Six Flags Darien Lake

Press release:

Six Flags Darien Lake, the Thrill Capital of New York, today announced the formal launch of Project Ed. This hiring initiative is an opportunity for all educators and school employees to earn extra cash this summer, free tickets, and school supplies for their classroom in the fall.

Participants will: be paid premium wages and those who work an average of 24 hours for eight weeks in a variety of leadership roles; have the opportunity to earn more than $3,000; and will automatically be entered into a raffle to earn up to $250 in gift cards for supplies in their classrooms.  

“Six Flags Darien Lake is committed to providing a fun work environment for job–seekers,” said Park President Mark Kane. “Our team members are our greatest asset and we hope our local educators will look at this opportunity as a great way to enjoy their summer and earn some extra money for their classroom.

"Educators and school employees went above and beyond this past school year and it’s our pleasure to offer this opportunity for them.” 

Six Flags has been recognized for the fifth year in a row as one of the Nation’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For^®, and was recently listed by Forbes Magazines as one of the country’s top 500 employers for diversity. 

To apply for positions, visit www.sixflags.com/darienlake/jobs for immediate openings.

Meet Mark Kane, the new president of Six Flags Darien Lake

After missing the 2020 season due to COVID-19 restrictions, Darien Lake Theme Park, has reopened for 2021. Currently, the park can operate at 33-percent capacity but expects to be open at 100-percent capacity in about a month.

COVID-19 protocols include a touchless temperature check as patrons enter the park and social distancing. People who are full vaccinated do not need to wear masks. The mask protocol will operate on the honor system. Patrons will not be required to show proof of vaccination.  

All of the rides and attractions are open.

Press release:

DARIEN CENTER — Six Flags Darien Lake, the Thrill Capital of New York, is teaming up with the Genesee County Health Department to offer a free COVID-19 vaccination clinic at the park on Tuesday, May 11.

“As a proud member of this community, we are honored to partner with Genesee County and do our part to help protect the public,” said Six Flags Darien Lake Park President Mark A. Kane.

“The safety of our guests and team members is always our highest priority, and we’re excited to play a role in ensuring that anyone who wants a vaccination is able to get one,” added Kane.

The clinic will take place in the Six Flags Darien Lake Human Resources building on Tuesday, May 11 from 1 to 5 p.m.

Clinic participants will receive two (2) complementary tickets to Six Flags Darien Lake in 2021.

Advance appointments are required for Pfizer, and encouraged for J&J (Janssen) utilizing the links below:

• Pfizer registration: http://bit.ly/DarienLakePfizer -- *Pfizer is by appointment only with two doses.*
• Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) registration:  http://bit.ly/DarienLakeJanssen *WALK-INS will be accepted for J&J (Janssen) as a single dose.*

​ The Six Flags Darien Lake Human Resources office is located on Sumner Road just past the theme park entrance. If you are traveling south on Route 77 (the park will be on your left), drive past the theme park entrance and take the first left after the light onto Sumner Road, or guests may enter 1501 Sumner Road, Corfu, NY 14036 into their GPS.

Six Flags Darien Lake will open for a special Members and Season Pass holder preview weekend event on May 15 and open for the regular season on May 21.

Press release:

Six Flags Darien Lake, the Thrill Capital of New York, will continue its search for more than 1,500 employees with a first-of-its-kind drive-thru hiring event on Saturday, April 10, and Saturday, April 17.

Applicants should apply online beforehand for positions at the park, waterpark, and hotel and campground and then interview from the comfort and safety of their own cars at the park. Positions require no previous experience with training provided and offer flexible scheduling, competitive wages, and great benefits.

“This innovative new hiring process is a safe and convenient way to connect with job applicants while still providing the familiarity and comfort of a face-to-face interview,” said Six Flags Darien Lake President Chris Thorpe. “We’ll be able to answer questions in-person and make same-day job offers in an easy and inviting format.”

The drive-thru hiring event steps include:

• Applicants apply online at https://www.sixflags.com/darienlake/jobs/ prior to the hiring event they plan on attending;
• Applicants will receive an email to sign up for an interview time on April 10 or April 17, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.; 
• Once the interview is scheduled, applicants arrive at the park’s toll plaza to check-in at their scheduled time and then proceed to their hiring department’s designated drive-thru interview area; 
• Interviews will be done at a safe distanced from the interviewee’s car; 
• Interviewees will be required to wear a face covering throughout the process, as will the interviewers;
• Once hired, applicants will finish their onboarding on the spot.      

Darien Lake offers new rates for many frontline positions, starting at $12.50 per hour, for employees 14 years old and up.

A variety of positions are available including lifeguards, ride operators, cashiers, front gate ticket takers and sellers as well as positions in Medical Services, Security, Guest Relations, Accommodations, Retail and Food Service. 

Six Flags Darien Lake offers great benefits including paid internships, scholarship opportunities, insurance plans, in-park discounts, plus rewards and recognition programs.

A Six Flags seasonal job can be a great option for students, teachers, retirees, or anyone looking for a second job or one that allows them to work around a busy personal schedule. Six Flags also offers unlimited theme park and waterpark admission for employees, free tickets for family and friends, exclusive team member events, and more. 

Applicants who are unable to participate in the drive-thru hiring event, may apply online anytime Visit us at https://www.sixflags.com/darienlake/jobs/ for more information.

Press release:

Six Flags Darien Lake, the Thrill Capital of New York, will begin the search for more than 1,500 employees with a Virtual Hiring Event on Saturday, March 6, followed by a second virtual hiring event on Saturday, March 13.

Applicants may apply and interview online for positions at the park, waterpark, and the hotel and campgrounds. 

“Safety is our top priority at Darien Lake, and that goes for our team members as well as our guests,” said Six Flags Darien Lake President Chris Thorpe. “Our new hiring process provides applicants with a safe environment from application to hire and all the way through on-the-job training.” 

The Virtual Hiring Event steps include:

• Applicants apply online at https://www.sixflags.com/darienlake/jobs/ prior to the hiring event they plan on attending;
• Applicants will receive an email to sign up for an interview time on March 6 or March 13, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.; 
• Once the interview is scheduled, applicants will receive a link for their interview; 
• Interviews will be done in Microsoft Teams with groups of up to 10 applicants; and
• Once hired, applicants can also complete some of their paperwork and training online.      

Darien Lake offers new rates for many frontline positions, starting at $12.50 per hour, for employees 14 years old and up.

Many specialty positions are available as well. A variety of positions are available including lifeguards, ride operators, cashiers, front gate ticket takers and sellers as well as positions in Medical Services, Security, Guest Relations, Accommodations, Retail and Food Service. Positions offer competitive wages, great benefits, and flexible schedules. 

Darien Lake offers other benefits including paid internships, in-park discounts, rewards and recognitions and flexible scheduling great for students, teachers, retirees, or anyone looking for a second job or a job that allows them to work around a busy personal schedule.

Darien Lake also offers unlimited theme park and waterpark admission for employees, free tickets for family and friends, exclusive Team Member events and more! 

Applicants who are unable to participate in the Virtual Hiring Event, may apply online anytime Visit us at https://www.sixflags.com/darienlake/jobs/ for more information.

About Darien Lake 

Darien Lake’s wide variety of entertainment and top-notch thrill rides has made it the Thrill Capital of New York since 1964. Located 45 minutes from Niagara Falls between Buffalo and Rochester, today the park boasts more than 50 rides, including seven world-class roller coasters, dozens of family rides, the region’s largest water park and a 20,000-seat amphitheater operated by Live Nation.

The park welcomes overnight guests in a wide range of accommodations—from a full-service hotel and modern cabins to rental RVs, and RV and tent campsites. 

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is the world’s largest regional theme park company with $1.4 billion in revenue and 26 parks across the United States, Mexico and Canada. For 59 years, Six Flags has entertained millions of families with world-class coasters, themed rides, thrilling water parks and unique attractions. For more information, visit www.sixflags.com.

Press release:

Six Flags Darien Lake, the Thrill Capital of New York, is reopening on May 21 based on the coronavirus pandemic guidelines set by the State of New York and its Governor.

The park will unveil extensive safety and security measures including quick and contactless security and temperature checks for guests and team members. Convenient mobile ordering will also be available at many locations. The park is converting to a cash to a card kiosk system, accepting only Mobile and Card Payments to further enhance the safety of guests and team members. 

“We are pleased and energized by the reopening guidelines announced by Governor Cuomo,” said Six Flags Darien Lake President Chris Thorpe. “We have a proven and comprehensive reopening safety plan, and our team is ready to welcome guests back. The safety of our guests and team members remains our number-one priority and the new safety guidelines we have implemented will enhance our safe and fun environment for everyone.”

Virtual Hiring Fairs 

As one of the largest seasonal employers in New York, Six Flags Darien Lake is hiring more than 1,500 team members for the 2021 season. The theme park, water park, and hotel and campground are hiring for all positions, including admissions, culinary services, ride operations, housekeeping, games, lifeguards, park services, security, and retail.

The safety of park guests and employees is always the company’s top priority, and applicants may now apply for jobs in a virtual and contact-free environment. Applications, interviews, and most trainings will all be done virtually; onboarding is contact-free. Interested applicants should apply online at sixflagsjobs.com. 

Health Screenings for Guests and Team Members 

• Contact-less IR thermal imaging will be used to screen temperatures of guests and employees prior to entry; and individuals will be asked if they are healthy and will be required to acknowledge the company’s health policies;
• All guests over the age of two and all team members will be required to wear face masks covering the nose and mouth throughout their visit/work day.
• Any guest without a mask will be able to purchase one at the front gate.

Strictly Enforced Social Distancing 

• Easy to identify distance markers will be added in all park entry, ride, restroom, retail locations, and dining queue lines;
• Dining areas will be adjusted to allow ample space between seated parties;
• Guests will be separated by empty rows and/or seats on all roller coasters, rides, and attractions; 
• Six-foot viewing areas will be marked for guests to observe game play; arcade games will be reconfigured or deactivated to comply with social distancing requirements; 
• Advanced security screenings will enable touchless bag checks;
• Capacity at indoor venues will be reduced to meet social distancing requirements; and 
• Guests viewing outdoor entertainment will be separated by at least six feet.

Extensive Sanitization and Disinfecting Protocols

• Trained and dedicated cleaning teams have been put in place; 
• Increased sanitization and disinfecting of high touch points including all public seating, tabletops, counters, doors, and trash cans will occur frequently; 
• Rides, restraints, and handrails will be cleaned throughout the day; 
• Restroom staff will be stationed to disinfect each stall and sink area on a frequent basis; 
• Multiple hand-washing and alcohol-based hand-sanitizer stations will be located throughout the park; and
• All team member work areas will be regularly sanitized and disinfected. 

Sanitized Food Preparation and Service

• Modified menus and implementation of mobile food ordering will help facilitate touchless transactions;
• Self-service buffets and salad bars will be reconfigured to eliminate guest contact with food;
• Condiments, self-serve cutlery, and napkins will be provided to guests with their meals as required; and
• Beverages will be served by attendants, and guests will receive any drink bottle refills in a paper cup each time they refill. 

Commercial-grade Cleaning Equipment and Supplies

• All employees will be issued Team Member Action Packs which will include: a safety face mask, safety glasses, and disposable gloves; 
• Low pressure backpack sprayers will be utilized for disinfecting large areas;
• Abundant supplies of sanitizers and disinfectants will be available;
• Microfiber cloths will be used to sanitize surfaces; and
• Queue line supplies, fencing, and tents will be in place to promote safe social distancing.

Multilayered Guest and Team Member Communication

• Frontline team members will go through extensive COVID-19 training;
• Safety messaging and reminders on Six Flags’ website, newsletters, in-park announcements, and recorded phone messages will occur frequently;
• Distance markers and physical distance indicators will be in place; and
• Informational safety signage will be posted throughout the park.

Park Reservations System to Manage Attendance

Darien Lake will be operating under state and local guidelines for crowd capacity limits. The park has established attendance caps that will be well below the park’s theoretical capacity to allow for proper social distancing.

All Members, Season Pass holders and all guests with a single-day or group ticket will need to make a reservation at www.sixflags.com/reserve. Guests who need single-day tickets will be able to reserve during the purchase process. The process will take 5-7 minutes, and guests will guests will complete the following steps:

• Enter their online order number, ticket number or Membership/Season Pass number;
• Select the day and the approximate time they want to visit;
• Acknowledge their understanding of the company’s health policy;
• Order prepaid parking if they do not already have a parking pass; and 
• Watch a brief video describing new social distancing and sanitization procedures.

Guests will be contacted electronically (either by email, text or both) the day before their scheduled visit to confirm their intent to visit and their continued healthy status. Guests may cancel their reservation without penalty any time before 8 a.m. (local time) on the day of their scheduled visit. Members and Season Pass Holders will receive booking priority over single-day and group ticket buyers.

Six Flags Darien Lake 2021 Season Passes are now available at the low price of $49.99 each. Gold Plus, Platinum, Diamond, and Diamond Elite Memberships are also available and offer additional benefits. For more information, visit sixflags.com/darienlake.

About Darien Lake

Darien Lake’s wide variety of entertainment and top-notch thrill rides has made it the Thrill Capital of New York since 1964. Located 45 minutes from Niagara Falls between Buffalo and Rochester, today the park boasts more than 50 rides, including seven world-class roller coasters, dozens of family rides, the region’s largest water park and a 20,000-seat amphitheater operated by Live Nation.

The park welcomes overnight guests in a wide range of accommodations—from a full-service hotel and modern cabins to rental RVs, and RV and tent campsites.

Six Flags Darien Lake will be kicking off its season after April 9^th, but Wednesday’s announcement from Gov. Andrew Cuomo that outdoor amusement parks can reopen on that date is welcome news for the popular entertainment destination that has been shut down for quite some time.

“We’re really excited about what that can mean for us opening in the spring, and we’re excited to welcome the community back to the park when the right time comes for us,” Dan Stokes, marketing and public relations manager, said today via telephone.

“Probably not as early as April 9^th … We will be announcing fairly shortly those dates as we try to figure out exactly what are plans are.”

Cuomo’s directive stipulates that outdoor amusement parks will be able to entertain guests on that date, but only at 33 percent of maximum capacity.

Stokes said the park will be utilizing an online reservation system this spring, similar to one that is in place for the laser shows that currently are scheduled for the next three weekends (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 7 and 8:30 p.m.).

“That way, we can cap attendance … at the 33 percent of our capacity,” he said. “I believe we are still working on exactly what our capacity (will be) and how many we can allow in the park.”

The theme park was unable to open in 2020, but the campground was open for a few weeks last summer.

Stokes said the process of hiring seasonal employees is underway. Six Flags Darien Lake employs more than 1,000 part-time workers during its peak season, filling jobs in areas such as performance, games, retail, food service, rides, park services, promotion and clerical.

“It’s going to be a virtual process, so people can apply online and (for interviews) we can follow social distancing guidelines. Those dates will be coming out fairly soon,” he advised.

Season passes are available now for $49.99 – “that’s the lowest they have been in a very long time,” Stokes said – and can be purchased via the park’s website at www.sixflags.com/darienlake.

Tickets for the laser shows are $14.99 per person, with season pass holders admitted at no charge. Again, reservations must be made through the park’s website.

Stokes said he had no information about Live Nation’s plans for summer concerts at the park’s amphitheater.

Cuomo also announced that indoor family entertainment centers and places of amusement will be permitted to reopen starting March 26 at 25 percent capacity, and day and overnight summer camps should be able to reopen in June.

Reopening of all of these venues will be subject to the ongoing COVID-19 protocols – including face coverings and social distancing for customers and staff – along with health screenings and temperature checks for patrons prior to entering.

Six Flags Darien Lake announced today that due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, it will remain closed for the remainder of the 2020 season, which was scheduled to end in early November.

According to a statement on its website, the park remains committed to the health and safety of park guests and team members.

“These are difficult times, and we know the COVID-19 pandemic has caused many challenges for everyone,” the statement read. “Given the situation we want to ensure we provide you with all the value of your Season Pass. All 2020 Six Flags Darien Lake Season Passes and Pre-Purchased Tickets will be valid for the 2021 season.”

Previous story: No news is sad news for Six Flags Darien Lake patrons, seasonal part-time workers

With no specific guidance on reopening criteria from Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s office, the window for amusement and theme parks to welcome back guests this summer is closing fast.

The rides and attractions at Six Flags Darien Lake remain dormant with only two months remaining before the popular entertainment venue’s scheduling closing date of Nov. 1.

“We’re certainly disappointed that we haven’t been able to open, but we’re doing what we have to do,” Communications Manager Mike Arena said on Monday. “The state is dictating what we need to do to get ready and when they do give us the green light, we will be ready.”

Amusement parks, casinos and movie theaters are on the outside looking in, while other Phase Four recreational and social industries such bowling centers and gyms/fitness centers just recently were able to open their doors following months of a COVID-19-induced shutdown.

Arena acknowledged the financial impact upon the multimillion dollar operation – revenues and summer jobs lost – but said Darien Lake officials are saddened because they “haven’t been able to deliver, thus far, a great product for the area that’s safe and fun” – even if at a smaller scale due to mandated attendance limits.

“Six Flags in different parts of the country have opened and have had great success, with the social distancing and safety protocols in place,” he said. “As much as we want to be open, we understand that the state is doing what’s best to keep everyone safe. And we are working hand-in-hand and very diligently with the state.”

Darien Lake employs around a thousand people for seasonal jobs – students and others seeking to supplement their income. Others are hired by Live Nation to work at the summer concerts, which also have been postponed or canceled.

Arena said the company’s full-time employees have been able to keep working thanks, in part, to “programs the government is implementing (such as the Payroll Protection Program).”

“We may be cutting people’s hours but we haven’t (laid people off). We’re doing a good job with that,” he said.

As far as patrons who purchased memberships or season passes, Arena said they will not lose out on their investments.

“Members who pay monthly had the option to pause their payments or they will receive a month for every month they didn’t get – and the same goes for those with a season pass, they would get a day for every day they didn’t get,” Arena said, adding that if the park doesn’t open in 2020, all of those benefits will transfer to 2021.

A season pass allows people to get into the park, while a membership – tiered at Gold Plus, Platinum, Diamond and Diamond Elite – is paid each month (even when the park is closed) and comes with numerous benefits and discounts.

Arena said that members will be “bumped up” to the next highest tier in consideration of the inconvenience of not being able to enjoy the attraction this summer – at least not yet.

“While the state hasn’t given us any indication right now, we’re having constant conversations (with NYS officials) and the conversation on our level is to be ready and to have everything corporate-wide -- all the safety measures and the sanitation stuff – in place," he said.

County legislators dealt with two law enforcement-related contracts at Monday's Public Service Committee meeting that, as one member put it, are "mysteries" because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

It is unknown whether there will be on-campus learning at county schools this fall, but the Sheriff's Office is expected to provide School Resources Officers to six campuses if students return to classrooms, so that contract needs to be in place.

Right now, it doesn't look like Live Nation will host any concerts at the Darien Lake Performing Arts Center but in case they do, the contract for the Sheriff's Office needs to be in place.

The committee recommended both contracts be approved.

For SROs, three school districts -- Alexander, Byron-Bergen, and Pavilion -- employ deputies year-round and reimburse the county for that expense. Those SROs remain employed by their respective districts.

Pembroke, Oakfield-Alabama, and BOCES use SROs for only 10 months during the year, so the Sheriff's Office gets reimbursed for those deputies' salaries for only those 10 months.

The year-around school districts have continued to use their SROs even during the lockdown, even during the summer, but it's uncertain what will happen with the partial-year SROs if students don't return to campus in the fall.

Currently, the Sheriff's Office has three open road patrol positions. Rather than hire and train new officers, the three deputies who are SROs in Pembroke, O-A, and BOCES are fulfilling those duties, so the cost to the county of not getting those salaries covered by the school districts is a wash.

As for Darien Lake, there's no expense to the county if there are no concerts and Live Nation pays for any deputies put on duty at concerts.

However, discussion of the concert season had legislators asking about the impact that closure of Darien Lake -- the theme park, concert venue, and hotel -- would have on county revenue. The county derives significant revenue from sales tax at the theme park as well as gas tax for people who travel into Genesee County for the park and subsequently buy gas here. The bed tax from the hotel is about a third of the bed tax revenue for the county, said County Manager Jay Gsell.

Chairwoman Rochelle Stein told the committee that based on her communication with industry and state officials, Darien Lake is part of an amusement park lobbying group trying to get the governor's office to authorize theme parks to reopen.

She said Darien Lake has drafted a thick binder of guidelines the park would follow if it reopened.

"They've put their safety plan in front of the governor's office," Stein said. "There is a whole lobbying arm of the amusement park industry that as a group is trying to convince the governor to let them reopen. So far, that has fallen on deaf ears."

Photo: The socially distanced Public Service Committee meeting.

One of the largest employers in Western New York, Six Flags Darien Lake offers competitive pay, free admission with your employee ID, free tickets for friends and family and more

Anyone who interviews at one of the hiring events will receive a complimentary ticket to Six Flags Darien Lake. Six Flags Darien Lake opens for the 2020 season on Friday, May 8.

About Six Flags Darien Lake

Six Flags Darien Lake’s wide variety of entertainment and top-notch thrill rides has made it the Coaster Capital of New York since 1964. Located 45 minutes from Niagara Falls between Buffalo and Rochester, today the park boasts more than 50 rides, including seven world-class roller coasters, dozens of family rides, the region’s largest water park and a 20,000-seat amphitheater operated by Live Nation.

The park opens for the 2020 season May 8 and welcomes overnight guests in a wide range of accommodations—from a full-service hotel and modern cabins to rental RVs, and RV and tent campsites. 

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is the world’s largest regional theme park company and the largest operator of waterparks in North America, with $1.5 billion in revenue and 26 parks across the United States, Mexico and Canada. For 59 years, Six Flags has entertained millions of families with world-class coasters, themed rides, thrilling water parks and unique attractions. For more information, visit www.sixflags.com.

Press release:

GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE:SIX), the world’s largest regional theme park company and the largest operator of waterparks in North America, today announced that each of its 26 parks will earn the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).

This initiative will mark the first-ever family of parks to earn the designation at all locations, including the one in Darien Center in Genesee County.

“We are proud to partner with IBCCES to ensure that guests on the autism spectrum have the best possible experience when visiting our parks,” said Six Flags Vice President of Safety Jason Freeman.

“The certification process will equip our team members with the tools and training needed to better serve guests with special needs. We want them to know Six Flags stands ready to welcome them with open arms.” 

Many individuals and families with children on the autism spectrum or with sensory sensitivities find it challenging when visiting new places or planning family trips. The potential for sensory overload combined with a lack of understanding and awareness at parks and other recreational venues can often be overwhelming.

The CAC designation from IBCCES, the only credentialing board providing these services for the amusement and attractions industry, requires that at least 80 percent of "guest-facing staff" at each park complete a training and certification program through IBCCES as well as complete onsite audits and make a commitment to ongoing training.

The staff training focuses on understanding the autism spectrum and strategies for communication, guest experience, and safety, while the onsite audit will give each park techniques and guidance on additional updates.

As a Certified Autism Center, Six Flags parks will provide:

• Trained, courteous, front-line team members with the ability to identify visual cues to better accommodate guests with cognitive disorders and help them enjoy their time in the parks;
• A sensory guide for each ride and attraction so guests can make informed decisions about the ride experience and their level of comfort;
• Special in-park sensory spaces, where guests with sensory needs can relax in a less stimulating environment;
• Expanded culinary options to meet guests’ dietary needs (such as gluten-free items); and  
• An updated Accessibility Guide available at sixflags.com, Guest Relations and Ride Information Centers at each park. 

“IBCCES is extremely excited to work with a family of parks with this level of commitment,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board chairman. “So many families just need more communication and understanding from parks and other attractions, so they can make those memories together that we all cherish.

"In some cases, small changes can make a huge impact, and our certification program ensures each park is committed to long-term growth and understanding, not just a one-time training.” 

"As a person on the spectrum, it is exciting to see more parks taking the extra steps to accommodate all guests," said Dr. Stephen Shore. "The commitment Six Flags is making to a true certification process is impressive and means so much to millions of individuals and families. Creating family memories and recreation are essential for both individuals with ASD and their families as a whole." 

For almost 20 years, IBCCES has been the industry leader in cognitive disorder training and certification for healthcare, education and corporate professionals around the globe. IBCCES recognized that many families with children who have special needs have limited travel options. In response to this need, IBCCES created training and certification programs specifically for the attractions and travel industry. While many destinations tout “autism-friendly” options, this phrase means something different to everyone and does not necessarily indicate a true understanding or commitment to serving these guests. 

Six Flags will also be the first network of parks to implement IBCCES’ Accessibility Card. The cards may be used during all Six Flag park visits. For more information on the Accessibility Card registration visit www.accessibilitycard.org.

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

It is the world’s largest regional theme park company and the largest operator of waterparks in North America, with $1.5 billion in revenue and 26 parks across the United States, Mexico and Canada. For 59 years, Six Flags has entertained millions of families with world-class coasters, themed rides, thrilling water parks and unique attractions. For more information, visit www.sixflags.com.

Press release:

Six Flags Darien Lake, the “Thrill Capital of New York State,” today announced that Jeff Ellis & Associates Inc. – International Aquatics Safety and Risk Management Consultants, has awarded the Platinum International Aquatics Safety Award to the park.

This annual award is given to facilities that consistently exceed industry standards in risk management and epitomize aquatic safety excellence.

“This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our waterpark staff to deliver a fun and safe experience for guests,” said Park President Chris Thorpe. “We are thrilled to receive this kind of recognition and look forward to welcoming our guests for the 2020 season at the best waterpark in Western New York.”

“It is apparent that the entire staff embodies the idea of setting the standard in aquatic safety,” said Jeff Ellis & Associates Vice President Richard A. Carroll. “Swimmers and guests who frequent this waterpark are afforded the highest degree of protection currently available for the aquatic industry.”

E&A’s International Aquatic Safety Awards are based on the results of multiple random unannounced aquatic facility operational safety audits conducted throughout the year. These audits include undercover surveillance of on-duty lifeguards, emergency simulations and facility evaluations.

Only the top 14 percent of E&A’s worldwide clients receive a Platinum International Aquatic Safety Award each year.

Six Flags Darien Lake 2020 Memberships and Season Passes are now available. Members can enjoy priority park entry, preferred parking and tremendous discounts of up to 50 percent on nearly all food and merchandise purchases all season long.

Gold Plus, Platinum, Diamond and Diamond Elite levels are available featuring all the perks of a Season Pass plus other benefits including admission to all Six Flags branded theme and waterparks, skip the line passes, unlimited soft drinks and much more!

For more information, visit the Membership Sales Center or go online to sixflags.com/darienlake and sign up.

About Six Flags Darien Lake

Six Flags Darien Lake’s wide variety of entertainment and top-notch thrill rides has made it the Coaster Capital of New York since 1964. Located 45 minutes from Niagara Falls between Buffalo and Rochester, today the park boasts more than 50 rides, including seven world-class roller coasters, dozens of family rides, the region’s largest water park and a 20,000-seat amphitheater operated by Live Nation.

The park opens for the 2020 season May 8 and welcomes overnight guests in a wide range of accommodations—from a full-service hotel and modern cabins to rental RVs, and RV and tent campsites.

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is the world’s largest regional theme park company with $1.5 billion in revenue and 26 parks across the United States, Mexico and Canada. For 59 years, Six Flags has entertained millions of families with world-class coasters, themed rides, thrilling water parks and unique attractions. For more information, visit www.sixflags.com.

The “Wahoo Wave” waterslide made a big splash with Genesee County planners on Thursday night as they recommended approval of the site plan for the state-of-the-art 60-foot attraction that will be coming to Darien Lake in the spring.

The planning board, at its monthly meeting at County Building No. 2 on West Main Street Road, said the ride should pose no significant impact to the amusement park’s landscape.

“It’s the latest and greatest,” said Ed McCarthy, director of maintenance and construction at Darien Lake. “Now, we’ll have one (a waterslide) on each side of the park, and this will definitely decrease the wait times (for guests).”

In September, Darien Lake officials announced the addition of the waterslide, which propels water at a rate of 3,400 gallons per minute, to their newly named Hurricane Harbor water park.

Touted as the only four-person curved wall ride in the world, the waterslide is actually branded as the TornadoWAVE 60 Water Ride and is made by ProSlide Technology Inc.

According to a press release, Wahoo Wave takes riders, settled into a four-person tube, through a hairpin turn, then a corkscrew turn and finally a three-story drop that takes them on the top of a massive water wall before landing in a pool.

Construction is expected to be completed by May of next year.

In other action, the board recommended:

-- Approval of a downtown design (site plan) review requested by Vance Group LLC to make exterior changes to a mixed-use building at 242 Ellicott St., at the corner of Liberty Street.

Members of the Valle and Lawrence families, owners of the structure, plan changes that include two fixed awnings, six new window sections to replace the storefront, stucco finish throughout and new upper floor windows. The building is located in the Batavia Improvement District.

-- Approval of a special use permit to convert the first story of an historic South Lake Avenue mixed-use building in the Village of Bergen from offices to a gym.

Mike and Kelly Marsocci (Mike’s Gym LLC) will be leasing the space from the Masonic Temple Association of Bergen to operate a commercial fitness center in the Central Commercial (C-2) District.

The couple’s report to the planning board showed that the gym will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for those at least 15 years old.

Members will be able to enter the premises with a key fob or similar entry mechanism, with exercise equipment ranging from cardiovascular and pre-loaded machines to free weights.

-- Approval of a site plan review and area variance to construct a 2,160-square-foot addition to the Churchville Fire Equipment Corp. building at 10246 Perry Road, Pavilion.

Documentation from the applicant indicates that the company is investing $500,000 on the 36- by 60-foot addition to house a paint booth.

-- Approval with modifications of a special use permit for Samantha Volkmar to operate the Great Expectations Dog Grooming business in her home on Big Tree Road in Pavilion.

The board OK'd the plan as long as the business sign does not exceed 4 square feet and is not located closer than 10 feet to any lot line.

According to her business plan, Volkmar, in the dog grooming business since June 2018, plans to convert an existing mudroom to provide services such as full grooms, bath and blow dry, touch-ups and nail trims.

Hours of operation are by appointment only from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

-- Approval of the Bethany Town Board’s request to amend its zoning text to establish a six-month moratorium prohibiting solar farms.

The board, in its endorsement, noted that the moratorium gives the municipality “enough time to study and draft changes to its zoning law to protect the health, safety and welfare of the community.”

This action paves the way for the town to enact a local law barring large scale solar installations.

Press release:

Six unlucky coffin dwellers will attempt to complete the 30-Hour Coffin Challenge that's part of Six Flags Darien Lake's Fright Fest starting this Friday.

Each contestant will be required to complete haunted challenges in between long periods stuck in their coffins to be crowned this year’s challenge winner.

This year's challenge includes: 
          - Contestants spend an hour covered in live worms;
          - Contestants eating dried-out bugs including scorpions and tarantulas;
          - Sleep deprivation provided by our Scare-Actors.

The challenge runs from 6 a.m. Friday, Oct. 11, through midnight Saturday, Oct. 12.

The contestants for 2019 are:                                

• Megan Shores, of Grand Island – She is participating in the challenge in memory of her brother who passed away last year; 
• Robin Basalla, of Rochester – She is a skydiver with more than 400 jumps to her name and is also a certified scuba diver;
• Mike Tedesco, of North Tonawanda – His family owns several area funeral homes and is training to become a funeral director, so this should be right up his alley;
• Angela Christ, of Blasdell – She is a volunteer firefighter and mother, out to prove her bravery;
• Nathan Squiers, of Elmira – He is a best-selling horror author looking for inspiration for his next book;
• Karissa Belzer, of North Chili – She says she loves everything Halloween and plans to compete dressed as “Zombie Batman."

Press release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) Board of Directors will consider approving incentives of approximately $126,000 for Six Flags Darien Lake LLC at the board’s meeting Thursday (Oct. 3).

The company is proposing to build Wahoo Wave, a new $1.575 million 60-foot tall water ride at the Hurricane Harbor water park, which is set to open next year. The project will help retain 380 jobs at one of the county’s largest sales tax revenue generators.

Since the company is seeking tax incentives of more than $100,000 a public hearing will be conducted. The public hearing will take place at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 2, in Darien Town Hall, 10569 Alleghany Road, Darien Center.

The GCEDC board also will consider accepting an application from Wright Associates for a $8.9 million capital project that would include the purchase of an existing 139,000-square-foot building on Wright Avenue in Le Roy. In addition to the land acquisition purchase, Wright Associates will invest $2 million to rehabilitate the building and $2 million to purchase new equipment. Wright Associates is seeking approximately $823,000 in mortgage, sales and property taxes.

The GCEDC Board meeting will take place at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 3, at its offices on 99 MedTech Drive in Batavia. The meeting is open to the public.

Photos and information from reader Brian Fose:

Darien Center -- The Buffalo-based Zuut Belly Dancers will perform at Six Flags Darien Lake tomorrow (Sept. 21), the last weekend of Harvest Festival.

See them from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the Showplace Stage at the park's Beaver Brothers Lakeside Cafe area (next to the Boomerang Roller Coaster). The amusement park is located at 9993 Alleghany Road, Darien Center.

Zuut was founded in 2006. The name of the group combines their mutual love for Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Peter Shaffer's "Equus," and the French language.

They currently have fivedancers in the troupe (Mandy, Andrea, Yumi, Sandy & Cassie).

Mandy said they love all of their dances, but think they are especially fond of the "La Résistance" piece in which they wear Guy Fawkes masks and belly dance with double revolvers to the song "Uprising" by Muse.

They offer dance classes at House of Hips at 1863 Clinton St., Buffalo.

Experienced dancers who like to push the boundaries of what belly dance can be and who support and encourage our collective geekiness, silliness, spookiness, and "that what she said" jokes are accepted into their troupe as new members.

They perform mostly at local WNY bars, festivals and events. Their website is here.

In the Six Flags Darien Lake map below, the area where the belly dancers will be performing is circled in red.