Silverwood Theme Park, Sunday April 28 2019 by Cowles Publishing

Silverwood Theme Park • Sunday, April 28, 2019

TO SILVERWOOD

THEME PARK! The Northwest’s largest theme park has plenty to share this year – no matter your age! Silverwood is designed to provide a fun experience for all ages of kids, parents, and grandparents! It’s the perfect place for parents to feel like kids again! Whether it’s your first year experiencing the park or you’ve been a loyal guest for over 30 years, all visitors become a part of the Silverwood family. Our family is comprised of millions of people from all around the world, brought together with the same love for all of the adventure and family fun Silverwood has to offer. Silverwood brings in roughly 700,000 guests every year prepared for days full of fun and adventure, whether they’re staying one day, a week or even longer! From humble beginnings as a small-scale steam engine called Old No. 7 to becoming

a true landmark in Idaho. Silverwood hosts a water park friendly for those of all ages, roller coaster alley for those looking for the adrenaline rush of a lifetime, along with many more attractions and entertainment options. Silverwood is now considered the largest attraction in the State of Idaho and brings in visitors from Seattle, Portland, Missoula, Calgary, and many other regions. With more than 70 attractions, there’s something for everyone, from high-speed rides for thrill seekers to mellow rides for younger riders. There’s a world-class magician, Nick Norton, who entertains crowds daily at Theatre of Illusion. The steam engine, Old No. 7, still chugs around the park several times a day, but this time it’s joined by a group of bumbling robbers, lost, anxious scientists and mystical creatures

like trolls and faeries. Along with a pleasant ride through the countryside, there’s plenty to see and enjoy.

Big changes This year, there’s plenty for all ages to explore or re-experience, a gradual evolution from owner Gary Norton’s original plan of just a steam locomotive. His welcome additions have included various roller coasters, and rides of all intensities, including the Corkscrew, the world’s first roller coaster that goes upside down. There are rides where people scream and rides where people are soaked with water. There are rides recommended especially for little kids and rides for everyone else. Along with regularly adding new rides, the park also makes other changes as well. There

Silverwood Theme Park • Sunday, April 28, 2019

are new food places and snack bars, new games, and new places to buy souvenirs of your fun day or days at the park. There’s even Garfield, who enjoys giving highfives and posing for photos. “We keep on adding to the fun,” said General Manager Paul Norton. “Even things like adding Boulder Beach helped spread everything out – it gave people new reasons to come, to come back and stay longer.”

What’s new Silverwood Theme Park has plenty of reasons to celebrate. Look inside this guide for information about improvements in food, facilities and other elements. There are always all sorts of backstage changes in store to improve the quality, efficiency and look. Improvements include: Mind-blowing magic. Magician Nick Norton will again wow audiences with some of the world’s greatest illusions. He or his apprentice Isaiah Daniels will perform “Phantasm” at 3, 5 and 7 p.m. daily in the Theater of Illusion.

Mythical fun. Old No. 7, the park’s steam locomotive, offers all sorts of fun on its journey around the park. Look for fairies, trolls, and the best bandit show around, plus some new creative additions like an Expedition Guide to take home and bring back with you on future visits.

Fast Facts Silverwood Theme Park Location: About 15 miles north of Coeur d’Alene on U.S. 95, about 40 minutes from Spokane. Offers: More than 70 rides, slides, shows and attractions, including four roller coasters and Boulder Beach, a water park. Attendance: More than 700,000 visited in 2018 and more than 10 million visitors over 30 seasons. Employees: 100 full-time, 1,500 seasonal. Size: About 220 acres Economic impact: $85.5 million in 2014. How to get tickets: Buy them at the gate, or SAVE when you buy them online at www.silverwoodthemepark.com.

Silverwood Theme Park • Sunday, April 28, 2019

THE REAL REASON WHY I’M TAKING MY TODDLERS TO

Silverwood This Summer

By Carolyn Saccomanno/Momvillage.com

In our lives, there are certain things we take ownership of — that we truly feel belong to us — because they function as backdrops, landmarks, or even rites of passage — quintessential parts of our childhoods. We grow up alongside them. It’s why all those “You Know You’re a 90’s Kid If…” lists go viral on Facebook, why Disney’s live action re-makes of “Beauty and the Beast” and “Aladdin” will fill theaters to the brim with 30-somethings, and why parents everywhere smile nostalgically as they hum along to the Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood theme song with their toddlers.

Or consider grape-scented Mr. Sketch markers and primary colored floppy disks; oversized Super Soakers and Lisa Frank-adorned Trapper Keepers; Blockbuster Video membership cards and Tamagatchi keychains — they all have a seemingly magical way of transporting us back to a simpler time, a time of less: less technology, less comparisons, less responsibility, less distractions. A time when we were all just a bunch of Toys R Us kids. For those of us who grew up in the Inland Northwest, a visit to Silverwood Theme Park is part of these good ol’ days. The park represented

a perfect backdrop for memories and rites of passage, and a quintessential part of our collective local childhood. This summer, my girls will be just 1 and 3. Most people would probably tell us to wait at least another year before we pack the kids up and drive over to Athol for a sunny summer day at our region’s premier amusement park. But I’m not too interested in holding off -- mostly because of my memories that float to the surface when I walk around the park. “…I am 8 years old. ‘ Are YOU going to ride the Corkscrew?!’ the neighbor boys taunt my

Silverwood Theme Park • Sunday, April 28, 2019

sister and me as we race through the park’s front lawn, G.I. Joes and Hollywood Hair Barbies in hand while the water droplets from the morning sprinklers evaporate under the blazing Spokane summer sun. That July, I know the elephant ride won’t cut it anymore. On the pine tree-lined street where I grew up, the extent of one’s willingness to be whipped upside down not just once — but twice — by the notorious rollercoaster just a few towns away? That was a fast track to bravery. Being one of the brave kids? Well, shoot. That was everything. Ride the Corkscrew that year, we did. Most of the details of that first ride have evaporated over time. But the feeling I had when the operator released the harnesses and all 48 inches of me stumbled out into my mother’s diaper bagladen arms — a little dazed, a little dizzy — but victorious? That was everything.” “…I am 12 years old. It’s my last week of elementary school — which, I’m rapidly realizing, seems to somehow mark my last week of childhood altogether. D.A.R.E. graduation? Check. Middle school schedule request forms? Complete. Xeroxed spiral bound yearbook signed? Absolutely (with plenty of “HAGS!” and barely legible fluorescent gel pen, of course). My classmates and I disembark the yellow school bus on an unseasonably cold and rainy Wednesday in June 1999 — excited, sure — but, if we’re being honest, a little dismayed by the 55 degree temps. As my field trip group assembles in the chilly drizzle, our fearless leader (AKA, my mom) slings her overstuffed tote bag over her shoulder, asserting that we most definitely won’t allow a little weather to spoil this special day together. Her pep talk is all we need. And, as it turns out, running from one ride to the next is an excellent way to stay warm. However, much like our sixth grade school year, we eventually realize this day, too, must come to an end. And before we know it, that end is just ten minutes away — not enough time to stand in line for a fifth encore of Tremors, the newest ride in the park. The only ride without a line on a 55 degree day? You guessed it: the Log Ride. “Maybe we won’t get wet…?” I suggest, as we tear our way through the empty rope barriers, clamber onto the ride, and scream our voices

hoarse when an icy wave of water predictably engulfs our trio — a humorously gangly mix of messy ponytails, peach fuzzy limbs, and girlish squeals that we will trade for layered cuts, shaved legs, and whispered gossip all too soon. When we frantically slide onto one of those familiar vinyl seats to head home, I have no idea I’m sandwiched between two worlds: to my left, a dear friend I’ll lose touch with when we go to different middle schools that September, and to my right, one of my future bridesmaids. In this moment, we’re just three sopping wet, cold, carefree kids giggling together on a school bus, clinging to one last little bit of our childhood. “ …I am 19 years old. I swear our group is a walking cloud of Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue as we meander our way down to the recentlyopened Boulder Beach water park. We’re all wearing bikinis we spent way too much time analyzing in Nordstrom Rack dressing rooms and hairstyles that took far too much effort when I consider our heads are about to be immersed in pool water. But such is life, right? Onlookers probably assume we’re a tight-knit bunch — a

group of sorority sisters out for a day in the sun, perhaps — but, in reality, conversations dead end on the reg and jokes are met with nervous laughter. For WSU’s newly-minted Crimson Girls dance team, things are, simply put, awkward. But as we settle into the rhythm of a day dedicated to “team bonding,” a shift happens. Real conversations bud over virgin pina coladas as we take turns watching each other’s purses. By the time we finally wisen up and splurge on lockers so we can hit the water slides together, nervous laughter turns to giggling — and then to full-on girlish squeals. As we race from slide to slide, gradually releasing our insecurities, a team is born.” …and I could go on and on. Truly. I could tell you about the car rides to dance classes and soccer practices when we munched on French fries, rapt as we listened to the KZZU radio contest to see who could stay on Tremors the longest. Or our outrage when the Grizzly was renamed the Timber Terror. Or the old fashioned sepia photo my family took at the park one summer that never fails to make us laugh, or

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the first time I got sick on a roller coaster, or the ridiculously awkward blind date I went on with a guy I met on Match.com… and, surprise! — his roommate too. (Yes, the three of us rode Aftershock together that day. No, there was not a second date.) In so many ways, I feel like I grew up with Silverwood. Not in the sense that it was always there — although, certainly, it was. But rather, as my own life has changed over the course of the past 30+ years, so has the park. While I was busy outgrowing the elephant ride, Silverwood grew too: from an adorable Western town replica with the best little train ride around, to a regional amusement park destination. A place where 750,000 visitors brave the Corkscrew, get drenched on the log ride, and turn into carefree kids once more at Boulder Beach each summer. “…I am 31 years old. “And when I enter the park and see those familiar sights,

I’ll also be 19 — and 12 — and 8 years old too. Wearing a swimsuit I wish I had more time to analyze in a dressing room, a messy ponytail, and shaved legs, just for the occasion. You will probably find me hanging out in line for a fifth encore of the elephant ride, feeding crackers to one toddler while I hold the other in my diaper bag-laden arms. Tinywood and Toddler Springs will be our jam, no doubt. Unless our parents come along to help wrangle our girls, my husband and I will not be riding the Corkscrew or screaming our way down Velocity Peak in 2019. But you better believe we’ll make a point to walk by. For me, to look back and remember, of course. But, more importantly, for our girls to look ahead to all the brave, carefree, friendship-filled summers yet to come. Because we’re never too young — or too old — for that.

About the author: Carolyn Saccomanno has lived in the Inland Northwest since childhood and feels beyond lucky to raise her girls here as well. She and her mother run Momvillage, a blog, resource, and online hub for moms in the Spokane area. Recently, she was chosen to be a 2019 Silverwood Conductor. Carolyn is thrilled at the opportunity to share her personal experiences and love for Silverwood with her followers. Carolyn, her husband, and daughters are looking forward to taking on Toddler Springs this summer!

TACKLING SILVERWOOD

Silverwood Theme Park • Sunday, April 28, 2019

with Toddlers

One of our most common questions from parents is about the possibility of keeping their little ones entertained for an entire day. However, Silverwood takes pride in being a park where fun is possible for those of all ages. In fact, children under the age of 3 get in the park free! With that being said, today we are going to share with you the best tips and tricks on how to tackle the park with your toddler.

1. Silverwoodthemepark.com On our website, we have a list of all rides and what the height requirements are for each of them. All of our rides are based on a child’s height, not age. Knowing beforehand what your little one can safely ride will save you time and will help map out your day. If you have time, enter in your child’s height in our size guide to see the attractions they can go on. Garfield’s Summer Camp features many lowintensity attractions that appeal to most toddlers. Some toddler favorites include the Barnstormer, the Carousel, the Flying Elephants, the Kiddie Wheel, and the Red Baron.

2. Meal Time Children can be picky when it comes to mealtime. Luckily there are plenty of options throughout the park, even a kid cafe in the middle of the kiddie rides! If you don’t find a place to eat even for the most stubborn 3-year-old, you can bring small snacks into the park or a sack lunch to eat outside of the park. There are picnic tables by the RV Park; just make sure to get your hand stamped for re-entry.

3. Stroller Rental Walking around a theme park can really tire little ones out. Luckily, there are strollers available to rent at the Information Center on a first come, first serve basis.

4. Toddler Springs There is actually a place designated for toddlers in Boulder Beach. Toddler Springs is located between

the second wave pool and the raft rides. It has various water geysers, waterfalls, and tiny drizzles perfect for younger members of the family.

5. Polliwog Park To cool down on a hot day, then take your tiny tot over to Polliwog Park in Boulder Beach. There are several tiny slides near the bottom of the structure that are the perfect size for you to splash down with your toddler. Or they can just sit in the shallow water and splash their cares away.

6. Lifejackets Even though you probably won’t be leaving the little ones unattended, it is nice to feel that they are safe at all times. In Boulder Beach, there are life jackets free to use at a first come, first serve basis. There are various sizes and colors, and they are usually laying around the wave pools. We recommend picking one up right when the water park opens at 11 a.m. because they go fast. Guests can also bring their own life jackets as long as they are US Coast Guard certified.

7. Rider Policy Many parents contact us with questions regarding riding policies. Below are some scenarios in which you might come across with small children, and how to handle them.

1. Two parents want to ride an attraction but they have a child that is too short to ride. Solutions: Both parents should wait in line with the child. Or Parent 1 rides the ride while Parent 2 waits with the child in the line. After Parent 1 has ridden, Parent 2 rides while Parent 1 waits with the child in the exit. 2. Two parents both want to ride an attraction but have a child that is unable to wait in line for a stroller or any other reason. Solution: Parent 1 waits in the line while Parent 2 waits at the ride exit with the child. After Parent 1 has ridden, Parent 2 rides while Parent 1 waits at the ride exit with the child The parent waiting needs to communicate with the ride operator to inform them of the situation 3. A parent has two children that both want to ride an attraction but each child is required to have an adult. Solution: The parent can ride with child 1, while child 2 waits with a non-riding family member After child 1 has ridden the ride, child 2 may ride with the parent with child 1 waits with a nonCont on pg 8 Tackling Silverwood with Toddlers

Silverwood Theme Park • Sunday, April 28, 2019

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riding family member. Inform the ride operator so that we are able to assist in this process.

8. Award Winning Shows Something that every family member enjoys is our award-winning shows! Your toddler will love watching Marshall Jack capture bandits on the train, or guessing how Magician Nick Norton made someone disappear! Getting to these shows early is essential in order to get the best seat possible.

9. Visit Garfield and Friends Spending the day at the park with your toddler will be a memorable experience, and the best way to capture that special day is to

take a picture with Garfield. This year, Garfield has a new home inside the Toy Store and will be available to take pictures. The best part is that Garfield will be there to greet your little one with a big smile.

10. Try the 2 Day, Any Day Toddlers can run out of steam real fast. A solution to this could be trying to visit the park in two days instead of trying to fit everything into one. If this sounds like it could be the right fit for your family, then you might want to purchase the two day, any day ticket. This ticket doesn’t have to be used consecutively and can be used any time during Silverwood’s operating season.

Silverwood Theme Park • Sunday, April 28, 2019

MICHELLE SHEETS

Human Relations Manager What are some of your first memories of Silverwood? I want to say it was walking the ponies in the pony rides, but I also remember my dad having us help him sand the steam engine. I sold souvenirs and ran the spotlight for the Ice Show. I have truly worked everywhere within the park. I have a lot of childhood memories here. My 8th grade graduation was held here the first year of the Country Carnival, and we all rode the Corkscrew and Skydiver like crazy.

What do you think of Silverwood today? I love the people here. I’m always going to love the smell of cotton candy and popcorn. My kids love it too. My daughter’s first birthday party was in the High Moon Saloon, and we’ve had numerous parties here and all sorts of rides on the Tiny Toot. They have always loved the mine shack, and the older ones love Scarywood. One of my daughter’s birthdays is in mid-October, so we’ve had a few spooky birthdays.

CHRIS PETERMAN

Warehouse Night Supervisor 3 years What are some of your first memories of Silverwood? My grandpa and I would bring our RV and stay at the park. It was awesome. I couldn’t get enough of the first carousel which had real horses. There was a petting zoo right by it too, with a tiger, and that’s all I wanted to do. It smelled like a barnyard – I’m sure my parents wanted to do other things, but I loved it. My first time on the train I thought the robbery was real. My family said I stood up to protect them. A big memory was overcoming my fear and going on the Corkscrew, since that was the only coaster for awhile. It was neat watching the ice skating and I became friends with one of the skaters. The magic show has always been great.

Do your children work in the park too?

What do you think about the park now?

Two of them are working here now, and one should apply. I encourage everyone to work here – it’s a great starting job for hard workers, and they love working for their grandpa too. We’re always hearing that other employers in the area like hiring Silverwood cashiers or food and beverage employees because they can handle themselves dealing with high volumes of people and money. Nowhere else can duplicate this volume.

A lot of the old rides are gone. My favorite was the Sky Diver. I do like how the water park has been added. I still like the Log Flume – that used to be my jam – I’d want to do it again and again.

Do you have a favorite activity? I love watching children’s faces light up around the park. Whether it’s the first time they put up their arms on the Tiny Toot, or splashing around Toddler Springs, seeing those little smiles and laughter brings me joy.

Any other family memories and keepsakes? I have some of my original name tags. We also have a houseful of the gems from the Mine Shack. My kids’ favorite thing to buy right now is candy, so one could say the dental bill is my souvenir!

Have you been enjoying visiting the park with your family? My nieces and step-kids are always asking to go. Employees always can get a few tickets for familyy and friends, which is a lovely perk. This helps them build their own memories.

Any other memories or souvenirs? I also still have an Elvis teddy bear – it was the aviator bear from the air show. I loved the air show.

Silverwood Theme Park â&#x20AC;¢ Sunday, April 28, 2019

Silverwood Theme Park • Sunday, April 28, 2019

NICK NORTON’S MAGIC SHOW BIGGER AND BETTER FOR 2019 This year’s upcoming magic show will be performed with some of the most advanced technology within the entire industry. Nick Norton has been extensively training and sharpening his skills to put on the most advanced illusions Silverwood theme park has ever seen. With a little help from some of the best technology there is to offer; Nick will be astounding and amazing audiences all summer. “We’re making 1860s Paris, we’re making Dr. Cosmos’ laboratory, we’re making all sorts of large-scale illusions,” Nick Norton said. As Silverwood’s resident magician for the past 18 years, he’s always looking for ways to take his show to an entirely new level of entertainment for all ages. It is his passion to give those watching his show a sense of wonder and amazement.

“This year we’re going to have everything, including time travel,” he said. “We’re talking Disney-style adventures that take you anywhere in time.”

Wednesdays, Isaiah Daniels will be performing. “He does a different version of the show without an assistant, and some different illusions,” Norton said.

Norton loves seeing the same people in the audience all season long and also meeting those who have previously seen his performances.

Access to a 3-D printer has tremendously increased the quality of props in the show. However, the brand new digital projector has made a huge difference. This projector will transform the entire Theater of Illusion into a time machine sent back into the past.

Later this year, Nick Norton will offer a special version of his show for the Golden Ticket Awards in September, an industry celebration the park is hosting.

We have such as loyal fan base,” he said. “Sometimes we have people coming up saying ‘I saw you in 2000 and now I’m bringing my kids.’”

These shows will include costume changes and even portions where audience participation is required. There’s a blend of humor as well, ranging from kid-friendly to some discreet adult humor.

People interested in attending are encouraged to find seats at least 30 minutes before showtime. Doors are closed immediately after the last seat has been filled.

“We take the whole audience through time and do a complete transformation,” Norton said. The show will run right around 30 minutes, slightly longer than the usual 22 minutes, but Norton doubts anyone will mind. Guests are always invited to stick around afterward for post-show photo ops. Norton will be performing five days a week. On Tuesdays and

Nick always makes a point to go out ahead of time to introduce himself. “A lot of shows may only have music ahead of time, but it’s important for me to get out there. Plus, it helps me gauge the audience and helps me feel more connected to them right away.”

“

“This is really the most fun of all the years we’ve done,” he said. “It’s going to be the biggest show we’ve ever done – this one has been roughly 18 years in the making.” Nick and Amanda Norton or Isaiah Daniels perform 3, 5 and 7 p.m. daily in the Theater of Illusion.

Silverwood Theme Park • Sunday, April 28, 2019

NEW ADVENTURE JOURNAL ENHANCES TRAIN TRIP

While memories last a lifetime, some may prefer an actual keepsake. The iconic train ride at Silverwood is incorporating a brand new adventure journal for those wishing to completely immerse themselves in the once in a lifetime experience. This year, passengers aboard Old No. 7, Silverwood Theme Park’s historic steam locomotive, can acquire their very own “Expedition Silverwood” activity book and field guide. This guide includes illustrations of the cast, a map, and describes many of the wonderful and mysterious things to be experienced during the train trip. It also includes places for the book’s owner to jot down their tales of adventure. “Think of it as a ride journal that they can start filling out when they’re in the park, follow along on the train, and then continue their adventures at home,” said Chris Tortora, better known as Marshal Jack, the Entertainment Manager for the entire north end of Silverwood. The booklet can be purchased before, during and after the train ride in the Depot or other park gift shops. Guests are encouraged to bring it back every time they visit, which will be handy when attempting to collect autographs from cast members or catch a glimpse of all the exciting things along the way during the train trip. On this train ride, passengers will be transported into a whole new world, tasked with a mission to help Marshal Jack and the rest of the cast search for lost expedition members.

Last year, highlights included a Bigfoot temple, a mysterious mermaid and spitting trolls. Even more exciting characters are being introduced this year. Riders will encounter ogres, goblins and even a mysterious Elven princess. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for even more fun surprises along the way!

the concept and sketches, actual creatures are made. Then Tortora embarks on the long drive to Florida to pick up new creatures each spring.

“Last year, we put a fairy door on one of the trees just to see if anyone would notice from the train,” Tortora said. “People went ballistic – and it wasn’t only the kids who saw it, moms especially loved that aspect of our ride.” The train may also encounter flying fairies, which the cast will catch in nets and provide to passengers to take home if they pay a small ‘adoption’ fee. Tortora said this year’s show will bring together great elements from past years plus some new exciting and memorable features. “You’re going to get it all,” he said. “We know kids always love it, but this year, we invite their parents to suspend their disbelief and be a part of the adventure as much as their kids.” For the past few years, Tortora has worked closely with a friend who designs creations for a theme park in Florida. After providing him with

One of the favorite parts of past train adventures will remain. Passengers will still be “robbed” by a group of bumbling bandits. However, emptying one’s pockets is always optional, and all funds raised through the season are donated to Children’s Village, a non-profit in Coeur d’Alene that gives assistance to children and parents in crisis situations. Experiencing the fun for yourself is easy! The train boards every hour from the train depot on Main Street.

Silverwood Theme Park • Sunday, April 28, 2019

BRING YOUR GROUP TO SILVERWOOD

It’s no secret, Silverwood is the place to go for adventures galore. The best way to enjoy all Silverwood has to offer is when your experience is shared with others, whether it’s your family, friends, classmates, co-workers, church members or any other group. Silverwood has a sales program that makes the process of getting a group together at the park a breeze. It is easier than ever to attend the park with a large number of people. “We can have as few as 15 in a group and as many as 1,700. Each level creates better and better options and lower pricing per person,” said Steve Carey, Sales Director. The park’s sales staff is always happy to put together customized packages, whether it’s a school or church trip, a company party or a family reunion, many schools enjoy putting together end-of-the-year or graduation parties. Group options can include everything from T-shirts, sports bottles and ‘all you can drink’ wristbands. Some groups can receive entry to Roller Coaster Alley for exclusive access to the roller coasters before the park is officially open to the public. The Group Picnic Pavillion is considered a hub for groups to gather together, enjoy the park, and then eat lunch together. One guest favorite group activity is Physics and Science Days. Where schools throughout the region gather together to enjoy the park and also perform scientific experiments, these experiments range from how to design a roller coasters to an egg drop competition from various heights. This year’s event is May 22-23, which is a week later than in past years. Carey encourages anyone considering a group trip to Silverwood to start putting the details together soon. Certain days can be more crowded in the park and the group areas. For instance, July and August are best in terms of weather. However, due to a large number of visitor attendance at the peak of our season.

We recommend scheduling a group visit on a weekday. September and June also have great weather and fewer crowds. “One of the biggest goals is to make the entire process as seamless as possible,” he said. For instance, each group will have one contact to make sure things stay organized, and everyone has been given the correct information. For bigger groups, the park staff may even set up a table in the Courtyard for easy check-in or assistance.

Plus, Silverwood’s family ownership lets everyone show their creative side.

“

If you want to do something fun and unique for your group, ask us, and we can give you an answer right away,” he said. “We want to work with you to make your Silverwood trip the best experience possible.” People who want to discuss guest options can email groups@silverwoodthemepark.com or call (208) 216-4300.

Silverwood Theme Park • Sunday, April 28, 2019

SAM GAGE

Director of Operations

What are your first memories of Silverwood? I started in the Pavilion washing trays.

my first time on it. Thinking, ‘I did it’ and then wanted to do something bigger. She’s definitely a thrill-seeker and I remember that feeling as a kid.

What experiences have you shared with your children? I have a 6-year-old daughter and a 6-month-old daughter. Last year the older daughter went on Tremors for the first time. I could see that she was nervous and wasn’t sure if she could go through with it. But she did, then when we got off she said, “Can we go again?” It was great seeing the smiles, the fear, and then the smiles again.

What are some of your family’s other memories? She’s grown up in the park, so some of our favorite pictures are when she’s in front of the different ride height signs each year getting taller and taller. We also have a picture at home of my daughter and myself on the Log Flume from years ago. We all have big genuine smiles on our faces.

How has going to Silverwood with your kid made you a kid again? When we were done with Tremors, I loved seeing her have that feeling of courage, like ‘I’ve conquered something’ and it reminded me of

What are her favorite rides? Butterflyer and now Tremors Any other thoughts? I like hearing people have such a good time that they say ‘I want to work here someday,’ or hear

employees share their memories. I think we do have some park regulars who are working here now or multiple generations of families. I like seeing the smiles on kids’ faces, especially when they show their parents that they’re now tall enough to ride a ride. You definitely get a different perspective from working here when you go on rides, and sometimes I make notes for things to bring up to people later. However, when you’re on a ride with your child, going 65 mph, you forget about all of that for awhile.

KELSEY BLAGDEN Warehouse Manager 19 years What are some of your first memories of Silverwood? Our family had season passes so we came up here and played a lot. We would get season passes in our Christmas stockings. My mom would drop us off and we would play all day. We always ended up at the candy store and came home with bags of treats.

What do you think about the park now? It’s different and a whole lot bigger, with a whole area that wasn’t there before. It’s been really cool seeing all the growth.

Have you enjoyed it with your family? I like seeing how big everything is, and knowing some things have been around a long time. It’s fun seeing the process happen.

Any other stories of your experiences here? When I come to the park as a guest, I do catch myself answering people’s questions in line or in rides. Sometimes it’s just something like ‘where’s the bathroom?’ but I tell them I work here.

Silverwood Theme Park • Sunday, April 28, 2019

From Farm to Park Chicken strips remain top seller David Lee sometimes gets unusual reactions when he tells his industry peers how Silverwood Theme Park differentiates itself from other competitors, because of their standards regarding food. “We tell them we have the freedom to make as much as we can from scratch and buy local as often as possible,” said Lee, food and beverage manager for the last six years. While many of the large-scale parks feel the need to buy their pre-packaged ingredients in advance or receive supplies at the most affordable price, Silverwood goes to great lengths to ensure they are buying as much local food as possible. In fact, their motto is “the closer the better” in terms of food and supplies.

Along with always looking for ways to improve quality, the park continues to look for ways to make the process more efficient and improve from the time from ordering to actually receiving food. There is always going to be some lines on busy days, but a complaint in the past used to be how long it took to be served especially at peak times. “We’ve been working on training and ways to get the wait down,” he said. “Our complaints have dropped significantly. The park also prides itself on different types of food through the whole park. But there are certainly some favorites. “Our chicken strips outsell everything,” Lee said. “They were the most popular item in 2018.”

“We almost have a farm-to-table experience,” Lee said.

“Don’t forget the ice cream,” another perpetually popular item, according to Lee.

Beef from the burgers comes from the Yakima Valley. Ice cream comes from Oregon. Produce comes from Inland Northwest farmers.

This year, Lee said ice cream, soft serve and Dippin Dots would all be in the same spot, creating the factor of convenience for fans of cool treats.

“You can feed your whole family for under $40, and our quality is superior to what you’ll find in other parks,” Lee said.

The ice cream is especially memorable because customers can receive up to one pound per scoop We give ridiculous portion sizes, he said.

Another returning favorite this year is the commemorative souvenir bottle. Purchasers get free refills on the day of purchase, and .99 cent refills the rest of the season. “We also have fresh-squeezed lemonade this year,” Lee said. “People can watch the lemons get cut up, squeezed, a little sugar added and it’s served right there– it’s cool and visual.” Part of the fun about the Silverwood food and beverage experience is that it’s often the first job for some employees. This creates opportunity to gain work experience and opens the door to other jobs around the park. “About 90 percent of our food and beverage staff are first jobbers, so we teach them the basics of communication and other useful skills.”

Silverwood Theme Park • Sunday, April 28, 2019

SCARYWOOD HAS 3DEMENTIA & MORE!

basically taking a crowd favorite One of the challenges, at least where scaring people is concerned, is and turning it into a rock and roll that you can’t do the same thing over funhouse.” and over. Over the off-season, Russell and a few other Silverwood managers This is something especially true at Scarywood. Although some people attended HauntCon in New Orleans, will still come for favorite attractions one of the industry’s largest from past years, they won’t have the gatherings for haunted houses same scary experience unless there’s and scary attractions. Along with presenting a class on Scarywood, plenty that’s new and different. they brought back plenty of creative That’s why Chris Russell, director ideas and techniques. of effects, is always looking ahead at which attractions need to be refreshed or replaced.

The Scarywood experience is also getting other enhancements.

Last year, for instance, visitors to the fall scary experience were amazed by the Pharoah’s Curse.

“We’re expanding the scare zones, so people can now expect to see monsters throughout the park, not just around the attractions,” he said.

This year, visitors will see a whole new 3Dementia.

Some of his direction comes from guest comments, some from other “We’re going to take people into the 4th dimension with new artwork, park officials. “We do pay attention to what 3D printed items, music and all sorts of new illusions,” Russell said. “We’re people tell us about what they like,

what they don’t like and what really scares them,” he said. “We even have people who tell us things should be bloodier.” Scarywood is also an opportunity for local artists and make-up professionals to show off their skills. He’s always interested in meeting people willing to have fun creating the spooky experience, especially since he likes to rely less on masks and more on make-up and effects. “We have a great team of artists who are always looking for more ways to scare people,” he said. Russell is already looking ahead to future seasons, or technology that can improve the fright experience, including digital projections. “We’ve been planning for this season since 2017, and we’re planning for two years from now,” he said.

“It’s Going To Be Scary –

we don’t do Scooby Doo here,” said Russell

The seasonal event Is recommended for Ages 13 and up, and every year there are Parents who bring their Kids along thinking it will be fun for them. Usually, It Isn’t.

“We Want Parents To Know There’s Always Plenty Of Gore And Even More This Year. So this Is A Place Where ‘Be A Kid With Your Kid’ Shouldn’t Apply.”

Silverwood Theme Park • Sunday, April 28, 2019

Silverwood Theme Park Summer Events Silverwood Anniversary May 4-5 To celebrate Silverwood’s opening in 1988 everyone gets in for only $19.88 per person, per day, when purchasing a ticket at Silverwood’s front gate or online. (a savings of $18.12!) Not valid with any other discounts, coupons, promotions or special offers.

Mother’s Day Weekend May 11-12 When a family brings Mom to the park and PURCHASES their ticket online or at the front gate, Mom gets in FREE! Plus everyone receives a special pricing of only $38 for general admission and $21 for youth/senior admission. (Only one free Mom ticket per ticket purchase with a maximum of 2 per family, not valid with any other discounts, coupons, promotions or special offers.)

Kids Weekend May 18-19 For every General Admission ticket purchased, one (1) youth (ages 3-7) will receive a free ticket to Silverwood! Plus everyone receives a special pricing of only $38 for general admission and $21 for youth/senior admission. Want to save even more? Purchase your tickets online. (Only one free Youth ticket per General Admission purchase, not valid with any other discounts, coupons, promotions or special offers.)

American Heroes Weekend May 25-27 All military personnel, veterans, police officers and firefighters (identification required) Receive FREE admission to the park and their immediate family members (spouse and children) also receive a special discounted rate ($24 plus tax, ages 8-64, $19 plus tax, ages 3-7 and 65+, a savings of up to $14!) when purchasing tickets at Silverwood’s front gate! For information call (208) 683-3400. Special May rates May 27-June 7. $38 (ages 8-64) $21 (ages 3-7 and 65+) or order online and SAVE more. (Not valid with any other discounts, coupons, promotions or special offers. Silverwood will be closed May 28 and 29 & June 4 and 5.)

Boulder Beach Opening June 8 - Boulder Beach opens daily! Break out the swim suits and the sunscreen for the unofﬁcial start of summer in the Northwest! Father’s Day,.

Father’s Day Weekend June 15-16 When a family brings Dad to the park and PURCHASES their tickets online or at the front gate, Dad gets in FREE! (Only one free Dad ticket per ticket purchase with a maximum of 2 per family, not valid with any other discounts, coupons, promotions or special offers.)

Toyota Tuesdays July 16 and 23 The driver of any Toyota gets in FREE when they bring an admission coupon from any Inland Empire regional Toyota Dealer. Coupon

must be validated on arrival at Silverwood by a parking attendant. Not valid with any other discounts, coupons, promotions or special offers.

Coaster Classic Car Show August 31 & September 1- Classic cars from across the Northwest converge on Silverwood on the Saturday & Sunday of Labor Day Weekend. The 14th Annual Coaster Classic Car Show is one of the biggest events of its kind in the Inland Northwest. As a participant in the car show, entry fees are $20 for 1-day admission or $35 for 2-days. With entry, each driver and one passenger will get FREE admission into the theme park! (A savings of up to $169.00) That means competitors can put down the polish & get some thrills on the roller coaster or chill our in Boulder Beach Water Park FREE!

Grandparents’ Weekend September 7-8 Silverwood shows their appreciation for Grandmas and Grandpas by admitting them to the park for free when accompanied by a grandchild. For each grandchild that PURCHASES a ticket, they will be given one FREE ticket for Grandpa OR Grandma. Plus everyone receives a special pricing of only $38 for General Admission (ages 8-64) and $21 for youth/ senior admission (ages 3-7, 65+). (Not valid with any other discounts or promotions.)

Community Appreciation Weekends September 14-15; 21 & 23; 28 and 29 - For EACH GENERAL ADMISSION SOLD $4 WILL BE DONATED TO HELP LOCAL FOOD BANKS and for EACH YOUTH/SENIOR TICKET SOLD $1 WILL BE DONATED. Admission is only $38 (ages 8-64) and $21 (ages 3-7 and 65+) at the front gate. SAVE more when you purchase your tickets at silverwoodthemepark.com. Not valid with any other discounts, coupons, promotions or special offers.

Scarywood Thursday, Friday & Saturday Oct. 3-Nov, 2 - Get ready for a month of screams as the theme park you thought you knew just became the nightmare you’ll never forget. As seen on Travel Channel’s “Halloween’s Scariest Thrills,” Scarywood is full of haunted attractions and roaming monsters. Experience ﬁve haunted attractions, seven scare zones and most of Silverwood’s signature rides in the dark.

Silverwood Theme Park â&#x20AC;¢ Sunday, April 28, 2019

FULL PG AD PARK OR TOYOTA