A new year at the Williamsburg theme parks brings new rides, attractions, shows and special offerings for our valued Pass Members. At Busch Gardens and Water Country USA, we continually strive to offer value and convenience to our guests, especially our loyal pass members. That’s the reason we have two new features in 2012 just for you.

At the close of every Water Country USA season, we look at areas to improve or enhance for our guests and team members. The changes could be anything from adding a major thrill ride like Vanish Point or a new dining facility. We’ve found that even little changes go a long way and make a difference in our guests’ experience or our team members’ work areas.

This Throwback Thursday's picture is from 1993. The last fiberglass segment is being put into place to complete Malibu Pipeline at Water Country USA. We have already pieced together Vanish Point and are ready for you to take the slide of your life on Saturday for opening day.

Three years of research, strategic planning and guest feedback all culminates this spring with the debut of new rides at Busch Gardens and Water Country USA, and we couldn’t be more excited. Plans for Busch Gardens’ Mach Tower and Water Country USA’s Vanish Point were announced Sept. 18, 2010 in front of 2,000 park fans inside Das Festhaus. At the time, fans also heard details of a completely rejuvenated Oktoberfest area that will feature a new restaurant, a beer garden-style seating area and performance spaces designed to complement Mach Tower.

People always ask me for cool facts about the park so I compiled a list you can share with your friends.

If one of your new year’s resolutions is to get your financial house in order, you’re not alone. I spent a good part of this past weekend paying pending bills, balancing the checkbook (well, almost) and working on a household budget for 2011. As I add up the costs for necessities like utilities, food and home repairs, the amount left for family entertainment is getting smaller and smaller.