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Funworld September 2009
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ANNOUNCEMENTSGROWING BY LEAPS AND BOUNDS: Nick Varney, CEO of Merlin Entertainments, accepted the Profit Track 100 award for 2009, which annually honors the fastest growing UK private company. The award tracks the progress of the top 100 privately owned companies with the fastest growing profits over the past three years. Merlin’s continued rate of growth and its 2007 acquisition of the Tussauds Group has made Merlin the world’s second-largest visitor attraction operator. www.merlinentertainments.biz PEOPLE LEAVING A LEGACY: Jeff Swanagan, most recently executive director of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, died June 28 at the age of 51. Executive director at the zoo since 2008, the role was a homecoming for Swanagan, who was first hired at the facility in 1980 by then- Director Jack Hanna. Swanagan also made his mark at Zoo Atlanta and the Florida Aquarium. He memorably served as president and inaugural executive director of the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta,where he oversaw the development of the $290 million aquarium—the world’s largest. Swanagan will be remembered not only for his lasting impact as a leader in the industry, but also for his kind heart and positive outlook. He is survived by his wife and five children. PRODUCTS |
ADDITION: Luke Ditchburn has joined the Amusement Device Inspection Procedures Scheme as general manager. Ditchburn was previously facilities and operations manager for Northumberland County Council and has worked in different capacities for the United Kingdom’s leisure industry for nine years. Ditchburn will manage quality standards and procedural systems, as well as assist in web development, among other responsibilities. 
TOYS GALORE: Toy Network LLC’s newest arrivals include the high-bouncing Comet Balls and Knobby Balls, both of which can be customized with logos. New plush toys are also available, including Gumby and Pokey characters, collegiate- themed bears, and oversized candy toys, among other items. Toy Network LLC manufactures plush items, balls, inflatables, games, souvenirs, and party supplies. 
SAFE AND CLEAR VIEW: Samsung GVI Security announces its new A1 line of analog cameras with built-in analytics for intelligent video, extended dynamic range, and multilanguage on-screen display for installation purposes. The security cameras feature digital noise reduction, resolution enhancement on images, and an automatic switch from daytime to nighttime modes. The cameras are available in box-type, fixed dome, vari-focal dome, anti-vandal dome, speed dome, and zoom lens.