Volume 1, No. 8. May 18, 2001
It's a drop tower!
Magic Springs and Crystal Falls in Hot Springs,
Arkansas, announces the arrival of Dr. Dean's Rocket Machine, April 19,
2001. Measurements: 100 feet tall (30 meters), 12 seats total on three sides.
Delivered by S&S Power.
A state's highest elected official
has many duties, but one of those surely not listed in the state's constitution
is being raised to nearly 100 feet above the earth and then suddenly falling
faster than gravity. "I wouldn't say riding thrill rides are at the top of his
list," said Maria Partlow, marketing director of Magic Springs Development Company,
of Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee's role in the official opening ceremonies.
"But he rode Dr. Dean and Arkansas Twister."
Though Dr. Dean was the one new ride, and the park debuted several new
stage shows for the season, the make-over of the Arkansas Twister drew
the greatest attention. The 1977 wood coaster, moved to Hot Springs in 1992,
received a $2 million renovation over the past winter. The result was a faster,
smoother ride with more air time, and a new classic status among enthusiasts.
Magic Springs' new thrill-ride profile, along with "chamber of commerce weather"
resulted in strong opening weekend traffic, not only locally but from Louisiana
and Tennessee, too, Partlow said.
Two other additions also proved popular to Opening Day crowds: Garfield and
Odie, which the park is featuring under a licensing agreement. "Little kids
love coming up and hugging characters, but they run to Garfield squealing, 'Garfield!'"
said Partlow, who noted the employees enjoyed having their new cartoon colleagues
on board, too. "Garfield's Q scores are incredible."
©2001, Minton Enterprises LLC
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