Haggen Food & Pharmacy Leading Efforts to Raise Funds for MS Programs, Research Haggen Food & Pharmacy stores are combining efforts with customers and vendors to support Walk MS, the largest annual fundraiser of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Haggen Food & Pharmacy and TOP Food & Drug stores have been named presenting sponsors of Walk MS, which will be conducted by the MS Society’s Greater Northwest Chapter on April 10-11 at eight sites throughout Washington. MS Society supporters may choose to walk 3 or 4 miles at the site closest to them and seek donation pledges. Also, Haggen stores are providing several other opportunities for the public to fund MS research and programs. The public may: • Buy MS Sneakers at Haggen checkout lines for a donation of $1 apiece from March 3-16. The paper sneakers can be customized with the donor’s name, a personal message or a name to honor someone living with MS. • Buy a reusable Walk MS tote for $1.99 at Haggen stores. The totes have been donated by Proforma Mountainview Printing of Lynden, with all proceeds going directly to the MS Society. • Starting in mid-March, cases of Walk MS bottled water will be sold exclusively at Haggen Food & Pharmacy and TOP Food & Drug stores. Fifty cents from the sales of each case will be donated to the MS Society. Also, Haggen and TOP Food stores are again matching a portion of the donations raised by employees who are participating in Walk MS. Haggen and TOP Food stores have raised $275,000 since 2004 for the MS Society’s Greater Northwest Chapter. The chapter serves more than 10,000 people living with MS, plus 60,000 others affected by the disease, in Western and Central Washington and Alaska. Walk MS donations also fund research to find a cause and cure for the disease. "Haggen and Top Food stores are longstanding supporters of the MS movement,” said Jenny Poast, Vice President of Development for the MS Society’s Greater Northwest Chapter. "We greatly appreciate their companywide involvement from store employees to vendors to the loyal customers who rally together, raising thousands of dollars to support the more than 10,000 people living with MS in our community.” Walk MS will start at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, April 10, Barkley Village, Bellingham. For more information, visit www.WalkMS.org
Bellingham Express Employment Professionals Franchisee Named Franchisee of the Year BELLINGHAM, Wash., Feb.25, 2010 – Mark and Sandy Hagen, owners of the Mount Vernon and Bellingham, Wash., Express Employment Professionals offices, have been named the 2010 Express Franchisee of the Year award winner. Each year, this award recognizes and honors a franchisee who excels in building brand equity and a distinguished company reputation. A panel of executives at the international Express headquarters in Oklahoma City selected the Hagens to represent Express because of their dedication to the Express spirit, commitment to their clients, and their strong marketing and sales efforts. "Mark and Sandy Hagen live the Express vision of helping people succeed every day,” said Express Founder and CEO Robert A. Funk. "They are great role models for other Express owners, always willing to share coaching advice, and lend a helping hand whenever possible. They have grown their business through building trust, diligence, dedication and persistence. I’m honored to have them as Express franchisees and as our franchisees of the year.” "We are thrilled to be named as the 2010 Express Franchisees of the Year,” Mark Hagen said. "Sandy and I have a great team, and as a team, we’ve been able to accomplish some big goals and better our community.” Express Employment Professionals offers a full range of employment solutions including evaluation hire, temporary staffing, professional search and human resources. Express has over 550 offices in four countries. For more information, visit www.expresspros.com.
FUN NEW PRODUCTS, INFORMATION ON ‘DO-IT-YOURSELF’ HOME REPAIRS AT BIRCH EQUIPMENT HOME SHOW BOOTH THIS YEAR (BELLINGHAM, WA) – Spring fever is hitting Birch Equipment Rental and Sales with the addition of organic gardening products, hand tools, and quirky gift items. And people attending this year’s NW Washington Home and Garden Show will get a sneak peak of them and great instruction on all of the tools and equipment available for home improvement projects this spring. Birch’s booth (#51) will feature the company’s equipment experts to answer questions on use and operation of equipment, prize drawings, and special offers available only to home show attendees. The home show is scheduled this year from March 5 – 7 at the Lynden Fairgrounds. Birch Equipment is ranked among the top 100 rental companies in the nation and is the leading, independently-owned construction equipment and sales company in the Pacific Northwest and Southeast Alaska. With a diverse customer base of contractors, home owners, manufacturers and heavy industrial, Birch carries one of the largest, most varied and well-maintained rental fleets in the industry. Birch Equipment is based in Bellingham, WA with stores in Bellingham, Anacortes and Mount Vernon, Washington and Sitka, Alaska. For more information, please visit www.birchequipment.com. ###
BIRCH EQUIPMENT JOINS THREE PROGRAMS DESIGNED TO SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES, ELEMENTARY SCHOOL’S ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS (BELLINGHAM, WA) – Birch Equipment Rental and Sales has joined two community marketing efforts that support independent businesses and a program open to the community that benefits Wade King Elementary School in Bellingham. The company has a special offer in the ‘2010 Buy Local for Less’ Coupon Book produced by Sustainable Connections. The $12 coupon book is available for sale at Birch and contains over 260 offers from local and independently-owned businesses in the area for products, services, restaurants and entertainment. The Anacortes Coin is being accepted at Birch’s Anacortes store on S. March Point Road. Customers who spend a set amount at a participating business will receive a wooden coin which can be used for a discount at other businesses that have joined the program. Birch has also been added to the list of retailers participating in the SCRIP fundraising program offered through Wade King Elementary School’s PTA. Scrip participating retailers agree to sell gift certificates to organizations, which in turn sell them at face value. The organization gets to keep the difference. For information about the program, email wkscrip@gmail.com. Birch Equipment is ranked among the top 100 rental companies in the nation and is the leading, independently-owned construction equipment and sales company in the Pacific Northwest and Southeast Alaska. With a diverse customer base of contractors, home owners, manufacturers and heavy industrial, Birch carries one of the largest, most varied and well-maintained rental fleets in the industry. Birch Equipment is based in Bellingham, WA with stores in Bellingham, Anacortes and Mount Vernon, Washington and Sitka, Alaska. For more information, please visit www.birchequipment.com. ###
Birch Equipment Participating in Road Less Graveled Program Representatives from Birch Equipment Rental and Sales will speak next week to students attending the Road Less Graveled Class offered by Bellingham Technical College. The six week class helps women try out non-traditional skills and explore careers in trade and technical fields. Birch employees will talk about the company’s history and what it takes to work both at Birch and within the equipment rental and sales industry. They will present at 7:20pm on Wednesday, February 24 at the Haskell Center, Room 204. For information about the class, contact 752-8350. Birch Equipment is ranked among the top 100 rental companies in the nation and is the leading, independently-owned construction equipment and sales company in the Pacific Northwest and Southeast Alaska. With a diverse customer base of contractors, home owners, manufacturers and heavy industrial, Birch carries one of the largest, most varied and well-maintained rental fleets in the industry. Birch Equipment is based in Bellingham, WA with stores in Bellingham, Anacortes and Mount Vernon, Washington and Sitka, Alaska. For more information, please visit www.birchequipment.com.
3D CORPORATION ENHANCES CERTIFICATION REPERTOIRE Network Engineer Mike McGlothern achieves Cisco SMB Specialization for Engineers Bellingham, Washington – February 2010 – Network management firm 3D Corporation announces Mike McGlothern, 3D Network Engineer & Help Desk Lead, has earned Cisco SMB Specialization for Engineers, further enhancing the company’s range of professional certifications. Cisco Systems, Inc., a corporation that designs and sells business electronics, networking and communications technologies, awards SMB Specialization to network engineers that exhibit the skills required to successfully design and deploy Cisco solutions for small and medium-sized businesses (SMB). McGlothern constantly employs these competencies when identifying the technology needs of 3D’s clients and recommending products and services to fulfill those needs. SMB Specialization for Engineers adds to McGlothern’s impressive array of existing certifications including Cisco Certified Network Associate, Design Associate, and Information Security Specialist; Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator; several CompTIA certifications, and many others. Other members of the 3D engineering team also hold certifications in Microsoft, Cisco, WatchGuard and other technologies that recognize their expertise in using these products to provide businesses with reliable network management and support. "This certification adds to our wide range of skill sets that help us serve our diverse client base more effectively,” remarks Chris McCoy, 3D’s Technical Manager. "By maintaining experts with a wide array of technology skills, we're able to select and apply appropriate technology solutions where they are most needed.” 3D Corporation is a locally-owned, advanced technology firm that has been providing network support to businesses in Washington State for over 20 years. Now the largest comprehensive consulting company north of Seattle, 3D continues to serve the area with innovative business solutions. 3D is located at 2103 Grant Street in Bellingham, WA. For more information about 3D, call (360) 671-4906, email info@3dcorp.us, or visit 3D’s website at www.3dcorp.us.
Northwest Washington Fair Building New Horse Arena The Northwest Washington Fair is building a new equestrian arena that will be completed in time for this year’s fair and draw more horse shows to Lynden. Construction on the 40,890-square-foot arena has begun and will be completed by mid-July, fair manager Jim Baron said. The $1.4-million facility will be located just west of the fair’s current horse arena. Huizenga Brothers Construction of Lynden is the general contractor. Baron said the new arena is in response to requests from the equestrian community. "We’ve lost horse shows over the years to sites with better facilities,” Baron said. "This will give us a larger show arena that is heated and insulated. The existing arena will function as a warm-up arena when hosting large shows.” The new arena will be a multipurpose facility that can host other events besides horse shows, Baron added. Companies interested in naming rights for the facility may contact the fair office at (360) 354-4111. "Attracting more events will not only help the fair financially but also the local economy because participants and their families go to grocery stores, drugstores, restaurants, hotels and other businesses while they’re in Lynden,” he said. The Northwest Washington Fair will celebrate its 100th year Aug. 16-21. For more information, call (360) 354-4111 or visit www.nwwafair.com.
Haggen Food & Pharmacy Collecting Donations for Haiti Relief Efforts Haggen Food & Pharmacy stores are collecting donations to fund World Vision’s relief efforts in Haiti, which was devastated by a Jan. 12 earthquake. World Vision, based in Federal Way, is using cash donations to send the most urgent of life-saving supplies, such as water and medicine, to Haitian victims of the earthquake. World Vision has been working in Haiti since 1959 and has had an office in its capital of Port-au-Prince since 1978. "World Vision is trusted by Washington residents,” said Becky Skaggs, spokesperson for Haggen Food & Pharmacy stores. "World Vision was supporting seven healthcare clinics and operating 19 development programs for the people of Haiti before the earthquake struck, so we’re confident that donations will be utilized efficiently and compassionately.” Customers may make donations of any amount at Haggen checkstands through Feb. 9. For more information, visit www.WorldVision.org.
Whatcom County Association of Realtors Names David Hovde Realtor of the Year The Whatcom County Association of Realtors on Jan. 9 named David Hovde its Realtor of the Year and honored seven other individuals for their contributions to the organization and the community in 2009. Hovde, a Realtor since 1990 and an associate broker at Windermere Real Estate in Bellingham, served as treasurer of the Washington Association of Realtors last year and previously was a WCAR president. He assisted the National Association of Realtors in demonstrating the cause and effects of interest rates and buy-down reductions on the ability of homebuyers to purchase homes near the median of their respective marketplaces Lori Reece, designated broker and co-owner of RE/MAX Whatcom County, received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Reece gained her real-estate license in 1980 after graduating from Western Washington University. She launched RE/MAX Whatcom County, the first RE/MAX franchise north of Seattle, with partner Dean Reece in 1991. It now has five offices and more than 100 agents. Reece is a former WCAR president and Realtor of the Year. Other winners are: • Jefferson Livingston, a franchise owner of Pillar to Post Inspections, was named the 2009 Affiliate of the Year. • Roger Almskaar, a Realtor and land-use consultant, is WCAR’s Partner of the Year. • Mark Brown of Windermere Real Estate in Bellingham was named Political Action Leader of 2009. • Doug Wight of Windermere Property Management in Bellingham received the Community Service Award. • Drew Rosser of Windermere Real Estate was selected as Rookie of the Year. After a successful career as a business owner in the insurance field, Rosser enjoyed a solid start as a real-estate agent after joining Windermere in January 2009. • Ron Jepson of Ronald T. Jepson and Associates, P.S., was honored as Citizen of the Year. For more information about WCAR, call 671-5477 or visit www.wcar.net.
Gary Honcoop Honored as BIAWC’s Builder of the Year Gary Honcoop, co-owner and president of Roosendaal-Honcoop Construction, Inc., was honored Dec. 16 as Builder of the Year by the Building Industry Association of Whatcom County. Honcoop, a longtime active BIAWC member, was commended for his commitment to the organization. Also, Honcoop has devoted many hours advocating for property owners on urban growth areas, limited areas of more intensive rural development (LAMIRDs) and land-use rights, according to the BIAWC. Honcoop founded Roosendaal-Honcoop Construction, a Whatcom County general contractor, in 1979 with another lifelong Lynden resident, Roger Roosendaal. The company offers extensive experience in residential construction, both homes and remodels, as well as commercial, industrial and pre-engineered steel construction. Its recent projects include the new Barron Heating & Air Conditioning facility in Ferndale, numerous Peoples Bank branches, the Liberty Park residential community in Ferndale, Northwest Indian College’s Center for Student Success and the Port of Skagit County’s South Yard Basin Building. By developing and implementing educational programs and safe operating practices, Roosendaal-Honcoop employees have worked more than 10 years without a time-loss injury and the company has received several awards for its safety record.
Northwest Washington Fair Exhibit Receives Prestigious IAFE Award The Northwest Washington Fair recently received a prestigious award for the Cargill Nutrena Small Animal Experience that made its debut in 2009. The Northwest Washington Fair received an award for excellence from the International Association of Fairs and Expositions, which has more than 3,000 members worldwide. The Cargill Nutrena Small Animal Experience was judged as best among fairs with attendance of 100,001-250,000 in the category of new programs that promote agriculture. The Cargill Nutrena Small Animal Experience was organized by Debbie Vander Veen and the Barn Buddies 4-H Club, which is led by Lacey Vander Veen. It enabled fairgoers to get close to a variety of small and newborn animals, including ducks, rabbits and piglets. The award was presented to Debbie Vander Veen on Dec. 1 during the IAFE convention in Las Vegas, Nev. The Cargill Nutrena Small Animal Experience previously received the Whatcom County 4-H Civic Experience Award, plus the Black and White Award for excellence from Washington State Fairs Commissioner Patricia Myers. "The Cargill Nutrena Small Animal Experience was a huge hit with families and young children,” said Jim Baron, manager of the Northwest Washington Fair. "We’re very grateful to the Barn Buddies 4-H Club for contributing to this popular exhibit.” The Northwest Washington Fair will celebrate its 100th year Aug. 16-21, 2010. For more information, call (360) 354-4111 or visit www.nwwafair.com
2009 Housing Report: Stable Sales; Single-Digit Price Declines Whatcom County’s housing market in 2009, bolstered by a strong fourth quarter, eked out a nominal increase in sales while keeping price changes to single-digit declines. The new federal tax credit for first-time home buyers helped Whatcom County finish the year with 1,992 sales of residential units, 0.5 percent higher than 2008. However, real-estate agent Lylene Johnson of The Muljat Group, who compiles and analyzes local housing data, added that the number of homes sold in the county in 2008 had plunged 26.4 percent to 1,981 – well off the decade’s high of 3,052 units sold in 2003 as well as the previous low of 2,199 units sold in 2000. The median sales price of residential units sold in Whatcom County during 2009 dipped 6.5 percent to $258,950 and the average price slipped 5 percent to $295,100. Johnson attributed the some of the declines in median and average prices to the rising number of distressed properties – short sales and bank-owed properties – being sold. In Bellingham, more than half the residential properties at the end of 2009 that were under contract to be sold were either a short sale or a bank-owned property. "Distressed properties tend to be more aggressively priced than the typical residential listing,” Johnson said. "As long as they continue to constitute a sizable percentage of the market, there probably will be downward pressure on prices.” Bellingham fared better than most of Whatcom County’s communities in 2009 with residential sales up 3.3 percent and the median price down by only 3.5 percent. Lynden’s housing market suffered as much as any in the county as its sales fell 15.4 percent and its median price sank 9.5 percent. For more information, please visit www.johnsonteamrealestate.com
Haggen Food & Pharmacy Collecting Clothes for Children of Families in Need Haggen Food & Pharmacy stores in Whatcom County are collecting donations for their Warm Clothes for Kids drive, which runs from Monday, Jan. 4 through Friday, Jan. 22. The Warm Clothes for Kids campaign is seeking new or gently worn coats, sweaters, hats, scarves, gloves and mittens. Donation bins have been placed at Haggen stores by Sanitary Service Co. Donations at the five Haggen stores in Bellingham and Ferndale will be distributed by The Opportunity Council, which serves homeless and low-income people. "These donations will help children stay warm and healthy this winter when they go to school and play outside,” said Becky Skaggs, spokesperson for Haggen Food & Pharmacy stores. Participating Haggen stores include the following locations: • 2814 Meridian St., Bellingham • 1401 12th St. (Fairhaven), Bellingham • 210 36th St. (Sehome Village), Bellingham • 2900 Woburn St. (Barkley Village), Bellingham • 1815 Main St., Ferndale
3D Corporation Build Engineer achieves CompTIA Server+ Certification Network management firm 3D Corporation announces Paul Kittinger, 3D Build Engineer, has earned CompTIA Server+ Certification, further enhancing the company’s range of professional certifications. The Server+ Certification awarded by The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) recognizes Kittinger’s experience and proficiency in server technology, installations and configuration, troubleshooting, maintenance, upgrading and disaster recovery. Kittinger constantly employs these competencies when building server equipment customized to meet the specific needs of 3D clients. CompTIA Server+ certification adds to Kittinger’s existing array of certifications including Microsoft System Builders, Small Business Specialist, and OEM Hardware Solutions Competency - System Building. Members of the 3D engineering team also hold certifications in Microsoft, Cisco, WatchGuard and other technologies that recognize their technical expertise in using these products to provide businesses with reliable network management and support. "The value of Paul’s experience and dedication is directly related to his ability to not only pass the certification exam, but to get a perfect score,” comments 3D’s Technical Manager Chris McCoy. "His success reflects how hard our employees strive to be the best in their field.” 3D Corporation is a locally-owned, advanced technology firm that has been providing network support to businesses in Washington State for over 20 years. Now the largest comprehensive consulting company north of Seattle, 3D continues to serve the area with innovative business solutions. 3D is located at 2103 Grant Street in Bellingham, WA. For more information about 3D, call (360) 671-4906, email info@3dcorp.us, visit 3D’s website at www.3dcorp.us or read the 3D News blog at 3dcorp.blogspot.com
Lydia Place Receives $15,000 Grant from Allstate Foundation Lydia Place, a nonprofit Bellingham organization providing transitional housing and programming for homeless women with children since 1989, is receiving a $15,000 grant from The Allstate Foundation. The grant application was facilitated by Scott Richardson, owner of State Street Insurance in Bellingham and a former Lydia Place board member. A check presentation is scheduled at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16 during the Whatcom Giveathon at Northwood Hall, 3240 Northwest Ave., Bellingham. "I’ve seen how much Lydia Place has done to help women and their children,” Richardson said. "The Allstate Foundation grant will support Lydia Place in offering counseling and classes that can turn their lives around.” State Street Insurance, an Allstate agency, offers auto, home, business, life and disability insurance, financial services and banking products. For more information, call (360) 676-1822. The Allstate Foundation is an independent charitable organization funded by contributions from subsidiaries of The Allstate Corp. Lydia Place annually provides more than 5,000 bed nights for women and children and also offers case management services for other local residents. For more information about Lydia Place, call (360) 671-7663 or visit www.lydiaplace.org.
The Whatcom County Association of Realtors recently honored Michele Boudreau of RE/MAX Whatcom County and Rob Greenlund of Bank of the Pacific. Both Boudreau and Greenlund were instrumental in organizing WCAR’s first Whatcom Giveathon (www.whatcomgive.org), scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 16 at Northwood Hall, 3240 Northwest Road, Bellingham. The Whatcom Giveathon, a free event, is spreading holiday cheer with treats, music and Santa Claus while raising funds and awareness for 22 local nonprofit organizations. Boudreau was named WCAR’s Realtor of the Fourth Quarter. She has been a Realtor for eight years and at RE/MAX Whatcom County in Bellingham the last six years. Boudreau is an associate broker for RE/MAX Whatcom County and has earned the Certified Residential Specialist designation. She also serves as secretary for the WCAR board. The WCAR selected Greenlund as its Affiliate of the Fourth Quarter. Greenlund has been with Bank of the Pacific for five years and is a senior real estate loan representative for its Lakeway office in Bellingham. He serves on WCAR’s golf tournament and bowling tournament committees that raise funds for WCAR and Whatcom County food banks, respectively.
Network management firm 3D Corporation is pleased to announce its support for Whatcom County’s Toys for Tots program. This month, the company will be donating computer systems and the expertise of its network engineers to the local drive. 3D’s engineers have installed five computer systems for volunteers to use during the drive. Additionally, 3D engineers Shaun Conley, Rita Dixson, Jeff Delucia and Scott VanderWoude will be donating both work and personal time to support these systems at the drive, helping volunteers track toy distribution. "Children in lower income families deserve to have the same positive Christmas experience as those who are more fortunate,” comments Brendan Kremian, a 3D Business Analyst coordinating 3D’s involvement in the program. "We enjoy doing projects like Toys for Tots that support our community, and children are at the core of our community.” 3D Corporation is a locally-owned, advanced technology firm that has been providing network support to businesses in Washington State for over 20 years. Now the largest comprehensive consulting company north of Seattle, 3D continues to serve the area with innovative business solutions. 3D is located at 2103 Grant Street in Bellingham, WA. For more information about 3D, call (360) 671-4906, email info@3dcorp.us, visit 3D’s website at www.3dcorp.us or read the 3D News blog at 3dcorp.blogspot.com.
Center The Lynden PRCA Rodeo recently announced that its Tough Enough to Wear Pink campaign this year raised $6,856 for the St. Joseph Hospital Cancer Center in Bellingham. The donation will cover some expenses of local patients participating in clinical trials. The Cancer Center uses 100 percent of donations for patients and doesn’t take any administrative fees from them. Tough Enough to Wear Pink was created by breast cancer survivor Terry Wheatley to bring the sport of professional rodeo and the western community together to rally against breast cancer. Since its inception in 2004, TETWP has empowered rodeos and western events in North America to focus attention on the need for a cure. The campaign has raised more than $5 million for breast cancer charities. Contestants in the fifth-annual Lynden PRCA Rodeo wore pink shirts during competition to raise awareness of breast cancer while local rodeo volunteers conducted fundraisers for the St. Joseph Hospital Cancer Center. The 2010 Lynden PRCA Rodeo is scheduled Aug. 27-28. For more information, visit www.lyndenrodeo.com or call (360) 354-4111.
Lehmann’s Moving to Larger Location in December It’s unusual for an 80-year-old to experience a growth spurt, but Lehmann’s Maytag Home Appliance Center of Bellingham isn’t your ordinary store. Lehmann’s is announcing plans to move to a larger location at 2001 James St. – the former site of United Auto Electric. The tentative opening date is Dec. 1 with a grand opening planned Jan. 21. The new site has 7,200 square feet – 44 percent more than the Iowa Street location where Lehmann’s has been since 1997. "It also offers more parking and much better visibility since it’s at the intersection of James, State and Iowa streets and across from Hardware Sales,” said Terry Lehmann, the third-generation owner. Lehmann acquired the appliance business from his father Don in 1987. His grandfather, Ed Lehmann, launched it in 1929 – shortly after the start of the Depression – by selling wringer washers door to door in Lynden. Lehmann’s, a Maytag dealer since its founding, now offers washers, dryers, ranges, dishwashers, refrigerators, microwaves and coin-operated laundry equipment for rental units. It also is the rare appliance dealer with a complete service and parts department. Hours at the new location will be 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. For more information, call Lehmann’s at (360) 733-7722.
Don Elliott Elected 2010 President of Whatcom County Association of Realtors Don Elliott of John L. Scott Real Estate has been elected president of the Whatcom County Association of Realtors and will be installed at its annual banquet Jan. 8. Elliott was honored as WCAR’s Rookie of the Year in 2005. He has been serving this year as its vice president and as a director on the Washington Association of Realtors board. Other WCAR officers for 2010 are: Ray Pelletti, Abby’s Land and Homes, president-elect; Michele Boudreau, RE/MAX Whatcom County, secretary; Janet Armstrong, Peoples Bank, treasurer; Trudy Starkovich, John L. Scott Real Estate, treasurer-elect; and J.D. Merris, Keller Williams Realty, past-president. The local directors for 2010 are Damian Pro and Rebecca Taylor of Windermere Real Estate, Jim Sands and Darin Stenvers of RE/MAX Whatcom County, Rozy Olson Stevens of Coldwell Banker Miller-Arnason, Boudreau, Armstrong, Starkovich and Merris. The WCAR’s state directors for 2010 are Ben Kinney of Keller Williams Realty, Mark Brown and Jon Soine of Windermere Real Estate and Pelletti, Elliott and Cheryl Ferrier of John L. Scott Real Estate.
Network management firm 3D Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of its new business referral program, 3D Referral Rewards. With the program, 3D is offering its 3DProActive™ clients the opportunity to earn cash rewards in exchange for referrals to businesses with server-based networks. 3D Referral Rewards is a new addition to 3D’s current marketing campaign focused on featuring clients in advertising. With similar advertising that highlights client testimonials on 3D’s newly-redesigned website, www.3dcorp.us, as well as features clients in local trade publications, 3D hopes to support the growth of its clients as well. "In our challenging economy, as we look to increase efficiencies, the idea of focusing our marketing efforts to support our clients makes a lot of sense,” remarks 3D Corporation’s CEO Dave Koshinz. "If we can help our clients with programs like 3D Referral Rewards, that’s helping us.” 3DProActive™ clients can find a link to instructions as to how to submit a referral on 3D’s blog at 3dcorp.blogspot.com. 3D Corporation is a locally-owned, advanced technology firm that has been providing network support to businesses in Washington State for over 20 years. Now the largest comprehensive consulting company north of Seattle, 3D continues to serve the area with innovative business solutions. 3D is located at 2103 Grant Street in Bellingham, WA. For more information about 3D, call (360) 671-4906, email info@3dcorp.us, visit 3D’s website at www.3dcorp.us or read the 3D News blog at 3dcorp.blogspot.com.
Business Bank has become an Official Toys for Tots Drop-Off Location Business Bank’s Bellingham Branch has become a drop off location for the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program. The mission of the Toys for Tots program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during November and December each year, and distribute them as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community in which the campaign is conducted. For more information visit www.BusinessBankwa.com or call Seana Olberg at Business Bank (360)685-0080 You can deliver your new, unwrapped toys or cash donations to Business Bank in Bellingham located at 2417 Meridian St, Ste 104.
Community Food Drive Collects More Than 215,000 Pounds for Local Food Banks Whatcom County residents and businesses again met the call to "Feed the Need” by donating 215,508 pounds of food and basic household items during the 15th-annual Community Food Drive. The Community Food Drive, conducted Oct. 12-16, surpassed last year’s record of 206,000 pounds. It was organized by Industrial Credit Union, Haggen stores and the Cascade Radio Group stations: KGMI, KPUG, KBAI, KAFE and KISM. Donations will be distributed among the following food banks: Bellingham Food Bank, Blaine Food Bank, Everson-Nooksack Food Bank, Ferndale Food Bank, Foothills Food Bank, Lummi Island Food Bank, Point Roberts Food Bank, Project Hope (Lynden) and Salvation Army (Bellingham). "We’re blessed by the generosity of so many people who continue to give despite the impact of this recession on themselves and their businesses,” said Matt Vance of Industrial Credit Union, coordinator of this year’s drive. "We hope they’ll continue to support local food banks through donations or their own food drives. While we surpassed our goal, this year’s Community Food Drive doesn’t meet the needs of Whatcom County food banks for a full month. They need everyone’s support as the number of families seeking assistance continues to rise.” For more information, visit www.communityfooddrive.com.
Hilltop Restaurant Celebrating 50 Years by Announcing Plans for Blarney Stone West The Hilltop Restaurant, a Whatcom County favorite for 50 years, is adding a touch of Irish to its anniversary celebration. Tom and Barb Kilpatrick, owners of the Hilltop Restaurant the last eight years, are creating Blarney Stone West, an interactive American version of a site steeped in Irish lore. "We wanted to celebrate the Hilltop’s 50th anniversary with something that would last as long as this restaurant,” Tom Kilpatrick said. "To build the Blarney Stone West sculpture, we’re bringing in 50 tons of 100 million-year-old olivine rock from the Twin Sisters mountain area near Mount Baker. The original Blarney Stone has been located in the Blarney Castle near Cork, Ireland for more than 600 years. It’s said to bestow the gift of eloquence upon whoever kisses it – a tradition that will continue at Blarney Stone West. "We expect Blarney Stone West to be completed before the start of the Winter Olympics in Vancouver, B.C. in February 2010,” Kilpatrick said. "This will be something fun for local residents and tourists to enjoy.” While the Hilltop Restaurant isn’t as old as the olivine rock, it does have a long history. Situated at 5645 Guide Meridian, just south of Axton Road, it started in 1959 as the Hilltop Café. The restaurant is on a major state highway, near a major east-west county road and within 10 minutes of Bellingham, Lynden, Ferndale and Everson. The central location helped Hilltop Café sustain a countywide following for breakfasts, lunches and dinners.
Chamber member, Luanne Highlander, has recently launched her new company, Vineyard Agent/Real Estate Services NW. She invites other Chamber members, friends, family and the public to the Grand Opening Reception on Thursday, October 22nd from 5-8pm at the Black Cat & Suite 306 in Sycamore Square in Fairhaven. This reception will feature northwest wines and appetizers. Please RSVP ahead of time with Luanne Highlaner at 360.224.7620 or by emailing her at Luanne@RelocateNW.com.
Whatcom County Association of Realtors Honors Joe Laudenbach, Tammy Walker The Whatcom County Association of Realtors recently honored Joe Laudenbach of Sterling Real Estate Group and Tammy Walker of First American Title Laudenbach was named WCAR’s Realtor of the Third Quarter. He has been a Realtor for seven years and at Sterling Real Estate Group in Bellingham the last four years. Laudenbach has served on the local association’s board of directors the past three years and the board of the Washington Association Realtors the last two years. He also contributed to the committee that planned the celebration of WCAR’s 100-year anniversary last year. The WCAR selected Walker as its Affiliate of the Third Quarter. Walker, Whatcom County manager for First American Title, has 18 years of experience in title insurance. She was co-chair of this year’s WCAR golf tournament fundraiser, has helped present the organization’s spring conference and has supported many of its other events. WCAR, founded in 1908, has a membership of approximately 730 Realtors, 50 brokers and 40 affiliates. WCAR provides continuing-education classes for members and information for prospective buyers and sellers of real estate. It also conducts fundraisers that benefit Habitat for Humanity, local food banks and other local charities. For more information about WCAR, call 671-5477 or visit www.wcar.net.
Industrial Credit Union’s Vance Wins Three Marketing Awards Matt Vance of Industrial Credit Union recently received three awards for marketing excellence from the Washington Credit Union League. Vance, Industrial Credit Union’s marketing coordinator, was honored with first-place Spectrum Marketing Awards in the categories of annual reports, coordinated campaigns and print advertising. Vance, a Western Washington University graduate, praised Flir Creative of Bellingham and Credo Graphics of Mount Vernon for their work on the winning entries. Entries from credit unions throughout the state were judged on design, content and promotion results. Industrial Credit Union competed with other credit unions in the class of $50 million-$150 million in assets. Industrial Credit Union, founded in 1941, is a not-for-profit cooperative financial institution that is owned and controlled by more than 21,000 members. Anyone who lives or works in the state of Washington is eligible for membership. With more than $125 million in assets, Industrial Credit Union has four branches in Bellingham (Barkley Village, Northwest Avenue, downtown State Street and West Bakerview Fred Meyer) and three more at Lynden, Ferndale and Nugents Corner. For more information, call 734-2043 or visit www.industrialcu.org
Jim Donald Brings Outstanding Record of Success to Haggen, Inc. as New President and CEO Jim Donald, one of the country’s top executives in the supermarket industry, has been named president and CEO of Haggen, Inc., a 33-store Pacific Northwest grocery company based in Bellingham, Wash. Donald most recently served at Starbucks Corp. from 2002 to 2008, first as president of Starbucks North America and then as president and CEO of Starbucks from 2005 to 2008. During his tenure, Starbucks grew to more than 15,000 stores in 43 countries. Donald was named one of the top 25 CEOs in the world in 2006 by The Best Practice Institute. "We are extremely pleased to attract an executive with Jim Donald’s skills and record of success to lead our Haggen Food & Pharmacy and TOP Food & Drug stores,” said Don Haggen, co-owner of the company with brother Rick Haggen. "He has the experience of leading large companies, but understands the importance of visiting stores and building strong relationships within the many communities we serve.” Donald said he couldn’t pass up the opportunity to lead one of the most respected companies in the Pacific Northwest. "Haggen has led the industry in innovation, quality and service and I am proud to join its 3,700 associates in continuing this trend,” Donald said. "Joining Haggen brings me back to my roots in the supermarket industry, a business that I have always had a passion for.” Donald has more than 30 years of experience in the supermarket industry. He served as president and CEO of Pathmark stores, a privately held 143-store regional supermarket chain on the East Coast, from 1996-2002. He also served as a president of Safeway’s Eastern Division (130 stores). Donald was handpicked by Sam Walton as vice president of food merchandising at Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., where he helped lead the development and expansion of Wal-Mart Supercenters. He also held various positions, including store operations, at Albertston’s, Inc.
Seasonal Flu Vaccinations Offered at Haggen Food & Pharmacy Stores Seasonal flu vaccinations are now available at Haggen Food & Pharmacy stores in Whatcom County. The flu shots are available to anyone 10 and older for $25 apiece and no appointments for the Haggen Food & Pharmacy clinics are necessary. Medicare and most insurance companies can be billed if participants bring their Medicare or insurance card. Haggen stores at Barkley Village, Fairhaven and Meridian in Bellingham also offer flu shots to walk-ins and people with appointments during pharmacy hours. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov/flu) recommend a seasonal flu vaccination for anyone wishing to reduce the risk of becoming ill with influenza (flu) or transmitting the virus to others. Seasonal flu shots are particularly recommended for the following high-risk groups: children ages 6 months to 19 years old, people 50 and older, pregnant women, people who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities, and people who live with or care for those who are at high risk for complications from the flu. H1N1 flu vaccinations also are recommended, but the federal government hasn’t yet announced a distribution plan for them. Seasonal flu vaccinations are available as follows: • Barkley Village Haggen Food & Pharmacy, 2900 Woburn St., Bellingham – Walk-ins and appointments now accepted. • Ferndale Haggen Food & Pharmacy, 1815 Main St. – 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 7, 14 and 31 and 3-7 p.m. Oct. 22. • Haggen Fairhaven Market, 1401 12th St., Bellingham – 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 10 and 15; walk-ins and appointments now accepted. • Meridian Haggen Food & Pharmacy, 2814 Meridian St., Bellingham – 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 8 and 17; appointments now accepted. For a complete schedule of flu clinics, visit www.Haggen.com.
Fitness Gear & Training is celebrating its 20 Year Anniversary! Locally owned, managed and operated by Robert and Patricia Palmer and sons Zachary and Joshua, Fitness Gear & Training has evolved from a small nutrition and supplementation store in Fairhaven, to the only Specialty Fitness Store as well as Private and Small Group Personal Training Studios north of the greater Seattle area. To commemorate 20 years in business, Fitness Gear & Training is having a 20 year anniversary sale on all equipment, and are offering personal training specials (for a limited time only). So stop by and get started on your in home fitness facility for the fall, or schedule your free complete body diagnostic today ($247 value). Train in private, train with Bellingham's only body transformation specialists. We guarantee results or your money is back. Fitness Gear & Training is located at 1423 Railroad Ave in downtown Bellingham. Contact them by phone at 360-671-5059, by email at fittgear@aol.com or check out their websites www.fitnessgearinc.com, www.fitnessgearandtraining.com, or www.bellinghamfitbodybootcamp.com
3D Corporation unveils enhanced resources on redesigned website.Bellingham, Washington – September 2009 – 3D Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the company's newly-redesigned website: http://www.3dcorp.us/. 3D's revamped website offers the most up-to-date information on 3D's core network management services, greater ease-of-use for visitors and many new features with which 3D hopes to enhance communications with clients as well as the general public. In addition to improving the site's aesthetic, readability and navigational ease, 3D Corporation has added a more personal touch with an impressive plethora of client testimonials as well as a long list of credentials. In doing so, 3D aims to reach businesses that prefer more personalized, relationship-oriented service in addition to proven network management expertise.
Other new features include a link to the company's new blog, "3D News” (http://3dcorp.blogspot.com/), to which readers can subscribe to keep informed of company and technology updates, IT tips and trends supplied by 3D's experienced engineers. 3D's online Remote Support and Customer Portal functions will continue to be easily-accessible from the site's "Clients” page, and the new "Contacts” page links to Google Maps and Mapquest to provide quick directions to 3D's facility in Bellingham. "Our updated website offers a comprehensive, easy-to-use resource for businesses searching for a solution to their network management needs and woes,” comments 3D's Marketing Manager Gail Gromaski. "The site also provides a means for us to share feedback from our clients, who tell our company's story better than we at 3D ever could.”
3D Corporation is a locally-owned, advanced technology firm that has been providing network support to businesses in Washington State for over 20 years. Now the largest comprehensive consulting company north of Seattle, 3D continues to serve the area with innovative business solutions. 3D is located at 2103 Grant Street in Bellingham, WA. For more information about 3D, call (360) 671-4906, email info@3dcorp.us, or visithttp://www.3dcorp.us/.
Westford Elected to Funeral Board. Rob Westford, 3rd generation owner of Westford Funeral Home & Cremation in Bellingham, was recently elected to the Washington State Funeral Directors Association (WSFDA) Board at a convention in Chelan, WA. WSFDA provides professional education programs, promotes high ethical standards, and is dedicated to public education and consumer advocacy. Rob also serves as President of the Northwest Funeral Directors Association. For more information, contact Westford Funeral Home, 360-734-1717, or www.westfordfuneralhome.com.
July 4th Chalk Art Murals on Display through October in Downtown Bellingham. Children who enjoyed chalking the paint-by-numbers murals at the Haggen Family 4th of July Festival now have a chance to see their art on display in downtown Bellingham storefront windows. The pieces are at 1211 and 1213 ½ Cornwall Ave. as part of the Downtown Bellingham Partnership's Cornwall Gallery Project. The program fills empty storefront windows along Cornwall Avenue with local art, and is part of the Partnership's Downtown Art Walk. The chalk art murals will be on display through October, or until new tenants move into the spaces. The Port hired Local artist Brian Major to create the design of each mural specifically for the Haggen Family 4th of July Celebration. The event brought more than 10,000 people to Bellingham's Zuanich Point Park for Independence Day 2009. It included free family activities, live music and vendors, and ended with fireworks over Bellingham Bay. "Designing, drawing and numbering the panels for the kids who celebrated the 4th of July at Zuanich Point Park was a pleasure,” Major said. "Chalking in the details was left up to the kids, and they did a fantastic job. Everyone had a great time coloring in the panels. The images and feelings they get are ones that stay with them so much longer, often helping to inspire a new generation of artists.”The Haggen Family 4th of July Celebration is presented annually by the Port of Bellingham and Bellingham/Whatcom Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The display spaces at 1211 and 1213 ½ Cornwall were donated by Saratoga Real Estate.
3D Corporation Expands Role of Exceptional Help Desk Administration. September 2009- 3D Corporation is pleased to announce the promotion of Jeff Delucia to Level 2 Help Desk Engineer. Delucia first joined 3D in July of 2008 as a Level 1 Help Desk Administrator, a position requiring a high customer service and problem-solving skills. Delucia, with his outstanding customer service-focused and methodical attitude, has exhibited and further-enhanced these skills to establish strong reltationships with many 3D clients. These attributes, combined with a wide range of network management experience and certifications, led Delucia to advance to Level 2 Help Desk in an extraordinarily short period of time. As a Level 2 Help Desk Engineer, Delucias takes on many challenging responsibilities including making emergency service desicions as well as appropriately scheduling resources. Delucia will aslo become a mentor for LEvel 1 Help Desk Administrators, serving as a resource for advanced problem resolution.
3D Corporation is a locally-owned, advanced technology firm that has been providing network support to businesses in Washington State for over 20 years. Now the largest comprehensive consulting company north of Seattle, 3D continues to serve the area with innovative business solutions. 3d is located at 2103 Grant Street in Bellingham, WA. For more information about 3D, call 360.671.4906.
Garage Sale Raises $18,110 for Lydia Place Thank you, thank you, thank you! Lydia Place’s annual garage sale in August netted $18,110 to help mothers and children in their transition from homelessness to independence. The net total for the sale, conducted Aug. 14-15 in Bellingham’s Sportsplex, was the second-highest in its 11-year history and surpassed this year’s goal of $15,000. "We are so grateful for the community’s backing,” said Teresa Josephson, Lydia Place’s executive director. "More than 200 people donated items, volunteers contributed more than 1,600 hours and local sponsors and media were quite supportive. Also, in addition to helping Lydia Place, the sale provided affordable household goods and clothing for many families and kept these items out of landfills.” For more information, visit www.lydiaplace.org.
Bayside USA’s Jennifer Hamilton Gains Certification Jennifer Hamilton of Bayside USA, a Bellingham woman-owned company specializing in professional recruiting and employment services, recently achieved a certification through the American Staffing Association. Hamilton, a recruiter for technical and professional positions, is now Technical Services Certified by the ASA. Hamilton completed a six-week course and passed an extensive test to earn the certification, which demonstrates knowledge of labor and employment law with particular relevance to the technical, information-technology and scientific staffing industries. Hamilton has been a recruiter for Bayside USA for six years. Her recruitment and placement experience has covered a wide range of positions, including technical staff, degreed professionals, administrative support personnel and light-industrial employees in diverse industries. Bayside USA specializes in recruiting and placing highly qualified, technically trained professionals for limited-term, project-specific and direct-placement positions. It also provides experienced, skilled administrative and support personnel for clients. Bayside USA recently received national certification as a Women’s Business Enterprise by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council. For more information, call (360) 671-5221 or visit www.baysidepro.com.
Industrial Credit Union recently presented $1,000 scholarships to four students: Agbeko Petty, Tianna Schneider, Kelly Alleen and Karen Cooke. Petty just graduated from Ferndale High School, where she was a student body officer and sports editor of the school’s newspaper. She is attending the University of Washington this fall to study business and marketing. Schneider is enrolled at Whatcom Community College and plans to become a para-educator. She graduated from Mount Baker High School, where she was president of the Red Cross Club and competed in track and field. Cooke, a working mother after graduating from Ferndale High School, is returning to school at Bellingham Technical College to earn an administrative assistant degree. Cooke said enhanced knowledge of computer programs will make her a more valuable employee. Alleen is seeking a master’s degree in applied anthropology from Northern Arizona University. She previously attended Whatcom Community College and Western Washington University. Industrial Credit Union, founded in 1941, is a not-for-profit cooperative financial institution that is owned and controlled by its 21,000 members. Anyone who lives or works in the state of Washington is eligible for membership. With $125 million in assets, Industrial has four branches in Bellingham (Barkley Village, Northwest Avenue, downtown State Street and West Bakerview Fred Meyer) and three more at Lynden, Ferndale and Nugents Corner. For more information, call (360) 734-2043 or visit www.industrialcu.org.
Haggen Stores Partnering with Customers to Help Children Needing School Supplies Haggen Food & Pharmacy stores are partnering with their customers to provide at-risk children in Whatcom County with supplies for the start of school. When customers buy and donate a backpack at a Haggen store for $9.99 through Sept. 13, Haggen will fill the backpack with $21 worth of school supplies, including paper, pencils, crayons, a binder and a ruler. Haggen stores are located in Bellingham (Barkley Village, Sehome Village, Fairhaven and Meridian) and Ferndale. The backpacks filled with supplies will be distributed to at-risk children by the Whatcom County Readiness to Learn Consortium, which serves all seven public school districts in the county. Last year the consortium assisted nearly 1,300 children. "As more families face economic tough times, more children need our help to get a good start at school,” said Becky Skaggs, spokesperson for Haggen Food & Pharmacy store. "We’re hopeful that the public will join us in supporting Readiness to Learn, which eliminates some of the barriers these children face.”
Keith Atneosen Joins Bellingham Office of Waddell & Reed Keith Atneosen, a Whatcom County native with four years of experience in financial services, recently joined the Bellingham office of Waddell & Reed as a financial advisor. Atneosen, a Western Washington University graduate, offers financial planning and investment management services through Waddell & Reed. He’s earned the designation of Life Underwriting Training Council Fellow (LUTCF), which recognizes comprehensive knowledge of life insurance products and is conferred jointly by The American College and National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors. Waddell & Reed’s Bellingham office is located in Pacific Meridian Plaza at 4164 Meridian St., Suite 104. Founded in 1937, Waddell & Reed emphasizes customized plans for each individual and long-term investing strategies. Insurance products are offered through insurance companies with which Waddell & Reed has sales arrangements. For more information, call Atneosen at (360) 734-4728 or visit www.waddell.com.
Bellingham-based Credo Construction, Inc. recently started construction in Blaine on a $30 million complex for Viva Biopharm USA, a subsidiary of Viva Pharmaceutical. The two-year project on an eight-acre site along Odell Road will create three buildings with more than 200,000 square feet for manufacturing, research and development. Viva Biopharm USA will manufacture pharmaceuticals – generic drugs, over-the-counter drugs and nutraceuticals – plus dietary supplements, nutritional products and cosmetic products for U.S. and international markets. When completed, the Blaine complex will eventually have 150-300 employees. This is Credo Construction’s first project utilizing a patented concrete tilt-up system called Hi-Tech Tilt that uses approximately 70 percent less concrete than standard tilt-up wall systems. Credo Construction has exclusive licensing rights for the patented Hi-Tech Tilt system. "This system provides optimal strength and stability for the walls while significantly reducing use of building materials,” said Todd Lapinsky, president of Credo Construction. A general contractor, Credo Construction specializes in all phases of construction, including commercial, industrial, custom homes, pre-engineered steel buildings and remodels. Credo Construction is licensed in Washington, Hawaii, Alaska and British Columbia. For more information, call (360) 676-1904 or visit www.credoconstruction.com
Birch Equipment is expanding its toy selection with two lines of environmentally friendly toys this summer. The company will offer items from San Francisco toymaker, Green Toys™, which uses recycled milk jugs to create its products. The toys include a 15-piece tool kit, a 27-piece cookware and dining set, a recycling truck and a dump truck. The products are free from BPA, Phthalates and lead paint and packaged in recyclable, corrugated materials. The Green Toys™ line will be joined by Noodle Your IQ puzzles by Seattle-based Discovery Bay Games. The 3-D wood puzzles come in all different shapes ranging from construction equipment to drum sets and challenge kids to develop new skills while building their toy. "We are excited to add products that both encourage learning and offer customers the chance to be greener when they buy their child’s next toy,” said Information Director Cara Buckingham. The toys will be featured alongside a variety of new items from kid-sized garden equipment, K’NEX building kits and mood rings to Sea Monkeys, a personal favorite of Birch Equipment’s Owner, Sarah Rothenbuhler. "Birch is making it easier for our customers to take care of their equipment needs and the little ones in their lives in a single stop,” said Rothenbuhler. "Plus, it adds a little more fun to their in-store experience.” The company also offers high quality and well-priced construction themed clothing for both kids and adults. Available at Birch Equipment’s Washington stores with select inventory online at www.birchequipment.com. Birch Equipment is ranked among the top 100 rental companies in the nation and is the leading, independently-owned construction equipment and sales company in the Pacific Northwest and Southeast Alaska. With a diverse customer base of contractors, home owners, manufacturers and heavy industrial, Birch carries one of the largest, most varied and well-maintained rental fleets in the industry. Birch Equipment is based in Bellingham, WA with stores in Bellingham, Anacortes and Mount Vernon, Washington and Sitka, Alaska. For more information please, visit www.birchequipment.com
Bellingham’s Credo Construction Wins Award in Statewide Remodeling Competition Bellingham-based Credo Construction, Inc. was recently honored with an award for the top residential exterior remodeling project in the state. Credo Construction was recognized at the Building Industry Association of Washington’s Excellence in Remodeling awards program June 17 at Semiahmoo Resort in Blaine. The company was recognized for its innovative work on the Chuckanut Mountain house of Jim and Judy Woods. Credo Construction was the only Whatcom County contractor to win one of the BIAW’s 2009 Excellence in Remodeling awards. The remodel integrated some of today’s most modern materials and building techniques, resulting in a contemporary look and design. The entire envelope restoration included new decks and glass railings, reverse board and batten siding installed with a rain screen, metal roofing, and custom windows and doors. A three-car garage was relocated to enhance the view of the home. Project design was completed by Tirzah Woods of Woods Design Studio. Todd Lapinsky (president) and Clarence Kobes (project manager) are co-owners of Credo Construction. The Bellingham general contractor specializes in all phases of construction, including commercial, industrial, custom homes, pre-engineered steel buildings and remodels. Credo Construction is licensed in Washington, Hawaii, Alaska and British Columbia. For more information, call (360) 676-1904 or visit www.credoconstruction.com.
Whatcom County Association of Realtors Honors Stephanie Johnson and Wayne Wright The Whatcom County Association of Realtors recently honored Stephanie Johnson of Keller Williams Western Realty and Wayne Wright of Pacific Northwest Homes Magazine. Johnson was named WCAR’s Realtor of the Second Quarter. Based at the Keller Williams office in Bellingham, Johnson has been a Realtor since 2000 and earned her broker’s license in 2005, Johnson has chaired multiple committees for the county association and recently organized a 650-home open house weekend. She also has served as a state director for WCAR the last three years and currently is president of the Old Fairhaven Association, where she also chairs its Dirty Dan’s Days, Fairhaven Festival and Veterans Memorial Flagpole committees. The WCAR selected Wright as its Affiliate of the First Quarter. Wright joined Pacific Northwest Homes Magazine in 2006, working with his parents before becoming its owner in December. Wright spearheaded development of the magazine’s website that now attracts 250,000 visitors monthly and has become an integral part of marketing for many local real-estate agents. The magazine recently expanded into British Columbia, adding more than 500 distribution sites. Wright also was honored for his support of WCAR and many community organizations. WCAR, founded in 1908, has a membership of approximately 730 Realtors, 50 brokers and 40 affiliates. WCAR provides continuing-education classes for members and information for prospective buyers and sellers of real estate. It also conducts fundraisers that benefit Habitat for Humanity, local food banks and other local charities. For more information about WCAR, call 671-5477 or visit www.wcar.net.
Industrial Credit Union Planting Trees, Reducing Paper Consumption Nearly 2,500 Industrial Credit Union members have elected to receive E-Statements, resulting in more trees being planted and much less paper being consumed. As part of a Project Preservation initiative started last year, Industrial Credit Union is planting a tree for each member who signs up for E-Statements rather than paper statements detailing their account activity. Industrial Credit Union added 500 members to E-Statements in the past year. The credit union is utilizing the expertise and volunteer crews of the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association to plant trees and shrubs along salmon-bearing streams at sites throughout the county. The following watersheds have benefited from riparian restoration projects sponsored by Industrial Credit Union and involving community volunteers, including credit union employees: • Bellingham: Whatcom Creek, Connelly Creek, Padden Creek and Squalicum Creek. • Ferndale: California Creek and Schell Creek. • Lynden: Silver Springs Creek. • Van Zandt: Black Slough. With 2,500 members receiving E-Statements, approximately 60,000 sheets of paper are saved annually – the equivalent of seven 40-foot-tall trees, according to environment organization Conservatree. "By converting to E-Statements, our member-owners add trees to local watersheds while reducing the trees and energy needed to produce paper,” said Terri McKee, President/CEO of Industrial Credit Union. Industrial Credit Union, founded in 1941, is a not-for-profit cooperative financial institution that is owned and controlled by its 21,000 members. Anyone who lives or works in the state of Washington is eligible for membership. Industrial Credit Union has three branches in Bellingham (Northwest Avenue, State Street and West Bakerview Fred Meyer) and three more at Lynden, Ferndale and Nugents Corner. For more information, call 734-2043 or visit www.industrialcu.org.
Jerns Funeral Chapel and On-Site Crematory Adds Pre-Arrangement Counselors. Jerns Funeral Chapel and On-Site Crematory in Bellingham and Blaine recently added two pre-arrangement counselors to help people make plans before they or their loved ones pass away. Fred Gustafson and Ted Weatherly are assisting individuals and families with their pre-arrangements after earning state licenses. Both Gustafson and Weatherly provide information on the options available for the type of service, burial and/or cremation that one may want. "We’ve added staff because we see how pre-arrangements relieve families of stress that comes from making funeral and financial decisions during a time that already is quite emotional for them,” said Jerns Funeral Chapel owner Brad Bytnar. "Pre-arrangements also assure people that their wishes are known and will be fulfilled.” Gustafson, a Bellingham native, has a long history of serving others after spending eight years in the U.S. Navy. Weatherly, a Ferndale resident, has more than 10 years of customer-service experience. Jerns Funeral Chapel, located at 800 E. Sunset Drive, was founded in 1887. The Bellingham and Blaine funeral homes became family owned and operated again in 2007 with their acquisition by Bytnar. Jerns Funeral Chapel offers Bellingham’s only on-site crematory, as well as a wide range of caskets, urns and green burial products. For more information, call 734-0070 or visit www.jernsfuneralchapel.net.
Whatcom County Association of Realtors Honors Mark Brown and Drew Wilkens. The Whatcom County Association of Realtors recently honored Mark Brown of Windermere Real Estate and Drew Wilkens of The Bank of the Pacific. Brown, a Bellingham native, was named WCAR’s Realtor of the First Quarter. Based at Windermere’s Bellingham office, he started in the real-estate industry as an assistant in 1988 and specializes in resident real estate. WCAR’s immediate past-president, Brown now is chairman of its Government Affairs Committee and has been active on multiple committees of the Washington Association of Realtors. Brown also is one of only three people in Whatcom County who are graduates of Leadership Institute Northwest, a development program of the Oregon and Washington Association of Realtors. The WCAR selected Wilkens as its Affiliate of the First Quarter. Wilkens, based in Bellingham, has been involved in mortgage lending since 1992 and now is a senior vice president and real estate loan manager for The Bank of the Pacific. Wilkens was honored for being personally involved in WCAR committees, supporting its events and encouraging the bank’s employees to do likewise. WCAR, founded in 1908, has a membership of approximately 800 Realtors, 50 brokers and 60 affiliates. WCAR provides continuing-education classes for members and information for prospective buyers and sellers of real estate. It also conducts fundraisers that benefit Habitat for Humanity, local food banks and other local charities. For more information about WCAR, call 671-5477 or visit www.wcar.net.
Whatcom Lawns, Inc. Promotes Pair to Lead Growing Company Whatcom Lawns, Inc., which has provided lawn and landscape maintenance since 2000, recently promoted Jeff King and Levi Jansen as the company’s staff expands to handle its increasing clientele. King, who has four years of management experience, was promoted to operations manager, where he will oversee quality control, customer service and inside sales for Whatcom Lawns. Jansen, an employee since 2004, was promoted to field supervisor and directs the training and safety compliance of work crews. He also is the lead sprinkler-system technician for Whatcom Lawns. "With growth of 120 percent since 2005, we promoted King and Jansen to ensure that our crews continue to provide world-class service to residential and commercial customers,” said Steve Kruyswijk, co-owner of Whatcom Lawns with wife Janine. Whatcom Lawns serves clients throughout Whatcom County on either a year-round contract or single-project basis. Its services include lawn mowing and maintenance, tree pruning, shrub/hedge trimming, weeding and sprinkler system repairs and maintenance. For more information, call 354-5124 or visit www.whatcomlawns.com
Bayside USA, a Bellingham company specializing in professional recruiting and employment services, recently achieved national certification as a Women’s Business Enterprise from the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). Only one other company based in Bellingham and only 70 based in the entire state of Washington have earned the WBENC certification. Bayside USA is solely owned by Sharon McDaniel, the company’s chief executive officer. McDaniel has 35 years of experience, primarily in the field of technical staffing services. WBENC is the nation’s largest third-party certifier of businesses owned and operated by women in the United States. More than 700 U.S. companies – including industry leaders such as American Express, AT&T, FedEx and Shell Oil – and government agencies rely on WBENC’s certification as an integral part of their supplier diversity programs. By including women-owned businesses among their vendors, they demonstrate their commitment to fostering diversity and the continued development of their supplier/vendor diversity programs. "The certification process took nearly a year of in-depth review, including a site inspection, to confirm that Sharon McDaniel owns at least 51 percent of Bayside USA and also actively directs its operations,” said Curt Nix, Bayside USA’s vice president of sales and marketing. "This WBENC certification will open some significant doors for us.” Bayside USA specializes in recruiting and placing highly qualified, technically trained professionals for limited-term, project-specific and direct-placement positions. It also provides experienced, skilled administrative and support personnel for clients. For more information, call (360) 671-5221 or visit www.baysidepro.com.
KVOS TV has just expanded its online Daily Planner so that viewers can now add their own events. I invite you to promote your upcoming events on our calendar and you are encouraged to share this information with anyone who has an event/activity they want to publicize. PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact Person: Rick Read, 360.392.2972 rread@kvos.com KVOS TV and KVOS.com are pleased to offer a new avenue for you to use to promote your events and reach our viewers. We have just completed a major upgrade on our online Daily Planner calendar. You now have the opportunity to create your own username and password that will allow you to post your events on our calendar. For those of you who have used it in the past, we encourage you to continue to send your event announcements and/or press releases to our news e-mail address – news@kvos.com. For those new to our e-mail address, we invite you to notify us of your upcoming events. We monitor our e-mail throughout the day. The e-mails we receive, along with the events you will be posting online, will become the basis for choosing the events we promote on our on-air Daily Planner that plays 6 times each weekday on KVOS TV. Please keep in mind that our on-air Daily Planners are produced in advance of their air dates, so we ask that you submit your event notices at least three weeks prior to your event. In addition, your news e-mails are also routed to Deb Slater, producer/host of "Experience Northwest with Deb Slater.” Her show airs Saturday nights at 5pm and repeats Monday and Wednesday mornings at 6:30am and the following Saturday at 5:30pm. She’s always on the lookout for great stories to tell our viewers and the e-mails you send us have already generated several segments for the show. To create your own unique username and password, log on to KVOS.com and click on the US flag. On our home page, look, in the left column, for the words "Daily Planner” and click on it. Once you reach the calendar page, look in the upper right for a place to sign in. Create your username and password. Then look on the right for the words "submit item”. Then follow the format, click "submit” and your event is posted! If you have any questions about our new online Daily Planner calendar, please do not hesitate to contact me at my e-mail above or via our news e-mail address.
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