Audis, Awards and A Whole Lot of Heart

By

Audrey Audette

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Roger Jobs' newly renovated showroom. Photo courtesy: Roger Jobs Motors.

Pulling up to Roger Jobs Motors in my older, non-luxury car, I wasn’t sure what to expect.

Newly renovated showroom and location
Photo credit: Roger Jobs Motors

As I parked alongside brand-new models of Audi and Porsche I prayed no one saw me pull in, until I noted that the entire building was made of windows. I walked up to the door, went in and realized: all that stress was for nothing. I was greeted by a friendly, bright and welcoming atmosphere. Every single person acknowledged me with a smile or wave, and no one even mentioned how terrible my parking job was. The excellent customer service along with the delicious espresso quickly offered made me feel right at home.

Roger Jobs strives for this reaction in every customer interaction. His top priority is customer satisfaction, which is one of the reasons he won an Audi Magna Award in 2017. The Audi Magna award was presented to only 101 Audi Dealers in the country and only three in Washington State. Dealers must demonstrate an exceptional level of customer along with strong business performance as determined by Audi – and Roger Jobs Motors has now won it three years in a row.

Bellingham Bells mascot taking a tour of the new showroom!
Photo credit: Roger Jobs Motors

“We’re extremely grateful,” Owner Roger Jobs says. “We’re going to keep doing what we’re doing and keep trying to do it better every year.” What sets Roger apart is not only his passion for cars, but also for people.

Roger’s commitment to his customers goes as deep as the design of his newly renovated showroom. The interior is a huge open space, with employee desks in sight of the front doors so that every customer is greeted by someone every time.

Manager Travis Graddon – whose desk is perched right in the front of the entrance – says, “The important thing to remember is that every time someone walks through these doors is a first experience. Whether it’s their first time here or their hundredth, they’re walking in for the first time that day.”

And the dealership’s interior is just as sleek as the cars it sells; “Every detail matters,” Jobs says, “Walking into a car dealership, everyone is going to feel nervous, but I can do my best to make them feel as comfortable as possible.”

Roger Jobs Motors has been privately owned longer than any other dealership in Bellingham — besides Diehl Ford, of course. “Diehl’s been there for a hundred years,” Roger says with a laugh. “He deserves a shout out for that!”

Car donation to a charity golf tournament by Roger Jobs Motors
Photo credit: Roger Jobs Motors

Although 100 years is a tough number to beat, Roger is certainly creating his own legacy. By remaining privately owned, he’s able to tirelessly commit to his customers, employees and community. In fact, some of his customers have remained loyal to Roger since he began selling cars in the early 1970’s. “I had a guy come in that I sold a car to in 1972 just the other day,” says Roger. “I’ve made some great relationships here over the years.”

His employees are in it for the long haul, too. “We had an employee retire after 30 years right here in the showroom. I think the longevity of employees is a testament to how great it is to work for Roger,” says manager Kelly McCann.

Besides his commitment to customers and employees, Roger strives to keep his community happy, as well. Last year, through Habitat for Humanity, he donated a house that will be given to a family whose previous home was destroyed by fire in Maple Falls. He also donates to several charities around the county and sponsors a multitude of charity events. Roger takes pride in being able to give back to the community that’s helped him become so successful.

Roger Jobs Motors donated a home to Habitat for Humanity
Photo credit: Roger Jobs Motors

Roger’s unique philosophy on car sales is what has allowed him to grow, expand and become a three-time Audi Magna Award recipient. Roger Jobs Motors sells new and used Audi, Porsche and Volkswagen and has a service department on site. To learn more about Roger Jobs Motors, visit their website or stop in at 2200 Iowa Street, Bellingham.

How to Stop Sneezing and Enjoy Spring in Whatcom County

By

Andrea Culletto

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Squalicum Harbor is a beautiful area in which to relax and connect with friends and family. Photo courtesy: Port of Bellingham

The flowers are blooming, the bees are buzzing and I’m sneezing my head off. This annual routine feels almost ritualistic in its predictability. I’m a life-long allergy sufferer.

I had my first scratch test when my exasperated mother, tired of my continual sneezing, eye rubbing and itching, took me to an allergist. After covering my back in upwards of 30 miniscule scratches dabbed with various outdoor allergens, the test had to be called off. I was allergic to every single thing, except one: cherry trees. This single spot of calm, pale skin stood out like an island amid a fiery ocean of inflamed reaction. They had to medicate me to calm down my enraged system.

Beautiful pasture grasses can spell trouble for allergy sufferers. Photo courtesy: Brian Flowers.

Years of allergy shots accompanied by daily anti-histamines followed. This kept things more or less under control and the shots really did work. To this day, I can smell the sweet scent of pine without breaking into sneezing fits like I once did. Unfortunately, there aren’t enough shots in the world to cover all of my seasonal allergies. Basically, if it grows – I’ll sneeze at it.

So, what’s a sun- and spring-loving, outdoorsy kind of girl to do when Mother Nature really lets loose? Oh, there’s an app for that.

App

The free WebMD Allergy app provides personalized daily weather and allergy forecasts, along with customized tips on how to best handle your allergies. It’s not always possible to avoid seasonal allergens, but knowing when pollen is at its peak may inspire you to plan your day differently.

Keep Clean

Take some time to enjoy the flowers without sneezing. Photo credit: Jodi Broughton.

A big step toward avoiding an allergic reaction is avoiding the allergen itself. If you’re out gardening and doing yard work, consider wearing a mask, particularly one with HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters to keep out the pollen and dust. Change filters often to keep everything clean and clear. A face mask may not be the most attractive look but neither is red eyes, puffiness and continually streaming snot. Best to choose your battles. Also, sunglasses can help keep pollen out of your eyes.

Whether you wear a mask or not, be sure to shower at the end of the day. This prevents pollen or other contaminants from being transferred to your pillow and stirring up trouble all night long. Likewise, wash your face as needed throughout the day. Even a simple warm water rinse can erase the irritants and leave you feeling refreshed.

Just like your hair and skin should be kept clean from allergens, so should your nasal passages. It’s surprising how easily irritants can hide up there. Neti pots are a great solution to keep the passageways clean. I prefer NeilMed Sinus Rinse, which is slightly more user-friendly. You just mix up the solution, rinse both sides of your nasal passages and you’re good to go.

Set Your Home for Success

Don’t let allergies keep you indoors. Photo credit: Taylor Bailey.

Be sure your home is as close to an allergen-free sanctuary as possible. Keep problematic plants out and use HEPA filters in your air conditioner. Some people also find using a humidifier helps alleviate their allergy symptoms.

Keep an eye on your furry friends, as well. Cats and dogs are excellent transport mechanisms for hidden pollen. Your animal companion may not like routine bathing, but your inflamed sinuses will thank you.

Diet

Spring in Whatcom County is a wonderful time. Photo credit: Jodi Broughton.

Many outdoor allergy sufferers also have unknown food allergies. These are often mild and don’t illicit an obvious reaction, but contribute to overall allergy inflammation. It’s a good idea to pay attention to which foods cause you to feel extra stuffy or otherwise out of sorts. Food elimination diets can help you solve the mystery and a qualified allergist can test to determine which foods may be problematic. If you eliminate dietary allergens, your other allergies may ease.

There is also some evidence that eating local raw honey may help build tolerance to local pollens. While the jury is still out as to how definite this claim is, who wouldn’t love eating a tablespoon of fresh, local honey every day?

Similarly, there are a variety of herbs that have been used to alleviate allergies for centuries. If you are interested in learning more, talk to a certified naturopath.

Medications

Spring is a season of rebirth. Photo courtesy: Osprey Hill Farm.

There are a variety of antihistamines, nasal sprays and other treatment options available to tame your allergies. But not all solutions are created equal. I’ve had more success with some than with others – one steroid-based nasal spray gave me a facial rash that was definitely not worth it. Other medical treatments have greatly helped alleviate my symptoms. The point? If you’re fed up with your allergies, get the help of a qualified professional. They can discuss your options, the pros and cons of each, and help you set up an allergy attack plan.

William H. Anderson, MD and Sally Newbrough, MD at PeaceHealth are qualified to assist you in taming your allergy demons. It really helps to have a trained professional in your corner. When you’ve had enough, extra support is nothing to sneeze at.

PeaceHealth Medical Group Allergy & Immunology
Cordata Main
4545 Cordata Parkway, Suite 1C
Bellingham
360-738-2200

What To Do In and Around Bellingham April 27—29

By

Events Editor

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Scenic Whatcom County mountain — Photo credit: Justin Pedigo | FC Photography.

The weekend is here! Time to get out and have a little fun. Here are a few ideas of what to do in and around Bellingham April 20—22. And don’t forget to check out our full events calendar for all the fun happenings in Whatcom County.

Get some exercise and contribute to a good cause at BelleWood Acre’s 4th Annual Run for the Bees 5K.
Check out the Spring Book and Bake Sale.
Attend the Boys & Girls Clubs of Whatcom County Gala & Auction.
Learn something new at Hydrangeas 101.
Experience Dia de los Ninos/Dia de los Libros.
Learn about Growing Dry Beans & Grains in Whatcom County.
Have a blast at April Brews Day.
Show your theatrical side at the BRD Season 13 Audition.
Enjoy the music at Together in Song.

Up Next Weekend

WhatcomTalk aims to be your source for positive information and events happening in Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden and throughout Whatcom County. If you have a suggestion for a post, send us a note at submit@whatcomtalk.com. For more events and to learn what’s happening in Bellingham and the surrounding area, visit our events calendar. To submit an event of your own, visit our events calendar and click on the green “Post Your Event” button.

Photo credit: Justin Pedigo | FC Photography

Triple Wren Farms: Beautifying the County One Flower at a Time

By

Audrey Audette

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Triple Wren 2 — Photo courtesy: Triple Wren Farms.

While driving past routinely brown fields along the outskirts of Ferndale, the vibrant burst of color that is Triple Wren Farms may seem like a trick of the light. This family-owned and operated flower farm stands out with its bright purple and pink buds – which is exactly how owners Sarah and Steve Pabody want it.

“We feel passionate about bringing more beauty into the world,” Sarah says. “As best we can, we are working to beautify our corner of the county and to fling out flowers into our surrounding communities.”

Owners Sarah and Steve Pabody. Photo courtesy: Triple Wren Farms.

Triple Wren Farms offers beautiful cut flowers and artisan floral arrangements, along with other seasonal services and activities. Though it now carries a variety of products, the farm comes from humble beginnings.

One of the primary driving forces behind its creation was the Pabody’s children. “We wanted our kids to know foundationally where food comes from,” Sarah says. “We wanted them to grow up around chickens and kittens and vegetables and dirt – and for this to be something they’d always known, not something that dawned on them one day.”

When Sarah and Steve started the business, their kids were one and four years old. “We ‘accidentally’ signed up for fairly new parenting and learning to be flower farmers all at the same time,” Sarah explains, adding that while there were definitely challenges, the experience of sharing this with her family is one she wouldn’t change for the world.

“It makes me incredibly happy that my kids get to grow up around flowers,” Sarah says. Photo courtesy: Triple Wren Farms.

In the early stages, their farm had only five 100-foot rows of flowers and Steve still worked at his day job. By the second year, it was clear they needed to expand and take the leap into becoming full-time flower farmers. Now Triple Wren Farms covers over 20 acres, with six dedicated to flowers, and employs six additional flower enthusiasts.

Sarah says their mission has always been to “sustainably grow both our family farm and the community.” That’s why Triple Wren Farms is Salmon-Safe certified and is dedicated to helping revive the domestic American flower farming industry. They are committed to not only growing beauty, but also to preserving the beauty that already exists around them. “We carefully grow our crops without harming the world we and our children are blessed to live in, or the community we’re honored to be a part of,” she says.

In addition to growing and supplying flowers to local and regional retailers, the farm recently began crafting artisan floral arrangements. Sarah knew she wanted to be a flower farmer, but had never considered being a florist. While many may think these go hand-in-hand, the processes are vastly different.

Sarah shows off one of her many floral designs. Photo courtesy: Triple Wren Farms.

After growing for two seasons, Sarah became so inspired by the beauty around her that she decided to start designing floral arrangements for fun. “At first it was awful,” she says with a laugh, “but I kept experimenting and it became so therapeutic for me. As I fell more in love with arranging flowers, I also improved in my ability to do it.”

Now Sarah’s hobby has become a driving part of the business. Each season, Triple Wren Farms crafts their bounty into bouquets and floral décor for over 50 weddings in Whatcom, Skagit and Island counties.

Triple Wren Farms also hosts a pumpkin patch and blueberry patch on top of their normal operations. The pumpkin patch is scheduled to open on October 6 this year and is complete with a sunflower maze, tractor rides and a delicious food truck. In the summertime, farm visitors can enjoy the sweet taste of no-spray, u-pick blueberries. Details for both can be found on the Triple Wren Farms website.

Triple Wren Farms creates bouquets for over 50 weddings each season. Photo courtesy: Triple Wren Farms.

In addition to crops, Triple Wren Farms also grows future farmers. A series of six workshops are hosted throughout the growing season, covering a variety of topics from crop planning and layout to floral arrangements. Interested individuals can sign up for the whole series or specific classes on the website.

For those seeking an intensive educational experience, Triple Wren Farms offers a certified Flower Farmer Internship program. These last 29 weeks and teach a wide range of farming skills including flower production, marketing and distribution through daily experience. More details on internships can be found on their website.

Sarah and Steve’s passion for both Triple Wren Farms and the wider area community radiates through everything they do. “It makes me incredibly happy that my kids get to grow up around flowers,” Sarah says. “I want to fill their hearts with happy memories and share their joy with as many families around the county as possible.”

Photo courtesy: Triple Wren Farms.

Sponsored

Neighborhood Notes: Barkley Village’s Past, Present and Future

By

Matt Benoit

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barkley village 5 — Barkley Village has become a social hub. Photo courtesy: Barkley Village.

Bellingham’s Barkley Village is home to many great community assets, from a 16-screen movie theater to numerous shops, restaurants and offices. But as the area continues to change and expand, it’s worth noting that the land Barkley Village sits on could have become a much different kind of place.

In the 1970s, Jim Talbot, owner of Bellingham Cold Storage (and late father of current Barkley Village owner Stowe Talbot) purchased about 240 acres of then mostly woodland with the purpose of building a cold storage facility. Although the purchase was completed, the original plans for development never materialized.

The land Barkley Village now occupies could have become many things. We’re glad it turned out so great. Photo courtesy: Barkley Village.

The land sat unused until 1986, when an aerospace company then known as Heath Tecna stepped forward to buy 25 acres of land, building a facility at 3225 Woburn Street soon after. In those days, Woburn dead-ended at Illinois Street. But in 1989, the City of Bellingham made it a through street, connecting it to Sunset Drive. Barkley Boulevard, a new road, opened in the mid-1990s.

Haggen Foods came next, building a grocery store at 2900 Woburn, along with the Haggen-Talbot Building, a multi-story office building located at 2211 Rimland Drive. From the mid-1990s forward, development increased. More office space was built, followed by retail spaces in a small walking village near Haggen, complete with a clock tower and water fountain.

Today Barkley Village has grown into a special place. Photo courtesy: Barkley Village.

Suddenly, the area bustled with business. Several banks sprang up at the corners of Barkley Boulevard and Woburn, along with doctors and dentists’ offices. Condos and apartments followed in the mid-to-late 2000s, followed by the construction of Regal Cinemas Barkley Village, which opened in 2012.

Today, Talbot’s Barkley Company manages the land, and Neal Swanson, its vice president of leasing and marketing, says they have more plans for expansion.

Two office buildings – of 20,000 and 50,000 square-feet, respectively – are planned over the next five years, plus an additional apartment building, with the hope of two additional mixed-use buildings soon after. Swanson says the Barkley Village property encompasses about 250 acres, but estimates the area is only about 25 percent built-out.

The speed of expansion is market-driven, Swanson says, and in continuing to expand, they’re not trying to negatively impact other areas of Bellingham. “We don’t want to take tenants out of downtown or Fairhaven,” he says. “We want to position ourselves so that as Bellingham grows, we can accommodate the growth better than anyone.”

Asked to describe Barkley Village’s blend of commercial and residential space in one word, Swanson says it’s simply “unique,” and for a place that features a driving range next to an office building, that’s an apt descriptor.

This aerial shot illustrates the well-planned layout of Barkley Village. Photo courtesy: Barkley Village.

“There aren’t many [visitors to] Bellingham who come here and don’t say ‘this is a unique place,’” he says. “We’re not on the freeway, we’re not on the water, we’re not downtown. And yet it’s working and it’s working really well.”

Over the last year-and-a-half, many spaces have been filled by businesses the village hasn’t had before, including a gym, tap house, cocktail bar and, soon, a new restaurant offering healthy fare like salads and smoothies.

The former Industrial Credit Union location, on the corner of Barkley Boulevard and Newmarket Street, is soon to feature a new home décor store called Urban Collective. Barkley Village currently features a unique mixture of restaurants, including the city’s only MOD Pizza franchise, and one of just three Scotty Browns locations outside of Canada. There are big chains like Starbucks right alongside locally-owned places like Jalapenos, Bob’s Burgers & Brew and Woods Coffee.

The creation of many new community events is something they’re currently working on, says Swanson, with the goal of giving the village a true neighborhood feel where people live, work and play. “We are an urban village in Bellingham that’s doing things in a clean, safe, architecturally interesting way,” Swanson says.

Barkley Village is an urban hub and a tight-knit neighborhood. Photo courtesy: Barkley Village.

This year has already started out very well, as Barkley Village hosted its first-ever “wine walk,” an event that Swanson says drew over 400 people to taste wines from across the region. Barkley Village’s next event is an April Brews’ Day pre-party hosted by Overflow Taps. Taking place from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m. on April 28, there’ll be beer, live music and cornhole boards.

The summer continues with events on Barkley’s Village Green, including Lydia Place’s popular “Handbags for Housing” fundraiser on June 7, a classic car show on July 22 and an August 11 “Concert on the Green,” featuring live music, breweries and food trucks. September 22 welcomes fall with the village’s second annual “Soktoberfest,” a block party-style Oktoberfest celebration again hosted by Overflow Taps.

All in all, there are plenty of fantastic reasons to stop into one of Bellingham’s most vibrant and fastest-growing neighborhoods.

Artist Eric Woolsey Lets His Momentum Carry Him Down a New Path

By

Karen Hanrahan

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The giclee print “Mountain Beast” (36”x 49”) is for sale. Contact artist Eric Woolsey for more information. Photo credit: Karen Hanrahan.

Eric Woolsey, like many people today, is seeking the right balance in his life. One way he accomplishes this is through his small business, Balance Lifestyle Company, where he creates original linoleum cut prints and screen prints the images on unique apparel for extreme sport and outdoor enthusiasts.

I met Eric in a conversation thread on Facebook. I viewed more of his work and was able to visit his shop in Sudden Valley to learn more about him and his designs.

Eric grew up in various places around Puget Sound and enjoys a variety of extreme individual sports. He and his wife, Mandi, have two kids – nine year-old Zoe and five year-old Gavin. The family moved to Bellingham last December to be closer to the things Eric loves: mountain biking, skate boarding and the great outdoors. They like the idea of raising their family here.

Artist and owner of Balance Lifestyle Company, Eric Woolsey. Photo credit: Karen Hanrahan.

Eric works full time providing on-call maintenance for his father’s multiple franchise businesses. Even though he spends a lot of time on the road, Eric finds time to put his design talents to good use.

He has always been an artist. One of his high school teachers (Mrs A. from Bothell High School) made an impression on him. She encouraged her students to think outside the box. For one memorable lesson, she asked them to make something, perfect it, and then cut it up and create something else with the pieces. Assignments like this resonated with Eric, who went on to study for a year at the School of Visual Concepts.

His teachers encouraged Eric’s parents to champion his creativity and, in this case, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree – Eric’s mom owns An Artful Touch in Kirkland. When he started his design and screen print business, she supplied some of the materials he needed, along with a lot of moral support. “I couldn’t have done it without her,” Eric said.

Eric Woolsey explains one of his trail designs. Photo credit: Karen Hanrahan.

Eric originally made T-shirts to support his mountain bike habit, bartering his creations for bike parts. Over time his designs developed a following and he found he really loved the process. Currently, his small-batch product line features shirts, hats, hoodies and prints. Each piece is “signed” with a stylized logo that stands for “Sterling Magnum,” his biking name.

“Micro-fashion” is Eric’s term for this clothing line. Each item starts with a design he creates as a print and every single layer of each print is done by hand. Screens are then burned in order to print the designs on items. Lack of time prevents him from doing much more at this time. However, he does see the potential for turning his art into a full-time business in the future.

Eric Woolsey creates wearable art with this screen press. Photo credit: Karen Hanrahan.

His company name came from Eric’s feeling that the balance between his family/work/life and “making” just wasn’t where he wanted or needed it to be. Now he gives creating time its due place in his life.

When asked about his competitors, Eric rephrased the question, calling them his “community” and adding that he’s in “good company.” He seems to have a way of spinning things toward the positive.

Among those Eric mentioned is Kristina Wayte, owner of Sketchy Trails. “She’s such an amazing artist,” he said. “It’s unreal. I love her use of brushwork and, if I’m not mistaken, she’s putting some of her designs on tees as well, which is awesome.”

Balance Lifestyle Company Logo on a hoodie tee. Photo credit: Karen Hanrahan.

“Adam McCoy at Treelines does some of the most killer mountain bike tee-shirts and trail building gear around,” according to Eric. “Adam has become such a mentor to me. He was supportive, encouraging and forthcoming with information that helped me figure everything out thus far. It’s hard to relay how much I appreciate his friendship.”

Eric is grateful to Kristina, Adam and many other artists in the extreme sport community for the support they have given him.

As he expanded his line, Eric began a series of shirt designs that highlight specific areas or trails so people could have a “little something cool” from their travels. He focused on mountain bike trails he enjoys in the Leavenworth area, including Xanadu Trail, Rosie Boa, Galbraith and Chuckanut mountains. There are hundreds of trails to illustrate, which could keep him busy for quite some time.

The giclee print “Mountain Beast” (36”x 49”) is for sale. Contact artist Eric Woolsey for more information. Photo credit: Karen Hanrahan.

Boundary Bay and Aslan Brewery both invited Eric to showcase his work in 2017. Soon he was hustling to make prints and building frames for them both. It was a lot of work, but well worth the effort for Eric. “It’s an honor to be in a show as an artist,” he said.

Eric said he’s still a “work in progress” as an artist. He’d love to have you join him as he works toward his goal of bringing a unique artistic vision to affordable extreme sports apparel. As he figures out what images work best in print and on clothing, he mostly hopes that you dig his art!

Learn the Story of Winterhouse at Author Ben Guterson’s Literature Live Event at Village Books

By

LocalTalk Contributor

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Submitted by: Village Books

Village Books and the Mount Bakery Cafe welcome author Ben Guterson to town for a special 4:00 p.m., Saturday, April 21 Literature Live event at the Fairhaven store’s Readings Gallery. Guterson’s new book, Winterhouse, is an enchanting urban fantasy middle-grade debut—the first book in a trilogy—set in a magical hotel full of secrets.

Ben Guterson’s book is sure to delight. Meet the author, get your book signed and enjoy some delicious Mount Bakery treats. Photo courtesy: Village Books.

This event is co-sponsored by the Mount Bakery Café and they will be providing complimentary treats!

Mount Baker Café owner Vince Lalonde and Guterson are childhood pals who went to middle school together. Lalonde was integral in getting Guterson up to Bellingham and thought it would be fun to be a co-sponsor and offer treats from the bakery at the Literature Live event. Lalonde is passionate about Winterhouse. So much so that he purchased and delivered one copy for each of the 14 elementary schools in the Bellingham School District. “It’s been great taking a tour of the schools,” Lalonde says. “We have some really wonderful facilities in our city and we are very fortunate. I have found that the books have also been very well received.”

Ben Guterson was born and raised in Seattle. Before working at Microsoft as a program manager, he spent a decade teaching public school on the Navajo Reservation in New Mexico and in rural Colorado. Guterson has written features and book reviews for newspapers, magazines and websites, as well as a nature-travel guide to the Southwest. He and his family live in the foothills of the Cascades east of Seattle. Winterhouse is his first book.

About Winterhouse:

Orphan Elizabeth Somers’s malevolent aunt and uncle ship her off to the ominous Winterhouse Hotel, owned by the peculiar Norbridge Falls. Upon arrival, Elizabeth quickly discovers that Winterhouse has many charms—most notably its massive library. It’s not long before she locates a magical book of puzzles that will unlock a mystery involving Norbridge and his sinister family. But the deeper she delves into the hotel’s secrets, the more Elizabeth starts to realize that she is somehow connected to Winterhouse. Mystery, adventure and beautiful writing combine in this exciting debut richly set in a hotel full of secrets.

Can’t make it to the event? No problem! Pre-pay and receive a signed, personalized copy of Winterhouse. Village Books ships!

Winterhouse (Hardcover)
By Ben Guterson, Chloe Bristol (Illustrator)
$16.99
ISBN: 9781250123886
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Henry Holt & Company – January 2nd, 2018

First Federal Donates $100,000 to PeaceHealth Cardiovascular Center

By

Kenneth Clarkson

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rsz_peacehealth_cardiovascular_center-firstfedpeacehealthcheck — Members of the First Federal Community Foundation and PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center Foundation meet to receive the $100,000 donation to the Cardiovascular Center. Photo credit: Jennifer Fix.

If you or a loved one suffers from a cardiac disease or complication, there’s a high chance you’ll visit the Cardiovascular Center at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center. This facility is comprised of both the Electrophysiology Lab and the Cardiac Catheterization Lab – both integral facilities that diagnose and treat those suffering from cardiovascular complications.

The current equipment in the Electrophysiology Lab is dated and will need to be replaced with newer models. Photo credit: Jennifer Fix.

But what happens when those systems get a little dated? How can the facility best ensure that your health and the health of those you love is secure?

Thanks to a generous $100,000 donation from the First Federal Community Foundation, in addition to funding from other like-minded donors, PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center’s Cardiovascular Center will receive necessary updates to their advanced diagnostic imaging.

“Right now we are in the midst of a $1 million campaign targeted to improve our cardiovascular health facilities,” says Anne Rasmussen, Chief Development Officer for PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center Foundation. “We were fortunate the mission of the Electrophysiology Lab resonated with the First Federal Community Foundation and the types of things they were interested in funding.”

Jennifer Fix, Gift Officer for PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center Foundation, orchestrated the process of receiving the grant from the First Federal Community Foundation. She says the impetus for the gift stems from First Federal’s Eastern Regional Manager Troy Wills’ reaction to touring St. Joseph’s Cardiovascular Center.

“After I spoke with Troy to start the formal grant process, I told him we would be happy to give a tour of our cardiovascular labs,” Fix says. “I could immediately see the tour was something that really resonated with him; he was able to see our caregivers in action, performing procedures and giving attentive care to patients in need.”

This is an example of the new system that will be installed at the Electrophysiology Lab after funding is complete. Photo credit: Jennifer Fix.

Wills says witnessing daily tasks at the Cardiovascular Center was an eye-opening experience. He was overcome by a desire to help in some way as he viewed the amount of care and love Cardiovascular Center staff gave to their patients. At that moment, Wills said, he knew he wanted First Federal’s Foundation team to experience what he had. He realized they needed to do their part in helping patients receive even better cardiovascular care.

“That day touched my heart and I was excited the hospital was going to apply for a grant,” Wills says. “It was a ‘do good, feel good’ moment that day.”

Rasmussen says the First Federal Community Foundation, although young (having only formed in 2015), is known for their generous philanthropic spirit and willingness to contribute to the local community.

“I remember every week reading that First Federal gave money here or First Federal gave money there,” Rasmussen says. “I said to Jennifer, ‘These guys have a philanthropic spirit like nothing I have seen for a long time in this community.’ They want to do good and are pushing it hard.”

For Wills, the mission to improve the Cardiovascular Center was easy to align with. He says the First Federal Community Foundation is about giving back and partnering with organizations that have the same vision and mission. The hospital’s desire to improve their technology and provide better imaging systems resonated with the foundation, and they wanted to help in any way they could.

“First Federal places a strong value on the communities we are in,” Wills says. “When we went public in 2015, monies were set aside for giving back to our communities. It felt like the right thing for us to do. Since then, we have awarded over $1.2 million to all sorts of recipients, from homeless shelters to colleges, to food banks in our communities.”

Members of the First Federal Community Foundation and PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center Foundation meet to receive the $100,000 donation to the Cardiovascular Center. Photo credit: Jennifer Fix.

The money First Federal Community Foundation donates will specifically go to the Electrophysiology Lab. The $100,000 will go far in meeting the $631,000 needed to complete the Electrophysiology Lab portion of the Cardiovascular Center’s $1 million dollar campaign.

This grant will have a significant impact on patient care and the Electrophysiology Lab’s new equipment will reduce wait times by up to 25 percent. The new imaging systems will ensure that procedures take anywhere from 12 to 18 percent less time than before. In addition, the new system will provide caregivers with more precise images, helping with the diagnostic and treatment elements of cardiovascular disease.

Currently, PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center Foundation has raised $851,000 of their million dollar goal for the Cardiovascular Center. Rasmussen says they are trying to secure full funding by June 30, 2018 and she’s grateful to work with organizations like the First Federal Community Foundation and others who just want to give for the greater good.

“They want to give money – it’s just part of their DNA,” Rasmussen says of the foundation. “It feels amazing when I watch them get excited when they see where their money is going and what it has done; to see how it has helped and impacted so many people’s lives.”

The First Federal Community Foundation is looking forward to partnering with PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center Foundation more in the future, so they can continue to make a difference in the lives of many.

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Holiday Inn Express Bellingham: Giving Back to Whatcom County

By

Kenneth Clarkson

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For General Manager Terri Sirmans, working at Holiday Inn Express Bellingham isn’t just a job – it’s a way to give back to the Whatcom County community. Throughout the year, Terri works hard donating, connecting with initiatives and sponsoring community-driven programs.

She and her staff are celebrating their second year contributing to Costco Wholesale’s Jumbo Balloon Program. This initiative raises funds to support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, which provide healthcare to children and families in need. “I really think the Children’s Miracle Network is fantastic,” Terri says. “After donating to the program last year, it was a no-brainer we would participate again.”

Participating businesses buy a six-foot jumbo balloon for $1,000 which hangs in the Costco warehouse for the month of May. These cheery balloons brighten the aisles of Costco, raise awareness of participating businesses and the Children’s Miracle Network, and enrich the lives of those in need. All proceeds from the Jumbo Balloon Program are donated to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and Costco ensures that the money is used locally. The Holiday Inn Express donation will go to Seattle Children’s Hospital, directly benefiting Whatcom County families whose children receive treatment there.

Terri still recalls the pride she felt when she saw her hotel’s name in the rafters at Costco. “It’s goodwill work,” Terri says. “We are doing a lot right now and want to be recognized as a force in the community. We give back.” Holiday Inn Express Bellingham makes it a priority to help the community in whatever ways they can. This was an especially powerful way to give back and is just one of the hotel’s many charitable initiatives.

Holiday Inn Express’ community involvement is expansive and diverse. Terri and her team offer free stays for cancer patients and sponsor the Bellingham Bells, whose opposing teams even stay at Holiday Inn Express. The hotel also donates used furniture, beds and appliances to Love INC of Whatcom County.

Based out of Lynden, Love INC provides used furniture to families in need – an important service that can make all the difference. Terri makes sure to call the organization whenever the hotel begins renovations. She likes to see these items put to good use. And by using Love INC, Terri ensures these contributions stay within Whatcom County. “I just love to see when we are able to do good,” Terri says. “To know we are making Whatcom County families’ lives a little easier – because of that furniture or that bed we donated – is huge.”

In collaboration with the American Cancer Society, Holiday Inn Express donates rooms to individuals travelling from out of town to receive cancer treatment at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center. Cancer treatment costs can be overwhelming and many don’t realize that this cost extends well beyond actual treatment. Securing a place to stay while receiving treatment can be difficult, stressful and extremely cost-prohibitive. Having a calm, clean, relaxing environment in which to recuperate can make all the difference. And having this sanctuary provided free of charge can greatly ease their financial burden and related stress. This is just another example of Holiday Inn Express Bellingham’s commitment to help. “If I have an empty room, why not let someone in need stay here?” Terri says. Holiday Inn Express is known for this kind of generosity.

Million Smiles Playground — Holiday Inn Express is committed to making Whatcom County an even better place to live. Photo credit: Katie Kavulla.

Terri enjoys collaborating with organizations that share Holiday Inn Express’ charitable ideals and community values. She looks for win-win solutions and partnerships that will enhance the community. This is one reason Costco’s Jumbo Balloon Program is such a good fit for the hotel; it offers the chance to partner with another local business for the benefit of all.

Terri wants to challenge other local businesses to put up balloons, as well. The Children’s Miracle Network is a great cause that benefits so many. As the Costco rafters fill with balloons, our local businesses can make a very real difference – one that will uplift the community for years to come.

Sponsored

Students for Action: The Next Generation Unites

By

Katauna Loeuy Intern from Squalicum High School

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Students for Action 2 — An outstanding turnout attended the Bellingham walkout on February 21, 2018. Photo courtesy: Students for Action.

Following the Parkland shooting in Florida, a group of Bellingham School District students collaborated to form a district wide walkout. After the success of this event, these students advanced with their movement and developed an organization. Students for Action is a student activism group working to create change.

Maggie Davis-Bower and Adam Kaufman represent their organization, Students for Action. Photo courtesy: Students for Action.

This club is organized by high school students. Although each student holds their own reasoning for joining Students for Action, collectively these individuals hope to use their voice to prevent school shooting catastrophes from occurring. They also seek to eliminate negative energy.

Personal experiences also contribute to this organization. For example, Maggie Davis-Bower, a founder of the club decided to participate in Students for Action and the nation-wide movement for two reasons. “First, as a student, I wanted my peers and I to be able to go to school without having to carry the very real and very heavy fear of losing our lives at the hands of senseless violence,” she says. “Second, as a survivor of a mass shooting a year and a half ago, and after hearing about the shooting in Florida, I couldn’t stand to stay silent about the issue any longer and decided to advocate for school safety in an active way.”

Since the start of the association in February, these students have learned a great deal about the community organizing process, as well as how to use their power for positive change. Not only have they placed themselves in leadership positions to make a difference, but each member is learning a variety of skills that will be beneficial in their future.

The Students for Action group has overcome challenges. Organizing the district-wide walkout within a two-day span taught the students how to get things done under time constraints and high pressure. Also, these individuals have been educated on collaboration and team work. As the group works to accomplish specific tasks, all members contribute their own unique skills and capabilities. This helps the group function as the organization grows. Participating students are learning how to establish professional dialogue with individuals of different perspectives. This helps develop an open mind and teaches them to envision complicated issues from various points of view. Adam Kaufman, another founder of Students for Action says, “I’m learning that everyone has a voice and, if we use our voices collectively instead of mourning individually, we can make change in our communities.”

Individuals listen to inspiring speeches at the March for Our Lives protest on March 24, 2018 in Washington D.C. Photo courtesy: Students for Action.

These students believe it is imperative for action to be taken to protect school communities from horrific acts in the world. Their walkout began as a small group of individuals around the Bellingham School District attempting to draw attention to the cause, but that soon changed. “At the walkout, we were shocked by the overwhelming support in our community that allowed the gathering of 2,000 people at City Hall in the span of two days,” Adam says. Ultimately, the walkout was exceptionally successful and inspired many, including the members themselves, to move forward.

One month after the district wide walkout, 32 people, including all Students for Action members, traveled to Washington DC for the nationwide March for Our Lives protest. Here students heard impactful speeches and received the incredible opportunity to meet with legislative aids at the capitol to discuss the issue of school safety and present ideas for solutions.

Over 800,000 people marching during the protest in Washington DC on March 24, 2018. Photo courtesy: Students for Action.

This event was lifechanging for the students who attended. “The day of the march was the most memorable day of many of our lives,” Maggie says. “It made us realize that we were by no means alone in our fight, but part of a national movement fueled by strength and resilience of the Parkland students and the young people all over the country who had been impacted by the senseless violence.”

These students hope to educate their peers on the public issue of gun violence and school safety, as well as contribute their ideas and devise solutions. The association would like to improve safety measures at schools and change the way society responds to and views violence. Ultimately these individuals want to prevent any more mass shootings in our country. Students for Action was an ordinary group of high school students in a small town, but they decided to unite and form an organization to make positive change in our world.

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