Tourism Today - Snohomish County Tourism Bureau

INDUSTRY NEWSLETTER TO SNOHOMISH
COUNTY-BASED TOURISM BUSINESSES
JUNE 2015
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
News You Can Use 2
Travel, Tourism & Hospitality
13
The Sports Pages 29
Around Snohomish County
33
Get Out & About 35
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Tourism Today
March 2015
NEW YOU CAN USE
Effort Underway to Complete Mountain Loop Route
A grassroots organization composed of Darrington
residents, business owners, and outdoor
enthusiasts are partnering with federal, tribal, and
county agencies to advocate for the completion of
the Mountain Loop Highway.
The Pave the Mountain Loop group is working to
secure community support and funding for the
paving of the 14-mile gravel road between
Darrington and Barlow Pass.
The road’s design would be consistent with the
Middle Fork Snoqualmie Road or the relocated
Suiattle River Road. The speed limit would be 35
miles per hour or less in areas with limited sight
range or traffic congestion. The roadway would be
20 feet wide with some sections reduced to 18
feet due to terrain or other factors.
Advocates for fully connecting the Mountain Loop expect a number of key benefits to
occur as a result:
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Provide a unique loop drive of spectacular mountain scenery for visitors from a
five-county area with a population of 4.4 million people.
Increase sales revenues by welcoming day visitors and, in the longer term, over
night stays as hotels and other infrastructure are developed.
Increase winter recreation opportunities by providing additional access points.
Improve and increase accessibility between Darrington and
Granite Falls for business and recreational travel.
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March 2015
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[Effort Underway to Complete Mountain Loop Route Continued]
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Improve air quality during the summer months as dust from vehicles traveling on
the gravel road is eliminated.
Provide a safe and accessible alternative route during emergencies.
Based on the contract awarded to pave the Middle Fork Snoqualmie Road, the
Federal Highway Administration (FHA) estimate it will cost $22 million to pave the 14mile gravel road. But before the FHA could commit up to $19 million dollars,
community support must be demonstrated and $3 million secured from “matching”
non-federal funds.
The Sauk-Suiattle Indian Tribe, the Town of Darrington, the Town of Granite Falls and
the Mountain Loop Tourism Bureau have already presented formal support for
completing the Mountain Loop Highway.
Meanwhile the US Forest Service and Snohomish County are working together to
formulate a proposal for the FHA. Pave the Mountain Loop members are meeting with
federal, state, county, and city leaders and staff to keep the project moving forward.
The Pave the Mountain Loop group invites you to join the effort in making this project a
reality:
•Connect on Facebook (Pave the Mountain Loop
page)
•Visiting the Time to Finish the Loop page on
DarringtonStrong.org
•Email Finishtheloop@gmail.com
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Tourism Today
March 2015
NEW YOU CAN USE
Cascade Loop Gets Fresh, New Look
The Cascade Loop Association is rolling out its updated brand to showcase the route as
“Washington’s Ultimate Road Trip” to visitors, travelers, and community stakeholders.
This follows the completion of its Corridor Management Plan last year.
DVA Advertising & Public Relations of Bend, Ore. was selected to design the
association’s new logo, website and signage.
A new 72-page free travel guide was created with 104,000 copies printed for
distribution.
The redesigned website, www.CascadeLoop.com, features travel planning information
within an easier-to-navigate framework, and improved search engine optimization.
Working closely with the Washington State Department of Transportation, the
association expects to have its new byway markers produced and installed along the
Cascade Loop by the end of June.
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Tourism Today
March 2015
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Connecting Trails: MLT’s Lakeview Trail Project
Work is underway in Mountlake Terrace for
new pedestrian and bicycle facilities along
Lakeview Drive and 236th Street SW from
the Interurban Trail to I-5.
The improvements will increase
commuting options and provide safe and
convenient connections for pedestrians
and cyclists from west Mountlake Terrace,
east Edmonds, and the Interurban Trail to
the Mountlake Terrace Transit Center and
the Town Center.
The project is expected to be completed
this fall.
The construction includes about 900 tons of porous hot mix asphalt (HMA) and 200
tons of HMA for trail construction, 4,300 linear feet of cement concrete curb and
gutter, 23 curb ramps, two rectangular rapid flash beacon (RRFB) pedestrian sign
systems, a new traffic signal system, street lights and associated junction boxes and
conduit, landscaping, fencing, retaining walls, roadway paving, storm pipe, catch
basins, utility casting and monument case adjustments, pavement markings, traffic
signs, and other work.
More information is available at www.CityofMLT.com.
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Tourism Today
March 2015
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Lynnwood City Center Project Gains Momentum
Progress is being made to create a compact,
intense and lively city center that offers
Lynnwood new opportunities for culture,
commerce and habitation.
In April, the Lynnwood City Council
approved a development agreement for a
347-unit affordable housing apartment
building in city center.
The CityCenter Apartments will be located across from the Lynnwood Convention
Center in the City Center-Core zone at the southwest corner of 196th St SW and 37th
Ave W. This seven-story apartment building includes underground parking, gateway
plaza improvements, public art and private resident amenities. Construction is
anticipated to start this summer. This is the beginning of new transit-oriented
development in Lynnwood’s city center.
Also in April, the Sound Transit board of directors approved the light rail route and
station locations for the Lynnwood Link Extension.
A new Hilton Garden Inn will be built near the Lynnwood Convention Center along
Alderwood Mall Blvd. west of the I-5 southbound onramp at 37th Ave W. This six-story
150-room hotel is anticipated to start construction in summer 2015.
Construction is also expected to start this summer on the Lynnwood City Center Senior
Living Apartments, an eight-story 308-unit new urban housing development in the heart
of the city center at 19501 40th Ave W. For more information go to the City Center
project web page.
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Tourism Today
March 2015
NEW YOU CAN USE
Darrington Mayor Honored for Leadership
The U.S. Small Business
Administration has awarded one of
three national Phoenix Awards to
Mayor Dan Rankin for his
“selflessness, ingenuity and
tenacity” in the aftermath of the
Oso mudslide in March 2014.
This Phoenix Award is for
outstanding contributions to
disaster recovery by a public
official.
The Herald reported Rankin as
saying that the award came as a
flattering and humble surprise.
“It’s not just a reflection of myself, it’s a reflection of my community and how we all
reacted in the face of a disaster,” Rankin is reported as saying. “Being a small
community, we rely on each other and trust each other, and in those initial days that
trust we have for each other and that entrepreneurial spirit helped us make the most
with the resources we had. Those resources had to be enough.”
Heartfelt congratulations to Mayor Rankin!
Read the full story here on HeraldNet.com.
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Tourism Today
March 2015
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Tourism Continues to be Big Business in
Snohomish County
According to the latest report by Dean Runyan Associates, an economic and market
research firm, tourism continues to be an important driver in Snohomish County’s
economy.
Tourism is the county’s third largest industry, generating nearly $993 million dollars in
visitor spending in 2014. Snohomish County ranked fourth out of 39 counties in the
state in terms of visitor spending. Visitors spent $992.9 million in Snohomish County
in 2014 – a year-over-year increase of 5.7%.
Tourism in Snohomish County Generates:
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10,340 jobs
$256.5 million payroll
$31.2 million local taxes
$63 million state taxes
Visitor Spending in Snohomish County:
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Restaurants, $289.4 million
Transportation and fuel, $152.5 million
Retail, $135.4 million
Accommodations, $130.6 million
Recreation & entertainment, $130.5 million
Grocery stores, $60.5 million
Other travel expenditures, $94 million
Total spending = $992.9 million*
*Source: Dean Runyan
Associates. Report
published April 2015 and
distributed by Washington
State Destination Marketing
Organizations Association.
Note: “Other travel”
includes travel impact for
travel to other Washington
visitor destinations.
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Update: WTA Funding Efforts
In the April 20 “Legislative Update,” Louise Stanton-Masten, executive director of the
Washington Tourism Alliance, reported about efforts to secure funding for state tourism
promotion:
Legislative Update on SB 5916 and HB 1938
“Thank you for your ongoing efforts in support of SB 5916 and HB 1938. We’ve made
tremendous progress in gaining momentum and support for establishing a statewide
tourism effort. We’ve now reached a critical crossroad in this year’s legislative session.
“Given the short time that remains and the status of our bills still in House and Senate
committees, passage of the legislation seems unlikely this year. Therefore the WTA is
re-focusing our effort on securing interim funding for the 2015-17 biennium.
“During the time between the 2015 and 2016 legislative sessions we will also work to
re-position Senate and House bills to gain support for our long-term funding plan so
that it can be passed in the 2016 legislative session.
Call to Action
“The Senate budget includes $500,000 for FY 2016 and $500,000 in FY 2017 for the
WTA to enable us to continue our targeted marketing programs such as the
ExperienceWA website, visitor guide, call center and international marketing. The
House-passed budget does not contain any funds to support the continuation of
statewide tourism marketing activities.
“At this time budget negotiators are meeting to reconcile the differences between the
two budgets.”
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[Call to Action continued]
“We are asking you to contact your individual legislators and ask them to tell budget
negotiators that it is critical for this interim funding appropriation to be in the final
budget approved by both the House and the Senate.
Click here to find your legislators and their contact information.
“Please remind your legislators that without this funding there will be few resources to
market the state. We may continue to lose market share, particularly to our Northwest
neighbors. This loss will disproportionately impact rural areas where tourism is a major
business, as well as the entire state.
What Lies Ahead?
“We’ve come a long way on our path toward our long-term funding plan. In the past
three years we’ve gathered momentum and agreement that we must find a way to
establish and fund a new self-sustaining model for statewide tourism promotion. And
we’ve already made significant progress toward that goal. As a reminder, when California
changed their funding model it took that state five legislative sessions to implement it.
“Thanks to the unfailing commitment of our members and stakeholders:
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Legislators have come to fully understand the importance of tourism as an
economic engine for our state; there is no question of that in consideration of our
long-term funding plan.
We have worked in tandem with state agencies to clearly define an efficient
funding collection method.
By working with trade associations across the state we have refined the funding
tiers within the plan and have their full support.
We have a solid and growing base of industry and other business support behind
our long-term funding plan.
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March 2015
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[What Lies Ahead continued]
“Throughout the summer and fall the WTA will continue to work with legislators and
businesses to ensure they have all information needed to support our bill in the 2016
legislative session. We want them to feel comfortable that there is overwhelming support
from all sectors of tourism throughout the state.
“Thank you for your ongoing work and support. The WTA Board of Directors and I are
immensely grateful and are counting on you to help us complete this important
mission.”
For more information, visit www.WATourismAlliance.com.
Stilly Valley Area Roundtables Grow New Tourism
Connections
Two new visitor-related quarterly roundtables kicked off in April and May in the
Stillaguamish Valley, often referred to as Stilly Valley. Organized by the Snohomish
County Office of Economic Development, the forums brought together small businesses,
events producers, recreation and conservation organizations, area leaders, and state and
federal land managers for two-way conversations about supporting development of
outdoor recreation infrastructure, visitor activities, events and projects impacting the
Stilly Valley-area economy.
“It’s common for the little groups and larger organizations to be disconnected,” said
Annique Bennett, Strategic Tourism Coordinator with the County Office of Economic
Development.
“There are very few downsides to investing in outdoor recreation,” Bennett said. “These
activities happen in non-built environments with large groups who care for these
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places with fierce loyalty. Doing what we can to support developing
Tourism Today
partnerships between groups working on infrastructure, events, projects
March 2015
and activities can be as vital as promoting the activities themselves.”
NEW YOU CAN USE
[Stilly Valley Area Roundtables Grow New Tourism Connections continued]
In April, nearly 30 entities participated in the Stilly Valley Area Tourism Roundtable,
drawing representatives from business leagues, events, cultural and historic
organizations in and around Arlington near the I-5 corridor. The roundtable focused on
local events and ways to increase visitor numbers through cross promotions. The group
is scheduled to meet again on July 17.
Nearly 45 entities participated in the Stilly Valley Area Outdoor Recreation Roundtable
held farther north in early May. Still heavily engaged in the economic recovery of the
small communities directly impacted by the SR 530 mudslide and flooding,
representatives of the offices of Gov. Jay Inslee, Sen. Maria Cantwell, Rep. Suzan
DelBene, and the Sauk-Suiattle Tribe attended the roundtable to stay current with
infrastructure topics, issues and discussions.
Snohomish County Councilman, Ken Klein, District 1 spoke about state budget requests
that will impact developments in the Valley. Other attendees included state and
federal land management agencies and a wide range of non-profit conservation,
recreation and user groups engaged in recreational issues. This group is scheduled to
meet again on July 31.
Snohomish County Tourism Bureau (SCTB) Director Amy Spain attended both
roundtables. Her organization works with Snohomish County on implementation of the
Strategic Tourism Plan.
“This meeting of the community members in the Stilly Valley was a great first step in
bringing everyone together to discuss possible collaboration on all types of programs,”
Spain said. “From simple communication between community groups and private
businesses about the various projects and festivals, to exploration of shared interests,
and problem-solving with public agencies…a great alliance has begun.”
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Tourism Today
March 2015
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
Springer Joins SCTB Board
The Snohomish County Tourism Bureau is pleased to
welcome new board member, Melissa Springer. Melissa is
the general manager of the Hampton Inn Seattle/Everett
Downtown, having seen the hotel through construction to
its opening in July 2014 and now as it nears its first
anniversary.
Board members represent various tourism industry sectors
and provide professional skills and expertise, influence
among county business, government and tourism sector
interests. Melissa has been engaged in the lodging industry
for 30 years and brings experience in public relations,
financial management, marketing, and government
relations.
Prior to joining the hotel in Everett, Melissa worked in the Seattle area for six years and
in South Lake Tahoe for 13 years gaining experience in resort management.
“I want to become involved in growing tourism in Snohomish County,” Melissa said.
“It’s something that will benefit all businesses, besides just lodging and restaurants. I
want to help make decisions that will set the stage for continued growth in the future.”
Welcome aboard!
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Jensen Joins SCTB Sales Team
Karolyn “Kari” Jensen joined the Snohomish County
Tourism Bureau in the newly created position of Group
Sales and Events Coordinator in April.
She is responsible for promoting Snohomish County as
an event, meeting and convention destination for the
following market segments: social, military and family
reunion, religious and fraternal market segments. She
will also assist with the planning and execution of the
sales missions and trade shows.
Jensen has more than 10 years of experience in
hospitality sales and client relations. She worked at
the Golf Club at Echo Falls in Snohomish, first as the
food and beverage/restaurant manager and then as the
catering sales manager. Prior, she was the sales
manager at the historic Northern Hotel in Billings, MT.
A graduate of Montana State University in Billings, Jensen earned a Bachelor of Applied
Science degree in Marketing.
Kari can be reached at 425-348-5802, ext. 110 or kari@snohomish.org.
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SCTB’s 2015 Sales Push Gets Results
Executive Director Amy Spain had a busy first quarter, attending two national travel
trade shows for the packaged travel market segment.
National Tour Association’s Travel Exchange, Jan. 31-Feb. 4
This event in New Orleans brought together more than 1,600 tour and travel buyers and
sellers, including representatives from 32 countries.
Amy met with 20 tour operators interested in packaging Snohomish County hotels and
attractions in their itineraries for 2015 and beyond.
Go West Summit, Feb. 9-13
Amy headed to Colorado Springs for this premier business-oriented travel tradeshow
selling the American West to international tour companies. The world’s top tour
operators met with specialty suppliers who offer year-round products in a 13-state
region of the Western United States.
Amy conducted business meetings with 33 receptive and international tour operators
and members of the media to promote Snohomish County tourism attractions, hotels
and suggest sample itineraries.
Leads from all shows are available by contacting Amy at amy@snohomish.org.
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Travel Tips and Adventure Expo, Feb. 28-Mar. 1
The outdoor adventure equipment and travel destinations consumer trade show was held
in Seattle. The expo is Washington State’s largest dedicated event to travel and
adventure activities, and the lifestyle that surrounds it.
The Snohomish County Tourism Bureau hosted a booth to share great adventures right
here in Snohomish County. The show was well attended.
Outdoor Adventure Show, Mar. 12 & 13
Amy represented Snohomish County communities and attractions at the outdoor
recreation consumer show at the Vancouver BC Convention Centre. Visitors explored the
region’s largest adventure and travel show offering pre-season deals on the newest
outdoor gear and amazing travel destinations. The attendance was 16,800 over the two
days of the event.
ASAE’s Springtime Expo, Apr. 9
Meetings & Special Events Sales Manager Samantha “Sam” Shaw represented the
county at the American Society of Association Executives’ tradeshow. The event
attracted 1,500 meeting professionals from the greater Washington DC area.
At the exhibit booth, she presented Snohomish County as an affordable and convenient
convention option for associations considering events and conferences in Seattle or
Washington State.
Sam received inquiries from 37 meeting planners and association executives for more
information. She will be following up on these leads.
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[ASAE’s Springtime Expo, Apr. 9 continued]
According to ASAE Springtime organizers’ recent survey of attendees:
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80%
70%
65%
60%
58%
are manager level or higher.
are involved in the planning of meetings, events and exhibitions.
book meetings of 1,000 attendees or more.
book meetings throughout the U.S.
book room nights of more than 301 nights.
ConFAM, Apr. 13-17
Seventeen military
reunion planners
attended Reunion
Friendly Network’s
four-day conference and
familiarization tour at the
Holiday Inn Downtown
Everett. Several
Snohomish County
hospitality partners
helped make the event
successful.
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[ConFAM, Apr. 13-17 continued]
The main conference and site visits were hosted by the Holiday Inn Downtown Everett,
the Snohomish County Tourism Promotion Area, and the Snohomish County Tourism
Bureau. Off-site meals were provided by 360 Hotel Group, Embassy Suites SeattleNorth/Lynnwood, and Hampton Inn Seattle/Everett.
Evergreen Speedway, Hibulb Cultural Center, and Historic Flight Foundation also
sponsored several activities for the conference attendees.
In addition to coordinating visits and activities with the hospitality partners, Sam also
met conference attendees.
In total, the event generated nine leads for immediate follow-up and more contacts
for further development in the coming years.
The Snohomish County Tourism Bureau hopes to work with ConFAM again in 2017.
IAAP WA-AK Division 2015 Conference, Apr. 18 & 19
The Snohomish County Tourism Bureau
was the title sponsor for the International
Association of Administrative
Professionals Washington-Alaska Division
2015 Conference at the Embassy Suites
Seattle North/Lynnwood. Approximately
70 members attended the conference.
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[IAAP WA-AK Division 2015 Conference, Apr. 18 & 19 continued]
In addition to having high visual presence in all conference collateral, the Bureau
enjoyed a prime exhibit booth location during the tradeshow. This provided Sam plenty
of opportunities to talk to many administrative assistants, office managers, event
planners, and other administrative professionals from top companies in the Northwest.
Sam will continue to connect with these professionals throughout the summer and offer
assistance in using the county’s meeting facilities and hotels for their upcoming events.
A warm “thank you” to Snohomish County’s hospitality and business partners who
donated prizes for the booth contest:
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Two pairs of tickets to the French Creek Manor Murder Mystery Show ($120 value)
An overnight stay & $25 food credit at Tulalip Resort Casino ($250 value)
A weekend stay with breakfast & $40 dinner gift certificate at the Courtyard by
Marriott Seattle North/Lynnwood ($200 value)
A one-night stay at the Holiday Inn Downtown Everett ($129 value)
A one-night stay at the Homewood Suites by Hilton in Lynnwood ($169 value)
Tickets to the Boeing Tour at the Future of Flight Aviation Center ($36 value)
A one-night stay, dinner for two, and casino gifts at the Angel of the Winds Casino
& Hotel ($250 value)
A one-night stay in a luxury one-bedroom suite at Staybridge Suites in Mukilteo
($169 value)
One night stay at the remodeled Hampton Inn Lynnwood ($149 value)
One night stay in a Japanese Bubble Tub Suite & $25 gift certificate at Best
Western Navigator Inn in Everett ($150 value)
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Coming Up: WSAE 2015, June 14-16
Tulalip Resort Casino will host the
Washington Society for Association
Executives (WSAE) conference. The
organization’s membership is composed of
decision makers from associations within
Washington State who coordinate an
average of three to five meetings each year.
This event is being partially funded through the Snohomish County Tourism Promotion
Area and the Snohomish County Hospitality Partnership, including Tulalip Resort
Casino, Edward D. Hansen Conference Center at XFINITY Arena, Holiday Inn Downtown
Everett, Lynnwood Convention Center, and Embassy Suites.
Sam will coordinate the offsite receptions, meet with executives in a speed-style
appointment format, and network with attendees during education sessions and offsite
receptions at Future of Flight Aviation Center and Lynnwood Convention Center.
Sam welcomes donations of products or services to be used in prize packages for the
silent auction and welcome reception activities. To donate, contact her at
425-348-5802, ext. 106 or samantha@snohomish.org.
Getting Ink: Working with Travel Writers
Media relations consultant Julie Gangler generated articles in several family-oriented
publications and websites. She pitched the story idea and then arranged for writer
Lauren Richin and her four kids to visit the Reptile Zoo, which resulted in a Trekaroo.
com article on Feb. 24.
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[Getting Ink: Working with Travel Writers continued]
She also pitched and arranged for writer
Carrie Yu and her family to tour the
Outback Kangaroo Farm for Trekaroo.com,
which resulted in an article on March 7.
Julie worked with writer/editor Lauren
Braden, which resulted in two articles.
One for ParentMap.com included Wallace
Falls, Boulder River, and Bridal Veil Falls
among suggestions for kid-friendly hikes;
it appeared March 18.
Lauren’s other article for Northwest TripFinder.com included cabins at Wallace Falls
State Park, Gold Bar, and Yurt Village at River Meadows Park in her March 30 article,
“Rustic Retreats in Washington.”
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VIC Volunteers Honored Apr. 23
Rebecca Monaghan, SCTB board
chair, Jennifer Bravo, visitor
services manager, and Stacey
Pfeiffer, visitor services coordinator,
honored the many volunteers whose
knowledge of Snohomish County’s
attractions and amenities,
friendliness, and assistance help
visitors to more fully enjoy their stay
in the area.
Held at Echo Falls Country Club in Snohomish, more than 50 volunteers attended the
black-and-white themed gala with entertainment by Lauren Petrie.
Thanks to the generous donations of gift certificates, admission tickets, and products
from local and regional tourism partners, these items, valued over $3,900, were given
out with awards and door prizes.
Numerous volunteers were recognized for their dedication, milestones, and hard work.
2014 Volunteers of the Year:
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Karen Hume, Special Projects Volunteer of the Year for 2014
Laura Nathan, Volunteer of the Year for 2014 at the Future of Flight VIC
Susan Gemmer, Volunteer of the Year for 2014 at the East County VIC
Gene & Dorothy Morehouse, Volunteers of the Year for 2014 at the South County VIC
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[VIC Volunteers Honored Apr. 23 continued]
19 Service Years
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Linda Bresler, Dick Henshaw,
Phyllis Henshaw, Toki Tonooka
18 Service Years
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Andy Bresler, Ginger Dollarhide
17 Service Years
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Nancy Scott
16 Service Years
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Marilyn Carlson, Elena Clift, Marilyn
Kramp
14 Service Years
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Darlene McClay, Noreen Sholes, Jeanette Staudt, Ernst Staudt
13 Service Years
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Karen Hume
12 Service Years
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Keith Dawson
10 Years of Service Award
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Carol Gehrman, Gene Morehouse, John Shreve, Judith St. Hilaire
9 Service Years
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Larry Countryman, Clark Fowler, June Gregory, Jack McKie, Barb Miars, David
Pesznecker, Shireen Pesznecker, Eeva Suzuki, Ida Taylor
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[VIC Volunteers Honored Apr. 23 continued]
8 Service Years
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Julia LeMay, Ann O’Donnell
7 Service Years
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Megan Cook, Haruko Felton, Susan
Gemmer, Florence Humpal, Bette
Van Ausdal
6 Service Years
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Juanita Lanz, Dorothy Morehouse,
Bob Temple, Zarya Graham
5 Service Years
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Marion Brewster, Ed Bruck, Mary Christensen, Carolyn Cruz, Bruce Felton
4 Service Years
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Jan Cotton, Linda McFarland, Laura Nathan, Bill Watt
3 Service Years
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Suzie Gibson, Susan Robinson, Carol Strube
2 Service Years
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Connie Coleman, Ferdinand Floresca, Midori Yonezawa
300+ Hours of Service in 2014
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Clark Fowler, Phyllis Henshaw, Karen Hume, Dorothy Morehouse, Gene
Morehouse, Laura Nathan, Bob Temple, Toki Tonooka
200 Hours of Service in 2014
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Connie Coleman, Dick Henshaw, Frank King, Bill Watt
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[VIC Volunteers Honored Apr. 23 continued]
A hearty thank you to these companies for their generous contributions that helped
make the awards luncheon a huge success:
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AEsir Meadery
•Albertsons
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Anthony’s Seafood Grill
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Bluewater Organic Distilling
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Double D Meats
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Everett Mall
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Everything Tea
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Future of Flight Aviation Center &
Boeing Tour
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Historic Everett Theatre
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Historic Flight Foundation
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Imagine Children’s Museum
•Ivar’s
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Lazy Boy Brewing
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Lombardi’s Italian Restaurant &
Wine Bar
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The New Mexicans Southwestern
Homestyle Kitchen
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NYP Bar & Grill
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Puget Sound Express
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Quiet Light Candles
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The Root Beer Store
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Schack Art Center
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Scuttlebutt Brewery
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Seattle Premium Outlets
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Silver Cup Coffee
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Skip Rock Distillers
Sol Food Bar & Grill
Terra Cotta Red
Village Theatre
Yakima Valley Tourism Contributors:
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Holiday Inn Express
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Kana Winery
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Maryhill Winery
•McDonalds
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Owen Roe
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Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail
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Russillos Pizza & Gelato
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Sleeping Dog Wines
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Yakima Symphony Orchestra
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FAM Tours Help VIC Volunteers Help Visitors
Visitor Information Center volunteers
regularly attend educational and enjoyable
training and tour programs designed to
acquaint them with county attractions,
hotels, and amenities. The first-hand
experience allows volunteers to provide
travel information suited to visitors’ interests
and needs.
This spring the volunteers and bureau staff
enjoyed a grey whale watching excursion
provided by Puget Sound Express. The
company offers orca and humpback whale
watching tours to the San Juan Island
departing Edmonds in late spring through
fall.
The volunteers explored the glass art world
at Pilchuck Glass School in Stanwood.
Later in May, they toured the Hampton Inn &
Suites in Lynnwood and participated in a
program about kid-friendly places and activities within Snohomish County.
Future FAM tours will include seeing Angel of the Winds Casino’s new hotel and dining
in the buffet, and visiting Best Western Plus Navigator Inn and having lunch provided
by the hotel.
If you would like to have our volunteers become acquainted with your attraction,
facility, products, or services, then contact Jennifer Bravo, visitor
Tourism
services manager at jennifer@snohomish.org or 425-348-5802,
ext. 103.
March
26
Today
2015
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
The Mobile VIC
Despite today’s mobile technology and GPS
location services that help people find nearby
stores, restaurants and attractions, people still
like a personal touch.
That’s why visitor information center volunteers
and staff will be promoting tourism at a variety
of local festivals and events this summer.
“People come from all over to attend events
such as Paine Field’s Aviation Days,
Snohomish’s Kla Ha Ya Days, and the Mukilteo
Lighthouse Festival,” said Jennifer Bravo,
visitor services manager. “Our volunteers are
there to help those visitors find their way
around Snohomish County, choose a restaurant
from a long Googled list, or get to their hotel.
By providing this type of personal service,
visitors know they’re welcome here!”
King 5 Gets Peek at McMenamins Bothell Project
Describing what will come to life after the historic Anderson School is redeveloped is
hard to describe in words. The hotel will feature 72 renovated rooms that used to be
classrooms, a restaurant and small bars, a movie theater and an indoor swimming pool.
No matter what, it will be a destination for locals and visitors. McMenamins Anderson
School is slated to open Oct. 15, 2015.
KING 5 news reporter Eric Wilkinson gave viewers a peek. Watch it here.
27
Tourism Today
March 2015
TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
Lynnwood Convention Center Welcome New GM
Sara Blayne, CMP, was
appointed general manager of
the Lynnwood Convention
Center by SMG, the facility’s
management company. She
directs all aspects of the
convention center’s operation
and will work with the
Lynnwood Public Facilities
District, owner of the
convention center, to provide
direction to grow the success
of the building.
“The Lynnwood Public Facilities District supports SMG’s appointment of Sara Blayne,”
said Grant Dull, executive director of the Lynnwood PFD in a press release. “[We are]
confident of her skill and ability to lead and manage convention center operations, and
we look forward to working with her.”
Previously, Blayne was the center’s director of sales and marketing. She has 20 years of
experience in the hospitality and events industry.
She can be reached at 425-640-7614 or sblayne@lynnwoodcc.com.
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Tourism Today
March 2015
THE SPORTS PAGES
Dunn Receives Game Changer Award from NASC
In April, Sports Development Manager
Tammy Dunn, CSEE, was honored with the
Game Changer Award from the National
Association of Sports Commissions
(NASC). Dunn was one of 11 individuals
and organizations honored for their
leadership and creativity in attracting and
marketing sports events by NASC, the
governing body of the $8.96 billion sports
events industry.
Dunn earned the Game Changer Award because under her leadership, the Snohomish
County Sports Commission (SCSC) has grown in just the past three years from an
economic impact of $13,259,907 to $24,128,634 – an increase of 82 percent. The
SCSC has also increased Snohomish County’s base of annual sporting events from 14
per year to more than 50 annual events slated for 2015.
In the past nine years since Dunn joined the SCSC, her efforts have grown the annual
economic impact to the local economy from $4.9 million to more than $24.1 million in
2014 – an increase of 392 percent.
Dunn was also honored in 2014 as a “Sports Planner to Watch” by SportsEvents
Magazine. Under her leadership, the SCSC received the 2014 Reader’s Choice Award
from SportsEvents Magazine for the fourth time in five years.
The SCSC is the sports marketing division of the Snohomish County Tourism Bureau,
responsible for raising Snohomish County’s prominence as sporting events destination
29
and thereby generating increased economic impact from overnight
visitors attending or participating in sporting events.
Tourism Today
March 2015
THE SPORTS PAGES
Sports Team Attends NASC Sports Events Symposium,
Apr. 27-30
All three sports staff members, Tammy Dunn, Anthony Brenneman, and Aaron Wilson,
attended the 23rd NASC Sports Events Symposium in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The team met with 25 sports rights holders including Families On! Challenge, USA
Wrestling, National Athletic Pastime, and Asian Basketball Championships of North
America.
Additionally, the team had the opportunity to attend educational sessions which
included Sports Tourism 101, Mastering Engaging Volunteer Programs, and Funding
and Public Private Partnership. The symposium also provides numerous opportunities
for networking with sports rights holders and peers.
EvCC Hosts Spring Gymnastics Competitions
Northwest Aerials hosted their annual Flip for a
Cure Gymnastics meet, Mar. 20-22, at
Everett Community College. Economic Impact:
$463,203
Northwest Aerials returned Apr. 24-26 to host the
USA Gymnastics XCEL State Championships. In
conjunction with the XCEL State Championships,
gymnasts were competing in the State Invitational
Qualifier. Economic Impact: $539,568
Each meet attracted 760 gymnasts over three
days.
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Tourism Today
March 2015
THE SPORTS PAGES
[EvCC Hosts Spring Gymnastics Competitions continued]
Metropolitan Gymnastics hosted the USA Gymnastics Optional State Championships,
Mar. 27-29, at the college. Forty-seven gymnastics clubs competed over the three days.
Economic Impact: $452,910
Lake Stevens Spring Sprint, Apr. 11 & 12
Lake Stevens Rowing Club
hosted their annual Spring Sprint
at North Cove Park. Junior
rowing teams raced on Saturday
with Masters following on Sunday.
Twenty-four rowing clubs from
British Columbia and Western
Washington competed. Economic
Impact: $195,195
Half Marathon Sports New Name, Apr. 12
The annual half marathon held in Everett each April was renamed from Heroes Half
Marathon & 10K to Everett Half Marathon & 10K.
The race route, however, remained the same much to the delight of runners. With the
start and finish at Port Gardner Landing, 517 athletes ran the half marathon and 226
athletes raced in the 10K. The event attracted runners from around western
Washington. Economic Impact: $140,252
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Tourism Today
March 2015
THE SPORTS PAGES
USA Taekwondo Championships Huge Success, Apr. 18
USA Taekwondo Washington hosted the State Championships at Edmonds Community
College. A great turnout of 202 taekwondo students competed in the first-ever
taekwondo state championships held in Snohomish County. Economic Impact:
$47,092
Triple Crown Sports NCAA-Certified Tournament,
Apr. 25 & 26
Eighty-six girls’ basketball teams
filled high school gyms in Everett,
Mill Creek and Mukilteo for the
MSNM Spring Fling. Elite, All-Star
and 8th grade divisions competed.
Economic Impact: $472,457
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Tourism Today
March 2015
AROUND SNOHOMISH COUNTY
Snohomish Pie Company Now in MLT
Craving a fresh baked fruit or cream pie from the folks at
the Snohomish Pie Company? Then make your way to their
second location at 5602 232nd St SW in Mountlake
Terrace right next door to DD Meats and the Diamond Knot
Brew Pub. Open Wednesday through Monday;
425-582-8018.
Lombardi’s Caters, Boxed Lunches Too
In addition to offering full service catering, Lombardi’s
Italian Restaurants is also offering boxed lunches. Savor
an Italian BLT, ham & provolone, chicken salad, or
vegetarian wrap with handcrafted potato chips, fullflavored pasta salad, and a cookie or brownie for dessert.
Go to www.LombardisItalian.com for more information.
Hibulb’s “Roots of Wisdom” Showcases Native
Knowledge & Shared Science
Stories from four indigenous communities are brought to life in real-world examples of
how traditional knowledge and cutting-edge Western science can be blended together to
provide complementary solutions to contemporary concerns. The exhibit is open
until Sept. 13.
33
Tourism Today
March 2015
AROUND SNOHOMISH COUNTY
[Hibulb’s “Roots of Wisdom” Showcases Native Knowledge & Shared Science continued]
Hibulb Cultural Center is located at 6410
23rd Ave NE, Tulalip.
For tickets, hours and more information, go
to www.HibulbCulturalCenter.org or call
360-716-2600.
On the Move
•
The Whiskey Ridge Brewing Company moved from Darrington to the corner of
Olympic Ave. & East 5th St. in Arlington.
•
River Time Brewing moved into the space Whiskey Ridge Brewing renovated at
650 Emens in Darrington. The building is the historic former city hall.
•
The Sea Salt Super Store moved from Lynnwood to 11604 Airport Road in
Everett.
34
Tourism Today
March 2015
GET OUT AND ABOUT
Discover Dog-friendly Snohomish County
With so many dog-friendly places to romp, roam, and
relax in Snohomish County, you and your pooch – as
well as your out-of-town guests – can enjoy every
moment of adventure in this beautiful and popular
corner of Washington State!
Let’s Play: Dog Events
Poochapalooza, Marysville • Saturday, July 11, 2015
The largest dog festival in Snohomish County, the event features:
•
•
•
•
•
10 contests including best costume, best voice, best kisser, and wackiest pet trick
A doggie fashion show with adoptable dogs
Exhibition of Flyball, a dog sport in which teams of dogs race over obstacles and
retrieve tennis balls from start/finish lines
Weiner and mixed-breed dog races
Demonstrations, refreshments, raffle, vendors, and more
Proceeds benefit M-Dog, a nonprofit that maintains the city’s Strawberry Fields for
Rover Off-Leash Park.
•
Hours: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
•
General admission: $5 suggested donation, goodie-bag to first 400 visitors
•
Location: 1605 7th St, Marysville
•Web: Poochapalooza
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Tourism Today
March 2015
GET OUT AND ABOUT
Let’s Romp: Dog Parks
Most people have a favorite place where they and their dogs can play. But it’s fun
getting out and exploring the numerous off-leash dog areas (OLDAs) located throughout
Snohomish County! Be sure to take poop bags, fresh water, and dog treats with you.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Cavalero Hill Community Dog Park – fenced
three-acre OLDA with a separate .25-acre
shy-dog area. 2032 79th Ave, Lake Stevens.
Eagle Dog Park – a double-fenced OLDA with
large and small dog areas, trails, shade,
benches, and drinking water. 701 E Galena
St, Granite Falls.
Howarth Beach Dog Park – approx. 100 feet
of unfenced beach area determined by the
tide north of the railroad overpass. 1127
Olympic Blvd, Everett.
Lake Stickney Park – fenced one-acre OLDA
in the woods. Porta-potty on site. 13521
Manor Way, Lynnwood.
South Marina Dog Beach Park – a
variable-sized, mostly fenced OLDA
(depending upon tides) for dogs to romp, run
and swim. 498 Admiral Way, Edmonds.
Strawberry Fields for Rover Dog Park – fenced three acres with three-tiered
drinking fountains for dogs and people, trees and picnic benches. 6100 152nd
St. NE, Marysville.
Tambark Creek Park – fenced 1.5-acre a short walk from the parking lot with
nearby restrooms. 17217 35th Ave SE, Bothell.
36
Tourism Today
March 2015
GET OUT AND ABOUT
[Let’s Romp: Dog Parks continued]
•
Willis D. Tucker Community Dog Park – three fenced OLDAs in the northeast
corner of the park: six-acre meadow area, 1.25-acre forest area, and a .2-acre shy
dog area. A moderate walk from the parking lots. 6705 Puget Park Drive,
Snohomish.
For more Snohomish County dog parks go to www.Snohomish.org/explore/hiking-camping-nature/parks/dog-parks.
Let’s Walk: Dog-friendly Hiking Trails & Walks
From mountain tracks to urban paved trails, Snohomish County
offers plenty of pooch-friendly paths for exercise and exploration.
Here are just a few of the most popular places to walk your pooch on
a leash:
•
Boulder River Trail – a 4.3-mile, dog and kid-friendly trail that
goes into a deep canyon with waterfalls and low-country, old
growth forests. Darrington
•
Centennial Trail – this paved 30-mile trail stretches from the
town of Snohomish north to the Skagit County line. Ten trail
heads provide easy access. Snohomish, Lake Stevens, and
Arlington.
•
•
Edmonds Self-guided Walking Tours – explore historic sites of this seaside
community and discover over a dozen hand-painted murals by local artists. Take a
break for people watching from one of many benches on Main Street and 5th Street.
Interurban Trail – the 18.8 urban trail connects Everett with Edmonds, is shared
with joggers, bicyclists and the occasional horseback rider, and crosses traffic at
various locations.
35
To find more places to hike with your dog, download the free Hiking in
Snohomish County guide.
Tourism Today
March 2015
GET OUT AND ABOUT
Let’s Eat: Dog-friendly Dining
Many restaurants with patio dining welcome customers with
well-behaved dogs dine together outside. Be sure to call ahead to
confirm availability on busy nights and holiday weekends.
•
•
•
Blazing Onion – choose from 25 gourmet burgers,
including the unique buffalo or wild boar burgers,
numerous Northwest craft brews, and popular wines and
spirits – all under colorful umbrellas on the patio.
o
Hours: Sun. – Thu. 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Fri. & Sat.
11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
o
Locations & phones:
•
3000 184th St SW, Suite 840, Lynnwood.
425-640-9100
•
3701 116th St SE, Marysville. 360-322-7088
•
15115 Main St, Mill Creek. 425-338-4445
•
2811 Bickford Ave, Snohomish.
360-568-7200
The Dining Dog Café & Bakery – offering a menu and treats just for dogs. Dine in
or order to-go cakes, cupcakes, and ice cream.
o
Hours: Thu. & Fri. 3 – 7 p.m. and Sat. noon to 6 p.m.
o
Location: 9635 Firdale Ave N, Edmonds
o
Phone: 425-314-4612
Ivar’s Mukilteo Landing Fish Bar – the walk-up counter is a short walk from the
Mukilteo Lighthouse Park and offers fish & chips, a soft-serve ice cream cones,
and more.
o
Hours: Daily 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
o
Location: 710 Front St, Mukilteo
o
Phone: 425-348-9812
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Tourism Today
March 2015
GET OUT AND ABOUT
[Let’s Eat: Dog-friendly Dining continued]
•
Whitewall Brewing Co. – offers 10 beers on tap including five staple Whitewall
ales and lagers, three rotating brews, and two guest taps. Though food is not
served, customers may bring their own or order delivery from one of several nearby
restaurants.
o
Hours: Open Thu., 4 – 8 p.m., Fri., 4 – 9 p.m. & Sat. 1 – 9 p.m.
o
Location: 14524 Smokey Point Blvd, Suite 1, Marysville
o
Phone: 360-454-0464
Let’s Stay: Dog-friendly Accommodations
What do you do when family and friends come to visit with their pets but, for a variety
of reasons, they can’t stay at your home or apartment? No worries! Snohomish County
offers a wide range of lodging options, and many welcome well-behaved dogs and their
human friends. Be sure to ask about the pet policy including fees and cleaning
deposits, if any.
Campgrounds
•
Flowing Lake Regional Park, 17900 48th SE, Snohomish. 360-568-2274
•
Kayak Point Regional County Park, 15610 Marine Dr., Stanwood. 425-388-6600
•
Turlo Campground & Verlot Campground. Contact the Darrington Ranger Station
(Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest) for locations, reservations & directions.
425-259-7911
Hotels
With 48 hotels that welcome well-behaved canines, visitors have a variety of accommodations to choose from and in a variety of styles, locations, and price ranges. Go to
www.Snohomish.org/explore/lodging for pet-friendly lodging options.
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Tourism Today
March 2015
GET OUT AND ABOUT
[Let’s Stay: Dog-friendly Accommodations continued]
RV Parks
•
Cascade Kamloops RV Park, 1240 Darrington St, Darrington. 360-436-1003
o
Easy access to hiking trails such as Boulder River Trail in the Mount
Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
•
Cedar Grove Shores RV Park, 16529 W Lake Goodwin Rd, Stanwood.
360-652-7083
o
10 minutes to the beach at Kayak Point County Park & Strawberry Fields
OLDA in Marysville
•
Lakeside RV Park, 12321 Hwy 99, Everett. 425-347-2970
o
10 minutes to Interurban Trail at 128th St & 3rd Ave
•
Lake Pleasant RV Park, 24925 Bothell-Everett Hwy, Bothell. 425-487-1785
o
Less than 15 minutes to Tambark Creek Park OLDA
•
Twin Cedars RV Park, 17826 Hwy 99, Lynnwood. 425-742-5540
o
10 minutes to downtown Edmonds & the South Marina Park OLDA
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Tourism Today
March 2015
GET OUT AND ABOUT
Good Dog: Snohomish County Off-Leash Dog Area
Rules
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
Off-Leash Dog Areas (OLDAs) are sections within a park where dogs may run free.
Dogs must be on a leash in all other areas of the park. Leashes must not exceed
eight feet.
Park & OLDA hours are 7:00 a.m. to dusk.
Owners of dogs in the OLDA must be present at all times and maintain vocal
control of dogs.
No sick dogs allowed. All vaccinations must be up to date.
No dogs in heat allowed.
No puppies under six months allowed.
No dogs with a history of dangerous or aggressive behavior (e.g. biting/fighting).
Dogs that do shall be leashed and removed immediately, with the possibility of
permanent eviction.
Dog owners must scoop and dispose of waste.
OLDA visitors enter at their own risk. Owners are responsible and liable for their
actions as well as the actions of their children and dogs.
Owners shall fill holes dug by their dog.
As a courtesy to other visitors, owners shall control excessive barking.
Owners are responsible for providing their dog drinking water. To avoid spread of
illness, do not share water bowls.
In case of emergency, call 911.
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Tourism Today
March 2015
GET OUT AND ABOUT
Helpful Tips for Traveling with Your Dog No Matter
Where You Go
1. Take an obedience course prior to your vacation to ensure you and your dog have
solid skills.
2. Ensure your dog is current with its vaccinations including heartworm, rabies and
parvovirus.
3. Microchip you dog to help its safe return if lost.
4. Always keep your dog leashed and under your control for its safety and those
around you.
5. Always scoop and dispose of your dog’s poop. It’s the law and respectful of others.
6. Take water, a collapsible bowl, and treats with you for your dog.
7. Many public spaces set aside for wildlife preservation and wetland restoration
often do not allow dogs. Check for signage before entering the area with your
leashed dog.
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Tourism Today
March 2015