Bellingham Traverse Celebrates 15 Years

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Cyclists pass Fairhaven Park during Bellingham Traverse. This event helps support stewardship of the park. Photo courtesy: Bellingham Traverse.

Have you ever considered participating in a relay race? Until recently, I hadn’t. More likely to be found hiking or backpacking, I tend to shy away from competitive forms of recreation. But imagine a different kind of race — one that focuses more on fun (think costumes, simple rules, and a beer garden) than winning. It has a competitive aspect for those who seek first place, but also fosters an inclusive environment for participants of all abilities. That race is the Vital Choice Bellingham Traverse, and it’s coming up on Saturday, September 17 in Bellingham.

2016 Bellingham Traverse — The Department of Fun team dresses up in new costumes each year. Photo courtesy: Recreation Northwest.

Organized by local non-profit Recreation Northwest, the Bellingham Traverse is all about getting the community together for a good time. “I have intently avoided calling it a race over the years,” says Recreation Northwest Executive Director, Todd Elsworth. “I joke with people — why are they in such a hurry? This is really all about fun.”

Todd created the Bellingham Traverse in 2001. Born in Bellingham, he left the Pacific Northwest for a number of years before returning — like so many of us do — to his northwest roots. According to Todd, “When I chose to leave the northwest, my buddy said, ‘You’re a salmon. You were born in Bellingham; you will return.’ When I came back, it was fulfilling that life journey that I had for myself.”

Upon returning to his birthplace, Todd was inspired to create a new race in celebration of the journey of wild salmon. “I started this race because I had done a similar endurance race solo and saw an opportunity to complement Ski to Sea,” says Todd. His goal was to design a course that could be completed solo by endurance athletes, while allowing teams to compete as well. Today’s course is 37 miles long, with five distinct legs.

The course includes a 5.5-mile Greenways run to Lake Padden, a 6-mile mountain bike on the Padden trails, an 18-mile road bike around Lake Samish to Fairhaven, a 3.4-mile trail run in the Chuckanut Community Forest, a 3.6-mile paddle on Bellingham Bay, and a 0.65-mile team trek from Cornwall Beach back to the finish line.

Racers participate in the Traverse as Chinook (solo), Coho (tandem) and Chum (relay teams). The rules are simple: be safe, have fun, and show respect. Within these bounds, participants are welcome to exercise their creativity. “We’ve had people in 14-person canoes,” says Todd. “One team carried an empty keg the whole race. They handed it off as a baton.”

Amidst the fun, the Bellingham Traverse serves a greater purpose. Because the Traverse has an impact on Fairhaven Park (the trail running leg utilizes park trails), Recreation Northwest has chosen to support the park through stewardship. The end goal? To build a wetland boardwalk and connect Fairhaven Park to the Chuckanut Community Forest. In Todd’s words, the Traverse “is a way for us to fulfill our mission and take care of the places where we play.”

That mission — promoting outdoor recreation and bringing people together to enjoy, preserve and improve the places where we play — is what Recreation Northwest and the Bellingham Traverse are all about. Of course, none of this would be possible without a committed crew of volunteers. “It takes 100 volunteers to make this happen day of, and even more as the year goes on,” says Todd. “The success of the Traverse really comes down to the great volunteers and the Traverse crew that make this all happen.”

The Bellingham Traverse celebrates its 15th anniversary this year. Commemorative navy blue t-shirts are available, featuring the Traverse salmon logo on soft-poly wicking material. Additionally, race participants and volunteers receive a collectible gift. This year’s prize is a snap-on beer koozie, reflecting the Traverse’s celebratory spirit and partnership with Boundary Bay Brewery.

The Bellingham Traverse begins and ends at Boundary Bay. Bellingham’s oldest brewery has been involved with the Bellingham Traverse since the beginning — each year, they brew up a special batch of Traverse Red IPA and throw a big party at the finish line. Spectators can hang out here, check out the farmers market across the street, and cheer racers on as they finish. Race sponsors and partners will set up booths at the finish line, providing games and demonstrations to keep spectators busy during the race.

For those like me who are on the fence about relay races, the Bellingham Traverse may be the answer. After all, it’s simply a big party for a great cause. And everyone is welcome to participate. “If you do it as a team, the legs are really approachable as an individual without really even training,” says Todd. So form a team, break out your best costume, and give the Bellingham Traverse a try. See you at the finish line!

For more information and to register for the Bellingham Traverse, visit Recreation Northwest’s website.

Honey Salon Presents ‘Honeys Hunnys’

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LocalTalk Contributor

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Join Honey Salon for 'Honeys Hunnys' Opening Reception during the Downtown Bellingham Art Walk on September 2, 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Photo courtesy: Honey Salon

Submitted by Honey Salon

This September, Honey Salon proudly presents a sweet group show featuring the ‘beeutiful’ works of Honey clients, stylists and friends titled “Honeys Hunnys.” This open theme gallery presentation is meant to showcase the incredible talent of the whole Honey hive. Opening reception, complete with honey cocktails, sweet treats and our own PhDJ spinning Sting, Beyonce, The Bee Gees (and other bee favs) debuts September 2 during the Downtown Bellingham Art Walk, 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

From traditional acrylic and oil, to fiber and collage, “Honeys Hunnys” is an eclectic presentation surely to bring a buzz to downtown. Honey Salon clients include an array of local and regional talent. Local gallery owner and painter Sharon Kingston joins the showcase, along with up-and-coming fiber artist Quinn Dimitroff and her wool and wood woven wall hangings. These and other new and unknown creatives have boldly submitted their unique pieces to create an even greater body of work, demonstrating the incredible talent that makes up the Honey Salon family hive.

Honey Salon supplies an urban oasis of beauty, art, and heart in lovely Downtown Bellingham. Honey Salon participates in monthly Art Walk gallery walks and showcases the talent of both local and nationally acclaimed artist’s throughout the salon. With “Honeys Hunnys,” salon owner Liz Azzara and curator Shultzie Willows wanted to turn the lens the other direction and showcase the work of Honey Salon clients. Those who normally grace the stylist’s chair, as well as the stylists themselves, have an opportunity for a different perspective and opportunity to celebrate their incredible talent.

For more information or images from “Honeys Hunnys,” please contact gallery curator Shultzie Willows at shultziefay@gmail.com.

Clay Coiled for Success — Ceramic Artist Ann Marie Cooper Takes Career to the Next Level

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Patricia Herlevi

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Ann Marie Cooper standing in front of her coiled clay art. Photo credit: Patricia Herlevi.

“I got hooked on the element of surprise,” says Ann Marie Cooper about her serendipitous career as a ceramic artist and her work with clay coiling that she learned from her teacher Pat Morse.

Ann Marie had worked for a gallery in La Conner that featured Linda Stone’s work. This led to a part-time job at Good Earth Pottery, co-owned by Linda Stone. After encountering local potters who sold their work at the gallery, Ann Marie felt inspired to enroll in pottery classes at Whatcom Community College.

Eventually, Ann Marie enrolled in more at Baker Creek Ceramics in Bellingham’s Iron Gate district. And more serendipity occurred when Ann Marie studied with a teacher who would alter her artistic path.

“Working at Good Earth Pottery is more than a job for me, it is my life,” says Ann Marie. “My friends, my community, my career have all blossomed from this one root, and I’m so thankful for it. I met the teacher who opened my clay world wide open through Good Earth. I owe so much to Patricia Morse for teaching me to coil clay.”

Ann Marie Cooper, co-owner of Good Earth Pottery. Photo credit: Patricia Herlevi.

Ann Marie’s venture into pottery began in high school when she took a pottery class her final quarter and fell in love with the art form. Then, while earning her degree at Western Washington University, she wanted to enroll in a pottery class that was restricted to art majors. However, her love of the natural world and more of that serendipity reunited Ann Marie with clay.

While pottery symbolizes the earth, Ann Marie’s work, which features animals, reveals a connection to an enchanted earth. Often her pottery depicts owls and domestic animals such as dogs. And in the past year, butterflies have also entered the menagerie.

“My favorite things to create include imagery — usually animals, leaves or trees. It’s exciting and challenging to try to create an illustration backward (I have to be very careful when using numbers or letters!). When I get to the point where I smooth down the final coils on the back (or inside), it looks like a pile of chaos, but once it’s firm enough to flip it over its magic. I’m generally pretty pleased with the results, but if not, I smoosh it up and start over,” explains Ann Marie of her process.

While Ann Marie currently works from her backyard studio in the Columbia Neighborhood, from 2012 to 2015 she honed her craft at a studio in the Morgan Block Building. Surrounded by artists such as Ben Mann, Nancy Canyon, and others, she experienced networking opportunities.

Ceramic art featuring the clay coiled technique. Photo credit: Patricia Herlevi.

“Those years are precious to me. Not only did I have my own little retreat to focus on improving my clay skills for hours without distraction (if I chose), but I also developed lasting friendships that I treasure,” shares Ann Marie. “Those relationships helped me learn to navigate this art world in which I’ve found myself; relationships that continue to offer support and encouragement.”

Similar to other working artists in Bellingham, Ann Marie teaches what she practices. More serendipity led her to teach classes at Columbia Elementary.

“The school had a kiln and needed a parent volunteer to run it and things sort of snowballed from there. It’s been a wonderful experience to watch the kids’ skills develop over the years. They have such raw, unfettered enthusiasm for clay,” explains Ann Marie.

In addition, she teaches adult students at Baker Creek Ceramics and Moshier Art Center as well. For adults wanting to learn Clay Coil and other pottery techniques, Ann Marie says, “I also have developed a workshop in my Clay Coil Illustration for adults and older children. I generally teach this at Baker Creek Ceramic Studio, but have taken it south to Moshier Art Center in Burien.”

And if that does not keep the clay artist busy, as of July she officially became co-owner (along with Deb Martin) of Good Earth Pottery. Ann Marie bought out her mentor Linda Stone’s share. On most days we’ll find Ann Marie wandering around the unique pottery of Pacific Northwest artists, mainly from Whatcom and Skagit counties at the Fairhaven District shop. Her work is on display at the front of the store near the front counter, surrounded by large platters and glass jewelry.

Butterflies are this year’s theme for Ann Marie Cooper’s unique ceramic art. Photo credit: Patricia Herlevi.

For people who don’t want to get their hands covered in clay but would like to grace their home with Ann Marie’s unique offerings, her work is available for purchase at Good Earth Pottery and through her website.

“Good Earth Pottery is my main source of sales, but I also have work in other regional galleries, and one in Mississippi,” says Ann Marie. “I do travel to various art festivals in the area.”

Register for classes through her website or Baker Creek Ceramics.

Pozie by Natalie — Florist Natalie Ransom Uses Creativity to Build Her Dream

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Lorraine Wilde

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Bellingham-based florist Natalie Ransom of Pozie by Natalie has been putting her own bold spin on Pacific Northwest weddings, events, and photo shoots for the past 15 years. Her hard work, confidence, and creative, unique style — as well as her efforts to mentor fellow business owners and support local charities — have inspired a loyal following that is helping her achieve her dream, taking her business to the next level.

When you first meet Natalie, you would never guess that she grew up as a farm girl in Houghton, Michigan in the rural Upper Peninsula. Her polished, modern look, simple blond locks, and beautiful smile perfectly fit her sassy personality. “I don’t own more than one pair of pants. In my work, I have to dress up for every event, so maxi dresses are my uniform,” explains Natalie, who still considers herself a die-hard Yooper.

“I’ve loved flowers for as long as I can remember. When I was a kid, one of my earliest memories is that when I was sad or upset, I would crawl into the baby’s breath bushes around the farm,” recalls Natalie. “My father, Chip, later taught me how to forage around the farm and use what was around to create beautiful things to sell at farmers markets and craft fairs. Flowers have always been a part of me,” adds Natalie. “From him, I learned to love nature and the joy of sharing that beauty with others.”

Natalie first moved to Bellingham in 2001. “I always knew I wanted to live on the West Coast and first considered Montana. Someone I knew had moved here, so I searched on the internet and found Turner Photographics. I thought, ‘Wow, I want to live in that beautiful place,’” explains Natalie. “So I moved here and what’s funny is that now Mark Turner and I are friends!” Natalie also frequently works with another local photographer, Katheryn Moran Photography, on weddings, events, and stylized photo shoots. The breathtaking Pacific Northwest and Bellingham have become the place that Natalie calls home.

Using what’s in season from local growers as much as she can, Natalie pours her imagination and inspiration into both her wedding and event work and the unique pieces she donates in support of local charities and businesses. Augmenting with succulents and exotics, adding fiber, metal, glass, fruit, vegetables, and other elements, Natalie creates arrangements like none other. “I know most of the farmers in Whatcom County because I am active in Sustainable Connections Food and Farming Program and also volunteered at the Farmers Market for two or three years at the information booth,” notes Natalie. “A lot of people don’t realize that there are a number of organic and sustainably-grown flower farms right here.” Natalie currently does the bulk of her work from her flower studio, a remodeled part of her residence in the Columbia Neighborhood.

Natalie’s also well-connected in the community and adored by her devoted social media followers. She donates her time reaching out to fellow business owners as a Chamber Ambassador for Bellingham Whatcom Chamber of Commerce and Industry and is on the board of Whatcom Women in Business (WWIB). She donates her creations at gala and awards events in support of small and female-owned business organizations including the Chamber, the Women’s Professional Network, and WWIB.

“There are so many incredible things that we can all learn from each other,” shares Natalie. “My parents always instilled in me that I can do almost anything, but I know that not everyone grew up with that or has that confidence, so it’s important to me to send that message that you can do anything. If you work hard, anything is possible.”

Natalie also shares some of her more lasting creative work in one of her favorite local shops, The Bureau of Historical Investigation. “I sell succulent and Japanese marimo ball terrariums and occasionally succulent jewelry there,” notes Natalie. “The jewelry can be worn for weeks and then potted as a house plant.” Natalie also recently donated a succulent terrarium as a prize for Sustainable Connections’ Think Local First Independents Month.

Another creative way that Natalie supports local business is through her social media-based Treasure Hunts. “I’ll make a floral display or unique terrarium and then post a picture of it inside a local business on Instagram and Facebook. The first follower that can identify the business and pick it up gets to keep it, free of charge,” explains Natalie. “It’s a fun way for everyone to benefit, and I have some really dedicated, happy followers.”

Natalie also donates her work in support of several Whatcom County charities including providing floral styling for events, galas, and auctions for non-profits like Lydia Place, Boys and Girls Clubs of Whatcom County, and the Alzheimer’s Society of Washington. “My mother, Cindy, was a nurse and philanthropy was always a part of our life. My mom still volunteers at a hospice house in her retirement. My parents and I did Meals on Wheels together in Michigan,” explains Natalie. “It delights me to be able to be charitable through my floral work. I feel like if we were all generous with each other it would be pretty wonderful.”

Natalie’s floral art is fresh and extraordinary, whether it’s living jewelry, a bouquet, a centerpiece, arbor, or crown. She is thankful that her work is also her joy. Her efforts are helping her get closer to her own dream of one day owning her own farm right here in Whatcom County. Not unlike her childhood home, Natalie would like to grow her own flowers and food, but also do so much more. “I want a place where I can also work and continue my ‘floralanthropy,’ teach classes, and develop a community space that’s also my home where I can invite groups to come out and learn about how things grow, how they are made, and just visit,” explains Natalie. “I want to help people realize that they can do things too, they can find their own creativity.”

For more information about Natalie’s floral art, visit Pozie by Natalie online or contact Natalie directly by giving her a call at 360-927-1286 or by email at PozieByNatalie@gmail.com.

Cherish the Moment with Family and Senior Portraits at Turner Photographics

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Theresa Golden

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It wasn’t long ago that senior portraits were taken very uniformly. Young women appeared in high school yearbooks with a black drape around their shoulders while young men wore suits and ties. With the exception of that familiar face or brightly captured smile, there wasn’t a lot to differentiate individuals. Fast forward a few decades and times have changed. Now senior portraits can be created in a way that really represents the individual. For Mark Turner, owner of Turner Photographics, “Today that portrait is an opportunity to express your personality.”

Mark knows that photographing seniors is all about capturing that final moment before they go off into the world on their own. The photos provide a way to cherish the 18 years you have spent together with your senior, from the time they fit into your arms to the time they leave the familial nest. The senior portrait is a way to remember who your child is and who they have grown up to become.

Having a portrait to honor that significant point in the timeline of your lives is more than just important – it’s a need. “It’s a need to remember what their loved one looked like at a point in time,” Mark points out. “The need that I’m satisfying is the need for that image to stand the test of time. It’s going to be there to look back on 20 years from now, 30 years from now.”

More than a photo

Part of what makes Mark’s photographs truly special is his attention to his clients. His consultation session is designed to get acquainted and find out what each individual is looking for. “It starts with sitting down with them to find out what their interests are — what excites them,” Mark shares. It’s during this time that the planning for the photo session takes shape. Figuring out the location and context for the images is the first step in showcasing each client’s unique personality.

“We want to get a nice portrait, but we also want to do some things that really show what they are doing,” Mark explains. “One of the most fun sessions I did last year was with a boy who is a fencer. This was a studio session for him, and he came in with full fencing garb. We did a whole series with him going through all the classic moves in fencing and ended up with a beautiful composite piece — multiple images of him as a fencer.”

Each individual takes a photo session in a different direction. For one senior it could involve going out to the sports field, football in hand. For another, it could be capturing dance poses and movements. Mark’s talent is in highlighting the way each personality uniquely shines. “Another young man was very much into running around in Birch Bay on the family’s jet ski, so we went out on the water at high tide,” Mark shares. “He’s also a musician so right at sunset I had him playing his trumpet on the beach with the sunset behind.”

Primp, prep and plan

In a world familiar with cell phone photos and selfies — pictures often taken on a whim — Mark offers a contrasting approach. These are the timeless photos people want to come back to and look upon again and again. They’re the photos that were taken with care and precision. Seniors go out and pamper themselves in preparation— hair freshly styled and make-up applied professionally. Pair this attention to detail on the seniors’ part with Mark’s invaluable photography and lighting skills, and you have images that will withstand the test of time, serving as keepsakes for the senior, their family, and future generations alike.

Just as time goes by so quickly raising a child and watching them grow, the senior year goes just as fast. With yearbook photo submissions coming up quicker than you realize (they’re due in October), it’s important to get that photo session in early. Mark recommends scheduling even before the senior year has arrived. Truthfully, scheduling that session in early is going to get you the best weather conditions as well — a gift that truly comes in handy, considering teens often want those outdoor photo shoots.

Get the whole family involved

Senior portraits are a special milestone in any teen’s life. These photos mark the start of a senior’s last year in high school, serving as a visual reminder of who they were and what they cared about in that moment in time. But as your senior grows and changes, your entire family unit does, too. Take advantage of your child’s senior photo shoot as an opportunity to capture some special memories with the whole family.

With any senior portrait session, Mark also offers a free family session. This is a wonderful opportunity for families to capture a special moment of everyone together before their oldest child leaves the flock.

To schedule and reserve a custom senior portrait session — with a free family session — contact Mark Turner at Turner Photographics by visiting Turner Photographics online or by contacting Mark directly at 360-671-6851.

Turner Photographics
4682 Wynn Road
Bellingham, WA 98226
360-671-6851
www.turnerphotographics.com

‘What to Expect When You’re Electing’ Comes to Mount Baker Theatre

By

LocalTalk Contributor

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What to Expect When You're Electing — The Capitol Steps comedy troupe leads you on an insider tour of Washington D.C. Photo credit: Mike Reyna.

Submitted by Mount Baker Theatre

There was a time when events in big, public halls were where people got their information about national candidates and engaged in face-to-face political discourse — and then private correspondence was where they shared jokes and other stories. Social media seems to have reshaped the second part of that. During the 2012 elections, over one-third of 18 to 24 year olds said their vote was influenced by social media. According to the Pew Research Center, 44% of adults today are saying that everything they learn about the presidential candidates is through social media.

I suppose that makes sense, since we’re talking online about everything else, but we all battle the blur between “correct” and merely “catchy” daily. It can be confusing to tell where entertainment stops and information starts. Sensational news broadcasts don’t sound much different than comedy political interview shows or the messaging written by regular folks that is posted, shared, and retweeted all over social media. The intent gets blurred — are we learning or laughing?

Since folks think the issues are being laid out in tweets, we at Mount Baker Theatre are happy to handle the in-person, big hall event with a new intent that is very clear: laughter. There is still a place where the intent is purely to entertain and the bipartisan spirit is firmly alive: with veteran political comedy troupe the Capitol Steps.

On September 16, “The Capitol Steps: What to Expect When You’re Electing” will be performing live at the Mount Baker Theatre. The Capitol Steps, a bipartisan troupe of ex-staffers from Washington, DC, are setting out to satirize the very people and places that employed them. You can get ready for side-splitting roasts of the presidential candidates, hilarious parodies, and an escape from the viciousness of the political news cycle.

If you can’t beat ‘em, and you can’t join ‘em, you might as well laugh with them all equally! And if you happen to strike up an interesting conversation in the lobby with a new friend at intermission instead of checking for status updates, all the better. Join us at the Mount Baker Theatre on September 16 for “What to Expect When You’re Electing” — tickets are on sale now!

Spikeball Hits Bellingham with Skill, Satisfaction and Silliness

By

Jade Thurston

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Spikeball is taking Bellingham — and Western Washington University students — by storm. ©WhatcomTalk.

At a party last year in early May where many were preoccupied watching “The Fight of the Century,” a professional boxing match between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao, Bellingham resident Andy Gallent’s attention was somewhere else.

Gallent, 26, recalls four Western Washington University students actively moving around a yellow device on the lawn. Included was a circular net lifted off the ground that was similar to a miniature trampoline and a yellow, rubbery ball sized to fit in a person’s palm.

“That was the exact moment I was introduced to Spikeball,” Gallent said. “I was instantly interested.”

Spikeball is taking Bellingham — and Western Washington University students — by storm. ©WhatcomTalk.

Like what Gallent saw in his first encounter, Spikeball is played with four people divided into two teams. To start, one player on Team A serves the ball to the Team B player across the net. To serve, you must toss the yellow orb up in the air and swat it onto the net, where it may bounce only once.

The two players on Team B then return the ball to Team A by hitting it back off the net. Each team has the opportunity to return the ball in three touches. These touches may be from any part of the body, however, the partners must alternate who touches the ball and get it bouncing off the net by the third touch.

If a player fails to return the ball, the other team receives a point. A point is also awarded if the ball mistakenly hits the rim of the net.

At 11 points, teams switch sides. The objective of the game is to earn 21 points first.

Another detail is the “pocket.” This happens when the ball is hit by a player and slightly embeds in the space between the net and the rim, causing the ball to awkwardly bounce off the net. Players on either team can call a pocket whenever necessary, meaning the play is disregarded and starts over.

Lastly, “hinder” is when a player gets in the way of another player during the game. This also prompts a redo.

Andy Gallent reacts quickly to a swift serve in a Spikeball match. ©WhatcomTalk.

Yet, beyond these basic directions, Spikeball proves to be an entertaining and lively pastime for anyone as the summer days draw even more people than usual outside in Whatcom County.

In fact, Gallent spends much of his summer introducing and playing Spikeball with friends and strangers around town.

Justin Spencer, 23, friend to Gallent, hadn’t played a single game of Spikeball until he and Gallent became roommates this past year.

“Spikeball is easy to learn, but when you first play it feels awkward,” said Spencer. “It’s going to take a little bit of practice, but it’s seriously so fun.”

Though they have varying styles of play — Spencer more laid back and Gallent somewhat competitive — these guys can’t stop raving about the game.

Both agree that Spikeball is similar to volleyball with an easier setup, though there are elements of handball and four square in there, too.

Therefore, they have no problem taking advantage of Spikeball’s simple setup by engaging in matches throughout Bellingham’s many parks and beaches, like Boulevard’s sandy areas or Fairhaven Park’s grassy field.

Spikeball easily packs into a light, drawstring backpack. ©WhatcomTalk.

“The game is lightweight, you can travel with it anywhere, and you don’t need too much room to play,” Gallent said.

Spencer added that you don’t even need all four friends with you for a match to take place. Since most onlookers around Bellingham find interest in the game, they are happy to stand in and give it a go themselves.

“Spikeball is a hybrid sport that people love,” said Gallent.

“And it isn’t just another backyard game,” Spencer added.

They couldn’t have said it better. Beyond beaches, yards and parks, Spikeball also has another local home at WWU. As of two years ago, the University began to offer Spikeball as an intramural sport.

Bob Hofstetter, Associate Director of Facilities and Operations of WWU’s Campus Recreation Services, said that Western is happy to have Spikeball featured as a league and tournament during certain quarters throughout the school year.

Hofstetter believes Spikeball is growing in popularity and claims that various students — athletic or not — enthusiastically play the game. Spikeball is even brought out at WWU’s kids’ camps, where children — pre-teen ages and younger — enjoy the sport.

Hofstetter recently received his own Spikeball set for Father’s Day. He appreciates the competitive aspect Spikeball brings out, while still having a great time.

“My family is pretty diverse in athletic ability, yet we all enjoy to play Spikeball,” he said.

Athletic or inactive. Hand-eye or foot-eye coordinated. Petite or large physic. Vying or just playing for the laughs. You may be truly surprised at just how fit of a contender you are for Spikeball.

Put Your Best Foot Forward with Pedal Party NW

By

Lorraine Wilde

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No matter the occasion, Pedal Party NW provides a fun way to celebrate birthdays, bachelorettes and more. Photo credit: Lorraine Wilde.

Brought to bike-friendly downtown Bellingham in May 2015 by long-time residents Amy and Tom Lawson, Pedal Party NW has been entertaining tourists and helping locals celebrate birthdays, bachelorettes, and business with their state-of-the-art 10- to 15-person-bicycle. I recently took a very memorable ride on one of Bellingham’s newest attractions.

The Lawsons have been married for almost 34 years, having lived and worked in Whatcom County for decades. Amy taught high school science at Squalicum High School for 19 of her 20 years with Bellingham Public Schools, recently retiring in June 2016.

“I’m enjoying learning new things through the business,” says Amy of her role as booking and communications agent. “What I love about it is that everyone is always so happy and satisfied.” Tom has worked as a builder in the area with his company Compass Woodworks for more than 40 years. Pedal Party NW is currently Tom’s pre-retirement hobby.

The Lawsons became owners of Pedal Party NW almost on a whim. They were attending their daughter Sarah’s wedding in Portland, Oregon. On their younger daughter’s suggestion, they took a shared ride on a multi-person bike with a bachelor party. “We had a blast. Then our daughter saw a web article on the 25 things Bellingham needed and this kind of bike was on the list,” Amy explains of their start. “And here we are.”

Co-owner Tom Lawson hands out water to help patrons stay hydrated during their trip while answering technical questions about the inner bike’s inner workings. Photo credit: Lorraine Wilde.

After a lot of research and communication with local breweries and other businesses, the Lawsons decided on the MegaCycle brand built in St. Paul, Minnesota by Pedal Biz. “Our bike is number 16 manufactured there,” notes Tom, the technical and maintenance brains of Pedal Party NW. “This is sort of the Cadillac of models. It’s more expensive, but it’s also engineered the best. It’s the safest and easy to step onto.”

“We also could do it without having to buy into a franchise,” adds Amy.

Tom road tripped to pick up the bike himself from the Minnesota factory. He also took along a passenger — at the time, his daughter’s boyfriend — to help with transport. “We were most of the way back on that trip before he asked me for my daughter’s hand in marriage,” explains Tom. “It was pretty special.”

This impressive bicycle took its inaugural ride in Bellingham’s 2015 Ski-to-Sea Parade, carrying Bellingham Mayor Kelli Linville as one of its first passengers. “My daughter’s team pedaled for her and that was our very first ride. The City and the police have been so supportive, and the community shares pictures of us on Facebook and Instagram.”

Since then, Pedal Party NW has been helping groups of 10 to 15 transport and entertain themselves, safely, in a fun, memorable atmosphere throughout Bellingham’s downtown area. “We do a lot of birthday, bachelorette, and bachelor parties, with people wearing costumes, dancing in the aisles, and having a blast,” notes Amy of their typical clientele. “We have family and class reunions, we do parades, and it’s a great way to see the craft breweries here, too. Every party is a little different, but everyone is in a celebratory mood so it’s really a fun business to own.”

Ten pedalers are needed to move the bike along, although batteries assist when hills are too steep. Photo credit: Lorraine Wilde.

Businesses also use Pedal Party NW for team-building, celebration, and networking. “We’ve had some businesses join us that needed to find a way to build office morale and camaraderie, and it works!” adds Amy. “Everyone is pretty calm and congenial at first and after the first stop, everyone is laughing and talking. By the second or third stop, everyone has bonded and is having a blast. Some give us big hugs and say, ‘Our department really needed this.’ It’s a real win-win for everybody.”

I recently took a ride with the employees of a locally-owned supplier of building materials that has operated in Whatcom County since 1992, Bellingham Millwork Supply Company. The Pedal Party NW trip was given to Millwork employees by the sales representatives of Tacoma-based treated wood supplier McFarland-Cascade as a thank you gift for their long-time business partnership.

On our trip, we listened to classic rock piped into the bicycle’s 6-speaker sound system from the phone of a Millworks employee. “The party can have a custom soundtrack chosen by the group,” explains Tom, who considers this bicycle one of the most high-tech multi-person bicycles available in the country.

“There is a computer that senses speed and kicks in with electric-assist when needed to get up hills that are tougher than our pedalers,” says Tom. Up to 10 people can pedal at any one time, and it travels at a safe top speed of 7 miles per hour. The padded seats are adjustable and have a back cushion for added comfort. There are non-pedaling seats for five additional passengers plus the licensed driver provided by Pedal Party NW to steer, guide, and park this specialized vehicle. The bicycle also has overhead storage for purses and bags, plus holders for water cups offered by Pedal Party NW employees to encourage responsible continued hydration throughout the trip.

“We’ve also been able to accommodate some patrons in wheelchairs and of almost any age, including the Whatcom Family YMCA’s Pedaling for Parkinson’s group, so there are very few limits to who can ride along,” adds Amy.

Employees of Bellingham Millwork and McFarland Cascade pedal to their first stop at downtown’s The Local. Photo credit: Lorraine Wilde.

On my ride along, Millworks employees decided among themselves where they’d like to stop on their 2-hour trip. Most trips include two to three stops at almost any downtown Bellingham location within biking distance of their headquarters near the intersection of Meador Street and North State Street. The stops are only limited by time and the group’s willingness and ability to pedal. For obvious reasons, businesses at higher elevations are less popular destinations. Stops common on Pedal Party NW tours include Bellingham’s award-winning breweries and Mallard Ice Cream. “Some groups want to spend time and get food while others want to get in three stops, but it’s really up to them,” explains Amy.

“But we’re happy to give advice on places to stop based on our experiences and the interests of the group,” adds Tom. We’d like to add new businesses to our list of stops like Kombucha Town and Vinostrology.”

Our tour took us first to The Local for microbrew beers and a couple games of table shuffleboard. Then the group pedaled to Schweinhaus Biergarten for some outdoor enjoyment of comfort food —sausage on kraut, Bavarian pretzels, and locally-brewed beer — before pedaling back to the Meador Street headquarters.

Scheduling a party is simple. Patrons can contact Amy via phone or e-mail to select a date. Party attendees meet at the Meador Street location, sign a standard insurance waiver, and then depart at the scheduled time. The party returns to Meador Street at the end of each trip. Pedal Party NW can usually accommodate up to four or five 2-hour trips in a single day, charging batteries overnight.

Bachelorettes and businesses alike benefit from Pedal Party NW. Photo credit: Lorraine Wilde.

Pedal Party NW has also donated discounted trips to local charities including a Whatcom Humane Society auction prize that raised over $1200. Business is doing well enough for Amy and Tom to donate about six discounted trips each year.

No matter what the occasion, taking a ride with Pedal Party NW is a unique, unforgettable way to get some fresh air and exercise, explore Bellingham’s downtown businesses, and celebrate with friends or colleagues.

“We plan to schedule rides pretty regularly through Halloween but can accommodate die-hards later in the year, too. Our rain policy covers bad weather,” adds Amy. “We want to support the local breweries that are an incredibly caring community here. People come to us for a party and we do our best to deliver.”

Pedal Party NW
501 Meador Street, Suite 106
Bellingham, WA 98225
360-255-0822
letsride@pedalpartynw.com

Tickets on Sale Now for Industrial Credit Union’s 4th Annual Food Truck Round Up

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LocalTalk Contributor

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Submitted by Food Truck Round Up

Tickets are now on sale for Industrial Credit Union’s 4th Annual Food Truck Round Up! The event takes place Saturday, September 24 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Civic Stadium in Bellingham.

The Food Truck Round Up — a benefit for Whatcom County Food Banks — is presented by Ben Kinney & Keller Williams Realty. It features over 20 local food trucks, a beer garden serving Kulshan Brewing Co. beer, a family area hosted by Nature’s Path Foods and live music by SpaceBand on the Haggen Food and Pharmacy stage. This family-friendly event provides a fun opportunity to try food from local mobile eateries and support a great cause.

Tickets are on sale now at all 8 Industrial Credit Union locations throughout Whatcom County. They are $7 and include a custom pint glass (while supplies last). Event proceeds — including all tickets sold — will be matched by Ben Kinney and Keller Williams Realty for the third year in a row.

The Food Truck Round Up is possible each year because of the generosity of many local businesses. Industrial CU receives support from Ben Kinney and Keller Williams Realty, Haggen Food and Pharmacy, Lithtex NW Printing Solutions, Kulshan Brewing Co., Nature’s Path Foods, Ideation Design Group, Star Rentals, Rice Insurance and many others.

If you are interested in supporting this year’s event, contact Amanda Ager, Food Truck Round Up Coordinator, at aager@industrialcu.org. Event updates and details will be announced on the Community Food Drive Facebook page.

100-Year-Old Lovebirds — Pickford Shows One-Time Screening of South Korean Documentary

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LocalTalk Contributor

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Submitted by Pickford Film Center

On August 18, the Pickford Film Center will have a one-time showing of an intimate documentary about love, death, and family. “My Love, Don’t Cross That River” follows the “100-year-old lovebirds” — 98-year-old Byeong-man Jo and 89-year-old Gye-Yeol Kang — throughout their daily lives in a mountain village in South Korea. We meet the adorable couple as they prepare for the next chapter of their lives, after 75 years of inseparable kinship.

Come prepared with a pack of Kleenex in tow as “My Love, Don’t Cross That River” will leave you both laughing and crying. The initial scenes filter through the seasons, showing the playful couple tossing snow and leaves at each other and next a springtime water fight. Though the film is not always so lighthearted. These scenes give a quick glance of just how in love the characters are.

Directed by Jin Mo-Young, who is a veteran to documentary filmmaking, “My Love, Don’t Cross That River” made its debut in South Korea in 2014 and was praised as South Korea’s most successful independent film ever. It also saw success at multiple international film festivals, receiving awards for best independent film and documentary award and nominations for best film and best director.

Join us at the Pickford Film Center on Thursday, August 18 at 6:30 p.m. for a one-time showing of this heart-tugging film. Stop by earlier at 6:00 p.m. for pre-screening reception including light snacks and traditional Korean tea! This beautifully filmed documentary approaches love, the inevitability of death and family in a way that is so intimate and sentimental you’ll leave feeling heart-warmed and heart-wrenched.

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