Last fall, the U.S. Department of State announced a pilot program which will make changes to the J-1 visa Summer Work Travel (SWT) program. The pilot program is effective now and only applies to SWT participants in six countries (Belarus, Bulgaria, Moldova, Romania, Russia, and Ukraine). It is rumored that this pilot program will be expanded to the entire SWT program through a rulemaking early this year.
Some of the changes included in the pilot program are:
- Students are required to have accepted a job offer prior to interviewing for a visa.
- Certain “inappropriate” job placements are prohibited.
- A public database will be created that identifies all local agents that work with sponsor companies, including evaluations or rating of the local agents.
- Students will be required to complete a survey at the end of their stay.
- All participants (students, sponsors, agents, etc.) will need to abide by a new Code of Conduct.
IAAPA has been told there will be a regulatory action on the SWT program in the first few months of 2011. We have also been told the regulatory action will be the release of an interim final rule with an open comment period where interested parties can submit their comments to the Department of State. We do not know if the interim final rule will be effective in time for the 2011 hiring season.
IAAPA is monitoring the issue, and will alert members when the regulatory action occurs and how IAAPA members can submit comments on the proposed rules.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
IAAPA Submits Comments on ADA Rulemaking
Yesterday the comment period closed for several Advanced Notices of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) on regulations related to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). IAAPA submitted a comment letter to the U.S. Department of Justice, explaining the potential effects these proposed rules could have on the attractions industry.
The proposed regulations do not replace the final rules that go into effect March 15. Those final rules address standards of accessible design and barrier removal activities. If implemented, these proposed rules will address websites, self-service equipment such as vending machines or ticket kiosks, and movie captioning.
The attractions industry is committed to providing accessible entertainment for all guests. IAAPA agrees with the intent of the proposed rules, but did ask that flexibility be granted for some of our members' unique attractions. We also requested DOJ grant the industry adequate time between when the final rules are published and their effective dates.
Next Steps
What should happen next is DOJ will review all of the comments it received and move forward with a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), which will be open for comments. After considering those comments, DOJ will publish a final rule. I have not heard a timeframe on these regulations, but it probably won't be until later this year, or even in 2012.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Safety Update: Web Conferences on CPSIA Database and OSHA Regulatory Agenda
On Thursday, January 20, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) will hold a webcast demonstrating the new Publicly Available Consumer Product Safety Information Database. IAAPA members will remember the database is part of the Consumer Product Safety Improvements Act and allows consumers to make "reports of harm" about consumer products.
During the webinar, CPSC Commissioner Bob Adler and database Project Manager Ming Zhu will demonstrate key functions of the database, including the new Business Portal, where manufacturers, importers, distributors, and retailers can register to receive notification if a report is made about a product. The Business Portal is designed to facilitate more efficient electronic notice, review, and comment on reports of harm before they are published in the database. Businesses will be able to register an account on the Business Portal during this demonstration.
Webinar participants will also learn how a consumer will use the online reporting form and how to search the database for information about consumer products.
Participation is free, but advanced registration is required.
Earlier this week, the U.S. Department of Labor held a series of webchats about its current regulatory agenda. The archived chats are available on the Department of Labor’s website. IAAPA members should pay close attention to the chats concerning the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Wage and Hour Division .
During the webinar, CPSC Commissioner Bob Adler and database Project Manager Ming Zhu will demonstrate key functions of the database, including the new Business Portal, where manufacturers, importers, distributors, and retailers can register to receive notification if a report is made about a product. The Business Portal is designed to facilitate more efficient electronic notice, review, and comment on reports of harm before they are published in the database. Businesses will be able to register an account on the Business Portal during this demonstration.
Webinar participants will also learn how a consumer will use the online reporting form and how to search the database for information about consumer products.
Participation is free, but advanced registration is required.
Earlier this week, the U.S. Department of Labor held a series of webchats about its current regulatory agenda. The archived chats are available on the Department of Labor’s website. IAAPA members should pay close attention to the chats concerning the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Wage and Hour Division .
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Wet 'n Wild Orlando Runner Wins GKTW 5K
There could have been no better setting—and no better weather—for the fourth annual IAAPA 5k Fun Run & 1k Fun Walk to benefit Give Kids The World Village on Thursday. For the first time, under partly cloudy skies and comfortably cool temperatures, the Fun Run took place at the Village in Kissimmee, Florida, just a few miles from the Orlando Convention Center.
Pamela Landwirth, president of Give Kids the World, kicked off the event at 7:30 a.m. by thanking the runners and walkers, numbering some 100, for contributing to the cause with their $25 entry fee, and for getting up so early to participate. “This has become a great even for us that has really grown,” Landwirth said.
The overall winner was Brett Clarke of Wet 'n Wild in Orlando, who finished in 18:27. The top female finisher was Maria Spry, whose son Morgan is currently staying at Give Kids The World Village. Maria clocked in at 20:04. One notable finisher was 10-year-old Ethan Knoebel, grandson of Knoebel Amusement Resort Co-President Buddy Knoebel, who was running with his father, Trevor. Ethan finished in an impressive 23:27. Finishing in 28:15 was Becky Bray, wife of IAAPA President Charlie Bray, who is credited with having founded the event.
Some companies had an impressive number of participants, including Namco America, which brought about 20 staff members to the event, and Wet 'n Wild Orlando, which turned out about 15.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Tips for Pitching Stories to the Media
Thanks to all who participated in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic regional networking event for IAAPA public relations and communications professionals! The event was held at Hersheypark and included lunch, breakout sessions, networking opportunities, and speaker Marilyn Odesser-Torpey, a freelance travel and tourism writer. Amusement parks, FECs, and ski resorts were all represented and we had a lot of productive discussions.
Here are a few pitching tips from Marilyn:
- Personalize the pitch. Read the writing of the reporter and understand their interests.
- Point out what makes it different.
- Look for current trends or local events that relate to what you are pitching.
- Include key facts and messages as bullet points in the body of the e-mail and attach the full release.
- Timing is important. Don't forget some publications require information months in advance (like IAAPA's own FUNWORLD magazine!).
- E-mail pitches, don't call.
- Build relationships. Be accessible.
- Return phone calls.
Thanks again to all who helped make the day a success. We learned a lot in planning this and look forward to holding similar events in 2011.
Here are a few pitching tips from Marilyn:
- Personalize the pitch. Read the writing of the reporter and understand their interests.
- Point out what makes it different.
- Look for current trends or local events that relate to what you are pitching.
- Include key facts and messages as bullet points in the body of the e-mail and attach the full release.
- Timing is important. Don't forget some publications require information months in advance (like IAAPA's own FUNWORLD magazine!).
- E-mail pitches, don't call.
- Build relationships. Be accessible.
- Return phone calls.
Thanks again to all who helped make the day a success. We learned a lot in planning this and look forward to holding similar events in 2011.
Monday, October 4, 2010
ADA Update and Opportunities to Learn More
The final regulations codifying the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) were published Sept. 15. These final rules will take effect March 15, 2011. Compliance with the 2010 Standards for Accessible Design is permitted as of Sept. 15, 2010, but not required until March 15, 2012. For existing facilities, barrier removal needs to be conducted to the extent “readily achievable” by March 12, 2012.
The U.S. Department of Justice has prepared fact sheets identifying the major changes in the rules. IAAPA members should look at the Title III highlights for a sense of what the new regulations include (quick review: Title I of the Act deals with employment practices; Title II is for government facilities; and Title III is for "public accommodations," which is what attractions are). Members may also find it helpful to review the summary of the 2010 Standards for Accessible Design.
Members should familiarize themselves with the new rules and consult their attorneys and ADA consultants to determine what changes (if any) need to be made to make your facilities compliant.
Here are a few items of interest to the Attractions Industry:
1. Miniature Golf — At least 50 percent of all holes on a miniature golf course must be accessible. These accessible holes must be consecutive, and they must be on an accessible route. The last accessible hole must be on an accessible route that connects to the course entrance or exit without going back through other holes. Sections 239.2 and 1007.3 of the 2010 Standards require at least 50 percent of golf holes on miniature golf courses to be accessible, including providing a clear floor or ground space that is 48 inches minimum by 60 inches minimum with slopes not steeper than 1:48 at the start of play. (Note: this is the same as the guidelines previously published by the U.S. Access Board.)
2. Amusement Rides — Many newly designed or newly constructed amusement rides must be accessible and located on an accessible route to the ride. However, amusement rides designed primarily for children, amusement rides that are controlled or operated by the rider (e.g., bumper cars), and amusement rides without seats, are not required to provide wheelchair spaces, transfer seats, or transfer systems, and need not meet signage requirements. That said, these rides must be on an accessible route and must provide appropriate clear space.
3. Service Animals — The rule defines “service animal” as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability. The rule states that other animals, whether wild or domestic, do not qualify as service animals. Dogs that are not trained to perform tasks that mitigate the effects of a disability, including dogs that are used purely for emotional support, are not service animals. The final rule also clarifies that individuals with mental disabilities who use service animals that are trained to perform a specific task are protected by the ADA. The rule permits the use of trained miniature horses as alternatives to dogs, subject to certain limitations. To allow flexibility in situations where using a horse would not be appropriate, the final rule does not include miniature horses in the definition of “service animal.”
4. Wheelchairs and Segways — The rule adopts a two-tiered approach to mobility devices, drawing distinctions between wheelchairs and "other power-driven mobility devices." "Other power-driven mobility devices" include a range of devices not designed for individuals with mobility impairments, such as the Segway PT, but which are often used by individuals with disabilities as their mobility device of choice. Wheelchairs (and other devices designed for use by people with mobility impairments) must be permitted in all areas open to pedestrian use. "Other power-driven mobility devices" must be permitted to be used unless the covered entity can demonstrate that such use would fundamentally alter its programs, services, or activities, create a direct threat, or create a safety hazard. The rule also lists factors to consider in making this determination. This approach accommodates both the legitimate business interest in the safe operation of a facility and the growing use of the Segway PT as a mobility device by returning veterans and others who are using the Segway PT as their mobility aid of choice.
5. Play Areas — Play areas designed, constructed, and altered for children ages two and older in a variety of settings, including parks, schools, childcare facilities, and shopping centers, are covered. Accessible ground and elevated play components, accessible routes, ramps and transfer systems (typically a platform or transfer steps), and accessible ground surfaces must be provided.
Upcoming ADA Information Sessions
Mark your calendars!
1. Free webinar on the ADA for IAAPA members: Wednesday, Oct. 27, 1 p.m. Representatives from the U.S. Access Board will give a presentation on new regulations for attractions including miniature golf and will be available to answer your questions. Don’t miss this invaluable chance to hear from the agency that created the guidelines.
2. “The ADA and the Attractions Industry,” Tuesday, Nov. 16, 3:30 pm, as part of the education sessions at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2010. Hear ADA experts discuss the new rules and their impact on miniature golf, amusement rides, and other attractions. Bring your questions to this informative session!
The U.S. Department of Justice has prepared fact sheets identifying the major changes in the rules. IAAPA members should look at the Title III highlights for a sense of what the new regulations include (quick review: Title I of the Act deals with employment practices; Title II is for government facilities; and Title III is for "public accommodations," which is what attractions are). Members may also find it helpful to review the summary of the 2010 Standards for Accessible Design.
Members should familiarize themselves with the new rules and consult their attorneys and ADA consultants to determine what changes (if any) need to be made to make your facilities compliant.
Here are a few items of interest to the Attractions Industry:
1. Miniature Golf — At least 50 percent of all holes on a miniature golf course must be accessible. These accessible holes must be consecutive, and they must be on an accessible route. The last accessible hole must be on an accessible route that connects to the course entrance or exit without going back through other holes. Sections 239.2 and 1007.3 of the 2010 Standards require at least 50 percent of golf holes on miniature golf courses to be accessible, including providing a clear floor or ground space that is 48 inches minimum by 60 inches minimum with slopes not steeper than 1:48 at the start of play. (Note: this is the same as the guidelines previously published by the U.S. Access Board.)
2. Amusement Rides — Many newly designed or newly constructed amusement rides must be accessible and located on an accessible route to the ride. However, amusement rides designed primarily for children, amusement rides that are controlled or operated by the rider (e.g., bumper cars), and amusement rides without seats, are not required to provide wheelchair spaces, transfer seats, or transfer systems, and need not meet signage requirements. That said, these rides must be on an accessible route and must provide appropriate clear space.
3. Service Animals — The rule defines “service animal” as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability. The rule states that other animals, whether wild or domestic, do not qualify as service animals. Dogs that are not trained to perform tasks that mitigate the effects of a disability, including dogs that are used purely for emotional support, are not service animals. The final rule also clarifies that individuals with mental disabilities who use service animals that are trained to perform a specific task are protected by the ADA. The rule permits the use of trained miniature horses as alternatives to dogs, subject to certain limitations. To allow flexibility in situations where using a horse would not be appropriate, the final rule does not include miniature horses in the definition of “service animal.”
4. Wheelchairs and Segways — The rule adopts a two-tiered approach to mobility devices, drawing distinctions between wheelchairs and "other power-driven mobility devices." "Other power-driven mobility devices" include a range of devices not designed for individuals with mobility impairments, such as the Segway PT, but which are often used by individuals with disabilities as their mobility device of choice. Wheelchairs (and other devices designed for use by people with mobility impairments) must be permitted in all areas open to pedestrian use. "Other power-driven mobility devices" must be permitted to be used unless the covered entity can demonstrate that such use would fundamentally alter its programs, services, or activities, create a direct threat, or create a safety hazard. The rule also lists factors to consider in making this determination. This approach accommodates both the legitimate business interest in the safe operation of a facility and the growing use of the Segway PT as a mobility device by returning veterans and others who are using the Segway PT as their mobility aid of choice.
5. Play Areas — Play areas designed, constructed, and altered for children ages two and older in a variety of settings, including parks, schools, childcare facilities, and shopping centers, are covered. Accessible ground and elevated play components, accessible routes, ramps and transfer systems (typically a platform or transfer steps), and accessible ground surfaces must be provided.
Upcoming ADA Information Sessions
Mark your calendars!
1. Free webinar on the ADA for IAAPA members: Wednesday, Oct. 27, 1 p.m. Representatives from the U.S. Access Board will give a presentation on new regulations for attractions including miniature golf and will be available to answer your questions. Don’t miss this invaluable chance to hear from the agency that created the guidelines.
2. “The ADA and the Attractions Industry,” Tuesday, Nov. 16, 3:30 pm, as part of the education sessions at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2010. Hear ADA experts discuss the new rules and their impact on miniature golf, amusement rides, and other attractions. Bring your questions to this informative session!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
AIMS Safety Seminar at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2010
For the second year, the Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers International (AIMS) Safety Seminar will be held in conjunction with IAAPA Attractions Expo. The seminar will be held Nov. 13-18, at the Double Tree Resort Orlando – International Drive and Orange County Convention Center.
The seminar is a comprehensive safety training program for both current and future leaders in the area of maintenance and/or operations at amusement parks and other attractions. Attendees will receive valuable safety and maintenance instruction from top industry leaders that they can bring home to their facilities to apply to their own jobs and share with colleagues.
The program, in a nutshell:
- Education: More than 200 classes will be offered, and attendees can customize their course work to meet specific goals. Specializations are available in maintenance, operations, aquatics, leadership, and crisis communications. In addition to classroom sessions, attendees will spend time on the show floor at IAAPA Attractions Expo, interacting with manufacturers and suppliers to build their industry knowledge.
- Certification: For those seeking AIMS certification, several tests are being offered during the seminar. (Be sure to bring completed applications, documentation, and payment!)
- Networking: The partnership with IAAPA Attractions Expo allows AIMS Safety Seminar attendees to attend the industry’s premier networking events. From receptions to tours to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter event on Thursday night, AIMS Safety Seminar attendees will get unparalleled exposure to our industry and the people behind it. (Expo admission is included for AIMS participants, but separate registration is required for special events.)
Seminar registration is available through AIMS. Hotel reservations should be made directly through the Doubletree. A group rate is available through this link.
I hope to see you in Orlando!
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