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Castaway Cove launches contest to name new waterslide (MAY 2, 2008) Officials at Castaway Cove, Wichita Falls, Texas, recently launched a contest to find a name for the new-for-2008 waterslide attraction (a WaterFun Products Sidewinder MK1) opening this season.

AmusementAquatic Management Group, (AMG), the park’s management company, developed the “Name the Ride” promotion in order to bring the Wichita Falls community into the launching of this new water ride.

Beginning April 23, 2008, anyone and everyone can cast their vote of what the name of the new water attraction could be. The contest will last four weeks and the deadline will be May 20, 2008.
TV, radio and billboard marketing campaigns will launch, support and communicate the details on the all new water ride and the information on how the audience can enter to win the “name the water attraction” contest.

The audience will be instructed to go to a station’s Web site or call into a designated phone number (940.687-8888) to enter their choice of name. The TV station’s Web site will have a link to the Castaway site where they can enter the contest. The Billboard campaign will list the phone number (940.698-8888). The deadline for entries is midnight on May 20, 2008; emailed by midnight CST. The new waterpark ride names will be judged for creativity and appropriateness in describing the experience or the physical attributes of the ride and marketability of the name. The judge’s decision is final. If there is more that one entry with the name deemed by the judges as the winner, then the name that was submitted first will be declared the winner.
A $1,000 prize package has been developed that will excite viewers and the listening audience to participate in the contest. The winner’s prize package will include:

* Four (4) Platinum Unlimited Season Passes
* Plus 20 Free one-day admission tickets for them and their closest friends to be among the first to ride the new water attraction on Grand Opening Day of the new ride projected to be early June, 2008
* Gift Certificate of $100 to spend on purchases inside he park during their visit

The winner will be announced in all media coverage and will be featured in the new ride naming promotion plus participate in the ride’s Opening Day ceremonies.

For more information visit: www.castawaycovewaterpark.com.

Hersheypark becomes an outdoor classroom (APR 29, 2008) For several unique days in May, Hersheypark, the 110-acre theme park with more than 65 rides and attractions, becomes an active “laboratory” with specialized learning concepts that enable students to make their own personal discoveries and reinforce what they’ve learned in their classrooms.

On Friday, May 9, Hersheypark will host Math Day, which will allow students to apply classroom mathematical concepts in a unique and fun atmosphere. Thursday, May 15 is Physics Day, designed for high school students; Thursday, May 22 is Science Day, designed for middle school students. Wednesday, May 28, Home School Day, is geared toward students who are taught in non-traditional classroom settings.

With the assistance of local educators, Hersheypark staff has produced manuals to be used in conjunction with Math, Physics and Science days so students and teachers can maximize their educational experiences at the Park.

On Physics and Science days, the Park will open its gates 30 minutes early –at 9:30 a.m. – to give participating students early access to the rides so they can begin conducting their experiments.

During Math Day, students are able to apply real-life situations to the mathematical concepts learned in the classroom. Students can actually watch and time a roller coaster train as it leaves the station and calculate its speed by knowing the distance it traveled.

New for Physics Day 2008, Hersheypark is proud to announce a partnership with Millersville University’s physics department. Specially designed programs conducted by university staff are scheduled for the Hersheypark Amphitheatre at 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.

As the students go on the rides during Physics Day, they use the self-guided manual and a variety of instruments – including vertical and horizontal accelerometers – to calculate motion, forces, speed and acceleration for these rides.

New for Science Day 2008, staff from The Franklin Institute, located in Philadelphia and one of the premiere centers for science education and development, will present a program entitled “Random Acts of Science” at 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. in the Amphitheatre.

Science Day will also offer a variety of activities that cross the entire curriculum from language arts to horticulture to mathematics. Students will spend their day at Hersheypark and ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, which is adjacent to the Park.

Participants in Home School Day will learn how creatures of the night make amazing adaptations to spend their entire lives in darkness in a special presentation by a ZooAmerica naturalist.

In addition, Hershey’s Chocolate World visitors center will offer Home School Day participants “Chocolate Tasting 101,” a 30-minute interactive learning session featuring samples of several varieties of Hershey’s famous chocolates. The cost for this limited-seating session is $5 and reservations can be made by calling 717-520-8981.

For more information on Math, Physics, Science or Home School days, please call 1-800-242-4236 or visit the website at www.HersheyPA.com.

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Six Flags Over Texas recognized for recycling efforts

Six Flags Over Texas was recently recognized for its recycling efforts during the Arlington City Council meeting. Steve Martindale, general manager of Six Flags Over Texas, accepts the award from Arlington mayor Robert Cluck on Apri. 22.

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Morey’s Piers “First Flight” launches for Make a Wish Foundation (APR 28, 2008) Morey’s Piers is partnering with the Make a Wish Foundation to launch the “First Flight” of “FLY The Great Nor’Easter” on May 18 at noon. The public is invited to experience the new “Freedom Flight” seats and at the same time grant wishes to Cape May County children afflicted with life threatening medical conditions.

This year Morey’s Piers has increased the thrill-factor on one of its most popular rides. Located on Surfside Pier, the Great Nor’Easter is the suspended looping coaster that opened in 1995. The coaster has received a major transformation, and the “First Flight” event is set to benefit Make a Wish in Cape May County.

The public is invited to participate and receive their “First Flight wings” by going to http://store.moreyspiers.com/Make-A-Wish.aspx and donating to Make A Wish. Each $10 donation entitles the donor to one free ride on the Great Nor’Easter during the 2008 season. Donors will be automatically entered for a chance to ride one of only 20 seats on the “First Flight” benefiting Make-A-Wish in Cape May County. (The public may enter as many times as they like, every $10 donation is one entry). Two donors will be randomly awarded one seat each to Fly on the First Flight along with our V.I.F. (Very Important Flyer) Justin, a 14-year-old Make a Wish Child who says he is super excited about riding – “roller coasters are my favorite.”

Manufactured by Vekoma Rides of the Netherlands, the new Freedom Flight seats feature an ergonomically designed seat making the ride experience more enjoyable by holding the rider firmly, while also providing unhindered vision in all directions as well as complete arm freedom. The design utilizes a lap bar and innovative vest, to comfortably restrain guests during the ride.

Castaway Cove adding new WaterFun Sidewinder in 2008 (APR 24, 2008) Castaway Cove Waterpark, Wichita Falls, Texas, has announced the addition of the all new Sidewinder, a thrilling zero-gravity waterpark ride for the 2008 season.

The Sidewinder MK1 attraction is supplied by WaterFun Products of Alberta, Canada. It's one of the most popular rides in the waterpark industry because due to intense, white knuckle thrill of zero-gravity as you speed freely down a steep slope and propel from side to side. One, two or three people can ride a tube at any given time.

Tom Major, the park’s GM, said, “We invite all Texoma residents to visit Castaway Cove and take the new plunge to fun this 2008 summer season on the thrilling, zero gravity Sidewinder MK1.” Castaway Cove is currently underway with an “It’s Here – Name It” campaign where someone will have the chance to name and win a grand prize!

Riders will be dispatched from a 40-foot-high tower. All Sidewinder fiberglass components are manufactured in a state-of-the-art facility in Canada assuring the highest quality materials and workmanship. Steel components are pre-fabricated in the Canadian plant with the same quality and workmanship standards.

“Our loyal waterpark guests of Wichita Falls and the entire Texoma area have requested a new waterpark attraction and now it’s here,” said Castaway Cove's Louis Wilson. “A new ride was the next step for the park and we feel we have chosen the perfect ride experience. It is an adrenaline rush that everyone will love.”

The planning and procurement of the new ride will be coordinated by AMG, the park’s management company. WaterFun Products has successfully installed over 200 Sidewinders worldwide.

The new ride is scheduled to open the first part of June, 2008.

Hard Rock Park rides rely on TabWare from AssetPoint (APR 24, 2008) AssetPoint, a leading provider of Maintenance Management software and industry best practices consulting, announced today that that Myrtle Beach's new Hard Rock Park has installed TabWare EFX, AssetPoint’s flagship maintenance software package. Hard Rock Park is using TabWare EFX for maintaining all rides and park equipment as well as ride inspection records.

David Ciciora, Manager of Ride and Construction Maintenance at Hard Rock Park said: “TabWare’s ease of use and rapid implementation approach helped us get up and running quickly so that we can now effectively capture start up and testing information as we approach the park opening. With a Sound Check opening already in progress, TabWare is a valuable tool to track our work and equipment.”

“We welcome Hard Rock Park to our growing list of clients in the theme parks and attractions industry.” said Vince Carrozzi, EVP of AssetPoint. “Hard Rock Park is a premier attraction for the entire country and we look forward to their success.”

AssetPoint is headquartered in Greenville, S.C. For more details on the company, visit: www.assetpoint.com.

Geauga Lake memorabilia for sale at park (APR 24, 2008) Though Ohio's beloved Geauga Lake Amusement Park is slowly fading away, Cedar Fair has placed plenty of park memorabilia on sale for 50 percent off regular price. Hundreds of items will be offered to the public at Tradewinds Gifts, located outside the Wildwater Kingdom Main Gate. There is no parking or admission fee required.

Tradewinds Gifts will be open beginning Apr. 25. Operating Hours are: Fri. 5-8pm, Sat. 12-6pm and Sun.12- 6pm.

Guests are welcome to park in the Handicap / Preferred parking lot in front of the Wildwater Kingdom Entrance..

Legoland California launches new mini musical for kids (APR 23, 2008) Legoland California launches “Journey to the Lost Temple,” a 25-minute musical adventure comedy featuring characters from the park’s own Land of Adventure. The first year-round musical production in the history of Legoland California, “Journey to the Lost Temple” was written by Shawn Greiner, the park’s entertainment supervisor, specifically for children ages 2-12. The show features a cast of five San Diego-based actors and more than thirty volunteers pulled from the audience.

In “Journey to the Lost Temple,” the audience enters a museum to witness explorer Johnny Thunder’s latest discovery – an ancient time machine found in Cleopatra’s lost temple. When Johnny’s arch nemesis, Sam Sinister tries to steal the time machine, it activates and transports everyone back in time to ancient Egypt and the Lost Temple of Cleopatra. In order to return home, Johnny Thunder and the audience must find the time machine. In their search, they meet a chatty mummy named Moriah, a Sphinx with a Las Vegas attitude and a valley girl Cleopatra.

“Writing, producing and directing this show for Legoland California has been such a fun opportunity,” said Greiner who has been a fixture in the entertainment department since before the park opened. “I love seeing a project go from a concept to a full production. Collaborating with all of the individuals involved has been a great learning experience and I can’t wait to see how the children react to the show.”

The score includes a fun mix of classic songs such as “Walk Like and Egyptian” and “The Time Warp Dance” combined with new songs written especially for the production. Journey to The Lost Temple is performed by a rotating cast that includes Michael Ahmann, Rachel Dorman, Shannon Fitzpatrick, Mia Bella Josimovic, Drew Larson, Jenn Mandala-Gravel, Marty Martin, Dirk Stenger and Jaysen Waller.

“Journey to the Lost Temple” will run year-round in the Playtown Theater with dates and times varying by season. This summer it will run Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only from May 23 to Jun. 9 and seven days a week from Jun. 13 to Sept. 1.

Weeki Wachee Springs becoming state park could be in jeapordy (APR 22, 2008) The status of Weeki Wachee Springs becoming the 162nd Florida State park is now unclear. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) submitted their budget request to fund Weeki Wachee Springs prior to this year’s session. The Senate has voted to fund Weeki Wachee. However, the House has not.

The issue will be addressed by the Budget Conference Committee and funding may or may not be provided by the Legislature as they are entering its final days of regular session.
If funding is not provided by the Legislature, it will leave unclear status of the donation of the attraction to the State Park system.

The DEP was invited to take part in the mediation process as a possible resolution the four year litigation between the attraction and the Southwest Florida Water Management District. After several meetings between the DEP and attraction officials, an agreement was signed between the two parties that allows the City of Weeki Wachee to donate all assets to the State on November 8, 2008, thus making Weeki Wachee Springs an official State Park.

For more information, visit: www.weekiwachee.com.

Six Flags Friends, Girl Scouts announce volunteer incentive program (APR 22, 2008) Six Flags, Inc. has announced that Six Flags Friends, its community outreach division, will partner with Girl Scouts of the USA to launch a new volunteer incentive program that allows people to volunteer at a selected Girl Scout council and in return receive a free ticket to any Six Flags park around the country.

Girl Scouts of the USA has enlisted Angela and Vanessa Simmons, from the hit MTV reality series "Run's House," to encourage people to make a difference in a girl's life by volunteering with the Girl Scouts. The two sisters will host "Girl Scouts Day" on Saturday, April 26, 2008 at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, N.J., where Girl Scouts from across the country will have the opportunity to meet and interact with the stars.

Through the Girl Scouts partnership, Six Flags Friends will provide one complimentary ticket to any Six Flags park for anyone who registers via http://www.sixflags.com/gsfriends and then volunteers six hours of their time with select Girl Scout councils around the country.
"In life, you get what you give," said Angela Simmons. "Volunteering is the best way to give. I love to give and I am so happy that I can give back to the community."

"I'm thrilled to be working with the Girl Scouts. Growing up I didn't have the opportunity to become a Girl Scout, so being involved now as a role model/mentor means so much to me," said Vanessa Simmons.

"This volunteer program with Girl Scouts of the USA supports our collective mission of encouraging local community involvement as a way of building a positive future for youth," said Michael Antinoro, Six Flags executive VP of entertainment and marketing. "We are excited to welcome Angela & Vanessa to Six Flags and to join with an iconic brand like Girl Scouts of the USA to promote the importance of volunteerism among young people."

"Collaborating with Six Flags Friends and the Simmons sisters is a great way to show people how fun volunteering for Girl Scouts can be," said Laurel Richie, Chief Branding Officer, Girl Scouts of the USA. "Our volunteers remain the backbone of everything we do in Girl Scouting."

Six Flags Magic Mountain announces new online ticket promo (APR 21, 2008) California's Six Flags Magic Mountain announced today an unprecedented price break for its online ticket purchases. Park guests purchasing tickets online pay only $26.99 for admission to the thrill park. No coupons, no vouchers, no visit restrictions ... just log onto sixflags.com, purchase and print tickets.

Additionally, beginning April 23, Six Flags Magic Mountain is teaming up with Southern California Ralphs stores to offer a free child's ticket (ages 3-11) with every $26.99 adult ticket purchase.

"We are excited to offer this amazing deal to people of all ages who are looking for the best in thrilling entertainment at a great value," said Jay Thomas, president of Six Flags Magic Mountain. "For families looking for ways to stretch their dollars during these tough economic times, this offer beats any other theme park pricing in Southern California -- hands down!"

X2, the park's revamped 4th dimension steel roller coaster, will reopen May 24 with all-new, state-of-the-art designed trains complemented by an innovative sight and sound experience.

For younger guests, the world-famous Thomas the Tank Engine pulls into the newly-created children's play area, Thomas Town on June 6.

This special online offer is available and must be used by May 26, 2008.

Darien Lake, Orange County Choppers pair up to launch new Zamperla roller coaster (APR 21, 2008) Darien Lake Theme Park Resort, Darien Center, N.Y., set to open for the 2008 season on May 3, is thrilled to announce a strategic alliance with New York based Orange County Choppers (OCC). The partnership, which is the first theme park alliance for OCC, includes naming Darien Lake’s newest thrill ride – a motorcycle themed roller coaster - the Orange County Choppers MotoCoaster. OCC will also build a custom bike inspired by the new ride and overall Darien Lake Theme Park Resort experience, to be featured on an upcoming episode of American Chopper, which airs Thursdays at 9:00 p.m. Eastern on TLC.

As a part of the partnership, the crew from OCC will visit Darien Lake Theme Park Resort to experience the entire park first hand and gain inspiration for a customOCC MotoCoaster motorcycle. The design and build of this custom bike will be featured on an episode of American Chopper, the popular television show featuring Paul Sr., Paul Jr., and Mikey Teutul of Orange County Choppers.

The Teutuls, founders of OCC, are slated to make various appearances throughout the season at Darien Lake. The Teutuls are currently scheduled to be at the park on Friday, May 16 for the Grand Opening of the original MotoCoaster roller coaster and to conduct research and find inspiration as they plan to design a custom chopper for the park.

In June, the Teutuls will return to the park to unveil the finished custom bike which will remain on permanent display at Darien Lake Theme Park Resort. During the unveiling of the custom Darien Lake chopper, new themeing for the re-named Orange County Choppers MotoCoaster will also be presented.

In addition, as part of the alliance, Darien Lake Theme Park Resort guests will have the opportunity to win an exclusive Orange County Choppers production bike, painted with a unique Darien Lake design.

“We are excited to partner with Orange County Choppers as we present this first of its kind roller coaster experience to Western New York,” said Christopher Thorpe, Darien Lake’s GM. “It is truly an awesome partnership for both organizations and a great opportunity to have fun with fans while delivering a completely unique ride experience.”

Celebration City's Roaring Falls Debuts With 5-Story Splash (APR 21, 2008) The largest new ride in the Ozarks debuted with a big splash when Celebration City, Branson, Missouri's Biggest Nighttime Attraction, opened Roaring Falls, a new multi-million dollar water adventure ride. Featuring a 5-story, 55-degree angle drop for an enormous splash finale, Roaring Falls did not disappoint guests looking for the spectacular splash when the park opened for the season April 18. Huge sheets of water shot more than 60 feet in the air as riders made the final plunge, soaking both riders and nearby viewers.

"It's an incredible splash -- one you really have to see to believe," said Celebration City General Manager John Fitzgibbons. "With an Amazon theme, complete with misty fog and jungle sound effects, the adventure takes riders on a powerful river current carrying the boats to the top of a massive waterfall -- the legendary Roaring Falls! The current then sends riders 'over the edge' for a final 50-foot plummet," Fitzgibbons said, adding that Roaring Falls is the biggest expansion since the park opened in 2003.

Dubbed "The Wildest New Adventure in the Ozarks, by Day and by Night," Roaring Falls is one of several 2008 additions to the amusement park. New for summer, JUMP! The Ultimate Dog Show features world-famous Frisbee-catching dogs, and Extreme Parrots presents colorful, exotic birds that sing, fly and talk.

Celebration City features more than 30 rides and attractions, including the original 8-story classic wooden coaster, Ozark WildCat. The night's finale is the spectacular $3 million nighttime special effects show, Ignite the Night, with pyrotechnics, water cannons, gigantic video projections, and special effects.

Celebration City is part of the Silver Dollar City Attractions in Branson, offering the largest variety of entertainment, rides and attractions in America's Heartland. Celebration City is open 3-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, with daily operations beginning May 23. For information, complete schedules and tickets, contact 1-800-831-4FUN or www.celebrationcity.com.

Tatweer creating Marvel Super Heroes theme park at Dubailand (APR 21, 2008) Tatweer, a member of Dubai Holding, today announced a landmark deal with Marvel Entertainment, Inc. to develop the region’s first Super Heroes theme park at the world’s largest leisure, tourism and entertainment destination.

Allocated within Dubailand, the Marvel Super Heroes theme park will be one of its key anchor projects. The design and conceptual master plan of this 4.5-million-square-foot development has recently been finalized. The park, expected to welcome visitors in 2012, will provide families an ultimate destination with new and exciting rides that will enable them to re-live their childhood and interact with their beloved Super Hero characters.

Saeed Al Muntafiq, Executive Chairman, Tatweer, said: “We are delighted to welcome Marvel as our latest member in the distinctive Dubailand portfolio. We are confident this landmark partnership will add further value to the exciting world-class offerings of Dubailand.”
David Maisel, Executive Vice President of Marvel Entertainment and Chairman, Marvel Studios, said: “We are privileged to be a part of the Dubailand Destination, a unique entertainment experience that captures the world’s best creative concepts. The launch of the Marvel Super Heroes theme park in Dubai will mark our entry into a region that promises tremendous growth potential for our brands.”

Originally announced last year as a partnership between the Al Ahli group and Marvel Entertainment, Tatweer has now stepped in to oversee and take the development forward, and strategically manage its theme park portfolio.

Maisel added: “We are truly thankful to Al Ahli Group who was instrumental in starting the negotiations to bring the Marvel Super Heroes theme park concept to Dubai. The decision to move over to Tatweer’s Dubailand is a strategic move aimed at positioning Marvel Super Heroes theme park in the world’s most diverse leisure and entertainment destination.”

Six Flags Announces First Quarter Revenues (APR 17, 2008) Six Flags, Inc. announced today its revenues, attendance and per capita guest spending for the first quarter of 2008. Mark Shapiro, President and Chief Executive Officer of Six Flags, Inc., stated: "Our first quarter performance confirms that a re-energized Six Flags is clearly resonating with families in search of high-quality entertainment that is affordable and close to home."

Total revenues of approximately $68 million increased 35% over the prior-year quarter, while total attendance grew by 19% to over 1.4 million. Attendance was positively impacted by the timing of Easter, which shifted from the second quarter in 2007 to the first quarter in 2008. First quarter results historically represent up to approximately 5% of the Company's full year attendance.
Revenues for the first quarter also reflected increases in per capita guest spending, which grew $4.51 to $38.95, a 13% increase over the per capita guest spending of $34.44 for the first quarter of 2007. Guest spending increases were across the board, reflecting higher admissions, food and beverage, rentals, retail, games, parking and other revenues.

"The increases we're witnessing in revenues per guest are a direct result of the investments we've made and the improvements we're delivering to our guests as part of the overall in-park experience," noted Shapiro.

Revenue growth was also driven by sponsorship and international fees, which increased $3.3 million to $11.1 million for the first quarter. This growth, combined with the increased guest spending, resulted in a 13% increase in total revenue per capita to $47.11 in the current quarter from $41.51 in the first quarter of 2007.

Regarding the current state of the economy and its potential impact on the upcoming season, Shapiro added: "With the cost of airline tickets going up and the hassle and frustration of air travel increasing, we believe Six Flags is well-positioned to be a preferred entertainment option this summer."

Tony Hawk rises at Six Flags Over Texas (APR 16, 2008) Tony Hawk's Big Spin, a Gerstlauer spinning coaster, is in the final phases of erection at Six Flags Over Texas.

The Arlington, Texas themer showed off the coaster to members of the media today, giving a
hard hat tour of the construction site. The tour was led by park president Steve Martindale, shown here. The coaster will feature 52 feet of total height, 1,351 feet of track that will allow eight, 4-passenger cars to reach a top speed of 31 mph. The $6.5 million ride will open in May. It is located in the park's USA section on the site of a former freefall ride.

Six Flags New England cancels coaster plans (APR 16, 2008) Six Flags New England is canceling plans to build a $7 million "Dark Knight" indoor roller coaster.

Park spokeswoman Melissa Pinkerton said the Batman-themed coaster won't be built at the Agawam park as expected. Work already done will be dismantled.

Park officials cited a tight construction schedule and other "unforeseen delays" in the decision to cancel the project, which was slated to open this season.

Agawam officials ordered Six Flags to stop work on the coaster in February, claiming that it started construction before obtaining a building permit and permission to exceed the area's 45-foot height limit.

The park received several key approvals from town boards since then, but still did not expect to have the ride built and open until at least late May or early June.

Six Flags, Gulf Finance B.S.C. sign licensing agreement for China project (APR 16, 2008) Six Flags, Inc.announced that it has entered into a one-year, multi-million dollar exclusivity agreement with Gulf Finance House B.S.C., a publicly traded Islamic Investment Bank in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Under the agreement, Gulf Finance will pay for the exclusive right to license the Six Flags brand and related intellectual property for theme park development in the People’s Republic of China.

Additionally, the two parties may collaborate on the future construction of a Six Flags-themed luxury resort. The deal was unveiled today by Six Flags President and CEO Mark Shapiro and Gulf Finance House Acting CEO Peter Panayiotou.

“This partnership underscores the renewed health of our brand and the opportunities that now lie ahead for our unique thrill park experience,” said Shapiro. “We’re excited about the potential of collaborating with Gulf Finance House to bring the new Six Flags and its recharged product to an entirely new audience.”

“We were proud to facilitate Six Flags’ introduction to Dubai and are now thrilled to be partnering with Six Flags ourselves,” said Panayiotou. “Our goal is to create an exciting, state-of-the-art tourist destination in China that will draw travelers from around the globe. Six Flags is recognized as a world leader in the entertainment and theme park industry. The experience and brand loyalty they bring to the table is unmatched.”

Williams Grove owner Morgan "Mickey" Hughes dies at 88 (APR 14, 2008) Morgan Christopher "Mickey" Hughes passed away is his sleep at his Pennsylvania home on April 12, 2008.

Born in Dublin, Ireland, Hughes was a veteran of World War II, serving with the British Army’s Royal Irish Fusiliers, where he held the rank of major colonel.

Hughes made a major impact on the amusement industry in 1960s as one of the first European ride importers in the U.S. Working with Palisades Park, he used the famous New Jersey amusement park as a showcase for a number of imported rides including early Anton Schwarzkopf steel roller coasters and various other attractions.

When Palisades closed in 1971, Hughes became owner of Williams Grove Amusement Park and Williams Grove Speedway in Mechanicsburg. Pa. Though the amusement park closed in 2006, the Hughes legacy continues at the Speedway, which he helped grow into a nationally known and respected facility.

Hughes is survived by his wife, Ingrid Steffen Hughes; son, Michael Anthony Hughes; daughter, Kathleen Hughes; and several brothers and sisters living in England.

Services will be held at 8 p.m. Apr. 16, in the Cocklin Funeral Home, 30 N. Chestnut St., Dillsburg, Pa.

The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Morgan Hughes Memorial Fund for Injured Drivers, c/o Williams Grove Speedway, 1 Speedway Drive, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055.

To send condolences to the family, please visit www.cocklinfuneralhome.com.

Conneaut Lake Park to be featured in new film (APR 11, 2008) The Meadeville Tribune revealed on Apr. 9 that filmmakers, cast and crew of “The Road” — starring recent Oscar and Golden Globe nominee Viggo Mortensen and Oscar-winning actress Charlize Theron — will visit Conneaut Lake Park to record a portion of the major motion picture around the end of April.

“The Road” is based on the Pulitzer prize-winning novel of the same name and is an epic adventure about a father-and-son’s quest for survival in a post-apocalyptic world where food is scarce and some of the survivors have turned to cannibalism.

Eight scenes will be shot at Conneaut Lake Park, according to George Deshner, general manager of the historic 116-year-old amusement park. Scenes will include several locations: near the ruins of Dreamland Ballroom, on the boardwalk, at the Beach Club and Hotel Conneaut and in other places.

With several scenes being shot in Pittsburgh, officials there directed producers of “The Road” to visit Conneaut Lake Park for possible filming of other scenes.

After the Dreamland Ballroom fire, film director John Hillcoat toured the park and agreed it was a good place for some of the scenes. He said destruction of the ballroom lends itself to the atmosphere the filmmakers hope to capture.

Castle Park launching Larson Flying Scooter in 2008 (APR 9, 2008) Officials at Castle Park, Riverside, Calif., confirmed that their new ride for the 2008 season will be a new Dragon-themed Flying Scooter manufactured by Larson Intl.

“The new DragonFlyers will give guests of all ages the thrill of flight. Everyone will love it because they can control their own flight and make it as daring and thrilling… or as soaring and graceful as they want,” said General Manager Rolf Paegert. “It will quickly become one of the favorite rides in the park. And because each flight is different, our guests will want to ride it again and again.”

The new DragonFlyers is based on a classic Bisch-Rocco Flying Scooter and is manufactured by Larson Manufacturing, Inc. With a medieval theme and dramatic fire-breathing dragon graphics, it consists of eight suspended tubs each holding two people. The ride will be located next to the Big Top restaurant.

The new DragonFlyers will be open and ready to fly by Memorial Day.

Dreamland Scenic Railway damaged in suspicious fire (APR 7, 2008) The BBC reported today that up to 80 firefighters battled a blaze that severely damaged a listed roller coaster at the former Dreamland amusement park in Kent, England.

Police said they were treating the fire, which broke out on Monday afternoon at the Scenic Railway at Margate, as suspicious. Kent Fire and Rescue Service had 12 appliances at the scene and a pall of black smoke hung over the town. Fire investigation officers will enter the site when it is declared safe.

Photo courtesy of Greg Findley

BBC Radio Kent reporter David Linington said the wooden roller coaster had collapsed.
"It is devastating," said Thanet District Council leader Sandy Ezekiel. "It is tragic - I used to go on it when I was a kid. To see it like this is heartbreaking."

The Grade II listed roller coaster is one of the oldest of its kind left in the world.
"It looks like a third of the Scenic Railway has been completely lost and all the carriages appear to have gone, if they were in the building next door which went up," said Ezekiel. When I arrived, the flames were 40-50 feet-high from the top of the ride. The fire brigade did a tremendous job in bringing it under control very quickly. The fire is now out and they are dampening down."

The future of the Dreamland site, which opened in 1920, is uncertain but campaigners and planners want it to become a heritage amusement park as part of a redevelopment scheme forMargate seafront.

More news as this story develops.

SeaWorld Orlando unveils Aquatica waterpark (APR 4, 2008) Today SeaWorld's much-anticipated Aquatica comes alive, wowing guests from around the world with its innovative new take on the traditional waterpark. The South Seas-inspired waterpark features attractions from serene to extreme. Aquatica joins sister parks SeaWorld and Discovery Cove to create a trio of immersive marine life adventures found nowhere else in the world.

"Aquatica's diversity of attractions takes the high-speed thrills you expect at a waterpark even further by blending them with up-close animal interactions," says Dan Brown, executive vice president and general manager of the three parks. "We're eager to share this truly one-of-a-kind experience with our guests."

Featuring 36 waterslides, six rivers and lagoons and more than 80,000-square-feet of seemingly endless, sandy beaches, this extraordinary waterpark impresses visitors in size and scope alone. For guests feeling a little less adventurous, tranquil beaches and refreshing pools help slow the pace. Private cabanas are available for rent to those desiring a private retreat. Aquatica immerses guests in the playfulness of the sea, taking them in, over and under the water itself with some of the world's most unique water rides and animal encounters.

"Guest comfort is first and foremost at Aquatica," said park VP Tim Cuddihy. "The entire park was designed to limit wait times and provide easy access to rides, attractions and restaurants."

Quassy Adds 'Galleon' swinging pirate ship, famliy slide for 2008 (APR 4, 2008) A new Zamperla swinging pirate ship will be the highlight of 2008 as Connecticut's Quassy Amusement Park prepares to celebrate “100 Years Of Fun” this season.

Suspended from a giant pendulum, the Galleon pirate ship seats 33 riders and swings thirty feet above the midway. The ride will be situated at the bottom of the main walkway leading into the park. With the huge redemption arcade serving as a backdrop, the Galleon will be a new centerpiece to the more than twenty rides at the venue

“This is a fantastic family ride - one that we have considered adding for quite some time,” said George Frantzis II, a park co-owner. “With this being our milestone centennial season, there was no better opportunity than now for us to make this acquisition - one that will certainly be welcomed by our loyal customers.”

Quassy is also adding a three-lane family fun slide for 2008. The slide features 100-foot fiberglass chutes incorporating gentle humps to provide a fast and thrilling experience. The slide drops from a 28-foot platform and will be located near the Quassy Ice Cream Parlor. The slide was built by Childress rides of Easley, S.C., and will accommodate children and adults.

Guests looking for a good dose of brain freeze on a hot summer day will find it at the new Quassy Slush Factory. Fountains of frozen delights will be served up at the concession being built by the park’s carpentry department. Guests will be afforded an opportunity to mix a rainbow of flavors when visiting the Slush Factory, which will be located near the Quassy Toy Shack.

Numerous other projects have been taking place during the off-season, including improvements to existing structures and refurbishing of rides. The Yo-Yo, acquired by Quassy in 2004, is getting a facelift for the centennial season with a new color scheme. Other rides will be freshly painted while Saturation Station, the interactive family waterplay area constructed in 2003, will sport new finishes on a number of the attraction’s colorful pieces.

Quassy opens for the season on April 26.

Frontier City getting Vekoma family suspended coaster in 2008 (APR 4, 2008) Officials at Frontier City, Oklahoma City, Okla., announced on Apr. 4 that the park will debut the state's first suspended roller coaster – Steel Lasso - for the 2008 season. Designed by Vekoma and fabricated in the U.S. by Chance Morgan, the custom-built ride will stand 49-feet-tall, feature 965 feet of twisted track and reach an estimated top speed of 30 m.p.h. Like Kvasten, the family suspended coaster that premiered at Sweden's Gröna Lund last season, Frontier City's Steel Lasso will utilize Vekoma's new train system, which allows riders legs to dangle freely and requires no over-the-shoulder restraints.

"It's being custom-made for our park and our guests, which is a really exciting thing,” said Stephen Ball, Frontier City general manager. This is The first ride — especially a ride of this magnitude and size — that is actually being built and designed for Frontier City.” The new coaster be erected over the next two months and should be open to the public by early Summer.

Ghost Town in the Sky mourns loss of founder R. B. Coburn (APR 3, 2008) Ronald Braxton Coburn, founder of North Carolina's Ghost Town in the Sky, passed away in Palm City, Fla. on Apr. 1, 2008. He was 90.

As the story goes, Coburn got his inspiration and vision to build Ghost Mountain (later changed to Ghost Town in the Sky) after returning from a family vacation out west where they visited several abandoned ghost towns. Familiar to the Maggie Valley area, Coburn purchased Buck Mountain at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains for the site of his theme park. Construction began in Sept. 1960 and was completed in May 1961.

Ghost Town closed its doors in 2002 after 41 years of successful operation. Coburn sold the property to its new owners in August 2006, who re-opened Ghost Town on May 25, 2007. As a tribute to Coburn, the new ownership is in the process of creating a Memorial Ceremony and Founders Day celebration for the 2008 season.

Coburn is survived by three children; Jeannie Coburn, Kathy Benton and son David Coburn, along with four grandchildren and many great grandchildren. R.B. Coburn will be truly missed but his legacy will continue at Ghost Town in the Sky.

Pretzel's William “Bill” Cassidy dies at 94 (APR 3, 2008) William “Bill” Cassidy, 94, former Pretzel dark ride manufacturer, passed away Mar. 30, 2008 at the age of 94.

Cassidy had the honor of being the longest-serving public official in New Jersey's Hopewell township history and was known to area residents as the “Dean of Knowledge.” But it's his association with the famous Pretzel dark rides for which he is remembered in the amusement industry.

*In 1946, Cassidy took over Pretzel Amusement Ride. Co. from his father, Leon Cassidy, who worked with Marvin Rempfer to create the single-rail dark ride in 1928 and developed it into a highly successful enterprise. Bill advanced the company into the postwar era, expanding production with a line of kiddie rides including the popular Thunderbird Jr. and Toonerville Trolley. Pretzel ceased manufacturing in 1979.

The company manufactured and installed more than 1,000 rides around the world. One of the most well-known survivors is Spook-A-Rama at Deno's Wonder Wheel Park on New York's Coney Island.

Cassidy is survived his daughter, Barbara Ackley; son, William Douglas Cassidy; his wife, Anne; and several grandchildren and great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested in Cassidy’s memory to South Jersey Healthcare-HospiceCare, P.O. Box 160, Bridgeton, N.J. 08302.

(*Note: thanks to www.laffinthedark.com for information on Pretzel and Bill Cassidy.)

Precision Dynamics Corporation introduces new Smart SuperBand RFID wristband (APR 2, 2008) Precision Dynamics Corporation (PDC), has announced the release of the Smart SuperBand with Custom Shapes RFID (radio frequency identification) wristband. It offers unique customization to create fun shapes, providing greater security against counterfeits and exclusive branding options for venue management and identification.

PDC’s Smart SuperBand Custom Shapes RFID wristband consists of a securely sealed RFID tag inside to store and transfer data. Constructed of non-stretch plastic, the wristband is water-proof and comfortable. It comes with a patented PDC Secure Snap closure to prevent transfer, option of serial or unique ID numbering, and can be customized to any requirement with one or two-color printing.

“Options for wristband shapes are unlimited to the imagination of customers,” said Robin Barber, PDC’s vice president of Leisure and Entertainment Solutions. “The creative, customized shapes provide safety and security for guests, while providing an exciting and unique way for companies to display their brand.”

For more information, visit: www.pdcorp.com/smartband.

Winter weather delays new Waldameer coaster opening (APR 1, 2008) The opening of Waldameer Park's new Ravine Flyer II wooden roller coaster has been pushed back to Saturday May 17, 2008. According to Waldameer's Steve Gorman, the delay was caused by one of the coldest and snowiest months of March on record.

Despite the adverse weather, much has been completed:

- all steel structure is erected
- Station, Motor House and Control House are constructed
- steel arched bridge over Peninsula Drive is complete; coaster track over it will be done soon
- 5 tunnels are built
- trains are complete and sit in the warm shop at Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters

"We are well on our way," said Gorman.

There will be a fundraising event for the opening weekend to benefit Juvenile Dibetes Research Foundation. On-line auction for the first train seats will begin Apr. 14 at www.947bobfm.com.

Classic Schwarzkopf coaster playing final date at Miami-Dade County Fair (MAR 28, 2008) It’s time to bid farewell to the Doppel Looping. The Miami Herald reports today that this year's Miami-Dade County Fair, which began Mar. 28, will be the last for the classic portable Schwarzkopf roller coaster. The ride has been a fixture at the fair for the past 24 years.

"I don't know what's going to take its place next year, but we'll never be able to replace its magnitude," said Phil Clark, CEO of the fair.

Operated by North American Midway Entertainment, which now includes Conklin Shows, the 2,200-foot-long coaster stands 93-feet-tall and features three 28-passenger trains. It requires two weeks to assemble and 28 tractor-trailers to transport.

Though deemed by the owner to be too costly and too unwieldy to haul around from fair to fair, the coaster is in excellent condition and has a stellar safety record. It is for sale and will hopefully end up installed at a permanent location soon. The coaster (built in 1980) is a twin to the Lazer currently in operation at Pennsylvania’s Dorney Park and has been a highlight at both the South Carolina State Fair and the Canadian National Exhibition.

The Doppel Looping will be thrilling South Floridians through April 13.

Murphy Brothers Exposition buys Wild West World (MAR 26, 2008) The Wichita Eagle reported today that Wild West World has a new owner: Tulsa-based Murphy Brothers Exposition signed a $2 million contract to buy the failed $30 million theme park out of bankruptcy. The sale is scheduled to close May 31, although other bidders will have until May 8 to top the Tulsa group's offer.

The initial plan was to open the park late this summer with 35 rides. Park City officials, though, said they are skeptical that can be accomplished because the park has deteriorated while vacant.

The Murphy business plan estimates $2.2 million in first-year profit, based on 150,000 season attendance, a $15 admission charge and average per-visitor spending of $25 to $32 daily. It includes a plan to run the Johnny Western Theater on-site with a separate company division, focusing on in-season concerts and themed seasonal activities. The plan also includes an ambitious public relations and advertising blitz, including an effort to reach out to season ticket holders victimized by the quick bankruptcy.

Murphy Brothers operates several portable rides at state fairs around the Midwest, most notably the Tulsa State Fair.

The park's purchase, along with $4.2 million for the 35 rides, will be financed by industrial revenue bonds from Park City. Murphy's partners include former Wichitan Michael Chesser, a CPA and mortgage broker, and Dennis Langley, a biofuels entrepreneur who runs E-3 Biofuels near Kansas City.

Morey's Piers asks guests to share memories for new book (MAR 24, 2008) Morey’s Piers is asking guests to Share their memories and help to preserve history in a new book, being published as the company celebrates it’s 40th Anniversary in the coming year. Guests past and present can submit a favorite photo of their experience on one of Morey’s Piers over the last 40 years and the story to go along with it.

When established in 1969, Morey's Piers had simple origins. In 1968, the founders Will and Bill Morey purchased a giant 12-lane fiberglass slide and placed it on what became the site of Surfside Pier. Now 40 seasons later, Morey’s Piers consists of over 100 rides and attractions spanning three amusement piers and two beachfront waterparks. Still family owned and operated, the company mission is “to create a spectacular family recreation experience in a safe, clean, friendly, unique environment”. Morey’s Piers voted one of the best seaside amusement parks in the world in 2007 is known as the largest seaside amusement park in the Western Hemisphere and is the recipient of countless international awards.

To share experiences, write to webmaster@moreyspiers.com or mail to 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood, N.J. 08260. Deadline: April 12, 2008..

Universal Orlando Resort announces new roller coaster for 2009 (MAR 19, 2008) Adrenaline pumping and music thumping, you find yourself heading straight toward the sky. Suddenly, you are doing 65 mph, 17 stories over Universal Studios. Gasping with excitement, you rock out to a song you picked before strapping in. And, it’s all on video. Once the adventure is over, you edit the video to send to your friends.

This is true high-tech, customizable, multi-sensory entertainment. Scheduled to open in spring 2009, Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit will stake its claim as the most technologically advanced roller coaster in the world. The Universal Creative team is combining audio and special effects engineering, sophisticated on- and off-board video and one-of-a-kind guest personalization to create a roller coaster experience unlike any other.

“This is the perfect intersection of the digital age and theme park entertainment,” said Mark Woodbury, President of Creative for Universal Parks & Resorts. “Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit blends roller coaster intensity and guest interaction in a way where no two experiences will be the same.”

Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit touts six near-miss moments and first-ever thrills including a record-breaking loop. Ride vehicles feature the brightest and most innovative color changing LEDs in the world. High-energy visual displays fill the queue line. With up to four ride vehicles on the tracks at any given time, and with concert lighting and special effects mixed in, Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit will be a true high-intensity, multi-sensory experience that is unmatched.

Guests can customize their ride experience by choosing what song will play while they’re on the roller coaster. LED boards in the queue lines will display song options from five genres (classic rock, rap, country, pop and disco). Once on-board, guests can choose their song or let the coaster’s digital sound system choose for them. When the ride is over, guests will be able to customize footage from their experience and compile it into a take-home music video.

Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit will be located near the Jimmy Neutron attraction traveling the southern perimeter of the Universal Studios theme park, over to the CityWalk lagoon and back.

The Eagles name new Hard Rock Park coaster (MAR 18, 2008) Officials at Myrtle Beach’s highly-anticipated Hard Rock Park have announced that legendary rock band, the Eagles, will be making a long-term commitment to the park by naming the ‘Eagles Life in the Fast Lane roller coaster’ (previously called Midnight Rider).

Eagles band members, Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Joe Walsh and Timothy B. Schmit, have gone back into the studio to re-record their famed smash hi – “Life in the Fast Lane” – turning it into a one-of-kind version exclusively for the new ride.

Vekoma Rides Manufacturing has designed and engineered the ride together with its U.S. alliance partner Chance-Morgan. The 2,234-foot-long mine train is the park’s longest coaster and features two lift hills (39 feet and 46 feet). The ride utilizes three 4-car trains and features an on-board, high-fidelity digital audio system to further enhance the ride experience.

Hard Rock Park and its Eagles Life in the Fast Lane roller coaster opens to the public on June 2, 2008.

Six Flags announces first-ever professional theme park cheerleading team, Six Flags Thrilleaders (MAR 18, 2008) Six Flags announced today the launch of the first-ever professional, theme park cheerleading team - Six Flags Thrilleaders. Making their public debut for the 2008 season, the Six Flags Thrillleaders will promote the company’s unique brand of thrilling entertainment and become an integral part of Six Flags’ ever-expanding entertainment offerings.

Under the direction of professional choreographer Tony Gonzalez, cheer/dance choreographer for the 'Bring it On' movie series, the Thrilleaders will captivate Six Flags guests with their explosive, high-energy routines and act as Ambassadors of Thrill throughout the Six Flags family of parks. In addition to performing at parks, the Thrilleaders will also participate in various community, charitable and corporate events.

Auditions for the inaugural team will be held, Saturday, Apr. 19, 2008, from 9 a.m – 4 p.m. at the Doubletree Times Square in New York City. The audition routine will be led by hot, new choreographer and Season 1 contestant on the hit show, So You Think You Can Dance, Ashlé Dawson. The Thrilleaders audition panel of judges will include Tony Gonzalez, Brittany Geragotelis, associate editor for American Cheerleader Magazine, and Kristin Siebeneicher, director of entertainment, Six Flags Great Adventure. Six Flags is looking for the best young women and men in cheerleading, dance and thrills that the nation has to offer. Candidates must be 18 years of age or older by the date of the audition. To pre-register for the auditions, go to www.sixflags.com/thrilleaders. You may also register in person on the day of auditions.

Landscape Structures names new president (MAR 17, 2008) Landscape Structures Inc., a Minnesota-based commercial playground manufacturer, has announced a change in the executive leadership following the passing of company president Barbara King. Pat Faust will take over the role as president, heading up the sales and marketing area as well as overseeing the manufacturing operations of the company. Pat has been with Landscape Structures for 13 years, most recently serving as vice president of operations.

Quassy Web site receives extreme makeover (MAR 13, 2008) An updated version of the Quassy Amusement Park Web site (www.quassy.com) has gone online today after months of behind-the-scenes changes.

“We realize the importance of keeping this major marketing tool fresh and updated,” said Eric Anderson, a Quassy co-owner. “Our goal was to create the most user-friendly site we could while providing a complete overview of the property. We believe we have accomplished what we set out to achieve.”

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