Weather Conditions
Type in your zip code for your local forecast

Latest News Headlines

Stock Quotes and Financial News

Wristbands and Ticket Printing by National Ticket Company

Dollywood signs marketing alliance with Starr Crest Resort (June 3) Dollywood has entered into an agreement with Starr Crest Resort located in Sevierville to immediately feature and promote the company’s cabins as a convenient lodging option for Dollywood guests on Dollywood.com.

“With more than four million visitors a year, Dollywood is the leading tourism destination in Tennessee. We’re in the unique position to help drive more visitors to the area and entice them to stay overnight in convenient, family-friendly cabins,” said Ken Bell, president of Dollywood. “This alliance builds upon the current hotel and motel lodging options Dollywood already features via our online vacation packages. We are starting with the more than 100 cabins within the Starr Crest Resort portfolio, and expect to add more choices soon.”

Located just two miles from Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash Country, the Starr Crest Resort features picturesque views of the famed Great Smoky Mountains. The resort is six miles from Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The resort features log cabins in a mountain setting, an onsite swimming pool, a children’s playground, city water and wide paved roads for easy access. Cabins range from one to eight bedrooms accommodating from one to 25 guests. Most rentals offer preferred amenities including pool tables, hot tubs and fireplaces.

Norton to oversee auction of famed Perani collection (May 28, 2009) Former hockey player, team and arena owner, and entrepreneur Bob Perani has spent a life time collecting the world’s best antiques including custom neon advertising signs, Hollywood movie props, rare airplanes, tin and metal advertising sign. Perani purchased an indoor strip mall in Flint to display his unique collections at no charge to the public.

The bulk of his collection will be sold at a two-day auction inside his mall on July 7–8. The auction is being conducted by Norton Auctioneers of Michigan, Inc.

According to CEO and Chief Auctioneer, David Norton, “the auction consists of hundreds of advertising signs, a full-size mechanical walking elephant, a Mangels three-row kiddy carousel, movie props, model boats, marine and nautical antiques, life-size animal mounts, custom parade car, two rare airplanes, a helicopter, amusement park memorabilia, GM and Buick displays, kiddy rides, and hundreds of showpieces too numerous to name.”

For further information, visit: www.nortonauctioneers.com.

ASTM amusement rides committee approves new netting standard (May 28, 2009) Netting is a vital part of many amusement park and playground attractions. Recognizing this, Subcommittee F24.24 on Design and Manufacture has developed a new standard, ASTM F2375, Practice for Design, Manufacture, Installation and Testing of Climbing Nets and Netting/Mesh Used in Amusement Rides, Devices, Play Areas and Attractions.

Subcommittee F24.24 is part of ASTM International Committee F24 on Amusement Rides and Devices.

John Rexroad, president of Pucuda Inc. and Leading Edge Safety Systems Div., as well as an ASTM member, says that ASTM F2375 includes standardized prototype tests which benefit the designers, manufacturers and operators by having a consistent measure for designing the device netting into areas and ordering replacement components.

“In the past, the measures provided to the industry were not consistent and did not reflect the strength of the netting as it relates to use,” said Rexroad. “ASTM F2375 provides a baseline minimum netting strength that an engineer can utilize in calculating in the netting component much like other standardized material, such as steel.”

According to Rexroad, ASTM F2375 will be a core standard that can be included by reference in future standards to ensure that netted areas are considered as part of the subject matter for those standards.

Rexroad notes that the task group responsible for developing the new standard plans on continuing its work, addressing areas not currently covered in ASTM F2375 and ensuring that future versions of the standard are kept current with emerging issues regarding netting.

“Due to the complexity of the standard and areas in which the standard could be applied, the group felt that it was important to develop and have the core standard in place so future work could be reviewed with less confusion,” said Rexroad. “The task group looks forward to continuing work to assure that the new netting standard keeps pace with the industry and addresses new and existing applications.”

Interested parties are invited to participate in the further development of ASTM F2375.

Asian Attractions Expo 2010 to be held in Kuala Lumpur (May 28, 2009) The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) announced Asian Attractions Expo 2010 will be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The Asian Attractions Expo is the largest trade show and conference for the attractions industry in Asia. It will take place at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in Malaysia, Jul. 14–16, 2010.

“We look forward to bringing Asian Attractions Expo to Malaysia in 2010, a location with a rich history and stunning attractions,” said Charles Bray, president and CEO of IAAPA. “We are continually impressed by the growth and development of the Asian attractions industry and see this as the perfect place for attractions professionals to see what’s happening in the industry, learn about trends and best practices, meet, collaborate, and experience amazing, world-class attractions in Asia.”

MagiQuest opens in Pigeon Forge (May 27, 2009) MagiQuest, the live-action interactive game that has carved a new niche and strong brand following in family entertainment, today announced the opening of its newest location in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., proving that quality family entertainment is still thriving amid a weak economy.

The adventure begins when you enter the castle. Players, known as Magi, buy and adorn a magic wand that triggers over 150 special effects and remembers everything you do forever. Magi use clues, riddles and hints to progress through the game, earn points and power, and encounter unique worlds. Whether battling a dragon or searching for the Princesses’ jewels, there are many choices of quests and adventures to play. When guests return, they pick up where they left off. New quests, characters and adventures are added each year so the game never ends and your wand works at any MagiQuest location.

When local attractions development and management company, Adventure Quest Entertainment Group, the attractions affiliate of Holrob Investments, was looking for a new attraction, it was an easy choice. “There is nothing else like it in the industry”, said Pigeon Forge MagiQuest co-owner Ned Vickers. “We loved everything we heard and saw. Then we visited the Myrtle Beach location and knew we had to be the ones to bring the magic to Pigeon Forge!”

From the moment you enter the giant 30,000-square-foot four-story castle at traffic light 2A on the main drag, you know you are in a special place. The new location boasts several effects not found anywhere else. Secret doors and a unique infinity room enhance the experience while portals are used as gateways into each unique area and are a very key part of the theme.

“We aren’t going to give all the magic away but the portals into the different worlds are symbolic of our company”, said Denise Weston, co-founder of Creative Kingdoms, the parent company of MagiQuest. “We have great things planned that will take MagiQuest to the next level and will expand our brand globally” eluding that a big announcement is on the horizon for the innovative company.

“We opened the door to our first guests on Thursday and they had their wands from playing in Myrtle Beach!” said Vickers. “People know what MagiQuest is and can’t wait to play here. We are thrilled with the way it turned out and look forward to a great summer!”

The familiarity with the game is another indication that MagiQuest is gaining ground as an established brand, something that creators are quick to point out they were confident would happen. “We get hundreds of e-mails daily asking us to open a location somewhere near them or launch a game online so they can continue their journey” said Weston. “I tell them we will - and we’ll do it in a way no one else has so that everyone can enjoy MagiQuest,” hinting to an announcement that may be forthcoming soon about the next phase of the company’s expansion plans.

Southern Star Amusement announces plans for shuttered New Orleans amusement park (May 26, 2009) As part of Southern Star Amusement's redevelopment efforts, planning has begun on what to do with the shuttered New Orleans amusement park property. Danny Rogers, founder of the company, and long time amusement industry veteran, stated, “Engineering assessments have been performed on the remaining major rides. We are now in possession of firm quotes on the repair work necessary to restore the equipment to safe operating condition.” While the property received substantial damage as the result of Hurricane Katrina, the overall condition of the structures are such that rebuilding makes more sense than tearing down. Additionally, remediation work has, for the most part, been completed on the building structures making them ready for redevelopment.

Plans are underway to transform the shuttered property with new themes and attractions. In addition to restoring the remaining major rides, including the Mega Zeph wooden rollercoaster, new rides are now being sourced as additions. Much has been said about the heat and bright sun affecting guests during the New Orleans summer. Rogers confirmed that water park rides and attractions would be added as one way of helping guests “beat the heat”. Other additions will include shade structures, misting stations, as well as more indoor rides and shows. “Our landscaping team is also working on plans to bring in native and ornamental trees to help with shading and beautification.”

Rogers’ team is most excited about new rides and shows that will be infused with musical elements. One ride, in particular, will highlight Louisiana music and culture. While licensing agreements are still being negotiated, Rogers stated, “We are really excited about this one and believe this ride may become one of our major signature attractions.” Efforts are underway to create attractions that appeal to the entire family. Even rides meant for the youngest guests will be appealing, and comfortable to ride for all family members. Many new jobs will be created for musicians, performers and artisans.

The waterpark elements of the project, while integrated into the overall layout, will be situated so that they can be closed off during inclement weather, allowing for the remainder of the park to stay open. This will also allow the park to operate year round. With this in mind, the creative team is also planning festivities for the various holiday seasons. “Most parks now have special Halloween activities. We will, of course, have those, as well as Christmas and Mardi Gras celebrations,” stated Rogers.

Southern Star Amusement, Inc. is currently negotiating to acquire control of the former Jazzland/Six Flags New Orleans amusement park property. The property, city owned but currently still under lease to Six Flags, has sat dormant for the past three years. Six Flags has stated that they have no intention of re-opening the shuttered property.

As a city owned facility, Rogers said that the mayor’s office is in an unenviable position. “There are really only two options available to the city,” Rogers went on to say. “Find an operator to re-open the property, or level the place for other development possibilities. The current debt obligation the city has on the property makes the case that finding another operator is the only real option that makes financial sense.” The city currently owes in excess of 16 million dollars on HUD loans from the original Jazzland development. Rogers has stated that the property is only worth a third of that in its current condition. While Six Flags has been making lease payments that the city used for paying on the loans, they only amount to a portion of the annual payments. The city has been paying additional monies to satisfy the debt, without the benefit of receiving sales tax revenues while the property sits dormant. “It really is unfortunate the position the city has been placed in, due to both Katrina and Six Flags’ financial situation,” Rogers stated. “With the current economy, this is money that the city could really use for other things. We are dedicated to finding a workable solution that helps the city of New Orleans satisfy their current HUD loan obligations, brings in new jobs and tax revenues, as well as reinvigorates the area.”

Southern Star Amusement has offered suggestions on methods that could bring both parties to a reasonable resolution, saving both from an extended legal battle. The question remains, are both parties willing to see reason for the good of the people. Southern Star Amusement stands ready to rebuild the park and return it to service, but must wait for the City and Six Flags to work out their differences. Recent equipment removals, as well as continued delays, hamper any efforts for redevelopment.

King Kong returning as 4-D attraction At Universal Studios Hollywood (May 26, 2009) King Kong will re-emerge on the famed and newly upgraded Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour in summer, 2010 as a thrilling and ground-breaking 4-D multi-sensory marvel, a new signature attraction for Universal Studios Hollywood.

The new King Kong attraction, based on the Oscar-winning 2005 Universal Pictures film, will combine thrilling visceral effects with the world’s largest Surround Digital projection system to create a next-generation theme park experience.

Larry Kurzweil, president and chief operating officer, Universal Studios Hollywood, said: “King Kong has been an integral part of Universal Studios Hollywood for decades and, after last year’s fire, we knew he had to be resurrected for our Studio Tour guests. We’re very excited to announce that not only are we re-introducing King Kong, but we’ve completely re-imagined the experience and will incorporate this legendary icon into a truly innovative Studio Tour attraction.”

In the new attraction, guests will don special glasses as they enter a darkened soundstage aboard the Studio Tour trams and will be transported – via the magic of Surround Digital 3D projection – deep into the dark heart of the world of Skull Island. They’ll survive a close encounter with a swarm of monstrous bats, only to be confronted by the terrifying presence of Kong himself. Suddenly, an enormous, ravenous 35-foot-tall dinosaur will challenge Kong and guests will feel their trams jolt, roll and shudder as they find themselves caught in the middle of a ferocious showdown between the great ape and the giant lizard. The action will immerse guests in the battle between the two colossal predators.

A previous King Kong attraction was introduced at Universal Studios Hollywood in 1986 and remained a part of the Studio Tour until it was destroyed last year.

The arrival of the new King Kong experience will follow major enhancements to the Studio Tour. Universal Studios Hollywood will introduce an upgraded Studio Tour experience this summer, transforming its trams into "mobile movie theaters" with state-of-the-art flat-screen high-definition monitors and digital playback systems. The new high-definition monitors will feature commentary from filmmakers, including Steven Spielberg, Ron Howard and Stephen Sommers, along with insight from such personalities as Al Roker, Nancy O’Dell, Billy Bush and Whoopi Goldberg. Clips from numerous movie and television productions, corresponding to sites visited along the Tour route, will add a new dimension to the tour of backlot attractions, sets and facades, capturing how they were transformed for various productions.

PARC Management acquires Myrtle Beach's Pavilion Nostalgia Park and Carousel Park (May 26, 2009) PARC Management has announced the acquisition of Pavilion Nostalgia Park and Carousel Park located within Broadway at the Beach in Myrtle Beach, S.C. The locations, acquired from South Carolina-based developer Burroughs & Chapin Company, Inc., are now part of a growing collection of entertainment properties operated by PARC Management. PARC properties include both Myrtle Waves Water Park and NASCAR SpeedPark, also located in Myrtle Beach.

“We are thrilled to be adding the operation of Pavilion Nostalgia Park and Carousel Park to our focused investment in the Myrtle Beach community,” said Randal H. Drew, CEO of PARC Management. “Our experience with Myrtle Waves and the NASCAR SpeedPark, which is open year-round, has been terrific. With the addition of these two wonderful family ride parks, we have the opportunity to offer an all-around value oriented entertainment option for all ages.”

“It is exciting to again work with PARC Management as they take over the operations of Pavilion Nostalgia Park and Carousel Park,” added Andy Tilmont, chief operating officer for Burroughs & Chapin Company. “We feel confident that their expertise in the area of entertainment management will enhance the overall guest experience at these attractions.”

Pavilion Nostalgia Park is home to several of the rides relocated from Myrtle Beach's beloved and now-closed Pavilion Amusement Park. The rides include the classic Herschell-Spillman carousel, Wave Rider, adult and kiddie Pirate Rides, Caterpillar, Dune Buggy, Boat and Teacup Rides along with the Pavilion's historic German Baden Band Organ.

Chicago's Kiddieland announces closing (May 20, 2009) Chicago's oldest amusement park, Kiddieland in Melrose Park, will call it quits this September. The park's lease, which expires after the 2009 season, is not being renewed, said Tom Norini, one of its owners.

"It's sad and it's disappointing but it's just a business thing," said Norini.

The lease for the Melrose Park facility is held in a land trust by family members of Arthur Fritz, who founded Kiddieland in 1929 during the Great Depression in the hopes of helping parents and children forget their troubles.

By 1940, the park had expanded to include a carousel, two miniature steam locomotives, a Little Auto ride, the Roto Whip and a Ferris wheel - the last two of which are still in operation.

Kiddieland's most popular ride is the Little Dipper wooden roller coaster, which was added in 1950. The Dipper is one of the few remaining PTC junior coasters still in operation.

"We don't have a huge audience but we have a very loyal audience," said Norini. "That audience renews every time there is a new generation born." Kiddieland's last day is Sept. 27.

BPAA, Pepsi sign multi-year agreement (May 20, 2009) The Bowling Proprietors’ Association of America (BPAA) and Strike Ten Entertainment (STE) have announced the renewal of a multi-year proprietor agreement with PepsiCo Foodservice. The terms of the multi-year agreement will begin on Jan. 1, 2010 after the current contract ends on Dec. 31, 2009.

Under the agreement, Pepsi will continue as the “Official Soft Drink of Bowling.” PepsiCo Foodservice will provide BPAA-Pepsi centers with Pepsi beverages, such as Pepsi, Mtn Dew, Sierra Mist and Aquafina as well as Tropicana juices and juice drinks, Lipton iced teas and Gatorade sports drinks in fountain, bottles and cans.

“We are very pleased to present our members with this exciting new program which offers great support and tools to drive traffic,” said Jim Sturm, BPAA president. “PepsiCo Foodservice remains a loyal partner to our members, which is evident in their stronger commitment of financial support to the entire bowling industry.”

“The Bowling Proprietors’ Association of America and its member centers have been great partners for over 25 years,” said Joe Cugine, chief customer officer, PepsiCo Foodservice. “Millions of people of all ages from all over the country love bowling. We are thrilled to continue supporting one of America’s favorite sports for years to come.”

At Quassy Amusement Park coaster kids make fast tracks in modeling contest (May 18, 2009) Elementary and middle school students competed in a roller coaster model contest recently at Quassy Amusement Park, Route 64 here.

Students were charged with building models based on an outline provided by the American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT).

The winners of the event were: Elementary School Division: First-place: “The Jurassic Giant” by Jordan Baron and Ryan DeAngelis, Long Meadow Elementary School, Middlebury, Conn.; Second-place: “The Matchbox” by Catherine Fiske, Shefkije Dani, Neim Dani and Josh Fidler, Long Meadow Elementary School, Middlebury, Conn. Middle School Division: First-place: “The Hills” by Eddie Hill, Steve Donston, Mike Ricci and Andrew Pighinni, Swift Middle School, Watertown, Conn.

The models were judged in various categories including time, theme, technical merit and rider enjoyment. Total scores on the judging form determined the winners.

Judging was conducted by Shallon Fingon, science instructional teacher leader from Rochambeau Middle School, Southbury, Conn., and Ron Gustafson, director of public relations and educational programs, Quassy Amusement Park.

The winning teams were presented with award certificates, ribbons and Quassy all-day passes to be used for school fundraisers. George Frantzis II, co-owner of the park, presented the awards.

Quassy’s educational programs continue throughout the spring and summer including The Third Annual Art In The Park sidewalk art competition for elementary, middle and high schools on Sunday, May 31. Schools may also schedule the “Commotion About Motion” physics tour, Quassy History Tour and “Wacky Science” stage presentation by contacting the park office at 203-758-2913 extension 105.

$275,000 raised at "Walk To Cure Diabetes" (May 18, 2009) Holiday World & Splashin' Safari hosted the fourth annual “Walk to Cure Diabetes” today, raising more than $275,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari donated close to 1,500 tickets to JDRF; those tickets were “earned” by individuals, families, and teams who raise donations for the walk. The local fund-raising goal this year is $310,000; event planners are confident they will reach that amount by the end of the month.

A second goal, to raise $1,000,000 in four years of JDRF Walks at Holiday World, was surpassed today.

“They can send a man to the moon and back, but we still haven’t found a cure for this disease,” says park matriarch Pat Koch, whose oldest son has juvenile diabetes. “It’s important that we all pull together to fund research to finally find a cure for diabetes. One million dollars gets us that much closer.”

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari are now open daily. New this year is the World’s Tallest Water Ride, Pilgrims Plunge. For more information, visit www.holidayworld.com or call 1-877-Go-Familys.

IALEI and IAAPA continue to work through merger process (May 14, 2009) Today officials from the International Association for the Leisure and Entertainment Industry (IALEI) and the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) provided an update on the potential merger between the two attractions industry trade associations.

“We are making progress in the due diligence review for the potential merger with IALEI,” said IAAPA President and CEO Charlie Bray. “IALEI has provided us with more than 1,000 pages of legal documents and our counsel is reviewing those carefully to understand the details and implications of a potential agreement.” IALEI Chair Dorothy Lewis echoes a similar perspective. “We’re working through the merger process in a methodical manner, and we want to make sure we cover all the details,” she said. “It simply takes time,” she added.

The bylaws of both associations, advice from legal counsel, and the laws for managing these issues in Illinois (IALEI’s state of incorporation), Pennsylvania (location of IALEI’s headquarters office), and Delaware (IAAPA’s state of incorporation) must all be consulted and carefully considered at each step of the merger review process.

As the due diligence process continues, a transition team made up of members of the IALEI board, the IAAPA FEC committee, and IAAPA staff continues to work through the details to create a final merger proposal. Due to the complexity of the merger review and approvals, the organizations are unable to commit to a specific timeline for the completion of the process, but most involved believe it will be concluded by the end of the summer. Below is an update on the steps that have taken place so far and those yet to be completed:

On April 27, IALEI mailed a proxy ballot to all members to explain the voting process and to ask them to vote on a bylaw change that would allow a decision on the merger to take place via mail ballot rather than requiring an in-person meeting and vote. IALEI members must return the proxy ballots to IALEI by June 1. The purpose of the proxy ballot is to make it easier for IALEI members to participate in important decisions, including the potential merger. Voting by mail-in ballot is not an option in the current bylaws.

During an IAAPA board meeting on May 5, Bob Rippy (IAAPA second vice chairman and FEC owner) and Tim Sorge (IAAPA board member, IAAPA FEC committee chair, and FEC owner) updated the IAAPA board on the progress and explained that the due diligence process continues. Here’s an outline of the next steps after the due diligence process is complete:

•A merger proposal will go to the IAAPA and IALEI boards for review and approval.
•Subject to the boards’ approval, the proposal will go to the IALEI membership for a vote.
•If the IALEI membership votes in favor of the proposal, the merger will move forward. For the protection of both organizations, everyone involved in the merger review process has signed strict confidentiality agreements which prohibit them from discussing the details of the agreements and contents of the legal documents.

Cedar Fair Limited Partners re-elect two directors (May 14, 2009) Cedar Fair, based in Sandusky, Ohio, reports that its limited partners have re-elected Michael D. Kwiatkowski and Steven H. Tishman to the board of directors of its general partner, Cedar Fair Management, Inc., to terms expiring in 2012.

The limited partners also confirmed the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the company's independent registered public accounting firm.

Six Flags Friends partners with 'Beyond Tribute' to support war veterans this Memorial Day weekend (May 12, 2009) Six Flags theme parks across the country will honor America's military veterans this Memorial Day weekend by partnering with Beyond Tribute to raise awareness and funds for veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury and related afflictions. Beyond Tribute, a 501c3 non-profit, is the first nationwide grassroots initiative specifically designed to leverage the Memorial Day and Veterans Day holidays to support veterans affected by these neurological problems.

Over 300,000 veterans returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as countless thousands of veterans of other wars suffer from PTSD, TBI and other neurological problems. As a result, their rates of unemployment, substance abuse, homelessness, family conflict, and suicide are alarmingly high.

Through this new partnership, consumers will be offered an online "Everyone Pays Kids Price" coupon for admission to all domestic Six Flags properties from May 22 through May 25. One dollar of each ticket redeemed will go directly to "Beyond Tribute" to support research, treatment, and services for those veterans. "Everyone Pays Kids Price" offers a savings of up to $30 per ticket off the regular adult admission price, making fun more affordable for families.

In addition, designated Beyond Tribute volunteers will be on site, encouraging park guests to log onto the Beyond Tribute or Six Flags websites (www.beyondtribute.org and www.sixflags.com/tribute) and signing a pledge demonstrating their support of the men and women of America's Armed Services.

The pledge reads: "Memorial Day and Veterans' Day need to be more than holidays that merely pay tribute to veterans; they should be meaningful days that truly benefit the men and women who have risked their lives and sacrificed their health and well-being in the line of duty. I pledge to seek out and support businesses and events that participate in Beyond Tribute over the Memorial Day and Veterans' Day holidays, because I know my support will help provide vital services for veterans who are suffering the wounds of war."

Park guests will also be able to view a video public service announcement hosted by "Sex and The City" star Kim Cattrall, the national spokesperson for "Beyond Tribute." The PSA will be played on Six Flags TV throughout the summer.

"Memorial Day is an exciting time at Six Flags as families head to our parks to officially kick off the summer season," said Jessica King, sirector of Six Flags Friends. "Our partnership with Beyond Tribute is a great way to engage people of all ages across the country to do their part in helping our servicemen and women in a very tangible way."

Matthew Boulay, the former Marine who served in the Iraq war and who helped establish Beyond Tribute, echoed these sentiments, adding that, "Memorial Day was established to honor the sacrifices made by the courageous men and women who have fought for this country in defense of the freedoms and ideals we enjoy and cherish. By using the special Six Flags-Beyond Tribute coupon for admission, visitors to the parks are saying, "yes, we honor these sacrifices and support our veterans."

"Beyond Tribute" has identified three organizations that are engaged in providing vital services for veterans who are suffering from the wounds of war: U.S. Vets, the largest non-profit organization in the country dedicated to helping homeless and at-risk veterans and a nationally recognized leader in the field of service delivery to veterans; Wounded Warrior Project, which provides programs and services to severely injured service members during the time between active duty and transition to civilian life; and Bob Woodruff Foundation, which raises awareness and funds for service members injured in Iraq and Afghanistan and their families to assist in their successful reintegration into their communities.

For more information on the "Beyond Tribute" and the Six Flags Friends initiative, and to download the special Six Flags admission coupon, visit sixflags.com/tribute or beyondtribute.org.

Quassy building first wooden roller coaster (May 11, 2009) Quassy Amusement Park will be making tracks, in a matter of speaking, as the landmark property will construct its first all wooden roller coaster.

The as-yet-unnamed ride is part of a projected $5 million multi-year plan to update equipment and infrastructure at the lakeside park, Quassy owners announced today.

In addition to the roller coaster, Quassy will add a 35-foot drop tower ride in the amusement park and a “Bullet Bowl” water raft attraction at “Saturation Station,” Quassy’s interactive family waterplay area.

“The new coaster will actually be a replacement for our aging steel ‘Mad Mouse,’” said Eric Anderson, a Quassy co-owner. “The steel coaster will come down once the new ride is in place in another area of the park.”

“These projects will be phased in over the next three years,” Anderson added. “We hope to have the drop tower ride, which will be built in Italy, on site for next year and construction for the coaster could begin as early as this year, or perhaps next spring.”

The three-phased plan is the largest in the history of the 101-year-old park, which is owned by the Frantzis family and Anderson. This marks the 72nd year the Frantzis family has been involved at Quassy.

“It’s not so much an expansion plan as it is updating,” owner George Frantzis II said. “We’re investing in the future of the property. These projects are necessary for us to remain competitive, and in the amusement park business you have to feature a family roller coaster.”

The last wooden roller coaster to operate in the Waterbury, Conn., area was located at the city’s Lakewood Park. Built in 1930, the coaster lasted only a few years before being dismantled and moved to Canobie Lake Park in Salem, N.H. for the 1936 season. The ride continues to operate in New Hampshire today.

“Our new roller coaster will be a family ride – one parents and grandparents alike can ride with children,” Frantzis asserted. “It will not be an extreme or white-knuckle experience – that is not who and what we are.”

Designed by The Gravity Group of Cincinnati, Ohio, the Quassy coaster will have 1,200 feet of track and be 35 feet at its highest point. Due to the topography where the coaster will be located, the ride will actually drop around 40 feet obtaining a maximum speed of 35 mph. One three-car train with a capacity of 12 persons will run the course.

The coaster’s station will be located near the “Big Flush” ride with the incline constructed on the old entrance road to the park. The coaster will drop into the lawn area behind the “Grand Carousel” where it will make its turnaround and head up and over the park’s train tracks. Engineers from The Gravity Group were able to present a design which will not disrupt the tree line along both sides of Quassy old entrance.

“We didn’t want to take away from the natural beauty those trees provide as you enter the park,” Anderson said. “Fortunately, we’ll be able to preserve that feature and have this beautiful structure fit in. It’s a family coaster, but will be an exciting ride,” Anderson continued. “Adding to the excitement will be two crossovers on the train tracks, plus a series of airtime hops. This will be a great modern replacement for the steel coaster.”

The roller coaster will be constructed of all treated lumber. The vendor for the coaster train has yet to be named by the park.

At least four other coaster manufacturers from around the world presented proposals to Quassy.

“They (Gravity Group) came in with a couple of designs that immediately caught our eye,” Anderson noted. “These engineers have a real passion for their trade and The Gravity Group has designed and built some of the best rides of the genre.”

Once completed, Quassy will host an auction for the first ride or series of rides on the new roller coaster. Beneficiaries of the coaster auction will be Connecticut Public Television (CPTV), Make-A-Wish Foundation of Connecticut and the Connecticut Food Bank.

“Part of our strategy since we started talking about the coaster project several years ago was to have an auction for the first ride,” Frantzis said. “Our initiative will support these great organizations which serve the communities that support the park.”

In addition, Quassy will hold a “Name The Roller Coaster” contest among local and area schools. The class that submits the name selected to be used on the coaster will be invited to the park for the grand opening. In addition, the winning school will receive a quantity of park passes to use for fundraising.

The “Mad Mouse,” also known as the “Monster” roller coaster, has been operating at Quassy Amusement Park since 1983. The all-steel ride operated at Playland in Rye, N.Y., following delivery in 1967 from the manufacturer, the Allan Herschell Co., of North Tonawanda, N.Y. When Quassy purchased the coaster and moved it from New York, it replaced the “Wild Mouse,” a similar ride Quassy installed in 1960. The Herschell coaster is a great classic ride, and it will be missed,” Anderson said of the ride that will be replaced. “It’s becoming a challenge to keep the ride operating because of its age and Quassy greatly needs a marquee coaster to replace it.”

Motion theater seats move audiences at Mall of America (May 11, 2009) D-BOX Technologies Inc. has announced that it will debut its motion-activated theater seats at Theaters at Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn.

Moviegoers will feel as if they are living the action - experiencing every explosion, car chase and even flight scene right from their very own theater seat. This realistic, immersive experience is created with breakthrough D-BOX Motion Code technology in which the movie is coded, frame-by-frame, to create customized Motion Effects resulting in subtle, refined movements that work in perfect sync with the action taking place onscreen.

"We are adding a new dimension to movie viewing," stated President and CEO of D-BOX Technologies, Claude McMaster. "Not since the creation of surround sound and 3D has there been a movie theater innovation that changes the movie viewing experience like D-BOX Motion Code technology. The movements that these seats make are sophisticated and refined; moviegoers will not be jostled around the entire time, rather they will feel much more a part of the movie."

Theaters at Mall of America is the first theater in Minnesota to feature D-BOX's innovative Motion Systems and the third location in the U.S. The theater will equip 30 seats in its auditorium with the company's motion technology powered by D-BOX Motion Effects, causing seats to jolt, swerve and tilt with onscreen action.

While audience members will experience motion during action sequences, the seats will remain still during the quieter, dialogue-driven scenes and come equipped with individual adjustable settings to customize each experience.

"We are extremely excited to have this exclusive, new technology coming to Theaters at Mall of America," said Maureen Bausch, executive vice president of Mall of America. "Incorporating cutting-edge technology like D-BOX keeps Mall of America fresh and exciting for mall guests. This technology will create a thrilling experience for movie-goers that they can only experience at Theaters at Mall of America."

"Already a sensation in Hollywood and Arizona, D-BOX's Motion Systems were revealed to the public with the first motion picture debut, Universal Pictures' blockbuster, Fast & Furious, in March". Survey results gathered by an independent company during opening weekend are conclusive - the D-BOX experience earned an unprecedented 99 percent satisfaction rating with the majority of moviegoers who paid a premium for their D-BOX MFX seating, rating their experience as "excellent."

For additional information or to reserve a D-BOX seat, visit www.theatresmoa.com.

Morey’s Piers’ Beachfront Waterparks recognized for highest safety standards (May 11, 2009) The 200-plus lifeguards who make up the aquatic safety staff at Morey’s Piers Beachfront Waterparks in Wildwood, N.J. are making quite a splash these days. The international aquatic safety consulting firm, Ellis and Associates has awarded the prestigious “Platinum International Aquatic Safety Award” to Morey’s Piers’ two Beachfront Waterparks.

The Platinum National Aquatic Safety Award is the highest safety rating achievable and signifies the waterparks at Morey’s Piers are among the safest in the world. In 2008, only the top eight percent of the 400 eligible waterparks worldwide received this distinction. Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Waterparks earned this distinction by consistently exceeding safety criteria in independent evaluations and unannounced safety audits.

“Guest safety is a cornerstone of our operations and it has a profound effect on how we operate and do business,” offers George Rohman, operations manager. “At Morey’s Piers Beachfront Waterparks, we continually strive to offer an exceptionally safe, clean and friendly recreational experience for our guests. Our entire team should be very proud of achieving this award, and offering one of the safest recreational environments in the industry.”

Ellis & Associates, Inc. is the leading aquatic safety consulting firm to the resort and waterpark industry and provides lifeguard training and safety consulting for over 80 percent of the waterparks in the United States. Throughout the operating season, Ellis & Associates sends representatives to perform comprehensive safety evaluations for each client facility and provides each facility with a safety rating, with “platinum” being the highest. Evaluations, or “audits” are unannounced and evaluation criteria includes a Lifeguard Evaluation Section (where the lifeguards are video taped guarding without prior knowledge), a Simulated Emergency Section (where a group of guards are selected to perform during a simulated emergency), and an Administrative Section.

Denise Beckson, director of waterpark operations, uses the independent audit evaluations to determine what operational areas are in need of improvement. “Because the audits are random and unannounced, our management team gets an accurate snapshot on how well our lifeguards will respond in the event of an actual emergency,” said Beckson. “In a realistic simulation, you have the ability to step back and evaluate how well your team is responding, make corrections, and focus future training accordingly.”

Each season, Morey’s Piers hires and trains over 200 lifeguards from all over the world. Each lifeguard goes through a week of intensive training prior to his or her first day of work. After successfully passing the program, each lifeguard is then required to attend a minimum of one hour of in-service training each week to maintain his or her skills.

Six Flags' Mr. Six has a lot to say... on Twitter (May 7, 2009) Six Flags, Inc. has welcomed back an old friend and reintroduced the recognizable face of its brand, Mr. Six, into its 2009 "More Flags...More Fun" advertising campaign. The iconic character first danced his way into Six Flags advertising in 2004, but has never engaged in conversation, until now. Guests can check out "tweets" from Six Flags' Mr. Six on Twitter under the profile name "TheRealMrSix."

Recognized in the past as "the dancing old guy," Mr. Six's role has evolved and he is now the foremost authority on fun. His joyful and energetic personality, previously expressed solely through his exuberant dancing, is now engaging Twitter followers through tweets, revealing his passion for entertainment and fashion and displaying his unique talent as a rater of fun.

"Mr. Six has quite the imagination and is definitely hip to pop culture," said Angie Vieira Barocas, Six Flags Senior VP of marketing and entertainment. "Joining Twitter was a big step for Mr. Six, but we've learned that he is quite techno-savvy and is now even updating his tweets from his mobile phone. Twitter has given him the opportunity to further engage fans with his contagious charisma through creative tweets."

His tweet subjects have varied from popular recording artists like Britney Spears and John Mayer; to fashion trend commentary in response to media articles like the Wall Street Journal's "Bow Ties Turning Up On The Cool Crowd"; and in-park event updates. Additionally, Mr. Six has also built an impressive list of followers. In a recent Tweet posted by Diablo Cody, Academy Award winner for the best original screenplay Juno, in regards to the new coaster Terminator Salvation: The Ride at Six Flags Magic Mountain, Cody said: "The Ride is gonna be sick. Onboard audio? Please let me get invited to Media Day!" Mr. Six responded with a personal invitation to the well-known writer.

Six Flags hosts national Facebook and MySpace pages as well as local Facebook accounts for all Six Flags parks across the country, as well as La Ronde in Montreal and Six Flags Mexico. With more than 82,000 participants nationwide, fans are receiving continuous up-to-date Six Flags information on concerts, shows and daily park promotions and offerings. Six Flags also employs a full-time social network agent who engages fans through all social media avenues including Twitter and serves as a social media guest service liaison.

"Social networking avenues allow us to expand our outreach and engage our guests in a deeper and more interactive way," added Vieira Barocas. "We're also providing pertinent information to our key audience in a timely manner, while sharing the excitement and thrill of the Six Flags brand and extending our customer service outreach through online conversations."

Twitter is a free social networking/micro-blogging community that allows users to send and read other users' 140-character blog posts known as "tweets." Mr. Six can be found under the profile name "TheRealMrSix" (http://twitter.com/TheRealMrSix) and his followers continue to increase since his first "tweet" on April 13.

Morey’s Piers' new eco-friendly initiatives geared to enhance park experience (Apr 30, 2009) Visitors to Morey's Piers will experience a host of eco-friendly updates this season, as the Morey Organization rolls out several new green programs and initiatives.

In conjunction with the Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Philadelphia, Morey's Piers has added 150 Coke bottle-shaped recycling containers on the piers: 50 on Surfside Pier, 50 at Mariner’s Landing Pier, 40 on Adventure Pier, and five at each waterpark.

Coke also contributed towards the purchase of eight LED signs that include a recycling message, among other greetings. The displays are divided between the ticket booths at Mariner's Landing Pier and Surfside Pier. The LED signs reduce the use of other sign materials which end up being discarded. All the lighting on the new ticket booth on Mariner’s Landing Pier is either LED, fluorescent or other high-efficiency design.

Pier officials are also replacing the ride lighting with LED lights. To date, the Giant Wheel, Maelstrom, Magic Bikes and various signs and other lighting on multiple rides have switched over. "LED lights are the most efficient light source currently in common use, using a small fraction of the electricity required by incandescent and even compact fluorescent light bulbs," said Dino Fazio, director of pier operations for Morey's Piers. "They produce more light per watt than incandescent bulbs, radiate very little heat and last about 20 times longer than standard incandescent bulbs," he said.

Also, Morey’s Piers is using biodegradable, non-toxic cleaning products in ride operations wherever feasible, and will continue to expand this program across the company. "We primarily use hydrogen peroxide based, Green Seal-certified cleaners manufactured by Cleanline Products," added Fazio.

MagiQuest opens to large crowds at Tokyo Dome (Apr 27, 2009) MagiQuest, the live-action interactive game, has announced the opening of its newest location in Japan's Tokyo Dome City.

MagiQuest continues to expand and will be announcing three more 2009 openings soon. "We are thrilled that our magic continues to gain popularity and is in demand even in these tough times" said Rick Briggs, co-founder of Creative Kingdoms, parent company of MagiQuest.

Expecting more than 400,000 visitors annually, MagiQuest Tokyo Dome attracts families of all ages to play together. "Tokyo Dome has never had an attraction like this before," said Mr. Kaneko, project chief. "We are excited to have MagiQuest and anticipate high repeat visitation and much success here."

The entire experience is spoken in Japanese and English, creating a connection with the guests and making the Magic spread across the world. This is the first international site offering dueling, a part of the game where players battle one another using powers they earned in the game, as well as an on site scoreboard to see where they rank compared to others.

"MagiQuest in Japan has been an overwhelming, instant succ ess just as we envisioned," said Denise Weston, co-founder of Creative Kingdoms. "The guests are waiting in lines to own a piece of the magic by buying their magic wands and are consumed in the game for hours. Kids, parents, and even grandparents are literally getting in the game."

Disneyland Resort celebrates spring, with new entertainment and Disney's California Food & Wine Festival (Apr 24, 2009) Disneyland guests are dancing down Main Street, U.S.A., with Mickey Mouse and the gang in a high-energy show that celebrates spring at the Disneyland Resort. The party rocks with a new street show, revs up with a new dining experience and swings for six full weeks with Disney's California Food & Wine Festival. Valuable ticket offers and vacation packages add a big bonus to the new entertainment, making this one of the best times ever to experience the magic in Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure parks.

Whether guests are marking a birthday, anniversary, graduation, family reunion, quinceanera or any special occasion, they'll discover that Disneyland Resort is the perfect place to celebrate with favorite characters, world-class attractions and entertainment, and legendary guest service - all the ingredients to make magical Disney memories.

To top it off, some extra-special travel and ticket values are available for a limited time.

"Disneyland Resort has always been a popular destination for celebrations, and we've seen all kinds of celebrations here in 2009," said Ed Grier, president, Disneyland Resort. "With new entertainment and adventures appearing this spring and summer, along with our special vacation value packages, we're offering guests more reasons than ever to celebrate today."

Environmentally-friendly bakery debuts at Disneyland Resort (Apr 23, 2009) The new central bakery at the Disneyland Resort, used by Cast Members to create the delicious treats Disneyland guests enjoy, opened last month boasting numerous environmentally friendly features.

As with all new construction at the Disneyland Resort, various environmental tactics were researched and implemented. One such initiative is the use of 14 solar tubes that provide natural lighting into the building, significantly reducing the need for electricity. Another effort in energy reduction is the use of ice makers that form an ice block over night and then send chilled water to the air conditioning system to help cool the entire building during the day.

In addition to saving energy, the building uses porous asphalt paving in the parking lot, which captures, filters and returns rain water back into the ground, serving as a natural recycling system. Water reduction is also a part of the conservation program with an underground sprinkler system that is used for the surrounding landscape. The system prevents water evaporation and works on a time clock with humidity sensors - reducing water usage.

"Being environmentally conscious is extremely important to us and we are proud that this new addition to the Disneyland Resort helps conserve resources in so many ways," said Disneyland Resort President Ed Grier.

The new, larger bakery was constructed in response to the Resort's continued growth. The new space is four times the size of the existing pastry kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel. Approximately 8 million products, ranging from wedding cakes to parfaits, are expected to be produced at the new bakery each year.

Six Flags announces OTC bulletin board symbol (Apr 20, 2009) Six Flags, Inc. announced today that its common stock will commence trading on the OTC Bulletin Board under the ticker symbol "SIXF" on Monday, April 20, 2009. The Company's Preferred Income Equity Redeemable Shares (PIERS) will also be traded on the OTC Bulletin Board under the ticker symbol "SIXFP". The New York Stock Exchange will suspend trading of the Company's common stock and PIERS and the common stock ticker symbol "SIX" and PIERS ticker symbol "SIX-PRB" will each be discontinued prior to market open on Monday, April 20, 2009. Information regarding trading of the Company's common stock and PIERS on the OTC Bulletin Board may be obtained at www.otcbb.com.

Crowds flock to check out Kings Island's new Diamondback hypercoaster (Apr 18, 2009) Diamondback, one of the most anticipated new rides of the 2009 season, was unleashed today at Ohio's Kings Island. The popularity of the 230-foot-tall B&M hypercoaster was illustrated by the five-hour queue that formed as soon as Kings Island opened its gates at 10 a.m. (The lengthy queue – highlighted here by blue shading – snaked around the park, passing through several sections before finally ending at the coaster's station.) Diamondback features a 215-foot first drop, 5,282 feet of track and a top speed of 80 m.p.h. The coaster's finale is a spectacular splashdown just before the home brakes.

---

All aboard! New entrance nears completion at Quassy (Apr 16, 2009) Quassy Amusement Park’s new main entrance/ticket booth nears completion Wednesday morning as construction and electrical crews put the final touches on the structure. The Middlebury, Conn., park is one of 11 remaining “trolley parks” in the nation and designed its new entrance to be reminiscent of a train station of the era. An informational kiosk is also part of the new main entrance area. The park, which charges no general admission, features all-day wristbands or individual tickets. Quassy opens its 101st season on April 25 with a benefit weekend for the Greater Waterbury Campership Fund.

---

Comedian Larry the Cable Guy meets a flippered fan (Apr 15, 2009) Stand-up comedian/actor “Larry the Cable Guy” clowns around at SeaWorld Orlando with Clyde, a California sea lion. Larry spent the day at the park with his family, getting up-close with animals, screaming on thrill rides and enjoying world-class shows. For more information on SeaWorld, visit www.SeaWorld.com.

---

First, largest Foam Factory opens in Middle East (Apr 14, 2009) Family entertainment reaches a new high in Bahrain as the Kingdom welcomes its latest entertainment center. The Bahrain City Center shopping mall features Magic Planet, an indoor amusement park featuring several international award-winning rides and games including the first and largest Foam Factory. The Foam Factory by Prime Play is a proven state-of-the-art attraction that is designed to allow families to play together. The unique, custom-designed Interactive BallPlay system combines interaction with innovation, featuring many interactive components, multi-level platforms, foam ball geysers, moving targets, blasters, tunnels and slides. Participants can propel, throw, raise, vacuum and dump 50,000 foam balls throughout the attraction providing hours of entertainment for families, groups and special events. The Foam Factory is a durable attraction that stands up to the high traffic of entertainment facilities that have a “shoes on” environment. Prime Play continues to be a worldwide leading manufacturer of creative play systems. With installations in over 60 countries, Prime Play products can be found in theme parks, FECs and other locations.

---

Utah's Cowabunga Bay Waterpark topped off (Apr 14, 2009) In an exclusive to Amusement Today, officials at Cowabunga Bay Waterpark in Draper, Utah share these photos of workers successfully topping off the world's largest waterplay structure, which was built by Canada's Whitewater West. Cowabunga Bay is on schedule to open in early summer 2009.

---

Kings Island's Beast coaster celebrates 30th anniversary in 2009 (Apr 13, 2009) The Beast wooden roller coaster at Ohio's Kings Island celebrates its 30th birthday in 2009 and shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, the ride remains as popular as ever with park visitors.

When The Beast opened to the public April 14, 1979, it was acclaimed America’s ultimate roller coaster. It broke all existing records as the longest and fastest ride in the world. It is still listed in the prestigious “Guinness Book of World Records” as the world’s longest wooden roller coaster.

The Beast is also unique in that it was completely designed and constructed by Kings Island personnel. The original design was modified so many times the final product looked nothing like the one envisioned when the project began. The Beast was going to sprawl over 35 wooded acres and the design team was determined to save as many trees as possible. Every turn, dip, twist and curve was designed to fit the rugged natural terrain. The Beast is unlike any other coaster, since many of its thrills are hidden from view by towering trees.

The designers studied nearly every major wooden roller coaster in the country and incorporated the best features of each into The Beast. They even included some of the most exciting thrills of the old Shooting Star that was so popular at Cincinnati’s Coney Island.

It was constructed in less than a year, after two years of research and design. Charles Dinn, former director of construction, maintenance and engineering at Kings Island, headed the project.

The renowned late John Allen of the Philadelphia Toboggan Company was a consultant. His company built the trains.

The record-breaking features of The Beast include:
· A 7,400-foot long track (1.4 miles) and ride time of four minutes, 10 seconds.
· Drops of 135 feet (at a 45-degree angle) and 141 feet (at an 18-degree angle).
· A 125-foot long underground tunnel at the bottom of the 135-foot drop.
· Eight banked turns, some to 45 degrees.
· A massive 540-degree helix tunnel near the end.
· Speeds up to 64.77 miles per hour.

The ride was officially, and quite appropriately, “unchained” in a steady downpour Friday, April 13, 1979 for hundreds of media representatives from around the U.S. and Great Britain.

The Beast has accumulated these amazing statistics since it opened in 1979: Each of the three trains has traveled a total of 741,543 miles. That’s the equivalent of 30 times around the world!

In October 2004, The Beast was given the Coaster Landmark Award by the American Coaster Enthusiasts club, an award designed to recognize coasters of historical significance.

Bids for first rides on Kings Island's Diamondback surpass $95,000 (Apr 10, 2009) As of Friday, Kings Island has received more than $95,000 in bids to be among the first to ride the park’s new Diamondback roller coaster.

Kings Island is auctioning off seats on the $22 million steel coaster’s first rides to raise money for the non-profit group A Kid Again, which is dedicated to providing fun-filled outings and on-going support to children with life threatening illnesses and their families.

Blackhawk Network currently holds the top bid – $5,000 for one seat. If the California-based company wins a seat, it will be donated to A Kid Again so a family member can ride.

Allan Hague from Yantis, Texas has placed the top individual bid – $3,100 for one seat. Hague also has bids on five other seats totaling $1,900.

The highest successful bidder will select their seat on the first train while all other successful bidders will be assigned their seats according to their bid amount.

Bids can be placed until April 15 at www.kidiamondback.com/auction/. Bids can also be placed by calling Kings Island at (800) 288-0808.

In addition to receiving more than $95,000 in bids to be among the first to ride Diamondback, Kings Island has received an in-kind donation of $50,000 from Bonneville Radio Cincinnati in support of this auction.

Diamondback is the tallest, fastest and meanest roller coaster to ever strike Kings Island . The ride stands 230 feet at its highest point with a first drop of 215 feet at a 74-degree angle. Riders will snake their way around 5,282 feet of track at speeds up to 80 miles per hour. The ride opens to the public Saturday, April 18.

Holiday World wins safety award (Apr 8, 2009) Holiday World will be named the first theme park in the nation to achieve certification in the federally-recognized Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) Thursday morning.

Three staff members from the Indiana Department of Labor will visit the park tomorrow to present the INSHARP award. Holiday World & Splashin' Safari’s full-time staff of 80 will be on hand for the ceremony; the park also has 2,000 seasonal employees.

“Achieving this safety award required a group effort, with incredible dedication from our Safety Committee and our entire full-time staff,” said park president Will Koch. “There’s nothing more important than the safety of our guests and employees; we’re deeply committed to this.”

According to the Indiana Department of Labor, INSHARP status can be achieved when management and employees work together to create and maintain a safe and healthy work environment. Holiday World employees take part in emergency response and rescue drills, conduct self-audits and feedback programs, plus participate in OSHA-related training.

Holiday World wins national food-allergy awareness award (Apr 8, 2009) The world leader in food-allergy awareness announced today that Holiday World is recipient of its national “Making a Difference” Award this year.

The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) announced the winners of the 13th annual Mariel C. Furlong Award for Making a Difference this morning. Holiday World is the only business to be honored this year; other winners include 11 individuals and a non-profit preschool. Holiday World & Splashin' Safari introduced an allergen-friendly menu last season. This year, several of the park’s restaurants will offer an expanded menu of pre-packaged food items which do not contain eight of the most common food allergens, namely: wheat, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, milk, soy and eggs.

“Last season we started offering a special menu for our guests with food allergies, and the reaction was just about overwhelming,” says Holiday World & Splashin' Safari’s president, Will Koch. “We heard from parents who told us they cried when they learned we offered an allergen-friendly menu. This award means the world to us.”

Pizza, chicken nuggets, and turkey corn dogs which do not contain the most common food allergens are available at Kringle’s Kafé and Safari Pizza; those restaurants also have designated equipment for preparing gluten-free and dairy-free items. In addition, the park offers gluten-free sandwich bread. Pre-packaged applesauce and fruit cups are offered as an option to fries.

For dessert, snickerdoodle cookies which are free of the most common food allergens are available. Gluten- and wheat-free brownies are offered at Plymouth Rock Café and Mrs. Klaus’ Kitchen, which also features sucrose-free fudge. In addition, two types of dairy-free ice cream bars plus soy milk are now available.

A downloadable Allergen Friendly Information Guide is available on the “Restaurants & Food” page at Holiday World’s Web site; copies of the guide are also available for park guests to pick up at Guest Relations. Allergen-friendly meals may be ordered in advance by phone or in person.

Holiday World opens for the season on May 2 with the premiere of Pilgrims Plunge, the world’s tallest water ridek.

Kennywood Park awarded by dark ride fans for eighth consecutive year (Apr 8, 2009) To amusement park lovers, Pennsylvania's Kennywood Park is known as one of the greatest traditional amusement parks in the world. But for members of the Darkride and Funhouse Enthusiasts (DAFE) Kennywood is known as their Favorite Dark Attraction Park.

Why did Kennywood take the honor as DAFE members’ favorite such park for an incredible eighth year in a row? According to DAFE members’ votes, Kennywood offers a nice overall mix of the traditional “darkrides and attractions” that DAFE members love. Unfortunately for darkride lovers, many amusement park chains eliminated most of the ride-through or walk-through haunted houses and/or funhouses decades ago. Fortunately, Kennywood did not.

Additional honors for Kennywood this year also illustrate how Kennywood values “the Dark”:

The park’s Phantom Fright Nights was again named as the group’s Favorite Halloween Event.

The new Ghostwood Estate jumped out of the dark and into the spotlight as the group’s Favorite Interactive Darkride, that is a ride in which guests actually shoot at the spooks inhabiting the ride.

Kennywood’s Noah’s Ark wins as DAFE’s Favorite Walkthrough Attraction for the seventh time in eight years. Noah’s Ark, a large, rocking boat-shaped funhouse, is the last of its kind in the United States and one of only two left in the world.

DAFE Director Rick Davis said: “Our members have visited parks and attractions all over the US and many have trekked as far as Japan in search amusement park thrills. That Kennywood constantly ranks as a favorite is not a surprise to those of that have been to the park. Kennywood seems to have the right blend of nostalgic, traditional and thrill rides, something for the whole family.”

On the other side of the state, the Haunted Mansion at Knoebel’s Amusement Resort which was named as DAFE's Favorite Darkride for the eighth year in a row as well.

Gerstlauer Ferris Wheel heading to France’s Nigloland (Apr 8, 2009) One of many projects Germany's Gerstlauer has worked on over the last year is a custom Ferris Wheel for Nigloland Park in Dolancourt, France. The beautiful park is located in the Champagne-Ardenne region and already has a wide array of rides and attractions. For 2009 the park is getting a new Ferris Wheel that will be an icon of the area.

“The owners wanted a family ride that would allow park-goers to see for miles in any direction,” said Siegfried Gerstlauer, Gerstlauer Amusement Rides’ managing director. “The unique hanging gondolas ensure that the wheel’s rim does not block the view. It really is a great attraction for the park.”

Gerstlauer recently had the wheel set up in its factory yard and offered free rides to guests that had driven from all over Bavaria. In order to keep the relationship strong with the surrounding farming communities the company has traditionally opened some of its attractions to the public.

“Munsterhausen is a small town, but we really appreciate the citizenry being so open to letting us set up rides here,” said Gerstlauer. “Whether it is a Ferris Wheel or a Euro-Fighter roller coaster the town has always been very supportive.”

The new Ferris Wheel is currently being packed up for shipping to France. It is expected to open for families at Nigloland later this spring.

Pacific Park, LAX to light up the night In blue & white in support of spcaLA (Apr 6, 2009) Twice can be nice – especially when it’s for a good cause such as Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier’s Ferris wheel joining up with Los Angeles International Airport’s pylons to support spcaLA during the ASPCA’s “Go Orange For Animals” national event beginning at dusk on April 7.

The world-famous Ferris wheel and the internationally recognized Pylons will turn spcaLA blue and white, as national landmarks are bathed in orange, to raise awareness locally for animal assistance during this economic downturn, to recognize the outstanding work by spcaLA, and to help clarify the misinformation that there is a national umbrella organization connecting all spcas.

“Through our long term relationship with spcaLA, we understand the importance of heightened community awareness in order for them to gain assistance,” said Jeff Klocke, director of marketing and sales at Pacific Park. “Operating in the second largest city in the United States, spcaLA is challenged both financially and logistically as they work to overcome the impact of an unusual number of animals in need during this time of economic struggle.”

Pacific Park’s Ferris wheel Holiday High-Lights program is designed to not only celebrate the numerous holidays throughout the year with the community, but to raise awareness for special non-profit organizations when possible.

Pacific Park will also feature dog and cat images and fun color patterns to enhance the experience. Both venues will be illuminated blue and white from dusk until late evening.

“I am deeply touched and humbled by this honor and show of loyalty by Pacific Park and LAX,” said Madeline Bernstein, president of spcaLA. “Community support is critical to the survival of our abused and abandoned animals who depend on the funds staying here in Los Angeles. Funds that are sent to New York mostly stay in New York!”

The LAX gateway pylons feature fifteen 100-foot-high pylons and fifteen smaller towers in varying heights and have 2,000 LED lights in the structures. The pylons are illuminated in a variety of colors – 16 million color possibilities - and sequences.

“We are proud to help raise awareness of Animal Cruelty Prevention month and join Pacific Park in its efforts to salute the hard work and tireless efforts of spcaLA,” said Mike Molina, senior director of external affairs of Los Angeles World Airports. “The LAX pylons and the Ferris wheel are worldwide landmarks and with such high profile statuses can serve these types of causes well.”

The LAX Pylons are a state-of-the-art “gateway of light.” Its original system was based on a theatrical stage-lighting system with color filters and was updated in 2005 with a newer LED lighting system that creates an energy cost savings of 75 percent.

The Pacific Wheel is the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel. Its previous incandescent bulbs were replaced in May 2008 with enhanced LED lighting that also provides 75 percent greater energy savings.

Much needed donations can be made to spcaLA online at www.spcala.com.

Spring is in the air at Hersheypark (Apr 6, 2009) It is a sure sign of spring at Hersheypark when the rides are reassembled in anticipation of eager guests. The trains belonging to Fahrenheit, one of the Park's 11 roller coasters, are lifted back onto the track in preparation for the Pennsylvania park's May 1 opening.

---

Europa-Park's new Mack Megacoaster opens (Apr 2, 2009) More than 300 journalists witnessed the launch of Europa-Park´s new Blue Fire Megacoster, which was opened April 1 in the new Iceland area of Germany´s largest theme park. Miss World 2005, Unnur Birna Vilhjalmsdottir, and the Icelandic ambassador Olafur Davidsson were among the first passengers to ride the spectacular new roller coaster. They were joined by the Mack family, owners of Europa-Park, along with a number of German and international celebrities, such as Olympic champion Heike Drechsler and boxing world champion Regina Halmich. Blue Fire, supplied by Mack, features a powerful 62 m.p.h. LSM launch and four inversions along the 3,464-foot-long course. The new coaster tops out at 124-feet and utilizes five 5-car trains.

---

Cincinnati Metro buses tout new Kings Island coaster (Apr 1, 2009) Cincinnati Metro transit buses wrapped as a diamondback snake were unveiled today at Kings Island. The Mason, Ohio amusement park opens its new Diamondback roller coaster April 18. The $22 million ride will be the tallest and fastest roller coaster at Kings Island. Diamondback stands 230 feet at its highest point with a first drop of 215 feet at a 74-degree angle. The steel coaster has ten vertical drops, two helixes and a splashdown ending.

---

Six Flags announces the arrival of 'Bizarro' coaster make-overs (Apr 1, 2009) Six Flags announced today that Bizarro has landed at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, N.J. and Six Flags New England in Agawam, Mass. After an intense four month multimedia, interactive marketing campaign that generated community engagement across multiple platforms, key thematic elements of the highly-anticipated Medusa and Superman: Ride of Steel coaster transformations were finally unveiled.

"This strategy represents the first time theme parks have utilized an alternative reality game (ARG) to market new attractions," said Angie Vieira Barocas, Six Flags senior VP of marketing and Entertainment. "The approach allows our guests to be immersed in the new attraction experience on a more personal and fundamental level."

Over 500,000 players have participated in the ARG thus far. In November, players were introduced to a newly-formed relationship between Six Flags and Clawshun Industries and quickly discovered that Clawshun was actually a subsidiary of LexCorp. A special edition of the Daily Planet newspaper, inserted into regional weeklies in New York, Philadelphia, Hartford and Boston, confirmed the relationship and invited players to participate in an eight-week investigation by the Planet's enterprising young journalist Jimmy Olsen via jimmystruth2power.com and Twitter. Speculation ran rampant as players worked together to discover the names and plans for the coaster transformations, designed by LexCorp CEO and Mastermind, Lex Luthor.

The DC Comics character, Bizarro, is best known as a peculiar Superman-like creature from a parallel Earth known as Htrae where inhabitants believe in "doing the opposite of all Earthly things." He is also known for his clumsy and destructive attempts to emulate Superman though his efforts often turn out twisted and backwards. Because he is the imperfect duplicate of Superman, his powers and abilities manifest themselves as opposites of Superman's powers including freeze vision, heat breath, spotlight vision and x-ray hearing.

"What better way to represent such a twisted, exciting character like Bizarro than with such a twisting, exciting roller coaster?" said Cheryl Rubin, DC Comics Senior Vice President - Brand Management, "We're looking forward to combining our iconic Superman characters with Six Flags' high quality coaster designs to create a new and thrilling experience for roller coaster and comic enthusiasts alike."

The Bizarro experience begins the moment guests enter the ride queue lines through a custom-created comic designed specifically for these rides by DC Comics. Guests will quickly uncover the mysterious background of the Bizarro character and his destructive takeover of the attraction before stepping onto the ride.

Unlike traditional coasters, the Great Adventure attraction is floorless, giving riders the sensation of flying as their feet dangle above the track. The 3-1/2 minute thrill begins with a pulse-quickening 142 foot climb before plummeting 60 miles-per-hour through Bizarro's freeze vision "cool zone." The rush continues as riders twist and turn through seven loops - including 114-foot vertical and 96-foot dive loops - blast past bursts of Bizarro's fire breath, and race by bizarre scenes and illusions.

Six Flags New England is turning up the heat on the Superman: Ride of Steel coaster, named the #1 rated steel coaster on the planet according to Amusement Today. The adventure will begin as guests climb aboard the newly-designed Bizarro coaster cars which feature custom built audio in each headrest. After a menacing climb, riders plunge 221 feet into the first of two fog-filled tunnels that will launch guests into Bizarro's mysterious world. Throughout the 3-1/2 minute journey, riders will fly 77 miles-per-hour through high bank twists and turns while soaring through bizarre building structures and sprinting through open-aired "S" shields. The thrills will continue as the train enters a spaghetti bowl of twists and turns that trigger fiery flame effects timed perfectly with the heart-pumping audio. The journey will cap off with a second plunge into a fog-filled tunnel before returning to the station house and back to Earth.

"This is not an April Fool's joke. Both of these coasters have a tremendous following and we wanted to enhance the ride experience and elevate it to another dimension," said John Odum, Six Flags senior VP of planning & development. "Our company will continue to push the envelope, inventing and reinventing ways to engage, inspire and entertain our guests in the Six Flags experience."

Both rides will debut in late May.

Pacific Park hosts 'Rally And Ride' alternative fuel vehicle day (Apr 1, 2009) California's Pacific Park, located on the Santa Monica Pier, drove home its green message while hosting an Alternative Fuel Car rally along with introducing its all-new SIG Alert EV bumper cars on Mar. 28, 2009. A variety of alternative fuel cars participated in the rally including the hybrid vehicle (foreground), neighborhood electric vehicle (midpoint) and electric vehicle (background).

---

Families who give also receive at Holiday World (Mar 31, 2009) Visitors to Holiday World & Splashin' Safari in May and June will have the opportunity to help those in need and at the same time receive $5 each to spend during their day at the park.

"The economy has hit families in many different ways—some need help while others want to help," says Park President Will Koch. "We are launching our two-month

‘Feeding Families Food Drive’ so that our park guests may help those in need in a four-state area. And we're giving those generous guests some spending money to use during their visit."

In May and June, each ticket holder who donates two or morecanned food items will be given $5 in “Holibucks” to spend in the park that day. Holibucks may be used to purchase meals, snacks, games and souvenirs at Holiday World theme park and Splashin' Safari water park. The food items collected those months will be donated to food banks in Evansville, Indianapolis, Louisville and Nashville, Tenn.

"The food banks are asking primarily for shelf-stable meals and high-protein canned goods such as chicken and tuna," said Koch. "With strong participation, we think up to 200,000 meals could be provided to families in need.”

Details about the Feeding Families Food Drive are outlined on a new page on Holiday World’s Web site: www.HolidayWorld.com/Give. The frequently-asked-questions section includes special instructions for group-ticket holders, season pass holders, and the park’s 2,100 employees.

Holiday World opens for the season on May 2 with the premiere of Pilgrims Plunge, the world’s tallest water ride.

Longtime NEAAPA member Rayomd Kells dies at 67 (Mar 31, 2009) Officials at the New England Association of Amusement Parks & Attractions announce the passing of longtime member Rayomd Kells, president, Water Wizz of Cape Cod and Water Wizz of Rhode Island. Kells, 67, passed away Mar. 21 at home with his wife and family at his side.

Kells was the founder and builder of Water Wizz of Cape Cod and developer of Water Wizz of Westerly (Rhode Island). He also built Adventure Land of Narragansett.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Ray's name to Dr. Toni Choueiri's Research Fund, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Attn: Contribution Services, 10 Brookline Place West, 6th Floor, Brookline, Mass. 02445.

Visit www.nardolillo.com for information and online condolences.

Carolina Cobra strikes at Carowinds (Mar 28, 2009) To kick off its 37th season this weekend, Carowinds introduced its 2009 headliner attraction – the Carolina Cobra. The southern themer’s 12th roller coaster is a 935-foot-long a triple-looping Boomerang manufactured by Vekoma of The Netherlands.

Located adjacent to the entrance of Carowinds’ Boomerang Bay waterpark, Carolina Cobra sports a striking teal and coral color scheme and a bright yellow 28-passenger train. And it’s this new train that’s getting a lot of the attention due to its sleek aerodynamic design and Vekoma’s re-imagined over-the-shoulder restraint system. The first of its kind in the United States, the widened restraint is praised by guests for being far more comfortable than its predecessor and offering a less-restrictive ride experience.

Before migrating south, the Carolina Cobra thrilled guests at Ohio’s now-defunct Geauga Lake from 1996 until 2007.

Now open weekends, Carowinds and the Carolina Cobra begin daily operation May 29.

Abandon Interactive Entertainment partners with Six Flags to promote Freaky Creatures MMO game (Mar 26, 2009) Abandon Interactive Entertainment today announced that the company has entered into a new partnership with Six Flags, Inc. to promote one of the newest entries into the fastest growing entertainment segments directed toward the online gaming youth community. The comprehensive agreement provides retail and promotional presence for Freaky Creatures at all Six Flags theme parks across the country.

"This partnership allows Abandon to continue to bridge digital entertainment with real world experiences," said Jamie Ottilie, president and COO of Abandon Interactive Entertainment. "We're looking forward to working with Six Flags to integrate the Freaky Creatures world into the park experience and expose our unique, cross platform MMO to all Six Flags attendees. The Six Flags theme park network allows us to reach an entertainment-seeking national audience in a family friendly way."

"Six Flags is excited to partner with Abandon Interactive Entertainment to bring the Freaky Creatures experience to life in our parks," said David McKillips, senior VP corporate alliances. "Our powerful in-park media assets will introduce this year's hottest new online game to millions of players nationwide."

The multi-media partnership includes an extensive in-park branding campaign utilizing Six Flags' TV and new Outdoor Cinema Network as well as signage placements in demographically-targeted areas and online advertising on SixFlags.com. In addition to the brand campaign, Six Flags will host Freaky Creatures tournaments involving local communities where park visitors can battle for their placement in the finals at the various parks. To extend the Freaky Creatures' collect, customize, battle and brag experience, retail starter packs will be sold and free trial cards will be distributed to park guests at key merchandise locations throughout all theme park locations.

Another key component of the partnership entails co-promotional incentives for Six Flags guests and members of the Freaky Creatures community. Abandon Interactive Entertainment will offer its members of the Freaky Creatures online community special discounts to visit their local Six Flags theme park and Six Flags guests will enjoy special incentives on the Freaky Creatures online community.

Freaky Creatures combines the best of online multiplayer gaming, collectible action figures, virtual worlds and social networking. The Freaky Creatures experience begins with a starter pack that includes two action figures and a one-gigabyte reusable flash drive as the key to the Freaky Creatures universe. The initial creatures come with 50 different parts, 20 powers and four objects that can be placed into the creature's lair.

Take your creatures online and customize them with parts and powers to create one of 3.2 billion possible combinations. Once you have created your unique creature, jump straight into battle or build a lair where you can care for your creature and hang out with friends. Visit the community to personalize your own homepage, play mini-games, join tournaments, check leaderboards, trade items, read animated comics, enter contests, form teams and much more in the ever expanding Freaky Creatures Universe.

Starter packs are now available at www.freakycreatures.com.

Six Flags Over Texas sees record spring break crowds (Mar 26, 2009) Six Flags Over Texas, the parent company's flagship park, just announced that Spring Break Out saw its largest one week attendance in the history of the event. The great value and close-to-home entertainment escape proved to be a hit with families and thrill seekers alike over the week of Mar. 14-22.

Six Flags Over Texas extended hours all week long for headline entertainment including live and local performances featuring more than 25 bands from around North Texas and a special concert from Sean Kingston. Attendance was driven by the popular online "Everyone Pays Kid's Price" offer and the sale of Season Passes.

"Our guests recognize that Six Flags Over Texas is the ideal place to spend quality time with family and get the biggest bang for their hard-earned dollars." said Park President Steve Martindale. "Spring Break was just the beginning. Our mission at Six Flags this summer is to give families a much-needed respite from this economic environment."

Six Flags Over Texas is in its 48th season.

RWS and Associates creates 'Survivor' stage version (Mar 23, 2009) Beginning in May 2009, RWS and Associates will bring the Emmy Award-winning reality show to the stage as 'Survivor Live' at New York's Darien Lake Theme Park Resort, Oklahoma's Frontier City and Colorado's Elitch Gardens. RWS and Associates in conjunction with CBS Television has created this all new interactive, first-of-its kind stage show adventure called.

Survivor, Live' will put guests’ minds and bodies to the ultimate test as four audience members compete in contests designed to test their endurance, memory and strength. Each cutting edge performance will highlight the best in music, choreography, as well as state of the art sets and lavish costuming. The show will take place on a custom-designed stage transporting contestants, and the live audience, to far-away lands where the only objective is to outwit, outlast and outplay the competition..

For more details, visit www.RWSandAssociates.com.