THE LA CONNERITE

August 2008

2008-08-06T14:16:00.000-07:00

Featured Business~Skagit Bay Hideaway

After eleven wonderful years as a bed and breakfast we decided it was time to close and rent the suites out full time. What can we say? When we sent an e-mail out to our guests we had no idea what a response we would get. We were flooded with replies telling us of our guests time here and how much it meant to them. So we rethought what form of transition we would make and are back but as a vacation rental! There are full kitchens in each "condo" suite including: stove, refrigerator, dishwasher and microwave. Guests may cook in but with La Conner's fabulous restaurants just 5 minutes away that may be a difficult decision! Outside there is a barbecue for their use. A washer and dryer is available for stays of four days or longer. Each has a large private deck overlooking the bay! Please call or e-mail for extended stay rates. Thanks La Conner, Earlene, Kevin & Skagit Bay Hideaway! Please call or e-mail for extended stay rates. (888) or (360) 466-2262 or visit www.skagitbay.com .

From the Board President~Cindy Tracy
We have wanted to have a La Conner television commercial for years. How about billboard signage on Highway 20 or I-5 that advertises our wonderful town and lists current events. Although, we have researched both it costs thousands of dollars to make it happen. Our small membership has just not had the funds. Well opportunity is knocking on our door!!
The CTED or Community Trade and Economic Development of Washington State is offering a Tourism Competitive Grant Program. This will allow us to request funds to “Make it Happen” for La Conner. The development of this program was called out in the recent tourism legislation, RCW 43.336.040, and is for the purpose of awarding grants to local area organizations to support marketing activities that enhance tourism economic development. The Commission is seeking projects that closely align with the Strategic and Marketing plans and that build and reinforce the strategic objectives of the Tourism Commission.
So if you have been thinking you want to help bring more tourists to town, but you weren’t sure how to help. We need you! The minimum grant is $5000.00, the maximum is $25,000.00. This money could help us produce a commercial; develop a tourist marketing and advertising plan or help pay for a bill board sign. Or maybe you have a better idea!? But we need your help to help write the grant proposal. If you would like to serve on a committee to “Make it Happen for La Conner”, please contact me or Marci and join the committee. In these economic times, creativity will make all the difference.

Deception Pass Tours in the Media
Evening Magazine, KING5 TV, will be airing a feature story on Deception Pass Tours, Tuesday August 12th, 2008 at 7:00pm. The show highlights the tourism industry in Skagit County, as well as the circumstances that brought this local company into existence.
Local chambers of commerce, and residents participated in the video shoot, which took place on June 20, 2008. On air personality, Kim Holcomb, interviewed the crew and guests about the success of the company, and how the owner, Brett Ginther’s dream of a boat lead to the formation of Deception Pass Tours.
“Being on a television show like Evening Magazine is not only a great opportunity for this business, but for the entire tourism community. We will all benefit from the added exposure to our region,” says Shanden Templar of the La Conner Channel Lodge.
Deception Pass Tours will host a public preview of the show at Flounder Bay Café located in Anacortes on July 15, 2008 from 6pm-8pm. Those interested in learning more about the company are encouraged to attend. www.deceptionpasstours.com

Volunteer of the Year~Patsy Love
Patsy Love, right, accepts the Skagit County Historical Museum Volunteer of the Year Award from Janet Oakley, Curator of Education.
Patsy Love of La Conner, School Tour Docent at the Skagit County Historical Museum, received the Volunteer of the Year Award at the museum’s Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon last week at the Hope Island Inn. Janet Oakley, Curator of Education, lauded Ms. Love for her faithful service since 2001, and for her versatility in making the museum tour an enjoyable educational experience for both elementary and pre-school students. Ms. Love, retired from the University of Washington academic staff, is author of “Take a Crab to Lunch, A Cookbook for Kids.”

L Conner Chamber of Commerce Marketing
Western Washingtonians are changing the way they travel. Consumers are now looking to their backyard when they plan their weekend getaways. La Conner Chamber Marketing Committee has participated in three concurrent marketing campaigns that will run through summer 2008: KIRO 7 and KIROTV.com's "Trips on a Tank Full" campaign for the thrifty traveler, La Conner Chamber's Staycation Promotion, and KING5 permission based email.
KIRO 7's "Trips on a Tank Full" is focusing this campaign on top local air and the web stations to get more travelers to be aware of La Conner. This campaign gets customers here.
The Chamber's "Staycation Promotion" gets customers to stay by providing specials when staying and dining for a minimum of three nights in La Conner. Visitors just need to show their Staycation Certificate for discounts. If you want to participate, email Marci(director@laconnerchamber.com), or call 466-4778.
The third marketing venture taken with the intention of not only generating foot traffic, but to drive paying customers to our stores, restaurants and inns is participating in a KING5 permission-based email campaign. People who are interested in our area sign up on KING5 to be reminded of events and happenings in La Conner.
Have you looked at www.laconnerchamber.com lately? It is a valuable lure for visitors planning vacations, or staycations. Whether looking for webervations (reservations to spend the night-on line), dinner menus, or a store and their websites, www.laconnerchamber.com is a wealth of information for you and your customers.

Google Stats

June 22-July 22
7,647 Visits
23,561 Pageviews

Business Gadgets
For most companies, gadgets have been around for while, but www.business.gov is one of the first government programs to utilize them as a true service tool for start-up businesses.
This new toolkit allows small business owners to:
· Search for information, forms, and contacts from federal, state and local governments
· Find topics of current interest to the nation's small business community
· Get a listing of licenses and permits that apply to your business
Watch videos featuring expert advice from successful entrepreneurs and small business owners
Check it out for yourself at, http://www.business.gov/about/gadget.html.

June 2008

2008-06-09T15:41:00.000-07:00

Featured Business ~ Wyman Park

Founded in 1985 by Catherine Wyman and
Grace Park, Wyman Park was established with the
idea that beautiful objects, at a fair price, should be
available for everyone. Our store is a visual delight
– and has become a source for exquisite jewelry,
exceptional gifts, outstanding home décor, and
decorative art for the home for over 20 years. Our
distinctive taste and eye for quality bring you hand
selected personal, home and lifestyle choices. In
order to better serve our customers, we are now offering
some of our favorite pieces online for your
enjoyment.
Whether you are looking for that special gift for
someone you love, want a unique piece of jewelry to
complete your look, or are searching for the perfect
addition for your entry, you will find it at Wyman
Park. When visiting our 3000 square foot storefront
in La Conner, WA, or browsing our online collections,
we provide you with an outstanding selection
of products. We are dedicated to offering a
level of service, knowledge and assistance that will
exceed expectations whenever possible.
Wyman Park, open daily from 10 am until 5:30
pm, provides shipping anywhere and complimentary
gift wrapping. We look forward to your next
visit, and appreciate your business and support.
Located at 101 S. 1st St., (360) 466-4148

From the Board President ~ Cindy Tracy
Looks like this year we are going to go straight from
winter to summer. Early last week, I had to search for
my winter coat and gloves, and then on Saturday our
car thermostat registered 106 degrees. But then last
night I heard they are expecting 10 inches of snow in
the mountains. It’s been a crazy spring!! But the good
news is that summer is coming and eventually it will be
here. The “Summer Street Festival” will be June 28th
and 29th. As we did last year, all businesses are encouraged
to participate in this event by bringing merchandise
out on to the sidewalk. Call the chamber for
additional information. We expect a huge crowd, especially
with the increased gas prices, more and more people
are taking “Staycations”. These are getaways to
locations that are no more than a tank full of gas from
home. La Conner is the perfect “Staycation” destination!
My reservations for weekends during the summer
have increased with only a few open weekends between
now and October, and I am sure that it is because more
people are vacationing closer to home.
Also on Saturday, July 12th, we will have the first
“Cadillac’s Forever” Car show and Street Dance. More
than a hundred new and vintage Cadillac’s will fill the
marina parking lot during the day and then at 7:00 PM
the band “Jr Cadillac” will play music from the past.
You will not want to miss this fun event!! So pack away
your winter coat, it’s going to be a fabulous summer!!

La Conner Boys and Girls Club
The La Conner Boys & Girls Club will be holding their annual auction on Saturday, June 14th from 5:00 – 10:00 pm at
the Swinomish Casino. This is their major fundraiser event of the year! Tickets are $30 each and can be purchased by
calling the club at (360) 466-3672. The theme for this event is Western. Costumes are optional but there will be a contest
if you dress up western. Dinner will be a buffet, there will also be live entertainment, games, a no-host bar and live
and silent auction items. If you can’t attend, please consider donating an auction item. Contact Marlene Brenton at
(360) 466-3672.

Children’s Activities at La Conner Regional Library
The children’s department at the library is not only planning its regular summer reading program, but also activities
for both teens and babies. Starting Friday, June 6th, the library will hold Baby ‘N Me story/activity time for
the “wee ones” among us. Sessions start at 10:30. Pre-school story time will continue on Thursday mornings at
10:30 throughout the summer months as well.
The library is also hosting a Kiwanis sponsored Teen Game Night on Friday, June 20th from 6-8 p.m. Pizza, pop
and munchies are served up along with a variety of board games and the teen’s choice of free on-line computer
games.
Summer reading starts the week of June 23rd. Kids can sign up any time after June 4th. Performers scheduled for
this summer are: Silly Dan the Magic Man, Tina Bixby, puppeteer and Charles the Clown. The first activity at the
library will be painting tee-shirts on June 25th at 10:00. Children should bring with them clean, white or light colored
tee shirts to paint.

Father’s Day Weekend Boat Show-Swap Meet– Fundraiser
Saturday June 14th 9am-5pm, Sunday June 15th 10am-3pm
Boat Show~ Swap Meet~ Fundraiser
For your viewing pleasure, our powerboat listings will be open on display on “F” dock in the La Conner Marina’s
South basin, FREE ADMISSION!!! Open to the non-commercial public, nautical OR KNOT items, you can buy or
sell your treasures at this fun-filled swap meet! Advance reservations accepted, but not necessary! No set fee for
swap meet participants, but we would appreciate a nominal donation to our fundraiser beneficiary. Each year we
choose a non-profit organization to receive 100% of our raffle and donation proceeds. For 2008, our beneficiary is
SKAGIT BAY SEARCH AND RESCUE. Call 800-232-8879 or 360-466-3300 email yachts@cnw.com

Learn about Genealogy Research at Skagit County Historical Museum
La Conner – Interested in genealogy? Don’t miss “A Brief Peek into Our Ancestry” with Laura Spaar of Skagit Valley
Genealogy Society on Sunday, June 29 from 12:30 to 1:30 at the Skagit County Historical Museum. Spaar will
provide simple, helpful tips on the types of genealogical records available, research locations, the U.S. census use
and form completion.
This presentation is part of the Summer Sunday Series and admission includes the featured exhibit “Lost Cities of
Skagit: Rediscovering Places of Our Past.” Adults: $4; Seniors & Children 6-12: $3; Families: $8; Children under 6
and Museum Members: Free. The Skagit County Historical Museum is located at 501 S. 4th Street, at the top of the
hill in La Conner. For more information, call 360-466-3365 or visit www.skagitcounty.net/museum.

La Conner Chamber of Commerce Marketing
Please give everyone of your customers a “Seasons of La Conner” media card! We have more in the
Visitor Information Center if you need restocking! The La Conner Destination Map is a WILD success!
We went through 30,000 maps already! We have 20,000 more maps which are being distributed up and
down I-5, Sea-Tac airport, and the Anacortes Ferry Boats. Did you know in past years we only printed
20,000 Visitor Maps? What an incredible Member Benefit to have a High Quality Destination Map with
wide distribution & 50,000 printed. Get ready for La Conner Summer Street Festival Posters, Print Ads,
& Radio Ads…all reminding people of La Conner! What’s Next? La Conner Staycation Promotion!
What is a Staycation? A Staycation is a 3 night stay Sun-Thursday with special pricing from the hotels/
inns and special discounts from YOU! E-mail your Staycation Special to info@laconnerchamber.com ,
and the hotels will share this information with their guests and the La Conner Chamber will promote your
Staycation Special on the LaConnerChamber.com Home Page and on the E-Newsletter. The guest will
receive an official La Conner Staycation Certificate to show to local merchants to receive their discount.
If you would like to participate on the Marketing Committee, please give Stephanie (om@organicmatters.
com) or Julie (julie@childhoodbliss.com) a jingle. MARKETING ROCKS YOUR BUSINESS! Remember:
La Conner Chamber of Commerce is here to ADVERTISE Your Business! Co-Chairs Julie
Burgmeier & Stephanie Banaszak

Google Stats
April 20-May 20
6,789 Visits
21,278 Page views
79% New Visits
3,589 Visits from Washington
411 Visits from California
131 Visits from Oregon
130 Visits from New York

FRAUDULENT CHECK INVESTIGATION POLICY
To assist the Citizens of Skagit County and the business community, to reduce the number of NSF and account
closed checks, the Skagit County Sheriff’s Office Check Acceptance Policy will be implemented. By following this
policy it should reduce your dollar loss and assist us in the investigation of those cases referred to us.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS - Fraudulent checks will be accepted for investigation when all of the conditions below
are met:
1. A Washington State Driver’s License or a Washington State Identification Card with photo was presented at
the time the check was accepted and the respective license numbers were legibly recorded on the check,
along with the person’s initials that accepted the check.
The Person accepting the check must compare the photo and description of the person passing the check,
and witness the signing of the check. The person accepting the check must compare the signature on the
Washington Driver’s License/ID with the signature on the check. If both items compare with the person
presenting the check, the person accepting the check should write “Photo Check” near the initials and
driver’s license number.
The check must be signed in the presence of the person accepting the check. We cannot prosecute on a
check that was accepted by mail or a check that was endorsed prior to being presented.
The original check is given to the Sheriff’s Office within 90 days from the date the check was accepted for
payment.
Checks are accepted by the Skagit County Sheriff’s Office for prosecution only. If only restitution is desired, do
not submit the check; pursue civil action to recover loss.
The check must have been accepted within the city limits of LaConner.
No checks will be accepted that are drawn on bank accounts from outside the State of Washington.
No check will be accepted for prosecution if at the time that it was accepted, it was accepted with the knowledge
that there were insufficient funds in the account or if an agreement between payee and payer is made
for payments.
No two party checks or post-dated checks will be accepted for prosecution.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS – “Account Closed,” “NSF” and “Stop Payment” checks. In addition to those requirements
set forth in “A,” the following additional procedures must be complied with before these checks will be
accepted for prosecution:
“Account Closed” checks in excess of $50.00 will be accepted.
“NSF” checks in excess of $50.00 will be accepted.
“Stop Payment” cases will be reviewed on a case by case basis due to the fact that they generally involve a
dispute between writer and payee.
The driver’s license numbers and identification card numbers on all checks will also eliminate a large amount of
losses due to forgeries. Business should instruct their employees on taking proper identification on all checks including
payroll checks, business checks, traveler’s checks and money orders.
The check(s) should be turned over to the responding deputy. The Sheriff’s Office will send a letter to the writer of
the check(s) requesting that the check(s) be made good or criminal charges will be filed. If there is no
response a criminal investigation will commence. To file a new complaint, call 911 or 428-3211.

May 2008

2008-05-14T09:02:00.000-07:00

May Featured Business
At Cottons we celebrate real women by creating a
clothing store that offers more than just clothes. We
offer inspired solutions and ways to simplify your
life. The lines we carry have a softness about them,
putting emphasis on you rather than shouting for attention.
Our customers are our true inspiration, and
our mission is to provide them with clothing and accessories
that speak to their very essence.
At Cottons our clothing is relaxed, versatile and comfortable
with accessories that allow you to express
your individual style and sensibility. We have sought
out a rich palette of colors and unique textures available
in easy care fabrics for real life.
Simplicity with substance. Casual and elegant. Timeless,
yet always wearable.
Bryn Walker · Flax · Tianello · Kleën · Cut Loose
Three Dots · Dansko · Naot
714 S. First Street, La Conner
www.cottonslaconner.com
360.466.5825 or 800.995.5825

Skagit River Poetry Festival
Opening Night Friday May 15th 7:30 PM!
The Skagit River Poetry Project began in 1998, the result of a conversation between leaders from seven rural school districts in Skagit County, Washington. These leaders hoped to create a project which would support our high literacy standards with the arts; poetry was the natural vehicle. From 1998 to the present, over 50 Skagit county teachers a year have hosted resident poets. More than 10,000 local students have had the experience of playing with words while reading and writing poetry one-on-one with experts. These professional poets have modeled instructional strategies to teachers and prepared a bank of poetry lessons. The culminating event for this in-class work is the every-other-year Skagit River Poetry Festival. In 2000, 2003, 2004, 2006 and 2008 the Festival Board invites a combination of regional and national poets to participate in readings, workshops, and panels over two days.

Welcome to the La Conner Chamber of Commerce and Thank You!
LyfeBank
CEO and Founder Randy Ray
101 N. First Street, La Conner
www.lyfebank.com
360-466-9100
TJ Kirsten’s Restaurant
Owners Tom and Jennifer Grennan
505 S. First Street, La Conner
www.kirstensrestaurant.com
360-466-9111

From the Board President ~ Cindy Tracey
Rain, wind, sleet, hail, and lots of snow! Here we are at the end of April and not all the tulips
are in bloom. But even in a snow storm, the tourists made their way to La Conner! The streets
were full all last weekend as people strolled with umbrellas prepared for whatever the weather
had to offer! What a fabulous Tulip Festival, the longest in history. I am still booking rooms
into mid- May. The best day was the day of the Tulip Festival “Not so impromptu Parade”. The
streets were lined with people 3 deep. I cannot remember so many people in town for the parade!
It was a perfect spring day, a perfect day for a parade. The weather has been crazy, but
it has not slowed the tourists from coming to visit our little town. In fact, I think this will be
the best Tulip Season we have had, since we came to La Conner, five years ago. With the reports
that there will be tulips through Mother’s Day, we are still booking into mid May! Then
the Poetry Festival will bring even more people to town May 15-17. Looks like we are going to
have a great May too! So Mother Nature has created a wonderful opportunity by extending the
tulip season. But I think we are all ready for a little more sun and it looks like sunny days are
ahead. So have a great May Tulip Festival everyone!

5th Annual La Conner Summer Street Festival ~ June 28 & 29, 2008
La Conner is getting ready for the upcoming La Conner Summer Street Festival when artists from throughout
the Pacific Northwest will showcase their handmade wares along Morris Street. This Fifth Annual 2-day
celebration will take place June 28th, 10 am-5 pm and June 29th, 10 am-4 pm. Admission is free.
Booths will be lined up along Morris Street between First and Third Streets, blocking Second Street. All
merchants are encouraged to bring a representation of their merchandise outside on tables along the front of
their store fronts, same as last year.
There will be live entertainment located in Gilkey Square and Dirty Biter Park. The Children’s Activity Area
will be located in Nasty Jack’s parking lot with participation from the Museum of Northwest Art, Boys &
Girls Club and much more!
If you are a Platinum or Gold level chamber member, one of your benefits is the opportunity to have a booth
on Morris Street for free! You can use this for yourself or one of the artists that you represent in your store.
If you know of any artists that show their work at street festivals, please let them know we are currently accepting
applications, with a deadline of May 15th. They can call the La Conner Chamber of Commerce at
360-466-4778 or 888-642-9284. Applications are also available to download off our web site at
www.LaconnerChamber.com under the heading of Chamber.
If you are interested in helping out on the committee for this event (or any other event) please call the chamber
at 466-4778 or send an email to director@laconnerchamber.com.

Marketing Report
*Seasons of La Conner marketing campaign is in full swing. The VIC has an abundant stock of these media
cards. Please let us know if you need more. Stuff those shopping bags or put a pile of 100 of these media
cards in a heavy trafficked area of your place of business. Feel free to also mail these out to your customers!
*The La Conner Co-op pages in the Tulip Festival Guide is a success with over 3 pages of La Conner
businesses and a chamber ad including La Conner events for the year. *La Conner has a beautiful
“double truck/2 pages” ad coming out in the Bellingham Herald 101 Things to Do insert. Watch out Bellingham,
here we are! *We are working on finalizing a Washington State Tourism Co-op ad in the
Alaska/Horizon In-flight magazine this week. *Our next big marketing push will be the Summer Street
Festival. Check out the new Summer Street Festival web pages on LaConnerChamber.com!
*LaConnerChamber.com is busy this month with a big increase in visitors! *As you have seen, the La Conner
map has hit the streets! We also have the La Conner map in VIC’s up and down I-5, the Sea-Tac Airport,
and the Ferries that arrive to Anacortes. Always open to suggestions and feedback! E-mail:
julie@childhoodbliss.com ~Julie & Stephanie

Google Stats
March 20- April 20
7,937 Visits
25,567 Page Views
77.5% New Visits
6022 USA visitors
1706 Canadian visitors
Top 3 USA States
WA: 4578 visits
CA: 417 visits
OR: 178 visits

Kiwanis Club of La Conner Event
Calling all local artists! The Kiwanis Club of La Conner is inviting you to participate in “Cash Cow Days in La Conner” an
exhibit to be held all of June. We are asking for a signed and dated art piece showing your idea of a cow. You may work in
any medium and the cow can be whatever you imagine a cow to be. The artwork will be exhibited in the shops of La Conner
for the month of June, then auctioned off in a “Cattle Auction” to be held Saturday, June 28th with proceeds to be split
between the artist and Kiwanis. Rules and entry forms are available at La Conner Fruit and Produce, La Conner Regional
Library or e-mail jneal@lclib.lib.wa.us.

Sales Tax and Canadian Currency
For most of us, dealing with state sales tax is an everyday event. However, to some of our visitors dealing
with sales tax is a new and strange phenomenon. People visiting from Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New
Hampshire, and Oregon do not have sales tax where they live. Additionally, our Canadian neighbors from
Alberta have no sales tax.
Our Canadian neighbors enjoy visiting us and spending their hard earned money here like many of our
other visitors. Sometimes they pay using their credit cards and sometimes they pay in cash. In the event they
should pay in cash, what do you do with their currency? Here is what our La Conner Bank Branches will and
will not accept.
¨ Bank of America only takes Canadian paper bills, not coins.
¨ Key Bank accepts both paper and coin currency.
¨ Washington Federal Savings does not accept any Canadian currency.
We welcome our visitors and appreciate them spending time with us. We also appreciate the ease of use of
their credit cards. The simplicity of that magnificent piece of plastic speaks a universal language for all of us to enjoy!

Financial Seminar
Back by popular demand, local attorney Gary Jacobson and financial planner Larry Morrison will be conducting
a planning seminar on Friday, June 20 from 9:00-4:00. The Anacortes Chamber-sponsored seminar is
designed for business owners who are considering buying or selling their companies. The material will also
cover related estate planning, business valuation and tax issues, internal and family succession considerations,
shareholder buy/sell agreements, and employment contracts and non-competes as essential parts of
any comprehensive package.
The seminar will be taught by two nationally recognized experts in the field. Larry Morrison takes primary
responsibility for "financial engineering", as well as tax-structuring such transactions. Gary Jacobson is a
business attorney. Together they have planned and implemented hundreds of these transactions.
In addition to six hours of instruction, attendees are also provided 160 pages in handout materials. The response
to this seminar last year was uniformly positive. If you are considering any financial change to your
business, this is great information. Cost of the seminar for any Chamber member is $50. Questions or to enroll,
please contact the Anacortes Chamber office @ 293-7911.

April 2008

2008-03-28T22:32:00.000-07:00

Featured Business ~ The Heron Inn & Watergrass Day Spa
The Heron Inn & Watergrass Day Spa is an award winning
intimate inn dedicated to making your getaway or
spa experience everything you could hope for. The inn’s
amenities feature 11 guest rooms complete with luxurious
520 thread count sheets, European duvets, Bvlgari bath
products, flat screen televisions, private baths, fireplaces
and free Wi-Fi. Other amenities include a garden hot tub,
a small wine and champagne bar, complimentary DVDs,
a lovely living room with slate fireplace, a fabulous English
garden overlooking Hedland’s organic farm and
Mount Baker. A European style continental breakfast is
served daily from 8:30 am to 10:00 am in our cozy dining
room. The inn is also proud to be using “green” cleaning
products from the Deirdre Imus “Greening and Cleaning
Collection”.
The Watergrass Day Spa is the ultimate way to relax, recharge,
reboot and to reinvent. Our services are specifically
designed and individually tailored by our licensed
therapists to give your body and soul a serious indulgent
jump start. The spa proudly features organic body and
skincare products by SeaFlora and Eminence and mineral
makeup byTrue. (See www.watergrassdayspa.com for
specific services and rates.)
The spa also offers a couples room for a shared experience
or you can order a spa lunch prepared by our Cordon
Bleu chef (call for details and reservations). Inn
keepers Martha and George look forward to seeing you in
the near future. (360) 466-4624 / (877) 883-8899. Visit
http://www.laconnergetaways.com/

La Conner Community Event ~ April 5th—11:00 am Gilkey Square
It’s time to celebrate Spring! So join us as we officially
unveil your new “La Conner Destination Map”.
You are invited to attend the La Conner Destination
Map Grand Opening and Celebration of the 25th Anniversary
of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival ribbon cutting
event on April 5th, 11 a.m. at Gilkey Square in La
Conner. Talented artist Daniel Schmieding will sign the
beautiful La Conner Maps that he illustrated. You can
also pick up your supply of the new map and enjoy
some cake! Music will be provided by “Guy’s Night
Out” from 11:30-1:30 (weather permitting). Meals and
refreshments to be provided at discounted prices by
Jaynie Black’s new Tulips Restaurant. Kenmore Air
will be in town to start their “flightseeing” rides after
the program.

Welcome New Members!
Please join me in welcoming two new members
to the La Conner Chamber of Commerce!
Cascade Mall
Carol Hildahl – Marketing Manager
201 Cascade Mall Drive, Burlington, WA 98233
(360) 757-2070
Open 10:00 am – 9:00 pm, Monday – Saturday
11:00 am – 6:00 pm Sunday
Over 90 shops, eateries and department stores.
Castaway Dave’s Olde Time Photography
Connie Shaw – Owner/Operator
103 Morris Street (inside Nasty Jack’s)
La Conner, WA 98257 ~ (360) 472-0307
Open 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
“Have your picture taken and take home a memory”

From The Board President ~ Cindy Tracy
The tulips are almost here bringing us tourists from all over the world. Last year I wondered exactly who
was coming to stay here at Katy’s Inn. So I compiled a list of all my customers who had stayed with us for
the last four years. Although I am a small Inn, I think my totals are somewhat reflective of who is coming
to La Conner to visit, at least to spend the night. I was very surprised that 60 percent were from Washington
State and only 19 percent from Canada and 19 percent from other states in the US, leaving only 2 percent
from other countries. For some reason I thought the numbers between Washington and Canada
would be closer. With the gas prices more people will be looking to vacation closer to home. What a wonderful
opportunity for La Conner! King County brings La Conner 30 percent of our visitors. Could it be
because we are only a tank full of gas a way? The Chamber has been working on developing a billboard
sign on Highway 20 to attract tourists that are on their way to the ferries to turn left and visit our wonderful
little town. Although it is expensive, I think it could have a dramatic impact on our tourist traffic. Your
continued support of the La Conner Chamber of Commerce will make this a reality before the end of the
year. Our 2008 Membership Drive begins in May, beginning with our Annual Awards Banquet on
Wednesday May 28. Mark your calendars!

5th Annual La Conner Summer Street Festival ~ June 28 & 29 2008

La Conner is getting ready for the upcoming La Conner Summer Street Festival when artists from throughout
the Pacific Northwest will showcase their handmade wares along Morris Street. This Fifth Annual
2-two day celebration will take place June 28th, 10am-5pm and June 29th 10am-4pm. Admission is free.
Booths will be lined up along Morris Street between First and Third Streets, blocking Second Street. All
merchants are encouraged to bring a representation of their merchandise outside on tables along the front
of their store fronts, same as last year.
There will be live entertainment located in Gilkey Square and Dirty Biter Park. The Children’s Activity
Area will be located in Nasty Jack’s parking lot with participation from the Museum of Northwest Art,
Boys & Girls Club and much more!
If you are a Platinum or Gold level chamber member, one of your benefits is the opportunity to have a
booth on Morris Street for free! You can use this for yourself or one of the artists that you represent in
your store.
If you know of any artists that show their work at street festivals, please let them know we are currently
accepting applications, with a deadline of April 15th. They can call the La Conner Chamber of
Commerce at 360-466-4778 or 888-642-9284. Applications are also available to download off our web
site at LaconnerChamber.com under the heading of Chamber.
If you are interested in helping out on the committee for this event (or any other event) please call the
chamber or send an email to director@laconnerchamber.com.

Marketing Report ~ Julie Burgmeier

Stephanie Banaszak and I were busy this month finalizing the “Seasons of La Conner” media card that will be coming
to you in the next couple of weeks. We printed 12,000 of these mini advertisements for our guests. If you are a
retail business, please feel free to put one in every shopping bag. Lodging & Dining establishments, we hope you will
have these visible for your customers. The goal of this campaign is to get our April & Summer Visitors to view La
Conner as a place to visit every season. We hope to achieve this goal by listing the major events that happen in the
Spring, Summer, Fall & Winter AND by getting them to subscribe to the E—Newsletter which will result in an email
in their in-box before the beginning of each month with a summary of La Conner Specials, Happenings, and Events.
The media card is set up like a postcard on the back. Feel free to pick up extras if you would like to mail these out to
your customer mailing list.
Our next project is designing the La Conner 2009 Calendar which we hope to have for you to purchase (wholesale)
and sell (retail) by August. Be sure to check out the La Conner Chamber co-op ad in the Tulip Festival Guide published
by the Skagit Valley Herald.
Cheers! Julie & Stephanie (questions/comments/volunteers Julie@childhoodbliss.com or om@organic-matters.com)

Think Local First!
Who thinks more about Thinking Local First? Well, we do of
course. No one knows more about the importance of Thinking
Local First than local business owners. Our Tip for April is to
identify one item or service you are currently purchasing from a
non-local source and find a local alternative. We have more and
more local options all the time.
Let's keep even more of our dollars local while continuing to support
our friends & neighbors and keep our place special and
unique! Visit http://www.sustainableconnections.org/ for more tips!

When Talk Of The Town Isn’t A Bad Thing ~~ EDASC”s Schmooze Fair 2008
Where can you go on a Thursday night, have people talk about you and feel good about it? Answer, EDASC’s 2008
Schmooze Fair. Be entertained, enjoy delicious food and talk yourself up. Thursday, April 17, 2008, 4 – 8:30 P.M.
Van Zyverden Bulb Warehouse, Port of Skagit County, 12035 Higgins Airport Way. Sign up today for your booth
space, don’t miss out. To reserve your booth space or to order tickets, call 336-6114. See you there!

Kiwanis Club of La Conner Event
Calling all local artists! The Kiwanis Club of La Conner is inviting you to participate in “Cash Cow Days in La Conner”
an exhibit and art auction to be held all of June. We are asking for a signed and dated art piece showing your
idea of a cow. You may work in any medium you are comfortable with and the cow can be whatever you image a
cow to be. The artwork will be exhibited in the shops of La Conner for the month of June, then auctioned off in a
“Cattle Auction” to be held Saturday, June 28th with proceeds to be split between the artist and Kiwanis. For the
budding artist (under 18 years old) a silent auction/exhibit will be held at La Conner Fruit and Produce. Rules and
entry forms are available at La Conner Fruit and Produce, La Conner Regional Library or e-mail jneal@lclib.lib.wa.us.

Congratulations to The Skagit County Historical Museum!
Treasured objects and artifacts held by the Skagit County Historical Museum will be preserved for future generations
with help from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) Connecting to Collections Bookshelf, a core set of conservation
books, DVDs, and online resources awarded by IMLS, the primary source of federal funding of the nation’s
museums and libraries. The Skagit County Historical Museum received this essential set of resources based on an
application describing the needs and plans for care of its collections. The IMLS Bookshelf focuses on such topics as
the philosophy and ethics of collecting, collections management and planning, emergency preparedness and culturally
specific conservation issues. To learn more about the Institute, please visit www.imls.gov. “The Skagit County
Historical Museum is thrilled to be awarded this collection of resource materials for our use and to provide other museums in
Skagit County with a reference library,” said Karen Marshall, Executive Director of the Skagit County Historical Museum.

Exciting News From Marci in the Chamber Office!!
I would like to take the opportunity to introduce a new part-time Administrative Assistant, Katrina Dartnell,
who started work at the chamber office on March 24th. Katrina went to La Conner High School and has two
daughters who are also attending La Conner High. She is excited to be here to serve our members and our adventurous
visitors alike! With the help of Katrina and all of the volunteers, the Visitor Information Center is now open 7 days a week. Hours are Monday – Friday 10-4, Saturday 11-4 and Sunday 12-4.

La Conner Tulip Frolic & Parade (“Poulsbo RV Tulip Frolic”)
April 12th ~ 12:00—4:00
This great event has something for everyone!
• Kids will enjoy the Skagit Valley Hyundai Kids Zone benefiting Boys & Girls Club and La Conner High School
Key Club...located at Dirty Biter Park on S. First Street (thanks to La Conner Pub & Janet’s for use of power!).
• Adults will enjoy the Wine Garden hosted by Challenger Ridge Vineyard & Cellars and music by Island Jazz
Quintet at Gilkey Square from Noon –4 P.M (Island Jazz Quintet will take a break during parade).
• Everyone should be ready to view the Kiwanis “Not-So-Impromptu” Tulip Parade along S. First Street at 2 p.m.
You might want to claim a “viewing” spot early.
• And remember, it’s not too late to enter the parade. Applications can be downloaded from the Chamber’s website
or call (360) 466-5959.
• Thank you to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival for bringing the Tulip Frolic & Parade to La Conner!

A Guide to: Canadians Returning to Canada
What are the personal exemptions for Canadians?
After each absence of 24 hours or more:
They can claim up to CAN$50 worth of goods without paying any duties. This is
their personal exemption. They must have the goods with them when they arrive
and they cannot include tobacco products or alcoholic beverages in this exemption.
If the goods they bring in are worth more than CAN$50 in total, they cannot
claim this exemption. Instead they have to pay full duties on all goods they bring
in.
After each absence of 48 hours or more
They can claim up to CAN$400 worth of goods without paying any duties. They
must have the goods with them when they arrive. Although they can include
some tobacco products and alcoholic beverages, a partial exemption may apply to
cigarettes, tobacco products or manufactured tobacco.
After each absence of 7 days or more
They can claim up to CAN$750 worth of goods without paying any duties. Although
they can include some tobacco products and alcoholic beverages, a partial
exemption may apply to cigarettes, tobacco products or manufactured tobacco.
With the exception of tobacco products and alcoholic beverages, they do not need
to have the goods with them when they arrive.
Visit www.cbsa.asfc.gc.ca/ or call 204-983-3500 or 506-636-5064 for more details.

March 2008

2008-02-27T08:38:00.000-08:00

Our Featured Member! The Quarry

The Quarry has been described as “The premier wedding and B&B
location in the Pacific Northwest”. Transformed from an abandoned quarry it is now an artists estate with elegant gardens, outdoor sculpture an art gallery and luxurious
B&B. The Quarry is a very unique and perfect setting for special
events of all kinds. Complete services are offered including event
equipment (canopies etc), catering, beverage service and event planning
assistance. The Quarry is an ideal place for weddings, off site meetings, private,
corporate and institutional events and meticulous attention is paid
to the details of each individual event whatever the size.
This unique setting can be found at 12893 Dodge Valley Rd. Call
360-466-5075, for more information. Be sure to check out their website
http://www.atthequarry.com/

PLEASE JOIN LA CONNER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
FOR OUR NEXT AFTER HOURS SOCIAL
Thursday March 13 5:30-7PM
La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum
Please bring an appetizer and/or bubbly to share.
We’ll see you there!

The Presidents Message ~ Cindy Tracey

It was a pleasure to see the sun come out on Saturday. Town was full of people who have been homebound for months! The daffodils are nearly ready to light up ground with bright yellow blooms, the sure sign that the tulips will be on their way along with thousands of tourists. The 2008 La Conner Chamber Board of Directors met at the beginning of February for a full day retreat. We started the day with a wonderful welcome from La Conner’s new Mayor, Ramon Hayes. We formed five standing committees, Membership, Finance, Events, Visitor Information Center, and Marketing with Board Members chairing each of these committees. Some of the exciting things that the chamber will be working on in 2008 are, billboards on hwy 20, developing a La Conner TV Commercial, an advertising kiosk at the Burlington Mall, increasing weekday usage and marketing Maple Hall, and developing a plan for advertising and marketing La Conner during the 2010 Olympics, to name just a few! But we need you! All members are welcome to attend and participate in any of the standing committees. Please contact the Chairperson of each Committee and find out how you can help!! The Board looks forward to a Fun, Fabulous and Fruitful 2008!! Come join us!

Marketing Report ~ Julie Burgmeier & Stephanie Banaszak

THANK YOU to everyone who participated in the La Conner Fall Giveaway….here are a couple quotes from our December Winners:

**I want to thank you and the chamber of commerce for the delightful and very thoughtful gifts I received. What a surprise and what fun I had going through each item. And then it was so much fun and very much enjoyment going through the various shops throughout the town. I have written to so many people that I know and have said that they must put your town on the must see list when they come to Washington. I am a travel nurse from Alabama and I have been working at Skagit Valley Hospital and Bellingham Hospital in the ICU unit and ER units...this was such a much needed relaxation sightseeing trip!! Thank you and each member of the chamber that provided me with such lovely and unexpected gifts! Sincerely, Sharon Junco

**Thank you so very much for selecting me as a winner of the LA Conner Giveaway contest. I didn't believe it at first because I never win anything! It was such a surprise and I'm going to have fun using the gift certificates in the next couple of months. I already picked up a beautiful vase from Wyman Park and bought my favorite book at "the Next Chapter". Thank you everyone for your generous gifts! VIVA La Conner! Still in awe, Atje Sliphorst

LaConnerChamber.com receives Kudos:
*Hi Marci:
Thanks for the info. I love your new website. It's really well laid out, easy to use and full of great info. Keep up the excellent work:-) Nancy Trucano, Executive Director Cascade Loop Scenic Highway

*Wow!!! Great! job on the website. So many times I go to a town's website and find it so lacking or so frustrating and here, the one from my own little town is so clear, helpful, thorough and even a little playful! Super job!

The Marketing Committee is looking for committee members for 2008. We need people who are creative and playful…. and like to make things happen! Stephanie Banaszak (Organic Matters) and I (Julie Burgmeier-Childhood Bliss) are co-chairing the committee. We have created the month to month marketing/advertising/promotions for 2008 with a mix of Print, Radio, Internet, Media Cards, Email-Marketing and Promotional Items. We are targeting the Skagit
Valley Market with Print, Radio & Internet, The Seattle Market with Internet & Radio, the Vancouver Market with Print & Internet, “the World” market with print (Alaska Airlines Magazine), E-Mail Marketing & Internet Advertising and lastly we are targeting people shopping, playing & lodging in La Conner with Media Cards & La Conner 2009 Calendars. Finally, we will be focusing our marketing efforts to increase our E-Newsletter Subscriptions this
year by 20% and continue to have a successful E-Marketing Monthly Campaign (Please take 10 seconds to subscribe and tell a friend!). La Conner Chamber is now a proud member of Sustainable Connections, and we will be using their marketing materials to focus on our “Locally Owned Businesses” advantage. Cheers to 2008!

LaConnerChamber.com Google Analytics
1/20-2/20
4,343 Visits 14,549 Page Views
74% New Visits
E-Newsletter Subscribers ~ 507

La Conner Chamber News

Congratulations to The La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib House for being voted #1 as the 2007 People’s Choice for Best Seafood Restaurant in Skagit Valley! Way to go Jim & Mary Lou! Other La Conner businesses that did well in this annual contest are: El Gitano was voted #1 for best Mexican Restaurant, Calico Cupboard is #1 for best Baked Goods/Dessert Specialties, #2 for best Breakfast Spot & best Lunch Spot, Seeds placed #3 for best Vegetarian/Health Food, Nasty Jack’s was #2 for best Antique Store, Maple Hall was selected #1 for best Wedding Reception Facility and #2 for best Place to Host a Party. Each year the Skagit Business Pulse conducts this contest and it is quite an honor to place in the top 3. Also congratulations to the Hampton Inn & Suites in Burlington, they were honored with the company’s Lighthouse Award, which designates them as one of the hotel chain’s top performing hotels from among more than 1,400 Hampton properties. The prestigious ward is given only to the top 5% of all Hampton Hotels.

“WELCOME” TO THE FOLLOWING NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS!!!

Valley Broadcasters, Inc. (dba KAPS/KBRC) ~
Tulips (formerly the Boardwalk Café) New Owner, Jaynie Black, 466-0308
Jennings Yarn & Needlecrafts ~ Owned by Chris Jennings ~ 106 S. 1st. St. ~ 466-3177
Exquisite Expressions ~ Owned by Gary Seierstad ~ 106 S. 1st Street ~ 770-6999
El Gitano Mexican Restaurant ~ managed by Myra Olivo ~ 215 Maple Avenue ~ for lunch or dinner ~ 466-0267.
Berry Barn ~ Owned by Bev & Todd Lenning ~ located on La Conner Whitney Road They will be reopening in March ~ 466-1923
Crabby’s ~ Owned by Debbie & Paul Muller ~ 106 S. 1st Street ~ 466-3189, See live hermit crabs!

FIFTH ANNUAL HUMAN RIGHTS FESTIVAL
CELEBRATES DIVERSITY
The Human Rights Festival, now in its fifth year, opens at the Lincoln Theatre on Tuesday, March 11, and finishes with a Grand Finale Celebration on Saturday,
March 15. This year’s popular festival focuses on topics as diverse as immigration, the right to die, poverty, community problem-solving and gender.
Guest speakers from as far away as California, Oregon
and Indiana will join with local Washington authorities
and experts to provide insightful perspectives on issues .
Presentations begin each evening at 7:00 pm with a
$10 suggested donation. Two workshops and a seminar are
scheduled for March 13 and March 15. All events are held
at the Lincoln Theatre.
712 So. First Street, Mount Vernon, WA, 360-336-8955

Department of Revenue Assists Retailers

With Changes to Sales Tax The Washington State Department of Revenue is helping retailers prepare for upcoming changes in sales tax. Although the changes do not take effect until July 1, 2008, the Department wants to give retailers who ship or deliver items plenty of time to get ready for this shift to a destination-based sales tax from the current origin-based sales tax.
For businesses that do not ship or deliver, nothing changes. Currently, businesses code local sales tax to the city or unincorporated county from where a product is shipped. Beginning
next July, however, they must code local sales tax to the destination of the delivery.
This change only affects shipments from one local jurisdiction to another within Washington State. The coding is used to determine which city or county receives the local share of the sales tax. It does not affect shipments to out-ofstate customers or purchases when customers take possession at the selling location. The change stems from legislation enacted in 2007 that conforms Washington’s sales tax system to the national Streamlined Sales and Use Tax Agreement (SSUTA). The SSUTA seeks to preserve the economic vitality of Washington
businesses by reducing unfair competition from out-of-state sellers who don’t charge sales tax. Twenty-two states, including Washington, are members of the SSUTA.
The legislation provides businesses grossing less than $500,000 a year with up to $1,000 in tax credits to offset necessary changes to their accounting and point-of-sale systems, or the free use for two years of a certified service provider. A certified service provider is a third party that can handle the coding and file the sales tax return for businesses. The La Conner Chamber of Commerce will hold a workshop on Destination-based Sales Tax on Wednesday, March
19, 2008 from 11:45-1:00 pm at the La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib House. Join us, as representatives from the Department of Revenue explain how this law will affect your business. For more information on destination-based sales tax, visit the Department's Web site at http://dor.wa.gov/. Please RSVP by calling 466-4778. Cost is $15.00 per person or lunch and speaker.

Customer Service Ideas
Does your business keep a Customer Service Log? At the Tourism Training Seminar held last week, a good suggestion was for each business to keep a Customer Service Log at the front desk. Every employee should write down any compliments or complaints about your business, good and bad. Then when you have a weekly or monthly staff meeting you can go over each of the comments and give praise where it’s due or adjust where it might be needed. You
have heard it before but it still remains true, THE MOST IMPORTANT MOMENT IN CUSTOMER SERVICE IS THE FIRST POINT OF CONTACT!
· Smile! Smile when you answer the phone, people can hear this in your voice! Smile when a visitor walks in your door.
· Your greeting should tell the customer, “I am glad you are here!”
· Always make eye contact with a visitor the first second they come in. Even if you are with another customer or on
the phone, make eye contact and acknowledge that they are there immediately.
· Greet visitors with something like: “Good morning! How can I help you today?” or “Hello, how is your day going
so far? What can I help you with today?”
· A friendly greeting immediately disarms a visitor and sets them at ease. It sets the tone for the rest of the interaction.
How to handle Irritated Customers:
· Allow irate customers to vent. Do not interrupt them or start to speak until they have finished having their say.
· Acknowledge what the visitor says! This can include saying “I am sorry”, “I apologize”, “That’s awful”, “Well, I would be angry too”. Be agreeable, NOT defensive.
· Assure the customer that you will help them resolve the situation. “What would you like us to do to resolve this situation?”
· Find a solution right there, remember that the cost of fixing the problem fully, even if it includes discounts or free service is ALWAYS less damaging than an angry customer and a negative story to tell their friends for years.
· Make notes in your Customer Service Log to share with the rest of the staff at your staff meetings.
· Always be sure to thank the person for calling or bringing the problem to your attention. Make the customer feel right for calling to complain.

Tulips, Tea, and Trends" annual tea and fashion show at Maple Hall on Saturday, March 29th. Enjoy a sumptuous tea and fashion show from 12-2 pm. Win exciting raffle prizes or sign up for your favorite silent auction item. A hat contest will recognize the guests' favorites in a variety of categories. For event information, contact Ellie Baugh, at gebaugh@wavecable.com. For ticket information, contact Cindy Tracey at 360 466-9909.

Advertise in THE LA CONNERITE

2008-01-30T10:52:00.000-08:00

Did you know La Conner Chamber members can run ads in THE LA CONNERITE? The La Connerite Newsletter is mailed to over 170 La Conner Chamber Members and is posted here at LaConnerChamber.com. For ONLY $50 you can have an entire page insert in the mailed newsletter and a featured post on this online version. Buy an Ad today...just email Marci ~ director@laconnerchamber.com or call 466-4778.

February 23rd ~ Smelt Derby

2008-01-30T10:20:00.000-08:00

This annual event would not be impossible without the generous support the Rotary Club of La
Conner receives from the merchants. This support is in advertising when you allow us to place posters in your windows.
It also includes the raffle and fishing prizes that most of you so generously provide. Without those prizes our
efforts would be greatly diminished. We would like to thank you in advance for your assistance. Our members will
be going door-to-door beginning in January seeking to place posters and receive prizes. We hope that you will be
able to participate with both efforts. Your donations enable us to do a better job of raising funds for the many charities
that we contribute to each year. The Rotary Club of LaConner is a major donor to the La Conner Scholarship
Fund; the LaConner Library and providing every third grader with a personal dictionary. We are also the official
community sponsor of the LaConner Sea Scouts and many other worthwhile needs. All funds raised through Smelt
Derby and other projects go to our donation budget. All club expenses are raised internally without community
funds. Once again, it is your valuable support that enables us to make many of these donations. We want to take this
opportunity to remind you that the 43rd Historic Smelt Derby Festival is coming up on February 23rd. Included with
the Festival will be our Smelt Fest dinner at Maple Hall with great music and a new menu this year. For those of you
who are also corporate (monetary) sponsors, a separate sponsorship request will be sent to you. On behalf of the entire
Rotary Club of LaConner, I would like to sincerely thank you for your support past and present.
John Milnor, Co-Chair

Member Happenings Throughout the Month of February

2008-01-30T10:19:00.000-08:00

Throughout the month of February
• La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib House now has a 3-hour Happy Hour
from 3-6 pm M-F, all drinks are $3 and appetizers are $2 off!
• Godmother’s Closet ~ 25-75% off formal & cruise dresses, flower girl
dresses and wedding gowns. 103 Whatcom St., 466-2743
9 ~ La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum, Whether you are a knitter, quilter,
or lover all things Scandinavian, you will surely enjoy this event. Selbuvotter
– Norway’s Favorite Mittens workshop, 1-2 PM ~$5.00 (includes admission to
the Museum) 360-466-4288 or info@laconnerquilts.com
12th - 14th or Feb. 19th - 21st ~Come and Celebrate Your Love this February
with Our "Ultimate Romantic Getaway Package" The La Conner Country Inn
466-3101, www.laconnerlodging.com
14 ~The Dulce Plate is offering a very special dinner from 5:30-10:00 pm.
Glass of Champagne, appetizer, salad, intermezzo, entrée, dessert, breads,
beverage and a rose for the Lady. $60 per person. RSVP only at (360) 466-1630
21 ~ The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival and the Skagit Valley Chambers of
Commerce will hold tourism training for interested members of the Tulip Festival
or the Chambers at the Best Western CottonTree Inn in Mount Vernon.
We’ll enjoy breakfast and networking, hear from Andy Porter of Customer
Service Boot Camp on customer service and how it relates to tourism, Terica
Taylor on the economic impacts of tourism, and Cindy Verge, Skagit Valley
Tulip Festival Executive Director, on the unique and wonderful events for the
2008 Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. The Tulip Festival Tourism Training is
sponsored by Key Bank and the Best Western CottonTree Inn. For organizations
and individuals who are not members of a Chamber or Tulip Festival
sponsors, the fee is $10 per person. For information or to register, call the Tulip
Festival office at 428-5959.

Marketing Report

2008-01-30T10:18:00.000-08:00

Marketing Report ~ Julie Burgmeier (comment & suggestions & volunteer help email: Julie@childhooodbliss.com)

2007 was a fantastic year for the marketing committee! 2008 is going to be even better! Do you advertise online? Do you know that at the gold level your membership benefits include a rotating banner ad on LaConnerChamber.com? I predict that my gold level chamber membership dues will be paid by revenue from the click throughs from my laconnerchamber.com banner ad. With Google Analytics I’m able to track how many people click through the banner ad and how much they purchased. For only $66.00/month…this is a bargain compared to other online advertising such as Google AdWords. We greatly improved LaConnerChamber.com starting in October of 2007 and started promoting LaConnerChamber. com with banner ads on the Seattle times network, Vancouver sun, Go Skagit, and Experiencewa.com (official state tourism site) along with a greater promotion of LaConnerChamber.com in all of our print advertisements. By
purchasing “impressions” from banner ads on these websites, we are planning and budgeting for over 100,000 visits (per google analytics) to LaConnerChamber.com in 2008. In 2008 we will be creating water centric web pages for the Classic Yacht & Car Show which will bring even more visits to LaConnerChamber.com. By co-oping our online advertising dollars, we as a community are able to purchase banner ads that as individual business we could not afford. Join Now and/or Spread the News!

Net @ Noon!

2008-01-30T10:17:00.000-08:00

YOU ARE INVITED TO LA CONNER’S NEXT
NET @ NOON
FEBRUARY 5TH ~ 11:45 – 1:00 PM
LA CONNER SEAFOOD & PRIME RIB HOUSE
As business owners, we are often looking at ways to save money and enhance our bottom line. One way to do this is
to reduce our fixed expenses. Getting a lower rate in credit card processing is one way to save money, but doing the
research online can be overwhelming and time consuming
Enter Adam Mitchell, representing Sage Payment Solutions. Sage is trusted by and has serviced our non-profit La
Conner Chamber for several years with low rates and superior service.
We are eager to have Adam speak to La Conner merchants and share his information. Sage Payment Solutions has
beat one businesses current merchant services rate by almost $500.00 this upcoming year. It’s easy to receive a savings
analysis by just faxing in your current statement.
Sage Payment Solutions is located in Lewiston Idaho with customer service on-site. Rates to Chamber Members are
as follows:
V/MC 1.65% + $.10 per swipe
Debit 1.5% + $.10 per swipe
$5.50 Monthly Statement Fee
Sage also offers solutions to your web business called a virtual terminal. A virtual terminal not only allows all sales
from your website to be directly processed through Sage, but you and your customer get a confirmation email, and
you save due to no more hand-keyed sales!
Adam will be making personal phone calls to your business introducing himself and helping you jumpstart the savings
process with Sage Payment Solutions.
Compare these rates to your current bankcard charges. If enough of us sign up, the discounts may get even better!
Also, the Chamber will receive $50.00 for each merchant that switches to Sage. If you can save, please bring your
statements and attend our Net@Noon at La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib House on Tuesday, February 5th from
11:45-1:00 pm. Please RSVP by calling the Chamber at 466-4778 or email director@laconnerchamber.com. Cost for
the speaker and a buffet lunch is $15.00 per person. Bring a prize and enter your business card for the raffle!

Think Don't Drive!

2008-01-30T10:16:00.000-08:00

You are invited to march with the La Conner & Swinomish students
and their families. Trying to get the word out that they
are against underage drinking in our community. They will be
marching from the Swinomish Youth Center, over the bridge to
the school, 12:30 –2:30 on February 20th. Everyone is invited to
walk and you may carry a sign advertising your business.

Call 466-4113 with any questions.

February After Hours Social ~ Join Us!

2008-01-30T10:14:00.000-08:00

PLEASE JOIN LA CONNER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
FOR OUR NEXT
AFTER HOURS SOCIAL

WEDNESDAY ~ FEBRUARY 20TH
Hosted By:
Jack Estep of Estep’s Residences
621 S. First Street ~ 466-2116
5:30 – 7:30 pm

Please bring an appetizer and/or bubbly to share.

We'll See You There!

Upcoming Events

2008-01-30T10:08:00.000-08:00

Now through February 14th
Boys & Girls Club Fundraiser
Milk Chocolate Hearts created by Cascade
Candy Co. ~ Place orders now, 466-3672

Christianson’s Nursery, A variety of gardening
classes, for details call 466-3821
www.christiansonsnursery.com

February 7
Net@Noon
La Conner Seafood & Prime Rib,
11:45-1:00 pm. Cost is $15 per person.

La Conner Retirement Inn, Dick Fallis ,
La Conner Historian, will speak, 3:30 PM
466-5700 ~ laconnerretirementinn.com

February 9
La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum,
Mitten Workshop ~1-2 PM ~$5.00
360-466-4288 or info@laconnerquilts.com

Oliver Aldort, Cellist~ Maple Hall
7:30PM, 466-2665 or laconnerarts.com

February 16
Museum of Northwest Art ~ Family Art
Day, 10 AM-12 & 1-3 PM, 466-4446X108
to register or museumofnwart.org

February 20
Chamber After Hours Social
5:30-7:30 PM, (see info on this page)

February 21
Tulip Festival Tourism Training,
8AM-12, Best Western CottonTree Inn

February 23
La Conner Rotary Club 43rd Smelt Derby