About the Author
JAY DUCHARME teaches Electronic Media at Holyoke Community College in Massachusetts. He's Loved amusement parks and dark rides in particular since he was a child. His fifth grade science project was a miniature dark ride. He got a "D" minus, but that didn't deter him. A couple of years later, he constructed a walk-thru fun house in his front yard and charged admission. In 1980 his father encouraged him to get a job at Mountain Park. He operated most of the park's rides, including those that his father also operated: "The Dinosaur Den", "Pirate's Den" and "Out of This World". If the park hadn't closed in 1987, Jay would still be there. In the fall of 1993, he became the chief operator of the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round, transplanted from Mountain Park to Heritage Park in downtown Holyoke where it still successfully operates. Jay has written many articles, including a popular history of roller coasters for the now defunct "World of Coasters" website. He is also a successful singer and songwriter and performs with his beautiful and talented wife Karen, a professional pianist. They have three terrific children who are involved in the amusement business. This article "C 2002" by Jay Duchmare. Used with
Permission by International Dark Ride Association, "I-Ride!", and
Tunnel of Laffs . Photos "C 2002" by Jay Ducharme and Tunnel of
Laffs and used with
permission. Special Thanks to Jay Ducharme, Edward Leis, Roger Fortin, Bret
Malone, and special mention to the wonderful
past Dark Ride and Fun House creator: Dominic Spadola, one of the best
there ever was, and who is missed, yet not forgotten! Entire article
"C2002" by the International Dark Ride Association. You may contact the
author through the website. Tunnel of Laffs is not related in any way to the
parks or rides mentioned within this website. Please ask for permission before
using any of the photos contained within this article or website.
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EDITORS NOTES: Mountain Park Memories 1 & 2 -- About the Author
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