APRIL 2015 SHOW TIME

April 2015

In This Issue: H H-2B Support from Congressman Newhouse H OABA-Duke Smith Scholarship Recipients H Essay Contest Winner H NWSC Safety Seminar

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Contents The Official Publication of the Outdoor Amusement Business Association

Features NWSC Safety Seminar Attendees Receive Over 5,000 Hours of Safety Instruction and Training Essay Contest Winners OABA-Duke Smith Memorial Education Fund 2015 Scholarships

April 2015

ASSOCIATION 4 FROM THE OABA CHAIR

GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS 20 DOT REGULATORY NEWS

Exercise Your Right To Act!

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22 Arnold Safety Consulting

6 ASSOCIATION BUZZ

DOT Conducting Less Audits

Mission Driven To Help You

GOVERNMENT Features 23 Guest-Worker Visas: Tools to Boost Our Economy

8 ON THE EARIE Tom Powell reports on the industry’s shows, fairs, colorful show folks and amusing events.

By Congressman Dan Newhouse

11 as the wheel turns

circus members 26 from the center ring

Who, what and where are people making news? Here’s the scoop.

Rodney Huey follows circuses around the country.

18 SERVICES, BENEFITS & PROGRAMS

28 CAPITOL UPDATE

2015 Contribution Fund Kick-Off!

Joan Galvin, Government Relations Consultant

24 photo gallery The OABA catches members in action.

Facebook www.facebook.com/oabainfo

Twitter @oabainfo

Read with Smartphone Bar Code Scanner

Our Mission: To promote the preservation and growth of the outdoor amusement industry through leadership, advocacy and education.

Cover image: Marcio Jose Bastos Silva/Shutterstock.com

ShowTime publisher|managing editor Robert Johnson 407.681.9444 H bobj@oaba.org editor Dee Dee Alford 407.681.9444 H deedeea@oaba.org Graphic Design Avic-Versi Creative Jen Burge H 817.602.7254 H avicversi@att.net advertising sales 407.681.9444 H oaba@oaba.org association office Outdoor Amusement Business Assn., Inc. 1035 S. Semoran Blvd., Suite 1045A Winter Park, FL 32792 407.681.9444 H fax 407.681.9445 © Outdoor Amusement Business Assn. 2015

All advertisements appearing in this ShowTime publication are paid by the advertiser and the OABA reserves the right to refuse any advertising. The ads are provided on an “as is” basis and do not necessarily carry the endorsement of the OABA. In addition, the OABA does not guarantee, warrant, or endorse the information, products, or services of any corporation, organization, or person contributing to this publication.

OABA OFFICERS

OABA trustees

CHAIR Michael Wood 1ST VICE CHAIR Thomas J. Gaylin, III 2ND VICE CHAIR E. J. Dean 3RD VICE CHAIR Jay Strates trustee 2014 Chris Lopez trustee 2013 Mike Featherston TRUSTEE 2012 Jeanne McDonagh Treasurer Larry Yaffe President Bob Johnson

OABA directors Michael Brajevich Doug Burtch Joe Burum Tony Cassata Brad Dallman Andy Deggeller Michael Doolan Blake Huston

Stacey Jamieson Mitchell Kaliff Melissa Kibby Michael Lauther Charlene Leavitt Ron Morris Ben Pickett Debbie Powers

Rick Reithoffer Lorelei Schoendienst Joseph Skerbeck Mary Chris Smith Greg Stewart Holly Swartz Amber Swedgan Rob Vivona

Bill Johnson-2011 Dominic Vivona, Jr.-2010 Wayne McCary-2009 Andy Schoendienst-2008 John Hanschen-2007 Guy Leavitt-2006 Ron Burback-2005 Don Deggeller-2004 James E. Strates-2003 * Jackie Swika-2002 Danny Huston-2001 Jeff Blomsness-2000 Sam Johnston-1999 Buddy Merten-1998 * Richard Janas-1997 Jean Clair-1996 James Murphy-1995 Dominic Vivona-1994 * Bill Dillard, Sr.-1993 Tom Atkins-1992 * Red Wood-1991 Billy Burr-1990

Bob Coleman, Sr.-1989 * Milt F. Kaufman-1988 * Andy Andersen-1987 * John Vivona-1986 * Mike Farino-1985 James H. Drew, III-1984 Gerald L. Murphy-1983 * John A. Campi-1982 * Buster L. Brown-1981 * Hub Luehrs-1980 * Lloyd J. Hilligoss-1979 * Hal F. Eifort-1978 * Alfred H. Kunz-1977 * P.E. Reithoffer, Jr.-1976 * Bernard P. Thomas-1975 E. James Strates-1974 * Rod Link-1973 * C.J. Sedlmayr-1972 * John Portemont-1971 * William T. Collins-1966-70 * W.G. Wade-1965

* Deceased

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ASSOCIATION H message from the OABA Chair

Exercise Your Right To Act! Michael Wood

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s I return home from representing the OABA at led to realities we do not like and are difficult to live with. the Mid-West Fairs meeting in San Diego, where Thanks again to OABA Second Vice Chair E.J. Dean for shovelI presented to this group of top fair managers in ing himself out of all that Boston snow to go to Washington, the U.S., our 50th Anniversary video, and gave my report on DC last month and attend Representative Tom Cole’s event.

OABA activities. While it prompted many questions about our Cole is important to us as the new Chair of the House Ways & history, the content of those questions pointed out something Means Committee and on the Appropriation’s Subcommittee very obvious — just how little we and our partners actuon Labor and Health. ally know about one another. With our professional lives so It is extremely difficult to be proactive while leading from closely linked, that struck me as both odd and unacceptable. behind, yet that is the precarious position we find ourselves The message I delivered on our behalf was simple: “Trust and in. In the simplest of terms, our efforts with the current level cooperation are necessary for our mutual survival.” of support have peaked. We can and must tell our side of the Many of them renewed their pledges of assistance on the story, and in mass! Our efforts must be cognizant that no labor front and I pointed out that amount of lobbying or money can for many of the recent gains, we overcome the lack of support by owe a debt of gratitude to our fair you, the constituency of our lawChange is only afforded to those makers. Support for our efforts has partners. Their work on our behalf who exercise their right to act. with their legislative constituents been exceptional on the part of a and key members of Congress has few, and I applaud those of you for helped immensely. This does not your efforts, however lackluster in any way diminish the hard work by our members, our board on the part of the group as a whole. If the issues of H-2B visas and our Washington, DC lobbying teams. and exotic animals are of the priority you have said they are, I would like to take a moment to recognize our lobbying then now is your time to shine and prove it! teams who are Joan Galvin, assisted by Mark Anderson, with I challenge each and every member to make a donation to Kelley Drye & Warren, and Gregg Hartley, assisted by William our OABA PAC fund, however large or small, get a letter in “Rocky” Fox, with Cloakroom Advisors for their tireless efforts support from a fair or festival to the appropriate members of advocating on our behalf. No easy task with the ever-shifting Congress, or sign up new members. Personal effort on your political landscapes driven by the animal rights groups and part is as invaluable as the money it takes to pay for these efimmigration/labor activists. The efforts of these activist forts, because one doesn’t have much effect without the other. groups, although largely unfounded, have become the percepIf you need any assistance in these efforts, our lobbying team tions lawmakers base decisions on in many parts of the counand staff are standing ready to help. Please do not hesitate to try. Those actions left unchecked can, and often times have, contact us.

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Whether you’re a member of the many sister organizations IAFE, IISA, SLA, NICA or the OABA, remember that helping us is helping your business, since these issues confront us all equally regardless of affiliation.

In closing I would like to say that if you’re not a member of the OABA, you should be, and if you have a complaint, membership is your opportunity to change it. Change is only afforded to those who exercise their right to act. H

Look out for our new Concession Catalog to see our full line of new products!

CALENDAR July 14–18 Worldwide Circus Summit 2015 West Springfield, MA

worldwidecircussummit2015.com

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ASSOCIATION H association buzz

Mission Driven To Help You Bob Johnson, OABA President

To promote the prese Our Miss io r amusement industry vation and growth n: of th through leadership, a e outdoor dvocacy and education

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s the OABA’s Mission states, legislative and reguindustry, as well as the OABA’s website, www.oaba.org, are latory advocacy is one of our primary reasons to great resources to help educate you on important issues and help our members by updating you on state and challenges that confront you and others. I urge you to check federal regulations, by being proactive and challenging legisout our website weekly and browse our weekly email blast to lation and regulations that are not in your best interests, and see what might impact your business. Last month we reportby providing educational programs to help you understand ed on minimum wage hikes in over 20 states that took place what you have to do to be in compliance with regulations. on January 1. Eric Arnold, our DOT consultant, reports on We have attorneys, consultants transportation compliance issues and and lobbyists at our disposal as well audit preparation that save you thouas board members who are available sands of dollars. to help you. Obviously the regulaI know you have heard this before, I know you have heard tory climate has changed since this but “An ounce of prevention is worth a this before, but ‘An ounce of trade association was formed in 1965; pound of cure.” Your OABA has lots of prevention is worth a pound however, we try to keep up with any prevention as in education and trainregulatory issues or legislation that ing materials, lawyers and consultants. of cure.’ can affect your business. Legislators Check out this month’s article about on both the state and federal level the 35th annual Northwest Showmen’s are discussing hundreds of bills that Safety Seminar held in February and could affect your livelihood and the future generation, geared the safety certifications issued by AIMS, NAARSO, Carnival to take over your family business. The OABA is a valuable reTechnician, Forklift, First Aid and CPR to attendees. Now, source in any or all the states where your business takes you. that’s what I’m talking about!

This publication, ShowTime, our weekly Xtra email blast Safe travels and best wishes as you start your mobile amusereporting the Top Three news stories taking place in this ment season. H

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ASSOCIATION H on the earie

On The Earie Tom Powell, OABA News Ambassador

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saw Billy Clark of Smokey Mountain Shows and his buddy Bob Childress at the IISA banquet in Gibsonton during the February trade show and extravaganza, but was unable to attend the annual fish fry that they stage. Childress, who has a background as a ride builder, carnival and circus owner, was with his wife, Margaret, and Billy was accompanied by his wife, Sue. Childress, of course, was recognized by OABA with its Pioneer Award in 2014.

Clark said he and Sue are leaving the carnival business and plan to travel all over Europe this summer. Their longtime associates, Brian (Beaver) Bitner and Katie Wilson, will fulfill their contracts. Smokey Mountain will not be returning to the Orangeburg, SC County Fair, that contract having been awarded to Dominic and Ruby Macaroni’s fast growing Family Attractions.

Clark was one of the proudest show owners ever when he took over the reins of Smokey Mountain after purchasing it from the estate of Jon and Sheila Stine in 1999. He credited the late David Smith of Allied Specialty Insurance for backing him and affording him with the opportunity. For years, Christine and I visited the Clarks at the Georgia Mountain Fair, Hiawassee, and like the Clarks and Manager Hilda Thomason, we saw the decline in attendance there from year to year.

Clark was born January 11, 1942 in Blue Ridge, GA. “My momma said right after birth she took me back to North Carolina where I’ve been since.”

The Clarks spent 15 days in Alaska last year and have their travel plans mapped out for this year. “We’re going to London, Ireland and Scotland, then on the Gibtown Club’s Cruise in honor of their new president, Richie George, and then to Las Vegas for the fair and carnival conventions. We’ve been married 54 years and plan to make the best

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of whatever time we have left,” said Billy, adding trips to New Zealand and Australia are on their bucket list for the future.

That’s not bad for a guy who worked his butt off for years with such names from the past as Homer Scott and Doc Hardin. By the way, the reason we missed this year’s fish fry was because they were forced to move it from a Tuesday, when little is going on, to Friday, when the OABA 50th anniversary meeting was held.

Like many a Carny in the past (Bobby and Clyde Leonard come immediately to mind), Clark left home in 1957 to go to work at the age of 15. He set up milk bottles for a man named Jack Coleman on Homer Scott’s Georgia Amusement Co. that was based in Toccoa. “I got $3 a night Monday through Friday and $5 on Saturday, making it $20 a week.”

Clark stayed with Scott until he went with W. H. (Doc) Harden Shows of Rochelle, GA in 1973. He managed that carnival until leaving to be chief electrician for the James E. Strates Shows from 1980 through 1984. “After that I went back with Doc until Jon Stine and I both left to run a unit for Melissa Drew.”

Clark laughed when he recalled his ads for Smokey Mountain that appeared in the now defunct Amusement Business.

“We promised them feather beds and warm biscuits — and we delivered.”

Guys like Billy Clark are disappearing fast. Newcomers to the business should take time to get to know them.

I was sitting at the bar in Gibtown talking to a guy named Randy Schultz, who pretended to have never heard of me or The Billboard. It wasn’t long before Greg Hughes, who owns Family Fun Shows with his wife, Gail, interrupted to say Schultz was pulling my leg. “He’s one of my best friends and books with us. He has a Zumar and Train, along with a machine gun joint, dozers, Speed

Pitch and Bowler Roller. He used to own All American Shows and was with Henry and Jenny Klein of Sioux Falls, South Dakota for years.”

Hughes also started with the Kleins in 1974, and like Clark, was a ball boy. He eventually got into rides and became an independent. He briefly left the carnivals and was in the auto parts business for a year and a half before going with Rick Serie at Arnold’s Park in Lake Okoboji, Iowa, all the while continuing to book rides with Roger Hildebrand until he sold the show to Harlan and Georgia Bast.

Greg and Gail bought the former Serie Fun Shows from Tom Serie and renamed it Family Fun Shows in 1996. They play dates in Minnesota and South Dakota.

The season is set to begin May 1 at a fundraiser for Boys and Girls Clubs in Mission, SD, which they actually originated. They then stay in Minnesota until after the Minnesota State Fair, which ends Labor Day. Hughes said Minnesota is a great state to work and all the carnival owners work together. ”We deal with Mike Featherston of Gold Star Amusements, John Magel of Magel Carnival Midways, Randy Forcier of Gopher State Shows, and others.”

Asked about the 2014 season, Hughes said, “It was good. We work from early May into September and that suits us just fine. We have four children and it allows us time to be around them and our grandchildren.” Three of the children work on the show – Bob, Jason and Angela. The youngest son, Justin finished college with help from a Showmen’s League of America scholarship and is a meteorologist. “I’m a lifer in this business, but it isn’t for everybody,” said Greg.

Hughes is not keen on Pay-One-Price unlimited ride promotions. “If K-Mart runs a special every day, then it’s not

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With Fare Foods, which did the NICA food show, from left, all Porters, are Trampas, Jesse, Ron and Laura. The Porters also hosted a Super Bowl party and after hours suite.

Among those who crowded the Gibtown bar during the trade show, from left, are Jimmy Otterbacher, Jeff Deggeller, Doug Haworth and Bobby Myers.

Gail and Greg Hughes own Family Fun Shows out of Mankato, MN.

From left are OABA Pioneer Award recipient Bobby Cassata of Bob’s Space Racers; Jane Baxter Vivona, Amusements of America; and Steve Broetsky, Frazier Shows.

Lucky Klinger, now with Russell Kissel’s Kissel Entertainment, is feeling lucky as he is flanked by Gloria Myers, left, and Christine Powell.

This esteemed group took part in the ribbon cutting ceremony at the Carnival Museum in Gibsonton.

From left are John Strates, Wayne McCary, E. James Strates, Tom Gaylin and Doc Rivera.

Bill Currie of Bill Currie Ford, Tampa, second from right, enjoys the Gibtown activities with concessionaires, Paul Lombard and Harold Case, left, and David Starkey, right.

Paul Kasin, president of the Showmen’s League of America, left, visits with Wilbur Cooke, twotime president of the International Independent Showmen’s Association.

Ronnie and Kim Netterfield were busy working the fairs in West Palm Beach and Tampa, and visiting the NICA and Gibtown trade shows.

Phil Vivona, left, and his brother, Morris, of Amusements of America were all decked out for the OABA meeting and party.

a special. We’re a one ticket ride show for all of them, including the Majestic Bumper Cars and kiddie rides. We are very big on advance sales. I don’t understand why anybody wouldn’t want to be. It works.”

With this being the April ShowTime and opening day for baseball April 6, I feel compelled to make my World Series choices. For the first time in many years I can’t go with my beloved Philadelphia Phillies, but will stick with the Boston Red Sox against the St. Louis Cardinals, just like 1946 when Johnny Pesky held the ball and Enos (Country) Slaughter scored the winning run.

Please send news to tomp@oaba.org, or call 615-319-1258.

Have all great days, and God Bless! H

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ASSOCIATION H as the wheel turns

Making News...

IN MEMORIAM

John Milton Herriott Passes Away

Jan. 15, 1931 - Feb. 26, 2015 John Milton Herriott was a talented and charming man whose career path has spanned generations. He was born in St. Peter, Minnesota to Milt and Viola Herriott.

He followed his father into the field of animal training, and quickly rose to the top.

Alongside his wife Mary Ruth, he appeared with his performing animals at virtually every circus in the USA and beyond. He has received numerous accolades including inductions into the Sarasota Ring of Fame, Ringling Museum’s Circus Celebrity, and the International Circus Hall of Fame. His performing credits include Ringling Bros., Walt Disney World, MGM Studios, Smithsonian Institute, and more. In addition to animal training and circus management, John was also well known for his writing and poetry. The Sarasota Herald Tribune referred to him as the ‘Poet Laureate’ of the circus. As a soughtafter circus historian, he is noted or quoted in virtually every book or documentary about the American Circus. John proudly served his country during the Korean War and was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge. John had retired from performing and training. He was a past president and member of the Showfolks of Sarasota. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mary Ruth, and his legacy lives on with his four daughters, 10 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

The family requests that friends may make contributions in his memory to Showfolks of Sarasota, P.O. Box 1476, Sarasota, FL 34230. H

IN MEMORIAM

Donnie Reid of Wade Shows Passes

On February 19, 2015 Donald E. “Donnie” Reid, 59, of Land O’ Lakes, FL passed away. He was born in Bradenton, FL and worked for W.G. Wade Shows for the last 30 years. Donnie is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Peggy, two daughters, Michelle Reid Whitman and husband, Ryan, and Melinda Reid; brothers John Reid and Mike Reid; sister Tamra Reid; and grandchildren Dylan, William and Robbie. H

IN MEMORIAM

Leonard Norman Hanschen Passes Away

Living in Chico, California since 1998, Leonard Norman Hanschen passed away at Roseleaf Gardens, Chico on February 17, 2015 at the age of 95. Born March 15, 1919 in Minneapolis, Minnesota to John and Christine Hanschen, Leonard grew up there, graduating from North High. He served overseas in World War II as a Sergeant in the United States Army. He married Ruth Austad in 1948 and they had four children. Leonard was predeceased by Ruth in 2011, his parents, and his siblings: John, Harvey, Robert, Evelyn and Delores. He will be missed by his children and their families: John (Carolyn), Craig (Tammy), Christine (Phil), Timothy (Lori) and 13 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Leonard was employed by the United States Postal Service for over 30 years at the Camden Station and also served as Superintendent/Station Manager at the Coon Rapids and Robbinsdale Post Offices. Leonard was a tremendous athlete — he boxed and played golf, basketball and softball, and was a superior card and cribbage player. He loved traveling with Ruth to see family and friends in North and South Dakota, Minnesota, Hawaii, Texas, Oklahoma, California, Montana, Canada and Germany. He enjoyed his last family reunion in 2012. H

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submission H as the wheel turns Announcements or suggestions can be emailed to oaba@oaba.org

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NWSC Safety Seminar Attendees Receive Over 5,000 Hours of Safety Instruction and Training

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he Northwest Showmen’s Club Safety Seminar concluded its 35th continuous year of its week-long outdoor amusement industry safety education program.

Some 175 students were in attendance for the 33 classes. “We are so proud of our volunteer speaker/teachers who traveled to Portland, Oregon and gave their time and expertise to this seminar. Thanks again for helping to make this industry safer,” said Beverly Burback. They were: Patty Sullivan, Eli Bridge; Ray Reiger, Loss Control Services; C.W. Craven, Proper Rigging; Martin Vine, Fallen Protection; Albert Friedan, Dartron Rides; Phil Slaggert, Midway Training; John Hinde, J.P. Hinde Enterprise, Inc.; John Lamereaux, Funtastic/Forklift; Dayren Simms, Ride Inspector; John Dotson, NAARSO; Portland Police Department “Face of Meth

FEATURES H

and Substance Detection”; Portland Department of Transportation DOT regulations; and Vic Wisdom, Wisdom Manufacturing.

NWSC President Geraldine Davis hosted the four-day event. Classes and hands on training took place at Oaks Amusement Park, Portland, OR and Funtastic Shows’ campus also in Portland. After days of training, learning and teaching it was time to have a little fun at the banquet and auction night.

“Sisters of the Sink” (as they call themselves) Teri Slattery, Juanita Brandon, Renijo Haworth and crew provided breakfast, lunch and dinner for all participants (meals are included with the seminar cost) and pulled off a beautiful prime rib dinner for the banquet night. The evening auction turned into a fun battle of the dollars and at the end of the banquet

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and was a jovial fundraising event.

Thanks again to all!

John Dotson of NAARSO received the NWSC Safety Seminar award for his outstanding contributions to safety in the outdoor amusement industry.

Special thanks to Pat & Geraldine Davis, Davis Shows Northwest, who made a large contribution for the seminar. The Davis’s are huge supporters both financially and physically of the seminar and we appreciate all they do. Also, special thanks to John Hinde for his leadership and coordination of trainers, plus all his donated time.

Sponsors were Allied Insurance, OABA, Show Folks of America (sponsoring 10 participants again this year), Ron Edward Burback who coordinated classes and hands on training at Funtastic Shows’ cam, and Morry Haworth, Prime Pacific and Pat Davis who set up rides that students could inspect and study accident prevention.

Students took the following training and certification testing:

H AIMS - 6 certification tests and 2 renewals of Level II card carriers.

H NAARSO - 12 certification tests H NWSC Carnival Tech - 21 level I, and 6 level II certification tests

H Fork Lift Certification - 27 certificates

H First Aid/CPR Certifications - 20 Make Plans to Attend in 2016! H

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FEATURES H

Essay Contest Winners

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he 2015 Essay Contest sponsored by the OABA-Duke Smith Memorial Education Fund resulted in four excellent essays submitted by talented young writers! Macey Kenna, Travis Elsperman, Morgan Thomas and Shane Powers each received $250 for their efforts on the topic “What have you learned from working with foreign guest workers in our industry?” Look for these essays to be published in future editions of ShowTime. This month’s featured essay was written by Macey Kenna, age 12.

What have you learned from working with foreign guest workers in our industry?

“What have I learned from working with foreign guest workers in our industry?” I have learned many things. Many foreign workers come to America to learn about the American culture.

They also might come here for a job because American money is worth more in the home country. The customer service, pride in appearance, pride in their home country, and willingness to work are just a few things that foreign workers have impressed me with.

The customer service can be very different. I have noticed that most foreign workers are happy to be at their job and appreciate working. Some workers may express it by giving great service to the customers. Foreign workers take pride in their

jobs, and they are happy to work where they are. The pride in their appearance also differs. Most foreign workers are well presented. A clean haircut and not smoking on the job are just a few examples. Sometimes the will to work can be very different. I have noticed that sometimes foreign workers do not ask for breaks as often. What I have noted about foreign workers is they talk about their country’s history and their life in their home country. It can be very interesting.

In conclusion, there are many things I have observed from foreign workers. The customer service, appearance, and the will to work are a few of the many things. Foreign workers appreciate being here, and the opportunity to work. H

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H FEATURES

2O15 Scholarships O A B A - D u k e S m i t h M e m o r i a l Ed u c a t i o n F u n d

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t the OABA’s 50th Anniversary Meeting in Tampa, FL in February, OABA Second Vice Chair E. J. Dean announced that 31 deserving students would receive scholarship awards in 2015. Several of the applicants have received scholarship funds in the past and were awarded again this year in recognition of their hard work in maintaining their excellent grades. E. J. also recognized the $15,000 given annually by Allied Specialty Insurance and an annual contribution of $5,000 from Gold Medal Products.

David Cohen, President and CEO of Firestone Financial, presented a $5,000 check to provide a $1,000 scholarship for five years in honor of its 50th anniversary. Several OABA board members made generous pledges at the meeting the previous day to fund all 31 scholarships this year. Mary Chris Smith of Allied Specialty Insurance announced that Mary Ousey is this year’s recipient of the $3,000 David H. Smith Memorial Scholarship awarded to the outstanding high school senior.

All other applicants will receive $1,000 for fall tuition. H

2015 recipients

Laura Amoruso

Jacqueline Bossman

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Zachary Berger

Summer Bossman

Karisa Brake

Brooke Bernath

Branden Bogue

Noah Brewer-Houghton

Megan Brown

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2015 recipients

Corrina Byrum

Shelby Grein

Melisa Contangelo

Andrea Huston

Olivia Murphy

Mark Ripley

Dean Taylor

Brady Cummings

Dustin Kenna

Sean Doolan

Brittany Maple

Hailey Ousey

Megan Ripley

(continued)

Mary Ousey

Ryan Rothstein

Shannon Truax

Hailey Vivona

Trixi May Menge

Michael Ousey

Spencer Ruda

David Soled

Matthew Wood april 2015 | OABA ShowTime Magazine H

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government regulations H DOT regulatory news

DOT Is Conducting Less Audits… But Wait

By Eric Arnold, Arnold Safety Consulting

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s you prepare for your upcoming season, I want you to be more aware of the DOT and their regulations. The DOT is conducting less audits. Wait, that’s a good thing, right? No! The reason they are conducting less audits is because they are doing much more thorough audits on the poor unfortunates who do get audited. Yes, your chances of being audited are somewhat less.

However, if they do come see you, you have a much, much greater chance of failing. Let’s face it, OABA members often have very high CSA scores due to a number of factors, among which – DOT rules are not your number one priority, or familiarity, you have older equipment, and your drivers may not be professional truck drivers.

I want you to address two topics before the season starts: logs and non-CDL vehicles. If you cover these bases, you will be much more likely to avoid one of these horrible DOT audits.

When DOT conducts an audit, they will pick a sample of drivers, say five or seven, and want to see a month’s worth of logs for those drivers. You must have all 30 or 31 days’ worth of logs for each driver. Every day must be accounted for. Let me say that again. You must have a log for every single day. You may put multiple off-duty days on one page; however, every day must have some kind of log. If a driver is working on the show, taking tickets or operating rides, then his log for that day must show time onduty, not driving. If a driver is working a second job somewhere else while you are set up for the week at the Doonsbury County Festival, then he must have logs for each day accounting for that time spent working the second job. If the driver is retired, his logs may say off-duty but he must have logs for every day!

Missing logs is a crippling violation which generates tens of thousands of dollars in fines, and possibly an Unsatisfactory rating. An Unsatisfactory rating means you are in jeopardy of losing the ability to pull your own rides and equipment. Can you survive by paying someone else to pull your equipment? No? Then you had better take these DOT rules seriously. Whoever your drivers are, you need to have a set of logs which covers the entire month without any gaps at all. These logs – all of them – must be turned in to you. They are not much use to you if the driver is keeping them in his truck. When DOT audits you, the logs must be produced immediately. Many DOT auditors will not allow you any time at all to gather the documents, as the rules dictate you have them on file already. Therefore, drivers must submit the logs to you and you must file them at least every 13 days. I would do it every time you move the show.

When your drivers get in the truck to drive, they must have a copy of their previous seven days of logs with them. If they are pulled over by the DOT, the cop will demand to see the previous seven days so he can determine if the driver has violated the weekly hours of service rule. Failure to have the previous seven days is a violation and CSA points. That’s why it is critical that you make sure that anyone driving your trucks is filling out logs every single day.

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This leads into my next point, which are your non-CDL vehicles. Logs must be completed if the vehicle has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GWVR) of 10,001 lbs. or more. What this means is whoever is driving your one-ton pickups must be filling out logs every single day. Let me say that another way.

Your one-ton pickups very likely have GVWRs of over 10,001 lbs. You can tell by looking inside the door of the truck. Often one-ton trucks are rated at 10,500 or 11,000 lbs. Since you are using the trucks to support the business, they are subject to all of the DOT rules except for CDL licensing and drug testing. This means logbooks! Furthermore, these trucks are almost more likely to be pulled over than the semis. Why? DOT knows there is a better chance of finding violations on the one-tons because you don’t think the rules apply to them! If DOT sees one of your one-ton pickups pulling a ride, they may very well pull it over knowing there are very likely some easy tickets on that vehicle.

I know specifically of one OABA member who has had success in avoiding the DOT. They do it by spending hours with all the drivers before each season showing them the logbook, teaching them how to fill them out, and how to comply with the rules. This is a critical element which must be done. If you are handing the keys to your driver, giving him a blank logbook, and that’s it, you are going to have problems.

An OABA member pointed out to me they do not always know who will be driving the one-tons. Again, the rules apply to the one-tons completely with the exception of CDL licensing and drug testing. This means these drivers must have a complete qualification file, with an MVR and a medical. The vehicle and the trailer must have DOT annual inspections. As I just said, the driver must have a logbook, and every single day must be accounted for. You must do the best you can to narrow down the pool of guys who may drive the one-tons to people you have properly trained and qualified.

It is very, very common for an OABA member’s non-CDL vehicles to be stopped by the DOT and written up for no logs, or not having the previous seven days’ worth of logs. Most of these non-CDL drivers know nothing about logbooks. This is why training your drivers prior to the season is critical.

Forgive my use of multiple exclamation points and bold font, but I am frustrated with DOT’s increasingly aggressive tactics in enforcing the rules. I also want to convey this message to you as loudly and as clearly as I can: You must take these DOT rules seriously. DOT can cause you real problems if your drivers fail roadside inspections. Forewarned is forearmed. H For more information, Eric may be contacted at 610-582-4356 to offer advice or help with a DOT audit, as an OABA member service. He is President of Arnold Safety Consulting, Inc. and is a former U.S. Department of Transportation agent with over 25 years regulatory and transportation compliance experience.

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government regulations H feature

H-2B Support from Congressman Newhouse Guest-Worker Visas: Tools to Boost Our Economy

By U.S. Congressman Dan Newhouse, Representing Washington’ 4th District

C

entral Washington is like many rural communities across the United States: seasonal job opportunities create high demand for agricultural and non-agricultural workers who contribute to our local economy.

The H-2A and H-2B guest-worker visa programs form a framework by which temporary foreign workers who adhere to certain guidelines can perform much-needed work on a legal basis. Employers need temporary workers to fill jobs that are left open by domestic workers. While the H-2A visa program is exclusively for agricultural workers, H-2B visas meet the needs of non-agricultural industries such as landscaping, forestry, fisheries and hospitality. Seasonal events such as Central Washington’s State Fair employ non-agricultural workers for events that draw thousands of attendees and provide venues to showcase the abundant agricultural and regional products Central Washington has to offer.

Congress should review commonsense proposals to improve both visa programs. The visa programs should be streamlined in order to increase legal opportunities for seasonal workers and to give employers more certainty. Any new program should make the system less burdensome, not more cumbersome for employers who hire workers under current guest-worker provisions.

America currently faces the challenge of a broken immigration system that is simply unsustainable, both for immigrants and for our economy. The guest-worker visa programs provide policy tools and allow legal pathways to meet the needs of immigrant workers and a strong, stable workforce. Guest-worker programs are not the entire answer, but they can provide part of the solution as Congress finds ways to secure the border and reach a long-term solution to fix our dysfunctional immigration system.

I was deeply disappointed in President Obama’s unilateral executive action on immigration late last year for two reasons.

First, he thwarted the Constitutional legislative process, creating uncertainty and instability for our legal system and for the millions of people affected by his actions. Second, he inflamed people on both sides of the debate and set back the cause of necessary and lasting immigration reform.

As a new member of Congress, I’m ready to work with anyone in good faith for a long-term solution for our economy and for workers. Robust guest-worker visa programs with clear, commonsense guidelines can play an important part in reaching that solution. H

Congressman Dan Newhouse Representative Dan Newhouse is a lifelong resident of Central Washington and is honored to represent the 4th District in Congress. A third-generation Yakima Valley farmer, Dan brings real-world experience to Congress as a businessman and former state legislator ready to work hard in support of conservative solutions that encourage job creation and economic opportunity in Central Washington. Dan understands that looking out for tax payers means that Congress must stay on budget and make the government work efficiently to fulfill its responsibilities.

Dan serves on three committees with jurisdiction on critical legislative issues for the 4th District; these include Committees on House Agriculture; Natural Resources; and Science, Space & Technology.

Dan served four terms as a legislator in the Washington State House of Representatives, representing the 15th Legislative District from 2003 to 2009. In the Legislature, Dan earned a reputation as a principled conservative willing to work with colleagues to support policies that foster economic growth.

From 2009 to 2013, Dan served as Director of Washington State’s Department of Agriculture, where he listened to the concerns of Washington farmers and promoted the state’s agricultural resources.

Dan attended Washington State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics. Dan is also a graduate of the Washington Agriculture and Forestry Leadership Program.

Dan and his wife Carol live in Sunnyside. They have two adult children, Jensena, Devon and his wife Halley. The Newhouse family continues to operate a 600-acre farm where they grow hops, tree fruit and grapes.

Rep. Newhouse service on the following committees: House Agriculture Committee, Subcommittee on Biotechnology, Horticulture, and Research, Subcommittee on Livestock and Foreign Agriculture; House Natural Resources Committee, Subcommittee on Federal Lands, Subcommittee on Water, Power, and Oceans; and House Science, Space and Technology Committee, Subcommittee on Energy, Subcommittee on Environment. april 2015 | OABA ShowTime Magazine H

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ASSOCIATION H photo gallery

Photo Gallery Denny’s Electronics Receives Award

OABA Chairman Michael Wood, left, presented Denny Bartosik, owner of Denny’s Electronics in Sarasota, an award for his beautiful LED backlight logo signs at the 50th Anniversary Annual Meeting.

OABA First Vice Chair Tom Gaylin is on the right.

Jean Clair in the OABA Hall of Fame

Celebrating the OABA Hall of Fame induction of the OABA’s first lady Chair and now Trustee, Jean Clair, are the Clair, Luehrs, Smith and Atkins family members.

On the Court

OABA Trustee John Hanschen with Director Blake Huston and his brother, Miles, about to play basketball at the Sheraton Hotel East court.

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Calvin the Great

Retired showman and novelty supplier “Calvin The Great” seen at Gibtown.

Navy SEAL Foundation

Remember When?

In attendance at a Navy Seal Foundation fundraising event were, from left, Congressman Trey Goudy (SC), OABA Pioneer recipient Jerry Barber, and Thom Shea, Navy Seal and author of the book “Unbreakable.” april 2015 | OABA ShowTime Magazine H

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ASSOCIATION H circus members

From The Center Ring Connecting & Protecting the Circus Industry!

Rodney Huey, RAH PR Strategies OABA Circus Media Consultant

T

he coming of Easter on April 5 is the failsafe sign of Spring, and a traditionally strong weekend for the American traveling circus.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey changed its longstanding Spring itinerary a couple of years ago due to major renovation work on NYC’s Madison Square Garden. Therefore, RBBB’s Circus Extreme will be in Columbia, SC over the Easter weekend while Legends will play Baltimore, MD and Built to Amaze will be in Allentown, PA. The Big Apple Circus will present two shows in Boston, MA, Universoul will end its Bronx run and California’s Circus Vargas will be in Ontario, CA on Easter Sunday.

Several smaller touring circuses are embarking on their 2015 schedules. The Egypt Temple Shrine Circus will appear in Tampa, FL April 16–19. Two units of Mexico’s Circo Hermanos Vazquez kicked off simultaneous American tours in the Texas border towns of Donna and Laredo on March 4 and 6 respectively, and will hopscotch across Texas before moving into neighboring states.

Sarasota’s Sailor Circus presents its Spring Show April 2–4 while Florida State University’s Flying High Circus presents its Spring Showcase April 2–18. Illinois State University’s Gamma Phi Circus will hold its Spring Performances April 17–18.

The circus continues to be a hot topic for authors, historians, photographers and the artists themselves. Two recent historical accounts that provide great reads are Linda Simon’s The Greatest Shows on Earth and Ernest Albrecht’s From Barnum & Bailey to Feld. Cynthia Levinson’s Watch Out for Flying Kids! explores how youth circus groups can bridge cultural gaps as evidenced by St. Louis’ Circus Harmony’s long-standing relationship with the Galilee Circus. By the way, if you order the book through Amazon Smile, a portion of the cost will go to the Circus Day Foundation, the official name for Circus Harmony.

Backlot circus photography also holds a certain fascination for avid circus fans and the general public alike. Nine rare original E.J. Kelty photographs, taken on the backlot of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey in the 1930s, drew a lot of attention at a recent auction of the Swann Auction Gallery in New York City. One Kelty photo sold for $17,500. More recent backlot photos (in black and white) may be enjoyed in Circus: A Traveling Life by photographer Norma Quintana who chronicled life-onthe-road with Circus Chimera from 1999 thru 2007.

Sarah Chapman’s Balancing Act: Memoir of a Florida Youth (2014), Victoria Cristiani Russo’s Spangles, Elephants, Violets & Me (2009) and Dorothy Herbert: Riding Sensation

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of the Age: A Memoir (2005) by the late equestrienne all chronicle the personal experiences of circus performers. Chapman’s and Russo’s books may be purchased online at Amazon.com and the Herbert text may be obtained through the Circus and Traveling Shows (C.A.T.S.) Retirement Project of Sarasota, where proceeds help fund its charitable programs.

Speaking of the C.A.T.S. Retirement Project, it recently announced the purchase and opening of the Showpeople’s Winter Quarters (SWQ) Mobile Home Park as a temporary/longterm home site for traveling showpeople. The three-acre site in Seffner, FL has ten permanent sites, complete with electricity, water and sewer hookups. According to “circus priest” Fr. Jerry Hogan, SWQ is not your typical Florida mobile home park.

Rather, it is “more like a mini-winter quarters” with space for temporary RV parking and equipment storage. SWQ evens boasts a practice area for small acts.

The Sixth Annual World Circus Day, created and promoted by the Monte-Carlo-based Fédération Mondiale du Cirque, is Saturday, April 18. This year’s theme is “Celebrate with a Circus Selfie.” You can share your circusy self-portrait on Facebook at www.facebook.com/circusselfieday .

Cirque du Soleil may be facing tough times according to a story by Christian Sylt in The Telegraph of London, UK. Sylt reported that revenues from Cirque’s 2013 touring shows in Europe plummeted 36%, or nearly $60 million, “due to a sharp drop in the number of shows it hosted.” He further noted that founder Guy Laliberté “is considering selling a majority stake” in the company, and has retained Goldman Sachs to help find a buyer. Laliberté reportedly owns 90% of Cirque stock which is valued between $1.5 and $2.5 billion.

In the “down but not out” department, members of the Venice (FL) Circus Arts Foundation (who failed to save the historic Venice Circus Arena from city-funded demolition crews) have put forward a proposal to “transform a former industrial building into a family entertainment complex.”

According to the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, the new Venice Coliseum would include “a 5,000-seat hall and 26,000-squarefoot performing arts center” on the 6.5-acre site.

Victories for the our team as Mayor Richard Bonde of Willowick, OH vetoed a February 12 City Council bill that would have banned the use of the ankus for any traveling circus playing its hamlet, noting that the council members “did not know what they were voting for.” The major’s veto could not be overridden by the council in a subsequent vote.

An additional victory for the OABA with their lobbying efforts to Mayor Gail Coniglio and the City Council in the Town of Palm Beach, FL in early March. They were considering

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2015 Circus Fund approval of an ordinance prohibiting the use of exotic animals in fairs, circuses and other exhibitions. The OABA pointed out that this ordinance goes against federal and state per-emption doctrine as well as possible conPup Flyer 14_Layout 1 11/25/14 4:28 PM PupPage Flyer114_Layout 1 11/25/14called 4:28 PMOABA Page 1 flicts with other statutes.

The City Attorney President Bob Johnson to let him know they were taking this ordinance off the table and thanked him for letting them know of these legal conflicts.

In addition, The Great Kern County Fair in Bakersfield, CA is being pressured by animal rights radicals to eliminate elephant rides by Have Trunk Will Travel, and the Hawaii state legislature is considering a bill that could, in effect, “prohibit the display or performance of live wild or exotic animals” anywhere on the islands. OABA’s USDA consultant ?

However, the members of Virginia’s politically divided House of Delegates almost unanimously (passed 95–2) to put a stop to PETA’s practice of indiscriminately euthanizing so-called rescued animals at its facilities. According to Huffington Post blogger Douglas Anthony Cooper, the bill accomplished it goal by redefining an animal shelter as “a facility operated for the purpose of finding permanent adoptive homes and facilitating other lifesaving outcomes for animals.” PETA’s 11th-hour effort to strike the “other lifesaving outcomes for animals” clause failed. Now the Norfolk-based PETA will have to start caring for animals instead of killing them. Imagine that!

And finally, circus legend John Herriott sadly passed away in February. The versatile trainer, presenter and circus “jack-of-all-trades” was a well-respected and erudite artist whom the Sarasota Herald-Tribune dubbed the “poet laureate” of the circus. His presence will be missed! Our hearts go out to the Herriott family on their loss. H

Circus Producers Association, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,000 Kathleen Nelson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,000 Zoppe Family Circus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,000 Alliance of Professional Animal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 500 Jen Burge, Avic-Versi Creative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250 Baril & John E. Hart, Jr. – in memory of Jake Conover . . . . . . . . 250 National Showmens Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250 OABA Circus Committee Meeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170 Niles F. Calhoun – in honor of David & Sharon Orr . . . . . . . . . . 100 CFA Adler/Binder Tent Officers Maxine House, Henry Pearce & Jack Belles – in memory of Frank Robie . . . 100 Connie Thomas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Felix Adler-Paul Binder Tent No. 12, CFA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Wayne Scheiner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Brian Liddicoat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 TOTAL

$6,967

To contribute to the Circus Fund, make your check payable and send to: OABA Circus Fund, 1035 S. Semoran Blvd., Ste. 1045A, Winter Park, FL 32792 It is important that we maintain this fund so we are able to hire professionals to assist with challenges such as legislation that threaten our members’ businesses. Please consider and make your contributions to this very important resource pool. Feel free to be creative such as matching dollars, innovative fundraisers, endowments and memorials, to name a few. Another option is to designate a percentage or daily amount of your ride operation to be set aside for this important fund.ROLL SPIN RIDE PUPPY ROLL SPIN RIDE PUPPY

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avid Orr, OABA Rep, announced the Looking for an option to add new life Looking for an option to add new life Top Camel Herders at the February to your old Sellner Spin Ride, choose to your old Sellner Spin Ride, choose 6, 2015 OABA Circus Committee meetthese new Puppy replacement vehicles. these new Puppy replacement vehicles. ing at the Sheraton Tampa East Hotel.

Congratulations go out to the 1st, 2nd Available in Standard Multi-Colored Puppies Available in Standard Multi-Colored Puppies with colorful bib overalls, or and thewith new 3rd placebib winners! prizes colorful overalls,Special or the new White Puppies Dalmatian Black and Dalmatian Themed Black and White Puppies will Themed be awarded to these special people. with colorful bib overalls, with colorful bib overalls, 1st Place: Lisa Dufresne, Sarasota, FL or any color options you desire. or any color options you desire.

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ASSOCIATION H circus members

Capitol Update

By Joan Galvin, OABA Government Relations Consultant

W

elcome to Spring! Hopefully by the time you are reading this, the long, snowy, icy winter, especially where I work in the Northeast, is well behind us and a beautiful summer is on the horizon.

Things on Capitol Hill and at the state legislatures are in full swing. As always, H-2B issues remain first and foremost for the industry. Your Washington, DC team is staying actively involved as we look for ways to curb overzealous DOL rules and restore some sanity and consistency to the seasonal/ guest worker programs. With both FY15 spending bills finally seeing resolution and the next round of FY16 spending bills just teeing up, there are myriad opportunities to insert language to help set things on a better course — or to restore important provisions that have been blocked or expired — whether it is the fallout from the implementation of DOL’s program rule amid conflicting court decisions, restoring staggered entry allowances, or blunting the negative impacts of the caps by ensuring returning worker status — there are multiple paths to follow.

We are also fortunate that this new Congress brings us new friends, like Rep. Dan Newhouse of Washington state who counts the outdoor mobile amusement industry and fairs, especially his hometown

fair in Yakima, among his supporters and is looking forward to working with us on our H-2B plight. His assignment to

the Agriculture Committee ensures he will have a voice in immigration reform and we look forward to helping him learn more about our challenges. At the same time, House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (VA) is moving forward on a series of bills aimed at reforming our immigration system and addressing guest workers in both the agriculture and non-agriculture sectors.

As a former chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, Chairman Goodlatte knows the value of our state and county fairs in showcasing American agriculture and the critical role our industry plays in support those fairs.

At the state and local level, on the animal issues, this is always a busy time. Early on we experienced some strong victories — overturning a ban on exotic animals in Palm Beach, FL and working to amend or defeat similar efforts in places like Richmond, VA and Eureka Springs, AR. And so there is much going on — and much work still to do — but with continued cooperation from OABA members and hard work on our part, we remain optimistic and engaged on your behalf! H

Through the smiles, the seasons & the miles – Financing everything for the outdoor amusement industry since 2000.

Prairie Financial The outdoor amusement Division of Boulevard Bank

Paul Muller

pnmuller@blvdbank.net

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816-554-3863

Mark Walker

blvdbank.com/outdoor-amusement

wmuller@blvdbank.net

A division of

mwalker@blvdbank.net

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AMusement today

NEW DIGITAL EDITION exclusively for print subscribers INSIDE:

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TM & Š2014 Amusement Today, Inc.

www.amusementtoday.com

October 2014 | Vol. 18 • Issue 7

WWA anticipating great things for Annual Symposium and Trade Show

New programs and education sessions as well as new products on the trade show floor will greet attendees at the 2014 WWA Symposium and Trade Show, set for Oct. 27-30, at the Paris Hotel, Las Vegas. Coordinators of the show are very excited about the show this year, saying they expect attendance to be high and those attendees will be able to not only participate in the sessions and workshops but also browse the 100,000 plus square feet of trade show space.

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Ezra said this year saw openings that represent some of the best and most innovative new facilities located in North America, Asia, the Middle East and Australia. And 2015 is shaping up to launch more amazing properties in Europe, Asia and the United States.

Highlights of this year’s event are anticipated to be experienced in the show’s extensive education program. There will be a vast offering of water leisure education and training programs, which will, in turn, feature some of the industry’s most experienced operators, developers and suppliers.

Even though the event

officially kicks off on Oct. 27, programming actually begins on Oct. 25 with certification courses and lifeguard programs. “Providing the strongest education program possible for waterpark operators is what we promise to our members and this year’s program is one of the best ever,� Root said. “Our illustrious speaker round-up features the biggest brands in the business including: Great Wolf Resorts, Splash Kingdom water park, Six Flags, Disney’s water parks, Zoombezi Bay, Hurricane Alley, Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark, Water World, Grand Lodge Resort Waterpark, just to name a few.�

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“The new water parks and attractions that opened in 2014 offer outstanding examples for success,� he continued. “We are pumped to be headquartered back in the heart of ‘the entertainment capital of the world’ – Las Vegas!�

Root said the association is particularly excited about being in town with two new water parks to explore, Cowabunga Bay and Wet’ n’ Wild Las Vegas. Both parks have seen strong responses to their leisure offerings. “Nothing makes operators and suppliers happier than seeing water park attractions live and in-person and hearing answers to operational questions during behind-thescenes tours of new facilities,�

Root said.

Aleatha Ezra, WWA director of park member development, said they are expecting attendance figures to increase over the last time the association was in Las Vegas in 2012. “This is due in large part to the fact that the industry continues to expand on a global scale,� Ezra said. “In fact, we are seeing parks being built around the world that people only dreamed about a

Specific education program highlights include: •Water Slide Dispatch Operator Training: New this year, this half-day course will highlight key concepts and basic principles for loading and dispatching guests onto water slide attractions. Presented jointly by aquatic safety and risk management experts, Jeff Ellis & Associates, and ride operator training professionals, International Ride Training (IRT), attendees will leave with hands-on techniques and concepts. •Reclaim Those Sponsorship Dollars: Land Mutually Beneficial Sponsorships & Partnerships That Yield Additional Revenue & Build Good Will: In this workshop attendees will find new ways to sell, package and promote what they have to potential national and locallevel sponsors and business partners. •WWA University: Waterpark Maintenance School: Back by popular demand, this fullday water park maintenance workshop features top industry experts presenting topics designed to help water park operators improve their periodic, routine and preventative maintenance programs.

There is an abundance of other topics that will be addressed during the sessions including design, development, expansion, maintenance, food and beverage, social media, training and merchandise.

Root said in addition to

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LAS VEGAS, Nev. — World Waterpark Association (WWA) coordinators of the 2014 WWA Annual Symposium and Trade Show are anticipating big things this year when members and suppliers get together later this month for the event.

The 2014 symposium is set for the Paris Hotel, Las Vegas, Nev., Oct. 27-30. The trade show will run Oct. 28 and 29.

The WWA last hosted its show in Las Vegas in 2012 and the turnout for that event was the association’s strongest since 2006. “Early indications show we are going to have a strong turnout this year, both on the park operator and supplier side,� said Rick Root, WWA president. “In fact, our exhibit hall is essentially sold out. We are employing all of our creative floor planning skills to add more booths to the hallway areas of the Paris Conference Center to meet the demand for booth space.�

This year, attendees can expect to browse 100,000 plus square feet of exhibit hall space. The hall is expected to be full of innovative water park related goods and services. “Every WWA convention showcases the newest developments in the industry, from inspiring ideas and best practices to exciting product and attraction innovations,� Root said.

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