SDCFans - The Unofficial Fan Site For Silver Dollar City
Silver Dollar City & Celebration City Discussion => General Silver Dollar City Talk => Topic started by: Junior on July 16, 2011, 02:50:28 AM
-
OK, I've seen some of the recent trip reviews. Attendance is down this year, some attention to detail on park has slipped. Money is tight all around. But, what are your top suggestions to make the park a better place to visit? New rides, attractions, festivals? How about food or street shows, or arts and crafts? Come on...let's hear it from YOU!
-
I honestly do not know what would make the park better. Here in Southern Oklahoma 108 degrees today, there is not a lot of motivation to go anywhere. We have been going to the park for 20+ years and my 2 girls who are now 8 and 17 love it. The pure economics of a family vacation can stall out many trips that may otherwise have been taken. We go and always plan on spending a week 2-3 times a year, buy season passes early for the best benefits. We go to relax and have fun, not stand in line for an hour at rides. We enjoy the shows and the street performers in May were great. I don't know the girl's name that seemed to always have a skillet in her hand, but she was a hoot. We spend a lot of time visiting with the Homestead Pickers and make all of there shows. We also visit with the shop employees and craftsmen who are always so pleasant. Last trip we played checkers with some of the Citizen's and spun tops on the square. Modernizing any part of the park would IMHO be a detriment to our enjoyment. We absolutley loved CC and would without fail go in the evening after a day at the City. If they could create an evening or late night atmosphere consistent with the theme of the park, we would stay till closing. Moonlight Madness is simply not our style of enjoyment. Without the themed element, we would not have any reason to return. Of course we are country folk and fit right in, the draw we have may not fit at all to people that don't understand what this is all about. As far as rides which we don't do a lot of, would love to see an awesome wood coaster. Festivals? too many as it is. Food, don't think they could improve on that, it is all good! I love the street performers and characters and always make it a point to hunt Terry down and see what his get up is. Anyway, long post and probably not very helpful, but honest observations just the same. We will be back in the Fall!
-
You know me, my number one concern is more trees! ;) I shouldn’t be able to see parking lots, and storage areas in the middle of the summer when the leaves are all out.
Also I am hoping they will start development in the southwest part of the park. The current area is already maxed out in space. Any additions would really ruin the wilderness mountain feel of the park.
To show you what I mean: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ozarkbbq/5815353977/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ozarkbbq/5815353977/)
-
I like the city as is,, mods from time to time are always good. Dont have any real preference on big rides.
I would like to see there every day shows have some variance in them month to month or even year to year.
-
Just got back from 2 and a half days at SDC. For me the way to make it better is to make it more like it was. My wife and I used to love to get a piece of pie each from Mary's Pie Shop to have for a mid-day snack. That was when they used to have a whole lot of pies to choose from. Now they have maybe 2 different choices: cheesecake of strawberry pie. We used to love the cream and meringue pies! Also, as I've said before, we really miss the old shows. I got to talk to Terry Saunders yesterday and told him how much I miss the courthouse show, the Hatfield Haint, the old Saloon shows, etc. He said he misses those shows as well. We managed to catch 2 of the street shows but even those aren't the productions they used to be. We've watched the street shows the last couple of years and I haven't seen anyone pulled from the crowds to participate. Of course, the main thing I hear from people standing in queue lines is that they'd like to see more rides. SDC has survived for over 50 years now by providing quality family entertainment. I just hope they keep trying to make sure it remains the magical place we all know it can be.
-
Those old in house produced shows were great...and it was fun to see my friends and coworkers perform in them. I miss the ad lib street entertainment...I remember baiting folks to look in the hole behind GM and then scolding them for doing so! Always got a big laugh. I remember Jim Waddell playing the deputy and he scolded me and another Dugan for some minor infraction of the law, then shot at us a couple of times as we ran away from him...the people witnessing it loved it! Rainmaker, Medicine Show, D.A. Calloway at his piano, ah, those were the days. I don't think SDC has to always produce giant over the top productions for the theaters, they could slip in a boxing show or lumber jack show and it would be well recieved today just as it was in the old days. Maybe Zephon or Copper or some of the other current citizens could chime in on this topic, we'd love to hear from ya'll!
-
or lumber jack show and it would be well recieved today just as it was in the old days.
Well, you are in luck as the lumber jack show is returning in the fall. ;D
You all bring up very good points. Silver Dollar City used to be very creative back in the old days, and I think I know why. It all goes back to how society in general has changed thanks to electronic communication, and the internet. Years ago, Silver Dollar City was isolated so to speak, and they had to come up with all of their own ideas, and shows, and rides in house right there at the park.
Today, that is not required anymore. In fact as we all know, the headquarters isn't in Branson, or even in Missouri for that matter. So now instead of the locals brainstorming on a unique entertainment idea, the executives just plop in a new ride, and call it a day.
-
Great topic!
As I have said before (and everyone is probably rolloing their eyes right now because they know what I am about to say)....TWEAK FM and FITH!! I dont think it would be that big of a deal to make things a little more lifelike and real. Flooded Mine could get new, improved heads for their "convicts" (they look their age) and maybe change the voice tape just a little. Maybe make it a tad louder. Have the warden saying more comical things like "Alright boys! Let's get a move on! This aint no garden party!"
And FITH, make a cave or brush landscape for the baldknobber that stands with the cannon. Just little things that give them more "umph!"
-
I dont remember from years ago if SDC had a gunfight or not. I dont believe they did, but they could do something like that or have a shotgun wedding confrontation. Some skit where the "Pa" confronts the boyfriend of his jilted daughter and he chases him a few feet shooting him in the rump.
Or a hillbilly feud? Yeah, I know the whole "redneck, hillbilly" thing. But I think a couple of hillbillies coming from one direction and a couple from another direction, they run into each other and they "commence to a' fussin' and a' feudin'" right there.
-
I dont remember from years ago if SDC had a gunfight or not. I dont believe they did, but they could do something like that or have a shotgun wedding confrontation. Some skit where the "Pa" confronts the boyfriend of his jilted daughter and he chases him a few feet shooting him in the rump.
Or a hillbilly feud? Yeah, I know the whole "redneck, hillbilly" thing. But I think a couple of hillbillies coming from one direction and a couple from another direction, they run into each other and they "commence to a' fussin' and a' feudin'" right there.
Those are the kind of old street shows I'm hoping for.
-
I like the city as is,, mods from time to time are always good. Dont have any real preference on big rides.
I would like to see there every day shows have some variance in them month to month or even year to year.
Variance to the shows would be great...bring back some of the shows that used to be in place as was mentioned in another thread.
-
Not to beat a dead horse and I know many of your feelings on this, but I still say making the park a non-smoking park would make it better. There is just no way to watch your family on the ol' Powder Keg without choking on the cigarette smoke as the blast off area is a smoking area. There is no way to get to the Grand Exposition without walking past a smoking area in which you can smell the cigarette smoke. When Fire In the Hole has a line, you smell the cigarette smoke. When walking to Fire In the Hole, you smell the cigarette smoke. When walking through the graveyard there is no way not to smell the smoke. These are just the few examples that come to mind. Again, nothing against smokers but the smell of the cigarettes gives a person a headache, especially on a hot day, and second hand smoke is damaging to a person's health. There is no reason a person can't wear a patch for the day or why the powers to be couldn't set up a smoking area outside the actual park. With that said, I really like the park as it is, but would like to see a variety of shows as already mentioned and another major ride on the old waterboggin side of the park to spread out the crowds on the PK and WF side of things.
-
While I echo your concerns about the smell, and safety of second hand smoke, I would be shocked if they removed the Smoking Areas. After all, smokers are paying customers too.
Another idea is to simply set up the Smoking Areas in such a way that the second hand smoke is confined to that area. Perhaps they could move the Smoking Areas to better locations, or provide some type of barrier to isolate the smoke. :)
-
They did, in the early 70s, have a Hatfield/McCoy thing where a mail order bride arrived on the steam train, and there was a big scuffle and shoot out in front of the depot. In the mid 70s, they had a fellow who was the hanging judge, and he would throw a noose over a tree limb and have kids and adults put their head into the noose for a snapshot. My aunt shot a 8mm film in 1978 of the hanging judge and me down by the tintype shop. Yup, my head was in the noose. All that fun, ad libbed stuff could be brought back...I think todays generation would love it.
-
I'm just thankful they have the Smoking Area's period. This is somewhat of a new thing; use to you could smoke anywhere in the park (outside of course).
-
I think the smoking area by powder keg should go, but don't take away my smoking areas. Aren't us smokers mistreated enough already?
-
Really Okie, you are going to open that can of worms? ;)
I think the root problem is the not existence of Smoking Areas, but rather how well, or not so well they contain the smoke.
-
Put me in some deep dark corner of the park, I don't care. Just don't make me walk out to the parking lot. Besides if I quit smoking, your taxes will go up.
-
okie, i dont smoke. but i am on your side. I think you smokers have been abused enough already.. :o :o
-
Thanks sanddunerider. I don't like to smoke around little kids or anything. However if parents bring little ones into the smoking area, that's on them. I would be willing to compromise keep certain areas completely smoke free.
-
Okay..maybe it's just me, but I always enjoyed the log rolling contests behind the lumbercamp (? - mind going blank) place to eat across from the saloon, back where the waterfall you used to be able to walk behind. Granted I was WAY younger but when I eat there, I think about how fun that was to watch! ;) Those guys were good and could be on those logs for a long time before falling off. Sometimes they would have "bad" guy vs "good" guy, those were even better. ( I haven't been yet this year so bare with me....need to go to refresh memory of names/etc. now that wrist is better)
-
Really Okie, you are going to open that can of worms? ;)
I think the root problem is the not existence of Smoking Areas, but rather how well, or not so well they contain the smoke.
I agree with you Ozark...it's probably more of an issue of containment...I like DollarCityBoy's idea of getting rid of the smoking area by the Powderkeg...The rest of the areas I mentioned are bearable...It is nice that there are designated smoking areas versus allowing anywhere in the park to be a smoking area...Smokers are probably picked on and I certainly wouldn't want that and I do agree that it would be a pain for somebody who wanted to smoke to go the the parking lot...they are paying customers and are very important to the park and deserve to enjoy their visit to the park as much as anybody even if includes having the smoking areas...I hope nobody thinks I dislike smokers...my sister smokes...Anyway Okie, hopefully I didn't offend you because being offensive was not what I intended...I would be perfectly happy if the smoking area around Powderkeg were eliminated...that would make the park better :)
-
We are respectable smokers. And we never go to the smoking section by Powderkeg, we have gotten too many weird looks. I understand the smoking issue, none of it bothers me,i have been smoking a long time & seen all the changes. Plus, i dont smoke that much cuz i'm too busy havin' fun at the park & dont think about it. Wish my woman was more like that.. The people that mess me up are the ones ya see "cupping" a cigarette in their hand.
-
my spouse has one statement for the smoking areas, " IT"S OUTSIDE IN THE OPEN AIR"
-
I think the smoking area by powder keg should go, but don't take away my smoking areas. Aren't us smokers mistreated enough already?
Treated like second or even third class citizens. Didn't Rosa Parks ride a bus some time back in protest of that kind of treatment?
Speaking of park improvements, I wholeheartedly agree with those who think some of the "old" stuff should be brought back...street shows and some of the old in-house shows. It greatly saddens us old-timers every time we talk about the old days at SDC. It seems that the "heart" has gone out of the park and it's now just an empty shell.
What's even sadder is that I don't see it changing with the current management philosophy. It would take a massive letter-writing campaign (thousands) to even get them to consider bringing back some of those old tried and true experiences.
Don't get me wrong though. I think some of the new stuff is great and has great entertainment value. I just don't believe the old has to be sacrificed for the new. There's room for both.
-
Don't get me wrong though. I think some of the new stuff is great and has great entertainment value. I just don't believe the old has to be sacrificed for the new. There's room for both.
Straight from the horses mouth! It's good to hear from an insider Zephon, since it's often a mystery on how the employees feel about the changes.
If it takes a petition, or a letter campaign to bring back the old ways of Silver Dollar City, I bet we could all rally together, and do it! ;D
-
Zephon is not the only current employee that feels that way. Other do, too. Some are in mid to high level management. These are people I know and worked with. They remember the park 35 years ago much the same as I do, and they would like to see some of that old magic come back. It's possible it could, but Zephon is right, the current top management has a somewhat different agenda. Anyway, I'd still reccomend you go and enjoy some time at the park with your family, you still have a great past ahead of you!
-
Just curious. Where does zephon work at sdc?
-
Last I heard, Zephon was behind the scenes working at Echo Hollow and at some of the other theater venues from time to time, doing scenery, setting up lights, microphones, and such. Back in the old days when I worked out there, he was in the Saloon Show, one of the talented singing and dancing bartenders.
-
O so he's not one of the citizens you can just say hi to as if they worked at a ride or shop. Bummer
-
Go to Echo Hollow close to showtime...maybe an hour prior to the show...ask for him. If he is able, I'm sure he'd come out to shake your hand and say "howdy."
-
I am prob late to the party as I havent had internet in my home for a while now but here goes..........
I want the old gags back!!!! The street shows I was too young to remember back and I will sign yall's petition. I would hate to see the sparkle gone. I go to SDC for the fun and difference it produces, not just for the rides. I want to see more street performances and zany citizens. I want WOW! PIZAZZ! EXCITMENT!! Instead of another multimillion dollar ride, pay to upgrade FITH and AP and the shootout. Yes I know they do this but spend a bit more to bring it back to life. I know times change and they are competing with SF and what not but SDC is what it is due to how it began and that was with zany citizens and original ideas. It might never go back to that, and if that is so well poo, but it just takes a handfull of people like Terry to make a families trip memerable. A smidge different from anywhere else. Heck I would love to be hired to go around zinging visitors to the park and wearing outlandish outfits. *deep healing breath* with that being said I cant wait to see the log show. and I could be wrong with my thoughts on this. Anyhow.......mail me the petition. I wanna sign it.
-
Here is an example of a street skit from the early '80's that can be found on the "Sounds of Silver Dollar City" album:
(Gunshots on Main Street, SDC)
Hillbilly 1: Sheriff, arrest this man!
Sheriff: Why should I arrest him?
Hillbilly 1: He sold me a mule that was blind!
Sheriff: Did you sell him a mule that was blind without telling him?
Hillbilly 2: NO!
Sheriff: You told him the mule was blind?
Hillbilly 2: Well, I told the animal wasn't looking too good!
-
I know times change and they are competing with SF and what not but SDC is what it is due to how it began and that was with zany citizens and original ideas.
There's the bottom line right there! ;)
Silver Dollar City used to be famous with their gags both perfermed by their citizens, and by their props throughout the park. The giant saw blade in the Flooded Mine, and the sliding outhouse on Jim Owen's Float Trip are good examples. Plus, the replaced painting in the Saloon Show that used to cover itself up that Junior mentioned recently. Everything at Silver Dollar City used to be a gag, or stunt, or a play on words. Silver Dollar City really knew how to make fun of themselves.
And Junior that is classic! :D
-
Here are a few more examples of that ole SDC "uniqueness"
Hillbilly: Hey, folks...I was comin' on in to town today and I seen this dead hog hangin' from a tree! Yeah, a DEAD HOG hangin' in a tree. (Sadly) I guess it was "suey-cide!"
--
Hillbilly: Folks, I sure am sorry things are running behind schedule around here today. I was late for work. I seen this sign that said "clean restrooms ahead," and so I stopped and cleaned seven of them!
--
Hillbilly: Ladies and gentleman, welcome to Jim Owens Float Trip! Yes, today you will float the James River, the 8th wonder of the world! It's the only river that runs in a complete circle!
--
(Hillbilly blows nose loudly into a big bandana and...) Hillibilly: You may think that's funny...but it's SNOT!
OK, enough for now. They were funny in the '70's and 80's. :)
-
:) :) :) couple of smiles!.
-
Yeah, thinking back on the saloon show. Remember Carrie Nation & the Black Bart skits? Those were great, the show is okay now but it would be great if maybe every once in awhile they would bring back some of the skits they used to do just to keep it "back in the 1800's past". I miss the shattering mirror and the picture, etc.
-
I e-mailed SDC a few weeks ago asking so see some of the old Saloon shows again and they told me those were on the "radar". So we may just get our wishes!
-
I miss the shattering mirror and the picture, etc.
Agreed. The first time I saw the show without the shattering mirror at the end, I thought to myself "wait, is the show over?"
-
I wouldn't mind having the FITH a tad bit slower speed. I know that ride was slower a few years ago.
I would take out a lot of the stupid novelty junk in the HH and around the park that nobody buys. Replace it with some period era items.
Take out some of the unecessarily long que lines
Lower the price on a few food items
Bring back the street shows that used to bring the crowd to a stop
Offer more days to support causes i.e. autism, veterans, metally handicap, single families, and other days to bring those types of families closer.
Keep the summer hours open longer and extend Moonlight Madness out a hour or two. It's so frustrating to have to leave the park at 7pm in the middle of July!
-
I wouldn't mind having the FITH a tad bit slower speed. I know that ride was slower a few years ago.
I may be completely wrong, but it seems like I read that they can actually adjust the speed of Fire in the Hole based on crowd levels.
I would take out a lot of the stupid novelty junk in the HH and around the park that nobody buys. Replace it with some period era items.
I completely agree that they could improve on their merchandise selections.
Take out some of the unecessarily long que lines
Well, it all depends on which attractions you are referring too. Thunderation has an incredibly long queue line simply because when it was built, it was the only attraction like it at the park. I can remember spending what seemed like an hour waiting to ride it years ago.
Lower the price on a few food items
The prices could be a bit more reasonable.
Bring back the street shows that used to bring the crowd to a stop
They have done better recently, but I agree that they need more of the original shows.
Offer more days to support causes i.e. autism, veterans, metally handicap, single families, and other days to bring those types of families closer.
Well, its hard to offer support, and benefits, and perks for every condition known to mankind, but I understand the basic sentiment that you are driving at.
Keep the summer hours open longer and extend Moonlight Madness out a hour or two. It's so frustrating to have to leave the park at 7pm in the middle of July!
Longer hours, means more manpower, more manpower means more wages, more wages means higher ticket prices. However, if you are really interested in staying after dark you could try the Christmas Season when they stay open till 9:00 PM. ;)
I'm just teasing of course. Those are all really great suggestions! ;D
-
I bet there's alot'a single parent familys that would love to take their kids to SDC but cant afford it. Good thought FITH!
-
good points FITH>!!
I often wondered why they close so "early" in may-sept. Lots of potential hours there, But that woudl mean more man power and overhead. you know that has been factored in.
-
I agree about the street shows they were always my favorite. And instead of all these premade merchandise stores, I would like to see actual hand made crafts from the parks crafters being the bigger shops! I know there is still some left, but.......there used to be a lot more craft items sold and a lot less premade junk.
-
Oh and I did forget, I want to see the meringue pies back too! They were sooooooo good! Always something to look forward to.
I went to EVERY location that used to sell pies, and couldn't find one meringue, that was 2 years ago, I was there pregnant and seriously craving the big ole' slice of lemon meringue they used to sell. I started asking every one and no one knew what happened to them. For sure a must see back on the park!
My husband and my mom also really used to like the Steak on a Axle they used to sell. they both miss it a lot.
My step father and I on the other hand also miss the cajun food. I in fact did call Chef Zadar about the cajun food, and he said it just wasn't selling enough, people want hot dogs, pizza, and burgers now. Hmph not me! I can get that at home! UHG! I haven't called about the pies yet though.
-
Oh sorry, but one more PS on the food.
Is it just my husband and I, or does any one else notice a huge quality change, and quantity change on the succatash? It seems to my husband and I we used to get more meat, and the veggies we liked (like okra for instance) and now it's very little meat (like the last time I bet I only had two pieces at most in mine!) and mainly the cheap veggies, like corn and onions! (not that I don't like corn and onions, but I also loooove okra!). Any way...not only did the quality and quantity seem to go down, but at the same time the prices raised! The last few years we didn't even get it cause we knew would have to buy something else too to get full and still be disappointed in the lack of ingredients that used to be in there, and just full of the cheapest stuff!
and personally the price change wouldn't bother us so bad if the quantity and the quality was still there. It was just a double whammy when both were done at the same time! I am sure both my husband and I would be willing to pay the extra price change IF the quantity and quality had stayed up to par.
-
Welcome to the site, Magnolia Whisper! I agree with you about the pies; I've ranted about them too. My wife and I visited Mary's Pie Shop quite often for an afternoon treat of the lemon and choclate meringue pies. We checked out Mary's in July and they only had two kinds of pie, neither of which was meringue. But you're right about the City listening to their guests and making changes for the better. Maybe they'll bring back the pies...
-
Is chef Zader still at the city I had though he had left?
-
Ah yes, I don't know if I remembered to include this in my last trip report or not, but the food situation at SDC has continued to go downhill this year. I wouldn't even suggest that people eat in the park these days, it's gotten that bad. I saw many complaints from guests about the food, which used to be unheard of.
I had lunch at the Springhouse that day. Ordered the spaghetti in a bread bowl and received a water bunch of noodles in a plastic bowl instead. I was pretty mad. I had some cinnamon bread later that day too, and even it seemed more mass produced and in lower quality. When I ordered it they actually stuck it in a microwave for a few seconds... not like the old days when they were fresh out of the oven and a microwave would certainly NEVER be used in front of guests.
It's pretty sad, because SDC used to be one of my favorite places to eat. There used to be so many places I enjoyed - I could have spent a whole day just eating my way around the park.
If there's one improvement the park should be making during the upcoming "improvements" year, it's in their food service and production.
-
I had some cinnamon bread later that day too, and even it seemed more mass produced and in lower quality. When I ordered it they actually stuck it in a microwave for a few seconds... not like the old days when they were fresh out of the oven and a microwave would certainly NEVER be used in front of guests.
You mentioned that you had the cinnamon bread later in the day, specifically after lunch. I wonder if they bake the cinnamon bread for breakfast, and then simply reheat the unsold ones in the afternoon?
-
The last two times I have visited the park 8/9 - 9/2, the Lumbercamp was out of tomatoes. Not a big deal, but you do like to receive what you pay your hard earned money for (No Discount). I don't know if they were out for the entire month or it was just coincidental they were out the last two days I had visited. If this was late in the day I might understand but we were the first in line on 9/2. You would think someone might stop at the grocery store on the way to work.
-
I'm not sure if Chef Zadar is still there or not, this has been some years, since they took out the Cajun Food, I called guest relations about it, and they said that Chef Zadar was on the park at the time I called and asked if I would like to speak to him and I said yes. This has been at least 7 or 8 years and possibly longer ago. They still had the pies at the time, 2 years ago was the first time I noticed that the merignue pies were gone, they used to sell them every where, The Springhouse, the BBQ place by the riverboat theater, and the ice cream shops restaurant as well as the Sandwich shop.
The Springhouse spaghetti quality went down some years ago, it started with the meatballs started tasting like the kind you get from Sam's club (even though they are supposed to be home made and are larger then Sam's club, they just weren't like they used to be), then taking away the breadbowls too.
And wow I haven't heard of them doing the microwave with the breads, there is a time in the day they make the last of stuff, but still a microwave, really? I HATE bread out of a microwave, wouldn't a toaster oven be just as convenient but with better quality results? UHG! I NEVER put bread in the microwave at home!
-
We always used to eat in SDC, but now we bring in something......the Bakery must use the same kind of mixes that most grocery and other bake shops use.... I used to like the cinnamon rolls, but now they are just like any other stores bakery only bigger.....I'm a baker that makes everything from scratch, so it's hard to find REAL BAKERY these days. Most of the other places to eat have only so-so food....the portions are smaller and of poorer quality than they used to be. SDC ian't the only place that food quality has gone down and prices gone up......most restaurants have the same problems. I guess a lot of people don't notice ,because most people eat out and don't know what home cooked food tastes like.
-
You are right Cheesehead, that has happened to most of our favorite restaurants, quality and quantity down and price up. We have had to give up a lot of our favorite restaurants cause it just wasn't worth it any more.
-
10) Find a way to rebuild the treehouse.
9) Do something with the waterboggan tower.
8) More street shows
7) Get rid of (or at least try to hide) all the stuff that Miss Mary wouldn't like
6) Make all the food from scratch like they used to
5) Restore FITH to it's original layout
4) Build a wooden roller coaster
3) Carry Nation show at the Saloon
2) Bring back the old wooden toys they used to sell in the toystore
1) More Bluegrass - you can never go wrong with more bluegrass
-
Ditto....OKIE.....your suggestions are right on!
-
I agree okiebluegrass! Other then the wooden coaster idea, nothing else on the list would be too cost prohibitive. Does anyone know if anyone from SDC reads or posts here? The free market research available here costs them nothing!
-
Yes, there are several SDC employee's (better known as Citizens) on these forums. Some are present, some are past, but ALL are appreciated!
And you can be certain that there are Higher Ups that read these post.
-
10) Find a way to rebuild the treehouse.
9) Do something with the waterboggan tower.
8) More street shows
7) Get rid of (or at least try to hide) all the stuff that Miss Mary wouldn't like
6) Make all the food from scratch like they used to
5) Restore FITH to it's original layout
4) Build a wooden roller coaster
3) Carry Nation show at the Saloon
2) Bring back the old wooden toys they used to sell in the toystore
1) More Bluegrass - you can never go wrong with more bluegrass
Excellent list, okiebluegrass! The only thing I would add is let the members of SDCFans in free for all the publicty we give 'em! ;D
-
I agree with some of the thoughts with the food like at big Jacks sandwhich shop where the sandwhichs are premade. I even emailed SDC customer service about it. I think the biggest problem is not completely SDC's. I was told by one of the citizens that there have been complaints about the time people have to wait for their food. Wether it is a sandwhich or cinnamon bread. I unfortunately think that sometimes they have to conform to the masses and as much as WE do not like that our voice are smaller compared to the millions that go everyyear.
-
As far as timing they could have both just like out in the real world there is "fast" food (never as good!) and there is sit down places. However, I must say I NEVER minded waiting in line for GOOD food! However, sadly like Cheesehead, if the food ain't good I am not going to waste my money on it, instead I would just bring my own! I went to a park in Egg Harbor, NJ every thing on the park was the nastiest stuff I ever ate......we never again ate there! We brought our own from then on.
I would say the better plan for "faster" food would be just put up MORE spots to buy food, then it could spread the people out more. The problem I see is they rarely have ALL the food places open at once, if they had them all open at the prime times at least that would probably help a lot of the lines.
IE there is a caramel apple cart by the lost river ride, that RARELY is ever open, same with the Salad place by the turkey legs and succatash (outside echo hollar), same with the food thing that was first at the culinary school, every time I went to that snack bar is was closed!
If they would just keep all the food places/carts they already have open all the time (at least during the busier times) maybe added a few more selections and a little seating area in the guest house where there is a small snack stand.
I think all those changes would add up to less wait time at the other places. But again me, I don't mind standing in line for food that I know will be good. However, I'm a season pass holder, I can go as often as I want, if the food is worthless, I would just bring my own or leave the park and eat some where else. So... they would actually be losing money from me and my family if they keep on this road.
As far as the wooden roller coaster, it really shouldn't cost them as much as "new" rides, as they should just use Wild Cat which they already own!
I agree 100 percent with the list!
-
MagnoliaWhisper, I agree with you on the season pass thing and the good food. When I plan on going to SDC, I try to get there as soon as the gates open for breakfast, because I know if I get there 5 minutes before the park itself opens, I have to wait in a super massive line. When I know I won't be there as early as possible, I'll usually just grab something on the way there. And for lunch, the restaurants are usually really full, so I usually just buy random snacks through out the day so I don't starve. Like the last time I was there (last Sunday), the whole park was really crowded, so Mom said, "how about we just leave early and go to cracker barrel or something, and we'll come back for the concert later."
It not often that I'm ready to leave SDC early, but there was no eating, there was barely any walking with all the people that were there.
-
Though we usually have grandiose plans of returning to the park later in the evenings...rarely do we sccomplish this. Not that we get too distracted by Branson fun, after dinner, we are just too full and tired!
-
We usually stay at Barvarian Village so leaving and going back to our cabin and coming back isn't that big of a deal really for us. Or if we don't come back it's not that big of a deal either since we have the season pass we'll just go again the next day! lol haha However, we have actually left and came back a few times. With out much problems, however, if I had to go all the way back into Branson and not just behind SDC may be different. However, with the new road/parking situation it does make it a little less convenient then it used to be!
So hmm, to me it sounds like they just need to add more food places. there's plenty of places to do so. There could be more food over by the "farm". They could have a REAL restaurant instead of just the snack bar by Red Gold Heritage Hall/Grand Expo area. They could add some real restaurant back by the bathrooms by gyuser gulch. Just off the top of my head. There's sooooooo much seating at oh I never can remember the name but the restaurant that sells the turkey legs, and burgers, beans, chili, etc. They could add another line there so there is two lines. Cause that place has massive seating. I haven't gotten to go this year. (however my dad also told me the food went way down hill!) But, when ever we are having "moving" problems and being able to find a place to eat we usually head there. Cause there's plenty of seating, (at least three levels of seating areas), and then we just send one or two family members up to get all the food for every one, at what ever restaurant we choose, not always that one. lol The only thing with that restaurant is it never has enough sides, only fries and beans, it needs corn and corn bread. Cause even if we do eat there, if we get beans or chili we all want corn bread! lol And we all love corn too so that wouldn't be another bad addition. We aren't much for french fries, I mean they are ok and all just not something I like to spend money on much. We are "real" food eaters. lol So we are usually sending some one to Aunt Polly's or the BBQ place or some where to get corn bread and/or corn.
-
So hmm, to me it sounds like they just need to add more food places. there's plenty of places to do so.
That's a tasty idea, but they would have to remember quality over quantity. I'm not sure if new food places would work considering how many complaints they are getting over the food places they already have.
However, if they can maintain quality, then I think you have a good idea. :)
-
I agree with the sides issue. My family does not eat fries. My 4 year old abhorrs*** (sp?) potatoes of any kind. Will not touch em. My husband and I dont eat potatoes due to they dont fit in out diet. And its not somethin I travel an hour an forty five for anyhow. If I am going to spend money I am going to spend it one something I cant easily pbtain at walmart and easily cook at home and have it taste just as good.
-
So true Ozark, quality all the way. That's what used to be best about the food at SDC! I don't understand why they can't keep that up. At the VERY least at the places that used to have that. They could still throw up some kids/family friendly "fast food" type joints around the park, and the complaining people about the lines that don't care about quality over fastness would just know those were the restaurants for them. lol Although it would be great to have it all be good quality like it used to be.
And exactly Miss. Now my kids do loooooooove french fries, cause my MIL gave them to them. And we don't. I mean we do once in a while but it's not one of our every day foods and I for sure am not going to pay "park" prices for french fries! Sorry. lol I would like to see them have more sides like Aunt Polly's has, a veggie or two (real veggie, not just french fried potatoes, things like green beans, collard greens I think would go great with the style food that is in that particular restaurant for instance, and such as that). And then of course like I said since they sell Chili there and as far as I know the only place that sells Chili on the park, and I believe in the winter they also have beef stew there (or at least they used to), then I have no idea why they wouldn't have corn bread, as most people like corn bread with such, and corn bread is a OZARK staple. In fact in my grandma's day (the great depression) that was the main meal of every day for the folks in the ozarks, corn bread and milk was dinner every night for my grandma. And as far as I know only Aunt Polly's sells it. With it being such a ozark original food, especially for the 1880's theme of the ozarks I think it should at least be where the chili and beef stew is. lol ;o)
-
I just got done venting to my sister (it's her fault, she brought it up).
I was saying how I wish SDC would have spent the million dollars for Half Dollar Holler on re building the things I loved as a kid, like the tree house (the entrance was a tree) and the tree house where Tom Sawyer's Landing used to be.
The one thing me and my sister agreed on (shocking, huh?) was since SDC has a ton of other land they could have put HDH on instead of right next to the Swingin' Bridge. It used to be so pretty and really fun to go across the Swingin' Bridge, now it's just screaming kids. I can think of 5 other places they coulda put HDH instead of right next to the Swingin' Bridge.
-
I agree, I loved the bridge the old way, and the mood of the area is definitely different.
-
As far as I can tell, part of HDH looks kinda like the playground over by Geyser Gulch. It kinda looks like straps weaved together and you have to try to find the hole to climb through.
-
count me in also! they ruined the swinging bridge area. nuf sed!
-
In all fairness I have to agree! I think they could have done better than a minature version of Geyser Gulch with a shrink ray version of the Wave Carousel.
-
they could have easily put HDH where WB was.....but they elected not too...so there ya are!
-
It could have been a kind of add on to the ball thing at GG.
I think they should get our opinion before doing anything! ;)
-
I wish for the return of
- Rube Dugan's Diving Bell
- the gunfights
- big feud between the Hatfields and McCoys
- skillet bowls that have been replaced by Philly steak sandwiches (all over the park)
- walking thru the Treehouse with the twinkling lights
- wedge of cheese that was served at Dine In the Mine and the the dessert tray! Yum!
- the bookstore
- REAL tintypes - not the digital ones they produce now
- asphalt being replaced by concrete
- the clip clop of horses as you walk across the bridge. Is it gone or broken?
- listening to the taffy making machine in the Taffy Shop
- remember the open air vendors that sold corn on the cob dripping with butter and bbq ribs (I think they were served on a stick)
I hate - the cold drink cases near the back of the park
- the higher prices and smaller portions of food
- cold sandwiches only at Jack's Sandwich Board; no more hot ones - what a bummer!
- absence of the mile high pies!
- the condition of American Plunge (my favorite ride)
- the funky slushie machines that allow you to make your own slushie
- hot drinks served w/o a lid - I've had a few spilled on me! Ouch! A mug is essential!!
I love - the crisp morning smell
- the smell of wood fire in the Fall
- walking on asphalt thru falling leaves
- sorghum making even though it's not on main street
- a billion Christmas lights that twinkle like no other
- hot chocolate served as "the works" at the place on Main Street
- Sasparilla in a cold, glass bottle
- SILVER DOLLAR CITY AND ALWAYS WILL!
-
Oh, yeah! And, I wish they would get rid of those basketballs. They drive my crazy, but kids love them!
-
I love - the crisp morning smell
- the smell of wood fire in the Fall
- walking on asphalt thru falling leaves
- sorghum making even though it's not on main street
- a billion Christmas lights that twinkle like no other
- hot chocolate served as "the works" at the place on Main Street
- Sasparilla in a cold, glass bottle
- SILVER DOLLAR CITY AND ALWAYS WILL!
I love your "loves" Gilligan!
-
And I second the exit of B-Balls as well!
-
If your talking about those basketballs you can win in Grand Exposition, AMEN!!
I was standing in line for (i think) PowderKeg, and some stupid kid kept bouncing a stupid basketball behind me. I had on a backpack-like thing. He hit my bag atleast 5 times. I was ready to turn around and throw the ball halfway across the park. >:(
One of my friends won a basketball, but she didn't dribble it all over the park all day long like most people do. She carried it, and I was fine with that. We had to take it away from my sister for the 'bouncing it' reason though.
-
I was standing in line for (i think) PowderKeg, and some stupid kid kept bouncing a stupid basketball behind me. I had on a backpack-like thing. He hit my bag atleast 5 times. I was ready to turn around and throw the ball halfway across the park. >:(
What was this kid going to do with a basketball on the ride anyway? I suppose he could have just stuck it in one of those open storage boxes in the loading area, but I don't think a basketball would fit. :P
-
The street shows have been very disappointing to me over the last couple of years. It just seems to me they are a little too loud and chaotic. I know they have to be loud enough for everyone to hear but it just seems a little too much for my tastes. The last time we were there we were sitting in the ice cream shop enjoying a little dessert in the corner. Sheriff Lump came up beside us waiting for his lines in the show and started spinning the top of the trash can lid. No big deal but he did stand there for a good 2 or 3 minutes, 5 feet away doing this (kind of annoying). I would love to see The Rain Maker or some of the other routines like the old shellshock show that Shad Heller made famous. I don't think they should do away with them, just maybe a slight upgrade. I have noticed a lot of the other guests with a look of what in the world is going on when they walk into these skits when they are going on.
-
You mentioned that the street show was too loud. I am assuming that all of the actors were wearing a microphone, so would the volume being turned up too loud on the sound system be the source of the problem? Of course, it all may depend on how close, or far away you are from the speakers. Plus, a lot of our older generation family, and friends need it loud just so they can hear. :P
As far as being chaotic, do the actors just play their characters over the top, or is the story hard to follow? I do agree that the new shows are nothing compared to the classics, but at this point I am just happy that we have street shows at all. :)
-
I would think they would have the speakers at an even keel around the skit where it wasn't too loud or too soft. I would say it may just be set too loud, but this is something you would think would be checked upon on almost a daily routine. It just seems the whole cast is on speed at times and just need to slow it down a little (possible over acting).
-
Good points, and I completely agree. The sound system volume should be adjusted before each performance based on wind noise, crowd noise, and the noise coming from the surrounding attractions.
Perhaps part of the “over acting” is to force comedy into the routine. However, comedy is all about pace, and just enjoying the moment. :)
-
I wish for the return of
- Rube Dugan's Diving Bell
- the gunfights
- big feud between the Hatfields and McCoys
- skillet bowls that have been replaced by Philly steak sandwiches (all over the park)
- walking thru the Treehouse with the twinkling lights
- wedge of cheese that was served at Dine In the Mine and the the dessert tray! Yum!
- the bookstore
- REAL tintypes - not the digital ones they produce now
- asphalt being replaced by concrete
- the clip clop of horses as you walk across the bridge. Is it gone or broken?
- listening to the taffy making machine in the Taffy Shop
- remember the open air vendors that sold corn on the cob dripping with butter and bbq ribs (I think they were served on a stick)
I hate - the cold drink cases near the back of the park
- the higher prices and smaller portions of food
- cold sandwiches only at Jack's Sandwich Board; no more hot ones - what a bummer!
- absence of the mile high pies!
- the condition of American Plunge (my favorite ride)
- the funky slushie machines that allow you to make your own slushie
- hot drinks served w/o a lid - I've had a few spilled on me! Ouch! A mug is essential!!
I love - the crisp morning smell
- the smell of wood fire in the Fall
- walking on asphalt thru falling leaves
- sorghum making even though it's not on main street
- a billion Christmas lights that twinkle like no other
- hot chocolate served as "the works" at the place on Main Street
- Sasparilla in a cold, glass bottle
- SILVER DOLLAR CITY AND ALWAYS WILL!
I couldn't have put together a better list myself. I agree with all of it.
-
spot on gilligan!!
-
Thanks! I could go on and on and on....but I didn't want to bore anyone!
-
its hard to be bored of your fave subject!!!
-
What was this kid going to do with a basketball on the ride anyway? I suppose he could have just stuck it in one of those open storage boxes in the loading area, but I don't think a basketball would fit. :P
I usually take off by myself so I don't usually have someone to hold my stuff while I'm riding rides, especially if I'm with friends. I see a lot of groups of teenagers all over the place at SDC. That's the worst thing! Most of them goof off and don't have any respect. I'm gonna brag on my friends (sorry, lol). My friends behave themselves, because I can't stand immature people so I'm picky when it comes to people I voluntarily associate with. (One reason I don't have a boyfried ;).) My friend, Robby, walked around picking up trash one day we were there, and Kelsey goes up to rowdy groups of teenagers and asks them to be respectful. It's kinda funny, but she's dead serious!
I know this isn't something anybody can really fix, but I can not stand the dumb teenagers (this coming from an 18 year old!)
Maybe shock collars... ? Just a thought!! lol
-
""""Maybe shock collars... ? Just a thought!! lol"""""
OH!!! I like that idea, probably out of theme though ::) ::)
Would have to design them to look like hankerchiefs wrapped around their neck ;)
-
We could make it work! ;)
-
The clopping of the horses over the bridge has been audible on each of our trips this yea, though it is kinda faint against a noisy background and stomping kids.
As for the over acting of the skits: at least it's period. Acting in the 1880's was melodramatic and boisterous.
-
I have a qestion for those of you with inside knowledge of the park. Do Jack or Pete walk to the park and with do you think they see some of at least I think not so great changes that happen say like Jack sandwhich shop pre making the sandwiches or things of that nature.
-
I read in an article a couple years ago that they do still walk around the park quite often. And I don't think there's any way they wouldn't notice the changes that have gone on in the past 10 or so years. However, it's hard for us to tell what they think about the changes. :P
-
Jack and Pete put into place others who call the shots today. If Jack and Pete felt very strongly about something, then the ones in control would make a change. Jack and Pete firmly believe once they've put someone in place to do a job for them, they will stand back and not micromanage, and go with the decisions of who they put in the job. I scratch my head each time I'm on park as to why the treehouse is still there. I bet its one of two reasons...either no money was budgeted to remove it, or Jack and or Pete don't want it removed. That's my guess, though. I was on park on opening day and Jack was making the rounds with Brad Thomas. That is when Jack and I got our picture together, the one I use as my avitar. So, yes, the two still tour the park. I understand both of them and their wives were on park for the big 9/11 ceremony last week. That is nice to know, too.
-
It is good to know they still have a presence, albeit a small one, but if they were made aware of an issue I am sure it would quickly be resolved.
-
One of them (not sure which one) is always present at the 5K marathon held at the City for Caring People.
-
5K marathon? Sounds like Jack. He used to be a runner/jogger. I cannot tell you how many times I almost hit him with my car! He used to jog down the middle of Highway 76 where the turn off is for the campground. I must have come close to whacking him at least two or three times back in the early 80s! Thank God I didn't! :) This would have been in mid-March to mid-April, before many tourists were in the area and you could just about run naked down the strip without anyone seeing you at that time of year. (Of course, he didn't...run naked that is! Ha!)
-
Run to the Lights is a 5K held on Nov. 11 after the park is closed. It supports Caring People, an organization founded by Jodee Herschend, to provide assistance to single moms. It's an exciting night full of "people who care", rivers of hot chocolate, wassail, and those billions of lights. Jodee and her husband (Jack or Pete?) present the awards.
-
dude, I can barely run across campus from class to class. Let alone running the hills at dollar city. Which would lead me to my next question........which is worse running up or down cardiac hill? They both pose their individual threats.
-
It has always been a goal of mine to meet Jack, and Pete. However, I am not able to make enough trips to Branson to better my odds. :)
I do agree though that they probably don’t dive too deeply into the management aspect of Silver Dollar City anymore. That’s what those desk job executives do in Georgia. However, it is nice that they still take the time to visit the park from time to time.
-
Do jack and Pete still live in Branson or do they live in Georgia?
-
They live in the Branson area give, or take. The Herschend Corporation itself moved to Georgia some time back.
-
The clopping of the horses over the bridge has been audible on each of our trips this yea, though it is kinda faint against a noisy background and stomping kids.
As for the over acting of the skits: at least it's period. Acting in the 1880's was melodramatic and boisterous.
I've heard the clopping of the horses on the bridge on our trips this year as well. My question is why did they take down the sign that told about the bridge collapsing under the weight of a posse chasing the Baldknobbers? Trivia question: does anyone else remember the date that was posted that the bridge collapse was supposed to have happened? ;)
-
I wish for the return of
- ...
- skillet bowls that have been replaced by Philly steak sandwiches (all over the park)
- ...
Say it isn't so!!!!! My family loves those skillets!
-
I know that Jack and Pete pay attention to what's going on with the park. For just a little bit of perspective...while Mary was still with us, both of them were pretty active in the management and daily decision making processes, but after she passed, it seems that Pete's attentions were drawn more toward representing the park to the state politicos and tourism industry, while Jack's were more attuned to the daily operation of the park. Because of that, and this is only my impression, it seems that Jack "feels it" more. I've had conversations with him and been involved in others in which we've expressed concerns and he'll say "I hear ya fellas but it's out of my hands." And that's just sad.
-
Zephon, the above statement shocks me. Jack, Pete and their mom created the company. I don't know how they have things set up of course, but it seems they should always be able to come to their board, management and so on, and say, "THIS is the way I want..." and get their demand, immediately. NOTHING should be out of their hands. NOTHING. It's their company.
-
So, if Jack or Pete walk into SDC and say they want the dippin dots stand moved 5 ft. to the left....this would not be done or a telephone call to Georgia would have to be made? That's a little hard to believe! This is a video I found on Youtube with Jack speaking about a high rise development that he was against, but was ultimately passed. It is kind of long if you would listen to all of it but Jack only starts speaking at about the 5:20 mark and speaks to the 11:20 mark. I know he is speaking about a change that happened to SDC about 20 years ago, and is not relevant to what happens in the decision making at SDC today. But the story of Gaslight Park at SDC is interesting when told by Jack. Jack you will notice walks in to the room on crutches at the beginning of the video.
http://youtu.be/YCHC6fyy8kw
-
Interesting video. Notice all he had to do was say his name? Didn't mention SDC until a little bit into his talk. I noticed the speaker in front of him did not get applause. I noticed Jack did. Yes, I think Jack still feels the passion. But I agree with the above post. Seems like if Jack or Pete saw something on park they didn't like, all they would have to do is say, "change that," and it would be changed. Seems sad to read the comment Jack made to Zephon some time ago. Jack is getting older and health problems are bothering him. How much longer will the passion live on?
-
Yes, it appears the Herschend name holds a lot of respect in the Branson area, as well it should. Kind of surprised the vote went against his wishes. This video was from 2006 I believe, at least this was when the high rise proposal was voted upon.
-
I still think the best way to make the park better, would be with the official SDCFans Advisory Committee -- "In The Spirit Of Miss Mary"!
You know how certain repressed nations have squads roaming around administering instant beatings and other summary punishment for violations? Yeah, kinda like that. ;D
-
dude, I can barely run across campus from class to class. Let alone running the hills at dollar city. Which would lead me to my next question........which is worse running up or down cardiac hill? They both pose their individual threats.
I always walk around passed Heartland Home Furnishings and passed the knife making shop so I don't have to worry about the hill that I swear is gonna get us all!
-
ohhh yes. cardiac hill: we always walk at an angle starting at johnsons place toward jacks sandwhich shop and then back towards the furnishings store,..
Really need a themed escalator!!! LOL
-
Hey Sandune.....you're really not that old to walk up cardiac hill are you? I usually walk up it, but Bob skirts up it at an angle. It's hard for flatlanders to get used to HILLS.
-
Interesting video. Notice all he had to do was say his name? Didn't mention SDC until a little bit into his talk. I noticed the speaker in front of him did not get applause. I noticed Jack did. Yes, I think Jack still feels the passion. But I agree with the above post. Seems like if Jack or Pete saw something on park they didn't like, all they would have to do is say, "change that," and it would be changed. Seems sad to read the comment Jack made to Zephon some time ago. Jack is getting older and health problems are bothering him. How much longer will the passion live on?
Are there any younger Herschend's who will see that the tradition of SDC carries on?
-
Back to topic...changes you'd like to see at the park...
My family, for one, REALLY misses having an in-house gospel quartet full-time at the park. The girls of Pure Heart (and the Sons of the Silver Dollar, when they do gospel songs) do a great job, but we long for the days of being able to go see Chosen Few or the Cumberland Quartet lift up the name of the Lord several times a day in their shows. The popularity of the Southern Gospel Picnic and the huge crowds the evening show draws during that time (as compared to the sorry crowds for the GAC evening show) should be a clue as to what people want to see. I am very disappointed that that aspect has been removed from the daily schedule. I know Dollywood has Kingdom Heirs as their in-house quartet and they always are very popular. With all the great talent around, why can't we get another quality gospel quartet at SDC?
Another thing we have sorely missed is the show "Listen to the River" that used to be at the Opera House maybe 20 years ago. That was an incredible show, honoring the faith and tenacity of the early Ozark settlers. The "new" show, 'Headin' West' is OK, but greatly misses the mark when it comes to the faith/family aspect of the settlers. Why give time (in the show) to the saloon girl "floozies" who put temptation in the way of the men who were heading west and fail to emphasize their dependence on God and the hardships they faced as a family? Listen to the River was the best show the Opera House has ever done, IMO, and I'd love to see it brought back. Maybe the powers that be see it as too 'politically incorrect' now, but it was classic SDC and something we always looked forward to seeing more than once a visit.
Seems like the Opera House has been used very little this year, and even Riverfront Playhouse (I worked on park in the 70's/daughter worked on park this year). Those venues were always the home to good quality shows, and now they sit basically empty except for a few festivals. Is SDC so strapped for ideas or cash that they can't fill those theaters every day the park is open with something special? IDK, but, along with the earlier comments about the old street shows and even 'spontaneous' crowd interaction (which I totally agree with), I'd love to see some changes in the shows....
-
that is a good point about the empty buildings. i noticed last weekend the RP was vacant. thought maybe it was just the weekend. But i see on the schedlue it is vacant again this weekend.. you would think they could find a group to put in there.
I dont remember there being a group in there during OTC either?
Too bad..
-
I dont know how to explain this, but here it goes..
We dont have have or make much money, we go on a very small budget. We consider ourselves as middle to lower class people. But what i dont see anymore at the park, is people that are less fortunate than all of us. You used to see them all the time. Maybe its just the way Life is these days i guess. I have discussed this with someone on this site & this person did make me feel better. But i just wish there was a way to get the less fortunate people to the park for a fun day, they would probably enjoy it more than all of us. Not to sound rude, but it just seems the lower class of people have been shoved out, rather its got to do with the times we are in, or not.
Heck, the reason i took my daughter & her boyfriend is because they really didnt have the money to go. He works with me, & she has no job, they went home from SDC with probably $70.00 to last for 2 weeks till they got paid. They made sure their bills were paid before we left. We helped them out alil' during our visit, its just sad to see things get so far out of reach for some people. Its almost out of reach for us anymore. My wife & i spent about $550.00 for our last trip, about half of that was the rent-a-car because we just dont wanna take our own cars.
All in a shell -- they need a free admission day for the less fortunate from like homeless shelters or anyone that cant afford it. How you would control that, i dont know.. Theres places out there though, i know alot'a people that dont have the money to go. One person is at our grocery store we go to, we had plans to take her but she had to work.
Ok, i'm done venting.... Sorry..
-
That's how we used to use our baf passes. Bringing people that usually wouldn't be able to afford it. Pack lunches, etc.
However, it is getting harder and harder to make it there, that's why we personally haven't been in two years, finances. The prices of the passes are getting more and more expensive every year. When I first started getting a season pass, they were less then 20 dollars........
-
I'm sorry you aint been in 2 years MagnoliaWhisper, i feel for ya....
I was homeless during part of the 80s & have never forgotten those times, thats why it bothers me so much to see these changes. I know the world is differant now & that will never change. I just dont worry about empty buildings & cases of coke sitting around the park when we go, we go & just enjoy. Its nothing against the park, its just sad.
I knew i shouldnt of opened this can of worms on myself....
-
Jack and Pete both have kids that work with the company. I think some of the grandkids may also be involved at a low level...like working regular jobs on the park to get experience with the company. Jacks son Bruce, who I went to high school with, runs Talking Rocks Cavern, and his wife operates Butterfly Palace in Branson. Pete has a son in SDC management. There are others, but I don't know the details. So there will continue to be a Herschend presence with the company for some time to come.