A collection of original articles for and about the amusement industry. If you are a subscriber to THE LOOP, you may read an article by clicking on its title below.

Promos for small parks
For those parks that don't have access to mega-budget marketing budget, we offer some promotions ideas that do not to require much time or money.
By Allen F. Weitzel

10 Things journalists hate about you
This article is only for those public relations representatives, park managers and even suppliers who want to create a hostile atmosphere with the media.
By Eric Minton

12 Common courtesies for people with disabilities
Etiquette issues when interacting with people who are blind, deaf, use wheelchairs or have some other disability.
By Eric Minton

Communicating Through the Internet:
Can On-line Advertising be as Effective as Print?
The advertising manager of THE LOOP probes the pros and cons of Internet advertising in a college term paper.
By Lynne Mosman

When the floods came
The executive director of the Prague Zoo recounts three harrowing days when the Vltava rampaged through one of Europe’s finest zoological gardens.
By Petr Fejk, Director, Zoo Prague

So you’re the new safety manager?
Here’s a primer for setting up a safety program at your park.
By Allen F. Weitzel

So you’re the new safety manager? Part 2
Now that you have set up a successful safety program, here's some suggestions for making safety part of your park's corporate culture.
By Allen F. Weitzel

Managing the Merchandise Monster
A successful retail program starts with the retail manager's budget and concludes only with that last-second impulse purchase at the end of the guest's day. By Allen F. Weitzel

Inspector General
Following these guidelines can help you handle the many inspections that come calling at your facility. By Allen F. Weitzel

Operation Secrets
Glean some lessons from a veteran of the trade that can help smooth your amusement facility’s operation. By Allen F. Weitzel

Adventures in Voice Mail
Or how to turn away guests before they even reach your door. By Eric Minton

Training Tricks
Here are some tips and tools to draw talent from your team.
By Allen F. Weitzel

The Written Word
Modern technology can make training exciting, but written manuals are still the most effective — and in some cases required — training tool.
By Allen F. Weitzel