Silverwood, june 20, 2015

Marketing Supplement to The SpokesmanReview an SR Media Company spokesman.com Saturday, June 20, 2015 1

2 Marketing Supplement to The SpokesmanReview an SR Media Company spokesman.com Saturday, June 20, 2015

Fast Facts: Silverwood Theme ParkFast Facts: Silverwood Theme ParkLocation: About 15 miles north of Coeur dAlene on U.S. 95, about 40 minutes from Spokane.What it offers: More than 70 rides, slides, shows and attractions, including four roller coasters and Boulder Beach, a water park.Hours/dates of operation: Gates open at 11 a.m. daily through Labor Day, and closing time varies depending on the day of the week. In September, the park is open 11 a.m.-7 p.m. weekends only. Scarywood, Silverwoods October promotion, takes place Thursdays - Saturdays Oct. 3 through Oct. 30. Size: 221 acres.Number of guests: 10 million over 27 years, more than 679,000 in 2014. Number of employees: 95 year-round and 1,400 seasonal.Payroll: $8.5 million.Economic impact: $85.5 million in 2014. How to get tickets: Buy at the gate, or SAVE when you buy online at www.silverwoodthemepark.com.

Since the late 1980s, it has been offering plenty of opportunities for fun for visitors from around the country. The

largest theme park in the Northwest now includes more than 220 acres of activities

and attractions, from an antique steam locomotive to exciting roller coasters to some of the best water slides around.

The upcoming season is going to be great! Though there arent any new large attractions this year, the park staff has spent the off-season making improvements to much of the infrastructure, behind the scenes, including:

An expanded train show, with more cast members and higher-quality choreography and stunts. Its also the 100th anniversary of Old No. 7, the parks steam locomotive, which is even more reason to take a ride.

New colorful signs and updated scenery throughout the park

New buildings in the Country Carnival area, including Kettle Corn, Sugar Shack and Glimmer n Glow.

A new lift for the Log Flume which makes the loading and unloading more stable and smooth.

The addition of Arlene to the line-up of Gar eld and Odie.

A new geyser outside of Thunder Canyon that spectators can use to spray people on the wet and wild ride.

With more than 70 rides and attractions, theres no shortage of things to see and do, no matter your age.

The park is also offering other fun ways to experience the park, such as various special events and even a few Facebook days, where people who follow the park on that particular social network can nd out early entrance, discounts and other special deals.

For details about whats new this year and classic attractions that are worth checking out year after year, please continue to enjoy this section!

Welcome to Silverwood Welcome to Silverwood Theme Theme ParksParks

2828thth season! season!


Ultimately, Silverwood Theme Park is about families, and owner Gary Norton and park management work hard to make sure all ages feel welcome and have their favorite activities, attractions and traditions.

This can include everything from rides just for little ones to more intense coasters for bigger ones, and maybe even more mellow rides that kids and grandparents can ride together.

There are lots of places to sit and watch the crowds go by, and places to jump right in.

One area especially intended for families is Gar elds Summer Camp, which was expanded in 2014. Along with some classic rides like the Helicopters, visitors now have access to the Krazy Coaster, a medium-intensity roller coaster and the Puppy-Go-Round, a dog-themed carousel. Both are perfect sizes for children, but theres also space for other family members to come along for the ride.

The rides will be similar to the Butter yer and Barnstormer, two newer rides that also allow grown-ups to ride alongside the kids.

Sometimes the kids may want a parent or grandparents to come along but there isnt room or there are height restrictions. Or a kid may feel big enough to ride by

themselves, as long as someone is there to watch them.

The family area is also a good place to see Gar eld, Odie or the new addition of Arlene. They may be wandering the park or available for photos at certain times of the day.

Families also can check out the Kids Kafe, and get some family-friendly items such as a box lunch, hot dogs and self-serve ice cream.

Of course, there are other treats that can be found in all areas of the park and Boulder Beach.

Ultimately Silverwowowood Theme Park is about families and the

Traditions for Families Traditions for Families of all ages continueof all ages continue

Bring your group of 20 or more and SAVE on admission. PLUS enjoy value-priced all-you-can-eat buffet

meals, all day all-you-can-drink beverage bands, early entry and more. For information

call 208.216.4300 or email [email protected]

SILVERWOODTHEMEPARK.COM


Happy birthday Old No. 7! Happy birthday Old No. 7! Aftershock, Spin Cycle and Tremors are super cool for sure. But if you had to pick one ride that truly represents the past, present and future of Silverwood Theme Park, it has to be Old No. 7.

The parks steam locomotive and about 3-1/2 miles of track was the rst feature that Gary Norton brought to his property north of Coeur dAlene in the mid-1980s. In a now-classic story, he set his sights on a retired silver mining train at an auction of old railroad and mining memorabilia, and successfully outbid several other theme parks for the privilege of taking it home.

Of course, his home at the time was an old private air eld and surrounding forestland in North Idaho, and he later admitted he didnt quite have any idea of what to do with the sizeable purchase. But he decided to lay the track in a big loop and re the train up, and soon decided to add more features to make Silverwood a fun local destination.

Now, more than 27 years later, the train still chugs around the track several times a day, and Silverwood has become Idahos top attraction.

Visitors say they enjoy the chance to slow down and see the park and surrounding forests, the herd of bison, the Old West show, and this year, Professor McGillicuddy, the elusive Sasquatch and other surprises.

Improvements have been made over the years, including more things to see along the route, and the increased professionalism of the Old West show, under the direction of Chris Tortora, better known as Marshall Jack.

Tortora previously worked at Universal Studios Florida and in law enforcement before being asked to improve the quality of the show. He recruited a team of actors and taught them stunts, and changed the sets around. Now the show is always fun and exciting, whether youve seen it once or dozens of time. Plus, elements are always changing depending on the day and cast, so theres always something new to experience.

This year, Old No. 7 celebrates its 100th birthday while there wont be a formal birthday party for this old workhorse, make sure your visit to the park includes this special piece of history!

We want to see you aboard We want to see you aboard

Old No. 7 this season! Old No. 7 this season! We invite everyone to sub

mit photos of their train experience it could be

a sel e, it could be a family shot watching the fun,

it could be a shot with

Marshall Jack, Deputy Katie or other cast members

. Maybe a super shot of

the scenery! Photos can be submitted between now

and Friday Sept. 11.

Visit spokane7.com/reader-photos/ for more detail

s. Winners receive day

passes into the park in the 2015 or 2016 seasons.

Park visitors this season Park visitors this season

can pick up a new can pick up a new

keepsake publication: keepsake publication:

the No. 7 the No. 7

ACTIVITY BOOKACTIVITY BOOK, , which features a cover cre

ated by Lily

Swenson. Other contributions can be

seen on this page and at

spokane7.com/reader-photos/


This was really a favorite memory for me he told his grandpa he wanted to go on it again not later in the day, but right now, said Tortora, better known as Marshall Jack, one of the heroes of the Old West show thats part of the steam locomotive experience at Silverwood Theme Park.

But then last year he had an even better experience.There was this macho guy who ended up having the best

time, he said. He was laughing the whole time, wanted to pose for pictures with everyone, and just loved every minute of it. Seeing adults turn into kids is really one of my favorite parts of this.

Marshall Jack and a cast of heroes and villains are part of the train adventure every day, along with a scientist and perhaps a mysterious Sasquatch.

Every show is a little different, and Tortora works hard to make sure the show is fun and more importantly safe for the cast.

They train regularly in Hollywood-style stunts, using choreography, ght coordination and other techniques Tortora picked up as a stuntman at Universal Studios in Florida.

The whole 2014 cast came back as well, along with some new faces, especially in the bandit category.

This year, people are going to see a great show, with even bigger and better ghts, he said. Our show is becoming so popular we had to add more people people get so excited about the train now.

Tortora even kidnapped a friend and a longtime Disney World Imagineer/scene artist to come up to the park over the winter to help create concepts for fun ways to expand the sets and the show for this season.

We drove 3,000 miles in three days, and got here right in a

snowstorm, but he went right to work, Tortora said. After he came up with detailed drawings and a game plan, Facilities Manager Chris Lempesis and park craftsmen made them happen.

Passengers should expect more characters, a larger role for Sasquatch, a lot more laughs and a lot more stunts, including one bandit who falls off a 25-foot water tower.

If that isnt enough fun, there is a

new chance for audience interaction.

When each trip starts, a certain number of volunteers will be chosen to audition to be part of the show and will be provided with costumes and a few lines.

The audience participation will blow people away, he said.

Passengers should also prepare to be robbed with proceeds given to Childrens Village at the end of each season. Tortora said some people even hit the ATM before departure to make sure they have something to give the bandits.

He said people should come ready to be entertained. I can teach anyone to do stunts or take direction, but I cant

teach anyone to have a good attitude or a work ethic, and this cast has both of them theyre really bringing it, he said. I can honestly say this is going to be our most exciting season yet!

CC hris Tortora didnt think anything would hris Tortora didnt think anything would top his encounter with a young boy top his encounter with a young boy who didnt want to stop riding the train.who didnt want to stop riding the train.

All aboard!All aboard!Every show is a little differ

ent, but one earlier this year really took the cake.

Instead of their usual walking down the aisles taking

loot, the bandits took one

woman off the train as a kidnap victim. Though her f

riends were cheering, she

was a little concerned, until one of them pulled off h

is bandana, got down on

one knee and asked her to marry him.

He approached us earlier to help with the proposal

, said Chris Totora.

We costumed him as a bandit, put him on the set, a

nd made sure his girlfriends

friends made her get on the correct train. She though

t the whole kidnapping

thing was part of the show.


Silverwood is all about families.

Three generationsThree generations love Si

lverwoodlove Silverwood experience!experience!

EE very good trip Silverwood Theme Park starts with The Horse Tornado, which is what Arlene Williams family calls the parks classic carousel.

Then they love the big swing, then the bumper cars, then the Log Flume, she said. I think we like all of them the kids think the whole park is their own private Idaho.

Williams started visiting Silverwood years ago when her kids were little, and now has begun visiting regularly again now that her kids are having their own little ones and Silverwood is a perfect place for families.

Its fun, comfortable, clean, and everybodys friendly, she said.

Often, they wait until late afternoon to hit the park by then, some guests are heading home just as the family is getting started. On long summer days, they can still enjoy several fun hours in the park before nightfall.

We usually do the rides rst, or if its extremely hot, well hit the water park, Williams said. The kids love swimming.

Its often Williams, her daughter and two grandchildren, although sometimes one of Williams friends brings along her grandchildren as well, so they always have a fun group.

Every season is a blast, but this year is going to be extra special for one of her grandsons hes grown just tall enough to ride Timber Terror.

He started wanting to ride it when he was 3, and that was three years ago, and everyone had to tell him he wasnt tall enough year after year, Williams

said. Finally, at just about the end of last season, he was tall enough.

He loved his rst ride on it, and now is looking forward to plenty of rides aboard the favorite wooden coaster.

We went opening weekend this year, but he didnt want to wait in line, she said. Now hes looking forward to being tall enough to go on Tremors.

The family is also a big fan of the Lazy River at Boulder Beach.

Silverwood is just a great place to take the whole family, she said. When people come visit and we try to gure out what to do, its usually Silverwood!

Williams especially enjoys seeing the park through different perspectives over the years.

We like watching the kids and grandkids enjoy the rides and all of their smiles, she said. Whatever we do, everyone loves, from the magic show to getting ice cream you have to stop for ice cream. Its a great place and its easy to relieve your childhood through your kids and grandkids.


Three generations love Si

lverwood experience! AAcomment often heard about Silverwood Theme Park is how clean it comment often heard about Silverwood Theme Park is how clean it always looks and with thousands of visitors each day more than always looks and with thousands of visitors each day more than 679,000 last year alone its a challenge doing this day 679,000 last year alone its a challenge doing this day after after day.day.

Silverwood sparkles in spite of challenges

Chrissy Wortman, Director of Theme De

sign

To make this happen, the park has a sizeable staff dedicated to taking care of basic wear and tear but a larger goal of making everything as pleasant to look at as it is to enjoy the attractions. This includes everything from daily landscaping to fresh signage to coming up with different looks for different areas and attractions.

Were always working, said Chrissy Wortman, the Director of Theme Design. We have some of the best people around.

In the winter, the teams focus on internal xes such as fresh paint, wallpaper, larger repairs, and any repurposing of buildings. By February, plants are already started in the greenhouses and moved outside by spring. Other interior and exterior work takes place in the spring park-wide.

Our annuals start going in by late May, which is when the color really starts to pop, Wortman said.

If theres a new attraction or section coming, she and other team members plan all the details of where it will be located, including colors, landscaping, signage and other xtures.

This season, since there wasnt a new area, the original plan was to make larger changes like move bigger plants around and change the look of some areas.

But Mother Nature had other plans, Wortman said. A sudden summer storm hit the RV Park hard last summer it

knocked down quite a few trees and also weakened others that needed to be removed so they wont pose a threat to guests or their property. There wasnt time to plant seedlings and let them grow over time, since part of the appeal of the campground is the forest surroundings.

We had to put in new full-grown trees and start irrigating them at the same time that we had people wanting to come in to start camping, she said. The grounds crew has been doing a great job taking care of all of this. Along with big xes to the RV Park, she said the maintenance staff built new themed buildings for Kettle Corn and the Glow Shop,

which both can be seen when you enter the Games area. Wortman has special praise for the Grounds and Landscaping

crews, many of whom come back year after year. This team has slowly been building over time, and now they

really work so well together and achieve so much, she said. Over the winter, the park brought in local master gardeners to

work with the team so they could all bene t from the advanced knowledge.

She said the park enjoys showing off the landscaping, especially to those who appreciate the behind-the-scenes work involved. One local garden group even came up speci cally to look at the grounds and didnt even want to go on the attractions.

We love meeting with different garden clubs, and were happy to give tours if anyone wants to come see the gardens, she said.


Not all that long ago, when Nick Norton asked the audience who has seen his show before, just a handful of people raised their hands.

These days, more than half the place cheers, which tells Silverwood Theme

Parks resident magician a couple of things: people like coming back, and they also dont necessarily want the same show.

We work hard to give people the best show we can, said Norton, who plans to perform Phantasm two to three times each day, seven days a week. A few seasons ago, he gave himself a couple of days off each week

while a guest magician lled in. But he found that guests didnt want to accept any substitution.

Show fans know that its usually just him up there with only his wits, quick ngers, a couple of lovely assistants and some well-trained birds.

But this season, hell be sharing top billing with Dr. Cosmos, a crazy old inventor, who will present his occasionally successful creations as he tries to nd that place between science and magic.

Instead of another Nick Norton show, Dr. Cosmos gives us a chance to introduce and play around with a new character, Norton said. Hes always trying to make the world a better place and if he catches on with audiences, well get to see him more and more.

The 30-minute show includes plenty of illusions and sleight-of-hand. Norton has trained with top magicians over the years, he also works with a talented technical team that makes each show a full multi-media experience, including lights, sound, video, CGI, live birds and more.

Tech has really come into its own, and we can now control every aspect of the show, he said. Guys like Eric Young and Gary Banks can do so much.

Costumes for Phantasm are also rst-rate, and designed by Theresa McLean, who previously worked for Ringling Brothers circus.

Those who have seen a Nick Norton show know that he doesnt just do a bunch of tricks and send you on your way.

He focuses on making the show entertaining, with plenty of humor and audience interaction.

I like to come out a little early to check out the audience, he said. If the front row is full of kids, Ill gear things more for them, or if theres a huge family reunion where everyone is all together Ill see if I can include them somehow.

Besides the appearance of Dr. Cosmos, Norton is adding other elements hell continue to ask for an audience volunteer to be the guest magician, but has added a new role for a guest magicians assistant.

There are always little modi cations taking place, which is great for people who like to catch the show multiple times.

We actually change the show each time, Norton said. We also love seeing the same families year after year I get hugs from people who have been coming for 15 years.

Phantasm takes place each day in Silverwoods Theatre of Illusion.

Nick Norton Magic ShowNick Norton Magic Show popular with return visitorspopular with return visitors


Nick Norton Magic Show popular with return visitors

Another important component is sharing your experience on social media, something that Silverwood Theme Park is making easier and easier.

Media Manager Jordan Carter said the park is always excited when guests let everyone know about the good time theyre having and he and other park employees do the same.

Every day were putting up new stuff, hoping to keep people engaged and having fun, Carter said. We really focus on expanding the parks digital experience. Plus, social media allows followers to see a glimpse of what happens when the park isnt open.

During the off-season, Carter likes posting photos about what the park is like when its empty and covered in snow and favorites like the bumper cars or roller coasters go in storage. When the park is open, the parks media features all sorts of attractions, including people enjoying rides, food, entertainment or many other activities.

He also shares info about upcoming promotions and special events that youll only know about if youre plugged into a particular network.

We like to reward people who follow us, he said. Were always doing giveaways, and were planning more Facebook/Fan Appreciation Days this season with early entrance opportunities and other fun.

Facebook is a prime platform for the park, and more than 145,000 people world-wide like the park. Silverwood also purchases Facebook ads for users in Seattle, Portland and Calgary.

The park also has a recently expanded YouTube channel, with videos of rides, employees and just goofy activity in the park.

Silverwood has a Twitter page and an Instagram account that Carter enjoys contributing to since the park is so visual.

We have Pinterest too, where we try and show off the beautiful gardens, our great looking food and more, he said. Were planning on doing more with this.

One new channel for 2015 is Snapchat, which lets Jordan put up a photo or quick video for only a few seconds that only followers can see.

This gives us a unique opportunity to show some of the behind-the-scenes activity that not everyone gets to see, like in areas where guests arent allowed, or what happens in the park when its not open, he said. Were nding that Snapchat can be a little more organic, spontaneous and a little intimate, and were seeing more and more theme parks having fun with it. Our followers really have taken hold of it well.

The park also offers an email newsletter that people can subscribe to that discusses upcoming promotions and activities. Its a good way to know about season pass sales or approaching season openers.

Carter encourages people to follow Silverwood on their favorite social platforms, especially if they use hashtags like #silverwood or #silverwood4fun to let others know the good times theyre having.

Were getting a lot of high traf c and a lot of awareness, he said. It has been fun to see the results.

One of the parts he especially likes is hearing suggestions from guests on ways to improve the park experience, from future attractions to simple touches. The need for a family bathroom in Boulder Beach, for instance, came from a guest social media suggestion.

We really like to hear from people and we read every one of these, he said. It really is rewarding to see how much people love the park and share their memories.

Some Facebook posts have included pictures of what the park looks like in winter, top, or information about the different coasters.

HHaving a great day at the Northwests largest theme aving a great day at the Northwests largest theme park is only part of the fun these days. park is only part of the fun these days.


The worst thing about Silverwood, at least for Eric Townsends family, is that its too hard to pick one favorite attraction.

Spin Cycle!Aftershock!Corkscrew!The train!All of Boulder Beach!

When pressed to choose just one, the family seems to settle on everything, which nicely summarizes how much they enjoy the park they began visiting regularly in 2005.

Silverwood is a great value, Eric said. I love how much fun it is, and how much fun as a parent I have watching my kids.

The Townsends -- Eric, his wife Joanne and daughters Tabitha and Genevieve -- have enjoyed watching the park grow and become more enjoyable every year.

More and more things in the world are becoming more and more expensive, but Silverwood isnt too crazy, he said.

Eric Townsend said the family usually ends up going to the park at least a half-dozen times each season, sometimes for just a few hours.

They try to follow a routine with every visit, usually starting with the Tilt-A-Whirl, then hitting Coaster Alley, then cooling down on the train ride and often ending up playing at Boulder Beach. It also depends on the number of people with them.

Were always going but, once a year, we get the whole family to come up from California, so theres 19 to 26 of us all playing in the park, Townsend said. We have a big crew of grandparents, cousins and everyone else the kids really

like seeing the grandparents get on the rides. The Townsend family is hoping to get out to Silverwood by

early June, especially when Boulder Beach opens.They all have great memories of the park in the last few years,

but one of Erics goes back much longer.I rode the Corkscrew when I was a kid when it was a

Knotts Berry Farm, he said. I grew up in California and went on it, so when I found out it had located here, I thought it was pretty cool.

Theyve enjoyed the experience of being regulars.

Were starting to see a lot of familiar faces, and occasionally see some of our friends there, he said. And we always do Spin Cycle and Aftershock.

Spin Cycle!Spin Cycle!

Corkscrew!

Corkscrew! The t

rain! The train!

Beware of the Beware of the weather weather

Silverwood remains open in all

types of weather. However, some

rides may be temporarily closed as

a safety precaution. The park now

has a weather monitoring system

that tracks larger storms, including

electrical activity. Precautions may

be taken if a storm is approaching.

All of Boulder BeachAll of Boulder Beach

Aftershock!Aftershock!


After all, no one likes or wants to be that person who has to tell people to follow the rules.

But, as Silverwood Theme Parks Aquatics and Safety manager, Norman says the best way to make sure your fun isnt ruined is to follow the rules.

He knows that even a moment of inattention or a wrong step can cause injury or worse.

This year, hes focusing on centralizing all safety training and risk management, which previously was managed by several different departments.

His goal is that all employees have the training to make sure the guests, and the staff, stay safe. Responsibilities include inspections and repairs, investigations when accidents occur, and follow-up discussions to make sure it doesnt happen again.

Weve been working with all the managers on what they can do to ensure the safety of cast members and guests, he said.

Norman has also been working with team members to update and implement emergency plans and training drills that cover speci c scenarios, everything from guests with health problems to people being

stuck on a ride that loses power. Some of these may require support from several different departments, such as Rides, Maintenance, Security, and emergency personnel from outside the park.

Weve been doing a lot of fall safety training, and guring how to get harnesses on guests and get them off attractions safely, he said. My goal has been to pick some scenarios that are kind

of unusual so people will have to think a little harder and use different skills.

Every department now receives a certain amount of training at the start of each season, but others require weekly or monthly refreshers, such as the First Aid team and the Aquatics team.

Norman adds, While Silverwood has not experienced many signi cant emergency situations, we

are pro-active to ensure we are adequately prepared.

Lifeguards are required to have at least 30-40 hours of training even before they start working with guests, and then at least 24 hours of training each month. Each position in Boulder Beach also requires an additional 16 hours of training.

The First Aid team requires 16-20 hours of training to even begin working, along with quite a few hours of job shadowing.

We make sure we really have our stuff down, Norman said.

Hes also been working with the Timberlake Fire Protection District to make sure they are familiar with the

park in case their assistance is ever needed.Silverwood also recently began working

with a new safety company which provides safety standards and recommended best practices for every ride. This will help managers know which procedures are being followed or make xes where needed.

If he can point to one suggestion to help guests have a good time, its to pay attention.

Read the safety signs at every ride, listen to and obey the operators instructions, and ask any questions, he said. And ride safely.

New visitors to Boulder Beach Water Park sometimes wonder what the lifeguards are doing.They all seem to be doing some sort of weird bobbing and turning, which is a lot different than the sit still in the tall chairs guards were used to, or even the running on the beach in slow motion Baywatch moves.

Silverwood Theme Parks lifeguards are actually doing exactly what theyre supposed to a thorough way of actively scanning their assigned area. Rather than looking straight ahead or trying to keep track of certain people in the water, all of Boulder Beachs lifeguards are required to follow a thorough observational method where whats in front of them is divided up into 10 sections.

Each area must be scanned over and over during their shift to make sure nothing is missed. They also change locations in the park regularly during their shift to stay alert. This style of scanning is more active than just staring ahead, which can sometimes lead to simply zoning out or focusing on one area and missing something on the perimeter. Dont be concerned if they dont make eye contact with you for long they hope everyone enjoys their experience and remains safe. But theyre busy and are asked to not chat with anyone while on stand, since this can potentially take away from their assigned duty, even for a few seconds.

If you do need something, feel free to contact the nearest lifeguard. Even if they cant take time to give you their full attention, theyll be happy to call a manager who can assist with your questions or needs.

Chris Norman knows that some people arent fond of Chris Norman knows that some people arent fond of

the fun police.the fun police.


But since fans of the month-long celebration of spookiness in October love any kind of sneak peek about whats in store this fall, he can spill the beans a bit.

Well bring back most of everyones favorites like Blood Bayou and The Ruins, said Russell, the parks special effects designer. But well have a lot of improvements everywhere.

When he and other members of the Scarywood team were looking at what areas

to tweak, they started by listening to guests not just their comments, but their screams.

The areas that terri ed people the most, we try to make

more of them, Russell said. This means were expanding some of the the signature Scare Zones.

Russell is also working on at least one more still-under-wraps new attraction.

This year, Scarywood will be open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in October, and purchasing tickets in advance is highly suggested. As the month of October gets closer to Halloween, Scarywood becomes more and more popular with growing attendance every weekend.

Russell said visitors love the experience. The cast also enjoys scaring them too.

Last year was our best year, he said. We

had good reviews, good attendance, great actors it was a good time for guests and one of the smoothest seasons weve had.

He said hundreds of people help make it happen each night, starting with the park staff who operate the rides and sell food and drinks, the behind-the-scenes staff then there are all the freaks in costumes.

Last year, there were about 140 cast members and a huge support staff.

Not everyone knows that Scarywood is worked on all year.

Russell and another employee stay busy working on costumes and attractions or researching whats happening in the scare industry, including some attractions that are open all year.

I even go to fashion shows, concerts or non-scary things just to see what attracts peoples attention, he said. A lot of what we do is just building suspense you cant just go up to someone and say boo!

Seeing what other parks are doing is fun, but also helps Scarywood stay unique.

So much of what we have here is custom-made, he said. Youre not going to see Freddy, Jason or the same haunted house that youll see anywhere else.

About four months before showtime, more Silverwood members join the effort, including carpenters, electricians, marketing and IT.

On each night, Russell is one of four members of the make-up team who get the 140-plus cast members ready to go. Two costumers also help.

We have four hours to get everyone ready to go, he said. Then I leave and walk around, and see how

everything goes. Every night is a little different, and actually,

different times of the night may have different energy or attractions. So cast members are always moving around.

Something that worked great on a Friday with 3,000 people may not work as well on a Saturday when theres more people, he said. There may be a bunch of werewolves in one area that you walk through and when you come back theyre gone its always evolving.

Scarywood opens Oct. 2 and ends Oct. 30. Its recommended for ages 13 and older due to frightening content. For more details, to purchase advanced tickets and save, or to book your group of 20 or more for a certain day and save even more, visit www.scarywoodhauntednights.com.

Chris Russell, Special Effects Designer, promises more thrills and chills at 2015 Scarywood, including more clowns.

If Chris Russell had it his way,If Chris Russell had it his way, you wouldnt know a thing about Scarywood, other you wouldnt know a thing about Scarywood, other than its bigger and more frightening every year. than its bigger and more frightening every year. Shar

ing the success


They successfully rob four to six train-cars full of park visitors each day, all season long. Though various marshals and deputies are always on hand to stop further carnage, the crooks always seem to net a nice haul for their efforts.

But not everyone knows that their ill-gotten gains always go to a good cause at the end of the season, Silverwood Theme Park chooses a local charity to receive the funds.

For the last ve years, Childrens Village in Coeur dAlene has been a grateful recipient, especially when park owners Gary and Jeanne Norton offer to round up the total to an even number. (Like in 2014, when $58,000 was brought in, and the Nortons added $42,000).

SIlverwood Theme Park and the Norton Family are also active in other parts of the community. It helps welcome back soldiers and provides special days in the park for people with special needs. It salutes veterans and gives attention to members of the public safety community. It collects donations for area food banks and support organizations by donating a portion of each ticket purchased by a guest during the last three weekends in September a true win-win.

The park also encourages its own employees to do their best, including offering scholarships to staff wanting to pursue or continue higher education.

Each spring, the park holds the Night of Stars, where as many as 5,000 physically and mentally disabled guests and those with a terminal illness receive free entrance for a special outing and pavilion meal in the park for themselves and a guest.

Another special program is Reading is the Ticket, which offers K 8th grade students in the Northwest a ticket into the park each summer in exchange for them reading independently at least 10 hours during the school year.

Its free for teachers to take part in the program, and all the students have to do is log their hours and turn in their completed form by early spring, and then they receive their passes by the time school gets out.

The program began in 1999 with 4,522 students, and continues to grow every year. In 2008, more than 44,000 young readers participated, and more than 66,000 took part in 2014. The tickets donated this year equates to more than $3 million.

If youre a teacher or principal and would like to know more about Reading is the Ticket or for your students to participate, please call Knowledge Unlimited at (800) 356-2303.

Each spring, the park holds the Night of Stars, where as many as 5,000 physically and mentally disabled guests and those with a terminal illness receive free entrance for a special outing and pavilion meal in the park for themselves and a guest.

They successfully rob four to six train cars Another

AA s far as general banditry s far as general banditry goes, the gang at Silverwood Theme goes, the gang at Silverwood Theme Park has a pretty good thing going.Park has a pretty good thing going.Shar

ing the successSharing the success


I was asking, Oh my God, is this real? she said, describing her rst trip aboard Old No. 7, the steam locomotive that has been chugging around Silverwood Theme Park for nearly 30 years.

Part of the traditional train experience includes a group of bumbling bandits demanding that everyone empty their pockets and surrender their loot. Giving is optional of course, and the bad guys haul is donated to Childrens Village at the end of every season. But the hold-up can still be unexpected and a little unnerving for rst-time riders.

Decades later, she has enjoyed carrying on the tradition.I saw the same look of panic in my sons eyes when he went on

the train the rst time, she said. He and his wife will be having a baby soon, and someday, hell hopefully also have the same experience, watching his child wonder whats going on the rst time they take the train trip,

Silverwood has been a big part of Rinquists life since the beginning. She went with her parents as a teen, then brought her kids as an adult, and plans on bringing grandkids.

It holds so many memories for us, she said. Its such a tradition.She rst remembers visiting at age 12, where there wasnt much

in the park besides the train and the Corkscrew. Originally, it was more like a step back in time, without the

amusement park portion they have today, Rinquist said. For a long time, she was a coaster person. But then Boulder

Beach opened, and she decided she preferred the more sedate Lazy River.

Im really a water person, she said. Now my tendency is to spend as much time in the water as I can.

Silverwood is present in so many of her and her familys adventures.

It seemed like we could make any excuse to go birthdays, random special occasions, nice days, she said. When I got divorced,

the only thing that would cheer me up, of course, was Silverwood. Then I got remarried, and youll never guess where we went before we actually left on our honeymoon!

Her husband also has his own memories of the park going back years.

He said he still remembers going to the magic show as a kid, he said.

In her husbands memory, the magician asked for some money, and her dad offered a big bill that the magician made disappear. Unfortunately, he never gave it back, and after the show, his anxious dad went to claim it, and the magician told him to check his wallet. There it was.

My husband remembers being so amazed and his father was amazed as well, Rinquist said.

She and her family are looking forward to the upcoming season, although it will be the rst one without her recently deceased father.

We have a lot of memories of him here, she said. He loved the Antique Cars, and as soon as I smell the BBQ, Ill think of him. But all of the memories of him at Silverwood are good ones.

Overall, she calls Silverwood the one constant in her life. She likes how it remains family-owned and local-focused with activities for any age. Its different than some parks that may just focus on younger visitors. She also likes that Silverwood focuses on giving back to the community, such as the Reading is Fun program.

I can always count on Silverwood to be there to cheer me up and provide its magic, she said. I am just as much a part of the Silverwood family as Silverwood is a part of mine! Silverwood has done so much to make people enjoy themselves.

BB ettina Rinquist still remembers the ettina Rinquist still remembers the first time gun-toting robbers demanded first time gun-toting robbers demanded money from her and her family. money from her and her family.


Fans of Gar eld will be even more excited than a pan of fresh lasagna: a third character from Paws is coming this summer.This summer, Silverwood will welcome Arlene, who, in the comic strip, is part of Gar elds group of

friends. Shes slender and always offers wry commentary on their world.She joins Gar eld and Odie in

happily greeting visitors to the park, which can include plenty of high- ves, handshakes or posing for photos.They can be

spotted wandering through the park every day, sometimes separately, sometimes together.

But their main base of operations is going to be Gar elds Summer Camp, which is now located in the recently

expanded childrens area. In addition to standing around greeting guests, theres now a new photo

area where you can pose for photos with the characters at scheduled times.

Gar eld was created by Jim Davis and was rst syndicated in 1978. Today, the

comic strip appears in more than 2,400 newspapers worldwide and is enjoyed by more than 200 million

readers. In addition to the newspaper strips, there are more than 100 licensed Gar eld products, from video games to comic

books. There have also been two movies, an iPad app, a TV show

and more.

ArleneArlene to jointo join Garfield,Garfield, OdieOdie this seasonthis season

Local history fans know that the rst few decades werent as fun as the last few, when Silverwoods train primarily was used for mining and miner transportation in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

But then park owner Gary Norton purchased it at an auction and brought it to North Idaho, where it now spends its days chugging around the park and being robbed regularly. The train has become one of the most popular rides in the park.

To mark the trains centennial, were inviting readers to share photos of themselves aboard it it could be something you take this summer or something fun from the past.

Well accept any photo that has anything to do with the train experience a sel e, an image of the family having a good time, a cool motion shot as it goes through the trees, good images of the Old West show, a picture of the elusive Sasquatch, or maybe a nice landscape shot as the train exits the forest and starts heading to Coaster Alley.

Photos can be submitted between now and Tuesday Sept. 8. They can be emailed to [email protected], uploaded at www.spokane7.com/contests.

The contest is open to all ages.

Send Us your train photos!Send Us your train photos!

B ettina Rinquist still remembers the first time gun-toting robbers demanded money from her and her family.


JuneJuneFathers Day Weekend June 20-21 Celebrate Fathers Day at Silverwood! 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 family, not valid with any other discounts, coupons, promotions or special offers.) (208) 216-4300

JulyJuly Fourth of July Extravaganza. July 4 Celebrate Americas independence with patriotic music all day long, in the evening, and one of the best reworks shows around.

SeptemberSeptemberCoaster Classic Sept. 5-6 Clubs and individuals from across the Northwest who own classic cars are invited to Silverwood Theme Park for a favorite local Labor Day tradition. The 13th annual car show includes a chance to check out great autos and get to know the owners. Each driver and a passenger receive free

admission to the park, so theyre welcome to take a break from the show by checking out rides or cooling off at Boulder Beach Water Park. Discount admission tickets are available for additional friends or family members. For more details call (208) 683-3400 or visit silverwoodthemepark.com/coasterclassic.php

Grandparents Weekend Sept. 12-13 What better way to celebrate Grandparents Day than at Silverwood Theme Park! 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 $37.99 for General Admission (ages 8-64) and $20.99 for youth/senior admission (ages 3-7, 65+). A savings of $8 on General Admission and $2 on youth/senior admission.

Community Appreciation Discount Days Food DriveSept. 12-13, 19-20, 26-27. Save money and help our local food banks! Save up to $18 on admission. For each general admission sold, $4 will be donated to help local food banks. For each youth/senior tickets sold, $1 will be donated. Purchase tickets at silverwoodthemepark.com.

Park SaleSept. 12-Oct. 30 Were cleaning house! Park guests will save 50 percent on all Silverwood souvenir merchandise in our retail stores. Shop early for your favorite clothes and souvenirs because at these prices theyll go fast! Offer cannot be combined with any other discounts or offers. Some exclusions apply such as food, beverages, photos, some general merchandise and Scarywood Halloween merchandise.

ScarywoodOct. 2-3, 8-10, 15-17, 22-24 and 30 The communitys favorite attraction returns for another year of scaring visitors. Visit www.scarywoodhaunt.com/ for more details.

Silverwood Theme Park Summer EventsSilverwood Theme Park Summer Events More details are available at www.silverwoodthemepark.com/events-deals. Schedules or events are subject to change please double-check the park web site.


Toyota Drivers favorite day of Summer!

*Pick up your voucher at your local Toyota Dealer. One voucher for the driver only.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY YOUR

LOCAL TOYOTA DEALERS

Toyota Drivers get in Free*

July 21st & 28th

Documents

Silverwood, june 20, 2015