Skagit & Whatcom Living by Sound Publishing, Inc.

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Table of Contents Welcome Letters....................................................................6 Relocation...........................................................................10 Business/Employment..........................................................20 Communities and Neighborhoods.........................................24 Education............................................................................32 Senior Living........................................................................36 Healthcare...........................................................................40 Dining..................................................................................46 Recreation...........................................................................50 Saving Certificates............................................................... 57 List of Advertisers................................................................60

Photography Julie Hanich

Advertising Coordinator Susie Stoltz

Inside This Issue

Circulation Charlee McRill

Resolve to Get in the Black in 2009.................................................. 18 Best Way to Raise Your Credit Score................................................ 23 One Solution for Four Resolutions.................................................... 39 Strategies for Snagging a Ski Season Deal...................................... 53

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866-921-1014 Skagit & Whatcom Living â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 2 - No 1

Historic waterfront communities, berry farms, wildlife and tulip fields exploding with color showcase Skagit County’s western flank. On its eastern edge, mountain peaks named Forbidden and Formidable soar to the sky while a spectacular stretch of highway leads into the North Cascades National Park. In between extremes, Skagit County’s quaint communities and nature’s bounty combine to make it an inviting adventure. Just an hour from Seattle, charming La Conner appears to be posing for a postcard at every angle with its bustling waterfront shops and galleries, mesmerizing mix of masts on working and pleasure craft, and sleek bridge over the waterway – all guarded by glacier-clad Mt. Baker. Nearby Anacortes is the crown of Fidalgo Island, the only San Juan Island accessible by bridge. Anacortes is a natural destination for those seeking sailing and power yacht charters, whale-watching excursions, kayak and scuba outfitters as well as charming restaurants, shops and galleries. Washington State Ferries offers daily sailings from Anacortes to the rest of the San Juan Islands as well as to Victoria, Canada. Recently named the Best Small City in America, attractive Mount Vernon drapes the banks of the Skagit River. Mount Vernon is the hub for the county’s booming bulb growing industry and host city for the annual Tulip Festival. Their historic downtown is full of diverse shopping, twenty two great restaurants, the Historic Lincoln Theatre and the newly opened Skagit Station. The new Eagle Rock Challenge course boasts activities for any outdoor adventures along with the many miles of trails and scenic overlooks. With the 2004 addition of McIntyre Hall, Mount Vernon has truly become the hub of cultural activity in the county Two renowned roads are prominent in Burlington. Here, cliff-hugging Chuckanut Drive begins its way to Bellingham with powerful views of the San Juan Islands en route. Meanwhile, the North Cascades Highway leaves the population corridor here for rural stretches of river valley and rugged mountains. The 76-mile run of this highway through Skagit County is a popular stretch of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. Concrete’s name comes from its cement-making heritage but its setting is anything but over paved. With magnificent Mt. Baler and Shannon Lakes as neighbors, Concrete draws hikers, campers, birdwatchers and boaters. Rockport offers one of Washington’s most attractive state parks. Between Rockport and Marblemount, a year-round scenic wildlife scenic corridor and back roads cycling solitude can be found. Salmon fishing and eagle watching are popular throughout the Skagit River Valley but nowhere as much as here. Come and explore Skagit County, Washington’s backyard! Kristen Whitener, IOM President/CEO Mount Vernon Chamber 2007 President for the Skagit County Chamber Executives Association www.visitskagitvalley.com

Welcome to the Bellingham Mt. Baker region! As the President and CEO of Whatcom County Tourism, I am pleased to introduce you to Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism and our extensive information resources. As you become familiar with your new home, I encourage you to stop in our office, located in the “Lighthouse” just off I-5 at exit 253. The Bellingham/Mt Baker region is truly a refreshing change, whether it’s a vacation destination or your new home. Our network of members help us provide in-depth information to visitors about what to experience, where to shop and how to take advantage of local services. In addition, our office works with local residents on a daily basis to find similar information, plan business meetings and social gatherings, seek event planning resources, and help entertain out-of-town guests. Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism is the number one source for ideas about where to hike, charter a fishing boat, discover farms and culinary delights, step onto a whale watching cruise, find one of the many parks or just provide you with accurate maps. Our goal is to facilitate the exploration and appreciation of the many attractions and services throughout the region – which not only enhance our desirability as a visitor destination, but also improve the quality of life for those of us who live in this beautiful area. Come visit us at 904 Potter Street; visit our expansive Website at www.bellingham.org or give us a call at 360-671-3990. We look forward to meeting you and serving your needs!

Loni Rahm

President & CEO Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism

Dear Future Resident of Northwest Washington, The North Puget Sound Association of REALTORS® welcomes you to Skagit County, Whatcom County and Whidbey Island in Island County. Our little portion of the world is located in the northwest portion of Western Washington State between Seattle to the south and Vancouver, B.C. in Canada in the north. The majestic Cascade Mountains and Mount Baker stand to the east, overlooking fertile valleys boasting a variety of agricultural crops and emerging communities. The powerful Skagit River flows through the Skagit Valley westward toward the beautiful San Juan Islands. World famous tulip fields blanket the valley in the spring. Flocks of Canada geese, snow geese and trumpeter swans can be seen here in the winter. Bald eagles soar overhead year-round and great blue herons stand proudly along the shorelines. This is a special place to live, with thriving and diverse communities coupled with extraordinary natural resources. The population is as varied as the climate. The average annual rainfall on the coast in the Anacortes area is a mere 26 inches; while 20 miles to the east in Mount Vernon more than 32 inches; and in Concrete it’s a bone-soaking 65 inches. Cultural sites include the Skagit County Historical Museum, the Museum of Northwest Art, W. T. Preston sternwheeler and the Anacortes Museum. See a film at one of the many multiplex theaters or movie houses, including the historic Lincoln Theater in old downtown Mount Vernon or you might enjoy attending the theater at the McIntyre Hall located at Skagit Valley Junior College. Bellingham is home to Western Washington University, and the city reflects the youth and energy from the campus in our midst. This area is also home to many world famous authors, artists and performers. For your dining pleasure, NW Washington has every variety of restaurant imaginable, from fast food to world class cuisine. The economy in Skagit County is booming and it is regarded as one of the fastest growing areas in the state and the nation. Agriculture, fishing, wood products, tourism, international trade, and specialized manufacturing make up the economy of Skagit Valley. With its accessible ports and refineries, Skagit County is also the center of the states petroleum industry. The national trend toward employment in retail trades and personal/professional services also is evident in Whatcom County, with malls and almost every national retail chain represented within our borders. Developers have seized the only pristine waterfront on the West Coast for upscale communities in Blaine and Birch Bay. The upcoming Winter Olympics in Vancouver has just added fuel to an already blazing economic outlook. The real estate market in Northwest Washington is also flourishing, which is why we urge you to use a licensed REALTOR®. Buying a home is one of the biggest financial transactions you will ever make. REALTORS® subscribe to a strict code of ethics, which enables them to utilize cooperative relationships, and make ethical decisions to better serve their clients. REALTORS® are the real estate experts, who strive to go above and beyond when it comes to serving their clients by continually educating themselves on market trends and conditions. Buying a home is one of the biggest financial transactions you will ever make. Despite all the bad news about the real estate market on the national level and the abundance of homes that are in the foreclosure process, Washington State has been rated as 50th out of 50 states in the housing foreclosure market. The good news is that the real estate market in the three-county area of Northwest Washington is thriving! In fact, this area makes all the negative real estate forecasters across the country look way off base. We are noticing an increase in new construction home starts throughout our county. You’ll find single family residences in Mount Vernon, townhouse style homes and condos in Sedro Woolley, plus an exclusive group of communities developed in Burlington. If you’re feeling the spirit of adventure, take a leisurely drive over the picturesque Deception Pass Bridge and enter Whidbey Island, home of the Whidbey Island Naval Air Station and historic Fort Casey. Newly developed gated senior housing communities and beautiful Pacific Sound views are some of the welcoming features of the island. Interest rates are the lowest they’ve been all year. This is a great time to invest in real estate. As REALTORS®, we care about the communities in which we live, fight for the rights of homeowners on the local and state levels and believe in giving back to the communities where we work and live. Make sure your agent is a REALTOR®. Happy hunting,

Vickie Crook 2008 NPSAR President

For more information on how to find a REALTOR® near you, visit www.npsar.com.

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relocation

Relocation requires a well-documented game plan that goes beyond boxes and moving vans

Relocation—whether it’s down the block or across three time zones—can be a traumatic time for the family doing the moving, as well as the friends, relatives and neighbors who are being left behind. The move may be a personal choice or required to further the career of a member of the family. Either way, scheduling the required steps and keeping everybody— and everything—organized will go a long way toward making the transition a pleasant memory.

Planning the Move

Like most things in life, moving is best done by making a plan and sticking to it. There are several factors to consider when first planning a move. First, decide whether you will move yourself or hire a professional to pack and unpack your belongings, or maybe something in-between. If you decide on the services of a pro, the Yellow Pages are a logical second step. First try talking to friends and neighbors who have used professional movers in the 10

past. References are always the best way to go. Prices will vary. The basic cost of a professional move is based on the weight of your household items and the time involved. Get estimates, several estimates if you have the time. You can get a binding estimate that holds the mover responsible for the move at a specific price. A non-binding estimate is usually only an approximation of time, but no guarantee that the bill may not be more than the estimate. Federal law, however, limits moving companies from charging more than 10 percent above the non-binding estimate. Never sign or accept any order for a moving service unless the amount is clearly displayed on each page of the written estimate. Make sure the pick-up date and time are clearly written on the estimate, as well as the estimated delivery date. Often times, movers will charge considerably less for moves that are not at the beginning or end of each month, and less again on weekdays and during normal working hours. Any time outside the ordinary can

Images by Julie Hanich

be subject to an extra charge. You can reduce the amount of hours that movers will be on the job by moving items from back bedrooms and delicate items into the garage for easier loading. All moving companies provide mandatory insurance based on weight. The insurance does not take into account the actual value of an item, so optional insurance may be a good idea to protect especially valuable pieces. Treasured items should probably be moved yourself and never be placed in the trust of any mover. Plan a garage sale or call a local charity before the actual move day to get rid of some items that you probably do not want to take to your new house. Snow blowers are not required for living in Western Washington, but gardening tools and generators should be stowed for easy access. You may also consider shipping some items in the mail if they will not be needed for several months. Since movers charge by weight, it is often less expensive to ship books and off-season clothing than to transport them. Better yet, leave the items with a friend who promises to visit your new home. Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

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Moving and Taxes

The best thing about writing off moving expenses is that the deduction is taken “above the line,” meaning new residents do not have to worry about itemized deductions that can quickly dash any hopes of a big tax refund. The worst thing is that it's hard to qualify. To determine who's eligible, the IRS has set up two tests. Pass them and you can cash in; fail and you have to eat all the costs of your move. The IRS lets you take this deduction only if you are moving because of a job. And it doesn't matter if it's a new job, the same job or your first job. (Even if you’re a recent college graduate.) The first challenge is the 50-mile test. That means the distance between your new primary job and your former home must be at least 50 miles greater than your old commute. So if you lived 10 miles from work and your new office is 45 miles from your old home, you lose. You cannot deduct your moving expenses. If your new office is 65 miles from your old home and your new commute is 55 miles, you pass the first test. The second test was designed to prove that you moved for work and not just for a change of scenery. It requires that you be employed full time in the general area of your new job location for at least 39 weeks during the 12 months after you make the move. This means you are allowed to switch jobs as often as you'd like after the move. And if your employer transfers you again or even lays you off, the IRS won't hold it against you and will waive the 39week test. The rules are slightly different (and more beneficial) if you own your own business, or if you have been out of the workforce or worked part-time for a substantial period of time. (The IRS does not offer a definition of “substantial.”) If you're a sole proprietor or a partner, you can just transfer yourself (maybe Birch Bay) and deduct the cost, as long as you meet the 50-mile and 39-week tests as well as a third test that applies to selfemployed people. The third test requires that you work full-time in that area for at least 78 weeks during the 24 months after you move. If you're just re-entering the full-time workforce, you can claim the deduction even if you don't have a job when you move. But your new job and your former residence have to be at least 50 miles apart, and you must still pass the 39-week test. If you're a married couple filing jointly, only 12

one spouse needs to meet both the time and distance tests.

Moving with Children

Moving is a stressful time for everyone. The experience can be especially traumatic for children. According to a clinical psychologist, the unpredictably of the move and the loss of control over comfortable surroundings can compound the situation for children of any age. Parents can ease some of the strain on the family by keeping the entire family informed of the moving process, including: • Giving the children advanced warning of important dates vital to the move. • Assigning children with a specific responsibility, based on their age and ability level. • Have children sort through their own belongings to discard any unused or broken toys. • Make a family decision on which charities will receive charitable donations. • Give each child a package of postcards to address and distribute to their own friends so they will have mail waiting for them at the new home. • Make kids memorize the new address (and phone number) as they label boxes. • Give each child a diagram of his or her new room so they can decide on how to arrange the furniture. • Provide each child with plenty of boxes for their valuable treasures. • Increase the child’s security by providing them with special packing cartons for the prized possessions they will carry on moving day. • Allow the children to unpack their own belongings in the new home to increase their sense of security.

Caring for your Children

Selecting appropriate childcare for your infant or young child can seem as overwhelming as helping your teenager decide on a college or university. As a parent, it is your responsibility to ensure that your child is safe and happy in a childcare environment that is fun, educational and nurturing. More than half of parents in Skagit and Whatcom counties place their young children in some type of daily care. Whether in-home or center-based care, a preschool, or someone else’s home that is providing for your child’s daily care setting, there are specific guidelines to follow to be sure that your child is receiving quality, professional care suited Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

Licensing and Accreditation

The state Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) must license all childcare providers. Licensing requires minimum requirements set by the state. Accreditation that proves the facility meets national and professional standards. There are state guidelines as to the number of children under the care of each adult. Parents should be able to visit the site—unannounced—at any time. Local and regional libraries throughout Skagit and Whatcom provide summer reading and activity programs at local branches.

Moving with Pets

Before making moving arrangements, take your pet to its regular veterinarian for a health checkup, vaccinations and to inquire about entry permits and sedation. Ask for a referral in your new area and obtain important documents, such as your pets’ health records and rabies tags. Animal entry laws may be especially difficult when moving from foreign countries. Depending on the country of origin, your pet may be quarantined for up to six months for health inspection. In these cases, you may have to consider leaving your pet with a relative or a friend. If your pet (especially your cat) isn’t used to car travel, take it on short rides around the block several weeks beforehand and then gradually increase the distance. This will help condition your cat to the space in your car and more importantly, to the motion of the car. Train your pet to sit still and not move around. Too much fidgeting may cause injury to your pet—and you—once you’re on the road. Some pets may never become accustomed to travel. Consult your veterinarian about medication or sedatives to reduce or eliminate motion sickness, constant agitation and crying. Dogs that weigh over 12 pounds can be fitted with approved restraining devices that can save them from injury and protect other people in the car in the event of a crash. A 30 pound dog in a 35 mile per hour accident generates 1,160 pounds of force. Make sure each of your pets has their proper collar with ID and rabies tag. Also have all of their health documents in one convenient place. You may want to pack a separate “suitcase” for your pet. If you’re planning to stay overnight at a hotel/motel along the way, call ahead to double-check out which lodging establishments permit pets. Make reservations as opposed to searching for one on the road. Have leashes on hand to move your pet from the car.

Relocation isn’t just stressful for people. It will be equally stressful for your pets too. When it comes to moving with pets, pre-planning is crucial. Pets, like humans, are very sensitive to changes in their surroundings. Moving companies will not move living things. If you plan to move your pets, they will be your sole responsibility. There are numerous ways to help them On The Road adapt to their new environment. Avoid feeding or giving your pets water for several hours before your drive. It is Pre-planning the move with Pets important that you are attentive to your Know that it’ll take time for your pets pets’ well-being. Stop the car if they are to be comfortable during each stage of the uncomfortable in any way. Remember to move: before, during and after. Seeing leash them before opening the car door. the house become gradually emptier may Plan to make frequent stops for agitate your pets. feeding and resting. Feed your pets once Every state has laws regarding animal daily or just a few small meals during rest entry, and Washington is no exception. stops. Your pet must comply with the health Never leave your pets in the car alone. regulations. It is against the law. However, if you must, Skagit & Whatcom Living • Volume 2 - No 1

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to his or her developmental needs. Most important in determining the type of care your child needs is to know your own child’s temperament, likes and dislikes, health, interests and behavior. For an infant under one year of age, pay careful attention to your child’s need to be nurtured and held, any special health needs and the type of person you want to care for your child during the first year of his life. For an older child, consider the developed play and learning styles of the facility. Watch the interaction with other children, intellectual curiosity and the need for individualized attention. Before choosing a care setting, you should be aware of the options available and consider cost, location and reputation. County governments provide helpful information for newcomers to the area on selecting the appropriate type of care for your child.

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Skagit and Whatcom counties require licenses for all adult dogs and cats residing within the county limits. Individual cities may require additional licensing. A pet license is required regardless of whether the pets are kept indoors or outdoors. A pet license from the county is your best assurance for the safe return of a lost pet. It is against the law in both counties to allow your dog to roam off your property. Owners are responsible for any damages and must pick up all droppings. Persons aged 65 years of age or older are entitled to reduced pet license fees if their dog or cat is spayed/neutered. All domestic pets are forbidden on public swimming beach at all times. In Skagit County, dogs must be leashed on a maximum 8-foot leash at all times, except at designated off-leash dog parks. In Whatcom County, dogs over four months of age that are kept within city limits are required to have a license. The owner must certify under penalty of perjury that the dog has been vaccinated against rabies. A certification of vaccination signed by an accredited veterinarian, showing that the vaccination does not expire prior to the expiration date of the license, must be provided upon request. The annual license fee for each unsterilized male or female dog over 3 months of age is $41 in Bellingham, Blaine and Ferndale. The annual license fee for sterilized dogs is $11. Dog and cat licenses may be obtained from the shelters in each city. County dog licenses may also be obtained from the following veterinary offices: • Banfield Vet Hospital • Birch Point Dog & Cat Clinic • Blaine Animal Hospital • Fountain Veterinary Hospital • Northshore Veterinary Hospital • NW Small Animal Clinic • Village Veterinary Clinic For more information on dog licensing in areas outside Bellingham, call: 360-647-2441

Sumas City Hall 360-988-5711 Lynden Animal Control 360-354-2828.

Caring for Your “Furry Children”

Pets are precious and they are also your VERY personal property. That’s why it is important to find pet care professionals you can trust with your pet and in your home. Search for a trustworthy service that provides loving care to your pets at reasonable rates. Outstanding pet day cares will offer services including: “Pawsitive Adventure” field trips for your dogs. • Dog-walking and cat playtime. • Security checks on your home. • Retrieval of mail, newspapers, and garbage cans. • Watering of plants. • Pooper Scooper Visits. • Plan to pay between $18 and $35 per day, per pet for appropriate day care.

Off-leash parks

Life got better for dogs in and around Anacortes in 2003 with the grand opening of Anacortes' Off-Leash Dog Park. The group F.I.D.O. (Fidalgo Islanders for Dogs Off-leash) spearheaded the proposal for the fenced park as the first off-leash dog park in Skagit County. The park is still the only public area in the city where it is legal for dogs to roam without constraint. The two acre park is located at the site of the old reservoir off H Avenue & 38th Street. Public input is sought for planning future sites for off-leash dog parks within Skagit County. The choices are more varied in Whatcom County: Hovander Homestead Park offers miles of specified dog-walking areas for on and off leash walks. Arroyo Park: All Trails. Lake Padden Park: • The fenced off-leash area near the ball fields in the southeastern part of the Park • Trails as designated at the east end of the park between the fenced off-leash area and Galbraith entry on E. Samish. • A dog water exercise area near the ball fields area (east side of Lake) is signed for dog training/exercise. Dogs are restricted to entering Lake Padden only in this area.

Sunset Pond: All trails plus the water are designated for water exercise and training area. Sehome Hill Arboretum: All Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

secondary trails. Dogs must be on leashes on all paved trails plus the Jersey Street and Arboretum Walkway which are the two trails at the bottom of the Arboretum abutting the University campus. Bloedel Donovan Park: During daylight hours only. Whatcom Falls Park: The Waterline Trail (south of Whatcom Creek) west of the water treatment plant to Bayview Cemetery and the trail from the Waterline Trail south to Lakeway. Little Squalicum Park: All Trails. (Note - Little Squalicum Creek may contain hazardous chemical which may be harmful to animals.)

Temporary Storage

If you’re not moving directly into a new home, it may be necessary to store some of your belongings. Moving twice or being crammed into an apartment is not the way most people want to introduce themselves to their new city. Most moving companies have facilities to hold your items for the short term, but if the delay is longer than a few weeks, experts agree that you should probably rent a storage unit to keep your valuables. The private storage unit will probably be a lot cheaper than leaving your property in the hands of a moving company. Ask your Realtor for a recommendation in your area.

Utilities

Electricity is supplied to business and residents of Skagit County by Puget Sound Energy. Puget Sound Energy 19900 N Creek Pkwy Bothell, WA 425-452-1234 Cascade Natural Gas provides natural gas in many areas of the county. Cascade Natural Gas Corp. 1600 Iowa St. Bellingham, WA 360-733-5980 Water is supplied by Skagit County Public Utility District #1 or the City of Anacortes. Public Utility District No. 1 of Skagit County 1415 Freeway Drive Mount Vernon WA, 98273 360-424-7104

The District's water filtration plant draws water from Judy Reservoir east of Clear Lake supplied from four streams located within the Cultus Mountains east of Mount Vernon. The filtration plant has eliminated the need for chemicals by allowing the algae to flourish naturally. Sewer service is available in Anacortes, Burlington, Big Lake, Concrete, La Conner, Mount Vernon and SedroWoolley. In Whatcom County, the primary utility is the PUD #1 of Whatcom County. The local utility was formed in 1937 by a vote of the people of Whatcom County with the original desire to take over the Puget Sound Power & Light operations to replace the investor-owned utility with a publicly-owned electric utility. In 1952, when General Petroleum (the precursor of Mobil Oil Corporation) came to Whatcom County looking for a refinery site and Puget Sound Power & Light was unable to supply the energy or obtain additional energy in the market at the time, PUD #1 of Whatcom County was able to obtain the energy which permitted the building of the refinery at Cherry Point. In the process, the PUD gained an electric customer and became a

functional utility. Public Utility District #1 of Whatcom County 1705 Trigg Road Ferndale, WA 98248 360-384-4288

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Telephone Service

In years past, portions of Skagit and Whatcom were divided between publiclygoverned companies. For residents, especially those in Skagit, most were serviced by Verizon (formerly GTE). But deregulation has done away with any territories or guidelines. Phone service, cable television and high-speed Internet are each provided by a number of carriers, many with names linked to the past. Others may be new to the marketplace. The only valid advice on selecting your own telephone service is to compare rates and quality of service, especially in areas of the county that are more rural or remote. Shop around for the deal that best suits your normal calling pattern. Most plans include a monthly service fee in addition to the per-minute charges. If you do not

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make enough out-of-state calls to justify the basic charge, then a higher rate perminute without a basic fee may be more economical. The vast majority of telephone numbers in Skagit and Whatcom counties are in the all-new 360-area code. Communities in the far south reaches of Skagit might use the same 425 area code as portions of Snohomish County and Seattle’s Eastside. It’s a little confusing without a map, but it’s safe to say that you should always write you phone number out with 10 digits. Many calls require 10 digits, even from within the same area code.

Cellular Phones

Bellevue businessman Craig Macaw first introduced cellular phone service to the nation in the Puget Sound area more than 30 years ago. Since that time the cell phone has become standard issue for every home, at times replacing the need for land lines. With the additional phone numbers and area codes available in the area, the cellular phone explosion continues. Competition is fierce, thanks to the never-

ending demand. The area is serviced by virtually all major national carriers with rates dropping almost as fast as a bungee jumper from the Space Needle. Wireless Carriers in Western Washington AT&T 866-246-4852 Sprint 800-877-7746 Verizon 800-2-JOIN IN T-Mobile 800-T-Mobile

There are now many retailers, charities and other businesses collecting cell phones for reuse and recycling. Many also take back chargers, pagers and rechargeable batteries. Check your local electronics store or favorite charity. Here are programs that provide many options: Through its national program, Call2Recycle™, the Rechargeable Battery

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Recycling Corporation (RBRC) can help recycle old cell phones and used portable rechargeable batteries. More than 30,000 retail locations participate in the program. CollectiveGood is the mobile devices recycling resource for mobile phones, pagers or PDAs. Individuals select the charity that will benefit from the donation and then receive a donation receipt for your taxes. The New Recyclable Program helps locate options available for properly recycling used wireless phones, devices, chargers and accessories that are recyclable. Includes search by zip code options for charitable contributions and local drop off points.

Marriage Licenses

Marriage Licenses in Washington are applied for at the county level. In both Skagit and Whatcom County that would be at the county auditor’s office. Requirements: • Both parties must be 18 years or older • A witness is not required • If you’re divorced, the divorce must be final and filed before applying for the license • No blood test, identification, birth certificates or divorce papers are required.

Washington State law requires that grooms and brides must wait at least three (3) full days after the application is filed before the marriage ceremony can be performed. The license is valid for only 60 days. Under state law, any minister or priest of any church or religious denomination and any Washington State judges and justices can perform the marriage ceremony. For a listing of judges and justices, please consult the County governmental listing in the telephone directory. The cost of a marriage license is $54. The fee must be paid in cash.

Voter Registration MACY'S, SEARS, JCPENNEY, AMC THEATRE, AND MORE THAN 90 SPECIALTY STORES AND RESTAURANTS. 201 CASCADE MALL DRIVE IN BURLINGTON. 360.757.2070 | WWW.SHOPCASCADEMALL.COM

*Terms, conditions and restrictions apply to gift cards. Use only at USA merchants that accept the American Express Cards except cruise lines, casinos and ATMs. Subject to applicable law, a $2.50 monthly service fee applies but is waived for initial 12 months. From November 1, 2008 through October 31, 2009, $0.70 from each purchase of The Give the Gift of Green ™ Card will be donated to American Forests. A minimum of $100,000 will be donated. Contact American Forests at www.americanforests.org.

Despite recent political in-fighting, residents of Washington must declare their political party of choice. During primary elections, voters will be asked to choose their party and will only be allowed to vote for candidates listed with their own party. To be qualified to register as a voter in the state of Washington, residents must be: Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

• A citizen of the United States • A legal resident of the state • At least 18 years of age as of Election Day.

As a general rule, you must register at least 30 days in advance of an election to be eligible to vote in that election. It is especially important to remember this deadline if you are registering by mail by using the downloadable form on the state web site (www.secstate. wa.gov/elections/register). The form and the application must be postmarked by the 30-day cutoff or it will not become effective until after the election. If you miss the 30-day deadline, you can still sign up in time for the election, but you must register in person at your county elections department no later than 15 days before the election. Any registered voter may vote by absentee ballot. You do not need to be ill or out of town to be an absentee voter. You may request an absentee ballot as early as 90 days before an election. (No absentee ballots are issued on Election Day except to a voter who is a resident of a health care facility). The request for an absentee ballot must be made to your county auditor or elections department (not to the Secretary of State). NOTE: Absentee ballots must be signed and postmarked or delivered to the county election officer on or before the Election Day.

Banks

Like most states, Washington has been invaded by a wave of out-of-state institutions. The out-of-state bank have advantages because you can do normal banking while traveling outside your home state. There are a few local banks that have turned that image around. For example, Washington Mutual has expanded as far as the East Coast by acquiring institutions in those states. Other banks—like InterWest—have simply combined assets with banks from other states to provide the same level of service. American Home Mortgage 888-236-8402 Bank of America 866-881-8965 Banner Bank 360-757-8232 Skagit & Whatcom Living • Volume 2 - No 1

Business Bank of Skagit County 1888 S. Burlington Blvd. Burlington, WA 98233-3226 360-707-2272 Countrywide Full Spectrum Lending 866-869-0684 1st Security Bank of Washington 425-355-0333 Frontier Bank 119 E. College Way Mount Vernon, WA 98273-5433 360-848-1200 Horizon Bank 1020 S. Burlington Blvd. Burlington, WA 98233-3312 360-757-3200

The daily Skagit Valley Herald also produces the weekly Anacortes American, Fidalgo This Week, The Argus and Courier-Times and various specialty publications including the monthly Skagit Business Pulse and Northwest Washington Arts & Entertainment. Skagit Valley Publishing Co. also has a controlling interest in Pioneer Newspapers (www.pioneernewspapers. com), a Seattle-based company with daily and weekly publications in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Utah. The online version of The Skagit Valley Herald is available at www.goskagit.com.

Sound Publishing

The locally-owned, family-operated operation publishes weekly and nonweekly newspapers covering dozens of communities in Western Washington. Keybank Sound Publishing is probably best known 360-336-3161 as publishers of the all-classified Little Nickel. Peoples Bank The reputation of Sound Publishing 360-424-3319 newspapers is local news content. The non-daily newspapers fulfill the growing Phoenix Savings Bank marketplace by providing readers with 360-416-2330 localized, useful news coverage that is rarely seen in metro daily newspaper and Skagit State Bank other mass media outlets. 300 Ferry St. Last August, Sound Publishing Sedro -Woolley, WA 98284-1494 announced the acquisition of Marysville 360-855-2141 Globe and Arlington Times to its expanding family of community Washington Mutual publications. This pair of respected 800-788-7000 Snohomish County newspapers joins the Reporter family of papers in King Newspapers County, local editions serving the Olympic Peninsula and Island County as well as Bellingham Herald monthly business-oriented periodicals in 1155 N State St. Wenatchee and Bellingham. Bellingham, WA The Snohomish County additions 360-676-2600 came only weeks before Sound Publishing The family-owned publication has announced the addition of newspapers gained a reputation as The Source for serving the Eastside suburbs of Issaquah news and information in Bellingham and Sammamish. and Whatcom County. The Herald staff is also responsible for content for the Bellingham Weekly and the Bellingham Whatcom Independent Business Journal. 1201 Cornwall Ave Bellingham, WA Skagit Valley Herald 360-676-9411 1000 East College Way The Whatcom Independent is a P.O. Box 578 locally owned and operated weekly Mount Vernon, WA 98273-5624 newspaper and online medium that Main Office: 360-424-3251 provides local news covering all of Toll-free in Washington: Whatcom County. The editors give 1-800-683-3300 reporters the time and resources for inBusiness Hours: Monday depth investigative reporting to assure - Friday from 8-5 readers accurate and timely news that 17

Resolve to Get in the Black in 2009 (ARA) - For many Americans, the only area where they may have lost weight over the holidays is their wallet. And as their credit card statements begin to arrive with the reminder -- and obligation -- of their holiday spending, consumers should resolve now to lower their debt in the New Year. “Losing weight and losing debt are among the top New Year’s resolutions every year,” says Joseph Montanaro, certified financial planner with USAA, a leading financial services organization serving military members and their families. “But, unfortunately, the resolve of consumers to stick to their plans typically thaws along with the weather when spring rolls around.” Montanaro notes that many consumers set goals that may be too ambitious, whether trying to lose weight or lower debt. With 15 years of experience as a financial planner, including the last six as a salaried planner with USAA, Montanaro believes consumers can achieve their debt reduction goals by following five steps:

goes beyond the headline.

Flood Information

Know where to turn in a flood emergency. In the event of an imminent flood from one of Skagit County’s three main river systems — the Skagit, Samish and Nookachamps — residents are urged to do any of the following options to decide upon a course of action: River Hotline 360-419-3425 Recorded message on the current river levels and predicted levels in the coming hours.

1. Start with a specific goal. It’s great to want to eliminate all debt and start with a clean slate, but when faced with the proverbial mountain of debt, the goal may seem daunting. So start small, and add incremental goals along the way. For example, to pay down $20,000 in credit-card debt -- and credit-card debt is what’s known as “bad” debt because of the typically high interest rates and the money spent isn’t being used to purchase a long-term asset like a house -- the first goal can be to eliminate 20 percent of that total by summer. Then set new goals with each milestone you reach.

Skagit County Public Works (after business hours) 360-336-9400 Recording contains useful information about road closures in case of a flood event;

2. Put the plan on paper. “Budget” is not a bad word, so embrace it. One of the first things Montanaro advises consumers who want to get their debt under control is to establish a realistic budget, and stick to it. Put the budget on paper or online, and adhere to it with each paycheck. Committing to stick to a budget can have multiple benefits -- it can help prevent piling on more debt and can identify extra money that can be put toward debt payments.

Skagit County Department of Emergency Management 360-428-3250 Provides information on emergency shelter location, special transportation options and problems getting around and details evacuation recommendations;

3. Track progress. There’s nothing more satisfying than not paying interest to a credit-card company. As debt decreases and less interest is charged, more money will be available each month for other expenses -- or for those unexpected emergencies that occur from time to time. Continually tracking progress over time will help keep the overall goal front and center, and allow for budget adjustments as more money is freed up over time. 4. Splurge ... in moderation. While keeping a focus on reducing debt undoubtedly will require some sacrifice, it’s OK to splurge on a reward for a job well done from time to time. But keep in mind that moderation is the key. Maybe one reward is a night on the town. If so, avoid the five-star restaurant and enjoy something at a more moderate price point. In fact, “moderation” is a good way to start thinking about how to approach spending overall. 5. Save like there is a tomorrow. While many consumers are used to spending like there’s no tomorrow, turn that philosophy on its head and start saving. There are a few easy ways to get started. First, spend less than is earned so there will be money left over to save.

City of Burlington Flood Planning 360-755-9717 A call to this number will get you on a mailing list to let you know when the next spring or fall Neighborhood Planning meeting is scheduled. These meetings are useful for discussing flood topics; Local radio stations — Tune your AM radio band to local radio stations KAPS660, KBRC-1430 or KLKI-1340 for continual updates and up-to-the-minute news regarding flood situations in Skagit County.

Second, with that extra money, consider increasing contributions to a 401(k) or IRA. And third, start saving more for everyday expenses and emergencies by setting up a monthly automatic transfer into a savings account. Finally, for those who are overwhelmed by debt and don’t know where to begin, consider enlisting the help of a financial planner. Be sure to look for one who is salaried and has a CFP designation to ensure the advice is coming from a credentialed professional. Eliminating debt and keeping it in check is a great way to start the New Year. With a plan in place and a disciplined approach, anyone can start on the road to securing a better financial future. Courtesy of ARAcontent 18

Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

Call The Little Nickel Today And Reserve Your Space In Our Next Living Guide!

360.424.9000

business/employment

Employment continues to bloom along with the economy in Skagit County

Skagit and Whatcom counties are blessed with diverse economies. The employers listed below may be the largest in number of employees, but the strength of the local economy the myriad of smaller businesses, many of whom sell products and services far outside the Northwest but have chosen to operate here due to the quality of life and excellence of employees. According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, the economy in Skagit County grew faster than all but one metropolitan area in the United States two years ago and the boom is expected to continue, although at a slower rate. Released in September of 2007, the report by the federal agencies showed that Skagit County generated $3.9 billion in goods and services in 2005, up 18.9 percent from the previous year. That placed Skagit County with the second highest percentage 20

jump in gross domestic product in the country among the 363 metropolitan areas in the US, representing more than 90 percent of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The GDP measures the market value of final goods and services produced within an area and is considered a comprehensive measure of economic activity. For long-time residents of the county who might recall the harsher economic times from preceding decades, the figures are a reminder of just how far the local economy has come. “I remember the recession of the early to mid-1980s when we were at 20 percent unemployment,” said Don Wick, executive director of the Economic Development Association of Skagit County. “It took us a long time and a lot of work to replace those jobs.” Wick said community leaders

have laid the groundwork for economic growth through better training and education, along with a strong commitment to infrastructure development. “There’s no question those things are paying off,” he said. According to the report, the county’s financial and trade industry, which includes the retail and real estate sectors, helped spur the economy. But it’s unclear what role local manufacturers played because data about the manufacturing industry was withheld to avoid disclosing confidential information. Hart Hodges, director of the Center for Economic and Business Research at Western Washington University, speculates that two of the biggest local manufacturers — the Tesoro and Shell oil refineries in Anacortes — likely had a huge effect on the county’s economic growth during that time period because of high fuel prices and increased production as a result of Hurricane Katrina. “It’s not just that they were increasing output, but the dollar value of that output increased as well,” he Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

said. Wick also pointed to growth in aerospace, marine manufacturing and wood products production as likely economic drivers. Hodges noted that the top 15 fastest-growing economies were also located in relatively small metropolitan areas. While there are signs that the county’s GDP may no longer be growing at such a staggering rate as it was two years ago, the economy still appears strong. Meanwhile, the employment picture in Whatcom County seems to be riding on the edge of the wave created when Vancouver was awarded the Winter Olympics for 2010. Businesses on both sides of the international border are hiring in anticipation of the world spotlight on British Columbia. The housing market has remained strong despite the rise in interest rates. Money continues to f low south from the strong Canadian dollar and the vibrant economy north of the 49th parallel. Birch Bay has become a favorite place for Canadian investors to buy second homes, while retailers and the gaming industry have focused major portions of their marketing budget in the Surrey and Vancouver media. Largest private employers in Skagit County Draper Valley Farms, Inc 1000 Jason Lane Mount Vernon, WA 98273-0838 360-360-424-7947 Founded in 1935, Draper Valley Farms Inc. raises and processes chickens, which are then sold to most major grocery chains. The Skagit Valley Casino and Resort 5984 N Darrk Ln Bow, WA 98232-8631 Employment: Figure withheld by request All the fun and excitement of a Las Vegas-style casino featuring the most popular slots, table games, casino events and parties.

Janicki Industries 1476 Moore Street Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 360-856-5143 Employment: 425 Janicki Industries has grown to become a leader in supplying innovative, accurate and economical composite tooling to companies including Boeing. Regence BlueShield 333 Gilkey Road Burlington, WA 98233 877-276-5906 Employment: 421 A not-for-profit organization and the largest affiliation of health care plans in the Pacific Northwest/Mountain region. Shell Puget Sound Refinery 8505 S Texas Rd Anacortes, WA 360-293-0800 Employment: 400 The Shell Puget Sound Refinery is the second largest of four refineries located in Northwest Washington State. The refinery was built in 1958 to supply West Coast markets with Canadian crude oil. Tesoro Northwest March Point Road Post Office Box 700 Anacortes, WA 98221 Employment: 335 Originally built in 1955 with a capacity of 68,000 barrels per day. The facility was upgraded in 2004 and now has the ability to produce oil products from up to 125,000 barrels per day. Skagit Gardens 3100 Old Highway 99 South Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-424-6144 Employment: 300 Large wholesale nursery, Skagit Gardens boasts the perfect maritime climate for growing annuals and perennials. Brown and Cole PO Box 9797 1331 Commercial St. Bellingham, WA 98225 Employs 285 in Skagit county locations Founded in 1909, Brown and

Cole is locally owned and remains Washington state’s oldest grocery company with 20 supermarkets across the state. WalMart 2021 Market St. Mount Vernon WA 98273-5428 360-428-7000 Employs: 275 Snelson Companies, Inc. 601 W State St. Sedro-Woolley, WA 360-856-6511 Employs: 240 Privately-held general contractor specializing in industrial process utility piping, pipeline, gas utility installation, gas compression and metering, pipe fabrication and direction drilling. Largest public employers in Skagit County Skagit Valley Hospital Mount Vernon: 1,039 Skagit County, MountVernon: 950 - 1,000 Mount Vernon School District: 820 Skagit Valley College Mount Vernon: 650 Sedro-Woolley School District: 580 Island Health Northwest Anacortes: 506 Burlington-Edison School District: 470 United General Hospital Sedro-Woolle y: 373 Skagit Valley Medical Center: 286 City of Mount Vernon: 281 Top Private Employers in Whatcom County Alcoa Intelco Works PO Box 937 Ferndale, WA 98248 360-384-7284 Employment: 650 One of the most modern and energy efficient aluminum plants in the Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

nation. The factory produces metals in various shapes and sizes.

St. Joseph Hospital Employment: 1,570 2901 Squalicum Pkwy WWU is the fastest growing Bellingham, WA 98225 university in the state of Washington. Bellingham School District 360-734-5400 1306 Dupont St. Employment: 1,775 Bellingham Cold Storage Bellingham, WA 98226 This 253-bed hospital specializes 2825 Roder Ave 360-676-6476 in care for the elderly with well trained Bellingham, WA 98225 Employment: 1,200 doctors and staff located a complete 360-733-1640 The largest of the seven county school service campus. Specializes in the f lash freezing of districts in the county, the district fish and other cold storage. includes 12 elementary schools, 4 Western Washington University middle schools and 3 high schools. Bellingham, WA 98225 360-650-3350 Bellis Fair Mall 1 Bellis Fair Parkway Best Ways to Raise Your Credit Score Bellingham, WA 98226 360-671-5654 (ARA) – The average American’s credit score is about 650, but average just isn’t Employment: 1,500 good enough when it comes to getting a loan. Most lenders consider a credit Whatcom County's largest mall score of 720 or higher a good bet for a mortgage or a loan. and home to five department stores as well as many other It’s important to know the top factors that affect your score and check your credit smaller specialty shops. report for errors, which are increasingly common. Here are the best ways to raise BP Cherry Point Refinery 4519 Grandview Rd. Blaine, WA 98230 360-371-1500 Employment: 500 When operational, this refinery uses Alaska's crude oil to produce 3.1 million gallons of gasoline everyday. Brown & Cole 1331 Commercial Ave. Bellingham, WA 98225 360-714-9797 Employment: 575 Owns and operates more than 27 retail stores in Washington, Oregon and Montana. They employ approximately 575 in Whatcom County and with a total payroll of 1,475. Haggen Foods 2211 Rimland Dr. Bellingham, WA 98226 360-733-8720 Employs: 850 Known for its high quality produce and deli items. Phillips 66 Company PO Box 8 Ferndale, WA 98248 360-384-1011 Employment: 297 Located on the shores of the Straight of Georgia, the refinery generates gasoline from 89,000 barrels of crude oil per day. Skagit & Whatcom Living • Volume 2 - No 1

your credit score in three simple steps:

1. Pay on Time The most important factor to a potential lender is whether or not you will pay your bills in full and on time. Schedule bill payments on your calendar or pay your bills as soon as you receive them. Remember that paying your bills comes before luxuries like going out to dinner or buying new clothes. 2. Use a Variety of Credit A variety of credit, such as mortgage loans and credit cards, can show that you are responsible for repaying both large and small financial promises. Make sure to use credit responsibly and don’t run up credit card debt that you can’t pay off immediately or within a few months. 3. Keep Accounts Open It’s never a good idea to open a credit card just to take advantage of a discount or a freebie, then close it right away. The longer your credit history, the higher your credit rating tends to be. To see all of the factors that affect your personal credit score, you should check your credit report at least every six months. Using a site like EasyScoreToday. com instantly gives you a free, detailed and personalized analysis of your credit report with advice on how to improve it. Checking your own credit report at EasyScoreToday.com will not hurt your score. Your credit report will show you details like accounts with past late payments, the various types of credit you’ve used, current balances and recent requests for credit. If you find negative or wrong information on your file, you can dispute it and have it removed. The longer these items stay on your credit file, the lower your credit score will become. With good bill paying and credit habits, and by keeping an eye on your credit report, you can work to raise your credit score. Raising your score from the national average of 650 to a more ideal 720 can help you obtain a car loan or mortgage and get a better rate on your loan and credit cards. The better your credit score, the less the term “credit crunch” will apply to you. For more information and tips on how to raise your credit score, visit www. EasyScoreToday.com. Courtesy of ARAcontent 23

communities

The many towns of the Skagit & Whatcom region offer everything from nature to shopping and back again

Skagit County (pronounced: skäjet)

Population: 113,171 Located in the northwest portion of Washington State, Skagit County sits between the cosmopolitan cities of Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. The county boasts majestic views of the Cascade Mountains to the east, and sits in the midst of rich fertile farms that populate valleys and pastures featuring a wide variety of agricultural crops. The county was named for an Indian tribe of the same name and is one of 39 counties in the state. The county is focused primarily around the Mount VernonAnacortes metro area. The estimated population in 2004 was 111,064. This was an increase of 7.85 percent from the 2000 census. The powerful Skagit River flows westward through the heart of the Skagit Valley toward the beautiful San Juan Islands. World famous tulip fields blanket the valley in the spring. Flocks of Canadian 24

geese, snow geese and trumpeter swans can be seen overhead in the winter. Bald eagles soar overhead year round and great blue herons stand along the shorelines. Skagit County offers beautiful and diverse communities and extraordinary natural resources. • Density divided: 67% urban, 33% rural • County owner-occupied houses and condos: 27,087 • Renter-occupied apartments: 11,765 • Land area: 1,735 sq. mi. • Water area: 185.3 sq. mi. • Population density: 65 people per square mile • Median age: 37 years

Anacortes

Population: 16,400 This destination community could best be described as simply, “The City within a Park.” Anacortes boasts 12.5 miles of saltwater shoreline, four freshwater lakes, surrounded by and inclusive of 3,000 plus acres of city-owned forestlands and city-

owned parks. Incorporated in 1891, Anacortes now has 20 different parks within the city limits, from a skate park to recreational areas with commanding views and beautiful overlooks. Park highlights include the 160-acre Mt. Erie, the highest point on Fidalgo Island and Cape Sante (37 acres), with a remnant amphitheater. The favorite gathering place for locals is Washington Park (220 acres) that juts into Rosario Strait on the western edge of Anacortes, offering territorial views and outstanding sunsets. This park has day use areas, boat launches and 75 overnight camping sites. Picnic sites and car pullouts provide beach access along the western edge of the park at Green Point. Anacortes has deep roots in the fishing industry and currently serves as home berth to Washington's largest fishing fleet. Incorporated in 1891, the city’s economy has been tightly entwined with both fishing and lumber. Dozens of fish processing plants built for salmon canning and codfish curing still occupy portions of the waterfront. • Median household income: $48,300 (up from $41,930 in 2000)

Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

• Median house/condo value: $237,300 (up from $171,100 in 2000) • Average age: 42.6 • 12.5 miles of saltwater shoreline • 3,000 plus acres of city-owned forestlands and city-owned parks • Five freshwater lakes (Whistle, Cranberry, Heart, Campbell and Lake Erie) • Lowest property tax rates in Skagit County - $8.44 per $1,000 assessed valuation

Burlington

Population: 8,642 Built at the intersection of I-5 and State Highway 20 as well as the meeting point of the north-south and east-west railroads, Burlington has fulfilled its mission as the transportation hub of Skagit County. When settlers established the community in 1882, Burlington was nothing more than a dense forest. The city was incorporated nine years later (1891) and has grown to become a distribution center for loggers, farmers and manufacturers throughout the Northwest. More than just a distribution center for raw products, Burlington has evolved to become the major shopping destination in Skagit County, boasting both an upscale outlet mall and the area’s premiere Auto Row. The town also attracts numerous visitors to its 14-screen cinema complex. Bordered by the Skagit River, the waterway provides fishing and other recreational opportunities all year long. The links style 27-hole Avalon Golf Course is just a few miles north of town. • Median household income: $43,600 (up from $37,848 in 2000) • Median house/condo value: $179,200 (up from $129,200 in 2000) • Average age: 29.6

Concrete

Population: 833 Located 23 miles east of Sedro Woolley along Highway 20 and nestled in the rugged foothills beneath Mount Baker, Concrete is the gateway to the recreational opportunities of the North Cascades. The city earned its name as the home to the Superior Portland Cement Plant, which produced more than 40 percent of the cement used to build the Grand Coulee Dam. The cement plant has been closed Skagit & Whatcom Living • Volume 2 - No 1

since 1968. Today the town’s efforts are focused on renovation and transforming the industrial site into a recreational playground. Concrete’s visitor center displays the salmon “taxi” system where migrating salmon are transported by trucks around two dams and then released to complete their natural life cycle. • Median household income: $33,800 (up from $29,375 in 2000) • Median house/condo value: $124,100 (up from $89,500 in 2000) • Average age: 33.4

Hamilton

Population: 361 Deposits of coal and iron brought settlers to Hamilton at the turn of the last century, but it was the abundance of timber and the lumber industry that provided the fuel for the town to flourish. At its peak in the early 1900’s, Hamilton had a population of over 2,000 and served for several years as the western terminus of the railroad. The city lost many of its early residents by the triple blow of floods, the closing of the mines and changes in the timber industry. Today Hamilton survives as home to less than 300 residents who make their living through farming and dairy. • Median household income: $36,300 (up from $31,500 in 2000) • Median house/condo value: $133,700 (up from $96,400 in 2000) • Average age: 35.8

La Conner

are treated to the panoramic view of the Skagit Valley farmlands. Residential neighborhoods in La Conner have been limited to planned developments on Fidalgo Island on the far side of the Rainbow Bridge. • Median household income: $48,700 (up from $42,344 in 2000) • Median house/condo value: $234,100 (up from $168,800 in 2000) • Average age: 45.5

Lyman

Population: 423 The city of Lyman may be small, but it has a rich and vivid history, dating beyond the date of incorporation on May 8, 1909. Like many of the cities and towns in the Washington Territory, Lyman was named for its first postmaster, B.L. Lyman. The actual city limits totals less than one square mile, with 13 percent of the land mass under water. One out of every 10 persons in Lyman—and one out of every eight families—live below the poverty line. The 400-plus people living in Lyman are divided into 105 families and 161 households. • Median household income: $39,500 (up from $34,318 in 2000) • Median age: 37.3

Mount Vernon

Population: 29,984 (26,012 urban; 285 rural) The seat of the Skagit County government; Mount Vernon has grown from a farming community to the hub of business and government to communities from Anacortes and La Conner to the west and the foothills of the Cascade Mountains to the east. The early settlers attempt to incorporate in 1888 failed when the district judge ruled the action as unconstitutional. Mount Vernon was officially incorporated two years later on Feb. 11, 1890.

Population: 791 Known far and wide as the home to the annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival each year during March and April, this picturesque waterfront community is on the National Register of Historic Places and has been dubbed “The Best Tiny Town in Washington” by numerous visitor and tourist publications. Home to less than 800 full-time • Average household income: $37,999 residents, LaConner was established • Median price for houses and condos: in the 1860’s as a trading post along the $183,200 (up from $128,800 in 2000) commercial waterways of the Pacific • Total number of houses/condos: Coast. That burly image changed in 4,476 (80 percent have first or second the 1940’s when the town became the mortgages) destination of artists inspired by the • Average monthly rental: $657 community’s natural beauty. The best views of the area are available Sedro-Woolley from the top of Rainbow Bridge. Views Population 10,402 south from the bridge capture the city’s Known as the Gateway to the waterfront, while visitors looking north Cascades, Sedro-Woolley sits on the banks 25

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Sedro-Woolley Auto Licensing Did you know that you can renew your vehicle or boat tabs right here in Sedro-Woolley? Sedro-Woolley Auto Licensing has been serving Sedro-Woolley for more than 20 years. For a small subagency fee, we are able to process renewals, transfer titles, issue trip permits, and sell monthly tonnage. We also provide Disabled Parking Placards.

714-B Metcalf Street 360-855-1841 www.sedro-woolley.com

Membership Meetings

First Wednesday of every month, 11:45-1:00 Sedro Woolley Community Center

For dealers we offer pick-up, fast turn-around, and delivery of ﬁnished work. Our agents serve Skagit, Whatcom and Snohomish Counties. Sedro-Woolley Auto Licensing is located within your Chamber Ofﬁce at 714-B Metcalf St. We are open Monday through Friday 9 am to 5 pm and Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm. Questions? Call us at 855-1162.

of the Skagit River along Highway 20 at the western edge of the majestic Cascade Mountains. The town will celebrate its 110th anniversary of incorporation on December 19, 2008 The community was founded in 1884 by Mortimer Cook, who moved his family north from California and cleared 34 acres along the Skagit River that is now the city’s Riverfront Park. Cook opened a single mill and served as the town’s first postmaster. Cook wanted to name the city after himself, but learned the territory already had a town named Cook. He eventually settled on Cedra, the Spanish word for cedar. That name stuck but was eventually distorted to Sedro. Philip Woolley was more successful with naming rights when he purchased 84 acres north of Cedra six years later. The two rival towns merged in 1898 to serve the growing population of settlers that included more than 2,000 employees of a coal processing plant. Sedro-Woolley is deeply connected to its history through many historical buildings, such as the Bingham mansion, which was owned by C.E. Bingham, who founded a bank and served as mayor for 17 years. • Median household income: $43,600 (up from $37,914 in 2000) • Median house/condo value: $171,200 (up from $123,400 in 2000) Average age: 33.2

Whatcom County

Population: 174,814 The northernmost county in Washington contains 2,151 square miles that border on British Columbia to the north, Okanogan County to the east, Skagit County to the south and the Straight of Georgia to the west. Long before it was discovered by Europeans, Whatcom County was home to four major Northwest Coast Indian nations: the Lummi, Nooksack, Samish and Semiahmoo. The area was claimed by the Spanish in 1775 and subsequently by Russia, England and the United States. Bellingham Bay was named by Captain George Vancouver of the British Navy during his expedition into the waters of Puget Sound in 1792. Fur trappers and traders were the first non-Indian residents to settle the rugged territory, followed closely by the Hudson Bay Company. Skagit & Whatcom Living • Volume 2 - No 1

The trading company operated in the area from 1825 to 1846. In the early 1850's, a tremendous amount of building took place in California after the San Francisco fire and lumber became scarce. Word of dense stands of Douglas fir brought Californians north to Bellingham Bay. The ambitious settlers found an impressive and strategically located waterfall, referred to by the Lummi Indians as What-Coom meaning noisy, rumbling water. It was the perfect place to build a lumber mill and establish the region’s first permanent settlement. The area’s rapid settlement prompted territorial legislature to create the County of Whatcom in 1854, which included all of present-day Skagit, Island and San Juan counties.

Acme

Population: 263 Rich in Nordic history, the sparsely populated town of Acme is located due east of Bellingham in the fertile Hidden Valley. More than 40 percent of the residents can trace their heritage to nations in Northern Europe. Residents enjoy the slow rural lifestyle that is directly related to the density of only 27 people per square mile. More than half of the adult population is married and over 80 percent of the population has at least a high school education. The community was named in honor of an Acme hymn book used by a local church. • Estimated median household income: $46,400 (up from $41,964 in 2000) • Estimated Median house/condo value: $136,700 (up from $85,700 in 2000) • Average age: 30.3

Bellingham

Population: 71,289 Located on Bellingham Bay with Mt. Baker as its backdrop, Bellingham is the last major city before the Washington coastline meets the Canadian border. Bellingham is 85 miles north of Seattle and an hour south of Vancouver, B.C. Transportation links connect the community to the nearby San Juan Islands and Victoria on Vancouver Island. Bellingham has an active waterfront port that supports fishing, boat building, shipping and marina operations. Squalicum Harbor is the second largest in Puget Sound, with 1,900

pleasure and commercial boats moored. Passengers depart from Bellingham on ferries for whale watching cruises, tours to Victoria on Vancouver Island and cruises to the San Juan Islands. The downtown area has a mixture of restaurants, art galleries and specialty shops. The cultural district includes the cherished Whatcom Museum of History and Art. Originally built in 1892 as city hall, the museum's imposing brick building is the centerpiece of a fourbuilding campus, that recently added the area’s premier children's museum. Bellingham is home to Western Washington University on Sehome Hill, where students can take in a sweeping view across the bay to the San Juan Islands. Visitors bound for Alaska depart on the Alaska Marine Highway System ferries from the Bellingham Cruise Terminal in the Historic Fairhaven District, where visitors can spend long afternoons among shops offering hand-crafted products, local restaurants that serve fresh seafood plus art galleries featuring Northwest artisans.

Birch Bay

Population 4,961 There are families from Washington State and Canada who have summered in Birch Bay for generations. Located on a shallow, crescent shaped bay, this beach side community offers a range of yearround recreation for families or couples looking for a get-away from the hustle and bustle of big towns. • Median household income: $44,300 (up from $40,040 in 2000) • Estimated median house/condo value $229,100 (up from $143,600 in 2000) • Average age: 40.7

Blaine

Population 3,770 Located on the Canadian border, the friendly little town of Blaine is virtually surrounded by water and is just 35 miles from Vancouver, providing an array of attractions and activities for just 3,000plus residents. Beautifully framed by Mt. Baker to the east and Semiahmoo Bay and Georgia Strait to the west, it is the busiest border crossing point between B.C. and Washington. Blaine High School made Newsweek Magazine's list of the top five percent of high schools in the country. 27

The place to visit whether you are on the North Cascades Highway, passing through the upper Skagit Valley, or seeking the perfect destination for a fun time out with friends.

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• Median household income: $40,800 (up from $36,900 in 2000) • Median house/condo value: $222,200 (up from $139,300 in 2000) • Average age: 38.6

Custer

Population 299 The former home of country singer Loretta Lynn, the town of Custer moved from its original location at the intersection of Valley View and Bay Roads in 1892 to make way for the railroad. The town was named after its first postmaster, Albert W. Custer. • Median household income: $24,900 (up from $22,500 in 2000) • Median house/condo value: $229,400 (up from $143,800 in 2000) • Average age: 35.3

Deming

Population 210 The town may be tiny, but there always seems to be something to do in Deming. There's the big rock down at the Nooksack River where many teens like to go on hot summer days and do jumps or flips into the ice cold water. Wherever you go in Deming, you’re never far from the sound or the influence of the river. The city’s main street is famous for its transformation into the Deming Speedway every Friday evening. • Median household income: $57,800 (up from $52,292 in 2000) • Median house/condo value: $204,400 (up from $128,100 in 2000) • Average age: 35

Everson

Population: 2,035 Incorporated on May 4, 1929, the hamlet of Everson sits at the foot of the Cascade Mountains and on the shores of the Nooksack River. The business community continues to cater to the farming and logging industries that employs the majority of its residents. City Park is adjacent to West Main Street, while the aptly named Riverside Park plays host to a variety of festive events throughout the year, highlighted by the summer and harvest festivals. • Median household income: $39,100 (up from $35,313 in 2000) • Median house/condo value: $195,400 (up from $122,500 in 2000 • Average age: 29.6

Skagit & Whatcom Living • Volume 2 - No 1

Ferndale

Population: 8,758 This quaint town is located just a dozen miles north of Bellingham on the banks of the Nooksack River. Ferndale was founded in the mid-1800’s and was first called Jam because of a big jam of logs that clogged the river. Since its incorporation in 1908, the town has grown from its humble beginnings, but the long-time residents strive to preserve its rich history. Pioneer Park in downtown Ferndale provides the perfect wooded setting to one of the finest collections of original pioneer log cabins in the Northwest. These 11 log cabins, built by the early pioneers of the region sat alone in the early forests and rough clearings in the area. Many were moved to Ferndale to save them from destruction. • Median household income: $40,200 (up from $36,375 in 2000) • Median house/condo value: $223,700 (up from $140,200 in 2000) • Average age: 32

Glacier

Population: 90 Originally established as a gold mining and logging camp, Glacier was opened to the public by the creation of the Mount Baker Highway in 1923. Today the town consists of only a few businesses and the Ranger Station. Glacier ranks 522nd (last) in population among communities recognized by the state government. The community is just 40 miles from the summit of Mount Baker.

Lummi Island

Population: 822 Considerably more accessible than other islands, this pristine, rural gem is one of the best kept secrets of the San Juan archipelago. Located less than 20 minutes from Bellingham and a mere 10 minutes by the Whatcom Chief Ferry, this half mountainous, half rural island is a peaceful, unspoiled getaway with tranquil beaches and 18 miles of country roads ideal for bike riding, walking or bird watching. Since there are no RV parks, campsites or state parks, the island attracts a

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Helpful Phone Numbers Fire/Police/Sheriff/State Patrol........................................................................................ 911 (should be used for emergency situations only)

24-hour Care Crisis Response Services......................................................... 425-258-4357 ........................ 800-584-3578 TTY................................................................................................................ 425-339-3301 ........................ 800-846-8517 Crisis Clinic.................................................................................................... 206-461-3222 Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).............................................................. 206-622-0460 National Center for Missing and Exploited Children ..................................................................................................................... 800-843-5678 TTY................................................................................................................ 800-826-7653 National Response Center (to report toxic or chemical spills) ..................................................................................................................... 800-424-8802 Washington Poison Center............................................................................. 800-732-6985 TTY................................................................................................................ 800-572-0638 State Patrol (non-emergency, 24 hours). .............................................................. 425-649-4370 US Secret Service.......................................................................................... 206-220-6800 Helpful numbers Abuse and Family Violence Services.............................................................. 425-252-2873 Sexual Assault Crisis Line.............................................................................. 425-252-4800 Missing Children/Runaway Childhelp USA...................................................... 800-422-4453 Youth Crisis Hotline........................................................................................ 800-HIT-HOME Senior Services Division on Aging........................................................................................... 206-684-0660 Senior Information and Assistance................................................................. 206-448-3110 Addiction Services 24-hour Alcohol and Drug Referral Hotline..................................................... 888-304-9797 Alcohol/Drug Treatment Referral.................................................................... 800-454-8966 Cocaine Anonymous...................................................................................... 206-365-8029 Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).......................................................... 425-376-0600 National Council on Problem Gambling...........................................................800-GAMBLER Healthcare HIV/AIDS Hotline............................................................................................ 206-205-7837 Northwest AIDS Foundation............................................................................ 206-329-6923 American Parkinson Disease Association....................................................... 800-908-2732 Family Planning Hotline.................................................................................. 800-770-4334 Healthy Mothers Coalition.............................................................................. 800-322-2588 Lupus Foundation (Western WA chapter)............................................................. 877-774-2992 National LUNGLINE........................................................................................800-222-LUNG Women, Infants Nutrition................................................................................ 800-322-2588 Reporting a Crime We Tip........................................................................................................... 800-78-CRIME Counseling Services 1-800-THERAPIST......................................................................................... 800-843-7274 Pregnancy Helpline........................................................................................ 800-672-2296 Mental Health Northwest............................................................................... 425-827-9100 Ryther Child Center........................................................................................ 206-525-5050 Childhaven.................................................................................................... 206-464-3923 ....................... 206-624-6477 Literacy Council............................................................................................. 425-643-1912 Volunteer Services The Sharehouse............................................................................................. 206-767-5280 United Way.................................................................................................... 425-869-0980 Youth Services Big Brothers/Big Sisters................................................................................. 425-576-8828 Girl Scouts..................................................................................................... 425-803-0247 Boy Scouts Of America.................................................................................. 206-725-5200 30

different breed of visitor.

• Median household income: $46,800 (up from $42,279 in 2000) • Median house/condo value: $287,000 (up from $179,900 in 2000) • Average age: 35.3

Lynden

Population: 9,020 Ideally located between Mt. Baker and Puget Sound., this quiet community adds its own touch of Dutch heritage to the uniquely Western Washington experience. The picturesque 72-foot high windmill featuring moving blades provides the backdrop for many pictures in downtown Lynden and is also the anchor for unique shops, an indoor canal and the community theatre. The area surrounding the town is filled with dairy, raspberry, strawberry, and blueberry farms. The town was named by Pheobe Judson in honor of the poem Hohenlinden by T. Campbell, but Judson changed the spelling, “so it would look prettier.” • Median household income: $47,300 (up from $42,767 in 2000) • Median house/condo value: $251,100 (up from $157,400 in 2000) • Average age: 39

Nooksack

Population: 909 Located in the fertile valley that bears its name, Nooksack is located on State Highways 544 and 9 along the Nooksack River. With a population under 3,000, this low-key rural community is the heart of the region's agricultural heritage. Berries, dairy cattle, carrots, potatoes and a variety of specialty produce are raised in the fields surrounding the community. • Median household income: $48,700 (up from $44,000 in 2000) • Median house/condo value: $193,400 (up from $121,200 in 2000) • Average age: 35.3

Point Roberts

Population: 1,308 Almost five square miles of peninsula that extends south from Canada, Point Roberts is an unincorporated small corner of the country cut off from the mainland by the 1846 Oregon Treaty which drew the international boundary between the U.S. and Canada at the 49th parallel. The Spanish originally thought the peninsula Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

was an island, mistakenly naming it: Isla de Zepeda. The community is separated from the rest of Whatcom County and Washington state by 23 driving miles through British Columbia. The international residents of Point Roberts are just 30 minutes by car from Vancouver and only a 10 minute drive from the Tsawwassen ferry dock linking the mainland to Vancouver Island. • Median household income: 45,417

Sumas

Population: 1,132 Located on the U.S-Canadian border, Sumas is a popular and busy crossing point between the two countries. The name Sumas means “land without trees” according to the native Cowichan tribe, first native inhabitants of British Columbia. The first non-Indian settlers homesteaded this area in the 1870’s. Today there are plenty of trees in this community of about 1,000 residents who enjoy the sights and sounds of the picturesque Sumas River that runs just east of town. • Median household income $32,400 (up from $29,297 in 2000) • Median house/condo value: $191,100 (up from $119,800 in 2000) • Average age: 35.3

Skagit & Whatcom Living • Volume 2 - No 1

education

Children are our most precious resource. Selecting the right school and perfect school district may be the best form of parent involvement.

Skagit County

Anacortes School District Superintendent Chris Borgen believes partnering with parents ensures that students leave school with the skills and behaviors needed to thrive in their futures. She invites parents to stop by the district office—located upstairs in the middle school—for a formal introduction and an informal discussion on the mission of the district staff for each student. Fidalgo Elementary K-6 13590 Gibraltar Road Anacortes, 98221 360-293-9545 Island View Elementary Grades K-6 2501 J Avenue Anacortes, WA 98221 360-293-3149

Mount Erie Elementary Grades K-6 1313 41st Street Anacortes, WA 98221 360-293-9541

Home Education Partnership (Alternative) 15510 Rosario Beach Rd Anacortes, WA 98221 360-299-8995

Whitney Early Childhood Education Center Pre K - K 1200 M Avenue Anacortes, WA 98221 360-293-9536

Burlington-Edison Public Schools “We are a school district that places the work of teachers, students and partners at the core of our organization,” said Dr. Rick Jones, superintendent of the seven school cooperative. “Student learning is what we are about. We are committed to providing quality learning opportunities for all students to become productive members of a changing community.”

Anacortes Middle School Grades 7-8 2202 M Avenue Anacortes, WA 98221 360-293-1230

Allen Elementary School Grades K-8 · 509 students 17145 Cook Road Bow, WA 98232 360-757-3352

Anacortes High School Grades: 9-12 1600 20th Street Anacortes, WA 98221 360-293-2166

Burlington Edison High School Grades 9-12 · 1145 students 301 N Burlington Blvd. Burlington, WA 98233 360-757-4074

Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

Edison Elementary School Grades K-8 · 496 students 5801 Main St. Edison, WA 98232 360-757-3375 Lucille Umbarger Elementary School Grades K-8 · 712 students 820 S Skagit St. Burlington, WA 98233 360-757-3366 West View Elementary School Grades K-8 · 472 students 515 W Victoria Ave. Burlington, WA 98233 360-757-3391 Bay View Elementary School Grades K-8 · 524 students 15241 Josh Wilson Rd. Burlington, WA 98233 360-757-3322 Burlington-Edison Alternative School Grades 9-12 · 59 students 301 N Burlington Blvd. Burlington, WA 98233 360-757-3311 Concrete School District #11 Message from returning Superintendent Barbara Hawkings: This year, we will continue to work on improving our schools in order to accomplish our mission as an Educational cooperative of professionals, students and community members committed to developing the full potential and civic potential of every student. Twin Cedars High School Grades 10-12 · 21 students 45389 Airport Way Concrete, WA 98237 360-826-9184 Concrete Elementary School Grades K-6 · 388 students 7838 S. Superior Ave. Concrete, WA 98237 360-853-8145

Grades 7-8 · 139 students 45389 Airport Way Concrete, WA 98237 360-853-8116 Skagit River School House Grades K-12 · 40 students 41382 State Route 20 Concrete, WA 98237 360-826-9184 Conway School District #317 19710 State Route 534 Mount Vernon, WA 98274 The Conway School District is nestled in the beautiful southern portion of Skagit County, approximately 50 miles north of the city of Seattle. The district offers a K to 8 programs with 400 students educated on one site. The staff includes 22 teachers, 28 full- and part-time classified staff members and two administrators. Immaculate Conception Regional School Grades K-8 1321 East Division Mount Vernon, WA 98274 360-428-3912 Founded in 1949, ICRS provides

an education rooted in Catholic beliefs and values for the students in Skagit and surrounding counties. The school emphasizes the spiritual, moral, intellectual and physical development of its students, while fostering community among students, parents, and staff. The school is open to students of all religions. La Conner School District The La Conner district sits at the heart of the La Conner community, 55 miles north of Seattle and 75 miles south of Vancouver, B.C. Its boundaries include more than 100 square miles of land surrounded by the Skagit River, the Swinomish Channel, and Padilla and Skagit Bays. La Conner Elementary School Grades K-5 · 299 students P.O. Box 210 La Conner, WA 98257 360-466-3172 La Conner Middle School Grades 6-8 · 153 students 305 N. 6th La Conner, WA 98257 360-466-4113

Children learn best in an environment that invites creativity, nourishes self-confidence and a love of learning. • Toddler-Kindergarten • Before & After School Care Available • 1st & 2nd Grade Offered 2009/2010

Concrete High School Grades 9-12 · 223 students 7830 S. Superior Avenue Concrete, WA 98237 360-853-8143 Concrete Middle School Skagit & Whatcom Living • Volume 2 - No 1

La Conner High School Grades 9-12 · 214 students 307 Nth. 6th St. La Conner, WA 98257 360-466-3173

Lincoln Elementary School Grades K-6 · 365 students 1005 S 11th St. Mount Vernon, WA 98274 360-428-6135

Mount Vernon School District 124 East Lawrence St. Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-428-6110 The 11 sites that make up the Mount Vernon Schools are the largest district in Skagit County, serving more than 5,700 students. The growing school district has served the educational needs of the community for more than 100 years.

Madison Elementary School Grades K-6 · 472 students 907 E Fir St. Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-428-6131

Jefferson Elementary School Grades K-5 · 548 students 1801 E Blackburn Rd. Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-428-6128 La Venture Middle School Grades 7-8 · 384 students 1200 Laventure Rd. Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-428-6116

Mount Vernon High School Grades 9-12 · 1,789 students 314 N 9th St. Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-428-6151 Washington Elementary School Grades K-6 · 534 students 1020 McLean Rd. Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-428-6122 Centennial Elementary School Grades K-6 · 627 students 3100 Martin Rd. Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-428-6138 Little Mountain Elementary School Grades K-6 · 554 students 1514 S Laventure Rd. Mount Vernon, WA 98274 360-428-6125 Mount Baker Middle School Grades 7-8 · 452 students 2310 E Section St. Mount Vernon, WA 98274 360-428-6127 Mount Vernon Special Education Grades K-12 · 174 students 920 S 2nd St. Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-428-6141 Skagit Family Learning Center MVSD Grades K-12 · 116 students 125 N. Laventure Rd. Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Mount Vernon Christian School K-12 West Blackburn Road Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360-424– 9157 pdejong@mvcwa.com

Founded in 1951, the Mount Vernon Christian School is committed to education based on the infallible Word of God, seeks to serve God by preparing students to respond in loving service to God and their neighbors. As an extension of the Christian home, the staff assists parents in nurturing their children in the knowledge of the Lord and of His creation, thereby equipping students to embrace Biblical values while being Christ's agents of renewal in the world. Sedro-Woolley School District #101 801 Trail Road Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 360-855-3300 Entering its 104th year, the SedroWoolley District continues its primary mission to provide every student with the knowledge and skills to ensure future success. Superintendent Mark J. Venn counts on his professional educators and support staff to help fulfill the educational needs of each student. Central Elementary School Grades K-6 · 397 students 601 Talcott Street Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 360-855-3560 Big Lake Elementary School Grades K-6 · 223 students 16802 Lake View Blvd. Mount Vernon, WA 98274 360-855-3525 Cascade Middle School Grades 7-8 · 665 students 201 N. Township Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 360-855-3520 Clear Lake Elementary School Grades K-6 · 229 students P.O. Box 128 Clear Lake, WA 98235 360-856-1026 Lyman Elementary School Grades K-12 · 172 students P.O. Box 1308 Lyman, WA 98263 360-855-3535 Mary Purcell Elementary School Grades K-6 · 428 students 700 Bennett Street Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 360-855-3555 Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

Samish Elementary School Grades K-6 · 197 students 23953 Prairie Road Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 360-856-4330 Sedro-Woolley Senior High School Grades 9-12 · 1211 students 1235 Third Street Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 360-855-3510 State Street High School Grades 8-12 · 387 students 800 State Street Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 360-855-3550 Sedro-Woolley Special Programs Grades PK-12 780 Cook Road Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 360-855-3565 Skagit Valley College Students at SVC learn a great deal outside of the classroom. Through activities, athletics, creating media and arts, and leadership on campus and in the community, students apply what they learn in the classroom to grow in their ability to relate to others and have a lot of fun while they’re at it. SVC students are encouraged to become involved in campus life, support student initiatives and serve as a primary liaison for students at all four SVC campus locations, Mount Vernon, Whidbey Island, South Whidbey Campus, San Juan Center. Education happens both inside and outside the classroom and a successful college career at SVC includes social as well as intellectual development. College tuition: Come and GET it For parents or grandparents who have searched dozens of malls and countless web sites in a fruitless quest for that perfect gift for your child, the answer may be as close as your state government in Olympia. That perfect gift is a pre-paid college education compliments of Washington’s Guaranteed Education Program (GET). The state's prepaid college tuition plan fund has topped $1 billion in total assets this fall as it entered its 10th year of availability. A newborn child today can expect to pay more than $100,000 for four years of tuition at the University of Washington or Washington State University, according Skagit & Whatcom Living • Volume 2 - No 1

to Washington Higher Education Public Schools K-12 in Coordinating Board officials, who said Whatcom County: that parents who put money in the plan's first year in 1998 would have seen an 80 Bellingham Public Schools percent return on investment. 1306 Dupont The state guarantees that money Bellingham WA 98225 placed into the fund will keep pace with 360-676-6400 www.bham.wednet.edu tuition inflation. “That makes GET a pretty good Blaine School District investment in today’s economy,” explained 770 Mitchell Avenue program director Betty Lochner. Blaine WA 98230 Lawmakers have predicted that 360-332-5881 increases could remain in double-digits www.blaine.wednet.edu each year for the foreseeable future. GET is sold in affordable units, Ferndale School District with 100 units guaranteed to cover 6041 Vista Drive the cost of resident undergraduate Ferndale WA 98248 tuition and mandatory fees at the most 360-383-9200 www.ferndale.wednet.edu expensive public college or university in Washington. Lynden School District “Parents can open an account early 1203 Bradley Road in the school year so grandparents and Lynden WA 98264 other relatives can buy units as gifts for 360-354-4443 birthdays, Christmas or Hanukah,” said www.lynden.wednet.edu Wendy Dore of Bellevue, who bought GET units five years ago to pay for her Meridian School District son’s college. “If the parents open an 214 W Laurel Road account when the child is young, they can Bellingham WA 98226 buy a few units every year and have college 360-398-7111 www.meridian.wednet.edu paid for by the time that student ever needs the money.” Mt. Baker School District The current cost-per-unit is $74. New PO Box 95 rates are set each August based on the Deming WA 98244 highest tuition in the state at a public four360-383-2000 year institution. (Tuition at Washington www.mtbaker.wednet.edu State in Pullman was $4,200 this year. Lochner said the Tax Reconciliation Nooksack Valley School District Act of 2001 makes all money invested into 3326 E Badger Road state GET program able to grow without Everson WA 98247 any tax implications. 360-988-4754 www.nv.k12.wa.us “GET grants are a wonderful gift from grandparents, even before the child Post-Secondary Education in starts school,” said Lochner. “But it’s the Whatcom County: parents who start to panic just about the time the kids enter middle school. At that • Western Washington University Founded in 1893, it is one of six, point college is not very far away in terms state-funded, four-year institutions in of planning.” Washington State. GET investments can be made, over • Whatcom Community College Offers time, without creating debt, or in a single two-year degrees accredited by the Northwest Association of Schools lump sum. The benefits can be used at any and Colleges. in-state or out-of-state, public or private, • Bellingham Technical College Offers accredited institution. If a student’s a variety of degrees and certificates in educational situation changes, the benefits can be transferred between members of a • vocational-technical education. Northwest Indian College Provides family. post-secondary educational For more information on the GET opportunities for Native Americans program, call 1-800-955-2328 or log onto throughout the region. www.GET.wa.gov.

senior living

Northwest retirement is filled with options for active seniors.

Several national publications have pinpointed the Northwest corner of the US as one of the top locations for seniors who want to fully take advantage of retirement during their Golden Years. Skagit and Whatcom counties compliment the spotlight with offerings that preserve an active lifestyle regardless of age. Bellingham was near the top of the annual Money Magazine survey of best places to retire in both 2003 and again in 2006. The editors described the largest city in the two-county area as having, “the great outdoors and sophisticated living all at your doorstep.” “There are few places where you can walk out of a 20-story building, cast a line into a creek and catch a salmon. Bellingham is one. It sits on Bellingham Bay and has three freshwater lakes plus scads of streams.” --Money Magazine]

Similar publications grouped Bellingham along with Whatcom/ Skagit region as retirement havens that rival San Diego in California, Charleston in South Carolina; the Florida city of Sarasota and Walla Walla in the eastern half of Washington state. Another news source described the Northwest community, “As one of the best places to retire. Bellingham offers plenty of recreation and natural charm.” Even the health care community has matured to care for the aging population. St. Joseph’s Hospital in Bellingham has gained a worldwide reputation for the tender care it provides to the senior population. The Skagit County government provides assistance for seniors ranging from problems that may arise from living alone to the challenge of securing trusted at-home health care. The county agencies are coordinated through the county offices.

Skagit County Senior Services 315 South 3rd Street Mt. Vernon WA 98273 360-336-9345 www.nwrcwa.org Seniors in need of assistance with Medicaid or health insurance questions may contact: Mt Vernon HCS 900 E College Way, Suite 210 Mt. Vernon, WA 98273-5682 Phone: (360) 416-7289 or 1-866-608-0836 Home is where the grandparents live Finding the right home can mean discovering a place where seniors feel secure, comfortable and treated with respect. There are dozens of choices and many options for seniors who want to take up residency in Skagit or Whatcom County. Following is a list of just a few: Alliance Living Community 360-293-3174

Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

Anacortes Alpine Ridge Retirement Apartments 401 N. 17th Street Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Average wait time: 1-3 months

people decided to form a "new society" in the genealogical community. The roots of the society go much farther back. Many of the original members were part of a study group lead by Marjory Johnson in the early 1950â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Fidalgo Care Center There were actually two groups, one 1105 27th Street that met in the afternoons and the other Anacortes in the evenings. The afternoon group 360-293-3174 met at the Mount Vernon City Library. The groups offered one-on-one San Juan Rehabilitation instruction and opportunity to share & Care Center a hobby. At that time, attendance was 911 21st Street normally only six-to-eight people. There Anacortes was sharing of problems, successes 360-293-7222 and carpooling to Seattle libraries and archives. It was during this time period Burton Care Center that the Church of the Latter Days Saints 1036 Vivtoria Ave opened the Family History Center in Burlington Mount Vernon, providing access to the 360-755-0711 many resources of the Family History Library in Salt Lake City. Marjory also Life Care of Mount Vernon conducted classes at the Mount Vernon 2120 E Division Street senior center and library. She spread 360-424-4258 her love and knowledge of genealogy to many people in Skagit County. Mira Vista Care Center On November 5, 1986, a meeting 300 South 18th Street was held at the Knotty Pine Restaurant Mount Vernon in Mount Vernon. Six members decided 360-424-1320 to place an article in the newspaper to see if anyone else was interested in Life Care of Skagit Valley forming an area genealogical society. 1462 W State Route 20 In January 1987, the first officers were Sedro-Woolley chosen and the bylaws and charter of the Skagit Valley Genealogical Society Other Services were drawn. Betty Fellion was elected as the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first President. Marjory Skagit Valley Genealogical Society and Betty left genealogical books to the P.O. Box 715 group, planting the seeds for the society Conway, WA. 98238-0715 library. During the following years the The Skagit Valley Genealogical membership continued to grow and Society turned 21 years old on Jan. 1, flourish. The current membership 2008. Back in 1987 a small group of exceeds 135 members. Many are

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55+ Active Adult Communities In Northwest Washington Three locations to choose from!

• Ferndale • Mount Vernon • Everett

just beginning to do their search for and over at each of the senior centers. ancestors, while others have a great deal Health care for seniors is provided of experience. through a wellness program. The society meets on the fourth These services include: Tuesday of each month except for July, • glaucoma screening August and December, at 7 p.m. at the • hearing tests Mount Vernon Presbyterian Church, • cholesterol testing 1511 East Broadway in Mount Vernon. • health education lectures. • flu clinics (go to Wellness Notes Senior Services in Whatcom County on the Whatcom County Council The Whatcom County Council on on Aging web site for dates, times Aging operates eight senior centers and fees for clinics held at the located in Bellingham, Deming, senior centers) Ferndale, Sumas, Lynden, Blaine, Everson and Point Roberts. Each center The Nutrition Program has a full calendar of events for seniors There are also nutritious meals at in that community. Events offered many for those seniors who are include a wide range of classes and social able tocenters leave their homes. Delivered activities: meals are available to those who are • Classes for everything from not able to prepare their own. The crafts to foreign languages, low suggested donation is $3 per meal. All impact exercises, creative writing, donations are confidential and no one metal casting, Bible study, bridge, is denied a meal if unable to contribute. guitar, and lip reading Food stamps may be used as a donation. • Social activities including games, songs, music, dancing and special Senior Services Administrative Office tours. 315 Halleck Street The Whatcom County Council on Bellingham, WA 98226 Aging provides individual and group 360-733-4030 health screening services for seniors 60

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Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

One Solution for Four Resolutions

(ARA) – This year, concerns about the economy and unemployment may influence some people’s New Year’s resolution choices. In addition to perennial favorites such as lose weight and quit smoking, many of us will resolve to make more money, get ahead professionally, or even change careers. “Making your resolutions is just the first step,” says Steve Krenzer, president of ClassesUSA.com. “You also need to put a plan in place to accomplish them. Happily, several important resolutions may share a common solution – improving your education.” True, earning a degree probably won’t do much to help you shed those extra pounds you resolved to lose, but going back to school can be the first step in accomplishing other life-enhancing goals – goals that take on an even greater importance in a down economy. Here are four resolutions that you can jump-start by continuing your education in 2009: 1. Earn More Money Nearly everyone agrees they’d like to make more money, especially in the current economic climate. Higher education can help make that dream a reality. The higher the degree, the higher your earning potential. According to U.S. Census Bureau data, workers with a bachelor’s degree earn, on average, about $25,241 more per year than workers with only a high school diploma. A master’s, professional or doctoral degree can earn you an average of another $25,257 over peers with only an undergraduate degree. 2. Get Ahead Professionally In a turbulent economy where broad job losses are making the job market even more competitive, having an edge can make all the difference. Whether your goal is to find a better job, earn a promotion in your current job or simply to survive a downsizing, education may give you that competitive edge. Earning a bachelor’s or advanced degree is a great way to expand your qualifications and improve important skills. If you need more instant education gratification, consider a certificate program, many of which can be completed in a matter of months. 3. Start a New Career Whether you’re motivated by a thirst for new challenges, or a shortage of opportunities in your current field, changing careers can be difficult to accomplish. Gaining additional, applicable education is a great way to show potential employers that you’re committed to your new career choice, and that you’ve got the knowledge and training to succeed. 4. Be More Assertive Being a wallflower could hold you back professionally as well as personally. If you want to be your company’s superstar, you need to be willing to speak up and push for your ideas – and to do that, you have to be confident. If you lack confidence at work, consider pursuing additional education. Not only will you benefit from the knowledge and skills you’ll gain, but adding a degree or certificate to your name could give you the boost in confidence you need to stand up and get noticed at your place of business. What’s more, the newfound confidence you establish at the office can enhance your efforts to be more assertive in other areas of your life. With options like online learning, night classes, accelerated degree programs, and certificate programs it’s easier than ever before to go back to school. Free online resources like ClassesUSA.com can help you find programs that fit your needs. “We make resolutions because we want to improve our lives,” Krenzer says. “Getting a better education can be an important first step in achieving several of those life-enhancing goals.” Courtesy of ARAcontent

Skagit & Whatcom Living • Volume 2 - No 1

healthcare

Hospitals that make house calls. Medical choices as diverse as the region

Healthcare has come a long way since doctors came to the patient’s home with a small black bag filled with instruments. Healthcare providers in Skagit and Whatcom counties have state-of-the-art medical care facilities, but also offer neighborhood clinics for walk-in patients and nonemergency care. Skagit Valley Hospital 1415 E Kincaid St Mount Vernon, WA 360-424-4111 The long-anticipated 220,000square-foot addition to the Skagit Valley Hospital opened in fall of 2007. The expansion project more than doubles the size of the hospital’s patient care facility. Much larger emergency/trauma units, a state-ofthe-art surgical services department, with six operating rooms and expanded space for Critical Care were key components in the 40

expansion. The addition also added universal rooms to accommodate the needs of acutely ill patients, a larger Family Birth Center with improved amenities for families and babies and private patient rooms. Opened in 1958, the original hospital building was what is known today as the first two f loors of the southwest wing. A third f loor was added to that in 1964 and a 40-bed northwest wing opened in February 1972. The new diagnostic wing and emergency room opened in May 1987 and the 10,000 square foot Skagit Valley Kidney Center opened in July 1998. Diagnostic services at the hospital include CT, MRI, and PET scanning, nuclear medicine and ultrasound. A new Regional Cancer Care Center on the first f loor of an adjacent medical building provides comprehensive cancer care as an affiliate of the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.

The hospital also offers Heart Care (including a heart catheterization lab), a Breast Care Center, HealthQuest community education classes, the Community Health Resource Center, Skagit Wound Healing Institute, the Children’s Therapy Program for children with special needs, orthopedic, oncology, physical, speech and occupational therapy, psychiatric care, a sleep center, inpatient and outpatient surgery, hospice, nutrition counseling, Statewide Health Insurance Advisors (SHIBA) and the Sunrise Inn, where family and patients can stay near the hospital. The hospital operates freestanding clinics in the Stanwood and Camano Island communities. The Camano Community Health Clinic is staffed by a physician and a physician assistant to serve Camano Island’s health care needs. For information, call 360-387-5398. The Stanwood Health Clinic offers physical, occupational and speech therapy as well as general medical Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

care. For information, call 360-6295800. For more information about Skagit Valley Hospital, go to www.skagitvalleyhospital.org. For assistance in finding a physician call 360-629-5850. United General Hospital 2000 Hospital Dr Sedro-Woolley, WA 360-856-6021 United General Hospital has been a vital part of the community for more than 40 years. The hospital serves Public Hospital District 304, including Burlington, SedroWoolley, Bay View, Samish Island, Concrete, Marblemount, Clear Lake and portions of Mount Vernon. The staff at United General prides itself with personalized care in a quiet, healing environment. In addition to an excellent staff, the hospital embraces state-of-theart technology to ensure quality and safety. From the new linear accelerator in the cancer care center, to the fully computerized sleep disorders center, and the wireless, voice-activated communication systems, United General is bringing big city technology to its friendly, rural setting. Services at United General include comprehensive cancer care, an emergency department staffed with specially trained doctors and nurses; a diagnostic imaging center with everything from x-ray to mammograms to MRI; a variety of surgical services; cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation; physical and occupational therapy; the only certified diabetes education program in the area. The hospital also offers Wellness 360, a community education program that emphasizes all-around health. Classes provide information on nutrition, exercise, stress management and many other healthrelated topics, as well as screenings and risk assessments. United General hosts an annual womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health fair and other special events for the public. Skagit & Whatcom Living â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 2 - No 1

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North Cascade Eye Associates of Mount Vernon receives AAAHC Accreditation Mount Vernon, WA--North Cascade Eye Associates and the Eye Associates Surgery Center has achieved accreditation by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC/Accreditation Association). Accreditation distinguishes this clinic and surgical center from many other outpatient surgical facilities by providing a safe work environment and the highest quality of care to patients. Status as an accredited organization means North Cascade Eye Associates has met nationally recognized standards for the provision of quality health care, set by the Accreditation Association. More than 3,600 ambulatory health care organizations across the United States are accredited by AAAHC. Not all ambulatory health care organizations seek accreditation; not all undergoing the on-site survey are granted accreditation. “We believe our patients deserve the best,” stated Dr. Dan Siapco of North Cascade Eye Associates. “When you see our certificate of accreditation, you will know that the AAAHC, an independent, not-for-profit organization, has closely examined our facility and procedures. It means that we as an organization care enough about our patients to strive for the highest care possible.” Ambulatory health care organizations seeking accreditation by the AAAHC undergo an extensive self-assessment and on-site survey by the Accreditation Association’s expert surveyors-volunteer physicians, nurses and administrators who are actively involved in ambulatory health care. The survey is consultative and educational, presenting best practices to help an organization improve its care and services. “Going through the process challenged us to find better ways to serve our patients, and it is a constant reminder that our first responsibility is to our patients and the quality of are we provide,” said Dr. Siapco. [more] AAHC accreditation is specifically for organizations that provide diagnostic or medical care on an outpatient basis- where an overnight stay would not be required. Among the types of ambulatory health care organizations that can seek AAAHC accreditation are ambulatory and office-based surgery centers, single and multi-specialty group practices, college health centers, dental group practices, community health centers, occupational health centers and managed care organizations. North Cascade Eye Associates was founded by Nannette Crowell in 1985 and has two locations in Skagit County. The surgery center is in their Mount Vernon clinic where surgical procedures include cataract and LASIK eye surgery. They are also a full service ophthalmology clinic, offering routine, medical and specialty eye care as well as optical services. The AAAHC/Accreditation Association, founded in 1979, is the leader in ambulatory health care accreditation with more than 3,600 organizations accredited nationwide. The AAAHC accredits a variety of ambulatory health care organizations and serves as an advocate for the provision of high quality health care through the development of nationally recognized standards and through its survey and accreditation programs. AAAHC accreditation is recognized as a symbol of quality by third-party payers, medical organizations, liability insurance companies, state and federal agencies and the public.

Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

Island Hospital 1211 24th St Anacortes, WA 360-675-2229 Island Hospital has served west Skagit County, north Whidbey Island and the San Juan Islands since 1962, growing to fit the needs of the community. Patients will soon benefit from the hospital’s new 31-bed patient-care wing featuring single-patient rooms that will be universal -- f lexible enough for use by critical and acutecare patients, eliminating the need to divert patients to other hospitals when Island’s Critical Care Unit is full. The Emergency Department has also been expanded, with three additional beds, a private admitting area and larger family waiting area. The expansion also features strategically located Diagnostic Service an expanded Birth Center and a new patient admitting area that preserves confidentiality. Despite the construction, Island Hospital continues to offer a 24-hour

physician-staffed Emergency Room, family-centered birthing suites, Island Physical Therapy Center, a cancer care center, cardiopulmonary rehab center, surgery, dental, chiropractic, pediatric, ophthalmology, optometry, obstetrics, gynecology, cardiology, orthopedic, dermatology, urology, sports medicine, occupational therapy, speech therapy and more. The hospital has extensive diagnostic services, including X-ray, CT scan, ultrasound, mammography, MRI and arteriography. The Teen Clinic offers counseling, health education, general exams, contraceptive information and supplies, pregnancy and STD testing and referrals. Island Hospital also operates as a home healthcare agency. The four family care clinics operated by the hospital are: Anacortes Family Medicine at 360299-4211; the LaConner Medical Center at 360-466-3136 the Lopez Island Medical Clinic at 360-4682245 and the Orcas Island Medical Center at 360-376-2561.

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St. Joseph Hospital 2901 Squalicum Pkwy Bellingham, WA 360-734-5400Â Today, the highly-trained staff at St. Joseph Hospital and local physicians delivers a full range of services, including: imaging and lab tests, total heart care, comprehensive cancer care, specialized senior health care, a state-of-the-art childbirth center, orthopedic surgery, rehabilitation, mental health, roundthe-clock emergency care and much more. But the story of caring began more than a century ago and 3,000 miles away. In August 1890 two members of the f ledgling order of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace traveled west from their home in Atlantic City in New Jersey. Their mission: to establish a hospital in the fishing and lumber town of Fairhaven in the Washington territory. Once here, Sisters Teresa Moran and Stanislaus Tighe began raising construction funds by selling annual hospital tickets for $10 each. In January 1891 the sisters opened 30-bed St. Joseph Hospital, the first hospital in Whatcom County. It was staffed by seven nuns and a lay cook. Hospital food included fresh vegetables from the sisters' own garden. Fairhaven eventually became part of the boomtown of Bellingham, and Washington became an official state of the union. But the level of care and concern for the patient has not changed in 117 years. Today PeaceHealth operates six hospitals, medical groups, a chemical dependency program, health care joint ventures, and other services serving communities in southeast Alaska, northwest Washington, southwest Washington/northwest Oregon, Oregon's Willamette Valley, and Oregon's central coast. The healthcare system is headquartered in Bellevue, WA. The regions are also tied by a shared mission and values.

Volume 2 - No 1 â&#x20AC;˘ Skagit & Whatcom Living

Senior Services The following is an abridged list of information services and an assistance guide for seniors that are available in Skagit County: Aging & Disabilities Administration........................................ 1-800-422-3263 Alger Food Bank................................................................... 360-724-5131 Anacortes Food Bank.............................................................360-293-6445 Anacortes Housing Authority.................................................... 360-293-7831 Anacortes Senior Center.........................................................360-293-7473 Burlington Community/Senior Center........................................360-755-0102 Catholic Community Services..................................................360-416-7546 City Utility Discounts Anacortes.............................................................................360-293-1909 Mount Vernon.......................................................................360-336-6218 Sedro-Woolley......................................................................360-855-0929 Community Health Resource Center Anacortes............................................................................. 360-299-1397 Mount Vernon....................................................................... 360-428-2371 Concrete Food Bank..............................................................360-853-8505 Concrete Senior Center..........................................................360-853-8400 DAV Transportation Program Anacortes............................................................................. 360-257-4801 Bellingham...........................................................................360-733-9226 Dispute Resolution Center.......................................................360-336-9494 DSHS Adult Protective Services.................................................... 1-877-980-9220 Food Stamps . .....................................................................360-416-7444 Employment Security Department............................................360-416-3500 Energy Assistance Program..................................................... 360-428-1011 Skagit County Community Action Agency..................................360-416-7585 Friendship House..................................................................360-336-2135 Gatekeeper Program..............................................................360-336-9345 Golden Care Program c/o SHIBA............................................................................360-416-7004 Healthquest..........................................................................360-428-2424 Helping Hands Food Bank...................................................... 360-855-2211 Housing Authority of Skagit County Home Weatherization Program................................................360-856-1223 Information...........................................................................360-428-1959 Island Hospital Community Resource Program...............................................(360) 299-1397 Home Health...................................................................... (360) 299-1302 Information......................................................................... (360) 299-1300 Department of Licensing Anacortes.............................................................................360-588-0805 Mount Vernon.......................................................................360-416-7563 Marblemount Senior Center....................................................360-873-4432 Meals-on-Wheels..................................................................360-336-9445 Mount Vernon Senior Center................................................... 360-336-5757 Neighbors in Need Food Bank.................................................360-420-0558

Sauk-Suiattle Tribal Community Administration and Seniors Program......................................... 360-436-0131 Health/Social Services...........................................................360-436-1400 SeaMar Community Health.................................................................360-428-4075 Homeless Program and Food Bank..........................................360-428-8912 Sedro-Woolley Housing Authority.............................................360-855-0404 Sedro-Woolley Senior Center.................................................. 360-855-1531 Senior Behavioral Health......................................................... 360-856-7421 Senior Information & Assistance..............................................360-336-9345 SHIBA.................................................................................360-416-7004 Skagit Adult Day Center..........................................................360-755-1235 Skagit Community Action Agency.............................................360-416-7585 Skagit Council on Aging.........................................................360-336-9315 Skagit County Assessor (property assessments)...........................................................360-336-9370 Skagit County Auditor’s Office.................................................360-336-9420 Skagit County Senior Nutrition Program....................................360-336-9445 Skagit County Treasurer (property tax relief programs)...................................................360-336-9350 Skagit Gleaners.....................................................................360-757-3206 Skagit Hospice......................................................................360-856-7770 Skagit Recovery Center..........................................................360-428-7835 Skagit Transit (SKAT) Anacortes.............................................................................360-299-2424 Mount Vernon.......................................................................360-757-4433 Skagit Valley College..............................................................360-416-7600 Skagit Valley Hospital............................................................. 360-424-4111 St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank................................................360-336-5874 Swinomish Tribal Community Administration.......................................................................360-466-3163 Seniors Program...................................................................360-466-3980 United General Hospital.......................................................... 360-856-6021 Upper Skagit Tribal Community Senior Center....................................................................... 360-856-5501 Visiting Nurse Personal Services..............................................360-336-9693 Volunteers of America 24-hour crisis line............................................................. 1-800-584-3578 WorkSource Development Council 2005 East College Way Mount Vernon, 98273 360-336-5781 360-714-3600 WSU Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners/Master Food Preservers 360-428-4270

Jim Pierce North Puget Oncology Center.................................................. 360-856-7581 Older Driver Education...........................................................360-336-9400 OptionCare............................................ 360-428-7799 or 1-800-755-0484 Retired Senior Volunteer Program............................................360-336-9315 Salvation Army — assistance and food bank.............................360-293-6682 Samish Indian Nation Information...........................................................................360-293-6404

Skagit & Whatcom Living • Volume 2 - No 1

dining

Dining options in Skagit & Whatcom provide fuel for the body, inspiration for the soul

Eating feeds the body, but fine dining feeds your inner spirit. An evening out can start with dinner at a contemporary restaurant followed with enough Northwest culture and attractions to keep the mind satisfied and the body content. The choices of cuisine are as varied as the ethnic options and allAmerican palates of the county’s residents. Acme Acme Cafe 2045 Valley Hwy 360-595-0150 Great food and a break from chains. Breakfast served all day in addition to the expansive menu. Visa may be acceptable everywhere else, but here they only take cash.

Anacortes

Adrift 506 Commercial Ave. 360-588-0653 adriftrestaurant.com Check out the menu online and then try the black-bean quesadillas and finish off your feast with creme brulee.

Bellingham

Bayou On The Bay 1300 Bay Street 360-75-BAYOU Deception Cafe & Grill Southern-style cooking is prepared with 5596 State Route 20 a careful hand that is so hard to find in today's 360-293-9250 restaurant industry. Collard greens are A local gem on Fidalgo Island. The cooked al dente, crawfish cakes are perfectly food is delicious, fresh, well presented and crisp and non-greasy, the blackened ahi tuna represents a creative fusion of local seafood, is pan seared medium rare. Prices are equally produce and international cuisine. down-to-earth. -Tara Nelson Flounder Bay Café 2201 Skyline Way Shahrazad House of Kabobs 360-293-3680 207 E. Holly www.flounderbaycafe.com 360-733-9355 Right by the water. The ambiance is nice, Stick with the favorites: the baba romantic. The halibut macadamia is highly ganoush, a smoky, rich eggplant puree with recommended. lemon juice, tahini, olive oil, and a ton of garlic, which guarantees bad breath for Rockfish Grill hours ($3.65 for a generous portion) or the 320 Commercial Ave. hummus, mixture of pureed garbanzo beans tahini (sesame seed paste), lemon juice, olive 360-588-1720 oil and garlic ($3.25). anacortesrockfish.com -Tara Nelson The Rockfish Rocks. The restaurant is kid friendly, so it's a nice place for families Tienda El Polivoz too. The ambiance is inviting and friendly! 4140 Meridian St Try the fish and chips and a cold one from (360) 756-8410 the tap. The biggest burrito in town is only $6 with chips and salsa. It’s a 12x4-inch monstrosity, which serves well for breakfast the next day. Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

WasaBee Sushi 105 E. Chestnut St 360-738-2024 Customers can get full on sushi for less than $10. Recommend the Unagi, or fresh water eel, which is broiled, steamed, and then broiled again with a rich barbeque sauce made of soy sauce and rice wine ($2.95 for two generous pieces). -Tara Nelson

but very consistent. Staff is always busy. We've never seen one leaning against the counter.

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Cedar's Restaurant & Lounge 2019 Main St. 360-384-2847 Country meals: Large servings for the meat and potato diner. Homemade pies too. Highly recommended for breakfast, but only if you're really hungry.

Natural meats, seafood, health and beauty aids, and additive-free groceries.

Burlington Canton Restaurant Curry House 423 E Fairhaven Ave. 2034 Main Street 360-755-0595 360-312-8779 Amazingly incredible food, great service The fish and chips uses boneless pieces of tandoori barbequed chicken simmered in a and wonderful ambience tomatoey-curry-yogurt sauce. Double Barrel BBQ La Conner 320 N Burlington Blvd Kerstin's 360-757-7427 505 S. 1st St. Yummy! Arrive with a large appetite. 360-66-9111 Really great messy food! Elegant, yet casual restaurant offers waterfront dining for lunch and dinner. Sports Keg An extensive wine and cocktail selection is 1660 S Burlington Blvd available to complement your meal. 360-757-7828 Sports keg=Good stuff. Great outside Palmer's at the Light House beer garden with fast and friendly bartenders. 512 S 1st St. Their stew is the best. 360-466-3147 www.nwcuisine.com Concrete Palmers has an extensive menu just Birdsview Brewing Company what you’d expect for upscale eating in 38302 State Route 20 La Conner, and it has the benefit of good 360/826-3406 views of the channel. Good people make www.birdsviewbrewingco.com If you get lost, just look for the signs this an experience to go along with the ideal that warn drivers of Beer Crossing. Try the location. Whitless, named after a Belgian wheat beer, which uses flaked wheat, bitter orange peel Lynden and coriander seed. The result is a crispDutch Mothers Family Restaurant flavored beer with a hint of sweetness and 405 Front St, Lynden, WA 98264 delightful fragrance. 360-354-2174 -Tara Nelson If you are ever on your way to Canada, make the detour to go through Lynden, Ferndale a small Dutch town full of surprises. The Babe's Place chicken Caesar is the best sandwich ever. 2038 Main St. 360-380-0705 Where the locals meet: Nothing fancy

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www.skagitfoodcoop.com Skagit & Whatcom Living • Volume 2 - No 1

Maple Falls Joowana Mexicana 7417 Mt. Baker Hwy. 360-599-9800 A local post-snowboarding favorite and the first cocktail heading west from Mt. Baker. Portions are generous and affordable. Try some of the newer menu items: Joowana sliders, two-ounce mini burgers with chipotle mayo and caramelized onions ($2.50) or sticky chicken tempura chicken strips with white rice, citrus-teriyaki, chopped peanuts and cilantro ($8). The pork is killer. -Tara Nelson Mount Vernon Farmhouse Restaurant 13724 La Conner Whitney Rd 360-466-4411 www.thefarmhouserestaurant.net Worth the eternally long wait for a table. The best damn country food you'll ever eat. Gentlemen Gene's: A Pub & Eatery 1400 Parker Way 360-424-4363 You can play pool, darts or choose songs on the jukebox. Clam chowder on Fridays and all you can eat fish and chips.

CROSSWORD

PUZZLE NO. 392

The Porterhouse 416 W Gates St. 360-336-9989 Wonderful food and great rotating beers. What more could a little town want? Skagit Valley Food Co-op’s Deli 202 S First Street Mount Vernon 360-336-9777 www.skagitfoodcoop.com The Co-op’s award-winning deli offers custom sandwiches, fantastic deli salads, homemade soup, a self-service salad bar, hot lunch and dinner entrees, espresso drinks, and fresh baked treats daily. We also have easy take-home salads and soups, plus picnic fixins. Sedro-Woolley Lucky Chinese Restaurant 214 Ball St 360-855-3340 Rated as the best Chinese place to eat in Washington. Locals think it's worth the trip from Ferndale to Sedro-Woolley. Rhodes Pizza Pasta 108 W Moore St. 360-855-2313 Excellent food.

ACROSS 1. 5. 8. 11. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 22. 23. 24. 25. 27. 28. 29. 30. 32. 34. 39. 42.

As the ____ flies Witchy woman Journey part Coyly ironic Long sandwich Go wrong Singleton Gambling game Skin affliction Friendly Indigo Extinct bird Frolic Attribute Situate Belt Cartoon frame Bothersome person Casual restaurant Coincide Citrus fruit Part man, part

machine 43. Nonprofessionals 45. Corporate symbol 47. Festoon 48. Wear 49. Bosc, e.g. 51. Extol 53. Snaky shape 54. Showy flower 56. Small drop 58. Smother 60. Strut conspicuously 62. Mothball ingredient 64. Bend in prayer 65. Bingo’s kin 66. Non-flying bird 69. Unlatch, in poems 71. Result 74. Kind of tide 76. Supplicate 80. Mobster’s man

81. 82. 83. 85. 86. 87. 88. 89. 90. 91. 92. 93.

Female ruff Tropical tuber Skunk “____ Crazy” (Garland film) Soft-shell ____ “. . . have you ____ wool?” 56, to Cicero Admired star Promotion Shelter Conger Unit of heredity

9. Intertwine 10. Barnyard fowl 11. Where to worship from 12. Delhi princess 13. Baby’s furniture 14. Pit 21. Horrify 26. Pottery material 28. Envelope sticker 31. Messy home 33. Jester 35. Literary monogram 36. Spur wheel 37. Cleanse 38. Fowl balls? 40. Extremely poor 41. Snarl 42. Having good manners 43. Navigational aid 44. Licorice-flavor source 46. Breathe hard 48. Circular plate 50. Indy 500, e.g.

52. Electronic component 55. Petal-puller’s word 57. Horsemanship 59. Associate of to 61. Lotion lily 63. Eyeglass 65. Organic compound 67. Scoff 68. Actress Merle ____ 70. Issued by Benedict XVI 72. Verona dry wine 73. Before 75. “____ of the Nineties” 76. Engrave with acid 77. None 78. Corner 79. Kimono, e.g. 84. Corrosive stuff 85. Jazz booking

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 392

DOWN 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Winner, briefly Regain Elaborate Great distress Core Knight’s protection 7. Frown 8. Tennis stroke

Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

recreation

Boredom is never an option if you live in Skagit or Whatcom County

W hether it’s wagering on the roll of the dice, or retracing the colorful path of the founders who carved this area from the wilderness, the opportunities for entertainment in Skagit and Whatcom counties can satisfy any need for diversion. There are museums of pioneer and Native American history and classic venues that feature quilting and historic stern-wheeler ships that prowled the coastal waters more than 150 years ago. There are seven public libraries, several community halls and granges.

Museums Skagit Historical Museum 501 4th Street La Conner 360-466-3365 Museum@co.skagit.wa.us Visitors can explore the county’s rich and rugged heritage with a tour of the Skagit Legacy exhibit filled 50

determined to enhance the lives of the children of Skagit County. The Children's Museum of Skagit County is a hands-on learning and with scenes of pioneer life from explorational experience for children the mountains to the sea. From from birth through eight years old. parlors to plows, Native American baskets to Shirley Temple dolls, the Anacortes History Museum Museum galleries are overf lowing 1305 8th St with interesting and often unusual Anacortes treasures of Skagit County’s vibrant 360-293-1915 past. coa.museum@cityofanacortes.org The Historical Museum’s Founded in 1958 and established research library contains a wealth at the Carnegie Library building in of documents and photographs that 1967, the Anacortes Museum is a provide valuable insight for all types department of the City of Anacortes. of fact finding missions from class In 1983 the city added the historical projects or book research to business W.T. Preston to the Museum and home histories. collection. The Snagboat Heritage Center opened in 2005 to interpret Children's Museum of Skagit the history of the celebrated ship and County the two boats that preceded it. 550 Cascade Mall Drive Burlington La Conner Quilt and Textile 360-757-8888 Museum www.skagitchildrensmuseum.net 703 S. 2nd Street Established as a non-profit La Conner corporation founded in July of 2000 360-466-4288 by a small group of concerned parents lacquiltm@aol.com Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

Established in 1997 inside the historic Gaches Mansion, the first f loor of the Quilt & Textile Museum retains the décor of the Victorian era, with quilts from that time period on display. The second f loor features exhibition space and the Sales Gallery. The third f loor provides even more additional exhibition space and a quilt frame for local quilters. Skagit County Historical Museum 501 South 4th Street La Conner 360-466-3365 www.skagitcounty.net/museum Come to the top of the hill in La Conner and explore Skagit County’s rich heritage! See and learn about baskets and tools of the local Natives; the farming, diking and logging ways and worries of Skagit pioneers; the toys, fashions, furnishings and home entertainment of early Skagitonians. We always have a fascinating feature exhibit and hands-on family fun activities. Don’t miss our delightful, affordable Museum Store and the

Skagit & Whatcom Living • Volume 2 - No 1

spectacular views of Skagit farmland supported by over 2000 members from our deck! from Skagit and adjoining counties. All galleries and restrooms are fully accessible; no steps or stairs. StressBellingham Theatre Guild free ample parking at no charge; short 1600 H St. walk to waterfront shops. Bellingham Open Tuesday through Sunday 360-733-1811 from 11 am to 5 pm. www.bellinghamtheatreguild.com There is a lot more to theatre Theatre than Shakespeare and the BTG proves it with a wide variety of The Lincoln Theatre productions, including musicals, 712 South First St. comedies, suspense and drama -Mount Vernon both contemporary and classic. The 360-336-8955 theater's goal is to provide quality The restored 1926 historic productions at reasonable prices. vaudeville and silent movie house in downtown Mount Vernon presents Loew’s Cascade Cinemas a year-round schedule of concerts, 200 Cascade Mall Drive current and classic films as well Cascade Mall in Burlington as community events. The theatre 360-707-2900 hosts concerts by the local youth Featuring 12 modern movie symphony, presents community- theatres with stadium seating and sponsored children’s theatre surround sound technology. The productions and serves as the central multiplex features first-run films. venue for fund-raising events by local service organizations. The theatre Foundation was founded in 1987 as a registered non-profit organization

Mount Baker Theatre 104 North Commercial Street Bellingham 360-734-6080 The Theatre’s restoration, which concluded in September of 1996 with a grand reopening, stirred the legend anew with a photograph tied to the overhaul capturing a ghoulishlooking haze off the balcony. Since the Theatre’s opening on April 29th, 1927, movie projectionists claim to have seen strange happenings, especially following the audiences’ departure. These reports have included gusts of cold air, balls of light, a rustling of skirts, a mysterious voice calling out names--in short, all the usual eeriness associated with ghosts. iDiOM Theater 1418 Cornwall Bellingham Reservations/Show Times: 360.201.5464 www.idiomtheater.com Theatre management portrays the idiom Theatre as the hardest working professionals in the business. The curtain rises for iDiOM productions at 8pm on Thursday thru Saturday evenings. Tickets are $10 unless otherwise noted. Dancing Bellingham Country Dance Society Contact: Marlin Prowell at mbp@ januscom.com or 360-676-1554 Mike Schway at mschway@nas. com or 360-676-9510 If you can walk, you can dance. For more than a decade, the Bellingham Country Dance Society has been presenting an ongoing series of participatory old-time country dances...usually New England contras and Southern squares but occasionally delving into Cajun and/ or other relevant surprises. Dances are usually held at the beautiful Fairhaven Library. Mount Baker Square Dance Council www.mtbakersquaredancecouncil.org The Mount Baker Square Dance 52

Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

Strategies for Snagging a Ski Season Deal (ARA) - Last year marked a record-setting ski season for American resorts with 60.5 million skier visits, according to the National Ski Areas Association. This year, many ski enthusiasts are faced with tighter budgets and new economic challenges that have them searching for ways to save without giving up their annual trip to the mountains. When looking to cut vacation costs, it all starts during the booking process. Top travel experts share the following tips for ski savings: * Consider your lodging location. While “ski in/ski out” locations offer the convenience of walking out the door and hopping on the lift, opting for lodging a little further from the mountain can save you cash. And most ski resorts offer free shuttle services with stops throughout town, so getting to the slopes is not a hassle. * Look for alternative lodging. For families and groups, alternative lodging like vacation rentals – homes, condos, cabins – can be much less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms. Check out vacationrentals.orbitz.com for more than 30,000 properties around the world. * Ski on off-peak dates. Busy holiday weekends, including Christmas, and Martin Luther King and President’s weekends, can be more expensive and very busy. If you want to save money and avoid long lift lines, think “off peak.” Consider weekday versus weekend trips and you’ll save even more. Low Prices at Popular Destinations Online travel Web site, Orbitz (www.orbitz.com) has pulled together a list of the top ski destinations for the 2008-2009 ski season. Lake Tahoe takes the top spot while Colorado makes a strong showing with six of its most popular destinations on the list. The good news is that popular doesn’t always mean expensive. For example, even as Lake Tahoe continues to remain skier’s favorite destination, it still offers the lowest average daily hotel rate of any ranking destination. Top destinations and their average daily hotel rate are: 1. Lake Tahoe - $116 2. Breckenridge, Colo. – $225 3. Park City, Utah - $239 4. Vail, Colo. - $286 5. Aspen, Colo. - $227 6. Keystone, Colo. - $149 7. Winter Park, Colo. - $193 8. Whistler, British Columbia - $292 9. Banff, Alberta - $189 10. Steamboat Springs, Colo. - $204 With ski season lasting well into the early months of spring, there are many opportunities to grab up the perfect ski vacation package at the right price. By searching for deals in even the most popular ski locations, every traveler’s budget can be accommodated this ski season. Courtesy of ARAcontent EDITOR’S NOTE: The top rankings are based on hotel and vacation package bookings on Orbitz.com from Nov. 1, 2008, to April 30, 2009, for bookings as of Oct. 14, 2008. The average daily rates are based on hotel rates on Orbitz.com from Nov. 1, 2008, to April 30, 2009, for bookings as of Oct. 14, 2008.

Skagit & Whatcom Living • Volume 2 - No 1

Council promotes square and round dancing in Snohomish County. The Angel of the Winds is the council’s website features information “World’s Friendliest Casino” on 14 mainstream dance clubs and Famous for 99 cent food specials, two round dance clubs, plus on penny slots and friendly staff. Casino Elliot Point for teachers and callers. has 535 slots & 12 table games including roulette, craps and $2 Gambling blackjack. Open 8am to 4am daily. Oversized Skagit Valley Casino Resort and RV parking available 5984 N Dark LN Located just 3 minutes East of I-5 Mount Vernon at exit 210 in Arlington. 360-724-7777 Operated by the Upper Skagit Nooksack River Casino Tribe on land adjacent to I-5 at 5048 Mt. Baker Hwy. Bow, halfway between Everett and Deming Bellingham, The Skagit is one of the 360-592-5472 region’s newest destination resorts. www.nooksackcasino.com All the fun and excitement of a Las Gambling in a beautiful long-house Vegas-style casino in a friendly $28 style facility. All the table games and million atmosphere, with more than Vegas style slots. Fine dining at the 650 slot machines, table games and a North Fork includes an all-you-can eat buffet on Friday nights. generous player reward program. Northern Lights Casino Highway 20, nine miles west of I-5 Smaller than Skagit, Northern Lights offers a wide array of gaming options, including slot machines and table games, a Bingo hall with a full-service deli with comedy and musical entertainment. The casino is trimmed in a Native American heritage environment, with a décor solidly linked to Northwest Indian traditions, history and culture.

15th. The casino features 35,800 square feet of gaming with 500 slot machines and a 40-seat poker room. The facility features its 150-seat, sitdown restaurant plus a huge buffet with wood burning rotisserie. For casual dining there is a pizza grill and a lounge. SilverReef Hotel-Casino-Spa Slater Road (Exit 260) from I-5, drive 4 miles west 360-383-0777 SilverReef offers 675 slots and 19 gaming tables. The hotel features 105 deluxe rooms plus six choices for dining. Meeting and event space are also available. Skagit Valley Casino Resort Bow Hill Road (Exit 236) from I5. East side of the freeway. 360-724-7777 www.Theskagit.com Full service resort with all the excitement of casino action. Resort features 103 rooms, including 23 suites and up to 11,000 square feet of convention and meeting space. The ballroom features seating for 450 for sit-down dining. Live entertainment in the Winner’s Lounge.

Northwood Crossing Casino Located on 20 acres on the northeast corner of Northwood and Halverstick roads just north of Lynden. 10 minutes from the border crossings at Sumas/Abbotsford and Lynden/Aldergrove. 360-354-7428 www.northwoodcrossingcasino.com The newest casino in the state, this Shopping second operation of the Nooksack Ranking the necessities of life, Tribe opened for business on Nov. shopping ranks just below eating and breathing. Shoppers in Skagit and Whatcom counties have many choices, but must always be aware of the professional shoppers from Canada who make the trip across the International border to take advantage of American-made products and the strong Canadian dollar. Burlington also has an open-air produce market that is open in season and several summer roadside produce stands are located in the area. Cascade Mall Gilky Rd & Burlington Blvd. Burlington 360-757-2070 In addition to being the known as the Hub City of Skagit County, Burlington has become the gathering place for shoppers who f lock to Macy’s or many of the national retail outlets and local vendors. The Cascade Mall

Volume 2 - No 1 • Skagit & Whatcom Living

is Skagit County's only regional Total production of 6,000 cases mall that includes 90 stores, dining, per year from six separate vineyards. entertainment and its very own 12screen movie theater. Pasek Cellars Winery 18729 Fir Island Rd. Bellis Fair Mount Vernon One Bellis Fair Parkway 360-336-6877 Bellingham The winemaker has increased 360-671-5895 production to about 7,500 cases, of The region's largest mall has which 4,000 cases are Cranberry Macy's, Mervyn's, Target, JC Penney, Wine, the winery's best seller. Sears plus 140 specialty stores plus a six-screen cinema. Samson Estate Winery 1861 Van Dye Road Wineries Everson Carpenter Creek Winery 360-966-7787 20376 E. Hickox Rd. As a newcomer to the Washington Mount Vernon 360-848-6673 With its namesake gently burbling in the background, this is an idyllic place to sample fine wines, to come for a vineyard/winery tour or event, or to simply enjoy a picnic along the beautiful banks of the creek. Challenger Ridge 43095 Challenger Rd Concrete, WA 360-853-7360 Self-proclaimed as Washington's Premier Pinot Noir Vineyard & Winery

wine industry, Samson produces limited bottling of award-winning wines, including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Tulip Valley Vineyard & Orchard 16163 State Route 536 Mount Vernon 206-321-9424 or 360-428-6894 In the tradition started by American homesteaders, this full f lavored cider is made from traditional bittersweet and bitter-sharp apples and matured in fire-charred Kentucky bourbon barrels.

PUZZLE NO. 133

Dakota Creek Winery 3575 Haynie Rd. Blaine Open 1-5pm most days 360-820-4752 Current production includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Viognier and the blend Firefighter Red. Eagle Haven Winery 8243 Sims Road Sedro-Woolley 360-856-6248 The winery sits on a 40 acre apple orchard located in the foothills of the North Cascade Mountain Range in Skagit County where fertile soils and mountain streams combine to create rich agricultural conditions. Mount Baker Vineyards 4298 Mount Baker Highway Deming 360-592-2300 Skagit & Whatcom Living â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 2 - No 1

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 133

HOW TO PLAY:

ANSWER TO PU

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once. Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: you must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column or 3x3 box.

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