TAP Covers the Many Communities of the Fun Marketplace

Well-planned, maintained and executed family entertainment centers are top choices for budget-conscious families. And as the industry never stands still, we offer valuable operating tips and industry trends articles in our Family Entertainment Center Report. In this issue we examine a wide spectrum of issues of interest to center owners and managers.
At bowling centers, we look at generating sports team party revenues and turning facilities into full-fledged FECs. Go-kart operators, or those looking to get into the business, can read about the pros and cons of gas and electric go-karts. Roller skating center owners and managers will be interested in articles about adding attractions and why quad skates still rule for indoor skating. In the ILTA section, there is a story about trends in the industry and a profile of a Shallotte, N.C. laser tag location. And, FEC birthday parties are covered. This issue also marks the 2010 edition of our Entertainment Center and Location-Based Entertainment Suppliers’ Guide, a resource that pinpoints many of the top vendors in the industry.
We also feature coverage of the numerous other segments of the industry. In our Business Strategies feature, my contributing editor and myself examine the fascinating results of the just-released AECOM/TEA 2009 Theme Index, which offers rankings and attendance figures for the top 25 theme parks in the world.
The unique fun of waterparks can even penetrate the competitive Orlando, Fla., market. In The Large Park Report, we look at CoCo Key, a waterpark resort that has done just that. And in the Waves section, we profile The Lost Island Water Park in Iowa, which is celebrating its 10-year anniversary.
In Street Beat, we focus on redemption games in one story, and on how to keep route accounts happy and earning in a piece about customer service. And our comprehensive food service coverage includes a story on concession signage at zoos and aquariums, and on the importance of purchasing and maintaining the right ovens and fryers at family entertainment centers.
Rental companies that deal in inflatables and other party essentials are poised to enjoy the business generated by money-saving at-home events and fairs and festivals. But without the proper insurance, these companies will miss out on the best jobs. In the Amusement Rental/Inflatable News section, company owners discuss the importance of good coverage.
Additionally, in our AAM Museum Report, we report on how special programming at the nation’s museums generates both good will and repeat visitation.
I wish heartfelt congratulations to J.C. Evans, chairman of Gold Medal® Products Co., who recently received the 2010 Award for Entrepreneurial Excellence from the University of Cincinnati College of Business.
I hope you enjoy the issue. Please contact the magazine at the e-mail address listed below with your comments, questions and suggestions.
Scott C. Borowsky
President and Executive Editor
Tourist Attractions and Parks magazine
editortapmag@kanec.com