Walt Disney World monorail crash kills conductor, no passengers were hurt
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Two monorail trains smashed into each other at Walt Disney World in Orlando early Sunday morning, killing one conductor and injuring the other. A Walt Disney World spokesman said the crash happened at about 2 a.m. Sunday on the monorail's last run of the day. The trains were carrying only five passengers and two employees, none of whom were hurt. "Two trains collided at the ticket and transportation center. One driver on one train is dead and the other driver from the second train was taken to the hospital," said Bo Jones of the Reedy Creek Fire Department. The crash on the Epcot line in the Magic Kingdom section of the theme park marked the first monorail death there in its 38 years of running. According to Disney, the theme park runs 12 monorail trains, each with 6 cars traveling the 14.7 miles of elevated rail. On a typical day, more than 150,000 guests ride the monorail. Ethan Meus, who was visiting the theme park from Dubuque, Iowa, said he and his family took the monorail to dinner at a resort hotel Saturday night. Meus, 17, watched the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the monorail on the way back to his hotel, he said, and didn’t notice any problems with the train. "It's pretty shocking to hear that a driver was killed in that accident," Meus said. The family was planning to take the train again Sunday to visit Disney's Epcot Center, but now planned to take a bus, Meus added. "You would think it would be so safe," said 20-year-old Lauren Shoebottom, who was visiting the park from London. "You don't expect it on holiday, do you?
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Fatal Monorail crash follows July 4 festivities at Walt Disney World
Fatal Monorail crash follows July 4 festivities at Walt Disney World.
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This morning, the operator of a Walt Disney World Monorail train was killed after crashing into the rear of a stationary Monorail train on the Epcot track as guests were leaving the Fourth of July festivities at the resort. According to Reedy Creek fire officials, the stationary train was at the Transportation and Ticket Center, and the crash occured at approximately 2:00 a.m. Sunday, July 5. Eyewitnesses say that the fire crews used torches to cut through the crushed metal to reach the driver, who was prounounced dead at the scene. Seven other people were checked and found not to be seriously injured. "This is supposed to be impossible. The Monorails have sensors that cause dead-stick when they get too close," said Kevin Yee, a reporter for MiceAge.com, via his Facebook page. However, operators are able to intentionally override the automatic emergency braking system, which is supposed to maintain a minimum of two "hold points" between trains, according to Channel 13 News in central Florida. This is the first fatal Monorail accident to occur at Walt Disney World, though a Monorail train has rear-ended a stationary train at Walt Disney World before, in 1974. Walt Disney World Public Affairs President Mike Griffin issued a statement in which he stated that Walt Disney World "will continue to work closely with law enforcement to determine what happened and the appropriate next steps." He also said that Walt Disney World "mourns the loss of our fellow cast member. Our hearts go out to his family, and those who have lost a friend and co-worker." In 1966, a Monorail at Disneyland struck and killed a teenager who was trying to sneak into the park for its "Grad Nite" festivities, though this was not the fault of the park. At Disneyland in early 2008, a new Monorail train was installed but quickly shut down when it turned out that the new train design was scraping and crumpling on the large concrete Monorail beam at curves in the track, causing a four-month delay in the public launch, though no one was ever injured. Deaths at Disney theme parks are uncommon, but not unheard of. While accidents are extremely rare, deaths by natural causes happen from time to time, as would be expected at a place where thousands of people congregate. Almost anything that can happen has happened, including injuries from old trees falling over to brain aneurysms from the violent shaking of ride vehicles. However, freak fatalities do occur, even at Disneyland. In 1974, a Disneyland cast member was slowly crushed to death between the moving walls of a huge carousel-type theater in the America Sings attraction. In 1998, a cleat fastened to the hull of the imposing Sailing Ship Columbia broke loose and flew through the air, striking three people and killing one of them with a blow to the head. (The Los Angeles Times estimates that this accident was settled by Disney for $25 million.) In 2003, the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad roller coaster train derailed and killed a man by causing severe blunt force trauma. The accident was the result of mechanical failure, due partly to omissions during maintenance procedures. At Walt Disney World, in 1999 a custodian was killed while cleaning near the Skyway gondola station. The Skyway ride was accidentally activated, pushing him off the ledge. He clung to the gondola as long as he could, finally losing his grip and falling 40 feet. In 2004, a castmember dressed as Pluto died after being run over by a Beauty and the Beast parade float. And in 2007, an employee died from a brain injury after being hit by a ride vehicle from the Primeval Whirl attraction. Nevertheless, accidents at Disney theme parks are extremely rare, and emergency procedures are constantly being tested and reevaluated to provide a safe experience for guests.
Harry Potter’s Page :: Feed Your Harry Potter Addiction :: » Blog Archive » Wizarding World’s ‘Robocoaster’ Details
Harry Potter’s Page :: Feed Your Harry Potter Addiction :: » Blog Archive » Wizarding World’s ‘Robocoaster’ Details.
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he Orlando Sentinel have done a write up on the Wizarding World of Harry Potter giving us more details on the ‘robocoaster’ that will be in Hogwarts, Hogsmeade, and other rides. The report states that the Harry Potter theme inside Universal Studios Islands of Adventure in Orlando will be extremely successful. The plans for the area show it being 20-acres large with more than a dozen buildings. There will be at least three shops, a restaurant, and multiple decorative buildings. Hogwarts will be 150 feet (15 stories) high. Inside Hogwarts will be the main attraction; a ‘robocoater’ in which guests will sit in seats suspended from a robotic arm that swivels and swoops in multiple directions. Plans show the track snaking through more than a dozen scenes, though what those scenes will be remains a mystery. The attraction, according to the people familiar with it, will also feature an elaborate pre-show queue with special effects such as floating candles and snow falling indoors. Before they arrive at Hogwarts, guests entering the Wizarding World will pass through Hogsmeade Village, an old-Europe-style town from the Potter novels. Universal’s plans for Hogsmeade include The Three Broomsticks restaurant, shops and stylized locker and stroller-parking areas. The few clues Universal has provided indicate the stores will include Dervish & Banges, which sells and repairs magical equipment, and Honeydukes, a sweet shop whose treats include chocolate-covered frogs. Hagrid’s hut will be located between Hogsmeade and Hogwarts. And the Forbidden Forest will also be in the area. Plans are also underway to re-theme a previous roller coaster called the Dueling Dragons, a ride where people could choose which one of two different roller coasters they wanted to ride on and they twisted around each other. Both rides are expected to be re-themed with Potter story lines. Records show, for instance, that Universal plans to add a large tent at the entrance of Dueling Dragons, which fans have speculated will ultimately be converted into a re-creation of a wizarding tournament from one of the books in which one of the events involves stealing eggs from dragons. The theme park is expected to open sometime in 2010. According to the article, there will be newer additions after it opens to possibly add elements from the newer movies.
Disney World monorail closed after employee death
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ORLANDO - Emergency officials say two monorail trains crashed in the Magic Kingdom section of Walt Disney World, killing one train's operator. Bo Jones, deputy chief for Reedy Creek Fire Department, says one train operator died at the scene of the crash, which happened around 2 a.m. Sunday. The other train operator was not injured, but was taken to a hospital because he was emotionally shaken. Five park guests were treated at the scene. Jones says it is unclear what caused the crash. Orange County Sheriff's officials are investigating the cause. Jones says the crash happened at the park's ticket and transportation center. About a dozen guards wearing blue Disney security uniforms guarded the monorail station Sunday morning and prevented visitors from approaching the area. Ethan Meus, who was visiting the theme park from Dubuque, Iowa, said he and his family took the monorail to dinner at a resort hotel Saturday night. Meus, 17, watched the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the monorail on the way back to his hotel, he said, and didn't notice any problems with the train. "It's pretty shocking to hear that a driver was killed in that accident," Meus said. The family was planning to take the train again Sunday to visit Disney's Epcot Center, but now planned to take a bus, Meus added. "You would think it would be so safe," said 20-year-old Lauren Shoebottom, who was visiting the park from London. "You don't expect it on holiday, do you?" Walt Disney World vice president of public affairs Mike Griffin issued a statement offering condolences to the employee's family and saying the monorail was closed. "It's a bit shocking," said 22-year-old Danielle Williams, of London. "Disney seems so perfect."
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Cliffhanger down after one day of operation « ThrillNetwork.com - Sit down. Log in. Hang on!
Cliffhanger down after one day of operation « ThrillNetwork.com - Sit down. Log in. Hang on!.
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Ghost Town in the Sky opened Cliffhanger Wednesday, July 1 to much anticipation. According to reports from park patrons, the coaster never ran the next day. The park’s website states that the coaster will not run for the holiday weekend. The park states that they are “finalizing minor modifications to the grounds and coaster”. For more information visit Ghost Town.
Getting Through the Summer Job Blues - NYTimes.com
Getting Through the Summer Job Blues - NYTimes.com.
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Life is imitating art for Ms. McAuliffe. With her parents unable to help bankroll three months of unpaid work in Manhattan, she gave up the internship offer and moved home to Andover, Mass., where she took the one job she could find: working 12-hour days at an amusement park. For $7.80 an hour, she tends bumper cars and the big swing, and endures the many carny jokes of her friends. “It’s rain or shine,” Ms. McAuliffe said dryly about her job. “You’d be really surprised how many people go to an amusement park in the pouring rain.” School’s out for summer 2009, and instead of getting a jump on the boundless futures that parents and colleges always promised them, students this year are receiving a reality check. The well-paying summer jobs that in previous years seemed like a birthright have grown scarce, and pre-professional internships are disappearing as companies cut back across the board. Recession-strapped parents don’t always have the means or will to bankroll starter apartments or art tours of Tuscany. So many college students and recent graduates are heading to where they least expected: back home, and facing an unfamiliar prospect: downtime, maybe too much of it. To a high-achieving generation whose schedules were once crammed with extracurricular activities meant to propel them into college, it feels like an empty summer — eerie, and a bit scary. “Things have changed drastically,” said Ron Alsop, author of “The Trophy Kids Grow Up: How the Millennial Generation Is Shaking Up the Workplace,” a book that only last year portrayed young workers as entitled and in a hurry. “It has to be a huge wake-up call for this generation.” Numbers provide the backdrop to the story — not just the grimly familiar national unemployment rate, 9.5 percent in June, but the even scarier, less publicized unemployment figure for 16- to 19-year-olds, which has hit 24 percent, up from 16.1 percent two years ago. Internships available to college students have fallen 21 percent since last year, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers. Across the country, there are countless tales like that of Morgan Henderson, a student at the University of San Francisco, who, along with friends, planned a big road trip to Las Vegas this summer. With so few of the friends finding jobs, they downgraded plans to a road trip to Reno, then to no road trip at all. They’re spending time watching DVDs at one another’s houses. Or Kathryn Estrada, a high school senior in Hialeah, Fla., who has no summer job after Circuit City, which employed her during the school year, went out of business. She is finding that even this early in the summer, attempts to while away the hours playing Scrabble and Cranium have grown stale. “We all just wish school would start so we would have something to do,” she said. Or Will Ehrenfeld, a political science major at Tufts, who worked at a think tank last year and this summer was aiming higher: a White House internship. When the White House didn’t come through, and neither did the State Department or dozens of companies he applied to, Mr. Ehrenfeld, 20, moved back home to Vernon, Conn. Even the local Boston Market had no work. Mr. Ehrenfeld, a top student who has always held leadership positions in clubs and academic groups, loafs through days, rolling out of bed around 11 and reading or playing trumpet or guitar. Nights, he sometimes meets up with friends who also have nowhere that they have to be in the morning, and they share a few cheap beers. “At worst, misery continues to have company,” he said.
It rained! It poured! 8 inches in June - The New Britain Herald News : New Britain, Conn., and surrounding areas (newbritainherald.com)
It rained! It poured! 8 inches in June - The New Britain Herald News : New Britain, Conn., and surrounding areas (newbritainherald.com).
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NEW BRITAIN — After more than a month of rain, rain and more rain, meteorologists are hesitantly forecasting an end to the wet, muggy weather that has hung over the area for more than a month. “It does appear that the pattern is getting ready to change for the better,” said Gary Lessor, assistant director of the Weather Center at Western Connecticut State University. “As a bonus the muggy humidity will be moving out of the area [today].” That’s good news for many sun-starved central-Connecticut residents but it is great news for businesses that depend on pleasant summer days for revenue. Lake Compounce, which lies in both Southington and Bristol, is one of those businesses. With more than 407-acres of attractions, rides and a new water park, the theme park has seen its customer numbers drop as day-after-day of rain fell on the area. “The constant rain has had an effect,” said Sara Webb, marketing director for the park. “But people are still coming.” According to Lessor, June was a particularly wet month with rain falling in measureable amounts in 19 out of the 30 days in June. Precipitation on that many days meant that during June a total of 8.14 inches of rain fell on the damp streets of New Britain. The average for the month is a scant, almost arid, 3.85 inches. In Southington and parts of Bristol, however, the streets were as soggy as a wet sheet after the month-long total came to an astounding 10.61 inches. And then, of course, came July. Thursday a slow-moving storm dropped 2.67 inches of rain on New Britain but saved the big numbers for the Southington area. “Southington, Wolcott and maybe parts of Bristol saw an incredible 5 inches Thursday,” Lessor said. “That brings the rain total for July for Southington to 7.72 inches.” At Lake Compounce, which last year had 750,000 visitors, the downpour caused some flooding in offices but didn’t stop people in the water park. “They just wear their bathing suits around and have a good time,” Webb said. “Kids don’t care if it’s raining.” For those worried about their Independence Day festivities, the National Weather Service has issued a forecast for today of mostly sunny with temperatures near 83 degrees.
17 days later, Son of Beast still closed | Cincinnati.com | Cincinnati.Com
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The wooden roller coaster will remain closed this Fourth of July weekend, according to the Ohio Department of Agriculture’s Amusement Ride Safety Division, which is investigating whether the 8-year-old ride caused an injury that burst a blood vessel in a woman’s brain on May 31. Details on the inspection will not be released until the investigation – which includes a bolt-by-bolt check of the ride, operator interviews and other time-consuming steps – is finished, ODA officials said.
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Employee injury closes Dueling Dragons at Universal Orlando
Employee injury closes Dueling Dragons at Universal Orlando.
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A worker was injured at the Dueling Dragons roller coasters at Universal's Islands of Adventure before the park opened this morning. One report said the worker was struck by one of the cars, presumably on a morning test run. The area around Dueling Dragons is a swarm of activity these days, as construction proceeds on the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The Dragons coasters are rumored to close this fall to be rethemed as part of the new Harry Potter land. If any Universal insiders have additional details, please post them in the comments. Update: The Sentinel updates with quotes from Universal spokesperson Tom Schroder: "It's too soon to share more information," Schroder told the paper. "We're doing everything we can to support our team member and his family." "Our ride is safe," Schroder said in the story. "What happened this morning had nothing to do with the safety of the ride experience."
Fourth of July at CityWalk - Universal's CityWalk - Orlando, FL Events | Metromix Orlando
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Spend the Fourth of July weekend enjoying the thrilling rides at Universal Orlando and viewing an amazing Fourth of July extravaganza that involves simultaneously launching a glorious display of fireworks from Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure and Universal CityWalk. The Fourth of July celebration at Universal CityWalk is included in the regular admission price. CityWalk will offer a variety of games for children and adults, including musical chairs, a balloon toss, and watermelon, hot dog and pie eating contests. Accompanying this assortment of All-American entertainment, CityWalk will feature live music from the band "Pocket Change" all afternoon.
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Universal Hollywood hits its mark with grown-up 'Creature from the Black Lagoon'
Universal Hollywood hits its mark with grown-up 'Creature from the Black Lagoon'.
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Universal Studios Hollywood is trashing industry convention with Creature from the Black Lagoon, staging a raucous Broadway-quality musical that revels in adult humor. This isn't a show for the kiddies. Universal dusted off one of its classic monster franchises and brought it back to life with a fresh musical adaptation, one that's equal parts silly, sexy and snarky.
Three Disney Parks Plan Special Fireworks on July 4
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Guests celebrating the Fourth of July at Walt Disney World Resort will have a choice of fireworks shows as Magic Kingdom and Disney's Hollywood Studios present special pyrotechnics and Epcot adds a patriotic "tag" to its famous "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth" spectacular. Here's what's in store:
Magic Kingdom – "Celebrate America Fireworks" will fill the sky at 9 pm. July 4 (guests who'd like to begin the celebratory weekend a day early can enjoy the special fireworks on July 3 at 9 p.m.). After the fireworks, guests can enjoy a performance of Disney's "SpectroMagic" parade of lights, music and magic at 10:30 p.m. on July 3-4. Park hours are 9 a.m.-11 p.m. on July 3-4.
Disney's Hollywood Studios – Special fireworks will be presented at 10 p.m. on July 4, providing guests with a bonus nighttime entertainment extravaganza to complement "Fantasmic!" (which will be at 9 p.m. and 10:45 p.m.). Park hours on July 4 are 9 a.m.-10 p.m.
Epcot – "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth," which features dazzling special effects, colorful lasers, brilliant fireworks and fiery torches all choreographed to a musical score, becomes even more dynamic on July 4 as the normal show is supplemented with a patriotic finale. The performance begins at 10 p.m. Park hours on July 4 are 9 a.m.-10 p.m.
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SIXFQ BRIEF: Texas Giant coaster at Six Flags remains closed second day
SIXFQ BRIEF: Texas Giant coaster at Six Flags remains closed second day.
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Six Flags Over Texas inspectors have been working around the clock to get the Texas Giant rollercoaster back on track after it was shut down around 2 p.m. on Monday, when a ride operator detected a problem with a car. The coaster was still sidelined as of midafternoon Tuesday. "A portion of our investigation is complete," said Sharon Parker, a spokeswoman for the Arlington amusement park. She declined to say exactly why the ride was closed, and would not speculate on when the popular attraction will return to action. Monday, after the ride was closed, Parker said that "the ride cycle was interrupted." She added that "there were no injuries, and all passengers were safely unloaded." Park officials announced this year that the ride, which opened in 1990, is to get $10 million worth of new track, trains and controls in the fall.
Dorney Park: Dorney Park opens new ice show -- themorningcall.com
Dorney Park: Dorney Park opens new ice show -- themorningcall.com.
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Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom debuted its new ice show " Snoopy Rocks! On Ice" Tuesday at the park's brand new $6 million Good Time Theater. Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts gang took the ice with 16 professional skaters, one an Olympic medalist and four of whom are local. The show will be open to the public three times a day beginning Thursday through Labor Day. It will be presented four times a day on Saturday and be closed Wednesdays. The 18,000 square foot, 600 seat theater which was completed just over a week ago is the largest investment in live entertainment the park has ever made said Jason McClure, park general manager.
Sea Isle City visitors buckle up for a wild summer at Funland - pressofAtlanticCity.com : Cape May County
Sea Isle City visitors buckle up for a wild summer at Funland - pressofAtlanticCity.com : Cape May County.
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SEA ISLE CITY - As Jay Gillian cut the ribbon to his newest amusement park Tuesday afternoon, the sun shone on the dozen rainbow-colored children's rides for which Gillian and city officials have high hopes. The seaside city, which lost its only amusement park nine years ago, wants to appeal to family vacationers to stay in the city after a day at the beach. Gillian wants to draw a customer base to the new Gillian's Funland of Sea Isle City that made his family's Gillian's Wonderland Pier a staple in Ocean City. Despite the economic downturn, Gillian said he believes people will spend money on their children. He reached an agreement with the city in February to lease a city-owned downtown lot alongside a public waterfront on 42nd Place. The park opened over the weekend and held a grand opening Tuesday. "It's awesome," said Kimberly Styer, of Longport, who took her three daughters - Lee, 15, Noel, 13, and Ryann, 9 - on the rides Tuesday. The amusement park - with its Ferris wheel and carousel - is now the most prominent landmark in downtown Sea Isle City apart from the water tower. "As Gillian's goes, the rest of us in Sea Isle City are going to go," Mayor Leonard Desiderio said Tuesday. The city will get 10 percent of the park's revenues under the agreement, although city officials talk more about the park's draw of tourists than about the revenue. Sea Isle City Councilman Michael McHale said the city did not want to lose its visitors during evenings to neighboring towns with amusement parks - namely the Wildwoods and Ocean City. Desiderio said the amusement park will help bolster the city's image as a family-friendly resort. It is an image the city, also well known for its parties and nightlife, has struggled with in the past. "There's days we take a step forward and days we take a step backward," Desiderio said. "This is a day we take two steps forward." The amusement park is the only new one to open in New Jersey this year, and city officials said it is the only new one to open in the country this year. The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions could not confirm that Tuesday, but a spokesman said the opening of a new amusement park is generally rare. "The opening of a new park is a big deal anywhere in the country, whether it's a large regional park or more of a local park," spokesman David Mandt said. "It's always big news." New Jersey lost some of its amusement parks over the past decade as the properties were sold for real estate due to the housing boom, said Kimberle Rolle Samarelli, executive director of the New Jersey Amusement Association. Fun City, an amusement park that was a staple in Sea Isle City for more than 30 years, closed in 2000 and was sold to developers after the owners could not find a buyer for the park - just the land, Desiderio said. Opening a new amusement park is an intensive process due to state regulations that are among the strictest in the country, Samarelli said. "It's a very gigantic accomplishment," she said. "It's no small feat to open an amusement park." New Jersey has about a dozen amusement parks, most of which are in coastal communities, she said.
The Pirates League sets sail at Magic Kingdom -- OrlandoSentinel.com
The Pirates League sets sail at Magic Kingdom -- OrlandoSentinel.com.
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Magic Kingdom guests can let their inner pirates out with a new service that opened at the theme park Monday. The Pirates League presents patrons with matey makeover — for a price. The attraction, wedged between the entrance of the Pirates of the Caribbean ride and its gift shop/exit, assigns new high-seas identities and tries to create swagger through costuming, makeup, theming and the swearing of the pirate oath. The idea is similar to Disney's princess-producing Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique but with a broader range. "It's not just a boy experience, and it's not just a girl experience," said Alex Caruthers of Walt Disney Imagineering. Adults can buy a pirate transformation too, he said. And as is Disney tradition, the outlet carries its own story line: Captain Jack's crew has taken over the local office of the East India Trading Co. and installed their own haphazard decor. "Pirates didn't plan anything," Caruthers noted.
Six Flags closes Texas Giant roller coaster for undisclosed reason | Arlington | Star-Telegram.com
Six Flags closes Texas Giant roller coaster for undisclosed reason | Arlington | Star-Telegram.com.
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Officials at Six Flags Over Texas closed the Arlington amusement park’s popular Texas Giant roller coaster Monday but wouldn’t say why. "The ride cycle was interrupted," said Sharon Parker, a Six Flags spokeswoman. "There were no injuries, and all passengers were safely unloaded." Parker declined to say why the ride was closed. "At this point, they’re inspecting both the track and the ride," Parker said, adding that she couldn’t recall whether the ride has been previously closed. "I would say that it’s fairly uncommon." The ride remained closed at 5 p.m. as park engineers continued their inspection of the wooden roller coaster. Park officials announced this year that the ride, which opened in 1990, is to get $10 million worth of new track, trains and controls in the fall.
Universal's Halloween Horror Nights
Universal's Halloween Horror Nights.
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Orlando, FL (PRWEB) June 29, 2009 -- For the first time ever, guests at Universal Orlando's Halloween Horror Nights will live a mega-horror movie before it even hits the big screen. They will also experience two modern day blockbuster horror franchises as Universal Orlando devotes its entire Halloween Horror Nights event to bringing horror films to life. Universal Orlando is partnering with Universal Pictures to bring one of the year's most highly anticipated films, "The Wolfman," to life so guests can experience it firsthand before it hits theaters on November 6. It is also partnering with Lionsgate® and Twisted Pictures to bring the most profitable horror franchise, "SAW," to Halloween Horror Nights 19: Ripped From the Silver Screen. Universal Orlando is also using its partnership with Universal Pictures to bring the popular "Chucky" film series to life at the event as well.
Dollywood's $5M Adventure Mountain project back on
Dollywood's $5M Adventure Mountain project back on.
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PIGEON FORGE -- A $5 million expansion at Dollywood is back on after the economy forced a delay. The theme park has grown significantly since its 1986 inception and so has the surrounding city of Pigeon Forge. But in November 2008, Dollywood's growth had to be put on hold temporarily when the Adventure Mountain attraction was delayed. Management blamed rising construction costs and the slumping economy. When Dollywood announced its latest addition, the price tag was $5 million. Within three months, that price shot up $2 million. Management decided to wait until the costs of construction materials went back down and the economy stabilized. Now, the $5 million project is back on. "We knew how much money we had and how much it was going to cost. So rather than eliminate elements and make it smaller, we decided to wait and provide the project that we originally had described," explains Dolllywood spokesman Pete Owens.
The Hall of Presidents Transformed | The Disney Blog
The Hall of Presidents Transformed | The Disney Blog.
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When it came time to add one more Audio-Animatronic figure to the famous Hall Of Presidents attraction at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, the Imagineers could have chosen the easy path and just added one more AA figure with a new speech. Instead they spotted a weakness in the attraction with how it duplicated much of the same American history as the much more involved American Adventure attraction at EPCOT Center and then somewhat abruptly switched tracks to a Presidential roll-call. So they set to work to refocus the attraction on the story of what it means to be an American President. Along the way they’ve changed the attraction’s message, given more time to the Audio-Animatronic Presidential figures, plussed the exterior with a marquee, and spruced up the lobby area as well. As I said in my previous post, the overall change is certainly a good one. The lobby looks largely the same, but the addition of a new display case that features dresses, and more, from some of America’s First Ladies adds balance to the attraction. They had to ditch a couple Presidential portraits for that. But if they rotate the portraits like they plan to rotate the dresses, all should be good. Inside the theater very little has changed. The show opens with the familiar ‘We The People’ silhouettes, and the group recitation of the Constitution’s pre-amble, but there is very little visual connection there. It seems like guests are expected to remember the symbology from the previous show?
CoasterBuzz Podcast - CoasterBuzz Podcast #146 - June 29, 2009
CoasterBuzz Podcast - CoasterBuzz Podcast #146 - June 29, 2009.
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Jeff and Pat review this week's news in the amusement industry. * The Fall Affair at Holiday World promises to be a big deal. Register today! Gonch will be there if others show up. * Walt Disney museum on target for fall opening in San Francisco. Gonch wonders what he'd think about the company today. * People go to hospital after excess chemicals let into water at Holiday World's Splashin' Safari. Jeff doesn't want to think of the nasty stuff in public swimming areas. Hot tubs are even worse when it comes to genetic filth. * Son of Beast closed after another alleged accident. Why did they even bother hanging on to that ride after the last accident? * US military helps Iraqis restore amusement park. How important is it culturally to get amusement parks open in a post-war mess? * Busch Tampa getting the Sesame Street treatment. Gonch wonders if there's enduring love for the show. Jeff finds Kermit's cover of Nine Inch Nails' "Hurt" very disturbing. * Six Flags continues marketing agreement with Chrysler, showing cars in 13 parks. * Epcot Test Track GM sponsorship in limbo as deadline passes. The boys think GM would be nuts to let go of the deal. * Speaking of transportation, Jeff saw a thing History Channel about crumbling infrastructure. * Disney strikes a deal with Hong Kong for expansion. * PETA unleashes their pain over a dead dolphin at Discovery Cove. * Lakeside Cyclone closed until, whenever, to get it ready for 70th anniversary. * Saw franchise coming to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando. * Legoland has a contest to hire master builders. Anyone see the Mythbusters episode with the giant Lego ball? * More iPhone apps available for ride wait times, but they depend on user participation to be of any use. * San Antonio paper says parks aren't reporting accidents and state isn't enforcing reporting according to the law. * Twitter is the latest land grab as far as trademark infringement goes. * CoasterBuzz Club will be going up in price soon, to $25, after eight years at $20. You can still join or renew today at the old rate. Jeff explains why the increase is coming.
Walt Disney World Is going to the dogs
Walt Disney World Is Set To Get A Pet Resort, Disney News | Magical Mountain.
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Walt Disney World Resort will be catering to a new type of guest - pets. That's right; you will now be able to share your ultimate Disney vacationing experience, well, accommodations at least, with your pet. Best Friends Pet Care Inc. will be managing the all new full service pet "resort" located right on Walt Disney World Resort property. Amenities will include dog and cat boarding, day care and grooming services, and doggy day camp.
Legoland Theme Park May Be Coming to Central Fla. - Entertainment News Story - WESH Orlando
Legoland Theme Park May Be Coming to Central Fla. - Entertainment News Story - WESH Orlando.
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ORLANDO, Fla. -- Among rampant rumors that Legoland is looking to come to Orlando, a spokeswoman confirmed to WESH 2 News Monday morning that the company is planning to build a second them park in the U.S. and is strongly considering Florida. The spokeswoman confirmed research is being done by Merlin Entertainment Group, the company that designs Legoland. According to Orlando Attractions Magazine, residents in Central Florida have received online surveys asking them basic questions about ticket price levels and how interested they'd be in attending a Legoland Park in Florida. It was reported in early May that a rumored real estate deal between Legoland and the owner of Splendid China fell through. Now, Legoland is said to be considering a location in Winter Haven near Cypress Gardens and possibly near Old Town in Kissimee as a location for the park. Legoland has one other park in the U.S. in Carlsbad, Calif. It's geared to children ages 2 to 12 and features interactive rides, shows, attractions and Lego-themed restaurants and shops. A single-day ticket to Legoland in California costs $63 for adults and $53 for children.
Disney World Epcot Dining - An international experience - Norway, America, Kids, Food & Wine(Part 4)
Disney World Epcot Dining - An international experience - Norway, America, Kids, Food & Wine(Part 4).
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Ordinarily, it might take a lifetime of vacations to sample the representative cooking of China, France, the United Kingdom, Japan, Germany, Italy, Norway, Mexico and Morocco. For the World Showcase traveler, it’s a 1.1-mile walk around the lagoon, where all roads lead to authentic restaurants.
A piece of Michael Jackson’s legacy lives on at Beech Bend « ThrillNetwork.com - Sit down. Log in. Hang on!
Elvis Presley via last.fm
Elvis Presley had the mansion called Graceland, Michael Jackson had the ranch called Neverland. Two Kings of pop culture had their castles, each with their ways to entertain their owner. Both met a relatively early demise through strikingly similar circumstances (as of this writing), and both live on through their music and through what they left behind. Lately, the talk has been heavy regarding Michael Jackson, his legacy, his controversy, and what he has left behind after dying June 25 at the age of 50. Late Friday night/early Saturday morning, within an hour’s time, we learned of two tribute events going on. The first being a weekend event at Freestyle Music Park honoring Jackson in Myrtle Beach, S.C., posted by one of my fellow staffers. The other one, which I posted, was a relatively short blurb about complimentary rides being offered on Sea Dragon at Beech Bend Park in Bowling Green, Ky. After posting the Beech Bend release, something was nagging me that I should go cover this, to see for myself what was so special about this ride. I fought with myself over whether I should cover a piece of history, or if I should just skip this being that it’s just another flat ride. I decided to bite the bullet, knowing I’d regret it if I didn’t cover it. After a call to Beech Bend, I received permission to cover the event.
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Rip Ride Rockit coaster's bugs bite Universal Orlando -- OrlandoSentinel.com
Rip Ride Rockit coaster's bugs bite Universal Orlando -- OrlandoSentinel.com.
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As the region's theme parks battle for business during one of the leanest summers in recent memory, Universal Orlando has so far been unable to fire its biggest weapon. Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, the resort's new $45 million roller coaster, has been hit with delays. Once supposed to open this spring, it still does not have an opening date, with the Fourth of July weekend — the biggest holiday of the summer — now only a week away. Industry analysts say that, as the delay extends deeper into summer, Universal risks losing ground to rivals Walt Disney World and SeaWorld Orlando at a time when the three giants are competing for a recession-shrunken pool of travelers. "At this point, it hasn't had too much of an impact. But if it continues to linger, it certainly will," said Dennis Speigel, president of International Theme Park Services, a consulting business in Cincinnati.
Disney Parks plan Fourth of July fireworks with a patriotic theme
Image via Wikipedia
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Disney World Epcot Dining - An international experience without the long flight (Part 2)
Disney World Epcot Dining - An international experience without the long flight (Part 2).
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Ordinarily, it might take a lifetime of vacations to sample the representative cooking of China, France, the United Kingdom, Japan, Germany, Italy, Norway, Mexico and Morocco. For the World Showcase traveler, it’s a 1.1-mile walk around the lagoon, where all roads lead to authentic restaurants. Morocco Restaurant Marrakesh serves flavorful specialties, using a long list of herbs and spices including saffron, a key ingredient in many Moroccan dishes. A favorite appetizer is bastilla, or fried pastry, that combines layers of the pastry with chicken seasoned with almonds, powdered sugar and cinnamon. The dessert menu includes bastilla au lait etamandes, with cream and toasted almonds and traditional Moroccan mint tea. During lunch and dinner, a belly dancer entertains with live Moroccan music. Tangierine Café, located on the right side of the entrance to the showcase, specializes in quick-service specialties such as shawarma, sandwiches made from slow-roasted chicken, beef or lamb, served with hummus and tzatziki.
4th of July Fireworks at Disney World, SeaWorld, and Universal Orlando | The Disney Blog
Image via Wikipedia
This Sunday is the Annual Passholder/DVC preview of Hall of Presidents which will kick off a week long patriotic feeling across Orlando that will resolve in huge firework displays across the region. Almost all of the local theme parks have their own displays with some showing on Friday and Saturday, so choose wisely which shows you’ll want to see. Walt Disney World Fourth of July Fireworks on the 3rd and the 4th Guests celebrating the Fourth of July at Walt Disney World Resort will have a choice of fireworks shows as Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios present special pyrotechnics and Epcot adds a patriotic “tag” to its famous “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” spectacular. Here’s the latest schedule: Magic Kingdom – “Celebrate America Fireworks” will fill the sky at 9 pm. July 4 (guests who’d like to begin the celebratory weekend a day early can enjoy the special fireworks on July 3 at 9 p.m.). After the fireworks, guests can enjoy a performance of Disney’s “SpectroMagic” parade of lights, music and magic at 10:30 p.m. on July 3-4. Park hours are 9 a.m.-11 p.m. on July 3-4. There are evening extra magic hours on July 3rd. Also on the third Disney will host a citizenship ceremony where 1,000 immigrants will gather on Main Street, U.S.A. to be “sworn in” as American citizens. Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Special fireworks will be presented at 10 p.m. on July 4, providing guests with a bonus nighttime entertainment extravaganza to complement “Fantasmic!” (which will be at 9 p.m. and 10:45 p.m.). Park hours on July 4 are 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Epcot – “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth,” which features dazzling special effects, colorful lasers, brilliant fireworks and fiery torches all choreographed to a musical score, becomes even more dynamic on July 4 as the normal show is supplemented with a patriotic finale. The performance begins at 10 p.m. Park hours on July 4 are 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Disney’s Animal Kingdom – No fireworks here (they wouldn’t want to disturb the animals’ rest). Guests can enjoy all the regular attractions and shows on July 4 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. SeaWorld and Universal SeaWorld Orlando - celebrate the Fourth of July with a “bang” on July 3 with a special tribute performance by the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne All-American Chorus and dazzling fireworks display. The celebration continues July 4 with a patriotic presentation of red, white and blue fireworks immediately following the all-new fountain and fireworks finale – “Reflections.” Universal Orlando - Celebrate Independence Day with live music from the O’Jays and a special Universal 360 show finale.
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Beech Bend pays tribute to Michael Jackson through former Neverland ride « ThrillNetwork.com - Sit down. Log in. Hang on!
Image by TunnelBug via Flickr
Despite Michael Jackson’s controversial life and his recent passing, Beech Bend Park in Bowling Green, KY has decided to open its doors to Michael Jackson fans on Sunday, June 27 from 5-7pm (Central Time). During this time, complimentary rides on their Sea Dragon ride will be offered as a tribute to the King of Pop. Originally purchased and installed at Jackson’s Neverland Ranch in the mid 1990’s through Chance Rides, Beech Bend Park purchased the Sea Dragon ride in November 2008. It was moved to Bowling Green, repainted and re-assembled in time for the beginning of 2009 season. It has been described as one of Jackson’s favorite rides. To find out more, visit Beech Bend Park.
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Freestyle Music Park site of Michael Jackson memorial
HORRY COUNTY, SC (WMBF) - Officials at Freestyle Music Park have announced they will be paying special tribute to pop music icon Michael Jackson throughout the weekend at the Horry County amusement park.
The park has set up a memorial wall in memory of Jackson outside of the park's main gate where guests and fans can write their thoughts and memories of Jackson. The park is also allowing fans to leave flowers, candles and Jackson-related material at the site.
Throughout Michael Jackson Memorial Weekend, officials say any park guest who wears a single white glove, a red zipper jacket or wears white socks with dress shoes will be admitted to the park for $5. The $5 charge ties into the "5" in The Jackson 5.
Make-a-Wish, a Jackson-supported charity, will also be accepted throughout the weekend.
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Orange County - Disneyland Urged to Bring Back Michael Jackson's Captain EO - Navel Gazing - OC Weekly
Orange County - Disneyland Urged to Bring Back Michael Jackson's Captain EO - Navel Gazing - OC Weekly.
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On various Internet sites, including the "Captain EO @ Disneyland" Facebook page, Disneyland is being urged to bring back the Captain EO attraction to honor Michael Jackson. Captain EO, which debuted at Disneyland on Sept. 18, 1986 (six days after its world premiere at Walt Disney World's Epcot Center in Orlando, Florida), and ran continuously through April of 1997, was the 17-minute film you see YouTubed in two parts above. Other sites where people are calling for EO's return to Disneyland include YouTube, Examiner.com and MovieLine.com. Because of its revolutionary 3-D effects, Disneyland guests enjoyed the Star Warsesque flick projected in a tricked-out theater that sat 500 people per screening. It's perfectly acceptable to make the Star Wars reference (sorry, geeks) because the flick was executive produced by George Lucas. But Lucas did not want to direct it, so he called his pal Steven Spielberg. But Spielberg was busy, so Francis Ford Coppola got the gig.
New shows, new themes and new tech at Universal Studios Hollywood
New shows, new themes and new tech at Universal Studios Hollywood.
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Just wanted to give you a heads-up -- next time you're at USH, stop by the Shrek 4D attraction -- We've just upgraded the projection system and the new projectors are a vast improvement ofer the originals. The old projectors were a quartet of Barco ELM R12 behemoths. Each eye consisted of two projectors and each projector covered half of the screen. The two images were blended down the center. The original projectors were only 12,000 lumens. The new projectors are state of the art Christie HD+30K units. Burning your retinas at 30,000 lumens each, they provide a marked improvement in image quality. Much brighter, better color saturation, better color consistency (the old side by side pairs suffered from mismatches in color temperature), and MUCH better contrast (really becomes obvious in the cemetary scene). These are, incidentally, the exact same projectors that are going into the new King King attraction (16 of them) as well as the upcoming Transformers (24 of them).
Magic Kingdom Eats: From Quick Bites to Lunch with a Princess
Magic Kingdom is best known for its classic attractions and favorite Disney characters, but the park also has its share of great family meals.
Leisurely Fare
Cinderella’s Royal Table. One of the most coveted dining reservations is for breakfast or lunch with the Disney princesses at this enchanting restaurant in Cinderella Castle. (Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother greets dinner guests.) The majestic dining room is a magical experience for little ones, with leaded windows, coats of arms and medieval flags – and a visit to each table by Disney “royalty.” The signature dish is Major Domo’s Favorite Pie, with shredded beef simmered in cabernet sauce with mashed potatoes and topped with pastry. For little ones, there’s a minor Domo version of the popular entrée.
Liberty Tree Tavern. In Liberty Square opposite the riverboat landing, Liberty Tree Tavern offers all-American fare. For lunch, pot roast in cabernet sauce, roast turkey with herb dressing, or a favorite cheeseburger. Dinner is all-you-care-to-eat roast turkey, carved beef, pork loin, herb stuffing, macaroni and cheese and mashed potatoes. The restaurant is a re-creation of an 18th century American inn, with six small dining rooms with Colonial artifacts.
Crystal Palace. Winnie the Pooh and his pals are the stars at this venerable Magic Kingdom restaurant inspired by San Francisco’s Conservatory of Flowers. A generous buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner includes favorites such as prime rib, salmon, clam chowder, dozens of salads and sweets. Little ones get their own buffet with chicken nuggets, macaroni and cheese, peanut butter and jelly and pizza.
Plaza Restaurant. Tucked on the side street on Main Street, U.S.A., around the corner from the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor, this eatery is a respite from the hustle and bustle of Magic Kingdom – no Disney characters, no entertainment, just a quiet, Art Nouveau-inspired spot. The grilled reuben is a longtime favorite, as well as the chicken strawberry salad. But the biggest sellers are sundaes, floats and hand-dipped milkshakes.
Tony’s Town Square. Inspired by the Disney classic “Lady and the Tramp,” Tony’s features spaghetti, chicken Parmesan, flatbreads and other Italian specialties. The best seats are on the airy patio with a view of Town Square.
For a Fast Bite
Land to Land in Magic Kingdom, quick-service has a variety of great tastes to please every guest. On Main Street, U.S.A., Casey’s Corner is the spot for giant hot dogs and corn dog nuggets and fries, with tables on the sidewalk where a pianist entertains with old-fashioned tunes. In Adventureland, El Pirata Y El Perico (the Pirate and the Parrot) offers beef and vegetarian tacos and taco salad. Nearby in Frontierland, Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Café serves burgers (including vegetarian), a chicken wrap and chicken salad – with a terrific toppings bar.
Next is Liberty Square, where Columbia Harbour House is the only place in Magic Kingdom for fried fish, but you also can get tuna on a toasted multigrain bun and a hummus sandwich with tomato and broccoli slaw with a side of vegetarian chili or New England clam chowder. In Fantasyland, Pinocchio Village Haus is a kid favorite with peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, macaroni and cheese and salads for mom and dad.
In Tomorrowland, Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe is a great spot for picky eaters, with three counters: one with rotisserie chicken, barbecued ribs and salad; one with burgers and hot dogs; one with Caesar salads, wraps and barbecue sandwiches. Tomorrowland Terrace Noodle Station has an Asian flair with noodle bowls, beef and broccoli with steamed rice and sushi.
Throughout the park there are walk-up windows for everything from the legendary Dole Whip at Aloha Isle in Adventureland to ice cream at Mrs. Potts’ Cupboard in Fantasyland and funnel cakes at Sleepy Hollow in Liberty Square.
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Kids' rides come back to Sea Isle - pressofAtlanticCity.com : Cape May County
Kids' rides come back to Sea Isle - pressofAtlanticCity.com : Cape May County.
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SEA ISLE CITY - A hot-air balloon Ferris wheel and a rainbow-colored slide are now prominent downtown features in this resort city that was without an amusement park for a decade. Gillian's Funland of Sea Isle City is expected to open most of its rides to the public Saturday afternoon following an especially rainy June that delayed opening by almost a month. "Between the weather and everything, it's been a long few months. We need to get open," said Jay Gillian, who also operates the landmark Gillian's Wonderland Pier in Ocean City. Weeks of rainy weather delayed the work to put down asphalt and concrete foundations at the park's location on a city-owned lot alongside a public waterfront on 42nd Place, he said. Currently, the amusement park is awaiting final inspections and approvals from the state Department of Community Affairs, Gillian said.
Hall of Presidents Set to Re-open, new details revealed | The Disney Blog
Hall of Presidents Set to Re-open, new details revealed | The Disney Blog.
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The Hall of Presidents update to include President Obama and otherwise update the attraction is just about done. We’ve known for some time about details like the new narrator and speaking lines by George Washington, but yesterday Orlando Sentinel writer Dewayne Bevil got a sneak peak of the attraction and has been able to share many more elements of the show. The Hall of Presidents officially reopens on July 4th. But AP holders and DVC members can get an early look on June 28th from 11am-9pm. Just show your valid pass/member ID and photo ID at the attraction.
Busch Gardens expected to open 'Sesame Street' attraction
Busch Gardens expected to open 'Sesame Street' attraction.
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Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is expected to open a "Sesame Street" children's attraction in 2010 similar to one that opened in April at the theme park's Williamsburg, Va., location. Busch Gardens has not commented on the project, which will include a coaster and four buildings totaling 6,043 square feet, according to documents filed with the city of Tampa. "An announcement is forthcoming later in the summer," Busch Gardens Tampa Bay spokeswoman Jill Revelle said this morning. The theme park filed plans with the city June 12 for demolition work and to build a roller coaster and four buildings: character support and photo, 3,513 square feet; gift shop, 1,779 square feet; merchandise, 604 square feet; and coaster equipment, 147 square feet. City construction officials are reviewing the plans, with fire, zoning and landscape elements remaining to be approved before the site gets the city's OK, a city plan review log shows. The theme park enthusiast site Floridathrills.net speculated this month that the new Tampa attraction could be similar to Williamsburg's new children's area.
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