years and now that she hasa three-year-old, Cecelia, sheknows what she would likefor her own child. “Cecelia has been my mainmarket research,” Weaversaid. “She has given me adviceabout candy and some otherthings. She has been right-on

so far.” Birthday parties havealways been a big part of the business at Kiddie Park andthat is not changing. In fact,Weaver said she feels it is agrowth component. “We had 30 birthday par-ties last weekend,” she said.“We had 1,250 people in thispark on Saturday. And, thathas been pretty consistent.” To keep up with the

demand, park staff has been busy building and paintingmore picnic tables, just in timefor spring break The park’s operating hoursare 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., everyday of the week. Admission isfree, with a separate cost foreach ride. An unlimited ridepass is offered for $12, exceptfor Bargain Wednesdays whenthat price drops to $10.


Top to bottom: New signage, and a remolded concession

stand, are just part of the improvements to San Antonio’s

Kiddie Park this year. Originally opened in 1925, the park

continues to operate such classics as the boats, HerschellSpillman Carousel and the helicopters/flying saucers.

track at 35 mph. Ride time is120 seconds per cycle. The Unicoaster has been appropriately dubbedBrainSurge at MOA, which is based on the Nick televisionnetwork’s game show of the

same name. The ride sports anattractive illumination pack-age that utilizes power-savingLED lights. In the center ofmachine is a giant model of a brain that glows and flashes,sending ‘signals to the riders.’ When the new ride pre-miered at MOA’s NickelodeonUniverse, 16 of the nation’ssmartest kids were the firstto try it out. The youngsterswere all members of Mensa,the organization open to any-one who scores in the top twopercent on an accepted, stan-

dardized intelligence test. Co-creator Bill Kitchensaid, “We were looking fora way to reinvent the rollercoaster but on a smaller foot-print. The Unicoaster givesriders all of the thrills of alooping inverted roller coasterat a fraction of the space andprice.” Requiring approximatelythe same amount of real estateas a Scrambler or Tilt-a-Whirl,the new ride stands 18-feet-talland requires diameter clear-ance of only 56 feet including

platform. Minimum passheight is just 48 inches. Amusement Todaywith Chance Morgan’s A Jenkins during the grand opening. “Our nride was very well receivthe general public whotured out to give it a Mall of America,” said Jen“We had an open dia

and worked very closelyNickelodeon to transforUnicoaster into their vof the BrainSurge. We avery happy with the The custom decorationlighting effects unique BrainSurge turned out well. It’s a true interattraction in that riderchoose use the control to make it either genextremely intense.” When asked about fversions of the ride andother options are avai

Jenkins confirmed therpresently three or fourties seriously interesteacquiring their own veof the Unicoaster. “It’s that can be customized tabout whatever the cuswants,” he added. “Woffer a smaller version just four sweeps seatingriders, or double the exnumber of sweeps to siwith a capacity of 32 ride •www.chancemocom.

MALL Continued from page 1

PHOTOS COURTESY

The first park model of Chance Morgan’s Unicoaster a

16 riders to use a central lever to electrically contro

forward/backward flipping motion of their gondolas

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Compiled by Janice Witherow

Bob DeanLeisure Labs LLC

To suggest a candidate for the Two-Minute Dri feature, contact columnist Janice Witherow at [email protected] or (419) 357-3520.

As President of Leisure Labs LLC,

Sarasota, Florida, Bob Dean is a masterspecialist in ride representation andconsulting for the amusementindustry. After several years in the retailand institutional securities business, Bobchanged his career path entirely and

joined Omni Films International in 1987,followed by a stint with IwerksEntertainment (which shortlythereafter purchased Omni Films). Bob then fullled alifelong dream in 2000 when he started his own business,and he hasn’t looked back since. A true professional witha creative gift, Bob’s pleasant approach makes a lastingimpression.

TitlePresident, but that doesn’t have much meaning in such asmall organization.

Number of years in the industry23 great years.

Biggest challenge facing our industryDebt for sure, but building and holding park attendancegains seems to be very challenging and the holy grail ofgrowth.

Best thing about the industryYou can be in a room with Nobel Prize winners, and stilleveryone wants to talk to the roller coaster guy! Favorite amusement rideI honestly do not have a favorite ride, but a man in myposition probably shouldn’t name one even if he did.

If I wasn’t working in the amusement industry, I wouldbe … Trying to build or turn around some other type of busi-ness.

The thing I like most about amusement/water parkseason is …Visiting parks that are in full swing. I love to watch thelittle kids. From the minute they hit the parking lot theyare completely out of their minds with joy.

My frst car was …A Vega. After several months, it became “The Vagrant.”This was an early lesson in product quality that stickswith me to this day.

A recent life-changing moment for me was …Finally living my dream of owning and running a busi-ness.

Favorite midnight snackHershey bar.

My perfect day is spent …Hanging outdoors with my family.

Favorite form of exerciseRight now it’s tennis. I picked up golf at 25, Ju Jitsu at 41and tennis at 53. Maybe I’ll try MMA or ballroom danc-ing when I’m 60. We’ll see.

Three items on my bedside table are …Alarm clock, lamp and phone.

The worst movie I have ever sat through would habe …I’ve had a few movies disappoint me, but I honestlyremember the last really bad movie I sat through.

Ten years ago, I was …Starting my own business.

I can’t stand being around people who …Lack integrity or provide poor service.

I wish I was better at …Being patient. I have to work at it all the time.

The longest I have ever gone without sleep is …48 hours. Additional details are on a strict need-to-k

basis.

On my last birthday, I …Played it very low-key with my family.

My most prized possession is …My home.

Favorite fast foodQuiznos. I’m a regular at my local shop, and I go oumy way to nd them when I’m traveling.

When I say Jay Leno, you say … Johnny Carson. For me, he will always be synonymwith The Tonight Show.

Dean

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INTERNATIONALPARKS ATTRACTIONS RESORTS ENTERTAINMENT SUPPLIERS

BRIEF Vekoma Stingray a ‘ying coaster’ sensatioAndrew Mellor Amusement Today

The first Stingray coasterto be built by Dutch man-ufacturer Vekoma RidesManufacturing has enjoyed asuccessful initial few monthsof operation at the SuzhouGiant Wheel Park in Suzhou,China. Opened in July last year,the Stingray is designed tooffer “the ultimate flyingcoaster experience,” with rid-

ers enjoying a face-down fly-ing sensation parallel to thetrack. The ride utilizes two,eight-seater trains with pas-sengers seated in two rows offour. The seat designs featurea large opening angle betweenthe upper and lower body anda slightly curved back sup-port, enabling an optimal fly-ing position and a good sightforward, combined with maxi-mum safety and comfort forriders. Once the ride sequence begins, passengers are takenfrom the station up a verti-cal lift, and rather than beingtilted forward while in the sta-tion, are tilted forwards dur-ing the lift, thus providing aspectacular view over the restof the park. In addition to thisunique feature, the Stingrayhas other special elements too,including an outside loop, adouble horizontal loop anda 180 degree roll, all expe-rienced while riders lie facedown. The compact design of theride means it covers a foot-print of just 37.2 meters by 56.6

meters (122 feet by 186 feet)and has a track length of 362meters (1,187 feet). Standing

at 32.4 meters (106 feet) inheight, the lift height is 31.6meters (104 feet) and the maxi-mum speed reached is 76 kph(47 mph). Ride time comesin at 63 seconds and hourlycapacity is approximately 525riders. The Stingray is a secondgeneration Flying Dutchmanand incorporates the originalfeatures and design philoso-phies of the first generationride, but with major improve-ments to the restraint system,tilting device and ride controlissues including fault diagnos-tics. “With the Stingray wehave created a new generationflying coaster that is afford-able, compact, fast and excit-

ing!” commented Vekomaaccount manager Charlottevan Etten.

PHOTOS COURTESY VEKOMA

Vekoma’s new Stingray

at Suzhou Giant Wheel

Park, in Suzhou, China, has

proved a popular attrac-

tion since its July debut.

Master French chef

Paul Bocuse makes

impression at

Liseberg Park

Master French chef PaulBocuse recently joined theranks of numerous sportsstars and music celebritiesto become the first chef –and the first person fromFrance – to take his placein Liseberg Park's Walk of

Fame. Paul Bocuse, who has been called the chef ofchefs, is a living legendin gastronomic circles. The84-year-old celebrity vis-ited Liseberg on Feb. 12to make his handprints atLiseberg’s Walk of Fame.The chef pressed his handsfirmly into the cement andcompleted the process bysigning his autograph.When his signature turnedout slightly off-center it became clear that PaulBocuse is a perfectionist. Many famous namescan already be seen atLiseberg’s Walk of Fame,including those of Michael Jackson, Tina Turner, PaulMcCartney and WhitneyHouston. “It’s a big honour forLiseberg and all our res-taurants to welcomea legend such as PaulBocuse. He has made anenormous contribution tothe restaurant world andwe are very pleased hehas come to visit,” said

Thomas Sjöstrand, CEO ofLiseberg's Restaurant AB.

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Europarks dissolved - IAAPA Europe steps iAndrew Mellor

Amusement Today

Europarks, the federationof European park associations,was dissolved in Novemberlast year following confirma-

tion from IAAPA Europe thatall the functions previouslycarried out by Europarkswould be continued under itsstewardship. Founded in 1981 by theU.K. association BALPPA andGermany’s VDFU, Europarkswas established as a lobbyinggroup to represent the amuse-ment park industry within theEuropean parliament. Duringthat time it has been active inmany different areas relatingto wide ranging cross-nation-al issues, from the devel-opment of a European ride

safety reporting system andEuropean safety standards tosubjects such as VAT, leisurepark accessibility, fair compe-tition, human resources andtraining. The membership of

Europarks was made up ofindustry associations from dif-ferent European countries, inaddition to individual attrac-tion venues where a nation-al association did not exist.Appropriately, the last per-son to hold the position ofPresident of the organizationwas a representative of oneof the founding associations,BALPPA Chief Executive ColinDawson, who played a key rolein bringing about the dissolu-tion of Europarks. Explainingthe background to the deci-

sion, voted on by all member

associations, Dawson pointedout that there was no longer

any reason for Europarks toexist since the development ofIAAPA Europe with an office based in Brussels. “In the past couple of yearsIAAPA has built up a majorEuropean presence and has begun campaigning on similarissues to those of Europarks,”he said. “The risk of confu-sion with two organizationsrepresenting the interests ofall the attractions in Europewas likely to cause future dif-ficulties in ensuring a clearvoice was delivering key mes-

sages. IAAPA has excellent

resources at its disposal andwith a dedicated, fully staffedoffice in Brussels will be justas effective in representing theindustry’s interests in Europeas Europarks has been.” For IAAPA Europe,

Executive Director AndreasVeilstrup Andersen said:“After Europarks’ decisionto dissolve the associationin November last year, wehave pooled the resourcesand continued the activitiesof Europarks in Brussels. Andthe overall goal with IAAPAEurope’s presence in Brusselsis to create one, strong voicefor the attractions industry. “With the dissolutionof Europarks, a new forumfor the national associationsin Europe was needed and

from January 1, 2010, we have

established a GovernRelations committee withresentatives from all the European associations. committee basically repthe Europarks counciloversees all our govern

relations activities in Eur

IAAPA Europe

Andreas Veilstrup

Andersen,

Executive Director

Square de Meeus 38/4

B-1000 Brussels, Belgi

Phone: (32) 2 401 61 6

Fax: (32) 2 401 68 68

Email: [email protected]

Web: www.iaapa.org

europe

FAST FACTS

Gardaland targets families and teeAndrew Mellor

Amusement Today

April 1st will mark theopening of the 35th season atGardaland, in northern Italy,and this year the park is reach-ing out in particular to familiesand teenagers with two newattractions and some temptingticket options. New entertainment at the

park includes Inferis: face toface with fear!, the first “hellthemed horror house” to bepresented in Italy. The walk-through attraction offers up15 obscure sets featuring liveactors ready to send shiv-ers down the spines of eventhe most fearless visitor asthey walk along a 150 meter(492 foot) path within a totalattraction area of 1,000 squaremeters (10,764 square feet).Designed strictly for guestsover 14-years-of-age, Inferispromises flames, swamps,

poisonous fog and numer-ous other special effects – andplenty of fun for Gardalandguests. Another new feature for2010 will be SpongeBob 4-Din the Time Voyagers the-atre which will provide a 4Dfilm experience courtesy ofNickelodeon. Between wavesand bizarre marine creatures,viewers will experience a cap-tivating tale set in the legend-ary Bikini Bottom city, whosecitizens also include PatrickStar, Squidward Tentacles,

Mr. Krabs and Sheldon J.Plankton. The multi-sensory adven-ture incorporates a variety ofspecial effects, in addition to

the 3D element of the film,including wind, odors, lightgames, water splashes, vibra-tions, leg ticklers and seatmovements. As well as the new attrac-tions, Gardaland is also hopingto tempt visitors with a rangeof flexible new ticket optionswhich the park believes willcater to the diverse needs ofall types of customers. For2010 discounted tickets will be available for families ofthree, four and five people,combined tickets for visits to

Gardaland and the SeaAquarium will be ofas will “convenient” stickets. Benefits will alavailable to those pur

ing tickets via the pwebsite, to guests stayithe Gardaland Hotel Rand to those booking athrough the park’s tour otor, Incoming Gardaland

IMAGES COURTESY GARDA

Italian park Gardaland

is targeting families an

teenagers with its new

attractions for 2010,

including Inferis – a ne

horror house.This year it is the tots’ turn to get a new attraction atSweden’s Gröna Lund. Tuff-Tuff Tåget (the Choo-ChooTrain) is Gröna Lund’s sixth coaster and will be the first stepin the roller coaster careers of small children. Supplied byZamperla, the 262-foot-long coaster’s eight-car train has noheight requirement, so parents and adults can bring alongsmall children for their very first ride. “Tuff-Tuff Tåget is big news for all small children, and italso constitutes an essential part of our work to create attrac-

tions to suit every guest – from the smallest to the bravest,”explains Jan Roy, president of Gröna Lund’s Tivoli. The coaster is currently under construction, but is righton track to debut April 24 when Gröna Lund opens itsgates for the season. Tuff-Tuff Tåget is being placed next toCirkuskarusellen (the Old Carousel) just inside the mainentrance, replacing an old outdoor café. “Roller coasters have always been firm favouriteswith our visitors – they’re a real amusement park classic.Naturally, we’re very excited to be able to offer a choiceof six here at Gröna Lund now - that’s three more than in2006,” said Peter Osbeck, Gröna Lund’s rides manager.“Tuff-Tuff Tåget will be the small children’s introduction tothe world of roller coasters, and then they have five more togrow into.”

Gröna Lund adding Zamperla

childrens coaster in 2010

NEWSFREE

EVERY DASign up at

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AMUSEMENT PARKSFEC ’S ATTRACTIONS RESORTS ENTERTAINMENT SUPPLIERS

BRIEFNew version of

Zippin Pippin to

roll again in Wis.

Bay Beach AmusementPark in Green Bay, Wis.finalized a $35,000 deal onMarch 18 to purchase therights and design of theZippin Pippin wooden rollercoaster from the Mid-SouthFairgrounds aka Libertylandin Memphis, Tenn.

The historic John Miller-designed/Harry Baker-builtPippin (Libertyland addedthe 'Zippin') originallyopened in 1915 but wasmoved a short distance in1923 to the site where itoperated until Oct. 2005. Since the original ridehas been completely razed,Amusement Today askedGreen Bay Director of Parks,Recreation & ForestryDepartment Bill Landvatterwho would be building thenew ride and just how muchwould be salvaged from thenow-demolished coasterin Memphis. "I don’t wantto comment on who will

be involved in the designor building of the coasteruntil we have finalized con-tracts," said Landvatter. "Wewill be reconstructing theride with all new lumberand expect to use differenttrains. We have acquiredthe old [PTC] trains, othersignage and materials andexpect to find creative waysto utilize them." Construction of the new$3 million coaster is expect-ed to begin this summerwith a planned opening inspring 2011.

From Rocky Mountain Construction and Ride Centerline

Innovative new track design introduced for Texas GiaGary Slade

Amusement Today

Make no doubt about it,the Texas Giant’s $10 millionmakeover is now officiallyunderway at Six Flags OverTexas. During a press introduc-tion on March 3, the Arlington,Texas park debuted the new-est in track design for the tra-ditional wooden coaster withthe unveiling of Iron Horse

Coaster track [a Six Flagsname/term]. The steel I-Boxdesign, that will now serveas the track for the legendarycoaster, is the result of threeyears of engineering by RockyMountain Construction andRide Centerline.

The Chinchillian Redpainted track is not bent orrolled, but is cut, then weld-ed together in 40 to 53-footlengths before being bolted tothe Texas Giant’s wooden sup-port structure. The new trackdesign does not use any wood

on the track bed, nor does ituse any track bolts. A newlyengineered galvanized ledgerdesign that the track bolts toacts as the spine/backbone forthe steel railed track. Weightof the new track is said to beabout the same as the for-mer 9-ply wooden track com-plete with steel track and track bolts. The park also announcedthat when the new TexasGaint opens in spring 2011,it will stand 153 feet tall, 10feet taller than it is now, fea-ture a 79-degree first drop

and will incorporate numer-ous 95-degree banked turnsthroughout the ride. The coast-

er will also be faster, reachingspeeds of 65 mph. “This ride is going to takethe entire industry by storm,”said Steve Martindale, SixFlags Over Texas park presi-dent. “Six Flags has built areputation for developingoriginal ride concepts and theTexas Giant will be our crow-ing jewel.” Construction of the superhybrid coaster will be done byRocky Mountain ConstructionGroup of Hayden, Idaho.Engineering is by RideCenterline, based in Hyde

Park, Utah. “Six Flags Over Texas hasa long rich history, of being

a leader in the amusementindustry, for installing inno-vative products and newdesigns.” said Fred Grubb,president of Rocky MountainConstruction. “The selectionof our steel I-Box coaster trackon the new Texas Giant is just another chapter in their50-year history and one we areproud to be a part of.” The ride is also expect-ed to use magnetic brak-ing and will feature threenewly-designed trains fromGerstlauer Amusement RidesGmbH in Muensterhausen,

Germany. The trains will fea-ture urethane wheels.


Six Flags Over Texas

Park President Steve

Martindale, left, and Rocky

Mountain Construction

President, Fred Grubb,

point to the new I-Box

track design

(shown at right) currently

being installed on the

park’s Texas Giant. The ride

will reopen in 2011.

An AT exclusive!

Fred Grubb

discusses ne

Texas Giant Why was RoMountain Construcselected as the lead splier to deliver a nTexas Giant?

“We were selectedseveral reasons. Six Fwanted to rehab the and createsomethingnew ande x c i t i n g .Our trackis innova-tive, revo-lutionaryand theTexas Giant will be first coaster to have new track system. Acompared with traditi

wood tracks, the mainance costs of our new track will be significaless. A smoother and faride will also be achiewith this new track.”

How does the steel tracking syswork, and how is it mafactured? “The I Box track tem [Iron Horse Coatrack] is fabricated by sing with flat steel plcut into specific shaprovided by engineer A

Schilke (Ride Centerl

Grubb

4See GRUBB, page

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GRUBBContinued from page 9

and is then welded togethercreating 3D shapes. The trackrails are shaped the same asthe current wood track so thatwe can place this track onexisting coasters. The samecars can be used as well.[AT has already reported on

AmusementToday.com thatthe Texas Giant will receive anew design of coaster trainsfrom Germany’s Gerstlauer.] “The track is manufacturedin RMC’s shops in Hayden,Idaho using automated weld-ers to ensure quality control.The track is then painted andtrucked to Texas. Other coasterparts are fabricated in Idaho,trucked to Texas for galvaniz-ing and then delivered to the job site.”

How long has this tech-nology been in development

and with whom did you workwith to develop it?

“It’s been in developmentfor the past three years, andI’ve worked with engineerAlan Schilke (RCL) and theSix Flags engineering staff.”

Who owns the rights tothe technology?

“Fred Grubb and Alan

Schilke have a patent pendingon the technology.”

Can the Texas Giant’scurrent wooden structuresupport the additions of allthe steel, or will the structurehave to be beefed up? “Yes, the current structurecan support the new track as itweighs close to the same as thetraditional wood track [9-ply,plus track steel and track boltcombined weight] and actu-ally ties the wood structuretogether.”

How much change will

we see to the coaster’s currentlayout and profile? “The profile is changedsignificantly. The drop hill issteeper [79 degrees] and thelift hill will be higher by 10feet [153 feet]. Banking is 95degrees.”

What will the finishedproduct feel like to ride?

“Smoother and faster.”

Tell us a brief historyabout yourself and RockyMountain Construction. “Rocky MountainConstruction was establishedin 2001 by myself and SuanneDedmon. I have been in theconstruction industry for morethan 30 years. I began buildingcustom homes and specialtyzoo exhibits. For the past 15

years, I have been involved inthe construction of all types oftheme park attractions.

“I have built many exhib-its for various facilities suchas the Woodland Park Zoo inSeattle, The National Zoo andSmithsonian in WashingtonD.C. After building a whitewater raft ride for SilverwoodTheme Park in North Idaho,I then turned my focus to theconstruction and design oftheme park attractions.

“After building two wood-en coasters for SilverwoodTheme Park, I then went to

work for Custom Coasters

International. In 2001, mand Suanne Dedmon lished RMC and began ing steel and wooden coawater parks and other amment park attractions. “RMC has built andinvolved in the rehabconstruction of several wooden coaster projecthas now developed a re

tionary steel track for wocoasters that is currently installed on the Texas After rebuilding many tracks, we recognizedneed for a track that reqless maintenance. As coasters continue to get lfaster and taller, tradiwood tracks cannot withthe forces exerted upon This new steel track techgy requires very little mnance and makes wood ers a cost effective ridewill last for many years.”

—Gary

Rocky MountainConstruction Group

Owners:Fred Grubb and

Suanne Dedmon

P.O. Box 2848Hayden, Idaho 83835Office: (208) 772-8181

Fax: (208) 772-8383E-mail: [email protected] Site: www.rocky

mtnconstruction.com

FAST FACTS

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April 2010 AMUSEMENT TODAY

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AMUSEMENTMARKET PLACE

Keep our amusement park industry strong!

Buy products and services from these suppliers.

Six Flags Great America has confirmedthat the MagiQuest, popular live-actioninteractive game developed to bring familiestogether and move children from the couchto physical play, will debut at at the Illinoisthemer in 2010.

Players are immersed in an 8,000-square-

foot fantasyland powered by a “magical”wand. The wireless remote technologyunlocks more than 80 special effects allowingthe player to navigate the levels of the game.Each player, called a Magi, gathers coins,powers and befriends pixies in their quest todefeat the Dragon and save the Princess.

Co-inventor Denise Weston, a motherand trained psychologist, sought to create agame that would stimulate the mind of chil-dren and promote teamwork, strategic think-ing and family bonding in a fun yet educa-tional platform. “MagiQuest is a perfect wayto combine physical play and computer playwhile kids or the entire family work together

to solve problems and make great memorisaid Denise Weston, director of imaginaat MagiQuest. “The beauty of MagiQuethat kids are engaged, challenged, learnand most importantly having fun.” MagiQuest opens this spring in County Fair area at Six Flags Great Ame

Also new in 2010, the Little Dipper, a histwooden roller coaster formerly of KiddielAmusement Park and Glow in the PParade, a new nighttime illuminated parwith Cirque Du Soleil-style music and mthan 60 performers. “We are thrilled to be adding MagiQto our lineup of new additions to the pfor the 2010 season,” said Six Flags GAmerica park president Hank Salemi. “are the first theme park to launch an intetive educational family attraction of this tand are confident our guests will enjoy new attraction the whole family can expence together.”

Six Flags Great America becomes

first theme park to offer MagiQuest

SeaWorld San Antonio debunew Azul: Lure of the Sea sho SeaWorld San Antoniohas taken animal and humaninteraction to a new levelwith the premiere of a spec-tacular new show, Azul: Lure

of the Sea , which made it ‘sdebut on March 12. Azul succeeds Viva! atthe Texas marine life park’s3,000-seat Beluga Stadiumand includes colorful newcostumes and scenic ele-ments, original music,enhanced sound and LEDlighting along with a cast of22 high divers, synchronizedswimmers, aerialists, bungeeartists and animal trainers. But the real stars ofthe show will be acrobaticPacific white-sided dolphins

and graceful beluga whales. Joining them for the spec-tacle will be beautiful birdsincluding brightly huedmacaws and sun conures. “Our lively new spec-tacle focuses on a curious‘tourist’ who is transport-ed to a land of strange andmystical air, land and seacreatures,” said Dan Decker,SeaWorld San Antonio’sexecutive vice presidentand general manager. “We believe our guests will truly

enjoy the sights and soundsof this great adventure, justas they did when we pre-

miered the totally new andexciting Viva! in 2001. It cre-ated a popular new wave ofSeaWorld entertainment thatwe’re taking to new depthsand heights.” Azul introduces the tour-ist to the audience in a comi-

cal pre-show routine, Deckeradded, so it’s important notto miss anything.

“It’s a show with ething you can imagihumor, drama and espeamazing animal and huconnections,” Decker “Every member of theily will find somethinreally like in ‘Azul.’”

SeaWorld San Anopened for the 2010 seFeb. 27.

AT PHOTOS / GARY S

Azul: Lure of the Sea at SeaWorld San Antonio fea

new scenic elements, enhanced sound and lights,

chronized swimmers and high divers, all decked o

bright and colorful costumes seen here.

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Walt Disney World details latest Magic Kingdom expansio Disney executives releasednew details in early Februaryon exciting additions comingto Walt Disney World Resortin Orlando, Fla. This ambi-tious three-year constructionproject will result in the largestexpansion in Magic Kingdomhistory. “As Walt Disney envi-sioned, our theme parks areplaces ‘where the parents andthe children could have funtogether.’ When guests rideIt’s A Small World with theirchildren and grandchildren,they remember their ownDisney visits and dream andmake a new shared memory.The heart of Disney magic isin Fantasyland where prin-cesses and fairies gather, andCinderella’s Golden Carouselruns every day of the year,”

said Al Weiss, president ofworldwide operations for WaltDisney Parks and Resorts. “Soyou can imagine how excitedwe are to break ground and begin the Magic Kingdom’sre-imagining of Fantasyland.” “We are in fact doublingthe size of Fantasyland to

include four of your favoriteprincesses, said Jay Rasulo,senior executive vice presi-dent and chief financial officerof The Walt Disney Company.“Guests will meet and interactwith the princesses in theirvery fairy tale worlds. Theywill be immersed in the sights,sound and magic that makeeach princess story so memo-rable.” For the first time, visitorswill be able to step into theirfavorite Disney fairy tales tohave more magical and immer-sive encounters with Disneyprincesses. Each princess willhave her own themed villagewithin Fantasyland Forest. At Dreams Come Truewith Cinderella, guests canmeet Cinderella face to face inher country chateau, share a

dance or train to be one of herRoyal Knights. At A BirthdaySurprise for Sleeping Beauty,it is party time inside the BriarRose Cottage, nestled in a lush,forest setting. The three goodfairies give Aurora the Sweet16 party she never received,and everyone’s invited to join

in the surprise celebration.And an enchanted mirror willtransport guests from Belle’sfather’s cottage to Beast’scastle for an enchanting sto-rytelling performance duringEnchanted Tales with Belle.

The new district will alsoinvite parkgoers to the Be OurGuest Restaurant, one of threeenchanted dining rooms insideBeast’s castle. And just outsidethe castle in Belle’s Village will be Gaston’s Tavern, another

themed eatery. Meanwin the new Under the Journey of the Little Meattraction, Ariel and afriends will entertain in athrough adventure featfavorite songs from the plar animated feature. After visiting the cesses, guests will ennewly expanded area cenaround Dumbo, the mosular ride in Fantasyland big top comes to DumFlying Circus with a cal flight high above bnew circus grounds, twisize of the classic attracomplete with a new twwaiting in line. While the first phase Fantasyland expansion wopen to Walt Disney Wguests in 2012, there’s p

more in store. Rasulo a“Someday when our visFantasyland is fully reaguests will be able to Tinkerbelle and her frin Pixie Hollow. Theyshrunk to the size of a and play among tow blades of grass and flow

RENDERING COURTESY WDW RESORT

Top: Dumbo’s Flying Circus will be home to an attrac-

tion twice the size of the original and interactive queue.Above: Artist’s rendering of Magic Kingdom expansion.

Disney expansion includes more than just Magic Kingdom The massive Fantasylandproject is not the only expan-sion in store for the Floridasegment of the Disney empire.

A wave of new ships, enter-tainment and activities atsea are all part of a relaunchintended to bring together theworld’s top family destinationwith the worldwide leader insports.

A magical makeoverfor Castaway Cay (2010)

Castaway Cay, Disney’sprivate island paradise inthe Bahamas, is gettingan extra dose of pixie dust.Enhancements include anexpanded family beach, a

floating water platform featur-ing two twisting waterslides,two fresh-water play areas, anew teen retreat and 20 newprivate rental cabanas. Theadditions are scheduled to becomplete by summer 2010.

New Sailings forDisney Magic and

Disney Wonder (2010-11) In 2010, the Disney Magicwill sail to Europe for anunprecedented five-monthseason of Northern European

and Mediterranean cruises.Book-ending the summerseason of 12-night NorthernEuropean capitals cruises, theDisney Magic will once againreturn to the Mediterranean

for 10 and 11-night cruises,with three new ports of call– Tunis in northern Africa,the island nation of Marta,and Ajaccio, Corsica. In thesummer of 2010, the Disney

Wonder will sail four andfive night cruises to Nassau,Key West and Castaway Cay.In the summer of 2011, the

Disney Wonder will sail forthe first time to Alaska, withseven-night cruises calling onTracy Arm, Skagway, Juneauand Ketchikan.

Disney Cruise Line expand-ing fleet

(2011 and 2012) The Walt Disney Companyis expanding its cruise vaca-tion business by adding twonew ships, Disney Dream andDisney Fantasy, to set sail in2011 and 2012, respectively.Two decks taller than the exist-

ing Disney Magic and DisneyWonder, the new 1,250-pas-senger liners will more thandouble the passenger capacityfor Disney Cruise Line. Nowunder construction, the DisneyDream will offer magical inno-vations, engaging children’sspaces, family entertainmentand immersive experiences.

ESPN Wide Worldof Sports Complex relaunch

(2010) A re-imagining proj-

ect involving ESPN anDisney sports complexleading multi-sport vin the nation, aims to c

immersive and entertasports experiences for athcoaches and fans by incrating signature elemenESPN in ways that willnect athletes and coachestheir favorite ESPN progpersonalities and elemen

Guests will discovnew welcome center, a dcenter where video cap by 56 high-definition rand handheld cameras athe 220-acre sports campedited for display on 40 screens and two “jumbot

throughout the complpart of a veritable Wide Wof SportsCenter, and theESPN Wide World of SGrill.

Meanwhile, behindscenes, technical staff wiltinue work in the InnovLab to develop ground-bing ESPN on-air produusing the action throuthe complex as a real-wtesting environment.

IMAGES COURTESY DISNEY

The Disney Dream offersthe debut of AquaDuck,

the first-ever shipboard

water coaster, a Master

Blaster from Whitewater.

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WATERPARKSAQUATIC CENTERS INDOOR FACILITIES RESORTS SUPPLIERSREVENUE

BRIEF

HAVE WATERPARKS NEWS OF INTEREST? EMAIL IT TO US AT: [email protected]

ProSlide unveils

new 'world's first'

waterslides at three

Great Wolf resorts

Great Wolf Resorts, Inc.unveiled its first of threenew waterslides of thenew year. The Triple Twist,which opened March 4 atGreat Wolf Lodge at KingsIsland, is a first-of-its-kind-in-the-world slide. New

slides at two other resortlocations opened at the endof March. Supplied by Canada'sProSlide Technology, theTriple Twist is a five-storyProSlide Tantrum featur-ing a high speed drop intoa huge funnel, followed by twists and turns, andtwo more funnels. GreatWolf Lodge in Kansas Cityopened its version of TheTriple Twist on March 12,with Great Wolf Lodgein the Pocono Mountainsscheduled to open Double

Barrel Drop on March 26.The new Pocono Mountainsattraction – ProSlides newTantrumAlley – will bethe first indoor waterslideof its kind in the world.The six-story adventurestarts with a high speeddrop into a huge funnel,a 450-degree turn into adark vortex tunnel, andthen a second funnel. Allthree new waterslides willinclude lighting and specialeffects to enhance the riderexperience.

“We’re proud to con-tinue leading the water-park industry in new rideinnovations, like being thefirst in the world to haveThe Triple Twist,” said TimBlack, executive vice presi-dent of operations. “Thisis only the start of a really big year for Great WolfLodge, and we’re excitedto unveil these first piecesof the puzzle just in timefor spring break.”

ProSlide water coaster

rising at Iowa’s Lost Island Construction is on sched-ule at Waterloo, Iowa’s LostIsland for the waterpark’s10th anniversary season andthe introduction of a ProSlideHydroMagnetic Rocket watercoaster. Sporting the exoticname of Wailua Kapua, whichtranslates to purple Hawaiian

river dragon, the 990-foot-longattraction will bethe largest ride addition in thewaterpark’s history.

Though challenged by thecold winter weather and heavyIowa winds, ProSlide crewshave been working tirelesslyto have the ride ready for thenew season, which begins in June. The HydroMagnetic

Rocket has many attributesof a roller coaster. Utilizing acombination of water lubrica-tion, downhill and uphill grav-ity and ProSlide’s proprietaryHydroMagnetic technology,riders experience the accelera-tion of the ascent followed bythe exhilarating speeds of thedownhill drops.

The Lost Island ride willalso feature one of the firstride-up conveyors. Instead ofa series of stairs leading upto the beginning of the ride,guests will board the four-per-son rafts at the bottom of thefirst hill and ride the conveyorup to the top.

Lost Island also featuresother award-winning ProSlide

water rides like the ProSlideTornado, CannonBowl,OctopusRacer, and DarkMammoth. “Having this major, majoraddition to the park, and thefact that we do try to keepeverything new to the guests,

we’re really going to hit spring with a heavy ming plan touting the 10anniversary to try to reacfurther than we have ipast,” said Eric Bertch,Island’s general manager

PHOTO COURTESY PRO

A ProSlide Hydro-Magnetic Rocket water coaster will

the 10th anniversary season of Iowa’s Lost Island in 2

Radisson Hotel Albuquerque

New Mexico gets its first indoor waterpa The Radisson HotelAlbuquerque recently debutedits 30,000-square-foot indoorwaterpark, which opened tothe public on March 12.

The waterpark’s five poolfeatures include: a 63,895-gal-lon lazy river and double slideplunge pool; a 298-foot-longraft slide and 237-foot-longtube slide; a 32,235-gallon kids’activity pool; a 12,577-gal-lon wading pool with play

structure for younger chil-dren; an 8,690-gallon indoor/outdoor adult whirlpool spa;a 57,230-gallon WhiteWaterWest dual FlowRider; and awaterplay structure featur-ing a 55-gallon dump bucket,three basketball hoops, water-falls, spray features, and innertubes. The hotel and waterparkfacility also features Arcadia,an FEC with a 50-game videoarcade that includes Art!Attack, paint your own pot-tery; create your own Cuddly

Critter studio; Tully’s Deli;

Delgado Tin Works; and OldTown Gifts & Sundries retailoutlet.

“It is wonderful that wecan bring this indoor water-

park to Albuquerque and the

state of New Mexico who haswaited so long for this typeof featured attraction for funfamily entertainment rain orshine” said Jim Metzger, gen-

eral manager of the Radisson

Hotel and Waterpark. are also pleased to noteduring these trying econtimes, we’ve brought 60 jobs to the Albuquerque

PHOTO COURTESY RADISSON

The Radisson Hotel Albuquerque’s new 30,000-square-foot indoor waterpark fea

numerous body/tube/raft slides, lazy river, WhiteWater West dual FlowRider and w

play structure.

4See RADISSON, pag

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[email protected]• Tel: +1 604 273 1068 • www.whitewaterwest.com

The Waterpark Company

Wild Wadi, Dubai Wet ’n’ Wild, Arizona Hersheypark, Pennsylvania Ocean World, Kor

C o w a b u n g a B a y ,

U t a h

Exciting hands-on adventures for the entire family.

They ’ll stay and play all day!

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[email protected]• Tel: +1 604 273 1068 • www.whitewaterwest.com

The Waterpark Company

Master Blaster® is a federally registered trademark of Water Ride Concepts, Inc. and is covered by the following U.S. Patents: #5,213,547; #5,011,134; #5,230,662; #5,453,054; and # 5,779,553. Worldwide patents pending.

Ocean World, Korea Atlantis Resort, DubaiWet’n’Wild, Arizona

A t l a n t i s R e s o r t ,

B a h a m a s

Wet’n’Wild, Arizo

Voted best waterpark ride for 10 years!Defying Gravity

dueling uphwatercoaste

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munity with more anticipat-ed.” “This is a great attrac-tion for the property to bringin not only local customers, but leisure guests and week-end groups from all over theSouthwest,” added Director of

Sales and Marketing, Arthur‘Coop’ Cooper, “As a matterof fact, we have already seenpositive economic impact on

RADISSONContinued from page 14

our local economy with thecontracting of several groupsrepresenting more than 2,000hotel room nights in 2010.” The new facility wasdesigned by the consultingteam of Cities Edge Architects,a national hotel, resort andwaterpark design firm andRamaker & Associates.Ramaker & Associates per-

formed the aquatic, mechani-cal, electrical and plumbingengineering design for thefacility.

MIOX Technology manages

water quality at Radisson MIOX Corporation, aleader in safe water disinfec-tion, has been awarded theservice contract to provideaquatic sanitation for thenew indoor waterpark at theRadisson Hotel Albuquerque.

The contract includes manag-ing water quality and cleanli-ness for the waterpark’s majorwater attractions.

The MIOX SmartStart leaseprogram includes a mixed oxi-dant on-site generation system,training, remote monitoringand on-site preventive main-tenance services. The mixedoxidant technology in use atthe Radisson Albuquerqueoffers better control to preventrecreational water illnesses;ensure removal of biofouling

that may exist in distributionpipelines; reduced formationof chlorinated by-products;and a better swim experiencethrough elimination of the eyeand skin irritation typical ofmany pools and spas.

“By partnering withMIOX, we have found ahighly effective water sanita-tion technology that ensuresthe safest and most enjoy-able environment possible forguests and employees,” said Jim Metzger, general manag-er of the Radisson. “With theSmartStart program, we havethe peace of mind of know-ing MIOX’s job is to keep oursolution tank full, while alsoensuring peak performancefrom the MIOX system.”

Santa’s Village adding waterpla A new winter-themedinteractive waterplay structure– HO-HO-H2O – manufac-tured by Canada’s WhiteWaterWest Industries, will highlightthe summer fun at Santa’sVillage, Salem, N.H. The family-owned-and-

operated theme park antici-pates spending $900,000 to pur-chase and install HO-HO-H2Owithin sight of Route 2, acrossfrom the Evergreen Motel,explained CommunicationsDirector Bruce Hicks. This 6,400-square-footattraction will feature a shal-low eight-inch-deep wadingpool in which youngsters canplay and splash, along withladders and slides on whichthey can be adventurous, pluswater cannons and water jets.Excavation has already begun,and installation is scheduled

in May.The new water feature fol-

lows on the successful intro-duction of the Penguin Splashat the end of the 2008 summerseason. Originally planned asa quick cooling-off spot, theshallow Splash pad with pul-sating water jets turned out to be a major draw, with young-

sters of all ages getting soak-ing wet.

“The summer of 200our first complete seaswhich the Penguin Swas open, and it was tredously popular,” said H“We had to stock towelflip-flops to sell in our speople weren’t prepared

they will be this summer

Six Flags New England expands waterpa Officials at Six Flags NewEngland’s Hurricane Harborrecently announcing a newattraction for 2010 – Mr. Six’sSplash Island. Based on SixFlags’ popular mascot, Mr.Six’s Splash Island will opento the public on May 28 with16,000 square feet of drench-ing thrills and relaxation forthe family.

Mr. Six’s Splash Island will boast a 30,0000-gallon shaded

wavepool designed specifi-cally for little ones; a 150-foot-long interactive lazy riverwith dumping coconuts, raincurtains and squirting effectsto keep young swimmerscool in the hot New Englandsun. The fun continues withwater bubblers and fountainsthroughout the area. Parentscan relax in style with ten new

luxury cabanas set poolsideand offering lounge chairs,

personal lockers, refrigera flat screen TV and a perwait staff. Also new fo2010 season is Johnny Rorestaurant located next tSix’s Splash Island. “Mr. Six has becomiconic character at Six and we are excited to havfirst Mr. Six’s Splash Islsaid Larry Litton, Six

New England’s park dent. “Hurricane His a huge draw in the England region and witaddition of Mr. Six’s SIsland we are solidifyincommitment to providwide array of fun, afforfamily entertainment.” Along with Six Flagsdesigners providing concal design and project mament, major suppliers foHurricane Harbor expainclude: Glynn GeotechEngineering (project neers); Murphy’s Waves

(primary layout design, equipment; Family Fun (water movement hydrafiberglass river channel wand Funtraptions, Inc. (intive pool and river featu Hurricane Harbor for the 2010 season on28.

RENDERING COURTESY SANTA’S VI

HO-HO-H2O, a winter-themed waterplay will open in

at Santa’s Village in Salem, N.H.

AMUSEMENTTODAY.CAMUSEMENTTODAY.CAMUSEMENTTODAY.CAMUSEMENTTODAY.CAMUSEMENTTODAY.CAMUSEMENTTODAY.CAMUSEMENTTODAY.CAMUSEMENTTODAY.C

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BUSINESSREVENUE PEOPLE RESORTS AIMS INTL. SUPPLIERS

BRIEF Ride safety training highlights NJAA MeetinMary Wade Burnside Amusement Today

The New JerseyAmusement Assn.’s AnnualEast Coast Expo, held Feb.24-25, was a little busier thanusual this year, because timeand effort had to be spent onride safety training after thestate passed a new law calling

for all parks to have certifiedmaintenance technicians. “It’s a new regulation,”said New Jersey Amusement

Assn. executive directorKimberle R. Samarelli. “Itnever existed before.” Enforcement will beginsometime later this year,Samarelli said, and there will be a two-year phase-in peri-od. The training had to beeither through the NationalAssociation of AmusementRide Safety Officials

(NAARSO) or AmuseIndustry Manufact& Suppliers Interna(AIMS). During the Annual East Coast Expoat Trump Taj Mahal in AtCity, attendees were ableNAARSO training, Samsaid. About 350 people a

4See NJAA, pag

PAPA members discuss ride safety classes, legislatioMary Wade Burnside

Amusement Today

Members of thePennsylvania AmusementParks Assn. (PAPA) will con-tinue to subsidize its annu-al ride safety seminar eventhough the group has beenlosing money on the classes.That decision was made dur-ing the association’s annualspring meeting, held March1 and 2 at Hershey Lodge inHershey, Pa. “This year, we ran adeficit of $3,300,” said GaryChubb, senior director formaintenance at Hersheyparkand a PAPA past president.“We’ve thought about raisingfees. We’ve thought about get-ting additional sponsorships.There are so many offerings ofride seminars that we’ve dis-cussed the possibility of send-ing letters to inspectors urgingthem to attend our trainingseminar.” A few years ago, the groupchanged the name of theclasses from the PennsylvaniaRide Safety Seminar to PACE,which stands for Parks and

Carnivals Education.“When we did that, then

one of the competing semi-nars picked up ‘PennsylvaniaRide Safety Seminar,’ andnow there is some confusion,”Chubb said.

About 100 people attendthe seminar and get 24 hoursof training. Although ways tomake the seminar more profit-able were discussed, no con-clusions were drawn, Chubbsaid.

“We just know thatwe’ll have another seminarin November, location to bedetermined,” he said. The PAPA board of direc-tors meets twice a year, onceduring the spring meetingand again during the summermeeting, which this year will be held July 19 and 20 at GreatWolf Lodge in Scotrun, Pa., inthe Poconos.

During the March 1 boardmeeting, members discussed

several legislative issues thatcan affect the Pennsylvania

amusement industry. These

included supporting a uni-form back-to-school dateafter Labor Day and opposedGov. Ed Rendell’s new salestax plan, said president-electBarry Kumpf of LakemontPark in Altoona, Pa. Plus, members also dis-cussed the state’s amusementtax, “But we are always fight-ing that battle,” Kumpf said.“It’s not imposed equallyamong all participants. It’s amunicipality tax, and somemunicipalities choose not toimplement it.

“For instance, LoganTownship (where Altoona islocated) chooses to implementa 9 percent amusement tax.But there may be other parksin close proximity whose gov-erning body, whether it’s acity, township or borough,chooses not to implement atax. So they would have someadvantage.” As for Rendell’s proposedsales tax, Andy Quinn, thedirector of community rela-tions at Kennywood Park inWest Mifflin, Pa., and PAPA’slegislative committee chair,

said the governor “backhand-edly proposed it as a cut in the

state sales tax, but he wa

expand it to realize $550lion more. In my mind, a tax increase.” In Rendell’s proposasales tax would be decrfrom 6 percent to 4 peHowever, the list of ttaxed would be expandinclude 74 more items, ining many amusement-rproducts.

“He is going to rmore money from thattax,” Quinn said.

PAPA has joined togwith other affected entitfight the proposal. “We have a coalititourism entities that are bigger than we are, withe Chambers of Comfighting and lobbying agthe change in tax,” Quinn“The coalition of tourismties are people like our– ski areas, campgroundother groups. We workvisitors bureaus and c bers of commerce and a grassroots campaign tothe sales tax as it is.” As for the uniform to-school date, PAPA sup

that date as the Tuesday4See PAPA, pa

Bondholders and

Six Flags reach

proposal to end

bankruptcy

Bondholders led byStark Investments willtake control of Six FlagsInc. under a proposalannounced on March19 that would allow thetheme park operator toemerge from bankruptcy.

Six Flags attorney PaulHarner of Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker saidthat under the proposal,the Stark group will invest$725 million in new equityin Six Flags. Under the proposal, bondholders will borrow$1.1 billion. The fundswill be used pay off credi-tors and provide workingcapital after the companyemerges from bankruptcy.Management will havewarrants and optionsworth up to 15 percent

of the company's equity.The rest will be owned bythe group led by Stark.The proposed settlementmust be documented andis then subject to approval by U.S. Bankruptcy JudgeChristopher Sontchi. According to BloombergNews , Six Flags ChiefExecutive Mark Shapiroand Chief Financial Officer Jeffrey Speed will remainunder the proposed set-tlement. Senior managers,including Shapiro and

Speed, signed four-yearcontracts with Six Flagslast year.

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PEOPLE WATCH

EMAIL NEWS BRIEFS TO: GSLADEAMUSEMENTTODAY.COM

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Defending the amusement industry for over 25 years

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This information is believed to beaccurate, but is not guaranteed.Returns provided do not include

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East Coast 2.948 0.855

Midwest 2.895 0.930

Gulf Coast 2.897 0.924

Rocky Mountain 2.923 0.935

West Coast 3.005 0.914

California 3.065 1.016

On 03/18/10 $1 USD =

0.72655 EURO

0.65353 GBP (British Pound)

90.44930 JPY ( Japanese Yen)

1.05375 CHF (Swiss Franc)

1.08455 AUD (Australian Dollar)

1.01135 CAD (Canadian Dollar)

Region As of Change from (U.S.) 3/15/10 year ago ON-HIGHWAY

DIESEL PRICES

Prices per gallon; Information provided by U.S. Department of Energy

TOP 7 MOST TRADE

CURRENCIES$$$

Cedar Fair L.P. FUN $12.02 $13.56 $6

MGM Mirage MGM $11.91 $14.25 $2

Six Flags, Inc. SIXFQ** $0.112 $0.59 $0

CBS Corp. CBS $14.37 $14.94 $3

Walt Disney Co. DIS $33.78 $33.84 $17

Great Wolf Resorts, Inc. WOLF** $2.87 $3.95 $1

Landry’s Restaurants LNY $20.92 $22.21 $4

Blackstone Group BX $14.50 $17.22 $5

Village Roadshow VLRDY*** $10.378 $10.379 $2

NBC Universal GE $18.19 $18.40 $9

Quassy promotes three veteran staff members Three veteran members of the Quassy Amusement Park staff have

been promoted, the Middlebury, Conn. park has announced. “This is a solid team that has been in place for a number of years,”noted park owners George Frantzis II and Eric Anderson. “They havecontinually cultivated group sales and generated new business evenduring these challenging economic times.” Audrey Brown , office manager, has been nameddirector of outreach programs for schools and scouts.She has been with Quassy for 10 years and took

over as office manager in 2007. While continuing tooversee the day-to-day operations of the park’s mainoffice, Brown is now responsible for further develop-ment of outreach programs for schools and scoutgroups. Adrienne Wilson , assistant office manager, isthe new director of sales for educational schoolfieldtrips. Wilson is in her third year with the parkand will complement Brown’s efforts in coordinatingeducational fieldtrips. She is a recent graduate of theUniversity of Connecticut with a Bachelor of Artsdegree in communication processes. “Our free educational programs are secondto none,” Frantzis said. “The park is introducingan extensive hands-on project approved by theAmerican Association of Physics Teachers this year, and thus far it hasdrawn a lot of attention. Audrey and Adrienne have the expertise tofully utilize all of our educational programs in the communities weserve.” Tracy Johnson , corporate events coordinator,has been promoted to sales director for themed andcommunity service outings. A member of the park’ssales staff for the past six years, she will continue topromote corporate events while taking on new chal-lenges. “We have seen a dramatic spike in themed out-ings over the past few years, and Tracy has been atthe center of those efforts,” Anderson asserted. “Wehave branched out not only with themed outings such as Gospel Days,

but community service fundraisers have had some profound impacton the use of our catered outing facilities.”

Pacific Park CEO Mary Ann Powell appointed to board Special Olympics Southern California has appointed Mary Ann

Powell , CEO and general manager of Pacific Park in Santa Monica,Calif. and located on the Santa Monica Pier, as the newest member of its board of directors. Powell recently assumed the position and has begunthe 3-year term. Powell is past-chairman of the board of the Santa MonicaConvention and Visitors Bureau and is now an officer, currently serv-ing as secretary. She also serves on the board of directors of the SantaMonica Chamber of Commerce. “We are fortunate to have someone of Mary Ann’s caliber andprofessional background joining us on the board,” said PatrickMcClenahan, chairman of the board of directors of Special OlympicsSouthern California. “Her business acumen coupled with her compas-sion for others will be a genuine asset to the organization.” Powell has spent more than 12 years taking Pacific Park on theSanta Monica Pier to new heights and has led the way for 14 newamusement rides and attractions.

Michael Mack joins IAAPA Europe Advisory Board Michael Mack , member of Europa-Parḱ s management, has beenappointed to the International Association of Amusement Parks andAttractions (IAAPA) Europe Advisory Board. Michael Mack, who is a board member of theGerman Association of Amusement Parks (VDFU)since 2008, has willingly accepted his new task to alsoact on a European level from now on. The IAAPAEurope Advisory Board is responsible for all Europeanissues of IAAPA. Michael Mack has been appointedto the board due to the fact that he not only representsthe leading theme park in Germany, Europa-Park inRust, which is also among the worlds leading theme parks, but also themanagement of the manufacturing company Mack Rides in Waldkirch/Germany.

Brown

Wilson

Johnson

Mack

Woosher Straw oers unique

advertising opportunities for park The Woosher spinningstraw has been causing quite astir since it was launched justa few years ago. It has beenhighlighted as a top ten inno-vation along with productslike the Rubik’s Cube and theDyson vacuum cleaner, and itwas featured on the DiscoverChannel internationally. It wasalso selected to be in the finaleof the Sky 1 prime time showThe Big Idea, a show similarto American Inventor , and itfeatured on the BBC.

Its function is simple;the inner globe spins as the

consumer drinks through theWoosher, causing the printedimages inside to spin as fast asyou drink. It is the only drink-ing straw that is an interactiveadvertising banner.

The product’s unique abil-ity to be used as a duel adver-tising platform makes it theideal way to promote brandsor jointly promote with apartner. Past examples have been Disney for the release ofTreasure Planet with Coca-Cola,DreamWorks for the release of

Flushed Away in Pepsi serving

Odeon cinemas. Some of theothers promotions have beenfor the European FootballChampionships with Coca-Cola as well as many otherpromotions with them. Theother main buyers have beenPepsiCo, Nestea, MountainDew, and Fanta.

The Woosher has also beendesigned as a retail item andhas been used by Disney andHit Entertainment with licenc-es like Disney Cars, Winniethe Pooh, Princess, Dora the

Explorer, Power Rangers

the Builder, and also foRainforest Café, The LoAquarium and many mo

The product has dregistration and patenttection in the majority oworld. Patents cover 28 tries, with the USA, CaAustralia, China and oalready granted.

For further details, coBill Welch, DB Promotio(434) 223-7891 or visit Web site at: www.dbptions.com.

PHOTO COURTESY DB PROMO

The Woosher Spinning Straw offers a unique ability

used as a duel advertising platform.

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Innovative Leisure assist centers after wall recall Climbing wall specialist InnovativeLeisure has come to the assistance ofnumerous climbing centers, local authori-ties and other operators of climbing wallsfollowing the “stop use” notice issued bythe manufacturer MSA Redpoint on theirclutch auto-belay descender. U.S. company MSA North Americaissued a stop use notice for all such

descenders on Oct. 14, 2009, with a sub-sequent stop use notice update on Nov.3, 2009, regardless of the date the unitwas manufactured or last factory ser-viced. This course of action followed twoincidents involving the failure of twoseparate Redpoint descender auto-belays,a controlled descent device designed spe-cifically for the challenge course (ropescourses), climbing wall and climbinggym industry. The two incidents involvedclimbers experiencing rapid rates ofdescent resulting in injuries.

Following a thorough investiga-tion, MSA is planning to discontinuethe Redpoint descender and in doing sostated in a further stop use notice updateof Dec. 4, 2009, that it will be “effectivelyexiting the recreational market for climb-ing wall auto-belay systems.” These recent incidents, the stop noticeand MSA’s subsequent decision to dis-

continue the product involved has inevi-tably created problems for many opera-tors, with those affected now searchingfor an alternative, replacement system.As a result, Innovative Leisure has beeninundated with inquiries and requestsfor assistance and, with many years ofexperience in both operating and supply-ing hydraulic auto-belay systems to cus-tomers throughout the U.K. and Europe, backed by U.S. manufacturer SpectrumSports International, is offering a provenalternative to the Redpoint descender.

“This situation has obviously causedserious problems for operators of climbingwalls, climbing centrers and other ven-ues,” said Innovative Leisure ManagingDirector Phil Pickersgill. “In the U.K.,the Health and Safety Executive has alsoissued a prohibition notice in additionto the manufacturer’s stop use notice sooperators are now looking for an alterna-

tive system to enable them to keep oper-ating. In many cases the operator doesnot have staff suitably qualified to usemanual belays and so their operation haseffectively ground to a halt. Auto-belaysare essential for many operators offer-ing an introduction to climbing and forevents such as kids’ parties where staffcosts, and ratios to guests, have to becommercially viable. Additional information can be foundat www.innovativeleisure.co.uk.

PHOTO COUINNOVATIVE LE

Climbing wall oper

are turning to Innov

Leisure for their p

ucts after a recall of

Redpoint’s clutch a

belay descender.

SeaWorld Orlando update

Investigations continue in SeaWorld trainer’s deatPam Sherborne Amusement Today SEE RELATED EDITORIAL

CARTOON...PAGE 2 In mid-March the con-tinuing saga of Tilikum, the30-year-old orca which wasresponsible for the tragic deathof a SeaWorld, Orlando, Fla.,trainer Feb. 24, was no wherenear coming to an end. In fact, SeaWorld admin-istrators declined even to dis-cuss the park’s crisis manage-

ment plan because the parkwas still very much in it. Itcould be a very long beforepark officials will be able to sitdown and assess how every-thing was handled. Yet, they are continuingto handle it, fielding ques-tions from local and interna-tional news agencies, as wellas animal activist groups andthe patrons that are still verymuch wanting to see the orcashows.

The Feb. 24 death of DawnBrancheau following a showperformed by several of the

park’s orcas including Tilikum,or killer whales as they areknown, was still being inves-tigated in mid-March by localOrange County authorities, byOSHA (Occupational Healthand Safety Administration)and, internally, by SeaWorldstaff and independent marinemammal experts. Cause of death was deter-mined shortly after the acci-dent by the Orange CountySheriff’s Office as “multiple

traumatic injuries and drown-ing” after Tilikum, the 12,000-pound orca that has sired mul-tiple calves since arriving atSeaWorld, pulled Brancheauinto the water.

Investigations on the exactway it happened and perhapswhy was still pending in mid-March. The incident was cap-tured on surveillance tapes atSeaWorld, which were hand-ed over to Orange CountySheriff’s officials. According tostate laws, those tapes will bemade public once the investi-gation is concluded. However,Brancheau’s family, alongwith the support of SeaWorld,was gearing up last month fora legal battle to prevent thatvideo footage from appearingonline or on television. SeaWorld suspended its“Shamu Believe” show for

three days following the trag-edy, but re-initiated it againon Feb. 27. SeaWorld also sus-pended the practice of train-ers performing in-pool withthe animals and that suspen-sion was to continue untilthe investigations concluded.Then, SeaWorld plans to makea determination whether that becomes a permanent policy. “We have initiated a thor-ough review of all of the pro-cedures that guide our interac-

tion with killer whales,” saidFred Jacobs, vice president ofcommunications, SeaWorldParks & Entertainment, onMarch 12. “This review is being conducted by a teamthat includes both our own

staff and independent marinemammal experts. There are nodetails to share at this point, but we will make our findingsknown in due course.”

One of the performanc-es during the orca shows atSeaWorld has trainers comingup out of the water on thenose of the orcas, then divinginto the water. However, Tilikum was nota “water-work” animal, i.e.,

trainers were forbidden fromswimming with him becauseof his massive size and his-tory (Tilikum had been linkedto two other deaths whilein captivity), according to astory from OrlandoSentinel.com, the online version of thelocal Orlando newspaper. Hedid participate by performingtricks on command, includingsplashing the audience withhis tail. SeaWorld has pulledTilikum from all shows untilinvestigations are over.

Around the world, other

marine life parks declined tospecifically address the inci-dent at SeaWorld, but did givetheir policies regarding theirtrainers being in-pool withorcas. For example, whenMarineland Niagara Fallswas contacted by a reporter,a company spokeswomanstated they had stopped per-formances with trainers andwhales 12 years ago when thepark opened its viewing facil-ity called Friendship Cove.

“We don’t do rouwith the killer whalesmore like we used to,”Marie Rondinelli, the pmarketing office manwas quoted as saying iNiagara Falls Review. Nancy Chan, Six Discovery Kingdom, VCalif., said that park haorca, a 17-year-old fnamed Shouka. It is theircy that trainers not go in-

with Shouka.“We have standard oping procedures and safetytocols in place and thosecies are continually revand, if necessary, modChan said. “Our trainenot go in-water with Shand that remains our pol When news of the edy hit Six Flags DiscKingdom, Chan said hard. “This was an unspeatragedy and for our staff,ously, this was a verysonal loss, since the tr

community is very smatight knit,” she said. “Wlowed our standard polnot commenting on inces at other facilities andply issued a brief stateextending our condolenthe staff and family oSeaWorld trainer.” The Sea World located along Australia’sCoast, Sydney, and not ated with the U.S. SeaWdoesn’t house any orcas.

AT FILE PHOTO

Since the accidental deathof a whale trainer at

SeaWorld Orlando on Feb.

24, trainers have not been

allowed back in the water

with the orcas.

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Mark MooreUremet Corp.

AIMS president

[email protected]

For almost 40 years,AIMS International and itspredecessorAREA have been proudto providethe onlyworldwidecertificationprogram formaintenance

and operations. Duringthe past decade, AIMSInternational has adminis-tered more than 1,000 certifi-cation tests, and its certifica-tion program has expandedto include waterpark opera-tions, online courses forrecertification and an accred-itation program for in-housetraining programs. NowAIMS is adding an inspectorcertification program whichwill allow AIMS to provide acomplete array of high qual-ity training in all the majorareas of the amusementindustry.

The inspector certifica-tion program will include 40hours of specialized instruc-tion which will include gen-eral courses in wood and steelcoaster inspection and facili-ties inspection. It will alsoinclude specific courses suchas fasteners and bearingsand non-destructive testingand individual ASTM stan-dards. The certification will

require not only a writtenexam, but may also includepractical and oral examina-tions.

The new inspector cer-tification will be offered forthe first time this Novemberat the annual AIMS SafetySeminar in Orlando Florida.The seminar will be held inconjunction with the 2010IAAPA Attractions Expoand will provide candidateswith a unique opportunity totrain with front line techni-cians and operators, while

also being able to visit ridemanufacturers and suppli-ers exhibiting at the four-daytrade show.

AIMS International isdedicated to providing themost comprehensive certifi-cation and examination pro-cess available in the amuse-ment industry; its certifica-tion program is designed totest the knowledge of indi-viduals working in variousfields throughout the amuse-ment industry. As a pro-fessional, achieving AIMScertification demonstrates

their dedication to safety,and their knowledge of gen-eral activities and technolo-gies that are an integral partof their daily amusementride safety program. Thoseindividuals who achieve thehighest levels of certificationare as valued professionalswho are recognized for theiryears of experience, and theirdedication and service in theamusement industry.

Space for this AIMS page is provided courtesy of Amusement Today as a corporate partner of AIMS Intl. Content is provided by AT & AIMS. Please direct comments to [email protected]

www.aimsintl.org

Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers International, Ltd. • 3026 S. Orange • Santa Ana, Calif. 92707

Phone: (714) 425-5747 • Fax: (714) 276-9666 • E-mail: [email protected] • Web: www.aimsintl.org

Moore

AIMS introduces new

inspectors certication program

AIMS works with many organizationto provide latest in safety informatio To provide the very latest in safety

bulletins and regulations to its studentsduring the annual safety seminar, AIMSInternational works with various organiza-tions that provide codes and standards thatare used in the amusement industry. Theyinclude:

American WeldingSociety (AWS)

AWS, founded in 1919, has a goal toadvance the science, technology and appli-cation of welding and related joining dis-ciplines. AWS issues different code booksrelating to different aspects of welding andwhich would directly be used in the manu-facturing and repair of welds on amusementrides and devices.

These codes include AWS D1.1,“Structural Welding Code-Steel”, AWS D1.2,“Structural Welding Code-Aluminum”, andASW D1.3, “Structural Welding Code-SheetSteel.” Each of these code books outlinesquality of acceptable welds and welderqualification testing guidelines.

AWS also provides different certifica-tion programs such as the Certified Welding

Inspector (CWI) program. These programshave been a major contributor to the overallquality of welds in the amusement indus-try. •www.aws.org

National FireProtection Association

The National Fire Protection Association(NFPA), established in 1896, is an interna-tional organization with a mission to reducethe worldwide burden of fire and otherhazards on the quality of life. This is donethrough advocating consensus codes andstandards, research, training, and educa-tion.

There are more than 75,000 membersworldwide who are responsible for 300 codesand standards. One of the most widely usedof these codes is NFPA 70, the NationalElectric Code. This code outlines the designand use parameters of electrical circuits.

All persons doing electrical work inthe amusement industry should be familiarwith the different aspects of this code. •www.NFPA.org

American Society ofNondestructive Testing (ASNT)

Nondestructive testing (NDT) is a meof determining the quality of a part withcausing physical harm to that part. AShelps to create a safer world by servingNDT professionals and promoting the ferent NDT technologies through publing, certification, research and conferenc

All NDT inspectors must be certifieaccordance with SNT-TC-1A which outlthe educational level and experience as was other qualifications needed to obtain cific levels of expertise.

Different levels of NDT certificainclude Level I, II and III with most fwork being done by the Level II. ASdirectly certifies Level III candidates throa series of tests. Different methods of Ncan be used at different times during fabrication and/or operation of an amument ride or device to help insure thameets quality specifications.

•www.asnt.org

ASTM International ASTM International is one of the larvoluntary standards development organtions in the world. First started in 1898,

association is responsible for the devement and issuing of different standards directly affect the amusement industry. These standards fall under the respsibility of F24 and cover such topicsoperations, maintenance, design, manuturing, and quality assurance prograAll amusement ride and device standaare published in an annual book titled ume 15.07, “General Products, ChemSpecialties, and End Use Products.” available through ASTM’s Web site. The amusement ride standards are available in a separate virtual compilatitled ASTM Standards on Amusement Rand Devices: 8th Edition (English, Span

and French editions). For additional inmation, please visit http://www.astm.oDEMO/rides.html. Membership is $75 annually for ividuals with two meetings a year devoto the writing of amusement ride and destandards. All AIMS members are encaged to be active in ASTM.

For additional information on standaor membership contact our ASTM techncommittee director, Len Morr

at april 2010 web

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