Giant bugs have taken over the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo. Join us throughout the month of August for the Big Bugabaloo to see larger than life bug displays and learn about the important role bugs play in our ecosystem.

Come face to face with some of the unique bugs in our care and take part in a pollination activity, all while giant bugs invade the Zoo.

The Big Bugabaloo is free with paid Zoo admission.

With grieving hearts, Gold Medal Products Co. announces the sudden passing of our esteemed former president, CEO and chairman, Dan Kroeger. On Wednesday, July 31, 2024, he passed away at the age of 72. Our sincere condolences go out to the Kroeger family and friends at this time of devastating loss.

Dan was truly a visionary leader with an unwavering commitment to excellence. He got his start at Gold Medal by answering a newspaper ad for a sales position at Gold Medal in 1979. When he told his wife, Janet, that he was in the popcorn business, she was skeptical and asked how he could support a young family that way. Yet, Dan went on to build a highly successful 40-year career, culminating in his position as the president and CEO. Under his leadership, overall company sales grew a striking seven times over, marking some of the largest periods of growth for Gold Medal. However, Dan’s greatest impact went beyond sales. His gift was in his relationships with others. He was known throughout the concessions industry and served with such notable groups as National Association of Concessionaires, the Outdoor Amusement Business Association, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, and the Gibtown Showmen’s Club. His impact on the industry was valued as he was distinguished with numerous awards and recognitions. It has been said by colleagues within the industry, “Everybody knows Dan!” He was influential yet down-to-earth. Dan was candid, open, and honest with everyone. Whether you’ve just met him or known him for decades, he would make you feel like you’re his best friend.

Third-generation owner and chairman of Gold Medal, Dave Evans said it best, “What made Dan successful was not just his passion for the concession industry itself but his heart for the people. He was a friend, mentor, and leader to all who knew him. Dan would talk to anyone and everyone. He never met a stranger. To his wife Janet, I thank you for graciously sharing Dan with Gold Medal for four decades. You can trust that his legacy will live on in the lives of all who knew him.”

Those who knew Dan also knew he was a devoted family man. Married to his beloved wife, Janet, of nearly 50 years, the couple were parents to three adult children and thoroughly enjoyed being grandparents to six wonderful grandchildren. Dan retired from Gold Medal in 2019 to spend more time with his family and enjoy traveling.

Dan spent more than half of his life with Gold Medal and his influence of innovation, integrity, and dedication will continue to be an inspiration.

Current president of Gold Medal, Adam Browning reflected on Dan’s legacy stating, “Dan was a fundamental part of Gold Medal’s success. His remarkable leadership and vision guided the company through years of growth and prosperity, setting the foundation for continued success. I greatly respect both Dan’s accomplishments and his character. He will be greatly missed by the Gold Medal family.”

Details regarding memorial services and arrangements for Dan Kroeger will be shared at a later date. We appreciate your understanding and patience during this difficult time. Thank you for your support and sympathies.

CARLSBAD, Calif. — Witches, mummies, and vampires, oh my! Monsters of all kinds are taking over Merlin Entertainments’ LEGOLAND California Resort as the epic Brick-or-Treat Monster Party returns this Halloween season. Kicking off September 14th, Brick-or-Treat will transform the Park into a fun-filled Halloween getaway with candy, mesmerizing shows, and LEGO characters. The event runs on select Saturdays and Sundays through October 27th, and all frighteningly fun festivities are included with general admission.

The Monster Party begins when guests enter the Park, and Monster Security Checkpoint Street Performers ensure only “real monsters” are entering the party! Meet LEGO Monster characters, including Spider Lady, Monster Rocker, Mummy, and more, before “brick-or-treating” through the Park’s candy trails.

It wouldn’t be a Monster Party without shows and entertainment including:  

• (NEW) Prehistoric Pumpkin Patch: See as LEGO T-Rex Guy transforms LEGOLAND California’s newest land, Dino Valley, into the best fall festival complete with a Prehistoric Pumpkin Patch! Plus pick up sweet treats from Dino Costume Guy and his friend Scarecrow and build your very own LEGO pumpkin.
• (NEW) Monster Meet and Greet: Come face-to-face with new costume character Monster Scientist and his full Halloween crew including Mummy, Monster Rocker, Green Witch, Tiger Woman, and Spider Lady!
• Zombie Cheer Crew: Back and bigger than ever, join LEGO Zombie Cheerleader and her crew as they conduct cheer tryouts with some drop-dead killer moves at the Fun Town stage.
• Lord Vampyre’s Very Important Monsters (V.I.M) Costume Party: Everyone is invited to compete in the famous costume contest and party hosted by Lord Vampyre. Make sure you wear your best monster costume to dance your skeletons off. Stick around for a “vamp cha cha cha” after the contest.
• The Monster Rock Off: Witness Monster Rocker, Tiger Woman, Wolf Guy, and Zombie Cheerleader in their LEGO Monster band as they battle it out for the title of best rocker. This is an epic, live rock concert full of classic rock n’ roll songs – plus, you get to decide who wins the rock off!
• Jam Out with Monster Rocker: Enter the Dead Beats Studio and meet Monster Rocker! Select your rock song and jam out in the studio.
• “The Great Monster Chase” 4D Movie: This exclusive 4D movie features exciting chases, tongue-in-cheek humor, plus wind, bubbles, water, and other special effects to keep guests jumping and laughing in their seats!
• Disco Dragon Coaster: For more electrifying excitement, the Dragon is getting a disco makeover with festive decorations, a groovy monster soundtrack, and an illuminating party atmosphere.
• The Candy Cauldron Trail: This is a wicked walkthrough experience with witches and cauldrons of candy.
• Once Upon a Brick – The Tale of the Wolf Guy: Learn the story of Wolf Guy, a monster who gets himself into a hairy situation. This silly comedy is sure to have all guests giggling and smiling.

For a limited time, LEGOLAND California Resort is offering Early Bird savings of up to $20 on Brick-or-Treat admission. Visit LEGOLAND.com/California for details.

Parkgoers on weekdays can celebrate Halloween all season long with costume characters, Halloween theming and décor throughout the Park, and monstrously delicious seasonal treats. Plus, LEGOLAND Hotel and LEGOLAND Castle Hotel guests will enjoy access to the Brick Boo-gie Bash. The exclusive kid’s nightclub transforms with a light up dance floor, a playlist packed with kid-approved tunes and interactive dance-offs. Entertainers keep the party popping from 6 – 9 p.m. every night.

LEGOLAND believes awesome is for everyone. To ensure every visitor has a fun Halloween experience, all LEGOLAND Resorts in North America are Certified Autism Centers and work with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards to train and certify staff in sensory, environmental, and emotional awareness.

ORLANDO — In 2025, Universal Orlando Resort will debut its third captivating installment of its wildly popular Harry Potter-themed lands with The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic – one of five worlds coming to Universal Epic Universe in 2025. Set in wizarding Paris from Warner Bros. Pictures Fantastic Beasts films and the British Ministry of Magic from the Harry Potter film series, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic features an awe-inspiring collection of experiences that includes fantastical dining, whimsical retail, spellbinding entertainment and the most ambitious, groundbreaking ride Universal has ever created.

Developed by the award-winning Universal Creative team and Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic builds upon the global phenomenon that began in 2010 with the debut of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure and continued with the 2014 launch of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida. Next year, the bar for theme park entertainment will be raised once again with the addition of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic – creating an exciting trilogy of wizarding adventures across Universal Orlando.

MAGICAL CREATURES AND THE MINISTRY AWAIT…
Beyond the world’s ornate portal, guests will first journey from a Muggle park in Paris into the breathtaking spectacle of 1920’s Place Cachée – a hidden, bustling shopping district in wizarding Paris lined with Haussmannian buildings, shops, sidewalk cafés, and historic Parisian domes rising in the distance. Here, wizards and non-magiques alike will be enamored with the majestic grandeur and enchanting ambiance of the city as they cast dazzling spells throughout the magical streets using interactive wands, encounter fantastic beasts at a traveling circus, and – for the first time ever within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – travel across countries and time to 1990s London using the Métro-Floo for a thrilling adventure set inside the iconic British Ministry of Magic.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic will feature the unmatched levels of immersion and attention to detail fans have come to expect from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Below is a look at the exciting new wonders waiting to be discovered in this spectacular new world:

• Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry – Withits unique combination of massive environments, powerful storytelling and first-of-its-kind ride technology, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry builds upon the historic theme park innovation Universal is known for – and will be one of its most impressive attractions to date. The adventure begins when guests travel by Métro-Floo – a unique mode of wizarding transit inspired by the iconic Floo Network seen in the films – to journey from wizarding Paris to the British Ministry of Magic for the long-awaited trial of the infamous Dolores Umbridge. Upon arrival, guests will enter the Ministry’s jaw-dropping grand atrium and venture through other departments before boarding magical, omnidirectional lifts to watch the trial take place…until Umbridge attempts to escape. Guests then join Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger and a house-elf named Higgledy in a thrilling chase that will propel them up, down, forward, backward, sideways and more throughout the Ministry as they try to capture Umbridge – all while dodging attacks from Death Eaters, rampaging creatures and more along the way. 
• Le Cirque Arcanus – For the first time ever in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, guests will enjoy a live, full-scale theatre experience in the heart of the land with Le Cirque Arcanus. This spectacular show features live performers and aerialists, amazing puppetry, brilliant special effects and more to take guests on a whirlwind journey where they’ll encounter fantastic beasts like never before. The show follows Ringmaster Skender, who has stolen Newt Scamander’s suitcase – where Demiguise, Diricawl, Mooncalves and more reside – to try and bring the failing Le Cirque Arcanus back to its former glory. It’s then up to circus employee Gwenlyn to rescue these creatures before they end up in Skender’s greedy hands forever.
• Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique – Guests can shop some of the world’s finest wands designed by esteemed artisan wandmaker, Cosme Acajor, in the premier Parisian wand shop, Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique. In addition to popular imports from Ollivanders, visitors will find a selection of exquisite wands packaged in unique three-sided boxes – each containing a list of locations throughout the wizarding world where guests can practice casting spells.
• Inspiring Wand Magic – As guests explore the streets of wizarding Paris, they can use their interactive wands to create magical experiences as they cast spells at various locations, interact with fantastic beasts such as Nifflers, Bowtruckles and a Demiguise, and engage with enchanted objects in many of the storefront windows plus other areas throughout the marvelous Place Cachée.
• Captivating Entertainment – While exploring the streets of Place Cachée, guests will also encounter other visitors, officials and residents from the wizarding world, including exchange students from the Hogwarts and Ilvermorny Schools of Witchcraft and Wizardry, an Auror from the Ministère des Affaires Magiques de la France who roams inquiring of suspicious characters, talking portraits of delightful wizards who engage with locals about the happenings in Place Cachée, and more.

Guests can also enjoy delicious international fare and shop for souvenirs and merchandise during their visit to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic at highly-themed dining and retail locations, including

• Café L’Air De La Sirène – A wonder of French architecture adorned with fabulous carved marble and details of fantastic beasts hidden in the tile and mosaic designs, Café L’air De La Sirène is a charming café where guests can delight in French sandwiches, plats du jour and desserts.
• Le Gobelet Noir – In the shadowy corners of Place Cachée is a mysterious timeworn auberge, where international Dark witches and wizards gather to escape the prying eyes of the Paris Ministry and have a hearty meal over hushed conversation. Menu offerings include starters such as soups and salads as well as a variety of entrées and desserts.
• Bar Moonshine – American witches and wizards can enjoy a taste of home at Bar Moonshine, where they’ll find exclusive beers, wines and cocktails served amid U.S. Quidditch team pennants and other items of wizarding Americana.
• Bièraubeurre Cart – No visit to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is complete without Butterbeer! Guests can stop by the Bièraubeurre cart during their visit to Place Cachée for a frosty, delicious mug of the fan-favorite beverage.
• Guests can also shop for wizarding gear and memorabilia in Les Galeries Mirifiques, satisfy their sweet tooth at the French confectionary shop, K. Rammelle, or make a stop for Ministry of Magic-inspired items at the Métro-Floo gift shop, Tour En Floo.

Sacoa Cashless System is proud to announce its latest installation at Mulligans Hemel Hempstead, in partnership with SEGA Amusements International and Adventure Leisure. This new setup elevates the entertainment experience at Mulligans, a 15,000-square-foot venue in Jarman Park.

The double-award-winning K4 Kiosks make it easy for visitors to acquire and recharge Mulligans cards. e-Tickets can be redeemed at the redemption counter, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all guests.

Mulligans offers a variety of attractions, including the largest arcade area to date with over 40 games in collaboration with SEGA Amusements International, an 18-hole Crazy Golf course, Electro-Darts, pool tables, ping pong, virtual reality experiences, and more.

For operators, Sacoa provides numerous benefits, including streamlined operations, real-time income data, enhanced visitor analytics, expanded offerings for customers, the elimination of coin jams and cash theft, reduced staff overheads, and more. These advantages have led to operators seeing up to a 30% increase in sales.

Pol Mochkovsky, CEO of Sacoa International, stated, “[…w]e are thrilled and grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with SEGA Amusements International and Adventure Leisure on the installation of our Sacoa Cashless System at Mulligans Hemel Hempstead. This partnership promises to deliver an exceptional entertainment experience for all visitors while providing significant benefits for the operator. We look forward to continuing our mission of enhancing entertainment venues worldwide.”

With thousands of installations in more than 70 countries, Sacoa continues to lead in managing and controlling entertainment facilities. As more operators adopt its cashless solutions, SEGA Amusements International plans to expand new installations, keeping Sacoa at the forefront of future arcade and entertainment centers.

Sacoa is proud to announce the grand opening of Pinstack’s newest location in San Antonio, Texas, marking the sixth installation of their cutting-edge technology with the esteemed entertainment franchise. This expansive, 53,000-square-foot venue features state-of-the-art bowling lanes, massive arcade, a high ropes course, led-lit rock-climbing wall, immersive laser tag arena, bumper cars and more. Setting it apart further, Pinstack offers a Modern American menu on the lanes, in the restaurant and on the climate-controlled patio.

Brian Cohen, Vice-President of Operations at Entertainment Properties Group, Inc., said about Sacoa “Sacoa has been a valued partner since we opened our first PINSTACK location in 2015 and continues to evolve their product over time to better serve our guests and elevate the amusement experience.”

Pinstack’s continued trust in Sacoa is made evident through their choice to yet again incorporate several of their latest innovations, including the Spark Reader, K4 Kiosk, and advanced POS and redemption systems. This collaboration underscores Pinstack’s continued confidence in Sacoa’s products and services.

“Sacoa’s ongoing partnership with Pinstack highlights our commitment to delivering exceptional entertainment solutions and look forward to many more successful projects together” said Sebastian Mochkovsky, CEO of Sacoa USA.

ALTOONA, Iowa — Raise a stein because one of Iowa’s most beloved fall traditions is back for its 10^th season. Adventureland Resort is set to host its annual Oktoberfest on Saturday, September 14 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. This year’s event is extra special as it coincides with Adventureland’s ongoing 50^th celebration, making it a day guests from Iowa and beyond won’t want to miss.  

Oktoberfest at Adventureland is where adults get to be kids again, without any kids, enjoying a day filled with exhilarating rides, live music, delicious food and, of course, plenty of beer. This event is strictly 21-plus, ensuring an unforgettable experience tailored just for adults. Guests will be required to present a valid ID to join in the fun. 

Event Highlights: 

Live Music (Main Stage): 

• Noon – Not Quite Brothers 
• 3p.m. – The Little Mermen 
• 7p.m. – Pork Tornadoes 

Adventureland will be buzzing with a variety of other live music throughout the park, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. But it is more than just the music, there will be live entertainment, games, contests and Adventureland’s world-class rides.  

• Authentic German Food: The park will offer mouth-watering German foods that will transport foodies straight to Bavaria. 
• Games: Guests can participate in fun and competitive games designed to entertain and engage. 
• Contests: Kids at heart can challenge their friends in thrilling contests including eating and stein hoisting. 
• Madhouse Wresting: An all-new wrestling show will take place during the event at 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. 
• Adult Beverages: Dozens of beers will be on tap in true Oktoberfest fashion.  

Launched in 2015 as a small event in the Alpine Village section of the park, Oktoberfest quickly grew into one of the most beloved traditions in the state. The one-day event continued to expand each year, eventually including the entire park. Combined with all the fun of Adventureland’s 50^th celebration, this year’s event will honor the favorite parts of Oktoberfest over the last decade.  

Tickets for Oktoberfest are now on sale for as low as $39.99, for a limited time only. Silver, Gold and Platinum Season Passholders can get in free.

Join us on July 31 as we honor our water park heroes who keep Lake Compounce safe and fun. Our lifeguards are not only dedicated but also trained and certified by Ellis & Associates, the global leader in integrated lifeguard training and aquatic risk management. Each of our lifeguards undergoes a rigorous minimum of 26 hours of training to ensure they are fully prepared before their first day on the job.

We invite guests to celebrate our lifeguards in Crocodile Cove, Connecticut’s largest water park. Activities include:

• Sign the Lifeguard Appreciation Banner: Show your support and receive a limited-edition Kyle croc charm, while supplies last
• Water Safety Tips: Learn valuable safety information to keep your family safe in the water
• Meet & Greet with Wildcat: Spend time with our friendly mascot
• Special Treats at the Sweet Shoppe: Enjoy delicious goodies dedicated to our lifeguards

Don’t miss out on the fun—save over 45% on tickets when you buy online! With only 26 days left to enjoy Crocodile Cove Water Park this season, the countdown is on. The park is open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday to Thursday, and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

ALLENTOWN, Pa. — The Barbara Knoebel Memorial Golf Tournament was held on July 22 as part of the Annual PAPA Summer Meeting at Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom in Allentown, PA.  This year’s event received unprecedented support from the amusement industry, Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, and several local businesses in the Lehigh Valley, raising nearly $7,500 for the PAPA Scholarship Fund. 

The 74 registered golfers played a round of golf at The Club at Twin Lakes in Allentown, PA, and were treated to a beautiful day of golf, lunch, and presentation of the newly created, coaster-themed, Barbara Knoebel Memorial Golf Tournament Champions Trophy. The unique trophy was created by Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters Inc. Graphic Artist and Paint Shop Supervisor Brad Little. 

Golf Chairman, Pete Barto (PB Amusement, LLC), attributed the substantial growth of this year’s golf tournament to the incredible support of Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, volunteers, and a fun-for-all atmosphere that welcomes golfers, and non-golfers, to enjoy a great day of networking and camaraderie. 

Barto said, “We have really focused on promoting this event as a fun industry event.  We are not looking for golf ringers, or players that take the game too seriously.  We just want friends that enjoy spending time with each other to have a fun social event that raises money for a great cause.”

A number of PAPA members (and non-members) were introduced to the game of golf for the very first time at this tournament.  The 4-person team scramble format allowed golfers of all skill sets (even for those that only play once a year, in this event) to have fun and contribute to their team’s success.  The tournament featured a $10,000 Hole-in-One Contest, $5,000 Putting Contest, and numerous other on-course fun activities like the “Wheel of Destiny” and “Plink-n-Swing”.

Team Hersheypark (Jeremy Underkoffler, Robert Gordon, Jason Roth, and Brad Kirkham) claimed victory for the 2^nd year in a row with a score of 10 under par, squeaking out a two-stroke victory over past champions, The Killer B’s (Bradford Doolittle, Melissa Bamford, Brian Knoebel, and Pete Barto).  Reports have already surfaced that the Barabara Knoebel Memorial Golf Tournament Champions Trophy will be proudly on display for the year in Hersheypark’s Boardroom.

In addition to the record-breaking attendance, and contribution to the scholarship fund, the tournament featured 17 sponsors and multiple individuals making personal donations.  Platinum Level Sponsor, S&S Worldwide, and Gold Level Sponsor, Sordoni Construction Services, Inc., were kind enough to cover the cost of food and beverages for the tournament.  “Without their support, the quality of this type of tournament would not have been possible”, Barto said. 

Silver Sponsors for the event were The Killer Bs, Zamperla, Gateway Ticketing, Fitzpatrick, Lentz & Bubba, P.C., Barry Isett & Associates.  Bronze Sponsors and Supporters of the event were Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, Premier Rides, Lehigh Valley Iron Birds, Haas Wilkerson Insurance, Atlantic Culinary Environments, Inc., Four Points Sheraton Allentown Lehigh Valley, Sally Dark Rides, Discover Lehigh Valley, Cetronia Ambulance Corps, Monica Hodges, Jim Hennessey, and Representative Ryan MacKenzie. Illumination Brewing (Funk Brewing) also generously donated to the event.

The PAPA Barbara Knoebel Memorial Scholarship Fund awards numerous cash scholarships to well-deserving employees of PAPA member attractions.  The scholarship application asks applicants to submit a 300-word essay that delineates their experience and accomplishments while employed in the amusement industry, and to share how that experience has assisted them with their personal and career goals.  The deadline for Pennsylvania Park Employees to submit 2024 scholarship applications is August 30, 2024.  Interested applicants are encouraged to contact their Human Resources Department for applications.

Plans are already being made for next year’s golf event to build on the success of this year.  PAPA members are encouraged to schedule their travel plans to build in time to play in this great event next year.

MANSFIELD, Texas — Hawaiian Falls Mansfield and Roanoke waterparks will be hosting Back-to-School supply drives Monday, August 5 – Friday, August 9. In exchange for school supplies from a curated list, guests can purchase a $10 daily admission ticket (regularly $35.99 for guests over 48-inches tall and $25.99 for guests under 48 inches.) Kids two and under are always free.

Hawaiian Falls Roanoke’s drive will benefit the Grapevine Relief and Community Exchange (GRACE.)

Sponsored by Methodist Mansfield Medical Center, Hawaiian Falls Mansfield will accept school supplies for the Mansfield ISD Clothes Closet.

“We love summer and certainly are in no hurry for it to end,” said Ron McKenzie, Hawaiian Falls Marketing Director. “But heading back to school is also a really fun time for kids. However, it can be stressful to parents who may not be financially able to buy new school supplies for their children. We want to help make sure every kid has the right supplies to succeed academically. Help us support our local schools and we’ll give you a great deal so you can close out summer with your family!”

Hawaiian Falls will accept school supplies at the front gate of either park. To receive the $10 ticket, good for one Day Pass for an Adult or Child, donate a minimum of five (5) of the following items for each discounted ticket:

• Backpacks
• One-inch 3-ring binders
• Block erasers
• Scientific calculators
• Colored pencils
• Composition books
• Construction paper (9×12, 100 count or less)
• 24-count crayons
• 8-tab dividers
• Folders (with pockets and brads)
• Glue bottles
• Highlighters
• Index cards (100-count)
• Manila paper (9×12, 100-count or less)
• Markers (10-count)
• Notebook paper (wide-ruled, 100-count)
• Pencil pouches
• Pencil sharpeners
• Rulers
• Safety scissors
• 1-subject spiral notebooks (wide-ruled)
• Watercolors

GRACE was organized in 1987 as a response to the growing need for emergency assistance services in far northeast Tarrant County, an area almost 20 miles from state, county and other major resources at that time. Local churches responded to community needs with a plan for distributing available resources through Grapevine’s Ministerial Alliance.

The Mansfield ISD Clothes Closet has been in operation for almost 23 years, opening in the fall of 1999.  The Clothes Closet is run 100% by volunteers and managed by the Mansfield ISD Council of PTAs.  The Clothes Closet is a means of support to many of the students and families of Mansfield ISD by providing items for free to the qualifying students of Mansfield ISD.  They also provide volunteer hours for the students of MISD and opportunities for the students to learn life skills.