INSIDE: Records fall at Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo See pages 25, 26 TM & ©2016 Amusement Today, Inc. March 2016 | Vol. 19 • Issue 12 www.amusementtoday.com Vegas presses ‘play’ for Amusement Expo 2016 Education program to precede show host hotel. These informa- and others involved in the tive, interactive sessions will amusement and entertain- AT: Dean Lamanna chine Association (AAMA) cover topics ranging from ment industry — as well as [email protected] and the Amusement & Mu- improving sales and maxi- two full days of a fun, excit- sic Operators Association mizing employee effective- ing trade show floor show- LAS VEGAS, Nev. — (AMOA), this year’s expo ness to expanding customer casing the latest products The 2016 edition of Amuse- will offer comprehensive reach through social media. for the industry.” ment Expo International, the industry education and a “Amusement Expo According to Glasgow, annual conference and trade convention floor packed International is the com- some 3,000 exhibitors and show of the coin-op and with well over 100 exhibi- plete package,” said Brian attendees participated in revenue-generating amuse- tors. Vendors specializing Glasgow, senior vice presi- last year’s Expo. ment, music and family en- in coin-op machines, elec- games and more are partici- dent of Mokena, Ill.-based “For 2016, we’re neck tertainment center (FEC) in- tronics, go-kart equipment, pating. WT Glasgow, Inc., which and neck with our exhibi- dustry, is rolling out March laser games, photo booths, The event kicks off with manages the event. “It offers tor and attendee numbers 15-17 at the Las Vegas Con- plush/novelties, redemp- a full day of educational ses- one day of compelling edu- from last year,” he said. “We vention Center. tion equipment/merchan- sions on Tuesday, March 15, cational programs designed expect to meet and exceed Co-sponsored by the dise, sports games, tattoos, at the Westgate Las Vegas for street operators, fam- them this year.” American Amusement Ma- token dispensers, video Resort & Casino, the expo’s ily entertainment centers 4See EXPO, page 4 Adventureland area puts new spin on Wildlife World Rides, animals, fitted with boulders, climb- ing logs and hiding places. eatery highlight “He was raised from a kitten in our own nursery building, 15-acre expansion so this is a whole new envi- ronment for him. He loves AT: Dean Lamanna The new section, which en- people and is very friendly.” [email protected] joys a high profile along the Rounding a corner on LITCHFIELD PARK, recently completed Loop 303 Adventureland’s natural Ariz. — More than ever be- freeway, officially opened dirt path (Wildlife World, fore in its nearly 32-year- Feb. 1 following a weekend in keeping with its overall year history, the call of the preview. theme, is refreshingly free wild is being punctuated On that windy and un- of asphalt paving), Ollson by giddy shrieks at Wildlife usually chilly desert day, waved toward the Soaring World Zoo, Aquarium & Sa- Amusement Today tooled Eagle — a scenic zipline from fari Park. around Adventureland on a the Stan Checketts-founded The 100-plus-acre zoo on golf cart with the zoo’s inde- company of the same name the northwestern outskirts fatigable proprietor and di- that rapidly transports pas- of Phoenix has upped its rector, Mickey Ollson, who sengers backward and for- family entertainment center beamed like a proud parent ward on an inclined cable in quotient in a major way with as he pointed out the added a two-seat cart. the debut of Adventureland, animal species and rides. The ride proved a hit The Soaring Eagle zipline, one of four new rides at Adven- a 15-acre expansion featur- “There’s our bobcat!” during the section’s soft tureland, the new 15-acre amusement and animal exhibit ing four rides and several he said, gesturing to a wild opening the previous day. area at Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park, provides dozen additional outdoor feline ambling about in a “It’s really fun and really a thrilling raptor's-eye view of the park. and indoor animal exhibits. roomy outdoor habitat out- 4See WILDLIFE, page 6 COURTESY WILDLIFE WORLD ZOO/BRITTNEY POWERS R NEWSPAPE POSTMASTER:Dated material. PLEASE RUSH!Mailed Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2016 9602 # TIMREP XT HTROW .TF DIAP EGATSOP SU DTS TRSRP 2 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2016 NEWSTALK EDITORIAL: Gary Slade, [email protected] FLINT’S VIEW: Bubba Flint Tree swings to ziplines: We've come a long way It may be only March, but our industry is already getting into the “swing.” Amusement Expo International 2016, running March 15-17 at the Las Vegas Con- vention Center, is an annual early momen- tum-builder. The event features a day of education sessions followed by two days of Slade trade show activity for owners and opera- tors of family entertainment centers (FECs), arcades and other amusement facilities, as well as the vendors that serve them. Produced by WT Glasgow Event Management and co-sponsored by the American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA) and the Amusement & Music Op- erators Association (AMOA), the event gives exhibitors and attendees the opportunity to learn about the lat- est industry practices and innovations while finalizing equipment and service transactions ahead of the peak INDUSTRY OPINION: Andrew Mellor, [email protected] The press release debate amusement season. Among the most popular recent trends identified in I was intrigued recently by an email ple, on the kitchen table and my 24-year- this segment of our industry by the Amusement Today from my friend Ron Gustafson, director of old son is sitting there chatting or hav- marketing and public relations at Quassy ing a coffee, he’ll for sure flick through it editorial staff are aerial adventures. Evolving technology, Amusement and Waterpark in Connecticut, and read various items, including press coupled with imagination, has led to new zipline attrac- in which he told me that he had read a com- releases! tions appealing to a broader range of customers ment from a national public relations firm There is little doubt that the role of It’s a fresh take on a recreational tradition. that “the press release is dead.” Ron, for the press release is different from what Baby Boomers will remember the simple pleasures one, felt nothing could be further from the it used to be, but it still serves an impor- Mellor of a backyard swing set or, if a sturdy tree branch and truth, and I wonder what other attractions tant function. They are a necessary part industry PR and marketing people think about of content creation, still announcing news but also a strong piece of rope were available, the old-fashioned this? helping organizations to be located on search en- tire swing. These youthful activities allowed us to reach I too have heard similar comments on occa- gines and to build a following. Written correctly and for the sky — or at least grasp for a few tree leaves. sion, in particular from younger PR and marketing with genuine news content that appeals to an edi- Kids today can find mild-to-wild variations on this type representatives, and it is an interesting subject to tor or journalist, a release will inspire the reader to of fun — incorporating the very latest safety systems — at debate. For those readers of a similar generation investigate further, and, in the case of an attraction, many FEC’s, location-based entertainment (LBE) facilities to me (and older), press releases have always been for example, go to a website to find out more. And, and amusement parks. Even zoos and roadside attrac- an “ever present” in a public relations and market- of course, they also help build brand awareness. ing campaign, being just one element of any or- Today, printed publications will also have a tions have welcomed the high-flying act. ganization’s promotional activities. They offer valu- website, and the content they use in print will also Ziplines and rope courses have become dynamic able opportunities for publicity in local and even appear on the web. It’s what they do, so it is an- “hands-on” amusement offerings that provide uniquely national newspapers, and elsewhere depending other rock solid reason to keep sending out press thrilling, individualized experiences for their participants. on which publications and websites pick them up. releases. It’s no wonder fun spot owners and operators are adding Granted, the younger generations today tend I could go on, but space here doesn’t allow them to keep their guests on-site just a little longer. to read everything on their mobile devices or PC, much more comment. Suffice to say I agree with but I have to say if I leave a newspaper, for exam- Ron — the press release is far from dead! (817) 460-7220 Call for advertising, circulation or editorial inquiries Amusement Today is an independent, privately- Founder, Publisher and Editor Editorial Print Issue & Extra Extra owned trade newspaper published 14 times Gary Slade • (817) 460-7220 x3 Tim Baldwin Desktop Edition Production per year by Amusement Today Inc., P.O. Box [email protected] [email protected] John Robinson • (513) 256-1441 5427, Arlington, Texas 76005. Print issues are [email protected] $50 per year and are mailed Presort Standard Accounting & Classified Dean Lamanna Postage (permit No. 2069) Pre-Paid Fort Worth, Sammy Piccola • (817) 460-7220 x1 [email protected] Website Maintenance Texas. The entire contents of this newspaper, and its related web sites, are Copyrighted and [email protected] B. Derek Shaw • (717) 650-8330 Stacey Childress Trademarked 2016 by Amusement Today Inc., [email protected] [email protected] all rights reserved. Advertising Sue Nichols • (615) 477-5432 Pam Sherborne • (615) 308-3310 Association Memberships Address: P.O. Box 5427, Arlington, Texas [email protected] [email protected] AIMS International, IAAPA, IISF, IRT/iROC, 76005-5427, USA NAARSO, NEAAPA, NJAA, OABA, PAPA, Deliveries: 2012 E. Randol Mill Road #203, PACE, TTIA, WWA Special Projects & Editorial Monthly Contributors Arlington, Texas 76011, USA Jeffrey Seifert • (817) 460-7220 x2 Dan Feicht, Bubba Flint, Andrew Mellor, Phone: (817) 460-7220 Industry Affiliated Charities Fax: (817) 265-NEWS (6397) [email protected] Richard Munch, Janice Witherow Give Kids the World Village, Web Sites: www.AmusementToday.com, Morgan's Wonderland, www.GoldenTicketAwards.com National Roller Coaster Museum & Archives March 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3 THIS MONTH 2 MINUTE IN HISTORY DRILL Presented by the National Roller Coaster Museum COMPILED: Richard Munch COMPILED: Janice Witherow Michael Mack, Europa-Park MARCH Michael Mack grew up in •1898: On March 13, the machinery, rolling stock and hard- Europa-Park… literally. As a kid ware to build a Scenic Railway arrived on site at Idlewilde in the family business, Michael Park, in Newark, Ohio, to replace an early Thompson Switch- worked many different jobs at back Railway. Because of its historic nature, the conversion the park and then eventually of a portion of the Newark Earthworks, an Indian structure gained work experience in the dating back to 300 B.C., to an amusement park in 1895, was amusement industry by do- considered unwarranted. The park would operate on the ing internships at various parks property until 1924, when its popularity faded with compe- around the world. Today he and his brother, Thomas, are the tition from Buckeye Lake Park. In operation was a Ferris next generation of Europa-Park Wheel, Shoot-the-Shoot, dancing pavilion, bowling alley and and are continuing its legacy of bathing beach adjacent to the earthworks, a 10 foot high daring to provide cutting-edge 1,200 foot diameter circle. Fortunately the large mounds attractions while focusing on a were mostly protected even when the site was used as an The Mack team at Germany's Europa-Park, l to r: Juer- fantasy-like resort atmosphere army training camp and later, a golf course. Today it is a land- gen Mack, Thomas Mack, Roland Mack and Michael for its guests. Michael is an ac- mark and recognized as the oldest man made structure in tive member of many industry Mack. COURTESY EUROPA-PARK Ohio. and community boards and com- When I look out my front door at home, I see… mittees. He loves spending time with his family, is Europa-Park! •1906: An article in the March 17 edition of Billboard high- fiercely loyal and has a great passion for his job. lighted Cleveland’s White City, located about one mile west If you were climbing a mountain, what three Number of years in the industry: things would you bring with you? of its main competition, Euclid Beach Park. The park opened As I was kind of born in the park, Proper hiking shoes, a backpack and a paraglider in 1900 as Manhattan Beach, on Lake Erie. Edward C. Boyce I’d say that number corresponds to soar down! converted the 14-acre park into a White City with a $200,000 to my actual age, 37 years. investment in 1905, including a new Scenic Railway. Modeled The one thing I always seem to buy but never after Dreamland in Coney Island, the park never grabbed Best thing about the industry... really use is… We make people smile. What Games for my portable Playstation. I just don’t the public’s attention, while fire destroyed most of the park else can you ask for? have the time. in May 1906. Although it was rebuilt, a storm damaged the Mack park in July 1907, after which it was permanently closed. It Favorite amusement ride... It is 3 p.m. on a workday. Where would we typi- may have operated with a limited ride lineup in 1908 and is I love many rides, but my favorite cally find you? today part of Cleveland’s sewage treatment plant. is probably our Arthur ride, a powered inverted Walking the park. spinning coaster, which we opened in 2014. It’s a •1922: Philadelphia Toboggan Company provided a March 7 prototype ride combined with use of media from My favorite family activity is… press release to the local newspapers highlighting its 2nd an external IP in a complete new building. Doing the closing round of the park with my two sons, Paul and Jacob Arthur. annual dinner for the employees of the company. The direc- If I wasn’t working in the amusement industry, I tors turned the facility’s art shop into a fully decorated dining would be… If you could ask the world to think about one room at its Germantown location with flowers, scenery and A movie director. I always loved composing stories thing for one hour what would it be? twinkling lights. The fairyland experience was completed and images and I’m actually very happy that I was I would actually ask them to NOT think about their with entertainment and a fine catered meal for the nearly 50 able to bring this passion into the production of phones and emails for one hour and simply talk to employees. President Henry B. Auchy was Master of Cer- our 4D movie Time Carousel which we premiered each other. emonies, with help from Samuel High and George Smith. in 2015. When I need some peace and quiet, I go to… At the dinner was a long list of employees and draftsmen, in- Biggest challenge facing our industry... Play golf! The Europa-Park Golf Club is not far away cluding Charles Mach and Herbert Schmeck. Invited guests Tougher competition by attractive short trips, city but gives me the right distance to relax a little. included representatives of Billboard and in particular, both trips, public events, festivals, etc. Each Euro and You are at the grocery store. What aisle do you John Miller and Harry C. Baker of Miller and Baker. every hour can only be spent once. spend the most time in? The thing I like most about amusement/water It might sound boring but I really enjoy all kinds of •1932: Mary Wink of Mount Vernon, New York asserted be- park season is… different bread. fore her trial date of March 21 that she received injuries from To see the excited faces of our guests on our at- a revolving barrel in the Bughouse at Steeplechase Park, Favorite weekend getaway? tractions and rides which were planned and built Rockaway Beach, New York in 1927. Her $10,000 suit against I really like the northern Italian lakes. Especially in by three generations of the Mack family. the L.A. Thompson Scenic Railway Company, which owned the summertime; it’s simply beautiful there. the park, stated that she was accompanied by her husband Favorite appetizer... My breakfast usually consists of… and was hurt while walking through the barrel. She stated Tomato-mozzarella salad. I always try to get my cereals in the morning, but she went into the amusement building seeking fun but came The last thing I do before leaving work is… sometimes I have a quick snack on the go if it’s a out with injuries that required medical treatment. There was Take a walk from my office through the empty park to very busy morning (which unfortunately happens no newspaper follow-up as the case was likely settled out of my home, which is directly connected to Europa-Park. way too often). court. If I could guest star on any television show, it If I could get rid of one electronic device, it would be… would be… •1998: The first dive coaster, Oblivion, opened on March 14 “House of Cards” or “Lilyhammer.” Even if it’s not a device on its own, I get highly in the United Kingdom, at Alton Towers. At only 65 feet frustrated by the email culture of today. I most above the midway, most of the 180 foot initial drop was en- The last thing I Googled was… certainly would like to get rid of this! closed in a underground tunnel. With the first drop at about The on-ride video of the new Mack Rides coaster 87 degrees, later dive coasters would be adjusted to 90 de- Flash at the Chinese Lewa World, which has the The song I find myself listening to most often grees. Designed by Bolliger and Mabillard, with Wardley biggest loop ever built! lately is… and Stengel Consulting, the 1,232 foot long coaster still The Rustis – celebration. My son Paul loves this The scariest thing I have ever done is… song by our own band. packs a punch among its fans. In the United States, Cedar Oh there are many things my brother, Thomas, and Point in Sandusky, Ohio will open their new dive coaster Val- I did when we were kids in the empty park. But as When it comes to wine, do you prefer red or ravn, in spring, 2016. It will be almost three times the length our father is reading this as well, we have to keep white? of Oblivion, with a first drop of 218 feet. It will be the fourth quiet about it. I love the classic white wine spritzer. With sparkling Bolliger and Mabillard ride at the park. water and ice cubes…very refreshing! 4 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2016 EXPO day, March 16; and 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Continued from page 1 March 17. Opening the Expo’s ed- The Exhibit Hall is open ucation program will be a from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on keynote presentation by O. Wednesday, March 16, and Lee Mincey, president of Ol- Thursday, March 17. iver Mincey Co., which pro- Along with the Westgate vides human resources and Las Vegas Resort & Casino, employee training services official accommodations are to the entertainment indus- being provided by Hilton try. Mincey has worked with Grand Vacations and Spring iconic brands including Hill Suites Marriott — both Coca-Cola, Disney and Six within walking distance of Flags in a career spanning the convention center. more than two decades. Between the conve- Two full days of exhibit nience of the event’s loca- floor time follow on Wednes- tion and all the amenities day and Thursday, March and attractions Las Vegas 16-17. Registration includes offers, the city “remains the admission to two co-located destination that has every- events that will increase the thing attendees are looking number of attending buyers: Amusement Expo International 2016, co-sponsored by the American Amusement Machine for,” noted the Expo’s Brian the National Bulk Vendors Association and the Amusement & Music Operators Association, will include a day of com- Glasgow. Association Conference and prehensive industry education sessions in addition to two full days of exhibits presented by “Walking the show floor, the 2016 Laser Tag Conven- vendors and support businesses. COURTESY WT GLASGOW, INC. checking out all the new tion (lasertagconvention. products — it’s just a fun com). tainment provided. tion of service and industry fle tickets and qualify for a show,” he said. Other Expo highlights: •AMOA Breakfast awards. chance to win great prizes The full schedule of •All Industry Gala & Membership Meeting •Wayne E. Hesch Me- while supporting the indus- events, a complete list of (Tuesday, March 15): This (Thursday, March 17): The morial Scholarship Raffle try’s longest-running chari- exhibitors and additional evening gathering will pro- 2016 Annual Meeting of (Thursday, March 17): This table program. information regarding reg- vide guests with an oppor- AMOA will be conducted fundraiser is the primary Registration is available istration and accommoda- tunity to mix and network at this event. Attendees will source of scholarship mon- in the convention center’s tions are available at the with exhibitors and fellow receive an update on cur- ies raised. All attendees are Hall N1 from 8 a.m. to 5 Amusement Expo website. operators. Cocktails, hors rent association business encouraged to stop by the p.m. on Tuesday, March 15; •amusementexpo.org d’oeuvres and live enter- affairs and enjoy a presenta- Hesch booth, purchase raf- 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednes- March 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5 Zamperla Power Surge, dubbed IAAPA's FEC 2016 - Florida Gunslinger, heading to Frontier City attracts international audience OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — Frontier City has a new Gun- slinger in town. Gunslinger, Frontier City's new-for-2016 ride, is a Zam- ALEXANDRIA, Va. — company owners and employ- share with one another ideas perla Power Surge. The signature thrill ride debuted in 1999 More than 140 family enter- ees. and real-world takeaways to and remains popular today. tainment center (FEC) indus- The second day's keynote apply to their businesses. The Gunslinger flips, twists, and spins 24 riders in a dizzying try leaders representing 52 speaker Brandon Gray, client event was open exclusively to up and down adventure. Riders spin in multiple axes, with companies from 23 states and service manager at Crabtree, IAAPA members. two motor-controlled rotators and a third pivot point driven 11 countries participated in Rowe & Berger, used real- Gregg Borman, senior only by gravity. The randomness of the gravity-driven rota- FEC 2016 - Florida, an inter- world examples and data to vice president of Operations tion assures a unique ride each and every time. At its peak national conference for FEC discuss methods for increas- at Apex Parks Group said: height, riders will reach 60 feet above the ground. owners and operators. The ing revenue and growth. Gray "It's developing into a must- Gunslinger is the third new ride to debut at Frontier two-day event, which is or- urged attendees to examine attend program. Every year City in three years. In 2015, the seven-story steel-looping, ganized and produced by the their cash flow, get a true pic- has had different content, so if Brain Drain (Larson Giant Loop), was introduced and in 2014, International Association of ture of their current business you miss one of these events, Winged Warrior (Larson Flying Scooters) flew in — bringing Amusement Parks and Attrac- situation, and simplify to bet- you're really missing out. thrills for the whole family. tions (IAAPA), took place at ter direct their organizations Overall, I think the event has “We are extremely excited to bring this new type of ride the Renaissance World Golf toward success. Additional been going great." to our guests,” says Stephen Ball, Frontier City’s general Village Resort, Jan. 31 – Feb. 2, breakout sessions covered a "I'll be attending every manager. “The Gunslinger is one of our wildest additions that in St. Augustine, Florida. variety of topics, including year going forward," said is sure to please thrillseekers of all ages!” Opening day keynote risk management, food and Mike Abecassis, CEO, Game speaker and entrepreneur beverage services, sales, and Time. Chris White talked about a marketing. Parker Coddington, Part- proven management philoso- Attendees also took part ner, Shenanigans Entertain- phy to help companies gain in a networking event at Dave ment Centers echoed the traction and a clear focus to and Busters, and a post-tour same, commenting "Lots of increase profitability and reve- to area FECs, including Re- great information and lots of nue. White used FEC business bounderz, Adventure Land- good networking, which is examples to demonstrate how ing, and Autobahn Indoor most important for us at She- the Entrepreneurial Operat- Speedway. nanigans." ing System helps companies FEC 2016 provided an The dates and locations of grow revenues and profits interactive and engaging en- the FEC 2017 meeting have not and achieve a balance of life to vironment for operators to been announced by IAAPA. 513.737.9012 • www.TheBigIdeaPeople.com CCrreeaattiivvee ...... MMaarrkkeettiinngg bbrriinnggiinngg ssMMiilliinngg ffaaMMiilliieess !! ttoo yyoouurr ddoooorrss 50 6 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2016 WILDLIFE ing budget of about $6 million, was mapped starting seven Continued from page 1 years ago, when Ollson bought popular,” Ollson said. “It was 25 acres used for growing orna- busy all day long.” mental olive trees at the south- Nearby, a painter was still western end of his property. applying accent details to the ex- “We had a couple other terior signage at Zooberto’s, Ad- projects ahead of it — a fourth ventureland’s large, colorfully aquarium building, our Drag- appointed café serving Mexican onWorld reptile exhibit, the sea fare. Across the way, at the cen- lions and the sea lion show — as ter of a manmade pond framed well as some smaller projects. by mature, transplanted palm We were kind of waiting to see trees, some capuchin monkeys what the schedule was to finish were peeking out of their heated the freeway [Loop 303], because enclosure. Adventureland was going to Zipping around and paus- have a quarter mile of frontage ing at the section’s three new on it.” exhibit buildings and remaining Ollson saw opportunity in attractions, Ollson talked excit- a number of mature palm trees edly about his other new “toys”: that were to be cleared from the Adventureland's amusement the 35-foot-high, 800-foot-long freeway route. “We made ar- whirlwind includes (clockwise Family Coaster with strikingly rangements with the demolition from above) an A.R.M. Ver- steel-blue track from Chance company to move them,” he tigo, a Chance Family Coaster Rides; the 100-foot-tall Vertigo said. “In 2011, after we complet- and Larson International's swing ride from A.R.M.; and the ed our master planning for the Flying Scooters. vividly macaw-themed Flying new section in-house, we knew WILDLIFE WORLD ZOO/GEORGE Scooters from Larson Interna- where we wanted these 50-foot- VALVERDE (ABOVE AND RIGHT), tional. tall palm trees for landscaping.” BRITTNEY POWERS The quick tour ended at Ad- Wildlife World ramped up ventureland’s front-and-center preliminary work on Adven- school children on field trips. response.” who creates the clear and very black bear exhibit, which is sur- tureland after it opened its 15- Ollson’s operational ap- Ollson has 17 undeveloped concise signage that accompa- rounded by a dry moat 10 feet acre Safari Park and wrapped proach is partly organic. acres left at Wildlife World, with nies each exhibit. wide and 10 feet deep. The furry the other projects, and by mid- “When you open a new ex- plans for making improvements Making the creatures feel residents were just beginning 2014 began hiring contractors. hibit, in first few days, the pub- throughout the property over at home is largely the task of to stir, poking their heads from “We didn’t have a general con- lic will show you what you need the next two years. These in- John Wallick, Wildlife World’s their hut under the partial sun. tractor,” Ollson said. “That was to change, what you need to do clude expanding the Safari Park exhibitry supervisor for the past all done by me and my mainte- differently,” he said. “You can sit with a new rhino exhibit. three decades. Wallick’s detailed Land of adventure nance supervisor.” down and do all the research or “That’s what keeps a great rockwork, which he builds from Over lunch at Dillon’s KC The passion and level of all the thinking you’d like about zoo great — when you keep up- concrete, rebar and metal lath BBQ, a popular full-service, personal investment in his busi- traffic patterns through the zoo dating it, bringing in new exhib- (and, for the zoo's aquariums, public-access restaurant that oc- ness helps Ollson maintain a 50 and those kinds of things. But its. Making it more interesting from fiberglass), are stained with cupies a large building he owns percent customer return visit once you open it, the visitors re- and more educational for your a variety of non-toxin-releasing adjacent to World Wildlife’s en- rate. Attendance runs about ally teach you. visitors. And when you’re fine- hues to create authentic-looking trance, Ollson talked about Ad- 400,000 annually; roughly 80,000 “So far, with Adventure- tuning it and adding new spe- environments. His craftsman- ventureland’s preview and the of that number is comprised of land, I’m very happy with the cies, it also keeps it fresh for the ship is a consistent highlight park’s long history of integrat- staff.” throughout the park. ing animal and amusement at- “We try to make each ex- tractions. Creature comforts hibit look a little different,” Wal- “It’s a successful approach That the zoo’s animals ap- lick said. “When Mickey lets me that our guests have enjoyed pear healthy and happy, and know what animals we’re bring- since they took our first Afri- that many exotic and native ing in, I will research the area can Safari Train ride more than birds roam freely and comfort- where the animals are from. And 20 years ago,” he said, noting ably about the property, is a then I start creating and building that the new section’s four rides testament both to the care they from there.” boost the park’s ride total to receive and the haven-like atmo- He admitted that he’s a per- 10. “One of the pleasing things sphere of Wildlife World. fectionist. “Seeing the public’s about this past weekend is that The job of Jack Ewert, the reaction to the exhibit gives me people seemed to be enjoying park’s veteran deputy director great satisfaction.” the exhibits and the layout. They and general curator, is to make Wallick’s boss echoed that. were getting to all parts of the sure the animals are fed and “You see the public really new area and spending time. content, and are getting along. enjoying it,” Ollson said. “And “It isn’t a finished project “Each species has its own set of you see them learning conser- yet. We’ve got a couple other requirements, of criteria, which vation ethics: they’re building animals that we’re moving in. support it in good health,” he an appreciation for wildlife and Just like our aquarium — the said, emphasizing that the safe- wild places. You can see the first public aquarium in Arizona ty of guests and animals alike is wonder on a child’s face when — matured over the first year or a priority. “We want each animal our zoo’s cougar — even though so after we opened it in 2009, in to experience maximum welfare it’s just a young animal, not re- Zoo proprietor and director our new area, the animals will while at the same time provid- ally an adult yet — runs up to Mickey Ollson (right) has ex- eventually feel more at home ing an intimate viewing experi- the fence within three feet of panded his public "family" and the landscaping will fill in. ence for our visitors.” him and stares him in the eye. of more than 6,000 indi- And we’ll make some final little With more than 6,000 in- You can’t get that off a TV set vidual animals with, among tweaks and improvements.” dividual animals and over 600 or a movie screen or a computer other additions, a cougar The road to Adventure- species to look after, Ewert gets screen.” (above) and bison (top). land, which had an initial work- an assist from his wife, Gina, •wildlifeworld.com AT/DEAN LAMANNA March 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7 8 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2016 INTERNATIONAL  Efteling to create its largest, most expensive attractions for 2017 — Page 9 Mythos Adventurer Land launches in China’s People’s Square AT: Andrew Mellor while the interactivity within [email protected] all the attractions will be de- SHANGHAI, China — livered using Holovis’s pro- The People’s Square D Mall prietary InterAct platform in Shanghai, China, has an- Version 3, featuring the com- nounced the development of pany’s own unique laser- a state of the art FEC, Mythos based interactive devices. Adventurer Land, by Shang- Commenting on the hai Liuyu Investment Com- project, Holovis CEO Stu- pany Ltd. art Hetherington said: “This The new attraction, FEC is a testament to what which is due to open in early foot) site, the contract in- can be achieved when all summer this year, will offer cludes all attractions, FEC parts of the experience are shoppers and visitors a wide systems, CGI and interactive brought together; from the array of next-generation, im- gaming content from the Ho- initial concept design to the mersive experiences, focus- lovis Media team, in addition Pictured at last year’s IAAPA Attractions Expo following the attraction development, me- ing on media and motion to a completely new attrac- contract signing for Mythos Adventurer Land are, from left dia and software integration based simulation games in tion which will be a first in to right: Haoqin Gu, business development manager for Ho- all created and managed by immersive 2D and 3D, com- China — a projection map- lovis; Ms. Zhang and Mr. Mu, shareholders of Mythos Ad- the same company, ensur- plemented by interactivity ping show linked with real- venturer Land; Stuart Hetherington, CEO of Holovis; and ing a much higher level of and augmented reality (AR). time interactive AR. Andrew Brown, strategy director for Holovis. quality and greater creative U.K.-based Holovis At- The new venue will in- COURTESY HOLOVIS impact. This will be the most tractions has been contracted clude a range of 3D attrac- ing, and a two-person Mo- ing motion bases and Oculus focused and integrated FEC to provide a turnkey package tions from Holovis, among tionDome offering a combi- Rift headsets will offer an experience ever delivered, to design, build and deliver which will be a 12-seat Mini nation of 360 degree visuals accurate motorsport experi- with the attractions inspired the FEC in partnership with Immersive Tunnel, an in- synched to organic motion ence. by our much larger E-Ticket Liuyu Investment Company. teractive ImmersiveTheatre and gaming interactivity. All media and gaming theme park division but pre- To be created within a 2,000 with 12 motion seats and Additionally, four Holo- will be exclusively delivered sented using our scalable In- square meter (21,500 square real-time interactive gam- vis driving rigs incorporat- by the Holovis Media team Mo platform.” EAG/VAE trade show success marks strong start to 2016 AT: Andrew Mellor FECs, amusement arcades, theme parks, [email protected] seaside amusement parks, farm parks and LONDON, England - The 2016 edition more. of the annual EAG/VAE trade show, held While final attendance figures were still at London’s Excel Exhibition Centre, took to be released at the time of writing, it was place from January 12-14 and by all accounts clearly noticeable that the event held visi- was a resounding success. tors’ interest throughout the three days, with The event mixes suppliers of coin-op each day providing exhibiting companies and FEC style games and attractions (in the with a strong turnout of quality attendees, EAG section) with more amusement and even on the final day which is well-known theme park oriented products in the Visitor at such events can often see very low atten- Attraction Expo (VAE) area, the two com- dance. bining to create a strong domestic show at “We’ve had an extremely positive the beginning of a new year and an excellent show,” noted Phil Setter at plush supplier and particularly convivial meeting opportu- Whitehouse Leisure. “Our stands were well nity for both exhibitors and visitors. attended and there has been an appetite for Products on display covered everything spending money. We’ve received good or- from arcade style games and redemption ders.” machines, AV equipment and bowling, to At Leisure Engineering, which spe- kiddie rides and simulators, management cializes in the supply of children’s battery EAG/VAE featured products and services for the FEC, amuse- systems and cash handling products, while ment arcade and theme/amusement park sectors. 4See SHOW, page 9 visitors included owners and operators of AT/ANDREW MELLOR March 2016 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9 SHOW tomers and visitors to the show who we have met for Continued from page 8 the first time. A significant powered, coin-operated ve- percentage of those visi- hicles, Bill Hammett said: tors came from outside the “EAG/VAE was a really U.K. which gives the event good show — our visitors a good mix.” have been genuine buyers.” Many trade associa- The largest stand space tions, including the In- in the VAE section, Inno- dependent Operators’ vative Leisure’s Phil Pick- Association (IOA), U.K. ersgill commented: “We amusement machine indus- have gone to great efforts to try organization BACTA support one of the few re- and the British Association maining U.K. shows and to of Leisure Parks, Piers and support BALPPA’s involve- Attractions (BALPPA) host- ment here. The four prod- ed their own events during ucts on display (which in- the show, while the legend- During the EAG/VAE show cluded the new Klime Wallz ary after-show party and in London, Bandai Namco climbing attraction marking an extremely well-attended Amusement Europe (above its official European launch) Veterans Lunch added to left) offered a wide range of have enjoyed constant at- the networking opportuni- coin-op amusement ma- tention from existing cus- ties on offer. chines. Whitehouse Leisure (left) offered a huge range Mondial delivers record-breaking of generic and licenced plush toys while Sega transportable Giant Wheel (above) is a regular exhibi- tor at the EAG show. PARIS, France — Bob Dean, president of Leisure Labs, AT/ANDREW MELLOR LLC, announced recently the opening of the world’s largest Efteling to create its largest, transportable Giant Wheel at a height of 70 meters. Manu- factured by Mondial World of Rides, this major ride proudly towers over Paris’s Place de la Concorde and offers thrilling most expensive attraction for 2017 panoramic views from its 48 enclosed gondolas. Froukje Knijpstra, owner of Mondial World of Rides, notes this newest Roue de Paris replaces the older 55 meter KAATSHEUVEL, The wheel on the same site to extend its run as the grandest and Netherlands — The well- premier tourist venue in the city. While congratulating Mar- known Dutch theme park cel Campion, the wheel’s owner and operator, Mrs. Knijp- Efteling will open its largest stra said, “We find it very heartening this great showman and most expensive attrac- has again entrusted Mondial to provide him such a legacy tion ever next year. attraction.” Symbolica: Palace of Mondial World of Rides offers one of the largest assort- Fantasy will be a major new ments of amusement rides and attractions in the world. From dark ride for the whole fam- Giant Wheels to major spinning, park and transportable rides ily in a similar vein to some Mondial has been at the forefront of the business for almost of the park’s other well es- 40 years. “We see it as our duty to develop unique, safe tablished indoor attractions and trusted attractions and make them user friendly with the such as Droomvulcht, Fata lowest possible maintenance costs and best return on their Morgana and Carnaval Fes- investment possible,” she added. tival. To be situated in the Opening in 2017, Symbolica: Palace of Fantasy will be Eftel- Headquartered in Terband, The Netherlands, Mondial ing’s largest and most expensive attraction ever. center of the park next to World of Rides’ sales and marketing efforts are represented COURTESY EFTELING the Polles Keuken pancake by Leisure Labs based in Sarasota, Fla. restaurant, it will revolve mately €35 ($38.1 million) unique and characteristic •mondialrides.com and leisurelabsllc.com around the interplay of real- and Efteling president and storytelling and thematiz3a- ity, dreams and fantasy and CEO Fons Jurgens com- tion, but also through our will form part of Efteling’s mented: “Symbolica will be close attention to detail in 65th anniversary celebra- the largest and most expen- every aspect of the attrac- tions. sive Efteling attraction ever. tion. Every ride will guaran- Visitors to the Palace of By constructing Symbolica, tee wonder and amazement Fantasy will be hosted by we are renewing and ex- and excite the imagination the magic jester Pardoes. panding our range of attrac- in a new and different way.” They will be invited to re- tions en route to becoming In addition to Symboli- discover their imagination an international destination ca, Efteling is also investing on an adventure through with five million visits per approximately €30 million a series of magical, hidden year. ($32.7 million) in the con- rooms within the Palace. “Symbolica will be an at- struction of a new holiday Up to six people will board traction for the whole family village which will border the a carriage before choosing because visitors of all nation- theme park, the Efteling golf one of three different routes, alities and generations use park and the Loonsche Land each of which will offer a their imagination. This dark nature district. Initial works different adventure, with in- ride will help Efteling to will begin before the end of Mondial World of Rides has delivered this record-setting, 70-meter Giant Wheel to Paris's Palace de la Concorde. teractive elements, through maintain its distinctive edge this year and the first guests The fully transportable wheel features 48 enclosed gon- the Palace of Fantasy. and its position at the top of are expected to be welcomed dolas and a programmable LED light package. The new attraction will the list of European theme in early 2017. be built at a cost of approxi- parks, not only through —Andrew Mellor COURTESY MONDIAL WORLD OF RIDES 10 AMUSEMENT TODAY March 2016 WATER PARKS & RESORTS  Schlitterbahn celebrates multiple anniversaries — Page 14 Polin introduces coats of many colors for slides New styles were displayed like works of art during IAAPA Expo AT: Jeffrey Seifert [email protected] ISTANBUL, Turkey — Polin Waterparks has built its reputation on providing beautiful, shiny, colorful waterslides. The compa- ny’s resin transfer molding designs to their products. (RTM) and light-resin trans- The new collection shown at fer molding (L-RTM) can the IAAPA Attractions Expo incorporate a multitude of was displayed like works of patterns and colors — both art. The slide samples were solid and translucent — to presented in a gallery-like create an aesthetically pleas- setting, framed like art and ing, vibrant water slide that tastefully lit with soft, di- Triangulated features geo- Mosaic features individual Honey Comb can also take is perfectly smooth and with rectional lighting. Custom- metrical shapes. tile-like design. on a reflective look. a lustrous, glossy surface ers were treated to more of on both sides. In addition to a viewing, rather than a pre- producing stunning-looking sentation. slides, the RTM technology Sohret Pakis, director of offers other advantages as Marketing and Communica- well. Slides produced with tion for Polin, says the new this technology are stron- offerings are proof that Po- ger and lighter than tra- lin is constantly striving to ditional fiberglass water offer new experiences. “We slides. Thickness is uniform are always taking it one step throughout and RTM slides further — from our current are manufactured faster, design options” she said. with less waste and with less “These offerings are just one of an environmental impact. more example of how we Polin has taken that tech- want our park partners to be nology one step further with able to offer a unique experi- the introduction of artistic ence for their guests and en- hance storytelling.” Currently Polin is offer- ing seven new artistic op- tions: Slide ‘n Roll: This new Graffiti features hand- Wood ‘n Slade creates a Reflection offers a metallic offering combines all of Po- drawn illustrations. wooden finish look. appearance. lin’s exclusive technologies — unique sound, lighting parent can see their own design create truly artistic glossy surface finishes are and design special effects — musings incorporated into a theming options. available in gold, silver, cop- into one slide to create an ex- water slide. Wood ‘n Slide: For parks per and platinum. perience that fulfills the full Mosaic: Parks looking wanting to add a natural Honey Comb: Similar to range of sensory stimuli for for a sophisticated alter- look to their slides, this op- the triangulated option, this guests. native for their slides can tion provides a realistic specialty pattern creates a Graffiti: Not quite like it choose the Mosaic exterior. wooden finish in a variety of honey-comb appearance. A sounds, the design applica- Reminiscent of the Italian wood veneer options. Slides surprising number of metal tion includes customizable, art of tesserae — a design can even take on the look patterns can be created from hand-drawn, exclusive il- technique in which indi- of bamboo. The wood look this option. A silver color can lustrations that will create vidual tiles form a colorful helps a themed attraction make a slide surface take on a strong and unique visual mosaic. Polin’s version is one blend into a wooded setting the appearance of mirrored impact. The illustrations on solid piece of design and is for a natural appearance in disco ball. display were more like chil- available in a wide range of contrast to eye-popping col- These new coatings help dren’s drawings rather than colors. ors. take water park theming to actual graffiti, and parks can Triangulated: The Reflection: Looking a new level. Parks are no Slide ‘n Roll combines sound, even ask local schoolchil- three-dimensional, em- like tubes made of steel, the longer limited to displaying lighting and special effects dren to help provide the art- bossed surface of this op- metallic look of Reflection colorful slides in a tropical, to create virtually any expe- work for their slides. Imag- tion reflects light much like works well with a thematic Polynesian or Hawaiian set- rience needed. ine the excitement created a solid prism. The unique motif of plumbing or steam- ting. The possibilities are AT/JEFFREY SEIFERT, when a child and/or their geometrical shapes of this punk. Shiny, reflective and endless. TIM BALDWIN (ALL PHOTOS)