Wilderness at the Smokies nearly doubles size

of indoor water park

AT: Jeffrey Seifert

jseifert@amusementtoday.com

SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. — The newly opened indoor water park expansion at the Wilderness at the Smokies Lodge started welcoming guests on December 19, on the park’s 15th anniversary, just in time for the holiday season. The $40 million expansion, with an additional 40,000 square feet, almost doubles the size of the indoor water park, Wild WaterDome. Among the key attractions is Ridge Runner, a three-story water coaster from WhiteWater West of British Columbia, Canada. The master-blaster-style coaster features three steep drops, uphill blasts, and the first-of-its-kind Reverse AquaLucent effect, in which thrill seekers traverse through clear sections of enclosed tube highlighted with colorful patterns.

Riders on Ridge Runner board two-person rafts and upon dispatch plunge down a 22-foot drop reaching speeds up to 29 mph before encountering the first uphill blast. That propels them into a right hairpin turn inside the first Reverse AquaLucent section, which is punctuated with colorful dots. A second drop leads into an open flume, followed by an uphill blast into a sharp left turn inside another Reverse AquaLucent tube with striped patterns. The water coaster drop and turn sequence repeats a third time into a final set of patterns inside another Reverse AquaLucent tube. For the finale, riders loop through a dark tube before finishing in the open runout section.

The expansion also includes the Kaleidoscope Kavern Lazy River, which, as the name implies, has guests floating through a dreamlike universe that features an immersive multimedia tunnel with video projection, dynamic lighting and a spatialized soundtrack. As guests float through Kaleidoscope Kavern’s immersive tunnel, they encounter visions and soundscapes inspired by the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, including fireflies, starlit skies and Tennessee’s changing seasons. The special effects and the custom soundtrack were created by Moment Factory, a multimedia entertainment company headquartered in Montreal, Canada, that specializes in the design of immersive environments. Many visitors to the Smoky Mountain region will already be familiar with Moment Factory’s projects, which include Astra Lumina, the enchanted night walk at nearby Anakeesta in Gatlinburg (see AT Vol. 26 Issue 9, Dec. 2022).

According to Pete Tennis, managing director, “There are actually nine ‘themes’ in this immersive journey that guests can experience. Some are more realistic, and others are fantasy. They include the sight of dancing fireflies; the changing seasons; the sound of water; chromatic currents; the evolving cycle of life; and my personal favorite, Aurora + Aqua Borealis, where the worlds of water and sky collide as if you are dreaming.

“This is literally a one-of-a-kind lazy river that was created specifically for our resort. The lights and mesmerizing patterns are projected upon the tunnel’s walls, the tubes and even the guests’ bodies, and then when you combine it with the sounds of nature, it really makes this immersive experience an incredible odyssey. I can’t wait for everyone to experience it,” added Tennis.

The latest attraction opening as this issue goes to press will be the water park’s new Lookout Lagoon rooftop pool with a glass edge, set for completion by mid-March 2024. The pool takes advantage of the waterpark’s expanded rooftop by adding a glass-edge pool providing stunning views of the Smoky Mountain range. This area will also be home to the Peak Rooftop Bar and Eatery, three rooftop cabanas, and an entertainment stage for live performances. For convenience, an elevator will transport guests to and from this area.

The master planning, design and build was overseen by Aquatic Development Group (ADG) of Cohoes, New York. ADG’s relationship with Wilderness Resorts dates back several decades. ADG was the original design/builder of the Wilderness at the Smokies indoor water park in 2009, and before that, played the role of design and equipment supplier at Wilderness Resort in the Wisconsin Dells. ADG more recently worked with Wilderness Development Corp. on the award-winning $90 million outdoor water park Soaky Mountain, in 2020, which is situated just across the street from the Wilderness at the Smokies resort. It was the only new water park construction in North America to finish and open during the COVID-19 global pandemic.

“We were thrilled for the opportunity to once again collaborate with Wilderness Resorts for this exciting and creative water park expansion,” said Jim Dunn, president of ADG. “We love working with longtime clients, who trust our ability to be innovative in design, while still meeting their needs.”

ADG was also instrumental in the renovation of the Snapping Turtle Indoor/Outdoor Play Lagoon and the Magnolia Grove hot spa. Wilderness requested ADG develop a creative design to convert a portion of the existing indoor/outdoor pool and the existing spa. The new area has ample seating, including 25 feet of benches inside for people to relax on and 45 feet of benches outside. The water is heated to a pleasant 101 degrees, and there are plenty of jets releasing water so guests can unwind and fully enjoy the relaxing part of their Wilderness vacation. Younger guests looking to expend energy can enjoy a 1,055-square-foot activity pool with a three-sided basketball hoop feature in the center allowing groups to “hoop it up” with friends.

Portions of the existing Wild WaterDome were upgraded so that along with the new addition, the park now offers 500 more seats, along with nine more cabanas. Six were added to the mezzanine level and three to the new rooftop area.

“The expansion practically doubles the footprint of our indoor waterpark and provides more opportunities for guests of all ages to spread out and enjoy a diverse array of attractions, said Tennis. “Guests absolutely love Kaleidoscope Kavern because they have never seen anything like it. The water coaster is a true hit with those who like an adventure, and Lookout Lagoon is the perfect setting to just relax and take in the beauty of the Smokies.”

Wilderness at the Smokies is the fourth development created by the Wilderness Development Corporation — a family-owned and operated company that started its legacy in Wisconsin Dells.

The first resort, Wilderness Hotel & Golf Resort opened in the Dells in June 1995 with 443 units, the Fort Wilderness indoor water park, two outdoor pools and a hot tub. Today the Wisconsin development includes three properties totaling nearly 500,000 square feet and offers four indoor and four outdoor water parks.

Wilderness at the Smokies opened in June 2008 with the 234-room Stone Hill Lodge and Salamander Springs outdoor water park. Later that same year in December, the 472-suite River Lodge and Wild WaterDome indoor water park opened. The resort has grown to become Tennessee’s largest year-round water park resort. Along with the newly expanded Wild WaterDome, the resort encompasses the Stone Hill Lodge; River Lodge suites and 20 Villas; two seasonal outdoor waterparks; an indoor family entertainment center; a variety of dining and shopping options; a 36-hole championship golf course adjacent to the resort; and more than 200,000 square feet of meeting and convention space adjacent to Stone Hill Lodge.

Intamin supplies Catapult Falls

SeaWorld San Antonio debuts the world’s first launched flume attraction

AT: Tim Baldwin

tbaldwin@amusementtoday.com

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Although announced for 2023, the highly anticipated Catapult Falls made its debut after final tests and modifications were made on the first-of-its-kind water ride this past winter.

“SeaWorld San Antonio is thrilled to open Catapult Falls, the world’s first launched flume coaster, which also boasts the steepest drop on a ride of its kind,” said SeaWorld San Antonio Park President Jodi Davenport, at the ride’s opening. “The highly anticipated flume coaster is the perfect family ride for our guests, giving them another way to cool off at SeaWorld.”

Log flumes have been staples in theme parks since the first one debuted in 1963. Over time, many have disappeared from parks, typically owing to age. Upon opening, Catapult Falls has some distinctive features to make it stand out.

Among its bragging rights is the steepest drop on a flume ride. At 53 degrees, the 37 mph plunge dives below a queuing bridge into an airtime hill before making its spectator splash into the final pool.

“The view from the top of the lift is gorgeous. You really feel even higher than you actually are. You have a bird’s-eye-view of the park,” said Ray Gonzales, marketing manager.

But that’s only the beginning — or in this case, the finale. Leading up to the exhilarating dive is the world’s first launch on a flume ride. Supplied by Intamin, the innovative feature uses belts to propel the boats at 30 feet per second. As riders skim above the surface of the water, sprays of refreshment cool riders before the boats rise over a hill and dip into the first of two splashdown pools.

“What took me by surprise was just how smooth it is. It is about five minutes long from the time you get into the boat until the time you get out — so it is nice and long. I think the biggest thing that blew my mind was the launch,” Gonzales told Amusement Today. “It’s just different; you’ve never felt anything like that on any type of [flume] ride.”

Another iconic component of the ride is the vertical lift tower. Like at its sister park in San Diego and its flume coaster, San Antonio’s Catapult Falls lifts riders quickly and dramatically to the highest part of the ride — 55 feet.

Riders only have seconds to take in the gorgeous view before plunging into the attraction’s climax.

The splash zone pays homage to the park’s original flume. In 1991, SeaWorld San Antonio added its first ride, Texas Splashdown. This Arrow log flume was originally built at Boardwalk and Baseball in Florida in 1987. When that property closed in 1990, the flume was relocated to San Antonio and was a huge hit. After two decades of operation in San Antonio, the park retired the ride in 2011, but fans will note the subtle wink to its history as Catapult Fall’s splash area is named Texas Splashdown Zone.

“For a lot of people, Texas Splashdown has a special place in their hearts. It was the first ride here at the park — and the first ride at any of the SeaWorld parks,” Gonzales noted. “The ride was aging, and the manufacturer didn’t exist anymore, so when it was time for that ride to go, there were people that were heartbroken that it was gone. When we announced this ride, there was a lot of enthusiasm for bringing a flume back again.”

The entire ride is completely new. The only things repurposed from the original attraction were the queue structures, which in the past were sometimes used as haunts during the park’s Halloween festival.

Feeling completely fresh, Catapult Falls incorporates a National Park vibe.

“Once we saw what the ride was going to look like and the area that we were going to put it in, we had a bunch of trees here. Together, we came up with this idea to have a National Park feel to it,” Gonzales told AT. “That was something specific to our park and to our area here in San Antonio. Once we chose that theming, you see that this is the most themed attraction we’ve ever done here at the park.”

Among the thematic elements are campsites, geysers and fun signage, a few of which will make locals chuckle. Strolling through the queue houses, guests will look up and see rowing oars, fishing poles and other objects to set the stage for outdoor recreation. An original soundtrack heard throughout the queuing structures was specifically created for the park.

A billboard seen as a showpiece during the ride features a hiker standing before Catapult Falls. Those in the know, particularly park staff, will note initials on the hiker.

“George Ronald Hurley was our manager of general services. He had been here for years. He was probably one of the best general maintenance professionals when it comes to rides and attractions,” said Gonzales. “Unfortunately, during the construction of this ride, we lost Georgie. For us, this is a tribute. This was going to be the last ride he was going to work on. His initials are found on the hiker that appears on the billboard.”

Like the majority of SeaWorld attractions, there is an educational message to be found.

“We actually worked with the San Antonio River Authority,” Gonzales said. “It tells you the importance of rivers in the area. We give you a nice little story as you go throughout our queue.”

With year-round operation, SeaWorld San Antonio can have warm days early in the year. However, the addition of another water ride is a blessing.

“As you know, summers in South Texas can be brutal,” Gonzales said. “The families that come to the park are looking for another way to get refreshed, and Catapult Falls delivers with that. You will get soaked.”

The park offers two other water rides. One is another Intamin ride, Rio Loco, a rapids ride. A Mack Rides Super Splash also provides splashing fun. The three water attractions are spread throughout the park. In addition to the water rides, Intamin also provided a launch coaster over the park’s lake in 2017.

Guests as short as 42 inches can ride with an adult or alone at 48 inches. Each boat seats eight passengers with a lap bar restraint. When all 11 boats are in service, the ridership can reach 1,000 people per hour. A moving conveyor in the station helps reach full capacity.

Preserving the experience

INDUSTRY VOICE: Jimmy Titko, American Coaster Enthusiasts

On February 2, 2024, The Lakemont Partnership (current operators of Lakemont Park, Altoona, Pennsylvania) announced that no rides would operate during the 2024 season. This includes Leap-the-Dips.

Leap-the-Dips is not just the world’s oldest roller coaster, it is a time capsule into the American way of life of 120 years ago. Roller coasters like Leap-the-Dips dotted the map across America and were mainstays of American life in the early 1900s. Between 1889 and 1922 nearly 400 of these rides were operated across the United States. Little towns like Silver Lake, Ohio, to the biggest cities like Chicago, Illinois, shared one thing in common: a roller coaster like Leap-the-Dips.

Now, only one remains.

The history of the ride is easy to document. Records are kept, pictures taken, stories written, books published. But the one thing that cannot be captured is the lived experience of generations taking a ride on the Leap-the-Dips. Five generations of kids getting off Leap-the-Dips and telling their parents how wild that little nine foot drop was. These lived experiences connect us.

American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) is committed to doing everything we can to support the continued operation of this (now) one-of-a-kind roller coaster. ACE has contributed nearly $150,000 to Leap-the-Dips in our organization's history. ACE was there in the late 1980s when the wrecking ball seemed inevitable and in 1999 when Leap-the-Dips returned to give another generation of memories. Today, ACE is here to support any operator that shares our passion for Leap-the-Dips and its continued operation for generations to come.

No headline for you!

AT NOTEBOOK: John W.C. Robinson, jrobinson@amusementtoday.com

Controversy grabs headlines. Controversy uses the media as free marketing. Controversy often generates a public outcry that was never there before. Controversy — in some cases — is manufactured purely just for attention.

Ingrid Newkirk, president of PETA (from here on out referred to as "that group"), wrote a letter to Chance Rides recently in an attempt to urge the company to stop manufacturing carousels with horses and other animals for patrons to ride on. In the letter, that group is claiming “...Animal-themed carousel sets reinforce the notion that these sentient beings are simply here for our entertainment.”

I'll be open and up-front, I am an animal lover and have spent many hours of my personal time helping rescue, medicate, nurture and protect stray, abused and neglected animals. When my first pet, a cat, attacked a baby bunny, my mother and I spent days trying to nurse it back to health. I've protested outside of courthouses when abused animals were returned to their abusers.

That group — on the other hand — euthanizes nearly 70% of the animals it "rescues." That group protests medical animal testing and yet had a high-ranking, high-profile executive who was kept alive via a medicine made possible by animal testing. That group will lead protests against circus animals at Ringling Bros. Circus performances, but ignore the smaller touring circuses with the exact same performing animals ... because protests at smaller circuses won't garner headline attention.

That group is all about getting itself attention and causing controversy for the sake of controversy. They use no scientific study or psychologically-backed theories in the assertion against Chance Rides and other carousel manufacturers, they just use bold statements hoping to garner more and more press, and encourage donations to flow that group's way.

Amusement Today's believes that group's unnecessary attack is worth addressing to our industry as a whole. However, that group won't get a headline, needless mentions or any further ink in this publication.

Teaming with the Wonder Squad

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — At the opening of Morgan’s Wonderland’s largest expansion to date, Michael Coleman of Zamperla wanted to have his picture taken with the park’s Wonder Squad. Morgan’s Wonderland’s “team” turns disabilities into super-abilities. Zamperla was a supplier of one of the four new attractions, and Coleman wanted to be on hand to see first riders and be inspired to further Zamperla’s initiative of inclusion, believing everyone deserves to have fun. [See the full details of this expansion in the May 2024 issue of Amusement Today.] AT/TIM BALDWIN

Vekoma introduces multiple new attractions to its product line

AT: Tim Baldwin

tbaldwin@amusementtoday.com

VLODROP, The Netherlands — An undeniable powerhouse in today’s coaster manufacturing world, Vekoma is spreading its wings a little wider. Or to say it differently, taking flight or making a splash.

A new water ride being developed is called Beat It. The boat ride features two channels with dual lifts and drops. While ascending the lift, riders start beating the drum installed in front of them. The winning boat causes water effects to douse the opposing vessel.

Each boat seats 12 riders, each with his or her own drum.

“The idea of the Beat It ride was to create a unique boat ride with active interactions between riders (drummers!) and with a grand finale — the losing boat gets soaked by the winning boat,” said Ricardo Tonding Etges, sales, The Americas. “The winning boat basically gets down the drop after the losing boat, generating the splash. That’s how we came up with the Beat It ride, using existing proven technology of boat rides and integrating a special touch to the ride experience. We are currently working on a couple of groundbreaking projects using the system, and we can’t wait to experience them.”

How is it determined which boat is louder? Each seat has its own drum including sound feedback.

“Guests are able to influence the ride experience given that the drums’ inputs will be used to determine the average boat output, which can be the number of drum hits or even the rhythm,” Tonding Etges told Amusement Today. “The show control is directly connected to the ride control, allowing for the different outcomes of the ride.”

Tonding Etges said Vekoma’s suspended water coaster has been upgraded. These upgrades use the latest technologies when it comes to track design, trains and interactive elements, with a maintenance-friendly interface and a fun ride experience that combines a water battle with a coaster experience.

Tonding Etges says the advanced concept has garnered attention. “Since the [IAAPA Expo], “we’ve seen traction with both dry and water parks that want to create a new kind of water ride experience.”

The trains are equipped with reservoirs on the front coaches that release a water bomb over nonriders in designated areas. Water blasters, geysers and other elements can be placed at ground level to create interaction with spectators and riders.

Although unable to offer any further details, Vekoma hinted that two have been sold.

In even further news, Vekoma is introducing its own suspended dark ride. AT asked what makes a Vekoma ride system different than what others might supply.

“Our suspended dark ride system was designed with the objective of disrupting the dark ride segment by creating a truly innovative, one-of-a-kind dark ride experience, using a combination of the suspended position of the passenger, the fully-programmable 360 degrees rotation and the possibility of creating pitch and roll motions by the dynamics of the ride,” noted Tonding Etges. “The ride has been fully tested at our factory and the experience is truly exceptional.”

According to Vekoma materials, the vehicle is designed for the entire family, including passengers three years and up. The swing of the vehicle provides a very natural feel and smooth ride experience. The rotation unit built into each vehicle can face passengers in any direction.

Based on a ride length of four to five minutes, Vekoma has established a ride capacity of 816 passengers per hour. This comes from approximately 70 riders aboard vehicles at the same time. Vekoma also promotes that the vehicles are easily reachable for maintenance.

While the manufacturer can customize to any customer, an engineered design shows a concept built for an indoor space of 60.4 meters (almost 200 feet) by 53.2 meters (175 feet), with 32 feet of height. Vekoma would be the supplier of the ride system, but the nature of the indoor scenes — with the options of physical sets, video screens or interactive experiences — would be a partnership at the customer’s discretion. This configuration would feature 17 vehicles, each seating four passengers.

Environment will feature Shrek, Trolls Trollercoaster and Kung Fu Panda

DreamWorks Land opening Summer 2024 at Universal Orlando

ORLANDO — This summer, Universal Orlando Resort will debut DreamWorks Land — a vibrant new themed environment inspired by DreamWorks Animation’s characters from the Shrek, Trolls and Kung Fu Panda film franchises.

Located in the Universal Studios Florida theme park, the expansive area will feature tons of fun for the entire family and include a family-friendly coaster, multiple interactive play areas, live entertainment, character meet-and-greets and more.

As soon as guests step into the new land, the vivid world and imagination of DreamWorks Animation will surround them as they embark on exciting adventures like exploring Shrek’s Swamp just outside of his 35-foot-tall cottage, taking a ride on a dazzling Trollercoaster, interacting with Po in the Panda Village and meeting favorite characters like Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse. Guests will also discover unique treats, photo-op-worthy murals, interactive play areas, splash pads and entertainment offerings themed to popular DreamWorks stories.

The 700-acre Universal Orlando resort is home to three theme parks — Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Volcano Bay — boasting innovative and immersive experiences.

Universal Hollywood's legendary Studio Tour celebrates 60 years

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. — In 1964, Universal Studios Hollywood rolled out its fleet of Glamor Trams, inviting tourists to “see film rushes of current productions, both feature and television, being made at Universal City,” according to the attraction’s original press release issued on July 4, 1964.

It was a novel concept to invite the public to be a fly on the wall of movie and television production. After all, no one else had ever conceived of the idea. The iconic red and white Glamor Trams, with their ruffled awnings, were staged five times a day, each lasting just over two hours.

2024 celebrates the Studio Tour’s milestone 60 years, the more than 200 million guests who have experienced this attraction and, ultimately, Universal Studios Hollywood’s storied history. More information will be shared soon highlighting the exciting program planned for spring and summer in support of the Studio Tour’s 60th anniversary.

During its inaugural year, behind-the-scenes special effects featured a brief make-up demonstration, a display of costumes by renowned costume designer Edith Head, an energetic two-man stunt performance and a tour of picturesque outdoor film sets. The following year, Universal expanded its scope of entertainment to feature live entertainment that included a stunt show, animal show and screen test comedy theatre — all a precursor to what would eventually lead to the development of Universal Studios Hollywood theme park.

The point of entry for visiting guests at that time was at The Tourist Center, located at the Universal Commissary Building, where make-up artist demonstrations, trick photography and special props were on display.

That was 60 years ago, and while much has transpired in six decades, the Studio Tour has remained true to its roots of immersing guests in the awe-inspiring world of movie-making magic and providing remarkable access to production sets on a real studio lot. The once celebrated Glamor Trams are long gone and have been replaced with a contemporary 60-minute experience, infused with advanced technology that enlightens and entertains millions of film buffs, theme park fans and tourists alike visiting from across the globe. With its sights on the future, the Studio Tour is in the midst of converting its fleet of 21 diesel-hydraulic engines to electric trams to help reduce carbon emissions and improve the guest experience by reducing noise associated with the diesel-hydraulic engine.

And yet, aspects of the Glamor Tram have remained constant over this astonishing six-decade span.

Studio Tour Guides were central to the operations of the Glamor Tram tours then and remain vital to the success of the Studio Tour today. Numerous times a day, professionally trained Studio Tour Guides interact with guests, educating them on the inner workings of the movie and television lot, armed with insider information and first-hand accounts, and entertain them with tours in both English and Spanish.

The role of a Studio Tour Guide has become a highly sought-after position in recent years with candidates auditioning from around the globe for a coveted spot — and for good reason. Studio Tour Guides have evolved over time into a Hollywood “apprenticeship.” Dozens of producers, directors, performers, movie and TV professionals, as well as industry executives, began their careers as Studio Tour Guides, and to this day, rank among the leaders shepherding the Studio Tour and Universal Studios Hollywood into the future.

The Studio Tour of today continues to build on its rich history and like many great blockbuster films, creates a foundation for the next big sequel … and therein lies the origins of Universal Studios Hollywood.

More than four decades in the industry finds Guglielmi still smiling

AT: Ron Gustafson

Special to Amusement Today

NASHVILLE, Tenn. —It's not surprising that Gina Guglielmi looks forward to going to work every day.

As president of Intermark Ride Group (IRG), she has a storied career in the amusement industry dating back more than 40 years and readily admits loving the journey it has taken her on.

“I was 14 when I got my first real job at the Canfield Fair in Canfield Ohio,” she recalled during a recent interview with Amusement Today.

“I wanted to be a ride operator, but couldn't because of my age,” Guglielmi said before breaking into a chuckle. “So, I ended up babysitting for two sideshow folks: the lion-faced lady and tattooed man.”

After attending Youngstown State University, Youngstown, Ohio, Guglielmi moved to Nashville where she was able to get a firsthand grasp on the workings of the publishing side of the industry at the former trade journal Amusement Business (AB).

“I had just moved from Ohio and landed a position in the circulation department at AB,” she noted. “We would ship out bundles of the latest edition to carnival owners and others, where they were resold to generate income for the show agents.”

She recalled that her tenure at AB was like being in a revolving door as up-and-coming talent at the time — including Reba McEntire and others — would stop in for visits with the editorial staff.

“It was an amazing place to work,” Guglielmi noted. “It was a great opportunity for me, as well as a crazy time.”

On the road with legends

In her first promotion within the publication, Guglielmi became the assistant to the publisher and the job required a lot of travel. Her inaugural road gig was with late AB legends Tom Powell (writer and editor) and Ray Pilszak (sales manager).

Packed into a car, Powell and Pilszak took the front seat while Guglielmi was given doggy-sitting duties in the back with Pilszak's new puppy.

“So, here we are driving from Nashville to Gibtown (for the International Showmen's Association Extravaganza and Trade Show, Gibsonton, Fla.) with me sitting in the back seat with Ray's whining puppy that he has to take to his mother in Kissimmee, Florida,” Guglielmi reminisced about the journey. “It was insane between the dog and the two of them screaming at each other about sports teams and betting.”

As a first-timer at the much-ballyhooed Gibtown show, Guglielmi had no idea of what to expect in assisting to promote the popular publication at the event.

“When we pulled in — what a surprise!” she recalled. “I was expecting to see some huge indoor trade show at a convention center, but we were at a booth in a breezeway with a bar attached to it.”

She was quick to point out that after settling into the surroundings and getting to know more about the Gibtown show, she had a much greater appreciation and respect for it, as well as the people she met there.

Guglielmi was drawn to the supplier side of the industry after attending her first International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Expo while with AB.

“That's where I discovered how vast the industry was,” she noted. “There were so many ride manufacturers I didn't know about and people from all over the world. It was amazing!”

On to new things

While her time at AB certainly provided some unforgettable experiences, Guglielmi was destined to break away on her own and in 1987 started a small marketing firm, The Intermark Group, focusing on the amusement industry.

In 1990 she moved on to become a partner at Ital International, a ride brokerage firm based in Nashville that — at the time — represented Chance Rides, as well as the used ride market.

“We eventually became the North American representatives for Italian ride manufacturers Sartori and Bertazzon,” she said of the 15-year position in which she gained priceless experience in dealing with the new and used rides markets.

As a seasoned veteran of the industry, Guglielmi made her boldest career move in 2006 by launching Intermark Ride Group.

“I'm the sole proprietor,” she pointed out. “I had two young children at the time, and in thinking back, it really took persistence and perseverance to get started.”

She admitted, “I was lucky then because some industry people 'took a chance with the new girl.' Leslie Shaver, also a former 'AB girl,' has been with the company since the beginning and has been instrumental to the growth and success of IRG with sales, website maintenance and shipping logistics.”

Today's company

IRG has a stellar portfolio of ride companies it represents today, including Italian manufacturers Fabbri Group, Gosetto and Preston & Barbieri. In addition, the company works with Ride Engineers Switzerland (RES), multiple train and people-mover firms and sells used equipment. IRG also specializes in equipment appraisals and facilitates the sale of existing parks and other attractions.

It's also a family affair at Guglielmi's firm as the eldest daughter, Giuliana, works as project manager and “keeps mom on track.” Daughter, Nicoletta, is a veterinarian and both children reside in Nashville.

Reflecting on her earliest days at IRG, one of the “best sales” in getting her feet wet was selling a KMG (The Netherlands) Fireball from the former Celebration City in Branson, Mo., to the late Frank Briggs with Modern Midways, Dyer, Ind.

“It was mostly men in our industry then, and it took time for me to build up a reputation. Frank was one of the first to put his trust in me,” she said. “Starting up a business, I also had to keep expenses low and working from my home office was a bonus for the company, my children and the dogs.”

What's hot

According to Guglielmi, Fabbri Group's sales have been solid over the past few years.

“The Middle East is booming, while Europe is strong and our domestic push has been very successful,” she emphasized. “Fabbri's Booster has been very popular, and we recently delivered a 40-meter version to Talley Amusements in Texas. We have a second Booster in production for the U.S. market.”

An 85-meter Ferris wheel was just installed in Central Mexico, while Paul Joseph of Baltimore's Jolly Shows went to the Fabbri facility to see his new Pirate ship in production.

Guglielmi was amazed at the story Joseph returned with and shared the following: “I talked with Paul last night after he got back from Italy. He actually took his work clothes with him and helped to drill bally cloth holes on the new ride at the factory!”

Gosetto, which specializes in funhouses, dark rides and other attractions, has had “a fantastic couple of last years.” Powers and Thomas Midway Entertainment, Wilmington, N.C., and Cole Shows Amusement Co., Covington, Va., both took delivery of Gosetto's double-deck New York New York walk-through funhouse. Fiesta Shows, Seabrook, N.H., received a custom-themed Fun Factory funhouse in December.

U.S. carnival operators North American Midway Entertainment and Deggeller Attractions both have had Family Swingers delivered by Preston & Barbieri. The Italian supplier also designed one-of-a-kind characters, as well as themed panels on the new Journey of the Animals carousel at Ark Encounter, Williamstown, Ky.

Palace Playland, Old Orchard Beach, Maine, introduced a Preston & Barbieri HyperJump flat ride last August.

Ride Engineers Switzerland's biggest U.S. installment to date is 2020's Mystic River Falls raft ride at Silver Dollar City, Branson, Mo. The $23 million attraction has a unique elevator lift, a startling 45-foot drop and a total run of 2,100 feet.

Adventureland, Long Island, N.Y., took delivery of Roller Ball, an RES vertical coaster in 2022.

Optimistic

She sees a bright future in the business, commenting, “The past two years have been great for companies, and they see the need for continued investment. We are on a positive upswing, and I'm optimistic about the South American market. I'm hoping they are next on my list.”

In conclusion, she said: “When I think about all of the positive memories I have had in this industry — visiting parks, fairs, events, carnival operators over the years — I never forget we are in the business of people: the customers I serve and the people they serve. People, families having fun together; laughter, joy, excitement, experiences that are forever remembered — what a great career it has been so far.”

New ride, more announced

for Six Flags Over Texas

ARLINGTON, Texas — Six Flags Over Texas announced new park enhancements for the 2024 season. One new ride, Sylvester and Tweety Pounce and Bounce, and one returning ride, Daffy Duck Bucket Blasters, will open in the Bugs Bunny Boomtown section of the park Memorial Day weekend. A retheming of the classic Chaparral Antique Cars into Dino Off Road Adventure will follow later in the summer.

Sylvester and Tweety Pounce and Bounce (Zamperla) is a family drop tower that lifts riders 41 feet in the air before beginning a sequence of downward pounces and upward bounces.

The returning Daffy Duck Bucket Blasters is a spinning ride that features water blasters on its bucket-shaped guest compartments so riders can spray each other while the ride is in motion. It is returning to the park after a three-year absence. The ride was removed in 2021 during the construction of Aquaman: Power Wave and is now returning in a new location..

"For 63 years, generations of guests have come to the park to have fun and experience thrills with their families," said Park President Richard Douaihy. "We're so pleased that these new attractions will offer our guests the opportunity to make even more memories with the people who matter most."

Additional park enhancements include new theming elements in the queues for Batman: The Ride and Mr. Freeze as well as the building of a permanent structure for the Boomtown Bar.

Later this summer, Dino Off Road Adventure will revamp the second-oldest attraction in the park with new cars, a redecorated queue, and 13 dinosaur animatronics along the ride’s route.

Sally Dark Rides adds Care Bears IP

to its roster of available dark rides

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Sally Dark Rides has entered a marketing partnership with Cloudco Entertainment to bring a Care Bears family dark ride experience to the attractions marketplace. Introduced in 1982 through consumer products, greeting cards, and later a series of animated television shows and feature films, Care Bears is one of the most popular and endearing children’s properties in the world. Fans of all ages are drawn to the lovable, huggable bears from Care-A-Lot who inspire all to have fun, share, and care. In this family-friendly dark ride attraction, guests board moving “Cloud Cars” and are immediately immersed in a bright and colorful environment filled with special effects including sounds, scents, themed lighting, hand-crafted set pieces and cuddly Care Bears animatronic characters. “We are incredibly excited at the opportunity to bring the world of Care Bears to life by way of an immersive dark ride attraction,” said Lauren Weaver, vice president of business development and marketing with Sally Dark Rides. “With such worldwide popularity from kids and adults alike, we see incredible potential with this nostalgic, huggable, colorful, and inclusive brand. We whole-heartedly believe this family dark ride would be successful in any theme park or entertainment center around the world.” Courtesy CLOUDCO ENTERTAINMENT

Falcon's Beyond, Hershey partner to

create themed-experience attractions

ORLANDO — Falcon’s Beyond Global, Inc. announced a licensing agreement with The Hershey Company. Through this expansive contract, Falcon’s will conceive and develop Hershey-branded location-based-entertainment experiences featuring the industry-leading confectionary and snack company’s iconic IP, such as Hershey’s, Reese’s, Jolly Rancher and Twizzlers, in both the United States and international markets.

Falcon’s will work with Hershey to bring the company's beloved snacks and moments of goodness to life through retailtainment destinations that offer families and snack enthusiasts new immersive ways to experience their favorite tasty brands. Each destination will be highlighted by a Hershey-inspired attraction, a food and beverage experience where visitors will savor delicious bites based on the brand, and a retail offering to shop for one-of-a-kind branded products. Additional details about the Hershey-branded experiences and the debut location will be announced at a later date.

“Falcon’s is honored to work with The Hershey Company and bring some of the world’s most renowned brands to life in new ways so they can be savored by even more consumers around the world,” said Cecil D. Magpuri, CEO of Falcon’s Beyond Global, Inc. “We are excited to explore what’s possible with Hershey and help bring forth what makes their brands so beloved through memorable immersive entertainment experiences.”

Ernie Savo, president of The Hershey Licensing Company, added, “We see our partnership with Falcon’s Beyond as a huge opportunity to continue to expand our brand to consumers across the world. With their impressive track record of growing IP through innovative experiences, Falcon’s is the ideal partner to extend the Hershey’s family of brands in truly new and imaginative ways.”

Falcon’s new deal with Hershey advances the strong momentum the company has established over the past year by becoming a publicly traded company and the launch of multiple projects, initiatives and experiences across its three core business units: Falcon’s Creative Group, Falcon’s Beyond Destinations and Falcon’s Beyond Brands.

Duckpin Bowling sees growth in popularity for entertainment

AT: Tim Baldwin

tbaldwin@amusementtoday.com

Mechanicville, Va. and Muskegon, Mich. — Duckpin bowling, while played and scored like traditional ten-pin bowling, has some unique differences. While traditional bowling has regulations regarding the length of lanes and such, there are no set standards for duckpin bowling, which gives some flexibility to today’s operators.

Ten-pin and Duckpin Bowling have associations that govern sanctioned competition (United States Bowling Congress and National Duckpin Bowling Congress respectively). Both have rules and regulations for leagues and/or tournaments at centers that apply for sanctioning and maintain rules, etc. However, that is optional, and for centers that are in business for entertainment and not the sport, they don’t run organized competition, or if they do, it’s for fun and not sanctioned.

The origins of the recreational sport are unconfirmed. The belief is that duckpin bowling originated in Baltimore, Maryland, around 1900. The name is derived from the sound and look of the pins as they went flying. Duck hunters gave it the nickname duckpin when the pins looked like flying ducks. A sportswriter at the time did a story on it, and the name stuck.

“The game was born out of a little bit of boredom,” said JR Huyck, manager, new business development, QubicaAMF of Mechanicville, Virginia. “The owner of a center, closed in 1900 due to troubles, did some woodworking and duck hunting. He made these smaller bowling pins from battered ten pins and used smaller six-inch balls he had for other games, and people took to it. It didn’t explode all over the world. It just became a niche in the New England states.”

When automatic pin setters were developed in the 1950s, that helped keep the sport alive.

“There are about 60 traditional duckpin bowling centers left in the Northeast United States and Canada,” said Huyck. “They are diehard centers with old equipment that is very difficult to find replacement parts for.”

That said, duckpin bowling is seeing a resurgence throughout the country.

Both QubicaAMF and Brunswick (of Muskegon, Michigan) manufacture duckpin bowling equipment. QubicaAMF names its duckpin product Fly’n Ducks. Brunswick offers it as Duckpin Social.

“Things have changed most recently,” said Huyck. “There are now shortened lanes and/or approaches you see from manufacturers.”

There is an association that establishes rules. In those cases, the same width of lanes and the 60-foot length of traditional bowling is still upheld. However, entertainment centers are finding the versatility — and flexibility — of duckpin bowling to their advantage.

With duckpin bowling, there is no search for the right weight and length of finger holes. The reduction in needed balls is drastically reduced since each bowler uses the same size and weight of the balls (3.5 pounds). There are no holes. Today’s balls are approximately five inches in diameter. The ball is held in the palm of the player’s hand.

“Products like Brunswick’s Duckpin Social fit the growing environment of ‘competitive socializing’ throughout the world,” said Kris Desroches, director, new business development, Brunswick.  “Consumers are looking for on-trend food options, craft cocktails and competitive games providing unique experiences, which Duckpin Social fits perfectly into. Today’s customers, especially Gen Z and Gen Y (Millennials), are willing to spend more on experiences that can’t easily be recreated at home. Duckpin Social offers low barriers to entry by not requiring rental shoes or having to choose a bowling ball, and a less intimidating look as the lane is shorter than traditional bowling, however, it is challenging enough to encourage repeat business.”

“Traditional duckpin bowling is much more difficult than ten-pin bowling,” said Huyck. “If you think about it, if it’s the exact same length of the lane using smaller pins and smaller balls, it’s much harder to knock down all the pins. There is more space between the pins.”

But the game is growing.

“There are conveniences to duckpin for both the guests and the owners,” said Huyck. “The fact that you don’t have to store as many balls is one. But you don’t have to provide bowling shoes either. Most operators don’t rent shoes. And some people don’t want to wear bowling shoes. People can come as they are. Also, we shortened the lanes to make the scoring more fun, and it allowed bowling in a smaller space.”

Another difference is in scoring. While tabulated like traditional ten-pin bowling, because of the difficulty, a third roll per frame is given to try to get all ten pins down. If it takes three rolls, then no bonus is given if all ten pens are knocked down in the third try.

Huyck says Qubica has four different lengths the company produces — 24, 36, 48 and 60 feet — but they can customize as well. Although these shorter lanes can’t host sanctioned competitions, he said that typically isn’t a factor in installations.

“New places with bowling nowadays are almost all for entertainment purposes,” he told Amusement Today. “Shorter lanes match the operators’ needs and whatever type of bowling experience they want. In addition to that, the approach is customizable — 12 feet, six feet or no approach. We basically customize any bowling experience the customer wants.”

Another advantage is that lanes can be self-operated, removing the need for staffing. Fly’n Ducks has “pay at the lane” with a swipe reader as an easy convenience for guests.

“The big movement here is location-based entertainment outside the home,” said Huyck. “This has been growing for 15-plus years, but now it has taken on a whole new level of growth. All kinds of investors are getting in and incorporating duckpin into several different types of concepts, including breweries, sports bars, resorts and tourist destinations — pretty much anywhere people are gathering for fun, social activities with food and beverage.”

“The market is predicted to grow by 28% annually through 2030,” Deroches told AT.  “We are seeing sales of Duckpin Social grow exponentially (much more than 28%) and expect this to continue.  As more facilities look to stay relevant in this space, Duckpin Social is helping them provide the unique, fun experiences they need to have a competitive advantage. Being a relatively new product, there is virtually no market saturation anywhere in the country. There is low risk to our customers installing the product.”

“People are wanting experiences when they go out instead of just sitting, eating and drinking,” said Huyck. “This gives the operator an opportunity to extend dwell time.”

Katapult creates

Care Bear FEC concept

DERBY, U.K. — International themed attraction design company, Katapult, has partnered with children’s entertainment studio, Cloudco Entertainment, to create a new Care Bears family entertainment center concept. The attraction is a ticketed play cafe experience where guests can explore a range of themed zones before enjoying a super sweet Care Bears treat. Aimed at the ever-growing ‘tweens’ market who love cute, sweet and colorful, it’s a place where caring is cool and sharing amplifies the experience. Speaking about the experience, Katapult’s Chief Creative Officer Phil Higgins, said: “The new family entertainment center has been designed to create a memorable, fun and heartfelt experience where guests can indulge in the most delicious sweet treats. As fans of Care Bears ourselves, we are excited to take this concept to market to interested operators, investors and real estate owners around the world.” Courtesy KATAPULT

John Wick Experience coming to

Las Vegas's Area15 later this year

LAS VEGAS — Lionsgate has teamed up with the Las Vegas tourist attraction Area15 to create the John Wick Experience, which will open later in 2024.

The attraction will span approximately 12,000-square-feet in a space that blends immersive theater with highly themed cinematic environments to create an interactive journey that allows guests to live out life as a copycat of the iconic Keanu Reeves character on a high-stakes adventure.

Fans of the billion-dollar franchise will find themselves transported into the underworld of the films from the moment they step through the doors of the Las Vegas Continental, where they will have the opportunity to kick back in a themed bar, drop coins on merchandise and interact with sets.

Franchise director Chad Stahelski and the team at 87Eleven Entertainment collaborated on the project to craft a fully immersive experience" with Egan Productions.

Florida State Fair numbers down due to final weekend washout

AT: B. Derek Shaw

bdshaw@amusementtoday.com

TAMPA, Fla. – “Severe weather on the final weekend resulted in early closure and limited operating hours with significant impact on final attendance and revenue in what would have otherwise been a record year,” explained Cheryl F. Flood, CEO, Florida State Fair. The last weekend of the 120th edition was primarily a washout. Final attendance came in at 338,499, well below expected numbers.

There was an integrated media campaign themed around the 2024 key message: “Smile Together.”

Wade Shows again had the midway contract bringing in 89 rides, with 22 located in Kiddie Land, 80 games, 32 food stands and 15 direct sales. Frank Zaitshik, owner, also worked with Powers Great American Midways, Iconic Attractions, Dreamland Amusements, Biggest Wheel, LLC, Wood Entertainment Company, and Sue Shorb (Wonderland Amusements) to supplement the ride package.

“The Florida State Fair always goes wonderfully,” said Zaitshik. “The things we look at mostly (besides safety, of course) nowadays is ride capacity and the amount of trailers it takes to move over the road. Now more than ever, folks (carnival operators) have to look at economizing everywhere they can, and transportation is a big way they can. But by the same token, you have to have enough equipment there and enough equipment with capacity to satisfy demand. That’s what all carnivals are struggling with and solving right now.”

Zaitshik noted rides that were at the Florida State Fair for the first time: “There’s not as many as one would think, because we had an awful lot of new rides last year. This year we were scheduled to have several more but were disappointed because of building delays, shipping delays and things like that. This year we have Corky Powers’ new Tesla ride, which is an Orbiter-like ride. We had several kiddie rides that are new here but not necessarily new to the industry.”

The top three most popular rides included the Super Slide (SBF-VISA Group performance slide); Sky Glider sky ride and the 155-foot Midway Sky Eye (Lamberink) owned by Michael Wood. The first two are both owned by the Florida State Fair.

“Wade Shows has been the midway provider at the Florida State Fair for many years. His (Zaitshik) excellence and pride in our midway are unmatched. I’m thankful for the continued partnership we have shared with him and his team for years,” said Flood.

“Cheryl is a very, very, very passionate manager. She’s done great wonders with this fair, along with her staff,” said Zaitshik. “You know there’s been some changes in staff that kind of fit her needs and her personality. It’s a win for the customers and a win for people in general. I’ve had more people come to me this year and compliment me, not for Wade Shows in particular, but just the overall look of the fair and some of the things she is trying to do. Hats off to her. She has the number one asset that you can’t buy or you can’t make up if you don’t have it, and that is a passion for what you do.”

Another in the Zaitshik family is also in the industry and on the midway, as Frank explains. “My youngest daughter and her husband (Iconic Midway Rides) had the Infinity (Larson) here, which was brand new last year. They also had a Zamperla Beach Shack (kiddie ride) that looked brand new. The ride they were not able to show is the KMG-built XXL. It’s 80 feet tall but swings to 147 feet. In perspective, the Biggest Wheel (Sky Eye) is 155 feet tall, so it swings within eight feet of that at its highest point. So, it’s going to be quite exciting. It’s booked in a number of independent fairs. It's booked with us as well. While they’re not following exactly the business plan that Michael (Wood) and I did with the Biggest Wheel, they’re playing a combination of Wade Show locations and independent fairs. I think they are going to be wildly successful with that. Behind that, they have come in [with] a Lamberink swing tower that’s 175 feet. That’s going to be the big boy of all of them, and that particular ride has a great capacity of 34 people. We’re expecting great things from them and us, over the next few years.”

Flood noted a distinction of this fair: “The Florida State Fair has the largest, clean energy midway in the country and offers more live shows and performances than any other fair nationwide. We also offer free parking and all of our entertainment is included with the price of admission.”

Special promotions included Heroes Day and Super Savings Sunday with free admission for law enforcement, first responders, active or retired military, veterans, doctors, nurses, hospital and emergency clinic staff with valid ID. $3 Thursday for rides, games and food items after 3:00 p.m. was another promotion along with Family Day, when youth 17 years of age or younger received free admission to the fair until 6 p.m. with a paid parent or guardian, 21 years of age or older with a valid ID. Finally, there were Senior Days, any Monday to Friday of the fair where admission was $11 for seniors 55 and up.

The Florida State Fair operates with a $550,000 advertising budget, broken down with print accounting for 4.5%, broadcast 36%, out-of-home (OOH) 25%, digital direct advertising 27% and social/digital content 7.5%.

Fan favorite foods from throughout the 163 fair-managed food stands included chocolate-dipped strawberry iced tea, fried Spam grilled cheese (best savory food) and banana cream pie funnel cake (best sweet food). Other interesting culinary delights were Pop Rock pickles; BBQ fried burritos; poutine burgers; strawberry shortcake kebab; spicy Korean corndog; lemonade funnel cake; bacon, caramel and peanut butter apple fries; Jalapeño lemonade; bacon waffle cheeseburger; cheddar pickle crunch pizza and banana cream pie nachos.

The Florida State Fair enjoyed record-setting advance ticket sales, along with a significant decrease in ejections, arrests and related issues as a result of a youth admissions policy and enhanced security policies and presence. A new mascot, “Sunny,” was introduced, and fireworks returned on weekends. A first Friday grove party with silent disco, beverage sampling and pop-up market were introduced. A second Heroes’ Day promotion was added. A three-day Secret Walls live mural competition, authentic 3D chalk art and “You Are Here” Florida wildlife corridor traveling exhibit were all added. A new hologram theatre and movie in the Florida agriculture hall of fame building along with an interactive “Thank a Farmer” experience in collaboration with the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services rounded out first-time experiences.

The fair offered over 40 entertainment options this year, all free with the price of admission. A national headliner concert was held on the first Saturday with Tigerlily Gold.

“I’m very proud of our team and their teamwork in hosting one of the best state fairs in our 120-year history,” said Flood. “We have made a lot of changes over the years. Progress is being made, and we look forward to the future improving year over year with new and creative patron-focused ideas. We are most thankful for all our emergency management partners, business entities such as midway, concessionaires, exhibitors, vendors and corporate/sponsorships that make the Florida State Fair a wonderful event for all to enjoy. Despite the two days of rain on our busiest weekend, we had many records and much success to celebrate.”

The 2025 edition takes place February 6-17.

•floridastatefair.com

Midway provider Inners Shows finds gratification in still dates

OXFORD, N.C. — Donna Inners is quite content playing still dates with her 20-plus rides and handful of concessions.

Amusement Today caught up with the Franklinton, N.C., owner of Inners Shows during a 10-day (June 23-July 2, 2023) stand promoted as Oxford Family Days.

“That’s basically all we play,” Inners said of the carnival’s March-October route which covers mostly parking lot dates — an exception being the Clayton (N.C.) Harvest Festival in late October.

“We do quite well with these (plaza) events,” she noted, while watching a Saturday afternoon crowd lineup at the ticket booths.

Donna has been sole owner of the carnival since the 2018 death of her husband, Edward Inners Jr., who was killed when struck by a car while crossing a road.

Following her husband’s passing, she contemplated selling the business but, instead, took the reigns and forged on.

She attributes much of the continued success of the carnival to seasoned showman David Shoup — her right hand in much of the operation.

“He helps line up locations, does our publicity and lays out the lots,” said Inners. During the off-season, Shoup refurbishes some equipment in his Florida shop while the rest of the show winters in Franklinton.

The carnival has a storied history, dating back to 1909. Edward’s grandfather, Frances Inners, founded Inners Amusement Co. in York, Pa. Edward’s father, Ed Sr., helped run the carnival until his death in 1997.

The family ran two units covering seven Eastern states but scaled back to one show following Edward Jr.’s death.

Today, the carnival services locations in Virginia and North and South Carolina, with some of the rides and trucks still carrying the logo “Inners Shows, York, Pa.”

The show heavily uses Facebook promotions to pump-up still date business. Calling itself “Magic Midways,” the ads prompt users to a website where discount ride and food coupons may be downloaded and printed for redemption. The site also offers chances to enter to win ride tickets and all-day wristbands.

The layout in Oxford featured a good selection of rides for young and old, including some classic as well as new attractions.

Inners recently took delivery of a new Rock Star from A.R.M. of Wintersville, Ohio, which was located just past the ticket booths. At the other end of the midway was an A.R.M. Super Shot drop tower. The other spectacular offered was Extreme from KMG of the Netherlands.

Some classics from yesteryear included Sidewinder (Eyerly Aircraft), Scat (Venture), and a glass house.

—Ron Gustafson

Showmen’s Museum expands, readies for leadership change

RIVERVIEW, Fla. — During the IISF Super Trade Show & Extravaganza, the International Independent Showmen’s Museum announced a major enlargement project and the retirement of its long-standing curator, David “Doc” Rivera.

The museum that preserves the heritage of the traveling show in early America is about to nearly double its size. “The museum has come along so well in the last 12 years, we’re ready to expand [by] adding another 17,000 square feet,” said Jim Frederiksen, emeritus board member of the International Independent Showmen’s Museum Corporation. The permitting process has begun.

The expansion will be an addition to the rear of the existing building. “It’s mostly for the bigger stuff, the circus wagons [and] railroad trailer roof wagons from the carnival industry,” said Frederiksen. Monies for the million-dollar project outlay has come directly from Frederiksen, who donated an equal amount to build the original building in 2010.

On Wednesday evening during the show, a steak dinner and jamboree fundraiser and auction for the museum building fund was the most attended fundraiser in the history of the Riverview club. Over 450 dinners were sold, and more than 150 items were auctioned, raising over $60,500 for the cause. On the museum Facebook page the next day, it said, “To simply say ‘Thank You’ to everyone who was so instrumental in achieving this tremendous milestone seems somehow sadly inadequate. But as we say in showbiz, ‘Until you're better dressed, THANK YOU!’"

The museum curator, since inception, has been “Doc” Rivera, who also serves as the executive director. With his upcoming retirement, “We have to find a new curator. It’s a national search and the salary is negotiable,” said Frederiksen.

Upon the hiring of a replacement, hours will change. “It’s been a hobby for the last 12 years, only open on weekends. We’re ready to open it now and run it as a professional destination museum attraction,” said Frederiksen. “Everybody who has been there just loves it and is so happy. Anybody that has been in the amusement industry from the circus to the carnivals, really appreciates that museum and it’s a good legacy for our industry.”

The museum contains all types of carnival, circus, wild west shows and other artifacts. It currently is open every Saturday and Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m. and at other times by appointment.

•showmensmuseum.org

Massanutten Resort announces major water park expansion, hotel

AT: Jeffrey Seifert

jseifert@amusementtoday.com

MASSANUTTEN, Va. — One of the East Coast’s premier all-season resort destinations, Massanutten Resort, has announced a water park expansion and a new 144-room, five-story hotel. The new hotel will feature flexible accommodations designed to cater to families and business travelers alike with king rooms and double queen rooms, along with themed king bunk rooms and two- and three-bedroom suites. A 6,500-square-foot atrium will connect the new hotel to the existing Massanutten Indoor WaterPark for seamless guest access. The 6,000-acre resort has multiple lodging options including places to stay on the mountain at the ski resort, facilities in the valley near the water park, and numerous adjoining condominiums.

The new hotel will include a spacious patio, board room, 2,600-square-foot flexible event space, and state-of-the-art fitness center with the latest exercise equipment. The resort will also expand its parking facilities, adding nearly 300 additional parking spots, bringing the total to 717. Guests will enter the new atrium and be greeted by cascading waterfalls, a welcoming environment with comfortable seating, and massive glass walls with views of the indoor water park. The atrium and hotel public areas will serve as vibrant activity hubs, with a bar and breakfast area. The new hotel will be the first to be physically attached to the indoor and outdoor water parks.

The resort is making plans for two expansions to its water park building. Along with the aforementioned atrium connecting the new hotel property, the indoor water park will be expanded by an additional 6,000 square-foot connector to the atrium along with a 22,000-square-foot new building. Specific attractions have yet to be finalized, but plans include a wave pool, family raft slide, three-lane headfirst mat racer slide, adult pool, bar, cabanas, multi-level water play structure, and a kiddie pool with kiddie slides. As is typical of indoor water parks, the new slides will start and end indoors, but the bulk of the fiberglass will be outside of the structure. Illustrations show the mat racer having enclosed tubes that diverge onto separate paths but meet in the center, split apart again, and then meet at the end for an exciting finish. The entire family raft ride will be enclosed from start to finish and feature light and sound enhancements to create a cosmic slide experience.

“We are excited to embark on a transformative journey that will truly redefine the guest experience at Massanutten Resort,” remarked Steve Krohn, president and chief executive officer of the Resorts Companies. “Our commitment to providing unparalleled hospitality experiences remains unwavering, and this expansion underscores our dedication to innovation and guest satisfaction.”

Construction is expected to start this spring with an anticipated completion date of late 2025 or early 2026. The expansion comes partly out of necessity as the existing lodging options are often fully booked. The new five-story hotel should help the resort operations team manage capacity by reducing sell-out dates and allowing them to offer opportunities for larger groups to enjoy quality time together.

“We are excited for Massanutten Resort and our community as we all embark on this exciting expansion project," stated Joel Hensley, District 5 supervisor for the Rockingham County Board of Supervisors. "With the involvement of local contractors, Harmon Construction and Mather Architects, this development not only enhances our region's tourism appeal but also exemplifies our commitment to fostering economic growth and opportunity within our community.”

Massanutten Resort is located just minutes from Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive. The area draws visitors from Washington, DC; Baltimore, Maryland; and Richmond, Virginia. Massanutten has a long history of attracting tourists, but it has had its share of ups and downs and has even had to endure a bankruptcy. The first resort opened in 1875 as a health resort known as Rockingham Springs taking advantage of the area’s five natural springs. They were advertised to have “restorative powers.” After about 40 years of operation, Rockingham Springs fell into disrepair and closed. It remained mostly unused until the late 1960s, when attempts were made to reacquire land that had been parceled off and build a resort. A ski lodge was constructed in 1972 and six ski slopes were opened in 1973. An outdoor pool was added along with tennis courts, and the four-season resort was starting to take shape. Today, Massanutten Village is a thriving four-season resort and community of more than 1,000 single-family homes, 1,300 timesharing units, and a multi-million-dollar ski business.

The new hotel and indoor water park expansion are part of a 15 to 20-year master plan for the resort to expand its facilities. Plans include a five-mile-long, multi-use trail; workforce housing units; additional residential units including single-family detached, duplexes, rowhouses and apartments; along with a senior living active adult 55+ planned community.

Major expansion coming to Denmark's Aquapark

AT: Jeffrey Seifert

jseifert@amusementtoday.com

Blokhus, Denmark — The Aquapark at Fårup Sommerland, Denmark’s largest water park, is getting even bigger. A major expansion in 2024 will add two of the highest waterslides in Denmark, a new children’s water park and new changing facilities.

Two of the new water slides will be both higher and longer than anything else in Denmark with heights of 18 and 21 meters (59 and 69 feet) respectively and lengths of 172 and 195 meters (564 and 640 feet). One of the slides will combine a tailspin element and a Boomerango element, making it the first in the world to combine these two elements. In addition to the two new slides, the children’s water park is also being expanded with a larger pool and three new water slides.

“The Aquapark is without a doubt one of the biggest draws in Fårup Sommerland during the summer months, and therefore we also have high expectations for the massive upgrade we are making to our water park [at the end of] the 2024 season,” said Niels Jørgen Jensen, director of Fårup Sommerland.

Along with the expansion, the park is investing in a thorough renovation and upgrade of the existing infrastructure. The changing facilities will be completely renovated and expanded in order to handle additional capacity. The existing slides are getting recoated and the water purification system will be updated.

“This is the largest investment and renovation in the Aquapark’s lifetime, where we have focused on creating new activities for both young and old. In addition to larger pools, larger slides and better facilities around the water activities, we will also upgrade the infrastructure in the Aquapark. This applies, among other things, to coating and water purification systems, so our guests from 2024 will experience a water park in a completely new version and scale all around,” said Jensen.

“We know that this kind of investment pays off,” he added. “We saw this, among other things, last season, when we made the biggest investment ever in Fårup Sommerland with the Fønix ride. It has created unprecedented attention at home and abroad, and it emphasizes that it is with investments like these that we can continue to offer Danish and foreign guests a strong product that benefits both ourselves and Danish tourism as a whole.”

The renovation and expansion of the Aquapark will begin when the summer season in Fårup Sommerland comes to an end in September. The amusement park opens its doors for 2025 season at the end of April, while the Aquapark itself traditionally opens June 1.

Altitude Attractions looks toward the future with new rides to offer

AT: Pam Sherborne

psherborne@amusementtoday.com

LOGAN, Utah — Altitude Attractions is building its ride arsenal one ride at a time, and the results have been very positive for the family-owned operation.

Currently, the company is focusing on its Soaring Eagle Zipline ride and its newer Hammered ride. The two-seat Soaring Eagle was its main focus until the company highlighted the two-seat and six-seat Hammered park model to the industry at IAAPA Expo 2021. The company exhibited in 2022 and won IAAPA's Brass Ring Award for Best New Ride that year.

Last fall, at the 2024 IAAPA Expo, Altitude Attractions introduced a four-seat Soaring Eagle and a portable Hammered model, which can have either two seats or six.

“Our business has really been going exceptionally well,” said Jayden Wallentine, Altitude Attraction's director of sales and business development. “We have a four-seat Soaring Eagle at Morgan's Wonderland, San Antonio, Texas, with a couple more going in but the locations haven't been released as yet.”

There are about 80 locations of the two-seat Soaring Eagle worldwide.

The newest ride, Hammered, is an interactive ride combining two popular attractions, the drop tower and the High Striker, found at amusement parks and carnivals everywhere.

It offers 10 different rider-chosen modes and allows riders to choose modes ranging from a kid-friendly half bounce to intense and invigorating chaos. Half bounce is a gentle ride, whereas chaos and the other more aggressive modes are crazily active.

Plus, there’s the option for onlookers to swing a high-striker hammer at a target and send the ride soaring up to the appropriate height on the scale.

Fun sound effects round out the package on the magnetically braked ride.

Hammered has a standard height of 30 feet but can conveniently be customed down to 20 feet if needed to fit indoors.

Wallentine said the park-model Hammered has been doing quite well in amusement parks and family entertainment centers since it was introduced.

The one-trailer portable model introduced last fall is also doing well. The company introduced it at the IAAPA Expo in the fall, then exhibited it at the International Independent Showmen's Foundation (IISF) trade show in Gibsonton, Florida, in early February.

“We have one portable model at Fun Crew USA in Orlando, Florida,” Wallentine said. “A couple of others have been purchased but not announced.”

Wallentine said that the park-model Hammered and its mobile counterpart have some of the same parts, of course, but one ride can't be converted into another.

The portable model stays on the trailer. To set up, the arms swing out and the base stands up and “you are ready to roll.”

“It takes about 35 minutes to set it up,” he said.

Altitude Attractions and Rides 4 U announced during the IISF trade show this year a collaboration on a new ride concept called Rock and Roll. According to Len Soled, Rides 4 U, the ride is still in production, and they are hoping to have a prototype in the next two to three months.

“We will soon be releasing it in its entirety,” Soled said.

Altitude Attractions was co-founded by former S&S Power (later S&S Worldwide) founder Stan Checketts and originally specialized in the Soaring Eagle Zipline attraction. It was started in 2010.

The company was renamed Altitude Rides and Attractions from Soaring Eagle Zipline in 2021 after it was purchased by current president Logan Checketts.

•altitudeattractions.com

Hersheypark announces new

seats and restraints for Skyrush

HERSEHY, Pa. — Hersheypark upgraded the Skyrush roller coaster flight experience to first class with all-new seats and restraints. Passengers will now board Skyrush from a reimagined station platform featuring an all-new paint scheme, lighting effects and custom soundscape. The investment in the high-thrill attraction will provide coaster lovers with added comfort while experiencing the adrenaline rush they know and crave.

The new Skyrush upgrades were scheduled to be available when the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania opened for its 118th operating year on March 29. Weather permitting, Skyrush is open for spring weekends, summer and the Hersheypark Halloween seasonal event.

One of 14 coasters at Hersheypark, Skyrush climbs 200 feet into the air before flying downhill at 75 mph as it heads into four high-speed turns and five zero-G airtime hills for a thrilling ride experience.

Six Flags Great Adventure opening new Savannah Sunset Resort

Guests offered luxurious views of Wild Safari animals

AT: Pam Sherborne

psherborne@amusementtoday.com

JACKSON, N.J. — Guests staying at the new resort at Six Flags Great Adventure may awaken in the mornings not really feeling they are actually in New Jersey. In fact, they may feel they are in the middle of a wild safari, which will be exactly correct.

The new Savannah Sunset Resort and Spa will be located in the middle of Six Flags Great Adventure's Wild Safari area.

Park officials began taking reservations to stay at this new addition that will offer guests luxurious bedrooms with scenic views of free-roaming giraffes, oryxes, wildebeests and many other African species set to open June 14.

This addition elevates the park's already 350-acre safari available for visitors.

With the new resort, visitors will experience the 1,200-animal safari through an off-road guided tour and spend nights in a luxurious glamping experience.

The resort will include a spa and a fine-dining restaurant surrounded by wild exotic fauna. The guest rooms will look like tents resembling “authentic African lodges,” said Staci Wheeler, Six Flags Great Adventure spokesperson.

It is the first of its kind within the Six Flags brand, Wheeler said.

"We will have a number of animals that freely roam around the enclosed campsite," she said.

During the nighttime, guests may enjoy outdoor games, a fire pit with nightly s'mores and an entertainment space for movies under the stars, music, animal encounters and lectures.

Key features of the Savannah Sunset Resort and Spa include:

•Plush and luxurious accommodations — The resort will offer 20 glamping suites that vary in size, sleeping two to six guests. Each suite is designed to provide comfort and style with world-class amenities.

•Unmatched views and VIP experiences — During their stay, guests may choose their own adventure. Whether relaxing with sweeping views from their suite, participating in close-up animal encounters or exploring the local watering holes of the Six Flags Great Adventure theme park or Hurricane Harbor water park, guests will have opportunities to create lifetime memories.

With a two-night minimum stay, guests will enjoy a giraffe feeding, daily breakfast, multi-park passes giving access to all three Six Flags Great Adventure Resort parks and more.

•VIP dining — Guests will embark on an indulgent culinary journey with featured items curated to enhance the glamping experience.

•Spa services — Guests may rejuvenate their senses at the Savannah Sunset Spa which features holistic treatments with expert therapists to promote relaxation and wellness.

•Event spaces — Ideal for small gatherings from weddings to corporate retreats, Savannah Sunset Resort and Spa will offer a versatile event space with great views and service to make every celebration unforgettable.

“We are excited to welcome guests this [summer] to the Savannah Sunset Resort and Spa, where opulence meets the open savannah in the heart of New Jersey,” said Brian Bacica, park president. “Our team is planning every detail to create a luxury experience, welcoming guests to enjoy the beauty and uniqueness of our resort. Whether you seek relaxation, a family adventure or a romantic getaway, Savannah Sunset Resort and Spa promises to exceed your expectations.”

The safari animals will stay on site year-round with climate-controlled indoor housing available for all tropical animals. A full-time animal care team will look over their well-being, said Wheeler.

Rates start at around $600 a night for a two-guest room. Various package options are being offered.

Savannah Sunset Resort and Spa is part of one of the largest investments at Six Flags Great Adventure Resort in nearly two decades. In celebration of the destination’s 50-year history, the park is also debuting its 15th roller coaster this summer. The Flash: Vertical Velocity, the first coaster of its kind in North America, joins the highly-anticipated return of the Safari Off Road Adventure and modern updates to the nostalgic Log Flume and Big Wheel rides.

In addition, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor will open Splash Island, a new family-centric area giving guests of all ages an opportunity for some interactive fun in the sun.

Six Flags Great Adventure opened for the 2024 season on March 16.

NEAAPA draws 100 attendees at 111th annual conference, meeting

AT: Pam Sherborne

psherborne@amusementtoday.com

STAMFORD, Conn. — NEAAPA, the Northeast Entertainment Association, held its 111th Anniversary Education Conference and Annual Meeting March 4-6, at the Hilton Stamford Hotel and Executive Meeting Center in Stamford, Connecticut.

According to the association's Ed Hodgdon, more than 100 attendees participated.

NEAAPA represents the states of Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont. There also are manufacturer and supplier members that support the industry.

The event is designed for industry professionals working at amusement parks, water parks, family entertainment centers, roller skating centers, bowling centers, mobile attraction operators, zoos and aquariums, challenge courses and ziplines, museums and more.

There was an array of classes offered this year covering topics of importance to its members. Some of those classes included Active Shooter Attack Prevention and Preparedness (ASAPP), led by Steve McPherson of Canobie Lake Park and Bullets Campbell, certified ASAPP Instructor, SWAT Team senior leader, principal firearms instructor and principal tactical instructor for the Connecticut region; Creating a Culture of Gratitude, led by Laura McNerney of Leadership Learning Group; Best Practices in Facilities Maintenance, led by Cory Cormier of Funtown Splashtown USA; Slips, Trips and Falls Litigation led by Paul Cavanaugh of Daly Cavanaugh, LLP; and Engaging your Local Leaders, led by Joe Montalto of High Mountain Enterprises.

There also were roundtable discussions covering many different topics in a round-robin style. Topics included advocacy, safety, staffing, operations, food and beverage, live entertainment and marketing.

During the Annual Meeting Dinner, the following awards were presented:

•President’s Award to Miranda Winward of Canobie Lake Park

•Alan E. Ramsay Safety Award to Jhomar Bennett of Luna Park in Coney Island

•Paragon Award for Marketing Excellence to Lauren Wood Weaver of Sally Dark Rides

The Hall of Fame inductees were (see sidebar):

•Frank Darling, creator of Playland Park in Rye, New York

•Christos G. Chagros of Fiesta Shows

•Greg Chiecko of The Big E and Outdoor Amusement Business Association

•neaapa.com

2024 Inductees of

NEAAPA Hall of Fame

NEAAPA’s Hall of Fame Inductees were honored on March 5, during the organization’s 111th Anniversary Education Conference and Annual Meeting.

Meet them below:

•Christos (Chris) Chagros began working for Eugene Dean, Sr., the father of his good friend, Eugene Dean, Jr., around 1970, in the game operation in Salisbury Beach, Massachusetts.

Having a natural ability to run games and a great eye for merchandise, he went into a partnership with his boyhood friend, Dean, Jr., on their carnival circuit. He started with lucky strike dime pitches and evolved into Skee Ball trailers and group games.

He had many talents that helped him gain success, but his friends say it was his ability to discover, research and source the most cutting-edge merchandise.

•Greg Chiecko was the general manager of Chicopee’s Birch-N-Bend Gardens, Chicopee, Massachusetts, in 1983, a family business, before he launched his career in the attractions industry.

In 1994, he served as a member of the Eastern States Exposition’s Junior Fair Board, West Springfield, Massachusetts, and then was named sales manager of the Eastern States Exposition. He held that position for 24 years.

In 2019, he was named the president and CEO of the Outdoor Amusement Business Association (OABA).

Over the years, Greg has volunteered with many organizations, including the Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors’ Bureau, Illinois, the Massachusetts Agricultural Fairs Association, the Rotary Club of Chicopee, Massachusetts, and is a past president of NEAAPA.

•Between 1923 and 1925, the Westchester County Board of Supervisors of New York purchased more than 200 acres of land to create a seaside public park for the people of the county.

In 1927, Frank W. Darling, who was president of the L.A. Thompson Scenic Railway Company at Coney Island, New York, was tapped by the Westchester County Park Commission to construct, operate and manage Playland Park, Rye, New York.

By then, he had constructed amusement parks in New Zealand, at the British Empire Exposition in Wembley, England, and at the Modern Art Exposition in Paris, France.

Construction began after Labor Day, 1927, and the park was completed for opening on May 26, 1928.

Darling was director of Playland for several years afterward and completed additional projects such as the Olympic-size pool, increased boardwalk concessions, an indoor ice-skating rink, a scenic railway and additional restaurants and picnic areas.

—Pam Sherborne

Chocolatetown USA site of annual PAPA spring meeting in 2024

AT: B. Derek Shaw

bdshaw@amusementtoday.com

HERSHEY, Pa. — Eighty-six members and guests of the Pennsylvania Amusement Parks & Attractions Association (PAPA) assembled February 26 and 27 for its annual spring meeting at Hershey Lodge and Convention Center. Attendees were comprised of member parks and attractions, suppliers and manufacturers and individual members. PAPA strives to foster an environment where industry peers can gather and learn from one another.

The first day included a board of directors meeting in the afternoon followed by a reception and banquet that evening. Both the board meeting and evening proceedings were led by PAPA President Scott Silar, assistant director of attractions at Hershey Entertainment & Resorts.

A special commendation in the form of a plaque was presented to recent retiree, Tim Timko, for his years of service on the PAPA board. Part of the inscription read, “for…your hard work chairing the Barbara Knoebel Memorial Scholarship Award Committee. Honoring your dedication in helping the educational needs of students employed in Amusement Parks in Pennsylvania.” He is the former president and CEO of S&S Worldwide. Timko now serves as president of Atlantic Culinary Environment.

The popular 50/50 raffle for the Barbara J. Knoebel Scholarship Fund took place. As a result, over $600 was raised. The winner, Adam Jones, Great Wolf Lodge, donated his portion back to the fund. Each year, seven $1,000 scholarships are awarded to students who work at any of the participating member parks or attractions. Upon the conclusion of dinner, many attendees retired to the lobby bar to continue networking.

The second day started with the annual breakfast membership meeting. Association business included reports on various aspects of the industry: legislative updates, Amusement Ride Safety Advisory Board, a recap of the fall Parks and Carnivals Education (PACE) ride safety seminar, water park issues, PAPA website, marketing and human resource matters. PAPA Secretary/Treasurer Dick Knoebel again gave his financial report, opting to keep it brief with just a trio of words, “We are solvent!”

One of the recent legislative issues was the passing of the sale of alcohol at amusement facilities, as Silar explained: “In Pennsylvania, a bill passed and became an act at the end of 2023 that allows amusement facilities to have one liquor license and serve alcohol anywhere within that facility. Previously, each food stand had to have its own liquor license.”

Silar shared why the meeting is important for members to gather each spring: “We always have the members come together and share fellowship, talk about our celebrations and our obstacles as an industry and how to market Pennsylvania as a fantastic place to come and enjoy with family in our parks and waterparks. We don’t like recreating the wheel. We lean on each other to help get through the obstacles, so that we can celebrate those wins together.”

Tourism is on the rise. “In Pennsylvania, we are growing tourism,” said Siler. “Governor Shapiro provided quite a significant increase to the state tourism office. We believe that tourism, hospitality and travel could very well be a fantastic segue to economic development. We’re going to use that and move our industry forward to help promote Pennsylvania as a place to come, have fun and make memories with families.”

Upon conclusion of the meeting, some of the attendees participated in the always-popular roundtable discussions. It was held in the Hersheypark service center conference room with more than 25 people from five parks involved in the lively conversation covering a gamut of subjects.

This was the 89th edition of the spring meeting of the PAPA. The organization was formed in 1935 with R.L. Plarr from Dorney Park serving as the first President. In 1946, famed roller coaster designer Herbert P. Schmeck from Philadelphia Toboggan Company was president. The annual spring meeting is traditionally held in Hershey. The 2024 summer fun meeting will be held at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, Allentown, Pennsylvania, July 22 and 23. The next PACE ride safety seminar takes place October 29-November 1 in Bloomsburg with Knoebels Amusement Resort being the location for the “hands-on” training day.

29th NJAA Variety Show held

along with online NAARSO training

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — The East Coast Gift & Variety Show again took place at the Golden Nugget Resort and Casino, on February 28 and 29, presented by the New Jersey Attractions Association (NJAA).

The 23 participating vendors brought their newest games, prizes and food for attendees to see, purchase and implement in their establishments. On the first day of the expo, the NJAA hosted its 33rd annual scholarship kick-off cocktail party on the trade show floor.

“This year‘s NJAA East Coast expo was a huge success,” said Kim Samarelli, NJAA executive director. “The vendors were very happy, buyers were out. People were connecting and socializing and networking and we look forward to this upcoming summer season of 2024.”

The 550 attendees included owners, partners, managers and buyers, as well as workers of amusement parks, arcades, games, concessions, piers and restaurants.

The show began in the mid-1970s at the Aztec Hotel in Seaside Heights, New Jersey. Vendors operated out of their rooms, with attendees traveling from room to room. Other recent locations have included the Trump Marina and Taj Mahal, both in Atlantic City. This was the 15th time at the Golden Nugget.

The NJAA is a proactive organization, that identifies concerns while working for the safety, health and overall economic betterment of the amusement industry.

From February 5 through March 15, the 16th annual East Coast/Mid-Atlantic National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials (NAARSO) training was held virtually in conjunction with the NJAA. The outreach safety school had 90 participants completing the online program.

—B. Derek Shaw

RES Rides announced that Oscar Elgarrista has joined the company as project and safety engineer. Elgarrista brings experience and passion about leisure engineering, design, operations and safety.

During his more than a decade of experience, he has held various engineering and safety roles with other amusement ride manufacturers. Elgarrista heads up the Leisure Engineering Committee in Spain and is also involved with sustainability working groups.

"It is great to have Oscar on board. His passion for amusement engineering and safety is a great asset for our team," said Roman Rothe, technical director of RES Rides.

Polin Group announced the promotion of Ahmet Sumer to the position of business development director for the Latin America region. Formerly serving as the sales manager for more than six years, Sumer brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role.

“I am honored to take on this new challenge and excited to further contribute to the growth and success of Polin Group in the Latin America market,”commented Sumer. “I eagerly anticipate collaborating closely with our dedicated team and valued partners to drive innovation, deliver exceptional value and exceed our customers’ expectations.”

As the newly appointed business development director – LATAM, Sumer will lead the expansion efforts of Polin Group in the Latin American market. Sumer is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities and strengthen the company’s presence in this strategically important region.

Palace Entertainment has appointmented Michael Reitz as director of engineering and maintenance across all of the company's venues.

“We are pleased to announce the addition of Michael to our support center team,” said Interim Chief Operating Officer Anil Rao. “His diverse experience with some of the industry’s most well-known attractions makes him the perfect fit to help lead our ongoing maintenance projects across each of our unique properties.”

Reitz brings more than 30 years of engineering experience to Palace Entertainment. He has a background in mechanical engineering and began his career with Mercedes Benz in 1992. Since then, he has worked for key leaders within the amusement industry including Lego Engineering and Premier Rides Inc. Most recently, he spent more than 20 years at Six Flags Entertainment Corporation working across all domestic and international properties including Canada, Mexico, China and Dubai.

Global design, fabrication and project management company Adirondack Studios (ADKS) has hired theater and cruise veteran Jeff Moulton as its new vice president of project delivery.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled to be joining the executive team at ADKS, especially at this very robust tipping point for both the company and the industry at large,” said Moulton. “I’m looking forward to further elevating our production processes, delivering world-class product for guests around the globe, and providing extremely high-touch client relations as ADKS continues to grow into the future.”

According to ADKS President Michael Blau, Moulton’s extensive experience in driving creative teams, people-focused strategic planning and results-based operational excellence are what made him a natural fit for the role.

Industry veteran, entrepreneur and

showman Roland Koch passes away

AUSTRIA — The German amusement entrepreneur and showman Roland Koch passed away on February 6, surrounded by his family in Austria.

He was 89 years old.

With Koch's passing, the international amusement industry has lost a valued colleague, friend and pioneer.

Roland Koch, who took over the business from his father Georg Koch in 1958, continued to successfully expand the sausage pavilions and catering businesses before handing over the baton to the next generation, his son Thomas Koch, in 1981.

He owned and operated rides and restaurants in amusement parks and fairgrounds throughout Germany. He also was instrumental in the development of the Alt Berlin restaurant (now Unter den Linden) at Phantasialand in Brühl.

His family and friends said he was a man who always kept an open eye on the industry and developed new ideas. He had a particular passion for large-format films and, not least, brought the 180-degree cinema format to Europe.

Koch also was a long-time and close friend of the Mack family and a companion of Franz Mack and the Waldkirch-based company Mack Rides, according to the publication, Euro Attractions Professional.

“We travelled the world together with Roland,” said his long-time friend Kurt Mack-Even. “He always had a goal in mind. We had a lot of fun together and, knowing him, I’m sure he’ll get in touch when he gets bored in heaven. May he rest in peace."

Koch gave back to the amusement industry by being involved in industry associations throughout his life, filling honorary positions in order to actively help shape and advance the global leisure industry.

Wieland Schwarzkopf, president of the German Association of Amusement Machinery and Accessory Manufacturers (VDV) said: “Roland was not only a close friend to me, but also a fatherly friend. But he also was an ambassador for the industry. Wherever he was, doors opened.

"In the 1960s, he was one of the first to introduce many manufacturers to international business. And his legendary Wies’n parties will probably also remain unforgotten,” Schwarzkopf said.

Koch was known as a generous person and philanthropist. He built an orphanage in Africa, for example.

His family and friends said he was always warm, hospitable and ready to lend a helping hand to industry colleagues and friends.

One of his greatest pleasures was bringing people together and exchanging ideas with them. For his service to the leisure industry, Koch was honored with the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Lifetime Service Award, among others.

Together with his wife and children, the industry mourns the loss of a special person.

Former IAAPA President, Marriott Corproration executive John Graff passes from Parkinson's

ANNANDALE, Va. — John Robert Graff, 87, born on March 14, 1936 in Madison, South Dakota, passed away on December 28, 2023 in Annandale, Virginia.

Graff attended school at the University of South Dakota, Indiana University, and Catholic University.

Graff was a former president and chief executive of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), had a significant and long-lasting impact on the global association for the attractions industry and the industry around the world.

He was inducted into the IAAPA Hall of Fame in 2001 for his contributions to the association and the industry.

"In our industry, John was truly one of the good guys," remembered Dennis Spiegel of International Theme Park Services, on Graff's memorial page. "He had a huge heart and was a genuinely caring person about people and our membership. During my presidency of IAAPA, John and I travelled to many regions of the globe — Brazil, Mexico, Japan, Russia, to name a few — where we pledged to support and nurture their fledgling industry until they could support themselves — all of which reached their goal!

"Our first trip to Russia at the invite of the Ministry of Culture was an amazing trip making friends that lasted decades. John was a big softy, and it showed quite often. That was a wonderful characteristic of his personality. He did a yeoman's job for our industry. His legacy will carry forward for many years to come."

Graff also helped Marriott Corporation build its first theme parks, and his leadership helped transform IAAPA from a United States-based organization into a respected global association.

Showman, Doolan Amusement Company founder and food concessionaire Tina Doolan passes away

STUART, Fla. — Tina Doolan, of Stuart, Florida, passed away on January 12, 2024, surrounded by family. She was a loving wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, a proud business owner, as well as a good friend.

Tina Doolan was born on September 3, 1941, the oldest of four children and the only daughter of Ernest and Shirley Guilmette of Portland, Connecticut. She graduated from Portland High School and went on to waitress at the Cyprus Grill in Middletown, Connecticut. There she met the love of her life and partner of 61 years, John. Tina and John married in 1965 and raised three sons, David, Mark and Michael.

He introduced her to the outdoor amusement industry, and together they built Doolan Amusement Company while living in Connecticut. In 1978, the two moved their home and business base to Nettles Island, Florida.

For decades, the two have operated their traveling amusement company of rides and food at fairs and festivals from Florida to Maine. Tina Doolan was also well-known in the concession business and operated her Banquet-in-a-Bun concession at some of the largest and finest events on the East Coast and received several fair awards.

Known for being the life of the party, she loved her family, friends and her business. She enjoyed supporting the outdoor amusement industry, watching Jeopardy and sports, as well as celebrating Christmas with her family.

Jerry Boyles, Founder of Boyles Joyland, passes

TOPEKA, Kan. — Gerald “Jerry” Melvin Boyles, 89, passed away January 7, 2024. He was born March 3, 1934, in Wichita and moved to Topeka where he graduated from Highland Park High School in 1952. He served in the U.S. Army, Korean war and was stationed in Japan.

Boyles was a mechanical genius and spent his lifetime building the Boyles' family businesses: Joyland Amusement Park (Kiddie Land), Dairy Freeze, Ice Cream Wagons, Dry Ice, Christmas Trees, Statues & Stuff and Joyland Flea Market.

“His record of conduct, performance and devotion to duty reflects allegiance to the highest standard of professionalism. Thank you for your hard work, quality customer service, and contributions to the Kansas economy,” commented Governor Laura Kelly.

Regarding his father's time at Joyland, Boyles's son, Jeff, stated: "He loved to see smiles on all the kids.”

Megan Gannon

Image Engineering

Baltimore, Maryland

Giving back is a lifelong theme

BALTIMORE, Md. — Serving, volunteering and supporting are activities senior leaders in the attractions industry often get involved with late in their careers. For Megan Gannon, they are essential activities in her everyday life and budding career.

“I have always loved the industry,” said Megan Gannon, themed entertainment business development manager, Image Engineering. “Kennywood is my hometown park, and my family would visit Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando every year. Each time I would say to myself, ‘This is where I want to be.’”

To help make that dream a reality, Gannon enrolled at the University of Central Florida (UCF) at the Rosen College of Hospitality Management. “I wanted to be around the magic and be involved in any way possible way,” she said. “As soon as I started school, I began to seek ways to learn and be a part of the industry.”

She joined the Future Theme Park Leaders Association (FTPLA) at UCF, alongside other hospitality students. Together they would visit area parks, hear from industry professionals and take part in events that peeled back the curtain on life in the attractions industry. “While in high school, I had seen the ‘Moden Marvels’ episode about Walt Disney Imagineering and that inspired and excited me. Through my studies and the opportunities I had with FTPLA, I was able to glimpse further into that world.”

When not studying, Gannon worked at her first role in the industry. “UCF encouraged us to have jobs while in school, so I earned a frontline position at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. I was able to tap into my passion for public speaking and had a role facilitating ‘On With the Show,’ the company’s training program for new cast members. I was able to tell stories about the theming of the park and its history as I led tours for the new hires. I was paid to talk, and truly, I would have done it for free.”

As Gannon worked toward her degree, she continued to learn more about the industry, earning an internship at Universal Orlando, but it was a special turn in 2018 that helped her begin to outline her future. “The IAAPA Foundation provides scholarships to students at UCF and other schools. I was granted one of the scholarships, and it really made a difference. For an out-of-state student, this was an amazing gift that made all the difference and allowed me to stay in school full-time. In addition, I was invited to attend IAAPA Expo 2018, the opening reception and the GM and Owners’ Breakfast as one of that year’s scholarship recipients, and all of it was free. Tom and Bobby Wages and Jane Cooper helped open huge doors for me with that scholarship. Attending IAAPA Expo changed everything. It showed me career paths I had never even dreamed of.”

It was during IAAPA Expo that Gannon saw how giving back is part of the DNA of many industry professionals. She returned to IAAPA Expo as a show ambassador in 2019 and continued to build new relationships. During her internship at Universal Orlando, she was encouraged to explore additional opportunities to learn and soon joined the AIMS Young Professional Counsel. When asked why she sought so many time-consuming volunteer activities, Gannon explained, “It’s easy to get involved in something when you are an expert. While I knew then — and still know — I’m growing in my career, I also wanted to share my insight and learnings. I’ve found a way to use my love for communicating to hopefully inspire others. No two people have the same journey, and it’s important to me to share my path thus far with my peers.” Gannon has served as a guest speaker at the AIMS Annual Safety Conference, as well as presented to the IAAPA Board of Directors about the importance of the IAAPA Foundation’s scholarship program.

“After that presentation, Jim Seay [president, Premier Rides] gave me great advice. He encouraged me to seek out the women in the attractions industry. He said the female leaders would be great mentors and would support me as well as be great resources. He told me not to be shy about reaching out and getting to know them.”

After graduation, Gannon’s career appeared to stall before it even began, due to the COVID pandemic. She used that time to lean into the relationships she had nurtured through her student experiences and earned a part-time job at IAAPA in the sales department. “It was there that I learned firsthand how to make true connections,” she said. “My professors would tell us that networking was the key to earning a job, and up until that point, I was always focused on being professional and always on. I saw a shift in that approach at IAAPA. As I got to know and partner with the members, I saw that true success comes from people. When I met members and would extend my hand or business card, I would often be told, ‘Give me a hug! It’s so great to meet and work with you.’ Everyone was professional, as well as welcoming and genuine. I learned that true business success comes from real relationships.”

Her early frontline training and experience continue to assist her. “Guest service is a tough role, and while I loved the industry, I discovered it wasn’t where my heart was. However, presenting, communicating and helping to find a solution for others were parts of guest service that were important to me. Sales has offered me the opportunity to tap into all of that. IAAPA helped me first use those passions, and now I bring them every day to our clients and partners at Image Engineering.”

When asked if she had any advice for those who are coming up behind her, Gannon blushed and paused. “Well, I hope this advice applies to anyone who wants to be a part of the attractions industry, at any level or discipline,” she concluded. “Always be open to help, learn and find ways to give back. It’s never too late — or too early — to start.”

—Susan Storey

SGE Camp emphasizes safety, legal advice and crisis management

AT: Tim Baldwin

tbaldwin@amusementtoday.com

ORLANDO — For the ninth year, StarGuard Elite has offered one of its annual training conferences at sea. Called CAMP (CAMP being an acronym for Conference for Aquatic Management Professionals), attendees in many fields of the aquatics industry gather in Orlando, shuttle to Port Canaveral and undergo rigorous training — at sea. This year was yet another record attendance as 125 attendees sailed to the Bahamas on Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas.

“We doubled the size of the space on the biggest ship we’ve ever done,” said Wess Long, president, StarGuard Elite. “We’ve been able to bring more people this year than we’ve ever done because of the space and capacity. It was awesome.”

Setting sail, 125 attendees embarked on a four-day cruise of diverse learning, beginning January 29. Of the attendees, 25 states and 13 nationalities were represented. Sixty attendees were first-timers. An orientation took place during the first afternoon, and all attendees were encouraged to dine together the first evening.

Classes began in earnest on the following day. Shawn DeRosa of DeRosa Aquatic Consulting spoke on the Foundations of Defensibility. In addition to the fact that most injuries are preventable, DeRosa made thought-provoking points of “slow days are deadly days,” the importance of compassionate treatment and follow-up from management, and that the best predictor of future behavior is past behavior. DeRosa had presentations on both Tuesday and Thursday.

Pete Dequincy spoke on Energizing Your Training and delivered an intense (but entertaining) hardcore session.

SGE’s Dr. Justin Sempsrott had multiple sessions throughout the cruise, one of which on Tuesday dealt with Advance Bleeding Control in Practice.

Jeff Chatterton of Checkmate Public Affairs began his three-part series on Crisis Communications Bootcamp and spoke each day.

“I’m not surprised by how much I’ve learned at my first CAMP Cruise, but I’m excited by how much I’ve learned,” said Amanda Blum, operations director, Wild Rivers Water Park. “I love how much of a community everyone really is, and they are willing to share ideas.”

Wednesday and Thursday offered more classes, which included the latest trends with AEDs and other emergency equipment, including drowning detection technology.

Franceen Gonzales of WhiteWater West spoke twice. The first presentation focused on careers in the industry, and the second surrounded the importance (and history of) water park safety standards.

“Having done this for a number of years, one of the things this year that was an absolute home run for us was the quality and depth of the speakers,” said Long. “When we set out to create 2024’s itinerary, we talked about who we wanted [to bring in]. For legal defensibility, Shawn is a great speaker and a top aquatics expert in the field. We wanted a training session, and Pete is one of the top lifeguard trainers in the world. And I wanted someone outside the box. I don’t think there is anyone who has had more impact on aquatics safety on our industry than Franceen Gonzales. We started there. We were glad to have them here.”

Brent Parsons, general manager, Myrtle Waves Waterpark, returned for a second year of CAMP. “The first time I attended was in 2018. To see how much larger it is now is a big surprise. We’re in the process of getting new AEDs this year, so having the equipment review was a big thing for us. I think having more sessions like that is helpful for people who attend multiple years. Having that resource like this to get that info together is very helpful.”

The final day of the cruise provided an open water rescue inservice while at Perfect Day at Coco Cay. Attendees were able to enjoy a few hours enjoying the beauty and attractions of the private island following the training.

“We decided long ago in like Year Two that we weren’t going to focus on lifeguard instruction,” said Long. “Obviously, aquatic safety and the standards are critical, but everyone comes in with those skills. We focus on what else we can challenge. Individuals like Franceen can talk about career development and stretching, understanding these other committees. Bringing in litigation trends and people like Pete who bring in different dynamics about how you operate and do things — all of that is what sets us apart. It’s not about making you a better lifeguard instructor, it’s about making you a better aquatics professional.”

The StarGuard program was founded in 1999 and has more than 25 years of proven success in making aquatic facilities safer. StarGuard Elite has clients in 27 countries and offers CAMP in U.S. destinations, as well as internationally. CAMP Florida is the only one at sea.

“What sets CAMP apart is that every year is different — the itinerary is different, the agenda, the speakers, the focus. We already have a plan for next year, and that plan is completely different than this year or the prior year,” Long told Amusement Today. “The fact that we are able to do it in a unique venue and are able to do more networking and more benchmarking than other shows, this one brings a really unique experience — the networking piece, being able to see other operations firsthand — it is second to none.”

Safe Slide Restoration brings new life to Splashin’ Safari attraction

AT: Tim Baldwin

tbaldwin@amusementtoday.com

SANTA CLAUS, Ind. — The late Will Koch, former owner of Holiday World, credited the success of the park to two additions in the 1990s. In 1993, a water park was included. Splashin’ Safari diversified activities for guests. In 1995, the park’s first wooden roller coaster, The Raven, captured the attention of enthusiasts and brought international attention to the park. Since those investments decades ago, Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari is now a globally recognized destination for legions of fans, even with it being in a small Indiana town.

Currently owned and run by Koch’s children, the fourth-generation owners have seen the theme park and water park grow with three world-renowned wooden roller coasters, two of which have taken the Golden Ticket Award for Best Wooden Coaster during their tenure. Record-breaking waterslides have garnered the water park numerous accolades, with four attractions having won Golden Ticket Awards, three for Best Water Park Ride and one for Best New Water Park Ride.

With such a vital history, Splashin’ Safari has not only grown into a giant among water parks, but it has also experienced three decades of expansion. During that time, attractions naturally begin to show their age.

Over the off-season, management turned to Safe Slide Restoration to bring renewed life to one of the water park’s older attractions, a family raft ride called Watubee. It was supplied by ProSlide.

“Safe Slide has been a good partner for us, and the work they did on the slide in 2015 had an impressive lifespan,” said Tony Perkins, director of maintenance. “The previous restoration held up very well with only minor repairs being done in the interim as needed. This year we only did the interior.”

In 2017, the park replaced the wooden staircase with a newer steel tower and control system.

“Two key points are this project helps protect the guests, as well as protect the park’s investment,” said Tony Perry, vice president of customer relations, Safe Slide Restoration. “That’s where aesthetics and practicality meet, when you are coating the interior and exterior on the slide.”

“We monitored the project as it progressed. It was interesting to see how much prep work goes into it before the final finish is applied,” Perkins told Amusement Today. “Watubee is a big slide, being 10 feet wide and 625 feet long. The restoration of this slide will make a big impact visually for riders and guests walking by!”

In the restoration process, Holiday World chose to keep the established color of the slide.

“Watubee was put into service in 1996, and we kept the original color scheme,” said Perkins. “We do periodic restorations based on the condition of the slide, and we always work to stay ahead of an attraction’s needs.”

“The exterior coating is easiest to cover,” added Perry. “You can do color changes in the ride path that aren’t that difficult.”

Perry noted that covering darker colors with a newer lighter color takes more coats to be effective.

“The project took about three weeks, and the weather was a factor,” Perry told AT. “We have to be patient on ‘spray day’ and check the humidity, temperature and substrate temperature. Everything needs to be in alignment.”

Amusingly, Perry said other occurrences weren’t a factor — no chasing away deer in the trough or skunks from the splash pool, which has happened.

“We have a good partnership with Holiday World,” Perry said. “We consistently work together. We work around their schedule and our schedule and the weather. That makes for a great partnership for us, and we look forward to working with them more in the future.”

Safe Slide Restoration completed more than 400 projects last year.

“The most successful projects start with a great inspection. We have that onsite inspection with Holiday World,” Perry said.

Holiday World reopens for the 2024 season on May 11. Splashin’ Safari opens May 18.

“It is hard to believe that Splashin’ Safari has been a part of Holiday World for over 30 years,” noted Perkins. “Midwest summers can be incredibly hot, so making sure that Splashin’ Safari offers the best guest experience every day is critical. We do that by adhering to our four cornerstones: Service, Friendliness, Cleanliness and, most importantly, Safety. We regularly and routinely perform maintenance on all of our attractions, and Splashin’ Safari is no different.  Our guests come to our parks to have a fantastic day, so we do everything that we can to make sure that all attractions are in top operational form.”

World’s Largest Swimming Lesson celebrates 15 years in June

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — Launched in June of 2010, The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson (WLSL) is a global water safety event focused on teaching life-saving, water competency skills to help prevent drowning and make water recreation more fun while building awareness about the vital importance of teaching kids to swim.

The 15th Annual WLSL event will take place around the globe on Thursday, June 20, 2024 over the course of 24 hours. The World Waterpark Association coordinates this event as a follow-up to National Water Safety Month. All types of aquatic facilities and learn-to-swim providers are welcome and encouraged to participate. Local WLSL events take place at hundreds of locations on six continents. Host locations can create a special WLSL event for their community or participate in the program by tracking and promoting their regularly scheduled swim lessons that day. A certified swim instructor must lead the WLSL, but participating locations are not required to be swim lesson providers.

Drowning is now the leading cause of death for kids ages 1-4, the second leading cause for kids 5-14 and the third leading cause of unintentional injury-related death worldwide.

“There is still a lot of work to be done in connecting the dots between the real risk of childhood drowning and the need for basic water competency skills, crucial parental supervision and the use of layers of protection, including proper fencing,” said Rick Root, president of the World Waterpark Association.

The WLSL event is a communication platform to educate parents and caregivers about this critical issue.

The cost to participate is $89 per facility, with discounts for operators that host the event at multiple locations. Registered facilities receive a comprehensive, turn-key Host Location Guide and digital marketing materials, including logos, posters, flyers, web banners, press releases and social media graphics, day-of-event materials, guidelines and the curriculum.

Since its inception, 5,487 aquatic facilities in 53 countries across six continents have served more than 383,000 kids and adults, helping generate billions of life-saving media impressions about the crucial importance of teaching children to swim.

•wlsl.org

NWSC safety seminar attendance showing comeback from COVID

AT: Pam Sherborne

psherborne@amusementtoday.com

PORTLAND, Ore. — Attendance at the 2024 Northwestern Showmen's Club (NWSC) Safety Seminar is finally showing a rebound from the COVID pandemic drawing 120 students to the seminar held Feb. 19-23.

The NWSC Safety Seminar was established over 40 years ago to promote continuing education by amusement industry professionals. The Interactive classes and settings deliver a great venue for raising the level of safety awareness within the carnival Industry.

“This year we had 22 industry specialist instructors and 48 different classes offered, and it all took place at Funtastic Traveling Shows campus in Portland, Oregon,” said NWSC's Tracy Munoz.

The NWSC Safety Seminar is aligned with Portland Community College for accreditation in their Continuing Education Program providing two continuing education units for participation and completion of the seminar.

Examples of classes held during the week included active shooter; human cost of accidents; emergency evacuations; inspecting tools; a truck shop and game shop; ride signs; belts, pulleys and motors; fire extinguisher safety; accident lawsuits; specific ride inspections; daily inspections; creating manuals; natural and operating disasters; rigging, forklift, welding, fasteners, oil and hydraulics; inflatable inspection and maintenance; and coaster wheels and safety inspection.

Munoz said NWSC Safety Seminar is unique in many ways.

“Our Seminar classes are geared around the everyday employee and upper management,” she said. “We offer hands-on classes, such as welding, forklift, lubrication, ride inspections, etc. We provide breakfast, lunch and dinner for all participants with a banquet dinner and raffle prizes on the last night for only $200 for the four-day course. “

There also is a three-hour class that is called Carnival Tech for Dummies, presented by Darnel Yarnell. This is a class for beginners to attend, as well as regulars, as it teaches the basics. Beginners learn new things, and regulars are reminded of important topics to stay on top of. After attending this class, a free test is administered for certification.

If that isn’t enough, the seminar also offers NAARSO and AIMS testing, CPR classes and certifications.

Munoz said since NWSC is a nonprofit, all the teachers volunteer their time and experience.

“We have companies that fund the supplies and food,” she said. “These are the industry's safety power players that believe that education is our first defense in amusement industry safety.”

Munoz sent out a special thanks to their sponsors: Amusement Today, McGowan Allied Insurance, Sweet Cheeks Concessions, Showfolks of America, Davis Shows Northwest, Funtastic Shows, Martin Vine, Outdoor Business Association and Hass Wilkerson.

•nwshowmensclub.com

More than 260 attend semiannual Pennsylvania Ride Safety Seminar

AT: B. Derek Shaw

bdshaw@amusementtoday.com

HARRISBURG, Pa. — Held twice each year, the Pennsylvania Ride Safety Seminar trains and tests hundreds of amusement ride inspectors in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and beyond. From February 27 to 29, 262 people from various amusement operations/attractions received ride safety training and testing conducted by third-party operator Slaggert Risk Management for the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Bureau of Ride and Measurements Standards. Classroom participants were primarily from Pennsylvania and neighboring states; however, there were attendees/instructors from 14 states. Of the 262 attendees were 150 scheduled to take new, renewal or upgraded inspector testing during the seminar.

This spring, 220 hours of instruction were available during the three days. Seminar participants selected the specialty courses they felt most beneficial for their career path, job description, abilities and employer benefit. Some of the course areas included inflatables; amusement, FEC and carnival rides; extreme sports; regulations, inspections and compliance; water attractions; maintenance; go-karts; zip lines and climbing walls. Weather’s impact on outdoor events was Tuesday morning’s opening session. The active shooter course has been so popular, it was offered twice on Wednesday to accommodate the demand. That training was presented by the Pennsylvania State Police.

Fred Strathmeyer, deputy secretary for plant industry and consumer protection with the Department of Agriculture, spoke to the entire group at the opening session on the second day of training. “We have a very unique situation here in the state of Pennsylvania, in that we allow for third-party inspection of our equipment. With that comes this type of seminar where they (inspectors) have to be trained at least every third year. Our statistics in the state of Pennsylvania are very good. That’s because of these people who are trained regularly. We really do hold a high standard, That’s important for the citizens to know. They can be assured that at a minimum, those rides have certainly been looked at and inspected and are safe to ride.”

“I recognize it is the effort of you [the attendees] that keeps Pennsylvanians and its visitors safe,” said Walt Remmert, director of the Bureau in his opening remarks. He thanked those in attendance, mentioned the department is here to serve, the inspectors, the owner/operators and the public, and talked about the state’s unofficial safety record. Remmert tried to make their mission clear, which is safety and compliance through mutual respect and, where necessary, education.

The 82 instructors and staff are all volunteers with a wide spectrum of specialties that impact the amusement industry, from all across the country. Testing was provided for Class 1 and 2 ride inspectors, general qualified inspectors and specialized inspectors. The Pennsylvania certification is recognized in many states across the country, including Recognized Certified Maintenance Technician, the program in place in New Jersey.

Interestingly, 29 voting members of ASTM F-24 committee on amusement devices participated in the training.

Phil Slaggert, Pennsylvania Ride Safety Seminar coordinator, was asked about the outcome of the spring curriculum. “It was a really good program,” he said. “[There were] eight breakouts on Tuesday, 13 breakouts on Wednesday and 12 breakouts on Thursday, across nine license categories in the Commonwealth.”

The training contained numerous new class offerings, including the impact of social media on midway operations, Pennsylvania child labor law compliance for entertainment venues, navigating zip lines and challenge courses – lessons for accidents and incidences and waterpark operational safety.

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has inspected and registered amusement rides under the Amusement Ride Safety Act since 1984 and regularly participates in education and outreach seminars. The next Pennsylvania Ride Safety Seminar is scheduled for November 12-14, 2024, at the Red Lion Hotel and Conference Center, ib Harrisburg, Pa.

The Pennsylvania Ride Safety Seminars are not to be confused with the annual Parks and Carnival Education (PACE) seminar, jointly sponsored by the Pennsylvania State Showmen’s Association and the Pennsylvania Amusement Park & Attractions. That seminar, presented by the National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials (NAARSO), is scheduled for October 29 – November 1, at Bloomsburg University for the classroom portion. Hands-on training will be at Knoebels Amusement Resort. PACE offers inspector training for Pennsylvania-certified inspectors and/or NAARSO levels.

•paridesafety.com

Attractions benefit from

onsite and cloud-based

hybrid technology solutions

DALLAS, Texas — As the amusement industry — and family entertainment centers, specifically — include more technology-based solutions, operators are faced with the challenges of understanding the benefits and necessity of what’s available to them. Protecting data has become a high-priority. To maximize results and ensure consistent operation, a hybrid system has become a popular solution.

“A hybrid system is a strategic combination of both cloud-based systems and onsite or on-premises-based systems,” offered Andy Welsh, chief technology officer of Embed. “Cloud systems feature computing services delivered over the internet while on-premises systems process service done by onsite servers and other hardware.”

On-premises servers ensure business maintenance and continuity even when the internet is unavailable, keeping gameplay and sales always up and running.

“FECs can benefit largely from well-designed hybrid systems, as these leverage key features of both systems,” added Welsh. “Moving data online will keep on-premises servers optimized for operations, ensuring hardware is focused on its job of managing gameplay and sales while data goes to the cloud for analyses.”

FECs gain a competitive edge when they can remain operational even when their network is down.

“Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions should compliment hybrid systems,” commented Welsh. “Operators using Embed products get secure eCommerce via SaaS solutions like the Mobile Wallet and data analysis and visualization through the STATS business intelligence dashboard.”

Without a reliable data center partner, even multiple backup onsite servers can be overworked during an outage, causing downtimes.

“At Embed, we partner with Amazon Web Services (AWS) for our customers’ data center platform for our cloud-based solutions,” stated Welsh. “AWS is trusted by brands like NASA, Apple, Disney+, Netflix and the NFL.”