UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT REVEALS MAJOR ATTRACTION NEWS

Blockbuster 3-D-CGI Feature “Despicable Me” to Become Attraction Experience at Universal Orlando

Plus, Incredible High-Tech Enhancements Underway for One of the World’s Most Popular Attractions:
The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man

Orlando, Fla. (May 19, 2011) – Universal Orlando Resort today announced that its newest attraction will be based on Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment’s blockbuster 3-D-CGI feature “Despicable Me,” bringing minions, mayhem and a whole new level of 3-D family fun to its guests.  The “Despicable Me” experience will replace the Jimmy Neutron attraction at Universal Studios Florida.

Universal also announced that The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, one of the greatest attractions in theme park history, will be completely reanimated in 4K digital high definition – once again redefining the theme park experience.    

Both will open in 2012 and are being developed by the same award-winning Universal Creative team that has brought all of Universal Orlando’s spectacularly themed attractions to life.  Both will utilize brand-new, highly sophisticated Infitec 3-D projection systems designed to make the experience sharper, clearer and more “real” than ever before.

DESPICABLE ME

With a worldwide gross of more than $540 million, 2010’s “Despicable Me,” from directors Chris Renaud & Pierre Coffin, is the sixth most successful film that Universal Pictures has ever distributed.  It is now the 10th-biggest animated film in U.S. history.  The 3-D animated adventure thrilled audiences across the globe with its outrageous humor, endearing characters and compelling storyline – all of which guests will be able to experience exclusively at Universal Orlando in 2012.

“Despicable Me” will become the first-ever Universal animated film to be transformed into a theme park experience.  The Universal Creative team is working closely with producer Chris Meledandri, the founder of Illumination Entertainment, to create all-new animation for an all-new “Despicable Me” adventure that places guests right in the center of the action.

Gru, one of the world’s greatest super-villains, is bringing his high-tech empire – and his three adopted daughters – to Universal Studios, and he is looking for all the help he can get.  First, he will transform guests into an army of mischievous, scene-stealing minions.  Then he will train them.  And that kicks off an unforgettable ride experience that creates a hysterical mix of chaos and family fun.

Guests will:

·        laugh as they embark on an entirely-new, high-tech 3-D digital adventure with their favorite characters from the film – Gru, daughters Margo, Edith and Agnes, and of course, Gru’s not-so-bright pit crew, the minions

·        marvel as they explore Gru’s lair and descend into his secret lab

·        shriek as the entire family is transformed into minions

·        celebrate as they are swept into a first-ever, minion-inspired, interactive dance party where they can show off their best moves

“The ‘Despicable Me’ attraction is the latest example of how we tap into pop culture’s most compelling stories and turn them into extraordinary theme park entertainment,” said Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative.  “This is a perfect fit for Universal Orlando, and we can’t wait to bring this one-of-a-kind experience to life.”

“As we write, design and animate our films at Illumination, it is our singular goal to bring to life endearing and, hopefully, enduring characters,” said Chris Meledandri.  “With the creation of next year’s ‘Despicable Me’ attraction at Universal Orlando, audiences will be able to immerse themselves in Gru’s world for many years to come.”

THE AMAZING ADVENTURES OF SPIDER-MAN

Already one of the most popular and innovative theme park attractions ever created, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man at Universal’s Islands of Adventure continues to raise the bar for theme park entertainment – combining advanced motion-based ride vehicles, 3-D digital film and live special effects to create an unparalleled ride experience.  It is widely acknowledged as one of the best theme park experiences in the world – and it’s about to get mind-blowingly better.

The newly reanimated, high-definition experience will unfold within the attraction’s towering visual spaces – taking on even larger than larger-than-life proportions.  The new digital animation – combined with the new Infitec system and new set enhancements – will transform what is already one of the most technologically advanced attractions ever created into what will feel like an all-new experience.

Facts about the enhanced ride experience:

·         All-new digital animation done in 4K high definition – the highest HD resolution available

·         The new HD animation will allow guests to experience details they’ve never been able to before – from the flames spewing from Hobgoblin’s pumpkins to the electricity arching through Electro’s body to the stitching on Spider-Man’s gloves.

·         To take advantage of new HD clarity and detail, Universal Orlando is adding entirely new details to the film – and leaving it up to guests to find them.

“Guests will not believe their eyes when they experience the new Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man,” said Thierry Coup, senior vice president of the Universal Creative Studio.  “We are talking about a larger-than-life environment and the HD animation will make it even more remarkable than it has been.  It will seem brand-new.” 

For more information about Universal Orlando Resort, visit www.universalorlando.com.

Happiness Is…..the Summer at Knott’s

Knott’s Debuts New Attraction and New Ice Show for 2011 Summer Season

BUENA PARK, Calif. (Summer 2011) –Knott’s Berry Farm will celebrate the summer season with new shows and a breathtaking new attraction, WindSeeker.

    Making its debut high above Orange County this summer is WindSeeker.  Rising over 300 feet in the air, WindSeeker will take 64 passengers to new heights as it ascends above the theme park and then spins riders for a 60 second ride at a speed of 30 miles per hour.  WindSeeker is slated to open in July.
    Starting May 28, “Snoopy’s Starlight Spectacular” returns for its second season and is bigger and brighter than ever.  When darkness falls over Knott’s Berry Farm, Snoopy’s Starlight Spectacular brings Camp Snoopy to life with a continuous light show filled with Peanuts’ figures, themed music, sound effects,  and colorful projections.  In “Snoopy’s Starlight Spectacular” guests will see their favorite characters in scenes that personify them – Lucy’s dream of being a Hollywood starlet, Schroeder’s musical genius, even Woodstock gets into the act as he and Snoopy go on a camping adventure.

    “Snoopy’s Starlight Spectacular” will run every evening the park is open after 8:00 p.m.
Over at the Charles M. Schulz Theatre, Knott’s Berry Farm is proud to present “Happiness is….Snoopy” (dark Wednesdays) an exciting ice show debuting June 18. In this musical extravaganza you will fall in love with Snoopy and the Peanuts Gang as they share the simple joys of life with the help of world-class ice skaters in a show that will delight the entire family.  Catchy tunes, elaborate costumes, special effects and show-stopping choreography make this production a not-to-miss experience.

Back by popular demand, Knott’s “All Wheels Extreme” returns to the Calico Stage on June 18.  Guests will be amazed by the skills of gravity defying BMX bikers, in-line skaters, a trials rider, gymnasts and even a skateboarding canine in a fast paced, action packed production.
For the younger set, “Hooray for Hollywood” tells the story of the Peanuts® Gang as they try to make it big in Tinseltown.  Charlie Brown, Lucy, Linus, and their friend JT pay homage to the golden days of Hollywood in a show that’s sure to delight kids of all ages.

At twilight the Calico Square Stage becomes the place to learn the latest dances at “Country Dancin’ U.S.A.” (selected dates) with Knott’s line dancing aficionados, J.T. and Dusty.
The summer really heats up with “Fiesta Folklorico.”  Guests in Fiesta Village will be treated to beautifully costumed dancers as they present culturally-rich performances filled with intricate choreography.

Weekends were made for BBQs and Knott’s is firing up the grill May 21-22, 28-30, June 4-5 then daily through September 5.  For just $43.99 for Regular, $32.99 for Juniors and Seniors (62+), guests receive admission into Knott’s Berry Farm as well as an All-You-Can-Eat BBQ served from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm. 

One of the best reasons to visit Knott’s Berry Farm during the summer is that Knott’s is open late, and guests can get in after 4 p.m. for only $28.50 for 
Regular admission and $24.99 for Juniors (3-11) and Seniors (62 years and
older).  All-day tickets to Knott’s Berry Farm are $56.99 for Regular admission and $24.99 for Juniors (ages 3-11) and Seniors (62+).  Children under three are free.  Discount tickets to Knott’s will be available at Ralphs stores starting June 8 through September 6 and are valid through October 31 (excludes Knott’s Halloween Haunt).

Just across the street from Knott’s Berry Farm, Knott’s Soak City is ready for another fun-filled season.  Cool off in Tidal Wave Bay or take a ride on Pacific Spin, Soak City’s newest ride.  Pacific Spin riders are blasted down into
a 132-foot long tunnel, then drop a stomach-churning 63 feet into the mouth of a six story funnel.  This thrilling escapade culminates in a waterfall splash that deposits riders into a cool catch pool.  Tickets to Knott’s Soak City Regular admission is $31.99, Juniors (3-11) and Seniors are just $21.99.  Discount tickets are available at knotts.com.

Knott’s Soak City Orange County will be open May 21 and 22, then daily
May 28 through September 5, then weekends only September 10 through 18.    
Knott’s Soak City San Diego will be open May 21 and 22, then daily May 25 through September 5, then weekends only September 10 through 25.

Knott’s Soak City Palm Springs is open weekends now until May 27 when it will be open daily through September 5 and then weekends through October 2. 

For hours on the day you plan to visit call (714) 220-5200 or check the Knott’s Berry Farm website at www.knotts.com, where you can also save time and money with Knott’s Print@Home tickets.
Knott’s Berry Farm is owned and operated by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company, a publicly traded partnership that is listed for trading on The New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “FUN.”  In addition to Knott’s Berry Farm, Cedar Fair owns and operates ten other amusement parks, six water parks, one indoor water park resort, and five hotels.  Cedar Fair also operates the Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park in Gilroy, Calif. under a management contract.

Universal Orlando Resort Celebrates New Attraction Announcement

As you know, Universal Orlando Resort announced this morning the opening of a new attraction based on the blockbuster film, “Despicable Me.”

To celebrate this big announcement, Universal Orlando Team Members and some surprise guests got together for a one-of-a-kind performance in front of Universal Studios.

SCIENTISTS STUDYING SONGBIRD AT SAN DIEGO ZOO SAFARI PARK

SAN PASQUAL VALLEY, CA - On the 900-acre Biodiversity Preserve at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, away from tourists, a group of scientists listen intently for the distinctive song of the cactus wren, a call that sounds like a sewing machine. In the name of conservation, they keep an eye on nests and wait for a bird to surface.

     U.S. Geological Survey, Nature Reserve of Orange County and San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research scientists were at the Safari Park as part of an ongoing study focusing on habitat restoration and understanding population dynamics of a species protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and is listed as a California Species of Special Concern. The research conducted at the Safari Park will contribute to an ongoing USGS effort investigating how habitat fragmentation impacts wildlife populations throughout Southern California and Nevada.

     "Our goal in this research is to determine how connected cactus wren populations are to one another and to be able to use this information to inform cactus wren habitat restoration projects," said Barbara Kus, Ph.D., U.S. Geological Survey Western Ecological Research Center research ecologist. "We can then determine where additional connectivity is needed and make recommendations to guide cactus-planting scenarios that will eventually connect patches."

     In 2007, the Witch Creek wildfire that devastated San Diego County also wreaked havoc on the coastal cactus wren's habitat. At the Safari Park alone, 600 acres burned, reducing the available cactus scrub, a rare habitat this wren species relies on year round. In Southern California the cactus wren is declining and becoming isolated due to urbanization and habitat loss.

     On Monday, a biologist's hands swiftly affixed tiny metal bands on a cactus wren while feathers were collected for a genetic analysis of the population. Understanding the biology and habitat requirements of this species is an important part of ensuring proper habitat restoration and the cactus wren's ability to rebound.

     San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research scientists have been meticulously restoring cactus scrub at the Safari Park Biodiversity Preserve while monitoring the bird's abundance, distribution, survivorship and productivity. The natural recovery of the cactus scrub habitat has been very slow and in some areas has been further hampered by the invasion of nonnative grasses.

     "Cactus wrens only make nests in prickly pear or cholla catcus greater than 3 feet in height. Without it, they cannot survive," said Bryan Endress, Ph.D., San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research director of Applied Animal Ecology. "Native cactus and coastal sage scrub habitat is not only beneficial to cactus wrens but also supports a wide range of other native wildlife, and this is one of the reasons San Diego County is globally known as a biodiversity hotspot."

     The multi-disciplinary and multi-agency study's goal is to add to the knowledge of this species before it becomes endangered. Little is known about the coastal cactus wren and its habitat needs or best practices for restoring cactus scrub habitat.

     "Through this collaborative effort, we hope to determine the needs and requirements of this species to aid in its recovery," said Lisa Nordstrom, Ph.D., San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research scientist. "We are also monitoring cactus wrens at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park Biodiversity Preserve to confirm that our restoration efforts are having a positive effect on their population."

     The San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research is dedicated to generating, sharing and applying scientific knowledge vital to the conservation of animals, plants and habitats worldwide. The work of the Institute includes onsite research efforts at the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (historically referred to as Wild Animal Park), laboratory work at the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Center for Conservation Research, and international field programs involving more than 235 researchers working in 35 countries. In addition to the Beckman Center for Conservation Research, the Institute also operates the Anne and Kenneth Griffin Reptile Conservation Center, the Frozen Zoo(TM) and Native Seed Gene Bank, the Keauhou and Maui Hawaiian Bird Conservation Centers, Cocha Cashu Biological Research Station, and the Desert Tortoise Conservation Center. The Zoo also manages the 1,800-acre San Diego Zoo Safari Park, which includes a 900-acre biodiversity reserve, and the San Diego Zoo. The important conservation and science work of these entities is supported in part by The Foundation of the Zoological Society of San Diego.

THE SUMMER GETS HOTTER AT ADVENTURE ISLAND WITH ISLAND NIGHTS AND EXTENDED PARK HOURS

Enjoy Island Music, Entertainment and Food Three Nights a Week and Play Late Every Night this Summer at Busch Gardens’ Water Park

TAMPA, Fla. (May 16, 2011) – This summer at Adventure Island, when the sun goes down, the fun heats up during Island Nights. From June 9 to Aug. 13, it’s a vacation from the everyday as Busch Gardens’ water park transforms into a celebration of island life with live music, authentic entertainment and inspiring cuisine.

Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night from 5 to 9 p.m. exotic birds and larger-than-life stilt walkers greet guests, and a steel drum band strolls throughout the park. Family-friendly DJs lead the party with games and music on the beach.

Polynesian dancers and a skilled fire performer captivate guests on the main beach during two shows each event night. And at Duval Street Market, live bands perform a variety of styles, from Latin and beach party music to Reggae. Guests can also sample the tastes of the islands with unique offerings added to the daily menu, such as coconut shrimp and conch fritters, sangria and frozen drinks.

NEW Open Late All Summer Long
New in 2011, Adventure Island will be open late every night this summer! From June 9 to Aug. 14, hours are from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The best way to escape to Adventure Island every night this summer is with an Adventure Island Weekday Pass. Pay for a day and come back any WEEKDAY – that includes any Thursday or Friday of Island Nights – all season long.

Island Nights is the perfect night-time escape for all ages, and admission is included with any daily park admission or Adventure Island Pass. Visit AdventureIsland.com for more information.

About Adventure Island
Located right across the street from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Adventure Island is 30 acres of water-drenched fun in the sun featuring the ultimate combination of high-speed thrills and tropical, tranquil surroundings for guests of all ages.

Thrilling slides and tube rides include Riptide, Wahoo Run, Key West Rapids, Runaway Rapids, Everglides, Calypso Coaster, Aruba Tuba, Caribbean Corkscrew, Water Moccasin and Gulf Scream. Guests can also stretch out on the beach or in the 17,000-square-foot wave pool, play on professional sand volleyball courts, breeze through tropical gift shops or let the current sweep them through a half-mile of lush landscapes and tropical waterfalls on the Rambling Bayou.

Schlitterbahn Waterpark Opens Saturday and Announces Special Events

The park is now open weekends with daily operation beginning May 28.
   
KANSAS CITY, Kan. – Schlitterbahn declares this weekend as the official beginning of summer. It is time once again for guests at Schlitterbahn Waterpark in Kansas City, Kan., to splash and play throughout a tubing adven­ture that combines slides, rivers, chutes and beaches as the park opens for the season on Saturday, May 21. The park also kicks off the season on this day with LIFTED UP: Faith & Family Day, the first of many special events included with admission to Schlitterbahn this year.

Schlitterbahn Kansas City Waterpark features a thrilling uphill water coaster, two mammoth tubing rivers includ­ing the world's longest tidal wave river, three huge slides, a white water tube chute, 13 mini slides for kids, three relaxing beach areas and a giant hot tub with swim-up refreshment bar. The Transportainment™ River System allows guests to float from one end of the park to the other through a series of attractions without ever leaving the water.

On May 21, Schlitterbahn Waterpark also presents LIFTED UP: Faith & Family Day, the first of many special events planned for the season. Area church bands perform live music all day, and the festivities end with a con­cert featuring 33 Miles, Jonny Diaz and SameState. Entertainment for all special events is included with park admission.

“We are excited to open our doors for the new season,” said Keith Fontenot, general manager for Schlitterbahn Kansas City Waterpark. “Schlitterbahn Kansas City Waterpark offers a fantastic value with amenities like free parking and tubes, and we are thrilled to enhance the value to our guests with the addition of many special events this year. We look forward to entertaining legions of fans all summer long.”

2011 Schlitterbahn Special Events Schedule

May 21

LIFTED UP: Faith & Family Day—Live music all day long. Discounted tickets are available in advance at schlit­terbahn.com

May 21, 22, 28-31

Military Appreciation Days—Card-carrying members of the military are eligible to buy All-Day Admissions at the park for $17.99 + tax on any operating day, May 21-31, 2011.

June 14

World’s Largest Swim Lesson—Be a part of an attempt to break the Guinness world record for the World's Largest Swim Lesson at 10 a.m. Ticket package includes All-Day Admission, a limited edition souvenir Water Safety drink bottle with one free fill and $.99 refills, early entry to the park and the swim lesson for just $29.99. Advance purchase and registration are required at schlitterbahn.com.  

June 15-30

Water Safety Days—Acknowledge the importance of water safety at Schlitterbahn on any operating day, June 15-30, 2011. Ticket package includes All-Day Admission and a limited edition souvenir Water Safety drink bottle with one free fill and $.99 refills for just $29.99. Advance purchase and registration required at schlitterbahn.com.

June 17 & 24

Swim Team Tube-O-Rama—Swim teams receive exclusive use of the entire waterpark before it opens to the public on these special days. Advance purchase required.

June 19, 2011

Verano Muy Padre Latin Festival—Enjoy live entertainment all day long, including  DJ Piwi and the Kontro­lando Show.

Details about all special events and how to purchase tickets are available at schlitterbahn.com. Click on Kansas City and then click on Special Events.

Guests take advantage of Schlitterbahn’s family-friendly amenities such as FREE parking and FREE use of tubes and lifejackets. Guests are welcome to bring a family picnic basket or cooler into the park to save even more. Throughout the season, General Admission for guests ages 12-54 is only $35.99 plus tax and Child/Senior Admission for guests ages 3-11 and 55 & older is only $26.99 plus tax.

Guests save $5 on Season Passes when they buy them at Schlitterbahn.com or at the park by May 31. The park is open Saturday, May 21 and Sunday, May 22, then daily starting Saturday, May 28. Visit schlitterbahn.com for the complete operating schedule, additional park information and discounted online admission tickets.

Early Season Attractions Include:

Bahnzai Pipeline – Climb to the top of a 42-foot-tall tower and take an open-air tube ride down a twisted path of water wrath…BAHN-style.

Black Knight – Plunge in a tube down a fully-enclosed dark and coiled slide.

Henry's Hideout Hot Tub Bar – Unwind in a giant hot tub that incorporates a swim-up refreshment bar and in-water seating to create the perfect place to break from the action.

Kinderhaven Kids’ Area – Splash and play in an area designed especially for families with smaller children. This shallow water playground includes nine mini-slides for kids.

Pirate Ship – Kids play on a giant pirate ship that is equipped with climbing ropes, four mini-slides and sprayers.

Torrent Beach – Frolic in the waves on the best beach in Kansas! Catch rays, cool off in the surf or embark on a journey through the mammoth Torrent River.

Torrent Cove – Relax on an island surrounded by the Torrent River.

Torrent River – Float the world’s longest tidal wave river! In this continuous, endless tubing river, ocean-sized waves surge through a serpentine waterway.

Wolfpack – Take a tube and skid through an extra-wide pipeline of wild water. This oversized slide provides an experience that is a different every time you ride.

Kristal Beach – Cool off in the shade along the shore of the Kristal River. This calm beach provides refreshment beneath the Storm Blaster uphill water coaster.

Kristal River – Relax on a tube, alligator or log on an endless, slow-flowing river during a hot summer day in Kansas.

Raging River Tube Chute – Ride through an exciting series of white water rapids.

Storm Blaster – Experience the up and down thrills of a roller coaster combined with the unique experience of being propelled upward by jets of water.

New for 2011
This summer, Schlitterbahn Kansas City Waterpark introduces a multi-million dollar expansion including the 3,000-foot King Kaw Rapids River, Kansas City’s only surf ride, two head-first mat slides, a totally enclosed dark slide, the Mighty Mo fast flow tube chute and other attractions and guest amenities. All new attractions are scheduled to open summer 2011.

For more information, contact the Schlitterbahn Kansas City Waterpark office in Kansas City, Kan., at 913.312.3110 or visit schlitterbahn.com.

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