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Egyptian Girl Moves Into New Digs Across from USC

Joe Kleiman
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Los Angeles, CA, USA /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The west coast premiere of Cleopatra: The Search for the Last Queen of Egypt , featuring the largest collection of its kind ever assembled, opened May 23, 2012 at the California Science Center. More than 150 priceless Egyptian artifacts illuminating the life of Cleopatra VII, one of the most provocative and powerful women in history, will be on view including colossal statues, jewelry, coins, and handwritten notes from her lost palace in Alexandria.

Cleopatra: The Search for the Last Queen of Egypt immerses visitors in the experience of two present-day searches, on both land and sea, for the elusive queen which extend from the sands of Egypt to the depths of the Bay of Aboukir near Alexandria. The artifacts weigh in at about 30 tons in total, including two 16-foot granite statues of a Ptolemaic king and queen from the 4th – 3rd centuries B.C.

“We are thrilled to host the west coast premiere of this extraordinary exhibition,” said Jeffrey Rudolph, president and CEO of the California Science Center. “Cleopatra: The Search for the Last Queen of Egyptwill help our guests explore the science of archaeology and the process of recovering these artifacts which reveal new and fascinating details of Cleopatra’s life.”

The artifacts in Cleopatra: The Search for the Last Queen of Egypt are woven into the story of her rule and life in ancient Egypt during the Ptolemaic period. After Egypt succumbed to Roman forces and Cleopatra famously took her own life following the suicide of her lover Mark Antony, the Romans attempted to wipe her legacy from the pages of history. Cleopatra has remained one of history’s most intriguing enigmas, and her final resting place is one of Egypt’s great unsolved mysteries. The story of her life and time unfolds in a dramatic setting with high definition multimedia and original soundscapes, including a complimentary audio tour, provided to every guest, making the exhibition a rich, multisensory experience.

The exhibition is organized by National Geographic and Arts & Exhibitions International, with cooperation from the Egyptian Supreme Council of Antiquities and the European Institute for Underwater Archaeology (IEASM).

Visitors to the exhibition follow the modern-day parallel stories of two expeditions led in Egypt by Dr. Zahi Hawass, a world-renowned archaeologist, and Franck Goddio, French underwater archaeologist and director of IEASM.

The exhibition also showcases artifacts from Franck Goddio’s continuing underwater search off the Mediterranean coast of Egypt, such as the two 16-foot granite statues of a Ptolemaic king and queen. His search, sponsored by the Hilti Foundation, began in 1992. Goddio’s remarkable finds bring visitors inside his search for the lost world of Cleopatra, including remnants from the grand palace where she ruled.

“The aim of our work is to reveal traces of the past and bring history back to life. We are delighted to present our underwater archaeological achievements and discoveries off the coast of Egypt to the American public,” said Franck Goddio.

“Cleopatra is one of the most fascinating figures of ancient Egypt,” said Terry Garcia, National Geographic’s executive vice president for Mission Programs. “This exhibition tells her remarkable story through rare artifacts excavated from two ongoing archaeological projects, bringing ancient Egypt’s famous last pharaoh back to life through modern-day exploration.”

Cleopatra, the last great pharaoh before Egypt succumbed to Roman opposition, lived from 69 – 30 B.C., with a rule that was marked with political intrigue and challenges to her throne. She captivated two of the most powerful men of her day, Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, as she attempted to restore Egypt to its former superpower status.

“Cleopatra’s story of love, power, glamour and tragedy has intrigued us for centuries and has fueled archeologists to continue searching for greater understanding,” said John Norman, president of Arts and Exhibitions International. “Visitors to this new exhibition will gain insight into her life by discovering objects from Cleopatra’s world, even as efforts continue today to piece together new insights into the life of one of history’s most remarkable leaders.”

To enhance the guest experience during the run of Cleopatra: The Search for the Last Queen of Egypt , the Science Center IMAX Theater will be featuring Mysteries of Egypt. The National Geographic film transports audiences to a distant time and place with spectacular imagery and a compelling story. Legendary screen actor Omar Shariff portrays a grandfather who enchants his granddaughter, played byKate Maberly, with tales of an ancient people. Re-enactments are used to illustrate events such as building the pyramids, the reign of the pharaohs, and the discovery of Tut’s tomb. Beginning May 23,Mysteries of Egypt will show daily at 10:30 a.m., 1:30 and 3:30 p.m., with additional shows Saturday & Sunday at 5:30 p.m. Combo tickets for the exhibition and Mysteries of Egypt or any IMAX film are available.

About National Geographic
The National Geographic Society is one of the world’s largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to “increase and diffuse geographic knowledge,” the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 400 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; live events; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 10,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program promoting geographic literacy. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com.

About Arts & Exhibitions International (AEI)
Founded in 2003 by President John Norman and international vice president Andres Numhauser, AEI produced the award-winning exhibition “Diana: A Celebration” in association with the Althorp Estate in theUnited Kingdom; two touring exhibitions dedicated to the treasures of King Tutankhamun; “Real Pirates: The Untold Story of the Whydah from Slave Ship to Pirate Ship”; and “America IAM: The African American Imprint” in partnership with Tavis Smiley. Norman and Numhauser have 40 years combined experience in the entertainment and exhibition business, working over the years on such projects as “Titanic: The Artifact Exhibit” and “Saint Peter and the Vatican: The Legacy of the Popes.” The company has relationships with the most important museums in the world and has presented traveling exhibitions on five continents. AEI is part of AEG Exhibitions, an affiliate division of AEG LIVE. AEG LIVE is the live-entertainment division of Los Angeles-based AEG, one of the leading sports and entertainment presenters in the world. For more information, visit www.artsandexhibitions.com.

About the European Institute for Underwater Archaeology (IEASM)
Founded in 1987 as a French non-profit organization by President Franck Goddio for the location, exploration, excavation and restoration of sunken sites. The Institute calls upon scientists and specialists of different scientific field to support its research missions, study and publish the findings. Furthermore it sets up exhibitions allowing the general public to get access to its discoveries. For more information, visit:www.franckgoddio.org.

About the California Science Center
The California Science Center is a dynamic destination where families, adults and children can explore the wonders of science through interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, innovative programs and awe-inspiring films. Its mission is as follows: “We aspire to stimulate curiosity and inspire science learning in everyone by creating fun, memorable experiences, because we value science as an indispensable tool for understanding our world, accessibility and inclusiveness, and enriching people’s lives.” www.californiasciencecenter.org

Oregon Aquarium Opens Interactive Exhibit for the Under 10 Crowd

Joe Kleiman
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Newport, OR, USA, (May 25, 2012) /PRNewswire/ — The Oregon Coast Aquarium (www.aquarium.org) will open summer travel with The Sea & Me, a new children’s interactive exhibit, Memorial Day weekend May 26-28, 2012. The opening of the exhibit coincides with the Aquarium’s 20th anniversary and will run through December 2013.

Opening weekend will include a performance by Radio Disney, face painting, a children’s craft, behind the scenes tours, Sea & Me giveaways, sea lion kisses/encounters and interpretive dives.

The Sea & Me is designed to be fun and imaginative, offering play experiences that are developmentally appropriate for children 4 to 10 years old, but kids of all ages will find interactive discoveries to enjoy.

“Visitors to The Sea & Me will delve into the ocean on our submarine, haul in a catch on our fishing boat, dig in the sand for seashore treasures and see, hear and touch some really cool animals,” said Kerry Carlin-Morgan, Aquarium Director of Education & Volunteer Services. Carlin-Morgan said the intent of The Sea & Me is to encourage kids and families to get outdoors, connect with nature and engage their curiosity.

Components of The Sea & Me include a Submarine Sea Lab, Fishing Gallery, play area, touch pool and marine displays. The Submarine Sea Lab allows children to explore the ocean through interactive displays and the power of imagination. Children can learn to be a deep water scientist aboard a mini submarine and “descend” into a coral reef. The submarine will feature a working periscope, simulated ocean views using live animals and modern technology with gadgets to push, flip, turn and twist.

The Oregon Coast Aquarium gratefully acknowledges The Sea & Me sponsors: Meyer Memorial Trust,Henry Lea Hillman, Jr. Foundation, Maybelle Clark Macdonald Fund, Rose E. Tucker Charitable Trust, Wheeler Foundation, Jeanette B. Hennings Foundation, Jackson Foundation, Pacific Power Foundation, Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund, Autzen Foundation and more than 140 individuals individual donors.

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is a private, not-for-profit aquatic and marine science educational facility offering a fun and interesting way to learn about Oregon’s unique coastal ecosystem. The Aquarium is dedicated to teaching marine wildlife and ocean conservation through responsible management and exhibition of marine life. For more information, visit aquarium.org or call 541-867-FISH.

SkyVue Las Vegas Completes Phase 1 Construction of Western Hemisphere’s Largest Observation Wheel

Joe Kleiman
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Las Vegas, NV, USA /PRNewswire/ — SkyVue, an iconic 500-square-foot observation wheel rapidly taking shape on the Las Vegas Strip, has completed the first phase of construction, is beginning its vertical climb and has begun excavation on its retail and dining experience. Upon opening, SkyVue will be the largest observation wheel in the Western Hemisphere and the first attraction of its kind in Las Vegas.

Situated across from Mandalay Bay, SkyVue will deliver unobstructed panoramic views of the world’s most famous boulevard. Strategically located just north of the famous “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign, SkyVue is set to become one of the most photographed and recognized landmarks on the Strip. Each side of the wheel will feature a 50,000-square-foot LED screen (the largest in the world), that will be visible across the entire tourist corridor, and host concerts, sporting events, product launches and more.

Located on prime Las Vegas Boulevard frontage, SkyVue’s two-story shopping and dining experience will boast 140,000 square feet of retail space, a 21,000-square-foot convention facility and a food court. SkyVue projects the center to draw between five and eight million consumers annually.

The project will bring more than 700 construction jobs to the community in addition to an estimated 500 full-time positions once the development opens in Q4 2013.

About SkyVue:
SkyVue, located directly across from Mandalay Bay on the Las Vegas Strip, will forever change the landscape of America’s playground. Set to become the largest observation wheel in the Western Hemisphere, the 500-foot iconic attraction will feature the world’s largest HD LED multimedia displays – each measuring larger than a football field – and 32 glass-walled gondolas. Offering unparalleled views of the city, the gondolas will be available for private and corporate events. Led by Howard Bulloch and David Gaffin of Compass Investments, the project will also include 21,000 square feet of convention space and 140,000 square feet of retail space, dining and entertainment options. SkyVue is slated to open Q4 2013. For more information on SkyVue, visit http://skyvuelasvegas.com.

Six Flags St. Louis Sends Wedded Bliss Down the Drain

Joe Kleiman
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Eureka, MO, USA (May 24, 2012) /PRNewswire/ — Six Flags St. Louis debuted the new Bonzai Pipelinewater slide today with the help of four couples who took the Xtreme plunge by riding the park’s first looping body slide to feature dual launching capsules, while exchanging their wedding vows. The Bonzai Pipeline water slide is located in Hurricane Harbor, Missouri’s only free water park with theme park admission.

Bonzai Pipeline is the ultimate wipeout experience featuring twin, looping slides and the Proslide Skybox launching capsule. Once guests reach the top of the 6-story structure they step into one of two capsules. After the capsule doors are closed, the floor drops out beneath riders sending them free-falling down the 290-ft. slide at up to 40 mph. Before reaching the bottom, riders will surf through a 360 degree “super loop” in Bonzai Pipeline’s clear tubes which allows spectators below to follow all the high-speed action.

“Hurricane Harbor offers a great variety of water attractions,” said Dave Roemer, Six Flags St. Louis park president. “Bonzai Pipeline will be the most intense water ride by far with the suspense of being launched from the capsules and traveling through the enclosed, looping tubes. We promised our guests an Xtreme experience and Bonzai Pipeline delivers.”

The four couples who took their wedding vows were winners of a local contest. Each couple exchanged vows at the top of the structure and was pronounced husband and wife as they splashed down at the end of the slide. Bonzai Pipeline is manufactured by Proslide Technology, Inc.

Bonzai Pipeline is the latest addition to the park’s exciting new offerings for 2012. Earlier in May, Six Flags St. Louis put a new twist on one of its most popular roller coasters as guests now launch backward and experience the entire ride in reverse. Also new this season, several in-park shows; a Coca-Cola Freestyle™ Room where guests can mix their own drinks/sodas from over 120 flavors; and the new Season Dining Pass which offers guests two meals each time they visit the park for unlimited visits.

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is the world’s largest regional theme park company with $1.0 billionin revenue and 19 parks across the United States, Mexico and Canada. For more than 50 years, Six Flags has entertained millions of families with world-class coasters, themed rides, thrilling water parks and unique attractions including up-close animal encounters, Fright Fest and Holiday in the Park. For more information, visit sixflags.com.  Twitter: twitter.com/sixflags  Facebook: facebook.com/sixflagsstlouis

Photo Essay: Legoland Waterpark, Florida

Martin Palicki
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InPark was lucky to attend the grand opening of Legoland’s new water park in central Florida. Built as a park within a park (admission to Legoland Florida is required, PLUS an additional $12 charge for access to the water park), the water park is a resurrection of Splash Island Water Park, which, along with the original Cypress Gardens, has had a tumultuous history. 

Most of the changes have been cosmetic, laying the Lego theme onto the pre-existing structures and attractions. In nearly every case, it’s been a major improvement. The park is geared for a younger visitor, and as such has a smaller capacity than other water parks in the Orlando area. With just 1,300 people in attendance at opening day, the attractions were jammed and space was at a premium. Still, as a supplement to the already successful Legoland Florida park, it’s likely to be an additional draw for the park and new revenue stream.
The entrance to Legoland Waterpark. It’s not a separate gate in the traditional sense, it is a park-within-a-park. Entrance to Legoland is required, along with an additional $12 charge for use of the waterpark.
The most “Lego” aspect of the park is the river (original), which includes a Build-a-Raft feature. Guests can grab giant floating Lego blocks to decorate their rafts.
What modern waterpark is complete without a great kid’s play structure.

Some details seem to be overlooked, like this barely-camoflauged water pump.

Other details are rather cute, such as this Lego man occupying the lifeguard chair.

The wave pool (original) excels at creating soft, kid-friendly rolling waves.

Most of the park’s body slides are contained within the play structure, known as the Joker Soaker (original).

Legoland Waterpark’s most thrilling attractions come in the form of three body slides on the Splash Out structure (original). Unfortunately, the access stairs afford a great view of the park’s “boneyard” and decaying sections of the unrestored Cypress Gardens area.

The Twin Chasers are two intertwined tube slides. Guests can ride in single or double tubes.

Both Twin Chasers provide relatively calm, smooth rides, one enclosed and the other open-air.

Another Lego “touch” hiding under one of the Twin Chasers.

Although the Splash Out slides aren’t new to the park, they still provide good thrills for the teen and tween set.

As expected, some guests get more into building their raft than others.

To celebrate the grand opening, Legoland attempted to break the world record for most number of beach balls thrown into the air at one time. The previous record was 400.

With over 1,300 guests in attendance for the media event, there were more than enough beach balls to break the world record.

The only major addition to the park was this Duplo Splash Safari tiny tots play area.

Located near the Lego wave pool, this water table lets guests build small Lego dams and test them against water rapids, or just splash one another!

To end our visit to Legoland Waterpark, the quintessential bucket pour!

IAAPA’s Ticket For Fun Offers Online Guide to More than 100 New Attractions and Rides Opening in 2012

Joe Kleiman
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Stinger, Dorney Park, Allentown, PA, USA

Alexandria, VA, USA (May 22, 2012) /PRNewswire/ — As Memorial Day approaches, 400 U.S. amusement parks and attractions across the country are making final preparations to the hundreds of rides, attractions, waterslides, shows, and exhibits opening this summer. More than 300 million annual amusement park visitors will enjoy a blockbuster year of rides, experience roller coasters in a new way, become immersed through 3-D, and cool down at one of the many expanded waterparks.

“The more than 135 new rides and attractions opening this year highlighted by remarkable roller coasters, exceptional guest experiences, and multiple waterpark additions makes 2012 the perfect year to rediscover your local amusement park,” said Chip Cleary, International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) president and CEO.

Today, technological advancements play an increasingly large role in shaping guest experiences. Adrenaline seekers, ride fans, water enthusiasts, and families alike will enjoy the 2012 lineup, as each year amusement parks and attractions seek new ways to appeal to a broad spectrum of visitors.

Attractions industry engineers are developing roller coasters beyond the tallest and fastest to create new ride sensations through highly sophisticated designs. The new designs enable one roller coaster to provide distinctly different experiences with each ride. Several rides opening this summer utilize such an approach, including the winged coasters debuting in the United States. The seats are suspended on both sides of the track, and guests feel as though they are flying. The seat a guest chooses makes each ride a different experience each time.

This year, guests will encounter more immersive experiences that envelop them into environments, and, in some instances, guests’ interaction with their surroundings changes the outcome. Examples are the new 3-D rides or theater and in-park games or shows.

The abundance of waterpark additions, including a water coaster, waterslides, and kid-friendly play structures provide a refreshing way for families to spend a summer day. A trend guests will notice this year is theming on waterslides.

In addition to the in-park offerings, technology continues to change guest visits through enhanced ticketing, mobile applications, social media, and more. Guests interested in rediscovering their local amusement parks or attractions can visit www.ticketforfun.com and use the Fun Finder to search for a nearby location or search by region: Northeast, South, Midwest, and West.

About IAAPA
IAAPA is the premier trade association for the attractions industry worldwide. Founded in 1918, IAAPA is the largest international trade association for permanently situated amusement facilities and attractions, and is dedicated to the preservation and prosperity of the attractions industry. The association’s global headquarters is in Alexandria, Virginia, United States, and it maintains regional offices in Brussels,Mexico City, and Hong Kong. www.IAAPA.org

Kings Dominion Honors America’s Military Heroes

Joe Kleiman
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Doswell, VA, USA (May 24, 2012) /PRNewswire/ — Starting on Saturday, May 26th and continuing on Sunday, May 27th, Kings Dominion will host Military Days, honoring our military heroes who serve and protect our country. Weekend activities will include a moment of silence, an extended firework display set to patriotic music and the 380th Army Band performing throughout the weekend, among other activities.

On both Saturday and Sunday, Kings Dominion will offer free park admission to any active, inactive or retired United States Service men and women who show a valid military ID card. Family members of service men and women will receive a discounted admission price to the park on those days.

Kings Dominion is proud to have several service men and women as part of its workforce, including Patrick Muegge from central Virginia, a three-time veteran of Iraq and Purple Heart recipient. Muegge was injured in 2004 in Iraq, when an IED exploded behind his humvee. He received treatment and returned to serve two additional tours of duty in Iraq.

“Having guests come to Kings Dominion and honor us for our country is overwhelming,” says Muegge. “But, we do not consider ourselves heroes. We did what we set out to do.”

Other thrilling weekend activities include the opening of Water Works, a 20-acre water park. Starting onSaturday, May 26th, guests can ride all the thrills Kings Dominion has to offer, then cool off in one of the many wave-pools and water-slides at Water Works, which is included with park admission.

Kings Dominion will begin daily operations on Friday, May 25th through Labor Day, September 3rd. Water Works opens on Saturday, the 26th, at noon. For more information about Kings Dominion and the park’s Military Days, please visit www.kingsdominion.com.

Cedar Fair Entertainment Company (NYSE: “FUN”) is a publicly traded partnership headquartered inSandusky, Ohio. The Company, which owns and operates 11 amusement parks, six outdoor water parks, one indoor water park and five hotels, is one of the largest regional amusement park operators in the world. Its parks are located in Ohio, California, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania,Minnesota, Missouri, Michigan, and Toronto, Ontario. Cedar Fair also operates the Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park in Gilroy, California under a management contract.

iLuminate Lights Up Six Flags Over Georgia

Joe Kleiman
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Austell, GA, USA (May 24, 2012) /PRNewswire/ — Six Flags Over Georgia announced today that iLuminate , the dance-in-the-dark show that placed third on last summer’s hit television competition series “America’s Got Talent,” will perform live at the park May 26 through August 12, 2012.

The show will combine state-of-the-art light up costumes with 12 electrifying entertainers who perform in the dark to create the ultimate performing arts experience.

“iLuminate at Six Flags Over Georgia will offer our guests an incredible show to enjoy in addition to our world-class lineup of rides and attractions,” said Melinda Ashcraft, park president. “The high-energy music, advanced choreography and innovative costumes are going to make this a must-see for anyone who visits.”

The concept for iLuminate emerged while Miral Kotb, owner and creator of the ground-breaking technology, was developing mobile phone applications. She had a vision of dancers wearing costumes that illuminated wirelessly to compliment the music and choreography—wireless technology that could be controlled from the palm of one’s hand.

“We are thrilled about this incredible opportunity that catapults iLuminate into the theme park venue,” stated Kotb. “Six Flags is the perfect showcase for our performances, and we are looking forward to the debut of this imaginative new show for audiences of all ages.”

In addition to iLuminate, Six Flags Over Georgia will debut Pop 40 , a musical showcase of hits from the 70s, 80s, 90s and 2000s and Rhythm & Grooves , an R&B music show that pays tribute to legends likeRay Charles, Stevie Wonder, Tina Turner, and Aretha Franklin. Both shows will run May 26 through August 12.

For more information, visit sixflags.com/overgeorgia.

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is the world’s largest regional theme park company with $1.0 billionin revenue and 19 parks across the United States, Mexico and Canada. For more than 50 years, Six Flags has entertained millions of families with world-class coasters, themed rides, thrilling water parks and unique attractions including up-close animal encounters, Fright Fest and Holiday in the Park. For more information, visit sixflags.com.

About iLuminate
iLuminate is an entertainment technology company that combines state-of-the-art technology with electrifying entertainers dancing in the dark to create the ultimate performing arts experience. Founded by dancer and software engineer Miral Kotb, iLuminate enables performers, choreographers, technicians and artistic directors to produce explosive performances with customized wireless lighting programs. The results are extraordinary effects choreographed with phenomenal dance moves that take viewers on an exhilarating ride. Since launching in 2009, iLuminate’s patent-pending technology has been used in numerous performances by Grammy-winning superstars such as Chris Brown, Christina Aguilera and The Black Eyed Peas. For additional information, visit www.iluminate.com.

Cleopatra Turns California Science Center Gala Into Royal Event

Joe Kleiman
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Los Angeles, May 23, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — On Friday, May 18, 2012, the California Science Center’s 14th annual Discovery Ball transported nearly 700 guests back in time to an ancient Egyptian celebration complete with an Alexandrian emporium, royal procession and feast fit for kings and queens. Guests were also the first to preview the west coast premiere of the exhibition Cleopatra: The Search for the Last Queen of Egypt , which brings history to life through priceless artifacts from her world.

The annual black-tie gala, a premier philanthropic event in Los Angeles, raised nearly $1.2 million to benefit the California Science Center Foundation through table sponsorships, live and silent auctions, and a raffle for a Tesla Model S – the world’s first premium electric sedan. Science Center President, Jeffrey Rudolph notes that, “The proceeds from this fundraiser enable us to continue providing exceptional science learning and education opportunities for our community.”

A highlight of the auction, emceed by NBC4 Weathercaster, Fritz Coleman, was the Hands-On Science Camp scholarship packages, which garnered $45,000 to provide 360 students from low-income families the opportunity to attend a weeklong class at the Science Center this summer.

A feature of the dinner program was Rudolph’s introduction of philanthropist Lynda Oschin, whom he thanked for the transformational gift from the Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Oschin Family Foundation and the naming of the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, future home of Space Shuttle Endeavour at the California Science Center. Mrs. Oschin is the widow of entrepreneur, explorer and philanthropist, Samuel Oschin and Chair of the Board and Secretary of the Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Oschin Family Foundation.

“We are tremendously grateful to receive this extraordinary gift, which is an investment in the future of science learning. Combined with the generous support already provided by foundations, individuals and corporations throughout our community, we are now close to the halfway point in achieving our $200 million EndeavourLA Campaign goal,” said Rudolph.

Among the gala guests were community and business leaders as well as elected officials at local, state and federal levels including: Former Governors George Deukmejian and Gray Davis; California State Controller John Chiang; California Senator Rod Wright; California Assembly Members Mike Davis andBetsy Butler; Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa; Los Angeles City Controller Wendy Greuel; Los Angeles City Council President Herb Wesson; and Los Angeles City Council Member Tom LaBonge.

The Discovery Ball Committee was co-chaired by California Science Center Foundation Trustees Pierre P. Habis, Senior Executive Vice President of Community Banking, Union Bank and Paula A. Madison, CEO, Los Angeles Sparks. Top donors to the Discovery Ball included: Edison International, Live Nation and Union Bank.

The Science Center’s annual gala has been recognized as a “virtual who’s who of the Los Angelesbusiness community” by the Los Angeles Business Journal and ranked 3rd among Southern California’s Top 100 Benefits according to BizBash.

Guests began the evening at a cocktail reception in an emporium marketplace, simulating the hub of world commerce in the time of Cleopatra. A festive procession to dinner was led by costumed actors representing the period. Guests dined in ambiance reminiscent of Cleopatra’s magnificent barge where she hosted a feast in Tarsus for Mark Antony. The evening culminated with a night of dancing in the “Midnight at the Oasis” night club.

Musical entertainment was provided by Dwight Kennedy Music. Other Discovery Ball vendors of note included: lighting by Images by Lighting, custom fabricated decor by Rrivre Works; floral decor by CJ Matsumoto & Sons; costumed actors for the processions and stage by Zen Arts; draping by crdzines; and catering by Kensington Caterers.

Located just south of downtown Los Angeles in Exposition Park, the California Science Center is one ofSouthern California’s premier family destinations. The Science Center’s mission is to stimulate curiosity and inspire science learning in everyone by creating fun, memorable experiences and has welcomed over 20 million guests since its grand opening in February of 1998.

About the California Science Center
The California Science Center and IMAX Theater are located in historic Exposition Park just west of the Harbor (110) Freeway at 700 Exposition Park Drive. The Science Center is open daily from 10:00 a.m.– 5:00 p.m. Please check the Science Center web site for schedule updates atwww.californiasciencecenter.org.

Clementon Park and Splash World Set to Begin 105th Year of Operation Under New Ownership

Joe Kleiman
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Clementon, NJ, USA (May 22, 2012) — Clementon Park and Splash World throws open its gates this Friday at 10am for its 105th consecutive season of offering area families quality and wholesome summer fun. The huge new Big Wave Bay wave pool, the water park’s largest expansion in its history, is poised to start making exhilarating waves just a week later on Saturday, June 2.

Clementon Park and Splash World was acquired in November 2011 by an investor group led by former Six Flags executives Kieran Burke and Gary Story. As promised by Burke and Story, crews have been diligently working to bring significant improvements to the Park in time for the 2012 season including the construction of the new Big Wave Bay.

“From the wave pool expansion to numerous improvements in the dry park, we are thrilled to be presenting to the community a broadly improved Clementon Park and Splash World,” said Burke. “The new Big Wave Bay is extraordinarily spectacular and its enormous capacity provides families with an exciting way to get wet and enjoy the Park without having to wait in any lines.”

Included in the overall improvements are new restrooms and changing facilities located near the new wave pool plus the expansion of two major food service locations to drastically increase speed of service. Plus, gigantic 20’ shade structures have been installed in the water park expansion area to provide comforting shade on those sunny summer days. And, for grown-ups only, the Park has added its first Tiki Bar, offering refreshing adult beverages and big screen television viewing.

“The five-year transformation of this iconic family entertainment jewel has been thrilling to watch,” said David Dorman, the Park’s General Manager since 2007. “But nothing matches the introduction of Big Wave Bay, which is by far the most breathtaking addition to this Park ever. If a family has not been here before, or not visited in a while, I am confident they will be impressed by all of the sweeping improvements.”

Clementon Park and Splash World, located in Clementon, NJ, is among the oldest operating parks in the country and has been operating since 1907. Founded by NJ Assemblyman Theodore Gibbs as a simple swimming operation on Clementon Lake, the property steadily grew by offering rides, attractions and a water park. Other recent additions include Laguna Kahuna, a five-story, one-acre Polynesian water play land; Ring of Fire, a thrilling 60-foot looping coaster; Thunder Drop featuring a 100-foot free fall; and Torpedo Rush, the world’s tallest dueling trap door speed slides. Today the park boasts 17 rides, a vibrant midway and 8 major water park attractions and hosts hundreds of group outings each season.

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