NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, Texas — The GrowthPro Group, an emerging innovator in business growth solutions, proudly announces its official launch. With a foundation built on proven strategies and a forward-thinking approach, The GrowthPro Group is ready to empower businesses across a wide range of industries.
This exciting announcement coincides with the 20th birthday of TrainerTainment, the industry leader in sales training, leadership development, and coaching for Family Entertainment Centers (FECs.) TrainerTainment is celebrating 20 years of helping businesses grow with a year-long campaign filled with giveaways, success stories, and a $5,000 SalesPro Certification Grand Prize.
Founded on a legacy of over 20 years of industry experience, The GrowthPro Group’s mission is to help ambitious businesses thrive by offering tailored coaching and proven methodologies. Its three distinct brands -TrainerTainment, SalesPro, and ExecPro- are designed to address the unique needs of businesses across various industries, from family entertainment centers to corporate enterprises.
TrainerTainment’s 20th birthday celebration officially kicks off at Amusement Expo International (March 18-21, 2025, Las Vegas, NV), where attendees can enter to win and take part in exciting booth activities.
Throughout the year, TrainerTainment will continue the fun at major industry events, including KartExpo, Amusement 360, Bowl Expo, the SouthWest Trade Show, and IAAPA, with the grand prize winner announced at IAAPA in November.
“For 20 years, we’ve been dedicated to helping businesses in the FEC industry thrive. This celebration is not just about us—it’s about the incredible operators we’ve worked with and the success they’ve achieved,” said Beth Standlee, CEO & Founder of TrainerTainment. “We wanted to give back in a meaningful way, and what better way than offering coaching that can truly impact a business’s bottom line.”
How to Participate in the TrainerTainment 20th Birthday Celebration:
- Visit the TrainerTainment Booth at Industry Events – Stop by our booth at participating trade shows to win special prizes including training resources, discounts, and be entered to win our Grand Prize.
- Follow the Celebration Online – TrainerTainment will be sharing 20 success stories from businesses they’ve helped over the past two decades, highlighting growth and transformation across the industry. Operators are encouraged to share their own TrainerTainment success stories using #TrainerTainment20 on social media.
Grand Prize Winner Announcement at IAAPA 2025 – The $5,000 SalesPro Grand Prize Winner will be announced live at IAAPA in November. “We’ve worked with thousands of people over the last two decades, and the impact has been incredible. This celebration is about honoring those businesses and continuing to empower more operators with the tools they need to succeed,” said Candi Kelley, COO of TrainerTainment. “We’re bringing fun, energy, and opportunities to grow at every stop along the way.”
MYSTIC, Conn. — Over 140 industry professionals from across the NEAAPA region and beyond gathered to learn, network, and celebrate distinguished contributors to the attractions industry at the 112th Anniversary Education Conference & Annual Meeting, held at the Hilton Mystic Hotel.
A Gathering of Industry Leaders
NEAAPA – The Northeast’s Entertainment Association – represents the attractions industry across Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont, including the manufacturers and suppliers that support the sector. This year’s multi-day event was a dynamic forum for education, collaboration, and recognition.
Engaging Educational Sessions & Networking Opportunities
The event kicked off with a meet-up of Family Entertainment Center (FEC) members, focusing on points-of-sale systems. Leinad Borman of Semnox Solutions and Dorothy Lewis of Xpressposts Marketing led the session, showcasing new features and services available across various platforms.
Following this, a crucial safety and security session, Managing and De-Escalating Aggressive Behavior, was led by Casey Ford of Canobie Lake Park, providing valuable insights on fostering positive interactions between guests and employees.
Attendees later enjoyed a private reception at Mystic Aquarium’s Main Gallery, home to a variety of marine life, including sand tiger sharks, green sea turtles, and comb jellies. Suzette Tibus, CEO of Mystic Aquarium, welcomed the attendees before they concluded the evening with dinner at the hotel.
Informative Sessions & Leadership Elections
Tuesday, March 4, began with an education session by Kevin McNulty of NetWeave Social, Rise of the Machines: AI is Here… Now What?, exploring the integration of artificial intelligence into digital platforms in the attractions industry. This was followed by the NEAAPA Roundtables, covering topics from human resources and training to security and food and beverage operations.
During the NEAAPA Board of Directors Meeting, Ed Hodgdon was re-elected Secretary for the 15th time. Later sessions included Effective Onboarding and Retention, led by Kevin Joly of the Employer’s Association of the North East (EANE), and Learning from Z to A: Rethinking Training for Our Newest Generations, presented by Laura McNerney of Leadership Learning Group, offering fresh insights on adapting training methods to younger employees.
The NEAAPA Vendor Showcase followed, highlighting event sponsors introducing their latest products and services. Attendees then enjoyed a Broadway-themed reception and dinner, complete with a showbill-style program, designed by RWS Global.
Celebrating Leadership & Excellence
The Annual Business Meeting was chaired by outgoing NEAAPA President Chris Nicoli of Canobie Lake Park, who expressed gratitude to the board and his employer for their support. The President’s Award was presented to Kenzie Goode of Canobie Lake Park for her exceptional contributions to NEAAPA and her work on the Annual Meeting.
Twelve new members and 22 milestone members were recognized, including Six Flags New England (85 years) and Philadelphia Toboggan Company (95 years). An ad-hoc committee’s updates to the Association’s By-Laws and Articles of Organization were approved unanimously.
Newly elected officers and directors include:
- President: Erik Beard (International Ride Training)
- 1st Vice President: Ron Patalano (Roger Williams Park Zoo & Carousel Village)
- 2nd Vice President: Melissa Plane (CLM Risk Management)
- Treasurer: Charlene Conway (Carousel Family Fun Center)
Board members re-elected for three-year terms include Tom Brady (Stag Hollow Mining), Cindy Brewer-Lavoie (Southwick’s Zoo), Cory Cormier (Funtown Splashtown USA), Steve Gioe (Level99), and Sandra Manougian (Fun World). Anthony Berni III (Canobie Lake Park) and Melissa Bamford (Baynum Solutions) were elected to fill shorter-term roles.
Recognizing Industry Achievements
New NEAAPA President Erik Beard turned the stage over to Awards Committee Chair John Guertin for the evening’s awards presentation.
- Alan E. Ramsay Safety Award: Steve Vourderis (Deno’s Wonder Wheel Park) for maintaining a safe and exceptional experience in Coney Island.
- Paragon Award for Marketing Excellence: Story Land for its innovative 70th season promotions and the introduction of a new Halloween event.
- Meritorious Service Award: Tom Tessitore for his 14 years of dedicated board service.
NEAAPA Hall of Fame Inductions
The event concluded with the prestigious Hall of Fame inductions, welcoming Steve Lipkin (formerly of NANCO/Nancy Sales) and Kevin Naughton (Naughton Insurance). Both are Past Presidents of NEAAPA and join their fathers in the Hall of Fame, bringing the total number of inductees to 52.
Additionally, the 50/50 raffle raised over $2,000 for the Pinnacle Scholarship Fund, with the winner generously donating their portion back to the fund. There were also two second-chance prizes, provided by RWS Global, which included a show poster of The Lion King signed by the Broadway cast, copies of Playbills, and other exclusive items.
CARLSBAD, Fla. & HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — LEGOLAND California Resort and Madame Tussauds Hollywood are showing appreciation for first responders of the Los Angeles fires who have given their time and bravely to serve their community by offering free tickets. As part of Merlin Entertainments’ commitment to creating memorable, immersive experiences, both attractions are also offering additional discounts for first responders to bring up to four guests at half off giving the opportunity to enjoy unforgettable fun together with their families.
Now through May 23, LEGOLAND California Resort is offering a complimentary Hopper Ticket, and up to four additional Hopper tickets at 50% off for first responders including California-based firefighters, police officers, sheriff deputies, paramedics, emergency medical technicians and National Guard Members. First responders can choose between a LEGOLAND + SEA LIFE Hopper Ticket or a Resort Hopper Ticket which includes access to LEGOLAND, SEA LIFE, and LEGOLAND® Water Park (open select dates).
Tickets must be claimed in person at LEGOLAND California’s Guest Services window with a valid government-issued photo ID and a valid employee ID card.
At Madame Tussauds Hollywood, first responders can enjoy free admission through April 10. They can bring up to four guests, who are all eligible to receive 50% off admission. This exclusive offer at Madame Tussauds is available through ID.me.
ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal Orlando Resort is revealing the must-have array of merchandise that guests can purchase during their visit to the groundbreaking Universal Epic Universe theme park, officially opening on May 22, 2025. Available at 20-plus immersive retail locations throughout the theme park, guests can shop a unique assortment of new and popular merchandise that ranges from apparel to headwear to collectibles and more inspired by the imaginative worlds of Epic Universe – including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and Dark Universe.
“The groundbreaking, immersive worlds of Epic Universe created the dream opportunity for us to design a first-of-its-kind merchandise program that brings these iconic stories to fans in new and innovative ways,” said Justin Lafoe, Global Parks Merchandise & Retail Officer, Universal Destinations & Experiences. “We are thrilled to bring fan-favorite worlds to life and give guests the chance to bring home a piece of their adventures with them.”
Here is a closer look at some of the exciting merchandise collections that will be available at Epic Universe when it opens later this year:
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
Within Place Cachée in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, guests will discover an expansive assortment of merchandise inspired by 1920s wizarding Paris, the Fantastic Beasts films, the British Ministry of Magic and much more. At Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique, guests will find an all-new collection of interactive wands that will bring to life new experiences and magic – including some that are exclusive to Epic Universe – and wand accessories with a Parisian twist.
In Les Galeries Mirifiques, guests will find wizarding gear and memorabilia including 1920s-era wizarding robes complete with berets and neck ties, messenger bags with wand holders as well as jewelry and accessories representing each of the four Hogwarts houses. Fantastic Beasts fans will even be able to take an interactive Niffler home with them.
Guests can also explore the Métro-Floo gift shop, Tour En Floo, where they will find the Métro-Floo collection, a variety of items featuring the Time-Turner, and the British Ministry of Magic collection – featuring apparel and wand accessories such as a wand stand and wand holder harness that don the wizarding authority’s well-known emblem.
Guests looking to satisfy their sweet tooth can indulge in délicieux, giftable sweets and treats from potions to Chocolate Frogs and beyond in the French confectionary shop, K. Rammelle.
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD
Fans can team up and celebrate their favorite Nintendo characters with an extensive variety of merchandise inspired by beloved characters like Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi, Donkey Kong and more. The 1-UP Factory and Mario Motors stores feature character hats and headbands themed to Chef Toad, Bowser Jr., Princess Peach and more; character plush like Mario, Luigi and Donkey Kong; a Mario Kart collection and a colorful Yoshi collection. SUPER NINTENDO WORLD also offers food and beverage accessories like the light-up Super Star Popcorn Bucket, 1-UP Mushroom Sipper and Super Mushroom Sipper.
At Funky’s Fly ‘n’ Buy in Donkey Kong Country, guests will be able to shop for merchandise that will be available for the first time at Epic Universe such as a banana-shaped fanny pack inspired by Donkey Kong’s favorite food. Other items guests can find at Funky’s Fly ‘n’ Buy include a gigantic Donkey Kong coffee mug, a Diddy Kong ticket holder and more.
Guests can also purchase Power-Up Bands throughout SUPER NINTENDO WORLD inspired by popular characters Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, Toad, Princess Peach, Princess Daisy, Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong to gear up for interactive play. With a Power-Up Band, guests can enhance their play throughout SUPER NINTENDO WORLD by experiencing interactive activities, winning digital keys, collecting digital coins and stamps, tracking their score, checking their ranking and more.
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
Guests can immerse themselves in all the Viking vibes with a vast selection of merchandise, including apparel and collectibles inspired by the beloved characters, attractions and more in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk. Signature items found throughout the world and in the Toothless’ Treasures retail location include blind-box collectible dragon toys, apparel, and plush inspired by the larger-than-life dragons in Berk; a chance to adopt-a-dragon via a crossbody egg carrier that holds a plush dragon; and a Toothless collection that features a popcorn bucket, zip-up jacket, wings, masks, plush headbands and more.
Those looking to become a Viking themselves can gear up at Viking Traders with an array of cosplay attire featuring helmets, masks, shirts, shields and swords. Rustic swag fit for the most impressionable dragon trainers can also be found at Hiccup’s Work Shop.
How to Treat Your Dragon invites guests to satisfy their sweet tooth with treats such as mystery chocolate dragon eggs featuring trading cards in dragon house-themed packaging and even sheep marshmallows, for the most honorable Viking chiefs.
Dark Universe
As they step into the ominous world of Darkmoor, guests will discover an incredible collection of apparel, accessories, home decor, toys, and collectibles inspired by the legendary Universal Monsters like Frankenstein’s Monster, the Bride of Frankenstein, Dracula, The Wolf Man, Creature from the Black Lagoon and more.
Guests of all ages wanting to take their fandom to the next level can visit the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience and become fashionably monstrous with elaborate face paint, as well as shop for an extensive assortment of cosplay attire in Pretorius’ Scientific Oddities, located adjacent to the makeup experience, to complete their looks. More details will be revealed soon on how guests can choose their destiny and transform into their favorite Universal Monster with this all-new experience.
Aspiring monsters can also take home the terror with commemorative merchandise like the Bitty Monsters collection – complete with apparel, headwear, collectible figures, and plush. The spine-tingling experiences throughout Darkmoor also inspired all-new collections themed to Frankenstein Manor – home to Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, Dr. Pretorius, The Burning Blade Tavern, and Curse of the Werewolf. Guests can find these and other eclectic items at Pretorious’ Scientific Oddities as well as The Manor Storehouse and Guild of Mystics retail locations in Dark Universe.
Additional Retail Experiences in Celestial Park
Guests will also be able to purchase Universal Epic Universe branded merchandise to commemorate their visit to the new theme park, including apparel and accessories for the entire family, home décor, collectible souvenirs, glowing wands and headbands, a light-up popcorn bucket, and items from the Epic Universe Grand Opening collection.
These and more items can be found in unique retail locations within Celestial Park including Other Worlds Mercantile – a bustling marketplace full of majestic treasures where all of the worlds come together; Moonship Chocolates & Celestial Sweets – where guests can find a selection of sweets and treats; and Various Emporia – which houses three smaller shops –Sensorium Emporium, North Star – Wintry Wonders and Lens Flair. Guests can also find the Nintendo Super Star Store in Celestial Park, which carries an assortment of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD merchandise as well as other Nintendo franchise merchandise.
After 45 fulfilling years in this wonderful industry, the time has come for Willy Walser to pass on the day-to day management of RES Rides into new and capable hands. The company announce that Roman Rothe a skilled engineer with over 15 years of experience in our field, will now take over the management of RES RIDES.
Roman Rothe knows the industry inside and out. Over the past 15 years, he has demonstrated exceptional expertise and creativity in designing and the execution of impressive complex large-scale projects. Walser expressed confidence that Roman will not only meet but exceed industry expectations in his new role.
Walser feels it has always been a great pleasure and honor to work with the industry on a wide range of projects – from water and dry leisure facilities to small and large-scale installations. Together, with passion and dedication, RES Rides have brought many visionary ideas to life, and the industry’s trust has been a key factor in RES Rides’ success.
Walser shared that he will remain part of the RES RIDES team. With his experience and knowledge; he will continue to actively support Roman Rothe and the company’s outstanding team. Together, the two will ensure that the company’s projects continue to stand out through innovation, quality, and passion.
Walser expressed hoped that the industry will extend the same trust to Roman that it has so generously given to him over the years. He expressed his heartfelt thanks for the industry’s support and the excellent collaboration he has been able to share.
Here’s to a successful future with Roman Rothe at the helm – and with Willy Walser still by his side!
Theme park Toverland will be celebrating its 24th year in 2025 and will mark the anniversary on the 24th of each month. The Troy Coaster Challenge will return on Saturday, 24 May, and Sunday, 25 May. For this, Toverland is looking for 24 daredevils to ride the Troy wooden rollercoaster for 24 hours. The aim is to raise as much money as possible for the charity Stichting Jade. Anyone interested can sign up now at toverland.com/en/coasterchallenge.
Stichting Jade
Jade Kops was diagnosed with childhood cancer at the age of 14. Despite intensive treatments and the heartbreaking news that she will not be cured, Jade remains a font of positivity. Driven by her own experiences, she and her family established the Stichting Jade foundation. This foundation offers families with children who are being treated for childhood cancer a invaluable break at Villa Jade, a holiday home by the sea. Here they can escape reality for a while and make precious memories together. You can find more information at www.stichtingjade.nl.
Charity activities
Toverland is organising various activities in order to raise as much money as possible for Stichting Jade. Hence visitors to Toverland can take part in the Troy Coaster Challenge for 55 minutes outside opening hours by buying a seat next to one of the participants. There will also be an auction of special items, such as parts of the wooden rollercoaster. ‘By supporting Jade and her foundation, we also want to contribute to the magic for families who really need it,’ says Bart Jaspers, Manager Marketing & Communications. ‘Our goal during the Troy Coaster Challenge is to raise enough money to cover the expenses for all the guests at Villa Jade for at least one year.’
René Kops, Jade’s father and chairman of the Jade Foundation, is very excited about the collaboration. ‘We love helping other families. Thanks to this event we can help make this possible and look forward to the future.’
Practical information
The Troy Coaster Challenge will take place from noon on Saturday, 24 May, to noon on Sunday, 25 May. A test evening will take place on Thursday, 24 April, where an initial selection of participants will take rides on Troy for two hours to check whether they are willing to do it for 24 hours. The final participants will be announced after this evening. Challengers must be over 18. Registrations are open until Monday, 24 March, at toverland.com/en/coasterchallenge.
Don’t miss the opportunity to discover how Sacoa can increase your sales, decrease your costs, and give you more control over your operation!
- Amusement Expo 2025 | March 19 and 20 | Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV, booth #205
- IAAPA Summit Latin America & Caribbean 2025 | March 24 to 26 | CDMX, Mexico, booth #19
- Bar & Restaurant Expo 2025 | March 24 to 26 | Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV, booth #756
CALVERTON, N.Y. — New York’s Largest Water Park, Splish Splash is gearing up for the park’s Opening Day on Saturday, May 24. Celebrating 35 seasons of splash-tastic fun, the Long Island water park is currently hiring 1,000 Team Members for its 2025 Season.
Splish Splash is kicking off its hiring efforts now and accepting applications in all departments. Those who apply today can work as a lifeguard at the park’s all-new water playground or make one of the park’s famous Ben’s Soft Pretzels. Positions are also available in Park Services, Admissions, Retail, Security, Guest Services and more.
“It is a great time to join the Splish Splash team, as we continue to invest in our park and add our all-new water play area debuting this summer,” says General Manager, Mike Bengtson. “Working at a water park is more than just a job; it’s an experience. We believe in building a strong team that works together to provide an exceptional guest experience. We offer competitive wages, flexible schedules, and the opportunity to create unforgettable summer fun.”
Splish Splash offers competitive wages starting at up to $20 per hour, scholarships and advancement opportunities, incentive programs, monthly special events, discounts on food and retail, free admission to Splish Splash and 14 other amusement parks in the United States and much more. The park is now accepting applications for those ages 14 and up, there are also opportunities for professionals and retirees.
Splish Splash will host several job fairs next month beginning on Saturday, April 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., attendees will have the opportunity to speak with current team members, apply for positions, interview and even be hired on the spot. Candidates who are hired will receive three free Bronze Season Passes if they complete the hiring process by April 1.
Splish Splash will also host walk-in interviews Monday, April 14 through Friday, April 18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
AGAWAM, Mass. — Celebrating its 25th anniversary as Six Flags, Six Flags New England is making its largest culinary investment in park history. One key initiative includes naming Josh Streeter as the park’s first executive chef.
“We are thrilled to welcome Chef Josh Streeter to the Six Flags New England family. His exceptional talent and innovative approach to culinary arts will elevate our entire food and beverage experience,” said Park President Peter Carmichael. “We can’t wait for our guests to taste the difference – from enhancing park favorites to exciting, new additions.”
Streeter is a western Massachusetts native, originally from Florence, and has an extensive culinary background. Streeter moved from western Massachusetts to San Franscico, Ca. to further his career. Shortly after arriving he began working on a team that earned two Michelin stars. Subsequently, he taught culinary school, became head chef of a variety of kitchens including universities, hospitals, retirement communities, bakeries and most recently MGM Springfield. Streeter says those experiences make him well versed in creating high quality food for all ages.
“I’m really excited to be part of the Six Flags New England team and bring fresh, new flavors to the park,” Chef Streeter said. “It’s a great chance to get creative and offer guests something delicious. I can’t wait for everyone to try the new dishes and enjoy them alongside all the fun and excitement the park has to offer.”
Streeter is looking forward to enhancing several menus including Chop Six. He is introducing fresh, seasonal ingredients, traditional noodles, and will teach team members new cooking techniques that will elevate quality, taste, and presentation for guests.
In addition to Chef Streeter, Six Flags New England is reintroducing its flagship restaurant, Riverboat Café, after a total renovation. Guests will enjoy the new look of the dining area, additional seating and new kitchen equipment that will allow for new menu items and higher quality, fresh ingredients.
“We take great pride in offering our guests the best possible experiences,” Carmichael said. “The Riverboat Café is centrally located in the park, right next to our thrilling new coaster, Quantum Accelerator. We believe the renovation of the Riverboat Café perfectly complements the excitement of the coaster, adding a whole new dimension to our park that all guests can enjoy.”
Six Flags New England opens for the season April 5. Additional details can be found on its events page. Please note that all event dates and availability are subject to change. Guests are encouraged to check the official website or follow on social media for the most up-to-date information regarding special events and schedules.
For more information on the exciting 2025 season and Six Flags New England’s new coaster, Quantum Accelerator — New England’s first dual-launch, family-friendly straddle coaster launching summer 2025— visit sixflags.com/newengland.
BRISTOL, Conn. — America’s First Amusement Park, Lake Compounce is seeking more than 1,000 employees to join the park ahead the 2025 season. The park is currently hiring across all positions including Food and Beverage, Lifeguards, Rides, Guest Experience and more.
Team Members at Lake Compounce will enjoy several employee perks including pay rates up to $18, free tickets for friends and family, flexible schedules, on-site training and so much more. The park is also hiring for full-time positions across multiple departments including entertainment, maintenance, safety and retail, offering career opportunities for those looking to take the next step in the attractions industry.
“Our Team Members are at the heart of everything we do,” said Libby Dolman, People and Organization Director. “We’re committed to creating a workplace that is not only fun and engaging but also provides valuable experience, hands-on training, and competitive wages. Whether it’s a first job or a new adventure, there’s a place for everyone on our team.”
Team Members at Connecticut’s Most Thrilling Workplace can expect a job unlike anything else in the area. Lake Compounce has positions for everyone ranging from those 16 and up looking for their first summer job to retirees and everyone in between. The park’s flexible schedules, variety of positions available and orientation programs make it easy for new Team Members to join the team and gain valuable skill sets.
Lake Compounce will open the park gates for the 2025 season on Saturday, May 3 at 11 a.m. This year, visitors will be delighted by exciting new events and returning fan-favorites like Kids Fest, Phantom Fall Fest and Holiday Lights. The historic Wildcat Roller Coaster, now smoother and more enjoyable, underwent the final year of a multi-year re-tracking project. The park’s other beloved wooden roller coaster, Boulder Dash has also seen significant investment in the off-season with the addition of nearly 300 feet of steel Titan Track.
