Regional Update - North America | March/April 2021
Fourth Dimension Fun Center Celebrates Maryland Grand Opening
The new 38,000-square-foot Fourth Dimension Fun Center recently opened in Frederick, Maryland, at less than full capacity until COVID-19-related restrictions are eased. However, the new family entertainment center (FEC) expects demand to be high since families spent the winter months “stuck inside” because of virus-related constraints.
The facility features 16 lanes of boutique bowling, escape rooms, an immersive motion-theater experience, a themed laser tag arena, and a redemption-based arcade. Fourth Dimension Fun Center also features a premium-level dining experience with seasonal menus and a full bar and tap program. The Holzberger family, which owns the facility, selected Amusement Entertainment Management and its managing partner, Jerry Merola, to lead the FEC’s development.
Dollywood Grows Talent in Tennessee with New Apprentice Program
Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, launched an apprentice program with Walters State Community College in Morristown, Tennessee, to capture the interest of and retain talented young employees.
The theme park and the college signed an agreement offering classroom work and paid on-the-job training to students. The three-year apprenticeships can lead to full-time positions that include pay and a full benefit package.
“Upon successful completion of the program, the apprentice earns a position as a front office supervisor, culinary services team lead, or junior chef at the appropriately defined rate of pay,” says Scott Shelby, Dollywood’s director of talent management. “For someone ready to enter the workforce or looking to join our industry, this provides a unique opportunity, as they know they have the guarantee of a job at Dollywood when they graduate.”
The program is expected to provide graduates the skills for roles not only at Dollywood, but also in the Sevierville-Pigeon Forge-Gatlinburg area. Graduates will attain industry certifications and college credit that can be applied to a technical certificate or an associate degree in hospitality management or culinary arts.
“The program is important because we’re able to use on-the-job skills to truly prepare our future employees,” says Shelby.
