Skagit Valley Recreation & Activity Guide Fall 2015

SKAGIT VALLEY

Recreation & Activity Guide FALL 2015

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

Recreation Without Borders .................................................... 9

Burilington Chamber of Commerce ........................................ 2

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

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

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

Kiwanis Club of Mount Vernon ................................................ 6

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

Mount Vernon City Library ....................................................... 7

Festival of Family Farms .........................................................13

Mount Vernon Downtown Association ................................... 7

Bellingham Sportsplex ...........................................................14

Skagit Conservation District.................................................... 8

WWU .........................................................................................15

Burlington Parks & Recreation................................................ 8

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

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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

Enjoy Live Music from the Troy Fair Band 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

RECREATION PROGRAMS Unless otherwise noted, pre-registration is required for all programs.

There is a $2 discount for Mount Vernon City Residents who register for 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 Child and Babysitting Safety Class 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 knocks, hand washing, meal times, bedtime, and providing emergency care (first aid and CPR).

DATES: Wednesday, November 11 or Monday, December 21 TIME: 9am-3:00pm Age: 10 years and older Location: Hillcrest Park Skylight Room Fee: $42 Minimum: 10 Instructor: Sheila Davis, Certified First Aid/CPR Instructor American Safety & Health Institute Note: Bring lunch and a drink Habla Conmigo: Spanish Classes for Birth to 5 years!

Come learn Spanish or brush up on your skills while introducing your child to a second language. We will introduce the Spanish language through song, dance, stories and fun! Topics may include animals, body parts, colors, numbers and more! This is an

interactive caregiver and child participation class.

Class Days: Mondays and Wednesdays Session 1: Sept. 21, 23, 28, 30, Oct. 5, 7 Session 2: October 12, 14 19, 21, 26, 28 Session 3: November 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18 Time: 10:30am-11:00am Location: Vaux Retreat Center Fee: $57 Min: 4 Max: 8 Age: Birth to 5 years along with caregiver or parent Instructor: Ariel Williams ADULT & FAMILY TRIPS Recreation Without Borders specializes in trips, tours and adventures throughout the Northwest. Registration fees include supervision, transportation 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.

Seattle Tilth’s Harvest Fair, U-District Farmers Market and Sky Nursery Calling all green thumbs and foodies alike!

The adventure begins at Seattle Tilth’s annual Harvest Fair. This fun, lively handson community festival includes workshops, cooking demonstrations, tasty food, live music and much more. Next up: the University District’s Farmers Market. Named one of the top 10 markets in the country by Conde Nast Traveler, this market is simply the best! Last stop: Sky Nursery. Once here, special activities include the Annual Sidewalk Sale and the Odd Plant Show and Sale.

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

Day/date: Saturday, September 12 Time: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Fee: $63 Trip Leader: Lauren Woodmansee Min.: 8 Max.: 8 Register by: Tuesday, September 8 Whatcom Winery and Distillery Tour Our neighbors to the north are known for their amazing ales and lagers but did you know that Whatcom County is home to over a dozen award-winning wineries and distilleries as well? Throughout the day we will visit and tour a variety of locations featuring wine, mead, spirits and more. Get your taste buds and palates ready! Please note: additional tasting fees may apply and are not included in your registration fee.

Ages: 21 years and older Day/date: Saturday, October 24 Time: 10:30 am – 6:30 pm Fee: $63 Trip Leader: Lauren Woodmansee Min.: 8 Max.: 10 Register by: Friday, October 16 SAM! BAM! Alakazam!

For a limited time only, the Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is proud to present Intimate Impressionism from the National Gallery of Art (in Washington, DC). Comprised of paintings considered to be the jewels of one of the finest collections of French Impressionism in the world it includes works from masters such as Monet, Degas, Renoir, Cezanne and more.

After exploring the museum, we’ll then travel to the Eastside and enjoy a no-host lunch in downtown Bellevue before continuing onto the Bellevue Arts Museum (BAM). Known for its outstanding permanent exhibits, BAM also features many thought-provoking special exhibits and community galleries.

Ages: 12 years and older (under 18 with adult supervision) Day/date: Friday, November 6

4 Time: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm Fee: $74 Seniors (62+); $93 Adults Trip Leader: Lauren Woodmansee Min.: 8 Max.: 10 Register by: Friday, October 30 A Victorian Country Christmas in Puyallup Today we head to the Washington State Fair Events Center and step back in time at the 28th Annual Victorian Country Christmas Festival. Transformed into a Victorian village, it features old-fashioned streets lined with over 500 Victorian stores all tended by shopkeepers in Victorian attire. Soak up the atmosphere of music, lights, décor and a star-studded lineup of holiday entertainment while enjoying delicious gourmet food, wine and taste treats.

Ages: 12 years and older (under 18 with adult supervision) Day/date: Wednesday, December 2 Time: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm Fee: $69 Trip Leader: Lauren Woodmansee Min.: 8 Max.: 10 Register by: Wednesday, November 25 Granville Island and Van Dusen Botanical Garden’s Festival of Lights Back by request! Granville Island is brimming with good tidings, good cheer and good eats. Once here you’ll have plenty of time to shop this unique location and enjoy a delicious no-host meal before heading over to Van Dusen Botanical Gardens. Each year the Festival of Lights transforms the garden into a winter wonderland complete with elves, choreographed light shows, strolling carolers and so much more! On the drive home we’ll take a detour and check out some festive neighborhood displays. 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 16 Time: 12:30 – 9:00 pm

Fee: $74 Trip Leader: Lauren Woodmansee Min.: 8 Max.: 10 Register by: Wednesday, December 9 ADULT PROGRAMS Pickleball – A Lifetime Sport!

Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in North America and has gained popularity because it can be played competitively by both younger players and seniors alike. 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. In Skagit Valley, a local group called skagitpickle.org supports tournaments and recreational play in Anacortes, La Conner, and now in partnership with Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation. Call (360) 336-6215 for more information on future pickleball open gym and outdoor play. We will keep a list of interested participants to keep updated on the status of this new program!

Special Effects Makeup Class This class will teach the basics of effects make up, such as fake blood recipies, 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.

Dates: Fridays: October 9th and 16th Time: 6:30pm-8pm Min: 10 Location: Vaux Retreat Center Fee: $22 Instructor: Daniel Salas 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. Wellbehaved children, 10 years and older may attend this class.

Days/Dates: Wednesdays for 6 weeks Session 1: Oct 14, 21, 28, Nov. 4, 11, 18 Session 2: Dec 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Jan 6 Time: 6:00pm to 6:50pm Min: 6 Max: 10 Location: Hillcrest Park, Skylight Room Fee: $87 Instructor: Carmen Williams, CPDT-ka, AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Owner of Sunny Lane Dog Academy: www.sunnylanek9. com Note: Please bring treats, collar, leash and mat or rug to class Basic Training Doggies 8 months and older, with no prior obedience training, will be taught basic skills like sit, down, leave-it, stay, coming when called, wait at door, loose-leash walking and heel. Hand signals and verbal commands are taught. We will also work on any existing behavioral problems like barking, digging and jumping. This is a good class for the adopted shelter dog or older dog who needs some stimulation or a refresher course. Clicker use is optional. NOTE: DOGS DO NOT COME THE FIRST NIGHT OF CLASS, FIRST CLASS IS DOG OWNERS ONLY. Dogs will join on the second class. Well-behaved children, 10 years and older may attend this class.

Days/Dates: Wednesdays for 6 weeks Session 1: Oct 14, 21, 28, Nov. 4, 11, 18 Time: 7:00pm-7:5pm Location: Hillcrest Park, Skylight Room Fee: $87 Min: 6 Max: 10 Instructor: Carmen Williams, CPDT-ka, AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Owner of Sunny Lane Dog Academy: www.sunnylanek9. com

Note: Please bring treats, collar, 6’ ft leash 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 problems. It is safe and fun for dogs and owners! Well-behaved children, 10 years and older may attend this class.

Days/Dates: Wednesdays for 6 weeks ~ Session 1: Dec 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Jan 6 Time: 7:00-7:50pm Location: Hillcrest Park, Skylight Room Fee: $87 Min: 6 Max: 8 Instructor: Carmen Williams, CPDT-ka, AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Owner of Sunny Lane Dog Academy: www.sunnylanek9. com Note: Please bring your dog on a regular collar (no choke chains) and 6-ft leash. Please bring your dog’s favorite treats for the first class.

FREE Warm up to Tai Chi Class As we begin our fall Tai Chi classes through Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation we invite you to come and experience some of the movements offered in both of the upcoming classes to see which class might be best for you. Everyone is welcome.

Date: Tuesday, September 8th Time: 6:00pm to 7:00pm Location: Hillcrest Park Lodge (outdoors if weather permits) Cost: Free!!!

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

5 Session 1 Mondays, September 14-October 26th Session 2: November 2-December 21 Location: Hillcrest Park Lodge Time: 6:00 to 7:15 PM Ages: 15 years and older Fee: Session 1: $77, Session 2: $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 fun series of movements using Tai Chi principles. This class is an excellent introduction for those who are interested in Tai Chi or Qigong but don’t know where to begin. It is also excellent for Tai Chi or Qigong practitioners who wish more variety in their practice. Wear loose fitting clothes. 7 weeks, ongoing classes DaYs: Thursdays Session 1: September 10--October 22 Session 2: October 29- December 17th Time: 3:45pm to 5pm Ages: 15 years and older 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.

Beginning Adult Golf Instruction Start with the basics and learn from the best at Eaglemont Golf Course! Four instructional classes cover grip, stance, alignment, chipping, putting and golf etiquette. Balls are provided.

This class will get you started and on the course in no time! Great instruction from the golf pros at Eaglemont Golf Course!!

Days: Tuesdays for 4 weeks Dates: September 8, 15, 22, 29 Time: 4:30-6:00pm Age: 18+ Location: Eaglemont Golf Course Fee: $57 Instructor: Eaglemont PGA Golf Professionals

SPECIAL EVENTS Ray Reep Salmon Derby Join us for some serious fishing action at the Ray Reep Salmon Derby at Edgewater Park. This is a Silver Derby!

Prizes are awarded along with opportunities to win the many raffle items. Derby tickets available at Mount Vernon Parks & Recreation for $15 per ticket.

Date: Saturday, October 3 TIME: 3-5PM LOCATION: Edgewater Park For more information, call our office (360) 3366215 or online at www.mountvernonwa.gov.

Monster Mash Dance People First of Skagit County and Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation are collaborating to sponsor a seasonal community dance! Get dressed up in your Halloween costume and join us for a night of dancing fun!

Date: Friday, October 16th TIME: 6-8pm Location: MV School facility Fee: FREE! Age: 16 years+ “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 5th TIME: 8:00am – 11:00am COST: $6.00 entry and breakfast 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 5th TIME: 8:30am-1:30pm Location: Hillcrest Park Recreation Building

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JOIN US! 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 • The Eliminate Tetanus Project

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

• Children’s Art Festival

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Fall @ Mount Vernon City Library Storytimes for children ages birth to 8: September 15-November 19

September is Library Card Sign-up Month! Sign up for a new library card at Mount Vernon City Library and enter to win a Samsung Galaxy Nook.

Already have a card? Renew and enter to win a Snoopy gift basket.

Come on down and find cool stuff at your library!

Friends of the Mount Vernon Library Book Sale:

September 25-26

Friends Appreciation Day:

coming in October with food, prize drawings, and a chance to talk to officers about their group— stay tuned for more info!

Skagit Reads Spare Parts by Joshua Davis:

read the book to get ready for programs in October and November!

(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

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Harvest Moon Festival Cider, Brews, & Blues Saturday, Sept. 19, 4:30-9 pm Performances by: Polly O’Keary and the Rhythm Method, Bobby Holland and the Breadline, and the Badd Dog Blues Society.

Ticket information available at www. mountvernondowntown.org

Small Business Saturday Saturday, Nov. 28, all day

Shop at our independently-owned small businesses FIRST!

First Thursday Art Walks Sept. 3 & Oct. 1, 5-8 pm

More than 15 downtown venues, each hosting work by local and regional artists.

Halloween Safe Trick-or Treating Saturday, Oct. 31, 3-5 pm

Costume Contest Immediately following at Historic Lincoln Theatre Prizes awarded in age categories 0-4, 5-8, 9+, and Young At Heart (18+)

Old Fashioned Christmas Parade & Tree-Lighting Sunday, Dec. 6, 5 pm

Tree Lighting Ceremony in Pine Square will follow shortly after the parade ends, around 6 pm.

Ladies’ Night Out Thursday, Nov. 5, 10 am-8 pm

Shop all day until 8 pm! Gift bags with lovely surprises & valuable coupons may be purchased in downtown businesses in early October.

Guys’ Night Wednesday, Dec. 9, 5-8 pm

FREE GIFT WRAP, shopping assistance, in-store specials & gift registries.

For more information, contact (360) 336-3801 dep.mvda@gmail.com

www.mountvernondowntown.org.

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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 22nd 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 2015 Training Dates:

Classes will begin on Wednesday, SEPTEMBER 23rd • 6 pm - 9 pm and continue every Wednesday evening for 8 weeks. Last session scheduled for Thursday, November 12th (due to holiday). Saturday field tours are tentatively scheduled for Sept 26th, Oct 10th, & Oct 17th. Pre-register by September 18th (The class fills up rapidly and is limited to 25 - first come basis)

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360.755.9649

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900 E Fairhaven Ave

Parks & Recreation | recreation@burlingtonwa.gov

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Burlington Harvest Festival and Pumpkin Pitch Saturday, September 26 10am-4pm Skagit River Park 1100 S Skagit Street FREE kids activities, inflatables, pony rides, pie eating contest, zucchini races, wagon rides, trebuchets, food vendors!

LIVE MUSIC Troy Fair Band from 2pm-4pm after the Pumpkin Pitch Awards!

~ HELP! Zucchinis needed! ~ Drop off at the Burlington Parks & Recreation Office 900 E. Fairhaven Ave

Kids Giant Garage Sale Saturday, November 7, 9am-Noon Stop by before or after the 10am Veterans Day Parade!

Holiday Vendor Party Saturday, November 21, 10am-3pm

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

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Babysitting Classes with Camp Fire

Oct 5, Nov 14, Dec 22, 9:30am-4:30pm, $42 grades 5-8

MiniKickers with British Challenger

Soccer Classes for kids ages 3-5 yrs Tuesdays, Sept 8-Nov 10, 9am/10am Sign up online www.challengersports.com/minikickers

Art Classes for Kids ages 7-12!

Coming also this fall!

Duck Decoy Carving for 12 and up!

Max’s Cartooning/ Illustration Classes Burlington Bike Park Classes Check our website for updates!

Wednesdays 4:30-6pm Acrylic Basics, Sept 9-30, 4:30-6:30*pm; Kid Made Modern, Oct 7-28; Oil Pastel Painting, Nov 4-25; Paper Art, Dec 2-16 Prices vary from $40-$50

Hatha Yoga Class

Every Thursday evening 5:30-6:45pm, $10 drop in or $6 w/punch card!

Yoga Foundations Class

Great for beginners!

Thursdays, Oct 1-22 or Oct 29-Nov 19, 4-5pm, $30

Photography Classes with Andy Porter

Better Pictures w/your DSLR Camera 9/12 & 10/8 Compose a Perfect Picture 9/15 & 10/20 Basics of Photo Editing 9/23 & 10/27 $40, 3 hr. class, times vary.

Register over the phone with Visa/MC 755-9649

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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

Through Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation…

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

Thursdays in the Parks-Weekly Walking Adventures Thursdays, September 10-October 8: Fall Series #1 Thursdays, October 15-November 12: Fall Series #2

Seattle Tilth’s Harvest Fair, U-District Farmers Market and Sky Nursery Saturday, September 12 Whatcom Winery and Distillery Tour Saturday, October 24 SAM! BAM! Alakazam!

Friday, November 6 A Victorian Country Christmas in Puyallup Wednesday, December 2 Granville Island and Van Dusen Botanical Garden’s Festival of Lights Wednesday, December 16

Vashon Sheepdog Classic Sunday, September 13 Washington State History Museum: A New Deal for WA State Parks Thursday, September 17 Ireland-The Best of the Emerald Island Thursday, September 24-Wednesday, October 7 11th Annual Okanagan Valley BC Wine Tour Friday-Sunday, October 9-11 Hitchcock’s Psycho with the Seattle Symphony Friday, October 30 NFNF Hike: Fall Colors in the Cascades Sunday, October 18 Harrison Hot Springs Sunday, October 25 Nifty Thrifty Store Tour Saturday, November 7 NFNF Hike: Mystery Hike Sunday, November 15 Holiday Shopping...Shop ‘Til You Drop!

Saturday, November 21 ‘Tis the Season Friday, December 11

Check out our website for MUCH, MUCH MORE!

Through Bellingham Parks and Recreation…

Call 360-778-7000 to register or for more information go to www.cob.org/services/recreation (Pick up also available in Skagit County!)

Howe Sound Fjords, Sea to Sky Gondola and Squamish, BC Sunday, September 20 Do the Zoo and Slice of Pie Too! Saturday, October 17 Dale Chihuly’s Garden and Glass and Pike Place Market Friday, November 13 Migrating and Wintering Birds of the Skagit Valley Wednesday, December 2

Through Skagit County Senior Centers...

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

Granville Island and Bard on the Beach-Love’s Labour Lost Wednesday, September 16 Washington State Fair...Giddy Up to Puyallup!

Tuesday, September 22 Argosy Locks Cruise and Downtown Seattle Friday, October 16 33rd Annual Tacoma Holiday Food and Gift Festival Friday, October 23 Beautiful Orcas Island…An Artful Adventure Wednesday, November 4 Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts and Granville Island Wednesday, November 18 Foss Waterway Seaport and Port Defiance Zoolights Thursday, December 3 Holidays Pops at the Seattle Symphony Saturday, December 12

Through Marysville Parks and Recreation…

Call 360-363-8400 to register or for more information go to www.marysvillewa.gov (Pick up also available in Skagit County!)

Wenatchee River Salmon Festival and Colorful Leavenworth Saturday, September 19 Fort Nisqually Candlelight Tour Saturday, October 3 Northwest Quilt, Craft and Sewing Festival & Sumner Hometown Holiday Celebration Saturday, November 14 Victoria, BC Holiday Getaway Saturday-Sunday, December 5-6

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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(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 Having grown up in Skagit County, I can say

Adult Sports Leagues & Tournaments Fall COED Volleyball Leagues Three 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 A, B & C. 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 7 OR Friday, October 9 Ages: 16 years and older Days/dates: Wednesdays, beginning October 14 OR Fridays, beginning October 16 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 5 Ages: 16 years and older Day/dates: Mondays, beginning October 12 Time: 6:30 – 9:30 pm Location: Skagit Valley College Gym Fee: $445.00 per team

without reservation that this past summer’s weather ranks as one of the nicest I can recall. “Nice” being a somewhat relative term, as my summers have lost the substance of adolescence, perhaps due to the drudgery of spending too may sunny days tethered to a desk in downtown Mount Vernon. As years pass, the freedom of yesteryear’s youth likely clouds the boyhood harking, skewing the way I remember summers of formative years, when daylight hours were spent under blue skies, framed at the horizon by a distant archipelago of stratus clouds, as we peddled two-to-abike to the old Skyline pool, or snared Dungeness crab from the Guemes Dock using retrofitted derelict bike tire rims, or hurled ourselves fearlessly from the cliff-side rocks of Whistle Lake. It’s hard to ever remember a rainy summer day when I think back to those years. Probably because we didn’t let a little drizzle get in the way of our plans—rain or shine, there were stones to turn over and a labyrinth of wildlands to roam.

As the parks director of Skagit County, I know of the good fortune to manage and maintain some of the lands I once roamed as a kid, a job that couldn’t be done with the help of an incredible staff and a cadre of dedicated volunteers. It takes a Women’s Fall 5-on-5 Basketball League This league is open to women 18 years and older. Games will be 5-on-5 and utilize two referees per game. Games will be played primarily on Thursday evenings at Skagit Valley College and consist of a 6-game regular season and a single elimination league tournament. Same color and numbered shirts are required.

Register by: Tuesday, October 6 Ages: 18 years and older Days/dates: Thursdays beginning October 15 Time: 6:30 – 9:30 pm Locations: Skagit Valley College Gym Fee: $325.00 team fee 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: Monday, November 2 Ages: 16 years and older Day/date: Saturday, November 14 Time: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm Location: Mount Baker Middle School Fee: $115.00 per team

village to steward our parks and we have some great villagers attending to this mission, including our devoted group of nine Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Members, a group that deserves recognition. When you’re out and about and stumble across Ralph Rowland, Mike Elde, Mark Dobie, Lloyd Brown, John Semrau, Liz McNett Crowl, Kevin Loy, Chris Allen, or Elizabeth Detillion, make sure to thank them for all the time they spend deliberating parks and recreation issues. Parks Board Chair John Semrau has spent over 25 years on the advisory Board and Lloyd Brown has given over 20 years. Now that’s dedication!

We also would thank our volunteers, many who have spent thousands of hours doing work for our parks and recreation departments. Rick Machin is a top volunteer, having spent almost ten years at Sharpe Park, removing dense groves of Scotch Broom. In the Broom’s absence a vast rock meadow display of diverse wildflowers has taken residence for park visitors to enjoy-his work has become your reward.

Hats off to all of you who make our parks a better place to recreate. We couldn’t do it without you.

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.

Youth Sports Leagues & Camps MV Girls Basketball – PRE-SEASON Jamboree S.C.P.R. is co-hosting this PRE-SEASON JAMBOREE with Mount Vernon Girls AAU Basketball. This will be a ONE DAY only jamboree on Saturday, October 17th where teams can play anywhere from 2-4 games. These are meant to be low cost, no stakes games to provide an additional, low stress outlet for your teams to prepare with LIVE GAME experience for the upcoming regular season.

Register by: Friday, October 9 Ages: 5th – 8th Grade Teams Day/dates: Saturdays, October 17 Time: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm (times may vary depending upon game schedules) Location: SVC Fee: $140.00 per team (2 game min.), plus $70.00 per additional game (2 additional games max.).

2015 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

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

Skagit County Parks and Recreation • (360) 416-1350 • www.skagitcounty.net/parks “Creating Community through People, Parks and Programs”

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(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: Friday, October 2 (Late registrations will be accepted only if space is available) Ages: 5th – 8th graders Day/dates: Saturdays, beginning October 24 Time: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm (times may vary depending upon game schedules) Location: Various area gyms Fee: $640.00 Team $90.00 Individual 2015 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 9th. 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 6 Ages: 4th – 8th graders Day/dates: Saturdays – November 21 and/or December 19 Time: Varies Location: Skagit County Gyms Fee: $140.00 per date (up to two dates possible) 2016 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 years old. The camp focuses primarily on the development of proper basketball fundamentals. Participants are divided into

Ages: 4th – 8th graders Day/dates: Saturdays, beginning January 9 Time: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm (times will vary depending on game schedules) Location: Various area gyms Fee: $645.00 Team $90.00 Individual 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!

Register by: Thursday, January 14 Ages: 5 - 13 years old Day/dates: Saturdays, beginning January 16 Time: 9:00 – 11:30 am Location: Mount Baker Middle School Fee: $68.00 ($5.00 discount for the second child from each family) 2016 Boys S.W.I.S.H. Basketball League 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 7 (Late registrations will be accepted only if space is available)

2016 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 8 Ages: 9th – 12th grade boys Day/dates: Sundays, beginning January 17 Time: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm Location: Skagit Valley College (SVC) Gym Fee: $425.00 per team

23rd 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 Skagit County Fairgr @co.skagit.wa.us

Check Out the Car Show!!!

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

15 9:00 am ~ 4:00 pm 20 , th 25 r be em pt Se , Friday 00 pm th, 2015 9:00 am ~ 4: Saturday, September 26 n site parking: $2.00 Admission: $2.00 O

3rd Annual Fall Car Showdown!!! Saturday 9:00a-2:30p FACILITY RENTALS AVAILABLE!

Contact us to check on availability for your next event.

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October 3 & 4, 2015 • 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

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CONTINUING EDUCATION Meet the Instructor Prose Writing

Monday, September 21

Recognize, develop and implement techniques for effective fiction, narrative nonfiction, memoir & essay writing

5:30 p.m. at Village Books, Fairhaven

Project Management Professional

Tuesday, September 22

Techniques for managing work-related projects or preparing for your PMP® or CAPM® exam.

5:30 p.m. at Village Books, Fairhaven

Wednesday, September 16 Social Media: Building Community

Use social media to market your business & reach your professional goals.

5:30 p.m. at Village Books, Fairhaven

Thursday, October 1 5:30 p.m. at WWU, Academic West 203

Building Your Professional Brand

Focus, build & promote your professional brand to increase business in today’s competitive market. Ideal for Sole Proprietors.

wwu.edu/Enrich • profdev@wwu.edu Active Minds Changing Lives AA/EO. For disability accommodation, please call (360) 650-3308

Wednesday, September 23 5:30 p.m. at Bellingham Public Library Lecture Room

Event calendar SEPTEMBER 26 Burlington Harvest Festival & Pumpkin Pitch

Saturday, September 26 • 10am-4pm City of Burlington Parks & Recreation Skagit River Park- 1100 South Skagit Street, Burlington 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

Enjoy Live Music from the Troy Fair Band 2pm-4pm

Shuttle service to and from parking lot to festival

Frazier Farms

Free kids activity booths, inflatables, & pony rides! Pie eating contest, zucchini races, wagon rides, and trebuchet! Food, espresso and ice cream vendors too. LIVE MUSIC Troy Fair Band after the Pumpkin Pitch Awards Ceremony until 4pm!

City of Burlington Parks & Recreation at (360) 755-9649 or online at: http://burlington-chamber.com/harvest-festival/

Recreation Without Borders Ireland-The Best of the Emerald Isle September 24-October 7 Join us on this amazing adventure. Highlights include: Dublin, Trinity College, Dingle Peninsula, Kilkenny, Kinsale, Rock of Cashel, Blasket Island Center, Aran Islands, Kylemore Abbey, Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills, Belfast, New Grange, Trim, National Trust and Irish Heritage locations, private walking tours, castles, gardens, pubs, trad music and so much more! Call RWB at 360-7667109 for more information or visit our website at www. recreationwithoutborders.com

OCTOBER 3 Ray Reep Salmon Derby Saturday, October 3 • 3-5PM Edgewater Park Join us for some serious fishing action at the Ray Reep Salmon Derby at Edgewater Park. This is a Silver Derby! Prizes are awarded along with opportunities to win the many raffle items. Derby tickets available at Mount Vernon Parks & Recreation for $15 per ticket.

For more information, call our office (360) 336-6215 or online at www.mountvernonwa.gov.

3 & 4 Skagit Valley Festival of Family Farms

October 3rd & 4th • 10am-4pm 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.

The festival is your chance to talk to your farmers and follow your food from the field to the table. This one of a kind event offers a hands-on experience learning what it takes to run a farm; from growing crops to feeding animals and supplying products to the public. Our farmers look forward to sharing their knowledge and products with you and your family!

Call (360) 421-4729 or check out our website at: www. farmtour.com.

NOVEMBER 7 Kids Giant Garage Sale

Saturday, November 7 • 9am-12pm City of Burlington Parks & Recreation Burlington Parks and Rec Center, 900 E. Fairhaven Avenue

Parks & Recreation

Fun event where the kids are the sellers!

Toys, movies, bikes, games, action figures, clothes, etc.

Everything is kid related! Bring cash and shopping bags, you’ll have a great time!

City of Burlington Parks & Recreation at (360) 755-9649 or online at: burlingtonwa.gov/recreation

21 Harvest Market Saturday, November 21st • 10am-3pm Mount Vernon Farmers Market Skagit Station, 105 East Kincaid, Mount Vernon Mount Vernon Farmers Market goes indoors for a special Harvest Market, offering music and good times, artisan crafts and holiday gifts to support local people, local economy, and local farm fresh food.

Website: mountvernonfarmersmarket.org or E-mail: mvfarmer1@gmail.com

21 Holiday Vendor Market Saturday, November 21 • 10am-3pm City of Burlington Parks & Recreation Burlington Parks and Rec Center, 900 E. Fairhaven Avenue

Parks & Recreation

All your favorite home party vendors in one place!

Shop, enter raffle drawings, book a party, meet new consultants and find new products! Free admission and

complementary coffee all day!

City of Burlington Parks & Recreation at (360) 755-9649 or online at: burlingtonwa.gov/recreation

DECEMBER 4 Santa’s Workshop Family Night

Friday, December 4 • 6:30pm-8pm Skagit Valley Family YMCA 215 East Fulton Street, Mount Vernon

Gather up your family and join us for an evening in Winter Wonderland! Kids and parents can create holiday decorations, decorate cookies, get their pictures taken with Santa, play carnival games, and take a trip on Santa’s sleigh through the pool for a North Pole Adventure!

Warm up with some hot apple cider and a snack as you leave. Please bring a donation of non-perishable food, arts and crafts supplies, toiletries, and/or reusable water bottles to support our YMCA Oasis Teen Shelter.

AGES: 3-12 years old with parents.

FEE: $5 per child. Volunteers are also needed.

CONTACT: Youth & Family Director, Julie Farmer j.farmer@ skagitymca.org

5 “Breakfast with Santa”

Saturday, December 5th • 8:00am – 11:00am Mount Vernon Parks & Recreation Enjoy breakfast of pancakes and ham, and don’t forget to bring your camera for some great photo opportunities with Santa! Tickets available at the door.

COST: $6.00 entry and breakfast for all ages LOCATION: Hillcrest Park Lodge MVPR: 360-336-6215

5 Children’s Shopping Extravaganza

Saturday, Dec. 5th • 8:30am – 1:30pm Mount Vernon Parks & Recreation Kids!! Don’t miss this great shopping opportunity geared just for your budget. All items are priced $5.00 and under.

Location: Skylight Room at Hillcrest Park MVPR: 360-336-6215