Marc and Marjan Taminiau, creators of the Dutch theme park, Het Land van Ooit, are celebrating after being awarded knighthoods in the royal 'Orde van Oranje Nassau'. The news came as they were preparing to commemorate the park's fifteenth year of opening in 2003. Marc Taminiau is currently on the board of directors for IAAPA, and he and his wife hold many positions within the theme park industry.

The mayor of the district council of Heusden, Henk Willems, carried out the surprise ceremony on the last day of the park's 2002 season. He explained how unusual it was for a double knighthood to be granted by royal order. It is very rare that a married couple are both granted a knighthood, and especially one of the same order and level. It is an acknowledgement of the undividable dedication of both Marc and Marjan that led to this twin bestowment.

Both Marc and Marjan were unaware that their children had been preparing the necessary documentation on their careers and achievements needed for the official application. The theme park, under their influence, has established itself as an attraction with a conscience. Het Land van Ooit is known for its monument against racism - a symbolic primary school project, it has an ornamental garden for blind and visually impaired children, as well as an integrated playground where able-bodied children and children with disabilities can play side by side.

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