As part of its ongoing commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all, SeaWorld Orlando is proud to introduce American Sign Language (ASL) Saturdays. Partnering with American Sign Language Services (ASLS), SeaWorld Orlando will be providing seamless access to SeaWorld’s popular shows and attractions with live ASL interpreters. Beginning on March 1 and recurring on the first Saturday of every month, this program aims to cater specifically to deaf and hard-of-hearing community members visiting the park.
ASL Saturdays will include:
- ASL-Interpreted Shows: Select performances will feature live ASL interpretation, ensuring an inclusive experience for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing guests.
- Dedicated Guest Services: Team members will assist with accessibility needs, including wheelchair seating and flexible arrangements for late arrivals.
- Reserved Seating for Interpreted Shows: Special seating areas will provide clear sightlines to ASL interpreters for an optimal viewing experience.
From exciting animal presentations to spectacular performances, SeaWorld Orlando’s ASL Saturdays ensure every moment is accessible and that all guests can enjoy SeaWorld’s world-class entertainment.
ST. LOUIS — At the 2025 Amusement Expo International March 19-20, Intercard will feature its award-winning iQ system of readers and kiosks that leverages QR codes, setting the new standard for unattended amusement center payment technology. iQ devices use built-in scanners to read customer presented QR codes for payment and redemption point collection. This enables customers to use mobile devices or paper receipts instead of play cards to activate games, reducing costs for route operators and owners of unattended arcades.
Intercard received a Best New Product Award at IAAPA Expo 2024 for the innovative iQ system, which was recognized in the category of Technology Applied to Amusements – Product or Service used by Facilities. The judges praised the iQ system as a “QR code reader for games allowing easy way to play. Can sell online or at kiosk on-site. Easy way to get to the fun.”
“With the iQ system, customers can purchase or recharge game play and use a mobile device or paper receipt with QR code to play games, collect points and even redeem prizes,” says Scott Sherrod, CEO of Intercard, “all without the help of a center employee. That helps lower costs for operators, and iQ system customers have reported an ROI of as little as 90 days.”
Sherrod also invites booth visitors to meet Chris Barker, the newest member of the Intercard account team. “Chris has been in the amusement industry for 25 years and has experience in installing, operating and maintaining arcades for amusement and water parks, FECs and route operations,” says Sherrod. “Chris joins Intercard after a successful tenure as a district manager for industry leader Family Entertainment Group.”
Visit Intercard in Booth #1027 at the Amusement Expo. To schedule a demo of the iQ system and other industry-leading Intercard products during the show please contact Rob Geiger, North American sales manager at [email protected]
Betson Imperial Parts & Service will showcase Javelin Displays, a leading OEM manufacturer of high-performance monitors, touchscreen solutions, and components, at Amusement Expo 2025 on March 19th & 20th in Las Vegas, NV. The company will showcase its latest display technologies designed specifically for the arcade and amusement industry, offering manufacturers and operators enhanced visuals, durability, and interactive features that elevate the gaming experience.
As a trusted supplier of monitors for arcade cabinets, redemption games, gaming, vending, and kiosk applications, Javelin Monitors focuses on innovation, reliability, and customization. Attendees visiting Booth #1712 will have the opportunity to experience firsthand how Javelin’s cutting-edge monitors and responsive touchscreens can enhance their products and services.
“We are excited to bring Javelin’s latest display solutions to Amusement Expo 2025,” said Richard Zayas-Bazan – President at Betson Imperial Parts & Service. “Javelin Displays are engineered to meet the demanding needs of manufacturers and operators, providing exceptional image quality, durability, and seamless integration for an unparalleled user experience.”
Javelin Monitors offers a wide range of screen sizes, custom configurations, and advanced technology features, making them an ideal partner equipment manufacturers and location owners.
CARY, Ill. — On Thursday, February 13, a dedicated group of eleven members from the American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA), led by AAMA Executive Vice President Pete Gustafson, spent the day on Capitol Hill advocating for issues crucial to the amusement industry. The delegation, supported by John Russell IV, a Partner with the Government Relations division of the DGA Group and a multiple-time recipient of The Hill’s Top Lobbyist award, and DGA Associate Adriana Santoni Vicens, met with representatives from fifteen congressional offices to discuss four key industry concerns.
AAMA Member Attendees included:
- Rich Babich – Founder and Owner of The Game Exchange of Colorado
- Britiannie Betti – Business Development Manager & Northeast Regional Sales Manager for Betson Distributing
- Jonathan Durst – Sales Representative for Pyramid Technologies
- Chris Felix – Regional Account Manager for Touchtunes
- Amy Hedrik – CEO of CleanBox
- Denise Killian – Training Specialist for TrainerTainment
- Keitha McBride – Account Manager for A&A Global
- George McAuliffe – President of Pinnacle Entertainment Group
- Howard McAuliffe – Vice President of Pinnacle Entertainment Group
- Michael Nowak – CEO of Rhode Island Novelty
- Nick Sarioglou – General Manager of Betson Distributing
Congressional Offices visited:
Maryland Senator – Angela Alsobrooks
- Arizona Senator – Ruben Gallego
- New Jersey Senator – Andy Kim
- South Carolina Senator – Tim Scott
- Georgia Senator – Rev. Raphael Warnock
- Massachusetts Senator – Elizabeth Warren
- Colorado 2nd District Congresswoman – Diana DeGette
- Tennessee 7th District Congressman – Mark Green
- Pennsylvania 6th Congresswoman – Chrissy Houlahan
- Illinois 8th District Congressman – Raja Krishnamoorthi
- California 49th District Congressman – Mike Levin
- Maryland 2nd District Congressman – Johnny Olszewski
- Illinois 9th District Congresswoman – Jan Schakowsky
- Missouri 8th District Congressman – Jason Smith
- Texas 24th District Congresswoman – Beth Van Duyne
Attendees split into two groups to maximize outreach, ensuring that each member had the opportunity to meet with their respective congressional offices in both the House and Senate.
The meetings centered on four primary concerns affecting AAMA members and the broader amusement industry:
Tariffs and Supply Chain Challenges
While AAMA acknowledges the importance of strategically imposed tariffs to support American-made products, broad tariff applications have had unintended consequences. Many critical components essential to the amusement industry—such as plush and prizes, computer boards, chips, and display monitors—are exclusively manufactured in China. As a result, tariffs have led to increased costs, with some suppliers imposing a 10% price hike on existing orders. These added expenses place significant strain on small businesses, limiting their ability to grow and compete effectively.
Making the Main Street Tax Credit Permanent (Section 199A)
Section 199A, enacted in 2017, provides crucial tax relief to small businesses. However, while corporate tax cuts were made permanent, this provision is set to expire at the end of this year. If Section 199A sunsets, small businesses will face a severe disadvantage compared to large corporations, potentially leading to business closures. The AAMA delegation emphasized the importance of maintaining a level playing field to ensure the survival and success of small enterprises in the amusement industry.
Repealing the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA)
The CTA, which requires businesses to report their Beneficial Owner Information (BOI), was recently reinstated after a court injunction was lifted. With a compliance deadline of March 21, AAMA members argued that the CTA places an undue burden on the more than 33 million legitimate small businesses across the country.
While intended to prevent criminal enterprises from hiding behind shell companies, the act imposes excessive regulatory requirements on honest business owners instead of directly targeting illicit activities.
Passing the Credit Card Competition Act
In 2024, U.S. retailers paid an astonishing $170 billion in credit card processing fees, with Visa and Mastercard controlling 80% of the market. With profit margins exceeding 50%, these companies wield significant power, raising fees at will and limiting competition. This places an immense financial strain on small businesses, hindering their ability to expand and hire new employees.
AAMA members urged lawmakers to support the Credit Card Competition Act, which would foster a fairer financial landscape for businesses of all sizes.
A Passionate and Unified Voice
Reflecting on the day’s events, attendees expressed their enthusiasm for advocating on behalf of the amusement industry: “It was a great experience being part of democracy in action for a day. Even better was watching the AAMA team of staff, officers, and members doing the work, and seeing their dedication to our industry,” said George McAuliffe, President of Pinnacle Entertainment Group.
“The passion for our industry that came from this group was inspiring. I learned a lot,” added Michael Nowak, CEO of Rhode Island Novelty.
Keitha McBride, Account Manager for A&A Global, shared, “I love that we are all so passionate about our industry and are willing to take the time to speak to our representatives about the issues that affect our industry partners, our businesses, and us personally. I walked out of the Senate building saying to myself, I just spoke to individuals who make changes within our government, and I was a part of that democratic process.”
Nick Sarioglou, General Manager of Betson Distributing, emphasized the importance of continued advocacy: “AAMA 2025 D.C. Fly-In—a day where members took the lead in shaping the policies that impact our communities, work, and future with one voice advocating for our industry growth and business prosperity. It is truly the American Way!”
Ensuring a Seat at the Table
Pete Gustafson, AAMA Executive Vice President, highlighted the importance of these efforts, stating, “Our group did a fantastic job advocating for AAMA, the Amusement Industry, and small businesses across the country. We shared how choices made in D.C. don’t just impact Fortune 500 companies—they also affect America’s 34 million small businesses. These visits demonstrate the importance of engaging with policymakers to ensure we’re on their minds when they’re considering new laws and regulations.
Perhaps AAMA Past President John Margold put it best when talking about the importance of these visits, saying, ‘You’re either at the table, or you’re on the menu.’ It was good to be at the table.”
UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. — Universal Studios Hollywood invites guests and fans of the Fast & Furious franchise to experience “Fast & Furious—Supercharged” one last time before the world-famous Studio Tour attraction closes on March 10, 2025. A thrilling new experience will arrive at Universal Studios Hollywood when “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” launches as the destination’s first-ever, high-speed outdoor roller coaster in 2026.
“Fast & Furious—Supercharged,” inspired by the popular Fast & Furious franchise, launched in 2015 as the grand finale to the Studio Tour and has entertained millions of guests, taking them on an exhilarating, virtual high-speed 3D chase to save one of their own from an international crime cartel.
The closure of this attraction will pave the way for an exciting all-new Studio Tour attraction to be announced soon.
DALLAS, Texas — Fritz’s Adventure announces the appointment of Bobby Davis as Director of Operations, bringing his extensive leadership and operational expertise to the company’s second location in The Colony, Texas. As a key member of the senior leadership team, Davis will play a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the new adventure park, serving as the acting general manager.
A Dallas native and raised in the hospitality and restaurant industry, Davis brings years of valuable expertise to Fritz’s Aventure. His impressive career includes roles as Regional Managing Partner at Hissho Sushi, where he oversaw 97 units across Texas for five years, and as a Regional Manager at Andy’s Frozen Custard, where he helped expand corporate and franchise operations, including seven Dallas-area locations.
“We are thrilled to have Bobby join our team at such a critical time for Fritz’s Adventure,” said Travis Leaming, Chief Operating Officer at Fritz’s Adventure. “His proven track record in multi-unit operations, business expansion, and people-first leadership makes him the ideal person to lead the launch of our new location at Grandscape. We are confident that under his direction, Fritz’s Adventure will thrive as a premier family destination in North Texas.”
Davis’ leadership style prioritizes mentorship, team development, and a people-first approach, fostering a culture of continuous growth and excellence. His ability to build strong, well-trained teams will be instrumental in shaping the guest experience and operational success at Fritz’s Adventure.
“I’m honored to join Fritz’s Adventure and lead the team as we open in The Colony,” shared Davis. “This opportunity allows me to combine my passion for operations, training, and leadership development to create an unforgettable experience for guests and an exceptional workplace for our team. I look forward to building a culture of excellence and adventure.”
Fritz’s Adventure at Grandscape is set to bring the brand’s signature blend of indoor adventure, family-friendly entertainment, and interactive experiences to North Texas. With Davis at the helm, the new location is poised for success as it welcomes guests to explore, play, and make lasting memories.
WINDERMERE, Fla. — Innovative Attraction Management (IAM) is excited to announce the promotion and hire of several outstanding team members who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and growth. These team members reflect IAM’s commitment to recognizing and nurturing talent within the organization, ensuring delivery of unparalleled experiences and services to IAM’s clients and partners.
“We are thrilled to recognize the hard work and achievements of these team members. Their new jobs and promotions are well-deserved, and we are confident that their leadership will continue to enhance the guest experience and drive our businesses forward throughout the attractions industry,” said James Harhi, CEO of IAM.
Katie Wojdyla – Chief Marketing Officer for Innovative Attraction Management
Katie Wojdyla was recently promoted to the Chief Marketing Officer for IAM. In her current role she oversees marketing efforts for Diggerland USA in West Berlin, NJ and Water Safari Resort in Old Forge, NY which includes, Enchanted Forest Water Safari, Calypso’s Cove, Old Forge Camping Resort and the Water’s Edge Inn. Katie started her career in the amusement industry growing up in her family business, who previously owned Water Safari Resort. She has worked in a variety of departments including food service, games, photo, HR, admissions, administration and camping, all of which have provided a backdrop for a lifetime of industry knowledge and experience. She returned to the company in 2004 after completing a B.S. in speech communication with minors in linguistics and French from Syracuse University. She led the company as Vice President and Director of Marketing with her sister, Kelly from 2012 – 2024. Katie’s most recent accomplishment is raising her 1-year-old daughter with her husband in Upstate New York.
Cathy Dunlap – Park President for Enchanted Forest Water Safari
Cathy Dunlap is the new Park President of Enchanted Forest Water Safari in Old Forge, NY, overseeing all the Resort’s properties: the Enchanted Forest Water Safari (water park), Calypso’s Cove (FEC), the Water’s Edge (hotel), and the Old Forge Camping Resort.
Originally from Carthage, NY, Cathy holds a B.S. in Natural Resources with a major in Recreation Management from the University of Vermont. Cathy began her career with an internship at Walt Disney World, later working at the Polynesian Resort and managing Guest Relations at Typhoon Lagoon. Over her 39-year tenure at Disney, she contributed to various resort openings and projects, including Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Kidani Village, Bay Lake Tower, Shanghai, and Aulani Village. She also managed volunteer teams for major events and played a key role in creating recreation for the NBA Bubble during COVID.
After retiring from Disney in 2024, Cathy returned to New York to lead Enchanted Forest Water Safari. Her family has a strong background in recreation, with her daughter Elle now a teacher in Orlando and her late husband Vic having been a lifeguard and waterski instructor at Disney.
Josh Karu – Park President for Diggerland USA
Josh Karu was recently promoted to Park President at Diggerland USA theme and water park. He has worked at Diggerland since it opened in 2014 and has been involved in the company’s growth, ride design, and daily oversite of the facilities operations and safety. Josh has been an active member of the amusement industry for over 25 years. He is a NAARSO Level III inspector and instructor, a Certified Pool & Spa Operator, and a certified lifeguard.
Shawn Kidd – Assistant General Manager for Diggerland USA
Shawn Kidd was recently hired as the Assistant General Manager for Diggerland USA. Shawn comes to us from Island H2O Water Park where he served as Director of Operations since the park’s opening in 2019. Shawn’s prior roles include Client Partner for StarGuard ELITE, Corporate Director of Logistics for Innovative Attraction Management, and Aquatics Director for Myrtle Waves Water Park. His background also includes Ellis & Associates Client Manager serving the Walt Disney Company and he worked directly for the Walt Disney World Resort for 15 years in a variety of management roles across waterparks and resort recreation. Shawn specializes in aquatic safety with Instructor Trainer & Auditor experience with StarGuard ELITE, Ellis & Associates, and American Red Cross. Shawn has been an officer of the World Waterpark Association’s Government Relations Committee for 7 years and currently serves as Vice Chair. He has been a speaker, author & panelist for several trade organizations and was recently recognized with the Jill & Robbin White Lifetime Achievement Award via StarGuard ELITE. Shawn has raised two children, Alexander & Meagan, and moves to us with his significant other, Michelle.
David McLaughlin – Aquatics Manager for Evermore Resort, IAM Operation
David McLaughlin, Aquatics Manager, oversees the aquatics and lifeguard operations at Evermore Resort Orlando, managing an 8-acre crystal lagoon, 13 acres of beachfront, and multiple aquatic facilities.
Prior to joining IAM, he spent over 10 years in leadership roles with Loews Hotels, Universal Orlando, and Walt Disney World serving as an Advance Rescue Patrol Coordinator.
Talea Meneses – Aquatics Manager for Resorts World Las Vegas, IAM Operation
Talea Meneses, Aquatics Manager, is responsible for the aquatics and lifeguard operations at Resort World Las Vegas. Talea has been instrumental in the company’s success and growth with over 7 years of experience in aquatics, operations, programming, training, marketing, and staffing.
Talea’s journey in aquatics began in high school when she started working as a lifeguard. Her passion for the field and dedication to helping others have driven her to seize every opportunity for growth within the aquatics community. She has worked at some of the most prestigious properties in the Las Vegas valley, gaining valuable experience along the way.
Not only has she fallen in love with being around the atmosphere and the adrenaline of helping others; After graduating from high school, Talea pursued her passion for health and safety by attending college. She obtained certifications as an American Red Cross and StarGuard Elite instructor for lifeguarding and earned her Advanced Paramedic License from the EMS Training Center of Southern Nevada. Talea believes that success comes from engaging with and spreading awareness within local communities. Her commitment to excellence and community involvement continues to drive her professional growth and contributions to Resort World Las Vegas.
Christina (Tina) Ray – General Manager for Villatel Aqua Bay Water Park, IAM Operation
Tina has worked in many fields due to her husband’s 22-year military career. She has been a restaurant manager, worked in a daycare and has owned her own daycare to name a few. In 2019 Tina started her management career in water parks at Splish Splash Water Park in Long Island, NY. She started as a Food and Beverage Manager and was promoted to Director of In-Park Revenue in 2024. Tina is excited to join IAM as General Manager of Villatel’s Aqua Bay Water Park. In her spare time, Tina enjoys spending time with her husband and three children. They enjoy traveling, attending sporting events and just being together.
Natalia Seliga – Operations Manager for Villatel Aqua Bay Water Park, IAM Operation
Natalia oversees the aquatics and recreation operations at Villatel Resort. She has been working in recreation for 7 years, starting off as a lifeguard at her city pool. After moving to Orlando, she took on a leadership role at Walt Disney World as a Lifeguard and Advanced Rescue Patrol Coordinator before transitioning over to the Evermore Resort as a Lifeguard Supervisor. She is excited to be joining the IAM management team and looking forward to working with everyone at Villatel.
Bethany Devries – Aquatics Manager for Gaylord Pacific Resort, IAM Operation
Bethany has been in the aquatic industry since 2014, starting as a frontline lifeguard. After graduating from Cal State University San Marcos with a bachelor’s in mathematics, Bethany chose to stay in the lifeguard role and has slowly worked through the ranks. With experience working in large organizations such as Merlin Entertainments, Bethany has developed her skills in leadership and operations. Bethany loves what she does, and their favorite part of the industry is watching new lifeguards become more and more confident in their skills throughout their tenure as a lifeguard.
BUENA PARK, Calif. — Family Entertainment Group (FEG) is thrilled to announce the grand re-opening of a newly reimagined arcade at Knott’s Berry Farm. The revitalized 5,200-square-foot entertainment space, named The Factory Floor Arcade, will officially open its doors on Friday, May 21st, offering guests an upgraded gaming experience with exciting new attractions and a fresh thematic design. To celebrate the opening of The Factory Floor Arcade, all guests will enjoy half-price games from Monday, 2/24 through Friday, 2/28.
The transformed arcade embraces a 1920s factory theme, featuring immersive décor elements such as faux brick walls, steel beam treatments, and a newly themed redemption counter. Enhancements also include updated lighting and an overall refresh to complement the dynamic atmosphere of Knott’s Berry Farm’s Boardwalk area.
Guests will have access to approximately 70 cutting-edge games, including two of the latest virtual reality attractions: Godzilla and Rilex Coaster. Players can redeem their winnings at the arcade’s new redemption counter, stocked with a variety of exciting prizes. Family Entertainment Group continues its commitment to delivering high-quality entertainment experiences across the country. The new arcade at Knott’s Berry Farm represents another step in enhancing family fun for visitors of all ages.
ST. LOUIS — Intercard, the world leader in cashless technology, has added amusement industry veteran and arcade operations expert Chris Barker to its team as an account executive.
Chris has been in the amusement industry for 25 years and has experience in installing, operating and maintaining arcades for amusement and water parks, FECs and route operations. He joins Intercard after a successful tenure as a district manager for industry leader Family Entertainment Group. There he helped develop the sensational “Human Claw Experience” that puts players into a large-scale claw machine by suspending them in the air over a pit filled with prizes that they try to pick up.
Chris has worked with several other industry giants, including Player One Amusement Group, Elaut USA and Tricorp Amusements.
“Chris’s extensive experience in large outdoor venues makes him a strong addition to the Intercard team as we continue to grow our customer base,” says Rob Geiger, North America sales manager for Intercard.
A Pittsburgh native, Chris’ first arcade memory is playing the classic “Fascination” rollerball game at the legendary Kennywood Amusement Park. He began his professional arcade career as a technician for Dave & Buster’s in Pittsburgh. His favorite arcade game is “NFL Blitz 1999.” “That was one of the games I played in high school,” says Chris, “I actually own one and I keep it nice and clean and running.”
Chris Barker is available at [email protected] to answer questions about Intercard’s popular products and services.
CARLSBAD, Calif. — Feeling lucky and ready to roll the LEGO dice? Grab your chips and head to LEGOLAND California Resort for a kid-friendly Vegas adventure! Built from more than 1.5 mil LEGO bricks, MINILAND Las Vegas has officially re-opened at the Carlsbad theme park, offering the perfect family-friendly Vegas experience.
MINILAND Las Vegas has been a beloved landmark at the Park for nearly two decades and Master Model Builders have been hard at work bringing the LEGO city to life once again with all-new details for guests to enjoy! With over 1,500 new Minilanders, 200 new LEGO vehicles and four new iconic LEGO built buildings, the newly refreshed MINILAND Las Vegas recreates the vibrant sights and sounds of the famous Las Vegas Strip.
What’s New in MINILAND Las Vegas:
- Hard “Block” Hotel: Standing more than six feet tall and eight feet wide, this structure is built from more than 130,000 bricks and took Master Model Builders more than 600 hours to design and build.
- “Trendy” Island Hotel: Crafted from 125,000 LEGO bricks, this hotel took nearly 520 hours to create.
- Giant Brick Pyramid: Reaching five feet tall and inspired by the iconic Luxor hotel, this build is made from 30,000 bricks and required 130 hours of meticulous design and building time.
- The Tallest Tower: Inspired by the STRAT Hotel, the LEGO build stands 15 feet tall, making it the tallest structure in MINILAND Las Vegas! Comprised of 33,000 LEGO bricks, it took Master Model Builders 224 hours to create.
- Intergalactic Car Show: This out-of-this world car show features spaceships and aliens, with a fun Elvis impersonation contest you can spot among the Minilanders!
LEGOLAND® California Resort is offering a fantastic deal for families looking to explore the new MINILAND Las Vegas with BIG savings this spring! For a limited time, purchase a Hopper ticket and get a second day FREE. Plus, families can turn their visit into a vacation and save up to 15% on hotel rooms!
Here’s the Deal:
- Second Day FREE Hopper Tickets: Choose a LEGOLAND/SEA LIFE Hopper or Resort Hopper ticket and enjoy a second day at the Park absolutely FREE! Combine this offer with hotel savings for the ultimate LEGOLAND® California sleepover
- When to Book: Starting today Feb. 20, for a limited time
- Travel Window: March 18 – April 28, 2025
