La Conner E-Newsletter

La Conner's Events & Happenings for November 2009

2009-11-04T14:28:00.000-08:00

Be sure to stop by the Visitor Information Center as you enter La Conner at 606 Morris Street to pick up a Coupon Book. Only $1.00 will get you more than 60 coupons for lodging, restaurants, shopping, museum and services. Value worth $100's of dollars! Open Tuesday-Friday 11-3, Saturday & Sunday 12-3 (closed Monday).

Or stop by Earthenworks Gallery at 713 S. First St. and find coupon books for sale there as well. Open daily 10-5.

LODGING SPECIALS:

Estep's Residences consist of four fully equipped homes. Waterfront Condo is on the water, the Boat House and One Moore Place feature views of the Swinomish Channel, and Gina's Place has a hot tub and private yard. All are located in the heart of La Conner. Stay three nights and receive half-off your third night. Call (360) 466-2116 to make your reservations.

Hotel Planter is offering Stay Two Nights for the Price of One! Stay at the Hotel Planter Sunday through Thursday and when you pay for one night your next night is FREE. -Or stay one night Sunday through Thursday for $20 off. Weekend- Stay two nights over the weekend and receive the 2nd night for half off! Hotel Planter is located at 715 S. First St, La Conner, 360-466-4710.

Katy’s Inn is offering a Midweek Special, Sunday - Thursday. Stay 2 nights and receive $50.00 off second night OR stay 3 nights and receive third night FREE! You can make a reservation online or call 866-528-9746. Katy's Inn is a Victorian house built in 1882. Four rooms, private baths, hot tub, full breakfast, view of the Swinomish Channel! Located at 503 S. Third St. in La Conner.

La Conner Channel Lodge & Country Inn is offering mid-week specials Sunday-Thursday. Click on the dates you want and see the discount. Located at 205 N. First St. and 107 S. Second St. 888-466-4113.

Queen of the Valley Inn is pleased to announce her Cash for Couples Program: 10% off one night, 20% off two nights, 30% off three nights any day of the week.The Queen is determined to do her part to turn the economy around and give you the rest and proper breakfast you so richly deserve. Offer good until December 31, 2009. Not valid with other offers. Located at 12757 Chilberg Rd. 360-466-4578 or 888-999-1404.

DINING SPECIALS:

The Calico Cupboard is offering Early Bird breakfast specials Monday-Friday 7:30am-9:30am for $6.99. No limitations! Stop by 720 S. First St. in La Conner for an early breakfast.

La Conner Seafood & Prime Rib House is offering Channel House Dinners. Serving Sunday - Thursday 4:00 - 6:00 pm. Each 4-course dinner comes with appetizer, soup or salad, entree and dessert. All for only $18.95 or just $13.95 for entree . Banquet room upstairs can accommodate your group up to 100 people. Located at 614 S. First St, La Conner. 360-466-4014.

Seed’s Bistro & Bar is offering weeknight specials from 5-9 pm and live music every Thursday. Monday is Burger & Brew night, Tuesday is Local's Night, and Wednesday is Wine night. Live music every Thursday night! Located at 623 Morris Street, La Conner. Open 11:30 - 9 pm daily, Happy Hour from 3-6 pm. Call 360-466-3280 for reservations or more details.

EVENTS:

November 6, 7 & 8 ~ Art’s Alive! 2009 Celebrating 25 years. Walk through town & experience the gathering of La Conner’s imaginative spirit. Invitational Show features sculpture artist, Georgia Gerber along with 17 other artist’s at Maple Hall in La Conner. New this year is an Emerging Artist Show located at Maple Center and Gallery Cygnus. Exhibiting artists & demonstrations throughout town. Walkable Silent Auction, Sculpture Walk, Guided Tours, Contemplative Viewing, and lots more! $5 cover charge for Friday night’s Opening Reception at Maple Hall from 5-8pm, one drink ticket included. Many businesses will be staying open later Friday and Saturday nights for your viewing and shopping pleasure.

November 6-29 ~ Gallery Cygnus accepted the invitation from Arts Alive to show the work of 5 artists in the Emerging Artists section of the festival. Weston Lambert Jite Agbro Andi Shannon Richard Nash Jane Penman. Gallery partners Peggy Doyle, Elizabeth W. Noyes and Maggie Wilder are looking forward to meeting Arts Alive visitors to their gallery and will be welcoming guests for the 3 days of the festival. Cygnus will be showing more work by these emerging artists through November 29. The gallery is located at 109 Commercial Street, La Conner. Hours: Friday, Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

November 7 ~ The La Conner Kiwanis Club will host the annual Chowder by the Channel from 3-7 pm on Saturday, November 7th. Located at the Middle School, 2103 N. Sixth Street, in the cafeteria. Come taste the different clam chowders and vote on your favorite. There will also be plenty of prizes to bid on for a silent auction. This popular event is a fundraiser for the La Conner Boys and Girls Club.

November 8 ~ The Museum of Northwest Art presents Kevin Paul, Sunday, November 8, 1-3 pm at Museum of Northwest Art. Master carver from the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, Kevin Paul will demonstrate his art which is also on sale in the Museum Store. Located at 121 S. First St, La Conner. 360-466-4446.

November 8-28 ~ Kiwanis of La Conner presents the 4th Annual Apple Cup Challenge! This Scholarship Fund is a competition in La Conner between Husky and Cougar fans (or not) during the fall. Whichever side donates the most money gets to fly the mascot flag on the LC High School flagpole for a month during December and give the scholarship to a deserving graduating senior whom applied to that college during graduation ceremony.

La Conner Kiwanis and Key Club members will be at both local markets, Pioneer Market and La Conner Fruit & Produce Market, during November weekends starting on Sunday Nov. 8th, all weekends thereafter on Saturdays and Sundays until Nov. 28th which will be Apple Cup kick-off. Times are 10a.m. till 3p.m. at both markets during these days. Come meet a Kiwanian and Key Club member. We'd love to shake hands with you.

We also take donation by mail: Apple Cup/ La Conner Kiwanis P.O. Box 822, La Conner WA 98257. Put mascot preference on check. Get into this fun competition and help out a graduating senior!

November 13-15 ~ Holiday Festival at RoozenGaarde! Discover your own Christmas Tradition at RoozenGaarde! Our shop is filled with extraordinary gifts, fresh flowers, wreaths, and accessories for the home and garden. Holiday music, the delicious smell of hot cider, cookies and a pre-holiday savings of 20% throughout the gift shop. Please call our gift shop for more information at (360) 424-8531. Located at 15867 Beaver Marsh Rd., Mount Vernon

November 14 ~ Take time to stroll with John Christianson of Christianson's Nursery through La Conner Flats’ 11-acre garden to see up close the variety of evergreens planted in this garden. Saturday, November 14, 2009 at 1:00 pm. Trained topiaries as well as free-spirited conifers grace this property that begs you to walk its paths and inhale its wonderful scents. This annual tour is a popular one so bring your friends and don’t forget your camera! Immediately following the tour there will be tea and other delicacies hosted by Margie Hart at the Granary. The cost of the tea is $12 and reservations should be made early by calling 466-3190.

November 14 ~ La Conner Institute of Performing Arts brings back The Onyx Chamber Players to Maple Hall by popular demand. Saturday, November 14^th at 7:30 pm. The Onyx Chamber Players returns to perform a dual bicentennial anniversary celebration highlighting the music of Mendelssohn and Haydn as performed by Stephen Daniels (violin), Meg Brennand (cello), and David White (piano) and joined by Mel Butler on viola. Maple Hall is located at 105 Commercial Street, La Conner. Tickets can be purchased at The Next Chapter Bookstore 360-466-2665 or at the door.

November 15 ~ The Skagit River Poetry Project and the Skagit County Historical Museum present “Valley Voices: Poetry from the Skagit” on Nov. 15, 1:30-4 p.m. at the museum in La Conner. Local poets include Jim Bertolino, Jean Hallingstad, Nancy Pagh, Thelma Palmer, Michael Daley, Georgia Johnson, and Washington State poet laureate Sam Green. The museum is located at 501 S. 4th Street in La Conner. Suggested donation at the door is $12. Proceeds benefit the museum and the Skagit River Poetry Project, which holds ongoing literary events, puts poets in classrooms throughout the area, and organizes the biennial Skagit River Poetry Festival. For more info on the reading, call the museum at 360-466-3365.

The next Skagit River Poetry Festival will be May 20-22, 2010, in downtown La Conner The 2010 lineup includes such literary luminaries as Seattle author/poet Sherman Alexie, West African kora player Kurtis Lamkin, and former U.S. poet laureate Ted Kooser, a major poetic voice for America’s rural heartland. Tickets for the festival will go on sale soon.

November 20 – 12/31 ~ The Swinomish Casino has a lot to offer! Comedian Andrew Dice Clay 11/20 at 8pm 11/21 at 8pm, $50/ticket. Pacquio vs Catto Fight November 14 Free tickets available to Players Club Members while supplies last. Naughty or Nice Promotion November 16 - January 2 Earn drawing tickets daily. Sixteen winners per drawing night. Drawings every Friday and Saturday of promotion. Bonus drawings on 11/26, 12/23, 12/24, 12/29, 12/30 and 12/31. Sounds of Elvis Holiday Concert with Danny Vernon December 15 Two free shows: 2pm and 6pm Tickets available while supplies last starting November 9. Limit four tickets per Players Club Member. New Years Eve at Swinomish Casino Spectacular Buffet in the Two Salmon Cafe Live entertainment on the Main Stage by the Pop Offs starting at 9pm. Cash drawings throughout the day Balloon Drops, Confetti Cannons Free party favors for all Players Club Members. Swinomish Casino is also on Facebook and Twitter and provide special offers via EClub as well. Located at 12885 Casino Drive, 888-288-8883.

December 2-6 & 9-13, 11am-5:00pm ~ Celebrating the spirit of the season, the La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum invites you to a Holiday Bazaar at the Gaches Mansion. A special fund-raising event for the Museum, the bazaar offers unique gifts and handcrafted items, plus new & vintage quilts. The proceeds from your purchases assist with Museum operating expenses during the long, dark days of winter. Located at 703 S. Second St, 360-466-4288.

December 5 ~ Rotary Club of La Conner will host a pancake breakfast with Santa at Maple Hall in La Conner on Saturday, December 5^th from 8:30 - 11am. All are welcome! $10 Families, $6 Adults and $3 children. Located at 101 Commercial Street.

December 5 ~ MUSIC, CHOCOLATE AND WINE. . . OH MY! Step Outside and Wyman Park will be having their annual Holiday Open House on Saturday, December 5th from Noon to 7:00PM. Enjoy Chocolate, Wine, Music, Door Prizes, Drawings and More! We hope to see you there! Located at 101 & 105 S. First St, 360-466-4148.

December 5 ~ The La Conner Kiwanis are hosting a Holiday Craft Bazaar. The bazaar will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the La Conner Middle School, Saturday, December 5th. Get a picture taken with Santa, enjoy a bowl of chili, and shop for unique holiday gifts. Proceeds will help fund Kiwanis activities that support the children of La Conner. For a more information contact Joy Neal at jneal@lclib.lib.wa.us or 360-466-3352 (daytime).

December 5 ~ Hellam’s Vineyard will host the 2^nd annual 2009 Holiday Lights & Wine Cruise! When: Saturday, December 5th, 6 – 9:30 p.m. Where: Lake Union & Lake Washington Cost: $125 per person, plus tax (this covers everything!) Featuring world-class wine and food, a fantastic route along Lake Union and Lake Washington to see the lighted boats and houses onshore, plus a guest winemaker onboard! A 100’ cruise boat (Mystic Sea) will pick everyone up at Fisherman’s Terminal in Ballard, located at 3919 18th Ave. W. Dock 9 West, Seattle, 98119 Parking is available nearby, within walking distance of the boat. We’ll then cruise for 3 hours through the Montlake Cut, into Lake Washington, around Mercer Island and back to Fisherman’s Terminal. Onboard will be special guest winemaker Jill Noble, owner/winemaker of Couvillion winery out of Walla Walla. The cruise will be fully catered, with a varied menu including meats, seafood, cheeses, breads, pasta, salad, dessert and more. RSVP is required by calling the wine shop at 360-466-1758; a credit card is required. Cancellation policy: there is a 14 day cancellation policy in effect.

SHOPPING:

Childhood Bliss – win a $100 gift certificate! Post a picture of your lil’ cutie with a Childhood Bliss purchase on the Childhood Bliss Fan Page to enter.

RoozenGaarde is having a Fall Sale – All Bulbs 25% off beginning November 1st! They still have a great selection of bulbs available on their porch and all bulbs are marked 25% off! There is still time to plant so don't miss these great savings! Bulk quantities are still available! Stop in today! Please call our gift shop for more information at (360) 424-8531. Store hours are Monday – Saturday 9a-6p and Sunday 11a-4p. RoozenGaarde is located at 15867 Beaver Marsh Rd, Mount Vernon. Also, Tulip Town is offering 100 bulbs for $43.00 (mixed) Visit www.tuliptown .com

MUSEUMS:

La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum invites you to see their newest exhibit, "Play with Your Food: The Delicious Quilts of Sandy Bonsib". September 30 - December 27, 2009 Featuring textile artist and author, Sandy Bonsib. Also featuring “As the Needle Turns” with the students of Nancy Chong, and Quilts from our permanent collection featuring quilts from the Schlotterback Collection. Located at 703 S. Second St. and open Wednesday - Sunday from 11 am -5 pm. Admission is $5. 360-466-4288.

The Museum of Northwest Art present “Representing Abstraction” exhibit through January 3, 2010. Five Northwest artists; Mary Iverson, Margie Livingston, John Keppelman, Philip Govedare and Kelly Neidig combine the abstract and the representational with very different results. Another exhibit; “Tony Angell: Spirits of Place” will run through January 3, 2010 and is displayed in the second floor galleries. Located at 121 S. First St, La Conner. (360) 466-4446. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10-5, Sunday & Monday 12-5. Admission $5.

Art meets history at the Skagit County Historical Museum for the "Paint Me A River" exhibit. Over 75 original works will be on display and for sale in paint, glass, bronze, neon, photography and multi-media, revealing the wide variety of interesting, amusing and surprising exhibit. Skagit County Historical Museum is located at 501 S. Fourth St, La Conner and is open Tuesday - Sunday 11-5 pm. Admission: Adults: $4; Seniors & Children 6-12: $3; Families: $8; Children under 6 and Museum Members: Free. For more information, call 360-466-3365 for more details.

FEATURED BUSINESS:

The Wild Iris Inn is a charming and romantic 18-room country inn located at the entrance to La Conner. The Inn is one of only 8 inns in Washington included in the Select Registry’s “Distinguished Inns of North America” and is consistently ranked by Trip Advisor members as the number 1 Inn in La Conner. The Inn is just a short walk from the downtown shops and activities. Built as an inn, amenities offered with your stay at the Wild Iris Inn include in-room jetted spa tubs, fireplaces, high speed wireless internet access, cable television, DVD and CD players and private balconies or porches that offer serene pastoral and mountain views. The Inn also has meeting space that is ideal for corporate retreats of up to 30 people. Regardless of whether your visit to La Conner and the Wild Iris Inn is for business or pleasure, each morning of your stay, you will enjoy a generous and delicious complimentary two-course breakfast served in the Inn’s dining room at tables for two. Or, if you prefer, you may choose to relax and enjoy your breakfast from the comfort of your own room. Warm and attentive service and attention to detail are the hallmarks of the Inn. We look forward to welcoming you soon to the Wild Iris Inn!

September 2009 Events, Specials and Happenings

2009-09-02T10:28:00.000-07:00

Be sure to stop by the Visitor Information Center at 606 Morris Street as you enter La Conner for the 2009 Coupon Book, with 70 coupons good for dining, lodging, services, and museums. Good through December 31, 2009. 360-466-4778.

LODGING SPECIALS:

Estep's Residences consist of four fully equipped homes. Waterfront Condo is on the water, the Boat House and One Moore Place feature views of the Swinomish Channel, and Gina's Place has a hot tub and private yard. All are located in the heart of La Conner. Stay three nights and receive half-off your third night. Call (360) 466-2116 to make your reservations.

Katy’s Inn is offering a Midweek Special, Sunday - Thursday. Stay 2 nights and receive $50.00 off second night OR stay 3 nights and receive third night FREE! Make reservations online or call 866-528-9746. Katy's Inn is a Victorian house built in 1882. Four rooms, private baths, hot tub, full breakfast, view of the Swinomish Channel! Located at 503 S. Third St, La Conner.

The Queen of the Valley Inn is offering "Cash for Couples": 10% off one night, 20% off two nights, and 30% off three nights. For all reservations September through December. Queen of the Valley Inn is located at 12757 Chilberg Rd, just outside La Conner. 360-466-4578 or 888-999-1404.

The Heron Inn & Watergrass Day Spa is offering Canadian dollars at par! Located at 117 Maple Ave, the Heron Inn is a member of the Small Elegant Hotels group. Call 360-466-4626 to make reservations.

SHOPPING:

Champagne Cove is closing its storefront. At www.champagnecove.com you will receive the same Champagne service and unique quality selections of merchandise. In addition, we will be bringing you new items that we could not display in our current retail space! Call 800-745-8766.

Skagit County Historical Museum’s big 40% Off Sale continues through the month of September! Remember our current exhibit Harvesting the Light: Images of Contemporary Skagit Farm Life closes September 27, so don’t miss your last chance to see this marvelous photography exhibit about our very fertile and fabulous Skagit farmland. And pick up the award-winning gift book of the same name for a dazzling 40% off!

Something Blue Bridal Boutique is having an "Augusta Jones Trunk Show" September 18, 19 & 20. Featured Trunk Show Designers are Augusta Jones Bridal, Angela Nuran Shoes and Heidi Hull Jewelry. We will be offering a 10% discount for orders placed during this weekend only! Call for Appointment today as space is limited. Something Blue Bridal Boutique is located at 623 Morris St, 360-466-0415.

EVENTS:

September 1 – October 4 ~ Quilt Walk in La Conner Shops! This year’s Quilt Walk takes place in 37 La Conner shops and venues, with more than 90 quilts on display. Pick up a map at any participating venue or the La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum. The Quilt Walk features quilts by members of the Contemporary Quilt Art Association (CQA), based in the Seattle area.

September 5 ~ Fairy GodMother's Unlimited will be hosting local Equine author Connie Funk, and artist Kim McElroy on Saturday, September 5 from noon-5 pm. Both will be signing the book "Celebrate the Horse a Spiritual Connection" they collaborated on. See you there! Fairy Godmother's Unlimited is located at 705 S. First St., La Conner. Call 360-466-3340 for more info.

September 5 ~ Christianson’s Nursery presents Cooking with Julia & Jacques on Saturday, September 5, 11:00 AM Cost: $12 pre-register at 466-3821. A decade before the Julie and Julia phenomena there was Julia and Jacques Cooking at Home. Join Joanne Romann as she demonstrates the preparation of Julia’s Leek and Potato Soup and Large Pan Bagnat and Jaques Pepin’s Sautéed Pork Tenderloin with prunes and port followed by his Pears and Chocolate sauce.

September 11 ~ La Conner Retirement Inn presents "Passion for Fashion" Vintage clothing…1885 to 1985 join us for an afternoon of Fun, Music and Refreshments It is absolutely FREE! Friday, September 11 1:30 to 3:00 PM La Conner Retirement Inn is located at 204 N. First Street. 360-466-5700.

September 12-13 ~ Two Museum Estate Sale on September 12 in La Conner Civic Garden Club at 622 South Second Street. FEATURING: Quality antiques, collectibles, art, quilts, dishes, interior furnishings, glassware, jewelry, rugs, silverware, and vintage clothing. PUBLIC SALE DATES: Saturday September 12, 9am – 4pm and Sunday, September 13 10am-4pm. 2009 PRIVATE PRE-SALE Party: Friday, September 11, 5:30 - 8:00pm Tickets: $25 per person. BENEFITING: The Museum of Northwest Art and the La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum. To donate items, volunteer, or for info: call (360) 466-4446, ext. 112.

September 12 - October 10 ~ RoozenGaarde knows that Fall is the time to plant for spring! Join us every Saturday, beginning September 12th - October 10th for our bulb planting seminars! Each session begins at 10:30am. Learn how to plant, maintain and store your bulb investment, ask questions and watch as our display garden crew demonstrates how our beautiful 3 acre display garden is planned and planted each fall. Each person in attendance will receive an exclusive coupon for 20% off their bulb purchase! RoozenGaarde is located at 15867 Beaver Marsh Rd. For additional questions, please call (360) 424-8531 or toll free at (800) 732-3266.

September 12 ~ Christianson’s Nursery hosts local author Constance Funk for a book reading and interactive discussion on her latest book “Holy as Thou” and “Beauty from Brokenness” Saturday, September 12, 12:30 – 3:30 PM. Complimentary pre-register at (360) 466-3821. Light refreshments will be served.

September 13 ~ Museum of Northwest Art hosts artist, Ellen Sollod for an Artist's Talk and Book Signing on Sunday, September 13, 1pm. Ellen Sollod discusses her project, "Lake Washington Palimpsest," her process, and the discoveries she made along the way that revealed dramatic environmental impacts to the second largest lake in Washington. Sollod will sign copies of her newly released book, "Lake Washington Palimpsest". 121 S. First St, La Conner. Open daily 10-5 pm. 360-466-4446.

September 26 & 27 ~ Antique, Craft, & Flea Market at Skagit County Fairgrounds. Saturday from 8:00am to 4:00pm and Sunday from 10:00am to 4:00pm. Skagit County Fairgrounds located at 1410 Virginia Street, Mount Vernon (located at the corner of Hazel and Virginia). Admission: $3 for both days or $2 per day. Parking: $2. Over 200 retail vendor booths offering antiques, collectibles, toys, art, crafts, books, automotive, sporting goods, camping, hunting & fishing equipment, glassware, household items, furniture, and more. Food vendors including burgers & hot dogs, kettle corn, mini donuts and more. Kid’s Activities: Free Train Rides

September 27 ~ Museum of Northwest Art hosts artist Wynne Greenwood on Sunday, September 27, 2pm. Seattle-based artist Wynne Greenwood explores various intersections of Northwest art through images and video. The Museum of Northwest Art is located at 121 S. First St., La Conner. Open daily 10-5. 360-466-4446.

Seed’s Bistro & Bar invites you to enjoy weeknight specials from 5-9 pm and live music every Thursday. Monday is Burger & Brew night, Tuesday is Local's Night, and Wednesday is Wine night! Located at 623 Morris Street, La Conner. Open 11:30 - 9 pm daily, Happy Hour from 3-6 pm. Call 360-466-3280 for reservations or more details.

La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum invites you to “Saturdays with the Divas”! Every Saturday from 11-2, one or two of the Fidalgo Island Quilters Wearable Art Divas will be here to meet our visitors. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to talk with the artists firsthand! La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum is located at 703 S. Second St, 360-466-4288.

Skagit County Historical Museum - As participants in the La Conner Quilt and Textile Museum Quilt Walk, we are pleased to exhibit five unique small quilts in our lobby from September 1 through October 1. Four were created by Lindi Wood and one by Lynne Rigby, and they’re definitely not from Grandma’s trunk! Come on up and take a look!

MUSEUMS:

La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum invites you to see their newest exhibit, "Play with Your Food: The Delicious Quilts of Sandy Bonsib". September 30 - December 27, 2009 Featuring textile artist and author, Sandy Bonsib. Also featuring “As the Needle Turns” with the students of Nancy Chong, and Quilts from our permanent collection featuring quilts from the Schlotterback Collection. La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum is located at 703 S. Second St. and is open Wednesday - Sunday from 11 am -5 pm. Admission is $5. 360-466-4288.

Museum of Northwest Art invites you to the opening reception of three new exhibits, October 10, 2-5 pm. GOVEDARE, IVERSON, KEPPELMAN, LIVINGSTON & NEIDIG: REPRESENTING ABSTRACTION. Five Northwest artists combine the abstract and the representational with very different results. .
BOYD SUGIKI: LAYERS. Inspired by Istanbul’s skyline of historic domes and minarets alongside modern buildings, Boyd Sugiki creates a series of forms reminiscent of architecture in blown glass.
TONY ANGELL: SPIRITS OF PLACE. A selection of works by noted Northwest sculptor Tony Angell in the second floor galleries. This exhibition is held in conjunction with the release of Angell’s latest book, Puget Sound Through an Artist’s Eye.

SERVICES:

Blue Water Massage is offering a 'Summer Soother' Massage Special. In this fun treatment you'll start by soaking those dry, flip-flop feet in a moisturizing foot bath as you sip on a cold, fruity beverage. You'll then be treated to a soothing, rejuvenating massage that combines a variety of relaxation techniques, stretching, and foot reflexology. Loose clothing is advised, Hawaiian shirts recommended. Bring your favorite relaxing summer music if you wish. The 'Summer Soother' special is available Mon-Fri and runs through Sept. $55 for 1 hour or $80 for 1.5 hours. Call 360-333-8811 for scheduling or gift certificates. Call 360-333-8811 for information about services, rates, and scheduling. 125 Washington St., La Conner.

Native Springs is offering a Back to School Special. Our 75 minute teen facial and consult is usually $90. During the month of September it is $45, yes that is 1/2 OFF for students! Show your current student ID, whatever the grade, you save! The clay facial works naturally to remove the bacteria and clear blackheads, leaving the face smooth as silk. Head back to school with clearer and healthier skin. Call Joan at 360-708-8313 to schedule. Located at the La Conner Wellness Center on 2nd and Washington Street, plenty of client parking.

SAVE THE DATE!

October 2-4 ~ Join us for 12th anniversary Quilt Festival 2009! This annual event takes place October 2-4 in three fantastic venues in La Conner, Washington–The La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum in the Historic Gaches Mansion, Maple Hall, and The La Conner Civic Garden Club. Quilt Fest is a celebration that includes a dazzling show of award-winning quilts, fabulous workshops, vendors, a silent auction, and three floors of exhibits in the Museum. Two new exhibits open in the Museum during Quilt Fest weekend: “Play with Your Food: The Delicious Quilts of Sandy Bonsib” and “As the Needle Turns: The Students of Nancy Chong.” Visitors can also stroll through the shops of La Conner during the month-long “Quilt Walk in the La Conner Shops.” The only quilt museum in Washington & one of only thirteen in the U.S., the La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum may be contacted for more information at 360-466-4288.

October 3 & 4 ~ Join us for the 11th annual Festival of Family Farm Tour. An “open barn” celebration featuring Farm tours (15 to choose from!) including dairy, row crop, animal, organic, orchard, shellfish and Christmas tree Fresh produce, dairy, beef and shellfish markets and roadside stands Delectable treats and free samples Hands-on children’s activities: veggie car races, artificial cow milking, veggie art, oyster shuffleboard & more! Hay rides, pony rides & horse drawn wagons Scarecrow making & corn mazes U-pick and pre-picked pumpkin patches Farm animal viewing, petting and walking Meet the farmer sessions and educational exhibits Farm equipment displays…. and much more! Begin & end your tour in the Historic Waterfront Village of La Conner ~ The Heart of the Skagit Valley! Experience the diversity, beauty and bounty of “Washington’s backyard.” Saturday 10-5 pm and Sunday 12-4 pm.

October 4 ~ Skagit Valley Farm Pedal! Enjoy a visit to several Skagit Valley farms by bicycle during the Festival of Family of Farms. Choose to ride 18 or 35 miles in Skagit Valley, where the terrain is flat and the traffic is low. Riders will depart from La Conner Flats after enjoying hot coffee, cider and pastry at the farm’s Garden Café. Both routes will then visit Hedlin Family Farm, Schuh Farms and Gordon Skagit Farms. The 35 mile route will take you through the farm lands of Fir Island for a visit to Alpacas of Misty Ridge. Each farm is unique, offering specialized tours, delicious treats and fresh farm products for purchase. PLUS ... our “sag” driver will pick up your farm purchases and bring them back to the finish! HELMETS REQUIRED ... EXPERIENCED RIDERS ONLY! Maps are provided and routes are led by experienced local bicyclists. For more information contact Skagit Bicycle Club members Dian and Steve Jahn at dianstevejahn@hotmail.com or call 360-293-1340.

October 9-11 ~ Hotel Planter Presents: "Healthy Indulgence". Indulge yourself in a weekend replenishing your mind, body and spirit through pampering and fun! Plan to come for the weekend or just for the day! Pick which events, spa & relaxation sessions and free talks you would like to attend and then we’ll take care of the rest. Prices range from $10 and up. (Free Talks are FREE!) Give us a call to book your reservations. If you stay for a night or two over the weekend, we are offering light breakfast fare with freshly brewed coffee and herbal tea. Hotel Planter ~ 715 First Street ~ La Conner, WA 98257 Reservations: 800-488-5409 ~ Phone: 360-466-4710.

October 9 ~ La Conner Institute of Performing Arts presents Andre Feriante at 7:30 pm in Maple Hall. Andre Feriante, award winning composer/guitarist, will present a program of original works in the classical, flamenco, and Brazillan styles. Andre was born in Naples, Italy and began playing the guitar as an adolescent in Rome. Feriante has ten recordings to his credit and has performed internationally for over two decades. Concert takes place at Maple Hall located at 105 Commercial St., La Conner. Tickets can be purchased by calling Next Chapter Bookstore 360-466-2665.

October 10 ~ Skagit County Historical Museum invites you to the opening of the new exhibit Paint Me a River! Art Meets History running through January 3, 2010! The works of over 85 local artists feature the artists’ individual views of Skagit history. 501 S. 4th Street at the top of the hill, 360-466-3365.

October 24 ~ Bears ‘N Friends invites you to a Steiff event in La Conner. Claire Steiff Meisel, granddaughter to Richard Steiff, who invented the teddy bear will be in the store signing and answering questions from 11:00-4:00. There will be door prize drawings and we will be handing out goody bags at the store, while supply lasts, along with our wonderful desserts. There will be two showings of the DVD at the LaConner Waterfront Cafe, one around noon, and the second one about 2:30. If people would like to come early and have lunch while the presentation is going on they are more than welcome. We will have samples of the new Fall/Christmas line and other Steiff pieces. If you have any questions please contact the store at 360-466-3538

November 6, 7 & 8 ~ La Conner's 25th Annual Arts Alive! Invitational Art Exhibition and Open Show with local artists at Maple Hall. New this year is an Emerging Artist exhibit! Businesses throughout La Conner will have featured artists in their facility with demonstrations.
Artist's Reception at Maple Hall with featured artist, Georgia Gerber, will take place Friday evening 5-8.
Art League North will have an Artist's Reception on Friday evening, 6-8 pm at La Conner Retirement Inn.
Chowder by the Channel will be hosted by Kiwanis with proceeds to benefit La Conner Boys and Girls Club. This takes place at the La Conner Middle School at 305 N. 6th St. on Saturday, November 7th from 3-6 PM. Cost is $7. Vote for the Best Chowder!

FEATURED BUSINESS:

Katy’s Inn is one of the oldest homes in La Conner and when opened in 1984 it was the first bed and breakfast in town. The inn sits high on a hill overlooking the Swinomish Channel and just two blocks from the beautiful artistic village of La Conner, with easy access to sightseeing, shopping and dining. There are three bedrooms upstairs; each room has doors leading out onto the balcony and one bedroom downstairs with a private entrance and porch. All four rooms have private baths. Guests are encouraged to sit in the parlor, play games and dine at the spacious dining room table. Breakfasts are always a highlight, served in your room or in the dining room. If outside is where you would rather be, you will find a large wrap-around porch for rocking and reading, a deck with hot tub, covered lounging area with fireplace and BBQ area, and well manicured grounds. Katy’s Inn is open year-round and can also be booked for weddings, workshops, reunions, and special occasions. Voted #1 bed and breakfast in Skagit County for 2009! Current special; stay Sunday – Thursday and receive $50 off second night stay OR third night FREE!
Located at 503 S. Third Street, on the corner of Washington and Third. Book online or call 360-466-9909/866-528-9746.

August 2009 Events, Specials and Happenings

2009-08-05T18:23:00.000-07:00

Be sure to stop by the Visitor Information Center as you enter La Conner at 606 Morris Street to pick up a Coupon Book. Only $1.00 will get you 69 coupons for anything from lodging, restaurants, shopping, museums to services. Value worth $100's of dollars! Hours are Monday - Friday 11-4, Saturday & Sunday 12-3. 360-466-4778.

EVENTS:

Skagit County Fair presents “Stars & Stripes Country Nights” August 12 - 15! Great Entertainment, Carnival, Pro West Rodeo, Karaoke Contest, Find Flo at the Fair, Farm Animals, Displays, Cool Chicks and more. Wednesday, August 12th admission is FREE 10 am - 1 pm! Cost is $9 adults and $6 for seniors & students. Skagit County Fairgrounds, 1410 Virginia Street, Mount Vernon, 360-336-9453.

The “9th Annual La Conner Classic Yacht & Auto Show” is scheduled for Saturday, August 15, 2009 at the south basin of the La Conner Marina. A fun filled day for the entire family! $3.00 to view the yachts and cars (children under 12 are free). A pancake breakfast will take place in the Swinomish Yacht Club from 7:30-10 am with all proceeds benefiting the La Conner Sea Scouts program, tickets are $6.50 per person. Along with the classic yachts and autos, there will be vendor booths, plus great activities for the kids hosted by the La Conner Boys and Girls Club.

Seed's Bistro & Bar is offering weeknight specials from 5-9 pm. Monday is Burger & Brew, Tuesday is Local's Night, Wednesday is Wine, and Thursday is Live Music! Located at 623 Morris Street, La Conner. Open 11:30 - 9 pm daily, Happy Hour from 3-6 pm. Call 360-466-3280 for reservations or more details.

Hellam's Vineyard invites you to a wine tasting with ANIMALE - Saturday, August 8th from 1- 6 pm. Also, wine tasting with Mercer Cellars on Saturday, August 15th from 1-6 pm. Special 20% case discounts offered on these wines, these days only, mixed cases ok. Hellam's Vineyard is located at 109 N. First St., La Conner in the red Lime Dock building. 360-466-1758

La Conner Wellness Center is hosting a"End of Construction" OPEN HOUSE on Friday, August 14th from 4-8 pm. Won't you join us? We are having snacks and music, tea, demonstrations, short workshops about each of our specialties in the large studio area in the SV Acupuncture's suite. Sit and have a FREE foot soak at Native Springs. We want to share this time of celebration with you! La Conner Wellness Center 125 E Washington Street La Conner, WA 98257. Call for details 360-708-8313 Blue Water Massage - Inner Wave - Lighthouse Massage - Lizz & Company Hair Design - Native Springs Natural Skincare - Skagit Valley Acupuncture.

Museum of Northwest Art store presents artist, James Minson on Saturday, August 22nd 12-4pm. Meet Seattle glass artist James Minson--view his new sculptural and jewelry artwork, formed from flame-worked glass depicting natural forms and fanciful compositions. Located at 121 S. First St., La Conner. 360-466-4446.

Childhood Bliss is Squeezing Lemons for Charity! Saturday, August 22nd the lemonade stand in front of Childhood Bliss will be operating in full swing from 10-5pm. All proceeds will be donated to La Conner School District’s Earth Club. Additionally, they will be selling earth flags and re-usable earth friendly shopping bags. Lemonade customers will be given a coupon for 10% off their next purchase at Childhood Bliss! Located at 521 Morris St, La Conner, 360-466-2229.

Mary Davis Lighting will have an ‘ole fashioned sidewalk sale” on Saturday August 15th from 9 to 3 pm. There will be antiques galore, lamp parts and general household items. Located at 402 Morris Street, in the old fire house. Early birds pay double! 360-466-3495

LODGING:

Estep’s Residences is offering a special through the month of August. Stay three nights and receive half-off your third night! Your choice of 4 nightly residences in the heart of La Conner. Call 360-466-2116 to make your reservations.

Katy’s Inn Bed & Breakfast is offering a special through the month of August. Sunday – Thursday, stay 2 nights and receive a $50 discount OR stay three nights and receive your third night FREE! Call 360-466-9909 to make your reservations.

The Heron Inn & Watergrass Day Spa is accepting Canadian dollars at par! Through the month of August and September, the Heron Inn invites our Canadian friends to stay and save. Located at 117 Maple Ave, La Conner. Call 360-466-4626 to make reservations.

SERVICES:

Blue Water Massage is offering a 'Summer Soother' Massage Special. In this fun treatment you'll start by soaking those dry, flip-flop feet in a moisturizing foot bath as you sip on a cold, fruity beverage. You'll then be treated to a soothing, rejuvenating massage that combines a variety of relaxation techniques, stretching, and foot reflexology. Loose clothing is advised, Hawaiian shirts recommended. Bring your favorite relaxing summer music if you wish. The 'Summer Soother' special is available Mon-Fri and runs August through Sept. $55 for 1 hour or $80 for 1.5 hours. Call 360-333-8811 for scheduling or gift certificates. Eve Boe, LMP Blue Water Massage La Conner, WA 360-333-8811.

Island Hospital is offering FREE car-seat checks! Keep your children and grandchildren safe by having their car seats inspected and properly installed by dropping by a free clinic on Thursday, August 13 from 3 – 5 p.m. Inspections will be conducted by nationally trained car-seat technicians and will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis by Skagit County Medic One. Please call 360-299-1309 for more information. 1211 24th Street Anacortes, WA 98221

SHOPPING:

Caravan Gallery invites you to help celebrate 14 years of business by saving 20% on your purchases storewide! New arrivals from Thailand, Hong Kong & Bali. Celebration only lasts until August 9th so hurry in! Located at 619 S. First St, La Conner. Open daily 10-5, 360-466-4808.

Skagit County Historical Museum is having a 40% off just about everything in our little Museum Store -- including Harvesting the Light exhibit book, vintage-style Mosser Glassware, eco-friendly toys, nostalgic postcards & lots more! Located at 501 S. Fourth St, La Conner. Open Tue – Sunday 11-5 pm. 360-466-4446.

Vintage La Conner Thrift & Consignment Shoppe is offering ALL men's & women's t-shirts, shorts and tank tops at $2.00 each (up to 50% savings)! This offer is good through August. Open daily (except Monday) from 11-5 pm and located at 301 Morris St, La Conner. 360-466-4017. Run by Soroptimist International of La Conner, all proceeds benefit students and the community.

Christianson's Nursery is offering 20% off all Outdoor Containers August 3 – 23. Come see our huge selection of small to very large glazed and terra cotta outdoor containers. Also, offering 20% off all Summer Heather, Augusust 24 - 31. Located at 15806 Best Rd., just outside of La Conner. 360-466-3821.

July Events in La Conner, WA

2009-07-07T15:09:00.000-07:00

Be sure to stop by the Visitor Information Center as you enter La Conner at 606 Morris Street to pick up a Coupon Book. Only $1.00 will get you 70 coupons for anything from lodging, restaurants, shopping, museum and services. Value worth $100's of dollars! Open Monday - Friday 11-4, Saturday & Sunday 12-3.

EVENTS HAPPENING:
Cadillacs Forever Car Show & Street Dance will take place on Saturday, July 18th in the La Conner Marina. Over 50 Cadillacs of all ages will be on display from noon – 4 pm. Beer & Wine Garden on site, cold non-alcoholic drinks available, JrCadillac will perform in concert from 7-10 pm. Car Show is Free! Tickets for JrCadillac are $10 per person, $25 for family.

Kiwanis of La Conner host the 2nd Annual Cash Cow Art Auction! Art will be displayed in shops all over La Conner. Over 30 artists will have pieces from paintings to quilts to sculpture on exhibit during the month of July. Any of the art in the shops can be purchased during the month of July with a live auction to be held 3 p.m., Saturday, July 18th at the La Conner Fruit & Produce Market. There will also be a BBQ on Friday, July 17th, also at the La Conner Fruit & Produce Market. The art exhibit and sale is sponsored by the Kiwanis of La Conner as a fundraiser for their student scholarships. For more information call 360-466-3352.

Childhood Bliss Semi-Annual Sale! Saturday July 25th 9:00am - 6:00pm. 20% off store-wide (Sat. only) and 40% off spring & summer fashions! Shop Online Too! http://www.childhoodbliss.com/ . 360.466.2229. Childhood Bliss Inspirational Finery & Fun, 521 Morris St

Christianson’s Nursery will host a workshop on “The Exotic World of Bamboo”. Saturday, July 11th, 11:00 am. Cost is $5 and you can pre-register at 360-466-3821.

The Waterfront Café in LaConner is pleased to invite our guests to enjoy Open Mike Night every Friday beginning Friday, July 3 at 6:30 PM. Open Mike Night will also include some Karaoke and special appearances by both local and national talents. Friday, July 31 at 6:30 PM, Big Elvis (Pete Vallee) will be performing as well as greeting the guests and signing autographs. Pete is the number one Elvis in Vegas and is the only Elvis to have his own show on the strip for a record 7 years. Located at 128 S. First St.

EDASC 22nd Annual Golf Tournament & Wine Fest: Friday, July 24, 2009
Held at the beautiful and scenic Avalon Golf Course in Burlington, this is one of the most popular tournaments in Skagit County with 220 golfers participating. A Wine Fest, held on the Practice Green follows the day of golf. This is the premiere social event of the summer season with hundreds of business & community leaders joining the golfers for an evening of wine tasting, fabulous hors d'oeuvres and great jazz all in a beautiful setting. Wine Fest tickets: $50. Call 360-336-6114

14th Annual “Celebrate Skagit Art” Show runs July 17-26 at La Conner SeaSide Gallery. “Celebrate Skagit Art” Features Skagit Valley’s Working Landscapes. Sponsored by Skagitonians to Preserve Farmland, this art show features a variety of media by 50 well-known local artists inspired by the Skagit Valley’s working landscapes and lots of opportunity to learn more about the importance of protecting and preserving some of the world’s best farmland. "Celebrate Skagit Art" opens Friday, July 17, 11 am – 5 pm at La Conner Seaside Gallery, located at 112 Morris Street in La Conner. “We are thrilled and grateful to have such strong support from premier local artists involved in our annual art show,” said Allen Rozema, executive director, Skagitonians to Preserve Farmland.

“Painting the Town” August 1 & 2. Prestigious Plein-Air Artists to Paint and Exhibit in La Conner. Puget Sound Group of Northwest Painters, a venerable organization celebrating 82 years of painting history in the Pacific Northwest, will set up their eisels and paint on the spot. La Conner Seaside Gallery is hosting a reception for these artists and the work they will bring before the paint-out begins, on Saturday, August 1st, from 4:30-8:30 p.m. The exhibit runs during the weekends of August 1 to August 31. Seaside Gallery, 112 Morris Street, La Conner, is open Fridays to Mondays 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

SHOPPING:

Skagit County Historical Museum is having a Midsummer Madness Sale during the month of July. 40% off storewide on just about everything – from our award-winning “Harvesting the Light” exhibit gift book and vintage-style Mosser glassware to eco-friendly wood toys, shiny cars & trucks, lovely notecards and souvenir magnets. Sale continues through July while supplies last! Historical Society books excluded.
Come on up the hill to the Museum at 501 S. 4th Street. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm. 360.466.3365

Something Blue Bridal Boutique is having “The End of the Season Super Sale!” You are invited to the best sale of the year. Everything in the boutique is discounted 30% to 75%. If you are a sample size 6 to 12, this is an extraordinary chance to get an immaculate sample gown at a fraction of the retail price. 623 Morris Street, La Conner. 360-466-0415.

SERVICES:
Native Springs has a special running until Sept 1. It is a preferred customer special of 30% off. Makes the clay facial $63. Mention the ad when calling 360-708-8313 to schedule and save.

MUSEUMS:
Museum of Northwest Art is open daily 10-5 pm
Elusive Elements
July 3 - October 4, 2009
Opening Reception: Saturday, July 11, 2-5pm
Four Northwest artists work with the fleeting nature of the elements--earth, air, fire, and water. Two of the artists represent or mimic nature with synthetic mediums, while two use elements to make their art.
Artists' Panel: Saturday, July 11, 1pm
Elusive Elements artists talk with curator Kathleen Moles about their motives and methods in creating works that address the four basic elements.

Ellen Sollod: Lake Washington Palimpsest
July 3 - October 4, 2009
Opening Reception: Saturday, July 11, 2-5pm
Ellen Sollod explores Seattle's Lake Washington and the effect upon its shores, wetlands, and tributaries due to the 1916 construction of the Ballard Locks and the digging of the Montlake Cut. Like a palimpsest, different environmental histories were written and erased, and new ones inscribed atop and around the Lake.

La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum is open Wednesday – Sunday , 11-5 pm. $5 admission.
"The Fiber Quest" July 01 - September 27, 2009.
Meet the Fiber Optix artists on Sunday July 12; 1-4 pm
Fiber Optix is a group of northwest artists whose chosen medium is the art quilt or quilted wall hanging. The Fiber Optix members meet once a month to share and critique their work. Their goal is to grow as artists through this regular exchange of visual, technical, and theoretical concepts. They share inspiration, techniques, opportunities, and information. They have exhibited in all of the most prestigious national and international art quilt shows. Their work has also been written up in various publications and has appeared on the covers of scientific journals, books, and magazines. Several members have authored books about art. Sponsored by the Poling family in memory of Karen H. Poling.

“Color Me Wearable” Celebrating Individual Style.
Meet the Fidalgo Island Quilters Guild of Anacortes “Divas” reception Saturday, July 11; 11-3 pm.
On Saturdays during this exhibit, one or more members of the Divas group will be present to talk with visitors about the exhibit and individual pieces . The submission criteria for this show was that the entry must be a “wearable garment, constructed from scratch by the entrant, using unique and creative clothing techniques. “ 67 items were submitted for the jury and from those they selected the 52 garments on display here.

Skagit County Historical Museum is open Tuesday-Sunday, 11-5 pm.
“Harvesting the Light: Images of Contemporary Skagit Farm Life” . This fun exhibit will run through September 27, 2009. The Skagit County Historical Museum is located at 501 S. Fourth St, 360-466-3365.

Featured Business for July:

The La Conner Marina is only one of the port district facilities under the management of the Port of Skagit. Many of you have seen the beautiful new building at the marina which was recently completed and is now occupied by Action Marine Service and La Conner Yacht Sales. This is one of many projects in the port's charter to enhance trade and commerce in Skagit Valley. Other projects are underway at Skagit Regional Airport and the Bayview Business Park, both of which are owned and operated by the Port of Skagit. The port's mission is "Jobs for our Community." In addition the port leads an effort to keep the eleven mile Swinomish Channel dredged on a regular basis. To accomplish these goals, the port works continuously with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the Swinomish Channel dredging and Federal Aviation Administration for enhanced airport infrastructure.

The Port works closely with customers of port facilities to improve their efficiency. To that end, a fiber optic network is near completion for the airport and business park. Port customers provide for 2,715 jobs and generate revenues of 250 million dollars annually in Skagit County.

The marina, the Swinomish Channel, the airport and the fiber optic network are gateways between port customers and global commerce. These are examples of the port's focus to accomplish its mission of enhancing trade and commerce.

La Conner June E-Newsletter

2009-06-05T08:25:00.000-07:00

LODGING SPECIALS:

Estep's Residences consist of four fully equipped homes. All are located in the heart of La Conner. Stay three nights and receive half-off your third night. Call (360) 466-2116 to make your reservations.

Katy’s Inn is offering Midweek Specials, Sunday-Thursday. Stay two nights- receive $50.00 off, Stay three nights – receive 3rd night free! Located at 503 S. Third St, La Conner. 360-466-9909.

Potlatch RV Resort has recently begun renting RV spaces to the public for $35 per night. We also have tent sites at $22 a night. Each site has a grassy area that a tent can be set up on. Located at 420 Pearle Jensen Way, La Conner, 360-466-4468.

Queen of the Valley Inn is offering the "Royal Stimulus Package" - 20% off 2 nights and 30% off 3 nights through May and June. Come see where your food is grown! Located at 12757 Chilberg Rd, 360-466-4578.

Skagit Bay Hideaway is offering $199 per night/2 night minimum. Located 17430 Goldenview Ave. just over the Rainbow Bridge. Private island waterfront getaway with private “tree house” hot tub. 360-466-2262/888466-2262.

The Heron Inn & Watergrass Day Spa is offering Canadian dollars at par for the months of May and June. Located at 117 Maple Ave, La Conner 360-466-4626.

RETAIL NEWS:

Bears ‘N Friends is working to raise money for the Anacortes Relay for Life - Cancer Research- We are selling a 13" Gund Bear with a sweatshirt that says "Need a Hug" or "Could you use a hug". The bears are $15 (suggested retail from Gund $20) with all of the proceeds going to our cancer walk team. We are also collecting change. It is "Huskies" vs. "Cougars" whichever team brings in the most money their flag will fly on our site on the day of the walk, June 26 - 27. Located at 509 S. First St., La Conner 360-466-3528.

Happy Father’s Day Dads! Childhood Bliss offers special books about daddy’s, and the Petunia Pickle Bottom Scout diaper bag especially designed for Dads. Mention La Conner’s E-Newsletter for 20% off the Scout Diaper Bag. Located at 521 Morris St, La Conner 360-466-BABY.

Nasty Jack’s Antiques won first place in the Evening Magazine annual Best of Western Washington Northwest Escapes for Favorite Antique Store! Stop by and see why at 103 Morris St, 360-466-3209.

Native Springs has a special offer: For the entire month of June, everyone can enjoy our great locals’ spa treatment discount. Just mention this ad and receive $20 off any spa service. Your Choice!
Buy 3 get one FREE-- During the month of June receive a free FOOT TLC with the purchase of any three Clay Facials. Package of 3 = $180 and receive $40 clay exfoliation of the foot and legs. Leaves your skin baby soft. You have a year to use this package. Located at 125 E. Washington St. (360) 708-8313

The Skagit River Boutique announces the addition of David Kahn jeans for women. These jeans are the softest jeans you have ever worn. We invite the ladies to come in and try the David Kahn jeans and become one of those who will wear nothing else. We also are continuing our "Not your Daughter's Jeans", in dark denim and black but at a very special price of $79.00, the lowest price anywhere! Located at

EVENTS & HAPPENINGS:

Gallery 109 invites you to an opening reception for artist’s Peggy Doyle, painter and collage artist, and Marguerite Goff, ceramic artist, Saturday, June 6th from 6-9 pm. This show will run June 6 – July 26, 2009. Gallery 109 is located at 109 Commercial Street, La Conner. The gallery is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Please note: Gallery 109 will change gallery name to Gallery Cygnus in the next couple of months.

Hellams Vineyard is offering a Wildlife Cruise – Saturday, June 13th, 6:30 – 8:30 pm. This trip will take us down the Swinomish Channel and into Padilla Bay, a stunning wildlife sanctuary filled with rare birds and other marine life. This is one of the best times of the year to view wildlife both on land and in the water, with many species visiting our area during this short window of time. A careful selection of fine wines from the shop will be available for tasting, with gourmet heavy appetizers served. Cost is only $89 per person + tax; please RSVP to the wine shop at 360.466.1758. Please be at the wine shop no later than 6:00 p.m. so we can check you in, and bring a light jacket and camera with you!

Lincoln Theatre presents The Mishras Friday, June 19th at 8:00 pm $23, $20, $17 Reserved Seating. The father and son sitar duo return to Lincoln Theatre for an encore performance. These masterful musicians (Pandit Shivnath and Deobrat Mishra), have received praise from international press, fans and academics. The Lincoln Theatre is located at 712 South First Street, Mount Vernon. For more information and tickets call 360-336-8955 or 877-754-6284 toll free.

Christianson’s Nursery presents the Sixth Annual Rose Festival with Ciscoe Morris Saturday, June 20th, 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Schedule of Events can be found at www.christiansonsnursery.com. The Tri-Valley Rose Society will hold its annual Rose Show in the historic 1888 Schoolhouse on the grounds of Christianson’s Nursery. The public is encouraged to bring in their roses for entry into the show. All entries are due by 10:00 am on the morning of the show. This year there will be four major award categories. Plan to attend this special event and enjoy the Rose Festival being held throughout the Nursery. Located at 15806 Best Rd, just outside of La Conner. 360-466-3821.

The Museum of Northwest Art’s 17th Annual Art Auction is Saturday, June 20th. The perfect event for both seasoned and novice art collectors, featuring over 300 works by painters, printmakers, sculptors, glass artists, ceramic artists, jewelers, textile artists and photographers. Tickets $75 in advance. Call (360) 466-4446, Ext. 109 or online at www.museumofnwart.org. The Museum of Northwest Art is located in La Conner at 121 S. First Street.

La Conner Yacht Sales will host their 13th Annual "Fathers Day Weekend Boat Show", June 20 & 21, 2009 in the La Conner Marina. SAT/SUN: Over 30 previously enjoyed powerboats open for viewing on 'F' dock (South Guest Dock), FREE ADMISSION. SAT: Swap Meet at the La Conner Marina, South moorage basin, nautical or KNOT treasures. (Swap Meet is available to the non-commercial public to sell your wares, no charge for space, donation to non- profit beneficiary appreciated.) SAT/SUN: Enjoy hot dogs, bottled water, sodas, and chips. 100% of raffle and donation proceeds to benefit the non-profit SKAGIT BAY SEARCH AND RESCUE ORGANIZATION! To preview the boats to be on display, visit http://www.laconneryachtsales.com/. If you have any questions, call La Conner Yacht Sales: 360.466.3300 or toll free at 800.232.8879. BRING DAD TO LA CONNER!!

The Skagit County Historical Museum ~ All fathers will enjoy free admission on Father’s Day, June 21. The current featured exhibit is “Harvesting the Light: Images of Contemporary Skagit Farm Life” a stunning photography exhibit focusing on the farms, the people and the bounty of Skagit Valley through the lens of 11 local photographers and the words of Skagit farmers. Located at 501 S. 4th Street, at the top of the hill in La Conner. Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 11 to 5 pm. For more information, call 360.466.3365. admission is Adults:$4; Seniors:$3; Families:$8.

The Skagit County Historical Museum is also featuring a lovely quilt recently donated by the Territorial Daughters Chapter 2 for the Museum’s annual Quilt Raffle. All cotton and queen size, this beauty was made by the Conway Quilters. Raffle tickets are available for $1 each at the Museum and drawing is December 1. All proceeds benefit the Museum. 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.

NOTICE TO BOATERS:

The Swinomish Channel-BNSF Rail Road Swing Bridge on the Swinomish Channel between Anacortes and La Conner will be closed for urgent repairs (replacement of center bearing and pinion gear). In order to do this, the span must be fixed in place and jacked up. The period starts 7 a.m. June 8 and ends June 12, 2009. The risk of mechanical failure influenced our decision not to postpone our approval until the end of boating season. Please spread the word and feel free to call me if you have questions. Austin Pratt Bridge, Administrator 13th Coast Guard District 206.220.7282

FEATURED BUSINESS FOR JUNE:

Earthenworks Gallery offers a unique selection of gifts, as well as artwork for the collector. Choose from the work of over four hundred American craftsmen and artists, including jewelry, glass, ceramics, woodworking, sculpture, outdoor garden art, lighting, wearable art and original paintings. Over the past thirty years, Earthenworks has earned a national reputation as a highly respected art gallery. It is recognized as one of the top twenty-five art and craft galleries in America. Earthenworks’ focus has always been one of quality, integrity, and personalized service. Although contemporary art and crafts are emphasized, much of the artwork enhances a more traditional environment as well. Earthenworks continues to seek new work from emerging artists and from those who are currently represented. We are happy to work with you and our artists to commission work and special orders that will meet your personal needs. Worldwide shipping, gift certificates, and complimentary gift-wrapping are available. We look forward to your visit. Located at 713 S. First Street, 360-466-4422, http://www.earthenworksgallery.com/.

Be sure to stop by the La Conner Visitor Information Center at 606 Morris Street as you come into town to pick up a La Conner Coupon Book. Filled with 70 coupons with discounts worth $100's, good for all of 2009 - and cost only $1.00! Give us a call at 360-466-4778/888-642-9284.

La Conner May Newsletter

2009-05-05T11:58:00.000-07:00

La Conner May Newsletter

Now in it's second printing! Be sure to stop by the Visitor Information Center as you enter La Conner at 606 Morris Street to pick up your Coupon Book. With 70 coupons for Mueums, Lodging, Dining, Services, and Shops - you can't go wrong for only $1.00! Good for all of 2009. Know someone planning to visit? Great gift for

Mother's Day.

the La Conner Brewing Company will host local author Tom Robbins for a special book signing on Tuesday, May 5 from 6:30-8:00 pm. Come early for dinner and purchase Tom's new book, "B is for Beer". La Conner Brewing Company is located at 117 S. First St, (360) 466-1415. Books are provided by The Next Chapter Bookstore at 721 S. First St, (360) 466-2665.

La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum ~ hosts two exhibits running through June 28, 2009. "Vision in Fibers" curated by Shiela Groman. Sheila Groman’s fiber art can be described as “original contemporary traditionals.” The second exhibit is "Birdscapes" curated by Karin Franzen. Karin Franzen, a 26-year resident of Alaska and a full-time studio artist, creates art quilts that are both innovative and soundly tied to tradition. Her work revolves around one of her favorite subjects, the birds of Alaska. Located at 703 S. Second St., La Conner.

Lincoln Theatre ~ presents "Greater Tuna" on Thursday, May 7th at 7:30 pm. Two actors play 22 characters in famous quick change comedy. Tickets are $24.50 & $29.50. "Booker T" comes to the Lincoln Theatre on Saturday, May 16th at 8:00 pm. Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee and arguabley the most famous Hammond B3 player in history! Tickets are $25 & $30. The Lincoln Theatre is located at 712 S. First St, Mount Vernon. Call (360) 336-8955 for tickets. http://www.lincolntheatre.org/

Museum of Northwest Art ~ Has two exhibits currently running through June 14. "Finds Refined" is a group show featuring emerging and established artists who use found matter in subtle or amazing ways in their creations. Reused or ordinary materials are essential to the work, for aesthetic reasons or to incorporate its history or past life. The second exhibit is Phillip Levine Survey: Sculpture, Drawings, Paintings. In the second floor galleries, the Museum of Northwest Art presents a survey of sculpture, drawings, and paintings by Phillip Levine.

RoozenGaarde ~ Blooming Tulips can still be found in RoozenGaarde's display fields and will continue to look beautiful through at least Mother’s Day. Very popular late tulip varieties such as Greenland, Spring Green, Queen of the Night, the Parrots, Ice Cream, and all of the elegant French tulip varieties are now posing for their close ups. Located at 15867 Beaver Marsh Rd, (360) 424-5533.

Skagit County Historical Museum - Popular exhibit returns to the Skagit County Historical Museum: “Harvesting the Light: Images of Contemporary Skagit Farm Life” . This fun exhibit will run through September 27, 2009. The Skagit County Historical Museum is located at 501 S. Fourth St, 360-466-3365. Open Tuesday - Sunday 11-5 pm. www.skagitcounty.net/museum

LODGING SPECIALS IN LA CONNER FOR MAY ARE:

Estep Residences - Stay in one of our four daily rentals for three consecutive nights (any day of the week) and get the third night half-off. Call 360-466-2116 for more information.

Katy’s Inn - is offering a May special Sunday - Thursday. Stay 2-nights and receive $50.00 discount or stay 3-nights and receive your third night FREE! Call 866-528-9746 or book online.

Queen of the Valley Inn - bed and breakfast is offering a "Royal Stimulus" special of 20% off 2 nights or more and 30% off a 3-night stay in May. Come see where your food is grown, in the Skagit Valley! Call 888-999-1404.

Skagit Bay Hideaway - is offering your private condo at $199/2-nights and $219 for a one night stay (by chance). Enjoy our new “TREE HOUSE”, an exciting addition to the Hideaway!! An elevated covered deck set in the trees, housing a two person hot tub and fireplace. Relax in the soothing water, with a fire flickering next to you, as you look out over the bay. Open for nightly guests, 360- 466-2262

DINING SPECIALS IN LA CONNER FOR MAY ARE:

La Conner Brewing Company ~ presents author Tom Robbins on Tuesday, May 5 from 6:30-8:00 pm. Tom will be signing his new book "B is for Beer", books are provided by the Next Chapter and will be for sale. La Conner Brewing Company is located at 117 S. First Street, (360) 466-1415.

Seed’s Bistro & Bar ~ is offering live music on Thursday nights from 6:00-9:00 pm. Located at 623 Morris Street at the entrance to La Conner in the Tillinghast building. Call (360) 466-3280 for reservations.

SERVICES AND SPECIALS FOR LA CONNER IN MAY ARE:

Native Springs ~ is offering a "Hard Hat Special" during May. For as little as $45 you can have 1.5 hours of bliss and a radiant face....for the extra trouble. Complimentary ear plugs. Native Springs is located at 125 E. Washington St. (360) 708-8313.

MERCHANT SPECIALS IN LA CONNER FOR MAY ARE:

Bears 'N Friends ~ will be hosting a Steiff Turnk Show on Saturday, May 30th, 11-4 pm. Claire Steiff Meisel, granddaughter of Richard Steiff, creator of the teddy bear, will be in the store signing pieces. There will be door prizes, goodie bags and samples of the new Steiff line for 2009. Located at 509 S. First St, (360) 466-3528.

Childhood Bliss ~ celebrates Mother's Day the entire month of May. Mention La Conner Chamber of Commerce E-Newsletter and receive 20% off Diaper Bags! Shop Online Too! 521 Morris Street, (360) 466-BABY (2229).

Christianson’s Nursery ~ offers several workshops in May; Paint a Birdhouse for Mother's Day, Friday May 8th 6-7 pm, cost $9. Container Gardening Part 1, Friday May 15th 6-7:30 pm. Container Gardening Part 2, May 22nd 6-7:30 pm. Cooking with Herbs: Extolling the Humble Vegetable, Friday May 29th 6-7:30 pm, cost $12. LOcated at 15806 Best Rd, (360) 466-3821.

Hellam’s Vineyard ~ has moved into a new location, still in the Lime Dock building, at 109 N. First Street. Wine tasting events for May happen every Saturday. Check http://www.hellamsvineyard/ for the weekly schedule. Special 20% case discounts available on day of each tasting, mixed ok.

Something Blue Bridal Boutique ~ May Specials! All new bridesmaid orders receive 10% to 30% off retail. The more bridesmaids you have the more you save. Brands include Dessy, After Six, and Badgley Mischka Bridesmaids. Offer good through May 31.All new Mother of the Occasion gowns ordered through May 31 receive 15% off retail. We are the exclusive retailer for Modern Trousseau Mother of the Occasion wear in Washington. 623 Morris St., Suite E-3, La Conner, 360-466-0415

La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum ~ Textile Enrichment Series at the La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum in May: “Clothworks” with Ted Hoffman, president of Clothworks manufacturing, Saturday, May 9, 2009, 1-3 pm. Clothworks is the Seattle-based manufacturing company. You will recognize the name as the fabric featured at the Western Washington Quilt Shop Hop. Cost $5.00, includes admission to all Museum exhibits. Seating is limited. Location 703 South 2nd St, PO Box 1270, La Conner, WA 98257-1270. Phone 360-466-4288.

The Museum of Northwest Art ~ POETRY AND CONVERSATIONS AT MONA. Poets Michael Daley, Chris Dombrowski & Tim McNulty visit on Thursday, May 7, 7:00 pm. Join us for an evening of poetry and conversation. $5 Admission goes to support poets in the schools.FAMILY ART DAY: CREATIVE SAMPLINGGretchen Bennett, artist. Saturday, May 16, Session I: 11am-1pm or Session II: 2pm-4pm.Explore the power and spontaneity of sampling. Use stickers, contact paper, magazines, and other found materials. Create and enjoy your own artwork.Registration is limited to 15 participants per session. To register: Call (360) 466-4446, Ext. 108. Free with Museum admission. Admission for MoNA members is Always Free!

Skagit County Historical Museum ~ be sure to get your name in for the Museum’s annual Quilt Raffle. All cotton and queen size, this beauty was made by the Conway Quilters. Raffle tickets are available for $1 each at the Museum and drawing is December 1. All proceeds benefit the Museum. 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 466.3365. www.skagitcounty.net/museum

FEATURED LA CONNER BUSINESS FOR MAY:

COTTONS

For the past nineteen years Cottons has celebrated real women by creating a clothing store that offers more than just clothes. Our customers have always been our true inspiration and our goal is to offer clothing and accessories that speak to a women’s very essence.The clothing at Cottons is distinctive, relaxed, versatile and comfortable. With a contemporary palette of rich colors and unique textures. Our customer can always express her individual style. These inspired selections are for everyday life in easy-care natural fabrics.Whether shopping for a new outfit or looking for an imaginative gift, our customer’s needs are always our first priority. We offer inspiration and creativity in helping our customers achieve the look they’re searching for or finding that ‘little something’ for a special person.Complimentary gift wrapping is always available and we offer Free Shipping for any order over $100, within the United States. We look forward to your next visit in La Conner!Open daily from 10am to 6pmLocated at 714 South First StreetPhone: 360.466.5825 or Toll Free at 800.995.5825Visit us online at http://www.cottonslaconner.com/

2009 Tulip Festival Central! April Specials, Happenings, & Events

2009-03-26T08:23:00.000-07:00

On your next visit to La Conner, be sure to stop by the Visitor Information Center at 606 Morris Street and pick up a Coupon Book. With over 65 coupons for everything from Lodging, Dining, Services, Museums, and Shops – the Coupon Book is worth $100’s of dollars and cost only $1.00!! Coupons are good through the end of 2009 so you can use it again and again. Perfect for your Skagit Valley Tulip Festival visit!

Please vote for La Conner as “Best Tiny Town” for the Best of Western Washington’s Evening Magazine contest. Go to Best of King 5 and vote for all of the La Conner businesses you love!

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival runs from April 1-30. Check out the La Conner Tulip Festival Calendar of Events! View the Bloom Map for daily update of what the daffodil, tulip, and iris fields are doing.

28th Annual Tulip Pedal - April 4, 2009, 7:00 am - La Conner Middle School Parking Lot
Fees: Registration $25; Kids 14 under are free. Contact: Skagit County Medic One, 360-428—3236. Brought to you by Skagit County Safe Kids and Group Health. Choose from 20, 40, or 60-mile routes, or ride all three! Another great Skagit Valley Tulip Festival Event in La Conner!

La Conner Institute of Performing Arts invites you to the "Emerging Artist" performace at Maple Hall on Saturday, April 4th 3:00 pm. A portion of the proceeds is donated to the Institute's Young Artist Scholarship Fund. Tickets can be purchased at The Next Chapter Bookstore (360) 466-2665 or at the door.

24th Annual Kiwanis ‘Not So Impromptu Tulip Parade’ sponsored by US Bank on Saturday, April 11th in La Conner. Everyone welcome! Join us for this wacky parade – farm animals, clowns, bands, mascots and your favorite pets. Any size entry welcome. Spectators: bring your lawn chairs. Day of parade entries welcome. Visit http://www.laconnerchamber.com/ for a parade entry. Don't miss this Tulip Festival Event in La Conner!

Tulip Festival Live Music in La Conner! Frolic along with us on First Street in La Conner Saturday, April 11th. Toes will tap to the music of the 17-piece Skagit Swings band directed by Jerry Schreuder. Music performed at Gilkey Square noon-2pm and 3-4pm. Kids will enjoy the activities at the Boys and Girls Kids Zone at Dirty Biter Park from noon-3pm.

Tulip Festival Lodging Specials

Estep Residences - Stay in one of our four daily rentals for three consecutive nights (any day of the week) and get the third night half-off. Call 360-466-2116 for more information.

Katy’s Inn is offering their own “Economic Recovery Getaway Plan” receive a $50.00 discount off any two night stay. Just mention the word “Recovery” when you make a reservation online or call 866-528-9746.

La Conner Country Inn and Nell Thorn invite you to join them for "It's A Mystery" on Thursday, April 23rd. The Pacific Northwest's premier Murder Mystery Company returns for a very different evening of fine food, interactive theatre, murder, and mayhem. Dinner catered by La Conner's own award winning Nell Thorn! Tickets are $60.00 per person for a sit down dinner and show. Show begins at 7:00 PM sharp. Call (360) 466-3101 to reserve your seat today. Spend the night and see the tulip Festival! Discounted hotel rates on the night of the show are: Country Inn $119.00 (regularly $159.00) or Channel Lodge $149.00 (regularly $199.00).

Queen of the Valley Inn bed and breakfast is offering "Tulip-Peepers" special of 10% off 2 nights or more stay in April. Call 888-999-1404.

Skagit Bay Hideaway - Coming in April our new “TREE HOUSE” an exciting addition to the Hideaway!! An elevated covered deck set in the trees, housing a two person hot tub and fireplace. Relax in the soothing water, with a fire flickering next to you, as you look out over the bay. Open for nightly guests, 360- 466-2262

Tulip Festival Restaurants Specials

La Conner Brewing Company is the official sponsor of the Tulip Beer again this year! Located at 117 S. First Street, stop by this award-winning brewery for lunch or dinner. 360-466-1415.

La Conner Seafood & Prime Rib House – Easter Buffet Sunday April 12th,
9:00 – 2:00 pm Brunch, 4:00 – 8:00 pm Dinner (Buffet and Menu) - $20.95 PP
Seniors $16.95 pp, Children 6-12- $11.95. Located at 614 S. First Street, RSVP by calling 360-466-4014

Seed’s Bistro & Bar is offering live music on Thursday nights from 6:00-9:00 pm. Located at 623 Morris Street at the entrance to La Conner in the Tillinghast building. Call (360) 466-3280 for reservations.

Tulip Festival Services & Specials

Blue Water Massage - Celebrate the season by paying with flowers! During the month of April, bring tulips or daffodils to your massage appointment and receive $1 off for each flower. Bring in 12 tulips and receive $12 off your massage ($15 limit). But wait - it gets better! Each week Blue Water Massage will 'pay it forward' by donating the flowers to local nursing homes and hospitals. Call today to schedule your appointment and let's spread a little joy! 360-333-8811

Kenmore Air - will be flying guests up from Seattle to La Conner, round-trip. They will also take passengers up for 20-minute flights over the daffodil and tulip fields. Please contact them directly for reservations at 866-435-9524.

La Conner Memories - We process 35mm film and digital, carry film, digital camera cards and batteries. We have the largest selection of La Conner souvenirs in town, including La Conner post cards! Everything is unique and is made right here. We also refill most ink cartridges. Located at 306 Morris Street, 360-466-9940

Native Springs is offering TULIP PEDAL Open House, Saturday, April 4, noon to 4pm. FREE Foot Soaks. If you participated in the tulip pedal or not, join us for tea and free foot soaks. Savings galore on our skincare and facial gift certificates.

Also: Join Native Springs for “Tulips & Tea”, Saturday April 11, 3-5pm. After the tulip parade wander down to our OPEN HOUSE featuring our bi-annual 50% OFF SALE, offering clay facial gift certificates at $45. No limit and one year to use them. $10 of each purchase will be donated to our local Soroptimist Club in La Conner. That's $45 instead of $90 for 1.5 hours of facial bliss-- Parade starts at 2, OPEN HOUSE at 3--La Conner Wellness Center location, 125 Washington Street in La Conner! Call 360-708-8313 for details.

Victoria Clipper will be bringing people up to La Conner and tour the daffodil and tulip fields April 17-19 and 24-26 by motor coach and ship. Make your reservations online or call 800-888-2535

Tulip Festival Merchant Specials

Childhood Bliss Attic Sale every weekend in April! 50% off Childhood Bliss Fall/Winter Clothing. Included in this sale: vintage nick-nacks and holiday décor items. Shop Online Too! 521 Morris Street, (360) 466-2229

Christianson’s Nursery - Art at the Schoolhouse, April 3 – 26, Daily 10 - 5
Sponsored by the Stanwood/Camano Arts Guild, this exhibit will feature acrylics, oils, watercolors, glass art, mixed media, turned wood and photography. Over 16 artists will be showcased in the 1888 Meadow Schoolhouse that is the centerpiece of our Nursery’s Display Garden. 12858 Best Rd, 360-466-3821.
Fabulous Rhododendrons, April 4 - 11:00 am, Cost: $5 reservations required
Rhododendron Walk, Saturday, April 4 -1:00 pm, Complimentary reservations required
Once again Tea is offered at The Granary situated on the edge of the gardens at La Conner Flats following the tour. Contact Margie Hart at (360) 466-3190 for reservations. Cost: $12 per person.
Natural Dyes for Easter Eggs, Saturday, April 11, 10:00 am
Design Your Own Mixed Hanging Basket, Friday, April 18, 6:00 – 7:45 pm, Soil and fertilizer complimentary, reservations required (360) 466-3821
Time for Summer Vegetables, Friday, April 25 -6:00 – 7:30 pm, Cost $5,reservations required

Earthenworks Gallery – is hosting a Sticks Furniture Event on April 24th & 25th. This is an exclusive presentation of one of the largest collections of Sticks furniture. Representatives from Sticks will be present from 10 am – 5 pm. Stop in or call (360) 466-4422 to schedule an appointment to design and personalize a piece of furniture or accessory for your home. Located at 713 S. First Street, La Conner.

Hellam’s Vineyard has moved into a new location, still in the Lime Dock building, at 109 N. First Street. Wine tasting events for April include: Whitestone – Saturday, April 4th, 1 – 6 pm, Adamant Cellars – Saturday, April 11th, 1 – 6 pm, Stephenson Cellars – Saturday, April 18th, 1 – 6 pm and Vashon Island Winery & Book Signing– Saturday, April 25th, 1 – 6 p.m. Special 20% case discounts available on day of each tasting, mixed ok.

La Conner Ice Cream Tower will be open every afternoon (weather and foot traffic permitting) in April. For each strawberry ice cream cone that we sell during the month of April-$1.00 will be donated to the Relay for Life (American Cancer Society). We will once again be offering Lopez Island Creamery and Cascade Ice Cream as well as Hot Fudge Sundaes and Espresso.

Mary Davis Lighting will have a limited edition quantity of Tulip Lamps to sell at the shop beginning April 1st. The model was taken from an early 1900's piece and is custom made. The materials used are brass, slag glass and wood. The retail will be $365.00. Located at 402 Morris Street, (360) 466-3495.

Pleasant Ridge Arts & Crafts – April 3–19 at the Rexville Grange Gallery for their annual Arts and Crafts show. Located at 19299 Rexville Grange Rd. (behind Rexville Grocery). Featuring live artist demonstrations daily. Show is open daily 11-6p.m.

Something Blue Bridal Boutique - during the 3 day weekend of April 18, 19, & 20 ONLY, we will be offering 25% off retail of all new bridal gown orders placed. This is called the “Romance and Tulips” Sale. We will be open extended hours during this sale to accommodate as many brides as possible. This sale only happens one time per year and only lasts for the 3 days. This offer cannot be combined with any other offers. Additional Specials going on for the entire month of April:
15% off Badgely Mischka Bridesmaids gowns.
10% to 30% off Dessy and After Six Bridesmaids gowns.
10% off Modern Trousseau Mother of the Occasion gowns.
623 Morris St., Suite E-3, La Conner, 360-466-0415

The Artist’s Remarque invite you to Celebrate Tulips and Meet the Artists in April: Kristy Gjesme - San Juan Island Watercolor Artist, Saturday, April 11 - 11:00 - 6:00Kathy Johnson - Seattle Watercolor Artist, Saturday, April 18 - 11:00 - 6:00Randy Van Beek - Whatcom County Oil Painter, Saturday, April 25 - 11:00 - 6:00Enjoy time to visit and shop with hors d'oeuvres, friendly conversation and La Conner charm!
128 S. First Street, 360-466-2046.

Visit La Conner Museums during the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum – Presents two new exhibits opening April 01-June 28, 2009. "Vision in Fibers" Curator: Shiela Groman and “Birdscapes" Curator: Karin Franzen.
Reception to meet the artists is on Saturday, April 4, 2009 from 11am-2pm. Located at 703 S. Second Street, 360-466-4288. Open every day during April! Admission $5

The Museum of Northwest Art invites you to Family Day; “Make Art with Found Fabric” Jane Richlovsky, artist. Saturday, April 18: Session I: 11am-1pm or Session II: 2-4 pm. Cut, tear, and glue fabrics together to make recycled collages. Create pictures or abstract designs with scraps of colorful and patterned fabric. Located at 121 S. 1st Street, (360) 466-4446,

The Museum of Northwest Art Store presents: Mary Melinda Wellsandt, Seattle Glass Artist, Saturday, April 25th, noon – 4 pm. Come and meet Mary Melinda and view her glass pieces using a new technique called Photo-etching to which she then applies paint or enamel to add more detail. An expanded selection of her popular glass pieces will be available for purchase.

The Skagit County Historical Museum invites you to Dance to the music of Hugo’s Accordion Band at the “Tulip Two-Step” dance to benefit the Museum on Sunday, April 19, from 2 to 5 pm at the Fredonia Grange north of La Conner. On the program are American standards, country western, Scandinavian waltzes, polkas, schottisches and other danceable favorites under the direction of Leif Holmes. Admission: $10 individual, $15 per couple, $5 ages 6-12. Directions to Fredonia Grange: Highway 20 to Farm-to-Market Road, turn right on MacFarland Road. For more information, call the museum at 360.466.3365.
Also:
Skagit County Historical Museum is proud to announce the Launch of their online “LOST CITIES” Map showing location & info about over 100 of Skagit County’s Lost Cities!” Located at 501 S. Fourth St, (360) 466-3365, www.skagitcounty.net/museum

Featured Business for April

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. First Street, La Conner. (360) 466-4148

March 2009 Specials, Happenings & Events

2009-02-28T13:13:00.000-08:00

The Heron Inn & Watergrass Day Spa~For a 2 night stay in a deluxe queen room or fireplace suite receive 50% off one massage, for a 3 night stay, receive one free massage Sunday -Thursday. To all our Canadian visitors, The Heron Inn & Watergrass Day Spa will be accepting the Canadian dollar at par on room reservations and spa services from now until March 31st, 2009. 360-466-4626 or 877-883-8899

Katy’s Inn Bed & Breakfast ~ Voted #1 in Skagit Business Pulse People's Choice Award for best Bed & Breakfast is offering an "Economic Recovery Getaway Plan". Receive a $50 discount off any 2-night stay. Just mention the word "Recovery" when making an online reservation. Or call 866-528-9746.

Hotel Planter~Stay two nights; get the 3rd night half-off. Sunday-Thursday, not including holidays. 800-488-5409

La Conner Channel Lodge/Country Inn ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night free, Sunday-Thursday.(360) 466-1500 or (888) 466-4113.

Queen of the Valley Inn ~ "Financial Relief Package" 25% off one night, 30% off 2 nights, 35% off 3 nights Call 360.466.4578/888-99-1404 for more information.

Estep’s Residences ~ Stay in one of our four daily rentals for three consecutive nights (any day of the week) and get the third night half off. Call 360-466-2116 for more information * For our Canadian neighbors we'd like to offer the cost of your stay at par.

Benson Farmstead Bed & Breakfast ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday. (360) 757-0578

DINING:

Farmhouse Restaurant ~ 20% discount up to $100 on food only. (360) 466-4411

Nell Thorn Restaurant ~ open for dinner beginning March 9th seven nights a week 4-9 p.m. Lunch offered Tuesday through Saturday 11:30 to 2:30. Reservations are always a good idea! For more information please call 360-466-4261

La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib House ~ free dessert or appetizer with purchase of 2 full priced meals. (360) 466-4014

OTHER:

Stop by the Visitor Information Center at 606 Morris St. and pick up a Coupon Book with 69 coupons for everything from lodging, restaurants, shopping, museums and services. Value worth $100's and cost only $1.00 (that's right, just one dollar!). VIC hours are Monday-Friday 11-4, Saturday & Sunday 12-3. (360) 466-4778.

Something Blue~ With a first visit decision, all new bridal gown orders receive 15% off the retail price. Through the end of March, all Dessy and After Six Bridesmaid gown orders receive up to 30% off retail. All Badgley Mischka Bridesmaid orders receive 15% off retail. These offers are not combinable with any other discount coupons.Please call 360-466-0415 or visit http://www.somethingblueboutique.com/

Native Springs~ Daffodil Special! Come see acres of beautiful daffodils in fields around Skagit Valley. Buy one spa service at regular price and get 1/2 OFF on a gift card for the next service, your choice! Call 360-708-8313 for more information or stop by at 125 E. Washington La Conner

Deception Pass Tours~ Pre-Season Sale 10 Tickets for $100! The Pre-Season Sale ends April 1, 2009. If you are interested in purchasing Pre-Season Ticket Packs for your employees and clients, please contact Captain Brett at 888-909-TOUR (8687). Tickets are valid from April 1-September 30, 2009 Visit www.DeceptionPassTours.com for more information.

Christianson’s Nursery~ Has a variety of different workshops available during the month of March including “Growing Fruit Your Way”, “Rose Pruning”, “Everything’s Coming Up Veggies”, “Early Spring Walk”, “Growing Beautiful Spring Dahlias Made Easy” & “Digital Photography for Gardeners Made Easy” a $5.00 fee is required and reservations are required. Call 360-466-3821 for more information.

La Conner Yacht Sales~ has moved into their previous location at 539 N. Third Street.The new Port of Skagit County 12,500 sf Marina Peninsula building was dedicated on February 5th. We look forward to the fresh start in our brand new office ~ please stop by and say hello! (360) 466-3300

Childhood Bliss~ Attic Sale every weekend in March & April! 50-75% off Childhood Bliss merchandise. Included in this sale: vintage nick-nacks and holiday home décor items. Shop on-line too! www.childhoodbliss.com (360) 466-2229

Nasty Jacks Antiques~ Voted #1 antique store for 2008 in the Skagit Business Pulse People's Choice award. They are also nominated for Evening Magazines The Best of Western Washington Antiques category . If you would like to vote, go to www.King5.com. For more information please call 360-466-3209.

Skagit River Boutique is having a Fall & Winter sale, offering 50% off coats and sportswear by St. James, Pendleton, Kial, Foxcroft, and more. Located at 622 S. First St, (360) 466-5554.

Blue Water Massage: The 'Heart & Sole' Special Extended Through March! Due to popular demand, the 'Heart & Sole' special will be extended for another month. This heavenly one hour treatment combines Foot Reflexology with Hot Stone Swedish massage for the neck and shoulders. Guaranteed to warm your heart, sooth your soles, and lift your spirits. The 'Heart & Sole' Special is just $50 now through the end of March. For appointment scheduling and gift certificates, please call Eve at 360-333-8811.

March 7th ~ Museum of Northwest Art presents "Mona Style" from 10:00 - 4:00 pm. Twenty-five artists from the region will show and sell their artist-designed clothing, jewelry, textiles, accessories and elements for the home. Admission is FREE!

March 7th ~Annual Sea Scout Dinner Auction sponsored by the La Conner Rotary Club. You are invited to attend the 9th annual silent/love Dinner Auction at the Swinomish Yacht Club, located at 310 N. First St. Doors open and silent auction viewing begins at 5:30 pm. Dinner begins at 6:45 pm. Tickets are $30 each. Call (360) 540-3338 or (360) 466-1006 for tickets.

March 7th~ La Conner Institute of Performing Arts presents Jeffrey Cohan and George Shangrow. Performing at Maple Hall at 7:30 pm. Virtuoso Baroque features the Cohan-Shangrow Duo, with flutist Jeffrey Cohan and harpsichordist George Shangrow. Hear virtuoso duos by Jon Sebastian Bach, his son Carl Phillipp Emanuel, Handel, and Vivaldi among others. Tickets can be purchased at The Next Chapter (360) 466-2665.

March 7th ~ La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum brings you “The Mystery of the World's Oldest Carpet". Fred Lundahl, owner of Music for the Eyes, will speak about the 5th Century B.C. carpets found at the Pazyryk archeological site in Russia. 1-3pm, Cost: $10 includes admission. Seating is limited. Located at 703 South 2nd St. For more info call 360-466-4288 or visit http://www.laconnerquilts.com/

March 14th~ La Conner Volunteer Firefighters St. Patrick’s Day Dance featuring the Buckaroo Blues from 8pm-12am. $5.00 donation no host bar must be 21 years of age at Maple Hall. Come & support our firefighters!

March 14th ~ Museum of Northwest Art, Spring Exhibits Open: “Finds Refined”, Selections from Glass Collection and “Phillip Levine Survey: Sculpture, Drawings, Paintings” March 14 –June 14. Located at 121 S. First St., La Conner.

March 15th ~ Skagit County Historical Museum “Climate History of Skagit Valley,” 2 pm, 360-466-3365. Located at 501 S. Fourth St., La Conner.

March 17th ~ See Dean Martin and Tom Jones impersonators live in concert in Swinomish Casino's Cabaret. Two free tickets are available for Players Club Members while supplies last for 2pm and 6pm shows. For more details, call (360) 293-2691 or visit the Players Club. http://www.swinomishcasino.com

March 21st~La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum “Textiles and Traditions of Turkey.” Anita Luvera Mayer will speak 1-2:30 pm. Experience the adventure of exploring Turkey through its traditions and textiles. The cost is $10.00 per person, which includes admission to the Museum. Seating is limited. We are located at 703 South 2nd St. For more info, call 360-466-4288; or visit

March 28th~ Soroptimist of La Conner Fashion/Tea Show ~ Maple Hall ~ 360-466-4441"Tulips, Tea, and Trends" annual tea/fashion show at Maple Hall. 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 general event information, contact Ellie Baugh, at gebaugh@wavecable.com. For ticket information, contact Cindy Tracey at 360 466-9909.

February 2009 Specials, Happenings & Events

2009-02-03T13:02:00.000-08:00

LODGING:

The Heron Inn & Watergrass Day Spa~For a 2 night stay in a deluxe queen room or fireplace suite receive 50% off one massage, for a 3 night stay, receive one free massage Sunday -Thursday. To all our Canadian visitors, The Heron Inn & Watergrass Day Spa will be accepting the Canadian dollar at par on room reservations and spa services from now until March 31st, 2009. 360-466-4626 or 877-883-8899

Katy’s Inn Bed & Breakfast ~ Katy’s Inn is offering their own “Economic Recovery Getaway Plan” receive a $50.00 discount off any two night stay Just mention the word “Recovery” when you make a reservation online at http://www.katysinn.com/ or call 866-528-9746.

Hotel Planter~Stay two nights; get the 3rd night half-off. Sunday-Thursday, not including holidays. 800-488-5409

La Conner Channel Lodge/Country Inn ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night free, Sunday-Thursday.(360) 466-1500 or (888) 466-4113.

Queen of the Valley Inn ~ "Financial Relief Package" 25% off one night, 30% off 2 nights, 35% off 3 nights Call 360.466.4578 for more information.

Estep’s Residences ~ Stay in one of our four daily rentals for three consecutive nights (any day of the week) and get the third night half off. Call 360-466-2116 for more information * For our Canadian neighbors we'd like to offer the cost of your stay at par.

Benson Farmstead Bed & Breakfast ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday. (360) 757-0578

Best Western Cottontree Inn ~ $89 per night, 3 night minimum. 800-662-6886

Ravenskeep Guest House – Stay 3 nights and get the 3rd night half off. 360-941-4438

DINING:

Farmhouse Restaurant ~ 20% discount up to $100 on food only. (360) 466-4411

Nell Thorn Restaurant ~ Presents The 28 Days of Valentines. This is an amazing four course meal for two. Meal includes choice of bottle of their House French Blend, red or White, Sparkling Cider or Sparkling Water. Love Is All There. For more information please call 360-466-4261

La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib House ~ free dessert or appetizer with purchase of 2 full priced meals. (360) 466-4014

OTHER:

A Class Act Gallery ~ 30% off Friday February 9th - Sunday February 11th all Tim Winstrom artwork. A Class Act Gallery is located at 612 S. 1st Street La Conner, WA 98257 and can be reached at 360-466-2000.

The Smiling Owl ~ is now offering in home manicures & pedicures. Transportation to and from appointments is also available upon request. Please call 770-3065 for more information.

Native Springs~ Valentines Special Free spa gift item with every purchase of product or service from Feb 1-15. 360-708-8313 for details.

Blue Water Massage~ Is offering a Valentines special “The Heart & Sole” Massage. For the month of February the “Heart & Sole” Valentines Special is just $50.00 which would make a great gift for your someone special. Call Eve for more information at 360-333-8811.

Christianson’s Nursery~ is offering classes, a trip and a speaker through out the month of February. Classes include, The Art of Pruning Fruit Trees & Blueberries the Superfruit. The trip is to the Flower & Garden Show. Last but not least Bob Lilly will be presenting A Fascination for Hellebores. RSVP’s and fees are required. Please call 360-466-3821 for more information.

Childhood Bliss~ Nick-Nacks Vintage Sale ~ Childhood Bliss will be selling many of their vintage nick-nacks along with many other goodies and sale items. Please come see all of the treasures that you will surely love to make your own! Saturday & Sunday February 7th & 8th 360.466.BABY.

Hellam’s Vineyard~ Feb. 1st – 14th – Chocolates made with wine available for sale at the wine shop and Sweet Haven Baking Co. Feb. 14th – Valentines Tasting – featured chocolates paired with wines used as an ingredient; prices vary according to each chocolate. For more information call 360-466-1758. Hellam’s is located at 109 N. 1st St. #101 La Conner.

Something Blue~With a first visit decision, all new bridal gown orders receive 15% off the retail price. Through the end of March, all Dessy and After Six Bridesmaid gown order receive up to 30% off retail. Through the end of March, all Badgley Mischka Bridesmaid orders receive 15% off retail. 1-360-466-0415

Skagit River Boutique~has fall and winter coats and sportswear at 50% off! Great values on beautifully made clothes from St. James, Pendleton, Kial, Foxcroft and more. Come in soon for best selection. Skagit River Boutique is located at 622 S. First La Conner

La Conner Thai Restaurant~ is having a Re-Grand Opening February 7, 8 & 9 & offering 30% off food items. They are located at 110 N. First St. and phone is (360) 466-9999. Hours are 11-9 pm, dine in or carryout service available.

6th~ Shelter Bay Chorus Annual Gala "Glorious Gershwin" concert doors open at 6:45pm and the show begins at 7:15pm. Tickets are $15.00 per person and are available at the ShelterBay office located at 1000 Shoshone Drive, La Conner 360-466-3805 for more information

7th~La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum QSI: Quilt Scene Investigators. Ann Bodle-Nash, Certified Quilt Appraiser, and Anne Dawson, Quilt Restorer, will evaluate your quilts, antique to new. Learn the identity, age, and how to care for your treasures. Two sessions on Saturday, February 7, 2009, 11-1 or 2-4. Cost: $25 for analysis of two of your quilts, $20 for analysis of one quilt, or $15 for presentation only. Admission to Museum is included. Seating is limited. We are located at 703 South 2nd St, PO Box 1270, La Conner. For more information, please call 360-466-4288 or visit our website at http://www.laconnerquilts.com/

7th~ The Onyx Chamber Players will be performing at Maple Hall located at 104 Commercial, La Conner. Tickets are available at the Next Chapter Bookstore located at 721 S.1st la Conner or you can call 360-466-2665.

7th~Keny Hess, a country performer and songwriter, will be performing at the Swinomish Casino at 7:00pm. The Swinomish Casino is located at 12885 Casino Dr. Anacortes. For more information call 360-299-1674.

7th~ La Conner Soundrowers Open Water Race is being hosted by the Sound Rowers Open Water Rowing & Paddling Club. Soundrowers sponsor races for kayaks, surf skis, rowing shells, row boats and canoes throughout Puget Sound. Non-members are welcome to participate-all you need is a boat, a paddle, a PFD & a whistle (required) and a nominal entry fee. Please call 206-295-7508 for more information.

20th~Skagit Community Band presents "Way Out West" at Maple Hall on February 20th, 7:30 pm. Come explore the music of the "West". The Skagit Community Band will intrigue and delight you with songs of the west. Featuring an eclectic selection of music from the west, about the west, and titles containing "west" This concert will also take place at Brodniak Hall in Anacortes on February 22nd, 3:00 pm. Tickets are available at the door, $15 for adults, $10 seniors/students or $30 for family - children 12 yrs. and younger are free when accompanied by an adult.

21st~ Poet Sam Greene at the Museum of Northwest Art at 7:30pm The Grace of Necessity. Sam Greene is a Skagit County native that is Washington States first Poet Laureate and has recently won the Washington State Book Award for poetry. The Museum is located at 121 S 1st, La Conner. For more information visit www.museumofnwart.org or call 360-466-4446.

28th~ La Conner Rotary Club 43rd Annual Smelt Derby has a day filled with fun family events. Pancake breakfast to benefit the La Conner High School Senior Class begins at 800 am at Maple Hall. The 5k-10k Smelt Run/Walk sponsored by Skagit Symphony begins at the La Conner Middle School registration is at 8:30am Day ends at maple hall witht eh Smelt Fest Dinner (no smelt just good food!) from 5:00pm-9:00pm. Kentucky Rain will be playing for your listening and dancing pleasure. For more information visit www.laconnerrotary.org

January 2009 Specials, Happenings & Events

2009-01-02T13:34:00.000-08:00

La Conner Staycation ~ Many of La Conner’s lodging, dining, and shopping options are offering “Staycation” specials for visitor’s staying a minimum of 3 nights. You will need to show your Staycation Certificate for Dining and Shopping Discounts. Certificates are presented at the time of check- in at participating lodging.Call La Conner Chamber for more details: 360.466.4778 or info@laconnerchamber.com

LODGING:

The Heron Inn & Watergrass Day Spa~For a 2 night stay in a deluxe queen room or fireplace suite receive 50% off one massage, for a 3 night stay, receive one free massage Sunday -Thursday. To all our Canadian visitors, The Heron Inn & Watergrass Day Spa will be accepting the Canadian dollar at par on room reservations and spa services from now until December 31st, 2008. 360-466-4626 or 877-883-8899

Katy’s Inn Bed & Breakfast ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday. 866-528-9746

Hotel Planter~Stay two nights; get the 3rd night half-off. Sunday-Thursday, not including holidays. 800-488-5409

La Conner Channel Lodge/Country Inn ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night free, Sunday-Thursday.(360) 466-1500 or (888) 466-4113.

Queen of the Valley Inn ~ "Financial Relief Package" 25% off one night, 30% off 2 nights, 35% off 3 nights Call 360.466.4578 for more information.

Estep’s Residences ~ Stay in one of our four daily rentals for three consecutive nights (any day of the week) and get the third night half off. Call 360-466-2116 for more information * For our Canadian neighbors we'd like to offer the cost of your stay at par.

Benson Farmstead Bed & Breakfast ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday. (360) 757-0578

Best Western Cottontree Inn ~ $89 per night, 3 night minimum. 800-662-6886Ravenskeep Guest House – Stay 3 nights and get the 3rd night half off. 360-941-4438

DINING:

Farmhouse Restaurant ~ 20% discount up to $100 on food only. (360) 466-4411

Nell Thorn Restaurant ~ 10% discount on food only. Now open for lunch! (360) 466-4261

La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib House ~ free dessert or appetizer with purchase of 2 full priced meals. (360) 466-4014

OTHER:

A Class Act Gallery ~ Mention you saw us in the January newsletter and receive 20% off your purchase. A Class Act Gallery is located at 612 S. 1st Street La Conner, WA 98257 and can be reached at 360-466-2000.

January 10th—March 8th~ Museum of Northwest Art presents Manfred Lindenberger Retrospective: Graceful Exuberance. With works spanning more than fifty years, the exhibition follows Lindenberger’s artistic evolution from realism to abstraction. MONA also presents Kait Rhoades As Below, So Above. Kait Rhoads’ glass creations--soft sculptures, wall panels, and solid sculpted work--portray natural forms in the sea and on land, as well as horizons and skyscapes. For more information please visit http://www.museumofnwart.org/ or call 360-466-4446.

January 16th-March 29th~ La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum invites you to learn about the beautiful textiles from Pakistan and India! Ralli quilts are known for their colorful designs made of patterns comprised of patchwork, appliqué, and embroidery techniques. 703 S. 2nd St. (360)466-4288. http://www.laconnerquilts.com/

La Conner Regional Library~ will be having a Winter Reading Program beginning January 15th and running through March 31st. Adults who read three books will be eligible for a Literary Latte courtesy of Next Chapter Bookstore. They can also have their name put into a drawing for the chance to win a Booklover's Basket full of local products purchased with funds provided by the Friends of the La Conner Library. Reading records will be available after January 12 at the library. For more information call 360-466-3352.

The Queen of the Valley Inn~ extends its "Queen's Financial Relief Program", with discounts of 25-35% off through March 31st. Everyone needs a little financial relief right now - ours comes with breakfast and a cozy fire! See website for details. http://www.queenofthevalleyinn.com/

Hotel Planter~Hotel Planter Announces Discounted Rates from January 9th through February 28th, 2009!Room rates range from $99 to $149. Apply our special discount for an incredible rate! Weekend Discount:Stay two nights over the weekend and receive the 2nd night for half off! Week Discount: Sunday – Thursday 2 for 1 night stay or $20 off one night. Visit http://www.hotelplanter.com/ or call 800-488-5409

Seeds~ Monday Night, Pub Specials which Includes a 1/2 pound burger with fries and a beer for $12. This special runs from 5 to 9pm every Monday.

Something Blue Boutque~ has two promotion offers to all of the brides that stopped by to see them at the Seattle Wedding Show January 3rd & 4th. These offers are good sixty days after the show. Offer 1) With the order of a new bridal gown, a bride receives $200.00 off the retail price of her gown & the choice of either a veil (value up to $200.00) or a free Gown Preservation Package (valued at $200.00). Offer 2) Save 15% to 30% on Dessy or After Six Bridesmaids gowns. (percentage off retail price is determined based on the number of gowns purchased in the same color & style) Visit http://www.somethingblueboutique.com/ for more information.

The Smiling Owl~Valentine’s Day Special: Show the love of your life you care… Gift certificates available! Receive a free Sister Sky product of your choice (lotion, shampoo, or body wash) with every service purchase (while supplies last)! Complimentary local delivery on Valentine’s Day of gift certificates!125 Washington, La Conner, WA 360-770-3065

3rd ~ La Conner Institute of the Arts presents Cantible Concert. Performing at Maple Hall at 7:30pm. Cantibles Concert is inspired by Christina Rossetti’s poem in “The Bleak Mid-Winter”. Musical selections reflect Cantibles desire to present a wide variety of musical styles. Tickets can be purchased at the Next Chapter Bookstore at 360-466-2665.

15th ~ Native Springs is hosting a Wellness Workshop from 6:30-8pm, “Balancing Female Hormones during Menopause” with Rebecah Wilhelm, ND. Please pre-register 360-708-8313.

16th ~ La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum will have guest speaker Patricia Stoddard teach a workshop from 1-3 pm. Learn about the beautiful textiles from Pakistan and India! Call 466-4288 to RSVP as seating is limited, cost is $10.00.

17th ~ Christianson’s Nursery offers a class “Pixels to Pictures: Digital Photography for Gardeners Made Easy” on Saturday at 11:00 am. RSVP by calling 466-3821, cost is $5.00.

24th ~ Childhood Bliss is having a Blissful Savings Day! One Day Only 20% off Store-wide!

AND 50-75% off selected fashions. Saturday January 24th, 9:00-6:00PM. Shop Online Too at ChildhoodBliss.com … 360.466.BABY

24th~ Skagit County Historical Museum presents nine distinguished artists from seven Pacific Northwest tribal communities from Oregon to Alaska. “A Gathering of Native Women Artists: Celebrating Old & New Traditions” will take place from 11:00am-4:00pm. Located at 501 S. 4th La Conner, call 360-466-3365 for more info.

24th ~ Christianson’s Nursery presents “Cooking with Herbs: Soup’s On”. Learn new recipes for homemade soups and herbal breads with Joanne Romann on Saturday at 11:00 am. RSVP by calling 466-3821, cost is $12.00.

29th ~ Christianson’s Nursery presents “Winter’s Cure—Indoor Gardening”. For the anxious gardener who can’t get outside, learn about houseplants from Aphelandra to Zebra plant! RSVP by calling 466-3821, cost is $5.00.

30th ~The Lincoln Theatre presents Shemekia Copeland (daughter of John Copeland) and winner of a Grammy nomination and multiple W.C. Handy Awards. Shemekia is clearly a singer with a style of her own, showing the ability to grow and musically diversify without losing touch with her blues roots. Visit http://www.lincolntheatre.org/ or call 360-466-8955 for more info.

31st ~ Channel Lodge Presents “Caffeine..a Musical” Saturday January 31st @ 6:30 pm Join us for a fabulous night of great food and lattes of laughs! Dinner and Show take place at the La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib House. Also enjoy the No Host bar and appetizers. http://www.caffeinethemusical.com/ For more information or call 360-466-3101

December 2008 Special, Happenings & Events

2008-12-04T11:24:00.000-08:00

La Conner Staycation ~ Many of La Conner’s lodging, dining, and shopping options are offering “Staycation” specials for visitor’s staying a minimum of 3 nights. You will need to show your Staycation Certificate for Dining and Shopping Discounts. Certificates are presented at the time of check- in at participating lodging. Call La Conner Chamber for more details: 360.466.4778 or info@laconnerchamber.com

LODGING:
The Heron Inn & Watergrass Day Spa~For a 2 night stay in a deluxe queen room or fireplace suite receive 50% off one massage, for a 3 night stay, receive one free massage Sunday -Thursday. To all our Canadian visitors, The Heron Inn & Watergrass Day Spa will be accepting the Canadian dollar at par on room reservations and spa services from now until December 31st, 2008. 360-466-4626 or 877-883-8899

Katy’s Inn Bed & Breakfast ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday. 866-528-9746

Hotel Planter~Stay two nights; get the 3rd night half-off. Sunday-Thursday, not including holidays. 800-488-5409

La Conner Channel Lodge/Country Inn ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night free, Sunday-Thursday.(360) 466-1500 or (888) 466-4113.

Queen of the Valley Inn ~ "Financial Relief Package" 25% off one night, 30% off 2 nights, 35% off 3 nights Call 360.466.4578 for more information.

Estep’s Residences ~ Stay in one of our four daily rentals for three consecutive nights (any day of the week) and get the third night half off. Call 360-466-2116 for more information * For our Canadian neighbors we'd like to offer the cost of your stay at par.

Benson Farmstead Bed & Breakfast ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday. (360) 757-0578

Best Western Cottontree Inn ~ $89 per night, 3 night minimum. 800-662-6886

Ravenskeep Guest House – Stay 3 nights and get the 3rd night half off. 360-941-4438

DINING:
Farmhouse Restaurant ~ 20% discount up to $100 on food only. (360) 466-4411

Nell Thorn Restaurant ~ 10% discount on food only. Now open for lunch! (360) 466-4261

La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib House ~ free dessert or appetizer with purchase of 2 full priced meals. (360) 466-4014

OTHER:
Blue Water Massage ~ $15 off any massage treatment. Call for appointment (360) 333-8811

Childhood Bliss ~ 10% off all non-sale items. (360) 466-2229

Queen of the Valley Inn~Shop Like Royalty. The Queen of the Valley Inn is offering limousine day trips from Seattle (and surrounding area) to La Conner for girlfriend shopping trips and afternoon tea or wine tasting with The Queen. October through December. 7-day advance reservation required. Overnight stays and spa treatments offered as well. 360.466.4578 or 888.999.1404

Bears ‘N Friends ~ 10% off all non-sale items. (360) 466-3528

Ginger Grater/Olive Shoppe ~ 10% off all non-sale items (cash or check only). (360) 466-4161

Ravenskeep Antiques – 10% off any purchase. (360) 941-4438

Step Outside ~ 10% off all non-sale items. (360) 466-3397

Wyman Park ~ free gift to anyone with current Staycation Certificate (360) 466-4148

Native Springs~ Santa Baby! Enjoy your holiday time off and play tourist in La Conner. Come in together and have a foot soak and wonderful warm clay on your legs and feet. Chat and enjoy hot tea. $70.00 for both call 708-8313 to schedule your appointment. Native Springs is located at 125 Washington St. La Conner. Offer good through December only.http://www.nativesprings.com/

Mary Davis Lighting ~ Has moved to 402 Morris Street. Joining Mary is Tom Minifie from Brass Lamp Antiques in Snohomish. Please stop by and visit their expanded offerings in vintage and custom lighting. 466-3495 http://www.marydavislighting.com/

Christianson's Nursery~ Wreath machines are set up for individuals to make their own custom wreaths. Cost is $5.00 which pays for the wreath form and use of the machines. Call 360-466-3821 or stop by 15806 Best Rd. Available through December 24th.

Palmers is offering 2 specials ~ Chicken & Shells Friday nights 4-8 pm and Happy Couples Special Sunday nights 5-8 pm Call (360) 466-3147 for reservations. Located at 512 S. 1st St.

Seeds Bistro & Bar ~ Offers Meatloaf Mondays, Taco Tuesdays, Wine Wednesdays and Local Thursdays from 5-9 pm. Call (360) 466-3280 for reservations. Located at 623 Morris St.

La Conner Quilt Museum~ Holiday Bazaar: Celebrating the spirit of the season, the La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum invites you to our Holiday Bazaar at the Gaches Mansion from November 7 through December 28. The proceeds from your purchases assist with Museum operating expenses during the long, dark days of winter. Friends of the Museum who wish to donate items to this bazaar are welcome to drop off donations now through the month of December. 360-466-4288 http://www.laconnerquilts.com/

Museum of Northwest Art ~ October 18th - January 4th We are thrilled to present master glass artist Sonja Blomdahl, on the last stop of her traveling exhibit, bringing this major 25-year retrospective home to the Northwest. This exhibit features more than 30 blown glass vessels, luminous in color and graceful in form - hallmarks of Blomdahl's distinctive style. "As an artist, my focus has been with the vessel. In the vessel, I find the form to be of primary importance. It holds the space. In a sense, the vessel is a 'history of my breath;' it contains the volume within. If I have done things correctly, the profile of the piece is a continuous curve, the shape is full, and the opening confident."We are also proud to introduce Shelley Muzylowski Allen with her first solo museum exhibit, Modern Menagerie. Muzylowski Allen creates animal-themed glass sculpture. Her work demonstrates fluency with equine anatomy, with strong and graceful forms in a palette of earthy, deep, and metallic hues. Vital to Muzylowski Allen's creative process are her surroundings - the rural landscapes of Skagit County. 360-466-4446 http://www.museumofnwart.org/

Skagit County Historical Museum~ presents Key Ingredients: America by Food, a Smithsonian Institution traveling exhibition which delves into the historical, regional and social traditions that merge in meals at the American table. The exhibition will open November 15 and continue through January 4 and will give Skagit County an opportunity to celebrate the region's food heritage.Through a selection of artifacts, photographs and illustrations, Key Ingredients examines how culture, ethnicity, landscape and tradition influence the foods and flavors we enjoy across the nation. The exhibition looks at the evolution of the American kitchen and how food industries have responded to the technological innovations that have enabled Americans to choose an ever-wider variety of frozen, prepared and fresh foods. Skagit County Historical Museum is located at 501 4th Street, La Conner(360) 466-3365 Hours: Tuesday - Sunday 11 am to 5 pm. http://www.skagitcounty.net/

La Conner Quilt Museum~ September 24, 2008 through December 28, 2008"SiX Stories" An Exhibition of Contemporary Art Textiles "SiX Stories" is the work of: Bobby Britnell Laura Kemshall Linda Kemshall Edwina MacKinnon Catherine Nicholls Marie Roper The artists are from the United Kingdom and Canada and this is the first time their work together will be shown in the United States. They believe that all people are affected by the "stories" that they encounter as they travel through life. These could be the stories they hear as children, the oral history of a place and time, or the everyday stories that come to them them as they move through life. Each member of SiX has challenged herself to think about stories, legends and story telling and to then translate the mental images that the stories conjure into drawings, paintings and textile art. An important priority for SiX is to produce stimulating new work for exhibition while working together as a group and to strive to maintain the unique personal identity of each member. The design process is a vital element of the artists' work and where the venue permits, exhibitions will attempt to illustrate this by including sketchbooks and other source material alongside final pieces, so telling of the artistic journey as well as the final destination. The La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum is located at 703 S. 2nd St., (360) 466-4288. Open Wednesday - Sunday 11-4. http://www.laconnerquilts.com/

December 5th ~ La Conner Retirement Inn will host Magician Frank Dunn at 4:00pm for a Native American Magic Show. Frank Dunn performs magic illusions that incorporate Native American culture, art, and story telling. This event is free! Bring the Family! Join the Magic! 204 N. First La Conner 466-5700

December 6th ~ Wyman Park & Step Outside will have a Holiday Open House Music, Chocolate & Wine…..O My from 2pm-7pm. Door Prizes, Drawings and more! Wyman Park is located at 107 S 1st & Step Outside is located at 105 S 1st.

December 6th & 13th~ Santa Claus Days will be at the La Conner Fruit & Produce from 11am-2pm He will be posing for pictures in exchange for cash to help La Conner Kiwanis buy Christmas dinner & gifts for local families. Bring your camera and some cash and Santa will glad to pose for a picture with your child or pet!

December 6th~Community Tree Lighting at 5:00pm in Gilkey Square. There will be music, singing, refreshments and a visit from Santa. For more information contact the La Conner Visitor Information Center at 466-4778. www.laconnerchamber.com

December 7th~ Museum of Northwest Art presents Visualizing the Beast: Utilitarian to Divine Artist’s Talk Shelly Muzolowski will present her artwork and current exhibition, Modern Menagerie. The Museum is located at 121 S. 1st La Conner. Call 466-4446 for more information.

December 12th~La Conner Institute of Performing Arts presents Holly Graham! Holly will be performing at maple Hall at 7:30pm. Holly will entertain you with her joyful and original collection of songs and stories about life. Bring a sense of humor and be prepared to sing. Tickets are available at The Next Chapter at 466-2665 or visit http://www.laconnearts.com/

December 13th~ La Conner Lighted Boat Parade is themed this year “Twas the Lights before Christmas” and begins at 6:30pm. The Swinomish Yacht Club will set off its traditional run from the Port of La Conner and follow the channel to Shelter Bay. Call the Swinomish yacht Club at 466-4902 or 206-297-0206 for boat participation.

December 13th ~ Organic Matters celebrates it’s 13th anniversary! Everything in the store is 13% off. Shop online at www.organic-matters.com and receive 7% off. Located at 707 S. 1st St, (360) 466-4012

December 13th ~ The Artist’s Remarque will have an Artist Reception featuring Doug Landreth from 10:30am-7:30pm. There will be over 75 pieces of his photographic masterpieces on display. Enjoy Appetizers and Hot Apple Cider while you shop! Located at 128 S 1st.

November 2008 Specials, Happenings & Events

2008-11-06T12:47:00.000-08:00

LODGING:

Katy’s Inn Bed & Breakfast ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday. 866-528-9746

Hotel Planter~Stay two nights; get the 3rd night half-off. Sunday-Thursday, not including holidays. 800-488-5409

La Conner Channel Lodge/Country Inn ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night free, Sunday-Thursday.(360) 466-1500 or (888) 466-4113.

Queen of the Valley Inn ~ Stay 3 nights and get a $50 gas card or discount.

Estep’s Residences ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off. (360) 466-2116 800-652-0223

Benson Farmstead Bed & Breakfast ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday. (360) 757-0578

Best Western Cottontree Inn ~ $89 per night, 3 night minimum. 800-662-6886Ravenskeep Guest House – Stay 3 nights and get the 3rd night half off. 360-941-4438

DINING:

Farmhouse Restaurant ~ 20% discount up to $100 on food only. (360) 466-4411

Nell Thorn Restaurant ~ 10% discount on food only. (360) 466-4261

La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib House ~ free dessert or appetizer with purchase of 2 full priced meals. (360) 466-4014

OTHER:

Blue Water Massage ~ $15 off any massage treatment. Call for appointment (360) 333-8811

Childhood Bliss ~ 10% off all non-sale items. (360) 466-2229

Queen of the Valley Inn~Shop Like Royalty. The Queen of the Valley Inn is offering limousine day trips from Seattle (and surrounding area) to La Conner for girlfriend shopping trips and afternoon tea or wine tasting with The Queen. October through December. 7-day advance reservation required. Overnight stays and spa treatments offered as well. 360.466.4578 or 888.999.1404

Bears ‘N Friends ~ 10% off all non-sale items. (360) 466-3528

Ginger Grater/Olive Shoppe ~ 10% off all non-sale items (cash or check only). (360) 466-4161

Ravenskeep Antiques – 10% off any purchase. (360) 941-4438

Step Outside ~ 10% off all non-sale items. (360) 466-3397

Wyman Park ~ free gift to anyone with current Staycation Certificate (360) 466-4148

The Next Chapter Bookstore~is under new management & is hosting their 1st annual Turkey Poetry Contest! 100 words or less Categories are Grownups, Preschool-K, Grades 1-3, Grades 4-5, Grades 5-8, Grades 9-12. Winners to be announced November 26th. Bring your poem to The Next Chapter Bookstore by November 20th. Prizes for each category & Grand Prize! More details are available at 360-466-2665 721 S. 1st La Conner

Palmers~Back by popular demand The Happy Couple Special every Sunday from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. Dinner includes soup or salad,choice of three entrees, dessert ( Chef's Choice), bottle of wine, $36.95 per couple. Also every Friday starting November 14th, from 5:00P.M.-8:00P.M. Palmers will have Carved Primerib & Salmon Buffet with all accompaniments, dessert, a glass of wine $39.95 per couple. Reservations are required 360-466-3147 http://www.nwcuisine.com/

Mary Davis Lighting ~ is pleased to announce that they are moving down Morris Street a bit. Their new location is the old Firehouse at 402 Morris Street. Opening should be mid to late November 2008. Joining Mary is Tom Minifie from Brass Lamp Antiques in Snohomish. Please stop by and visit their expanded offerings in vintage and custom lighting. 466-3495 http://www.marydavislighting.com/

The Wood Merchant~ Is offering a FREE Ottoman with the purchase of a Brendan
Rocker by Greg Aanes. Promotion runs through November, a $310.00 value! The Wood Merchant is located at 709 S. 1st and can be reached at 466-4741.http://www.woodmerchant.com/

La Conner Regional Library~ Will be running free beginning computer classes on Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., Nov. 5 and Nov. 12. Nov. 5 will cover basics of the computer, use of the mouse, opening files and saving information. Nov. 12 will cover surfing the Internet, using the library catalog on-line and exploring the on-line databases the library has available. Registration is required as space is limited. Call 466-3352 to sign up.

A Class Act Gallery~ Our featured Artist during November is noted Photographer Jess Ray. We are happy to announce that Jess will personally be in our gallery on November 8th during Art’s Alive! He will be here to show his photos, and also to talk to you about your framing needs. WIN THE DRAWING! Jess is going to draw a name at the end of the evening for one of his beautifully framed photos. Drop by 612 S. 1st Street or call 466-2000 for more information.

La Conner Quilt Museum~ Holiday Bazaar: Celebrating the spirit of the season, the La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum invites you to our Holiday Bazaar at the Gaches Mansion from November 7 through December 28. The proceeds from your purchases assist with Museum operating expenses during the long, dark days of winter. Friends of the Museum who wish to donate items to this bazaar are welcome to drop off donations now through the month of December. 360-466-4288 http://www.laconnerquilts.com/

La Conner Memories ~ is offering 10% off. Get 10% off your custom photo gifts for those hard to buy for people on your gift giving list. Custom photo gifts of mugs, t-shirts, mouse pads, puzzles, bookmarks, magnets and more. Located at 306 Morris St, 466-9940 Closed Wednesday & Thursday.

Art’s Alive! November 7th through the 9th~ Over 60 artists exhibiting and demonstrating their work in La Conner. Artist’s reception will be held at Maple Hall and La Conner Retirement Inn Friday, November 7th from 6–9pm . Exhibitions will be Saturday and Sunday from 10am-5pm all through La Conner. Please call or visit 360-466-4778 or visit www.laconnerchamber.com for more information.

November 8th~ Museum of Northwest Art presents “Fragile & Full” Art Nancy Pagh reads her poetry relating to the human body as “container”…its shape and weight, how we alter it, judge it, and how it holds our spirit. Her work also explores the risk and potential shattering inherent in creating beauty and love. The reading will begin at 7:30pm. Please call (360) 466-4446 or visit www.museumofnorthwestart.org for more information.

November 21st~La Conner Institute of Performing Arts presents Alexander Ardakov! Performing at Maple Hall Alex will present a classical evening including Schumann, Chopin, and more. Tickets can be purchased at The Next Chapter 360-466-2665. For more information please visit http://www.laconnerarts.com/.

November 23rd~ Museum of Northwest Art presents “Where It’s Happening: Glass Art in the Northwest” A native of Seattle and gallery owner since 1977, William Traver will discuss the growth of the studio glass movement and its connection to Pilchuck Glass School. Traver has attained world-wide renown for helping to forge the International Studio Glass Movement—with its epicenter in the Northwest. Many contemporary glass artists, including Sonja Blomdahl, had their first exhibits in his gallery. What are the current trends with artists, collectors, and dealers—where is glass art going? Join us for this very special lecture. Please call (360) 466-4446 or visit www.museumofnorthwestart.org for more information.

November 29th~ 5th Annual Pancake Breakfast with Santa will be held at Maple Hall starting at 8:30am. All are welcome Families $10.00, Adults $6.00 and Children are $3.00. Hosted by Rotary of La Conner.

Turkey Trot~ La Conner honors the town mascot with The Turkey Trot! During the month of November, La Conner merchants, restaurants and inns will participate in the first event all about girlfriends, shopping and well, turkeys! Look for the hidden turkey in participating shops and restaurants for a special gift, discount or other treat. Take your group picture with the town turkeys and send it to the Chamber of Commerce. Leave your turkeys at home and meet your friends in La Conner!

Museum of Northwest Art ~ October 18th - January 4th We are thrilled to present master glass artist Sonja Blomdahl, on the last stop of her traveling exhibit, bringing this major 25-year retrospective home to the Northwest. This exhibit features more than 30 blown glass vessels, luminous in color and graceful in form - hallmarks of Blomdahl's distinctive style. "As an artist, my focus has been with the vessel. In the vessel, I find the form to be of primary importance. It holds the space. In a sense, the vessel is a 'history of my breath;' it contains the volume within. If I have done things correctly, the profile of the piece is a continuous curve, the shape is full, and the opening confident."We are also proud to introduce Shelley Muzylowski Allen with her first solo museum exhibit, Modern Menagerie. Muzylowski Allen creates animal-themed glass sculpture. Her work demonstrates fluency with equine anatomy, with strong and graceful forms in a palette of earthy, deep, and metallic hues. Vital to Muzylowski Allen's creative process are her surroundings - the rural landscapes of Skagit County. 360-466-4446 http://www.museumofnwart.org/

Skagit County Historical Museum~ presents Key Ingredients: America by Food, a Smithsonian Institution traveling exhibition which delves into the historical, regional and social traditions that merge in meals at the American table. The exhibition will open November 15 and continue through January 4 and will give Skagit County an opportunity to celebrate the region's food heritage.
Through a selection of artifacts, photographs and illustrations, Key Ingredients examines how culture, ethnicity, landscape and tradition influence the foods and flavors we enjoy across the nation. The exhibition looks at the evolution of the American kitchen and how food industries have responded to the technological innovations that have enabled Americans to choose an ever-wider variety of frozen, prepared and fresh foods. Skagit County Historical Museum is located at 501 4th Street, La Conner(360) 466-3365 Hours: Tuesday - Sunday 11 am to 5 pm. http://www.skagitcounty.net/

La Conner Quilt Museum~ September 24, 2008 through December 28, 2008"SiX Stories" An Exhibition of Contemporary Art Textiles "SiX Stories" is the work of: Bobby Britnell Laura Kemshall Linda Kemshall Edwina MacKinnon Catherine Nicholls Marie Roper The artists are from the United Kingdom and Canada and this is the first time their work together will be shown in the United States. They believe that all people are affected by the "stories" that they encounter as they travel through life. These could be the stories they hear as children, the oral history of a place and time, or the everyday stories that come to them them as they move through life. Each member of SiX has challenged herself to think about stories, legends and story telling and to then translate the mental images that the stories conjure into drawings, paintings and textile art. An important priority for SiX is to produce stimulating new work for exhibition while working together as a group and to strive to maintain the unique personal identity of each member. The design process is a vital element of the artists' work and where the venue permits, exhibitions will attempt to illustrate this by including sketchbooks and other source material alongside final pieces, so telling of the artistic journey as well as the final destination. The La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum is located at 703 S. 2nd St., (360) 466-4288. Open Wednesday - Sunday 11-4. http://www.laconnerquilts.com/

October 2008 Specials, Happenings & Events

2008-09-24T13:37:00.000-07:00

La Conner Staycation ~ Many of La Conner’s lodging, dining, and shopping options are offering “Staycation” specials for visitor’s staying a minimum of 3 nights. You will need to show your Staycation Certificate for Dining and Shopping Discounts. Certificates are presented at the time of check- in at participating lodging. Call La Conner Chamber for more details: 360.466.4778 or info@laconnerchamber.com

LODGING:

The Heron Inn & Watergrass Day Spa~For a 2 night stay in a deluxe queen room or fireplace suite receive 50% off one massage, for a 3 night stay, receive one free massage Sunday -Thursday. 360-466-4626 or 877-883-8899

Katy’s Inn Bed & Breakfast ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday. 866-528-9746

Hotel Planter~Stay two nights; get the 3rd night half-off. Sunday-Thursday, not including holidays. 800-488-5409

La Conner Channel Lodge/Country Inn ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night free, Sunday-Thursday.(360) 466-1500 or (888) 466-4113.

Queen of the Valley Inn ~ Stay 3 nights and get a $50 gas card or discount.

Estep’s Residences ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off. (360) 466-2116 800-652-0223

Benson Farmstead Bed & Breakfast ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday. (360) 757-0578

Best Western Cottontree Inn ~ $89 per night, 3 night minimum. 800-662-6886

Ravenskeep Guest House – Stay 3 nights and get the 3rd night half off. 360-941-4438

DINING:

Farmhouse Restaurant ~ 20% discount up to $100 on food only. (360) 466-4411

Nell Thorn Restaurant ~ 10% discount on food only. (360) 466-4261

La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib House ~ free dessert or appetizer with purchase of 2 full priced meals. (360) 466-4014

The Dulce Plate ~ free dessert with purchase of full price meal. (360) 466-1630

OTHER:

Blue Water Massage ~ $15 off any massage treatment. Call for appointment (360) 333-8811

Childhood Bliss ~ 10% off all non-sale items. (360) 466-2229

Queen of the Valley Inn~Shop Like Royalty. The Queen of the Valley Inn is offering limousine day trips from Seattle (and surrounding area) to La Conner for girlfriend shopping trips and afternoon tea or wine tasting with The Queen. October through December. 7-day advance reservation required. Overnight stays and spa treatments offered as well. 360.466.4578 or 888.999.1404

Bears ‘N Friends ~ 10% off all non-sale items. (360) 466-3528

Ginger Grater/Olive Shoppe ~ 10% off all non-sale items (cash or check only). (360) 466-4161

Ravenskeep Antiques – 10% off any purchase. (360) 941-4438

Step Outside ~ 10% off all non-sale items. (360) 466-3397

Wyman Park ~ free gift to anyone with current Staycation Certificate (360) 466-4148

Childhood Bliss ~Pumpkin Patch Open Daily! Pumpkins For Sale with Proceeds going to the La Conner School Earth Club. Pumpkin Carving Contest and Costume Contest with over $300 in Prizes! Call 360.466.BABY for details.

Roozengaarde~ Free Planting Seminars October 4th & 11th at 10am! Learn how to plant, maintain and store your bulb investment, ask questions and watch as our display garden crew demonstrates how our beautiful 3 acre display garden is planned and planted each fall. Call our gift shop at (360) 424-8531 for more information. Each person in attendance will receive an exclusive coupon for 20% off their bulb purchase! Store hours are Monday – Saturday 9am to 6pm and Sundays 11am to 4pm.

Bears & Friends~ Steiff Event on October 18th, 11-4. Claire Steiff Meisel, Richard Steiff's granddaughter, will be signing pieces and visiting with guests. A Steiff representative will also have samples of new pieces an will be showing a new video for 2008. There will also be goodie bags, door prizes and tasty desserts. Please call or email with any questions 360-466-3528 hugabear@earthlink.net

Christianson’s Nursery and Greenhouse~ has classes and events throughout October. Including “Winterize Your Pond” &“Enhancing Your Landscape with Miniature & Dwarf Conifers”. They will also be hosting a Fall Color Tour & Tea at the Granary. Please call for more information 360-466-3821.

Museum of Northwest Art ~ October 18th - January 4th We are thrilled to present master glass artist Sonja Blomdahl, on the last stop of her traveling exhibit, bringing this major 25-year retrospective home to the Northwest. This exhibit features more than 30 blown glass vessels, luminous in color and graceful in form - hallmarks of Blomdahl's distinctive style. "As an artist, my focus has been with the vessel. In the vessel, I find the form to be of primary importance. It holds the space. In a sense, the vessel is a 'history of my breath;' it contains the volume within. If I have done things correctly, the profile of the piece is a continuous curve, the shape is full, and the opening confident."

We are also proud to introduce Shelley Muzylowski Allen with her first solo museum exhibit, Modern Menagerie. Muzylowski Allen creates animal-themed glass sculpture. Her work demonstrates fluency with equine anatomy, with strong and graceful forms in a palette of earthy, deep, and metallic hues. Vital to Muzylowski Allen's creative process are her surroundings - the rural landscapes of Skagit County.

Skagit County Historical Museum~ presents “Lost Cities of Skagit: Rediscovering Places of Our Past”. Through rarely seen photographs, maps, stories and artifacts, the exhibit tells the intriguing tales of 17 “lost” Skagit communities including Avon, Bancroft, Bay View, Cypress, Cokedale, Dewey, Finn Settlement, Fir/Conway, Harmony, Hickson/Thornwood, Hoogdal, Marblemount, Milltown, Montborne, Samish/Atlanta, Sauk and Skagit City. 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. Open Tuesday - Sunday 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

La Conner Quilt Museum~ September 24, 2008 through December 28, 2008
"SiX Stories" An Exhibition of Contemporary Art Textiles "SiX Stories" is the work of: Bobby Britnell Laura Kemshall Linda Kemshall Edwina MacKinnon Catherine Nicholls Marie Roper The artists are from the United Kingdom and Canada and this is the first time their work together will be shown in the United States. They believe that all people are affected by the "stories" that they encounter as they travel through life. These could be the stories they hear as children, the oral history of a place and time, or the everyday stories that come to them them as they move through life. Each member of SiX has challenged herself to think about stories, legends and story telling and to then translate the mental images that the stories conjure into drawings, paintings and textile art. An important priority for SiX is to produce stimulating new work for exhibition while working together as a group and to strive to maintain the unique personal identity of each member. The design process is a vital element of the artists' work and where the venue permits, exhibitions will attempt to illustrate this by including sketchbooks and other source material alongside final pieces, so telling of the artistic journey as well as the final destination. The La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum is located at 703 S. 2nd St., (360) 466-4288. Open Wednesday - Sunday 11-4.

October 4 & 5th~ Festival of Family Farms takes place on 13 participating Skagit Valley area family farms and is a playground of wholesome, educational and unique activities. Each of the participating farms provide unique, safe and fun children's activities for "kids" of all ages. Visit http://www.festivaloffamilyfarms.com/ for participating farms and map.

October 4th~ Paul Chandler Jazz Ensemble has traveled the word sharing his talent and joy of music. This performance features Paul playing trumpet and flugelhorn in a stellar quartet of Northwest musicians. The concert is at 7:30pm at Maple Hall for ticket sales please visit http://www.laconnerarts.com/ or call 466-2665.

October 17th~ La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum workshop. If you have a few quilt tops in your closet that haven’t been finished because you can’t decide how to quilt them, this is the workshop for you! Each participant may bring up to three unfinished quilt tops and Barbara will discuss their possible quilting designs. Seating is limited. 360-466-4288.

October 18th~ Museum of Northwest Art Family Art Day Session I from 11am to 1:00pm & Session II from 2pm to 4pm. You'll begin by making drawing and paintings based on Ginny Ruffner's exhibit. Then you'll construct a cylinder with your painting using clear mylar and hoops. Take it home and hang it in the light! Registration is limited to 15 participants per session. To register: Call (360)466-4446, Ext. 108 or 101. Free with Museum admission. Admission for MoNA members is Always Free!

October 18th-January 4th~Museum of Northwest Art “Sonja Blomdahl: Incalmo Glass” and Shelly Muzylowski Allen “Modern Menagerie” exhibit. Opening Reception is from 2pm to 5pm. Please visit http://www.museumofnwart.org/ for more information.

October 26th~ Skagit County Historical Museum learn about Skagit City School at Skagit County Historical Museum on Sunday, October 26 at 2 pm. John Kamb, board member of Skagit City Community Club shares the history of this “lost city” and its school. Admission includes the featured exhibit “Lost Cities of Skagit: Rediscovering Places of Our Past.” The Museum is located at 501 S. 4th Street, at the top of the hill in La Conner. Ph: 360-466-3365 www.skagitcounty.net/museum.

October 31st~ La Conner Pumpkin Carving Contest on Halloween October 31st at the Childhood Bliss Pumpkin Patch which is located directly next to Childhood Bliss….first stop sign in town. All official carvers must be registered before 5:00 pm on the day of the event. There is no charge for registration. This family friendly event taking place before, during, and after the Merchant Trick or Treat Parade includes judging of the pumpkins in different age categories, a children’s costume contest, raffles, prizes and more! Childhood Bliss Pumpkin Patch will have pumpkins available for sale. More Info: 360.466.2229

September 2008 Specials, Happenings & Events

2008-08-27T11:07:00.000-07:00

La Conner Staycation ~ Many of La Conner’s lodging, dining, and shopping options are offering “Staycation” specials for visitor’s staying a minimum of 3 nights. You will need to show your Staycation Certificate for Dining & Shopping Discounts. Call La Conner Chamber for more details: 360.466.4778 or info@laconnerchamber.com

LODGING:

Katy’s Inn Bed & Breakfast ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday. 866-528-9746

La Conner Channel Lodge/Country Inn ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday.(360) 466-1500 or (888) 466-4113.

Queen of the Valley Inn ~ Stay 3 nights and get a $50 gas card or discount. 888-999-1404

Estep’s Residences ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off. (360) 466-2116

Alice Bay Bed & Breakfast~ Stay 3 nights and put $75 under your mattress, Sunday-Thursday. 800-652-0223

Benson Farmstead Bed & Breakfast ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday. (360) 757-0578

Best Western Cottontree Inn ~ $99 per night, 3 night minimum. 800-662-6886

Ravenskeep Guest House – Stay 3 nights and get the 3rd night half off. 360-941-4438

Samish Point be the Bay~Stay 3 nights and get the third night half off (except July, August and Holidays). 360-766-6610

DINING:

Farmhouse Restaurant ~ 20% discount up to $100 on food only. (360) 466-4411

Nell Thorn Restaurant ~ 10% discount on food only. (360) 466-4261

La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib House ~ free dessert or appetizer with purchase of 2 full priced meals. (360) 466-4014

The Dulce Plate ~ free dessert with purchase of full price meal. (360) 466-1630Tulips Restaurant ~ 10% discount on food only. (360) 466-0308

OTHER:

Bears ‘N Friends ~ 10% off all non-sale items. (360) 466-3528

Blue Water Massage ~ $15 off any massage treatment. (360) 333-8811

Childhood Bliss ~ 10% off all non-sale items. (360) 466-2229

Ginger Grater/Olive Shoppe ~ 10% off all non-sale items (cash or check only). (360) 466-4161

Ravenskeep Antiques – 10% off any purchase. (360) 941-4438

Step Outside ~ 10% off all non-sale items. (360) 466-3397

Wyman Park ~ free gift to anyone with current Staycation Certificate (360) 466-4148

The Museum of Northwest Art presents a new exhibit by artist Ginny Ruffner. "Aesthetic Engineering: The Imagination Cycle" features new large-scaled sculpture and installation work that cross-fertilizes flora, fauna, and art. This exhibition is a mix of glass, steel, and bronze with explosive flowers, massive leaves, and twisted growing vines, including over 1,000 flowers, and eighteen freestanding sculptures made from bronze, steel, and glass. The Museum of Northwest Art is located at 121 S. 1st Street, (360) 466-4446. Open daily 10 am - 5 pm. http://www.museumofnwart.com

The La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum presents QuiltFest. QuiltFest will be held September 26th, 27th & 28th from 10:00 AM to 5:00PM. Award winning quilts will be displayed at Maple Hall. Two New shows will begin at the Gaches Mansion, Vendors will be available and you can enjoy a Quilt Walk in the shops of historic La Conner. Located at 703 S. 2nd St., (360) 466-4288. http://www.laconnerquilts.com Open Wednesday – Sunday 11 am – 5 pm.

Skagit County Historical Museum presents “Lost Cities of Skagit: Rediscovering Places of Our Past”. Through rarely seen photographs, maps, stories and artifacts, the exhibit tells the intriguing tales of 17 “lost” Skagit communities including Avon, Bancroft, Bay View, Cypress, Cokedale, Dewey, Finn Settlement, Fir/Conway, Harmony, Hickson/Thornwood, Hoogdal, Marblemount, Milltown, Montborne, Samish/Atlanta, Sauk and Skagit City. 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. Open Tuesday - Sunday 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

September 1-30th ~ Quilt Walk around La Conner featuring quilts by “Fidalgo Island Quilters”. Located in various businesses in La Conner.

September 5th ~ La Conner Regional Library~ is holding a Teen Night @ the Library from 6 to 8 p.m. Kids 13+ are welcome to attend. Games, Pizza, Pop and Prizes are the order of the evening. The event is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of La Conner. RSVP 466-3352

September 6th ~ Hellams Vineyard presents a Dinner Cruise & Barrister Wines. Cost is $110 per person. RSVP by calling 466-1758.

September 6th ~ Lincoln Theatre presents the annual Rick Epting memorial show. Featuring three comedy productions, the Cody Rivers Show, Dream Science Circus and The Upfront Theatre. Located at 712 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon. Starting at 8:00 pm, Call (360) 336-8955 for ticket information.

September 13th~La Conner Yacht & Car Show presents an opportunity to share our American heritage with your family. Start the day with a pancake breakfast at the Swinomish Yacht Club from 7:30am-10:00am. There will be children’s activities, live music and the Coast Guard will be demonstrating an in-water rescue (weather permitting) with their helicopter and 90 foot assist vessel. Admission for the Yacht & Car show is $3.00; children under 12yrs are free.

September 13th ~ Kenmore Air will be in La Conner all day taking people on 20-minute flights over Skagit Valley for $49 per person. Know anyone who would like to fly up to La Conner from Seattle and back that evening? Make reservations by calling 877-359-5366.

September 14th ~ Museum of Northwest Art presents artist Ginny Ruffner as she speaks about “Where the Paths Cross: The Art & Science and the Science of Art”. Call 466-4446 ext. 108 or visit www.museumofnwart.org for more details.

September 26th-28th~La Conner Quilt and Textile Museum presents the 11th annual Quilt & Textile Festival. Quilts will fill Maple Hall in addition to the exhibits at Gaches Mansion. Call 466-4288 or visit www.laconnerquilts.com for more information.

September 26-28th ~ La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum will have 4 workshops during the Quilt Festival. Friday’s workshops are “Threadplay” and “Vested Interest”, Saturday’s is “Collage Quilting” and Sunday’s is “Color Wheel”. All are 9-4 pm, cost $75 (includes lunch) and you can make reservations by calling 466-4288. Visit www.laconnnerquilts.com for more details.

September 27th ~ Museum of Northwest Art hosts Family Art Day, “3-D Pop-up Cards” will be the project with artist Margot Myers. Session I 11-1, Session II 2-4 pm. Call 466-4446 ext 108 or visit www.museumofnwart.org.

August 2008 Specials, Happenings and Events

2008-07-30T13:26:00.000-07:00

La Conner Staycation ~ Many of La Conner’s lodging, dining, and shopping options is offering “Staycation” specials for visitor’s staying a minimum of 3 nights. You will need to show your Staycation Certificate for Dining & Shopping Discounts. Call La Conner Chamber for more details: 360.466.4778 or info@laconnerchamber.com

LODGING:

Katy’s Inn Bed & Breakfast ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday. 866-528-9746

Hotel Planter ~ Stay 2 nights, get the 3^rd night half-off. Sunday-Thursday, not including holidays. 800-488-5409

La Conner Channel Lodge/Country Inn ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3^rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday. (360) 466-1500 or (888) 466-4113.

Queen of the Valley Inn ~ Stay 3 nights and get a $50 gas card or discount. 800-999-1404

Estep’s Residences ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3^rd night half-off. (360) 466-2116

Alice Bay Bed & Breakfast~ Stay 3 nights and put $75 under your mattress, Sunday-Thursday. 800-652-0223

Benson Farmstead Bed & Breakfast ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3^rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday. (360) 757-0578

Best Western Cottontree Inn ~ $99 per night, 3 night minimum. 800-662-6886

Samish Point by the Bay ~ Stay 3 nights and get the 3^rd night half-off (except July, August & holidays). (360) 766-6610

DINING:

Nell Thorn Restaurant ~ 10% discount on food only. (360) 466-4261

Farmhouse Restaurant ~ 20% discount up to $100 on food only. (360) 466-4411

La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib House ~ free dessert or appetizer with purchase of 2 full priced meals. (360) 466-4014

The Dulce Plate ~ free dessert with purchase of full price meal. (360) 466-1630

Tulips Restaurant ~ 10% discount on food only. (360) 466-0308

OTHER:

Childhood Bliss ~ 10% off all non-sale items. (360) 466-2229

Bears ‘N Friends ~ 10% off all non-sale items. (360) 466-3528

Blue Water Massage ~ $15 off any massage treatment. (360) 333-8811

Ginger Grater/Olive Shoppe ~ 10% off all non-sale items (cash or check only). (360) 466-4161

Step Outside ~ 10% off all non-sale items. (360) 466-3397

The Godmother’s Closet ~ 50% off any wedding gown in store. (360) 466-2743

Wyman Park ~ free gift to anyone with current Staycation Certificate (360) 466-4148

The Museum of Northwest Art presents a new exhibit by artist Ginny Ruffner. "Aesthetic Engineering: The Imagination Cycle" features new large-scaled sculpture and installation work that cross-fertilizes flora, fauna, and art. This exhibition is a mix of glass, steel, and bronze with explosive flowers, massive leaves, and twisted growing vines, including over 1,000 flowers, and eighteen freestanding sculptures made from bronze, steel, and glass. The Museum of Northwest Art is located at 121 S. 1st Street, (360) 466-4446. Open daily 10 am - 5 pm. http://www.museumofnwart.com/.

The La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum presents two exhibits from Japan. "Path to Edo: Quilts from Japan”. Miwako Kimura, curator and director of the Hanatsunagi-kai Quilt Club in Japan, brings the life and color of Japanese culture to the Northwest in this dazzling exhibit of works produced by a group of quilters from her native land. “Sashiko: Old and New" Kazuko Yoshiura, a sashiko artist for nearly 30 years, creates immaculate and painstakingly stitched fabric art that channels this centuries-old traditional style of fabric reinforcement and brings it into a fresh new light. Located at 703 S. 2^nd St., (360) 466-4288. http://www.laconnerquilts.com/. Open Wednesday – Sunday 11 am – 5 pm.

Skagit County Historical Museum presents “Lost Cities of Skagit: Rediscovering Places of Our Past”. Through rarely seen photographs, maps, stories and artifacts, the exhibit tells the intriguing tales of 17 “lost” Skagit communities including Avon, Bancroft, Bay View, Cypress, Cokedale, Dewey, Finn Settlement, Fir/Conway, Harmony, Hickson/Thornwood, Hoogdal, Marblemount, Milltown, Montborne, Samish/Atlanta, Sauk and Skagit City. The Skagit County Historical Museum is located at 501 S 4^th Street, at the top of the hill in La Conner. For more information, call 360-466-3365 or visit www.skagitcounty.net/museum. Open Tuesday - Sunday 11:00 am – 5:00 pm.

Skagit River Boutique and Skagit River Traders~ have added a line for women and men, respectively, of shirts from Ryan Michael. The shirts are made of high grade pima cotton, or silk and are updated western influence with the decorative yolks and pearl buttons that add detail and also comfort. Drop by and check out this new line of beautiful denim friendly shirts.

Janet's Clothing and Embellishments~ is featuring a new line of bags which could be used for overnight bags or for projects such as knitting or other hand work. The bags are beautiful upholstery-weight prints detailed with embroidery, faux gems and leather. The effect is very appealing and the bags are sturdy and perfect for so many uses. We invite you to drop by and see the line.

August 1-10th ~ Caravan Gallery~ celebrates their 13^th Anniversary Sale! Everything in the store is 20% off. 619 S. 1^st St, 466-4808

August 1—31 ~ Raining Cats and Dogs~ will be closing the end August. Storewide clearance sale has begun. The store is open Thursday through Sunday from 12-5 pm and located at 303 Morris St.

August 1 – 31 ~Vintage La Conner Thrift & Consignment Shoppe ~ is having a half off sale through August of all clothing. Please come and explore our treasures at 301 Morris Street.

August 1 – 31 ~ The Godmother’s Closet Bridal Shop is offering 50% off everything in the store. 103 Whatcom St., (360) 395-8855.

August 4-24h ~ Christianson’s Nursery is offering 20% off their huge inventory of outdoor containers. Small to very large, glazed to terra cotta. Located at 15806 Best Rd., Mount Vernon. 466-3821.

August 6th-9th ~ Fiesta at the Skagit County Fair! Great entertainment all day long! Carnival, rodeo, live music, performing pigs, trick roper, J.P. Patches, and more. Don’t miss the parade Saturday, August 9th at 11am in downtown Mount Vernon. Wednesday, August 6th admission is free until 3pm! Cost is $8 adults and $5 for seniors & students.

August 7th~ 104th Pioneer Picnic presented by the Skagit County Pioneers Association will be held in Pioneer Park. Salmon BBQ lunch provided by the La Conner Civic Garden Club, cost $10.00. Music provided by Doc Bradbury’s Skagit City Band. Open to the public! Contact John Summers 360-466-4703

August 9th~ The sixth annual Porterhouse Brewfest for the Lincoln Theatre, a sizzling brews and block party, is bigger and better than ever with 30 invited microbreweries from the Pacific Northwest. Three amazing Washington blues bands will be playing. Ticket are available at the gate or in advance at the Porterhouse, or the Lincoln Theatre 712 S. Please call 360-336-8955 or 877-754-6284. Must be 21 or over.

August 12^th ~ La Conner Retirement Inn is having a “Monthly Buffet Social” starting at 5:00 pm. Fun, Friends, Food & Live Entertainment by “Ernie Queen Band” Playing Bluegrass! RSVP 360-466-5700, Dinner $8.50

August 15-18 & 22-25 ~ La Conner Seaside Gallery presents the first Annual “Le Nu Air” Exhibit with a public artists’ reception from 4:00pm– 7:00pm. The exhibit focuses on the figurative and life drawing works of 14 artists. Located at 112 Morris Street is open Friday– Monday 11:00am-5:00pm, 466-5141

August 16th~ Third Saturday after Hours 4:00pm gallery walk. Many businesses will be showcasing art and artists. Shop the merchants open later, and enjoy the fine restaurants.

August 21st ~ Boys and Girls Club ~ Dog Days of Summer Open House from 4-7 pm. We will be bustling with activities for the kids, such as face painting, fish printing, bean bag toss, button making, as well as a BBQ and club tours. This event is free, but donations will be happily accepted! 305 N. 6th St.

August 23rd 6-9pm~The Dulce Plate Wine Dinner~Please join us for a very special evening of fabulous food of European Spanish influence prepared by Chef Brian
Tolbert, expertly paired with Award winning Washington wines, presented by 3rd generation orchardists and Wine makers, Matthew & Patrick Rawn of Two Mountain Winery 508 E Morris St. 360-466-1630 http://www.thedulceplate.com/

August 23rd ~ Museum of Northwest Art~ Ginny Ruffner’s exhibit, Aesthetic Engineering: The Imagination Cycle, is celebrated with a reception and book signing of her latest pop-up book, The Imagination Cycle from 2-5 pm. These highly collectable books will be available for sale in the Museum Store. The Museum is located at 121 S First St.

August 30th ~ Christianson’s Nursery will offer a workshop to spice up your summer containers. 10:00 AM, Free!, Call 466-3821 for more info.

September 13^th ~ Mark your calendars now for the 8^th annual Classic Yacht & Car show in La Conner! Pancake breakfast, Popey’s Place, Kiwanis BBQ, Scavenger Hunt, Raffles, Scratch & Dent Sale, Kenmore Air flights, Coast Guard in-water rescue demonstration, and more!

July 2008 Special, Happenings & Events

2008-07-02T13:27:00.000-07:00

La Conner Staycation ~ Many of La Conner’s lodging, dining, and shopping options are offering “Staycation” specials for visitor’s staying a minimum of 3 nights. You will need to show your Staycation Certificate for Dining & Shopping Discounts. Call La Conner Chamber for more details: 360.466.4778 or info@laconnerchamber.com

LODGING

Katy’s Inn Bed & Breakfast ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday. 866-528-9746

Hotel Planter ~ Stay 2 nights, get the 3rd night half-off. Sunday-Thursday, not including holidays. 800-488-5409

La Conner Channel Lodge/Country Inn ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday. (360) 466-1500 or (888) 466-4113.

Queen of the Valley Inn ~ Stay 3 nights and get a $50 gas card or discount. 800-999-1404

Estep’s Residences ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off. (360) 466-2116

Alice Bay Bed & Breakfast~ Stay 3 nights and put $75 under your mattress, Sunday-Thursday. 800-652-0223

Benson Farmstead Bed & Breakfast ~ Stay 2 nights; get the 3rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday.(360) 757-0578

Best Western Cottontree Inn ~ $99 per night, 3 night minimum. 800-662-6886
Samish Point by the Bay ~ Stay 3 nights and get the 3rd night half-off (except July, August & holidays). (360) 766-6610

DINING

Nell Thorn Restaurant ~ 10% discount on food only. (360) 466-4261

Farmhouse Restaurant ~ 20% discount up to $100 on food only. (360) 466-4411

La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib House ~ free dessert or appetizer with purchase of 2 full priced meals. (360) 466-4014

The Dulce Plate ~ free dessert with purchase of full price meal. (360) 466-1630Tulips Restaurant ~ 10% discount on food only. (360) 466-0308

OTHER

Childhood Bliss ~ 10% off all non-sale items. (360) 466-2229

Bears ‘N Friends ~ 10% off all non-sale items. (360) 466-3528

Blue Water Massage ~ $15 off any massage treatment. (360) 333-8811

Ginger Grater/Olive Shoppe ~ 10% off all non-sale items (cash or check only). (360) 466-4161

Step Outside ~ 10% off all non-sale items. (360) 466-3397

The Godmother’s Closet ~ 50% off any wedding gown in store. (360) 466-2743

Happenings & Events

July 4th ~ Wave Broadband presents 4th of July Fireworks over the Channel! Starting at 10:00 (ish) PM. Book your room now and stay for the weekend.

July 4th ~ Museum of Northwest Art presents artist Ginny Ruffner’s exhibit “Aesthetic Engineering: The Imagination Cycle”. This exhibit features new large-scaled sculpture and installation work that cross-fertilizes flora, fauna, and art. 703 S. 2nd St., (360) 466-4288. http://www.museumofnwart.org/.

July 5th & 6th~ Christianson’s Nursery~ Saturday, July 5th “Dwellers in Aquatic Garden” workshop from 10-11am, cost $5. Sunday, July 6th “The Art of Basketry” workshop from 10-2pm. Call 466-3821 to make reservations.

July 9, 16, 23 & 30 ~ La Conner Parks Department brings you Wednesdays in the Park! Enjoy movies from 7:30-9:30PM, $5 donation. Games begin at 6:00PM, Open mike for poetry readings, music or ? is from 6:30-7:30PM. Located at Pioneer Park under the Rainbow Bridge.

July 12th ~ La Conner Chamber of Commerce is proud to present "Cadillacs Forever", including JrCadillac! There will be over 50 Cadillac cars on display from all year's noon-5 pm, a beer garden and live music from 7-10 pm by JrCadillac. Admission is $10.00 to enter the event and $25.00 to enter your Cadillac car. Contact Jerry Willins (360) 466-1121. Sponsored by Valley Cadillac in Mount Vernon. http://www.gmvalley.com/

July 12th ~ La Conner Quilt Museum ~ Artist Anita Luvera Mayer will be at the museum Saturday, July 12th from 11am-5pm. Located at 703 S. 2nd St.

July 12th ~ Native Springs has teamed up with Hellams Wine Shop and Sweet Haven Bakery. From 1-5 pm Hellam’s will have “A Taste of Italy” wine tasting. You can sip some wines, and then slip into a special chair out on the patio and receive a hand and arm treatment. Sweet Haven Bakery is offering a wonderful lunch and pastries to go along with the great selection of wines. Located at 109 N. 1st St. No appointment necessary.

July 15th ~ Janet's Clothing & Embellishments~ Janet Foster is offering a beading class featuring beading on cloth on July 15th from 10:00 to noon. The class includes a beading brochure. All beads and tools listed on the materials list are to be purchased by the student. Call 466-4441 to register, located at 622 S. 1st St., fee is $30.

July 16th~ La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum~ presents two exhibits “Path to Edo: Quilts from Japan” and “Sashiko: Old and New”. Miwako Kimura, curator of “Path to Edo: Quits from Japan” will give a tour at noon, refreshments will be served and a workshop from 2-3. RSVP by calling 360.466.4288 or visit LaconnerQuilts.com.

July 18th~The Skagit Bay Search and Rescue ~ presents Hypnotist and comedian Ron Stubbs. Ron will perform at Maple Hall, doors open at 6:30 pm, performance begins at 7:30 pm. There will be a no-host bar for anyone 21 yrs or more. This performance is open to the public and donations are accepted at the door. This is a major fundraiser for the Skagit County Search and Rescue water division. For more information about Skagit County Search and Rescue or about this event, contact La Conner Yacht Sales at (360) 466-3300

July 19th ~The Dulce Plate~Two Mountain Six Course Wine Dinner July 19, 6-9PM. Live guitar music with Richard Rorex and Michael Got.

July 26th ~Childhood Bliss ~One Day Only Blissful Savings Day! 20% off Storewide ~ 40% off all Current Summer Clothing/Attire. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Shop Online: http://www.childhoodbliss.com/

July 31st~The Skagit County Historical Museum~ will mark “40 years at the top of the hill” on Thursday, July 31, with free admission and cake for all visitors. The public is invited to tour the Museum with its popular featured exhibit, “Lost Cities of Skagit: Rediscovering Places of Our Past”. Fun children’s activities include old-time letter writing, build-your-own lost cities and town-finder puzzles. Located at 501 So. 4th Street and open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm. Call 360.466.3365 or visit http://www.skagitcounty.net//museum

Vintage La Conner Thrift & Consignment Shoppe is having a 50% discount for all women’s and men’s clothing. Located at 301 Morris Street.

Skagit River Traders is now featuring Born clothing for men. Located at 609 S. 1st St., 466-9197.

Skagit River Boutique is pleased to feature Mu jeans that are embellished and stretch. They also now carry Born shoes. Located at 625 S. 1st St., 466-5554.

Beck & Call is now offering pick-up and delivery services to SeaTac, Canada and Bellingham. Call 360-421-4325.

June 2008 Specials, Happenings, & Events

2008-06-04T00:48:00.000-07:00

La Conner Staycation ~ Many of La Conner’s lodging, dining, and shopping options are offering special “staycation” packages for visitor’s staying a minimum of 3 nights. Will need to show Staycation Certificate for Dining & Shopping Discounts. Call La Conner Chamber for more details: 360.466.4778 or info@laconnerchamber.com

Queen of the Valley Inn ~ Staycation! stay 3 nights and get a $50 gas card or discount. 800-999-1404

Katy’s Inn Bed & Breakfast ~ Staycation! stay 2 nights, get the 3rd night half-off, Sunday-Thursday. 866-528-9746

Alice Bay Bed & Breakfast~ Staycation! stay 3 nights and put $75 under your mattress, Sunday-Thursday. 800-652-0223

Best Western Cottontree Inn ~ Staycation! $99 per night, 3 night minimum. 800-662-6886

Farmhouse Restaurant ~ 20% discount up to $100 on food only with La Conner Staycation Certificate. (360) 466-4411

Nell Thorn Restaurant ~ 10% discount on food only with La Conner Staycation Certificate. (360) 466-4261

La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib House ~ free dessert or appetizer with purchase of 2 full prided meals with La Conner Staycation Certificate. (360) 466-4014

The Dulce Plate ~ free dessert with purchase of full price meal with La Conner Staycation Certificate. (360) 466-1630

Tulips Restaurant ~ 10% discount on food only with La Conner Staycation Certificate. (360) 466-0308.

Childhood Bliss ~ Staycation Special. 10% off purchases with La Conner Staycation Certificate.
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June 7,21 & 28 ~ Hellam’s Vineyard ~ is offering wine tasting on June 7th Spanish tasting – This tasting will focus on white and red wines from various regions of Spain, June 21st – Adamant Cellars – Adamant Cellars is a new startup boutique winery from Walla Walla. June 28th – Dakota Creek Winery – Come meet the owner/winemaker of local boutique winery Dakota Creek from Blaine. Located at 109 N. 1st St.

June 8th ~ Museum of Northwest Art presents artist Ann Morris at 2:00 pm. Anne has created an extraordinary park on Lummi Island and has written a book: “Sculpture Woods: Studio Grounds of Ann Morris”. Meet the artist, view selected smaller works, and enjoy this informal book signing party! MONA is located at 121 S First la Conner. 466-4446

June 14 ~ La Conner Boys & Girls Club presents “Pony Up 4 Kids” dinner and auction. Social & Silent Auction begings at 5 pm, Dinner and Live Auction at 6:30 pm. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased by calling (360) 466-3672. Event will take place at Swinomish Casino located at 12885 Casino Drive off Hwy 20.

June 14 & 15 ~ Annual Father’s Day Weekend Boat Show & Swap Meet taking place at the south basin of the la Conner Marina. Powerboats for sale will be docked on “F” dock. Swap meet will be located on Basin Rd. off 3rd Street. Call 800-232-8879 for more details.

June 21st ~ Christianson’s Nursery & Greenhouse~ Join us for the 5th Annual Rose Festival with Cisco Morris June 21st, 9:00am-6pm. For more information, call 466-3821

June 21st ~ La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum presents “A Celebration in Clothing: One Woman's Journey”. Anita Luvera Mayer is a weaver and textile artist and will conduct a workshop at 1:00 pm with refreshments to follow. Cost $5, RSVP (360) 466-4288.

June 21st ~ Third Saturday After Hours~ Join us for our monthly THIRD SATURDAY AFTER HOURS gallery walk in La Conner when selected shops & galleries stay open until 6pm. Stroll and shop the merchants open later and enjoy fine restaurants.

June 21st ~ Museum of Northwest Art~ The Museum of Northwest Art 16th Annual Art Auction is Saturday, June 21st. The perfect event for both seasoned and novice art collectors, featuring over 300 works by painters, printmakers, sculptors, glass artists, ceramic artists, jewelers, textile artists, and photographers. Tickets are $75.00 in advance. Call 466-4446 Ext 109 or go online at www.museumofnwart.org . Auction previews, open to ticket holders and their guests, begin Friday June 20th (noon to 8pm) and continue Saturday, June 21 (10am-3pm). Absentee bidding available with ticket purchase. MONA is located at 121 S First, La Conner.

June 24th ~ Janet’s Clothing & Embellishments~ June 24th, 10:00 to Noon there will be a Beading workshop. We will be working with beading techniques suitable for garments and can also be used on other fabric items like quilts or pillows. $30. for the class. Supply list upon sign up. 622 S. First St. La Conner 360-466-4441

June 25-27th ~ Bears N’ Friends~ Wild Webkinz Weekend is on June 25-27. Spend $10 in the store and get a free Webkinz of my choosing, spend $15 get Webkinz and pack of trading cards, Spend $20 and get a Webkinz, trading cards, and a bookmark. Plus 2 door prizes will be available!

June 28th ~ Native Springs~ 5th Anniversary OPEN HOUSE June 28, 2008, 10am to 2pm. Located at 125 E Washington. Join us for delicious refreshments, demos and 50% off all Facial Gift Certificates, good for 1- year and no limit on how many you buy. Offer ends June 28 at 2pm Details: call 360-708-8313

June 28 & 29 ~ The La Conner Summer Street Festival,~ This fifth annual two-day event will take place June 28th & 29th and will be a community celebration of regional art. Hours are Saturday, June 28th 10 am - 6 pm and Sunday, June 29th 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Admission is free. This family-oriented event will feature activities for children throughout the weekend. Call 466-4778 or visit La Conner Summer Street Festival Webpage for details. Sponsors: Island Hospital, St. Joseph Hospital, Fidalgo Island Walk-In Clinic, Esary Roofing & Siding, and Step Outside.

June 29th ~ The Skagit County Historical Museum will feature Laura Spaar of Skagit Valley Genealogy Society who will present “A Brief Peek into Our Ancestry”. Located at 501 S. 4th St., 12:30-1:30 pm. Call (360) 466-3365 or visit www.skagitcounty.net/museum

Skagit River Boutique~ Introducing "Mu" Jeans for women. Jeans which stretch, fit comfortably, and are just gorgeous. Plain blue denim or decorated in jets and crystals, these are the jeans you have been looking for. Sizes 6 to 16 are available. 625 S. First St. in La Conner, WA. 360-466-5554

Childhood Bliss & Baby Legs Contest! Northwest-based BabyLegs, creator of hip, high-fashion leg and arm warmers for babies and children, is offering fun prizes through summer to celebrate the launch of its golden stitch of authenticity. Winning ticket holders will be awarded prizes including baby bibs, baby blankets, childrens clothes, diaper bags, a year's supply of BabyLegs, and one Grand Prize trip to Seattle! Details at the Bliss Blog. Buy 4-Take $5 off!

Summer Inspiration at the La Conner Retirement Inn!~ Watercolor Classes by Ruby Agnew Martin Located at 204 N 1st St. 9:30a.m. on Saturday’s Cost: $10.00 Please R.S.V.P. Ruby at 360 466-2329 No need to be a professional! Beginners WELCOME!! Come join the FUN!

La Conner Thai Restaurant~ is having a Happy Hour from 4:00-6:00 pm, free appetizers when you purchase 2 drinks (exp. 6/15) & Buy one Entree Lunch or Dinner and get the Second Entree half-off (exp. 6/30). Located at 110 N. 1st St., Call 466-9999 for take-out.

Raining Cats & Dogs ~ is now offering pet photography by appointment. Located at 313 Morris St.. Call (425) 268-9618 to make your appointment now.

Bellair Charters/Airport Shuttle ~ The Bellair Sports Shuttle takes you to select Seahawks and Mariners home games for just $22 round-trip (plus fuel surcharge). Call (866) 235-5247 for

May 2008 Specials, Happenings, & Events

2008-05-01T08:58:00.000-07:00

May 1-24 ~Estep Residences~ are offering a 2-night stay for the price of one. Stay in one of four La Conner nightly rentals: the Waterfront Condo, The Boat House, Gina’s Place or their newest, One Moore Place. Nights must be consecutive, good Sunday—Thursday, May 1-24. 360-466-2116.

May 1-June 30~Seeds Bistro and Bar~ Sunset Dinners are back at Seeds Bistro and Bar for May and June. If you need more information, please contact Tim at Seeds 466-3280.

May 1-September 30~ Visit the Queen of the Valley Inn Sunday through Thursday and take 10% off your stay of two nights or more! 888-999-1404/360-466-4578

May 2~The Skagit Community Band Skagit Valley's original symphonic wind ensemble, will present Music Extravaganza! General Admission: $10. Senior and Teens $8.00 Children under 13 FREE. Tickets: The Next Chapter or at the door. For more information please call Vince Fejeran at 466-4409.

May 2-30~Tulips~ Offers Live Jazz! Fridays from 7 to 10 pm and Sundays from 6 to 9 pm. A variety of Duo’s and Trio’s. 101 1st Street, Call 360-466-0308 for reservations.

May 3~Lincoln Theatre presents “Dream Science Circus”, 7:00 pm. This astoundingly fresh and unique circus comedy show that got its start in the Pacific Northwest is, at long last, coming to the Lincoln in Mount Vernon. Located at 712 S. 1st St., 360-336-8955

May 5~El Gitano~ would like to invite everyone to stop by and see us on Cinco de Mayo. It is our one special day of the year where we give gifts to guests and have great specials on both food and beverages. It is a tradition for us in the El Gitano family to celebrate and have fun. 215 Maple Ave. 360-466-0267

May 8~Swinomish Casino presents Bethany Owen on Thursday, May 8th at 8:00 pm. Bethany Owen is a Celebrity Impressionist, Singer & Comedienne. Call 888.288.8883 for tickets. Located at 12885 Casino Dr, Anacortes.

May 9~The Queen of the Valley Inn turns 100 years old! The birthday party bash will be at the Lincoln Theatre in Mount Vernon at 8 pm. The Four Bitchin' Babes will present "Hormonal Imbalance, A Mood Swinging Musical Review...” Visit www.lincolntheatre.org for more information. Tickets are $32-$39 and can be purchased by calling 360-336-8955. 10% of proceeds will go to Support the La Conner Elementary School Violin program

May 10~Museum of Northwest Art ~Family Art Day. Session I 11:00-1:00 or Session II 2:00-4:00 pm. Located at 121 S. First Street. Email kitm@museumofnwart.org or call 360-466-4446, Ext. 108 to register. Children under 12 Free.

May 10 & 11~Castaway Dave’s Old Time Photography~ bring your Mom to their Grand Opening May 10 & 11! Have your picture taken with Mom and receive $10 off. Located inside Nasty Jack’s Antiques, 103 E. Morris St.. Open 10-5 pm, 360-472-0307 walk-in’s welcome.

May 11~Christianson’s Nursery has everything you need for Mother’s Day! Shop and enjoy complimentary homemade chocolate chip cookies, tea and coffee. Visit our website for all of their events or call 360-466-3821. There is always something happening at Christianson’s!

May 11~Skagit County Historical Museum ~ FREE admission for Mother’s of all ages on Mother’s Day, May 11th. 501 S. 4th Street, 360-466-3365.

May 11~Childhood Bliss~ is celebrating Mother’s Day with 10% off storewide on May 11 ~ just mention LaConner Chamber! New Tea Collection has arrived for Baby and Toddler, and we have a special for you ~ Buy 4 and take $10 off! Shop Now! 360-466-2229.

Skagit River Traders~ now has two new lines of great men's sportswear to explore. We are also going to be handling hand sewn shoes for men and in Skagit River Boutique we will be carrying women's casual shoes. Drop by and explore the possibilities.

Nasty Jack's Antiques ~ Welcomes Castaway Dave's Old Time Photography to our store. 360-472-0307. 15 minutes of fun and a lifetime memory. Portraits printed while you wait. Also, bring the kids in to ride our vintage kiddie rides. Located at 103 E. Morris Street. Furniture, gifts & fun since 1972.

May 12~Native Springs ~ Monday, May 12th 6:30pm Bowenwork Soft Tissue Therapy Workshop by Nancy Clark, LMT, RBT. 125 E Washington, La Conner 360-708-8313 to register-- $5

May 14~La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum presents their new Exhibit: “Creative Clothing-One Woman’s Journey” Reception with the Artist Anita Luvera Mayer from 11 am-3 pm. Located at 703 S. 2nd St., 360-466-4288.

May 15, 16 & 17 ~ 5th Biennial Skagit River Poetry Festival. Thirty-seven poets. Opening Night Lucille Clifton at Maple Hall, 7:30 pm. Call 888-290-6398 or visit

May 17~La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum "Tantalizing Tales of Scotland's Tartan" and "The Textile in the Tapestry of History" from 1:00 - 2:30 pm. Cost is $10.00, Seating is limited, call 360-466-4288 for reservations.

May 17~Dulce Plate~ Saturday May 17th 6 pm. Five Course Wine Dinner with San Juan Island Winery. $79 per person. Call 360-466-1630 to RSVP. Located at 508 Morris Street.

May 23~Hellam’s Vineyard announces their Winemaker’s Dinner at Kerstin’s Restaurant. Dinner will feature fine wines of ANIMALE winery. Call 466-1758 for reservations

May 24 ~La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum Reception with the Artists from the Association of Pacific Northwest Quilters 6th Invitational Traveling Exhibit from 11am-3pm "Spice of life!" 360-466-4288.

May 29~Lincoln Theatre presents India’s acclaimed father-son sitar duo, Pandit Shivnath Mishra and his son Deobrat Mishra. 7:30 pm, $20 general admission. Located at 712 S. 1st St. Mount Vernon. Call 360.336.8955

May 30~Lincoln Theatre presents Gye Nyame Ensemble. This group is led by Saeed Abbas, who learned his art while still a child from his grandfather and the elders of the Hausa tribe in Ghana. 7:00 pm, $15 adults, reserved seating. Located at 712 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon. Call 360.336.8955

May 31~"Caffeine: An Addictive Musical" 6:30PM No Host bar and appetizers. Dinner and Show take place at the La Conner Seafood & Prime Rib House. Call (360) 466-3101 / (888) 466-4113 for reservations.

May 31~Bears 'N Friends ~ is having a Steiff Trunk Show on Saturday, May 31, from 11-4. There will be samples of the new 2008 Steiff worldwide and North American exclusives, goodie bags and a desert table. Claire Steiff Meisel will be signing pieces and visiting with collectors. Call 360-466-3528 for more information.

May 31~Organic Matters ~ Wednesday, May 31st "Sugar Scrub" 6-8 pm Make an all natural exfoliant for face, body, and even feet! Choose from these bright, summertime fragrances: Lemon Citrus, Honey/Oat & Peppermint/Lavender. Call to register (360-466-4012), or reserve on line.

April 2008 Specials, Happenings, & Events

2008-04-04T07:39:00.000-07:00

April Specials

La Conner Country Inn and La Conner Channel Lodge are offering a $25 savings certificate off regularly priced rooms. Valid Sundays-Thursdays in April. Visit http://www.laconnerlodging.com/ or call 888-466-4113.

Tulip Pedal Bed and Breakfast and La Conner on the Water Guest Cottage will have fresh tulip bouquet in all the rooms during the month of April. Guests will be able to take the bouquets with them as they leave. http://www.laconneronthewater.com/

Godmother’s Closet..A Bridal Shop has 25-75% off formal dresses, cruise wear, veils, shoes, silk flowers and selected wedding dresses. Closed Sunday & Monday. 360-466-2743.

Childhood Bliss "Bargain Attic" will be open on Saturdays during April. Toys, Books, Gifts, Clothing, Dress-Up, Party Decorations, and Vintage Items all at 50-75% off! Shop Sale Clothing items at www.childhoodbliss.com

April Happenings & Events

Nell Thorn restaurant located at 205 Washington has a new lunch menu and is open for lunch Wednesday – Sunday, noon-3:00 pm. Visit http://www.nellthorn.com/ or call 360-466-4261.

The La Conner Quilt and Textile Museum will be open 7 days a week during the month of April. See the new exhibits “Barns & Botanicals” and “MetroTextural” through May 11, 2008. http://www.laconnerquilts.com/.

Seaside Gallery’s new exhibit is “Tulip Mania” and runs through May 15, 2008. Open Fridays – Mondays 11-5 pm. www.LaconnerSeasideGallery.com

The Skagit County Historical Museum located at 501 S. 4th St. is offering $1 raffle tickets for their handmade “Tulip” Quilt. Visit the current exhibit of “Lost Cities”. www.Skagitcounty.net/museum.

MoNA Spring Show: more than 40 works of the late Paul Horiuchi will be on display through June 15th. http://www.museumofnwart.org/. April 19th Family Art Day "Origami Cherry Blossoms"

4th ~ Pleasant Ridge Rexville Grange Gallery Crafts & Arts Show. Located at 19299 Rexville Grange Rd. (behind Rexville Grocery on Best Rd.) Open daily 11-6 pm. “Cambell Road” will perform at the opening party from 5-9 pm. Call 360-466-0469 for more details. Artist demonstrations every weekday.

4th ~ Christianson’s Nursery, located at 15806 Best Rd., celebrates the 25th Tulip Festival with “Art at the Schoolhouse”. Over 23 artists from the Stanwood-Camano Arts Guild will exhibit fine art and crafts for both home and garden. Open daily 9 am – 6 pm, April 4-27. Call 360-466-3821 or visit http://www.christiansonsnursery.com/

5th ~ 27th annual Tulip Pedal in La Conner. Benefiting Skagit County Medic One and Safe Kids Skagit County offers 20-mile and 40-mile courses. Registration $20 for all riders ages 15 and above. Call 360-428-3236 to register.

5th ~ La Conner Destination Map Grand Opening and 25th Skagit Valley Tulip Festival Celebration at Gilkey Square in La Conner. Starts at 11 am with brief presentation. Cake and live music to follow. Tulip Restaurant will have food available at discount prices.

5th ~ Kenmore Air starts their 20-minute flights over Skagit Valley. Climb aboard a seaplane and take off and land on the Swinomish Channel. Excursions every Friday, Saturday & Sunday’s (except April 25th) from 11:00-6:30 pm. Cost $59 per person with a 2-person minimum. Call 866-435-9524 to make your reservations.

5th ~ “Guys Night Out!” Band will perform in Gilkey Square from 11:30 – 1:30 pm on Saturday, April 5th. Come enjoy this fun band that covers music from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s.

5th ~ Concert at Maple Hall at 7:30 pm. Emerging Artist Performance of youth from Skagit and surrounding counties. Fun for all ages! Call 360-466-2665 for tickets or get tickets at the door.

5th ~ 2008 Tulip Poster Artist, Lee Mann, will be signing posters at Tulip Town from 11-3 pm. Located at 15002 Bradshaw Rd., 360-424-8152.

5th ~ Bunnies by the Bay Open House 11-5. Visit Storybook House & General Store for a delightful time. Shop for unique gifts at the storybook House and enjoy Delightful Day Tea with Treats. General Store offers gifts for babies to adults. http://www.bunniesbythebay.com/

5th ~ Art in a Pickle Barn 19th Annual Festival Art Show. Over 40 artists presenting Fine Art, Prints, Photography, Cards, Jewelry, Sculpture, more. Music, Demos,Kids Crafts- Check events for daily activities. Sales help fund Skagit Valley Community College Scholarships. http://www.skagitart.org/ Open Daily.

5th ~ ALN Art Bash Delight your senses with exceptional Art Work (demonstrated daily) while sipping local wine and cider. Proceeds from our Poster Sales & Raffles support local HS Art and Scholarship programs. 360-428-6894

12th ~ Annual Tulip Frolic and Parade in La Conner! Bring the family and enjoy the Hyundai Kids Zone benefiting Boys & Girls Club in Dirty Biter Park from 12:00 noon to 4:00 pm. Parade takes place at 2 pm. Wine Garden hosted by Challenger Ridge Vineyard and live music by Island Jazz Quintet in Gilkey Square. Visit http://www.laconnerchamber.com/ for more information.

12th, 26th ~ 2008 poster artist, Lee Mann will be at RoozenGaarde and sign posters from 11-3 pm. Located at 15867 Beaver Marsh Rd., 360-424-8531.

19th ~ People for Puget Sound and Skagit Public Works invite you to 2008 Swinomish Earth Enhancement Celebration! Families are encouraged to participate. 9:00-4:00 pm. RSVP Britta Eschete at 360-336-1931. Located across the Swinomish Channel from La Conner in the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community.

19th ~ Enjoy the La Conner Galleries and Boutiques as they stay open a little later during the Third Saturday After Hours, until 6 pm.

19th ~ Native Springs is offering a class on relaxation from 10-12 noon with Liz Bart. Cost is $5. Call 360-708-8313, www.NativeSprings.com

26th ~ Opening Day Boat Parade! Flower Power is the theme for the opening day of boating season in La Conner. Brought to you by the Swinomish Yacht Club at 3 pm.

26th Organic Matter’s is offering a class to 8 brewers of “Spring Lotions”. Whip and brew your own super-hydrating lotions. Call 360-466-4012 to make your reservations.

March 2008 Specials, Happenings & Events

2008-02-27T09:44:00.000-08:00

March Specials

March 1-31 ~Organic Matters ~ 707 S. 1st St. ~ KEEN Footwear marches in like a lion this month. New designs, Spring arrivals will be displayed in windows. Shop Online Too!

Native Springs ~ March Madness Sale, purchase one gift certificate at regular price second one 1/2 off. 708-8313 ~ Native Springs

50% Off Deception Pass Tours Ticket Packs Pre-Season Ticket Packs are available in groups of 10 for $100 and are valid for the entire 2008 season. Buy Now!

March Jewelry Madness at A CLASS ACT! Huge jewelry sale 30% - 50% selected items. We're making room for spring items. Shop early for the best selection.

Childhood Bliss has all fall & winter fashions 40% off! Shop The Sale! And then check out New Spring Fashions including Small Paul Swimwear, Sparkly MaryJanes, & Daily Tea

Katy’s Inn Bed & Breakfast is having a March special, second night stay is 50% off, Sunday – Thursday only. 360-466-9909 or Katy's Inn Website

La Conner Channel Lodge and La Conner Country Inn, offering a $40.00 discount off regular rate March 1-31. Good Sunday-Thursday ~ Book A Room!

Queen of the Valley Bed & Breakfast, offering 25% off a 2-night minimum stay Sunday – Thursday, March 1-31. Book A Room!

March Happenings & Events

March in La Conner ~ Nothing sings Spring as beautifully as La Conner's Brilliant Daffodils! As our daffodil fields begin exploding with color, we invite you to experience the delightful magic of nature in the farmlands of La Conner & Skagit Valley!

March 1~ The Museum of Northwest Art presents MoNA Style, 10am-4pm. Artists will sell hand-crafted clothing, and home accessories. FREE ADMISSION. Pick up your guide to participating shops and restaurants. Website 466-4446

1~ 8th Annual Sea Scout Dinner Auction, Swinomish Yacht Club, 310 N. 1st.. Auction viewing begins at 5:30, dinner at 6pm., $30 per person. For info/tickets call 540-3338 or 466-1006.

4~Lincoln Theatre ~ Duke Ellington Orchestra, 7:30PM lincolntheatre.org or 419-7129 for ticket information.

8~ Hellams Vineyard Wine Shop 1-6 PM, Matt Huse, winemaker for Five Star Cellars. Definitely a tasting you don’t want to miss! 20% case discounts on these wines

8~Christiansons Nursery presents “Twelve Months of Flowering Rhododendrons” (with Kristi O'Donnell from Meerkerk Gardens located on Whidbey Island) Saturday, March 8 1 pm - 3pm $5.00

8 ~ The Moonlight Swing Orchestra, music of the 30’s and 40’s will fill Maple Hall 7:30pm, 466-2665 for tickets or purchase at the door. Sponsored by La Conner Performing Arts

8~The Soroptimist International of La Conner will be hosting a Women’s Health Day at the La Conner Vintage Thrift & Consignment Shoppe from 11-5 pm. Located at 301 Morris Street. FREE blood pressure checks and more!

9~ Mauchley Duo Piano Concert, critics say this program “spectacular” and “spontaneous”. Maple Hall, 3 pm. 466-2665 for tickets or at the door. La Conner Performing Arts

9~Lincoln Theatre ~ Dr. John, 4:30 & 7PM, www.lincolntheatre.org /419-7129.

11~Fusable Web Applique Workshop at La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum, 703 S. Second St., 10-4 p Cost $45. 360-466-4288, laconnerquilts.com

11-15~Lincoln Theatre presents “5th Annual Human Rights Festival”, 7 pm, 712 S. First Street, 360-336-8955, $10

14-16~Skagit/Island County Builders Association (SICBA) is hosting the 2008 Home Show at the Skagit County Fairgrounds. Hours: F12-5, Sat10-6 & Sun11-5. Prizes galore! Ciscoe Morris will be in the Pavilion on Sunday at 1 pm. Surplus Sale on Saturday at 1 pm.

15~Christiansons Nursery present “Waking Up Your Rose Garden” (with Robyn Swesey, past president of the Tri-Valley Rose Society) 10-12 $5.00 reservations required 466-3821

15~La Conner Volunteer Fireman’s St. Patty’s Fundraiser Dance ~ Maple Hall, Buckaroo Blues Band, 8-12 pm. $5 pp

15~Third Saturday Art Walk ~ Selected galleries and shops open until 6 pm

15~Tim Wistrom of A Class Act Gallery will release his new painting “UNDER THE RAINBOW”, 10-6 PM.Limited edition Lithographs and giclees available.

15~”Tulip Mania” art exhibit opens at La Conner Seaside Gallery, 112 Morris St., Friday-Mondays 11-5 p. 360-466-5141

16~“History of Samish Island”, Skagit Co. Historical Museum, 2pm, 466-3365.

19~La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum, two new exhibits, Barns & Botanicals and Metrotextual, laconnerquilts.com

20 ~ Nell Thorn Bordeaux Wine Dinner, 6:30PM– Bordeaux wines, paired with dishes created by Chefs Casey & Susan, Cost is $89 per person, plus tax and gratuity. RSVP 3604664261

22~Annual Easter Egg Hunt ~ Pioneer Park, 10AM, 466-3125 for more details.

22~Family Art Day at the Museum of Northwest Art: “The Yoga of Calligraphy” With Maggie Wilder Email kitm@museumofnwart.org or call (360)466-4446, Ext. 108 to register.

22~Christiansons Nursery “The Wonder Fruit: New Zealand's Finest Export” (with Kiwi Bob, owner of Puget Sound Kiwi in Seattle) 1 - 3pm $5.00 Reservations required 466-3821

29~Soroptimist Tea & Fashion Show, Maple Hall, 12-2 pm. Call 360-466-9909 for tickets

29~Early Spring Walk ( with your host John Christianson) 1-2 complimentary Tea at La Conner Flats (360)466-3190

30~Christiansons Nursery presents “Gardens in a Flowerpot” 1 pm - 3pm $5.00 (plus cost of materials) reservations required 466-3821

31 ~ Organic Matters' E*Lotion, featuring our new private label lotion bar! Monthly E*Lotion class and parties. More Info at organic-matters.com or at Organic Matters, 707 S. 1st. St

Welcome to the first La Conner E-Newsletter!

2008-01-25T18:46:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to the La Conner Fall Giveaway Winners! October Winners: Megan Bray and Casey Earles. November winners: Jodi McDaniel and Dorianne Velasco. December winners are being contacted this month. "I have always enjoyed shopping and dining in La Conner-and now with my great gifts from local merchants just think of the fun I will have...La Conner is a great quaint little village" quotes Casey Earles, winner of the "Feel Good" package.

February Specials

La Conner Channel Lodge & Country Inn is offering the "Ultimate Romantic Getaway Package" the 12-14th/19-21.

Queen of the Valley presents a Special of 25% off your stay of 2 nights or more, October – March, Sunday – Thursday. Come Stay!

The Heron Inn & Watergrass Day Spa has a romantic special that includes a bottle of wine or champagne, 3 course dinner at Seeds Bistro & Bar, and Breakfast for $169., Sunday – Thursday.

Hellams Vineyard Wine Shop Taste of Washington Wine Dinner - Friday, February 8th, 6:30 p.m. Cost is $79 per person, which includes tax and gratuity. Special 20 % case discounts RSVP 360-466-1758.

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!

Farmhouse Restaurant ~ Prime Rib lunch buffet 11-2, $11.95 (360) 466-4411

Seeds Bistro and Bar ~ Happy Hour- 7 days a week! $1 off tap beer & selected drinks, $6 appetizers, 466-3280

Kerstin’s ~ Early Bird Dinner 4-6 pm, Sunday – Thursday, (360) 466-9111

The Dulce Plate is offering a very special Valentine 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

La Conner Thai Restaurant ~ Order two main courses, get 25% off second meal of equal or lesser value, 466-9999

Childhood Bliss Winter Sale, 40% off Fall & Winter Fashions. Shop Now!

Godmother’s Closet ~ 25-75% off formal & cruise dresses, flower girl dresses and wedding gowns. 103 Whatcom St., 466-2743

Events & Happenings

2/2 Hearts and Flowers at Christianson's Nursery Floral workshop & Cooking demonstration for Valentine's Day. Click here to view all Christianson's workshops for February

2/9 ~ 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

2/9 Maple Hall, Oliver Aldort, Cellist, 7:30PM, 466-2665 or laconnerarts.com

2/15 Museum of Northwest Art ~ Family Art Day, 10 AM-12 & 1-3 PM, 466-4446X108/
museumofnwart.org to register. On exhibit: NO JOKE: Selections from Puzan Collection and RANDY WALKER: Heartwood

2/16 Museum of Northwest Art ~ Poetry and Music: For the Love of Laughter. An evening of humorous poetry and spirited music! Two well-known Skagit Valley poets, Densley Palmer and Thelma J. Palmer, read from the lighter side of their work. They are joined by Windsong, a musical group from Anacortes and Guesmes Island, playing their unique blend of traditional and comtemporary folk songs.

Skagit County Historical Museum “Lost Cities of Skagit: Rediscovering Places of Our Past,” the new featured exhibit will open Saturday, February 9, in a day-long celebration from 11 am to 5 pm.

2/23 La Conner Rotary Club 43rd Smelt Derby. A day of fun events for the whole family. Schedule of Events

Over $7,400 in Giveaways This Fall!

2007-08-04T08:49:00.000-07:00

For a chance to win, simply subscribe here to the La Conner Giveaway E-mailing List. There will be 8 Giveaway packages. Two in October & November. Four in December. You must be 18 years of age or older to be eligible to win. You will be added to the La Conner Chamber E-mailing List. Starting in January 2008, E-mailing List Subscribers will receive the monthly La Conner Newsletter featuring upcoming Events & Happenings. Information provided will not be used for any other purpose. Please view our Privacy Policy and our Official Contest Rules.

Wedding Package – Value $3,145
Suzanne Fogarty Wedding Photography
At The Quarry
Katy’s Inn English Tea Party
The Godmother’s Closet
Airporter Shuttle
Beck & Call
Seeds Bistro & Bar

Feel Good Package – Value $754
Airporter Shuttle
Wild Iris Inn
Watergrass Day Spa
Native Springs
La Conner Brewing Company
Farmhouse Inn
Courtyard Gallery
Bears ‘N Friends
Olive Shoppe
Godmother’s Closet
Lincoln Theatre

Romantic Package – Value $595
Skagit Bay Hideaway
Native Springs
Calico Cupboard
Seeds Bistro & Bar
La Conner Brewing Company
Airporter Shuttle
Wyman Park
Ginger Grater
Lizz & Co
Organic Matters
The Wood Merchant

Girlfriends Package – Value $620
Katy’s Inn English Tea Party
Native Springs
Organic Matters
Janet’s Clothing & Embellishments
Amaryllis
Cattails & Dragonflies
Childhood Bliss
Vintage La Conner
Calico Cupboard
Seeds Bistro & Bar
La Conner Brewing Company
Beck & Call
La Conner Memories

Art & Wine Package – Value $560
Country Inn
A Class Act Gallery
Courtyard Gallery
Hellams Vineyard
Dulce Plate
Keladi Café
Wyman Park
Skagit River Boutique
Amaryllis Boutique

Art Package – Value $620
Hotel Planter
Courtyard Gallery
Earthenworks
A Class Act Gallery
La Conner Retirement Inn Watercolor
The Next Chapter Bookstore
Wyman Park
Amaryllis Boutique
Keladi Café
La Conner Seafood & Prime rib
Lincoln Theatre

Family Package – Value $615
Childhood Bliss
Bears ‘N Friends
Vintage La Conner
La Conner Memories
Olive Shoppe
Calico Cupboard
La Conner Seafood & Prime rib
Farmhouse Inn
Holiday Inn
Katy’s Inn English Tea Party
Skagit Historical Museum Gift
Lincoln Theatre

Magic Skagit Package- Value $495
Hampton Inn Suites
Keladi Café
Farmhouse Inn
La Conner Seafood & Prime Rib
La Conner Memories
Beck & Call
Lincoln Theatre
Skagit River Traders
Organic Matters
Vintage La Conner
A Class Act Gallery