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INDUSTRY NEWSLETTER TO SNOHOMISH COUNTY-BASED TOURISM BUSINESSES DECEMBER 2014
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
News You Can Use 2
Travel, Tourism & Hospitality 8
The Sports Pages 15
Around Snohomish County 20
Let’s Play Indoors 25
What’s Happening 33
1Tourism Today
December 2014
NEWS YOU CAN USE
SCTB Welcomes New Board MembersThe Snohomish County Tourism Bureau is pleased to announce three new board members.
Nancy Finch, general manager at Hampton Inn and Suites, LynnwoodNancy returns to the board of directors bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience as a hotel general manager and board member of several tourism and hotel-related boards, including:
• Downtown Seattle Association• Seattle Hotel Association• Visit Seattle (Seattle’s convention and visitors bureau)• Washington Lodging Association
She previously served on the SCTB board during her tenure at the Holiday Inn Downtown Everett. We welcome her back to the board and to Snohomish County after her brief hiatus.
Matt Smith, industry & resource development director, Economic Alliance Snohomish County
Joining the board in his capacity as an economic development practitioner, Matt understands the various “big picture” factors that impact tourism revenues including:
• The competitive strengths and opportunities for Snohomish County and the Puget Sound region relative to business climate• The quality of life attributes of Snohomish County which make it a good tourism destination • The impact of a company’s decision to locate or expand a business operation here
2Tourism Today
December 2014
[SCTB Welcomes New Board Members continued]
“Tourism dollars spent in Snohomish County create economic activity through business revenue, job creation and tax revenue,” said Matt. “Tourism is a component of an economic development strategy.”
In his new role on the SCTB board, Matt hopes to facilitate better interaction between tourism and other entities involved in economic development within Snohomish County and the Puget Sound region.
NEWS YOU CAN USE
Ethel Marzolf, common area coordinator, Everett Mall
Ethel joins the SCTB Board for a new one-year term approved by the Board to represent the retail sector. Her 25-year experience as a food service manager has been an important arena for her to learn and implement customer service practices.
Having been with the Everett Mall for the past five years, Ethel provides support in specialty leasing, marketing and accounting, and is a liaison for tenant and customer relations. She also works on mall
marketing and promotions, intra-mall cross promotion, event planning, and social media.
Ethel looks forward to helping increase the visibility of not only Everett Mall, but the retail industry in Snohomish County as a whole.
We happily welcome our new board members!
3Tourism Today
December 2014
NEWS YOU CAN USE
Getting Ink: Working with Travel WritersJulie Gangler, the Snohomish County Tourism Bureau’s media relations contractor, met with and arranged visits for travel editors and writers to several of the county’s attractions.
Carrie Uffindell, contributor to Northwest Travel magazine, had her article “The Spirits of Snohomish” published in the Sept./Oct. issue after an April tour. Read it here: http://nwtravelmag.com/?s=spirits+of+snohomish
Karin Leperi, contributor to Aviation for Women magazine, a members-only publication of Women in Aviation International, had her 1½-page article on Paine Field’s aviation attractions published in the Sept/Oct. issue. Karin toured the facilities on June 3 & 4.
Travel writer Terry Richards of The Oregonian newspaper visited the Hibulb Cultural Center and its new canoe exhibit in September. His article appeared in print and online Oct. 5. Read it here: www.oregonlive.com/travel/index.ssf/2014/10/tulalip_hibulb_cultural_center.html
He also wrote an “Air Tourism” sidebar on Paine Field’s four aviation attractions, plus Arlington Airport/Fly In. Read it here: www.oregonlive.com/travel/index.ssf/2014/10/sno-homish_county_known_for_air.html#incart_story_package
Local travel writer and photographer Sue Frause featured the Hibulb Cultural Center and its new canoe exhibit on SeattleTravelExaminer.com Oct. 13 following her August fam tour. Read it here: www.examiner.com/article/hibulb-cultural-center-natural-history-pre-serve-showcases-coast-salish-canoes
4Tourism Today
December 2014
NEWS YOU CAN USE
Tourism Revealed: Unveil Your Creativity in Snohomish CountyThe latest theme in the Snohomish County Tourism Bureau’s tourism promotion program Tourism Revealed is art, culture and history. Participants in this free, interactive program are called “investigators.” They can follow the clues, get deals to museums, galleries, theaters, and more, and post photos of themselves enjoying their adventures for chances to win some amazing prizes.
Many of the county’s arts, cultural and historical attractions have generously donated discount coupons, products or services that will be used toward prize packages.
How It Works:
1. You must create an account or log in to your account to see the deals. These deals are exclusive to the Tourism Revealed community!
2. Visit the mission page to view cases and clues. Here you’ll find the locations to visit for the deals, and the places to photograph yourself to enter the grand prize drawing.
3. If you’d like to enter the grand prize drawing, take a photo of yourself enjoying art, culture or history in Snohomish County during November or December, 2014.
a. This is your evidence. Submit evidence by sharing the photo on Tourism Revealed’s Facebook page or share on Twitter and tag @tourismrevealed.
5Tourism Today
December 2014
[Tourism Revealed: Unveil Your Creativity continued] b. Or, if you’ve photographed yourself at one of the businesses offering a coupon, visit that businesses’ coupon page on TourismRevealed.com and upload the photo there. All photos uploaded directly to TourismRevealed.com will count for two entries in the grand prize drawing!
c. Tourism Revealed will confirm the evidence and mark the case complete. You do not need to participate in the grand prize drawing in order to receive the deals – the coupons are available for all Tourism Revealed participants! You also do not need to use the discounts to enter the grand prize drawing.
4. The more photographs you submit, the more chances you have at winning the grand prize – each photo submitted to Facebook or Twitter is an entry, and photos submitted to the Tourism Revealed website count for two entries. With each new mission come new prizes!
Tourism Revealed is open to persons 21 years or older and a legal resident living in the U.S. or Canada. See our promotional rules and privacy policy for complete details.
Join the fun today!
NEWS YOU CAN USE
6Tourism Today
December 2014
NEWS YOU CAN USE
2015 WTA Summit Set for Feb. 12, 2015Make plans to attend the fifth annual Washington Tourism Alliance Tourism Summit and Day in Olympia, Thursday, Feb. 12. The event will include:
• A morning session at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts with presentations addressing statewide tourism topics followed by lunch• An afternoon at the Capitol for meetings with legislators • A special evening reception at the Governor’s Mansion
The legislative advocacy will be focused on long-term funding for statewide tourism marketing.
Hotel rooms are available at the Red Lion Hotel, Olympia for Wednesday, February 11 and Thursday, February 12 at the WTA group rate of $104 single and double; $114 triple and $124 quad.
To make reservations contact the Red Lion at 1-800-RED-LION (1-800-733-5466) or the hotel directly at 360-252-4000 by Friday, January 16, 2015 and identify yourself as a member of the Washington Tourism Alliance group.
A list of sponsorship opportunities can be found here. For more information, please contact Mike Moe at 425-444-0589 or [email protected].
511 for Holiday/Winter Travel ConditionsAre you planning to travel on the highways and ferries this holiday season or for a winter jaunt? Be sure to dial 511 before heading out. Washington State Department of Transportation’s automated service provides up-to-date information on conditions of mountain passes, roads, highways, interstates, traffic congestion, and Washington State Ferries. 7
Tourism TodayDecember 2014
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
Angel of the Winds’ Hotel to Open Mid-Dec
The Herald Business Journal reported on Nov. 4 that the expansion project at Arlington’s Angel of the Winds Casino is ahead of schedule. The new five-story hotel will be open by mid-December instead of the projected New Year’s Eve opening.
The hotel will have 125 rooms including six suites up to 800 square feet. The expansion also added 100,000 square feet to the casino. More than 50 new jobs have been created.
“We are truly blessed to have an opportunity to add a hotel to our facility, allowing us to provide an amenity that our casino guests have been requesting for quite some time,” said Travis O’Neil, general manager, in a news release.
Hotel reservations can be made by calling 360-474-9740 or by visiting www.AngelOfTheWinds.com.
8Tourism Today
December 2014
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
Late-2014 Sales Push Recap; Momentum Extending into Spring 2015Meetings & Special Events Sales Manager Samantha “Sam” Shaw, CMP, is keeping a busy schedule during the second half of 2014 and scheduling events through May 2015, all to keep Snohomish County top of mind with meeting planners.
Shaw Hosts Site Visit, Aug. 1Sam donned her tour guide cap to showcase the Holiday Inn Downtown Everett to representatives from NSA/NSF DeNang Association, a group that organizes three independent military reunions with 100+ attendees. The group also visited Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour, Historic Flight, historic downtown Snohomish, the Hibulb Cultural Center, and other area attractions.
As a result, the client signed the contract for one of his groups to meet in 2016, and looks forward to returning in April 2015 for ConFAM.
ASAE Annual Conference 2014, Aug. 9-12The team from Tulalip Resort Casino and Sam attended the American Society of Association Executives’ Annual Conference and Expo in Nashville, TN. They presented Snohomish County as a beautiful and affordable destination for meetings and events of U.S.-based national associations.
The Snohomish County contingent partnered with four other Washington destinations – Seattle, Spokane,
Bellevue, and Tacoma – to share a booth and market Washington State as an attractive destination for business events. The booth was visited by 346 attendees, 15 of whom asked for follow-up specifically for Snohomish County for 2016 events and beyond. Sam will continue to follow-up with these contacts as their RFPs come out.
9Tourism Today
December 2014
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
CMP Conclave, Sept. 6-8Sam then attended the Convention Industry Council’s CMP Conclave in New Orleans. This is an exclusive educational conference for meeting professionals who have earned their Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation, and who wish to add more continuing education units (CEUs) towards their portfolio when renewing their CMP designation, which expires every 5 years.
The conference allowed her to meet with meeting professionals from across the United States in an informal setting, and spread the awareness of Snohomish County to folks whom might not have considered the area in the past.
ConFAM New Mexico, Oct. 13-17Sam traveled to Albuquerque, NM, for ConFAM, an educational conference and FAM tour produced by Reunion Friendly Network that hosts 15-20 military reunion planners who are interested in booking reunions in the host region. Suppliers have the opportunity to have one-on-one appointments with the planners, and the host destination has the privilege of arranging an exclusive FAM tour of the county for all the planners to encourage future bookings.
She met with 10 reunion planners to encourage them to consider Snohomish County for their next West Coast reunion. Further, meeting with these planners allowed her to advertise that the Snohomish County Tourism Bureau would be hosting the next ConFAM, from Apr. 13-17, 2015. Many of the planners expressed interest in attending, and Sam will be following up with them over the winter to ensuretheir participation!
10Tourism Today
December 2014
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
Northwest Event Show, Oct. 21Several Snohomish County partners joined Sam in hosting the county’s booth at the Northwest Event Show, an invitation-only event for meeting and special event planners from around the region.
The team chose a festive Halloween theme for the booth’s décor and activities. The “DIY mask-making” activity drew attendees into the booth. Once they made their masks, they
could then enter their photos onto the Snohomish County Tourism Bureau’s Meeting & Events Facebook page for a chance to win fabulous prizes from county partners including hotel stays, event tickets, and gift baskets.
Planners who did not make a mask could still participate in the Halloween spirit by reaching their hand into the “Trick-or-Treat Mystery Cauldron” for branded hand sanitizers, candy, or playful spider-rings.
Forty meeting planners were recorded as having dropped by the booth. The total number of show attendees was not available by press time for this edition of Tourism Today.
A warm thank you to the following hospitality partners:
• Angel of the Winds Hotel and Casino• Best Western Cascadia• Edward D. Hansen Conference Center at xfinity Arena• Embassy Suites Seattle North/Lynnwood for their participation and donations!• Hilton Garden Inn Bothell• Holiday Inn Downtown Everett• Springhill Suites Bothell
And a heartfelt thank you to Port Gardner Bay Winery and Bluewater Organic Distilling for their donations that made the booth décor stand out!
11Tourism Today
December 2014
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
Fall Sales Mission, Nov. 20Sam is coordinating the sales mission to meeting planners in the greater Seattle area whom have shown an interest in booking an event within Snohomish County. She will be joined by six or more hotel and meeting venue partners to visit those meeting planners. They will provide Snohomish County meeting facility guides as well as delicious pumpkin spiced Bundt cakes, generously donated by Mill Creek’s Nothing Bundt Cakes!
Seattle Wedding Show, Jan. 10 & 11, 2015This popular consumer show draws nearly 9,000 engaged couples looking for wedding venues, accommodations for out of town guests, and other related services. Sam and other hospitality partners will host the Snohomish County booth to showcase the county’s numerous wedding venues and services.
Sam will send invitations to participate by email shortly after Thanksgiving. County partners will have the opportunity to participate in the booth showcasing all Snohomish County event venues and services.
ConFAM, Apr. 13-17
As noted in the previous article, the Snohomish County Tourism Bureau will host this event for military reunion planners at the Holiday Inn Downtown Everett in 2015. Sam is working on preparations for this highly-desired group business.
If you are interested in attending this conference or learning how you can gain future military reunion
business, go to http://reunionfriendly.com or contact Sharon Danitschek, president of the Reunion Friendly Network, at 425-501-1430 or [email protected].
12Tourism Today
December 2014
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
Interested in Becoming a Hospitality Partner?If your business could benefit from an increase in group business and leisure travelers, then join us as a hospitality partner. By participating in tradeshows, sales missions or other sales efforts, or by providing products or services for use in incentive packages, gifts or promotional giveaways, your business will enjoy greater exposure to a variety of groups and visitors.
For more information, contact Samantha Shaw, meetings & special events sales manager at 425-348-5802, ext. 16 or email [email protected].
WTA’s Plans Shared in Regional MeetingsIn the October newsletter, Louise Stanton-Masten, executive director of the Washington Tourism Alliance, recently reported on the organization’s outreach efforts via regional meetings to inform tourism partners, trade organizations, and other interested parties about its long-term funding and upcoming 2015 legislative plans.
Becky Bogard of Bogard & Johnson, the WTA’s lobbyist and legislative counsel, provided more details about the organization’s plans to fund a statewide tourism marketing program, the process of collecting and administering those funds, and the contracting of marketing services.
The work of the WTA is in response to Washington being the only state in the U.S. without a statewide tourism marketing program.
Read Louise’s and Becky’s full reports in the WTA’s October 2014 newsletter. Go to www.watourismalliance.com for more information.
News from VICs iPad Visitor Information Kiosk
The Snohomish County Tourism Bureau is partnering with the Lynnwood Convention Center to provide visitor information to their guests by utilizing an iPad kiosk. Visitors to the convention center can utilize the kiosk to find local activities, events, lodging and more, encouraging them to “Open Up and Explore Local.”
13Tourism Today
December 2014
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
VIC Volunteers Get Into Holiday SpiritThe East County VIC in Snohomish held a Halloween Open House, complete with volunteers dressed in costume handing out candy. Adult visitors received a Snohomish County Visitor Guide with a Smarties® roll candy attached and a note that read, “Get Smart about Snohomish County.”
The South County VIC in Lynnwood will host a Holiday Open House on Dec. 7 from 1 – 4 p.m. in cooperation with its partners in Heritage Park in Lynnwood. The VIC volunteers
will hand out holiday taffy to guests and visitors can visit the Alderwood Manor Heritage cottage for cookies and photos with Santa.
FAM Tours
to acquaint them with the features and the types of experiences to be enjoyed at the attractions, hotels, restaurants, or other venues.
Recent FAM tours included:
• Oct. 23, tour of the new Hampton Inn on West Marine View Drive in Everett.• Oct. 30, tour of Bothell’s Country Village that included an update from the City of Bothell about their redevelopment in process, the history of the family-fun Country Village shopping center, and participation in a fun treasure hunt.• Nov. 21, tour of new Best Western Plus Arlington/Marysville that opened earlier in 2014.
If you would to host a FAM tour to have our VIC volunteers learn more about your attraction, business or visitor-friendly services, please contact Jennifer Bravo, visitor services manager, at 425-348-5802, x13 or [email protected].
To help visitors fully enjoy their stay in Snohomish County, the visitor information center volunteers participate in a variety of familiarization tours designed
14Tourism Today
December 2014
THE SPORTS PAGES
Honors Awarded at 2014 Snohomish County Sports Hall of FameIn September, 316 people gathered to recognize and induct 10 individuals and one team into this year’s Sports Hall of Fame. The festive evening included much laughter, reminiscing, and conversation about sports.
The Herald newspaper also presented its Herald Man of the Year in Sports and Herald Woman of the Year in Sports awards to:
• Brady Clark, curling• Kylin Munoz, volleyball
New for 2014 were the Collegiate Male and Female Athlete of the Year for 2013 awards:
• T.C. Florentine, Edmonds Community College, baseball• Janell Alyea, Trinity Lutheran College, track & field
The 2014 Sports Hall of Fame inductees were:
• Erik Olson, wrestling• Jeff Pahukoa, football• Bret Summers, boxing• Matt Surina, bowling• Theresa Wagner Romagnilo, soccer• Richard “Rusty” Wailes, crew• Margaret “Maggie” King, coach of volleyball, basketball, tennis, and track & field• Joe Richer, coach of basketball & golf• Bob & Margaret Bavasi, sports contributors, owners of Everett AquaSox• 1952 Everett High School Football team 15
Tourism TodayDecember 2014
THE SPORTS PAGES
SCSC Team Attends Year-end ConferencesAs Snohomish County will play host one of the National Softball Association’s World Series events, Sports Development Manager Tammy Dunn traveled to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina to promote the county’s amenities and softball fields to attendees of the 2014 NSA-BPA National Convention, November 3-5.
Tammy was then joined by Anthony Brenneman, sportssales manager, for the 2014 TEAMS (Travel, Event and Management Sports) Conference in Las Vegas, Nov. 10 - 13. In addition to exhibiting at a Snohomish County booth, they conducted scheduled one-on-one appointments with rights holders such as Families On! Challenge, Golden Gloves of Boxing, Spartan Race, TruAthlete, USA BMX, and USA Boxing. This conference also gave the sports staff an opportunity to attend educational sessions and network with their industry peers and rights holders.
Girls’ Basketball Tournaments Attract Participants, FamiliesThe Midsummer Nights’ Madness National Championships, July 10-13, had 110 girls’ basketball teams from as far as Texas and Hawaii competing in the four day tournament. Games were played at tourney headquarters Everett High School, Kamiak and Mariner High Schools, and Everett Community College.
Midsummer Nights’ Madness Fall Classic, Sept. 26 & 27, attracted 51 teams from Colorado, Oregon and Washington competing in the two day tournament.
These basketball tournaments were NCAA Certified allowing NCAA college basketball coaches to scope players for future recruitment.
16Tourism Today
December 2014
THE SPORTS PAGES
Everett Hosts Biggest Loser Half Marathon & 5K RunWalkOn Oct. 12, 1,500 people from as far away as Florida and Quebec, Canada signed up for the first-ever Biggest Loser RunWalk held in Snohomish County.
The half marathon course showcased the spectacular views of Everett Marina and the city’s historic northern neighborhoods. The 5K course was out-and-back along West Marine View Drive and through the marina district.
Three Biggest Loser television personalities cohosted the event. Jackson Carter kicked off the Fitness & Health Expo on Saturday, Oct. 11, at the Holiday Inn Downtown Everett. Dan Evans and Vinny Hickerson performed at the post-race festivities.
Snohomish County to Host 2015 Fast Pitch World SeriesSnohomish County will host the National Softball Association’s Western Girls Fast Pitch Class A & B World Series, July 15-18, 2015.
Competition will feature divisions in the 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U & 18U age divisions.
An estimated 150 girls fastpitch softball teams from British Columbia, California, Nevada, Oregon, Montana, and Washington are expected to participate in this four-day tournament. Snohomish County last hosted this tournament in July 2009.
17Tourism Today
December 2014
For information on how your team can qualify to play in the World Series, contact Steve Jensen at 360-652-5065 or [email protected].
THE SPORTS PAGES
Arlington Hosts Supercross, Skateboard CompetitionsSkateboard Supercross drew hundreds of participants and spectators to Arlington, Oct. 11 -16, for the kickoff of the 2014 league action.
At Legion Memorial Park, a pop-up-pumptrack was constructed for skateboard, BMX bike, and scooter competition.
The 2nd Annual Centennial Trail SK8Challenge, comprised of three
events, was also held Oct. 11 & 12 in Arlington. With a $15,000 prize purse and bonuses to overall combined time winner for male and female athletes, the competition attracted some of the best skaters in the world.
On Saturday, the Centennial Trail Push Race featured a one-mile race under the lights in downtown Arlington and a 5K on the Centennial Trail. The next morning the half marathon race was conducted on the trail. Both distance races began and ended at Legion Memorial Park.
International Distance Skating Association is sanctioning this new form of Skateboard Racing. Skateboard Supercross (SBSX) brings together shortboard and longboard elements of skateboarding together into one venue that will test skills, speed, technique, and skateboarder progression.
18Tourism Today
December 2014
THE SPORTS PAGES
Increase Sales by Becoming a Sporting Events SponsorIf you’re looking to increase sales for your visitor-friendly business, then consider becoming a sporting events sponsor. Thousands of athletes, teams, and their families come to Snohomish County each year to compete in a variety of sports and outdoor events. They are looking for places to dine, shop, and be entertained during their stay.
A variety of sponsorship opportunities exist and can be tailored to meet your budget and desired level of participation.
For more information, contact Tammy Dunn, sports development manager, at 425-348-5802, ext. 12 or email [email protected].
Stay Informed: Free Sports Quarterly E-newsletterWhether you’re a sports fan, outdoor enthusiast or someone who recognizes the economic importance of sports events to Snohomish County, you’ll want to stay informed with the latest news, developments and upcoming events.
Sign up today for the Snohomish County Sports Commission’s Sports Quarterly, a free quarterly e-newsletter that will appear in your inbox by the first of March, June, September and December.
Open Up to Excit
ing Sports Ventures
in Snohomish County
We had one of the m
ost acti
on-packed summers
here in Snohomish County w
ith
basketball a
nd soccer
tournaments, running ev
ents, triath
lons, and beac
h volleyb
all.
Plus, our ve
ry own Evere
tt AquaSox b
aseball c
lub celebrate
d their 30th anniver
sary with
plenty of giv
eaways,
fireworks
, and exc
iting games.
As autumn giv
es way t
o winter,
we’ll still
have plenty o
f sports
action to e
njoy.
Hockey s
eason is o
ff to a h
igh action sta
rt! The Evere
tt Silve
rtips pro h
ockey t
eam is
playing to
ugh for the ch
ance to re
ach the playo
ffs. Mean
while, the yo
uth hockey s
eason
is filled
with tournaments.
Collegiat
e and high sch
ool winter
sports sea
son is j
ust start
ing. Each
week fea
tures
games o
n fields and inside at
venues t
hroughout Snohomish County. Gymnasti
c
competiti
ons are on
the horizon, too
, at Evere
tt Community C
ollege i
n March and April
next year
.
Now is a perfe
ct time to
check out what y
our city’s p
arks and rec
reation departm
ent is
offering in
activiti
es, clas
ses, sports
programs, a
nd more such as
basketball,
golf,
martial art
s, water
aerobics,
yoga, e
ven geo
caching! I
t’s limitles
s adven
ture for t
he
whole fam
ily!
No matte
r what sports
or adven
ture intere
sts you
, Open Up to Limitles
s Excitement!
Tammy Dunn
Sports Devel
opment Manage
r
Snohomish County Sports
Commission
1
19Tourism Today
December 2014
AROUND SNOHOMISH COUNTY
McMenamins Set for Construction
In late October, Portland, Oregon-based McMenamins announced the company is ready to start construction of its brewpub and hotel at the historic Anderson School in downtown Bothell. Scheduled to open in fall 2015, the resort will be the largest McMenamins establishment in Washington.
Read the full story here: The Herald newspaper
Future of Flight Offers Weekend Family WorkshopsThe Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour is offering twice-daily educational Weekend Family Workshops on Saturdays and Sundays. Included in the price of admission, the programs are presented by Future of Flight Foundation experts and focus on aviation with additional emphasis on artistic interpretation and creativity.
Families and children of all ages can explore the science of aerodynamics with a Bernoulli mask, for example, or build simple gliders that can teach a lot about control surfaces and the way wings work. Unusual designs like the unique-wing glider named Hipster Hoopster demonstrate the need for creative thinking in aerospace, and encourage young people towards careers in aviation-related fields.
20Tourism Today
December 2014
[Future of Flight Offers Weekend Family Workshops continued]
Participants will enjoy story time and a make-and-take-home project that will be different each week.
“Since children must be 4 ft. tall to take the Boeing Tour, this presents a great way for younger members of the family to be included in the experience while others may be on the Boeing Tour,” she said.
The 90-minute Weekend Family Workshops will be held twice each day at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. The programs will take place in the Flightline room, located on the Gallery level next to the Family Zone.
AROUND SNOHOMISH COUNTY
Ticket Prices:
Future of Flight Aviation Center Gallery Admission
• $10 adults • $5 youth (6 – 15)• Free for children (5 and under)
Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour Admission
• $18 adult reserved• $20 adult walk-up • $12 youth reserved (15 and under – must be at least 4 ft. tall)• $14 youth walk-up (15 and under – must be at least 4 ft. tall)
Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour is located at 8415 Paine Field Blvd. in Mukilteo. For more information call 425-438-8100 or visit www.futureofflight.org. 21
Tourism TodayDecember 2014
AROUND SNOHOMISH COUNTY
Rediscover the Suiattle: Road Re-opens after 11-Year ClosureOn Saturday, Oct. 25, U.S. Representatives Suzan DelBene and Rick Larsen, Darrington Mayor Dan Rankin, Regional Forest Service Director Jennifer Eberlien, Sauk-Suiattle Tribal Council Member Kevin Lenon and tribal elder Jan Mabee welcomed Darrington residents and outdoor enthusiasts to the ribbon cutting ceremony that kicked off the celebration of the re-opening of the last 11 miles of the 23-mile Suiattle River Road.
Commercial river guides, kayakers, hikers, backpackers, and day visitors can now access the Suiattle River from a variety of access points as well as trails and areas to hunt, hike, picnic, explore, and search for wild mushrooms and berries.
For more information on outdoor adventure opportunities along the Suiattle River Road, contact the Darrington Ranger District office at 360-436-1155.
22Tourism Today
December 2014
AROUND SNOHOMISH COUNTY
Charging Stations Make Popular Highway Accessible to Electric Vehicle Users
Photo by Ron Engeldinger
The 440-mile Cascade Scenic Loop Highway is known for wilderness of stunning beauty complete with glacier-clad mountain peaks, lush evergreen forests, wildflower-carpeted meadows, farms and vineyards, and pristine waters.
But electric car drivers had limited access this beauty due to lack of places to recharge their vehicle’s batteries.
After the installation of more than 60 charging stations along the route, they can
now easily travel and explore the areas along the entire highway.
Locations for charging stations in or near Snohomish County along Highway 2 are:
• Evergreen State Fairgrounds, Monroe• Sky Valley Visitor Information Center, Sultan• Sky Deli, Skykomish
Start your journey in Everett as recommended by writer Ron Engeldinger. Read his full article at EarthIsland.org then plan your own adventure!
Whitehorse Trail Comeback UnderwayWhitehorse Trail, running from Darrington to Arlington, is undergoing extensive work so that it can be reopened and enjoyed by visitors looking for ways to experience the magic of this scenic area of Snohomish County. 23
Tourism TodayDecember 2014
AROUND SNOHOMISH COUNTY
[Whitehorse Trail Comeback Underway continued] The trail is a county-owned corridor along a former Burlington Northern Railroad track. Most recently a portion of the trail was destroyed by the Oso landslide and restoring it is one of the efforts currently underway to boost tourism and outdoor recreation as important economic drivers in the area.
So far crews have cleared about 15 miles of the route starting at Darrington. Next they will focus on clearing the west end of the trail near Arlington, but the trail the portion wiped out by the mudslide will have to wait until next summer. With what remains of 2014, crews will also repair the 14 bridges on the trail, thanks to a very generous $301,000 private donation.
Once complete, the 27-mile Whitehorse Trail will connect Darrington and Arlington. For the future, it is hoped that the trail will connect to the Centennial Trail and eventually to trails in King County as well.
Have You Heard About…?• French Creek Manor holds regular Murder Mystery Dinner Shows. • The City of Snohomish has plans to turn some riverfront farmland into a public recreation space that may include a new boat launch and several area trails.• Aesir Meadery, a crafter of honey-based wine, opened its store at 2625 Colby Ave., Everett. Tastings available.• Construction is well underway on Everett’s new Courtyard by Marriott at the corner of Wall St. and Colby Ave.• The new Mukilteo ferry terminal project has cleared one more hurdle with the Federal Transit Administration.• The City of Arlington has banned smoking in city parks.• Marysville is working on a downtown redevelopment project to include an improved waterfront with a trail, and a mix of living space and businesses on the property south of JC Penney’s. The land is contaminated so clean-up will be needed before moving forward.• Trees are being planted along the newly completed stretch of Highway 520 to honor the memory of those lost in the tragic Oso landslide.
24Tourism Today
December 2014
LET’S PLAY INDOORS: WINTER FUN IN SNOHOMISH COUNTY FOR KIDS & FAMILIES
Do your children whine “there’s nothing to do” during the winter months? No worries! There’s plenty of kid-friendly winter holiday festivities and indoor attractions right here in Snohomish County where they can play, explore, discover, laugh, and burn off pent-up energy!
Christmas & Winter Holiday FestivitiesThe Lights of Christmas, Stanwood
More than one million twinkling and glowing lights create enchanting outdoor displays as the songs by carolers and the aroma of fresh, hot donuts fill the air. The Holiday Dinner Theater serves up live performances and a scrumptious five-course meal. Stay the night in one of the themed, cozy cabins that vary in size to comfortably accommodate small families to
large groups. Overnight packages include accommodations, general admission, and hot buffet breakfast.
• When: Dec. 4-7, 11-14, 18-23, & 26-30, 5-10 p.m.• Where: Warm Beach Camp & Conference Center, 20800 Marine Drive, Stanwood• Tickets: starting at $9• Overnight packages: starting at $106• Website: www.TheLightsOfChristmas.com
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December 2014
LET’S PLAY INDOORS: WINTER FUN IN SNOHOMISH COUNTY FOR KIDS & FAMILIES
Holiday Tour of Lights, MarysvilleHop aboard the Merrysville Express tractor-pulled train for a 20-minute ride among 30 festive light displays including Penguin Village, Polar Bear Forest, Santa’s Workshop, and gingerbread people playing golf. Nosh on s’mores and hot chocolate afterwards.
• When: Dec. 11-13, 6-9 p.m.• Where: Cedarcrest Golf Course, 6810 84th St. NE, Marysville• Tickets: free; donations welcome• Website: http://marysvillewa.gov/index.aspx?NID=690
Country Village, Bothell
While adults shop the dozens of specialty boutiques for holiday gifts, youngsters can play in several holiday programs, visit with two of Santa’s reindeer in the grass area near the Bottle Shop, laugh at Adventure Children’s Theater, get crafty at the Creativity Place, ride the train or a pony, and then dine with parents or grandparents at one of the restaurants.
• Holiday-themed programs o Santa Arrival & Tree Lighting, Dec. 6, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. o Cookies with Mrs. Claus, Dec. 13 & 14, 12 noon – 3 p.m. o Fun with Frosty, Dec. 20 & 21, 12 noon – 3 p.m.• Shopping hours: open 7 days; Mon. – Sat., 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.• Where: 23718 Bothell-Everett Hwy, Bothell• Tickets: prices for kid’s activities & programs vary, check website for details• Website: www.CountryVillageBothell.com
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December 2014
LET’S PLAY INDOORS: WINTER FUN IN SNOHOMISH COUNTY FOR KIDS & FAMILIES
The Nutcracker, various locationsThe beauty, colors, and magic of this beloved ballet will delight children of all ages.
• Emerald Ballet Theatre o When: Dec. 6 & 7, 13 & 14, 2 p.m. o Where: Northshore Performing Arts Center, 18125 92nd Ave NE, Bothell o Tickets: starting at $20 o Website: www.EmeraldBallet.org
• Olympic Ballet Theatre o Everett • When: Dec. 12, 10 a.m. & 12 p.m.; Dec. 13, 2 & 7 p.m.; Dec. 14, 1 & 5 p.m. • Where: Everett Performing Arts Center, 2710 Wetmore Ave, Everett o Edmonds • When: Dec. 18, 10 a.m. & 12 p.m., Dec. 19, 7 p.m.; Dec. 20, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.; Dec. 21, 5 p.m. • Where: Edmonds Center for the Performing Arts, 410 Fourth Ave N, Edmondso Tickets: starting at $25 o Website: www.OlympicBallet.com/nutcracker-2014
Chase the Grinch Outta Snohomish 5K Fun Run, SnohomishKids can choose to run the half-mile Kids Dash or join their parents in the longer distance on a flat course along the scenic Riverfront and Centennial Trails. After crossing the finish line, participants will savor hot chocolate, hot cider, cookies, and holiday cheer. 27
Tourism TodayDecember 2014
LET’S PLAY INDOORS: WINTER FUN IN SNOHOMISH COUNTY FOR KIDS & FAMILIES
[Chase the Grinch Outta Snohomish 5k Fun Run continued]
• When: Dec. 7 at 9 a.m.• Where: historic downtown Snohomish• Entry fees: starting at $5• Website: www.DataBarEvents.com/chasethegrinch
It’s Time to Play!Can’t get the kids to go play outside? Then take the tykes to one or more of these fun-filled indoor venues where they can play, frolic, laugh, and learn.
Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour, MukilteoKids can design their own jets, try out futuristic in-flight entertainment systems, touch the high-tech “skin” of the new Boeing 787, and get excited about the world of technology and aviation. The Boeing Tour of the commercial jet assembly plant is perfect for older kids and adults.
Since children must be at least 4 ft. tall to take the Boeing Tour, the 90-minute Weekend Family Workshops gives them the opportunity to
experience the science of aerodynamics. Storytelling and make-and-take-home projects such building simple gliders will ignite their imagination and curiosity. The activities change weekly.
• When: Sat. & Sun., 10 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.• Admission: included in the Future of Flight’s ticket price
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December 2014
[Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour continued]
About Future of Flight Aviation Center:
• When: daily 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.; closed Christmas Day & New Year’s Day• Where: 8415 Paine Field Blvd, Mukilteo• Tickets: starting at $10 adults, $5 youth (6-15) • Website: www.FutureOfFlight.org
LET’S PLAY INDOORS: WINTER FUN IN SNOHOMISH COUNTY FOR KIDS & FAMILIES
Imagine! Children’s Museum, Everett
Young children can explore and discover the world around them in this spacious venue designed as a small town, complete with barber shop, Italian café, theater, tree house, and even a wildlife clinic and a Washington State-styled ferry. Kids can sign up for hands-on programs such as Art Rocks, FUNdamentals of Music & Movement, Science Sleuths, Tuesday Tales, and Rooftop Adventures (weather permitting).
• When: Tues. & Wed. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Thur., Fri., & Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; closed Mon.• Where: 1502 Wall St, Everett• Tickets: $9.80 general admission; $4.90 general admission Thur. 3 – 5 p.m.; children 12 months & under free• Website: www.ImagineCM.org
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December 2014
LET’S PLAY INDOORS: WINTER FUN IN SNOHOMISH COUNTY FOR KIDS & FAMILIES
WhirlyBall of Washington, EdmondsGot a number of kids at least 8 years old who need some playtime together? Then try WhirlyBall, a team-based game that combines basketball, hockey and jai-alai with riding an electrically-powered machine similar to a bumper car. Gather up at least 10 kids and parents (minimum group size) for hours of fun.
• Where: 23401 Highway 99, Edmonds• Hours, prices, and more information: www.WhirlyBallSeattle.com
Ice Skating
Lace up the skates for an afternoon or evening of fun and play on the ice. Children can pretend they are going for Olympic gold in figure skating, ice dancing, or even hockey as they practice their skills.
• Lynnwood Ice Center o When: open daily, open skate times vary o Where: 19803 68th Ave W, Lynnwood o Tickets: starting at $6 o Website: www.LynnwoodIceCenter.com
• XFINITY Community Ice Rink at the XFINITY Arena o When: open daily, open skate times vary o Where: 2000 Hewitt Ave, Everett o Tickets: starting at $5 o Website: www.XFINITYArenaEverett.com
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December 2014
LET’S PLAY INDOORS: WINTER FUN IN SNOHOMISH COUNTY FOR KIDS & FAMILIES
Thisssssss is Fun!The Reptile Zoo, Monroe
Be prepared for squeals of delight and awe when children and adults handle live snakes, touch tortoises, and see arachnids, insects, lizards, and reptiles. Resident animals include Alligator Snapping Turtles, Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnakes, Florida Kingsnake, and the world’s deadliest snake, the Black Mamba.
• When: open daily including holidays, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.• Where: 22715 State Route 2, Monroe• Tickets: starting at $6.50• Website: www.TheReptileZoo.org
Stand Up & Cheer!Mary Poppins, EverettBased on the books of P.L. Travers and featuring all the songs from the Academy Award-winning Disney film, this magical stage musical tells the inspirational tale of the amazing flying nanny, who’s practically perfect in every way.
• When: Jan. 9 – Feb. 8; Wed. & Thurs., 7:30 p.m.; Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.; Thurs. matinee on Jan. 29 at 2 p.m.• Where: Everett Performing Arts Center, 2710 Wetmore Ave, Everett• Tickets: starting at $35• Website: www.VillageTheatre.org/Everett/ 31
Tourism TodayDecember 2014
LET’S PLAY INDOORS: WINTER FUN IN SNOHOMISH COUNTY FOR KIDS & FAMILIES
Everett SilvertipsCatch all the fast-paced action of professional Western Hockey League play. Leading in the U.S. Division (as of press time), the Silvertips are looking to secure playoff berth for championship honors.
• When: now through Mar. 21, 2015 • Where: XFINITY Arena at Everett, 2000 Hewitt Ave, Everett• Tickets: starting at $17• Website: www.EverettSilvertips.com
For More Information
There are plenty more family-friendly activities and attractions than mentioned
• Download this free tour, Kid Zone – Fun for the Family mobile tour, a handy guide perfect for any mobile device.• Go to www.Snohomish.org/explore/family-child-activities
above. Use these resources for more ideas and to plan your next adventure with your children:
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December 2014
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Gather the whole family to enjoy a variety of holiday celebrations, theatrical and musical performances, bird and film festivals, and much more.
We’ve listed a sampling of upcoming events below. Be sure to visit www.Snohomish.org for more information on these and other events:
• Lights of Christmas, Stanwood, 12/4-12/7, 12/11-12/14, 12/18-12/23, & 12/26- 12/30. • Providence Festival of the Trees Community Open House, Tulalip, 12/3. • Holiday Parlour Tour of historic homes, Snohomish, 12/7. • Village Theatre Presents “Mary Poppins,” Everett, 1/9-2/8, 2015. • Driftwood Players presents Lark Eden, Edmonds, 1/15-1/18. • Groundfrog Day 10th Anniversary Celebration, Snohomish, 1/31. • Stillaguamish Eagle Festival, Arlington, 2/6 & 2/7. • Citywide Antique Sale, Snohomish, 2/13-2/15. • Everett Film Festival, Everett, 2/20 & 2/21. • 10th Annual Snow Goose & Birding Festival, Stanwood, 2/21 & 2/22.
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December 2014
