Disaster Transport makes final launch for charity

SANDUSKY, Ohio, July 13, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- After 28 seasons of launching riders to Alaska and outer space, Disaster Transport will complete its last mission July 29.

Before Cedar Point's only enclosed roller coaster disappears into the galaxy forever, fans will have the chance to bid farewell to a ride that's been a familiar part of the Cedar Point skyline since 1985. Anyone who has ever pondered the meaning of the "12 E" sign or wondered what's lurking in the darkness won't want to miss this!

To commemorate the final launch, Cedar Point is hosting a celebration to benefit Give Kids The World, a nonprofit "storybook" resort in Central Florida where children with life-threatening illnesses and their families are treated to a weeklong fantasy vacation free of charge.

At Disaster Transport Final Dispatch: A Mission for the Kids, guests can become a part of history while helping children with life-threatening illnesses and their families make memories that last a lifetime.

For a $20 registration fee and a $50 minimum donation to Give Kids The World, they can enjoy a private party and exclusive ride time after the coaster closes to the public! The fundraisers with the highest totals will earn the privilege of choosing their seats on the last train while riding with the lights on.

"Cedar Fair has developed a strong partnership with Give Kids The World, an organization whose mission is close to our hearts," said Annie Zelm, marketing programs representative for Cedar Point. "In the past four years, the Coasting for Kids events at our 11 parks have raised more than $200,000 for the families they serve, giving them a much-needed break from the hospital and something to look forward to during the most difficult times of their lives. Each year, Cedar Point's fans have come forward with an incredible display of enthusiasm and generosity, and we're counting on them again for this one-of-a-kind event!"

Give Kids The World President Pamela Landwirth said an expanded relationship with Cedar Fair will help the agency make dreams come true for even more families.

"Although we have served over 116,000 families, the need continues to grow," Landwirth said.  "Through the generous support of Cedar Fair we are able to create the happiness that inspires hope for many more precious children, giving them the time of their lives while there is still time."

Participants can register for Disaster Transport Final Dispatch: A Mission for the Kids, by clicking on the links at cedarpoint.com and gktw.org.

• The celebration begins with a reception at 9 p.m. July 29 in the patio outside Disaster Transport, followed by exclusive ride time from 10:30-11:30 p.m.
• Registration includes park admission all day July 29, a Disaster Transport T-shirt and a special souvenir. The three highest fundraisers will receive grand prizes from Cedar Point and Give Kids The World.
• Registration begins Friday, July 13, and runs through noon July 27. The clock is ticking, so don't wait!

Disaster Transport is a bobsled coaster that shuttles its passengers on an eerie journey through dark corners and unseen dips. It has welcomed more than 30 million adventure-seekers since it opened as Avalanche Run in 1985.  The ride is being dismantled along with the Space Spiral to make better use of prime space in the front of the park and enhance the overall appearance of that corridor, although a timetable for Space Spiral's removal has not yet been determined. The Space Spiral's rotating cabin has offered spectacular views of the park since it opened in 1965. Towering 330 feet above the main entrance and beach, it served as a beacon in the days before Cedar Point reached new heights with the 420-footTop Thrill Dragster.

About Cedar Point:
Cedar Point will be open daily through Labor Day, Sept. 3, plus Friday nights, Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 7 through Oct. 28.  For a complete operating calendar and more information about the 2012 operating season, guests can log on to www.cedarpoint.com or call the park's general information line at (419) 627-2350.

About Give Kids The World:
Give Kids The World Village (GKTW) is a 70-acre, non-profit resort in Central Florida that creates magical memories for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. GKTW provides accommodations at its whimsical resort, donated attractions tickets, meals and more for a weeklong, cost-free fantasy vacation. With the help of many generous individuals, corporations and partnering wish-granting organizations, Give Kids The World has welcomed more than 110,000 families from all 50 states and more than 70 countries. For more information about GKTW and its mission, visit givekidstheworld.org.

SOURCE Cedar Point