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Digital Issue

Category: Business

Sesame Place Philadelphia welcomes back Michael Taylor as new park president

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — Sesame Place Philadelphia proudly welcomes back Michael Taylor as its new Park President. Taylor brings more than 25 years of experience in the hospitality and entertainment industry, beginning his journey at Sesame Place as a seasonal team member in 1998. Over the years, he has held several key leadership roles, including nearly a […]

JW Winco “Firm Footing”

Sometimes it takes stable foot plates, sometimes slim casters, sometimes hygiene-friendly leveling feet. And JW Winco has them all – because every creation needs a firm basis. Every machine, every test system and every filling station – even high-tech devices like professional 3D printers: none of them floats suspended in the air. They all rest […]

Ride Entertainment promotes industry veteran Amanda Mercado to chief executive officer

STEVENSVILLE, Md. — Ride Entertainment Corp., the attractions-industry leader in sales, service, operations, and financial partnerships, today announced that veteran executive Amanda Mercado has been promoted to Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Ed Hiller, Founder and current CEO, will focus on the continued growth of the company’s financial partnerships, where they are considered to be the […]

IAAPA Give Kids The World Charity Golf Outing — tee-off for a cause that makes a difference!

Tee-off for a cause that makes a difference! Join industry peers for the 21st Annual IAAPA International Charity Golf Tournament, supporting Give Kids The World Village—a nonprofit resort that creates magical weeklong vacations for children with critical illnesses and their families. Enjoy a morning on the green, connect with fellow professionals, and make an impact. Shotgun […]

Ed Connor, NEAAPA Legend, passes away at 85

Ed Connor, who in his decades of working in the attractions industry, passed away on Wednesday, October 8, surrounded by family. Ed worked at Riverside Park, now Six Flags New England, and at the Eastern States Exposition and The Big E. For decades he volunteered for NEAAPA, serving on the board of directors before becoming […]

Hodell-Natco Industries acquires Merit Fasteners

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Hodell-Natco Industries, a leading industrial fastener distributor and solutions provider, announced its acquisition of Merit Fasteners on October 1, 2025. Kevin Reidl, President of Hodell-Natco Industries, collaborated with the owners of Merit Fastener, Linda Anderson, Donna Best, and Laura Napoleon, on a mutually beneficial deal that will expand Hodell-Natco’s nationwide footprint, broaden […]

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines announces new entertainment partnership with RWS Global

LONDON and NEW YORK — Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has today unveiled exciting plans to further elevate its onboard entertainment offering through a new partnership with global entertainment leaders, RWS Global. By actively listening to guests’ verbal and written feedback, Fred. Olsen is evolving its entertainment programme to better reflect what guests want and expect. […]

Loretta Louise (Pfizenmayer) Aldrich — 1940-2025

ORLANDO — Loretta Louise (Pfizenmayer) Aldrich passed away peacefully at her home on October 10, 2025. Born in Glens Falls, New York, on April 12, 1940, to parents Arthur Raymond Pfizenmayer and Margaret Welch Pfizenmayer, Aldrich graduated from Glens Falls High School Class of 1959 with a New York State license in cosmetology. The following […]

NEAAPA to induct two industry legends into Hall of Fame

NEAAPA – The Northeast’s Entertainment Association is proud to announce that two of the organization’s long-time members will be inducted into the NEAAPA Hall of Fame on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Joel Golder, owner of Palace Playland Amusement Park in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, has spent more than 60 years in the amusement industry. Growing […]

Alterface captures the magic at IAAPA Expo Europe

WAVRE, Belgium — Alterface, a leader in interactive attractions, closed a truly magical week at IAAPA Expo Europe. The event was marked by prestigious industry awards, exciting new prospects, and the launch of promising new creative collaborations. The company’s success was highlighted by multiple major industry recognitions, showcasing Alterface’s continuous impact and innovative spirit in themed […]

Mobaro adds Megan Gannon as Solution Sales Manager

Mobaro, a leading provider of safety, maintenance, and operations software, is pleased to announce the appointment of Megan Gannon as its new Solution Sales Manager. In this role, Megan will contribute to growing Mobaro’s presence in the North American market, helping parks and attractions elevate their safety, maintenance, and operations. Prior to joining Mobaro, Megan […]

Sacoa Entertainment celebrates the opening of its new venue at Ronda DOT Baires Shopping

Sacoa Entertainment, the iconic Argentine company with more than 65 years of leadership in the amusement and family entertainment industry, is proud to announce that it celebrated the opening of its newest venue at Ronda DOT Baires Shopping in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This new location marks an exciting milestone in the brand’s expansion, blending Sacoa’s deep legacy of family […]

Har Kupers honored with ASTM’s 2025 Cavanaugh Award

W. CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa. — Har Kupers, corporate executive officer with Sansei Technologies Inc. (and chairman of Vekoma Rides and S&S), was awarded the William T. Cavanaugh Award at ASTM International’s April 2025 Board meeting. Kupers will receive the award in person at the upcoming F24 meeting in Scottsdale, AZ on Friday, October 17th. The Cavanaugh Memorial […]

Efteling and Vekoma present ‘seat-on-wheels’ concept for wheelchair-accessible attractions

Efteling and ride manufacturer Vekoma join forces in social sustainability. Together with experts and representatives of the Dutch association de Zonnebloem, theme park resort Efteling and ride manufacturer Vekoma have developed an innovative concept to increase inclusivity in theme parks, specifically aimed at guests who use wheelchairs. The concept introduces certified seat-on-wheels that can be […]

Seven States Power Corporation and Sevier County Electric System unveil 14 EV charging ports at Dollywood

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Seven States Power Corporation (Seven States), in partnership with Sevier County Electric System (SCES) and Dollywood Parks & Resorts, is proud to announce the ribbon cutting and official unveiling of seven new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations with 14 charging ports and 10 solar-powered umbrella charging units at Dollywood, one of the nation’s leading […]

Knoebels announces next Park President & President Emeritus

ELYSBURG, Pa. — Knoebels Amusement Resort, America’s largest free-admission amusement park, is proud to announce the next chapter in its nearly century-long legacy. Following a shareholder decision, Brian Knoebel has been named the fourth president in the family-owned park’s history, succeeding his father, Richard ‘Dick’ Knoebel, who has served in the role since 1988. “I […]

Beach Volleyball world champs unveils epic festival and entertainment program in partnership with RWS Global

NEW YORK — Volleyball Australia today announced the appointment of RWS Global, the world leader in groundbreaking live moments across entertainment and sport, to deliver the full event presentation, entertainment, and festival program for the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships, Adelaide 2025, this November. The appointment also marks the official release of the festival and entertainment […]

U.K. firm delivers show integration package for Six Flags Qiddiya City

Scruffy Dog Creative Group has revealed details of its work on an extensive show integration package at Six Flags Qiddiya City in Saudi Arabia. The package included large-scale scenic features, animatronic encounters, and kinetic sculptures, each developed to support the park’s storytelling environments. Elements were fabricated from reinforced composites and engineered frameworks, with finishes specified […]

New Embed Ecosystem innovations to debut at IAAPA Expo Orlando 2025

DALLAS, Texas — Embed, the world’s FEC tech partner of choice for the amusement, entertainment, and leisure industries, is set to unveil the latest upgrades to its Embed Ecosystem at IAAPA Expo in Orlando, FL next month. With the Embed Ecosystem’s successful launch at the Amusement Expo International (AEI) and being named AAMA’s Supplier of […]

Dutch Wonderland unveils plans for all-new Dutch Wonderland Inn

LANCASTER, Pa. — Dutch Wonderland, The World’s Best Family Park, is inviting families to make it a night fit for a knight beginning next spring as the park unveils plans for the new Dutch Wonderland Inn. Located just steps away from Dutch Wonderland theme park, the Inn will offer a place where families can sit back, relax, […]

DAFE celebrates 25 years

VIENNA, Ohio —The Dark Attraction & Funhouse Enthusiast (DAFE) celebrates 25 years in the dark in October. DAFE (pronounced “daffy”) Was founded in 2000 by Rick and Sue Davis, and Joel Styer. All were members of the American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) and the National Amusement Park Historical Association (NAPHA) who enjoyed visiting amusement parks around […]

Disney Resort UFCW members win back pay in historic settlement

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Last week, a judge in Orange County, Calif., approved a $233 million settlement of a class action lawsuit against Disney for underpaying its workers in violation of Anaheim County Measure L. This is the largest settlement of its kind in California history and marks the end of a lengthy legal battle to hold […]

CommandCentr and Six Flags Qiddiya City partner to build the future of theme park operations

CommandCentr, the purpose-built operational software solution for the attractions industry, is proud to announce its strategic partnership with Six Flags Qiddiya City, a landmark theme park at the heart of Qiddiya City, the world’s first city built for Play. This collaboration represents a bold step forward in theme park innovation, integrating CommandCentr’s platform from the […]

AAMA and AAMCF announce 2025–2026 slate of officers

CARY, Ill. — The American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA) and the American Amusement Machine Charitable Foundation (AAMCF) are proud to announce their respective Boards of Directors have officially approved the slate of officers for the upcoming 2025–2026 term. The leadership of both organizations plays a vital role in advancing the mission of supporting and strengthening […]

Give Kids The World: A Refreshing way to get back

Give Kids The World is excited to announce a partnership with PATH Water, a sustainable bottled water company, to offer a way to support wish families at Give Kids The World Village. You can help make that partnership a success AND score the first refillable and 100% recyclable bottled water, packaged in a sleek and sturdy […]

Rogue Rides announces first trackless dark ride system at Hunderfossen

BARCELONA — Rogue Rides proudly announces at IAAPA Expo the first installation of its trackless vehicles at Hunderfossen in Norway. The BoldMove engineering and design team selected the innovative trackless vehicles for this exciting new media dark ride, slated for Spring 2026. Meanwhile the new Kamino show control is on its way, with a sleek design […]

Roller acquires BookNow Software, accelerating mission to help operators transform guest experiences

AUSTIN, Texas — ROLLER, the all-in-one venue management platform, today announced it has acquired UK-based BookNow Software, a CRM-native booking and operations platform. The acquisition accelerates ROLLER’s mission to bring more joy to the world by helping venue operators grow faster and deliver exceptional guest experiences. The move strengthens ROLLER’s support for European customers with more […]

WhiteWater showcases global growth across resorts, water parks, and cruise lines

BARCELONA, Spain — At a press conference during IAAPA Expo Europe 2025, WhiteWater, the world’s leading designer and manufacturer of water parks and attractions, unveiled news surrounding its latest projects and products. From first-of-their-kind surf experiences to landmark resort and cruise openings, these developments showcase how WhiteWater continues to shape the future of aquatic entertainment […]

Lumos lights up New Caney this October

NEW CANEY, Texas — A new era of immersive entertainment is coming to the Greater Houston area just in time for seasonal gatherings and celebrations. Lumos, a next-generation entertainment and private event venue, promises to deliver elevated experiences and economic growth in the region. The fun officially begins with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m. […]

Fort Wayne Zoo and Blue Jacket to announce an exciting partnership

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Fort Wayne Zoo and Blue Jacket invite members of the media for a press conference at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 25th at Franke Park Pavillion 1 to announce a partnership that is sure to excite the local community. Rick Schuiteman, Executive Director of the Fort Wayne Zoo, and Anthony Hudson, […]

IATP hosts successful Annual Conference at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort in Maricopa, Arizona

HARRISBURG, Pa. — The International Adventure & Trampoline Park Association (IATP) concluded its 2025 Annual Conference, held September 8–10 at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort in Maricopa, Arizona. The event brought together park operators, suppliers, and industry leaders from across the globe for three days of learning, networking, and celebration. The conference kicked off with a dynamic […]

Laser Tag Tournament players raise funds for Epilepsy Foundation

Laser tag players from across six states participated in Tag 4 A Cause, helping to raise over $1100 to benefit the Epilepsy Foundation. This was included as a side event during the September Laser Storm regional draft tournament held at Skyway Laser Storm in Warren, Ohio with the fundraiser portion of the event organized by laser tag […]

Industry professionals raise $5,000 for Coaster Museum

PLAINVIEW, Texas — The National Roller Coaster Museum and Archives (NRCMA) is proud to announce that over $5,000 was raised recently at the annual Golden Ticket Awards Golf Tournament, held this year in Charlotte, NC. These funds will go towards the purchase of the museum’s electrical system, the next major project as the facility’s construction […]

Embed chosen as cashless tech provider for Six Flags Qiddiya City

DUBAI, UAE — Embed, the world’s FEC tech partner of choice for the amusement, entertainment, and leisure industries, is proud to announce its partnership with Six Flags Qiddiya City. This next-generation theme park makes history as the first-ever Six Flags park to be designed and built from the ground up outside North America since 1971, redefining […]

TEA announces 2025 TEA Masters inductees 

BURBANK, Calif. — Today, TEA, the Themed Entertainment Association, announced the 2025 TEA Masters of their Craft honorees.   The TEA Masters recognize the achievements of individuals – creators, managers, designers, writers, producers, engineers, and craftspeople – who have made a significant and lasting contribution to the themed entertainment industry through innovation, design, craftsmanship, leadership, and/or […]

Play Playground Aanounces Sunday Football offers, Industry Nights

LAS VEGAS — Play Playground, Las Vegas’ most playful social game experience and bar, announces two new weekly promotions designed to bring together football fans and hospitality workers alike. Every Sunday through December, Play Playground transforms into a sports fan hub with game day promos that make it the ultimate pre- and post-game destination. Football fans […]

DOF Robotics takes its global success story to the stock market

DOF Robotics, which has revolutionized the robotics industry with high-tech simulation systems and educational stories, is the recipient of numerous prestigious awards and is going public. The IPO represents a strategic step on DOF Robotics’ sustainable growth path and will play a significant role in investing in high-value-added projects, increasing production capacity, and expanding into […]

Miziker Entertainment to produce the 32nd Annual TEA Thea Awards Gala

BURBANK, Calif. — Today, the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA), is proud to announce it has selected Miziker Entertainment, a global leader in the design and production of live shows, parades and memorable guest experiences, to provide creative direction and production services for the 32nd Annual Thea Awards Gala. The TEA Thea Awards honor the outstanding spaces, places, […]

Holland Fiberglass welcomes Samuel Mailender as vice president of operations

TAMPA, Fla. — Holland Fiberglass, an affiliate of the Ralph S. Alberts Company, Inc. is pleased to announce the hiring of Samuel Mailender as the company’s new Vice President of Operations. With more than 20 years of experience in operations, engineering, and project leadership, Samuel joins Holland Fiberglass after a successful career at Universal Orlando […]

Alterface unveils new Interactive Concept Design Service

WAVRE, Belgium — Alterface, a global leader in interactive attractions, is launching a new Interactive Concept Design service to help operators, designers, and suppliers develop attractions where interactivity is built in from day one. The attractions marketplace is increasingly competitive, with guests demanding immersive storytelling, personalization, and re-playability. To meet these expectations, interactivity must be […]

Hauntrepreneurs announces turnkey ‘Mayhem Manor’ haunted attraction for rapid deployment rental

OCOEE, Fla. — Hauntrepreneurs, the internationally recognized themed attraction design firm led by industry veteran Leonard Pickel, today announced the availability of its popular Mayhem Manor haunted house for seasonal and short-term rental. The 1,400-square-foot, Victorian house-themed attraction is a complete, turnkey solution designed for event operators seeking a high-quality, professional haunt without the significant capital investment […]

FACE Amusement and Guy Fieri Foundation bring teddy bears to Central Park for the annual New York City Buddy Walk

NEW YORK, N.Y.— FACE Amusement Group joined forces with The Guy Fieri Foundation and National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) for the 30th Annual NYC Buddy Walk® at Times Square, one of the country’s largest Down syndrome advocacy and awareness events.  Gathering in Times Square, more than 2,500 participants joined the Buddy Walk to celebrate community, shift perceptions, and stand for greater opportunities for individuals with Down […]