UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. – Hollywood, California…for most, it’s a city in Southern California; for others, it’s a mystifying, untouchable, elusive place where hopeful entertainment industry novices come to follow their dreams. While there are no easy answers in how to “make it in Hollywood” or how to land that perfect job, perseverance is key and becoming a Studio Tour Guide at Universal Studios Hollywood may be a beacon in guiding some career paths. 

The role of a Studio Tour Guide is to entertain and educate the millions of guests visiting Universal Studios Hollywood’s world-renowned, behind-the-scenes Studio Tour attraction, which recently marked a milestone 60 years of moviemaking magic. The Studio Tour is the genesis of Universal Studios Hollywood, the original theme park in the Universal Destinations & Experiences portfolio.

Studio Tour Guides roles are desirable positions that require many adaptable skills and are teeming with a host of opportunities. Gregarious and curious, with an interest in and knowledge of the entertainment industry, and dynamic storytellers with an appreciation for the Studio Tour, are a few of the attributes in the making of a Studio Tour Guide.

If becoming a Studio Tour Guide has been a bucket list dream, now is the time as Universal Studios Hollywood is hosting virtual open call auditions from April 23 through May 14, 2025.  Applicants will need to submit a self-taped audition that includes a brief self-introduction, toplining relevant experience with emphasis on public speaking, performance or customer engagement and reading a passage from the official Studio Tour script.

In-person call-backs and next steps will follow once the casting team has reviewed all submissions. 

Please visit www.USHjobs.com to learn more and to submit a self-taped audition.

Since 1964, Studio Tour Guides have played an instrumental role in this acclaimed attraction and continue to be a vital part of its ongoing success. Numerous times a day, trained Studio Tour Guides engage with guests, educating them on the inner workings of the movie and television backlot. Armed with insider knowledge and first-hand accounts, Studio Tour Guides entertain guests with compelling insight into the elusive world of moviemaking magic.

As a global entertainment destination, appealing to a multi-cultural audience, Studio Tours are routinely conducted in a variety of languages, including English, Spanish and Mandarin, by a diverse base of Studio Tour Guides.

For many years, the role of a Studio Tour Guide has become a highly sought-after position with candidates auditioning from around the globe – and for good reason. Future filmmakers, budding actors and executives in-the-making are empowered to take advantage of a variety of exclusive opportunities and Hollywood-insider perks that may include intimate group symposiums with prestigious industry professionals, free acting classes and seminars.

The job also affords Team Members the welcomed ability for broad job flexibility. Guides who have landed roles in a play, movie or commercial may require time off from their role as Studio Tour Guides; it’s the same job flexibility many performers require when they opt for posts as restaurant wait staff or car service drivers, for example. Studio Tour Guides have the ability to adjust their availability for work by choosing to work part-time or seasonally, or they can apply for professional leaves of absence to support these endeavors.

Additionally, qualified Team Members, including Studio Tour Guides, can apply to cross-train in other positions and to work in other departments across the theme park, which can serve as a launching pad for a flourishing career within the company.

Throughout the history of the Studio Tour, 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, former Studio Tour Guides rank among the leaders shepherding the Studio Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood and NBCUniversal into the future.

Here’s a look at a handful of former Studio Tour Guides who have transitioned into management roles within the company.

John Murdy is Creative Director and Executive Producer of Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood. His illustrious career began in 1989 as a Studio Tour Guide shortly after college graduation. He studied theatre, had a fascination with film history and loved improv. “I visited Universal in 1972. The history of the Studio, my passion for movies and the Glamor Tram never left me,” he said. “The ability to be on a movie studio lot, was one of the reasons I become a Studio Tour Guide.”  In 1991, John seized upon an opportunity to work as a production assistant in Planning and Developing, today known as Universal Creative. “Being a Tour Guide was what helped me make connections and land that job.” His career blossomed within Universal Creative. In 2000, John oversaw the modern transformation of the Studio Tour to include the now familiar audio-visuals monitors and served as the creative executive behind the “Revenge of the Mummy—The Ride” indoor roller coaster, before leaping into the heart of Halloween Horror Nights as the Executive Producer in 2004, a role he relishes to this day. “When I look back at my career, I credit the Studio Tour for the professional career I have today.”

Scot Burklin is Vice President, Operations, Attractions and Planning, with oversight in the operations of all rides, attractions and lands developed for Universal Studios Hollywood. This impressive role was years in the making, beginning in 1993 when Scot stumbled upon a Studio Tour Guides casting call in a Hollywood trade publication. He moved to L.A. from Florida shortly after earning his BFA in theatrical performance to follow his dream of becoming an actor and immediately thought, “I love film and television, I could do that.” He recalls, “There is so much history on this property, and I loved being a Tour Guide.” 1996 was a game-changing year for him. A huge fan of the Jurassic Park film, Scot successfully interviewed for a supervisor role to support the opening of the “Jurassic Park River Adventure” thrill ride. His career launched from there as he navigated a series of more senior jobs within operations, ultimately spearheading the Standard Operating Procedures for the launch of Universal Studios Japan. With a career that has spanned more than 30 years at Universal Studios Hollywood, Scot reflected on a moment as a Studio Tour Guide that has impacted his entire career. “My best friend since the 2^nd grade was in L.A. auditioning, and I took him to Courthouse Square where Back to the Future was filmed. We sat there in awe thinking back to when we saw Back to the Future in the movie theater so many years ago in our hometown. I never imagined in my wildest dreams that I would be in this very same spot where the film was made. Not many people have this opportunity, and I realized how lucky I am.”

Jennifer Oswald is Vice President, Business Development & Global Stage Management for Universal Studios with oversight of all production bookings on the studio lot. She also helps secure production locations around the world for all of the company’s internal productions. In 1996, Jennifer returned to Los Angeles after college and saw an open call ad for Studio Tour Guides in a Hollywood trade magazine.  As a former dancer and performer, she thought the next logical step in her career would be to pursue acting and found exposure to the studio lot and the flexibility of hours appealing. Shortly afterwards, Jennifer landed a seasonal job as an assistant within the operations department, which led to a variety of roles from a seasonal supervisor for the Studio Tour to a manager with oversight of various facets of the Studio Tour. The professional bridge to the studio backlot was a byproduct of the exposure and professional relationships she fostered over time in her role as a Studio Tour Guide and Studio Tour Manager. Eventually a junior position became available within Stage and Backlot Operations where she excelled, ultimately leading to her current role. The stars appear to have been aligned for Jennifer. “I remember taking a walking tour and being so excited seeing the facades and sets knowing this is where movies are filmed and thinking how incredibly exciting it was,” she said.

Benjamin Salisbury is Senior Director of Attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood, responsible for the overall operations of all theme park rides and attractions. He was a child actor who went on to study broadcast journalism in college. With a performance background, he auditioned for summer job as a Studio Tour Guide in 2000, which lasted every summer for the next few years. It then became his full-time job after college graduation. In 2008, Benjamin “realized there were other opportunities available to me within Universal Studios Hollywood that I wanted to explore.” He toggled his career as a Studio Tour Guide while working in various departments within the company. When a Manager of Studio Tour Guides position opened up, he interviewed for it and got the job. “I really cared about the Studio Tour Guides and loved the idea that I could help lead them.” There was a crescendo of opportunities and various roles over the years which led to his current role. “When I look back, I would say being a Studio Tour Guide is one of the best jobs ever to have. You get to engage with guests, share history about the Studio and work at doing something that you love. I met my wife when I was a Studio Tour Guide and have made lifelong friends.” He added, “When I started as a Studio Tour Guide, I didn’t know I would be traveling this path, but then you find yourself at this great company with all these great opportunities and a leadership team that truly cares about its employees.”

Dennis Satterfield is the Director of the Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood and manages a team of 12. A Southern California native and the nephew of a property master for movie and television shows, Dennis was very familiar with working on a movie studio lot. Fresh out of high school in 1996, Dennis auditioned to become a Studio Tour Guide and put his theatrical training to the test. “I fancied myself to one day be an actor or comedian,” he remembers and saw Studio Tour Guides as a path forward. During non-peak periods, Dennis traded in his Studio Tour Guide job to be a professional stand-in for actors for film and television. He toggled these opportunities until 1998, when he was selected to work as a seasonal supervisor of the Studio Tour and Studio Tour Guides. He still managed to squeeze in opportunities to be a Studio Tour Guide until the seasonal role became permanent—“and I’ve never looked back,” he recalls. He expanded his professional training by working in other areas of the theme park before segueing back to the Studio Tour to oversee training, seminars, classes and casting. “I started as a Studio Tour Guide because I wanted to be an actor, but this is a really unique place. In some ways, being a Studio Tour Guide is like working in the mailroom, and I’ve been lucky enough to move up within the company.”

Angela Weech is the Senior Sales Manager of Youth, VIP and Group Sales for Universal Studios Hollywood.  She holds a master’s degree in Hispanic Linguistics and a B.A. degree in Spanish with a minor Physics and has a lifelong passion for movie studio history. “I spent a lot of time researching for a job that would not be boring,” she explained. She hails from Minnesota but answered an open call for bilingual speaking Studio Tour Guides in Los Angeles and remembers standing in line next to potential candidates toting headshots and acting resumes. “I had my professional resume with me and felt out of place and almost chickened out.” She recalled that during her research for a job, she was pleased to learn that Universal Studios Hollywood extended internal professional opportunities, so she stayed the course with that in mind and landed her first gig as a Studio Tour Guide in 2008, which lasted until 2011.  During that time, she proactively looked to expand her career opportunities and dabbled in a variety of Studio Tour-related roles, including Studio Tour dispatcher, working for then Studio Tour Guide Manager and former Studio Tour Guide, Benjamin Salisbury. “I remember the professional advice Benjamin gave to me when I later accepted that role. ‘This could be the start of whatever you want it to be,’ he had said.” A year later she transitioned to a role within the Sales team, working in a variety of capacities from sales coordinator to VIP Tour sales, proving her competency and earning promotions along the way. Today, Angela manages a team of 15 and is another Universal Studios Hollywood professional success story. “It was a hard decision to say goodbye to my job as a Studio Tour Guide. They are so important, but I knew this next chapter was a path I was meant to take.”

Suzanne Dixon is the Senior Manager of Entertainment Production at Universal Studios Hollywood and has held her post for the past five years. She grew up in Southern California, loved performing and public speaking and jumped at the chance to audition to become a Studio Tour Guide in 1996 after seeing a job posting in an entertainment publication. “Sharing the Studio’s history with our guests in a really fun way was what I loved most, and touring the backlot gave me a sense of being immersed in movies and television,” she said. Professionally, Suzanne aspired to either become a performer or a production manager. She tried her hand at acting, but when another internal opportunity presented itself, she took a leap. She landed a temporary role in Human Resources that led to a full-time job…a total 180-degrees from her original professional aspirations. With a steady eye on pursuing production opportunities, she soon applied for and landed a seasonal stage manager position. As time went on, she applied and worked in a variety of other production jobs within the theme park. The experience and opportunities were priceless. “I would never be where I am today had it not been for the opportunity I got as a Studio Tour Guide. The role I’m in now is my favorite; it suits me perfectly,” she added.

Mark McFadden is Senior Training Specialist, Learning & Development at Universal Studios Hollywood. His road to becoming a Studio Tour Guide took place 20 years after he travelled numerous other paths in pursuit of acting. Graduating college with a double major in Theatre and Mass Communications, he remained in Ohio to follow his dreams. After giving it the college try, he spent the next decade working for several small business owners in Chicago before moving to Florida on a whim, eventually becoming a certified scuba instructor and Coast Guard-licensed boat captain. He was already certified and dove in and moved acting to the rear-view mirror. And then he had an epiphany. He wanted to give acting another shot and moved back to Los Angeles. He auditioned to become a Studio Tour Guide in 2000 because he thought it would be a great way to hone his improv skills and talk about movies. He loved it because each tour was “like a one-man show where you got to connect with people and play to a crowd since every single tour was different.” He remained a Studio Tour Guide until 2006 when he took a temporary job in Human Resources, where his second career blossomed into a full-time job that ultimately led to his current role in Learning & Development. “You don’t necessarily think about the impact you have as a Studio Tour Guide. But years after I left that job, I was at a movie theatre and this guy recognizes me from giving tours some four years prior and tells me ‘how wonderfully memorable the tour was and what a great experience he had had.’ That meant the world to me.”

Mariano Federovsky is a Production Services Representative for Universal Studios. Originally from Argentina, Mariano moved to Los Angeles when he was 12 years old and remembers visiting Universal Studios Hollywood, “The Studio Tour was the most magical thing I had ever seen. I was fascinated by the backlot.” He had never seen anything like that before and that led to his lifelong passion for filmmaking. In 1999, at the age of 19, he auditioned as a Spanish-English bilingual Studio Tour Guide, while doing double-time earning a college degree in film production. He excelled as a Studio Tour Guide, and in 2008, seized on an opportunity to work within Employee Services for Universal Studios Hollywood. His entry level stint turned into a full-time job, where he was promoted up the ranks to Manager of Employee Services and Community Relations. In 2022, Mariano reflected upon his career path and decided to make a radical change. “I worked hard for a degree in film production and that was my passion.” He successfully applied and accepted his current role which enabled him to utilize the skillset he learned as a Studio Tour Guide. His seasoned roles as a Studio Tour Guide and HR manager helped prepare him for this next chapter; he was very familiar with the studio lot, had a wealth of film knowledge and was a pro at event production. “Being a Studio Tour Guide was a passion for me. Interacting with guests and showing them the magic of moviemaking was amazing. I had so much fun at that job, and it eventually led me here.”

WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — It’s time to get ready for one of the biggest family celebrations of play ever as LEGOLAND Florida Resort reveals the full line-up of its new LEGO Festival taking place from May 3 to June 8.

LEGO Festival has been created to encourage families to play more as recent research shows 76% of parents¹ believe that children have less time and space to play, which is crucial for creativity and learning, developing social skills and building confidence.

The Festival takes play to the next level, as guests can build, dance and rock out in LEGO Festival Zones, each with a distinct theme and iconic new LEGO model. Meanwhile, six new LEGO characters will also bring an extra dose of excitement and interactive fun, ensuring smiles and memories for everyone.

• Gaming Zone: From pixels to bricks, the LEGO Fortnite Gaming Zone will feature a life-size LEGO model of fan favorite, Cuddle Team Leader, built from more than 21,000 bricks which took master model builders more than 75 hours to create. Not only that, for the first time LEGO Fortnite fans can also unleash their inner model builder and create their own extraordinary builds to expand the Lost Isles also meeting the one and only Adventure Peely – the iconic LEGO Fortnite character!
• Music Zone: Rock out to the ultimate LEGO Battle of the Bands show. This rocking zone will also feature an opportunity to get access to all areas and meet the band.
• Dance Zone: Groove to sweet tunes and show off your best moves as you build the beat at DJ GoodVibes Dance Party.
• Creative Zone: Join renowned LEGO Master Model Builder, Alec, virtually as he leads creative LEGO building adventures including the chance to build your own LEGO Minifigure head cookie.
• Chill Out Zone: Kick back and relax in a secret LEGO garden full of vibrant flower walls! Families can chill out together while building LEGO flowers and adding their creations to the ever-growing flower walls. Plus, the littlest guests can build along with Hopsy, the friendliest red little bunny during the LEGO DUPLO® show – perfect for preschoolers.

On their journey through all five play zones, guests will also be encouraged to make a ‘Play Pact’ at the end of each Park visit, inspiring children to build more, laugh louder, explore endlessly and always keep playing.

Emily Stadelman, Global Brand Director for LEGOLAND Resorts, said: “It’s time to power up your play and let imaginations run wild by taking part in our first ever LEGO Festival. We’re so excited to be joining other LEGOLAND Resorts across the world to create this ultimate brick building experience, where thousands of kids and their parents will come together to celebrate play. From dancing, rocking and now gaming with LEGO Fortnite we can’t wait to help families create memorable moments together.”

Rebecca Snell, Senior VP LEGOLAND Brand, said: “We are putting the power back in the hands of children and giving them the control to build, create and play in exactly the way they want to which is an idea that runs deeply through the new LEGO Festival.”

The LEGO Festival is included with regular park admission. For more information about LEGOLAND Florida, visit our website or follow us on Facebook. To book a Vacation Package at one of the LEGOLAND Hotels, visit our Vacation Packages page. Guests can also purchase single-day tickets or annual passes with or without a hotel stay.

CARLSBAD, Calif. — It’s time to get ready for one of the biggest family celebrations of play ever as LEGOLAND California Resort reveals the full line-up of its new LEGO Festival taking place from May 3 to June 8.

LEGO Festival has been created to encourage families to play more as recent research shows 76% of parents believe that children have less time and space to play, which is crucial for creativity and learning, developing social skills and building confidence.

The Festival takes play to the next level, as guests can build, dance and rock out in LEGO Festival Zones, each with a distinct theme and iconic new LEGO model. Meanwhile, seven new LEGO characters will also bring an extra dose of excitement and interactive fun, ensuring smiles and memories for everyone.

• Gaming Zone: From pixels to bricks, the LEGO Fortnite Gaming Zone will feature a life-size LEGO model of fan favorite, Cuddle Team Leader, built from more than 21,000 bricks which took master model builders more than 75 hours to create. Not only that, for the first time LEGO Fortnite fans can also unleash their inner model builder and create their own extraordinary builds to expand the Lost Isles while also meeting the one and only Adventure Peely – the iconic LEGO Fortnite character!
• Music Zone:Rock out to the ultimate LEGO Battle of the Bands show. This rocking zone will also feature an opportunity to get access to all areas and meet the band.
• Dance Zone: Groove to sweet tunes and show off your best moves as you build the beat at DJ Good Vibes Dance Party.
• Creative Zone: Join renowned LEGO Master Model Builder, Alec, virtually as he leads creative LEGO building adventures including the chance to build your own LEGO Minifigure head cookie.
• Chill Out Zone: Kick back and relax in a secret LEGO garden full of vibrant flower walls! Families can chill out together while building LEGO flowers, adding their creations to the ever-growing flower walls. Plus, the littlest guests can build along with Hopsy, the friendliest red little bunny during the LEGO DUPLO^® show – perfect for preschoolers.

On their journey through all five play zones, guests will also be encouraged to make a ‘Play Pact’ at the end of each Park visit, inspiring children to build more, laugh louder, explore endlessly and always keep playing.

Emily Stadelman, Global Brand Director for LEGOLAND Resorts , said: “It’s time to power up your play and let imaginations run wild by taking part in our first ever LEGO Festival. We’re so excited to be joining other LEGOLAND Resorts across the world to create this ultimate brick building experience, where thousands of kids and their parents will come together to celebrate play. From dancing, rocking and now gaming with LEGO Fortnite we can’t wait to help families create memorable moments together.”

Rebecca Snell, Senior VP LEGOLAND Brand, said: “We are putting the power back in the hands of children and giving them the control to build, create and play in exactly the way they want to which is an idea that runs deeply through the new LEGO Festival.”

The LEGO Festival is included with regular park admission. For more information about LEGOLAND California, visit our website or follow us on Facebook.  To book a Vacation Package at LEGOLAND Hotel, visit our Vacation Packages page. Guests can also purchase single-day tickets or annual passes with or without a hotel stay. 

As Kings Island gets ready to open for the 2025 season on Saturday, the amusement park is inviting guests to experience the reimagining of one of its classic roller coasters. Launching today is “Queen City Stunt Coaster”, the renamed Backlot Stunt Coaster, which celebrates its 20^th anniversary this season. The coaster, which accelerates to 40 mph in just 3 seconds, has been renamed to honor Cincinnati by featuring its beautiful skyline and iconic landmarks. Season Passholders will be the first to ride the refreshed coaster today from noon to 9:00 p.m. at the park’s passholder preview event. The park opens to everyone on Saturday. 

Have you ever watched an absolutely insane chase scene in a movie and thought, hey, I could totally be a stunt car driver like that? At Kings Island, we’ve got the chance of a lifetime to star in your own stunt car race through the streets of the Queen City! It’s a closed movie set with a state-of-the-art linear induction motor launch that delivers a no-holds-barred, high-speed movie chase unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. Your stunt-driver training begins with an unheard-of acceleration of 0 to 40 miles per hour in three seconds. Yes, seconds! Race through a parking garage via a series of crazy helixes and then up, down and around high-banked turns. Your adventure may even take you through part of the city’s abandoned subway system!  Worn out yet? We’re just getting started! Queen City Stunt Coaster is non-stop, white-knuckle action from start to finish. Lights! Camera! Action!

ALTOONA, Iowa — The park gates will swing open at Adventureland Resort just one month from today. Saturday, May 17 will mark the official Opening Day of the park’s 51^st season. This year, park-goers can expect a full lineup of thrills, beginning with the opening of the all-new water slide experience, Hyperlight, on Saturday, May 24. The entertainment and new park-wide improvements continue throughout the season as Adventureland expands its event and food and beverage offerings and adds even more reasons to visit during the summer and fall months.  

There are even more enhancements this year at Adventureland Resort, as the park unveils three all-new food locations, adds more events, and introduces Hyperlight. The new Lighthouse Lemonade,located across from Convoy, will serve freshly squeezed and frozen lemonade to help visitors quench their thirst. The newly reimagined Iowa Smokehouse, located in Rivercity Foods, will offer freshly smoked meats including ribs, brisket and jalapeno smoked sausage. The all-new Snack Barn, located along the Boulevard, will serve a variety of snackable options including churros, pork chop on a stick, bacon on a stick and turkey legs.

In addition to new bites for guests to chow down on, the park has added even more events onto the 2025 lineup. Details include: 

·       NEW Bacon & Brews – Every Friday in June, Iowans are encouraged to wear their stretchy pants and meet at the park’s newly re-imagined Oink’s restaurant for dishes made from Berkwood Pork while also enjoying local suds with their best buds through June 27;

·       NEW Nerveless Nocks Stunt Show – This electrifying Jetpack Water Circus features jaw-dropping aerial stunts as a flying water jetpack soars more than 40 feet above water, multiple shows will take place daily June 16 through June 29; 

·       NEW Father’s Day Flop – Sunday, June 15, it’s all about the dads, as the park hosts its inaugural Father’s Day Flop. Guests will have a chance to compete for the red belly badge of honor and unique prizes for first, second and third place;

·       NEW Off Axis Stunt Show – This adrenaline-pumping spectacle combines extreme sports and circus artistry in an action-packed 25-minute performance, with multiple shows daily from July 7 through July 20; 

·       NEW Neighbor Days – Each weekend, families will be delighted by meet and greets with characters from some of their favorite PBS KIDS shows. Visitors can expect to meet characters from hit Fred Rogers Productions series including Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, Donkey Hodie, and Alma’s Way on a rotating basis each week throughout August;

·       Drone Shows – More than 300 drones take to the night sky above Adventureland for a spectacular drone show, Friday, August 15, Saturday, August 16 and Sunday, August 17, launching shortly after 9 p.m.; 

·       Oktoberfest – This 21-plus event offers exhilarating rides, live music, delicious food and, of course, plenty of beer, from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. on Saturday, September 13; and 

·       Phantom Fall Fest – Horror reaches new heights select days from Saturday, September 20 through Sunday, October 26 as Iowa’s Largest Halloween Event debuts an all-new haunted house this season.

“We are just one month away from Opening Day and our team is hard at work putting the final touches on the park before we reopen to our guests” General Manager Mike Lusky said. “This season, there’s something new for everyone to enjoy from the debut of the all-new Hyperlight water slide to delicious bites at our new Iowa Smokehouse, and insane stunts from the Nerveless Nocks, to screams taken to the extreme during Phantom Fall Fest, the 2025 season offers entertainment for the whole family.”

To get the most out of the 2025 Season, Adventureland guests can purchase a 2025 Season Pass for the same price as a day ticket, just $69.99 when they buy online. Select Season Passes include additional perks like free parking, free soda, discounts on food and merchandise and more.

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Fort Wayne Zoo earns the Certified Autism Center (CAC) designation, which is awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This certification recognizes organizations that have completed an autism-specific training and certification program through IBCCES to enhance their services and equip staff with knowledge of the best skills and resources to assist autistic and sensory- sensitive individuals. Additionally, IBCCES conducted an onsite review, offering the Zoo valuable insights on improving their facilities and developing detailed sensory guides as part of the certification process.

“This certification is just one way we are working to ensure the Fort Wayne Zoo is accessible to each of our guests. We know this is one more tool that helps the Zoo not only make a great experience for guests, but also for current and potential employees as we strive to create a ‘Zoo for All’ and continue our quest to be an employer of choice for those with disabilities,” says Rick Schuiteman, executive director. “Thanks to our partner, AWS Foundation, for funding the extensive autism sensitivity and awareness training our staff has undergone. I am very proud that the Fort Wayne Zoo is the first zoo in the tristate area to become a Certified Autism Center.”

Families often face challenges when choosing attractions and recreational activities due to uncertainties about available accommodations and how they will be received. With the CAC designation, Fort Wayne Zoo aims to alleviate these concerns by demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.

“Fort Wayne Zoo becoming a Certified Autism Center™ is a significant step towards creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all families. This achievement reflects their dedication to enhancing the visitor experience for autistic individuals and their commitment to continuous improvement in accessibility and staff training. We are proud to recognize their efforts and the positive impact they are making in the community,” says Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman.

For over 20 years, IBCCES has led the industry in cognitive disorder training and certification for professionals in education, healthcare, and corporate sectors worldwide. IBCCES offers evidence-based training and certification programs developed in collaboration with clinical experts and autistic individuals, aiming to equip professionals with a deeper understanding of how to effectively communicate and interact with individuals who have cognitive differences or sensory needs. These programs emphasize industry best practices and incorporate the latest research.

Additionally, IBCCES created CertifiedAutismCenter.com, a free online resource for parents that features certified locations and professionals. Every organization listed on the site has met the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) standards.

DALLAS, Texas — The State Fair of Texas Board of Directors has appointed Gilbert Gerst as its new chairman of the board during their annual meeting for the nonprofit organization. Gilbert succeeds Bruce Sifford following the completion of his three-year term. By accepting this position, Gilbert continues the legacy of the many distinguished community leaders who have provided leadership for the State Fair of Texas since its original charter was established in 1886.  

Gibert Gerst has served on the volunteer board of directors for the State Fair of Texas for the past 17 years. In addition, Gilbert currently serves as the Fair’s chair of the Finance and Audit Committee and has previously served on the Fair’s Chairman’s Task Force and Advisory Board.  

“Gilbert has been dedicated to the State Fair of Texas and its mission since 2008, and we are thrilled to see him step into his new role as board chairman,” said State Fair of Texas President Mitchell Glieber. “Gilbert brings a wealth of knowledge to the table through his experiences, and his steadfast support of the State Fair of Texas ensures the future of our organization is in good hands.”  

Gilbert holds a Bachelor of Science from The University of North Texas and a master’s degree in commercial real estate from the University of Texas at Arlington. He is currently the Senior Vice President, Manager of Community Development Banking for BOK Financial (BOKF). Gilbert joined BOKF in June 2011 after more than 25 years with JPMorgan Chase. He has corporate-wide responsibility for the bank’s community development lending and investment activities and is a key partner in the bank’s CRA compliance and examination process.                         

Gilbert is actively involved in the community and currently serves on multiple boards and committees including Board Chairman of the Dallas Black Dance Theater, Tulsa Economic Development Corporation; Past President – Dallas Development Fund, a NMTC Community Development Entity; The Texas Affiliation of Affordable Housing Providers; Vice Chairman and Member of the Executive Committee for the Dallas Economic Development Corporation; Roundtable Member – Texas Association of Community Development Corporations.    

Gilbert’s other board membership and participation include the AT&T Performing Arts Center; The Texas Mezzanine Fund; Board Member – DFW Regional Housing Consortium; The Real Estate Council Community Loan Fund; Board Member and Treasurer – Forest Forward; Past President, Board Member – University of North Texas Foundation; Lifetime Member and Board Member of the UNT Alumni Association.  

“The State Fair of Texas is not just a tradition for the City of Dallas but for the entire state of Texas. It is a family tradition to attend every year,” said State Fair Board Chairman Gilbert Gerst. “I have had the opportunity to be involved with the State Fair for more than 15 years though my initial involvement as a member of the Chairman’s Task Force. I am honored to continue my engagement with an incredible group of community leaders on the board of directors as we continue the long tradition of providing a safe atmosphere for family and friends to build memories while also being a key community partner.”   The Fair is deeply appreciative of Bruce Sifford’s leadership for the past three years and for his dedication to the Fair’s commitment to the community. As immediate past board chair, Bruce will continue serving on the board of directors. Since 2002, Bruce has volunteered with the Fair in many capacities, including serving on the Big Tex Scholarship Committee, Heritage Hall of Honor Committee, Long Range Livestock Facility Improvement Committee, Livestock Committee, and Development Cabinet. Additionally, Bruce has served on the board of directors since 2002 and served as chair of the Finance and Audit Committee from 2020 to 2022.  

DES MOINES, Iowa — Get ready to step back in time! This summer, Blank Park Zoo will undergo a prehistoric transformation, temporarily becoming Dino Park Zoo from July through the end of October. The zoo will be filled with larger-than-life dinosaur-themed experiences, educational programs, and special events that will transport visitors to a world where dinosaurs once roamed.

At the heart of Dino Park Zoo will be 15 animatronic dinosaurs, located all throughout the zoo. The massive dinosaurs were created by Dino Don, Inc., the world’s leading provider of life-like animatronic dinosaurs. Guests will encounter a towering 40-foot-long T. rex and a Triceratops the size of a mail truck. These scientifically accurate animatronics don’t just move, they breathe, roar, and some even fart and pee, creating a truly immersive, prehistoric experience.

The exhibit was designed by Don Lessem (also known as “Dino Don”), a world-renowned dinosaur expert who advised Steven Spielberg on Jurassic Park and has written more than 40 books on dinosaurs. Lessem and his team build each dinosaur with painstaking attention to detail, using scientific supervision to bring these ancient giants to life.

“Dino Park Zoo will be an immersive experience where guests can encounter new dinosaur-themed attractions, hands-on learning opportunities, and exciting events for the whole family,” Anne Shimerdla, President & CEO of Dino Park Zoo, said. “But just like the dinosaurs, it won’t last forever, so be sure to visit before it goes extinct in October!”

Fan-favorite zoo events will also get a prehistoric twist this summer. Zoo Brew will feature dinosaur-themed elements throughout the season. Visitors 21 and older can enjoy evenings at the zoo with live music, local food trucks, and, of course, plenty of beer. Featured all summer long will be Pseudo Sue from Toppling Goliath Brewing Company in Decorah. Named after the famous T. rex “Sue,” Pseudo Sue is perfect for dino-lovers and craft beer fans alike.

Then, in October, see the dinosaurs in a whole new light—literally—during the 35th annual Night Eyes! As the sun sets, the dinosaurs will come alive in a dazzling new way, with illuminated prehistoric creatures guiding trick-or-treaters through Des Moines’ most beloved Halloween tradition! 

The prehistoric fun will go extinct after Night Eyes to make way for Blank Park Zoo’s  Diamond Jubilee Celebration. The celebration will usher in a year-long commemoration of the zoo’s history, future, and impact on the community.

“As we say goodbye to the dinosaurs, we’ll be welcoming a massive celebration of 60 incredible years,” Shimerdla said. “2025 is already shaping up to be a year unlike any other. There is so much to see and do at Dino Park Zoo!”

Experience it all with a Zoo Membership. Members save on events like Zoo Brew, Night Eyes, and Wild Lights, which is going on now through Memorial Day. For updates, event details, and ticket information, visit dinoparkzoo.com or follow the zoo on social media.

SAN DIMAS, Calif. — Raging Waters Los Angeles, California’s Largest Water Park, is opening the 2025 summer season on Saturday, May 17, with even more new offerings than last year to enhance the guest experience providing the most chill water park experience on the West Coast. Starting opening day guests can visit the brand-new Señor Solis, a fresh take on Mexican cuisine, offering a robust menu of flavorful options including tacos, burritos, and bowls. The park has also continued its massive park-wide enhancement project, which launched in 2024, to improve the guest experience with new lockers, more shading, all-new eco-conscious and water-saving turf and MORE for this summer season.

“The upcoming season will continue to deliver more fun, more thrills and more amenities for our Season Passholders and water park guests to enjoy at Raging Waters Los Angeles this summer,” said Donald Spiller, general manager, Raging Waters Los Angeles. “The team continues to make massive investments into the park – some you can see and some you can’t – so that every ride, every meal and every interaction delivers the best summer day you’ll have all season long.”

2025 Summer Season Debuts Include:

• All-New Mexican Restaurant, Señor Solis – A new take on classic Mexican fare. The menu includes a wide range of tacos, burritos and bowls that are fast and fresh, featuring carne asada, chicken, rice, beans, and mini churros, with more to come!
• MORE Enhancements to the Guest Experience – Part of the park-wide enhancements that began in 2024, this year’s improvements feature:
  • More locker space with nearly 1,000 new and upgraded lockers
  • More shaded areas by the Aqua Rocket queue line and Dragon’s Den platform
  • More all-new eco-conscious and water-saving turf seating areas
  • More ways to celebrate special occasions with family and friends:
    • Additional extra-large VIP Cabana
    • New Birthday Package Ticket & Meal deal for birthday groups of 15+ people
• Continued Technology Upgrades – Making sure wherever you are in the park, you can be connected to your experience including mobile season pass, new mobile app + a self-service ticket kiosk.

Raging Waters Los Angeles will open for the season on Saturday, May 17 at 10 a.m. With over 50 rides, slides and attractions from the high thrills of Aqua Rocket to the big drop from Bombs Away, this 60-acre Southern California water park is a timeless summer tradition. The whole family is invited to enjoy a wide variety of tube and body slides ranging from mild to wild, a 30,000-square-foot water playground, a one-million-gallon wave pool and a lazy river.

Merlin Entertainments today announces the appointment of RWS Global, the world leader in live moments, as its preferred entertainment production partner for six global destinations.

RWS Global will collaborate with Merlin to produce, deliver and operate premium guest entertainment experiences, beginning with leading Merlin locations on both sides of the Atlantic:

• in the UK: Alton Towers Resort, Chessington World of Adventures Resort and LEGOLAND Windsor Resort; and
• in the US: LEGOLAND California Resort, LEGOLAND New York Resort and LEGOLAND Florida Resort.

The partnership will complement Merlin’s core in-house entertainment offering, allowing the Resorts to scale up to deliver brand and guest experiences throughout the year – including during seasonal special events.

RWS Global is developing more than 100 experiences at these Merlin Resorts in 2025 alone, building upon beloved shows with exciting new entertainment offerings for all to enjoy and experience. Guests can expect new, innovative productions, immersive storytelling, all designed to bring even more core memories to the guest experience.

Kathy Bagshaw, Global Director of Events and Entertainment Operations at Merlin Entertainments, said: “Merlin is committed to providing world-class entertainment for every guest. Through this exciting new partnership, we have the opportunity to continue delivering first-rate entertainment that guests have come to know and love at our Resorts and elevate it to an even higher level. RWS Global’s vast network of creative talent, innovative production resources and operational expertise will help us bring bigger and better entertainment experiences to life, ensuring that guests enjoy new, innovative offerings year after year.”

Ryan Stana, Chairman & CEO at RWS Global added: “We are delighted to join Merlin in building the future of in-park experiences, ushering in a new era of entertainment, and elevating the guest experience at its attractions around the world. By leveraging RWS Global’s worldwide resources, these Resorts will deliver more memorable moments and maximize value for guests.”

As RWS Global and Merlin expand entertainment offerings at resorts around the globe, the two businesses will work to bring together the best people from around the world to bring immersive experiences to life. As a leading provider of high-quality entertainment, RWS Global is dedicated to nurturing talent at every stage, providing performers with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. Through this collaboration, Merlin and RWS Global are opening new doors for performers to elevate their craft and bring unforgettable magic to audiences