BECU is a Member-Owned,
Union, Guided by the
BECU was founded in 1935 by a group of Boeing employees with the intention of helping new Boeing employees purchase their own tools to start working during the Great Depression. Originally established to serve employees of the Boeing Company, it was called Boeing Employees’ Credit Union for much of its history. BECU has now grown to become one of the nation’s leading credit unions with more than 1.4 million members, open to anyone who lives, works, worships, or goes to school in Washington state, along with residents of select counties in Oregon and Idaho and members of partner associations. Its headquarters are located in Tukwila, Washington. The Burlington location opened in August 2014 (located in Mount Vernon prior to this from 2004-2014).
Despite the fact that both credit unions and banks are financial institutions and offer many similar products and services, they are structured differently. At a bank, you are a client or a customer, whereas at a credit union, you’re a member. BECU is a member-owned, not-forprofit credit union, guided by the credit union philosophy of “people helping people.” Debbie Matson, BECU Burlington Neighborhood Branch Manager, said, “The Burlington BECU team embraces BECU’s purpose and commitment to our members. As a cooperative, we bring people together to improve the financial well-being of our members and their
communities. Our members mean everything! Every decision we make, every dollar we spend, every new product or service we create – we do so with our members being top of mind. Our commitment is that our members will always experience the best value and service with complete trust.
“Here at BECU, our commitment is that our members will always experience the best value and service with complete trust.”
We strive to always give our members the best experience possible!”
In addition to being named Best Credit Union in the Skagit’s Best contest, BECU has two exciting things to watch for in December! They just completed open voting for their People Helping People Award so the 2023 winners will be announced in December and they are celebrating Beverly Anderson’s one year anniversary as president and CEO. Matson said, “The Burlington BECU center is honored to be named the Best Credit Union in Skagit County. We are excited to continue serving our members in the county by promoting financial health and education to our local community. Here at the Burlington BECU center, we always aim to make sure that every member interaction is a great experience – I’m so
Credit
Credit Union Philosophy
excited that our members and the community value us!”
BECU believes in supporting its membership through amazing benefits such as their annual reprice program. Every year, they review each members’ loan accounts for money-saving opportunities and periodically evaluate the credit rating of each member who has a credit card, line of credit, personal loan, auto loan, boat loan, or RV loan with BECU. If a member has improved their credit score sufficiently, made timely payments and the account is in good standing; they may earn a better rate (if they’re not already receiving BECU’s lowest published rate). More information about the annual reprice program is available on the BECU
Something most people don’t know about is BECU’s People Helping People Awards, given out to recognize and honor our members and the nonprofit organizations they support. At BECU, members’ voices are a valued resource with many products, services, and process ideas often coming from the members themselves.
Services include: Free
BECU is a financial cooperative that exists to actively ser ve our membership We’re committed to improving the financial well-being of our members and communities. Through our financial products, ser vices and educ ational outreach, we help our members save mone y and achie ve their financial goals.
In addition, our community giving initiatives help sustain the vital work of organizations that support where our members live, work and play Since our founding in 1935, we remain committed to changing financial lives for the better, one member at a time Experience the BECU difference for yourself
Bella Soul Spa Offers Holistic Spa Ser vices to Rejuvenate the Mind & Body
Bella Soul Spa has been a premier day spa in the Skagit Valley since 1995.
Owner, Ingrid Thornton, opened the spa at 19 years old and has been the sole owner. While the spa has changed locations three times over the years, Thornton has remained dedicated to her mission to “nurture, support, heal and encourage one another on our own personal journeys to achieve optimal health, balance and joy.”
She elaborated, “We have been providing organic, sustainable products and superior treatments and service to the valley for over 25 years. Bella Soul is a professional yet comfortable day spa that truly values our guests and team. We are thankful to our loyal customers for voting us for Best Spa in Skagit’s Best.” Bella Soul Spa is known for delivering result-oriented massage, facials and treatments. The spa also offers organic, natural, and clinical skincare products to meet the needs of all their guests. You can be confident that all the products on their shelves and in their treatment rooms are formulated based on a holistic approach to health and a desire to inspire individuals to care for their well-being. Said Ingrid, “My vision for Bella Soul Spa is to educate others about natural health, wellness and beauty with a holistic approach. We provide our guests with pure ingredients and proven results for mind and body.”
Thornton continued, “I am blessed to have an amazing staff of educated and likeminded professionals who share the same approach. My goal for you as our guest is to completely enjoy your experience at Bella Soul Spa as well as to take away tools to use on your own journey
Our mission is to “nurture, support, heal and encourage one another on our own personal journeys to achieve optimal health, balance and joy.”
in achieving optimal health and wellness.”
The spa’s services are designed to rejuvenate and indulge you- the whole you! Services include facials, microdermabrasion, dermaplaning, chemical peels, microcurrent, massage therapy, infrared wellness cocoon, ionic foot detox, as well as lovely enhancements to treatments such as back and foot scrubs, wild lime scalp massage, and foot treatments. They also offer makeup application, lash lifts, lash and brow tints, sugaring, and waxing. Ask about their 60-minute and 90-minute facial memberships!
All products offered at the spa are carefully chosen with your health in mind. Products include a wide range of skin care products for all skin types, sun care, body care, massage
tools, herbal supplements and teas, Glo Skin beauty products, Yapa nail polish, Simple Jane CBD, and HUM Nutrition.
Come in and enjoy a cup of herbal tea and shop local! They have gift sets for every”body.” You can also shop online!
Take an online tour at https://bellasoulspa. com/take-a-tour/ and
get a quick view of what the space looks and feels like. Virtually explore the lobby, relaxation lounge, infrared wellness room, and two of the treatment rooms. If you’re ready to book an appointment or have any questions about our products or services, call (360) 707-2300 or email Sales@BellaSoulSpa.com.
www.bellasoulspa.com
Bella Soul Spa has been a premier day spa in the Skagit Valley since 1995.
We are dedicated to providing organic , sustainable products and superior treatments and service. Bella Soul Spa is known for delivering result-oriented massage, facials and treatments. Proudly offering organic , natural and clinical skincare products to meet the needs of all our guests. You can be confident that all our products on our shelves and in our treatment rooms are formulated based on a holistic approach to health and inspire individuals to care for their well-being. We provide our guests with modern tools for mind, body and spirit based on a holistic approach to health, beauty and healing. Our services are designed to rejuvenate and indulge you - the whole you!
bellasoulspa.com (360) 707-2300
Best Spa
COA Mexican Eater y & Tequileria Ser ves Up Made-
From-Scratch Modern Artisan
COA Mexican Eatery and Tequileria has been serving made-from-scratch modern artisan Mexican cuisine in Skagit County for more than a decade.
Purchased by sister and brother owners, Viridiana (Viry) and Dago Delgado, in April, 2013, great care is put into every dish they make. The food is always made with fresh products and ingredients and local and seasonal fruits and vegetables are used whenever possible. Said Viry, “I worked for a well-known local Mexican restaurant for 17 years until I decided to buy COA Mexican Eatery. I work hard like every small business owner. I polish the recipes and customer service thanks to our amazing team, friends and family.”
With a warm atmosphere, sauces prepared fresh daily, and flavors from their hometown, Durango, Mexico; the goal is for customers to come away with an unforgettable experience. COA is especially well-known for its amazing Taco Tuesdays, tequila bar with only 100% agave tequilas, their enchiladas with green crema sauce, and $5 margaritas on Fridays. The menu also offers gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options to make everyone feel welcome.
“My customers are everything; without them I don’t have a business. I built up my business based on my customer service and
the quality of the food. We are constantly working on making sure our customers are happy and pleased with their food and experience as well as the restaurant image, ambience, and cleanliness.”, said Viry. Viry is excited to bring new recipes to the menu
“We
work hard to bring new dishes – while honoring traditional recipes - and a fresh, clean ambiance.”
in the upcoming months.
“We always look forward to our customers, friends, and family enjoying what we have to offer them. We work hard to bring new dishes –while honoring traditional recipes - and a fresh, clean ambiance. The team is planning to work on several new plates and drinks in the upcoming year.”, she said. Viry is truly thrilled about winning Best Mexican a second year in a row, saying
“It’s great. We are so so blessed and grateful. I am so thankful for our customers who believe in our concept.
Without our customers we could not win. I know that there are other restaurants that work as hard as I do but I appreciate people noticing the hard work that we have put into our restaurant. I almost feel like it’s not real. You hope for it but you don’t expect it. I think back 10 years ago to when we were just trying to make the
business survive and look where we are.”
Mount Vernon and Skagit County mean a lot to Viry who says, “The community of Mount Vernon and Skagit county are my community. My family and I have Iived in the valley for over 30 years; I graduated and went to college here, as well as my kids. We are very blessed to be a part of the community and I feel a big responsibility to keep up the high-quality food that Skagit County is known for. This year I have gotten even more
involved in the community. Serving on three boards, I am more aware of what the community needs and what we can do to help make the community better. As a board member of Skagit Regional Health Foundation, we are working on a project called Cardiac Care with a goal of raising $3 million. The money will purchase cardiac diagnostic imaging equipment for two catheterization labs in the community.”
If you’re looking for fresh, authentic Mexican cuisine
or
and
COA MEXICAN EATERY & TEQUILERIA
Sunday-Thursday 11:00am-9:00pm • Friday & Saturday 11:00am-10:00pm
Doggy Come Play Offers a Different Kind of Experience for Dogs
Doggy Come Play Daycare and Boarding is family owned and operated since 1994. The company offers two main services: Doggy daycare is designed for busy dog owners that hate to leave their dogs alone for many hours or for just a couple of hours during the day.
Boarding is designed for dog parents who will be away and want a place for their dogs to board where they can play several hours a day.
Doggy Come Play promises whether you need boarding or daycare that “we will provide care to our client’s dogs as if they were our own pets. We will always strive to go above and beyond our client’s expectations and make their dogs feel like we are their second home.”
Said co-owner Joan Crane, “I think we were voted the Best Pet Kennel/Boarding/ Daycare because of the quality of care that we give to the dogs and our clients. We have a great staff who are caring and very genuine in their care of our clients’ dogs, we have an open and honest relationship with our clients - and we stand by our mission statement.”
Owners Joan and David Crane and Aaron Curbow started boarding in 1994 because they saw a need for another option besides the traditional boarding kennels in the area. They wanted to be a more cage free place where dogs could spend most of their day playing with other dogs. Said Joan, “After going to dog training
school in 1994, I knew I wanted to offer dog owners a different kind of option for the care of their dogs when they needed to board them. I was told by many that an open kennel idea would never work. But I followed my heart and my instincts and gave it a try, and here
“We have a great staff who are caring and very genuine in their care of our clients’ dogs…”
we are with a successful business 30 years later. In 2004 when I decided to open a doggy daycare, I was once again told that I was crazy, and it would never work in the valley. Once again, I followed my instincts and here we are 19 years later, going strong.”
Joan reflects on how the lives of dogs have changed, saying “Dogs used to have freedom to roam as they pleased and for the most part there were no leash laws. They would often lay on the front porch waiting for the kids to get off the school bus, so they could follow the kids up and down the street on their bikes and play with the kids and their friends. Today, many dogs spend their days indoors while their family is off at work and school. This is where Doggy Come Play Daycare comes into the play. Clients drop their dogs off at daycare before they head for work or for a few hours
while they go shopping, so their furry children can play all day with their friends and can go home as tired as their owners and so their dogs don’t have to stay home alone.”
“Running a doggy daycare carries a lot of responsibility. Clients have put us in charge of their fur kids and expect that we will keep them safe in their absence, whether it is at
daycare or boarding.”, said Joan.
Feeling guilty about leaving your fur kid home all day while you work or need a place for your dog to stay while you’re away? If you have a well-socialized dog who would love to spend their day playing with other dogs, check out Doggy Come Play Daycare and boarding!
Family owned and operated since 1994.
Doggy Come Play promises whether it is at boarding or daycare that we will provide care to our client’s dogs as if they were our own pets. We will always strive to go above and beyond our client’s expectations and make their dogs feel like we are their second home.
Fidalgo Fudge Co. is a Must Stop Sweet Shop!
on Black Frida y 2021 , expandi ng the offer ings to include Lopez Island Cream ery ice cream , local ly made confec tions , gourme t foods , and speci alty item s. She is conti nually cooki ng up new fudge ideas and has over 50 diff erent flav ors, includi ng best sell ers like “ Island Specia l ” , chocol ate walnut ,
“We always
prioritize excellent customer service, quality of products, and being a responsible steward of our
industry...”
ll local fudge compa ny. Sakum a’s ties to the comm unity run deep, she was born and rais ed in Anaco rtes and is a 5th generat ion resi dent. She had previ ously worke d as a profes siona l baker at local trea sures La Vie En Rose and Decept ion Caf é She founded Farm er’ s Cup in 2013 , an espres so sta nd operat ing at the Anaco rtes Farm ers Mark et that speci alized in homem ade arti sanal drinks , local ly sourc ed espres so beans, handcra fted syr ups, and sauce s. The two farm ers mark et busines ses , fudge and coffe e, came toget her in 2019 when Sakum a remod eled her 1930 s era buildi ng in Anaco rtes
locat ed at 715 Comm ercia l Ave. She opened the sto refro nt for busines s
dark chocol ate, and maple pecan as well as innovat ive flav ors like habanero , ube coconut and caram el mis o peanut. There are also flav ors to refle ct every seas on like the Nort hwest Neapoli tan, pumpkin pecan, Skagi t str awberr y, pepperm int bark, and eggnog. Cust omer favo rite s also include sout hern pecan praline s made by hand in sto re and the Holida y Cheer Gift Sets She host s fami ly acti vit ies such as maki ng your own fudge, decor ating caram el apples and creat ing your own East er baske ts. Future plans include expandi ng house made chocol ate selec tion and gourme t caram el apples Sakum a feels honored to be vot ed Best Gift Shop in the Best of Skagi t surv ey, sta ting “ We care
about our comm unity and local sma ll busines s succe ss and we value quali ty and our cust omers above all else. We alway s priori tize excell ent cust omer serv ice, quali ty of product s, and being a respo nsible ste ward of our indust ry by using almo st exclus ively compo sta ble packagi ng, inst alling a sola r sys tem to offs et our power consum ption, and inst alling low power equipm ent. ” Holida y pre- order
sale s are open now for Holida y Cheer gift set s, Offi ce Cheer gift set s for corpor ate gifti ng, and holida y fudge flav ors such as gingerbre ad, candy cane, and winte r delight Shop in perso n or online! www. fidal gofudge. com.
www.fidalgofudge.com
Foothills Toyota – Ser ving Skagit County since
The Nelson automotive group has been in business for over 100 years Foothills Toyota was established on March 4, 1985 when Pam Nelson became a third generation Toyota Pontiac and Buick dealer
For 37 years she served and called Skagit County home, raising two sons Tyler and Matt Pam was a Toyota Presidents Award winner on multiple occasions and held the distinction as being the longest active female Toyota dealer in the world Additionally, she was Time magazine’s Washington State dealer of the year and runner-up for the Time national dealer of the year award in 2009. In 2020 she was named Washington State Auto Dealers Association dealer of the year. Foothills Toyota has been very active in the community, most notably donating $500,000 to the Skagit YMCA to help fund their brand-new state of the art facility that serves the greater community
On March 4, 2022 her son, Tyler Steinman, officially became dealer principal; 37 years to the day after his mother took ownership of the store. Tyler is a lifetime resident of Skagit Valley; he graduated from SedroWoolley High School in 2002 and Western Washington University in 2006 where he studied Business Management. Tyler has held nearly every position at the store from washing cars to general manager
He graduated from NADA Dealer Academy in 2012, becoming GM in 2013. Foothills Toyota offers quality, competitively priced new and used vehicles and factory trained master technicians to maintain and service your car, truck, or SUV. Their
“…We
are a group of people who are familyoriented, care about your experience here with us and have the experience and expertise to help you with every aspect of your vehicle ownership.”
parts department can provide you with nearly any part or accessory you could want and their service advisors can guide you on all aspects of your vehicle maintenance issues.
Customer Relations Manager Derek Collins said, “Transparency and taking care of our guests is an important priority for our business. We treat our guests like family. We believe that our professionalism and care for our customers sets us apart from our competition and we are beyond grateful for all of the support we have received to win Best of Skagit ” Foothills Toyota is more than just a business for vehicle purchase and maintenance, “we are a
group of people who are family-oriented, care about your experience here with us and have the experience and expertise to help you with every aspect of your vehicle ownership. Our award-winning Sales, Parts and Service Departments can take care of everything you need. Just ask!”
“We invite you to come and visit us at our 52,000 square
FOOTHILLS TOYOTA Sales Team
FOOTHILLS TOYOTA Ser vice Team
Hansen’s Furniture Store Has Provided Quality Furniture to the Skagit Valley and Island County since 1947
Hansen’s Furniture store has been providing quality furniture to residents of the Skagit Valley and Island County since 1947. With knowledgeable, friendly staff and quality furniture, the store has built a loyal customer base with multiple generations of families coming back for their furniture needs.
Hansen’s Furniture has been voted Best Furniture Store for the 8th year in a row and also Best New Furniture Store for 2022 and 2023! Owner, Cindy Gerrior, says “We have a very long-standing history in the community.
Being voted best of the best is a true honor. We do try to be the best of the best by providing great customer service and quality products. I care about this store, the customers and everything we do here; it truly means a lot. We appreciate your loyalty and patronage from the bottom of our hearts. We couldn’t do it without our wonderful customers.”
Hansen’s Furniture has furniture for the whole house, including mattresses, a huge selection of lift chairs, adjustable beds, rugs, lamps, accessories, bookcases, bars, sleeper sofas, home office, and Amish solid wood bedroom and dining sets. Said Cindy, “We pride ourselves on selling as much American-made furniture as we can and we try to offer low prices all the time.” All furniture is available to take home the same day, or their well-trained in-house delivery drivers will deliver
and set up. Said Cindy, “We are a full-service store and always have been.”
The store was founded by Walt Hansen, and was eventually purchased by Willard Trip. Cindy’s husband, Don, worked for Willy, starting on the delivery truck in the early
“Being voted best of the best is a true honor We appreciate your loyalty and patronage from the bottom of our hearts. We couldn’t do it without our wonderful customers.”
‘80s then moving to sales for 20 years. He purchased the business alongside Cindy in February of 1998. Since Don’s passing, Cindy is carrying on his legacy. The new building is laid out exactly the way he wanted it and she will keep the business running as long as she can. Said Cindy, “This is my late husband’s legacy, and I will do everything in my power to honor that more than anything. I am a very hands-on owner, sometimes building chairs, working in the warehouse, helping customers, etc. seven-days a week.”
Hansen’s Furniture has been in the same location at 916 W. Division St. since it opened its doors, though a fire on May 1, 2016 meant a complete rebuild. Because of its growth in recent years, they opened a
second location called 1-2-3 Furnishings just yards away at 1101 W. Division St. The second location is a complete Ashley Furniture store, along with other brands not carried at the original location. Between the two stores, the business has a combined 50,000 square feet of showroom. The store is heavily focused on customers and community. Cindy said, “Our customers mean everything and we appreciate them all, both new and old. I have a lot of customers who have
turned into friends over the years and the outpouring of support and kindness of our customers is really nice. Skagit County is my home and my community - I was raised here, live here, and graduated from Burlington High School. We support the community in a variety of ways - the people give to us and we try to give back through charities such as the Skagit Valley College auction, the Festival of Trees, the Mount Vernon High School fundraiser, and raising money to help local
The Piazza Difference – Inspired Design, Quality Building, Guaranteed!
John Piazza Jr Construction & Remodeling, Inc is a full-service general contracting company that builds custom homes, spec homes, remodel and additions, commercial properties, tenant improvements, multifamily, developments, and insurance restorations. They serve customers in Skagit, Whatcom, Island, and Snohomish Counties.
John Piazza Jr. began working full-time in 1989 in the construction field at his father’s company, Piazza Construction, Inc., where he helped to build hundreds of homes, office buildings, a medical center, apartment buildings, retirement centers, and a mini storage complex. He was involved with land developments equaling more than 100 lots. In 2001, he was named president.
In November, 2011, John and his wife Kim opened their own company, John Piazza Jr Construction & Remodeling, Inc., which they own and operate together. The company’s mission is to maintain the highest level of professionalism, integrity and honesty in their relationships with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers. This is achieved by providing quality construction, attention to detail, and serviceminded attitudes at fair and competitive prices.
“We feel one thing that sets us apart from our competitors is the strength
of our personnel who have more than 100 years of combined experience in many facets of the construction industry. Our company operates with a family atmosphere and many of our employees have been with us since day one. Our son Jordan has worked
“…One thing that sets us apart from our competitors is the strength of our personnel who have more than 100 years of combined experience in many facets of the construction industry.”
for us since he was 16. He began working for us full time after he completed the welding program at Skagit Valley College.”, shared Kim. Kim continued, “We love to give back to the community where we were both raised and where we raised our children. We are members of the Mount Vernon and Burlington Chambers of Commerce, and founding members of the Burlington Mid-Day Rotary Club. We are very involved members of the Skagit Island County Builders Association, Builders Industry Association of Washington, and National Association of Home Builder’s. Kim has served on the board of directors for SICBA since 2017 where she served two
years each as president and treasurer, vicepresident, and immediate past president. She is also a founding member of One Community One Family, a charity to benefit cancer patients in the Skagit County area. The business is also a longtime supporter of the Skagit Regional Health’s Foundations Festival of Trees. We support the youth in our county, we donate and sponsor the Boys and Girls Club, the Daddy Daughter Dance, and the
Mom & Son Skate Night for the Burlington Parks. We support sporting events and students at Sedro-Woolley High, Burlington Edison High, and Mount Vernon High as well as local club teams. We support local community theater such as the Theater Arts Guild and META where our daughter, Lauren, spent many years performing.” If you’re in the market for construction or remodeling, give John Piazza Jr Construction & Remodeling,
Keystone Building Ser vices Offers Complete Building Solutions
Founded in August,
2013, Keystone Building Services
LLC is a general contractor with residential, commercial, and industrial construction experience.
Keystone builds turnkey, high-end custom homes and large remodels as well as smaller projects when it is a good fit. The company also builds high-end spec homes for its sister company, Keystone Property Services LLC, and occasionally takes on commercial projects and tenant improvements
Keystone Building Services celebrated 10 years in business this past August but owner Kristopher Yaun – a resident of Anacortes since 1974 – has personally been in the building industry for just over 30 years. The first half of his career was mostly spent in the commercial and industrial side of building before converting to mostly residential in 2006.
The crew is diverse in their building knowledge and focused on providing a quality product. “We pride ourselves on our ability to manage all of your building needs. It is our goal to make your building experience one that you will remember for all of the right reasons. Many of Keystone’s employees have been with the builder since the day they opened for business and others soon after. Said Yaun, “I could not ask for a better, more loyal, and dedicated group of employees that have grown to become family. They take pride in their work and are
always able to be proud of the finished product.”
“We make it our mission to complete every project at the highest level of construction possible, always keeping in mind that we are creating a space for our clients that will be the location of many years of
“We make it our mission to complete every project at the highest level of construction possible…”
personal experiences with family and friends! I think one of the reasons that our clients come back to us and refer their friends and family to us is our “cost plus” platform that creates full transparency and puts our clients in the driver’s seat to their budget and final product. At the end of the project our clients know they got the most bang for their buck!”, said Yaun.
Keystone Building Services also gives back to the local community on a consistent basis. They donate, sponsor, and support a number of non-profits in Anacortes - The Anacortes Family Center, local youth sports programs, Boys and Girls Clubs, Anacortes Community Theatre, and Pals 4 Paws - just to name a few. Kris is also on the board of The Anacortes Family Center.
Yaun shared his thanks, “We are thankful to our loyal customers for voting
for us. After years of building quality homes and remodels, many of our customers remain friends to this day. I also want to thank my friends and family and a private investor who has also been a mentor and one of my closest friends that have supported me on my journey! It has not always been easy but I am proud of this business and where I am today in life! I hope you
are too, because I could not have done it without each and every one of you! If you are ready to get your construction project off the ground, contact Keystone Building Services for a complimentary consultation! Their team of builders will walk you through the construction and remodeling process and assist in all aspects of the construction journey, from
Kids N Us Provides Quality Childcare in a Safe, Loving, and Educational Environment
ids N Us Early
Learning School has been providing quality childcare in a safe, loving, and educational environment since its first location opened in Everett in 1988. The school’s primary goal is to provide a safe, loving homelike atmosphere that fosters the social and cognitive development of each child in their care with the highest level of safety and security in mind. To meet these goals, the school developed an innovative award-winning program based on their belief that children learn through play. Their proprietary curriculum includes Monthly Themes, Letter, Number and Shape recognition, Second Step Curriculum (Social and Emotional Learning), Singing Time (Sign Language), and Smart Moves (Physical Education).
Kids N Us focuses on:
Creating and maintaining state of the art schools and equipment
Creating and embracing diversity at all levels including family and staff
Creating a positive work environment that encourages professional growth and continued education
Nurturing and developing each child’s unique abilities and potential
Making a difference in the communities it serves
The school serves infants starting at four weeks old through children who are 12 years old. They are licensed for 190 children through Washington State’s Department of Children, Youth, and Families. They have 10 individual classrooms that have been
“We have proudly been serving our Skagit community for over 17 years now building relationships with our families, community and our local elementary schools.”
designed from the ground up to meet the needs of the children within each classroom. Each age group of children have their own expansive playground with opportunities for large muscle growth and development. The school also provides transportation to several of the local elementary schools and offers a day camp called ‘Summerpalooza’ for schoolaged children during the summer months. Kids N Us is locally owned and is a woman run organization. Lori Blades has 35 years under her belt as president/founder, after opening the first location in Everett in 1988. Director Colleen Kops joined her five years later; Nakita Gonzalez has 10-years as
program director and Tania Cervantes has eight-years as enrollment specialist. After its initial success, the Everett location was followed by two more locations in Marysville and Lake Stevens. Mount Vernon Kids N Us opened its doors in August, 2006 and was the fourth location. Since Mount Vernon opened, two more locations have opened in the Smokey Point area of Arlington and in Mill Creek. Currently, the company is building its seventh location in the Soper Hill area of Marysville.
Said Colleen, “We have proudly been serving our Skagit community for over 17 years now building relationships with our families, community, and our local elementary schools. We think being voted Skagit number one preschool is a result of our literacy firstbased curriculum and our dedicated teachers and staff that work with children and families each day. We have an outstanding management team that has been working together for almost a decade. Over the years we have been able to watch children
grow into adults, become parents themselves, and bring not only their children but their grandchildren to Kids N Us. Some of Kids N Us alumni have even become employees!”
•
• Summer
Mt. Baker Gymnastics - Helping the Children of Our Community Grow and Thrive in a Fun and Safe Environment for 20 Years
t. Baker
MGymnastics was founded in 2004 by Owner/ President, Gordy Bylin, better known around the community as “Coach Gordy.” His love of mountain climbing and doing a handstand on top of Mt. Baker was the inspiration for the name. “With the help of my daughter and ex-gymnast, Emily, we’ve been able to maintain the integrity of a family-owned and operated gym through the decades. We are proud of our highly competitive girls and boys teams, rewarding recreational programs, and an awesome team of coaches and community members”, said Gordy.
Gordy was Emily’s coach when she was a competitive level 8 gymnast, and she helped him start the business when she retired from competing in 2004. Emily has been in and out of the gym over the years as she went off to college and pursued other career opportunities, but the father-daughter duo continues to run the gym together today. They’ve also had a lot of help from and provided opportunities for other family members along the way, including Gordy’s son, Dan, brother, Bert, and sister, Linda Mt. Baker Gymnastics is truly a family business. Today, much of the recreational and team programs are run by the wonderful Men’s Program Director, Devin SwetnamSparks, and Women’s
Program Director, Kyliann Hendrickson.”
The gym offers recreational and competitive gymnastics programs for all ages, from toddlers to adults. There are competitive teams for girls, and one of the only competitive boys teams in the
“We are so grateful for everyone who voted for us, and for the love and support of our community over the years. We couldn’t do it without you!”
area. Special programs include ninja class, adult class, free story time open gyms, birthday parties, NERF wars, private lessons, week-long and day camps including Superhero Camp, field trips for schools and organizations, and home school programs. Over the years the gym has invested in a ton of equipment, including a tumble trak with swinging rings, two foam pits (one inflatable and one attached to trampoline with a spotting belt), three aerial silks, air traks, spotting belts over bars, ninja obstacles, a bouncy house, and all competitive equipment for boys and girls events. Upstairs they have a dance floor area with full mirrors and a ballet bar where they have birthday parties and a toddler play area with toys and a gate.
Some things that set Mt. Baker Gymnastics apart from other gyms:
1. Longevity. Coach Gordy has been teaching all levels of gymnastics for over 45 years –longer than anyone else in the industry in the area - including a student that went on to win eighth in the world on the rings.
2. Cleanliness. After seeing many filthy gyms over the years, Gordy and Emily wanted their gym to be different. “We prioritize cleanliness daily and take pride in maintaining the cleanest facility possible, especially in the wake of the pandemic”, said Manager
Emily Bylin
3. It’s not about the money Bylin explained, “Our most important priority is making fitness fun and accessible to everyone in our community. We never want money to be a barrier to the benefits of what we offer Our rates are as affordable as possible, and we are flexible with our families if they need financial support to participate.”
Emily said, “We are so grateful for everyone who voted for us, and for the love and support of our community over the years. We couldn’t do it without you! We want everyone to know that
Mt. Baker Gymnastics is here to br ing the Skagit Valley community the best of what gymnastics and fitness have to offer - healthy, happy bodies and minds, through safe, professional instr uction at all levels Mt. Baker Gymnastics offers recreational and team gymnastics to the community, from toddlers to adults We also offer competitive gymnastics for both boys and girls from beginner to elite Special programs include bir thday par ties, camps, field tr ips for schools and organizations, and home school fitness programs. mtbakergymnastics.com (360) 757-7565
Mountain Pacific Bank – Your Local Community Bank Since 2006
Mountain Pacific Bank is a community bank dedicated to serving Snohomish, Skagit, and King Counties. The bank provides highquality financial products and services at a fair price to businesses, professionals, and individuals. Said CEO Mark Duffy, “We are a local community bank. When you bank with us, your money stays here and goes back to work in the local community.” Mountain Pacific Bank’s mission is to provide exceptional customer service while meeting the needs of customers and the community. It distinguishes itself from other banks by becoming “the local bank of choice for customers, employees, and shareholders by exceeding their expectations.” Said CEO Mark Duffy, “Extraordinary customer service by knowledgeable, local staff is an important priority. Our employees take this mission to heart and are dedicated to providing outstanding customer service to the community.”
One of the ways that Mountain Pacific Bank stands out is through its mobile branch. “Mountain Pacific Bank understands business owners are busy running their businesses, so we come to pick up your deposits with our Mobile Branch. That’s right, we will come to pick up your deposits every day by bringing the bank to you. It’s just another way we aim to exceed our customers’
expectations.”, explained Duffy.
Mountain Pacific Bank’s commitment to service excellence is exemplified in its many awards. In 2020, 2021, and 2022, Mountain Pacific Bank was named one of the top 200 Community Banks by the ABA and they
“…we will come to pick up your deposits every day by bringing the bank to you. It’s just another way we aim to exceed our customers’ expectations.”
have also won Best Bank in Skagit County three times since opening the Burlington Branch in June, 2019. Said Mark, “Mountain Pacific Bank is a proven partner to the community for both individuals and businesses. We pride ourselves on focusing and building longterm relationships with our customers Our team of experienced professionals work hard to help our customers and communities achieve their goals.”
An equally important part of their plan is to reinvest in the community with resources, time, and talents. The bank is owned by local, long-term investors who are committed to local communities.
The board, management, and staff engage in local organizations, serve on local boards, and support local events and activities.
The bank opened its first branch in Everett in July, 2006. Since then, it has added three more branches. In 2019 Mountain Pacific Bank expanded into Skagit county with the opening of its Burlington Branch in April, 2019. CEO Mark Duffy and a group of local business leaders started organizing Mountain Pacific Bank in 2005. After raising $16.5 million and obtaining regulatory approval, the bank opened its doors in July of 2006 and achieved profitability in six months, setting a record for Washington State. The bank has continued to grow and set records and currently
reports $564.4 million in assets Mountain Pacific Bank is well capitalized, which provides peace of mind to investors and puts them in a position to keep growing. It is publicly traded on the OTC Pink under the symbol MPCB.
Mark shared, “Mountain Pacific Bank’s logo represents mountains and water, symbolizing our hometown and the beauty of the state we live in. The colors blue and yellow represent trust and loyalty, which is exactly what we
MOUNTAIN PACIFIC BANK
110 Cascade Mall Drive, Burlington, WA 98233 – Burlington Branch 3732 Broadway Everett, WA 98201 –Headquarters 425-263-2534
www.mp.bank
Mon.-Th. 8:30 a.m-5 p.m. and Fri. 8:30 a.m-6 p.m.
strive to gain from our employees, customers, and shareholders.” If you’re looking for a local, community bank to build a long-term relationship with, give Mountain Pacific Bank a call today.
Pegasys Technologies Delivers Result-Oriented
Managed IT Solutions
Pegasys Technologies is a full-serv ice technology services provider that helps small businesses overcome IT challenges and focus on productivit y. Pegasys provides IT services and products to small and medium- sized businesses in Mount Vernon and surrounding areas. Our services include consulting, managed services , help desk support, project management, procurement, endpoint security, cloud backup, migrations, implementat ions, and more.
The Pegasys team prioritizes agile solutions that support growth and adapt to change. They work remotely but can provide on-sit e services as needed.
Owner Mike Ebersole stated , “ With over 25 years of experience in the IT industry, our company offers a unique blend of managed services and project implementat ion that distinguishes us from our competitor s. Our team is passionate about providing exceptional customer service to ensure high customer satis faction, which is essential to fostering trust between us and our clients. Trust is necessary for an organization to thrive.
Ebersole founded the business in February 2018 and gradually developed
a customer base through word-of- mouth referrals. The business has been growing steadily and sustainably , with 2023 being another record year. Ebersole attributes this success mainly to the positive feedback and recommendat ions from
“At Pegasys Technologies, providing excellent customer service is our top priority We strive for clear and straightforward communication with our customers.”
satis fied clients, which the business dramatic ally appreciates.
The Pegasys team is commit ted to helping businesses save time, energy, and money through comprehensive IT services Mike says they are an efficient and responsive technology service provider that delivers resultsoriented service. Their stream lined approach to IT management enables them to implement solutions that leverage the latest technology, enhancing their client’s ability to increase revenue and drive their business forward.
Providing excellent customer service is a top priority for the Pegasys team. According to Mike, it is crucial to
the company’s success. He said, “ We striv e to communicate clearly and simply with our customers , treating them with dignity and respect at all times. We understand that without our customers , we wouldn’t be anything. Our team is grateful to have been voted Best Computer Services in Skagit! ” If you’re running a
small business and need reliable IT support, call us to schedule a free initial consultatio n with one of our team members. During this appointment, you’ll get to share your needs, and we’ll explore how our IT solutions can help improve your business. Based on your unique goals, requirements , and budget, we’ll develop
Peoples Bank – Ser ving the Banking Needs of the Skagit Valley Since 1998
Peoples Bank has served the banking needs of communities for over 100 years, with 23 branches throughout Washington State. Locally owned and family managed by the LeCocq family since 1938, Peoples Bank has an unwavering commitment to its employees, customers, and local communities
Their “People First” philosophy is what makes them a true community bank and distinguishes them from other banks in the area. The Bank provides generous support to local organizations through giving and community service campaigns, and its employee benefits programs support professional growth and personal well-being.
“We are committed to recruiting locally and creating jobs and long-term career opportunities for the rural, small town, and urban communities where we live and work. Our stable and ongoing growth is predicated on the same values that we started with: be responsible, dedicated to our customers, and serve our local communities beyond the business of banking. Over the years we have learned that delivering on our promise, ‘A Higher Level of Service,’ always starts and ends with people. We are a proud member of the local communities in which we operate, and we are honored to serve the banking needs of customers in the Skagit Valley.” Peoples Bank opened its
“Being a
in
community
bank
Skagit County means being deeply connected to and committed to the well-being of the people and businesses in this region…”
first branch in Skagit County in 1998 and today has four Skagit locations with a fifth branch, in Sedro-Woolley, expected to open in 2024. Peoples Bank offers a full relationship banking experience across its 23 office locations throughout the state. The Bank provides business banking services and personal bank accounts, in addition to mobile and online banking options. Personal banking services include flexible checking and savings accounts, personal loans, and expert investment and planning services Business banking services include business loans, merchant services, and treasury management services
Whether it’s through our involvement in local initiatives, local decisionmaking, or personalized service, Peoples Bank exemplifies the spirit of community banking, fostering a sense of belonging, trust, and partnership that sets it apart from other banks in the area. Said Assistant Marketing Manager Will Butela, “Being a community
bank in Skagit County means being deeply connected to and committed to the well-being of the people and businesses in this region. It entails a focus on personal relationships, providing tailored financial solutions, and actively participating in the community’s growth and economic development. Our bankers are trusted partners who understand the unique challenges and opportunities that residents and businesses face in the Skagit Valley. The honor of being voted Best Mortgage Lending Company reflects our dedication to supporting the dreams of entrepreneurs, the financial stability of families, and the
overall prosperity of the community.”
In addition to providing the highest level of support to our customers, Peoples Bank makes it a priority to support the community through its sponsorship of some of the area’s most popular events. These include serving as sponsors for the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival’s annual kickoff gala, Burlington’s Berry Dairy Days event, Anacortes’ Bier on the Pier, and the Festival of Trees holiday fundraiser.
Numerous Peoples Bank employees also support various local nonprofit organizations, including the Lincoln Theatre, United
Way of Skagit County, Anacortes Family Center, Camp Korey, and Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services (DVSAS) In 2022, two Skagit-area nonprofits Anacortes Family Center and Camp Korey – received the Bank’s annual Impact Grants, which helps fund a specific project that will have a long-lasting, positive impact on the community. Call to schedule an appointment with one of their experienced bankers or open a bank account online. Visit www.peoplesbank-wa. com for more information.
PEOPLES BANK
Best Mortgage Lending Company
At Perr y Family Dentistr y, We Don’t Just Offer Dental
Care; We Provide a Comprehensive Dental Experience
r. Blake Perry is not just your typical dentist; he’s a master of implant and cosmetic dentistry. But what truly sets him apart is the genuine, deep relationships he fosters with his clients and his clinic’s devoted team. In Dr. Perry’s own words, “I take the time to listen to our clients, to truly understand their needs, and to get to know them personally. Our team is united by a shared confidence and years of experience in dentistry. We work together harmoniously, always striving to provide exceptional and compassionate care.”
He continued, “At Perry Family Dentistry, our clients mean the world to us. We pride ourselves on the high level of trust and closeness we share with each person who walks through our doors. That’s what makes us unique and has led us to be voted the Best Dental Clinic in Skagit’s Best contest for several consecutive years.”
Dr. Perry has been at the helm of his dental practice for 15 years, and he brings over two decades of experience to the table. Perry Family Dentistry is one of the oldest dental practices in the Skagit Valley. Dr. William (Joe) Brummitt laid its foundation back in 1962 in Burlington, and despite moving locations three times, the practice’s loyal patients have always followed. Their mission is simple: to provide excellent dentistry while upholding trust and compassion. “We pride ourselves on staying at the forefront of technology,
ensuring a cutting-edge experience for our patients. Our dental team’s overarching goal is to keep advancing our technological know-how and delivering the most comfortable experience through training and teamwork.”, said Dr. Perry. The practice offers a
“We pride ourselves on staying at the forefront of technology, ensuring a cutting-edge experience for our patients.”
wide range of services, from full-service dentistry to children’s dentistry, veneers, professional teeth whitening, dentures, smile design, extractions, metalfree fillings, Invisalign, nightguards, root canals, gum disease and gingivitis treatments, same-day crowns, oral cancer screenings, and dental implants. Dr. Blake Perry specializes in cosmetic dentistry, veneers, and dental implants, while Dr. Julian Bronstein focuses on children’s dentistry. What makes the practice stand out? Firstly, they provide crowns and veneers in a single visit, a truly unique offering. With their in-house dental lab, you won’t have to deal with temporary teeth, and smile makeovers can be completed in one visit. Secondly, they offer all dental services in one convenient location, eliminating the need for multiple appointments at different offices. Thirdly, the
practice is fully digital, leaving behind the gooey impressions of the past. Everything is recorded digitally, precise and clean. For those who experience dental anxiety, they offer sedation therapy. “Sedation therapy is a rarity outside of Seattle,” says Dr. Perry. “Normally, you’d only find it in specialty clinics and oral surgery centers, but we provide it right here in Mount Vernon!”
In the world of cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry, Dr. Perry goes above and beyond to cater to each client’s unique desires. He combines advanced technology with his extensive experience to ensure
that patients get exactly what they want. “Success in cosmetic dentistry is about giving patients precisely what they envision because it’s such a personal journey,” Dr. Perry emphasizes. Their ‘Smile Test Drive’ is a special feature that allows patients to feel the color and shape of their new teeth, bringing them closer to their ideal smile before making any commitments. When Dr. Perry isn’t at the office, he’s giving back to the community. He has been providing free dentistry services to domestic violence survivors through the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, offering assistance to nurses during the pandemic, and participating in remote dental missions in Nicaragua with Circle of Empowerment. If you’re looking to enhance your smile or have dental concerns, Perry Family Dentistry is the perfect fit for you. “We are dedicated to building strong relationships
with our customers, taking the time to get to know each person personally. Our awardwinning team is always here to help you find the solutions you’re looking for. Schedule your free virtual consultation or your first appointment with us today!”
Rosa’s Cleaning Ser vices Builds Loyal Clients through Unwavering Commitment to Excellence
Rosa’s Cleaning Services, LLC specializes in a variety of services for both commercial and residential clients. Services include maintenance cleaning, one-time cleaning, deep cleaning, move-out cleaning, and move-in cleaning. The business is dedicated to meeting the unique needs of each customer to ensure their spaces are clean and well-maintained.
Said Owner Flor Villanueva, “I believe that our business was voted Best Cleaning Service Company because of our unwavering commitment to excellence. We continuously strive for improvement, always aiming to be the best in what we do. Despite being a relatively new company, we have dedicated ourselves to providing exceptional services from the very beginning. This recognition is a testament to our relentless pursuit of quality and customer satisfaction.” Flor reflects on how the business was founded, “My business had a humble beginning in June 2022 when my mom, Rosa, faced with unemployment, decided to start her cleaning company. At the time, I was managing a boutique but was struggling financially, so I joined her venture, handling everything from permits to actual cleaning. In September, 2022 my mother had to step back due to health reasons, but my passion for cleaning and the need for financial stability
drove me to continue the business. I decided to keep my mom’s name for the company and many of my clients call me Rosa, but it doesn’t bother me at all. Since then, I’ve built a dedicated team and have been committed to constant improvement in every
“We continuously strive for improvement, always aiming to be the best in what we do.”
aspect of our operations.”
Flor believes that what sets Rosa’s Cleaning Services business apart from its competitors is its commitment to continuous improvement, maintaining the highest quality of cleaning services, and dedication to delivering exceptional customer service through helpful and dedicated staff. She explains, “I believe that these elements are key to our success and have played a significant role in being recognized as the best in our region. We go the extra mile to understand our customers’ needs and provide tailored solutions. We don’t just clean spaces; we build relationships. We also invest in thorough research to ensure that we are using the latest and most effective cleaning methods and products.”
Flor’s commitment to the community runs deep, saying “I am actively
planning to be more involved in our community by participating in different events and providing free cleanings to those who may not have the resources to pay for our services. We’re also dedicated to helping the environment through various cleaning campaigns. Our commitment to these initiatives shows our broader mission to be a responsible and socially engaged cleaning company.”
“I want to express my gratitude to our wonderful
customers, some of whom have been with us since the beginning. Each one of them holds a special place in our hearts. They have not only supported my business but also allowed me to grow and thrive. We are excited about the future, and we remain dedicated to providing exceptional cleaning services and making a positive impact on our community. Thank you for your support and trust in Rosa’s Cleaning Services!” If you’re looking for reliable and high-quality
Your Trusted Local Plumbers in Mount Vernon, Washington
Skagit plumbing was founded in 2014 and specializes in comprehensive residential and commercial plumbing solutions in Skagit County and the surrounding areas. They offer a wide range of services, including drain cleaning and repair, water heater repairs and installations, and expertise in handling any pipe-related issues.
Other services include video sewer inspections, plumbing for kitchen and bathroom remodels, and sewer repair and replacement, and sump pump repair. Whether it’s a residential property or a commercial building, the crew at Skagit Plumbing is committed to delivering high-quality plumbing services to ensure the smooth and efficient flow of water in every setting.
Skagit Plumbing’s core values are centered around two key priorities: ensuring the satisfaction of their valued customers and creating a positive work environment that enhances the lives of their dedicated employees.
Mark explained, “ We believe that by taking care of our team, we can better serve you with top-notch service and commitment.
We are a union shop because training and benefits for our employees is important to us. We also offer a free class to anyone in the industry every Wednesday to study plumbing code
and regulations. We love supporting our community by giving our time, donations, and help wherever we can. ”
Said Owner Mark Sommers, “ I believe Skagit Plumbing was voted the Best Plumbing Company because we
“We care about our customers, we care about quality service, we care about our employees, and we care about Skagit County.”
prioritize customer satisfaction, have a strong commitment to our employees, and possess extensive knowledge in our field. We care about our customers, we care about quality service, we care about our employees, and we care about Skagit County. These factors contribute to our outstanding service and reputation in the community. ” Sommers elaborated, “ We believe Skagit Plumbing stands out in several ways. First and foremost, our commitment to customer satisfaction is unwavering. We go the extra mile to ensure our customers are not just satisfied, but delighted with our service. What sets us apart even further is the happiness of our
employees. We treat our team like family, and their job satisfaction reflects in the quality of work they provide. Happy employees lead to happy customers. As a small, family-owned business, we offer a level of personal connection that larger companies can’t match. When you choose us, you’re not just a number; you’re a valued part of our extended family. We’re always here to listen, understand your needs, and provide tailored solutions.
That personal touch is something we’re proud to offer. ” “ We love Skagit county and we are so proud to serve this community!
If you ever find yourself in need of plumbing services, do not hesitate to reach out to Skagit Plumbing. We are open 24/7 and ready to serve! ”
YOUR TRUSTED LOCAL PLUMBERS SINCE
Skagit Plumbing is a full-ser vice plumbing company located in Sedro-Woolley, WA. We ser ve Skagit, Snohomish, and Island counties, and the sur rounding areas, and we’re committed to of f er ing quality ser vices at competitive rates. We evaluate your situation and give you the recommendation to f it within your budget.
2014
Our ser vices include plumbing repairs, upgrades, bathroom and kitchen remodeling, water heater ser vices, drain cleaning, sewer line replacement, and complete re-piping work f or your residential or commercial proper ty
Skagit Tradition Realty – Offering Full-Ser vice
Realty Ser vices to the Skagit Valley Since 1936
Skagit Tradition
Realty is a full-
service real estate
company owned by Danya and Don Wolf, with a brick- and-mortar presence in the community (the 1929 Skagit River Rock Cottage, known as Gingerbread House Childcare prior to 2004).
The real estate business was started by Danya’s grandparents in 1936 as Johnson Realty and Danya is proudly continuing her family’s legacy with an emphasis on excellent, caring customer service.
Danya has sold homes to and for the children and grandchildren of her earlier customers.
A lesser-known set of facts about the origins of Johnson Realty before it transitioned to Skagit Tradition Realty LLC: Danya’s grandmother, Beatrice Lee Johnson, was born and raised on Fir Island. At age 12 she was designated to drive the family’s very first car (no driver’s licenses back then); and along with her sisters and brothers attended Skagit City School. She earned her real estate license in 1936 in order to assist her husband, Arthur E. Johnson, in their real estate company, Johnson Realty. Both of their sons, A. Elliott Johnson and Keith Stanford Johnson, followed in the family’s real estate enterprise. Granddaughter, Danya (Johnson) Wolf, has continued with plans
to meet or surpass her father’s sixty plus (60+) years as a Realtor®
Danya was born and raised in the Skagit Valley and graduated from MVHS in 1973 (class of ’74).
She graduated from The University of Puget Sound in 1976 Magna Cum Laude
“We are a small familyowned business with long – time ties to the community We are thrilled that people appreciate our efforts and continue to trust us with their needs.”
with her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics and Asian Studies. Danya completed the Law Clerk program in 1996 and has been a full time Realtor® since 1976. Danya has enjoyed 47 years serving Skagit Valley’s real estate needs.
The office is filled with responsible, experienced agents who are always striving to enhance their service by continuing their education. Agents have certifications in GREEN, SRES, CRS, ABR and GRI. The firm is also proud members of local Chambers of Commerce, SICBA (Skagit Island County Builders’ Association), and CBA (Commercial Brokers’ Association). Said Danya, “Our first priority is excellent customer service. We
are a small family-owned business with long – time ties to the community. We are thrilled that people appreciate our efforts and continue to trust us with their needs.”
Skagit Tradition Realty’s office hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., though the Realtor®’s work seven days
a week including evenings, by appointment. If you are interested in buying or selling a property, please call (360) 424-0300 and Office Manager Patricia Box will direct you to the broker of your choice.
Carla Fischer Dany a Wolf, Patricia Box, Suzanne J enkins, Elv a Hunter Seated, J oAnn Boudreau. Not pictured, Russ Lanker Brett Tacker J uanita Bunch, and Yolanda Sakuma.
Skagit Valley Food Co-op Celebrates 50 Years of Fresh and Local
Located in Downtown Mount Vernon, Skagit Valley Food
Co‑op has been serving the area as a natural foods grocer since 1973!
The Co op’s mission is to provide good food at a good price while taking care of its workers, the community, and the planet.
The Co op provides a different kind of grocery shopping experience – it is so much more than a grocery store. Yes, they are a great place to find fresh produce, quality ingredients, and other healthy groceries, but they also hand make hundreds of items in store! From artisan breads and chewy cookies to famous sandwiches and some of the best chicken wings in town. “We’re all about bringing people together to enjoy great food. If our name is on it, you know it’s real food, and it’s really good!”, said Marketing & Outreach Director Nicole Vander Meulen.
Inside the store you’ll find everything you need for a feel good meal, and there’s a full service deli and bakery along with hard-to-find personal care and wellness items and an entire department of gifts and home goods (and more!) in the second-floor gift shop (Voted Best Gift Shop in 2022). If you’re looking to shop local this holiday season, they have an amazing selection of handmade jewelry, local goods, organic clothing, and books! They even have gifts
for kids like puzzles, games, and art supplies for some good ol’ fashioned fun (and a little less screen time). Vander Meulen shared, “We are here to serve the community. Thank you so much to each of you for your votes in so many great categories! The Co op has
“Our food is healthy and fresh, our service is friendly, and we’re as local as it gets when it comes to grocery stores.”
always looked for ways to share our love of food and to preserve our valley by connecting people to it, and to each other. Our food is healthy and fresh, our service is friendly, and we’re as local as it gets when it comes to grocery stores. We do more than provide a vital service as a community grocery owned store working with other local businesses and farmers; we’re committed to giving back and to protecting this beautiful place we call home through a number of community giving and sustainability efforts.”
So, what is a food co op?
The Skagit Valley Food Co op is your hometown grocery store, locally owned by the people who work and shop there. Everyone is welcome to shop; they’re not a fancy club. Unlike other grocery stores, the Co op is totally independent
and never has to report to outside investors, which means they can operate on solid cooperative principles. They send more profits directly back to their employees, members, and community by paying livable wages, offering discounts, and by working with local growers, brewers, bakers, and makers (can you say job creation?) Because the Co op keeps more money in the local economy, shopping
there means hard earned dollars are more likely to stay right here in Skagit. Don’t let the old bricks fool you! What’s inside is a wonderland of wellness in every aisle. And beyond that, Co op shoppers and visitors enjoy the ambiance and homey feel. It’s a cozy, welcoming space. Come by for a visit, open daily between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. or shop online at skagitfoodcoop.com.
Swinomish Casino & Lodge Offers a World-Class Experience,
Allowing Guests to Enjoy a Wide Range of Amenities
Opened in 2012, 13moons is a highly acclaimed fine dining restaurant located inside the Swinomish Casino & Lodge, featuring the flavors and delicacies of the Pacific Northwest. Said Director of Food & Beverage Ed Healy, “Our customers are everything to us. The restaurant has many repeat visitors, from weekly regulars to guests who visit annually for their birthday or anniversary. I believe this is because we have amazing team members focused on delivering the best experience for each guest, including delicious food and an enjoyable service atmosphere. We are extremely proud of our team for being voted Best Steakhouse. We strive to provide the best dining experience in the Skagit Valley, and this vote validates all the hard work that both our front and back of house team does on a nightly basis to deliver on that goal.”
Surrounded by stunning Swinomish Native Tribal Art in a warm, comforting lodge atmosphere, the 13moons restaurant offers an unparalleled dining experience with a food menu created by Chef de Cuisine, Daniel Van Norman. The menu features hand-cut Alder wood-grilled seafood, premium-cut steaks, and the freshest flavors for dining that the Northwest has to offer. There is also an abundant wine list and locally handcrafted beers as well as a fine selection of specialty martinis using the freshest products available. Daniel is a native of the
Pacific Northwest and has been working for the Swinomish tribe since 2005. He is well known by the local tribal fisherman and is an avid angler himself.
If you’re looking for a world-class dining experience, visit 13moons restaurant in Anacortes! The patio is open
“We have amazing team members focused on delivering the best experience for each guest…”
during the warm weather season. Reservations are highly recommended.
Swinomish Golf Links is an 18-hole Par 72 Links-Style Golf Course with Incredible Views in the Pacific Northwest featuring magnificent, panoramic views, Swinomish Golf Links is an 18-hole Par 72 links-style golf course located in Anacortes, nestled between Fidalgo Bay and Similk Bay with Mount Baker as a backdrop. Golfers enjoy open tree-lined fairways, approachable greens, and many elevation changes as well as some of the most incredible views in the Pacific Northwest.
The golf course was created as a 9-hole course in the late 1930s by the Morgan family.
During the late 1950s, it was transitioned to an 18-hole course with its current layout In the fall of 2014, the Swinomish Tribe purchased
the course and continued to improve the course and playing conditions.
There is a 10,000-squarefoot practice putting green, driving range, and food and beverage on site Golf instruction is available for beginners through the professional level, with custom fitting studio sessions, custom individual performance lessons, overnight stay & play packages, overnight fitting packages, and overnight combo packages available.
The Swinomish Golf Links Performance Center has a great selection of top-ofthe-line merchandise with
competitive pricing and helpful, knowledgeable staff.
Interesting fact: The golf course architect who designed the practice green, #4 green, and all the tees, was a golf course shaper for Suncadia Prospector and Gamble Sands.
Said PGA Director of Golf Wade Iacolucci, “We are very grateful for our community’s support We have made significant improvements to the course and are proud they are being enjoyed. We focus every day on delivering an environment where our patrons have the opportunity to play their best golf.”
“Our Mission Statement emphasizes creating a
BEST BEST STEAKHOUSE STEAKHOUSE
13moons Restaurant
Swinomish Golf Links