Whatcom County Students Recognized in State Capital During Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship Recognition Reception

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90 students from across Western Washington and Spokane were recognized during the 2015 Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship Recognition Reception.

For a select few of Whatcom County’s graduates, the excitement of finishing high school was made even sweeter last week when they were invited to Olympia for the Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship Recognition Reception at the Governor’s Mansion.

For the past 15 years, Comcast has made a point of recognizing and rewarding hardworking students who go above and beyond at school and in their communities through the Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship program.

Since the program’s inception in 2000, Comcast has awarded more than $21.6 million to approximately 21,000 graduating high school seniors nationwide. This year, 90 graduating seniors from schools across Western Washington and Spokane received scholarships in the amount of $1,000 or more to help them as they continue their education.

This year, eight of the 90 scholarship recipients hailed from Whatcom County, representing cities like Bellingham, Ferndale and Lynden, just to name a few. Several of the students made the drive south with their parents for the inspirational evening.

Just as proud as Comcast is to recognize Washington’s amazing student leaders, students feel equally honored. The scholarship is a symbol of their years of hard work.

Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship recipients are selected based on a few different challenging criteria. To be considered and selected for the scholarship, students had to demonstrate academic excellence through a minimum GPA of 2.8, provide examples of ways they’ve been leaders in their schools, and demonstrate how they’ve contributed to their communities.

Of the Whatcom County students who were selected, all had impressive achievements to share.

However, Squalicum High School’s Timothy Lann wasn’t selected based on his impressive academic merits alone. The 4.0 GPA student, who will be heading to Harvard, has also proven himself as a leader at home and abroad. “During my freshman year, I traveled to Mexico for two weeks to serve at an orphanage in Vicente Guerrero, participating in feeding programs and community rebuilding,” Lann explained in his scholarship application. “After this trip, I was so emotionally moved and inspired that I founded my own 501(c)3 non-profit organization to further the amount of people I could help get out of poverty.”

Students like Lann go above and beyond to not only prepare for their futures, but to positively impact their communities and — in some cases — the world.

Like Lann, Esmerelda Munoz, a senior at Sedro-Woolley High, has a 4.0 GPA. However, while Lann was helping communities abroad, Munoz was keeping it local as a volunteer Sunday school teacher at her church. “I believe I have learned as much from my students as they have learned from me,” said Munoz in her scholarship application. “Their curiosity to learn has inspired me to be more knowledgeable to answer their questions.”

For students like Lann and Munoz, scholarships like the Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship are more than just financial assistance for college. Keynote speaker Reggie Jones said awards like the Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship give students an opportunity. “It gives them confidence going into life,” said Jones. “This right here is a helpful hand.”

The event, which started with a Capitol Campus tour, culminated with a buffet-style dinner and reception in the Governor’s Mansion. During the reception, local leaders, including Washington State Representative Sharon Tomiko Santos and former NFL cornerback Reggie Jones, offered words of wisdom and good wishes to the scholarship recipients.

Sabrina Register, the evening’s emcee and host of Comcast Newsmakers, said, “I think what Comcast is doing by supporting amazing leaders and achievers here in Washington State is a great thing. It’s a great way for today’s youth to be recognized, and Comcast is really proud to take part and sponsor these kids.”

The June 11 Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship Recognition Reception was an event marked by excited students, proud parents and inspirational speakers — all there to recognize the hard work of the graduating seniors; our country’s future leaders.

You can learn more about this year’s Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship on Comcast’s website here.

6 Perfect Picnic Spots in Bellingham, Plus Ideas for Delicious Provisions

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WhatcomTalk Editor

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bellingham picnic — Boulevard is a busy spot for good reason. Find some quiet under the shade of a tree and enjoy the bay views while you eat.

Is there anything more wonderful on a fantastic summer’s day than finding just the right shady spot for a picnic? Delicious eats, good company (or a good book), and a cool breeze on a warm day are all one needs for picnic perfection.

Bellingham and Whatcom County are filled-to-the-brim with lovely spots for a lazy meal out-of-doors. Here are some ideas for provisions and destinations that will have you hankering to pack a basket and bask in Mother Nature’s beauty.

Fill your picnic basket

First, you need the food. Go high-end and fancy or simple and scrumptious—there are no rules when it comes to eating on a blanket (or picnic table or bench or big piece of beach driftwood…)

Old World Deli in downtown Bellingham offers an authentic European deli experience, from carefully crafted sandwiches on Breadfarm breads to hard-to-find meats and cheeses, including Seattle’s famed Salumi meats (brought to you by Armandino and Marilyn Batali, parents of celebrated American chef Mario Batali). Peruse the well-stocked market goods section for specialty items, such as olives and condiments that are just the thing to make a picnic memorable.

Fairhaven’s Perfectly Paired also offers artisan cheeses and magnificent meats. They even offer a road-ready box, which feeds one to two people, complete with cheese, meat, a coordinating cheese condiment, cheese knife, bread or crackers, fruit, and a taste of artisan chocolate.

Stand at the Community Food Co-op deli case—the one downtown or at the Cordata store—and prepare to be overwhelmed (in the best possible way). Delicious, nutritious salad options abound, and all are made with whole ingredients you can feel good about. Grab a pre-made sandwich or get one made-to-order—and don’t forget some crunchy chips and a beverage or two from the cold case.

When I moved to Bellingham 20 years ago, the Sehome Village Haggen was the first grocery store I walked into after unpacking in my nearby South Hill apartment. I grabbed a sandwich from their deli case that instantly became a favorite, with thinly sliced chicken, avocado, and Asiago cheese. It’s still available today, alongside an array of classic specialty sandwiches, as well as unique offerings, such as lemongrass chicken banh mi. The nearby deli case offers a wide assortment of salads, dips, and more to finish up filling your basket.

Pick your picnic spot

Bellingham’s parks are full of picnic tables and shelters—ideal for big family picnics; check here for a full list of which parks offer both. But what about spots that also offer good old fashioned spread-out-a-blanket and shoo away the ants picnicking? Here are some of my family’s favorites. Drop us a line at submit@whatcomtalk.com to tell us about yours.

Boulevard Park

470 Bayview Drive

Who doesn’t love Boulevard Park? No one, it seems, gauging by the crowds most days. But with plenty of shade trees dotting the waterfront park, and a smattering of picnic tables, it’s still possible to grab a relaxing spot for a picnic. Keep an eye out for hungry crows; I once watched one take off with my toddler son’s breakfast.

Marine Park

100 Harris Avenue

Less busy than Boulevard but with an equally lovely Bellingham Bay view, Marine Park in Fairhaven features a nice park shelter right next to the gently sloping beach. Kids can keep themselves busy throwing rocks into the water while you set out the fare.

Zuanich Point Park

2600 Harbor Loop

Pack a kite alongside your picnic basket if you head to Zuanich Point Park, overlooking both Bellingham Bay and Squalicum Harbor—it’s one of the best spots in town for flying one. Unfurl a blanket, plunk down to eat, and then stretch out in the sun for a little post-lunch nap while the rest of the family plays.

Big Rock Garden

2900 Sylvan Street

Big Rock Garden feels like a serene, secluded secret—if you pop in when few others are there (this would not be Mother’s Day, when Big Rock Garden holds an annual garden party in celebration of all things Mom). Its permanent sculpture garden, with nearly 40 beautiful pieces, is a wonder of styles. Discovering each one makes for a lovely, meandering walk under towering evergreens. After your stroll, grab a seat under the pagoda—the Korean War Children’s Memorial Pavilion—and unpack your lunch.

Lake Padden

4882 Samish Way

Lake Padden is a south side Bellingham charmer. Hike or bike around the lake, and then settle down for a lovely waterside meal. Younger kids will love the playground, too. Bring some stale bread to feed the ducks after you’ve had your own fill of yummy eats.

Bloedel Donovan Park

2214 Electric Avenue

Bloedel Donovan Park on Lake Whatcom is a popular destination on warm-weather days—its beach is dotted with sun-worshippers and lake-dippers. It’s also a welcoming spot for a picnic, either on the ground or sitting at one of the park’s picnic tables. This park also boasts a fun playground area for the shorter set.

You can create a wonderful picnic with nearly anything and enjoy it nearly anywhere, so long as it’s food you love, enjoyed in a spot that brings you peace and relaxation. Here’s hoping these suggestions inspire you to set out soon with picnic basket in hand.

Jennifer Ryan Design Home Featured on HOUZZ

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WhatcomTalk Editor

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J.RyanHomeExt. — Jennifer Ryan, interior designer and owner of Jennifer Ryan Design, has been featured on the international home design website HOUZZ for a very special design and remodeling project—her personal home in Bellingham.

Submitted by Jennifer Ryan Design

Jennifer Ryan, interior designer and owner of Jennifer Ryan Design, has been featured on the international home design website HOUZZ for a very special design and remodeling project—her personal home in Bellingham. The HOUZZ story includes photos of the home’s interior and exterior, along a story detailing the renovation project, and how Ryan and her husband, Scott Hendrickson, live and work in the home.

“I’m thrilled to see my work and my home on the HOUZZ website,” said Ryan. “I love sharing ideas and getting inspiration from HOUZZ photos from all over the world, but I didn’t expect to be featured when I submitted my own photos of my house.”

Ryan’s home remodeling project began back in 1992, when she purchased what was then a duplex. She started by removing the dividing wall and upstairs kitchen, and returning the 1903 Dutch Colonial to its original single-family layout.

Since then, she’s torn out more walls, removed carpet and linoleum, stripped and painted woodwork, updated the kitchen and remodeled a third-floor attic into a guest bedroom with a common area, plus twin beds for extra guests. The room, which Ryan describes as her “favorite space in the house,” features new skylights, a reclaimed stair railing purchased years ago at an auction, antique metal beds and a cow-print carpet. “It’s bright and fun,” said Ryan.

Jennifer Ryan Design was launched 30 years ago, and has since renovated, updated and decorated thousands of projects from as close as Bellingham to as far away as Hawaii.

Houzz is a Palo Alto, California-based web platform for home remodeling and design that offers visual idea sharing for homeowners and home-related professionals. Website visitors can browse photos of kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, and more, plus find professionals to complete their projects, from interior designers to contractors.

“As a writer-photographer covering Jennifer Ryan’s home for Houzz, I had the chance to carefully study Jennifer’s home,” said Kimberley Bryan. “The attention to detail in the home is astounding, and the overall effect is edgy romantic with hits of mystery and surprise. Covering Ryan’s home was a real visual treat.”

Jennifer Ryan Design was launched 30 years ago, and has since renovated, updated and decorated thousands of projects from as close as Bellingham to as far away as Hawaii. Services include interior design, remodeling, custom tile design and installation, project management, color consultations, upholstery and soft coverings for homes, offices and boats.

“It’s very gratifying to see my hard work appreciated by the HOUZZ team,” said Ryan.

To learn more about Jennifer Ryan Design, visit http://www.JenniferRyanDesign.com. Or, call 360-733-9519.

Fairhaven Industrial Property Poised for Expansion

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WhatcomTalk Editor

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Submitted by Port of Bellingham

port-bellingham-washington2 — Marine trades industries have a vital role in providing family-wage jobs and growing the local economy.

The Port of Bellingham is poised to change the layout of 7.66 acres of industrial property in Fairhaven and build new infrastructure to support the expansion of two major waterfront employers, All American Marine and Fairhaven Shipyard.

“All American Marine and Fairhaven Shipyard provide over 150 family-wage jobs to our local community” said Port Commission President Dan Robbins. “We are pleased to make the upgrades necessary for these successful marine trades industries to expand and create new jobs for Whatcom County residents.”

The Port worked closely with both tenants to develop a strategy for improvements which better supports existing operations and plans for future expansion. The entire site is impacted by historic industrial contamination and is scheduled for a major cleanup effort so any suggested changes required additional analysis to ensure compliance with state cleanup regulations.

“This was a very complicated transaction” said Port Executive Director Rob Fix. “We needed to develop a cleanup plan for the upland and in-water property, modernize infrastructure and improve the work areas for two active industrial tenants in a way that minimized business disruptions. I’m glad we were able to accommodate the needs of our industrial tenants and position the marine trades sector for growth over the next 25 years.”

Changes to the industrial property will set a path forward for All American Marine to double the size of their existing operations. The Port is scheduled to build All American Marine a new 39,000 square foot, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility allowing the company to build larger vessels and hire an additional 27 employees. The cost of the building will be repaid through a new 25-year lease with the Port.

“There continues to be strong market demand for our cutting-edge catamaran design because of proven advantages in fuel efficiency and vessel stability” said Matt Mullett, President and CEO of All American Marine. “We need a bigger manufacturing facility and an expanded workforce to meet customer requests for larger vessels.”

Site improvements also include the $7.6 million replacement of a wooden pier which is utilized by Fairhaven Shipyard but is now under heavy load restrictions. The removal of the existing pier will allow for the comprehensive cleanup of contaminated sediments underneath followed by replacement with a new pier with an increased load capacity to better meet the needs of Fairhaven Shipyard.

“We are looking forward to the replacement of the wooden pier and an improved site layout which will allow us to expand Fairhaven Shipyard’s services and capabilities” said Neil Turney, president of the shipyard parent company Puglia Engineering.

The Port plans to apply for funding support through Whatcom County’s Economic Development Investment Program, a revolving loan and grant program designed to encourage the creation or retention of private sector jobs, to help offset the significant demolition and site preparation costs necessary to reconfigure the deep water industrial area.

Fairhaven Shipyard provides full dry-docking capabilities and support services to a variety of public and private vessels, including Washington and Alaska State ferries, US Coast Guard vessels, and NOAA vessels, among others. The shipyard is equipped with a 3,200 ton capacity dry dock, a 20,000 ton lift capacity semi-submersible dry-dock barge, a 400 ton lift capacity marine railway, a 140-ton capacity land crane, a 65-ton capacity floating crane, and a number of other mobile cranes.

All American Marine specializes in the construction of custom tailored aluminum boats and has become a leading builder of high speed passenger catamarans, excursion boats, and research vessels. All American Marine is the exclusive builder for Aukland, New Zealand based Teknicraft Design Ltd. catamarans in North America.

Marine trades industries have a vital role in providing family-wage jobs and growing the local economy. According to an economic impact study of Port operations, marine trades tenant activity in Whatcom County supports over 2,600 direct jobs, $122 million in direct income and provides over $18 million in taxes.

Take a Ride on the Historic Plover Ferry

By

Laura Rogers

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plover ferry — People of all ages enjoy riding the historic Plover during summer months.

By Laura Rogers

Beautifully refurbished and preserved by the nonprofit Drayton Harbor Maritime, The Plover is a small, historic ferry that packs a big experience.

A ride on the Plover is one of those rare gems of an activity that is inexpensive, educational, suitable for all-ages and an exciting adventure. Who doesn’t love a ferry ride? The boat is small, holding about 20 passengers, but this makes for a rich interactive experience. The captain is readily available for conversation and information regarding the vessel and the area.

Cruising along its original route, foot passengers (and even well-behaved dogs, families with strollers, and cyclists — when there’s space) can experience the exact ride cannery workers took in the 1940s. The Plover travels back and forth from Blaine to the former Alaska Packers Association (APA) Salmon Cannery on Semiahmoo Spit. The ride is indisputably gorgeous, including views of Mount Baker and The Twin Sisters, the Canadian Coastal range, White Rock, B.C., the glistening blue waters of Drayton Harbor and Semiahmoo Bay, sea birds (including eagles, herons, and cormorants), sunning seals, and likely, a child’s ear-to-ear grin.

Quite possibly the best part of the voyage is when the smallest passengers aboard get a chance to earn their Honorary Captain’s certificate. After the captain has steered the boat out of the harbor into open waters, any kiddo can take a crack at steering the large old-fashioned ship wheel. Captain Dale, who pilots the boat every weekend, gives steering directions to each child, and lets them in on the secret of “how easy it really is to be a captain. But let’s keep that between you and me,” he says with a wink. He points out birds, seals, and landmarks, while the wee driver wears his over-sized captain’s hat. Dale Johnson has been piloting The Plover for about two years, and it’s easy to see how much he likes it. Dale shares how “being a Grandpa has made me a lot better at this job. It’s so fun to see the kids light up.” And they certainly do.

The sweet harbor vessel was lovingly restored, and it shows. The 32-foot boat’s cedar and fir construction has been brought back to its glory days through the hard work of volunteers. Distinguished as the oldest foot-passenger ferry in Washington State, riding The Plover is truly a step back in time. It’s even listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Though small in comparison to modern day ferries, it’s sturdy and tough, weighing in at over eleven tons.

Upon arrival at the Semiahmoo dock, you’ll find a wide variety of leisure activities. A fantastic, soft sandy beach is the first thing to greet you. My kids were content here for hours with their buckets and shovels. The Resort offers a restaurant and lounge. There is also a store across the street — Semiahmoo Marina Mart — where you can grab a cup of Ivar’s chowder, sandwiches, coffee or ice cream novelties. The APA Museum, which will take you further into the life and times of cannery workers and local maritime history, is also located on Semiahmoo Spit and is open from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during the summer.

If you’re feeling like a stroll, the Coast Millennium Trail is an easy, paved, 0.8-mile trail that picks runs the length of the spit through Semiahmoo Park. The sea and mountain scenery is spectacular and is all overlooked by a stately, old water tower. Located adjacent to the sandy beach on the old oil dock, you can also find kayak and bike rentals at Paddle and Pedal Adventures.

Back in Blaine, there are several restaurants, including Edaleen Dairy for that post-ferry ice cream cone, and Blaine’s Marine Park. There is truly something for everyone.

In 1944, The Plover was originally built to ferry workers between the city of Blaine and the cannery, but in the 1960s the boat was partially dismantled and repurposed to be a harbor tugboat. As time marched on, the little boat’s fate was uncertain and in the ‘80s it was all but discarded. It was found in Birch Bay and eventually ended up in the hands of Drayton Harbor Maritime, which — through many volunteer hours — brought the ferry full circle, rebuilding parts of it and returning the boat to its original purpose and beauty. After a seven year effort to restore the Plover, in 1995 it was certified to carry passengers for hire by the US Coast Guard. The Plover is an exquisite piece of local maritime history.

The Director of Drayton Harbor Maritime, Captain Richard C. Sturgill and his volunteer board, have invested countless hours and energy bringing The Plover back to its original glory. “The venerable Historic Plover has been my life’s work now for 27 year,” Sturgill says the Founding Director. “I am proud to have been instrumental in bringing her back into service, while keeping the tradition alive for many to also enjoy her magic as she plies her traditional route.”

The Plover has been running for 20 years, charging a by-donation only fee to passengers (suggested $5 donation). While passenger fares, charter revenue and the Semiahmoo Yacht Club’s annual cash donation help financially support the Plover, revenue is generated through the City of Blaine’s lodging tax, which Semiahmoo Resort contributes 90 percent to. The Plover is owned by the City of Blaine and operated by Drayton Harbor but perhaps most indispensable hands involved are those of the volunteers who keep the Plover operating year to year.

The ferry runs reliably during summer weekends. You can catch a ride on the Plover every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, beginning on Memorial Day and wrapping up on Labor Day. The Plover docks at the Blaine Visitor’s Dock and Semiahmoo Resort on the hour and half hour, respectively. channel crossing takes just 25 minutes, making it a perfect outing for the whole family. Checkout this video preview of The Plover’s historic route.

Operating hours:

Friday and Saturday from 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Sunday from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Elizabeth Park Summer Concert Series Returns to Bellingham with a Fantastic Line-Up

By

Marla Bronstein

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elizabeth park summer concert — The Elizabeth Park Summer Concert Series is suitable for families and people of all ages.

This summer, The Eldridge Society (TES) will celebrate the 18th season of the Elizabeth Park Concert Series. Nestled in the beautiful Columbia neighborhood, Elizabeth Park is surrounded by Madison, Washington, Walnut and Elizabeth streets. The concerts are sponsored by TES in partnership with Bellingham Parks and Recreation.

By the time the summer concert schedule is announced every spring, hours have been spent organizing, soliciting bands, and screening them for “family friendly fare.” Coordinating the various schedules and varieties of genres takes weeks. In fact, the search for summer music happens all year. Bands from all over the region submit to be considered. Bands apply from as far as the midwest. Never heard and familiar local bands are solicited by the concert organizer.

You might recognize Leroy Carlson sitting front and center. He is always wearing a hat festively adorned with hand made turtle shaped pins and magnets. Affectionately nicknamed “The Turtle Guy,” Leroy and his wife Ann have attended nearly every Elizabeth Park concert since the series started.

elizabeth concerts — Leroy Carlson, affectionately known as “The Turtle Man,” is a regular attendee at the Elizabeth Park concerts.

Here’s a bit of trivia: You can find him selling his handmade turtles around town, at the Community Food Co-op, and often on the corner near the Saturday market. He sometimes gives them away. In the past three years, he proudly says he has donated “100% of the money received” totaling more than $10,000. He gives to local non-profits like the Bellingham Food Bank and to causes to help the people of Haiti and Japan. Leroy feels very empathetic to needy people, and wants to help whenever he can.

Also a regular to the concerts is Meredith Murray. Currently, Meredith makes her home in the Columbia neighborhood, but she used to “commute in” from Sudden Valley. Meredith says that the concerts in the park give her a place to dance and a sense of community. She reminds concert goers to buy a meal, a beverage or a dessert and support the local food vendors who are also neighbors.

elizabeth park concerts — bandZandt will be returning to Elizabeth Park this year. The local band was guaranteed a spot in the 2015 calendar after raising the most funds to support the concert series.

Historically, the concert series was funded in majority by monies raised during the Eldridge Society home tour. Since that fundraising event ended, a bi-annual neighborhood garage sale was started in its place. This year, the garage sale is slated for June 20. Participating families will have their addresses printed on a neighborhood map which will be available on the Eldridge Society’s website. There will also be copies of the map available at the participating homes.

Peter Roberts, president of TES, told me that in the early days, he and his then-elementary school aged daughter would walk around the park with a donation jar during the concerts. A few years ago, someone came up with the brilliant idea to create a four foot high tip-gazebo that is always placed prominently in front of the stage, and kept under watchful eye of Peter who sits nearby. The performers are asked to remind concert goers to support the concerts by throwing a dollar or two into the gazebo.

While attendance at the concert series has been pretty stable, the nest egg of TES has been dwindling. Last year, the concert organizers offered to guarantee a spot to the band that solicited the most donations. Summer of 2014 was the first time in recorded history that the concert series actually paid for itself, said Jani Adderly, TES treasurer.

In December 2014, 80 invitations to interested bands were sent out. Half of them responded with their desire and availability to perform at any given time during the ten week period. And one spot was already promised to bandZandt, performing on July 30 after they were invited back for successfully bringing in the most donations last year.

Producing a balanced mix of music with a focus on family friendly, community based performances is the challenge, but a very rewarding one. Over the course of the past 17 years, many local bands have performed Elizabeth Park more than a few times.

A few returning bands have not played the park in a while. The Offshoots open the season on June 25. Bellingham Dixieland All Stars (August 13) and Happy Valley Sluggers (August 20) are also returning. Old timers will not be disappointed if they are itching for the familiar. Marimba returns to the park after a few years of absence when Kuungana takes the stage on July 16. Community favorite, The Atlantics, will close out the season on August 27.

There are also four bands scheduled for their first visit to the park. Whatcom County’s Joy Ride (July 9), D’Vas and Dudes (July 2), Rattletrap Ruckus (July 23) and Nuages (August 6) have been playing at various venues around town, and will surely delight those who have not had the pleasure to enjoy their music.

You don’t need to sit in a chair or on a blanket or bench to enjoy the music. Folks walk the path, greeting friends they haven’t seen all year, or just come to dance.

You can find more information about the bands on the TES website and on the Elizabeth Park Summer concert Facebook page.

Sourcing Senior Discount Deals around Whatcom County

By

Marla Bronstein

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senior discount bellingham — My first senior discount came from the Bellingham Grocery Outlet where they offer the 10% discount every Thursday from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

By Marla Bronstein

It was the second Thursday of the month, a morning otherwise not unlike any other in that I had errands to run that included grocery shopping. I entered the Bellingham Grocery Outlet (BGO) on Ellis Street where my friend Kathy works. She saw me and smiled as me as I walked in. “Are you here for Senior Discount day?” she asked. I’ll admit, I was a bit taken aback. Me? A senior? How rude I thought and then responded, “How old do you need to be considered a senior?” 55 she reported. “On the second Thursday of every month from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. you can get a 10% discount on your purchases.” I have to admit that got me a bit excited. Full disclosure, I am a shade older than 55.

I did my shopping and as she rang up my purchases I happily reminded her that I qualified for the senior discount. I went home and immediately put a reminder on my calendar for the following discount day.

For one week I committed to asking for a senior discount every time I pulled out my wallet. I learned two things: First, it is HARD to remember to do something that is not part of my shopping routine – even when I wrote myself a note or asked the person I was with to remind me. Second, except for BGO, I don’t regularly eat or shop at places that have senior discounts.

When the second Thursday rolled around this month, my morning got away from me, and I found myself rushing over to BGO to catch the sale. I arrived with twelve minutes to spare. I was proud of my $4.50 discount that day. I rolled my cart back to the store after unloading my groceries just before noon and noticed Donna Merlina loading her full cart onto her bicycle bags. Not wanting to insult her (what if she wasn’t over 55?) I quietly asked her if she had benefited from a senior discount that morning. She was happy to share with me that she had. Donna’s husband calls it Geezer Day, and they make a game of shopping for deals all over town for things they like. She was happy to report she had received a $10 discount on her BGO purchases that day. That is greatness I will aspire to. She also told me that Fred Meyer also has a senior day for 55+.

I did some serious internet and door-to-door searching to find out what other places in town cater to the “elderly” like me. The Senior Citizen Discount Card (SCDC) is a free national program available to anyone 60 and older at every Whatcom County Senior Center. SCDC maintains a national website that lists the contracted businesses and the details of the discounts offered. It’s recommended that you call and confirm the requirements and terms of the discounts. I called a few of their businesses, a few of them are more flexible in their age requirements.

ReStyle Consign has a generous definition of “senior.” Even though they are only bound to the terms of the card, the store owner told me she would apply the discount for anyone 55+.

An employee of another business seemed a bit disgruntled when I called to confirm the discount advertised, as if I only wanted to shop there when I could get a deal. Isn’t that what coupons or for? They (we seniors) have earned our racing stripes. Cut us some slack! We aren’t being cheap, we are conserving!

Outside of SCDC, I happily identified a few places that offer discounts to younger senior citizens like me who are 50 and older. This would be my idea of a perfect week, capitalizing on many discounts around Whatcom County.

Monday – spend a relaxing morning at the Silver Reef Casino enjoying a $55 spa service, $5 table games match play and 5-times slot points, then enjoy a 55% discount lunch at The Buffet, or $7.15 off lunch at any other restaurant at the Casino from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
A crew of cheerful seniors enjoy finding discounts together.

Tuesday – bowl at Park Bowl where they charge bowlers 55 and older $2.75 per game from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. on Monday – Friday. Make time to fit in some shopping at Fred Meyer on the first Tuesday of the month to receive a 10% discount on clothing, housewares and Kroger or Fred Meyer brand foods.
Wednesday – shop at Bellis Fair Mall day where Christopher and Banks discounts 10%. (This offer is not available online.)
Thursday – swing into Bellingham Grocery Outlet from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Friday – head into the weekend with a relaxing walk through Glen Echo Garden on the Y Road and receive a $1 discount off the regular entrance fee. Or bowl a few lines at 20th Century Bowl where bowlers 50 and older only pay $1.75 per line every day.

When traveling, another resource is seniordiscounts.com. They have a free membership, and a premium membership that costs $12.95, entitling you to additional discounts around the country. When possible, call ahead to confirm the discount advertised.

The final and most important piece of advice I will leave you with is to remember to ask for your discount. Because honey, you look great. No one will assume you are old enough to get a discount. Did we miss your favorite senior discount? Send us a note at submit@whatcomtalk.com.

30 Free Things To Do with Kids This Summer in Bellingham and Whatcom County

By

Stacee Sledge

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By Stacee Sledge

Summertime is finally upon us! For many, that means kids who hang around and complain of having nothing to do. (Oh, how wrong they are—who wants to do some yard work?) For others, it simply means the consistently beaming sunshine is beckoning us to play hooky.

WhatcomTalk has pulled together a list of 30 family-friendly things to do—for free!—this summer in Bellingham and around Whatcom County. How many can you check off your summer bucket list?

Grab your bikes and hit any of Bellingham’s area trails. You can also try your hand at the Bellingham Dirt Jump Park, designed for riders at all skill levels.
Tour the original Hovander House at Hovander Homestead Park, Fridays to Sundays, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., through Labor Day.
The Marine Life Center is open seven days a week, teaching kids about marine life and habitat in Bellingham Bay—and letting them explore through the terrific touch pool.
Downtown Sounds hits Bellingham’s Arts District each Wednesday evening from July 1 through July 29, with a great line-up of free, family-friendly live music. This year’s artists include Third World, Acorn Project, Polecat, Ayron Jones and The Way, and Five Alarm Funk.
Whatcom County is chock full of fabulous farmers markets. Take the kids and stroll through the Bellingham Farmers Market, Bellingham Farmers Wednesday Market in Fairhaven, Ferndale Public Market, Lummi Island Farmers Market, Blaine Gardeners Market, and Lynden Farmers Market.
After you’ve hit one of the markets, pick from our area’s plethora of parks and plan a picnic. Or perhaps think outside the usual picnic box and throw a camping breakfast or a dinner under the stars.
Wander around Sehome Arboretum. Walk the trails and through the tunnel, and then climb the observation tower for spectacular water and city views.
Stroll the boardwalk from Boulevard Park to Taylor Dock, taking a break to throw rocks into the bay. Want to keep on walking? Continue down the trail to Fairhaven and let the kids run loose around the Village Green, followed by a bit of browsing at Village Books and Paper Dreams.
Head to the Family Interactive Gallery at Whatcom Museum—yes, for free!—by reserving a pass through the Bellingham Public Library.
Speaking of the Bellingham Public Library: It always has a slew of spectacular, kid-friendly events on its calendar, from crafts and games to movie matinees and story times.
Go fish! Cast your fishing line into Derby Pond in Whatcom Falls Park—it’s free for kids 14 and under. And don’t forget to peek in at the fish hatchery while you’re there.
Haggen again will partner with the Port of Bellingham and the Bellingham/Whatcom Chamber of Commerce for the 15th annual Haggen Family 4th of July celebration at Zuanich Park and the Squalicum Boathouse.
The family-friendly Bellingham Pride parade floats through downtown Bellingham on Sunday, July 12 along Cornwall Avenue.
Let’s go fly a kite. Zuanich Park is the perfect place for kites, and littler ones can also enjoy the playground equipment. Everyone will appreciate a stroll around the marina with its beautiful boats.
Celebrate the 120th annual Whatcom Old Settlers Picnic at Pioneer Park in Ferndale, July 23–26, with parades, a car show, live music, fun runs, and more.
Go in search of as many Little Free Libraries as you can find—they’re popping up in lots of different neighborhoods. Take a tome, and leave one behind.
When the temperatures soar, cool off at the Cornwall or Fairhaven spray parks, open from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily (beginning mid-June) through Labor Day. You can also get your toes wet at the water feature in front of the Barkley Village Gazebo.
Enjoy outdoor music concerts at Maritime Heritage Park, Boulevard Park, Elizabeth Park, and Woodstock Farm.
Cool off by jumping into Lake Padden, Lake Samish, or Lake Whatcom. Area watering holes bring sweet relief on those sizzling summer days.
Plan a backyard camping trip—little ones love it. Pitch the tent on your own lawn—that way, when you need more marshmallows or nature calls in the middle of the night, the comforts of home are just a couple steps away.
Have you explored the newly improved Squalicum Creek Park yet? See who can zing down the zip line the most times.
Peruse our list of twelve family-friendly Whatcom walks and hikes, and then lace up those shoes and hit some trails.
Downtown’s Art Walk happens the first Friday of each month throughout the year, but there’s something extra special about hitting it in the summer months.
Visit any of our area state parks for free on August 25 in honor of National Park Service’s 99th birthday.
Three of the four local beaches we discuss in this article require no Discover Pass—and all of them are perfect for exploring as a family.
The Ferndale Public Library offers tons of fun, free programs over the summer for kids and teens, from watching and discussing anime and Minecraft to building paper airplanes and a spaceship with a former astronaut.
Tour the wonderful outdoor sculpture collection spread across Western Washington University’s campus. You’ll also find fantastic outdoor sculptures scattered through downtown Bellingham and Fairhaven—and don’t forget Big Rock Garden!
Find an elementary school playground you’ve never been to and let the kids run loose in a new-to-them space.
Take a (stupendously gorgeous) drive. Make your way down to the Skagit Valley and back along cliff-hugging Chuckanut Drive (also known as Washington State Route 11). You’ll enjoy one of the most breathtaking stretches of scenery-drenched highways to be had and can stop at one of several pullouts to take in the stunning island views—and a selfie of the whole family.
I’d argue that you’d find no sunsets more beautiful than those that dip down over Bellingham Bay each summer evening. Watch the sun spectacularly slip below the horizon from any of our gorgeous waterside parks or from the Alabama Street Overpass along the Railroad Trail.

Awesome options abound for fabulous, free, family-friendly activities all across Whatcom County. If you have a favorite we didn’t include on our list, please drop us a line at submit@whatcomtalk.com and tell us about it. Happy summertime adventuring, Whatcom County!

Pat White Named Executive Director at The Leopold in Downtown Bellingham

By

WhatcomTalk Editor

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Submitted by The Leopold

Pat White business portrait. Bellingham, WA. © 2015 Mark Turner — Executive Director Pat White manages operations at The Leopold

Pat White has been named executive director of The Leopold, a vibrant retirement residence in one of downtown Bellingham’s most beautiful and historic buildings.

White, who has more than 20 years of experience in healthcare management, manages operations at The Leopold, located at 1224 Cornwall Ave. The Leopold offers independent living in studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units to residents 55 and older.

“I’m happy to come here because The Leopold is a unique and special residence for seniors in Whatcom County,” White said. “Unlike other local retirement residences, The Leopold has a walkability score of 95 percent and offers close access to dozens of restaurants, great shopping, the Whatcom Museum and many other attractions.”

White, who has lived and worked in Bellingham since 2005, oversees a busy schedule of activities at The Leopold, including a free monthly dance in its historic grand ballroom, free weekly tai chi and walking classes, speakers on current affairs, monthly art exhibits, coffee socials and more.

The Leopold is locally owned and participates in multiple green initiatives that help protect the planet, such as installing solar panels on its roof. The Leopold also partners with local organizations to provide its residents memberships and affiliations, including Sustainable Connections, Pickford Film Center, Kulshan Community Land Trust, the Whatcom Family YMCA, Allied Arts and the SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention.

For more information about The Leopold, call 360-733-3500 or visit www.leopoldretirement.com.

Community Boating Center Celebrates Rowboats on June 20

By

WhatcomTalk Editor

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Submitted by Community Boating Center

To celebrate the pastime of rowing and the addition of a new boat to the rowing fleet, the Community Boating Center is hosting an afternoon of free rowboat rentals on Saturday June 20 to encourage members of the public to experience traditional rowing and the variety of watercraft available for rental at the CBC.

From noon to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday June 20, community members are able to try any of the Community Boating Center’s rowboats for up 45 minutes free of charge. Rowboats will be available on a first-come basis and no reservations will be taken. The CBC will provide a boat, oars, and life jackets. Start Father’s Day a day early and treat Dad to a row on Bellingham Bay!

In June, a new rowboat will join the Community Boating Center’s rental fleet thanks to months of hard work by volunteers. The “Hunky Dory”, a composite fiberglass and plywood dory, was donated in 2014 and will add variety to the rowboats available for rental. The current rental fleet includes the Wine Glass Wherry – a Pgymy kit-boat from Port Townsend, the Dirty Dan Skiff – a donated replica of Dirty Dan Harris’ smuggling boat, and a Phil Bolger designed rowboat named Rosie. Regarding the boats available for public use, WWU Outdoor Recreation Intern Megan Carter says “The CBC’s rowing fleet is a diverse mix of classic boats well suited for rowers of all skill levels”.

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