Winter 2014 Leisure Guide, Bellingham by WhidbeyWeekly.com

L E I S U R E G U I D E D I R EC TO RY

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Arne Hanna Aquatic Center ......................4-7

Lynden Christian Schools ..........................22

Bellingham Parks Volunteer Program............8

Montessori at Samish Woods ....................23

Bellingham Parks Facts ..............................15

Nooksack Nordic Ski Club..........................23

Assumption Catholic School ......................17

North Coast Gymnastics Academy ............37

Bellingham Academy of Music ..................19

Perch & Play..............................................24

Bellingham Arts Academy for Youth ..........17

Red Mountain Wellness..............................26

Bellingham Bay Fencing Association ..........18

Sportsplex ................................................48

Bellingham Jazzercise ................................19

St. Paul’s Academy ....................................25

Bellingham Parks & Recreation ..............9-14

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church ........................26

Bellingham Senior Activity Center ..............27

The Firs ....................................................28

Bellingham Technical College ..............32-35

Trinity Western University ..........................42

Bellingham Tennis Club ............................30

Western Washington University ............44-46

BellinghamART ..........................................20

Western Washington University – Academy for Lifelong Learning ............47

Bridgeway Christian Academy....................20 Cascades Montessori Middle School ..........21 Catch the Son Preschool............................21 Depot Market Square ................................16 Evergreen Christian School ........................22 Fairhaven Fitness at Bellingham Tennis Club ..........................31 Garden Spot Nursery ................................36 GymStar Sports Center ..............................29 Jane Perkins ..............................................24

Whatcom Community College ..............38-40 Whatcom Community College International Programs Homestay ..........41 Whatcom Family YMCA ............................43 Whatcom Girls Chorus ..............................18 Whatcom Museum ....................................27 Whatcom Speed Skating Club....................47 Woodstock Farm........................................16 Yoga Northwest ........................................41

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Arne Hanna Aquatic Center

4-7

Preschool/Kindergarten Preschool Programs

Registration

—Introductory Preschool

Community/Family

—Recreation Preschool Sensational Toddlers

Travelogue Series

Toddler Time (0-3 year olds)

Winter Garage Sale

Preschool Open Gym (3-5 year olds)

Runnin’ O’ the Green Footrace Middle School Open Swim

Sports/Fitness

32nd Annual Kids’ Dog Show Cupid’s Folly: A Family Valentine Party

Gentle Yoga 12 & Under Boys Baseball

Specialized Recreation

11-12

Specialized Recreation Services EVENTS— –SPIN Dances CLASSES—

13-14 Year Old Youth Baseball Adult Softball Information

TRIPS— –Skagit Eagle Festival Tour –Storybook Theater Presents: Goldilocks and the 3 Bears –Wings Over Water NW Birding Festival Save the Dates! Max Higbee Center Opportunities

Bellingham Parks Facts

Woodstock Farm

Depot Market Square

–Multi-Media Art

B E L L I N G H A M PA R K S

DIRECTORY

Volunteer Program

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Bellingham Parks and Recreation 3424 Meridian, Bellingham, Washington

360-778-7000 GENERAL INFORMATION SPECIFIC ACTIVITY: For specific place, date and time of registration, refer to each specific program number. PLEASE REGISTER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE: Some activities require pre-registration in order to participate. If minimum numbers are not met, the activity will be cancelled with fees refunded. If more people are interested than the maximum will allow, we may create a second program to fulfill the need. DAY OF REGISTRATION: Some activities are free and are onsite/day of registration and are so identified within the program information. Scholarships are available, for those who are eligible, upon request. Contributions may be made to the Scholarship Fund. REFUNDS To be eligible for a full refund an individual must notify the Parks and Recreation Department of withdrawal before the program begins. Allowable refunds after the first day of the program will be pro-rated. Programs that are not eligible for a refund will be advertised a such. FACILITY RESERVATIONS To reserve a park facility, school gym, or park open area call the Parks and Recreation Office at 778-7000. A reservation fee is charged for all facilities. A reservation booklet is available at the office and includes complete facility & fee information.

To Enroll: 1. ON-LINE: Most programs are available for on-line registration thru our EZReg system at www.cob.org/ezreg

2. PHONE IN: Register by phone with our Credit Card call-in program.

3. WALK IN: Parks & Recreation Office 3424 Meridian (in Cornwall Park) 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Friday or use drop-in mail slot after 5 p.m.

4. MAIL IN: Mail registration & check to: Bellingham Parks & Recreation 3424 Meridian, Bellingham, WA 98225

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF Director James King Recreation Manager Dick Henrie Operations Manager Marvin Harris Design and Development Leslie Bryson

778-7000 778-7000 778-7100 778-7000

ADVISORY BOARD Mike Anderson Bill Hasenjaeger Colin Morris Adrienne Lederer Pam Holladay Geoff Middaugh Dominique Zervas Rosalie Nast Jim Emerson Matt Randall CITIZEN COMMITTEES or COUNCILS Lake Padden Golfers Friends of the Aquatic Center Greenway Committee Sehome Hill Arboretum Friends of Big Rock Garden Park For more information on citizen involvement or meeting times for advisory board contact Parks & Recreation administrative office at 778-7000 (778-7011 TDD).

BELLINGHAM PARKS & RECREATION REGISTRATION FORM

( PROG. #

E PLEAS T IN R P

)

Bellingham Parks & Recreation, 3424 Meridian (Cornwall Park), Bellingham, WA 98225 Monday-Friday – 8:00 AM–5:00 PM • 360-778-7000 (778-7011 TDD)

PROGRAM NAME

PARTICIPANT NAME

BIRTHDATE

/ / / / check #

PAYEE NAME ADDRESS CITY/STATE/ZIP E-MAIL ADDRESS DAY PH

cash

rcpt #

SEX

GRADE

FEE

TOTAL

$ $ $ $ $

/ / / /

Do you require assistance and/or accommodation to participate in programs? ( YES NO) If yes, please specify:

EVENING PH

To be eligible for a full refund an individual must notify the Parks and Recreation Department before the program begins. Allowable refunds after the 1st day of the program will be pro-rated. Programs that are not eligible for a refund will be advertised as such. All participants must sign the following release. Parents or guardians must sign for minors. I/We, realizing no insurance coverage is provided for the participant, will assume financial responsibility for any cost relating to any accident or injury that might occur while participating in above named program. Furthermore, I will not hold the City of Bellingham, the Bellingham School District, employees/volunteers or anyone otherwise involved in named programs responsible for any accident or injury that might occur. Signature Date

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32nd ANNUAL KIDS’ DOG SHOW!

TRAVELOGUE SERIES Come and enjoy an armchair journey to a variety of spectacular and interesting places. Local travelers will share their slides and their stories as part of this Travelogue Series. No need to pre-register just bring your curiosity! Light refreshments served. Co-sponsored by Courtesy American Alpine Intitute Whatcom Museum.

WINTER SCHEDULE: Jan 16—“Climb for the Climate: Journey to the Top of Mount Baker” by Jason Martin and American Alpine Institute’s “Whatcom Museum’s Climb for Climate” team members Feb 6—“Water and Wellbeing: Himalayan Harbinger of a Changing Planet” by James Loucky and Charlie Ashbaugh Feb 20—“An Ice Free Northwest Passage?” by Mark Schrader March 6—“A Year on the Road: India, Nepal, SE Asia” by Aidan Woods March 20—“Norway’s Western Fjords: Stunning Vistas, Quaint Villages, Cultural Treasures“ by Dave Courtis DAY/TIME: Thursdays, 7–9 p.m. LOCATION: Whatcom Museum Rotunda Room COST: Free, $3 donation suggested COORDINATOR: Amanda Grove

WINTER RUMMAGE SALE Clear out that holiday clutter! Get a table or two at our winter rummage sale in a warm, dry facility. There will be 25 family garage sales under one roof! This sale is for USED items only. Please do not bring store-bought merchandise or baked goods to sell. Information sheets are available at registration. PROG# 28150 AGES: All DAY/DATE: Saturday, February 22 TIME: 9 a.m.–12 noon LOCATION: Bloedel Donovan Community Building, 2214 Electric Ave. COST: $20 for selling space, FREE admission to the public MIN: 12 MAX: 25

RUNNIN’ O’ THE GREEN FOOTRACE - Sponsored by Klicks Get your green on and join us in celebrating with a run/walk then stick around for the Bellingham St. Patrick’s Day Parade. We’ve made a few refinements to our new location. Both events will start and finish at the same location making the short course a full 5K. Early packet pick up will be available Friday, March 14 at Klicks Running and Walking. Klicks will also have sample shirts to ensure you order the perfect size. Finally we’ve revised our fee structure. Registering in January is pretty cheap, day of race not so much. This program is not eligible for a refund. PROG# 28131 5 klick (3.1 mile) 28132 8 klick (5 mile) AGES: All DAY/DATE: Saturday, March 15 TIME: Start: 10 a.m. (1 hour time limit) LOCATION: Boundary Bay Brewery COST: Jan.: $15 / Feb.: $25 / Mar. 1–10: $30 / Day of Race: $35 Shirt not guaranteed for D.O.R. (Children 8 & under may participate for free, but will not be timed or receive a shirt) MAX: 900 REGISTRATION/INFO: cob.org/races

MIDDLE SCHOOL OPEN SWIM Bellingham Parks and Recreation is hosting an open swim for teens. Slide, swim, soak, splash around, dive, play water polo, hang out with friends… We provide a safe and supervised setting for middle school youth to spend their Friday night. DAY: Fridays, Jan 10, 17, 24, 31; Feb 14, 21, 28; March 7, 14, 21 TIME: 9-10:30 p.m. LOCATION: Arne Hanna Aquatic Center COST: FREE! AGES: Middle school age youth

Over the past 30 years we’ve seen mutts, hounds, fancy pooches and pound puppies, but have we seen your one of a kind pet? We are inviting children kindergarten through 5th grade to bring that adorable dog of theirs and see if he/she has the stuff it takes to win one of 10 fun “shows” including longest ears, best trick, and best costumed pair. And while you’re at it, get your portrait taken with your pooch, learn some grooming and care tips, and meet some new dog friends. All dogs MUST be on leash at all times. Pick up a list of show categories at registration. Space is limited to the first 40 dogs. This event is generously sponsored by PetStop. PROG# 28163 AGES: K–5th grade kids with their dogs DAY/DATE: Saturday, March 1 TIME: 10 a.m. check-in, 10:30 a.m. judging begins LOCATION: Bloedel Donovan Community Building COST: One item of pet food to be donated to the Alternative Humane Society

CUPID‘S FOLLY: A FAMILY VALENTINE PARTY! Celebrate the day of love with the ones you love! Families are invited to play and be silly together. Enjoy the oodles of games, craft and card making supplies, treats, and more fun than folly. This event is geared toward families with kids grade 3 and younger. AGES: All ages welcome, children must be accompanied by an adult DAY/DATE: Saturday, February 15 TIME: 3-5 p.m. LOCATION: Bloedel Donovan Community Building COST: $2 per person at the door. Children age 3 and under free.

Program Registration begins Monday, January 6 at 8 a.m. For information call (360) 778-7000 or visit www.cob.org/ezreg

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SPECIALIZED RECREATION SERVICES Bellingham Parks and Recreation is committed to providing quality recreation opportunities for all members of our community. We recognize that making our services accessible to people with disabilities helps build a positive community. We strive to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act as well as foster positive relationships between all our participants. Specialized Recreation services include: Programs designed for individuals who have a disability Inclusion support for individuals with disabilities wishing to participate in any program offered by Bellingham Parks and Recreation Liaison to community groups serving individuals with disabilities The programs listed in this section are designed for individuals who have a disability. They offer opportunities for individuals to develop a skill or have opportunities for socialization. Inclusion support services include arranging for requested accommodation or adaptation to facilitate successful participation in general programming offered by Bellingham Parks and Recreation. Participants will be asked if they require assistance or accommodation at the time of registration. Recreation staff will then contact participants and/or parent/advocate to arrange necessary support when indicated. For more questions regarding Specialized Recreation services, please contact Amanda Grove at 778-7000 or agrove@cob.org (or 778-7011 TDD).

EVENTS SPIN DANCES Bellingham Parks and Recreation, along with the Max Higbee Center and Whatcom County Parks, has planned three dances for individuals with disabilities. All persons age 14 and over are invited for live music, dancing and a load of fun! PLEASE MARK THE DATES ON YOUR CALENDAR! AGES: 14 years and older DAY/DATES: Mondays, January 20 (“50’s Sock Hop”), February 17 (“Valentine’s Day”), March 17 (“St Paddy’s Day”) Music by Whatcom Sound. TIME: 6–8 p.m. LOCATION: Bellingham Senior Center, 315 Halleck COST: A package of graham crackers at the door

CLASSES MULTIMEDIA ART This class will explore the use of a variety of materials, with a focus on printmaking, painting, drawing and design. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in activities such as mask making, creating a collage, designing note cards and painting. Creative enrichment, individual choices and enjoyment will be emphasized. Our instructor, Jan Lor, has been teaching art since the 1980’s. She is the recipient of the Mayor’s Art Award in recognition for helping people living with a disabling condition discover and enhance their artistic talents.

Minimum must be met one week prior to first class. PROG# 28151 EZ REG: Internet registration available AGES: 18 years and older DAY/DATES: Mondays, February 24– May 12 (no class on March 17 and April 21) TIME: 4-6 p.m. LOCATION: Maritime Heritage Pavilion, 514 W Holly COST: $51 INSTRUCTOR: Jan Lor MIN: 10 MAX: 12

TRIPS SKAGIT EAGLE FESTIVAL TOUR What’s the special connection between Bald Eagles and Chum Salmon? The Festival offers fun interactive events and tours that help us discover the “chummy” relationship between salmon and eagles as we visit their winter home. We will provide the hot cocoa and transportation. Please pack a sack lunch and wear raingear, warm layered clothing, and boots appropriate for the weather and winter weather. Personal care assistants are welcome at no cost, but MUST register to ensure a seat in the van. This program is not eligible for a refund. Minimum must be met one week prior to trip. PROG# 28152 EZ REG: Internet registration available AGES: 14 years and older DAYS/DATES: Saturday, January 18 TIME: 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. LOCATION: Depart/return from Cornwall Park office, 3424 Meridian Street TRIP LEADERS: Keri Heagle and Peter Coward COST: $25 MIN: 9 MAX: 9

DO YOU NEED ASSISTANCE OR ACCOMMODATION? If you have a disability and require assistance and/or accommodation to participate in any of our programs, please call at least two weeks prior to the registration deadline. Our staff can assist in obtaining special equipment, interpretive services, or other support necessary to make your involvement successful. Please look over our program offerings in this publication and contact Amanda at 778-7000 or agrove@cob.org for more information. Please note that accommodations are most successful when we are notified as far in advance as possible.

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WINGS OVER WATER NW BIRDING FESTIVAL

STORYBOOK THEATER PRESENTS: GOLDILOCKS AND THE 3 BEARS Back by popular demand! Join us as we hit the stage at StoryBook Theater and the Kirkland Performance Center! This unique cast will tell their version of the long told story of a golden-curled girl and an adorable baby bear with interactive music, song and dance- guaranteed to please young and old audiences alike! After the show we’ll head to Yarrow Bay Wetlands Park to enjoy a stroll along the boardwalk. Lunch available for purchase in Downtown Kirkland, so bring $5-8 OR a sack lunch. Please dress for walking weather. Personal care assistants are welcome at no cost, but MUST register to save a seat on the van. This program is not eligible for a refund. Minimum must be met one week prior to trip. PROG# 28153 EZ REG: Internet registration available AGES: 14 years and older DAY/DATE: Saturday, February 1 TIME: 9 a.m.–4 p.m. LOCATION: Depart/return to Cornwall Park office, 3424 Meridian Street COST: $26 TRIP LEADERS: Keri Heagle and Peter Coward MIN: 9 MAX: 9

Join the celebration of the incredible variety of migratory birds that visit our region. Blaine is the destination for oodles of exhibits, displays, speakers, and activities. We will take part in a field trip, so be sure to dress for walking AND weather! Pack a sack lunch or bring money to purchase one. Personal care assistants are welcome at no cost, but MUST register to save a seat on the van. This program is not eligible for a refund. Minimum must be met one week prior to trip. PROG# 28154 EZ REG: Internet registration available AGES: 14 years and older DAY/DATE: Saturday, March 15

TIME: LOCATION: COST: TRIP LEADER: MIN: 9 MAX: 9

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Depart/return Cornwall Park office, 3424 Meridian Street $26 Keri Heagle and Peter Coward

MAX HIGBEE CENTER OPPORTUNITIES MHC has been providing social and recreational opportunities for teens and adults with developmental disabilities for over 25 years. For more information call 733-1828 or view on line at www.maxhigbeecenter.org

COMMUNITY ACCESS PROGRAM (CAP) Monday through Friday 2:30–5:30 p.m. Drop-off/Pick-up at 1210 Bay Street, Suite 102 $8/day; participants must bring bus pass/bus fare each day in addition to any admission fees, snack money, etc. MHC staff lead participants on a variety of community excursions using public transportation and by walking to locations around town; activities include YMCA workouts, cooking, hikes, sports, library visits, art projects, movies and much more.

WEEKEND DROP-IN CENTER Friday & Saturday evenings from 5-9:30pm. Location: 1210 Bay Street, Suite 102 $6/day or $30/month; participants are responsible for bus fare and extra fees as noted on calendars. MHC staff and volunteers lead groups in community-based activities as well as specialized in-house activities including karaoke, karate class, games, art projects, coffee shop visits, YMCA workouts, rock climbing, cooking, drumming and more.

Program Registration begins Monday, January 6 at 8 a.m. For information call (360) 778-7000 or visit www.cob.org/ezreg

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PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS

TODDLER TIME (0-3 year olds)

Our introductory and recreation programs provide a variety of activities and experiences, including art, sensory, literacy, music, and movement. An outdoor playground and indoor gym provide daily opportunities for large muscle development. Openings may be available in our spring session. Returning students need to register by Friday, February 21, for Spring Quarter. Registration for new students begins on Monday, February 24. For more information about registration call 778-7000 (778-7011 TDD), for information regarding the curriculum contact the teachers at 676-6686.

INTRODUCTORY PRESCHOOL PROG# AGES: DAYS/DATES:

28155 3 & 4 years old Mon. & Tues., March 3–May 27 (no class March 31, April 1, or May 26) TIME: 9:30 a.m.–12 noon LOCATION: Bloedel Donovan Preschool Annex COST: $390/12-week session (optional 2-payment plan is available) TEACHERS: Michelle Schulte & Nancy Lawrence MIN: 10 MAX: 15

RECREATION PRESCHOOL PROG# AGES: DAYS/DATES:

28156 4 & 5 years old Wed., Thurs., Fri., March 5–May 30 (no class April 2, 3, 4) TIME: 9:30 a.m.–12 noon LOCATION: Bloedel Donovan Preschool Annex COST: $550/12-week session (optional 2-payment plan is available) TEACHERS: Michelle Schulte & Nancy Lawrence MIN: 10 MAX: 17

SENSATIONAL TODDLERS Come join us for a “sense”ational parent/child program! We welcome all children ages 18 to 36 months and their parents. See how creative those little hands can be as they experiment and explore with paint, paper, play dough, glitter, goop and gak. The child friendly environment at Whatcom Center for Early Learning will spark your child’s imagination and self-expression while promoting socialization and motor development. We design our program so you and your child can play together and leave the mess to us – so dress for mess! Co-sponsored by Bellingham Parks and Recreation. SESSION 1 PROG# 28157 DAY/DATES: Tuesdays, January 21–March 11 ___________________________________________ SESSION 2 PROG# 28158 DAY/DATES: Thursdays, January 23–March 13 ___________________________________________ EZ REG: Internet registration available TIME: 10 a.m.–11:30 a.m. AGES: 18–36 months (please specify child’s age in months) LOCATION: Whatcom Center for Early Learning, 2001 H St (cross street is Girard, one block south of Broadway) COST: $99/8 weeks INSTRUCTORS: WCEL staff MAX: 10

Winter is here, the weather is cold, the days are short…and your toddler needs to get out and play! But where, you ask? There is no better place than Toddler Time. The Bloedel Donovan Multipurpose Room is a large dry, warm, and safe space for your child to play with his tricycle, scooter, or favorite active toy; no bicycles please. We provide balls and hoops for everyone’s exploration. You will enjoy pleasant conversation and network with other parents; your child will have the opportunity to run and play with other kids his/her own age, learning cooperation and sharing. This is a free, non-staffed program; parental supervision is required at all times. For safety consideration, children birth to 3 years only please. AGES: 0–3 years old with parent DAYS/DATES: Tuesdays & Thursdays, beginning January 21–May 22 TIME: 10–11:30 a.m. LOCATION: Bloedel Donovan Multipurpose Room COST: FREE!

PRESCHOOL OPEN GYM (3-5 year olds) Don’t let blustery, winter weather keep you at home! Come on over to Bloedel Donovan’s Multipurpose Room, the perfect dry place for your three—five year old to have some fun. Bring a scooter or favorite active toy, no bicycles please. We provide balls and hoops for everyone’s enjoyment. Socialize with other parents while your preschooler plays with other children his/her own age! This is a free, non-staffed program; parental supervision is required at all times. For safety consideration, children 3-5 years only please. AGES: 3–5 years old DAYS/DATES: Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays beginning Wednesday, January 22– May 23 TIME: 10–11:30 a.m. LOCATION: Bloedel Donovan Multipurpose Room COST: FREE!

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12 & UNDER BOYS BASEBALL 12 & Under Boys Baseball league will again be organized by the Bellingham Boys & Girls Club. Both competitive and recreational leagues will be offered for 9 & 10 and 11 & 12 year olds. Competitive teams will play teams from other communities in Whatcom County. Players ages 5–8 years old will play in a local recreational league. Contact the club at 5279777 for information.

GENTLE YOGA This program is intended for individuals who have health issues such as MS, arthritis or fibromyalgia. Yoga is a safe and gentle form of exercise which develops strength and flexibility, balance and coordination. This class will focus on exercises that can be done from standing, lying, and sitting positions. Activities will also include breathing and relaxation techniques. If you are new to the class please complete a Yoga Information Sheet at registration and return to our office prior to the first class. Register one week prior to first class PROG# 28159 DAY/DATES: Tuesdays, January 14–March 18 TIME: 10-11:15 a.m. __________________________________ PROG# 28160 DAY/DATES: Tuesdays, January 14–March 18 TIME: 5:30–6:45 p.m. __________________________________

PROG# 28161 DAY/DATES: Wednesdays, January 15–March 19 TIME: 10-11:15 a.m. __________________________________ PROG# 28162 DAY/DATES: Wednesdays, January 15–March 19 TIME: 5:30–6:45 p.m. __________________________________ EZ REG: Internet registration available AGES: 18 years and older LOCATION: Maritime Heritage Pavilion, 514 W Holly COST: $75 INSTRUCTORS: Louise Smith, mornings; Vicki Roy, evenings MIN: 10 MAX: 12

13-14 YEAR OLD YOUTH BASEBALL 13-14 Year Old Youth Baseball will be organized through Bellingham Youth Baseball. Information can be accessed through www.bhamyouthbaseball.org or contact Bruce Tipton at 220-2130.

ADULT SOFTBALL INFORMATION Organizational work for this year’s adult softball leagues begins in March. Contact the following in early March for information: Bellingham Men’s Slowpitch Assoc: www.bellinghamsp.com Bellingham Women’s Slowpitch Assoc: www.bhamwomensoftball.com Co-ed Slowpitch: Bellingham Parks & Recreation 360-778-7000 Umpires Assoc: Brenda Terpstra 360-319-6233 or umpterp@comcast.net ASA: Greg Hatch 778-7000 (778-7011 TDD)

Program Registration begins Monday, January 6 at 8 a.m. For information call (360) 778-7000 or visit www.cob.org/ezreg

BELLINGHAM PARK FACTS Bellingham Parks & Recreation Department provides our community with 3,300 acres of park land, 70 miles of trail and an abundance of recreation and leisure opportunities. Our community takes pride in the beauty and care of our parks. Here's an interesting statistic: Bellingham Parks & Recreation Department mows 186 acres of turf grass repeatedly throughout the year. Broken down into lineal feet, this amounts to 253 miles of mowing. When you multiply that by an approximate mowing cycle of 12 times per year, that amounts to 3,036 miles of mowing. This is the same number of miles it would take to drive a lawn mower from Bellingham to Jacksonville, Florida!

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Mayor’s Greeting Dear community members, Thank you for picking up a copy of the Winter 2014 Leisure Guide and learning about the wonderful parks and recreation opportunities our community has to offer. Recreation Mayor Kelli services and year-around opportunities to be active are important components of a strong, healthy community. They support our quality of life, help develop leadership and social skills, provide stress management opportunities, improve our personal health and contribute to our community’s positive sense of place.

Other fun Bellingham Parks & Recreation statistics include: • On average, 880 miles of toilet paper is used in City parks each year; enough to stretch from Bellingham to San Jose, California! • Citizens give an average of 12,500 hours of volunteer service to the Parks & Recreation Department each year. • There are 20,000 headstones in Bayview Cemetery that get edged by Parks staff with a weed eater about 16 times each year. This takes about 5 miles of weed eater trim line each year; enough to span the distance from Lake Padden to Bloedel Donovan Park! • Parks administration office staff process an average of 11,600 program registrations and 5,600 facility reservations each year. • Bellingham's park system boasts 26 playgrounds, 25 restrooms, 83 structures (shelters, pavilions, etc.), 56 drinking fountains, 21 kitchen sinks, 45 water heaters, 124 hose bibs and more! That's a lot to maintain! • Taylor Dock in Boulevard Park gets traveled over 500,000 times each year! For more trail user counts, visit the City's webpage:

http://www.cob.org/services/recreation/parks-trails/trail-user-counts.aspx

Bellingham and the surrounding communities are well-known for our beautiful parks, trails and natural areas, which serve as hubs of community life in our area. We are so fortunate to have – in the past and today – devoted staff and leaders who plan, care for and maintain our parks and recreation systems. Information about all this and more can be found in the pages of the Winter 2014 Leisure Guide. Please put this guide and the bounty of services it has to offer to good use, and enjoy a happy, healthy New Year! Mayor Kelli

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DEPOT MARKET SQUARE This unique site in the heart of downtown has been home to craft shows, brew fests, wedding receptions, community dinners, even birthday parties. The 5,200 square foot facility features beautiful glass and steel construction with roll-up doors, restrooms and a small kitchen. The courtyard has 8,200 additional square feet of covered shelters for event-related activity space. Call Bellingham Parks & Recreation – 360.778.7000—3424 Meridian St, 98225

Plan NOW to advertise in the upcoming

Spring Leisure Guide The Spring 2014 Leisure Guide will be out March 2 Committal deadline: January 24 Cameraready deadline: February 7

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