2013

North Whidbey’ s

Tourism a boost to Whidbey economy By WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES STAFF

When Mitch and Lynda Richards opened Coupeville’s Lovejoy Inn during the summer of 2008, they could not have picked a worse time to jump into a small, tourismbased business. That fall, the stock market plummeted, housing prices tanked and the future of the economy looked bleak. But in spite of their timing, the business has experienced growth each year that the inn has been open. Mitch Richards said he credits hard work, competitive pricing, a great location, a website to attract visitors and the efforts made to promote the region for his business’s success. “There are not enough rooms in Coupeville in the summer months,” Richards said. During the “shoulder” seasons of spring and fall – and the winter months when visits from vacationers dry up almost completely – efforts to promote the area are even more critical to supporting Whidbey’s tourism economy. This is something that Sherrye Wyatt said she knows well. She is the public relations and marketing manager for the Island County Joint Tourism Committee. An attractive and informative county tourism website attracts visitors, she said. On the site, pictures show the beauty of Whidbey and Camano islands, while the new infographics pique tourists’ interest with facts and figures. The site receives between 400–600 unique visitors each day, and 20,000 people subscribe to the calendar and events email. The site has received 60,000 more unique visitors this year than last year in 2012, Wyatt said. Richards said some of those online visitors discover his bed and breakfast as they peruse the site. “The (county tourism) website is great and has everything you need to plan a visit,” Richards said. An updated website and infographics were designed by FusionSpark Media in Langley, featuring the artwork of Christopher Baldwin.

Contributed photo, courtesy of Northwest Public Relations in Freeland

The wind picks up wisps of her brown hair, as the young woman runs across the grassy field. In a 15-second video clip, the story unfolds – all without sound – and we see scenes of water, beach, and driftwood, with her written words telling us about her experience. The video is an invitation to tourists to explore Whidbey and Camano islands under the slogan, “The Shortest Distance to Far Away,” showing at ferry terminals on Bainbridge Island and Seattle. The video is a new way to promote tourism in Island County.

Spreading the word Wyatt also spends considerable time hosting travel writers and TV crews. Lisa Bernhardt, executive director of the Pacific NorthWest Art School in Coupeville, said she appreciated a recent media visit to the school. “Having the travel writer come to the art school gives them an idea of what we offer,” Bernhardt said. “There is so much going on here.” Boosting attendance at the art school is good for the local tourist economy, Richards said. When its classes fill up, so do the rooms at his B&B. Wyatt has hosted members of the media from as far away as Japan and Germany. “It has taken a few years to develop these

relationships,” she said, “but they are paying off now.” With the economy on the upswing, additional off-island marketing – such as the visitor guides produced by Whidbey Island’s community newspapers and distributed throughout the region – also have helped boost local tourism. From April through June, ridership on the Port Townsend-Coupeville ferry route was up by almost 9 percent as compared to the same time period the previous year. According to Dianne Binder, the treasurer of the joint tourism committee, lodging tax revenues are up over 5 percent from one year ago at this time.

Published as a supplement to The Whidbey News-Times

Continued on PAGE 5

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North Whidbey Who’s Who In Business • APRIL 24, 2013

Index

Land Title Escrow Company.......................................................................4 NorthWest Granite & Flooring....................................................................5

Allstate Insurance............................................................................................2

Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce........................................................6

bayleaf.................................................................................................................2

Wallin Funeral Home.....................................................................................7

Burley Funeral Home.....................................................................................3

Weightloss to Wellness.................................................................................3

Cascade Insurance Agency..........................................................................3

Whidbey General Hospital: Bock...............................................................6

Family Dermatology.......................................................................................3

Whidbey General Hospital: Meyer............................................................6

Forever Pretty...................................................................................................3

Whidbey General Hospital: Porras............................................................7

Hearing Health Services...............................................................................4

Whidbey News-Times................................................................................4-7

Island Family Hearing....................................................................................5 Island Handyman............................................................................................8 Jewelry Gallery, The........................................................................................4

Feature: Island County Tourism targeting new means to bring visitors and expand economy....................................................................1

Allstate Insurance

Dea Bowen, Store Manager

From left to right : Samantha LaFlam, Matt Iverson, Kim Jaeger, Patty Sacco, Mimi Iverson-Johnson Our family has partnered with Allstate for years to help people with their insurance needs – from homes and auto to boats and life insurance. Our quality, service-oriented agency is not only owned and operated by a family, our customers tell us we make them feel like family too. As the owner of a small business, we understand the importance of building a solid foundation for the future and developing long-lasting customer relationships. That’s why we are committed to offering you the same level of service we would expect from our own business dealings. When you leave our office, we hope you’ll feel confident, informed, assured and satisfied in your choices. The way you should feel. Call us or stop in for a complimentary policy review and let us take the guesswork out of insurance.

Iverson Insurance Agency, Inc. 360-675-5978 • 800-344-5978 466 NE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor

bayleaf, Your source for all things delicious! bayleaf in Oak Harbor and Coupeville offers a savory solution for every meal, a perfect wine for any party and the right cheese to match your tastes. From meats and olive oils to dressings and pasta, including gluten-free, owner Beth Kuchynka, store manager Dea Bowen and staff lend spice to everyday entertaining. This month, from 4-6 p.m. Fridays in Oak Harbor and 4-6 p.m. Thursdays in Coupeville, Bayleaf is holding April Wine Relief. You will enjoy five wines for five bucks, with all wines under $15. You can also join one of Bayleaf’s wine clubs and get great tips and recipes on Beth’s blog at bayleaf.us/blog/. Stop by Bayleaf and check out all the great items — your friends and family will thank you.

360-675-6600

You’re in good hands.

720 SE Pioneer Way Oak Harbor, WA. 98277

360-678-6603

101 NW Coveland St. Coupeville, WA. 98239

APRIL 24, 2013 • North Whidbey Who’s Who In Business

Page 3

Burley Funeral Chapel Mark Andreasen-Manager

PLAN. TO MAKE IT RIGHT.®

Whether you’re making funeral and cemetery arrangements for a loved one or making advance arrangements for yourself, planning with Burely’s, a Dignity Memorial® provider, is a smart choice. Our burial, cremation and cemetery options, and benefits offered only by Burley Funeral Chapel, will help you make the arrangements that are right for you and your family. The Dignity® Difference National Transferability • Bereavement Travel Services 24-Hour Compassion Helpline® • Aftercare® Planner • Everlasting Memorial® 100% Service Guarantee • Dignity Memorial Guidance Series® • And More.

360-675-3192

www.burleyfuneralchapel.com 30 S E Ely Street , Oak Harbor, WA 98277 Serving families on Whidbey Island since 1962.

CASCADE INSURANCE AGENCY

Shelli Trumbull, Sonia DeMarsh, Judi Curtin, and Michelle Nannenga

Local Independent Agency With Over 25 Years Experience

Home • Auto • Business Cascade Insurance Agency is an Independent Insurance Agency which currently represents Travelers, Pemco, Safeco, Oregon Mutual, Progressive, and more. They will provide comprehensive coverage at competitive pricing. They do the insurance shopping for you.

(360) 682-2162

404 S. Main Street, Coupeville www.cascadeinsuranceagency.com www.Facebook.com/CascadeInsurance

Ask us about our referral program! Weightloss-to-Wellness

Weight, Skin & Wellness Clinic

Heidi Graf, APRN, Family Nurse Practitioner 1105 NE 3rd Ave, Oak Harbor, WA 360-675-9369 • www.weigh2well.com Weightloss-to-Wellness is a medical clinic established to provide you with personalized and professional care for weight loss, skin & beauty treatments and wellness.

Family Dermatology

WeiGHt Loss Phentermine Prescription HCG Lipotropic Injections Inch Loss Spa Wraps Meal Supplements

Friendly and professional staff Family Dermatology is honored to offer the Whidbey Island community a full service facility located in Coupeville. We are a family-run business that saw a need for an office that could deal with all dermatology issues right here on the Island. Whether it be treatment of acne, psoriasis, hair/nail disorders, skin cancer, or even MOHS surgery, our friendly staff of providers and nurses will be able to help you. Phone (360) 682-5024 • Fax (360) 682-5749 205 South Main St., Bldg B, Coupeville www.familydermco.com

skiN tReAtmeNts Botox & Juvederm Wrinkle Filler Facial & Leg Vein Treatments Medical-Grade Chemical Peels Laser Skin Rejuvenation Laser Hair & Tattoo Removal

WeLLNess Hormone Replacement Thyroid Optimization Vitamin B12 Injection Vitamine Supplements Wellness Wraps

Tammy Kelly, PCC

Forever Pretty Oak Harbor & Coupeville 360-672-4459 ForeverPrettyPCTraining.com

State Licensed Instructor and Technician with 20 years’ experience in the art of Permanent Cosmetics. She is referred by 4 Plastic Surgeons in the State. Degree in Psychology & a minor in Health. Specializing in Para-Medical Procedures Micro Needling treatment for all types of scars & 3-D Areola Restoration for breast cancer survivors. Correction of unwanted ink using removal & camouflage. Coupeville Certified PCC Training Center is where she trains & certifies students from all over the United States. She also has location at 1105 NE 3rd Avenue in Oak Harbor. Forever Pretty has been serving Whidbey Island for 10 years & plans many more. We love the community & the island is home. Consultations are Free. Doctor Referred & Recommended!

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North Whidbey Who’s Who In Business • APRIL 24, 2013

Hearing Health Services

Dr. Kristine L. Jarrell, Audiologist Kristine L. Jarrell, Au. D. has been providing audiology services for children, adults, and seniors here on Whidbey Island for 17 years. In July of 2011 she assumed ownership of Hearing Health Services, established in 1999, which is conveniently located in Coupeville. Dr. Jarrell offers her patients the type of care that is focused on individual needs and finding affordable solutions for their problems. She is sensitive to how hearing loss affects her patient’s lifestyle and takes pleasure in providing them with gentle, heartfelt care in a comfortable environment. Call her for an evaluation or stop by the office, she will be happy to help you hear again.

(360) 678-1423 107 S Main St, Ste A102, Coupeville, WA 98239 www.coupevillehearing.com

Land Title and Escrow Company

Front row, left to right: Debbie Tesch, Marissa Skaar, Clair Sorenson Middle row: Delilah Steele, Susie Thompson, Patty Fakkema, Joanne Skaar Back row: Barry Tesch, Holly Lucas, Jim Secrest, Mandy Murdock Land Title and Escrow is an independently owned company whose employee’s are dedicated to unsurpassed excellence. Since April 3, 1940, the Land Title family has bestowed our experience and knowledge to all of our customers who range from the first time home buyer to the high volume builder. Through title and escrow services, our main intention is to help insure the American dream of home ownership one home at a time. Not only is our family dedicated to providing friendly, accurate, and fast services by day, we also take part in serving our community by night. By taking part in community functions like the Boys and Girls Club Auction and being members of various community foundations like the Kiwanis Club as well as Rotary. Land Title has given back to our local neighbors with care and attention. Here at Land Title, we realize that home ownership is part of the foundation of many things. Building a family, investing in future, becoming part of a community. Please let us be a part in building your family a solid foundation.

Title Dept (360) 675-2246 Escrow Dept (360) 679-5055 (800) 829-5263 • www.ltco.com 1080 N.E. 7th Ave., Oak Harbor

Gloria Carothers Owner

Gloria Carothers came to Oak Harbor 56 years ago and is a graduate of Oak Harbor High School and Western Washington University. She has extensive gemological training and has been involved in the jewelry industry for the past 26 years. The Jewelry Gallery specializes in fine diamonds, colored gemstone jewelry, gold and silver. We are the area’s authorized dealer for Pandora®, recognized as one of the world’s most popular jewelry brands. We also offer custom design, expert repairs and appraisals. We are your LOCAL BUYER for gold, silver, coins, diamonds, sterling flatware and estate jewelry. We sell vintage and estate jewelry, and welcome quality consignments. Doing business at the same location for over 21 years.

360-679-3700 830 SE Pioneer Way Oak Harbor, WA Hours: Tues-Fri 11-5:30 Saturday 10-5

Est 1991

Teri Mendiola

Sales Representative Teri Mendiola is new to the Whidbey News-Times family, she and her husband Ric moved to Oak Harbor in October 2012 to spend time with their son who is stationed here with the Navy. Teri has a long, successful history of working with businesses to raise brand recognition and increase yearly revenue. She invests time in learning what businesses have to offer, how that benefits the community we live in and how to communicate that to the Whidbey News-Times readers.

Contact Teri today for a free, no pressure consultation.

(360) 675-661 • (877) 316-7276 tmendiola@whidbeynewsgroup.com

31955 SR 20, #4 • Oak Harbor, WA

APRIL 24, 2013 • North Whidbey Who’s Who In Business

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Continued from PAGE 1

August was a great month, Wyatt said. Revenue from Coupeville’s 2 percent lodging tax was higher in 2012 than it has ever been, said Coupeville Mayor Nancy Conard. More rooms filled – and higher prices – both boost revenue. Wyatt listed a number of reasons for the increase in visitors, including that the Coupeville-Port Townsend ferry route returned to two-vessel service in 2011. It also doesn’t hurt that Whidbey and Camano islands are so close both to Seattle and Vancouver, B.C., which fits the county’s marketing slogan, “The Shortest Distance to Far Away.” “People can be somewhere different without flying,” Wyatt said. Short video clips produced by Northwest Public Relations in Freeland showing at the ferry terminals on Bainbridge Island and Seattle highlight the islands’ beauty and are a new approach to catch prospective visitors’

attention in those markets. Canadian travelers, targeted heavily by the county’s tourism efforts, are taking advantage of the value of the currency exchange, Wyatt said. A changing demographic The county’s tourism efforts are still targeting families, but they are also trying to woo a younger crowd as well. Wyatt said she tries to draw visitors who value the islands’ natural attractions, such as beaches and hiking trails. These visitors care about the environment and are interested in protecting and preserving it for the future, she said. “They want to return and have it be as beautiful as when they were last here,” Wyatt said. The Victoria Clipper returned this spring to Coupeville for day trips, which is good news for Coupeville businesses, said Lynda Eccles, executive director of the Coupeville Chamber of Commerce. The whale-watching

Big Stock Photo

Expanded ferry service, marketing efforts on the ferries during crossings and targeting nearby communities to bring more tourists are just some of the Island County Tourism strategies to increase business traffic this year.

Local People Supporting Local Business! “We believe it’s very important to shop businesses owned and run by local families,” comment owners Jeremey and Suzette Jackson, who live and have raised their family here on Whidbey Island.

FLOORING & STNONCKOW! GRANITE SALES O We hire and use local skilled craftsmen, and are the only full service granite shop and showroom on Whidbey. We do all our own work, and warranty it for life! Visit our beautiful 8,000 sf showroom & countertop fabrication shop and join us improving our local economy. “We Rock!”

360-675-4978

Lee Ann Mozes

General Manager

After moving back to Whidbey Island three years ago, I began working for the Whidbey News Group as an Advertising Representative and have served as the Advertising Sales Manager and now General Manager of the Whidbey News-Times. I bring 19 years of experience in marketing, sales, and management and am thankful to be in a position that allows me to serve the local businesses and community members of Whidbey. A copy of the Whidbey News-Times was always in my house growing up, I am honored to be a part of it today.

Contact Lee Ann today for a free, no pressure consultation.

(360) 675-661 • (877) 316-7276 lmozes@whidbeynewsgroup.com

687 Mobius Loop • Oak Harbor www.nwgraniteandflooring.com

31955 SR 20, #4 • Oak Harbor, WA

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North Whidbey Who’s Who In Business • APRIL 24, 2013

Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce

From left: Erika Jones, Membership; Michelle Gibbon, Finance; Elise Vogelman, VIC Manager/Events; Kathy Reed, Director; Abbie Martin; Graphic Design. The staff at the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce is always ready to serve the greater Oak Harbor business community. The Chamber is a vibrant community organization that provides businesses, non-profit and service groups great opportunities to connect with one another and the community. Whether it’s a luncheon, newsletter, seminar or special event, the Chamber of Commerce helps members by offering small business support, public representation, business advocacy, networking, marketing opportunities and relocation, and visitor and referral services. The Chamber staff is happy to work with members to find tools to help them grow their business and find success. Find out how the Chamber can help you! Contact us today at 360-675-3755.

(360) 675-3755 32630 SR 20, Oak Harbor www.oakharborchamber.com

OHChamber OAK HARBOR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WHIDBEY ISLAND, WASHINGTON

Lauren Bock, PA-C

Keven Graves

Executive Editor and Publisher, Whidbey News Group For Whidbey News Group Executive Editor and Publisher Keven R. Graves, returning to Whidbey Island was like coming home. Graves, 48, was born and raised in Anacortes. He started his newspaper career in 1986 as an intern reporter with the Whidbey News-Times. He covered nearly every beat over the next seven years. In 1994, he cofounded The Whidbey Examiner. With more than 25 years of newspaper experience now, Graves said he’s excited to help build on the history of excellence demonstrated by the News-Times, Examiner, South Whidbey Record and The Crosswind. It’s an honor to lead a group of newspapers committed to serving advertisers and readers, and to keeping the community informed and empowered. (360) 675-6611 107 S. Main Street, Ste. E101 Coupeville, WA 98239 kgraves@whidbeynewsgroup.com www.whidbeynewstimes.com

Sarah Meyer, CNM, ARNP

Certified Physician Assistant

Certified Nurse Midwife & Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner

Certified physician assistant Lauren Bock (PA-C) is licensed to practice medicine under the supervision of a physician. In 2012 she joined Whidbey General’s medical staff and the family practice team at Whidbey Community Physicians, an affiliated clinic of Whidbey General Hospital. Before moving to Whidbey Island, she practiced at medical centers in Virginia and Texas. She believes in fostering positive, open communication with patients with a goal toward optimizing their mental and physical health.

Sarah Meyer, a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) and Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP), joined our medical staff in 2013. She provides routine gynecological care at Island Women’s Healthcare in Coupeville. Meyer practiced for more than 10 years at numerous locations for Planned Parenthood Northwest, including at clinics in Everett and Oak Harbor. Before moving to the US in 1999, she practiced midwifery in her native New Zealand. A strong advocate for women’s health, Meyer is committed to open communication, healthy lifestyle choices and compassionate care.

Whidbey Community Physicians 275 SE Cabot Drive, Suite B101 Oak Harbor , WA 98277 360-675-6648

Island Women’s Healthcare 201 Birch Street Coupeville , WA 98239 360-678-0831

APRIL 24, 2013 • North Whidbey Who’s Who In Business

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Celebrating Lives.

Honoring memories.

Island Family Hearing Clinic Dr. Peter Keating, Audiologist

Dr. Peter Keating is a clinical audiologist who provides hearing testing and professional hearing aid services at Island Family Hearing Clinic. He is truly passionate about the field of hearing health care and has a drive to provide the best possible service to his patients. His dedication and compassion have been integral in his service on Whidbey Island, connecting family, friends and community through better hearing, over the past 11 years. Dr. Keating sees patients of all ages, from newborns to seniors. Visit www.islandfamilyhearing.com or stop by one of their two convenient locations. (360) 279-1229 380 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor (360) 331-1415 5570 Harbor Ave., Suite B, Freeland

Mario Porras, MD Orthopedic Surgeon

Orthopedic surgeon Mario Porras, MD, moved to Whidbey Island and joined our medical staff in 2013 after maintaining a successful practice in Reno, Nev., for 35 years. Dr. Porras has extensive experience in trauma care, sports medicine and joint replacements. He specializes in partial joint replacements using the Oxford Arthroplasty System, which may be recommended for patients who have knee problems but who are not ready for a total joint replacement. Understanding that effective care requires effective communication, Dr. Porras listens closely to patients in determining diagnosis and treatment. He sees himself as partnering with patients to produce the most favorable treatment outcomes possible.

Whidbey Orthopedic Surgeons 80 N. Main Street, P.O. Box 770 Coupeville , WA 98239 360-678-4424 or 360-321-1226

Wallin Funeral Home & Cremation Family Owned • 50 Years Experience Gary & Martha Wallin, Owners

Pre-Arrangements Transfer of Existing Arrangements Reception Facilities Veterans Benefits On-Site Crematory Forethought Funeral Insurance™ (360) 675 - 3447 1811 NE 16th Ave. Oak Harbor

info@wallinfuneralhome.com www.wallinfuneralhome.com

W

“Expect Excellence”

Wallin

Funeral Home & Cremation llc.

Gail Rognan

Marketing Representative Gail Rognan moved to Whidbey Island over a year ago. She loves helping her advertising clients become more successful and also teaches college online as a Visiting professor. She writes poetry, does restorative yoga and loves walking on the beach.

Contact Gail today for a free, no pressure consultation.

(360) 675-661 • (877) 316-7276 grognan@whidbeynewsgroup.com

31955 SR 20, #4 • Oak Harbor, WA

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North Whidbey Who’s Who In Business • APRIL 24, 2013

Continued from PAGE 5

day trips from Seattle operate during the spring and bring tourists to the Coupeville Wharf for a lunchtime visit to Front Street. Wyatt said she is also trying to reach out to cycling enthusiasts, birders and wine aficionados – all of whom have disposable income that could be spent on a visit to Island County. The Washington State Audubon birding map now includes the Puget Sound loop, drawing visitors to checkout the local birding hotspots. Several new birding brochures created by Whidbey residents Craig and Joy Johnson could also help boost tourism. The county has purchased an ad on the back to help promote this activity in the region. In respect to oenophiles, the research shows that they tend to come longer and spend more money when vacationing, Wyatt said. The wineries also fit neatly into a much bigger focus: developing culinary agritourism. MusselFest, which takes place in March, draws overnight visitors craving Penn Cove mussels, Richards

said. As awareness of the festival grows, more and more people are coming specifically for the event, he said. Richards said he is pleased to see that the restaurant scene in Coupeville has evolved to include a wider variety of cuisines – including some that feature locally produced food. “Agritourism is a natural fit for who we are, and we can certainly deliver,” Wyatt said. Staff Photo

Mitch Richards prepares coffee for his guests at the Lovejoy Inn in Coupeville. Mitch and his wife, Lynda, opened the B&B the summer of 2008. Despite a recession, the Richards’ have experienced growth each year that the inn has been open. Mitch credits hard work, competitive pricing, a great location, a website to attract visitors and the efforts made to promote the region for the success of his business.

Island Handyman, Inc. Home Maintenance, Improvements and Remodels

Specializing in Completing the “Honey-Do-List” Brian and Joanna Dernbach Brian Dernbach was born and raised in Oak Harbor. He is an Army Veteran who just couldn’t get the Northwest out of his system. He moved back to Oak harbor in 1996 and became a General Contractor. Brian, and his wife Joanna, started Island Handyman, Inc. in 2000 and never looked back. He takes great pride in providing his customers with honest, quality service and continues his construction education in order to keep up with the latest construction practices. Island Handyman, Inc. is located in Oak Harbor, and serves Island and Skagit counties. Island Handyman, Inc. does everything from your basic handyman duties “hanging pictures” to your general contractor duties “full remodel”. 24-hour Emergency Services Available.

Pressure Washing • gutter Cleaning • DeCks • roof rePairs • siDing • CarPentry Drain snaking • Moss reMoval • fenCes • oDD JoBs Lic./Bonded/Insured 360-240-0850 Phone/Fax Island County 360-424-4948 Phone/Fax Skagit County islandhandyman@comcast.net

360-240-0850