Raising the Roof at Lydia Place

By

-

Lydia Place is raising the roof. For nearly three-decades, the Bellingham-based housing and social service organization has been committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness for families and their children, expanding to meet the needs the community, while the physical footprint of the organization largely remained the same. The desperately needed expansion project involving the organization’s program office required a nearly two-year capital campaign, “Strengthening Families, Building Futures,” that included the leadership and support of both Bellingham Bay Rotary Club and Rotary Club of Bellingham, who contributed $50,000 and $100,000 respectively to the project. Further, both clubs committed representatives to Lydia Place to support the building and material acquisition process. Construction is expected to last upwards of six-months, with RAM Construction and RMC Architects guiding the way. A celebration and ribbon cutting ceremony are planned for fall 2017.

Lydia Place is committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness for families and their children. Photo courtesy: Lydia Place.

Lydia Place Executive Director Emily O’Connor states, “Our community is struggling with a housing and homeless crisis. On any given day there are roughly 80 homeless families with children in Bellingham. It is time for creative and innovative solutions to ensure that we disrupt the cycle of homelessness so the children in our programs today do not experience homelessness as adults. This is the heart of our work at Lydia Place.”

Under the guidance of the Lydia Place Board of Directors, management team and strategic partners, Lydia Place has expanded services and its capacity to meet the need of the community. “In the past five years we have added over ten staff, increased housing placements by 30 percent and added a parenting program and counseling services. However, through this significant growth, our physical operation space has remained the same. Staff have been tripled up in single offices and we have relocated some staff to an offsite location.”

The “Strengthening Families, Building Futures” campaign addresses the agency’s desperate need for additional infrastructure for its programs. The second story addition and ground floor remodel will allow Lydia Place to continue expansion of programs in pursuit of the agency’s vision – a community where every family has a home and the opportunity to thrive. Lydia Place relies on community support for over 60 percent of its operating budget. O’Connor is quick to note that this project is no different, “Our program expansion and the capital project would not be possible without our neighbors, community partners and generous supporters,” said O’Connor.

The “Strengthening Families, Building Futures,” campaign is nearing its goal. Agency directors hope to close out the final round by the late spring. Community Engagement Director Shultzie Willows shared, “We have been very fortunate to receive the support of some incredible local community members, our Board of Directors, local rotary clubs, First Federal Foundation, RAM Construction and Norcliffe Foundation. We are hopeful we can connect the last few dots and raise the final $75,000 needed to complete this project. We have no doubt that the community and our partners will support us in this goal.”

The total project cost is estimated to be $330,000 and the agency reports that to date the campaign has contributions of $255,000. This is a deferred amount, accounting for discounted materials and community partners stepping in to help defray some market rate pricing. “We are continually blown away by the generosity and kindness of our community,” said O’Connor. “It will take all of us together to create a strong and healthy future for all our children. Starting with ensuring that no child has to call a car ‘home.’”

To learn about the “Strengthening Families, Building Futures” campaign, make a gift of support or learn about the programs and services of Lydia Place contact, Shultzie Willows at 360-671-7663 ext 2001, email info@lydiaplace.org or visit lydiaplace.org today.

Western Washington Women’s Rugby Head to Sweet 16

By

Grant Clark

-

Western Washington Women’s Rugby 3 — A pair of home wins and Western will secure a place in the national semifinals, which will take place April 23-24 at Stanford University. Photo credit: Michael Mauger.

The Western Washington University women’s rugby team will look to continue its undefeated season and inch closer to a national title when they host the Sweet 16 round of the Division II National Championship Tournament in Bellingham on April 8-9.

Western Washington University women’s rugby team will host the Division II National Championship sweet 16 round on April 8-9. Photo credit: Michael Mauger.

The Vikings, champions of the Cascade Conference, face Grand Canyon University, runner-ups of the Gold Coast Conference, at Harrington Field on April 8 in the second match of a double-header. Eastern Washington University, the Cascade Conference’s No. 2 seed, squares off against West Coast Champion Fresno State in the other contest.

Eastern Washington and Fresno State open the day at 9 a.m., while Western Washington and Grand Canyon will play at 11 a.m.

Winners will face each other the following day in the West Regional championship at 11 a.m. with the victor of that match moving on to Stanford University in Palo Alto, California on April 22-23 where it will be joined by the three other national semifinalists.

Grand Canyon, a first-year program, is ranked 15th nationally, while Fresno State comes in No. 5.

“Right now we are really focusing on our game plan and our strengths and weaknesses,” first-year WWU coach Mike Mauger said. “We know [Grand Canyon] is going to be a strong team to play against so we will stick to our plays and the best team will win.”

The Vikings capped a perfect 11-0 regular season by defeating Eastern Washington, 65-0, in Cheney. Photo credit: Michael Mauger.

Led by captains Lauren Heller and Kayla Adderley, the Vikings bring an 11-0 record and a top 10 national ranking into the round of 16.

“Since I just started with the team in the fall, we were not sure what the outcome would be. But after getting to know the team better and seeing what they were able to achieve, I had high hopes to be able to go to the playoffs,” Mauger said. “The team was able to get that far thanks to their commitment and hard work. When you have good numbers, when people show up for practice three times a week and work hard and when they trust the game plan, you get good outcomes.”

The Vikings rolled through their regular season slate, posting one rout after another.

WWU opened the season with a 43-7 win over Eastern Washington. Wins over conference foes Reed College (51-12) and Southern Oregon (94-0) followed.

The squad’s lone close game on the scoreboard was a 34-17 home victory over Western Oregon on Dec. 3. The Vikings, however, hammered the Wolves, 85-10, in the rematch on the road.

Western Washington capped the regular season on March 4 by knocking off Eastern Washington, 65-0, in Cheney.

A pair of home wins and Western will secure a place in the national semifinals, which will take place April 23-24 at Stanford University. Photo credit: Michael Mauger.

“Overall we are just very proud of the work we have done all year round. It paid off,” Mauger said. “[The match against Eastern] was also a very emotional moment for the older players on our team. Our season was cut short last year due to a loss against them on our home turf. The team wanted to go out and showcase our hard work and improvement. At the end we wanted that win more than they did and it was a sweet victory indeed.”

WWU, which began its women’s rugby program in 1977, finished third nationally in 2011 and 16th in 2014.

“Our expectations coming in was that we as a team decided to be more competitive,” Mauger said. “With that mind set, this helped motivate and drive the team towards our goals. The focus was also on rigorous fitness drills, gaining the essential equipment of tackle bags and pads and really giving it our all for 80 minutes of every game.”

According to Mauger, the team features 35 registered members with half the roster comprised of players who are new to the sport, providing WWU with a solid foundation for the future.

“This team is amazing and hard workers. It’s truly an honor to coach such young women with that dedication to a sport which doesn’t have as much recognition as other sports,” Mauger said. “The team has major potential for expansion and success in the upcoming years.”

ABCDance Presents “Lindy Hop: Back to Basics” 5-Week Series

By

LocalTalk Contributor

-

ABCDance IntTap12 — The Lindy Hop class is open to dancers of all levels. Photo credit: JmWorks.

Submitted by: ABCDance

With more than 20 combined years of swing dancing in both Bellingham and Seattle, over a decade of teaching swing for WWU Swing Kids, five years of marriage and two young children, Kevin and Alissa Stock are ready start a new adventure – sharing their love of Lindy Hop with the Bellingham community through ABCDance!

Their 5-week swing dance series “Lindy Hop: Back to Basics” is geared toward adults with no swing dancing experience or those who are familiar with some Lindy Hop moves but want more practice going over great fundamental principles. This 5-week series will cover foundation moves like Lindy Circle and Swing Out in-depth, and will build on those to train students on promenades and inside and outside turns. You do not need a partner to participate in this series.

Kevin and Alyssa’s teaching style emphasizes building connection and momentum with your dance partner(s). Their instruction also covers staying grounded in the music to grow both confidence and skill on the dance floor.

Series: Lindy Hop: Back to Basics

Dates: April 10th – May 8th (5-week series, every Monday)

Time: 7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Cost: $50 for the series or $12 drop-in

Location: 1844 N State St. Bellingham, WA 98225

For more information contact Tabetha Clark at ABCDance.classes@gmail.com or visit ABCDanceBellingham.com.

Holiday Inn & Suites-Bellingham Embraces New H4 Design Concept

By

Sara Holodnick

-

021_IHG — You'll get a great night's sleep in this luxurious room. Photo courtesy: Holiday Inn & Suites-Bellingham.

The new Holiday Inn & Suites-Bellingham is the first new build in North America to embrace the brand’s H4 design concept. The Holiday Inn brand promises to champion the joy of travel for everyone and the H4 Solution – representing Happiness, Hospitality, Home and Holiday Inn – has been developed to create a guest experience reflecting just that.

The new hotel offers a perfect home away from home conveniently located next to the Bellingham airport. Photo courtesy: Holiday Inn & Suites-Bellingham.

“In 1952, Kemmons Wilson had a vision for a hotel brand that would help everyday people experience the joy of travel,” shared Eric Lent, Vice President, Holiday Inn^®Brand, Americas, IHG. “He did not believe that extraordinary journeys were reserved for only those with extraordinary means.” The new approach allows guests from all walks of life to make the space their own with unique in-room elements such as:

A Design-Infused Approach that is Both Warm and Inviting

The combination of familiar, yet modern touches makes the room feels more like home than a hotel. Earthy design elements reflect the hotel’s goal of bringing the outdoors in, giving rooms a relaxed, comfortable feel.

The Welcome Nook

Room entryways serve as drop zones for guests to hang their coat, drop their keys or bag and plug in their devices. Complete with a bench for kicking off your shoes, the Welcome Nook is a transitional space much like a mud room.

New Room Types

“We offer a smorgasbord of room types,” shared Director of Sales & Marketing, Randi Axelsson. Every room offers a mini fridge and microwave, while some have kitchenettes that allow guests to eat-in to save on costs or meet specific dietary needs.

The King Bed with Comfort Hideaway room type is brand new and features a trundle-type bed which doubles as a sofa during the day and can pull out into two twin beds at night. The room design is perfect for families with kids and teens, giving each member a comfortable place to sleep and play. Business travelers will also find much to enjoy since they’ll find a separate place to work or relax and unwind.

A Sleeper Sofa as Comfortable as the Bed

The new sleeper sofa mattress is as comfortable as a bed. Photo courtesy: Holiday Inn & Suites-Bellingham.

If you’ve had to sleep on a hotel sleeper sofa in the past, you know that they’ve earned their bad reputation. Poking springs and metal bars make for a poor, uncomfortable night’s sleep. But no more. Holiday Inn & Suites-Bellingham has invested in sleeper sofas that rival the comfort of their beds.

“Instead of a typical four or five-inch mattress, these have a nine-inch mattress much like the bed you have at home,” shared the hotel’s Director of Operations and General Manager, Ragan Humphrey. “I think they’re going to change people’s minds on the sleeper sofa. It’s not just an afterthought.” They’ve been testing these sofas at another property in Marysville for months and the feedback they’ve received has been overwhelmingly positive. Some guests even preferred the sleeper sofa.

Customizable Rooms

Movable furniture makes the space easily adaptable. Photo courtesy: Holiday Inn & Suites-Bellingham.

A moveable desk and more than five dedicated power stations throughout the room were designed with today’s travelers in mind, giving them the ability to work and play anywhere in the room. “Modular furniture allows guests to make the room their own,” said Axelsson.

The Holiday Inn & Suites-Bellingham’s commitment to the H4 design concept provides comfort and functionality in a convenient location, holding true to the brand’s founding principal of providing warm hospitality for all. The hotel chain has adapted to the changing needs of travelers by making sure that their rooms make it easy for guests to experience the joy of travel.

Bathroom designs are inviting yet modern with plenty of space to spread out. Photo courtesy: Holiday Inn & Suites-Bellingham.

“We do know the needs of travelers have evolved over the last 60 years and the Holiday Inn brand is changing with them,” shared Lent. “Through these innovations, we are raising the expectations about what a great stay should be and designing for the future, to create memorable travel experiences for years to come.”

Holiday Inn & Suites-Bellingham is located at 4260 Mitchell Way in Bellingham, conveniently located just a step away from the Bellingham International Airport terminal. Reservations can be made now on their website or by calling 360-746-6844.

Sponsored

Brad Felger – Falconer

By

Janine Johnson

-

falcon Brad Felger with a Red-Naped Shaheen — Brad Felger and Hoko. Photo credit: Janine Johnson.

I have a few blueberry bushes in my backyard. And I would love to eat the berries from them. I could make a pie … or sprinkle them on my kids’ cereal. Every year, however, I am somehow too slow on the uptake. One day I notice the berries turning slightly blue and the next time I think to check the fruit is all but decimated. I have fierce competition in the birds that swoop from above and consume them before I can pick enough for even a modest cobbler.

Brad Felger and Hoko. Photo credit: Janine Johnson.

Living out in the country as I do, I often drive past fields of blueberries and raspberries that stretch for hundreds of acres. Sometimes the endless rows are covered in a vast stretch of netting to protect the fruit from hungry birds. Sometimes, though, they are not. So, I wonder, if I am disheartened when my would-be harvest of a few quarts of berries disappears, how does a farmer fend off giant flocks of starving starlings?

For many berry operations, nets are an expensive option. And while there are a host of other ways to mitigate problem birds, many are temporary fixes and unsuccessful in the long term. It turns out, the most effective way to get rid of birds is with birds. Or, more precisely, the ancient art of falconry.

A falconer is a person who trains birds of prey to hunt game, a practice that is a complex undertaking, requiring years of apprenticeship under strict federal regulations. For most, falconry is a sport or hobby like other forms of hunting. But falconry also works extremely well to deter a flock of common starlings from a crop of berries since these non-native, invasive birds are innately terrified by the raptors.

During harvest time a berry producer will contract with a bird abatement company and for a week leading up to and the duration of the harvest. At this time a master falconer will fly birds seven days a week, from sunup to sundown. This constant presence of a natural predator ensures that the problem birds stay away from the harvest, leaving the berries for us human consumers. These master falconers are more than hired hands, however. They are raptor enthusiasts, advocates and committed conservationists.

One such champion is Brad Felger, master falconer and founder of Airstrike Bird Abatement, Inc. Brad has been practicing falconry since 1970 when he was 11 years old. He is a licensed bird of prey breeder and the president of the Washington Falconers Association. I went out to visit him at his rural, riverside home, which doubles as a bird sanctuary. His comfort in the world of raptors was immediately obvious in his calm expression and relaxed gait as we walked the grounds, peeking in and out of buildings and bird habitats, meeting and greeting his winged companions.

This is not just work. This is not just a hobby. It seems to have grown from within him, so natural is he with a raptor on his arm. As he lifted up Hoko, a 3/4 gyrfalcon, 1/4 fijian peregrine, their faces close to touching, I asked him why he became a falconer. What influenced him at such a young age? His answer was an incomplete, and perfectly honest, “I don’t know,” reinforcing my hunch that he was born with this love of powerful avians.

Brad was a farrier in Paso Robles, CA in the early 1990s over a period of time when cowboys were being replaced with vintners, horses with grapes. The green pastures over which he commonly flew his birds became expanses of grapevines. As his falcons and hawks flew nearly 1,000 feet in the air and dove down to claim their prey, entire flocks of problematic starlings would immediately dart away from the grapes. Vineyard owners took notice. Brad took meetings. And a company was born.

Brad slowly transitioned out of horseshoeing and into full-time falconry. As his business expanded beyond vineyards, he found himself frequenting the Pacific Northwest. He fell in love with the area and its people, settling here permanently five years ago to run his bird abatement business from Washington state.

Airstrike remains a fast-growing company, with clients from not only the wine and berry industries, but also dairy farms, oil refineries, landfills, box stores and anyone else who may have a problem with roosting birds of any kind. Clients are attracted to the sustainable, non-lethal aspects of falconry and, of course, to the results. As long as a fierce falcon is flying overhead, your harvest is safe from above.

Whatcom County Weekend Events Calendar

By

Events Editor

-

Bellingham Farmers Market Pavilion — From seasonal vegetables to beautiful flowers, Bellingham Farmers Market has offered the very best in local, sustainable agriculture for 25 years. Photo courtesy: Bellingham Farmers Market.

Watch out everyone! April Fool’s Day is upon us. Whether it’s that crazy co-worker, that plotting spouse, the devious friends or your overly enthusiastic offspring, someone is sure to attempt a prank this weekend. It may even be you! There are no pranks here, however, just the fun, fabulous Whatcom County weekend events that make this beautiful area such a great place to be. Here are a few ideas to get you started. Don’t forget to check our full events calendar for all the fun happenings this weekend.

Read up on some otherworldly April Fool’s Day pranks courtesy of Mount Baker Theatre’s Ghost Judy.
Check out the Bellingham Theatre Guild’s “I Hate Hamlet” in which a young and successful television actor relocates to New York where he rents a marvelous, gothic apartment. With his television career in limbo, the actor is offered the opportunity to play Hamlet onstage, but there’s one problem: He hates Hamlet. His dilemma deepens with the entrance of John Barrymore’s ghost, who arrives intoxicated and in full costume to the apartment that once was his. The contrast between the two actors, the towering, dissipated Barrymore whose Hamlet was the greatest of his time, and Andrew Rally, hot young television star, leads to a wildly funny duel over women, art, success, duty, television, and yes, the apartment.
Or root for the underdog with TUpfront Theatre’s “Against All Odds.” This performance structures the classic underdog tale to create a fully improvised journey of the down and out working their way to victory! From the crazy coach to the nasty rival, to the inspirational training montage, you’ll find all of the great aspects of an underdog story live on stage. There will be sweat, tears and laughs each night with a new story and hero created as they overcome impossible odds!
And if you have room for even more laughter, stay for “Face Off” a show of competitive improv comedy. In this production, improvisers will enter the proverbial coliseum of comedy to battle against each other with the audience serving as the judge and jury of comedy quality. Your applause will determine the points players receive in their quest for glory in this high stakes, high energy show!
Explore beautiful and fascinating Pacific Northwest destinations with two fascinating classes at Whatcom Community College.
Make the world a better place and jump in for a joint planting party with Whatcom Land Trust and Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association at Riverstead! They will be planting native trees and shrubs to improve the riparian zone to grow large trees that can one day interact with the river. Learn the story of this unique property and the growing South Fork habitat corridor, as well as about the amazing partnerships that help restoration work here in Whatcom County.
Attend this presentation by marine mammal expert Victoria Souze on the cultural differences between Puget Sound orca pods.
Explore and share your formative experiences with Village Books’ Nonfiction & Memoir Writing Group or explore a variety of literary genres with the Village Books Reads Book Club.
Celebrate 25 years of wholesome food and fun at the Bellingham Farmers Market on April 1. Countless local farmers, crafters and artisans have gotten their start at the Bellingham Farmers Market, testing their dreams and ideas with customers who like to support the little guy. Now it’s time to celebrate their successes like only Bellinghamsters can.

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.

The Bellingham Music Film Festival Returns!

By

LocalTalk Contributor

-

Bellingham Music Film Festival St.Vincent - combo of Jarred Alterman and Wyatt Garfield — The festival will offer three days of entertainment and engagement. Photo courtesy: Bellingham Music Film Festival.

Submitted by: The Pickford Film Center

The Pickford is proud to partner with Make.Shift to host the second year of Bellingham Music Film Festival, taking place April 6 – 8, 2017. The festival will showcase music-inspired shorts, videos and feature-length films from around the world and here at home, and also feature bands and live music.

This is a still from “The Junction,” a short film featuring Chilly Gonzales and Peaches. Photo courtesy: Bellingham Music Film Festival.

Spanning three days and three locations, Bellingham Music Film Festival is a celebration of the convergence of music and film, highlighting the way film conveys the meaning of music. After receiving just over one hundred submissions from over 15 different countries, selected music films feature a diverse range of voices and talent, from students to Academy Award nominated directors.

Day 1: Thursday, 6:30 p.m. – Opening Night @ Pickford Film Center
The Pickford will be screening David Byrne’s “Contemporary Color,” a unique music documentary experience, featuring color guard routines accompanied by St. Vincent, Ad-Rock, Nelly Furtado and Ira Glass, among others. “Contemporary Color” will open with selected music shorts and music videos.

Day 2: Friday, 7 p.m. – Music Video Night @ Make.Shift Art Space

Torrey Pines is a stop-motion animated film based on a true story. Photo courtesy: Bellingham Music Film Festival.

A free evening of music videos on rotation at Make.Shift Art Space on 306 Flora St., taking place during Art Walk. A diverse mix of energizing, inspiring and electrifying music videos will be playing throughout the night, many directed by students and Bellingham community members.

Day 3: Saturday, 1 p.m. – Regional Feature and Shorts/Music Video Showcase @ Pickford Film Center

Saturday, 3:30 p.m. – Feature and Shorts/Music Video Showcase @ Pickford Film Center

Saturday, 6:00 p.m. – Awards Showcase @ Pickford Film Center

Saturday, 8:30 p.m. – After Party @ Sylvia Center for the Arts

“Burn The Place You Hide” is a documentary about Norwegian singer Thomas Hansen. Photo courtesy: Bellingham Music Film Festival.

The Pickford will showcase music videos, music shorts and music films, all day long! Features will include “Torrey Pines,” a stop-motion animated coming-of-age feature by Seattle filmmaker Clyde Petersen and the US Premiere of “Burn the Place You Hide,” a documentary about the life and music of Thomas Hansen and his struggle with mental illness, filmed in Norway. The program will conclude with awards for best music video, best short and best feature.

Following the screenings at The Pickford, join us for the After Party at the iDiOM Theater at their new home in Sylvia Center for the Arts, located at 205 Prospect Street. The After Party will feature live music from Briana Marela, Cumulus and I Love You Avalanche.

It will be a weekend of full of music, films, dancing and popcorn. All the good things about art and life.

“Contemporary Color” tickets can be purchased online at the box office or online: http://bit.ly/2os8rEU Prices are $10.75 General Admission, $8 for Students and $7.50 for PFC Members. Saturday’s events are $3 donation at the door. Friday’s Music Video Night is free!

More info and the full lineup: http://bellinghammusicfilmfestival.com/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/bellinghammusicfilmfest/
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1310343842386943/

Locations / Venues:

This still is from David Byrne’s music documentary “Contemporary Color,” a celebration of Color Guard. Photo courtesy: Bellingham Music Film Festival.

Pickford Film Center
1318 Bay St.
Website: www.pickfordfilmcenter.org

Make.Shift Art Space
306 Flora St.
Website: http://makeshiftproject.com/

Sylvia Center for the Arts
205 Prospect St.
Website: http://sylviacenterforthearts.org/

Celebrate Your Child’s Birthday Right with Launching Success

By

Kali Klotz-Brooks

-

Launching Success girlsbday — The birthday boy or girl gets to wear a special party hat. Photo credit: Jen Zimmermann.

As a parent in Whatcom County, you may have struggled to come up with birthday party ideas for your child. “Bellingham only has so many options for kid’s birthday parties. There really isn’t a lot,” said Launching Success co-owner, Jen Zimmermann.

Birthday activities can get messy. Let Launching Success set-up and clean up for your party! Photo credit: Jen Zimmermann.

Especially in the wet months, playing at the park is not exactly an option. “Nobody wants ten mucky kids running around their house,” co-owner Kristen Krumdiack added.

Jen and Kristen are joint owners of Launching Success, a toy store and educational resource for parents, teachers and children. Even if you are familiar with the business, you might be surprised to know that they also offer in-store birthday parties.

The wonderful staff at Launching Success plans activities, decorates and sets up everything needed to provide a memorable and unique party for kids in a wide age range. They offer pretty much everything but cake and refreshments. Some parties even include craft-based activities. Save your home from glue, paint and glitter and leave it to Launching Success.

When asked what kind of party themes they offer, Jen responded, “We can plan any party.” She pulled out a scheduling paper for a previous party they hosted showcasing the birthday child’s multiple unrelated interests. She explained that even though they get similar theme requests, it’s never the same twice. “Different ages make a difference. A princess party for a 5-year-old will be different for a 10-year-old.”

Party planners get creative with party activities. Photo credit: Jen Zimmermann.

The staff at Launching Success has a lot of experience being creative and knows what has worked and what doesn’t. “At first it was trial and error but we’ve done enough now, we know the activities and the time allotted,” Kristen said, explaining that there are usually four to six activities per each hour and a half party. Some of the activities that were mentioned during my time in the store were musical chairs, scavenger hunts and an assortment of different crafts and science experiments.

I was shown the party room at the back of the store, neatly strewn with costumes and streamers from a previous party. “We decorate based on the child’s favorite color,” Jen said. Parties, however, are not necessarily limited to this room. “Scavenger hunts around the store are really popular,” Jen said, showing me a sheet of themed images that staff cut out and paste around the building for the children to find. There is also a roll-up door that leads out into the parking lot and provides more space when the weather is nice.

Launching Success’ party room is the perfect party space. Photo credit: Jen Zimmermann.

Another thing that makes Launching Success parties special is their vast assortment of party gifts and the free wrapping service they offer. “People show up early before parties to buy presents and we wrap for free,” Jen said. After walking through the colorful aisles, it’s obviously not just out of convenience that partygoers purchase their gifts here. There is everything from educational puzzles and science experiments to baby dolls and Legos. You can tell quality is highly important to Jen and Kristen.

“People know we have quality products and the staff is experienced,” Kristen explained. The pair often employs students from Western’s education program, so parents can rest assured their children are given the utmost care and that parties are well planned.

The birthday boy or girl gets to wear a special party hat. Photo credit: Jen Zimmermann.

Local parent of two, Monica Guffy, is very impressed with the quality of her children’s parties at Launching Success. “Absolute best place for our kids to have a birthday party,” she said. “Staff takes time to customize each party for each kid. They take time to research, come up with creative ideas and customize everything to the child. I have a boy and a girl. They’ve done Frozen and Human Body parties- those are extremely different but perfect for our kids. The experience has been wonderful.”

If you are looking to schedule a party for a child you know, make sure you book at least two weeks ahead of time to allow for planning. A month in advance will assure you get the date and time you want. Also note that children under the age of 12 can join Launching Success’ birthday club! Being a part of the club means receiving a 20 percent off coupon to the store to be used during the child’s birthday month and the option for the birthday girl or boy to choose an item out of the birthday bin.

For more information on scheduling parties or the Launching Success birthday club visit https://www.launchingsuccess.com/.

Launching Success also has their own blog on their website where you can read guest quotes and product reviews. Make sure you take advantage of all the helpful resources this great, local business has to offer!

Sponsored

Bayou on Bay Celebrates 10th Anniversary

By

LocalTalk Contributor

-

Submitted by: Bayou on Bay

In April of 2007, Bayou on Bay opened the doors to Bellingham’s first Cajun and Creole Restaurant on the corner of Holly and Bay street in the heart of Downtown Bellingham. What was to become the bustling Arts District in later years was then a humble street corner with no proud spire sculpture and a dangerously close proximity to Prospect Street cutting right in front of the restaurant.

Ten years of business is a remarkable accomplishment in such a competitive industry. Photo courtesy: Bayou on Bay.

When owner Steve Crosier opened those doors with his two daughters, they did so with a lot of hope, an incredible passion, over 30 years of experience and all of their eggs in that one basket. They built this dream with their own money, opting to invest their life savings and retirement fund over taking out loans. To the Crosier family, this meant that the business couldn’t fail.

And fail it certainly did not.

Ten years later, Bayou on Bay is still standing strong on that now vibrant street corner, and the hardworking staff is preparing to celebrate their 10th Anniversary with a full weekend of festivities including live music and a plethora of throwback specials.

The celebration begins on Friday, April 7 with the launch of the $10 Throwback menu. Classic favorites from the years are back (and cheap!) Including Blackened Rockfish, Gator Dip, Oyster Po Boys, BBQ Prawn Skewers, Smoked Chicken Salad, Roast Beef Po Boys and more, available all weekend. Visit Bayou during the April Art Walk, indulge in some delicious original dishes and share a toast to a great decade.

Brunch kicks off at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 8 with the legendary build-your-own-bloody mary bar available until 3 p.m. There will be surprise bursts of live music throughout the day. Enjoy a $6 Throwback Happy Hour menu from 4-7 and 10-close, where all featured cocktails will be only $6, the price they were when Bayou first opened!

Bayou on Bay celebrates a decade of service this April. Photo courtesy: Bayou on Bay.

Sunday brunch opens again at 10 a.m. and 10 percent of all sales that day will be donated to the Opportunity Council. The $10 Throwback menu will be available all weekend long, as well as delicious house-made birthday cake. In addition, each patron will receive a raffle ticket with their bill. Fill it out and you will be entered to win one of 10 Bayou on Bay gift cards, with the grand prize card having a $100 value! Winners will be drawn and notified on Monday, April 10.

In a town with a seemingly quick turnover of restaurants, a decade feels even more meaningful and the Bayou crew doesn’t hesitate a moment to credit the community for its thriving success. “It is because of the support of this amazing community that we’re still serving lunch and dinner six days a week in the Bayou Bar and Restaurant, hosting weekly events in the Annex Bar and jumping at any chance to give back,” explains manager Josh Holland. “We currently host a monthly bingo night with proceeds benefitting a different nonprofit each time and Bayou on Bay is excited to extend the charitable gesture to the Anniversary weekend. We will be donating 10 percent of all sales on Sunday, April 9 to the Opportunity Council to support their work to end homelessness in Bellingham.”

When asked about what Bayou has done differently and what could be attributed to the longevity of this restaurant, owner Steve Crosier again credits the patrons. “So many people are rigid in their thinking when opening a restaurant. They want to make their business exactly how they envision it and how they want it to be. But it’s not about that. It’s what the customer wants. You have to listen to your customers.”

One thing that stands out about Bayou on Bay is the incredibly tight-knit staff. Many members of the front and back of house staff have worked at Bayou for almost as long as it’s been around. There is definitely a palpable family vibe, despite the fact that Crosier’s daughters have now moved away from Bellingham to finish college, pursue their own careers and raise their families. “My daughters always say that one of my best qualities is surrounding myself with great people,” says Crosier. “The restaurant business as a whole can attract a motley group, but we’ve had success. We have some truly great people at Bayou.”

Here’s to the next ten years.

Chuckanut Bay Rugby Youth Program Continues to Grow in Popularity

By

Grant Clark

-

Chuckanut Bay Rugby 3 — Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club offers a youth program for grades K-6. Photo courtesy: Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club.

All eyes are on Craig Brown as he addresses his Chuckanut Bay Rugby Minis, a green clad group of youngsters many of whom are getting their first taste of the sport.

Grades K-4 are non-contact as the players focus more on developing an overall understanding of the sport. Photo courtesy: Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club.

Brown asks the squad, through a show of hands, who has played football before. A majority of the arms go up. His follow-up question inquires how many play quarterback.

The arms drop.

But that’s football. This is Rugby. It’s different.

“Here they’re all the quarterback,” Brown said. “We always remind them of that.”

Whenever Brown reiterates this line of thinking to his young players, those whose hands didn’t remain up following his second question smile.

After all, who doesn’t want to be the quarterback?

“We think in terms of all skills for all positions. All of the kids become the quarterback or the running back in rugby,” Brown said. “All get to run with the ball, all play offense and defense, all get to score. They love it. It’s a very pure team sport.”

And a sport that is expanding at a rapid pace worldwide as it is the fastest growing team sport around.

Locally, Chuckanut Bay Rugby has certainly played a role in helping that become a reality.

The club was inaugurated in 1973 by a group of Western Washington University graduates. It was solely a men’s club initially before dissolving in the mid-1990s.

Resurrected in the early 2000s, the club’s second go-around had a much different look and feel.

No club in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana or Alaska has developed more USA All-Americans and National team members than Chuckanut Bay. Photo courtesy: Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club.

Gone was the boys’ only mentality. With it came a shift away from primarily being a playground for former Vikings. The new-look Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club shifted its focus towards building up the area’s youth rugby program.

The changes have been a resounding success as no other club in the region – which includes Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Alaska – have groomed and developed more USA All-Americans and National team members than Chuckanut Bay – no small accomplishment given the fact many other clubs draw from a much larger metropolitan population.

The Chuckanut Bay youth program is broken into two groups, each consisting of three sub-divisions.

There’s the Minis – a group comprised of kindergarteners through sixth graders – and the Youth Team – which is made up of seventh graders through high school seniors.

Brown is in his third different positon with the club.

His first stint began in 1987 as a player during his senior year of high school and lasted until 1993. Towards the end of his first run he also coached the high school team for a handful of years before taking a 10-year hiatus.

A return in 2003 saw him coach the U14 and U16 teams, while also serving as club administrator, through 2006.

Brown’s latest involvement kicked off in 2016 with him taking over as the Mini rugby coordinator. Of the three tenures, the current one may be the most enjoyable as he now has added interest in kids taking part and finding enjoyment in the sport he loves.

Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club offers a youth program for grades K-6. Photo courtesy: Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club.

“As a father of three, and with my son, who is four,” Brown said, “I want him to have the opportunity to play rugby and see if it’s his sport as well, as he ages into the club. With this, my new mission is to grow our mini rugby program to have 100 plus K-6 grade kids playing rugby.”

Through the efforts of Brown and his fellow Chuckanut Bay coaches, the club is well on its way to achieving that lofty goal as the club has seen a boom in youth involvement over the past three years.

The Minis compete in three different groups with kindergarteners playing with first and second-graders, third and fourth-graders comprising a division, and fifth and sixth-graders making up the last team.

Grades kindergarten through fourth is non-contact as the main focus is on developing an overall understanding of the sport while at the same time working on athletic development, hand-eye coordination, footwork, evasive running, passing and catching the ball. Games at this age level usually consist of five-on-five or seven-on-seven play.

Contact begins in grades five and sixth as they play a modified version of 12-on-12 with a strong focus on proper tackling technique and other areas of the game that involve technical development to assure safety for the athletes.

“The people who enjoy rugby seem to completely fall in love with it,” Brown said. “It’s something they will do for the rest of their lives.”

According to Brown, more times than not, when someone does get introduced to rugby it usually goes this route.

For more information on Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club, including registration, visit chuckanutrugby.com.

A Design-Infused Approach that is Both Warm and Inviting

The Welcome Nook

New Room Types

A Sleeper Sofa as Comfortable as the Bed

Customizable Rooms

STAY CONNECTED

Business

Trending Now

Editor Picks