} IAAPA Attractions Expo recap...Pages 31-44 TM Celebrating Our 15th Year Vol. 15 • Issue 10 JANUARY 2012 Spotlight on Safety NAARSO forum participants to go through AIMS Intl. grows their Sky Wheel controls during 25th seminar international presence STORY: Pam Sherborne rum routinely has 250 students [email protected] and teachers attending. The STORY: Pam Sherborne MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — outreach programs held sev- [email protected] Since the National Association eral times a year draws about of Amusement Ride Safety Of- 50. And, since beginning its ORLANDO, Fla. — More ficials (NAARSO) began hold- certification program in 1994, international participants than ing its annual safety inspec- NAARSO has certified 744 ever before were drawn to the tion forum 25 years ago, the Level I inspectors, 275 Level II 2011 AIMS International Safe- non-profit organization has inspectors, and 74 Level III in- ty Seminar, Nov. 9-15, Orlan- provided ride safety educa- spectors. The varying levels of do, Fla., held in conjunction tion and training to hundreds certification are specific upon with the IAAPA Attractions across the U.S. the amount of education. All Expo. Created to provide re- those receiving certification According to AIMS Presi- sources to amusement in- have to participate in continu- dent Mike Gutknecht, the dustry professionals who are education. ing education as well. overall seminar went very time,” Gutknecht said. “Also, dedicated to ride safety and At its first conference 25 “We are always looking well. The seminar is a compre- when we had short down to provide a consistent level years ago, 50 industry profes- for new avenues for train- hensive safety-training experi- times between sessions, it was of proficiency to industry in- sionals, primarily represent- ing individuals in ride safe- ence for individuals respon- not feasible for participants to spectors, NAARSO has great- ing state inspection agencies, ty,” said Leonard Cavalier, sible for the care and safety go over to their rooms. There ly improved industry safety attended. NAARSO’s executive director. of the amusement industry’s wasn’t enough time for that, through communication and Now, the annual safety fo- “We are even contemplating guest. so they just pretty much had creating a school on the west This year AIMS held all to sit around and wait.” coast to reach more people. classes in the Doubletree Ho- With participants staying Currently, the Northwest tel just minutes away from the in the Doubletree, it just made Showmen’s Association holds Orange County Convention sense to have the meetings a safety school annually in Center where IAAPA ran from there. March. We sanction them. We Nov. 14-18. Last year, classes “We had our testing on accept the training hours of were held in the convention Sunday evening (13th), fin- those attending their school.” center, but the logistics were ished up on Monday (14th) But, the industry contin- somewhat challenging for par- and then many of our partici- ues to change so quickly, ac- ticipants. pants went to the first day of cording to current NAARSO “There was some trouble the trade show on Tuesday President Clyde Wagner, that getting our participants over (15th),” he said. they continue to look for new to the classes at the conven- The increased internation- 4See AIMS, page 8 ways to reach more profes- tion center on the buses on sionals. SAFETY INSIDE “One of the newer trends Clyde Wagner, left, current president of NAARSO, and Leon- we are seeing that we are ad- }Page 5: Santa Cruz safety manager retires ard Cavalier, NAARSO executive director, prepare for the dressing now is the growth in }Page 5: ASTM launches new online presense upcoming 25th Annual Ride Safety Inspection Forum set for zip lines,” Wager said. Jan. 29-Feb. 3, 2012 in Myrtle Beach. Additional avenues of }Page 6: ROTC School set for Las Vegas AT/PAM SHERBORNE 4See NAARSO, page 4 R 1 PE erial. 23, 201 SUBSCRIBE TO Extra! Extra! Desktop Edition PA d mat mber AMUSEMENT TODAY e e S Dat Dec Get FREE news delivered to NEW POSTMASTER:PLEASE RUSH!Mailed Friday, (817) 460-7220 your inbox EVERY DAY! amusementtoday 9602 # TIMREP com Sign up now at: XT HTROW .TF DIAP www.amusementtoday.com EGATSOP SU DTS TRSRP 2 AMUSEMENT TODAY January 2012 NEWSTALK OPINIONS CARTOON LETTERS AT CONTACTS EDITORIAL: Gary Slade, [email protected] CARTOON: Bubba Flint Tidbits...G.L.S. In honor of H.V. O’Brien, longtime and still current publisher of Eastland County [Texas] Newspapers (of which this publisher learned so much from him) I’ve named this month’s editorial column in honor of his long standing “Tidbits... by H.V.O.” column that appears in each of his printed newspapers. Slade Thank you my friend! *** Randon tidbits of industry news: Hats off to Merlin Entertainments for a successful opening and rebranding of the former Cypress Gardens theme park in Legoland Florida. While AT would liked to have seen the historic Starliner roller coaster saved, your company is still to be congratulated for the efforts made in saving the park’s beautiful gardens and that lovely Banyan Tree that have made the gardens so famous. And thanks for returning the famed water ski show to the lake. Two long standing traditions are now back and better than ever! *** While we are dishing out compliments, a big Thank EDITORIAL: Andrew Mellor, [email protected] You goes to two of our industry association leaders: Another great week at IAAPA •Thanks to IAAPA’s Chip Cleary for stepping in dur- ing the early morning hours during the Expo to make sure If there’s one thing that’s a What a way to start the week! the exhibit hall was back to 100 percent following an early ‘dead cert’ to happen during Another highlight was a visit the follow- morning fire that caused some minor damage to the ex- any year it’s my annual trip to ing day to the new Legoland Florida park. The hibit floor. I’m sure most attendees never knew that there the U.S. for the IAAPA Attrac- site of the old Cypress Gardens (and there was a fire incident on the floor. Great job Chip! We hope tions Expo. are still the botanical gardens to explore) has you have now caught up on your missed sleep. My visit in November was been transformed and now provides families •Thanks to WWA’s Rick Root for listening to my con- again extremely enjoyable with younger children with a great day out in cerns at the 2011 Golden Ticket Awards about our industry Mellor and like us all gave me the op- the true Legoland tradition. An excellent ar- not doing enough to record our own history, especially portunity to meet up with in- ray of attractions, magnificent Lego models from those that are still alive that can tell the stories the dustry colleagues both during the four days of throughout the park and a beautiful setting way it really was. Rick has promised to make this a new the trade show and at a variety of other events combine to make this an excellent addition to priority for the association in 2012. held throughout the week. the Florida theme park arsenal and when the *** Things got off to a superb (and very early) waterpark opens in time for summer this year, start on the Sunday with my first ever partici- it will be even better! As we turn the calendars to 2012, AT takes this time pation in the IAAPA International Charity Golf And then, of course, it was on to the trade to say Thank You to all who have helped make our first Tournament. It was one of the most enjoyable show which again proved to be the amazing 15 years a success. We can’t wait to see what the next 15 rounds of golf I’ve ever played, on a wonderful shop window for the industry that it has been years have in store. We wish everyone much success in the course and among great company. The spon- for so many years. Anything and everything new year ahead! —Gary Slade sored Vodka shot at 8:45 a.m. after our first a park or attraction operator could want was Gary Slade is the founder and publisher of Amusement hole, followed on the next by a huge Bloody to be found under the roof of the North and Mary probably didn’t help my score if I am South Concourse of the Orange County Con- Today. His love for amusement parks began at age six brutally honest, but hey, it doesn’t really mat- vention Center and a really positive vibe ema- when he first visited Pontchartrain Beach Amusement ter when you are helping a great cause, play- nated from exhibitors. Park and Six Flags Over Texas. His long newspaper career ing in 80 degree heat and laughing so much So a very busy but most enjoyable week. helped lead to the launch of AT in 1997. with your playing partners that your jaw aches! And this year’s dates are already in the diary! AMUSEMENT TODAY STAFF Gary Slade, Founder Tim Baldwin Sammy Piccola Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Editorial Accounting / Circulation (817) 460-7220 [email protected] (817) 460-7220 Deliveries Member of: [email protected] [email protected] 2012 E. Randol Mill Rd, Suite 203 IAAPA, AIMS International, PAPA, Pam Sherborne Arlington, Texas 76011 NEAAPA, NJAA, OABA, WWA, TTIA, Stacey Childress Editorial Sue Nichols NAARSO and IISF Web & Graphic Design [email protected] Advertising (817) 889-4441 (615) 662-0252 Subscription rates are: 1 year (14 issues) $50 in the USA; $70 elsewhere; 2 years (28 issues) $90/$130; [email protected] Scott Rutherford [email protected] 3 years (42 issues) $130/$190. Send check or money order (U.S. funds only, drawn on a U.S. bank) to Amusement Today, P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005-5427. Your cancelled check is your receipt. Editorial Please allow up to six weeks for your subscription request to be processed and the first issue mailed. John Robinson / W.H.R. Inc. [email protected] Bubba Flint Daily E-mail Newsletter Cartoonist Amusement Today is an independent newspaper, published monthly by Amusement Today Inc., P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005. Presort Standard Postage (Permit No. 2069) pre-paid at Fort Worth, [email protected] Jeffrey L. Seifert [email protected] Texas. The entire contents of this newspaper and its related Web sites are copyrighted and trademarked Editorial / Special Projects by Amusement Today 2011, with all rights reserved. [email protected] POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Amusement Today, P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas Contributors: Andrew Mellor, Richard Munch, Susie Storey, Janice Witherow, WHR Inc. 76005-5427. January 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3 THIS MONTH IN HISTORY 2 MINUTE •1908: Fire raced through Presented by Ocean View Park, in Norfolk, DRILL Va. on Chesapeake Bay, on the morning of January 27, de- COMPILED: Janice Witherow stroying the railway pavilion Matt Ouimet, Cedar Fair Entertainment Company and bathhouses, several beach clubs, and the Scenic Railway. As president and CEO Seventy years later, the entire of Cedar Fair, Matt park would be unceremoni- Ouimet is right at ously demolished for a televi- home. No stranger sion movie. www.RollerCoasterMuseum.org to the industry, Matt spent 17 years at The •1915: The Panama-Pacific Walt Disney Company, International Exposition, in San Francisco, Calif. was nearing where he last held the completion in January, in preparation for a February open- position of president of ing. Just nine years after the 1906 Earthquake, the exposition the Disneyland Resort. would end up being an important economic and spiritual lift He also served in a variety of business de- for a devastated city and its people Early publicity tours would velopment and finan- provide the necessary marketing to insure the event’s success. cial positions during The immense and popular exposition grounds, built where the his time with Disney, Marina district is today, would include an L.A. Thompson Scenic including president of Railway and a racing coaster, in the area known as the Zone. It Disney Cruise Line and Following 17 years in the business with The Walt Disney Com- was a 3,000 foot long midway of amusements, containing the Executive General Man- pany, Matt Ouimet starts off 2012 as the new CEO at Cedar most elaborate amusement features of the time. ager of Disney Vacation Fair. Club. Matt’s logical but •1927: Construction of Casino Park (also known as Lake Worth passionate approach to business is one The one food that I would never, ever Park), in Lake Worth, Texas (outside Fort Worth) began on Jan- of his greatest assets, along with his give up would have to be … uary 31. Planning for the park was completed by John A. Mill- strong belief in teamwork. A motivator Cheese puffs. and leader, Matt also brings a sense of er, the prominent roller coaster designer. The park would open humor to the job. He enjoys spending When I say politics, you say … with one of his signature rides, the 72-foot high Thriller roller time on the golf course and hanging Where have all the statesmen gone? coaster. The out and back layout had 10 drops and was con- out with his family. sidered one of the finest coasters in Texas during its operation. Coolest place I have visited in the last Title year... President and Chief Ex- Costa Rica. ecutive Officer. Is the best part of the Super Bowl the Number of years in the football game or the commercials? industry The football game! 20 years. Ouimet If I could live next door to any sitcom Best thing about the family, it would be … industry The guys from Big Bang Theory. The people we get to work with. The one place I would rather be right Favorite amusement ride now is … COURTESY B. DEREK SHAW ARCHIVES Top Thrill Dragster at Cedar Point. Any place with my family. •1938: It was the beginning of the end for Columbia Amuse- If I wasn’t working in the amusement My friends all call me … ment Park in North Bergen, N.J. An informal agreement was industry, I would be … Just Matt; I’ve never really had a nick- reached by the Port of New York Authority and park owners on A teacher. name. January 10, to sell about five acres of park land to be used as Biggest challenge facing our industry At lunch time, you can usually find the access road to the new Lincoln Tunnel under the Hudson Continuing to surprise our guests. me … River. Going price was $350,000 for the lot! Today the ap- proach road passes through what was once a grand park over- Around the table with our team. The thing I like most about amuse- looking Manhattan. Today, a shopping center and 12-screen ment/water park season is … The one person/group I would love to multiplex cinema still carries the name Columbia Park, which The sounds of a busy day. see in concert is … at one time was considered the main competition to Palisades The Band Perry. Amusement Park, located just five miles north of the former The last thing I bought for under $1 park. is … Favorite fast food chain... Kool-Aid from a neighborhood stand. Chick-fil-A. The three words that best describe Ten years from now I hope to be … TM P.O. Box 5427 my office are … Amazed by the recovery of our Arlington, Texas 76005-5427 5-time Award Winner Fantastic park view! economy. (817) 460-7220 Fax (817) 265-NEWS (6397) The song I would sing if auditioning Are you a little bit country or a little for American Idol is … bit rock‘n’roll? Find us on Facebook “Spirit in the Sky.” Much to my wife’s disappointment, facebook.com/amusementtoday country. It’s the New Year! One of my resolutions is to … The person I would most like to be Follow us on Twitter twitter.com/amusementtoday Exercise more. stuck in an elevator with is … David McCullough, my favorite author. I usually call it a night at … Earlier than most. G et the free mobile app for your phone Subscribe to our YouTube channel http://gettag.mobi youtube.com/amusementtoday 4 AMUSEMENT TODAY January 2012 NAARSO Myrtle Beach, S.C., with some NAARSO’s forum participants classes and sessions as well as will be allowed to go through Continued from page 1 the annual meeting being at the controls and study the op- training will likely be just one the Sands Ocean Resort, Myr- erating mechanics. of the topics of discussion dur- tle Beach. “We won’t be there to in- ing NAARSO’s 25th Annual One thing planned for this spect the ride, but to look at Ride Safety Inspection Forum 25th forum is a hands-on activ- the controls,” he said. “This set for Jan. 29-Feb. 3, 2012, at ity at the SkyWheel, the 187- does, however, take a great the Family Kingdom Park, foot wheel by Chance Rides leap of faith for them to have that opened at the Oceanfront all these industry profession- NAARSO attendees will get Boardwalk and Promenade. als go through their ride.” a behind the scenes look at The wheel, which opened in The forum participants the 187-foot-tall (Chance) 2011, is owned by Koch Devel- will also be on the grounds of SkyWheel in Myrtle Beach, opment and Pacific Develop- the King Family park. including the entire control ment. Curriculum offered in- system. AT FILE PHOTO According to Cavalier, cludes Inspections Techniques, Electric Hydraulics, Compo- nents, ASTM, Magnetic Brake- ing, Emergency Evacuation Systems, Safety Restraints, Pneumatics, and AIMS Cer- tification Exams. Participants will gain knowledge of coast- ers, welding inspections, aeri- al tramways, miniature trains, climbing walls, bearings and a whole array of other mechan- ics. The classes on Jan. 30 and 31 will be broken up into two groups: Primary and Second- ary. The participant’s path is determined by previous training and/or years in the industry. Primary covers ba- sic inspection points and tech- niques as well as basic electric, hydraulics and other related subjects. Secondary consists of elective one-hour classes covering different topics that 4See NAARSO, page 5 One of the newer trends in the amusement industry is the growth and popular- ity of zip lines, according to NAARSO representatives who said the organization already has a committee looking at the standards and safety. Here, exhibiting at the International Association of Amusement Parks and At- tractions, is the Soaring Eagle Zipline from Stan Checketts. AT/TIM BALDWIN January 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5 ASTM International’s official magazine Safety and training manager for launches new online presence Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk retires WEST CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa., — ASTM International has launched a revamped online version of its flagship SANTA CRUZ, Calif. — worked for the historic Win- magazine, Standardization News (SN). The magazine’s Amusement industry veteran chester Mystery House in San new Website (www.astm.org/standardization-news) offers Allen F. Weitzel retired from Jose as director of food, mer- more frequently updated ASTM news that is organized his job as safety and training chandise, and arcades before into new industry sector gateways. These gateways serve manager at the Santa Cruz being hired by the Santa Cruz as Web portals to comprehensive news and information Beach Boardwalk in Santa Boardwalk. about ASTM standards development activities, meeting Cruz, California at the end of Weitzel is proud of every and training course dates and publications. 2011. Weitzel developed and job either held or managed in The centerpiece of the new SN online homepage managed the park’s safety the amusement industry dur- Allen F. Weitzel is instant access to 10 gateways, which allow visitors to and training program for ing his 45-year career. He will nearly 25 years. and entertainment, he also continue to serve as the histo- quickly see the variety of industry areas in which ASTM He started his career at suited up in western gear to rian for a website dedicated International’s standards provide guidance, and to quick- Frontier Village theme park act in the park’s mock shoot- to preserving memories of ly find news and information according to their interest in San Jose where in addi- outs. Frontier Village, and pursue area. The SN online homepage also features access to a tion to his role as director of When Frontier Village his interests in painting and digital edition of the current issue of the bimonthly maga- merchandise, arcades, games, closed in 1980, Weitzel writing. zine as well. The 10 industry gateways cover: Building Construction; Transportation and Infrastructure; End Use Products and NAARSO of the amusement industry umentation practices. Recreation; Chemicals; Metals and Materials Analysis; NAARSO is offering the Another special is the Continued from page 4 Energy; Personal and Occupational Safety; Medical; Limited Specialty class. This eight-hour course that offers Environment and Sustainability; and Quality Assurance. training will cover inflat- tips and information on how “ASTM International standards cover diverse indus- include inspection of specific able devices, rock walls, Euro to create training programs. tries and the readers of Standardization News represent types of devices, codes and bungees/bungee jumps and This class will be held on Jan. a wide and varied cross-section of industry sectors,” said standards, employee safety trackless trains. Classes take 28. SN Editor-in-Chief Maryann Gorman. “This new online and other topics not related to place on Jan. 28 and 29 at the Four ride inspector offi- format is an exciting opportunity to give those readers basic ride inspections. Sands Ocean Resort in Myrtle cials from four different states quick access to the news and information they have the In conjunction with the Beach. It will include instruc- formed NAARSO in 1986: greatest interest in. The industry gateways also give read- 25th Annual Safety Forum, tion in the areas of inspection Carl Dills from Kentucky; Al- ers an easy way to see what’s new in standards develop- NAARSO is extending ad- procedures, safe operation len Chester, Michigan; Carl ment across their sector, offering a user-friendly, subject- ditional training and certifi- procedures, ASTM standards, Kimble, Illinois; and Cavalier based resource.” cation. For those individuals fasteners, wire rope, electrical from Ohio. involved in the rental side codes and recommended doc- 6 AMUSEMENT TODAY January 2012 Ride Operator Trainer Certification School set for Las Vegas When Pigs Fly: Creative Operational Concepts to conduct safety training course Jan. 31-Feb. 2, 2012 LAS VEGAS, Nev. — The adhering to ASTM training sizes creativity and “making dures are performed, provide style of instruction. team of When Pigs Fly: Cre- practices and standards while it stick” training techniques unique methods on how to “ROTC Investigates… ative Operational Concepts showcasing industry best so that ride operators are pre- train ride procedures so that Training at it’s Best!” is the will be offering the company’s practices. pared for handling challeng- an operator can link the con- theme of the 2012 ROTC Ride Operator Trainer Certifi- Nashville, Tenn.-based ing situations in the field while cept to better understand the School. The school will con- cation (ROTC) School in Las When Pigs Fly has developed keeping safety as the forefront process and lastly focuses on sist of classroom and hands Vegas, Nevada, January 31- the top critical components/ task when working. how to ensure the operator on training to be conducted February 2, 2012. duties that a ride operator ROTC instructs in a com- will be successful daily in their on the world-class rides and ROTC is a three day train must conduct during each prehensive format that allows role. This instructional meth- attractions on the Las Vegas the trainer course that focuses ride cycle to ensure standards trainers to be able to convey od is When Pigs Fly: Creative Strip. Not only will hands on on how to properly train and are consistently performed. the history and/or back- Operational Concepts origi- training be a part of ROTC, instruct ride operators while The ROTC curriculum empha- ground of why certain proce- nal “Learn It! Link It! Live It!” but attendees will also be vid- eotaped during a “teach back” so that they can review their training style. Upon comple- tion of the ROTC School, at- tendees will be certified as trainers and will also receive access to all course training materials including an in- structional manual that allows them to easily implement this unique ride safety training program at their property. The ROTC program has been recognized by Amuse- ment Industry Manufacturers Suppliers (AIMS) as means of continuing education for 24 credit hours that can be ap- plied toward continuing edu- PLATINUM cation units (CEU’s) for candi- KumbaK The Amusement Engineers dates who are maintaining or desiring to obtain the industry GOLD certification. In addition, the Amusement Today AIMS Operations Level I test will be offered during ROTC Beams Industries for $100. Chance Rides Visit creativeoperation- Haas & Wilkerson alconcepts.com to register for OABA the 2012 ROTC School. For ad- Premier Rides ditional information contact Recreation Engineering Inc. Cindee Huddy at (615) 545- Ride Entertainment Group 8109, Patty Beazley at (615) 885-4960 or Darlene Reese- Uremet Corp. Sittig at (413) 519-7794. When Pigs Fly Zamperla Inc. SILVER Ralph S. Alberts Co. ASTM Intl. Fastenal John P. Hinde Enterprises, Inc. Huss Park Attractions GmbH Kluber Lubrication RCS Wapello BRONZE Eli Bridge Great Wolf Lodge Rain Drop Products The Sheehan Firm, P.C. Instructor Cindee Huddy of Special thanks to the IAAPA Attractions Expo When Pigs Fly demonstrates operational safety train- ing during the 2011 ROTC School. COURTESY WHEN PIGS FLY January 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7 www.aimsintl.org Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers International, Ltd. • 3026 S. Orange • Santa Ana, Calif. 92707 Phone: (714) 425-5747 • Fax: (714) 276-9666 • E-mail: [email protected] • Web: www.aimsintl.org AIMS honors Tony Claassen is elected to AIMS Board of Directors Wally James as first recipient of new Tony Claassen with Silver Dollar continual education of amusement in- George Millay Award City, Branson Missouri has been voted dustry personnel and has served as The AIMS Board of Di- to the AIMS Board of Directors replac- an AIMS Safety Seminar volunteering rectors has introduced a new ing Maud Hendriks of Vekoma Rides. since 2004. He currently serves AIMS award to be presented on a Claassen has 15 years of experi- as a member of the education and rotating basis along with the ence in the amusement industry and is seminar planning committee. other board currently the Rides Maintenance Com- Claassen holds a Level II Ride Safe- of direc- pliance Officer and Supervisor of the ty Inspector certification from NAARSO tor awards. maintenance warehouse and dispatch as well as certifications from AIMS for This new for Silver Dollar City. As compliance both maintenance and operations Lev- a w a r d officer his duties center around docu- el II technician and is active in ASTM named af- mentation including maintaining and serving as Sub Secretary for F24.40. ter the per- updating the ride maintenance manu- Classen holds a Bachelor’s Degree in son who is als, generating inspection checklists for Business Administration from Evangel Wally James considered each ride, tracking ride manufacturers’ University in Springfield, Missouri and to be the father of the wa- bulletins, ride maintenance log books, is currently pursing his CSP certifica- Tony Claassen terpark, George Millay, is and supervising the OSHA compliance tion. awarded to an individual requirements for the department. His AIMS welcomes Classen to his new who has given “Significant role as a warehouse and dispatch su- the tracking of ride downtime, and en- position within the association and Contributions to Water Ride pervisor includes managing the pur- suring proper communications for the looks forward to his input into company and Waterpark Safety”. chasing, receiving, and inventory of the park. training and how AIMS can have a posi- This year “The George Mil- maintenance department, overseeing He has always had a passion for tive impact on that training. lay Waterpark Award” is presented to Wally James in recognition of his years AIMS member spotlight: George Childs of exemplary service in the field of waterpark safety. Editors note: This is a se- sonal employee working at Six well balanced and geared for Why should someone at- Wally James by anyone’s ries of articles to run in AIMS Flags Over Georgia. I worked an entire family’s enjoyment. tend a training seminar and definition is the perfect ex- News & Notes that spotlights on the Raging Rivers which was In addition, Six Flags America particularly the AIMS Safety ample of a “waterpark safe- an AIMS member who has been a [wet/dry] tube slide ride that is centrally located in the Mid- Seminar? ty professional.” active in the annual AIMS Safe- was located at the park’s front Atlantic region giving it easy “Everyone should attend He has been a stew- ty Seminar. To suggest a future gate entrance.” access to a large number of an AIMS seminar, mainly be- art in waterpark safety for spotlight on an AIMS member What did you do before people, It’s right in their back- cause it increases your overall 30 years. He wrote a book contact Steve Laycock at: you were in the amusement yard!” knowledge base and allows about the development of [email protected] business? How long have you you the opportunity to share safety standards for the wa- “Working at Six Flags Over worked at your present facil- your ideas and gain from the terpark industry as well as Georgia was my introduction ity? perspective of others.” numerous papers and ar- George Childs into the amusement park in- “I have worked at Six Flags In general, how was your ticles regarding waterpark Six Flags America dustry and was my first real job. America for three years.” overall experience at the safety and operations. Operations Manager It turned out to be a great op- Tell us one thing you have AIMS Safety Seminar and James has presented portunity and so I never left the learned from the AIMS Safe- how prepared were your in- numerous seminars for George industry.” ty Seminar. structors? AIMS, WWA and IAAPA to Childs has What do you do in your “Attending AIMS is the “My overall experience name a few and has spent been work- free time? best way to stay current on has been really great and countless hours on ASTM, ing in the en- “I enjoy spending all my industry standards. I learned the instructors are sincerely tertainment spare time with my family. that an operation must con- dedicated to the classes they the Association of Pool and industry for We love visiting historic sites tinuously challenge its self as it teach.” Spa Professionals (APSP), just under around the Mid-Atlantic re- strives to improve. AIMS pro- Tell us one person you chairing the APSP-9 stan- 20 years and gion.” vides a platform that enables have met here during a net- dard, and now serves on a Childs can’t imag- Tell us something about you to look at your park’s prac- working opportunity time technical committee for the ine being anywhere else. He yourself that is not common- tices objectively.” that has made an impact on International Code Council is an amateur historian and at- ly known by your amusement What was your favorite you and why. (ICC). He is known as a no- tended the 2011 AIMS Safety industry peers. class at the AIMS Safety Sem- “That would be Craig Koe- nonsense expert and oper- Seminar in Orlando this past “I’m a major Sci-Fi fan. I inar and why? ning, Safety Director at Holiday ates his own safety consult- November. Between seminar love the original Star Trek se- “Practical Teaching was my World. Others would agree ing business. His influence classes George took time out ries and consider myself a die- favorite class mainly because that Craig’s energy for his field, toward safety within the wa- to answer a few questions for hard Trekkie!” it takes you out of your ‘com- knowledge base, and his pas- terpark industry has helped AIMS News & Notes. What is so special about fort zone’ and provides a ‘set sion really could be seen in his to create a safer environ- the facility for which you of tools’ that help with public enthusiasm in every class that ment for all those involved How did you get started work? speaking and training. It’s a he attended.” or who participate in a wa- in the amusement business? “The rides, attractions and great class for those at all lev- —Complied by terpark. “I started in 1993 as a sea- entertainment packages are els of public speaking.” Steve Laycock Space for this AIMS page is provided courtesy of Amusement Today as a corporate partner of AIMS Intl. Content is provided by AT & AIMS. Please direct comments to [email protected] 8 AMUSEMENT TODAY January 2012 Left to right: The 2011 AIMS Safety Seminar was held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld. Once again the AIMS Silent Auction had many items for attendees to choose from and make a winning bid. The silent auction raised money to support the purchase of new A/V seminar equipment. At- tendees had 150 different class titles to choose from. At right, AIMS board member Timo Klaus with KumbaK Coaster Services B.V. in the Netherlands was just one of the more than 90 instructors who took time to teach a class on safety. COURTESY JOHN P. HINDE AIMS “But, this is great,” he said. within the amusement indus- Inspector (CRI) and rience. This valued participa- “We can come in and help de- try. Certification is an outward •Level III, Professional tion is a requisite for all pro- Continued from page 1 velop their programs. We demonstration of one’s knowl- Ride Inspector (PRI). fessionals in the amusement would like to put programs edge of general activities and Attendees at the AIMS industry. al presence was exciting, but, together that would benefit technologies that are an inte- Safety Seminar build tailored Gutknecht began serving obviously, “we would like to them. They are attending our gral part of a daily amusement course curricula that best suit as president of AIMS April bump up our U.S. participa- classes and taking our certifi- ride program and his or her their needs and the needs of 1, 2011. AIMS’ presidents are tion,” Gutknecht said. The cation tests and getting certi- participation in such activities their employers. Safety infor- elected to a one-year term organization’s push, however, fied, although I don’t know and programs. Certification is mation is carried home and with an additional one-year into the international markets what that actually means in useful for securing additional shared with colleagues and co- option. During AIMS’ annual has paid off. some of these countries. But, business opportunities and workers back on the job. At- board of directors meeting in The international attend- it just shows that these people jurisdictional accreditation as tendees also build long-lasting September, they voted to ex- ees were largely from China, are really trying to do the right well as for personal develop- relationships with instructors tend his term to a second year. Indonesia, Sweden and the thing and get ahead of the ment. and their counterparts across “They asked me if I would UAE. AIMS is getting a lot of curve.” There are three levels of the globe. serve another year and I said requests from South America The Inspector Certification inspector certification: The AIMS Safety Seminar yes,” he said. as well. Gutkneckt said pro- Program is designed to test •Level I, Associate Ride has both sit-down and hands- Gutknecht is the manag- grams in these international the knowledge of individuals Inspector (ARI), on classes that will surely ing director of Ride Entertain- countries are still in its infancy. working in the inspection field •Level II, Certified Ride round any individual’s expe- ment Group. January 2012 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9 INTERNATIONAL PARKS ATTRACTIONS RESORTS SUPPLIERS Ice Age, two themed hotels coming to Alton Towers STORY: Andrew Mellor of the film franchise, Ice Age Ian Crabbe, divisional direc- [email protected] 4: Continental Drift, arrives in tor at the Alton Towers Resort. cinemas, in July. “We are continually develop- UNITED KINGDOM — A To be located in the Cloud ing our products to ensure the new partnership announced Cuckoo Land Theatre of the best possible experience for between Alton Towers Resort park, the Ice Age Dawn of the our guests and bringing Ice in the U.K. and Twentieth Dinosaurs – the 4D Experience Age Dawn of the Dinosaurs – the Century Fox Consumer Prod- cinema will combine 3D foot- 4-D Experience to the resort in ucts is set to bring an Ice Age age, based on the third movie 2012 allows us to add another 4D cinema and two themed in the series, with an array of first to our existing portfolio hotel rooms to the Stafford- special effects. The attraction of fantastic rides and attrac- shire based venue for 2012. is part of a larger partnership tions.” The news marks a collab- with Merlin Entertainments “Alton Towers Resort is a orative effort for Alton Towers and SimEx! Iwerks. Fans will fantastic destination for the Ice and Fox Consumer Products also have the opportunity to Age fan,” said Robert Marick, to provide Ice Age fans with an meet Ice Age characters Sid Visitors to Alton Towers Resort in 2012 will be able to en- executive vice president of up-close and engaging expe- and Scrat around the Alton joy an up close and immersive 4D experience based on the Fox Consumer Products. “Ice rience in what will be a fully Towers Resort site during popular Ice Age films. Age is a phenomenal property immersive Ice Age offering. their visit. COURTESY ALTON TOWERS with global appeal and the Al- The new theme park and ho- Along with the new at- and featuring popular charac- “Ice Age is a global phe- ton Towers venue will be the tel attractions will open on the traction, two new Ice Age ters Scrat, Manny and Sid, the nomenon and we are delight- first immersive Ice Age attrac- first day of the park’s 2012 sea- themed bedrooms will debut rooms will provide the ulti- ed to bring the 4D attraction tion that can be experienced son, March 24, several months at the resort’s Splash Landings mate sleepover experience for and themed hotel offering to across multiple platforms before the fourth installment Hotel. Inspired by the films Ice Age fans. the Alton Towers Resort,” said throughout the park.” Family Adventure Park concept debuts from Prime Play RICHMOND, B.C. — Prime the park high above the ground Play gives ‘Creating Active with Sky Fortress. Family Attractions’ a whole Guests may decide to take new meaning with its Family the adventure to the next level Adventure Park (FAP) concept. with Sky Climb, Prime Play’s Sky By combining Prime Play’s new- Trail Ropes Course. Sky Climb est line of products including allows guests to challenge them- Adventure Trail, Sky Trail Ropes selves by traversing through a Course, Grind Climbing Walls, gripping ropes course 39 feet CTS Zip Lines and The Dig, a above the ground. Prime Play’s one-of-a-kind Family Adventure in-house team of experts took Park is created where kids of all great attention to detail, integrat- ages and skill levels can choose ing this new elevated attraction their own adventure. into a pre-existing rest area with Recently awarded the Best trees and picnic tables as well Family Resort this past July, as custom theming the various Sea World Gold Coast debuted components to intricately mimic Prime Play’s premier Family a 1940s schooner shipwreck. Adventure Park in Castaway Featuring large capac- Bay, in late 2010. Castaway Bay’s ity and throughput, the Family FAP integrates various play sys- Adventure Park concept engag- tems together creating a unique es a wide demographic and and memorable family adven- encourages safe, active family Prime Play’s new Family Adventure Park concept has become a reality this past July ture. The fun escalates with the attractions that bring out the kid with the opening of six interactive attractions at Sea World Gold Coast in Australia. Adventure Trail, where guests in everyone. COURTESY PRIME PLAY can climb and explore the rest of 10 AMUSEMENT TODAY January 2012 Merlin reveals strong progress in first half of 2011 STORY: Andrew Mellor in the group’s Midway roll- to fruition, with the opening [email protected] out strategy, with four new of Legoland Florida in Octo- Midway attractions, twice as ber and the planned opening UNITED KINGDOM — In many as were opened in the of Legoland Malaysia later a recently published half-year- same period of the previous this year, with more to follow ly update on the performance year, featuring three different elsewhere. of Merlin Entertainments for brands, in four different coun- The group’s acquisition the six months to June 2011, tries, paving the way for two activity has also brought fur- Chief Executive Nick Varney new ‘cluster’ locations. ther growth, with the pur- has revealed strong progress In March, Sea Life Jesolo chase early in the period of the and continued growth for the opened, the second Sea Life Sydney Attractions Group in world’s second largest visitor in Italy and the first in the Australia and New Zealand. attraction operator. country outside the group’s “I am delighted with the In relation to organic Gardaland Resort. In the same pace and progress that Mer- growth, Varney stated that month, the fifth Legoland Dis- lin has made in the first half like for like performance of the covery Centre was opened, in of 2011,” said Varney, “in de- group’s established business- Grapevine, Texas, which the livering against all six growth es in the first half of the year group has identified as one of drivers that we outlined in our were ‘pleasing,’ with growth its cluster locations. Launches recent annual review. As the in visitor volumes, revenue of two Madame Tussauds lo- Merlin Entertainments’ Chief Executive Nick Varney is seen world’s second largest visitor and profit. Planned capital ex- cations took place in April, here beside the Coastersaurus, Legoland Florida’s wooden attraction operator, we have penditure cycles have enabled while the Midway roll-out coaster. focused relentlessly on our Merlin to launch a range of in- plans have continued in the strategy over this period and COURTESY MERLIN ENTERTAINMENTS GROUP novative new rides and attrac- second half of 2011 too. have enjoyed much success tions across the estate, while Hotel and holiday vil- }PAGE 11: Merlin opens second U.S. theme park as a result, in spite of the con- at the same time maintaining lage delivery was the focus of tinuing economic uncertainly capital efficiency. the group’s resort positioning where a new hotel will open of the holiday village at that affecting consumer confidence The period under review during the period, notably at this year, and at Legoland venue. The plan to open more in many of our markets.” has also seen much activity Legoland Windsor in the U.K., Germany with the expansion Legoland parks is also coming Legoland Billund to introduce Polar Land for 2012 Germany’s Zierer to provide coaster with 16-foot drop into penguin habitat STORY: Andrew Mellor top speed of 65 kph (40 mph) [email protected] as they travel through an ice waterfall, past polar animals DENMARK — Legoland built from Lego bricks, into a Billund in Denmark, the origi- giant mountain before “crash- nal Legoland park, is to add ing through the ice” in a five a completely new area for the meter (16.4 foot) vertical drop. 2012 season representing the The speed then decreases, al- park’s largest ever single in- lowing guests to enjoy views of vestment at DKK75 million the live penguins. (U.S. $14 million). The penguin display will Polar Land will be a new, be a key part of the area and 12,500 square meters (134,500 will feature 15 Gentoo pen- square feet) area featuring guins. A new polar themed several brand new attractions restaurant next to the penguin and facilities, the centerpiece area will seat up to 350 dining of which will be the Polar X- guests who will be able to view plorer roller coaster, supplied the penguin display as they eat. by the German manufacturer The new area will be situated Zierer. This will be the first in the far corner of the park, re- coaster in the world to combine placing the existing event area. a five meter (16.4 foot) drop The opening is scheduled with a live penguin experience. to be in May, a month after the The area has been created park officially opens for the by the park’s own designer, 2012 season. Tom Christiansen, and will also incorporate a restaurant Legoland Billund’s new Polar and the existing Power Builder Land area will feature a (Robocoaster) attraction, which unique coaster experience will be transformed into a from Germany’s Zierer. The flight simulator named the Po- Polar X-plorer coaster will lar Pilot School. feature a 16-foot drop into The Zierer coaster will take a penguin experience. riders up to a maximum height COURTESY of 20 meters (65.6 feet) and to a LEGOLAND BILLUND