2016 SV Fall Rec Guide

SKAGIT VALLEY

Kulshan Trail Art

Recreation & Activity Guide FALL 2016

Skagit Kid Insider....................................................................... 2

Skagit Conservation District..................................................... 9

Burlington Chamber of Commerce.......................................... 2

Skagit County Parks & Recreation................................... 10-11

Mount Vernon Parks & Recreation........................................3-5

Skagit County Fairgrounds.....................................................11

Mount Vernon City Library........................................................ 6

Skagit Valley Family YMCA......................................................12

Burlington Parks & Recreation................................................. 6

Bellingham Sportsplex............................................................13

Recreation Without Borders..................................................... 7

Kiwanis Club of Mount Vernon...............................................14

Festival of Family Farms............................................................ 8

Western Washington University.............................................15

Padilla Bay Interpretive Center................................................ 9

Calendar....................................................................................16

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Public Viewing Accuracy and Distance Competition Fred Meyer Pumpkin Painting Costco Pie Eating Contest Activity Booths & Pony Rides Inflatables & Zucchini Car Races Touch-a-Truck Area

Food, Coffee, Snacks and more!

Enjoy Live Music from Mo’ Trouble 2pm-4pm

Shuttle service to and from parking lot to festival

Frazier Farms

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Mount Vernon Parks, Recreation & City Works Program 1717 South 13th St., Mount Vernon • Parks, Programs & Reservations (360) 336-6215 • Information Line (360) 336-0631 fax (360) 336-6290 • website: www.mountvernonwa.gov • e-mail: mvparks@mountvernonwa.gov

Mount Vernon Parks & Recreation

NEW! Online Registration

www.MountVernonWA.gov RECREATION PROGRAMS Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation invites individuals with special needs to participate in our programs. Please call in advance if accommodations are necessary for successful participation.

YOUTH PROGRAMS Ballet and Tap Ages 3-5 Dancers will learn phrasing and terminology of ballet and tap while building grace, poise and strength. Basic building blocks, positions and the preparatory steps of ballet and tap will be taught in each class. Students wear leotard and tights with leather soled ballet and tap shoes. Hair should be neatly secured. Parents are invited to attend the last 10 minutes of class. December’s Session will culminate with a 20-minute mini-holiday performance for families. Costumes are created by the parents and consist of items found around the home.

Days/Dates: Tuesdays Session 1: September 13, 20, 27 ($30 session) Session 2: October 4, 11, 18, 25 Session 3: November 1, 8, 15, 22 Session 4: November 29, December 6, 13 ($30 session) Time: 10:00-10:45am

Location: Hillcrest Park Lodge Fee: $40 Instructor: Ms. Mo Mommy & Me Ages 1-3 This wonderful class will have mommy and child twirling with glee. You will love the exercise and your child will love learning dance, coordination, balance, rhythm and stretching.

Child should be walking to participate.

knocks, hand washing, meal times, bedtime, and providing emergency care (first aid and CPR).

DATES: October 19 or December 19 TIME: 9am-3:00pm Age: 10 years and older Location: Hillcrest Park Skylight Room Fee: $50 Instructor: Sheila Davis, Certified First Aid/CPR Instructor American Safety & Health Institute Note: Bring lunch and a drink Cultural Cooking and Crafts – Preschool & Elementary kiddos!

Travel around the world speaking Spanish and learning about different countries through language and culture. Each week we will “visit” a new country, practice basic Spanish skills and create a craft or recipe. Every class you’ll leave with something pretty to look at or yummy to eat!

Come for the language, stay for the crafts and fun!

ELEMENTARY: 5-8 years (with or without parents) DATES/TIMES: 6 Tuesdays: September 20-October 25th, 4-5 pm PRESCHOOL: 2-5 years (with parents) DATES/TIMES: 6 Thursdays: September 22- October 27th, 10-11 am FEE: $120, 2nd child-20% discount, materials included INSTRUCTOR: Ariel Williams ADULT & FAMILY TRIPS

Days/Dates: Tuesdays Session 1: September 13, 20, 27 ($30 session) Session 2: October 4, 11, 18, 25 Session 3: November 1, 8, 15, 22 Session 4: November 29, December 6, 13 ($30 session) Time: 9:00am-9:30am Location: Hillcrest Park Lodge Fee: $30 Instructor: Ms. Mo

Recreation Without Borders specializes in trips, tours and adventures throughout the Northwest.

Registration fees include transportation, supervision and admission fees but do not include food, beverages or other purchases unless specifically noted. Participants should bring money for food and other purchases and wear warm, weather appropriate and comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes. All trips depart from and return to Hillcrest Park, 1717 South 13th Street in Mount Vernon.

Child and Babysitting Safety Class

Vashon Island – The Heart of the Sound

The Child and Babysitting Safety (CABS) program is a community education program that covers child safety and basic care techniques for infants and children. CABS stresses the priority to keep the babysitter and the children you care for safe. Some of the topics covered in the program: before the parents leave, playtime, telephone calls/stranger

Today we step back in time as we visit pastoral Vashon Island. Highlights include a lovely ferry ride, beautiful beaches, art galleries, quaint shops and excellent cafes.

Ages: 8 years and older (under 18 with adult supervision)

4 Day/date: Saturday, September 17 Time: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm Fee: $60.00 Min.: 8 Max.: 10 Register by: Monday, September 12 Picasso: The Artist and His Muses at the Vancouver Art Gallery Venture north of the border today and enjoy the most significant exhibition of Picasso’s work ever presented in Vancouver. In addition, explore the award-winning exhibits throughout the art gallery and enjoy a no-host lunch. Please note: Proof of citizenship…valid passport, DMV enhanced approved driver’s license or NEXUS card…is required to cross the border.

Ages: 12 years and older (under 18 with adult supervision) Day/date: Sunday, September 25 Time: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm Fee: $76.00 Min.: 8 Max.: 10 Register by: Monday, September 19 Exploring Lower B.C.: Surrey’s Serpentine Trail Join us for a lovely Fall walk along one of the lower BC’s most popular trails. Great for bird watching and wetland exploration. Afterwards enjoy freetime in nearby White Rock. Please note: Proof of citizenship…valid passport, DMV enhanced approved driver’s license or NEXUS card…is required to cross the border.

Ages: 12 years and older (under 18 with adult supervision) Day/date: Sunday, October 9 Time: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm Fee: $55.00 Min.: 8 Max.:10 Register by: Monday, October 3 Wild Horse Wind and Solar Farm and Downtown Ellensburg Enjoy a tour of this fascinating green energy complex and explore the hands-on visitor center before heading to quaint old downtown Ellensburg for a no-host lunch and shopping.

Ages: 12 years and older (under 18 with adult supervision) Day/date: Saturday, October 22 Time: 8:00 am – 7:00 pm Fee: $72.00 Min.: 8 Max.: 10 Register by: Monday, October 17 Yves Saint Laurent: The Perfection of Style at the Seattle Art Museum Over 100 haute couture and SAINT LAURENT rive gauche garments, as well as many accessories,

photographs, drawings, and films highlight this special exhibition. After exploring the museum, head to Pike Place Market for a no host lunch and shopping.

ADULT PROGRAMS

Ages: 12 years and older (under 18 with adult supervision) Day/date: Friday, November 4 Time: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Fee: $79.00 adults, $65 seniors 62+ Min.: 8 Max.: 10 Register by: Monday, October 31

Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports and is played by both younger players and seniors. The game, which combines many elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong, is played with a paddle and plastic ball on a badminton sized court with a slightly modified tennis net. No previous experience necessary.

Court shoes and the ability to freely move around the court is required.

Enriching Edmonds-Cascadia Art Museum and Edmonds Historical Museum Get enriched today at two wonderful museums… the brand new Cascadia Art Museum and the ever-popular Edmonds Historical Museum which features exhibits highlighting life in the Northwest. Enjoy a no host lunch and get a jump on your holiday shopping too!

Ages: 12 years and older (under 18 with adult supervision) Day/date: Saturday, November 19 Time: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Fee: $72.00 Min.: 8 Max.: 10 Register by: Monday, November 14 A Shopping We Will Go! Today we will visit several unique locations including the Urban Craft Uprising…Seattle’s largest Indie craft show and the Phinney Ridge Winter Festival and Craft Show. Make your list and check it twice for this fun adventure!

Ages: 12 years and older (under 18 with adult supervision) Day/date: Sunday, December 4 Time: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm Fee: $55.00 Min.: 8 Max.: 8 Register by: Monday, November 28 Granville Island and Van Dusen Botanical Garden’s Festival of Lights Our annual trek! Granville Island is brimming with good tidings, good cheer and good eats.

Enjoy a delicious no-host meal and shopping before heading over to Van Dusen Botanical Gardens’ Festival of Lights. Please note: Proof of citizenship…valid passport, DMV enhanced approved driver’s license or NEXUS card…is required to cross the border.

Ages: 8 years and older (under 18 with adult supervision) Day/date: Wednesday, December 14 Time: 12:30–9:00 pm Fee: $72.00 Min.: 8 Max.:10 Register by: Wednesday, December 7

Pickleball – A Lifetime Sport!

Date: Saturdays, October 2nd - November 20th Time: 10am-12pm Ages: Adults - Ages 18 years and up

Childcare is not available.

Location: LaVenture Middle School gym Fee: $22 Introductory Spanish for Adults A friendly and practical introduction to the Spanish language for adult learners to provide a framework on which to build foreign language knowledge and the confidence to use it, to include: Pronunciation, Noun number and gender, Adjectival position and agreement, Verb formation, Basic vocabulary and An opportunity to continue learning Spanish at the end of the course.

Days/Times: Tuesdays, 6:00-7:15pm weekly homework / online activities Session 1: October 4, 11, 18, 25 Session 2: November 1, 8, 15, 22 Fee: $50 Location: Vaux Retreat Center Instructor: Giles Kilvert, Spanish teacher at MV Christian School and has International teaching experience Special Effects Makeup Class This class will teach the basics of effects make up, such as fake blood recipes, 3D wounds, creature effects, and mold making. We will go through traditional, inexpensive options as well as cutting edge, professional materials and techniques. Students will gain an understanding of the different possibilities for achieving their desired special effect and gain skill in techniques through hands on practice.

Date: Friday, October 14th Time: 6:30pm-8pm Location: Vaux Retreat Center Fee: $25 Instructor: Daniel Salas

5 Latex Mask Painting Workshop

problems. It is safe and fun for dogs and owners!

Just in time for Halloween, this class is a study of custom painting latex masks. We will explore the ins and outs of different types of paint and sealer, learn tips for using an airbrush, as well as sponge and brush detailing techniques. There will be a live demonstration with opportunities for questions!

Days/Dates: Wednesdays for 6 weeks Session 1: November 16-December 21 Time: 7:30pm-8:20pm Location: Hillcrest Park, Skylight Room Fee: $87 Instructor: Carmen Williams

Date: Friday, October 21st Time: 6:30pm-8pm Location: Vaux Retreat Center Fee: $25 Instructor: Daniel Salas Dog Obedience Classes Join us for a range of dog obedience Classes with Carmen Williams! Carmen Williams, CPDT-ka, AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Owner of Sunny Lane Canine Academy www.sunnylanek9.com • Please provide a copy of current shot records at first class.

• Well behaved children, 10 years+ may attend with an adult.

• Please bring your dog on a regular collar (no choke chains), 6-ft leash and your dog’s favorite treats!

• Completed registration forms are required 1 week prior to class.

Puppy Boot Camp Puppies 12 weeks to 8 months will learn doggie social skills, good manners, and basic commands including: sit, down, stay, leave it, give it, heeling and walking, wait at door, come when called and much more. Hand signals and verbal commands will be taught. Owners will learn how to handle jumping, nipping, and biting. Learn the best potty training techniques as well as the most effective and humane ways to stop bad habits from setting in. Puppies will have fun doing confidence building exercises like tunnel runs and “walking the plank”. Clicker training will be explained, but use is optional.

Days/Dates: Wednesdays for 6 weeks Session 1: October 5-November 9 Session 2: November 16-December 21 Time: 6:00pm-6:50pm Age: 12 years and up Min: 6 Max: 10 Location: Hillcrest Park, Skylight Room Fee: $87 Instructor: Carmen Williams Note: Please bring treats, collar, leash and mat or rug to class Small Breed Basics This class is for small breed dogs that are 20lbs and under. It is designed specifically to assist owners with behaviors and problems that are specific to small breed dogs, such as house soiling and recall

Beyond Basic Dog Obedience This class is offered for well-socialized dogs that have completed at least one obedience class. Your dog will improve existing skills and learn some new ones through a series of fun and stimulating exercises. This class focuses on distance, duration, distraction, and teamwork. Most exercises are conducted off-leash and with multiple dogs. Learn advanced clicker techniques and how to use a target stick. There will be a little agility, some new tricks and games, a little dancing, and a lot of fun in this class. Clicker optional, but encouraged.

Days/Dates: Wednesdays for 6 weeks Session 1: October 5-November 9 Time: 7:30-8:20pm Location: Hillcrest Park, Recreation Building Fee: $87 Instructor: Carmen Williams Tai Chi for Health Tai Chi is a traditional Chinese exercise that has been a daily prescription for health and longevity for hundreds of years. Tai Chi focuses on balance, posture, relaxation, breathing, visual and mental concentration. The very graceful and fluid movements promote mind and body harmony.

This class is open to new as well as experienced students. Yang Family Style Bow 52 form section 1.

Wear loose fitting clothes. Ongoing classes, weekly sessions Session 1: Mondays, September 12-October 31st 6:00-7:15pm (8 sessions) Session 2: November 7-December 19 6:00-7:30pm (7 sessions) Location: Hillcrest Park Lodge Ages: 15 years+ Fee: $87 Instructor: Bob Shapiro, a Tai Chi/Qigong practitioner for over 40 years, has been teaching Tai Chi for the past 20 years Tai Chi Foundations for Every Body Participants learn a simplified series of movements using Tai Chi principles. This class is an excellent introduction for those who are interested in Tai Chi but don’t know where to begin. It is also

excellent for Tai Chi or Qigong practitioners who wish to deepen their understanding of Qi. Wear loose fitting clothes. 7 weekly sessions. New routines each series.

Session 1: Fridays, September 9-October 21 Session 2: Fridays, October 28-December 16 (no class on Dec. 2) Time: 10:45am-12pm Ages: 15 years+ Fee: $77 Location: Hillcrest Park Skylight room Instructor: Bob Shapiro, a Tai Chi/Qigong practitioner for over 40 years, has been teaching Tai Chi for the past 20 years.

SPECIAL EVENTS Community Dance People First of Skagit County and Mount Vernon Parks & Recreation are collaborating to sponsor a seasonal community dance! Join us for a night of friends, fun and dancing!

Date: Friday, October 14 Halloween Bash!

Wednesday, December 7 Holiday Hop! Time: 6:00-8:00 pm Location: Hillcrest park Lodge Age: 16 years+ Fee: $2 donation “Breakfast with Santa” Don’t miss this opportunity to visit with Santa and listen to holiday music in the warm atmosphere of the Hillcrest Lodge. Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast of pancakes and ham, and don’t forget to bring your camera for some great photo opportunities!

Tickets can be purchased at the door.

DAY & DATE: Saturday, December 3rd TIME: 8:00am – 11:00am COST: $5.00 for all ages LOCATION: Hillcrest Park Lodge, 1717 S. 13th Street, Mount Vernon Children’s Shopping Extravaganza Kids!! Don’t miss this great shopping opportunity geared just for your budget. All items are priced $5.00 and under. You will find something for everyone in your family from parents and grandparents to sisters and brothers and all of your friends. **If you are interested in being a vendor, please call M.V.P.R. to reserve your table!** DAY & DATE: Saturday, December 3rd TIME: 8:30am-1:30pm Location: Hillcrest Park Recreation Building

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Fall @ Mount Vernon City Library

September is Library Card Sign-up Month!

Storytimes for children ages birth to 8: September 13-November 17

“Twinkie� Chopped Challenge for Teens and Tweens: Wednesday, September 21, 5-6pm. Ages 10-18

Friends of the Mount Vernon Library Fall Book Sale: Friday, September 23-24, 3-6pm Saturday, September 24, 10am-4pm at Fire Station #1 (901 S. 2nd St.)

Programs for adults too:

check the library webpage, Facebook, or sign up for e-notification.

(360) 336-6209

315 Snoqualmie Street, Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Hours: Monday-Thursday 10:00am-8:00pm Friday & Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm Closed Sunday

w w w. m o u n t v e r n o n w a . g o v

Parks & Recreation

Visit our Burlington Parks and Recreation website for all our upcoming programs!

www.burlingtonwa.gov/recreation 360.755.9649 | recreation@burlingtonwa.gov

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G e t I n s p i re d ! G e t C o n n e c t e d ! G e t A c t i v e !

Specializing in Trips, Tours & Adventures throughout the Northwest

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Wine Tours • Private Trips • Sporting Events • Canadian Adventures • Birthday Parties • Theater Outings • Hiking • Youth Trips Overnight Excursions • Museums • Family-Friendly Programs • Employee/Team Building • Snowshoeing • Cross Country Skiing Through Recreation Without Borders…

Call 360-766-7109 to register or for more information go to www.recreationwithoutborders.com Thursdays in the ParksWeekly Walking Adventures Thursdays, September 8October 6: Fall Series #1 Thursdays, October 13November 10: Fall Series #2

Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery Saturday, October 8

Northern England and ScotlandHistory, Hiking, Highlands and More Thursday, September 8Monday, September 19

Van Dusen Botanical Garden’s Annual Mushroom Show Sunday, October 30

Seattle Floating Home Tour Sunday, September 11 Seattle Storm vs. Chicago SkyFan Appreciation Day! Sunday, September 18 12th Annual Okanagan Valley BC Wine Tour Friday-Sunday, September 23-25 Artisan Cheese Festival and Charles Smith Wines Saturday, September 24 Fall Colors and Grand Coulee Dam Tuesday-Wednesday, September 27-28

National Geographic Live at Benaroya Hall Sunday, October 23

Crazy About Patsy Cline Saturday, November 5 Nifty Thrifty Store Tour Saturday, November 12 NW Chocolate Festival Sunday, November 13 Queen Anne and Dine Out Seattle Thursday, November 17

Through Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation…

Call 360-336-6215 to register or for more information turn to page 3.

Vashon Island-The Heart of the Sound September 17 Picasso: The Artist and His Muses at the Vancouver Art Gallery Sunday, September 25 Exploring Lower BCSurrey’s Serpentine Trail Sunday, October 9 Wild Horse Wind Farm and Downtown Ellensburg Saturday, October 22 Yves Saint LaurentThe Perfection of Style at the Seattle Art Museum Friday, November 4

Yulefest-Ya Sure Ya Betcha!

Sunday, November 20

Enriching Edmonds…

Cascadia Art Museum and Edmonds Historical Museum Saturday, November 19

Wintering Birds with Sue Cottrell Thursday, December 1

A Shopping We Will Go! Sunday, December 4

Seattle ACT: Ham for the Holidays Sunday, December 11

Granville Island and Van Dusen Botanical Garden’s Festival of Lights Wednesday, December 14

Through Skagit County Senior Centers...

Call 360-293-7473 to register or for more information.

Up, Up and Away to the Museum of Flight Wednesday, September 21 Cirque Goes to the Cinema with the Seattle Symphony Friday, October 7 Dale Chihuly’s Garden of Glass and Pike Place Market Wednesday, October 19 Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts and Granville Island Wednesday, November 9 Argosy Christmas ShipParade of Boats Friday, December 16

Check out our website for MUCH, MUCH MORE!

Check out all our outstanding offerings at www.recreationwithoutborders.com Call to book your private trip today! • P.O. Box 190 Bow, WA 98232 • 360-766-7109 • Lauren Woodmansee, Owner

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October 1 & 2, 2016 • 10am - 4pm

ACRES OF FUN FOR EVERYONE!

FREE Admission and Parking!

DAIRY • VEGETABLE • LIVESTOCK • ORGANIC SHELLFISH • BERRY • VINEYARD LOT’S OF KIDS’ ACTIVITIES AND FARM TREATS!

Don’t miss this FREE event! For details, visit www.farmtour.com

9 10441 Bay View-Edison Rd Mount Vernon WA 98273 To register call 360-428-1558 or go online at www.padillabay.gov FOR ADULTS Surprises of the Fall Migration Join naturalist, Libby Mills, to see what birds are migrating. Wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared to explore Padilla Bay’s uplands and the “west 90” of the Samish Flats. Bring water and a snack. If you don’t have them you can borrow binoculars.

Meet in the Padilla Bay parking lot. This class is offered twice, Friday, September 9 and Sunday, September 11, 8:30am-12:30pm.

Registration is required.

Wild Edible and Medicinal Plants Fall is harvest time - in our gardens, and in our fields and forests. Join naturalists Marlee Osterbauer and Terri Wilde in this search for wild edible and medicinal plants. They will share extensive knowledge of plant uses and folklore. Weather may be chilly, so dress appropriately.

A notebook and pencil are useful. This class is offered twice, Saturday, October 1 and Sunday October 2, 2:00-4:00pm.

Registration is required.

Our programs are free and they fill up. To be among the first to be notified of new programs, sign up for our email service: http://padillabay.gov/newsletter.asp

FOR ALL AGES

MINI EXPLORERS

JUNIOR ECOLOGISTS

Aquarium Tour and Fish Feeding Come and see what’s new and exciting in our aquariums.

This program is for adults and children. Join aquarist, Mark Olson for a behind-the-tanks view of the system, and a closeup look at the amazing critters in the tanks. Saturday, October 29, 11:00am. No need to register for this one.

These programs are for families with children ages 3 to 5. We look at a different estuary topic each month with stories, games, hands-on observations, art projects, and plenty of action.

Registration is required. Each class is offered four times.

September 21 & 22, 10:00am & 1:00pm, How Animals Move

These programs are for families with children ages 6 to 9 who enjoy exploring the estuary with science experiments, games, art projects, and studying life in the bay. Registration is required.

Each class is offered twice.

September 23 & 24, 10:30amNoon, Camouflage: How to Hide in the Tide

October 19 & 20, 10:00am & 1:00pm, Cider Pressing

October 21 & 22, 10:30amNoon, Cider Pressing

November 9 & 10, 10:00am & 1:00pm, All About Salmon

November 18 & 19, 10:30amNoon, Terrific Tides

Explore the wonders of local watersheds in a fun and relaxed atmosphere!

What do Watershed Masters do?

• Receive 40 hours of FREE training, which covers an introduction to local geology, historical and treasured places, marine life and biology, the values and functions of estuaries, the biology and habitat needs of local salmon, stream ecology, soils and wetlands, nonpoint source pollution, household hazardous chemicals, forestry practices, agriculture, water quality and MORE! • Hear from MANY LOCAL EXPERTS on a variety of topics and issues.

• Become familiar with the complexity and dilemmas involved in managing our natural resources.

• Participate in local field trips.

• Receive a FREE comprehensive reference notebook.

• Meet new friends and participate in meaningful community projects!

• After completing the training, participants return 40 hours of volunteer service, undertaking projects designed to protect and/or enhance water quality, or to educate the public on these same issues (usually within 2 years of completing the course).

The Watershed Masters Volunteer training program is now entering its 23rd session and is supported by over twenty local natural resource agencies and organizations. The program is intended for community residents (age 17 & up) who are aspiring to increase their knowledge about local watersheds, water quality, and stream ecology (no previous experience required).

Participants attend 8 FUN and INFORMATIVE evening sessions (held weekly), and 3 Saturday field excursions.

Fall 2016 Training Dates: Classes will begin on Wednesday, SEPTEMBER 28th • 6 pm - 9 pm and continue every Wednesday evening for 8 weeks.

Saturday field tours are scheduled for October 8th, 15th, & 22nd.

Pre-register by September 23rd.

(The class fills up rapidly and is limited to 25 - first come basis)

Location: Padilla Bay Research Reserve • 10441 Bayview Edison Road • Contact Kristi Carpenter - 360.428.4313 or kristi@skagitcd.org

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(360) 416-1350 www.skagitcounty.net/parks

“Creating Community through People, Parks and Programs” From the Director’s Chair Director Brian Adams, Skagit County Parks and Recreation

It was only natural for video gaming to move from the living room to the real world. As developers looked to refine their programs to function and feel more and more realistic and lifelike, they were still restrained by one simple yet tormenting factor—it WASN’T the real world and NO amount of effort or technology could make it as real as the real world. By taking animated characters from the living room and placing them in real life places, programmers could capitalize on what in their minds were the both of best worlds—creating a place where animated characters of their imaginary world could interface directly with the real places where real world events unfold.

Within days of unleashing Pokémon, a festering legion of fictional characters reappeared from the depths of a decade of diminishing dynasty.

As a parks provider playing host to a populace who like to interface in the real world and as a person who hasn’t picked up a joy stick since Pong and Asteroids was revolutionizing the bulbous screens of yore, I found it a little nonsensical that hordes of pasty screen gazers were suddenly shielding their eyes from the bright sun as they stumbled away from their Lazy boy recliners to brave a foray into the streets in their respective hunt

Fee: $445.00 per team

Adult Sports Leagues & Tournaments Fall COED Volleyball Leagues

TWO divisions to choose from on either Wednesday or Friday night! COED teams in this league consist of 3 females and 3 males (6 on 6) aged 16 years or older. Divisions of play include Open & Recreation. The season will include an 8-match regular season at various sites in Skagit County and conclude with a single elimination league tournament. In all divisions it is a “call your own” officiating format.

Register by: Wednesday, October 5 OR Friday, October 7 Ages: 16 years and older Days/dates: Wednesdays, beginning October 12 OR Fridays, beginning October 14 Time: 6:00 – 9:30 pm Location: Various area gyms Fee: $215.00 per team Men’s Fall OPEN Basketball League This league is open to men 16 years and older. Games will be played Monday, Tuesday or Thursday evenings at Skagit Valley College. This 8-game season will be followed by a single elimination league tournament. Same colored and numbered shirts are required.

Register by: Monday, October 3 Ages: 16 years and older Day/dates: Mondays, beginning October 10 Time: 6:30 – 9:30 pm Location: Skagit Valley College Gym

for an army of fat-cheeked luminescent caricatures. Although I cling to the idea that we all should be tempted to the outdoors by the call of the wild—the allure of Mother Nature’s mystic garden empire—I am framed by the generational arrogance in which I exist, wallowing in the narrow ideals framed by the limited nook of the randomness of time, temptation and place in which I was arbitrarily cultivated.

A growing demographic amongst us grew up with the gentle glow of a callous screen staring back at them—a generation framed by technology—clinging to devices as if they are as an important appendage as those binary limbs underneath the torso that help them navigate when they’re upright and out of their chair. With these new technological appendages, activities such as geocaching, hunting Pokemon characters, and collecting outdoor selfie trophies has become a growing segment of the outdoor experience. As park providers, the time has come to grudgingly recognize and embrace these neo-pioneers as they foray away from the couch and into the public frontier. And in their neo-Klondike pursuit of modern day treasures, these pasty screen gazers may accidently discover the real prize out there in our landscape--Mother Nature’s mystic garden empire.

Youth Sports Leagues & Camps

Gobblers Classic - COED Volleyball Tournament This is a competitive Adult COED Tournament in which teams will play several single-game round robin matches and then are seeded into a double elimination championship bracket. The Championship team will receive commemorative shirts. Hurry and sign up quickly…this competition is limited to the first 12 teams!

Register by: Tuesday, November 1 Ages: 16 years and older Day/date: Saturday, November 12 Time: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm Location: Mount Baker Middle School Fee: $120.00 per team

Special Notice: Sports officials are needed for youth & adult basketball. Help your body and your wallet through exercise and additional income! Experience is desired, but training can be provided. Interested persons should contact the Recreation Division at 360416-1350 or tonyt@co.skagit.wa.us.

2016 Girls S.W.I.S.H. Basketball League Skagit, Whatcom, Island and Snohomish Hoops (S.W.I.S.H.) is THE BEST girls basketball program in the area! It is open to all girls in the 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th grades. Participants may either register as a team or individually (individuals are placed on a team by community or school affiliation). League runs for 9 weeks and includes a total of 11 games. Practices are determined by team coaches.

Registration Requested by: Monday, October 3 (Late registrations will be accepted only if space is available) Ages: 5th – 8th graders Day/dates: Saturdays, beginning October 22 Time: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm (times may vary depending upon game schedules) Location: Various area gyms Fee: $670.00 Team $95.00 Individual

For more information or to register with a VISA or MasterCard call SCPR at 360-416-1350.

2016 Boys Pre-Season Basketball Games This a chance for Boys 4th-8th Grade Basketball teams to get some pre-season games in ahead of the Boys SWISH Basketball League that begins January 7th. Teams will be grouped by 4th/5th/6th and 7th/8th grades with consideration given to match-up teams as competitively as possible. Teams will play doubleheaders on dates selected.

Registration Required by: Friday, November 4 Ages: 4th – 8th graders Day/dates: Saturdays – November 19 and/or December 17 Time: Varies Location: Skagit County Gyms Fee: $140.00 per date (up to two dates possible)

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Register by: Thursday, January 12 Ages: 5 - 13 years old Day/dates: Saturdays, beginning January 14 Time: 9:00 – 11:30 am Location: Mount Baker Middle School Fee: $68.00 ($5.00 discount for the second child from each family) 2017 Boys S.W.I.S.H. Basketball League

2017 Youth Basketball Skills Camp Skagit County’s BEST hoops camp! Two age groups to choose from! This basketball skills camp is for boys and girls ages 5 - 13

registrations will be accepted only if space is available) Ages: 4th – 8th graders Day/dates: Saturdays, beginning January 7 Time: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm (times will vary depending on game schedules) Location: Various area gyms Fee: $675.00 Team $95.00 Individual

years old. The camp focuses primarily on the development of proper basketball fundamentals. Participants are divided into small working groups for optimal skill improvement. TWO sessions at ONE location. Sessions are divided by 5 - 8 year olds and 9 - 13 year olds w/ both sessions at Mount Baker Middle School in Mount Vernon. Camp runs for five weeks and each camper receives a commemorative basketball! Register early…this camp can fill up very quickly!

Hands down….The LARGEST & BEST Boys Basketball program in the area! Skagit, Whatcom, Island and Snohomish Hoops (S.W.I.S.H.) is open to all boys in 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th grades. Participants may either register as a team or individually (individuals will be placed on a team by community or school affiliation). League runs for 10 weeks and includes a minimum of 11 games. Practices are determined by team coaches.

Registration Requested by: Monday, December 5 (Late

2017 Boys Masters Basketball League Two Divisions to Choose From! This basketball league is for boys NOT on a high school basketball team. Separate divisions are offered for 9th/10th and 11th/12th grades, though divisions may play cross-over games as needed. The season consists of a minimum of 8 games. Same colored, numbered shirts are required and each team must have a coach/manager who is 21 years or older on the bench for each game.

Register by: Friday, January 13 Ages: 9th – 12th grade boys Day/dates: Sundays, beginning January 22 Time: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm Location: Skagit Valley College (SVC) Gym Fee: $425.00 per team

24th Annual Fall Garage Sale, Antiques & More Either sign up to sell your goods at an affordable booth space or come find new treasures for yourself. Bring your family & friends and enjoy Great Food, Live Music & Much More! Over 130 vendors and 5,000 visitors each year attend this event. Visit our website for vendor application forms.

ounds Phone: 360-416-1350 gr ir Fa ty un Co it ag Sk co.skagit.wa.us

Check Out the Car Show!!!

@ E-Mail: fairgrounds nty.net/fairgrounds Web: www.skagitcou

pm , 2016 9:00 am ~ 4:00 Friday, September 23rd 00 pm th, 2016 9:00 am ~ 4: Saturday, September 24 n site parking: $3.00 Admission: $3.00 O

4th Annual Fall Car Showdown!!! Saturday 9:00a-2:30p

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SKAGIT VALLEY FAMILY YMCA

215 East Fulton Street, Mount Vernon • 360 336 9622 • www.SkagitYMCA.org

OASIS DAYLIGHT CENTER Our Daylight Teen Center offers FREE fun daily activities and a computer lab for teens ages 13-17! Join us for food, workshops, field trips, job search, community services, LGBTQ support, art projects, music lab and so much more! Located at 125 N. 5th Street in Mount Vernon. Open M-F 3pm-6:30pm, Saturday and Sunday noon-6:30pm. 360-419-9058 x301

SWIM LESSONS Weekday sessions are offered Monday & Wednesday or Tuesday & Thursday.

All sessions are 30 minutes.

Weekday Sessions (M/W or T/Th) Session I: Sept. 7/8-Sept. 28/29 Registration opens Aug. 24 Session 2: Oct. 3/4-Oct. 26/27 Registration opens Sept. 28 Session 3: Oct. 31/Nov.1-Nov. 21/22 Registration opens Oct. 26 Session 4: Nov. 28/29-Dec. 19/20 Registration opens Nov. 23

Saturday Morning Sessions Session 1: Sept. 10-Oct. 8 Registration opens Aug. 24 Session 2: Oct. 15-Nov. 12 Registration opens Oct. 8 Session 3: Nov. 19-Dec. 17 Registration opens Nov. 12

*Sessions fill quickly, register early*

EARLY LEARNING CENTERS

Childcare at our ELCs is available YEAR ROUND, part-time or full-time, for children 12 months to 5 yrs of age, Monday-Friday.

We offer 5 locations throughout Mount Vernon and Anacortes. Check our website for locations or call 360-419-9058 x309

FALL BITTY SPORTS BITTY SOCCER

Tuesdays, Oct. 4-Oct. 25 (Session II) Tuesdays, Nov. 8-Dec. 6 (Session III) FEE: $39 Member/$49 Program Members LOCATION: YMCA Sports Center

BITTY T-BALL

Saturdays, Oct. 8-Oct. 29 (Bitty T-Ball) FEE: $39 Member/$49 Program Members LOCATION: YMCA Sports Center

BITTY BASKETBALL

Thursdays, Nov. 17-Dec. 15 (Session II) FEE: $39 Member/$49 Program Members LOCATION: YMCA Gym

CENTRAL PRESCHOOL

Now enrolling for the 2016-2017 school year, 360-419-9058

MOUNT VERNON COMMUNITY FAMILY SWIM FREE Family Swim for city residents 1st & 3rd Saturday monthly, 6-8:30pm. Children must be accompanied by an adult in the water.

Drop-in rates apply for non-residents.

FALL YOUTH SPORTS YOUTH VOLLEYBALL

October 3-November 19 GRADES: 3-8 grade FEE: $57 Member/$67 Program Members LOCATION: YMCA Sports Center

INDOOR YOUTH SOCCER

October 31-December 17 AGE: 5-14 years old FEE: $48 Member/$58 Program Members LOCATION: YMCA Sports Center through our website to support YMCA programs

WWW.SKAGITYMCA.ORG

FALL YOUTH EVENTS Halloween Carnival Oct. 14, 6:30-8pm *Games *Floating Pumpkin Patch Halloween Parents Night Out Oct. 29, 5:30-10pm Santa’s Workshop Dec. 9, 6:30-8pm *Arts & Crafts * Games *Santa! * VOLUNTEERS NEEDED * Contact Julie for more information at j.farmer@skagitymca.org

ADULT DROP-IN SPORTS CO-ED VOLLEYBALL

Wednesdays, 7:30-9:30pm AGE: 18+ (16 & 17 with parent signature) FEE: $8 Drop-In Fee, $2 for Members LOCATION: YMCA Sports Center

GIRLS ON THE RUN FALL SESSION

LEARN. DREAM. LIVE. RUN. Girls on the Run is a transformational after school learning program for 3rd through 6th grade girls that uses the power of running to prepare girls for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living. Not only do we get girls moving - we also arm them with the tools necessary to effectively manage many of life’s challenges including gossip, bullying, establishing healthy friendships and standing up for themselves and others. Session begins the week of September 26 at various locations throughout Skagit County. Check website for details.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Contact Julie at j.farmer@skagitymca.org

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JOIN US!

14

Kiwanis Club of Mount Vernon: Building a Better Community

• Boys & Girls Clubs

• Friendship House

• META

• Ghana Together AXIM Project

• Camp Orkila (Centennial School)

• Mount Vernon High School Key Club

• Skagit Valley Herald Christmas Baskets

• Safe Kids Car Seats

• Adopt a Family

• Prayer Breakfast

• Summer Mobile Recreation Program

• Little Mountain Skills Center

• YouthNet

• MVPR Summer Outdoor Movies

• Fourth of July Fireworks

• Community Action of Skagit County (WIC) Headstart & SPARC

www.kiwanismv.net www.facebook.com/kiwanisclubofmountvernonwa

• The Eliminate Tetanus Project • Children’s Art Festival

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Event calendar Mount Vernon Trail Builders

Sessions: Sept. 10, 24, Oct. 8, 22, Nov. 12 & Dec.10, 10am-4:30pm

OCTOBER 1 & 2 Skagit Valley Festival of Family Farms October 1st & 2nd, 10am-4pm

family and youth friendly

Little Mountain Park (the main park entrance) Mount Vernon Trail Builders is building “multi-use” (for hikers, cyclists and trail running) trails in Little Mountain Park. We hope you’ll join us, and tell your friends….

Contact: MVPR (360) 336-6215 or www.MountVernonTrailBuilders.com

SEPTEMBER 10 Harvest Moon Festival: Cider, Brews, & Blues

Saturday, Sept. 10, 4:30-9:30 pm Riverwalk Park, Mount Vernon

FREE admission and parking! This is a once a year event opportunity where family farms across Skagit County open their barn door just for you. Come explore and learn down on the farm. You will learn how these farms maintain their generational heritage while participating in a variety of activities including farm tours, harvest markets, educational displays, demonstrations, kid’s activities, corn and hay mazes, animal exhibits, pumpkin patches, hayrides, food, music, and lots of fun. www.farmtour.com.

6 First Thursday Art Walks

A tribute to the fall harvest season, this new signature event for downtown will be staged at the Riverwalk Park, following the Farmers Market. This year’s theme will feature the bounty of our cideries and breweries, accompanied by award-winning blues bands. Performances by Lloyd Jones Band, Stickshift Annie with Kimball & the Fugitives and Nick Vigarino’s Back Porch Stomp. Advance tickets at brownpapertickets.com, $20 or $25 day of event. Must be 21 or older to attend.

24 Harvest Festival and Pumpkin Pitch

Saturday, September 24, 10am-4pm Burlington Chamber

Big Scoop, AB Hillbilly Gyros, Public Viewing 10:00am-11:15am Opening Ceremonies & Pitch 11:30am Gold Buckle Espresso, Judy’s Lunch Box, Lions Club, Donut Accuracy and Distance Competition Seed Co, and more!

Fred Meyer Pumpkin Painting Costco Pie Eating Contest Activity Booths & Pony Rides Inflatables & Zucchini Car Races Touch-a-Truck Area

Skagit River Park- 1100 South Skagit Street, Burlington The Burlington Harvest Festival & Pumpkin Pitch is the most unique festival in the Northwest! Something for everyone.

City of Burlington Parks & Recreation at (360) 755-9649 or online at: http://burlington-chamber.com/ Enjoy Live Music from the Troy Fair Band 2pm-4pm

Shuttle service to and from parking lot to festival

Frazier Farms

Recreation Without Borders Fall Colors, Grand Coulee Dam and More September 27-28 Join Recreation Without Borders on this overnight adventure to Eastern Washington. Highlights include the fall colors of the Cascade Loop, lunch in Winthrop, tour and light show at Grand Coulee Dam, overnight stay in Coulee Dam, exploring Pybus Market, cheese and wine tasting in Leavenworth and more. Space is limited. Deadline is soon. Call RWB at 360766-7109 for further details and fees. www.recreationwithoutborders.com

Thursday, Oct. 6, 5-8 pm

The Mount Vernon Downtown Association (MVDA) is pleased to present the final First Thursday Art Walk for 2016, on October 6, from 5-8 pm. The featured artist for the October Art Walk will be Eve McCauley.

The MVDA Art Walks include more than 15 downtown venues, each hosting work by one or more local and regional artists.

31 Halloween Safe Trick-or Treating

Monday, Oct. 31, 3-5 pm Downtown Mount Vernon

businesses starting October 15. For more information, contact Cathy Stevens: cell (425) 321-7433 or main office (360) 336-3801, dep.mvda@gmail.com.

Mount Vernon Downtown, It’s Happening!

26 Small Business Saturday

Saturday, Nov. 26, all day Downtown Mount Vernon

The Mount Vernon Downtown Association encourages you to support your friends and neighbors on Small Business Saturday, November 26, and throughout the holiday season by shopping for your loved ones at our independently-owned small businesses FIRST! On Small Business Saturday, one of Santa’s Secret Helpers may be tapping you on the shoulder with a free gift from one of our Mount Vernon Downtown merchants! #mvdashopsmall

DECEMBER 3 “Breakfast with Santa”

Mount Vernon Parks & Recreation Saturday, December 3rd, 8:00am – 11:00am COST: $5.00 for all ages Hillcrest Park Lodge MVPR: 360-336-6215

Enjoy breakfast of pancakes and ham, and don’t forget to bring your camera for some great photo opportunities with Santa!

Skagit County residents are invited to participate in a safe Trick or Treating event Monday, October 31, 3-5 pm on First Street, from Kincaid to Division in Downtown Mount Vernon.

At 5 pm, kids are also invited to join in the annual Costume Contest at the Lincoln Theatre. Prizes will be awarded in age categories 0-4, 5-8, 9+, and Young At Heart (18+). For more information, contact Cathy Stevens: cell (425) 321-7433 or main office (360) 336-3801, dep.mvda@gmail.com.

Mount Vernon Downtown, It’s Happening!

Kids!! Don’t miss this great shopping opportunity geared just for your budget. All items are priced $5.00 and under.

NOVEMBER

4 Sunday, Dec. 4, 5 pm

17 Ladies’ Night Out

Shop Your Heart Out for Community Action!

Thursday, Nov. 17, 10 am-8 pm, Special Events 5-8 pm “Community Action changes people’s lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves communities and makes Skagit County - and America - a better place to live.”

This year, Ladies’ Night Out will benefit Community Action of Skagit County. Enjoy special events, enter drawings for prizes, fashion shows, and fabulous coupon discounts at participating businesses. Shop all day until 8 pm and remember to sign the gift registries to help your special someone shop for you! Gift bags containing lovely surprises as well as valuable coupons may be purchased in downtown

3 Children’s Shopping Extravaganza

Mount Vernon Parks & Recreation Saturday, Dec. 3rd, 8:30am – 1:00pm Skylight Room at Hillcrest Park MVPR: 360-336-6215

Old Fashioned Christmas Parade & Tree-Lighting Downtown Mount Vernon Come to historic downtown First Street for Mount Vernon’s annual Christmas Parade, starting at 5 pm on Sunday, December 4. The Tree Lighting Ceremony will follow shortly after the parade ends, around 6 pm. For more information and/ or to receive a parade entry application, contact Cathy Stevens: cell (425) 3217433 or main office (360) 336-3801, dep. mvda@gmail.com.

Mount Vernon Downtown, It’s Happening!