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InPark Magazine is providing live coverage of day 2 of space shuttle Endeavour's journey through the streets of Los Angeles to its new home at the California Science Center on the InPark News page and the InPark Magazine Blog.
The shuttle will stop at the Forum in Inglewood around 8 a.m. Pacific for a short celebration and at the intersection of Crenshaw and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvds. around 1 p.m. Pacific, where a celebratory performance coreographed by Debbie Allen is scheduled to take place.
Endeavour will enter Exposition Park, home of the California Science Center, around 6 p.m. Pacific.
13 Ekim 2012 Cumartesi
Why should people use travel agents.
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I will tell you a story. Last week I had a customer who called me Sunday morning about 10 times in a row. I knew that there must be something wrong cause who calls you on Mothers day at 830am...certainly not me.
Well it seems the airline postponed their flight for later that morning..making it impossible to connect to their next plane. If you had booked thru expedia what would they have said...Sorry...nothing I can do..and by the way you will be staying one less night..
He told me he was going to ft lauderdale for the night and then going to Jamaica the next day...what could I do? First I booked him a hotel for one night in Ft Lauderdale and not at a place that would be considered dumps r us. Then I said well did you ask the airline to extend your stay. No one ever asks those questions, including him. I said run, ask, do what you can do..and guess what....my wholesaler had no seats but the airline had two seats left on the plane. So we have gotten him to Ft Lauderdale..We extended the stay..but then what ..He was going to a resort that is always sold out. When you are a professional, it is your job to know who to speak with, how to get stays that don't exist.
I made a few phone calls and got him the extra night extention at no charge.
WOULD ONE OF THE ON LINE AGENTS HAVE DONE THAT
Well it seems the airline postponed their flight for later that morning..making it impossible to connect to their next plane. If you had booked thru expedia what would they have said...Sorry...nothing I can do..and by the way you will be staying one less night..
He told me he was going to ft lauderdale for the night and then going to Jamaica the next day...what could I do? First I booked him a hotel for one night in Ft Lauderdale and not at a place that would be considered dumps r us. Then I said well did you ask the airline to extend your stay. No one ever asks those questions, including him. I said run, ask, do what you can do..and guess what....my wholesaler had no seats but the airline had two seats left on the plane. So we have gotten him to Ft Lauderdale..We extended the stay..but then what ..He was going to a resort that is always sold out. When you are a professional, it is your job to know who to speak with, how to get stays that don't exist.
I made a few phone calls and got him the extra night extention at no charge.
WOULD ONE OF THE ON LINE AGENTS HAVE DONE THAT
A Mini fam trip to Nassau
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In case you don't know what a fam is...it's a familiarization trip...To familiarize we travel agents with the resorts. With that thought in mind, Last week I took two travel agents with me to Sandals Royal Bahamian. From the last time I was there until now, the resort has changed remarkably. There is fun in the sun. Playmakers that work hard to help you have a good time. Poolside there used to be what I call elevator music...Now reggae...soca and more...games galore..The new General Manager, Patrick Drake along with his staff is just amazing.
I was able to arrange a birthday party for a guest with the butler manager Rory (who has an amazing voice) singing for us.
Also visiting Atlantis, which I find way to big and crowded, although beautiful.
We were there for 5 nts. I tasted more booze than I ever did. And had a great great time. One of my new favorites.
I even snorkeled..... sort of. But everyone knows my opinion of snorkeling....
On the way back to the airport we stopped for a bit of fire in de hole erotic rum..A must try..
And only bought 4 fluie vuttons.
See our photos below...even Fred...we love fred...
I was able to arrange a birthday party for a guest with the butler manager Rory (who has an amazing voice) singing for us.
Also visiting Atlantis, which I find way to big and crowded, although beautiful.
We were there for 5 nts. I tasted more booze than I ever did. And had a great great time. One of my new favorites.
I even snorkeled..... sort of. But everyone knows my opinion of snorkeling....
On the way back to the airport we stopped for a bit of fire in de hole erotic rum..A must try..
And only bought 4 fluie vuttons.
See our photos below...even Fred...we love fred...
it's been about a week since I last wrote
To contact us Click HERE
It's been about a week since I last wrote about things. My move is almost complete and starting anew in Hallandale beach. A half mile from the beach.
A comment I wanted to make..did you know we travel agents can generally match any price you see on the internet and give you personalized service too. Fix anything that is wrong. Let the resort know that you are a VIP and just general service that you wouldn't get from booking online. I had someone call me yesterday and ask about a resort. They had already booked using one of the big name online companies but really didn't know much about the resort. I had been there and I tell it like it is usually and after I gave her my honest opinion...she asked, "how can I change my destination?" I said had you booked thru me...a travel professional you wouldn't be in the position you are in because I would have told you not to go there in the first place.
What one person likes...another person might not. You need to tell you agent your likes and dislikes and what you are looking for in a resort. It's your hard earned money you are spending and when you book online you don't know what you are getting because ALL OF THE PHOTOS LOOK FABULOUS!!
I have been there. I am a specialist. I know and I am honest.
And I do want your business
A comment I wanted to make..did you know we travel agents can generally match any price you see on the internet and give you personalized service too. Fix anything that is wrong. Let the resort know that you are a VIP and just general service that you wouldn't get from booking online. I had someone call me yesterday and ask about a resort. They had already booked using one of the big name online companies but really didn't know much about the resort. I had been there and I tell it like it is usually and after I gave her my honest opinion...she asked, "how can I change my destination?" I said had you booked thru me...a travel professional you wouldn't be in the position you are in because I would have told you not to go there in the first place.
What one person likes...another person might not. You need to tell you agent your likes and dislikes and what you are looking for in a resort. It's your hard earned money you are spending and when you book online you don't know what you are getting because ALL OF THE PHOTOS LOOK FABULOUS!!
I have been there. I am a specialist. I know and I am honest.
And I do want your business
it's been a while
To contact us Click HERE
It's been a long while since my last post. But I am back and ready to tell you everything you need to know about travel.
I will tell you a story. I had a call from a past customer telling me that the upcoming trip they had booked was a destination wedding and the travel agent the bride had chosen had held no rooms for the guests. In my mind, that is unheard of..but without knowing who the agent was, I made phone calls to find out if any rooms were being held by this agent. The answer was no. The mother of the bride, the maid of honor and many guest were not going to be able to go to the resort. The resort was sold out. The agent they had used was inept.
Did I mention that this was a Sandals resort and when I checked there were absolutely no rooms available. So I did what I do best..I work for the customer..my customers who chose the wrong travel agent for their special day.
I was not going to let them pay for it by having this wedding turn into a disaster.
I was able to find 5 rooms for these customers and they considered me their savior. I am no savior; I am just a knowledeable travel professional who knows what I am doing.
Be careful when planning a very special destination event. Make sure the travel agent knows what she is doing. Make sure you get everything confirmed ..do not take the agent's word for it, or you do can have a disaster in the making.
Hopefully the upcoming wedding will be perfect...
Congratulations to the bride and groom
I will tell you a story. I had a call from a past customer telling me that the upcoming trip they had booked was a destination wedding and the travel agent the bride had chosen had held no rooms for the guests. In my mind, that is unheard of..but without knowing who the agent was, I made phone calls to find out if any rooms were being held by this agent. The answer was no. The mother of the bride, the maid of honor and many guest were not going to be able to go to the resort. The resort was sold out. The agent they had used was inept.
Did I mention that this was a Sandals resort and when I checked there were absolutely no rooms available. So I did what I do best..I work for the customer..my customers who chose the wrong travel agent for their special day.
I was not going to let them pay for it by having this wedding turn into a disaster.
I was able to find 5 rooms for these customers and they considered me their savior. I am no savior; I am just a knowledeable travel professional who knows what I am doing.
Be careful when planning a very special destination event. Make sure the travel agent knows what she is doing. Make sure you get everything confirmed ..do not take the agent's word for it, or you do can have a disaster in the making.
Hopefully the upcoming wedding will be perfect...
Congratulations to the bride and groom
12 Ekim 2012 Cuma
The Line, March 7, 2012
To contact us Click HERE
The on-line magazine, The Line, has an on-line article about an event at the St. Agnes Baking Company, which mentions the Saint Paul Bread Club, and this blog.
The article says in part:
This is the page that lists my oven-building classes.
The article says in part:
Today the club is a lively entity, claiming 342 members in 110 cities, including Crested Butte and Santa Barbara--so it wears its Saint Paul identity somewhat lightly. There are regular meetings, bakeoffs, and classes. And there's a particular, if logical, obsession with ovens, driven mainly by club member David S. Cargo. He offers oven-building classes (in April and May this year), maintains the Quest for Ovens blog, and tirelessly promotes the idea of community ovens--a sensible next step after community gardens, I think.It's nice that this blog has gotten some mention.
This is the page that lists my oven-building classes.
Alan Scott-style Oven Class, near Twin Cities, Minnesota, July 13-15, 2012
To contact us Click HERE
Rae Ann Vandeputte has cancelled her brick oven building course at her home in Victoria, MN.
The remaining part of this message just preserves the original details. It no longer applies.
The class will learn how to build an Alan Scott oven from oven-builder and rustic bread baker Derek Luchese. Derek teaches the oven-building course at the North House Folk School in Grand Marais, MN and is owner of Both Hands Bread, South Gillies, ON.
The course is offered at a significantly lower cost and near the Twin Cities so that
During the course you will actually build an oven to near-completion, gaining experience with pouring the concrete hearth slab, setting the firebricks for the hearth, and building an arched oven vault. All materials will be provided; you just bring some gloves and dirty clothes.
More details about the class can be found at the web site she built for the class.
If you or anyone you would know might like to take this fun course, have them look at the class registration page.
You can also contact Rae Ann Vandeputte at 612-381-7908 or raeann.vandeputte@gmail.com
Dates: July 13-15, 2012 (all day for each day)
Cost: $250.00 (meals provided)
Location: 8400 Allegheny Grove Blvd, Victoria, MN 55386
Original source
The remaining part of this message just preserves the original details. It no longer applies.
The class will learn how to build an Alan Scott oven from oven-builder and rustic bread baker Derek Luchese. Derek teaches the oven-building course at the North House Folk School in Grand Marais, MN and is owner of Both Hands Bread, South Gillies, ON.
The course is offered at a significantly lower cost and near the Twin Cities so that
- more folks can learn how to build ovens
- Rae Ann Vandeputte can get some help building her oven
During the course you will actually build an oven to near-completion, gaining experience with pouring the concrete hearth slab, setting the firebricks for the hearth, and building an arched oven vault. All materials will be provided; you just bring some gloves and dirty clothes.
More details about the class can be found at the web site she built for the class.
If you or anyone you would know might like to take this fun course, have them look at the class registration page.
You can also contact Rae Ann Vandeputte at 612-381-7908 or raeann.vandeputte@gmail.com
Dates: July 13-15, 2012 (all day for each day)
Cost: $250.00 (meals provided)
Location: 8400 Allegheny Grove Blvd, Victoria, MN 55386
Original source
May 2012 Saveur Magazine, Issue 147
To contact us Click HERE
A magazine I never thought to pick up before, Saveur, has an issue, May, 2012, issue 147, with the cover headline, "Make this bread."
The executive editor, Dana Bowen, had some nice things to say about bread bakers on page 8.
The article itself starts with a two-page picture on pages 42 and 43, with a headline, "Special feature: American bread." There's discussion on the inside about the artisan bread movement. There's an interesting timeline about bread and baking.
One significant quotation from the timeline:
I did find in interesting that my passion for wood-fired ovens seems to be a reflection of a trend that started almost 30 years ago. (What can I say? I'm snail; I'm naturally slow.)
The executive editor, Dana Bowen, had some nice things to say about bread bakers on page 8.
The article itself starts with a two-page picture on pages 42 and 43, with a headline, "Special feature: American bread." There's discussion on the inside about the artisan bread movement. There's an interesting timeline about bread and baking.
One significant quotation from the timeline:
1983: The American artisan bread movement blossoms when Steve Sullivan opens Acme Bread Company in Berkeley, California, and Daniel Leader opens Bread Alone in Boiceville, New York. Both use natural leaveners and wood-fired ovens.I do have sites marked for the Acme Bread Company and for Bread Alone Bakery.
I did find in interesting that my passion for wood-fired ovens seems to be a reflection of a trend that started almost 30 years ago. (What can I say? I'm snail; I'm naturally slow.)
Companion Bakery, Oatsland, Tasmania
To contact us Click HERE
Sometimes you stumble onto the most interesting things.
In my case, a Facebook group had a link to a webcam inside a bakery. Part of what was interesting, was that this bakery used a wood-fired oven. Another interesting thing was that it was in Tasmania.
So, the Companion Bakery seems to be mentioned in a couple of different web sites, including their own. They are also mentioned in a website about sourdough baking.
I doubt I will get to see them in person, but it's been interesting looking over the shoulders of the baker toiling away to make good bread.
In my case, a Facebook group had a link to a webcam inside a bakery. Part of what was interesting, was that this bakery used a wood-fired oven. Another interesting thing was that it was in Tasmania.
So, the Companion Bakery seems to be mentioned in a couple of different web sites, including their own. They are also mentioned in a website about sourdough baking.
I doubt I will get to see them in person, but it's been interesting looking over the shoulders of the baker toiling away to make good bread.
Rabbit's Bakery, Lake City, Minnesota Field Report
To contact us Click HERE
One the second day of a vacation at Stockholm, Wisconsin, we crossed the border back into Minnesota to visit Rabbit's Bakery in Lake City. We got there just before noon, so that baking for the day was over, but the wood-fired oven was being heated up for the next day's baking.
There were lots of tasting things in case waiting to be chosen. We saw lots of people coming in to buy things or to have lunch at the bakery cafe.
There was some breads of the day on the rack waiting to be taken, a menu for drinks on the wall. You can also see a sign for pizza (lower right), which they currently make once a month.
They have their distinctive sign hanging outside their door.
Here you can see the chimney stack and cinder block addition for their wood-fired oven. It looks like they also added some additional venting.
Just in case you can't find it going by the address, they also have a distinctive sign on the exterior wall of their bakery building.
Everything we bought was good. I'll certainly stop by again if I'm in the area.
There were lots of tasting things in case waiting to be chosen. We saw lots of people coming in to buy things or to have lunch at the bakery cafe.
There was some breads of the day on the rack waiting to be taken, a menu for drinks on the wall. You can also see a sign for pizza (lower right), which they currently make once a month.
They have their distinctive sign hanging outside their door.
Here you can see the chimney stack and cinder block addition for their wood-fired oven. It looks like they also added some additional venting.
Just in case you can't find it going by the address, they also have a distinctive sign on the exterior wall of their bakery building.
Everything we bought was good. I'll certainly stop by again if I'm in the area.
11 Ekim 2012 Perşembe
Hettema Group Goes Full Circle With Landmark Vegas Project
To contact us Click HERE
Pasadena, CA, USA (October 10, 2010) -- A dramatic new American icon will soon rise above the sands of Las Vegas: the High Roller, the world’s largest observation wheel. Shimmering with light and movement, the High Roller will combine entertainment with sweeping views of the Las Vegas skyline.
To create an experience of such immense scale, which will instantly become an iconic international landmark, Caesars Entertainment Corp. selected The Hettema Group, an award-winning design team that specializes in creating and producing one of a kind, immersive experiences.
"The Hettema Group is thrilled to be working with Ceasars Entertainment as Designer and Art Director for the High Roller wheel and guest experience,” said Phil Hettema, President and Creative Executive, The Hettema Group. “Our goal has been to create both an iconic, elegant and unique design for the wheel, as well as a festive and unforgettable guest experience from beginning to end."
Among its features, visitors will have the opportunity to reserve a cabin on the High Roller for special occasions complete with cocktails, music and entertainment as party-goers soar into the sky with the lights of Vegas sparkling below.
Since the invention of the Ferris Wheel by G.W Ferris – the most popular attraction at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893 –giant wheels have been popular throughout the world. Now state-of-the-art technology has made larger and more sophisticated observation wheels possible, from the London Eye to the Singapore Flyer, but at 550-feet, the High Roller will be the tallest wheel ever built.
The Hettema Group is working on the project in collaboration with Arup, renowned for their engineering and design work on the London Eye and the Singapore Flyer. “Our alliance with Arup will enable us to take a quantum leap forward, in both sophistication and design of the wheel,” Hettema added.
Rising parallel to the Strip, the giant wheel will be a distinctive new addition to the Las Vegas skyline, with 28 air-conditioned cabins capable of carrying 40 people each. During the 30-minute ride, visitors will be treated to spectacular views of the Las Vegas Strip, city skyline, and vistas beyond. With the opening planned for late 2013, more than 4.5 million visitors per year are anticipated to climb on board as the big wheel keeps on turning.
Work is now underway on the High Roller, which will serve as the majestic centerpiece of The LINQ, a new $550 million development by Caesars Entertainment encompassing an open-air retail, dining and entertainment district located on the 50-yard line of the world-famous Las Vegas Strip. The company recently announced the first wave of tenants to populate The LINQ. Popular first-to-market concepts and trendsetting brands, such as Brooklyn Bowl and Sprinkles Cupcakes, are among the first tenants to sign onto the project.
The Hettema Group is renowned for creative design, production and architecture for the world of experiential entertainment. Celebrating ten years creating award-winning immersive experiences fueled by storytelling and emotion, the design team has an established track record worldwide. Led by industry veteran Phil Hettema, the firm spearheaded creative design and production of the USA Pavilion experience for the World Expo 2012 in Yeosu, South Korea. Acclaimed projects also include the immersive 4-D, multi-media experience, “Beyond All Boundaries” for the National World War II Museum, narrated by Executive Producer Tom Hanks. And, The Hettema Group was selected as the designer and project manager for The Malaysia Truly Asia Center [MTAC], in Kuala Lumpur; as well as the overall master plan for the Sanrio-owned Hello Kitty Park in Anji, China, set to open in 2014. The firm also developed concepts for the park’s Hello Kitty rides, attractions, food and beverage, retail and themed hotels. For more information: www.thehettemagroup.com.
Caesars Entertainment Corporation is the world's most diversified casino-entertainment company. Since its beginning in Reno, Nevada, more than 74 years ago, Caesars has grown through development of new resorts, expansions and acquisitions, and now operates casinos on four continents. The company's resorts operate primarily under the Caesars®, Harrah's® and Horseshoe® brand names. Caesars also owns the World Series of Poker® and the London Clubs International family of casinos. Caesars Entertainment is focused on building loyalty and value with its guests through a unique combination of great service, excellent products, unsurpassed distribution, operational excellence and technology leadership. Caesars is committed to environmental sustainability and energy conservation and recognize the importance of being a responsible steward of the environment. For more information, please visit Caesars.com.
Pasadena, CA, USA (October 10, 2010) -- A dramatic new American icon will soon rise above the sands of Las Vegas: the High Roller, the world’s largest observation wheel. Shimmering with light and movement, the High Roller will combine entertainment with sweeping views of the Las Vegas skyline.To create an experience of such immense scale, which will instantly become an iconic international landmark, Caesars Entertainment Corp. selected The Hettema Group, an award-winning design team that specializes in creating and producing one of a kind, immersive experiences.
"The Hettema Group is thrilled to be working with Ceasars Entertainment as Designer and Art Director for the High Roller wheel and guest experience,” said Phil Hettema, President and Creative Executive, The Hettema Group. “Our goal has been to create both an iconic, elegant and unique design for the wheel, as well as a festive and unforgettable guest experience from beginning to end."
Among its features, visitors will have the opportunity to reserve a cabin on the High Roller for special occasions complete with cocktails, music and entertainment as party-goers soar into the sky with the lights of Vegas sparkling below.
Since the invention of the Ferris Wheel by G.W Ferris – the most popular attraction at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893 –giant wheels have been popular throughout the world. Now state-of-the-art technology has made larger and more sophisticated observation wheels possible, from the London Eye to the Singapore Flyer, but at 550-feet, the High Roller will be the tallest wheel ever built.
The Hettema Group is working on the project in collaboration with Arup, renowned for their engineering and design work on the London Eye and the Singapore Flyer. “Our alliance with Arup will enable us to take a quantum leap forward, in both sophistication and design of the wheel,” Hettema added.
Rising parallel to the Strip, the giant wheel will be a distinctive new addition to the Las Vegas skyline, with 28 air-conditioned cabins capable of carrying 40 people each. During the 30-minute ride, visitors will be treated to spectacular views of the Las Vegas Strip, city skyline, and vistas beyond. With the opening planned for late 2013, more than 4.5 million visitors per year are anticipated to climb on board as the big wheel keeps on turning.
Work is now underway on the High Roller, which will serve as the majestic centerpiece of The LINQ, a new $550 million development by Caesars Entertainment encompassing an open-air retail, dining and entertainment district located on the 50-yard line of the world-famous Las Vegas Strip. The company recently announced the first wave of tenants to populate The LINQ. Popular first-to-market concepts and trendsetting brands, such as Brooklyn Bowl and Sprinkles Cupcakes, are among the first tenants to sign onto the project.
The Hettema Group is renowned for creative design, production and architecture for the world of experiential entertainment. Celebrating ten years creating award-winning immersive experiences fueled by storytelling and emotion, the design team has an established track record worldwide. Led by industry veteran Phil Hettema, the firm spearheaded creative design and production of the USA Pavilion experience for the World Expo 2012 in Yeosu, South Korea. Acclaimed projects also include the immersive 4-D, multi-media experience, “Beyond All Boundaries” for the National World War II Museum, narrated by Executive Producer Tom Hanks. And, The Hettema Group was selected as the designer and project manager for The Malaysia Truly Asia Center [MTAC], in Kuala Lumpur; as well as the overall master plan for the Sanrio-owned Hello Kitty Park in Anji, China, set to open in 2014. The firm also developed concepts for the park’s Hello Kitty rides, attractions, food and beverage, retail and themed hotels. For more information: www.thehettemagroup.com.
Caesars Entertainment Corporation is the world's most diversified casino-entertainment company. Since its beginning in Reno, Nevada, more than 74 years ago, Caesars has grown through development of new resorts, expansions and acquisitions, and now operates casinos on four continents. The company's resorts operate primarily under the Caesars®, Harrah's® and Horseshoe® brand names. Caesars also owns the World Series of Poker® and the London Clubs International family of casinos. Caesars Entertainment is focused on building loyalty and value with its guests through a unique combination of great service, excellent products, unsurpassed distribution, operational excellence and technology leadership. Caesars is committed to environmental sustainability and energy conservation and recognize the importance of being a responsible steward of the environment. For more information, please visit Caesars.com.
Alton Towers Tests London Commuters on Fear; Results to Influence Theming of Haunt Attraction and 2013 Coaster
To contact us Click HERE
Poole, UK -- Alton Towers Resort put the bravery of Londoners to the test ahead of the opening of The Sanctuary - its most disturbing scare maze ever, opening on October 13th at the Resort’s annual Scarefest event.
Commuters on London’s Southbank were stopped in their tracks by staff from The Sanctuary, this year’s newest scare maze themed around a medical facility recently re-opened for the first time in 50 years. The sinister medics, whose bedside manner was anything but comforting, recruited members of the public to undergo a ‘fear test’ in an attempt to gauge the nation’s fear threshold.
Bemused passers-by were subjected to a series of unnerving images including scenes of suspense, brainwashing, and the supernatural. When participants were asked which sections of the video did they find the most disturbing, the answer was surprisingly the scenes of brainwashing.
Lindsey Steele, an administration assistant from Clapton commented: “I found the brainwashing element quite eerie and sinister. There was plenty of footage which made me jump which was pleasant, but the idea of someone or something that I can’t see controlling me really creeps me out.”
The findings will be analysed and incorporated within the new scare maze. The Sanctuary is a recently re-opened establishment where a force known only as the Ministry of Joy will launch a series of trials on the public, recruiting advocates for a new project to be unveiled in 2013. The results from the tests will also be used to finalise elements of a new world-first rollercoaster, due to open in March 2013 at the Alton Towers Resort.
Ben Dowson, project designer for Merlin Magic Makers who is responsible for designing and developing the new 2013 ride at Alton Towers Resort commented, “The idea of an unseen ‘controlling force’ is a really interesting insight that we would be keen to incorporate into both The Sanctuary, and our March 2013 rollercoaster. The Sanctuary is going to give guests a taster of what is to come in 2013 so we want of these attractions to offer our guests the most thrilling experience possible, not just for your body but also for your mind. These tests are crucial in helping us identify what people find the most disturbing.
Scarefest 2012 will also see the return of old favourites including Terror of the Towers and travelling circus Carnival of Screams. With the theme park open until 9pm every night, guests can also experience a host of adrenalin pumping rides and attractions in the dark! Scarefest runs from 13-14th and 19-31st October at the Alton Towers Resort. For more information and to save up to 25% on Scarefest tickets, visit www.altontowers.com.
For more details on the world-first rollercoaster coming to Alton Towers Resort in 2013 visit www.altontowers.com/2013.
Poole, UK -- Alton Towers Resort put the bravery of Londoners to the test ahead of the opening of The Sanctuary - its most disturbing scare maze ever, opening on October 13th at the Resort’s annual Scarefest event.Commuters on London’s Southbank were stopped in their tracks by staff from The Sanctuary, this year’s newest scare maze themed around a medical facility recently re-opened for the first time in 50 years. The sinister medics, whose bedside manner was anything but comforting, recruited members of the public to undergo a ‘fear test’ in an attempt to gauge the nation’s fear threshold.
Bemused passers-by were subjected to a series of unnerving images including scenes of suspense, brainwashing, and the supernatural. When participants were asked which sections of the video did they find the most disturbing, the answer was surprisingly the scenes of brainwashing.
Lindsey Steele, an administration assistant from Clapton commented: “I found the brainwashing element quite eerie and sinister. There was plenty of footage which made me jump which was pleasant, but the idea of someone or something that I can’t see controlling me really creeps me out.”
The findings will be analysed and incorporated within the new scare maze. The Sanctuary is a recently re-opened establishment where a force known only as the Ministry of Joy will launch a series of trials on the public, recruiting advocates for a new project to be unveiled in 2013. The results from the tests will also be used to finalise elements of a new world-first rollercoaster, due to open in March 2013 at the Alton Towers Resort.
Ben Dowson, project designer for Merlin Magic Makers who is responsible for designing and developing the new 2013 ride at Alton Towers Resort commented, “The idea of an unseen ‘controlling force’ is a really interesting insight that we would be keen to incorporate into both The Sanctuary, and our March 2013 rollercoaster. The Sanctuary is going to give guests a taster of what is to come in 2013 so we want of these attractions to offer our guests the most thrilling experience possible, not just for your body but also for your mind. These tests are crucial in helping us identify what people find the most disturbing.
Scarefest 2012 will also see the return of old favourites including Terror of the Towers and travelling circus Carnival of Screams. With the theme park open until 9pm every night, guests can also experience a host of adrenalin pumping rides and attractions in the dark! Scarefest runs from 13-14th and 19-31st October at the Alton Towers Resort. For more information and to save up to 25% on Scarefest tickets, visit www.altontowers.com.
For more details on the world-first rollercoaster coming to Alton Towers Resort in 2013 visit www.altontowers.com/2013.
Liseberg Announces Projekt Helix Multi-Launch Coaster for 2014
To contact us Click HERE
Gothenberg, Sweden -- In 2014 Liseberg will launch a new roller coaster - longer and faster than the any other coaster in the park. It’s the parks biggest investment ever. The working title of the project is Projekt Helix.
"It has extra of everything! The ambition is to build a ride which is two minutes of pure fun. When we built Balder, we built the world’s best wooden roller coaster, so we have a high standard to live up to," says Andreas Andersen, president and CEO of Liseberg.
The track is almost 1,4 km (4500 feet) long and the ride lasts for almost two minutes. Along the track are two launches where the coaster is accelerated using Linear Synchronous Motors (LSM). It will be the first multi-launch coaster in Europe. The ride will include six inversions, four airtime hills and plenty of drops, turns and twists.
With speeds up to 100 km/h (62 mph) this new coaster will be the fastest one in the park. It will also be the most technologically advanced coaster in the park. It’s manufactured by the German company Mack Rides Gmb.
"With Mack Rides’s Blue Fire technology we can offer a ride that has comfort, smoothness and freedom. You can do almost anything with the track system and we have tried to use that advantage to the limit," says Andersen.
The construction work will start as soon as the park closes this fall and continue over next year. The 3D-cinema Maxxima will close for good in order to make room for the new coaster station building.
Gothenberg, Sweden -- In 2014 Liseberg will launch a new roller coaster - longer and faster than the any other coaster in the park. It’s the parks biggest investment ever. The working title of the project is Projekt Helix."It has extra of everything! The ambition is to build a ride which is two minutes of pure fun. When we built Balder, we built the world’s best wooden roller coaster, so we have a high standard to live up to," says Andreas Andersen, president and CEO of Liseberg.
The track is almost 1,4 km (4500 feet) long and the ride lasts for almost two minutes. Along the track are two launches where the coaster is accelerated using Linear Synchronous Motors (LSM). It will be the first multi-launch coaster in Europe. The ride will include six inversions, four airtime hills and plenty of drops, turns and twists.With speeds up to 100 km/h (62 mph) this new coaster will be the fastest one in the park. It will also be the most technologically advanced coaster in the park. It’s manufactured by the German company Mack Rides Gmb.
"With Mack Rides’s Blue Fire technology we can offer a ride that has comfort, smoothness and freedom. You can do almost anything with the track system and we have tried to use that advantage to the limit," says Andersen.
The construction work will start as soon as the park closes this fall and continue over next year. The 3D-cinema Maxxima will close for good in order to make room for the new coaster station building.SeaWorld San Diego to Redefine Main Entrance With Animal Experiences
To contact us Click HERE
San Diego, CA, USA (October 10, 2012) -- SeaWorld California is planning to completely transform its front gate and redefine its arrival experience. Called “Explorer’s Reef,” guests will enter the park under a giant wave sculpture and then have their first animal interactions just inside the main gate where they will meet sharks, rays, horseshoe crabs and other sea creatures in new touch pools. SeaWorld San Diego is also planning to make it easier to get tickets and make reservation for all the unique things to see and do in the park like Dine With Shamu, animal interactions, and behind-the-scene tours. Renovation starts in December and will be completed in March 2014. A temporary gate will be set up so as to not disrupt park entrance during construction.
Paperwork filed with the California Coastal Commission, which must approve the new construction, states:
"The proposed project is to renovate the existing guest entrance area to SeaWorld. Development consists of constructing a new ticket booth building of approximately 1,900 square feet (which is an approximately 250 square foot increase from the existing structure), replacing existing turnstiles with a new structure 17-22 feet in height, installing five new touch pools with life support area, constructing a 1,000 square foot building to house aquarium functions and an approximately 285 square foot culinary facility, and renovating merchandise areas to be compatible with the new aesthetic look of the entrance. The project site is within the SeaWorld leasehold, near the center of the property and north of the public parking lots. The proposed project site is already used as an existing guest entrance area."
San Diego, CA, USA (October 10, 2012) -- SeaWorld California is planning to completely transform its front gate and redefine its arrival experience. Called “Explorer’s Reef,” guests will enter the park under a giant wave sculpture and then have their first animal interactions just inside the main gate where they will meet sharks, rays, horseshoe crabs and other sea creatures in new touch pools. SeaWorld San Diego is also planning to make it easier to get tickets and make reservation for all the unique things to see and do in the park like Dine With Shamu, animal interactions, and behind-the-scene tours. Renovation starts in December and will be completed in March 2014. A temporary gate will be set up so as to not disrupt park entrance during construction.Paperwork filed with the California Coastal Commission, which must approve the new construction, states:
"The proposed project is to renovate the existing guest entrance area to SeaWorld. Development consists of constructing a new ticket booth building of approximately 1,900 square feet (which is an approximately 250 square foot increase from the existing structure), replacing existing turnstiles with a new structure 17-22 feet in height, installing five new touch pools with life support area, constructing a 1,000 square foot building to house aquarium functions and an approximately 285 square foot culinary facility, and renovating merchandise areas to be compatible with the new aesthetic look of the entrance. The project site is within the SeaWorld leasehold, near the center of the property and north of the public parking lots. The proposed project site is already used as an existing guest entrance area."
Lo-Q Announces New Virtual Queue Deals With Theme Parks in the Netherlands and United States
To contact us Click HERE
Twyford, UK (October 11, 2012) -- Lo-Q plc, the provider of virtual queuing systems for theme parks and major attractions, is pleased to announce that it has signed a new agreement with Compagnie des Alpes, a France-based holding company active in the tourism and leisure industry, to bring Q-smart, Lo-Q’s new patented smartphone-based queuing solution, to Walibi Holland, one of the Netherland’s top theme parks.
Following the successful trial of Lo-Q’s Q-smart solution at a North American Park during Summer 2012, Compagnie des Alpes have decided to install the system at their Walibi park in the Netherlands. Under the terms of the 3 year agreement, Lo-Q will be installing the system at Walibi Holland in time for the Halloween season, traditionally one of the busiest periods at the park.
Lo-Q’s smartphone-based solution, Q-smart, represents an exciting evolution of Lo-Q’s existing, tried-and-tested Q-bot queuing system. Q-smart puts virtual queuing technology straight onto a smartphone optimised mobile website and combines it with mobile payment features. As a result, guests are able to take advantage of the service without the need to visit an onsite sales office to pick up and pay for a Qbot system. The technical solution is “Cloud” based which significantly reduces the cost of infrastructure installations at customer sites whilst also improving the in park guest experience.
Lo-Q has also announced that it has signed a new agreement (the “Agreement”) with a major US theme park operator.
The Agreement will see Lo-Q install Q-bot, its innovative virtual queuing system, at two of the operator’s parks in the USA. Under the terms of the Agreement, the Q-bot solution will be installed in both parks for four years, with the option to extend this for a further two years. Revenue associated with the Agreement is expected to scale gradually, over time. In addition, the Agreement grants that Lo-Q’s virtual queuing systems may be extended into additional theme and water parks within the USA and globally.
www.lo-q.com
About Lo-Q
Lo-Q is the creator of a virtual queuing system for theme parks, water parks and other leisure attractions that allows users to queue without waiting in line. Lo-Q users reserve their place in a queue electronically and are notified when their turn is up, spending less time queuing and more time enjoying their day out.
Lo-Q's system has been adopted by leading theme park and attraction operators globally, with customers including Parques Reunidos, Six Flags, Dollywood, Merlin Entertainments and Compagnie des Alpes. These operators benefit not only from happier customers but also from additional revenue streams as time previously spent queuing is instead transformed into higher spending in park restaurants, gift shops and other retail facilities. By the end of 2011, more than eight million individuals had used a Lo-Q product and that number is growing.
Twyford, UK (October 11, 2012) -- Lo-Q plc, the provider of virtual queuing systems for theme parks and major attractions, is pleased to announce that it has signed a new agreement with Compagnie des Alpes, a France-based holding company active in the tourism and leisure industry, to bring Q-smart, Lo-Q’s new patented smartphone-based queuing solution, to Walibi Holland, one of the Netherland’s top theme parks.Following the successful trial of Lo-Q’s Q-smart solution at a North American Park during Summer 2012, Compagnie des Alpes have decided to install the system at their Walibi park in the Netherlands. Under the terms of the 3 year agreement, Lo-Q will be installing the system at Walibi Holland in time for the Halloween season, traditionally one of the busiest periods at the park.
Lo-Q’s smartphone-based solution, Q-smart, represents an exciting evolution of Lo-Q’s existing, tried-and-tested Q-bot queuing system. Q-smart puts virtual queuing technology straight onto a smartphone optimised mobile website and combines it with mobile payment features. As a result, guests are able to take advantage of the service without the need to visit an onsite sales office to pick up and pay for a Qbot system. The technical solution is “Cloud” based which significantly reduces the cost of infrastructure installations at customer sites whilst also improving the in park guest experience.
Lo-Q has also announced that it has signed a new agreement (the “Agreement”) with a major US theme park operator.
The Agreement will see Lo-Q install Q-bot, its innovative virtual queuing system, at two of the operator’s parks in the USA. Under the terms of the Agreement, the Q-bot solution will be installed in both parks for four years, with the option to extend this for a further two years. Revenue associated with the Agreement is expected to scale gradually, over time. In addition, the Agreement grants that Lo-Q’s virtual queuing systems may be extended into additional theme and water parks within the USA and globally.
www.lo-q.com
About Lo-Q
Lo-Q is the creator of a virtual queuing system for theme parks, water parks and other leisure attractions that allows users to queue without waiting in line. Lo-Q users reserve their place in a queue electronically and are notified when their turn is up, spending less time queuing and more time enjoying their day out.
Lo-Q's system has been adopted by leading theme park and attraction operators globally, with customers including Parques Reunidos, Six Flags, Dollywood, Merlin Entertainments and Compagnie des Alpes. These operators benefit not only from happier customers but also from additional revenue streams as time previously spent queuing is instead transformed into higher spending in park restaurants, gift shops and other retail facilities. By the end of 2011, more than eight million individuals had used a Lo-Q product and that number is growing.
10 Ekim 2012 Çarşamba
To contact us Click HERE
In case you don't know what a fam is...it's a familiarization trip...To familiarize we travel agents with the resorts. With that thought in mind, Last week I took two travel agents with me to Sandals Royal Bahamian. From the last time I was there until now, the resort has changed remarkably. There is fun in the sun. Playmakers that work hard to help you have a good time. Poolside there used to be what I call elevator music...Now reggae...soca and more...games galore..The new General Manager, Patrick Drake along with his staff is just amazing.I was able to arrange a birthday party for a guest with the butler manager Rory (who has an amazing voice) singing for us. Also visiting Atlantis, which I find way to big and crowded, although beautiful.
We were there for 5 nts. I tasted more booze than I ever did. And had a great great time. One of my new favorites.
I even snorkeled..... sort of. But everyone knows my opinion of snorkeling....
On the way back to the airport we stopped for a bit of fire in de hole erotic rum..A must try..
And only bought 4 fluie vuttons.
See our photos above
In case you don't know what a fam is...it's a familiarization trip...To familiarize we travel agents with the resorts. With that thought in mind, Last week I took two travel agents with me to Sandals Royal Bahamian. From the last time I was there until now, the resort has changed remarkably. There is fun in the sun. Playmakers that work hard to help you have a good time. Poolside there used to be what I call elevator music...Now reggae...soca and more...games galore..The new General Manager, Patrick Drake along with his staff is just amazing.I was able to arrange a birthday party for a guest with the butler manager Rory (who has an amazing voice) singing for us. Also visiting Atlantis, which I find way to big and crowded, although beautiful.
We were there for 5 nts. I tasted more booze than I ever did. And had a great great time. One of my new favorites.
I even snorkeled..... sort of. But everyone knows my opinion of snorkeling....
On the way back to the airport we stopped for a bit of fire in de hole erotic rum..A must try..
And only bought 4 fluie vuttons.
See our photos above
A Palace Resorts Mexican Tour
To contact us Click HERE
So here I was, clumsy me expecting a nice and easy fam. Well guess again..but we will get into that later.
We stayed at the Cancun Palace which I would recommend to singles, couples and all around partiers. Bachelor parties and just a friends getaway.
The shots flowed like water at the pool bar. And there was tons of entertainment. I think a bit risque for little kids but the older teens might find it amusing.
The beach is fabulous and the food plentiful. I had an oceanview room and the view was to die for.
We dined at the Cancun Palace for the entire first day. All you can eat, drink and then some.
The next morning we were to do two site inspections...so I went next door to my friend Hedy's room to have room service. Had to use the bathroom and the lights were out. My room was opposite hers and i was so tired I thought the shower was the throne..so I tripped over the lip of the shower and ended up banging my head on the marble. Hedy's heard me scream and said "Why are you going to the bathroom in my shower"...a joke but she was scared so she called the doctor. He came within 5 minutes. .."If you get sick..I would suggest Mexico"..After giving me a shot in my behind..he left and told me to sleep which I did..missing the sun and beach palace. I had been there before so it was ok..
Clumsy, clutzy...and should be wrapped in bubble wrap is my title.
That night we went to Le Blanc Spa which is the upscale adult version of the other palace resorts...An all white resort...this hotel is amazing. Food was impressive as was the resort.
The next day...an all morning excursion to Moon Palace. It's big. When I say big I mean huge..2500 rooms with another 1000 being built. There is a separate section just for the wedding people. We had a cake tasting and might I said, bring on that icing..!!!
The beach is a little small for my taste but the resort is beautiful.
Back to Cancun Palace to eat, drink and be merry. "Did I say drink"...
We met a wonderful man who was a first responder at 9/11 and he told us the most amazing stories..brings tears to your eyes. He was also a great one for getting bargains on the beach. Silver bracelets galore...(sterling) I might add....and after spending a minimal amount and getting fabulouse jewelry..It was time to leave.
My feeling. Palace resorts is offering up to a $1500 credit toward stays of 7 nights. It is a great bang for the buck and the hotels are certainly 4 star and higher. I don't like the time share people but they didn't bother me at all. I was just pissed that I couldn't sell anything to the people who had time shares.
3days in Cancun..a lot of food....a lot of drink..whatever your pleasure is...and a lot of fun..
Mexico is a very safe place to go. Don't let anyone tell you anything different.
This was a short and sweet fam trip...and I highly recommend it to all of my customers. There is a little something for everyone plus a new palace in Punta Cana
We stayed at the Cancun Palace which I would recommend to singles, couples and all around partiers. Bachelor parties and just a friends getaway.
The shots flowed like water at the pool bar. And there was tons of entertainment. I think a bit risque for little kids but the older teens might find it amusing.
The beach is fabulous and the food plentiful. I had an oceanview room and the view was to die for.
We dined at the Cancun Palace for the entire first day. All you can eat, drink and then some.
The next morning we were to do two site inspections...so I went next door to my friend Hedy's room to have room service. Had to use the bathroom and the lights were out. My room was opposite hers and i was so tired I thought the shower was the throne..so I tripped over the lip of the shower and ended up banging my head on the marble. Hedy's heard me scream and said "Why are you going to the bathroom in my shower"...a joke but she was scared so she called the doctor. He came within 5 minutes. .."If you get sick..I would suggest Mexico"..After giving me a shot in my behind..he left and told me to sleep which I did..missing the sun and beach palace. I had been there before so it was ok..
Clumsy, clutzy...and should be wrapped in bubble wrap is my title.
That night we went to Le Blanc Spa which is the upscale adult version of the other palace resorts...An all white resort...this hotel is amazing. Food was impressive as was the resort.
The next day...an all morning excursion to Moon Palace. It's big. When I say big I mean huge..2500 rooms with another 1000 being built. There is a separate section just for the wedding people. We had a cake tasting and might I said, bring on that icing..!!!
The beach is a little small for my taste but the resort is beautiful.
Back to Cancun Palace to eat, drink and be merry. "Did I say drink"...
We met a wonderful man who was a first responder at 9/11 and he told us the most amazing stories..brings tears to your eyes. He was also a great one for getting bargains on the beach. Silver bracelets galore...(sterling) I might add....and after spending a minimal amount and getting fabulouse jewelry..It was time to leave.
My feeling. Palace resorts is offering up to a $1500 credit toward stays of 7 nights. It is a great bang for the buck and the hotels are certainly 4 star and higher. I don't like the time share people but they didn't bother me at all. I was just pissed that I couldn't sell anything to the people who had time shares.
3days in Cancun..a lot of food....a lot of drink..whatever your pleasure is...and a lot of fun..
Mexico is a very safe place to go. Don't let anyone tell you anything different.
This was a short and sweet fam trip...and I highly recommend it to all of my customers. There is a little something for everyone plus a new palace in Punta Cana
Just a few words to say
To contact us Click HERE
Ok friends, I am in the middle of moving hell. I am relocating my office and myself to Hallandale Beach, Fl. So much work..But near the water, just in time for the hurricane..See my black cloud follows me everywhere..
What I wanted to say in this mini post..Be careful when you chose the airline you are going to travel on. I try to tell my customers that not all airlines are created equal. They are trying to take your money. Especially watch Spirit air. Even though the price might be inexpensive, you still will be hit with all kinds of charges. They charge for carry on. Of course they reduced the weight requirement to 40 not 50 lbs and didn't bother to announce it...and they charge for luggage. So when you weigh the pros and cons ask your travel agent what SHE thinks.
My favorites are Jet Blue, American and Delta...The rest well, ask me how I feel that day.
There are all kinds of sales out there for travel, so why don't you give me a call and we'll talk
954 575 6101
So..I am now traveling to Hallandale beach for my current trip..Not too far away..but certainly different from where I am now.
What I wanted to say in this mini post..Be careful when you chose the airline you are going to travel on. I try to tell my customers that not all airlines are created equal. They are trying to take your money. Especially watch Spirit air. Even though the price might be inexpensive, you still will be hit with all kinds of charges. They charge for carry on. Of course they reduced the weight requirement to 40 not 50 lbs and didn't bother to announce it...and they charge for luggage. So when you weigh the pros and cons ask your travel agent what SHE thinks.
My favorites are Jet Blue, American and Delta...The rest well, ask me how I feel that day.
There are all kinds of sales out there for travel, so why don't you give me a call and we'll talk
954 575 6101
So..I am now traveling to Hallandale beach for my current trip..Not too far away..but certainly different from where I am now.
it's been about a week since I last wrote
To contact us Click HERE
It's been about a week since I last wrote about things. My move is almost complete and starting anew in Hallandale beach. A half mile from the beach.
A comment I wanted to make..did you know we travel agents can generally match any price you see on the internet and give you personalized service too. Fix anything that is wrong. Let the resort know that you are a VIP and just general service that you wouldn't get from booking online. I had someone call me yesterday and ask about a resort. They had already booked using one of the big name online companies but really didn't know much about the resort. I had been there and I tell it like it is usually and after I gave her my honest opinion...she asked, "how can I change my destination?" I said had you booked thru me...a travel professional you wouldn't be in the position you are in because I would have told you not to go there in the first place.
What one person likes...another person might not. You need to tell you agent your likes and dislikes and what you are looking for in a resort. It's your hard earned money you are spending and when you book online you don't know what you are getting because ALL OF THE PHOTOS LOOK FABULOUS!!
I have been there. I am a specialist. I know and I am honest.
And I do want your business
A comment I wanted to make..did you know we travel agents can generally match any price you see on the internet and give you personalized service too. Fix anything that is wrong. Let the resort know that you are a VIP and just general service that you wouldn't get from booking online. I had someone call me yesterday and ask about a resort. They had already booked using one of the big name online companies but really didn't know much about the resort. I had been there and I tell it like it is usually and after I gave her my honest opinion...she asked, "how can I change my destination?" I said had you booked thru me...a travel professional you wouldn't be in the position you are in because I would have told you not to go there in the first place.
What one person likes...another person might not. You need to tell you agent your likes and dislikes and what you are looking for in a resort. It's your hard earned money you are spending and when you book online you don't know what you are getting because ALL OF THE PHOTOS LOOK FABULOUS!!
I have been there. I am a specialist. I know and I am honest.
And I do want your business
it's been a while
To contact us Click HERE
It's been a long while since my last post. But I am back and ready to tell you everything you need to know about travel.
I will tell you a story. I had a call from a past customer telling me that the upcoming trip they had booked was a destination wedding and the travel agent the bride had chosen had held no rooms for the guests. In my mind, that is unheard of..but without knowing who the agent was, I made phone calls to find out if any rooms were being held by this agent. The answer was no. The mother of the bride, the maid of honor and many guest were not going to be able to go to the resort. The resort was sold out. The agent they had used was inept.
Did I mention that this was a Sandals resort and when I checked there were absolutely no rooms available. So I did what I do best..I work for the customer..my customers who chose the wrong travel agent for their special day.
I was not going to let them pay for it by having this wedding turn into a disaster.
I was able to find 5 rooms for these customers and they considered me their savior. I am no savior; I am just a knowledeable travel professional who knows what I am doing.
Be careful when planning a very special destination event. Make sure the travel agent knows what she is doing. Make sure you get everything confirmed ..do not take the agent's word for it, or you do can have a disaster in the making.
Hopefully the upcoming wedding will be perfect...
Congratulations to the bride and groom
I will tell you a story. I had a call from a past customer telling me that the upcoming trip they had booked was a destination wedding and the travel agent the bride had chosen had held no rooms for the guests. In my mind, that is unheard of..but without knowing who the agent was, I made phone calls to find out if any rooms were being held by this agent. The answer was no. The mother of the bride, the maid of honor and many guest were not going to be able to go to the resort. The resort was sold out. The agent they had used was inept.
Did I mention that this was a Sandals resort and when I checked there were absolutely no rooms available. So I did what I do best..I work for the customer..my customers who chose the wrong travel agent for their special day.
I was not going to let them pay for it by having this wedding turn into a disaster.
I was able to find 5 rooms for these customers and they considered me their savior. I am no savior; I am just a knowledeable travel professional who knows what I am doing.
Be careful when planning a very special destination event. Make sure the travel agent knows what she is doing. Make sure you get everything confirmed ..do not take the agent's word for it, or you do can have a disaster in the making.
Hopefully the upcoming wedding will be perfect...
Congratulations to the bride and groom
9 Ekim 2012 Salı
Portable Oven Class, Prescott, WI, June 16, 2012
To contact us Click HERE
I will be returning once again to Prescott, Wisconsin, to teach my portable oven class.
The contents of the class are fully described here.
Registration information for the class is on this page of the Borner Farm Project.
In short, I show people how to build an oven from stacked bricks, how to make the doughs for naan, pita, pizza, and bread, and then bake them all in an oven we build as part of class. We then get to eat all of that. In past classes we have baked up to 15 pieces of naan, 8 pita bread, 5 pizzas, and a loaf of bread in an hour and a half.
The contents of the class are fully described here.
Registration information for the class is on this page of the Borner Farm Project.
In short, I show people how to build an oven from stacked bricks, how to make the doughs for naan, pita, pizza, and bread, and then bake them all in an oven we build as part of class. We then get to eat all of that. In past classes we have baked up to 15 pieces of naan, 8 pita bread, 5 pizzas, and a loaf of bread in an hour and a half.
Oven Building Classes
To contact us Click HERE
This blog gets searched for subjects like "bread oven building class" or "pizza oven building class" or even "brick oven building class" (according to my blog's search statistics).
While I have a few posts here about specific classes, I do maintain a more general list of class information on a page as part of my main Quest for Ovens links pages. The class information is organized by state (for the US) or country.
The information might not be current; I record classes as I find them mentioned without tidying up past links. Partly that's because a place that once held a class is more likely to do so in the future.
This provides the best info available at the time.
If you are going to be hosting an oven-building class, I would be happy to mention it here and link to it if a link is available. Just leave a comment on the blog or use the mailto link on the web site.
While I have a few posts here about specific classes, I do maintain a more general list of class information on a page as part of my main Quest for Ovens links pages. The class information is organized by state (for the US) or country.
The information might not be current; I record classes as I find them mentioned without tidying up past links. Partly that's because a place that once held a class is more likely to do so in the future.
This provides the best info available at the time.
If you are going to be hosting an oven-building class, I would be happy to mention it here and link to it if a link is available. Just leave a comment on the blog or use the mailto link on the web site.
Park Avenue Community Oven, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada
To contact us Click HERE
I received a lot of notifications about community ovens recently, both from Google Alerts and from e-mail.
One oven that I found out about is the Park Avenue Community Oven, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada. This makes it the first community oven I have found in Nova Scotia.
They also have a Facebook community organization page.
As with many community ovens in Canada, this one is located in a park (the Leighton Dillman Park on the Dartmouth Commons) and near a community garden.
They have gotten some local television coverage, which is quite rare for these kinds of projects. Also rare, is that they got substantial local funding ($20,000) to build the oven and its environs, so the whole project ought to be very well established. (I like how the TV segment mentioned that some other organizations are now interested in having community ovens of their own.)
There was also some related press coverage (echoed here).
One oven that I found out about is the Park Avenue Community Oven, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada. This makes it the first community oven I have found in Nova Scotia.
They also have a Facebook community organization page.
As with many community ovens in Canada, this one is located in a park (the Leighton Dillman Park on the Dartmouth Commons) and near a community garden.
They have gotten some local television coverage, which is quite rare for these kinds of projects. Also rare, is that they got substantial local funding ($20,000) to build the oven and its environs, so the whole project ought to be very well established. (I like how the TV segment mentioned that some other organizations are now interested in having community ovens of their own.)
There was also some related press coverage (echoed here).
North Adams Community Oven, North Adams, Massachusetts
To contact us Click HERE
Another recent addition to my list of US community ovens is the North Adams Community Oven, North Adams, Massachusetts (they have a Facebook community organization page).
There is a picture of the oven being built as part of this page about a related effort to create a local sourdough culture.
This oven will be near a community garden.
This oven is one of a few built as part of a larger arts project.
There are some other community oven projects in Massachusetts, but this one is close to New York, which also has a lot of community ovens.
There is a picture of the oven being built as part of this page about a related effort to create a local sourdough culture.
This oven will be near a community garden.
This oven is one of a few built as part of a larger arts project.
There are some other community oven projects in Massachusetts, but this one is close to New York, which also has a lot of community ovens.
Rabbit's Bakery, Lake City, Minnesota Field Report
To contact us Click HERE
One the second day of a vacation at Stockholm, Wisconsin, we crossed the border back into Minnesota to visit Rabbit's Bakery in Lake City. We got there just before noon, so that baking for the day was over, but the wood-fired oven was being heated up for the next day's baking.
There were lots of tasting things in case waiting to be chosen. We saw lots of people coming in to buy things or to have lunch at the bakery cafe.
There was some breads of the day on the rack waiting to be taken, a menu for drinks on the wall. You can also see a sign for pizza (lower right), which they currently make once a month.
They have their distinctive sign hanging outside their door.
Here you can see the chimney stack and cinder block addition for their wood-fired oven. It looks like they also added some additional venting.
Just in case you can't find it going by the address, they also have a distinctive sign on the exterior wall of their bakery building.
Everything we bought was good. I'll certainly stop by again if I'm in the area.
There were lots of tasting things in case waiting to be chosen. We saw lots of people coming in to buy things or to have lunch at the bakery cafe.
There was some breads of the day on the rack waiting to be taken, a menu for drinks on the wall. You can also see a sign for pizza (lower right), which they currently make once a month.
They have their distinctive sign hanging outside their door.
Here you can see the chimney stack and cinder block addition for their wood-fired oven. It looks like they also added some additional venting.
Just in case you can't find it going by the address, they also have a distinctive sign on the exterior wall of their bakery building.
Everything we bought was good. I'll certainly stop by again if I'm in the area.
8 Ekim 2012 Pazartesi
Birmingham's Thinktank Planetarium Reopens as Full Dome LED Experience Courtesy Global Immersion
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West Sussex, England -- One of the UK’s busiest planetariums at Thinktank, Birmingham, England, has reopened to the public with a special screening of the industry’s newest and most cutting-edge dome content, shown on a new dome projection display designed and installed by Global Immersion. The new display, featuring six edge-blended projection channels, promises an intensely colorful and resolute immersive experience.
On Wednesday 26 September, the renovated 10-meter/33-feet diameter, 70-seat planetarium at Thinktank opened its doors with a six-channel high performance LED projection system from international planetarium experts, Global Immersion. The upgrade took place over four days while the theater remained in operation.
Thinktank Planetarium is an attraction within Thinktank, Birmingham’s science museum; a state-of-the-art facility opened in 2001 as part of city’s Millennium Point complex. The planetarium itself attracts 100,000 visitors per year and is renowned for showing experimental content in addition to traditional science and educational media.
Nick Dodds, Sales Engineer at Global Immersion explained; “The Thinktank team had a clear vision of what the new dome display would deliver in terms of performance, installation time, compatibility with their existing theater server system, and flexibility - especially since they run such a wide variety of programs from astronomy and earth science through to culture and arts. Their new display is versatile enough for them to present any subject matter, with consistently stunning results.”
Mario Di Maggio, Planetarium Manager at Thinktank commented; “Digital domes are intensely powerful visual theaters, yet only as good as their projection systems. We therefore chose low maintenance, rich-color projectors with a matching high quality blending system.”
Graham Hodgson of Global Immersion, Lead Engineer on the project said; “LED projection technology brings many benefits to planetariums seeking an operationally robust digital display with incredible results. With no lamp replacement and no color wheel change requirements, this system can drastically reduce maintenance costs and provides an energy-efficient solution too with low power consumption and heat output.”
Dodds added; “We are energized by our new partnership with Thinktank. Not only did we supply a robust six LED projector system with our proprietary mounting, alignment and blending technologies, but we transformed the planetarium into one of the few dome theaters in the world with LED-projection technology.”
“We have integrated several LED projection systems into planetariums and are seeing an increase in demand for this technology and its welcomed benefits of low cost of ownership, vivid color saturation and crystal clear display results as an ideal solution for smaller planetariums.”
The planetarium launched with a sell-out special event celebrating international award-winning fulldome arts and experimental fulldome film, screening Mirage 3D’s Dawn of the Space Age and the juried reel from the Domefest 2012 competition held in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA, earlier this year.
For further information about Global Immersion and the Global Immersion range of immersive theater solutions please visit www.globalimmersion.com
About Global Immersion
Global Immersion is an international designer and supplier of high performance digital immersive theater. The award-winning team, with offices in the UK and USA, specializes in the innovation of world-class digital Giant Screen Cinema, 3D, 4D and planetarium environments. Renowned for delivering some of the world’s greatest digital theaters, the company develops and integrates leading-edge technologies exclusively for application, and has worked with some of the finest museums, science centers, digital theaters, theme parks and visitor attractions.
Born from a management buyout in 2007, Global Immersion’s extensive expertise includes planning, design, development, engineering, media & production, integration and through- life support for digital experiences that are built for the future.
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| Graham Hodgson of Global Immersion installs an LED projector. Courtesy Thinktank . |
On Wednesday 26 September, the renovated 10-meter/33-feet diameter, 70-seat planetarium at Thinktank opened its doors with a six-channel high performance LED projection system from international planetarium experts, Global Immersion. The upgrade took place over four days while the theater remained in operation.
Thinktank Planetarium is an attraction within Thinktank, Birmingham’s science museum; a state-of-the-art facility opened in 2001 as part of city’s Millennium Point complex. The planetarium itself attracts 100,000 visitors per year and is renowned for showing experimental content in addition to traditional science and educational media.
Nick Dodds, Sales Engineer at Global Immersion explained; “The Thinktank team had a clear vision of what the new dome display would deliver in terms of performance, installation time, compatibility with their existing theater server system, and flexibility - especially since they run such a wide variety of programs from astronomy and earth science through to culture and arts. Their new display is versatile enough for them to present any subject matter, with consistently stunning results.”
Mario Di Maggio, Planetarium Manager at Thinktank commented; “Digital domes are intensely powerful visual theaters, yet only as good as their projection systems. We therefore chose low maintenance, rich-color projectors with a matching high quality blending system.”
Graham Hodgson of Global Immersion, Lead Engineer on the project said; “LED projection technology brings many benefits to planetariums seeking an operationally robust digital display with incredible results. With no lamp replacement and no color wheel change requirements, this system can drastically reduce maintenance costs and provides an energy-efficient solution too with low power consumption and heat output.”
Dodds added; “We are energized by our new partnership with Thinktank. Not only did we supply a robust six LED projector system with our proprietary mounting, alignment and blending technologies, but we transformed the planetarium into one of the few dome theaters in the world with LED-projection technology.”
“We have integrated several LED projection systems into planetariums and are seeing an increase in demand for this technology and its welcomed benefits of low cost of ownership, vivid color saturation and crystal clear display results as an ideal solution for smaller planetariums.”
The planetarium launched with a sell-out special event celebrating international award-winning fulldome arts and experimental fulldome film, screening Mirage 3D’s Dawn of the Space Age and the juried reel from the Domefest 2012 competition held in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA, earlier this year.
For further information about Global Immersion and the Global Immersion range of immersive theater solutions please visit www.globalimmersion.com
About Global Immersion
Global Immersion is an international designer and supplier of high performance digital immersive theater. The award-winning team, with offices in the UK and USA, specializes in the innovation of world-class digital Giant Screen Cinema, 3D, 4D and planetarium environments. Renowned for delivering some of the world’s greatest digital theaters, the company develops and integrates leading-edge technologies exclusively for application, and has worked with some of the finest museums, science centers, digital theaters, theme parks and visitor attractions.
Born from a management buyout in 2007, Global Immersion’s extensive expertise includes planning, design, development, engineering, media & production, integration and through- life support for digital experiences that are built for the future.
Viallage Roadshow Announces the Return of Wet 'n' Wild to Las Vegas
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Las Vegas NV, USA -- The world’s most iconic water park brand, Wet ’n’ Wild, is coming back to Las Vegas with the new $50 million Wet ‘n’ Wild Las Vegas set to open in May 2013.
Located in the entertainment capital of the world, this world class water park will be fun for the whole family, featuring a spectacular line-up of more than 25 slides and attractions including North America's firstRattler slide.
The strategically positioned parcel of land will be leased from The Howard Hughes Corporation. Investors in the more than $50 million water park include Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf, Dr. Steven and Karen Thomas of the Thomas and Mack family, Roger and Scott Bulloch of SPB Capital Partners, Steve Miller and Australian entertainment conglomerate Village Roadshow Limited.
“This will be an incredible water park, the perfect addition for this fun-filled town, featuring a huge range of experiences designed for both families and thrill seekers,” said Agassi.
Set on 41 acres in southwest Las Vegas near the I-215 and Sunset Road, the world class park will feature more than 25 innovative slides and attractions. The park will be managed by theme park experts, Village Roadshow Theme Parks which operates Wet ‘n’ Wild water parks in Arizona and Hawaii. Village Roadshow Theme Parks Australian operations include Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World and Wet ‘n’ Wild Water World, which collectively entertain more than five million visitors annually. In addition to these world class theme parks, Village Roadshow Theme Parks also is developing a Wet ‘n’ Wild ‘super park’ inSydney, Australia which is set to open in December 2013.
“We are very excited to bring this amazing new water park to the perfect city that is Las Vegas,” said Tim Fisher, chief executive officer of Village Roadshow Theme Parks. “The park will feature some of the world’s most incredible slides and will offer an experience unlike anything Las Vegas residents and visitors have ever seen before.”
“Wet ‘n’ Wild Las Vegas has the potential to entertain more than 650,000 guests annually, providing them with a world class day of family fun. Together with Phoenix and Hawaii, Village Roadshow Theme Parks will soon entertain well over a million guests at our North American water parks each year,” said Fisher. “The local government and business support we have received for this project has been unprecedented. In particular, County Commission Chair Susan Brager has offered her full support to this project, and we are confident this will be another hugely successful attraction for Las Vegas.”
Wet ‘n’ Wild Las Vegas will be a more than $50 million world class attraction perfect for families and thrill seekers alike. Adrenaline junkies can enjoy heart-pounding slides such as the Canyon Cliffs, which will send riders on a gut-wrenching 60-foot freefall racing at speeds of up to 33 feet per second. Kids will love the multi-level interactive children’s aquatic adventure playground, while those seeking a more relaxing time can float around the Colorado Cooler. The park also will feature a host of world class attractions including a giant wave pool,North America’s first Rattler and much, much more!
About Wet ‘n’ WildLas Vegas:
Wet ‘n’ Wild Las Vegas will be Nevada’s largest water park and home to more than 25 exhilarating slides and attractions. The 41-acre park will be located at 7055 S. Fort Apache Rd. ,Las Vegas, NV 89148 in southwest Las Vegas near the I-215 and Sunset Road. The attractions will range from extreme water slides designed to get hearts racing to family friendly interactive play areas. The more than $50 million park will be located on an ideally located parcel of land leased from The Howard Hughes Corporation. Investors in the project include Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf, Dr. Steven and Karen Thomas of the Thomas and Mack family of Las Vegas,Roger and Scott Bulloch of SPB Partners and Australian entertainment conglomerate Village Roadshow Limited which also will manage the park along with holding a 51% ownership. Wet ‘n’ Wild Las Vegas is scheduled to open in May 2013. For more information, visit WetnWildLasVegas.com.
About Village Roadshow Limited:
Internationally recognized as one of the largest and most diverse entertainment companies in the world, Village Roadshow Limited (VRL) has investment portfolios in many businesses including cinemas, music production, theme parks and movie production and distribution. To date, VRL has produced 66 films with global box office takings of more than $10 billion, including blockbuster hits such Oceans 11, 12 & 13, Happy Feet, I Am Legend and Sherlock Holmes. VRL is also Australia’s largest theme park operator with Sea World, Warner Bros. Movie World, Warner Roadshow Studios and Sea World Resort among its Gold Coast portfolio. The company’s flagship water park, Wet ‘n’ Wild Water World, also located on Australia’s Gold Coast, consistently is recognized as one of the top water parks in the world and entertains more than one million visitors each year. Village Roadshow also is currently developing a $115 million Wet ‘n’ Wild ‘super park’ in Sydney, Australia.
Las Vegas NV, USA -- The world’s most iconic water park brand, Wet ’n’ Wild, is coming back to Las Vegas with the new $50 million Wet ‘n’ Wild Las Vegas set to open in May 2013.Located in the entertainment capital of the world, this world class water park will be fun for the whole family, featuring a spectacular line-up of more than 25 slides and attractions including North America's firstRattler slide.
The strategically positioned parcel of land will be leased from The Howard Hughes Corporation. Investors in the more than $50 million water park include Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf, Dr. Steven and Karen Thomas of the Thomas and Mack family, Roger and Scott Bulloch of SPB Capital Partners, Steve Miller and Australian entertainment conglomerate Village Roadshow Limited.
“This will be an incredible water park, the perfect addition for this fun-filled town, featuring a huge range of experiences designed for both families and thrill seekers,” said Agassi.
Set on 41 acres in southwest Las Vegas near the I-215 and Sunset Road, the world class park will feature more than 25 innovative slides and attractions. The park will be managed by theme park experts, Village Roadshow Theme Parks which operates Wet ‘n’ Wild water parks in Arizona and Hawaii. Village Roadshow Theme Parks Australian operations include Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World and Wet ‘n’ Wild Water World, which collectively entertain more than five million visitors annually. In addition to these world class theme parks, Village Roadshow Theme Parks also is developing a Wet ‘n’ Wild ‘super park’ inSydney, Australia which is set to open in December 2013.
“We are very excited to bring this amazing new water park to the perfect city that is Las Vegas,” said Tim Fisher, chief executive officer of Village Roadshow Theme Parks. “The park will feature some of the world’s most incredible slides and will offer an experience unlike anything Las Vegas residents and visitors have ever seen before.”
“Wet ‘n’ Wild Las Vegas has the potential to entertain more than 650,000 guests annually, providing them with a world class day of family fun. Together with Phoenix and Hawaii, Village Roadshow Theme Parks will soon entertain well over a million guests at our North American water parks each year,” said Fisher. “The local government and business support we have received for this project has been unprecedented. In particular, County Commission Chair Susan Brager has offered her full support to this project, and we are confident this will be another hugely successful attraction for Las Vegas.”
Wet ‘n’ Wild Las Vegas will be a more than $50 million world class attraction perfect for families and thrill seekers alike. Adrenaline junkies can enjoy heart-pounding slides such as the Canyon Cliffs, which will send riders on a gut-wrenching 60-foot freefall racing at speeds of up to 33 feet per second. Kids will love the multi-level interactive children’s aquatic adventure playground, while those seeking a more relaxing time can float around the Colorado Cooler. The park also will feature a host of world class attractions including a giant wave pool,North America’s first Rattler and much, much more!
About Wet ‘n’ WildLas Vegas:
Wet ‘n’ Wild Las Vegas will be Nevada’s largest water park and home to more than 25 exhilarating slides and attractions. The 41-acre park will be located at 7055 S. Fort Apache Rd. ,Las Vegas, NV 89148 in southwest Las Vegas near the I-215 and Sunset Road. The attractions will range from extreme water slides designed to get hearts racing to family friendly interactive play areas. The more than $50 million park will be located on an ideally located parcel of land leased from The Howard Hughes Corporation. Investors in the project include Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf, Dr. Steven and Karen Thomas of the Thomas and Mack family of Las Vegas,Roger and Scott Bulloch of SPB Partners and Australian entertainment conglomerate Village Roadshow Limited which also will manage the park along with holding a 51% ownership. Wet ‘n’ Wild Las Vegas is scheduled to open in May 2013. For more information, visit WetnWildLasVegas.com.
About Village Roadshow Limited:
Internationally recognized as one of the largest and most diverse entertainment companies in the world, Village Roadshow Limited (VRL) has investment portfolios in many businesses including cinemas, music production, theme parks and movie production and distribution. To date, VRL has produced 66 films with global box office takings of more than $10 billion, including blockbuster hits such Oceans 11, 12 & 13, Happy Feet, I Am Legend and Sherlock Holmes. VRL is also Australia’s largest theme park operator with Sea World, Warner Bros. Movie World, Warner Roadshow Studios and Sea World Resort among its Gold Coast portfolio. The company’s flagship water park, Wet ‘n’ Wild Water World, also located on Australia’s Gold Coast, consistently is recognized as one of the top water parks in the world and entertains more than one million visitors each year. Village Roadshow also is currently developing a $115 million Wet ‘n’ Wild ‘super park’ in Sydney, Australia.
VOA Associates Leading Redesign of Walt Disney World's Royal Plaza Hotel into B Resort
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Orlando, FL, USA -- The Orlando, FL office of international architecture, planning and interior design firm, VOA Associates Incorporated, announced its contract to serve as Design Architect, Planner and Interior Designer for the upcoming B resort in the Walt Disney World® Resort, the first B Hotels & Resorts® hotel in Central Florida. The firm will oversee and implement design efforts for the renovation of the existing 394-room Royal Plaza Hotel, which was acquired by a joint venture between Weston, FL-based InSite Group and London-based Cube Capital and will debut as a B hotel in the fall of 2013.
The resort is one of four hotel projects associated with the B Hotels & Resorts® brand in less than 18 months, and once completed will join the AAA Four Diamond B Ocean Fort Lauderdale, which opened in March, 2011; the upcoming B South Beach, which is scheduled to open in early 2013; and the value full-service b2 miami downtown, which is scheduled to open at the beginning of 2013. The Royal Plaza Hotel will remain operational throughout the complete renovation and repositioning process.
According to Jonathan F. Douglas, AIA, Managing Principal with VOA, the design plan focuses on engaging guests with inviting concepts for individuals, families and business travelers, with amenities such as in-room game consoles, signature dining venues, expanded pool and family gathering public areas for hotel guests to relax and share their experiences. “VOA is known for creating leisure environments that focus on enhancing the guest experience,” says Douglas. “Our commitment to ‘Create, Inspire + Connect’ meshes perfectly with the B signature elements and experiences created by the new lifestyle brand, and we look forward to being a part of the property’s redesign, transforming it into one of the area’s most desirable resorts.”
“The B in the Walt Disney World® Resort will be a new and exciting venue for visitors who are looking for an upscale lifestyle experience combined with tranquility and relaxation after and between fun-filled days at the adventure parks,” stated Ayelet Weinstein, President and CEO of Weston, FL-based B Hotels & Resorts. “It is being designed to encourage interaction of families, couples, groups and individuals in an inspiring and stylish environment, with great amenities including international culinary concepts and a full service spa, while implementing the approachable B brand service culture.”
VOA’s Orlando office has extensive experience in design and renovation of large scale hotels and resorts throughout the US and the Caribbean, including properties from the $300M Aqua Caliente Casino • Resort • Spa, a 16-story, 340-key, four-diamond property in Rancho Mirage, CA, to the $25M comprehensive remodel, renovation and addition of the Holiday Inn Hotel, Lake Buena Vista, FL. The office is currently engaged in providing full architectural and interior design services for numerous hospitality projects throughout Florida, including a complete renovation of the Radisson Hotel at Celebration (FL), multiple projects for Bluegreen Resorts, as well as several additional retail, restaurant and hotel projects in the Walt Disney World® Resort area.
With a current staff of over 200 worldwide, VOA specializes in creating spaces for people all over the world to work, learn, heal and play. The professional design services organization offers comprehensive services in programming, architecture, interior planning and design, strategic planning, campus master planning and technology integration to clients worldwide and maintains offices in eight locations: Orlando, Florida; Chicago, Illinois; Washington, D.C.; Highland, IN; New York, NY; Sao Paulo Brazil, and Shanghai and Beijing, China.
VOA is consistently ranked among the industry's top firms, including Hotel Management's Top Design Firms (#26); Interior Design Magazine’s Giants in Hospitality (#30) and Top 100 Interior Design Giants (#41); Architectural Record’s Top 250 Architectural Firms (#42); Building Design & Construction's Giants 300 / Top Architectural Firms (#25); and ENR’s Top 100 Green Design Firms (#43) and Top 500 Design Firms (#210). For more information, please visit the firm's website at www.voa.com
Orlando, FL, USA -- The Orlando, FL office of international architecture, planning and interior design firm, VOA Associates Incorporated, announced its contract to serve as Design Architect, Planner and Interior Designer for the upcoming B resort in the Walt Disney World® Resort, the first B Hotels & Resorts® hotel in Central Florida. The firm will oversee and implement design efforts for the renovation of the existing 394-room Royal Plaza Hotel, which was acquired by a joint venture between Weston, FL-based InSite Group and London-based Cube Capital and will debut as a B hotel in the fall of 2013.The resort is one of four hotel projects associated with the B Hotels & Resorts® brand in less than 18 months, and once completed will join the AAA Four Diamond B Ocean Fort Lauderdale, which opened in March, 2011; the upcoming B South Beach, which is scheduled to open in early 2013; and the value full-service b2 miami downtown, which is scheduled to open at the beginning of 2013. The Royal Plaza Hotel will remain operational throughout the complete renovation and repositioning process.
According to Jonathan F. Douglas, AIA, Managing Principal with VOA, the design plan focuses on engaging guests with inviting concepts for individuals, families and business travelers, with amenities such as in-room game consoles, signature dining venues, expanded pool and family gathering public areas for hotel guests to relax and share their experiences. “VOA is known for creating leisure environments that focus on enhancing the guest experience,” says Douglas. “Our commitment to ‘Create, Inspire + Connect’ meshes perfectly with the B signature elements and experiences created by the new lifestyle brand, and we look forward to being a part of the property’s redesign, transforming it into one of the area’s most desirable resorts.”
“The B in the Walt Disney World® Resort will be a new and exciting venue for visitors who are looking for an upscale lifestyle experience combined with tranquility and relaxation after and between fun-filled days at the adventure parks,” stated Ayelet Weinstein, President and CEO of Weston, FL-based B Hotels & Resorts. “It is being designed to encourage interaction of families, couples, groups and individuals in an inspiring and stylish environment, with great amenities including international culinary concepts and a full service spa, while implementing the approachable B brand service culture.”
VOA’s Orlando office has extensive experience in design and renovation of large scale hotels and resorts throughout the US and the Caribbean, including properties from the $300M Aqua Caliente Casino • Resort • Spa, a 16-story, 340-key, four-diamond property in Rancho Mirage, CA, to the $25M comprehensive remodel, renovation and addition of the Holiday Inn Hotel, Lake Buena Vista, FL. The office is currently engaged in providing full architectural and interior design services for numerous hospitality projects throughout Florida, including a complete renovation of the Radisson Hotel at Celebration (FL), multiple projects for Bluegreen Resorts, as well as several additional retail, restaurant and hotel projects in the Walt Disney World® Resort area.
With a current staff of over 200 worldwide, VOA specializes in creating spaces for people all over the world to work, learn, heal and play. The professional design services organization offers comprehensive services in programming, architecture, interior planning and design, strategic planning, campus master planning and technology integration to clients worldwide and maintains offices in eight locations: Orlando, Florida; Chicago, Illinois; Washington, D.C.; Highland, IN; New York, NY; Sao Paulo Brazil, and Shanghai and Beijing, China.
VOA is consistently ranked among the industry's top firms, including Hotel Management's Top Design Firms (#26); Interior Design Magazine’s Giants in Hospitality (#30) and Top 100 Interior Design Giants (#41); Architectural Record’s Top 250 Architectural Firms (#42); Building Design & Construction's Giants 300 / Top Architectural Firms (#25); and ENR’s Top 100 Green Design Firms (#43) and Top 500 Design Firms (#210). For more information, please visit the firm's website at www.voa.com
Exploratorium Partners with Canyon Cinema for Exploration of How How Filmmakers See the World
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San Francisco, CA, USA -- The Exploratorium is pleased to present the second installment in a series of three programs featuring undiscovered gems from Canyon’s Cinema’s collection. This family-friendly selection of films considers the various ways a filmmaker can chose to observe. Using single film frames flashing quickly or multiple vantage points in a single image, these filmmakers explore how the perception of the observer can, with the slightest shift, can be entirely transformed. Canyon Cinema is a San Francisco–based filmmakers’ cooperative specializing in the distribution of avant-garde and experimental films.
The program for November 3 is as follows:
Blazes (1961, 3 min, 16mm) Switching between 100 individual images painted directly on the film for exactly 1000 frames, Robert Breer’s Blazes challenges how we observe; moving rapidly, shifting suddenly, going in and out of focus. With a pulsating soundtrack, the experience becomes synesthetic and subconscious.
Hand-Held Day (1976, 6 min, 16mm) East and west meet in a single frame in a time-lapsed observation of a full day in the Arizona desert. Holding a mirror in front of the camera, Gary Beydler captures the subtle nuances of light and significant differences in perception possible in a seemingly contained space.
Om (1986, 4 min, 16mm) Deceptive in its simplicity, John Smith’s film exploits and manipulates the power of suggestion, using visual cues to engage our proclivity for stereotyping before visually – and ideologically – thwarting expectations.
Up and Down the Waterfront (1946, 8 min, 16mm) A masterful city symphony, Rudy Burckhardt’s Up and Down the Waterfront sets the quotidian activities of the post-War New York City waterfront to a mournful jazz score.
For more information, visit www.exploratorium.edu/visit.
About the Exploratorium
The Exploratorium is the global leader in informal learning, igniting curiosity and inspiring creativity in people of all ages. The world-renowned science museum creates original, interactive exhibits, on display at more than 1,000 science centers, museums and public spaces around the world. Dedicated to education reform in and out of the classroom, the Exploratorium is a premier professional development center for educators and a creator of award-winning educational resources. Since 1969, the Exploratorium has influenced generations of entrepreneurs, artists, scientists, teachers, students, children, museum professionals and everyday doers, reaching nearly 180 million people annually from around the globe. In the spring of 2013, the Exploratorium will move to Pier 15 in the heart of San Francisco's waterfront district, where it will celebrate a new era of experiences that encourage critical thinking and awaken wonder for generations to come.
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| Still from "Blazes" by Robert Breer |
The program for November 3 is as follows:
Blazes (1961, 3 min, 16mm) Switching between 100 individual images painted directly on the film for exactly 1000 frames, Robert Breer’s Blazes challenges how we observe; moving rapidly, shifting suddenly, going in and out of focus. With a pulsating soundtrack, the experience becomes synesthetic and subconscious.
Hand-Held Day (1976, 6 min, 16mm) East and west meet in a single frame in a time-lapsed observation of a full day in the Arizona desert. Holding a mirror in front of the camera, Gary Beydler captures the subtle nuances of light and significant differences in perception possible in a seemingly contained space.
Om (1986, 4 min, 16mm) Deceptive in its simplicity, John Smith’s film exploits and manipulates the power of suggestion, using visual cues to engage our proclivity for stereotyping before visually – and ideologically – thwarting expectations.
Up and Down the Waterfront (1946, 8 min, 16mm) A masterful city symphony, Rudy Burckhardt’s Up and Down the Waterfront sets the quotidian activities of the post-War New York City waterfront to a mournful jazz score.
For more information, visit www.exploratorium.edu/visit.
About the Exploratorium
The Exploratorium is the global leader in informal learning, igniting curiosity and inspiring creativity in people of all ages. The world-renowned science museum creates original, interactive exhibits, on display at more than 1,000 science centers, museums and public spaces around the world. Dedicated to education reform in and out of the classroom, the Exploratorium is a premier professional development center for educators and a creator of award-winning educational resources. Since 1969, the Exploratorium has influenced generations of entrepreneurs, artists, scientists, teachers, students, children, museum professionals and everyday doers, reaching nearly 180 million people annually from around the globe. In the spring of 2013, the Exploratorium will move to Pier 15 in the heart of San Francisco's waterfront district, where it will celebrate a new era of experiences that encourage critical thinking and awaken wonder for generations to come.
£2 Billion Paramount Resort Announced Near London
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London, UK (October 8, 2012) -- Plans to develop a new £2 billion world class entertainment destination on the Swanscombe Peninsula, North Kent, have been unveiled by a consortium of leading UK and international companies.
The new development will transform the 872 acre brown field site into one of the largest regeneration projects in Europe, creating up to 27,000 jobs and integrating the development into the local communities of Dartford and Gravesham.
Development vehicle London Resort Company Holdings [LRCH] has signed an agreement with Paramount Licensing Inc, the licensing division for Hollywood-based Paramount Pictures, to give exclusive UK licensing for a Paramount entertainment resort at the heart of the site. The agreement does not include investment from Paramount Licensing Inc in the project. LRCH is also in negotiations with a range of major British brands to sign licensing agreements.
LRCH has assembled a development team which includes Development Securities plc, a leading development and investment company, the principal land owner Lafarge, and super scale construction company Brookfield Multiplex. The team is supported by a host of leading consultants and operators who will help deliver the scheme.
At the core of the proposed development is "Europe’s leading entertainment destination," with a Paramount-branded entertainment resort and leisure district providing the highest quality visitor experience. The entertainment district will feature Europe’s largest indoor water park, theatres, live music venues, attractions, cinemas, restaurants, event space and hotels.
An independent feasibility study has suggested that the entertainment destination will draw in many additional tourists to the UK each year, making a significant contribution to the economy. The site is on the doorstep of Ebbsfleet International station, which will provide a 17 minute journey time into London, and a two hour journey to Paris.
Tony Sefton, project leader for LRCH, said: “Our vision is to create a world class entertainment destination, the first of its kind in the UK. We are at the start of a long journey, but have been encouraged by the support and buy-in we have had to date. We are particularly pleased with the appetite we are seeing from investors, who consider this a compelling investment proposition.”
He continued: “Post Olympics, this is Britain’s next major regeneration opportunity. Over the next 12-18 months we will be progressing the planning application, while embarking on a wide-reaching programme of community consultation, while securing further commercial agreements with third parties. Our timetable for delivery, including the planning application process and construction timetable, is geared towards completion and opening in 2018.”
LRCH have been working closely with both Dartford and Gravesham Borough Councils, who have both offered support for the project.
In a joint statement, Jeremy Kite, Leader of Dartford Borough Council and John Burden, Leader of Gravesham Borough Council, said: “This development represents a tremendous economic growth opportunity for the region. We have been impressed by LRCH’s commitment to integrating the development with the local community, recognising the many economic and social benefits it promises to deliver.”
London, UK (October 8, 2012) -- Plans to develop a new £2 billion world class entertainment destination on the Swanscombe Peninsula, North Kent, have been unveiled by a consortium of leading UK and international companies.The new development will transform the 872 acre brown field site into one of the largest regeneration projects in Europe, creating up to 27,000 jobs and integrating the development into the local communities of Dartford and Gravesham.
Development vehicle London Resort Company Holdings [LRCH] has signed an agreement with Paramount Licensing Inc, the licensing division for Hollywood-based Paramount Pictures, to give exclusive UK licensing for a Paramount entertainment resort at the heart of the site. The agreement does not include investment from Paramount Licensing Inc in the project. LRCH is also in negotiations with a range of major British brands to sign licensing agreements.
LRCH has assembled a development team which includes Development Securities plc, a leading development and investment company, the principal land owner Lafarge, and super scale construction company Brookfield Multiplex. The team is supported by a host of leading consultants and operators who will help deliver the scheme.
At the core of the proposed development is "Europe’s leading entertainment destination," with a Paramount-branded entertainment resort and leisure district providing the highest quality visitor experience. The entertainment district will feature Europe’s largest indoor water park, theatres, live music venues, attractions, cinemas, restaurants, event space and hotels.
An independent feasibility study has suggested that the entertainment destination will draw in many additional tourists to the UK each year, making a significant contribution to the economy. The site is on the doorstep of Ebbsfleet International station, which will provide a 17 minute journey time into London, and a two hour journey to Paris.
Tony Sefton, project leader for LRCH, said: “Our vision is to create a world class entertainment destination, the first of its kind in the UK. We are at the start of a long journey, but have been encouraged by the support and buy-in we have had to date. We are particularly pleased with the appetite we are seeing from investors, who consider this a compelling investment proposition.”
He continued: “Post Olympics, this is Britain’s next major regeneration opportunity. Over the next 12-18 months we will be progressing the planning application, while embarking on a wide-reaching programme of community consultation, while securing further commercial agreements with third parties. Our timetable for delivery, including the planning application process and construction timetable, is geared towards completion and opening in 2018.”
LRCH have been working closely with both Dartford and Gravesham Borough Councils, who have both offered support for the project.
In a joint statement, Jeremy Kite, Leader of Dartford Borough Council and John Burden, Leader of Gravesham Borough Council, said: “This development represents a tremendous economic growth opportunity for the region. We have been impressed by LRCH’s commitment to integrating the development with the local community, recognising the many economic and social benefits it promises to deliver.”
7 Ekim 2012 Pazar
Walt Disney World's EPCOT Turns 30
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Lake Buena Vista, FL (October 1, 2012) -- Thirty years ago today, EPCOT at Walt Disney World opened its doors as Epcot Center. The combination of two unique themed entertainment concepts, Future World and World Showcase, opening day pavilions included: Spaceship Earth, Universe of Energy, World of Motion, Journey into Imagination (ride portion opened March 5, 1983), The Land, Communicore, Mexico, China, Germany, Italy, The American Adventure, Japan, France, United Kingdom, and Canada.
The park's first and second anniversaries were marked by the openings of Horizons, with its 240' wide IMAX Omnisphere screen, and Morocco, respectively. Other pavilions to open over the years have included The Living Seas (now The Seas with Nemo and Friends), Innoventions (replacing Communicore), Test Track (replacing World of Motion), Wonders of Life, Mission: Space (replacing Horizons), and Norway.
The park's concept is loosely based on the Walt Disney Company's idea from the 1960's for a planned city at Walt Disney World, known as the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, or EPCOT,
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| All artwork (C) Disney |
The park's first and second anniversaries were marked by the openings of Horizons, with its 240' wide IMAX Omnisphere screen, and Morocco, respectively. Other pavilions to open over the years have included The Living Seas (now The Seas with Nemo and Friends), Innoventions (replacing Communicore), Test Track (replacing World of Motion), Wonders of Life, Mission: Space (replacing Horizons), and Norway.
The park's concept is loosely based on the Walt Disney Company's idea from the 1960's for a planned city at Walt Disney World, known as the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, or EPCOT,
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| 1978 concept painting of Future World by Tim Delaney |
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| Herb Ryman concept painting of Horizons pavilion, which opened Oct 1, 1983 |
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| Concept painting of transportation level, Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow |
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| Herb Ryman concept of International Shopping District in EPCOT the city, forerunner of World Showcase |
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| 1974 concept of World Showcase. A separate park from Future World, nations would occupy a shopping center-like structure, with each having different pavilion sizes but equal sized facades. |
New York Mayor Announces World's Tallest Observation Wheel to be Constructed on Staten Island
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New York, NY, USA -- Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg has unveiled plans to transform Staten Island’s waterfront by building the world’s largest Ferris wheel along with a new retail complex and hotel on sites adjacent to Richmond County Bank Ballpark in St. George. The New York Wheel will be built just to the north of the ballpark and be 625 feet tall – 84 feet higher than the Singapore Flyer, currently the tallest Ferris wheel in the world. It will also be taller than the planned ‘High Roller’ wheel for the Las Vegas Strip, which is set to rise to 550 feet. The New York Wheel will be comprised of thirty-six capsules, each able to carry up to 40 passengers with a max capacity of 1,440 people per ride. The wheel is expected to welcome as many as 30,000 riders per day during peak season and an estimated 4.5 million visitors per year. The Mayor also announced plans by BFC Partners to construct Harbor Commons, a 350,000-square-foot retail complex featuring 100 designer outlet stores and a 120,000-square-foot hotel on the site to the south of the ballpark. Together the projects will generate a $480 million private investment, and create over 1,200 construction jobs and 1,100 permanent jobs. Mayor Bloomberg made the announcement on the Staten Island waterfront and was joined by New York City Economic Development Corporation President Seth W. Pinsky, President & CEO of the New York Wheel, LLC Richard A. Marin, BFC Partners Donald Capoccia, Joseph Ferrara and Brandon Baron, Staten Island Borough President James Molinaro, City Council Member Debi Rose and CEO of NYC & Company George Fertitta.
“Our Administration has made major investments all along the North Shore of Staten Island, because we know this area is full of potential for economic growth,” said Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg. “But this newest plan is the most exciting of all. The New York Wheel will be an attraction unlike any other in New York City – even unlike any other on the planet. It will offer unparalleled and breathtaking views, and is sure to become one of the premier attractions in New York City and the latest exciting addition to our newly revitalized waterfront.”
“The New York Wheel and the retail outlet mall will attract millions of visitors from around the five boroughs and around the world, bringing jobs and private investment to Staten Island,” Deputy Mayor for Economic Development Robert K. Steel said. “The New York Wheel will be the newest member of New York’s global tourist attractions.”
“Over the last decade, the Bloomberg Administration has been focused on stimulating economic growth across Staten Island, and today's announcements build upon our steady progress,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation President Seth W. Pinsky. “From the Homeport, Seaview and Charleston, to the St. George Coast Guard Station project, a new small business incubator and a new outlet mall and observation wheel, we are spurring economic development throughout Staten Island that will increase employment and economic activity in the Borough for decades to come.”
“The New York Wheel is destined to become one of the City’s—and the world’s—great landmark attractions,” said Richard A. Marin, President and CEO of the New York Wheel LLC. “There are very few opportunities in life to get involved with a project of this magnitude. We believe that the Wheel will quickly become an iconic fixture and we are proud and excited to bring it to Staten Island, New York City, and the Tri-State area.”
“As the first ever designer outlet complex in New York City, the development of Harbor Commons will provide a once in a lifetime opportunity for specialty retailers to expand their stake in the most vibrant market in the country,” said Donald Capoccia, Managing Principal and Founder of BFC Partners. “We are proud to announcethis exciting project, which will be the go-to location for millions of New Yorkers and tourists each year seeking a breathtaking and free ferry ride to a dynamic waterfront destination with a unique world of value shopping and great dining.”
“For the last two years, I have anxiously been waiting for this day,” said Statem Island Borough President James Molinaro. “This wheel is a game changer for Staten Island and it will permanently change the face of St. George in a positive way. There has never been a proposed project that has been as much accepted by the general population as this one. Going forward, Staten Island will be known as the Borough with the largest wheel in the world.”
“The New York Wheel will undoubtedly become a new landmark in New York City, attracting visitors from all over, providing economic growth and a new visibility for Staten Island, said Senator Charles E. Schumer. “It's sure to be a source of enjoyment for those who visit and I want to thank Mayor Bloomberg and the NYC Economic Development Corporation for creating this opportunity for the city.”
“Building the world’s largest observation wheel along with a new retail complex will transform Staten Island’s waterfront,” said Senator Kirsten E. Gillibrand. “This new iconic site in St. George will have a lasting impact on the Borough's economic growth and job creation.”
“A Ferris wheel on Staten Island’s North Shore will give New Yorkers and tourists alike the opportunity to share the spectacular view of Manhattan’s skyline that Staten Islanders have enjoyed for decades,” said Rep. Michael Grimm. “I welcome this announcement that will bring thousands of well-paying construction and permanent jobs, business investment, and tourism to the under-developed St. George waterfront. This is the exact kind of private investment we need to spark our local economy, create jobs, and make Staten Island a destination site for all to enjoy this new iconic structure as well as the many other cultural experiences our borough has to offer.”
“As a partner in the redevelopment of Coney Island, I've seen first-hand what can be achieved when the government and the private sector work together,” said State Senator Diane Savino. “I want to thank the Mayor for helping to usher in this project that will produce much needed jobs, as well as the potential for a real, long lasting economic boost for the North Shore.”
“For decades now people have talked about the potential of the Staten Island waterfront,” said State Assemblyman Matthew Titone. “At last, at long last, it looks like that potential will be fulfilled, and it will be fulfilled in a spectacular way. I hope to be on the inaugural ride of the New York Wheel.”
“Community Board 1 wants to thank Mayor Bloomberg, Deputy Mayor Steel, EDC President Seth Pinsky, BFC Partners Founder Donald Capoccia and Richard A. Marin, President and CEO of the New York Wheel LLC for heeding our call for common sense development along the north shore waterfront,” said Joseph Carroll, District Manager of Community Board 1 in Staten Island. “It has long been Community Board 1’s position that the St. George Ferry Terminal was more than a commuter hub, it is a world-renowned tourist destination similar to Grand Central Station. These projects will not only capture the dollars from the nearly 2 million tourists who ride the ferry each year, but they will also provide much needed retail services to the surrounding the community which is projected to grow to nearly 30,000 people when all our new development is completed. We would also like to thank Borough President Molinaro and Councilmember Debi Rose for their continued support of the north shore waterfront and its community.”
“Over the last few years NYC & Company has worked hard to promote Staten Island's hotels and tourist attractions, including Snug Harbor Cultural Center, Historic Richmond Town, Alice Austin House, the Staten Island Zoo and more,” said George Fertitta, CEO of NYC & Company. “Working closely with our members and partners we have successfully attracted more visitors to the island than ever before. We expect the New York Wheel, retail outlet and new hotel to give visitors even more reasons to enjoy the diverse culture offerings, recreational opportunities and excellent dining options in Staten Island.”
The two development sites are located steps from the Staten Island Ferry in St. George, and are currently used as parking for the Richmond County Bank Ballpark and the St. George Ferry Terminal. The New York Wheel is expected be open 7 days a week, 365 days per year (except on severe weather days and required maintenance days) from roughly 10 AM to 10 PM in the fall, winter and spring. Rides will last roughly 38 minutes. In the summer, and on special occasions, the Wheel will stay open for longer hours. Construction is expected to begin in early 2014, with the goal of hosting a grand opening by the end of 2015. The Wheel’s designer and manufacturer will be Starneth, comprised of members of the team that built the London Eye.
At the base of the Wheel will sit a 100,000-square-foot terminal building, which will include various commercial uses, such as retail, restaurant, and theater space, as well as exhibitions about New York City history, alternative energy and environmental sustainability. Construction plans for the Wheel and terminal building will strive for Platinum LEED certification, the highest rating of sustainable building. It expects to be powered predominantly by clean energy. A 950-space structured parking garage will also be built on the site, featuring a green roof with open space, solar panels and planted gardens. New York Wheel LLC will invest approximately $250 million to complete the project, which will create an anticipated 419 construction jobs and 426 permanent jobs.
At the southern site, BFC Partners’ Harbor Commons will be an up-to 350,000 square foot retail complex, comprised of approximately 100 designer outlet retailers, along with a gourmet dining destination with a variety of restaurants and cafes. . Plans also include a 200-room, 120,000-square-foot hotel, with a 15,000-square-foot banquet facility that will provide extraordinary views of the Manhattan skyline. BFC Partners will also build a 1,250-space structured parking garage below the retail and hotel components to accommodate commuters and tourists alike. Construction is expected to begin in the winter of 2014 and be completed in 2016. Designed by SHoP Architects, Harbor Commons will feature expansive open corridors to the water, contemporary materials reflective of the industrial waterfront, and a sweeping sustainable green roof visible from the Harbor. Celebratory vertical circulation elements such as grand staircases, glass elevators, and streamlined escalators will guide shoppers as they move from the waterfront up to Richmond Terrace, creating a dynamic and easily navigated pedestrian experience.
Both New York Wheel and BFC Partners will enter into 99-year leases. Combined the two parties will pay $2.5 million per year in rent to the City, with additional participation rents once certain ridership and gross revenue milestones are reached. The developers will also contribute $300,000 per year in contributions to area-wide maintenance, such as upkeep to the waterfront esplanade. The selection of the developers emerged from a competitive process that began with NYCEDC’s issuance of an RFEI for both sites in 2011 seeking proposals that would meet the goals of bolstering economic growth in Staten Island and enhancing the waterfront.
NYCEDC also announced a number of additional initiatives as part of its comprehensive strategy to further promote economic growth, boost tourism, and create jobs on Staten Island:
In 2011, New York City attracted a record 50.5 million visitors, who generated more than $48 billion in economic impact. The tourism sector also supports 320,000 jobs. At the beginning of 2012, Mayor Bloomberg set a new goal to welcome 55 million annual visitors by 2015. In addition, New York City has continued to maintain its position as the most popular U.S. city destination for international visitors, the nation’s number one port of entry and the number one city destination for tourism spending. The City also maintains the highest share of overseas travel to the United States, at approximately 33 percent.
The development of the two sites will greatly contribute to the economic growth of St. George and Staten Island, as outlined in comprehensive planning efforts such as Vision 2020: New York City Comprehensive Waterfront Plan and the North Shore 2030 report. Launched in May 2011, WAVES 2020 is a sustainable blueprint for New York City’s waterfront and waterways. To reconnect New Yorkers and visitors to the water and reclaim New York City’s standing as a premier waterfront city, the plan will transform the City’s waterfront with new parks, new industrial activities and new housing, and it will capitalize on the City’s waterways to promote water-borne transportation, recreation, maritime activity and natural habitats. The plan has two components: a three-year action agenda comprised of 130 funded projects, including the development of more than 50 acres of new waterfront parks, creation of 14 new waterfront esplanades and introduction of new commuter ferry service; and the Vision 2020: New York City Comprehensive Waterfront Plan, a framework for the City’s 520 miles of shoreline for the next decade and beyond. The 130 action agenda projects are expected to create 13,000 construction jobs and at least 3,400 permanent maritime and industrial jobs. It is the first citywide plan for the waterfront in nearly two decades and the first ever comprehensive plan for the waterways themselves.
The North Shore 2030 report identifies strategies that build upon the North Shore’s unique assets to help create jobs, increase waterfront access, improve mobility and strengthen neighborhoods. It was the result of a two-year effort involving City and State agencies, elected officials, local stakeholders and over two hundred residents and business owners to craft a twenty year vision for a diverse, thriving and connected waterfront community.
New York, NY, USA -- Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg has unveiled plans to transform Staten Island’s waterfront by building the world’s largest Ferris wheel along with a new retail complex and hotel on sites adjacent to Richmond County Bank Ballpark in St. George. The New York Wheel will be built just to the north of the ballpark and be 625 feet tall – 84 feet higher than the Singapore Flyer, currently the tallest Ferris wheel in the world. It will also be taller than the planned ‘High Roller’ wheel for the Las Vegas Strip, which is set to rise to 550 feet. The New York Wheel will be comprised of thirty-six capsules, each able to carry up to 40 passengers with a max capacity of 1,440 people per ride. The wheel is expected to welcome as many as 30,000 riders per day during peak season and an estimated 4.5 million visitors per year. The Mayor also announced plans by BFC Partners to construct Harbor Commons, a 350,000-square-foot retail complex featuring 100 designer outlet stores and a 120,000-square-foot hotel on the site to the south of the ballpark. Together the projects will generate a $480 million private investment, and create over 1,200 construction jobs and 1,100 permanent jobs. Mayor Bloomberg made the announcement on the Staten Island waterfront and was joined by New York City Economic Development Corporation President Seth W. Pinsky, President & CEO of the New York Wheel, LLC Richard A. Marin, BFC Partners Donald Capoccia, Joseph Ferrara and Brandon Baron, Staten Island Borough President James Molinaro, City Council Member Debi Rose and CEO of NYC & Company George Fertitta.“Our Administration has made major investments all along the North Shore of Staten Island, because we know this area is full of potential for economic growth,” said Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg. “But this newest plan is the most exciting of all. The New York Wheel will be an attraction unlike any other in New York City – even unlike any other on the planet. It will offer unparalleled and breathtaking views, and is sure to become one of the premier attractions in New York City and the latest exciting addition to our newly revitalized waterfront.”
“The New York Wheel and the retail outlet mall will attract millions of visitors from around the five boroughs and around the world, bringing jobs and private investment to Staten Island,” Deputy Mayor for Economic Development Robert K. Steel said. “The New York Wheel will be the newest member of New York’s global tourist attractions.”
“Over the last decade, the Bloomberg Administration has been focused on stimulating economic growth across Staten Island, and today's announcements build upon our steady progress,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation President Seth W. Pinsky. “From the Homeport, Seaview and Charleston, to the St. George Coast Guard Station project, a new small business incubator and a new outlet mall and observation wheel, we are spurring economic development throughout Staten Island that will increase employment and economic activity in the Borough for decades to come.”
“The New York Wheel is destined to become one of the City’s—and the world’s—great landmark attractions,” said Richard A. Marin, President and CEO of the New York Wheel LLC. “There are very few opportunities in life to get involved with a project of this magnitude. We believe that the Wheel will quickly become an iconic fixture and we are proud and excited to bring it to Staten Island, New York City, and the Tri-State area.”
“As the first ever designer outlet complex in New York City, the development of Harbor Commons will provide a once in a lifetime opportunity for specialty retailers to expand their stake in the most vibrant market in the country,” said Donald Capoccia, Managing Principal and Founder of BFC Partners. “We are proud to announcethis exciting project, which will be the go-to location for millions of New Yorkers and tourists each year seeking a breathtaking and free ferry ride to a dynamic waterfront destination with a unique world of value shopping and great dining.”
“For the last two years, I have anxiously been waiting for this day,” said Statem Island Borough President James Molinaro. “This wheel is a game changer for Staten Island and it will permanently change the face of St. George in a positive way. There has never been a proposed project that has been as much accepted by the general population as this one. Going forward, Staten Island will be known as the Borough with the largest wheel in the world.”
“The New York Wheel will undoubtedly become a new landmark in New York City, attracting visitors from all over, providing economic growth and a new visibility for Staten Island, said Senator Charles E. Schumer. “It's sure to be a source of enjoyment for those who visit and I want to thank Mayor Bloomberg and the NYC Economic Development Corporation for creating this opportunity for the city.”
“Building the world’s largest observation wheel along with a new retail complex will transform Staten Island’s waterfront,” said Senator Kirsten E. Gillibrand. “This new iconic site in St. George will have a lasting impact on the Borough's economic growth and job creation.”
“A Ferris wheel on Staten Island’s North Shore will give New Yorkers and tourists alike the opportunity to share the spectacular view of Manhattan’s skyline that Staten Islanders have enjoyed for decades,” said Rep. Michael Grimm. “I welcome this announcement that will bring thousands of well-paying construction and permanent jobs, business investment, and tourism to the under-developed St. George waterfront. This is the exact kind of private investment we need to spark our local economy, create jobs, and make Staten Island a destination site for all to enjoy this new iconic structure as well as the many other cultural experiences our borough has to offer.”
“As a partner in the redevelopment of Coney Island, I've seen first-hand what can be achieved when the government and the private sector work together,” said State Senator Diane Savino. “I want to thank the Mayor for helping to usher in this project that will produce much needed jobs, as well as the potential for a real, long lasting economic boost for the North Shore.”
“For decades now people have talked about the potential of the Staten Island waterfront,” said State Assemblyman Matthew Titone. “At last, at long last, it looks like that potential will be fulfilled, and it will be fulfilled in a spectacular way. I hope to be on the inaugural ride of the New York Wheel.”
“Community Board 1 wants to thank Mayor Bloomberg, Deputy Mayor Steel, EDC President Seth Pinsky, BFC Partners Founder Donald Capoccia and Richard A. Marin, President and CEO of the New York Wheel LLC for heeding our call for common sense development along the north shore waterfront,” said Joseph Carroll, District Manager of Community Board 1 in Staten Island. “It has long been Community Board 1’s position that the St. George Ferry Terminal was more than a commuter hub, it is a world-renowned tourist destination similar to Grand Central Station. These projects will not only capture the dollars from the nearly 2 million tourists who ride the ferry each year, but they will also provide much needed retail services to the surrounding the community which is projected to grow to nearly 30,000 people when all our new development is completed. We would also like to thank Borough President Molinaro and Councilmember Debi Rose for their continued support of the north shore waterfront and its community.”
“Over the last few years NYC & Company has worked hard to promote Staten Island's hotels and tourist attractions, including Snug Harbor Cultural Center, Historic Richmond Town, Alice Austin House, the Staten Island Zoo and more,” said George Fertitta, CEO of NYC & Company. “Working closely with our members and partners we have successfully attracted more visitors to the island than ever before. We expect the New York Wheel, retail outlet and new hotel to give visitors even more reasons to enjoy the diverse culture offerings, recreational opportunities and excellent dining options in Staten Island.”
The two development sites are located steps from the Staten Island Ferry in St. George, and are currently used as parking for the Richmond County Bank Ballpark and the St. George Ferry Terminal. The New York Wheel is expected be open 7 days a week, 365 days per year (except on severe weather days and required maintenance days) from roughly 10 AM to 10 PM in the fall, winter and spring. Rides will last roughly 38 minutes. In the summer, and on special occasions, the Wheel will stay open for longer hours. Construction is expected to begin in early 2014, with the goal of hosting a grand opening by the end of 2015. The Wheel’s designer and manufacturer will be Starneth, comprised of members of the team that built the London Eye.
At the base of the Wheel will sit a 100,000-square-foot terminal building, which will include various commercial uses, such as retail, restaurant, and theater space, as well as exhibitions about New York City history, alternative energy and environmental sustainability. Construction plans for the Wheel and terminal building will strive for Platinum LEED certification, the highest rating of sustainable building. It expects to be powered predominantly by clean energy. A 950-space structured parking garage will also be built on the site, featuring a green roof with open space, solar panels and planted gardens. New York Wheel LLC will invest approximately $250 million to complete the project, which will create an anticipated 419 construction jobs and 426 permanent jobs.
At the southern site, BFC Partners’ Harbor Commons will be an up-to 350,000 square foot retail complex, comprised of approximately 100 designer outlet retailers, along with a gourmet dining destination with a variety of restaurants and cafes. . Plans also include a 200-room, 120,000-square-foot hotel, with a 15,000-square-foot banquet facility that will provide extraordinary views of the Manhattan skyline. BFC Partners will also build a 1,250-space structured parking garage below the retail and hotel components to accommodate commuters and tourists alike. Construction is expected to begin in the winter of 2014 and be completed in 2016. Designed by SHoP Architects, Harbor Commons will feature expansive open corridors to the water, contemporary materials reflective of the industrial waterfront, and a sweeping sustainable green roof visible from the Harbor. Celebratory vertical circulation elements such as grand staircases, glass elevators, and streamlined escalators will guide shoppers as they move from the waterfront up to Richmond Terrace, creating a dynamic and easily navigated pedestrian experience.
Both New York Wheel and BFC Partners will enter into 99-year leases. Combined the two parties will pay $2.5 million per year in rent to the City, with additional participation rents once certain ridership and gross revenue milestones are reached. The developers will also contribute $300,000 per year in contributions to area-wide maintenance, such as upkeep to the waterfront esplanade. The selection of the developers emerged from a competitive process that began with NYCEDC’s issuance of an RFEI for both sites in 2011 seeking proposals that would meet the goals of bolstering economic growth in Staten Island and enhancing the waterfront.
NYCEDC also announced a number of additional initiatives as part of its comprehensive strategy to further promote economic growth, boost tourism, and create jobs on Staten Island:
- In the coming weeks NYCEDC will issue an RFP seeking the development of the first City-sponsored business incubator on Staten Island..
- In September, 2012, NYCEDC and Triangle Equities signed a predevelopment agreement that will pave the way for the transformation of an underutilized waterfront parcel on the south side of the St. George Ferry Terminal formerly occupied by the United States Coast Guard. The mixed-use development will include retail, housing and hotel and that will provide a critical link between the St. George Ferry Terminal and Stapleton Waterfront.
In 2011, New York City attracted a record 50.5 million visitors, who generated more than $48 billion in economic impact. The tourism sector also supports 320,000 jobs. At the beginning of 2012, Mayor Bloomberg set a new goal to welcome 55 million annual visitors by 2015. In addition, New York City has continued to maintain its position as the most popular U.S. city destination for international visitors, the nation’s number one port of entry and the number one city destination for tourism spending. The City also maintains the highest share of overseas travel to the United States, at approximately 33 percent.
The development of the two sites will greatly contribute to the economic growth of St. George and Staten Island, as outlined in comprehensive planning efforts such as Vision 2020: New York City Comprehensive Waterfront Plan and the North Shore 2030 report. Launched in May 2011, WAVES 2020 is a sustainable blueprint for New York City’s waterfront and waterways. To reconnect New Yorkers and visitors to the water and reclaim New York City’s standing as a premier waterfront city, the plan will transform the City’s waterfront with new parks, new industrial activities and new housing, and it will capitalize on the City’s waterways to promote water-borne transportation, recreation, maritime activity and natural habitats. The plan has two components: a three-year action agenda comprised of 130 funded projects, including the development of more than 50 acres of new waterfront parks, creation of 14 new waterfront esplanades and introduction of new commuter ferry service; and the Vision 2020: New York City Comprehensive Waterfront Plan, a framework for the City’s 520 miles of shoreline for the next decade and beyond. The 130 action agenda projects are expected to create 13,000 construction jobs and at least 3,400 permanent maritime and industrial jobs. It is the first citywide plan for the waterfront in nearly two decades and the first ever comprehensive plan for the waterways themselves.
The North Shore 2030 report identifies strategies that build upon the North Shore’s unique assets to help create jobs, increase waterfront access, improve mobility and strengthen neighborhoods. It was the result of a two-year effort involving City and State agencies, elected officials, local stakeholders and over two hundred residents and business owners to craft a twenty year vision for a diverse, thriving and connected waterfront community.
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