jedimaster1227
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http://www.indystar.com/article/20100701/BUSINESS/100701002/Holiday-World-has-app-to-go-with-the-map
Indiana-based Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari is the latest amusement park in the country to give iPhone users a way to stay interactive -- using an app instead of just a fold-out map.The theme park in Santa Claus, Ind., said today that its "Holiday World & More" application is available free in the iTunes App Store. (The app also is available as a mobile site for use on other smart-phones, using the address: http://m.holidayworld.com)
Visitors can learn the speed of a roller coaster or height of a water slide, where to find the nearest funnel cake or the closest location for free soft drinks.
“We’re really excited to launch our own iPhone app,” says park general manager Matt Eckert, in a news release. “I think the coolest part is the interactive map. It literally provides a ‘you are here’ perspective, along with the ability to find other members of your party who are also using the app.”
In April, U.S. theme park operator Six Flags launched an app called Fun Finder. The map feature uses the built-in GPS capability to show park patrons their current location.
Schlitterbahn Waterparks also has an app that features a multitude of timely digital amenities -- such as where the closest bathroom is to the user.
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Cedar Fair Entertainment Company, a leader in regional amusement parks, water parks and active entertainment, has selected Hipcricket to further engage park visitors with discounts, promotions, event notifications, and more delivered via mobile devices. The solutions from Hipcricket, the one-stop mobile marketing and mobile advertising company that empowers brands, agencies and media properties to engage customers and drive sales and loyalty, are in place in eight of the Company's amusement parks across the country.
Cedar Fair has begun integrating mobile into its overall marketing initiatives including traditional and non-traditional channels. The parks, which include Kings Island, Kings Dominion and Dorney Park, among others, are promoting their mobile clubs via Facebook, radio, email newsletters, and in-park signage. These channels leverage the power of Hipcricket's hyperlocal 6.0 platform and prompt current and potential park visitors to opt-in and receive special offers from Cedar Fair and their local amusement parks. Cedar Point -- the flagship park in the Cedar Fair system -- will be rolling out its mobile strategy in July.
"We're always looking for new ways to further connect with visitors while they're in our parks and also in between visits," said Lee Alexakos, vice president & corporate division head of marketing & advertising at Cedar Fair Entertainment Company. "This is the first time that we've launched a cross-park mobile marketing initiative and we're pleased by how easy it is to deliver timely and relevant messages to our guests which offer special promotions, encourage repeat visits and ultimately enhance their in-park experience."
"Mobile marketing is proven to be the best channel to not just reach customers, but to fully engage them," said Eric Harber, president and COO at Hipcricket. "By using Hipcricket's hyperlocal mobile marketing solutions, Cedar Fair is able to connect one-on-one with its park visitors and offer them timely and relevant information, no matter where they are."
Hipcricket has conducted more than 65,000 mobile marketing campaigns for some of the world's biggest brands--including Macy's, Nestle, KFC, HBO and Clear Channel--as well as hundreds of radio and television stations nationwide. Hipcricket equips clients with superior technology and services that enable them to create mobile advertising and promotional campaigns in minutes.
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Words cannot possibly describe how badly I want one of these in Orlando.
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http://www.thesunnews.com/2010/07/01/1563573/court-rules-against-park.html
A federal judge has awarded a Utah company nearly $14 million after the owners of Freestyle Music Park failed to respond to a lawsuit, according to court documents. The ruling is the latest in a series of setbacks for the shuttered park, whose owners say they are still searching for new backers.Tetra Financial Group filed a lawsuit in September seeking money for outstanding leasing payments, taxes and fees owed by the park. Creditors took the next step in court to claim a $570,000 debt owed by Freestyle Music Park, according to court documents filed Tuesday, after the park missed its April 1 deadline to pay.
John Carroll, attorney for Freestyle's predecessor Hard Rock Park, filed a certification in Delaware's federal bankruptcy court confirming that Freestyle's owner, FPI MB Entertainment, has not paid the debt. FPI MB inherited the debt when it purchased the park out of bankruptcy in 2009. The court will now issue a ruling in Hard Rock's favor, the documents said, creating a lien on the property and paving the way for further litigation.
Freestyle Music Park missed its deadline Thursday to pay off a $570,000 debt, according to a park attorney, bringing creditors one step closer to possibly foreclosing on the park. "Currently, the park has no ability to make the payment," said David Slough, a lawyer with Nexsen Pruet who represents the park. "They're working on this like they're working on all their payment obligation." Freestyle inherited the debt when it bought Hard Rock Park out of bankruptcy last year. Fred Giuliano, the trustee appointed by a Delaware bankruptcy court to oversee Hard Rock's case, confirmed that he had not received the payment.
A financial firm and automaker are pressing for rulings against Freestyle Music Park, after the park failed to answer lawsuits filed against it. Tetra Financial Group and BMW filed separate requests in federal court, calling for a default ruling to be issued against Freestyle for the park's failure to respond. A default ruling would find Freestyle at fault and require it to pay the damages. Tetra originally filed suit against Freestyle in September for failure to pay a $400,000 debt, but the park has not reacted by pleading or defending itself, according to court documents filed last week. FPI MB Entertainment, Freestyle's owner, inherited the debt owed to Tetra Financial Group when it bought the former Hard Rock Park out of bankruptcy in 2009.
A federal judge awarded a Utah company about $14 million on Tuesday after Freestyle Music Park failed to respond to a lawsuit, according to court documents. Tetra Financial Group filed a suit in September seeking money for outstanding leasing payments, taxes and fees owed by the park. Freestyle failed to answer the suit, leading to a default judgment to be issued in Tetra's favor. The $14 million also carries 18 percent interest until it is paid in full, the judgment said.
Freestyle closed last year after a disappointing summer season and the park will not reopen unless it finds new investors, according to park officials. The park continues to pursue new investment, said Nate Fata, an attorney for the park. Freestyle failed to answer the lawsuit, leading to the default judgment issued Tuesday in Tetra's favor. The $14 million also carries 18 percent interest until it is paid in full, the judgment said.
The park continues to "aggressively" pursue new investors, Steven Baker, president of FPI MB Entertainment, Freestyle's owner, said Wednesday.
Tetra and its attorneys did not respond to calls Wednesday.
The suit follows a June 4 ruling that ordered FPI MB to pay a $570,000 debt it inherited when it bought Hard Rock Park out of bankruptcy. Although Freestyle must pay the bankruptcy trustee for the case, that money would then be distributed to the parties previously owed by Hard Rock - $400,000 of which is also owed to Tetra Financial Group with around $170,000 also owed to Minnesota-based Data Services Co.
The new judgment does little to change circumstances for Freestyle or any of its creditors, said Allen Jeffcoat, a lawyer not affiliated with either company. "You've got a judgment, now what?" Jeffcoat said. "You've got to collect it. It's not an easy process."
If Freestyle does not pay, Tetra would need to file the judgment in Horry County to place a lien on the park's non-real estate property. It would then be up to the local Sheriff's Office to repossess and sell off the non-real estate assets and distribute any proceeds to the creditors. Tetra would not be repaid until any mortgage lenders and prior judgments against Freestyle are paid out, as long as the park stays out of bankruptcy, Jeffcoat said. Should the park go into bankruptcy, creditors would likely each receive a portion of the remaining assets, he said.
Baker and Freestyle attorney Nate Fata said they did not know how the park plans to react to default judgments. "Lots of companies might have judgments against them, but they might not have any cash," Fata said. The company is in talks with multiple potential investors, but Baker said he could not comment because of confidentiality agreements with interested parties.
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http://egham.stainesnews.co.uk/2010/06/thorpe-park-plans-new-rollerco.html
Two new rollercoasters could be built at Thorpe Park in the next six years as part of a new development plan.Thorpe Park Operations Ltd has submitted an outline planning application to Runnymede Borough Council for the proposals, which form part of the Theme Park's Medium Term Development plan for 2010 until 2016.
The plans include the installation of five new 'round rides' which could be up 25m tall, as well as two new rollercoasters, one which could be upto 40m tall, the other upto 50m tall - currently the park's flagship ride, the huge white Stealth rollercoaster, is 62.5m tall and can be seen several miles away.
Extra buildings of upto 5,000sqm are also included in the plans, along with a recycling facility, new island bridge links, supplementary car park lighting and upgrades to the theme park admissions.
To video the planning application click here
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It seems the Summer rush has actually pushed Universal to reopen Fear Factor Live at Universal Studios Florida...
I was able to see the show today, but I walked away just as disappointed as I did the year it opened. The show remains the same, but the subject matter just feels tired. The cast for the show had to work with some awkwardly shoehorned lines that came from the aged script, and it was clear they just weren't comfortable doing this. Worse yet, the crowd barely reacted to the show at all. The more sickening parts of the show didn't even phase the guests (maybe its because they didn't understand what was going on) and the "stunts" didn't keep anyone (from what I could tell) engaged. Probably the most embarrassing note would be the fact that some of the major effects (like the target drop at the end of the final challenge) went off with some major delays that had even the contestants wondering if they had successfully completed the challenge.
It has been mentioned here and there that this may be the final run for Fear Factor Live and, to be honest, I'm fine with that, considering today's performance. I know there are those that found some good experiences in the show (Tyler and Robby come to mind), but I think the time has come to move on to something new. With all of the amazing work Universal Creative has pulled off at the parks around the globe this year, I'm sure they can come up with a unique concept for a live show... Back to the Future: Live! anyone?
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http://www.clickorlando.com/news/24096094/detail.html
There's no need to travel to Hogsmeade -- or to "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter" at Universal Orlando -- to get a taste of butterbeer. The drink is one of the features of the new Harry Potter attraction at Universal's Islands of Adventure, and now the recipe for the beverage is available to all.The 20-acre park brings the Harry Potter books and movies to life with detailed reproductions of the fictitious village of Hogsmeade, the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and the steam-belching Hogwarts Express train.
"The Wizarding World of Harry Potter" officially opened in mid-June, and Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Bonnie Wright and Tom Felton -- Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Ginny Weasley and Draco Malfoy, respectively -- were on hand, along with other stars of the Harry Potter film franchise. Hundreds of media members from all over the world were also on hand to cover the opening of the attraction that has been five years in the making.
With the heat index nearing 100 by Friday afternoon, many rushed immediately for an ice cold butterbeer, a staple beverage from the books which until now was offered exclusively at the Wizarding World.
Here's the recipe for the formerly fictional drink made famous by the young wizard, Harry Potter.
BUTTERBEER
Start to finish: 1 hour (10 minutes active)
Servings: 4
•1 cup light or dark brown sugar
•2 tablespoons water
•6 tablespoon butter
•1/2 teaspoon salt
•1/2 teaspoon cider vinegar
•3/4 cup heavy cream, divided
•1/2 teaspoon rum extract
•Four 12-ounce bottles cream soda
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar and water. Bring to a gentle boil and cook, stirring often, until the mixture reads 240 F on a candy thermometer. Stir in the butter, salt, vinegar and 1/4 cup heavy cream. Set aside to cool to room temperature. Once the mixture has cooled, stir in the rum extract.
In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of the brown sugar mixture and the remaining 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Use an electric mixer to beat until just thickened, but not completely whipped, about 2 to 3 minutes.
To serve, divide the brown sugar mixture between 4 tall glasses (about 1/4 cup for each glass). Add 1/4 cup of cream soda to each glass, then stir to combine. Fill each glass nearly to the top with additional cream soda, then spoon the whipped topping over each.
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http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=99964&sid=28753136&con_type=3
Six people were killed in a thrill-ride plunge at a popular amusement park in Shenzhen yesterday. At least nine people - two from Hong Kong - were also injured when the Space Journey, a dome-like, space shuttle simulator plunged 12 meters to the ground with more than 40 people inside.The accident happened at 4.45pm in Ecoadventure Valley, part of the nine- square-kilometer Overseas Chinese Town East tourist resort. But circumstances surrounding the tragedy remained under tight wraps last night, with no details being offered by authorities or park executives.
A deputy general manager of Overseas Chinese Town East, named Wang, limited himself to saying through Xinhua News Agency that an accident was being investigated.
But witnesses were able to provide a brief outline of what happened. A woman named Zhang from Henan who was riding in the simulator recounted: "There was a sudden loud boom inside the cabin. Then everything went black and I don't know what happened. I was in the hospital when I woke up." She broke her right hand and left leg. Her sister had been with her in the simulator, but her condition was not known.
A rider who escaped unhurt said: "There was a power cut when the crash happened and I smelled something burning. We managed to open the door to escape before firefighters arrived to rescue others."
Another person who made it out without serious injury recalled a smell of burning rubber and the door being jammed. The people inside were trapped and then rescuers broke in, he said.
Most of the riders were unconscious and were rushed to Shenzhen Seventh (Yantian District) People's Hospital and Shenzhen Meisha Hospital. Forty-four people were on the Space Journey, which has a capacity for 48, at the time of the tragedy.
The dome device offers the thrill of a rocket launch, spinning 360 degrees while going up and down, with a 24-meter wide screen providing space scenes. The simulated journey was coming to the end of a routine lasting about five minutes when it all went wrong in the Chinese-designed thrill feature.
Joe Lo, a designer at The Standard who rode on the simulator last month, said he thought it dangerous. He said 48 riders are arranged to sit on a circular simulator four to a row. Then the simulator spins while taking riders up and down to a height of 12 meters. "It's hot and choking inside," he said. "It seemed that if the machine went haywire it would be very dangerous."
Lo Kok-keung, an engineer from the department of mechanical engineering at Hong Kong Polytechnic University, offered the thought that the accident was caused by "high acceleration due to gravity." He explained: "The dropping of a simulator can create an extremely high impact force. The machine, which I believe has a weight of five tonnes, could create two times more impact force." He noted that there are no similar rides in Hong Kong.
"The speed of Hong Kong amusement rides is not as much as that of the Space Journey - even for the Abyss Turbo Drop at Ocean Park."
China Travel Service said the EcoAdventure Valley has been closed and so a tour that would have included it today will be adjusted. Hong Thai Travel Services General Manager Susanna Lau said the firm had a tour group of 25 people in the park yesterday but none were involved in the incident.
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THORPE PARK, the nation’s Thrill Capital, is the first European theme park to launch an official, dedicated iPhone App. THORPE PARK Official is available to download free of charge, from the App Store, for all iPhone and iPod Touch users. This easy-to-use, interactive application is designed to maximise guests’ enjoyment on their day out by providing navigational tools, fun interactive games, promotional offers, information on rides and retail units, as well as live queue times - keeping them one step ahead of the crowds.
“This App enables THORPE PARK to take communication and interaction with our guests to a new level” said Vicki Smith, THORPE PARK’s Marketing Director. “It’s the perfect accompaniment to a visit to the Park providing navigation, information and insane fun at the guests’ finger tips, helping them to maximise their enjoyment on a day out.”
Sitting within the Entertainment category on the App Store, the application offers a variety of innovative features* to help guests make decisions prior to their visit, as well as keeping them entertained and informed while at the Park.
The App includes:
Augmented Reality – Point and discover! Point the phone around the Park to see what’s close by in regards to rides, restaurants and retail units. Plus check out live queue times digitally overlaid on top of what you see through the camera feature.
Park Map – Interactive Park map shows guests their exact location in relation to the rides, food and retail units, cash points, toilets and lockers…all via the iPhone’s GPS capability.
Ride Information – Allows guests to see all the extreme thrills awaiting them on their favourite rides, as well as videos and photos to really get the adrenaline pumping in anticipation.
Offers – With the introduction of Eagle Eye technology at the Park being implemented in the very near future, a later version of the App will provide guests with exclusive discounts and promotions to the Park as well as at the retail and food units.
Insane Fun – Includes ‘Find the Fathead’ game, ‘THORPE PARK Quiz’, random facts, queue line games and more.
Park Info – Providing information on THORPE PARK, including: opening times, upcoming events and directions to the Park.
‘THORPE PARK Official’ App Details
Category: Entertainment
Released: 25th June 2010
Company: Merlin Entertainments
Age Rating: 9+ (Contains infrequent/mild horror/fear themes)
Size: 7.1MB
Compatible with: iPhone; iPhone 3G; iPhone 3GS; iPhone 4; iPod Touch; later versions will be compatible with iPad
Cost: FREE
* Some features are only available on iPhone 3GS and iPhone 4, and are dependent on 3G connection
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http://www.tradingmarkets.com/news/stock-alert/tol_kingsmill-deal-said-to-be-near-1007608.html
With a deal expected in about a week, speculation is running high on who will buy Kingsmill Resort. Kingsmill residents report that low-level employees are saying Blackstone is it. The Gazette reported June 9 that Blackstone was the front-runner over Marriott and Toll Brothers.Not so fast, says John Gerner, managing director of Richmond-based Leisure Business Advisors, which offers guidance to tourist attraction developers and operators, from resorts and museums to amusement parks and zoos. Gerner knows Busch Gardens, having worked his way up in the 1970s from a ride operator and ending in the finance department after graduating from the College of William & Mary in 1980. A couple of stars are misaligned for a Blackstone bid, he believes. First, were Blackstone interested it would likely have picked up the resort and spa at the same time it bought 10 theme parks from Busch. "Blackstone has the money to do what it wants," he said Monday, noting that the company would not have delayed the Kingsmill buy because of finances. Instead, company execs likely weighed Kingsmill at the time and decided against it.
Gerner hedged. "I wouldn't be surprised if they were the buyer," he said. He acknowledged a trend in the theme park industry to associate hotels with the parks. Blackstone reportedly also wants to take Busch Gardens year-round.
Blackstone also owns at least seven resorts in the chain Center Parcs Europe, as well as all of Center Parcs UK, so the company knows the resort market.
Finances will be the deciding factor, Gerner said. And despite the proximity to Busch Gardens, Kingsmill isn't a given for Blackstone. "It comes back to if they feel that would be of value to them," he said. "I would imagine Blackstone would not be uncomfortable with someone else owning it." He believes it's more likely the resort will pass to an entity that is centrally focused on resorts.
That keeps the door open to Marriott, which despite sharp losses because of the recession is showing signs of recovery (see box). Marriott also owns the hotel outside the front gate of Kingsmill as well as a big timeshare resort at Ford's Colony.
Whoever buys Kingsmill Resort will have to share with the homeowners association the cost of the 24-hour security force as well as maintaining and repairing the three main roads of Kingsmill, Mounts Bay and Wareham's Pond. Residents are responsible for their own neighborhood streets, but are prepared.
Edgar Brown, who chairs the Contingency Planning Committee for KCSA, reiterated in an interview Monday that the homeowner association has sufficient reserves to cover the $400,000-$600,000 needed annually to keep up the streets. The capital expense budget for roads extends three years out and fluctuates depending on need, he said. Brown added that the closing of the sale will clarify all agreements and deeds involving the roads, gatehouses and other matters over the years. "When everything is documented, it will memorialize that which we have done historically," he said.
Locally, Blackstone seems to be most focused on Busch Gardens itself, having just received a height waiver for a new tower attraction.
"I think that's a good sign," Gerner said. "It shows a level of commitment. Busch is very well regarded. The feeling a year ago was that the best thing that Blackstone could do was leave them alone."
There was some initial fear that the investment group would focus solely on the bottom line to the loss of quality, then flip the parks. "That obviously does not seem to be the case."
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http://pr-canada.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=220306&Itemid=55
Six Flags Entertainment, the world's largest regional theme park company, today announced a new partnership with Jive Records, a top record label in the U.S., to host its first-ever online talent competition - Pop-Tarts® Toaster Pastries presents Fame, Fortune, and Flags - where one lucky winner will get their shot at becoming America's next pop sensation.Fame, Fortune, and Flags kicked off June 15 with talented entrants competing for a chance to record a single and music video on the Jive label to be sold exclusively on iTunes. Contestants will be judged on showmanship, entertainment value, vocal ability and overall talent. To enter, guests may upload videos of themselves singing an original or pre-approved Jive artist song to sixflags.com/music. One exclusive Pop-Tarts artist will be chosen by Pop-Tarts fans to join the competition. The top 3 video entries from each of the 9 participating Six Flags theme parks will go on to open for Jive recording artists JLS and Hot Chelle Rae at a Six Flags concert. A panel of Six Flags and Jive executives will judge the final live performances to determine the final winner.
The competition will be promoted heavily online at sixflags.com and throughout the participating parks via in-park signage, Six Flags Digital Networks and in-park radio. JLS and Hot Chelle Rae will also use their official band websites and social media outlets to support the promotion.
JLS is a four-man UK teen pop phenomenon who placed second in Simon Cowell's X-Factor in 2008. Since then, JLS has taken the UK by storm, earning two prestigious Brit Awards, selling well over a million albums in just a few short months and packing arenas on their sold-out British tour. JLS is now taking on the US with their debut single "Everybody in Love" and Fame, Fortune and Flags will mark the bands first official US tour dates. Go to JLSofficial.com for more details.
Hot Chelle Rae was tapped by MTV as one of 2010's Top Artists to Watch, and the young quartet has come roaring out of Nashville with their emotional, high energy pop-rock sound. Over the past year, Hot Chelle Rae has toured with Owl City, Third Eye Blind and Cobra Starship to promote their debut album, Lovesick Electric and current single, "Bleed." Their music has been featured on several hit TV shows including So You Think You Can Dance, The Hills and 90210. Go to HotChelleRae.com for more details.
"Six Flags Music is dedicated to showcasing the best-in-class music events, artistic partnerships and emerging talent," said Dan Weinberg, Six Flags Vice President, Entertainment. "We are thrilled to be partnering with Pop-Tarts and Jive on our exciting online singing competition."
"At Jive Records we are continuously seeking new and exciting ways to expose our music to new audiences" said Mark Flaherty, SVP Marketing/Digital Media, JIVE Label Group. "There are no better partners for summer 2010 than Six Flags and Pop-Tarts to expose our unparalleled roster of superstars and help break two of our most promising new acts, JLS and Hot Chelle Rae."
The 9 participating markets and park locations are:
-- Atlanta - Six Flags Over Georgia
-- Chicago - Six Flags Great America
-- Dallas - Six Flags Over Texas
-- Los Angeles - Six Flags Magic Mountain
-- New England - Six Flags New England
-- New York/New Jersey/Philadelphia - Six Flags Great Adventure
-- San Antonio - Six Flags Fiesta Texas
-- St. Louis - Six Flags St. Louis
-- Washington, DC/Baltimore - Six Flags America
Visit sixflags.com/music for more information.
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http://www.thenational.ae/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100627/NATIONAL/706269859/1042/SPORT
The number of visitors to Al Ain’s Hili Fun City – long a popular summer hangout despite its aging attractions – is expected to increase by 30 per cent this summer after a multimillion-dirham revamp by the Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC).“We’re expecting very good numbers this year. Between 25 and 30 per cent more than last year,” said Ahmad Chaouk, the deputy general manager of the amusement park in the oasis town. "We have new rides and a better landscape, so of course it will be better.”
Once known for its dilapidated fairgrounds, the park was closed for three months at the end of last August for the first phase of a two-part refurbishment. Abu Dhabi National Hotels, which operates the theme park, reopened in late November with nine new attractions, 18 resurrected rides, a repainted west side and major landscaping work, Mr Chaouk said. The attractions were also brought closer together.
In April, the number of visitors jumped to 23,439 from 14,891 in the same month last year – an increase of nearly 60 per cent. Last month saw a 15 per cent rise in visitors to 11,403 entrants, compared to May 2009 figures.
The renovations have dramatically improved the park, where just a few years ago many rides were permanently out of order, said Ali al Darmaki, 22. “I came here when I was a very young boy,” the Emirati student said. “It’s much better now. All games are working. Before, we find many not working, and now we see more people coming.”
Stilt walkers blowing up balloons for children were also a new addition. “It’s much more lively,” said Happy Abatayo, a face painter. “It’s properly maintained and there are people now going to the amphitheatre to see the singer.”
The park, which is owned by Al Ain Municipality, had not undergone a major refurbishment since it opened in 1985. In its heyday, it was the first of its kind in the Gulf, drawing visitors from neighbouring emirates as well as Oman, according to the TDIC.
Phase one saw the repainting of the park’s west side and the addition of new attractions and landscaping. The second part of the project will connect the west side with a newly built amusement park expected to match the standards of the world’s top theme parks.
“Now we’re waiting for the next phase,” Mr Chaouk said. “There’s a plan from the tourism office in Abu Dhabi now to make more renovations. They were talking big plans. It will be bigger and we’re waiting for that to be the official opening.” Mr Chaouk could not reveal the projected costs of any of the redevelopment work being undertaken by the TDIC, which declined to comment. “There’s a big difference now,” he said. “Most of the old rides were aging and not working properly, but we’ve made a full refurbishment.”
The water-efficient landscaping work included planting more than 25,000 plants and 200 palm trees. Recycling receptacles were also introduced.
David Arnold, a theme park fanatic from Dubai, visited Hili Fun City in 2006 and found many attractions in disrepair, as well as several signs indicating rides were closed permanently for safety reasons. The British sound recordist, who has paid admission to amusement parks in more than 30 countries, posted photos of Hili Fun City on Themeparkreview.com showing fallen lampposts, rubbish covering the park’s railway and a billboard map that was completely blank. One photo showed a pile of broken mannequins and demolished stands. “It was probably the second-worst park I’d ever been to,” Mr Arnold said, adding that the worst was Fantazy Land in Alexandria, Egypt. “It could be quite nice once it’s all fixed up.” The park is worthy of a second visit after the upgrades, Mr Arnold said.
The revamped Hili Fun City drew more than twice the visitors in February than during the same month last year. According to John Mathew, who handles finances in the accounts department, more than 28,000 guests entered the gates in February. Only 13,500 people visited during that time in 2009.
New rides and attractions at Hili Fun City included the Jebel Hafeet Twister roller coaster, Sinbad’s Farm kiddie ride, the Circus Swing, Crazy Marina and the 3D Action Cinema, which replaced the old Dynamic Motion Theatre. The popular Antique Cars ride was replaced with electric-powered vehicles to be more green-friendly. “We also have a very nice lake that we brought some new pedal boats to,” Mr Chaouk said.
Entry fees to the park also went up, although rides are now free to enjoy without guests needing to purchase tokens. It costs Dh30 on Mondays and Tuesdays and Dh35 on Wednesdays, Thursdays and the weekend.
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New Campaign Teases Coming Attraction Through QR Code Technology
For several weeks now, guests entering Busch Gardens Tampa Bay have been met with construction walls in the southeastern corner of the park, and many have speculated as to what Busch Gardens is building.
Starting Saturday, June 26, new signs on those construction walls will give curious visitors a taste of what’s to come through the use of some unique new technology. Quick Response – or “QR” – codes featured on the posters invite smart-phone users with a reader app to take a photo of the black and white code. These codes, which look like pixilated bar codes, automatically direct the phone’s web browser to short video clips that will hint at various components of the new attraction, which is scheduled to open in Spring 2011.
If you don’t have a smart phone handy, the signs also announce a new website – http://www.BuschGardens2011.com – for those interested in watching the videos, becoming a Fan on Facebook, following the park’s blog or signing up for e-mail updates.
“You’ll definitely want to stay engaged with us over the next few months because you won’t believe what we have planned,” said Jim Dean, Busch Gardens’ park president. “For now, we can tell you it will be a one-of-a-kind experience, and we’ve created a fun way to keep our guests informed of its progress.”
[coastertube]http://www.themeparkreview.com/coastertube/play.php?vid=10062402471814_1_e524[/coastertube]
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Universal Studios Hollywood has sent us a new video about King Kong 360 3-D.
In anticipation of the opening of King Kong 360 3-D that opens July 1 at Universal Studios Hollywood, check out this footage of Peter Jackson and Matt Aitken, Visual Effects Supervisor, WETA Digital, talking about the project!Multiple Academy Award-Winning Producer, Writer, Director, Peter Jackson teamed up with Universal Studios Hollywood to create “KING KONG 360 3-D,” the largest most intense 3-D experience on the planet, based on his award-winning blockbuster, KING KONG.
[coastertube]http://www.themeparkreview.com/coastertube/play.php?vid=PeterJacksonIntv2_KK3603DOnlineV2_052010FINAL_wx4n[/coastertube]
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^Or they could just be using water dummies from Mantis or Raptor... Just a crazy thought.
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I've gone ahead and merged this with the new discussion thread so all discussions can continue here.
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Anyone who has ever dreamed of being Rambo, Indiana Jones or Lara Croft or battling it out in a zombie wasteland will love Appin's paintball theme park.
Delta Force Appin opened on Saturday after two years of development and general manager Leon Bubenicek said it was the only five-star-rated paintball field in NSW.
"We don't do tyres and pallets and old wrecked cars,'' Bubenicek said. "We spend a lot of time trying to create a realistic theme about three months to a year. At Appin we've got the Tomb Raider field with a giant pyramid and a large sphinx. We have a London After the Apocalypse field with a double-decker bus and underground signs and we have a prisoner-of-war camp with a village that you have to attack. There's a jungle crypt which is a 1 acre field with thick bush, tombstones and coffins and then the fuel dump which is a modern urban-warfare field.''
Mr Bubenicek said most of the scenarios were based on popular movies. "We try to base them on things people can associate with so the London after the Apocalypse field is like 28 Days Later and the others are like something you've seen in a Vietnam war movie or Tomb Raider or Raiders of the Lost Ark.''
He said Delta Force Paintball was the world's largest paintball company and provided the next level in paintballing. "I would say the three things that have made us such a success are the professionalism of our staff, the realism of the game themes and finally, but most importantly, the safety aspect,'' he said.
Starter packages including entry, 100 paintballs and a Domino's pizza cost $20 and paintballs are then $10 for a 100. Mr Bubenicek said most people would spend $50 for a good day or $100 to ``be a real Rambo''. The park is open 9am to 5pm seven days a week, subject to availability.
Details, bookings (two weeks in advance): 1300850744.
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http://www.wcnc.com/news/local/Vehicles-broken-into-at-Carowinds-97094104.html
Police are looking for the person, or people who broke into several cars at Carowinds theme park on Wednesday.Authorities say at least three people reported break-ins and one person said that someone tried to use a credit card that was stolen from her vehicle.
Carowinds security officials are reviewing the video footage from the time frame of the thefts.
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This trip report is Adam approved!
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Earlier this year, Busch Gardens Tampa announced their new text messaging service, which would enable guests to have ride wait times, special offers, and "did-you-know-facts" about the park sent right to their cell phones. Guests "love this level of service and how it enhances their park experience", said Jim Dean, the general manger of Busch Gardens.
Why not bring something so useful and informative to it's sister park next door in Orlando?
It seems that Seaworld has opted in on this service to help enhance their visitor's experience. While it's nothing exactly like the text messaging service at Busch Gardens Tampa, it still sends guests who enroll in the program useful information, like show times. Unlike Busch Gardens, signs are not spread out all over the park and only seem to be in select locations. While this service has made it's way over to Seaworld, it seems to still be in the testing phase and may become more prevalent in the future.
To enroll in this service while you visit Seaworld, just text "ShamuFL" to 69050 (sign pictured at left). Your cell phone will automatically receive information, including show times, right your messaging inbox.
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Here at Disney Parks, we’re always looking for new ways to make attractions and experiences more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Today, I got a sneak peek at a first-of-its-kind technology that will change the way some guests with disabilities experience Disney parks.
Disney engineers have plussed up their Assistive Technology Device to provide detailed descriptions of outdoor areas for visually impaired guests. Using an interactive audio menu, guests can choose the type of information they’d like to receive, from architectural elements to the location of the nearest restroom. It works using wireless technology to pinpoint its location and take pre-programmed actions. Best of all, it fits in the palm of your hand.
The Disney engineers I talked to reminded me that the device already combines many other features, including detailed audio description for more than 50 attractions; amplified audio for guests with mild to moderate hearing loss; handheld captioning that lets guests read captions while enjoying specific rides; and activation of closed captioning on television displays in pre-show areas.
Here’s a sample:
Disney has already patented and licensed the technology for the handheld device, which could serve a wide variety of retail, commercial and industrial applications. And industry insiders and techies are already taking notice. The National Society of Professional Engineers just lauded the device as the new product of the year.
The Handheld Assistive Technology Device will be available starting June 27 for guests at Walt Disney World Resort and in 2011 in Disneyland Resort, for no additional cost.
[coastertube]http://www.themeparkreview.com/coastertube/play.php?vid=disneyparks_384_95te[/coastertube]
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http://thedailydisney.com/blog/2010/06/disney-pulls-15-million-permit-for-little-mermaid-ride/
Walt Disney World has obtained a $15 million building permit to construct the Journey of the Little Mermaid, the Little Mermaid-themed dark ride at the center of the Magic Kingdom’s sweeping Fantasyland expansion. The permit, which was issued by the Reedy Creek Improvement District in early March, covers design and construction work. Reedy Creek puts the value of the work covered by the permit at $15.4 million.The district has also issued at least two other permits related to the Little Mermaid ride, one for a backstage employee sidewalk and another to relocate existing lighting.
Among other Fantasyland-related permits that District has issued so far are permits to disconnect mechanical, electrical and plumbing infrastructure at Ariel’s Grotto (which will become the site of a Beauty and the Beast-themed area); demolish the Scuttle’s Landing eatery; and remove a backstage maintenance shed in the area of the former 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea attraction. The expanded Fantasyland is scheduled to open in phases beginning in 2012.
With the Fantasyland construction having begun in earnest, building activity at Reedy Creek is mushrooming. The district says it permitted projects with a combined construction value of $23.2 million in March 2010, up 192 percent from the same month last year.
Meanwhile, the number of building permits issued rose 24 percent in April and 4 percent in May. (Details on total number of permits issued for March and construction valuation for April or May weren’t immediately available.) Other recent big-ticket permits issued by Reedy Creek include one to redo the Mexican cantina restaurant in Epcot (valued at $4.8 million), another to rehab the façade of the Expo Hall in the Magic Kingdom ($1.6 million) and another for an exterior remodeling at the Days of Christmas shop at Downtown Disney ($700,000).
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Discover has been named the official credit card of all of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation's /quotes/comstock/11k!sxfl (SIX 36.49, 0.00, 0.00%) U.S. theme, water and animal parks. The multi-million dollar exclusive partnership agreement spans 11 markets, includes multi-platform branding through in-park and online media, and provides Discover cardmembers with money-saving benefits and exclusive experiences.
"Many of our cardmembers are already big fans of theme parks, so this partnership with Six Flags, the world's largest regional theme park company, is a terrific benefit," said Julie Loeger, senior vice president of brand and product management at Discover. "Plus, delivering value is part of Discover's DNA, and that's exactly what cardmembers will find through the rewards and benefits in this program."
The core of the program is a five percent instant discount incentive for Six Flags park guests and their families when they use a Discover card, in-park or online, to make purchases of admission tickets and season passes, as well as food, retail, games and attractions.
"This partnership with Discover will provide more individuals and families the incentive and opportunity to share the Six Flags experience at parks across the country," said David McKillips, senior vice president of Corporate Alliances for Six Flags Media Networks, the media and sponsorship sales division of Six Flags Entertainment. "It's the broadest in scope we've ever had with a credit card company, and we're proud to welcome Discover to the family of exclusive Six Flags partners."
Additional benefits of the partnership for Discover cardmembers include:
-- A family four-pack of tickets for $99 (May to June; September to mid-October 2010)
-- A Discover-branded gate providing cardmembers an expedited entrance experience
-- Discover-branded family meal packages at significant savings
-- Exclusive access to "Coasters After Dark" events for Discover cardmembers, allowing them to enjoy the parks after regular operating hours on select dates throughout the season
-- "Discover Preview Days," which Six Flags will host starting in 2011, where Discover cardmembers will have special access to parks at a discounted price, before the official Opening Day
To promote this partnership, Six Flags has launched an extensive merchandising program, featuring point-of-sale signage and verbal promotion of the five percent instant discount for Discover cardmembers at most transaction locations throughout Six Flags parks. Online branding and promotion will be featured on Six Flags' Print-n-Go purchasing website.
In addition, Discover will receive promotion via a variety of media channels inside the parks, ranging from Six Flags' digital out-of-home (DOOH) network to driveway signage, pole banners, billboards and scrolling signage. The DOOH Network, recently organized under a new division within Six Flags Media Networks, includes Six Flags Jumbotron Network; Six Flags Menu Board TV, a new digital offering from Six Flags Media Networks in key food and retail areas at the parks; and the Six Flags Television Network, a system of 550-plus monitors at rides and in other strategic locations.
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http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE65J33U20100620?type=innovationNews
Private equity firm CVC Capital Partners is close to agreeing a deal to buy a 30 percent stake in theme park operator Merlin Entertainments BLKSTM.UL, the Financial Times reported in its Monday edition.CVC would buy the minority stake from Merlin's existing shareholders, which include U.S. private equity group Blackstone (BX.N), KIRKBI A/S, a private Danish holding company that owns three quarters of the LEGO Group, and Dubai International Capital DUBAHP.UL (DIC), the paper said.
The deal would create a three-way ownership structure with CVC, Blackstone and KIRKBI A/S all holding about a 30 percent stake in Merlin, the world's second largest theme park operator after Disney, the paper said.
Dubai International Capital (DIC), which sold a 17 percent stake in Merlin last year, is expected to offload its remaining 6 percent stake to CVC, according to the FT.
Earlier this year, Merlin tempered reports it planned to go public, saying all options for the group's future ownership remained under consideration.
Merlin, which owns the London Eye, Madame Tussauds and the Sea Life centers, declined to comment. CVC was not immediately available for comment on the report.
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