New Inductees for IAAPA Hall of Fame
Links: John Huish Rechts: John Wood (Sally Corp.)
John Wood (Sally Corporation), often referred to as dark ride innovator, and the forefathers of the family entertainment center industry (FEC) Jim and John Huish, were recently inducted to the “IAAPA Hall of Fame”. The IAAPA Hall of Fame honors legends and pioneers for their significant and lasting contributions to the worldwide attractions industry. As college freshmen, the young entrepreneurs and twins Jim and John Huish built and opened their first miniature golf course in 1957. In the next 20 years, the brothers built and operated a series of miniature golf courses across Central and Southern California, evolving eventually into the chain of Huish Family Fun Centers. In the mid-70ies, Jim and John founded J&J Amusements, a supplier of go-karts and bumper boats. In 1984, Jim Huish was killed in a construction accident. His twin brother John (pictured left) forged ahead for the next 30 years, acquiring or building a chain of water parks and family entertainment centers as well as the Bullwinkle’s Restaurant Franchise. John Wood, CEO of Sally Corp., who revived dark ride attractions during the 80ies and decisively advanced the further development of this kind of attraction, has developed his own company to become one of most important dark ride specialists in the world. (eap)
