Industry remembers Barbara Knoebel

40 Pages·2012·6.81 MB·English

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www.AmusementToday.com
Vol. 13, Issue 10 JANUARY 2010 $5.00
Industry remembers Barbara Knoebel
Kiddieland rides auctioned,
Six Flags saves Little Dipper Knoebels Amusement all of our park careers we have
Resort matriarch Barbara known Dick and ‘Barb.’ We
Scott Rutherford Knoebel died peacefully at her both run family amusement
Amusement Today home surrounded by family parks and have grown up in
on Nov. 27, 2009 following a them. We had many visits and
long, valiant battle with can- eventually the topics would
A Chicagoland tradition
cer. She was 66. lead to common incidents
since 1921 – Kiddieland in
Barbara Ellen (Cook) that happened in the previ-
Melrose Park – ended with
Knoebel was born May 3, 1943 ous years and how we settled
a giant auction held on Nov.
in Lykens, Pa., the daughter of them. As you know, when
24, 2009. The event attract-
the late Charles and Elizabeth park people get together we
ed over 500 potential buy-
Cook. She was a 1961 gradu- talk about park business, inci-
ers from as far as California
ate of Lykens High School and dents, promotions, etc. Barb
and New York for the 400-lot
furthered her education at Barbara Knoebel always was fun loving and
sale conducted by Norton
Auctioneers of Coldwater, PHOTO COURTESY WHR INC. Polyclinic Hospital where she 1943-2009 you could believe that when
became a Licensed Practical she said something, she knew
Mich. David Norton, Norton
Nurse In addition to her husband what she was talking about.
Ride prices realized Auctioneers, at work dur-
Barbara married Richard and sons, she is survived by She had a personality that
include: the 1925 PTC car-
ing the Kiddieland auc-
(Dick) Knoebel in 1968, a four granddaughters: Haley, made you feel good to be with
ousel with 16 monogram
tion.
marriage that lasted until her Hannah, Abigail and Ashley; her.
horses, $400,00; circa 1963
death – a span of over 41 a brother, Walter Cook; sister- “This past year when
German Carousel, $35,000; Roller, Glass Pitch, Milk
years. They are the parents in-law Ruth Cook; brother- she and Dick were chosen by
Arrow gas cars, $27,500; Cans, Ringshot, Cat Rack,
of two sons, Richard A. and in-law Ronald Knoebel and Amusement Today as Persons
Allen Herschell Umbrella and Skee Ball sold for $150
Brian L. Knoebel. his family; and sister-in-law of the Year during the Golden
ride with both elephants and to $1,100 each. Various sig-
At Knoebels Amusement Leanna Knoebel Muscato and Ticket Awards, I knew that she
helicopter tubs, $17,000; 20 nage sold in lots for up to
Resort, Barbara was an impor- her family. She was preceded was recognized for her part
older bumper cars with the $4,950. Picnic tables sold for
tant member of the family in death by brothers Charles of the team, and was proud
building, $18,700; Everly an average of $75 each. Also
business. She worked along- “Boom” Cook and Donald for them at being recognized.
Midget Racers, $10,400; sold at the auction was food
side Dick as manager of the Cook. Working in a family situation,
Hampton Dune Buggy, kitchen, maintenance, and
park office and group sales Services were held at The working daily year around,
$11,750; Mangels Kiddy office equipment along with
manager. In the latter capacity, Elysburg Presbyterian Church, and operating a continuing
Whip, $9,900; Herschell other miscellaneous park
she assisted groups in plan- Dec. 4 -5, 2009. expanding operation requires
Skyfighter, $13,200; San items.
ning outings and arranged Donations can be made in effort and stick-to-it-tiveness,
Antonio Flying Saucers, One of the high points
catered meals for thousands Barbara’s name to Give Kids only a dedicated wife, mother,
$6,600; Sellner Pump Cars, of the auction was the pur-
of guests each season. the World (www.gktw.org). business woman could exist
$9,900; Sellner self-propelled chase of the 1950-built PTC/
Barbara and Dick Speaking on behalf to accomplish this. Barb was
Ore Cars with track, $9,900; Herb Schmeck Little Dipper
were recently recognized of their small parks group, a such a person and we will
Eli Bridge #5 Ferris Wheel, wooden roller coaster by Six
as Amusement Today’s 2009 Wonderland Park (Amarillo, have fond memories of her.”
$12,100.00; and SARW Kiddy Flags for $35,000. This won-
Persons of the Year during the Texas) owners Paul and Speaking on behalf of the
Wheel, $7,700. derful ride will be rebuilt
Games such as Bowler 4See AUCTION, page 3 publication’s annual Golden Paula Borchardt remembered Pennsylvania Amusement
Tickets award ceremony. Barbara saying, “For almost 4See KNOEBEL, page 3
INTERNATIONAL AMUSEMENTP ARKS WATERPARKS BUSINESS MIDWAY/CLASSIFIEDS
SEE PAGES 5-8 SEE PAGES 9-14 SEE PAGES 15-20 SEE PAGES 21-32 SEE PAGES 33-39
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2 AMUSEMENT TODAY January 2010
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Gary Slade
Founder and Publisher
[email protected]
Making the extra effort
Sometimes the difference in life, your work, or even
your favorite sport can be as simple as the effort you put
into it, or in this case the extra effort.
As the end of 2009 was wrapping up two noteworthy
extra efforts took place.
The first was by our trade association, IAAPA.
The November convention and trade show was
held for the first time in Las Vegas. All in all everything
seemed to run fine and attendees appeared to be in good
spirits, be it from associating with their friends and
colleagues or perhaps from celebrating winning from a
table game. Suppliers overall seemed to be happy with
the show floor foot traffic and the quality of buyers on
Andrew Mellor
the floor. Certainly the two big downsides at the show
was the aisle numbering system which everyone agreed Viva Las Vegas!
didn’t work and the high costs the suppliers had paid
to be on the floor. Surprisingly, in all the time I’ve and everything in between, all encom-
been in the amusement industry, I’d passed in some amazing buildings
But back to extra effort. Amusement Today congratu-
never been to Las Vegas before last that simply take your breath away.
lates IAAPA for making the extra effort in placing hand
November when my annual pilgrim- It was, I think, a good move to take
sanitizer bottles in the suppliers booths. It was truly
age to the IAAPA Attractions Expo the show to a different city. It gave it a
amazing to see just how many people took the time
took me to this incredible place. fresh perspective and helped to attract
throughout the day to cleanse their hands.
I had obviously heard a great deal new attendees. It gave people another
The second set of kudos go out to Mark Shapiro and about it, read about it, seen films about Mellor reason to attend, if the Expo itself and
Six Flags for stepping up to the plate by gaining the win-
it, etc., etc., and was indeed delighted all that goes on around it isn’t enough,
ning bid at the Kiddieland auction for the Little Dipper to hear that one of the latest movies about and brings more diversity to the whole Expo
junior wooden coaster, a favorite among Chicago faithful Vegas, The Hangover, was one of the films on week. Okay, so the actual show venue wasn’t
for many generations. offer on the flight over from England. That as good as the new facility we have become
Shapiro said the coaster will be moved to its Chicago really set me up for the week (if you haven’t used to in Orlando, but it did the job and
park, Six Flags Great America, for the 2011 season. He seen it, you must!) It was, of course, every- another superb shop window for the industry
stated that he is saving it, not only due to his own fond thing I’d expected. was provided.
memories of the ride, but to also let future generations Also surprising, however, was the fact The general appeal and excitement of Las
that this was the first time IAAPA had taken Vegas aside, it was good to visit with numer-
enjoy a ride on this starter version.
the industry’s largest annual event to Las ous manufacturers exhibiting at the show and
At a time when our industry has lost so much in the
Vegas in all its 91 year history. That really is to get their take on the past 12 months and
last decade, it’s a breath of fresh air to know that we still
quite amazing when you think that the place how business is shaping up. It would be fair
have people that do care enough about our historical past
has been built to entertain millions of people to say that the overall feeling was consider-
enough to save it for future generations.
every year and features all the elements that ably more optimistic than one might have
Thanks IAAPA and Six Flags for making the extra
go into an amusement or theme park (and expected and I hope this can be taken through
effort. It’s the little things that go a long way.
others that don’t, of course) – from rides the next year and repeated, or bettered, in
—Gary Slade and attractions to live shows and theming, Orlando.
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January 2010 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3
Cedar Fair enters agreement to be acquired by Apollo Global Mgmt.
Cedar Fair announced on Dec. 16 that it Executive Officer Dick Kinzel, said, “We have latory approvals and other closing conditions.
had entered into a definitive merger agreement considered a wide range of strategic alternatives Assuming the satisfaction of these conditions, the
to be acquired by an affiliate of Apollo Global over the past several years. After considering these transaction is expected to close by the beginning
Management, a leading global alternative asset strategic alternatives, we have concluded that the of the second quarter of 2010. The merger agree-
manager. transaction with Apollo is in the best interest of our ment does not include a financing condition. Upon
Under the terms of the agreement, Cedar Fair unitholders.” completion of the merger, Cedar Fair will become
unitholders will receive $11.50 in cash for each “This transaction allows Cedar Fair unitholders a private company,wholly-owned by an affiliate of
Cedar Fair limited partnership unit that they hold, to realize significant value from their investment in Apollo Global Management.
representing a 43 percent premium over Cedar our Company over recent trading levels,” added Under the terms of the merger agreement,
Fair’s volume weighted average closing unit price lead director, Michael Kwiatkowski. “Apollo has a Cedar Fair may solicit alternative proposals from
over the past 30 days and a 28 percent premium strong track record of growing businesses, and its third parties for 40 days and will consider any such
over the closing unit price on Dec. 15, 2009. The desire to add Cedar Fair to its portfolio serves as a proposals. There can be no assurance that the solici-
transaction is valued at approximately $2.4 bil- testament to our solid business model and the tal- tation of such proposals will result in an alternative
lion, including the refinancing of the company’s ent of our people.” transaction. In addition, Cedar Fair may, at any
outstanding indebtedness. Affiliates of J.P. Morgan, Aaron Stone, a senior partner at Apollo, said, time, subject to the terms of the merger agreement,
Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Barclays Capital “We are extremely pleased to be acquiring this pre- respond to unsolicited proposals.
Inc., UBS Investment Bank and KeyBanc Capital mier amusement park operator. We look forward Apollo is a leading global alternative asset
Markets have provided an aggregate of $1.95 bil- to partnering with Cedar Fair’s management team manager with offices in New York, Los Angeles,
lion financing commitment in support of the trans- and employees to build on the many strengths of London, Singapore, Frankfurt and Mumbai. Apollo
action. the company. We are firmly committed to Cedar had assets under management of over $51 billion
The board of directors of Cedar Fair has unani- Fair’s continued growth as an industry leading as of September 30, 2009, in private equity, credit-
mously approved the merger agreement and has amusement park operator.” oriented capital markets and real estate invested
resolved to recommend that Cedar Fair limited The merger is conditioned upon, among other across a core group of nine industries where Apollo
partnership BR unitholders adopt the agreement. things, the approval of holders of two-thirds of has considerable knowledge and resources.
Cedar Fair Chairman, President and Chief Cedar Fair’s outstanding units, the receipt of regu-
AUCTION KNOEBEL
Continued from page 1 Continued from page 1
at Six Flags Great America Parks Association, Gary
in nearby Gurnee, Ill, for the Chubb told AT, “Barbara was
2011 season. much much more than simply
Amusement Today spoke the ‘wife’ of Dick Knoebel, she
with Six Flags CEO Mark was also a personal friend of
Shapiro about his decision to our family, active with PAPA
acquire this Kiddieland favor- and a hands-on leader with-
ite. “I wasn’t about to let a leg- in the Knoebels Amusement
endary kids coaster go to some Resort. Over the years, she
fly-by-night stranger,” said AT FILE PHOTO was involved in numerous
Shapiro. “It was important to The Little Dipper seen in operations at the park. She
me that this vessel live on for operation in its final season witnessed the park grow from
millions of kids to enjoy in the a medium sized, family oper-
at Kiddieland. The popular
same way I did back in 1977. ated amusement park serving
coaster will be moved to Six
When you combine The Little the residents of central and
Flags Great America where
Dipper with the Whizzer, Six northeast Pennsylvania, into
it will thrill again beginning
Flags Great America has an the world renowned Knoebels
in 2011.
unmatched platform for kids Amusement Resort that it is
to get indoctrinated into the the park year after year. His today.
world or roller coasters.” favorite attraction was the car- “Not only was Barbara the Barbara Knoebel, with husband Dick, as they received
“The Little Dipper has ousel, and it’s the same for his sales manager she was very
their Golden Ticket as 2009 Persons of the Year.
been a fond family tradition grandson Ron Rynes, Jr. “This involved with booking indus-
for over 50 years,” added was my backyard. I grew up trial picnics, overseeing group make the difficult decisions the summer PAPA meetings,
Hank Salemi, Six Flags Great here. I got to ride these when I caterings, running the park with guest opportunities, you could always count on
America president. “We want- was very, very young,” Rynes office, overseeing park First and to take a leading role in Barbara being there to ensure
ed to preserve this important said. Aid, and working with their the overall operation of the that everything was in place
piece of Chicago history for “It’s sad that it had to long time insurance carrier Knoebels Resort. and ready to go.
families to experience for come to auction. But I’m hop- – Allied Specialty Insurance. “Both Barbara and Dick “Earlier this year, when
many more years to come.” ing that the equipment and the She was extremely proud of were involved with PAPA. Dick and Barbara were named
Seeing their life’s work items will find new homes,” the fact that Knoebels could While Barbara was never a the “Persons of the Year” by
sold piece by piece was dif- said Cathy Rynes Norini, cater thousands of people in member of the PAPA board Amusement Today, you could
ficult for Kiddieland own- granddaughter of Tom Norini. one day in the many catering of directors that never held see the glimmer in her eye and
ers Ronald Rynes, Jr. and Tom “Good homes.” pavilions spread throughout her back from offering her just how proud she was about
Norini to watch. The Costco company has the park. Her fraternal Sisters opinions and advice on many all the accomplishments that
“Thirty-three years for filed a letter of intent to pur- and Brothers of Eastern Star of the topics that would she was involved in with Dick
us as owner operators,” said chase the property and build would frequently help out come up from time to time. over many years in the amuse-
Tom Norini. “But for my wife a box store on the Kiddieland with the multiple caterings Barbara always attended the ment business. The industry
and her brother it’s been their site. that were held at Knoebels. winter PAPA meetings held has lost an industry icon, the
whole life. It’s hard.” Additional information on She was the strong pillar of in Hershey and many of the Knoebels have lost a beloved
Kiddieland was opened 80 the Kiddieland auction can be the park office and would fre- summer meetings held at vari- family member and team
years ago by Arthur Fritz who found at: www. nortonauc- quently be called on to answer ous member parks. When it member and my family and I
began small and then grew tioneers.com. questions, provide assistance, came time for Knoebels to host have lost a longtime friend.”
4 AMUSEMENT TODAY January 2010
Favorite amusement park ride Least favorite holiday
The newest one! Water ride – Pro Slide Tornado; theme Labor Day, because it means the seasonal part of our busi-
park ride – Disney’s Tower of Terror and Universal’s ness is ending.
Simpson’s The Ride. I also like a great spinning coaster
like Seabreeze’s Whirlwind. If I was lost in the woods with nothing but an army
Compiled by Janice Witherow knife, I could make a …
If I wasn’t working in the amusement industry, I would be … The MacGyver answer would be a compass, the practical
Chip Cleary
A scenic /lighting designer in television, which is where I answer would be a mess!
Splish Splash / Palace Entertainment started this journey.
The last time I went swimming was …
Biggest challenge facing our industry This past summer at the opening of Splish Splash and at
Chip Cleary has spent more than 30
Short term – economic challenges and price elasticity. Wet n’ Wild’s Dr. Von Dark’s Tunnel of Terror water ride.
years in the business of attractions man-
Long term – keeping your product relevant in a rapidly
aging amusement parks and waterparks,
evolving world. Do you: eat out or cook at home most often?
and for this industry veteran, the energy
I travel on business a lot so I look forward to my wife’s
and passion he brings to his various
The thing I like most about amusement park season excellent cooking.
career roles never seems to fade. Chip’s
is …
position with Palace Entertainment has
Watching to see if all our improvements from the winter I feel most comfortable when …
him overseeing 10 waterparks and three
Clearly season paid off! Things are organized.
theme parks in the United States, includ-
ing Splish Splash in Long Island, New
It’s January! The best part about winter is … My mother always told me …
York, the waterpark he supervised the construction of in
Time to reconnect with friends. (1) Treat others as you wish to be treated; and (2) Turn the
1990. As chairman of IAAPA for the 2010 term, Chip’s ap-
music down!
proachable and creative style is certain to leave an impres-
Favorite kind of potato chip
sion.
Corn chip. Favorite drink in the morning
Grapefruit juice.
The last CD I bought was ...
Title
Genesis Live over Europe. Who buys CD’s anymore? Biggest recent splurge
Senior vice president (Palace Entertainment) and 2010
A special new engine for my model railroad.
IAAPA chairman.
My ideal day off is spent … While driving in my car, I occupy my time by …
Number of years with Splish-Splash/Palace Entertainment
Working on my model railroad and enjoying a nice dinner Listening to music of all kinds.
Nineteen years with Splish Splash; the last 10 years with
date with my wife.
Palace Entertainment.
Favorite family activity

If I could watch only one TV show, it would be … Gardening with my wife.
Best thing about the industry
A tie between “This Week with George Stephanopoulos” To suggest a candidate for the Two-Minute Drill
Change! Challenging, creative and great people who give
on ABC (I am fascinated by what is going in Washington)
feature, contact columnist Janice Witherow at jwith-
it 110 percent.
and “This Old House” on PBS.
[email protected] or [phone].
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JJiinngglleess
BBrrooCChhuurreess && aarrttwwoorrkk
PPhhoottooggrraaPPhhyy
iinntteerrnneett ssoolluuttiioonnss
PPrrooMMoottiioonnss
ggrroouuPP ssaalleess ttrraaiinniinngg
&& MMoorree!!
1428 Maple Ave. • Hamilton, OH 45011 • 513.737.9012 • www.TheBigIdeaPeople.com
January 2010 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5
INTERNATIONAL
www.AmusementToday.com
PARKS ATTRACTIONS RESORTS ENTERTAINMENT SUPPLIERS
Zamperla Motocoaster going to Särkänniemi
BRIEF
Andrew Mellor
Dreamland Trust The Moto Coaster is a
Amusement Today launch coaster, with very low
appoints
power consumption, and fea-
project director Italian ride manufacturer tures innovative pedestal style
Zamperla is to install one of its seating which combines rider
Moto Coaster roller coasters freedom and comfort with
The Dreamland Trust
at Särkänniemi in Tampere, maximum safety. Magnetic
recently announced the
Finland, for the 2010 season. brakes are also used on the
appointment of Jonathan
The new attraction will be ride which utilizes two trains
Bryant as its Project Director.
the first of its type in Europe/ of six vehicles, each vehicle
He will be responsible for
Scandinavia and the fifth such seating two riders. The track
implementing the world’s
ride to be built by Zamperla. length is 364 meters (1,194
first amusement park of
Currently, four other versions feet) and the launch takes pas-
PHOTO COURTESY ZAMPERLA
thrilling historic rides at
of the ride are in operation, sengers from 0 to 65 kph (40
Finland’s Särkänniemi will thrill guests in 2010 with a new
Dreamland Margate follow-
two in the U.S. in the shape of mph) in two seconds.
ing the award of grant fund- Moto Coaster attraction supplied by Zamperla.
Moto Coaster at Darien Lake Tampereen Särkänniemi
ing from Heritage Lottery
in New York state, and Pony Särkänniemi has bought sev- ship with the park through was founded in 1966 and
and the Government’s Sea
Express, a custom version of eral of our rides,” explained our sales manager Luigi Vasile attracts approximately 533,000
Change program.
the ride installed at Knott’s Zamperla marketing manager and are very proud of this lat- visitors during the summer
The Dreamland
Berry Farm, California, along Marco Mazzucchi, “including est sale. It is a clear example season. Added to the winter
Margate project is being led
with others in China and a Rockin’ Tug, Volare coaster of the efforts of our Roller visitor figures, total annual
by The Dreamland Trust,
Guatemala. and a Disk ‘O Coaster in 2008. Coaster department and the visitor numbers are approxi-
a not-for-profit company.
“During the last few years We have a very good relation- quality of our products.” mately 622,000.
The Trust is developing an
exciting theme park from
the past on the Dreamland Landmark ride planning case in U.K. settled
site, giving visitors to
Margate an opportunity to
enjoy spectacular historic Andrew Mellor
required.
amusement park rides. The Amusement Today Crealy then sought expert
rides will be built around
advice from RPS Planning and
the center piece of the
A recent planning appeal Development in Oxfordshire,
park, the Scenic Railway,
decision has clarified the sta- U.K., in their search for a way
the oldest surviving roller
tus of amusement park rides forward, RPS advising that
coaster in the U.K. and the
in the U.K. planning permission was no
fourth oldest in the world.
The landmark case fol- longer required as the rides in
Restoration work will also
lows advice provided to question had been in operation
be carried out on the Grade
Crealy Great Adventure Park for longer than four years. An
II-listed Dreamland cinema
in the county of Devon by the application was made instead
building, creating a major
local council that, as the park for a Lawful Development
new visitor attraction of
benefitted from Permitted Certificate, but the council
international significance.
Development Rights, it could refused both applications, stat-
Bryant said, “I am
erect a roller coaster and ing that amusement park rides
inspired by all that The
swinging Pirate Ship without 4See CREALY, page 7
Dreamland Trust and its
partners have achieved the need for planning permis- The Crealy planning case
sion. However, having gone
to date and am look- is a landmark decision for
ahead and installed the rides,
ing forward to bringing amusement park rides in
in 2000 and 2002, the coun-
Dreamland back to life as the U.K.
cil then decided retrospec-
a firm family favourite for IMAGE COURTESY CREALY GREAT
tive planning permission was
the 21st century.” ADVENTURE PARKS
6 AMUSEMENT TODAY January 2010
Euro Disney posts loss for fiscal year 2009
Andrew Mellor
Disney S.A.S., “which drove certain fundamen-
Amusement Today tal changes in consumer behaviour. As a result,
we adapted our offers to address our guests’
Euro Disney S.C.A., operator of Disneyland changing needs. This decision delivered record
Paris, has posted a loss for the 2009 fiscal year park attendance of more than 15 million and an
in what is described as “the most challenging 87 percent occupancy rate, down from last year
economic environment in our history.” but high by industry standards.”
The group said overall revenues decreased And he continued: “We saw our guest
7 percent to €1.23 billion driven by a decline mix change, as attendance was driven by
in guest spending, despite attendance figures French and Belgian markets, offsetting sig-
being slightly up on the previous year, with nificant weakness from Spain and the United
resort operating segment revenues decreasing Kingdom. These changes also impacted guest
by 6 percent. The company posted a net loss of spending and hotel occupancy, lowering our
€63m compared to a profit of €1.7m in 2008. revenues. Throughout the year we also bal-
Despite a record park attendance in excess anced our promise of a high-quality Disney
of 15 million, theme park revenues declined by entertainment experience for our guests while
4 percent on the prior-year period, primarily managing costs.”
resulting from a 5 percent reduction in average In April 2010, Disneyland Paris will launch
spending per guest. This reduction in average the New Generation Festival, a celebration wel-
spending reflects lower spending on admis- coming the most recent Disney characters into
sions and merchandise, driven by additional the parks, while during the celebration in sum-
promotional offers. Hotels and Disney Village mer 2010, the Walt Disney Studios Park will
revenues decreased by 8 percent. welcome three new family attractions in Toy
PHOTO COURTESY EURO DISNEY
“During the fiscal year we were faced with Story Playland, namely Toy Soldiers Parachute
Euro Disney revenues fell in 2009, despite record park
the most challenging economic environment in Drop, Slinky Dog Zig Zag Spin and RC Racer.
our history,” noted Philippe Gas, CEO of Euro attendance figures in excess of 15 million visitors.
Severn Lamb secures largest ever train order
A little piece of England hand-finished production
is about to come to a pictur- methods. Its products can be
esque corner of East Asia. found in over 50 countries,
Severn Lamb U.K., whose with clients including Walt
people-moving products are Disney, PortAventura, Busch
used by some of the world’s Entertainment, Genting
most respected attraction International and many
operators, is preparing to more.
ship the first of five ‘Lincoln’ In recent years the com-
rail trains to an eco-resort in pany has witnessed demand
South Korea – the company’s from an increasingly diverse
largest single order to date. collection of customers, rang-
The trains will go into ing from cruise ship opera-
use over the next six months tors and holiday resorts to
at Ecoland, part of the Beach shopping malls and heritage
Hills Resort on Jeju Island, attractions. In May 2009, for
where they will transport example, Severn Lamb sup-
guests around a natural plied two ‘Texan’ trains to
volcanic habitat and attrac- the Monteverde Train Forest,
tions including a 36-hole golf a railroad travelling through
course, hotels and holiday the amazing bio-diversity of
cottages. Costa Rica. A month earlier,
Each well-appointed it completed an eco-friendly,
24-inch gauge train will com- battery-powered version of
prise a locomotive, tender the same train for an outlet
PHOTO COURTESY SEVERN LAMB
and four 36-seater coaches mall in Lakeland, Tenn.
Severn Lamb is shipping the first of five Lincoln rail trains to South Korea, the company’s
(144 seats in total). Two “Sustainable technolo-
largest single order to date.
of the trains will also fea- gies are now an important
ture a luxurious mahogany train will be completed with previous largest train order see operators investing in consideration for many of
panelled cab for maximum a different color scheme. was for three units, supplied new projects, and I wish our clients,” added Patrick
driver comfort, and each Manufacturing work to Leofoo Village in Taiwan Beach Hills Resort success Severn Lamb, “and we are
will be powered by a liquid continues on the trains at during 2005. for many years to come.” pleased to incorporate them
petroleum gas (LPG) engine Severn Lamb’s premises in “We’re thrilled to have Based near the town of into our products, each of
to keep running costs and Warwickshire, England, and secured such a large order at Stratford-on-Avon, Severn which is built to order. Not
carbon emissions to a mini- the last should be delivered what we know is a challeng- Lamb has been building rail only do they carry good
mum. The first train, named in the first quarter of 2010, ing time for many suppli- trains, road trains, custom ‘green’ credentials, but they
The Blue Lake, is finished in ready to go into use when ers,” said Severn Lamb U.K. vehicles and monorails for also help operators save
a smart navy blue and red the resort is fully operational Managing Director, Patrick over 60 years, using the fin- money on fuel and energy.”
livery, and each subsequent next year. The company’s Severn Lamb. “It’s good to est British craftsmanship and
January 2010 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7
CREALY IAAPA show good for Innovative Leisure
Continued from page 5
U.K. interactive fam- range of interactive family
were a use of land, not opera-
ily attractions specialist attractions, the Sky Trail major
tional development, and must
Innovative Leisure and the high ropes courses, also cre-
therefore have been operating
company’s U.S.–based part- ated lots of interest.
for 10 years in order to be law-
ners enjoyed a spectacularly “We had a fully built-
ful.
successful IAAPA Attractions up and operational Sky Trail
On behalf of Crealy,
Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada, in Discovery in the show which
RPS appealed both refus-
mid-November. proved to be a real eye-catch-
als, supported by the British
Innovative Leisure dis- er with its vibrant, FEC style
Association of Leisure
tributes products through- paintwork. The various ele-
Parks, Piers and Attractions
out Europe for U.S.–based ments within the course were
(BALPPA), arguing that both
Spectrum Sports International, highlighted by the use of dif-
rides were substantial opera-
Inc., and Water Wars, Inc., ferent colors and we had a
tional developments in their
while also now represent- really wide age range of visi-
own right and are therefore
ing Ropes Courses, Inc., in tors trying it out. It was very
immune from enforcement
the U.K., and team members well received and I’m looking
after four years. The result was
joined their counterparts at forward to installing our first
that the inspector accepted the
the show to enjoy an excel- models in the U.K. in time for
case put forward by RPS and
lent response once again to the 2010 season.”
allowed both of the appeals,
the wide range of products on Several versions of the
stating that the council could
offer from the three compa- Sky Trail are available offering
not take enforcement action
nies. hourly capacities of up to 500
against them.
A highlight of the show people and one or two lev-
Commenting on the deci-
for Innovative Leisure was the els. Each model provides an
sion, RPS director Nick Laister
chance to show potential cus- exciting, challenging, ‘danger-
said: “This is an important
tomers the new Sky Trail major ous-yet-safe’ experience and
case and affects any amuse-
high ropes courses which the provides a series of testing
ment park ride in the U.K. that
company now distributes for elements for all skill levels
is physically attached to the
Ropes Courses, Inc. The model carried out in perfect safety
ground (as opposed to trav-
on display, a fully operational with the use of a continuous
elling rides), that was built
Sky Trail Discovery, was in belay system on the course. PHOTOS COURTESY INNOVATIVE LEISURE
between four and 10 years ago.
Such rides are lawful after four use throughout the four days Participants are also able to Top, The Sky Trail ropes course as seen at the recently held
of the trade show and created pass slower users at interme-
years, not 10 years, and if they IAAPA show in Las Vegas. Above, Rope Courses Inc.’s Michelle
much interest among buyers diate platforms using a unique
are operating in an amuse- Liggett and Innovative Leisure’s managing director Phil
and those trying it out. node connection system, thus
ment park, adventure park or Pickersgill reported good interest during the show.
“We had a tremendous helping to maintain good
similar attraction, a council is
response to all the prod- throughput. with natural wood colors for alternative to other, less active
unable to take enforcement
ucts we were covering at the The many different ele- installations in wooded areas. options,” added Pickersgill.
action against their use.”
show,” commented Innovative ments incorporated into the “Specialist research has The major high ropes
Also delighted with the
Leisure Managing Director high ropes attractions are inter- shown that fun, exciting, courses available from
decision is Crealy Managing
Phil Pickersgill. “Our more changeable so that the courses physically challenging activi- Innovative Leisure are suit-
Director Angela Wright, who
familiar attractions such as can be altered at regular inter- ties such as those provided by able for a wide variety of ven-
commented: “We are delight-
the climbing walls and towers, vals to refresh, update or fur- major high ropes courses have ues, including theme parks,
ed that this long-running saga
including a new smaller wall ther develop where required. grown enormously in popu- zoos, safari parks, holiday
has reached a positive con-
for schools and mobile opera- Full theming options are also larity with those who actu- resorts, FECs and many more,
clusion. It is good news for
tors, DigiWall and the Water available, such as pirate and ally take part and, in the case and this latest addition brings
the public and good news for
Wars game again proved very jungle themes, or custom of children and young teens, yet another popular attraction
the industry that parks can
popular with visitors, while themes can be incorporated, their parents, who see such type to the Innovative Leisure
safely continue to invest in
the latest addition to our wide such as a wilderness theme products as offering a healthy stable.
great attractions to delight our
visitors.”
RPS has also successfully
IAAPA Europe launches insurance program
secured planning permission
at Devon’s Crealy for a Log
Flume and carousel, along
with a Lawful Development IAAPA Europe and Jardine Lloyd services in Europe and is recognized be maximized for the benefit of each
Certificate for the park as a Thompson Leisure (JLT) have announced as a market leader in the leisure sector. individual member in the negotiation
whole. a strategic partnership, launching a JLT manages coverage for hundreds of and arrangement of cost-effective insur-
new, exclusive IAAPA membership pro- theme parks, visitor attractions, water- ance programs.
FREE
gramme; the IAAPA Europe Insurance parks, zoos, and other leisure facilities “With a clear understanding of
Program. across Europe. safety and required risk management
NEWS
Within this program, IAAPA’s With a specialized division dedi- procedures within the attractions indus-
European members – attractions and cated to providing insurance programs try, JLT is able to help IAAPA members
manufacturers and suppliers to the and risk transfer solutions directly to maximize their coverage based on mini-
EVERY DAY
attractions industry – are offered risk the leisure industry, the IAAPA Europe mum premium costs,” said Andreas
management products and services and Insurance Program specifically provides Veilstrup Andersen, executive director
insurance products. European members of IAAPA access to a of IAAPA Europe, “We are very excited
The focus of the program is to offer substantial, stable, and consistent insur- about providing IAAPA members access
insurance products with enhanced cov- ance market that is committed to and to the substantial attractions-based risk
erage and reasonable prices; policy sta- fully understands the risk and insurance management knowledge and expertise
bility; and risk management services. requirements of the attractions industry. JLT offers. This is an added benefit to
JLT is one of the largest provid- It also enables the collective purchasing our members – and to the industry as a
Sign up at ers of insurance and risk management strength of the IAAPA membership to whole.”
www.AmusementToday.com
8 AMUSEMENT TODAY January 2010
January 2010 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9
AMUSEMENT PARKS
www.AmusementToday.com
FEC’S ATTRACTIONS RESORTS ENTERTAINMENT SUPPLIERS
Silver Dollar City celebrates 50 years with new ride
BRIEF
Silver Dollar City launches
Morey’s Piers its 50th year in 2010, celebrat-
hints at major new ing with a year-long party, a
new $7 million ride, special
attraction for 2010
birthday events, top names
in entertainment, new shows
Morey’s Piers is plan- for each of its six world-class
ning a major new attrac- festivals, and a $50,000 prize
tion for 2010 at the site give-away. Themed as Take
of the old miniature golf Time to Celebrate, the 2010 sea- Labs LLC, the RiverBlast will
course, located on Morey’s son marks the park’s biggest be America’s biggest water
Mariner’s Landing Pier. event year ever. battle attraction. The raft ride
But the nature and type More than 65 million will be themed around the
of addition will remain a guests have visited Silver adventures of fun-loving, mis-
mystery until the opening Dollar City in the past five chief-makers Tom Sawyer and
event, some time around decades, so focus is also on Huck Finn. Raft riders, armed
Memorial Day 2010. appreciating golden memories with water soakers, navigate
According to Norris of the past, such as a new park the Mighty White River, bat-
Clark, director of sales and opening show reminiscent of tling raft-to-raft and raft-to-
marketing, “Jack Morey early years, an on-line memo- shore, dodging even more
has asked everyone asso- rabilia search and showcase, streams of water from sharp
ciated with the new attrac- change to be given in coin shooters ashore.
tion, including myself, dollars, craftsmen reunions The 50th Celebration
to sign a confidentiality and the presentation of the goes global with World-Fest
agreement.” top country hits of 50 years for opening in April, presenting
Clark added, “I can say the evening show. the all-new production Fiery
the new attraction is now When the Herschend fam- Fiddles, featuring the world’s
under development, and ily opened Silver Dollar City only soaring strings aerialist, RENDERING COURTESY SDC
that there is a ‘significant’ May 1, 1960 atop the famed plus the return of the Zhejiang
New in 2010 at Silver Dollar City is the $7 million Tom &
budget for the attraction, Marvel Cave, the park fea- Balancing Monks of China,
Huck’s RiverBlast ride from Germany’s Mack Rides. It will
which is being referred to tured a town square, a demon- and new dance troupes from
be the largest water battle attraction in the U.S.
as Project 5292010. Finally, strating blacksmith, a general Mexico and Trinidad.
the exact nature of the store and ice cream parlor, and A Birthday Celebration
ride is still under discus- a crew of 17 “citizens” who Weekend on May 1 will be the new ride adventure Tom documentary series featuring
sion and debate, but it is ran the shops and performed filled with events including a & Huck’s RiverBlast takes top unique American artists, such
sure to be a unique one- street shows. Guests num- parkwide birthday party, spe- billing, along with a major as the 50 who will choose their
of-a-kind addition to the bered about 125,000 that first cial concerts with the Ozark new stunt dog show and finest works for the exhibit.
Wildwoods that we’re year. The park now entertains Mountain Daredevils, fire- appearances by kid-favorite Additionally, renowned arti-
sure our guests will love. two million guests annually, works, the official debut of the costumed characters includ- sans previously featured at
I am also told that at some covering more than 100 acres new Great American Country ing SpongeBob & Patrick, SDC will return in a special
point, a curtain will cover and featuring 100 craftsmen, Nights evening show and a Shaggy & Scooby Doo, The craftsmen’s reunion show-
the work site until the 30 rides and attractions, six special Night of Praise con- Jetsons, The Flintstones and case.
opening event.” world-class festivals, and doz- cluding the events. A national the Backyardigans. Also in the fall, the season-
ens of theaters and restaurants, recipe contest, now underway For the National Harvest long Take Time To Celebrate
claiming the title The Home of through Taste of Home maga- Festival, in recognition as Sweepstakes will culminate in
COMPLETE
American Craftsmanship. zine, will discover and name The Home of American the give-away of $50,000 in
IAAPA SHOW Debuting in early next the Official Silver Dollar City Craftsmanship, Silver Dollar prizes.
spring is the new $7 million Birthday Cake. City will host the Craft in An Old Time Christmas,
COVERAGE
ride Tom & Huck’s RiverBlast. The celebration heats up America Exhibit, created the heralded holiday lighting
Supplied by Germany’s Mack in summer during America’s exclusively for SDC. The event with more than 4 mil-
SEE PAGES 25-32
Rides and represented in the largest kids’ festival, KidsFest, exhibit is from the creators lion lights, a five-story special
U.S. by Bob Dean and Leisure June through August, where of the highly-awarded PBS 4See SDC, page 10
10 AMUSEMENT TODAY January 2010
SDC Chance Morgan complete first Unicoaster ride
Continued from page 9
The first Unicoaster is
effects Christmas tree, a light
finished and final testing has
parade and the Broadway-
started at the Chance Rides
caliber show A Dickens’
factory in Wichita, Kan. This
Christmas Carol, will end the
brand new ride features eight
season with a glorious cel-
rotating arms with two pas-
ebration and special events
senger vehicles on each arm.
to mark the park’s brightest
The new attraction allows each
season and the birthday year
vehicle’s passengers to control
finale.
their own spin, both in the for-
“The Herschend family
ward or backward direction.
built Silver Dollar City’s busi-
This passenger interactivity
ness and reputation based
gives the riders a completely
upon providing guests fun,
different experience each time
memorable experiences as they ride.
well as taking care of our Co-creator Bill Kitchen
employees. That’s as true said, “We were looking for
today as it was 50 years ago,” a way to reinvent the roller
said Brad Thomas, Silver coaster but on a smaller foot-
Dollar City General Manager. print. The Unicoaster gives rid-
Silver Dollar City open’s ers all of the thrills of a looping
for the 2010 on Mar. 18. inverted roller coaster at a frac-
PHOTO COURTESY CHANCE MORGAN
AMUSEMENTTODAY.COM tion of the space and price.”
Chance Morgan’s new Unicoaster attraction was developed to offer the thrills of a loop-
AMUSEMENTTODAY.COM •www.chancemorgan.
AMUSEMENTTODAY.COM ing inverted roller coaster on a compact footprint.
com.
AMUSEMENTTODAY.COM
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FERRIS WHEEL ARM ALIBABA HAMPTON UMBRELLA
Ferris Wheel – Happee Day Shows – Marion, Arkansas Ferris Wheel – Fun Spot Action Park - Orlando, Florida
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