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Vol. 14, Issue 11 FEBRUARY 2011 $5.00
International Independent Showmen's Association 2011 Trade Show and Extravaganza set for Feb. 8-12
Optimism in the air as mobile industry gears up for Gibtown
Pam Sherborne
Museum of the American Car-
Amusement Today nival will be open each day
during the week for attend-
In early January, exhibitors ees and exhibitors of the trade
were eager to get to Gibson- show.
IISF exhibitor listing
ton, Fla., for the International “It’s not complete yet, but
Independent Showmen’s As- Page 30 it will be open to the carnival
sociation 2011 Trade Show and industry for this week,” said
Extravaganza, set to run Feb. Jim Frederiksen, Frederiksen
8-12, in hopes of continuing more than 300 different exhib- Industries, Tampa, Fla.
the flow of optimism generat- its to browse, both inside and The museum, he contin-
ed at last fall’s industry shows. outside on the association’s ued is not ready for the public
“We have had a very good club grounds. Exhibitors pro- at his point.
run of sales starting back at the viding a range of products “And, we don’t have a
IAAPA (International Associa- including rides, food supplies date for that yet,” he said.
tion of Amusement Parks and and equipment, concession AT FILE PHOTO “We really need to get people
Attractions) trade show in No- trailers, electrical supplies, The 43rd edition of the IISF Trade Show and Extravaganza to donate more things. One of
vember and moving through insurance companies, nov- these days, this museum will
is set for Feb. 8-12 in Gibsonton, Fla. with more than 300
the IAFE (International As- elty items, plush, jewelry and become a tourism spot.”
different exhibits booked. Numerous suppliers are look-
sociation of Fairs and Expos) more, will be on hand. Exhibitors gearing up
ing forward to this year's event as potential buyers seem
event in early December,” said Registration numbers for for the show hope the good
to be in a purchasing mode.
Mike Gill, A.R.M., Winters- the event seems to be on par feelings coming from the in-
ville, Ohio. “The majority of with last year. events as well. These include after most of the crowd is dustry early on will continue
feedback we are getting from “Registration is coming in the Exhibitors Cocktail Party, gone. throughout the 2011 season.
our customers is very optimis- good and steady,” said Elena Tuesday, Feb. 8; the Jambo- There are also various ed- Frederiksen will be ex-
tic.” Wynn, IISA. “We don’t have ree for Museum with Dinner, ucational seminars presented hibiting six of his slides at the
Patty Sullivan, Eli Bridge, final figures yet.” Wednesday, Feb. 9; and the throughout the week of the show.
agrees. The festivities actually IISA Annual Banquet and Ball, trade show. Presenters will Gill said A.R.M. will fea-
“I am looking forward to kick off on Sunday, Feb. 6 with Thursday, Feb. 10. Events for prepare daily workshops on ture its portable Vertigo in
going to Gibtown this year,” the traditional IISA Super Saturday, Feb. 12 include the topics that affect the industry its outdoor booth during the
Sullivan said. “I am getting Bowl and Trade Show Kick Showman’s Shrine Annual on a daily basis. The work- show.
a very positive feeling about Off Party. On Monday, Feb. 7, Meeting; the Cemetery Associ- shops, which include audio/ Victor Wisdom, Wisdom
the upcoming season. There is the Big Hearted Jerrys Me- ation Memorial Service; Sant’ video presentations, handouts Manufacturing, Sterling,
seems to be a definite upturn morial Golf Tournament at Yako Knight Parade; Ladies of and roundtable discussions, Colo., said he is also seeing
this year already. We are busy the Summerfield Golf Course, the IISA drawing; and the Mu- are available to all attendees customers in a better mood
right now and that is good.” Riverview, Fla. seum Corporation drawing. at the IISA Trade Show & Ex- than in the past couple of
This is the 43rd annual The trade show will run The association concludes travaganza. years.
IISA’s Trade Show and Extrav- from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Feb. 8-12. its events on Feb. 15 with the One of the exciting aspects “At IAAPA, they seemed
aganza. Traditionally there are There are various social installation of its new officers of this year’s show is that the 4See GIBTOWN, page 3
INTERNATIONAL AMUSEMENTP ARKS WATERPARKS BUSINESS MIDWAY/CLASSIFIEDS
SEE PAGES 7-9 SEE PAGES 10-16 SEE PAGES 17-21 SEE PAGES 22-26 SEE PAGES 27-35
PAPER Dated material. January 24, 2011 SUBSCRIBE TO FAST FACTS
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2 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2011
TM
Gary Slade
Founder and Publisher
[email protected]
Remembering Mr. Tom
While many in the amusement industry may not have
known, or even heard of Arlington’s longtime mayor, locals
knew very well who this longtime titan of a politican was.
He was Mr. Tom Vandergriff, the 25-year-old (in 1951)
newly nicknamed ‘boy mayor’ of Arlington, Texas.
Mr. Tom ran with the best, and demanded the best. While
his accomplishments reached out in countless directions, let’s
take a look at the amusement industry road.
Having visited Disneyland in 1958, and liking what he saw,
he made a point to visit with Walt Disney himself. He asked
Disney to consider building a second Disneyland in Arlington,
and even offered the land in Angus G. Wynne’s new Great
Southwest Industrial District. While Walt was intrigued, he
declined, “saying it was too soon to consider building another
park.” Andrew Mellor
Not to be declined, Mr. Tom turned to developer Wynne
Brand Magic!
saying he needed to hop on a plane and go look at this new
Disneyland park, telling him, “a park like that would be a cash
cow for your industrial district.” Like many visitors to last be huge, as has been proved in many
Angus G. Wynne returned from Disneyland in full agree- November’s IAAPA Expo in Orlando, cases. From what I’ve seen, those
ment. On August 5, 1961, Wynne’s new $10 million Six Flags I took the opportunity during my time aimed at pre-school kids are particu-
Over Texas opened and was an immediate success. there to visit the magnificent Wizarding larly successful, while those for other
Mr. Tom didn’t stop there. Although his touch wasn’t gold World of Harry Potter (TWWofHP) at age groups can also reap big rewards
on this endevour, it was under his watch the city opened the Universal Studios — and like every- when implemented in the right way.
gates on the short lived Seven Seas marine life park in 1972. one else, I was blown away by what Of course one of the main issues
Mellor
It was here, during its only year of success Mr. Tom formed a Universal has created and how those with a mainstream IP/brand is the
lasting relationship with George Millay, founder of SeaWorld. involved have brought this worldwide licensing costs involved — not every-
Although Mr. Tom had left the Mayor’s office a few years phenomenon to life for its millions of fans. one has the budget to enable them to make use
earlier, it was his relationship with Millay that would lead to In a discussion with various industry of a big name brand — while another is actu-
Millay building his second Wet ‘n Wild waterpark in Arlington, experts a month or two prior to my trip to ally reproducing the brand faithfully and with
this one three times the size of his original Orlando concept. Orlando, I’d been left under no illusion that an accuracy rights owners strictly enforce.
Tom Vandergriff was always about making Arlington a the TWWofHP was truly “awesome” (to pinch TV, film, DVDs, books, toys and other
better place. He not only did that, but thanks to his drive to an oft used word from my teenage kids) and outlets have all led to a much wider impact of
bring amusements to the city he loved so much, he brought that nothing in the attractions world came IPs and brands on our daily lives and today
amusement industry jobs to the city as well. And it is that job close to how well it had been done. I wasn’t help to influence the consumer like never
connection that we celebrate today, and countless careers for disappointed. But having witnessed what is before. That scenario will continue and will
many in the amusement industry. clearly (currently) the ultimate use of a brand help parks attract higher numbers of guests
within the theme park and attractions indus- while also providing excellent opportunities
This newspaper publisher is one of them.
try it made me sit back and think of just how for operators to create wonderful new attrac-
Thanks Tom Vandergriff for all you did for Arlington’s
much intellectual property and branding is tions, expand F&B and retail options and make
Entertainment District. This city will miss you greatly. And
used in parks these days. use of additional marketing opportunities.
thanks for bringing baseball to Arlington, even if it didn’t sit
That use, of course, stems from the fact TWWofHP leads the way, but the magic of
well with then President Nixon. But that’s a whole other story...
that, given the right IP/brand aimed at the brand use should and will continue to spread
SE E O BITUAR Y — PA GES 4 & 5 —Gary Slade
right target market, the level of success can elsewhere too!
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February 2011 AMUSEMENT TODAY 3
If I weren’t working in the amusement industry, I Favorite childhood TV show
would be … The Three Stooges.
Believe it or not, owning a hot dog cart and having a
great time. When I say 2011, what comes to your mind?
Time moves way too fast!
Compiled by Janice Witherow Biggest challenge facing our industry
The fast changing times. Who’s in charge of dinnertime in your house?
Tony Fiori
I have to give credit to my wife.
Ray Cammack Shows The thing I like most about amusement/waterpark
season is … If money were no object, I would …

Every event is a new challenge, and I love the thrill of Retire in a minute and gladly spend more time with my
For Tony Fiori, life is one big
making it all work. family.
carnival. As Vice President/Media

Marketing for Ray Cammack Shows
What is your favorite restaurant to take people to? My favorite one-stop shopping store is …
(RCS), Inc., Tony certainly knows his
It depends what city I am in, when in Houston, I love Costco Wholesale … what a great store!
way around the midway scene; RCS is
Damian’s (authentic Italian); in Del Mar, Calif., Jake’s is
a leading carnival company with more
amazing (beachfront dining); and when in Los Angeles, The busiest day of the week for me always seems to
than 70 rides, specialty food service
Fiori Dan Tana’s is my place to go (1950s-era Italian). be …
units and 50 game booths. Nine
For some reason, it’s Wednesday … the middle of the
million customers annually experience
Favorite author week.
the RCS midways at some of the largest county and
Ken Blanchard, who is a top expert on leadership and
state fairs throughout the western United States. Tony
management training. The one place I would rather be more than anywhere
resides in Lake Tahoe, Nevada, with his wife and loves
is …
spending time with his grandchildren. RCS is based in
Most people think I am … Honestly, home.
Laveen, Arizona.
Argumentative! But I disagee.
If you were seated next to the President on an air-
Title
The sport I really stink at is … plane, what would you want to ask him?
Vice President/Media Marketing.
Golf. Something simple and casual like “How is your day
going?”
Number of years with Ray Cammack Shows
What’s your typical breakfast?
25.
I like to start the day with oatmeal, bacon and tea. What’s really worth waking up for?
The anticipation of what a new day will bring.
Best thing about the industry
What’s one thing you do on Friday to jumpstart the
No doubt about it, the people we work with. weekend? To suggest a candidate for the Two-Minute Drill
Every day in my business feels like a weekend, so actu- feature, contact columnist Janice Witherow at
Favorite amusement ride
ally, nothing special. [email protected] or [phone].
La Grande Wheel.

GIBTOWN I have a new relationship with The seat is made of fiber- also features a barrel – “always a corn, cheese corn and regular
Hi Lite Rides, a company based glass and Cook said because the crowd favorite.” corn.
Continued from page 1
in South Carolina. I will have a seats will have to be taken in and “Putting a barrel in a glass “This is not new but is really
Hi Lite Scat 2 at Gibtown.” out of the trailer for the mobile house is a new idea which makes hot right now,” said Bo Wilson,
to be satisfied with how the 2010 Games manufacturer Bob’s operator, the fiberglass has more this unit inventive and strong,” Gold Medal’s eastern regional
season turned out,” Wisdom Space Racers, Daytona Beach, of a chance to break or crack. Fike continued. “The 30-foot sales manager. “It is a low cost,
said. “And, that is good.” Fla., will also be on hand in Gib- “So, we probably will have a trailer lays out 60 feet and is 18 high mark-up item.”
Wisdom said his company sonton. That company, too, has traditional seating for the trailer- feet tall and comes equipped The company will also bring
will exhibit a Monster Truck ride had a good run of sales since the mounted version,” Cook said. “I with all the necessary safety its Saratoga Swirl Potato.
and a Looney Lagoon spinning IAAPA show, particularly with think it will be a big hit.” items including an automatic Carousel Softoys Inc. Cara-
coaster. the new Stinky Feet, a multi-tar- Bob’s Space Racers will also sprinkler system.” van Concessions, Quebec, Can.,
“We had a Looney Lagoon get water game. exhibit the large Whopper Water Waterloo Tent & Tarp, Wa- will be in Gibtown exhibiting
car at the IAAPA show but we “It has been extremely suc- trailer mounted game and the terloo, Iowa, will exhibit a cen- its new crane products, new soft
will have the whole coaster set cessful at IAAPA,” said Glenda Lucky Duck, an electronic duck ter joint at the company’s inside toys as well as its new plush cats
up in Gibtown,” he said. “We Cook, CEO, Bob’s Space Racers. pond game. booth as well as a solar-powered and new plush monkeys. Sean
will also have a Venture Cobra “We are sold out of the arcade Show Me Fabrications, center joint outside. Magill, director of sales, said
conversion with us as well.” version and are behind on pro- Sedalia, Mo., will exhibit a 16- “We will also have our dis- plush companies traditionally
Len Soled, Rides-4-U, duction of that. We have had foot Funnel Cake-Corn Dog counted merchandise barn,” said wait until the IISA trade show to
Somerville, N.J., who represents, quite a few orders on the park trailer unit, said the company’s Billie Wood, sales and marketing display new products.
among others, ride manufactur- model.” Bill Fike. coordinator, Waterloo. “We will Plush products will increase
ers SBF, VISA, and KMG, will Cook said in mid-January “This unit has all the neces- have a lot of merchandise that in price this year, Magill said.
exhibit a variety of kiddie rides that they were putting the finish- sary equipment plus very color- wasn’t quite the right color or Those increases are coming from
from SBF. ing touches on the trailer-mount- ful graphics,” Fike said. “We will size, etc., for sale at a great dis- the increase of the product, ma-
“KMG will have an Inver- ed version of Stinky Feet. also have on display a Ticket count. We have done this for a terial and labor in China. Ma-
sion set up again like last year,” “I’m excited about it going Box trailer with ticket boxes in- while and has been successful gill’s prices will most likely in-
Soled said. “I also have two new to Gibtown,” Cook said. “It may cluded.” for us.” crease about 30 percent this year
relationships. One is Dartron not have the seat that resembles New this year for Show Me Gold Medal Products, Cin- over last.
and I will have a Dartron Zero a toilet seat for the trailer-mount- is the Midway Maze, a 30-foot cinnati, Ohio, will be exhibiting
Gravity at the Gibtown show. ed version, however.” bumper-pull glass house that their unit that makes caramel
4 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2011
Tom Vandergriff, longtime mayor and politican, dies at 84
'Boy mayor' credited with
bringing General Motors,
Six Flags Over Texas and
Texas Rangers to Arlington
Longtime Arlington, Texas
mayor and politician Tom Van-
dergriff died at Texas Health
Harris Methodist Hospital Fort
Worth on Dec. 30. He was 84.
Born in
Carrollton,
Texas on Jan.
29, 1926, he
was 12 when
his family
moved to Ar-
lington, which Vandergriff
at the time was
home to only 3,500 residents.
He earned a bachelor's
degree from the University of
Southern California in 1947 and
married his high school sweet-
heart, Anna Waynette Smith, in
1949. He moved back to Arling-
ton to work for his father's Van-
dergriff Chevrolet dealership
downtown. At age 23, Vanderg-
riff became president of the Ar- Six Flags Over Texas, a private- Above, Tom Vandergriff,
lington Chamber of Commerce. public partnership built with takes a front seat ride
Known as Arlington's 'boy the Great Southwest Corp. In with daughter Valerie on
mayor' when he was elected the 1950s, he had visited the the park's Big Bend roller
at the age of 25, Vandergriff is newly opened Disneyland. "I coaster. Above right, Van-
credited with luring the Texas became a fan myself," Vanderg- dergriff returns to SFOT
Rangers baseball team and riff said of the amusement park,
in 2001 to help cut the
General Motors assembly plant "so much so that I convinced
ribbon on the park's 40th
to the city. He secured land the Great Southwest Corp. this
anniversary, while at right,
to build Lake Arlington and was worth exploring."
he chats with some of the
raised money for the city's first The company was planning
real hospital, Arlington Memo- a large industrial park in Ar- park's gunfighter show
rial. lington and Grand Prairie, but cast.
4See VANDERGRIFF, page 5
Vandergriff also supported SFOT ARCHIVES
Industry remembers Tom Vandergriff
"I heard about the passing of Tom Vandergriff and wanted the "Tom Vandergriff was a terrific encourager to Angus and Luther.
industry to know that my heart is sad. Mr. Tom was always my hero. He was also a mentor to me. The very last line in the Broadway pro-
When I joined Six Flags at the ripe age of 20, he was mayor of Arling- duction of Wicked is: 'Because we knew you, we have been made
ton at the ripe age of 34 and I always said I wanted to be like him. better.' When I hear this line it totally exemplifies the life of Tom Van-
He was and will always be such an icon and we are better off having dergriff."
known him personally and the area of Arlington is better off for all —Michael A. Jenkins, President, LARC;
his efforts and accomplishments. He will be greatly missed." Six Flags Over Texas 1961-1969
—Larry Cochran CEO, Adrenaline Family Parks;
Six Flags Corp., 1961-2000 "I truly admire Judge Vandergriff’s vision for the city of Arling-
ton. Just about everything he touched turned into tourism gold. He
"Angus Wynne, Jr. and Luther Clark both told me when Tom was ahead of his time and for that, all of us in the Arlington Enter-
Vandergriff visited Disneyland in the fall of 1958 (I believe), he was tainment District are grateful.
intrigued with the idea and arranged a meeting with Walt Disney. "He truly loved Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor. He
Disneyland was relatively new and just finding its 'legs,' so Walt was was our biggest cheerleader. I can recall one day, when I was the
not ready to commit to a second project at that time. Operations Director, I was standing in the middle of the toll plaza at
"Angus, who was developing the Great Southwest Corporation, Six Flags helping direct traffic and getting extra people positioned
was looking for an iconic development to interest people from both to handle the flood of cars that were pouring in. Suddenly, I noticed
Dallas and Fort Worth and thought that Arlington was not that far a car driving ever so slowly in the drop-off lane. I looked up and
away from either city for an industrial park. there in the passenger’s seat was Judge Vandergriff. He had the big-
"Luther told me some years ago that Vandergriff invited Angus gest grin on his face, which truly stood out amongst the majority of
and Luther to lunch and proposed the idea. He told me the name of angst expressions that were surrounding me. He got it. He knew
the restaurant in Arlington but, quite honestly, I cannot remember. that the crowd was not only good for Six Flags, but also for the city
Angus was looking for a cash flow generator to finance the infra- of Arlington.
structure of his massive development — 4,800 acres originally (com- "Tom Vandergriff was a hero to Arlington and Six Flags Over
Tom Vandergriff is seen
prising the old Waggoner Ranch and the BF Ellington Dairy Farm). Texas."
here in the Six Flags Over Thanks to Tom's encouragement, the dairy farm eventually became —Steve Martindale, Park President, Six Flags Over Texas
Texas Petting Zoo. the 204-acre development of Six Flags Over Texas.
February 2011 AMUSEMENT TODAY 5
VANDERGRIFF

Key moments in time for Tom Vandergriff
Continued from page 4
Vandergriff suggested to devel-
1951—Tom Vandergriff is elected Arlington Mayor at age 25. He
oper Angus G. Wynne Jr. that
would remain Mayor for the next 26 years. During first year in office
he should also go look at Dis-
begins courting General Motors to build a plant in Arlington.
neyland. He met with Walt Dis-
1954—A $33 million General Motors assembly plant opens on
ney and tried to convince him
250-acres in Arlington.
that his next theme park should
1955—Lobbies State of Texas to construct Texas Highway 360 from
be in Arlington, and Wynne of-
Hwy 183 south to Texas Hwy 80. The road is expanded two more fered land for the project. That
times to finally connect to I-20 on the city's south side. Today, the effort went nowhere, but Wyn-
road is now known as the Angus G. Wynne, Jr. Freeway. ne decided to build his own
1956—Angus G. Wynne, Jr. forms the Great Southwest Corp. and be- park called Texas Under Six
gins work on the massive Great Southwest Industrial District located Flags. Several years, $10 mil-
in both Arlington and Grand Prairie, Texas. lion and one name change later,
1957—The Dallas-Fort Worth Turnpike opens (now I-30 and the Tom Six Flags Over Texas opened in
Landry Highway) connecting the city with its neighboring big cities. 1961. Since then, Arlington has
been a tourist destination.
Once the toll road bonds were paid for (17 years early), Vandergriff
Vandergriff was also a sup-
lobbied in 1979 to have the toll booths removed, resulting in a free Six Flags Over Texas as seen in early 1960's
porter of Seven Seas, a short
road. His dream to provide water needs for the city came to light
lived marine-life park in Ar-
with the opening of the new $6 million Lake Arlington. The lake is
lington and the building of the
made up of 2,250 surface acres and features a 143-square-mile wa-
nation's second Wet 'n Wild wa-
tershed.
terpark. He also fought for state
1958—Vandergriff forms a committee to pursue a Major League
highway funds to help develop
Baseball franchise. Arlington Memorial Hospital opens, largely a re-
key roadways around Arling-
sult of his fundraising efforts. ton and lobbied to get Arling-
1961—Vandergriff would meet with Walt Disney in the fall of 1958 ton State College converted
to bring a Disneyland-style theme park to Arlington on available from a 2-year college into the
land that was being provided in the new Great Southwest Industrial 4-year college known today as
District (GSW). Disney would decline, saying it was too soon for him the University of Texas at Ar-
to consider building another park. Not to be turned down, Vander- lington (UTA).
griff convinces GSW's developer Agnus G. Wynne to go look at Dis- His 55 years in politics also
neyland stating, "a park like that would be a cash cow for your in- included one term as a Demo-
crat in the U.S. House of Rep-
dustrial district." The rest is history as Vandergriff sees his park dream
resentatives in the early 1980s
come true with the opening of the $10 million Six Flags Over Texas
and 16 years as a Republican
theme park on Aug. 5, 1961, a project of Angus G. Wynne, Jr.'s new When the Texas Rangers relocated to Arlington, the MLB
while serving as Tarrant Coun-
Great Southwest Corp. It was an instant success. team would call Arlington Stadium home.
ty judge until his retirement in
1965—Arlington lands a minor league baseball team. The Dallas-
2006.
Fort Worth Spurs play in Arlington's new taxpayer financed $9.5 mil-
His last public appearance
lion, 10,000-seat Turnpike Stadium.
was seeing the Texas Rangers
1971—Washington Sentors owner Bob Short announces he's mov-
beat the New York Yankees to
ing the team to Arlington and renaming it the Texas Rangers. Turn- win the American Leage base-
pike Stadium is expanded and renamed Arlington Stadium. Presi- ball pennant, and advance to
dent Richard Nixon is unhappy by the loss of baseball in Washington. the club's first ever World Se-
1972—Seven Seas, a $15 million city-owned sealife aquatic park ries.
opens on 10-acres of land adjacent to Arlington Stadium. It's a finan- Several places around the
cial failure and closes after three years. city of Arlington are named in
1975—Vandergriff brings in Sea World's founder, George Millay to Vandergriff's honor including
run Seven Seas. Millay teams up with the American Broadcasting Vandergriff Park, the Vander-
griff Building known as the
Corp. to pump money into the closed park. The movie "Jaws" opens,
Historic V, Vandergriff Town
helping to contribute to the one-year profitable success of the park.
Center, Vandergriff Plaza at
Millay determines the park's creditability is shot and declines to re-
Rangers Ballpark, and Vander-
new his management contract. Through this, Millay and Vandergriff
griff Way adjacent to the Gen-
form a close friendship. The park would operate for one last season Seven Seas, the sealife/marine park stuggled, but did turn
eral Motors plant off Abram
by a another operator, rebranded with a Hawaii theme, before clos- a profit the one year George Millay operated it.
Street in east Arlington.
ing for good in 1976.
Vandergriff is survived by
1977—Vandergriff resigns as Mayor.
his sister Virginia Deering of
1982—Vandergriff runs for U.S. House as a Democrat and wins. Arlington; daughter Vanessa
1983—Although no longer Mayor, due to his friendship with Watters of Los Angeles; son
George Millay, Vandergriff convinces Millay to open his second Wet Victor Vandergriff of Arling-
'n Wild waterpark in Arlington. Millay's second park opens May 21, ton; daughter Valerie Kelton
on 47-acres of land across I-30 from Arlington Stadium at a cost of of Mansfield; daughter Vivica
$22 million. Its debut is three times the size of Wet 'n Wild in Orlando. Vandergriff of Mansfield; and
It is an instant success. The park would be purchased by Six Flags grandchildren Katharine Van-
Corp. in 1997 and renamed Hurricane Harbor. dergriff, Kendall Kelton, Rachel
Kelton, Parker Vandergriff and
1990—Vandergriff runs for Tarrant County (Texas) judge as a Repub-
Caroline Vandergriff.
lican and wins.
A public visitation and me-
2005—Vandergriff announces his retirement once his current politi-
morial service was held in Ar-
cal term is over.
lington.
2010—Vandergriff watches his beloved Texas Rangers defeat the
A private ceremony was
New York Yankees on Oct. 22 to win their first American League
held for family and relatives
Millay's second Wet 'n Wild waterpark would open in Ar-
championship and advance to their first World Series.
with burial following at Moore
—Compiled from AT archives and various newspaper reports lington, three times the size of his Orlando park.
Memorial Gardens in Arling-
ton.
6 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2011
Bud Hurlbut, ride designer and park developer, dies at 93
Credited with building
many of whom have known part of his ranch outside of ture trains for the amusement Bud would have wanted."
Knott's Berry Farm's Hurlbut for years. “There Whittier, his Cadillac and his industry. Longtime friend Hurlbut's wife of 63 years,
would not be a Knott’s Berry home to finance construction. Harry Suker told Amusement Lucille, passed away in May
Log Ride, Mine Rides;
Farm theme park today if it “One day,” Hurlbut re- Today by phone the company of 2004. They had no children.
also created Castle Park
were not for the talent, deter- called in an interview earlier will remain open for much of Services were held on Jan.
mination and creativity of Bud this year, “Knott came over the coming year to complete 10, at Rose Hills Memorial
Bud Hurlbut, the creative Hurlbut,” said Marty Keithley, and said, ‘Bud, are you sure all current train orders. It's Park in Whittier, Calif.
genius who produced some general manager of Knott’s you know what you’re doing?’ the right thing to do and what
of Knott’s Berry Farm‘s cen- Berry Farm. “We will be forev- I told him, ‘Yeah, sure.’ I never
terpiece rides, died January 5, er grateful for the attractions lied to him again.” Industry remembers Bud Hurlbut
2011. He was 93. that he created. His legacy He knew what he was do-
"We were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Bud
Wendell will live on and generations to ing. The ride was an instant hit
Hurlbut, one of the pioneers of Knott’s Berry Farm, on January
“Bud” Hurl- come will know of his talent.” when it opened in 1960.
5th at the age of 92.
but worked Landmarks all over South- Hurlbut, Marion Knott,
"There would not be a Knott’s Berry Farm theme park today
for years with ern California display Hurl- said, “lived the true life of an
if it were not for the talent, determination and creativity of Bud
Walter Knott, but’s work. He crafted the Lib- entrepreneur. That’s why he
Hurlbut. Bud designed and built what is known today as the
the founder of erty Bell replica that hangs in and dad got along so well.”
heart of the park, Knott’s very first major attraction the Calico
Knott’s Berry Independence Hall at Knott’s Hurlbut’s work made an
Hurlbut Mine Ride, and what continues to be one of the most popular
Farm. Hurl- Berry Farm. Hurlbut toiled for impression on the industry.
rides in the park, the Timber Mountain Log Ride. Bud also de-
but designed two weeks to make sure that Walt Disney frequently came
signed an exact replica of the Liberty Bell for Knott’s Indepen-
and built the Calico Mine Ride the bell in Buena Park sported to watch Hurlbut’s work on
dence Hall. Bud was not only a close friend of Walter Knott, but
and the Timber Mountain Log a crack exactly like the origi- the Calico Mine Ride.
a friend of the entire Knott family. He will be truly missed by
Ride – two attractions that are nal. Hurlbut designed the rep- Bud Hurlbut was the first
those who worked with him here at Knott’s and we will be for-
still among the park's most lica 1880s steam train that now to create themed rides, Marion
ever grateful for the attractions that he created. His legacy will
popular rides. runs at the Santa Ana Zoo. The Knott said, ideas that later
live on and generations to come will know of his talent."
Hurlbut became known train originally rode the rails were imitated elsewhere.
—Marty Keithley, General Manager, Knott’s Berry Farm
in the industry for his inno- around Santa’s Village in the A a cost of $3 million, the
vation, like the locomotives’ San Bernardino Mountains be- Timber Mountain Log Ride
"It is sad to hear of Bud Hurlbut's passing as he was a fine
electric motors on the Mine fore the zoo bought it in 1999. was opened by John Wayne
man in every way and truly one of the giants of our industry.
Ride, and attention to de- After selling his two rides to and his son, John Ethan, who
"I don’t know when I first met Bud but it was many years
tail. Even into his nineties, he Knott's, he used the profits took the first ride down the
ago. He was always happy and I never heard him say a bad thing
could be found in the middle to design and develop Castle flume as part of the opening
about anyone. In later years he would always stop by our Arrow
of his workshop, just across La Park in Riverside, Calif. Open- ceremonies July 11, 1969.
booth at the trade show. He always had a story to tell and he
Palma Avenue from Knott’s ing in 1976, the 25-acre FEC Since opening day, Timber
was one great story teller. One of the things I remember about
Berry Farm. was an instant hit with guests Mountain Log Ride, located
Bud is that he always told these stories (some of them were of
“Here’s the thing, I always due to Hurlbut's attention to in Ghost Town, has been one
the off color variety) in a very loud voice that could be heard by
was independent. I didn’t detail. His park, and its four of the most popular rides at every one in the same room.
have to answer yes or no to no award-winning landscaped Knott’s. "He was truly a hands on guy who liked to build things
one,” Hurlbut told the Orange miniature golf courses quickly “Both of the rides he did and he could always be found in his shop across the road from
County Register’s Mark Eades nicknamed Castle Park as the were just as viable today as Knott’s. Whenever I would go to Knott’s I made it a point to go
in an interview last year. “I Disneyland of FEC's. when he built them. There over to his shop to chat which was always a worthwhile thing
paid my bills. And I’ve kept In the late 1950s, Hurlbut isn’t a log ride at any other to do. I remember that he had an old carousel in the yard that
the shop going and kept work- built the Calico Mine Ride on a park that compares to the log he was planning to rebuild someday…I wonder if he ever did?
ing because this is my golf contract basis for Knott. Hurl- ride at the Farm.” "There are not many of Bud’s kind left in our industry to help
game. It’s my enjoyment, and but agreed to build and main- Even after selling off his us remember what was."
that’s why I keep doing it.” tain the ride, paying Knott a amusement interests at Knott's —Ron Toomer, retired from Arrow Development Corp.
“He loved to create those portion of the ride’s proceeds. and Castle Park, Hurlbut nev-
things. That was his life,” said It required a year of design er left the amusement indus- "I had the pleasure of spending a lot of quality time with
Marion Knott, Walter Knott’s and construction, all of which try, as he continued to work at Bud and became good friends with him, although I haven’t seen
daughter. cost about $1.5 million. As his Buena Park-based Hurlbut him in 10 years or so. He was a designer, inventor, builder of
The news spread quickly work continued and Hurlbut Amusement Company where many things that others could only dream of. He made me think
among Knott’s employees, needed more money, he sold they continued to build minia- of O.D. Hopkins every time I talked with him. I sold him a Log
Flume for his Castle Park in Riverside, Calif.
"Bud was a story teller and I had the privilege of touring the
Knott’s Log Flume and Calico Mine Train with him on several oc-
casions. He spent all day once telling me how he had designed
and built the Log Flume and Mine Train.
"He had made a deal with Walter Knott where he got paid
so much a head for everyone that entered Knott’s Berry Farm.
The deal which probably seemed like a good deal to Mr. Knott
at the time, paid Bud a bunch of money in the long run. He had
mortgaged practically everything he had to build the rides, but
as others have said the rides are without a doubt the most fa-
mous rides in our industry. Unfortunately, there aren’t any more
like Bud Hurlbut that I know of. He will be missed. May God rest
his soul.
—Jerry Pendleton, former President of O.D. Hopkins
"Bud was a ture pioneer in our industry. He was way ahead
PHOTOS COURTESY KNOTT'S BERRY FARM
of his time in everything he did. He was also a great engineer
Above left, In 1960, Bud Hurlbut is seen inspecting a scene inside the Calico Mine Ride.
with exceptional intelligence. His work was nothing short of
Above right, Walter Knott, waving his hat and Bud Hurlbut, seated in back, take a ride on perfection."
the Timber Mountain Log Ride. Designed by Hurlbut, both rides remain icons at Knott's —Jack Falfas, former Cedar Fair executive
Berry Farm today.
February 2011 AMUSEMENT TODAY 7
INTERNATIONAL
www.AmusementToday.com
PARKS ATTRACTIONS RESORTS ENTERTAINMENT SUPPLIERS
Mack water coaster planned for Djurs Sommerland
BRIEF
Andrew Mellor
ultimate water ride, combin-
ABC Rides details Amusement Today ing high speed roller coaster
elements, including a 22 meter
current projects,
A new water coaster from (72 foot) finale drop into the
corporate changes
Mack Rides is set to open at water, and a water ride,” ex-
Along with a number Djurs Sommerland in Den- plained park Managing Direc-
of water-based attractions mark for the 2011 season. tor Henrik Nielsen. “The ride
ABC Rides is supplying for Representing the park’s is very impressive and inter-
both Legoland Malaysia largest investment in its histo- esting to look at and it appeals
and Legoland Florida, the ry at approximately €7.5 mil- to most of the family, which is
company is also providing a lion (U.S. $10 million), the ride very important for us.
Freefall Tower for the Black- will be located in the relatively “A part of the strategy be-
pool Tower Dungeon. In ad- new pirate themed area which hind building this big ride is
dition, two German parks currently features a number that we want Djurs Sommer-
turned to ABC for their lat- of other rides and attractions. land to have more national
est attractions: a Dynamic Among these are the “Piraten” appeal and be able to draw
Swing Glider for Potts Park Mega-Lite coaster from Inta- guests from a larger catchment
and a Multi-Motion Tower min, a Kontiki ride from Zierer RENDERING COURTESY DJURS SOMMERLAND area. We hereby also indicate
for Taunus Wunderland. and a mini Log Flume and Tilt Djurs Sommerland is aiming to attract guests from further that we expect growth in the
In an effort to offer Tower from ABC Rides. afield in 2011 with its thrilling new water coaster from number of visitors. The ride is
lower priced equipment The new Mack ride will scheduled to open on May 7.”
Mack Rides.
during the current econom- bring yet more family fun to Djurs Sommerland cur-
ic downturn, ABC is intro- the venue and is being built representing the highest such mph). The total ride cycle time rently attracts more than
ducing its new ABC Smart on an unused area within the ride Mack has ever built. It is around 178 seconds and the 575,000 visitors per year in just
Rides product line. ABC park. It will be a total of 455 will utilize six, eight-seater theoretical capacity of the at- over 100 days of operation, an
feels that this new offering meters (1,493 feet) in length boats with individual lap bars traction is 970 riders per hour. increase of almost 50 percent
will cater not only to the and will have a maximum and the maximum speed will “We chose the Mack coast- since the year 2000.
smaller parks, but also help height of 28 meters (92 feet), be approximately 72 kph (45 er because we think it is the
fill in the 'gaps' at some of
the larger facilities. Some of
ABC's Smart Rides include
Monkey Tree (junior drop
tower); AirRace (tubing
ride); and the Pedalo Heli-
copter (swing ride).
Peter Ziegler (formerly
of Bear Rides) has joined
the sales force of ABC Rides
Switzerland. As director of
sales, he will be involved in
international transactions
as well as technical project
sales support.
Though ABC is now a
limited (Ltd) company and
is using the new legal name
of 'ABC Engineering AG'
they will continue to con-
duct business under ABC
PHOTOS COURTESY DJURS SOMMERLAND
Rides Switzerland.
The Mack-built water coaster is taking shape at Djurs Sommerland. When it is completed, it will stand 28 meters tall,
•www.abc-rides.com.
making it the tallest ride of its kind Mack has ever built.
8 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2011
Interlink to deliver indoor dual-lift Super Flume to Indonesia
Officials at the France/U.K.-based water world class water ride installations,” said In-
ride specialist Interlink has announced it is to terlink Managing Director John Hudd. “It will
supply a dual-lift Super Flume for an indoor be the first time we have used these themed
leisure project in Bandung, Indonesia for open- double-seat boats on a flume ride, which will
ing in 2011. help provide a new type of experience, while
The custom-built attraction will feature the theming and décor throughout the ride will
double-seat, Zodiac-style boats specially de- make it a truly stunning attraction.
signed at the client’s request, which will sub- “We were particularly delighted to win this
sequently become available to others on future contract as it has given us the opportunity to
ride installations. do some innovative new elements on a flume
The Super Flume will feature two lifts and ride attraction and I’m sure it will be a great
drops — 10 feet and 30 feet-high, respectively. success,” added Hudd.
The length of the ride will be approximately Interlink has supplied water attractions
909 feet, with the station section being 39 feet to a wide variety of venues during the past
in length. Water speed will be 4.9 feet per sec- three decades and currently offers a number
ond and a total of seven, six-seater boats will of rides in its product line. Among these are
RENDERING COURTESY INTERLINK
be utilized. The ride will be fully themed in an the aforementioned Super Flume, Log Flume,
Interlink will supply a dual-lift Super Flume for an indoor
Aztec style, incorporating a large volcano fea- Rapid River, Water Battle and Spin Boat rides,
leisure project in Bandung, Indonesia. Slated to open in
ture, rock work and other related décor and which allow the company to cater to different
2011, the Aztec-themed ride will utilize Zodiac-style boats
surroundings. customer requirements and a wide range of age
and feature a large volcano, rock work and other related
“This will be a very special ride and will groups.
décor. add further to our ever-growing portfolio of •www.interlink-lg.com.
Toy Story Playland brings new world of fun to Disneyland Paris
Andrew Mellor
meter tall Buzz Lightyear ac-
Amusement Today tion figure, while at the other
end of the land, monkeys
New family-friendly ad- from a giant blue Barrel of
ventures came to Disneyland Monkeys welcomes guests
Paris in 2010 with the open- with letters from a Scrabble
ing of Toy Story Playland, the game.
first Toy Story based land in Three new attractions
any Disney theme park in the were introduced at the open-
world. ing of Toy Story Playland. The
An expansion of Toon Toy Story Soldiers Parachute
Studios, inside Walt Disney Drop is themed on the tiny
Studios Park, the new area green army men figures that
features attractions based on feature in all three Toy Story
some of the most popular movies. The ride simulates
characters from the Disney their parachuting exploits,
Pixar Toy Story films. Guests with visitors being carried to
enter a land where they feel as the top of a 27 meter (88 feet)
though they’ve been shrunk tower and “parachuted” gen-
as they are dwarfed by giant tly back down to earth. Manu- PHOTOS COURTESY DISNEYLAND PARIS
blades of grass and oversized factured by Intamin, the ride Above left, a four meter tall Buzz Lightyear greets guests
toys in an outdoor play area is a custom version of para- at one of the two entrances to Toy Story Playland. Above,
inspired by the back yard chute drop attractions found the Disney Pixar Toy Story movies inspired Disneyland
where Toy Story character at various other parks around Paris’ new Toy Story Playland and its attractions. Below,
Andy took his toys to play. the world. thrill seekers will find an Intamin Half Pipe coaster recre-
“When you are in this The RC Racer attraction ating thrills based on the RC Racer remote controlled car.
land, nothing is human scale is based on the remote con-
and everything is made of trol car that plays a key role
toys,” comments Chrissie Al- at various points in the Toy
len, Walt Disney Imagineer- Story movies and is a Half
ing senior show producer. Pipe roller coaster, again from
And to help create the sense Intamin. Themed to resemble
that guests have shrunk to the Hot Wheels track that RC
the size of toys, Disney Imagi- rides in the films, riders soar
neers took advantage of a backwards and forwards sev-
more than 100 year old forest eral times on the Half Pipe
that edges the play area and track.
tower over Toy Story Play- The Slinky Dog ZigZag
land. ride is again a customized
“The landscape naturally version of a classic Intamin
reinforces the sense of being attraction, in this case a Cater-
immersed in the play world,” pillar-style flat ride, with the
Allen added. theme seeing guests seated in
There are two entrances the “springs” of Slinky Dog
to Toy Story Playland. At the as he chases his tail around a
main entrance is a giant, four food bowl.
February 2011 AMUSEMENT TODAY 9
10 AMUSEMENT TODAY February 2011
AMUSEMENT PARKS
www.AmusementToday.com
FEC’S ATTRACTIONS RESORTS ENTERTAINMENT SUPPLIERS
CNL Lifestyle Properties acquires Pacific Park
BRIEF
CNL Lifestyle Properties Properties owns the ground
IAA offers Soquet's
Inc., a real estate investment lease and physical assets of
Galloping Horses trust (REIT), has acquired Pa- Pacific Park. The park will be
ride to U.S. parks cific Park amusement park leased by tenant Santa Monica
from Santa Monica Amuse- Amusements and will continue
ments LLC for $34 million. The to be run by CEO and General
International Amuse-
amusement park, located on Manager Mary Ann Powell.
ment Alliance announces
the historic Santa Monica Pier Powell has been managing Pa-
the availability of Soquet's
in southern California, will cific Park for 13 years and will
unique Galloping Horses
continue to be operated by San- continue to be responsible for
attraction for parks in the
ta Monica Amusements under all operations as well as the de-
United States.
a net-lease agreement. velopment and execution of the
“'Galloping Horses' is
Pacific Park is a two-acre park’s long-term plans.
the most popular children’s
amusement park on the Santa “We are excited about the
ride in every amusement
Monica pier that offers family- partnership with CNL Lifestyle
facility where the ride is
style entertainment with 12 Properties, which allows us to
installed in Europe,” said
rides, 18 midway games as continue to develop the vision
George Laibe, principal of
well as multiple attractions, an PHOTO COURTESY PACIFIC PARK of the park,” said Powell. “Our
International Amusement
oceanfront food plaza, enter- CNL Lifestyle Properties Inc. has acquired California's Pa- goal and objective as the man-
Alliance LLC, representa-
tainment and specialty shops. agement team is to continue
cific Park for $34 million. Located on the historic Santa
tive of Soquet S.A. “We have
“Pacific Park matches our to maintain the park’s stellar
recently renewed our exclu- Monica Pier, the facility will continue to be operated by
strategy of owning proper- safety record and continu-
sive representation with So- Santa Monica Amusements under a net-lease agreement.
ties that are located in or near ally improve operations while
quet, France’s largest ride
large population centers,” said The park is a unique prop- village properties, one family enhancing the guest’s experi-
manufacture and the manu-
Byron Carlock, president and erty located on a nationally entertainment center, one wa- ence.”
facturer of this ride.
CEO of CNL Lifestyle Proper- known historic pier and attracts terpark and six golf courses in For park visitors, employ-
“The ride is basically a
ties. “This is an iconic property more than four million visitors California. The acquisition of ees and the Santa Monica com-
carousel horse on a closed
in a city with significant charac- annually. CNL Lifestyle Prop- Pacific Park boosts the compa- munity, the operations of the
rail track circuit. Horses or
ter; we are very pleased to have erties also owns three marinas, ny’s amusement park portfolio park will not be impacted by
a variety of other available
it in our portfolio.” three ski resorts, two resort to 22 nationally. CNL Lifestyle this transaction.
animals, travel on a single
Construction starts
rail circuit, with a mild and Lake Compounce adding Zamperla Mega Disk'O
smooth horse galloping ac- for Knott’s new
tion. Two or more rails can
Officials at Connecticut's Lake Compounce More than 1,000 votes were cast, and while the Mondial-built ride
be utilized to have a real
have confirmed that the park's historic Rotor contest raged, the park’s marketing department
horse race for added capac-
will be replaced for the 2011 season with a new designed a logo for each name. Now they’re try-
ity as well as the excitement Construction has begun
Zamperla Mega Disk'O. ing to figure out a theme for the ride.
of a race environment," con- for Knott’s Berry Farm’s
The ride is a newer version of Zamperla's The park has the permits and has already
tinued Laibe. "While the next new attraction, Wind-
Disk’O, and can seat 24 to 40 adults and carry begun work on the foundation for its newest at-
minimum recommended Seeker. The location will
as many as 1,000 people per hour when operat- traction. Located near kiddieland, it is expected
length of the rail is about be in the Knott’s Fiesta Vil-
ing at full capacity. The new ride will be painted to debut in May.
600 feet for 10 horses, the lage area situated between
blue and orange with highlights of green. The fate of the Rotor is unclear. It may be
rail can be designed to any Knott’s Carousel and the
While Mega Disk’O is the factory name refurbished and moved to another park or sold.
length to accommodate Jaguar! roller coaster.
for the ride, it will sport the moniker of Rev-O- "Because of its limited capacity, it’s unlikely
more horses per rail, per “This addition will add
Lution when it debuts at Lake Compounce. to return to Lake Compounce. Right now it’s
circuit. The seats are con- another exciting attraction
According to Jerry Brick, the park’s general packed away in trailers,” said Brick. “It’s well
figured so that an adult can to one of the park’s most
manager, the name was chosen by fans of Lake past its time. I just don’t see it fitting in our park
ride with a child, but a child historic areas, Fiesta Vil-
Compounce, who picked between two names anymore.”
of any age fully enjoys the lage, which first opened
— The-Rev-O-Lution and Spin Cycle. The con- Lake Compounce, the nation’s oldest
experience." to the public in 1969,” said
test wasn’t even close, with 60 to 70 percent of amusement park, opens for its 166th season on
•www.iaaamusement. Marty Keithley, Knott’s gen-
the respondents choosing The Rev-O-Lution. May 13.
4See KNOTT'S, page 11
com.