Cedar Fair staffing decisions expected to take time

Wednesday, 24 May 2006

SANDUSKY - Paramount employees are secure in their jobs, at least for the year.

"We have parks to run for the 2006 season," said Cedar Fair vice president and corporate controller Brian Witherow. "Those parks are going to need to be operated. We will access staffing levels in many areas. That process will go on for a good time."

Staffing levels are all part of what Cedar Fair will be evaluating over the next several months, including whether the 18 or so officers and staff in Cedar Fair's corporate office need more help, Witherow said Tuesday.

Cedar Fair will take over the five Paramount parks in the third quarter. Cedar Fair already owns seven amusement parks and five waterparks, as well as an indoor waterpark.

The deal also includes the management of Star Trek: The Experience at the Las Vegas Hilton and Bonfante Gardens in Gilroy, Calif., which Paramount Parks developed and managed.

It also includes getting a close look will be how many full-time and seasonal employees are needed.

Cedar Fair has 1,250 full-time employees and more than 14,000 seasonal employees, according to Stacy Frole, director of investor relations.

Specific employment figures for Paramount were unavailable Tuesday, but Witherow said it could be similar to Cedar Fair.

"It all has to be looked at," said Dick Kinzel, president, chairman and chief executive officer of Cedar Fair. "We are doing our due diligence between now and closing."

-- Brandi Barhite

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