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All of Our Business and Volunteer of the Month Recipients
STUDIO BOB
MAY 2007
Bob Stokes is a familiar face Downtown. The hours that he has volunteered to both the Design and Art on the Town Committees have been nothing short of amazing. Not only is he an accomplished international artist with sculptures in the current Art on the Town gallery, but he is an organizer extraordinaire helping with Second Saturday art walks and the annual Art on the Town opening Art Crawl. He faithfully guides the Second Saturday art walks year round and continues to find new ways to make art interesting for those enjoying his tours. His design and production of our new benches has been a real enhancement to the Design Committee’s continuing efforts to beautify the streetscape of Downtown. Now that he is a business owner Downtown with Studio Bob, we look forward to seeing more of his creativity both in his art and his ideas for how we can bring all types of art into the Heart of the Community – Downtown.
JAMES TREKAS
MAY 2007
James Trekas has been an invaluable member of the Art on the Town Committee for more than a year now. You’ve probably seen him hanging around, literally, all the outdoor sculptures Downtown. James does an amazing job of maintaining the sculptures, the pedestals they sit on and now the new benches that the Design Committee has been installing throughout Downtown. He volunteers countless hours to the maintenance and preservation of the art and the benches and it shows. Next time you see James, let him know how much his volunteerism is appreciated by the Association and our members. James is always there to lend a willing hand to make our Downtown shine.
FIRST FEDERAL SAVINGS & LOAN
JUNE 2007
First Federal Savings & Loan has been a strong supporter of the Port Angeles Downtown Association and the community as a whole over many years. Their support of the Association and downtown events is a mainstay for our Main Street community.
Laurie Szczepczynski and her staff are always ready and willing to support whatever task is at hand when it comes to promoting downtown. The Downtown Dollars program is a prime example of their commitment to the Downtown Association and our member merchants.
We thank you for your continued support of Downtown Port Angeles.
RUDY HIENER
JUNE 2007
Rudy Hiener is the "Go to Guy" downtown. If you need information about how something happened downtown, when an event occurred, or even to buy lanterns for a parade you "go to" Rudy at Bay Variety. Whether it's as board president, committee member or as a member, Rudy has given 100% to the Port Angeles Downtown Association for well over a decade.
With a smile and a warm "Hello", Rudy will always greet you by name and ask how you are, not only to be polite, but because he cares.
RICK'S PLACE
JULY 2007
For over 15 years Rick Mathis has been serving diners great food with a dash of humor. First as Harbor Deli, then Harbor Cafe and most recently as Rick's Place. Rick has changed the eatery as the palettes of his guests have changed. Noting that one thing was missing he added the only salad bar in downtown.
Always eager to support events, Rick has prepared platters of hors devours that receive rave reviews and many pots of very welcome hot cocoa, often on a moments notice with his trademark "no complaints".
MARY BUCK
JULY 2007
Mary Buck has years of volunteer experience in other communities and willingly offers her knowledge for the benefit of the Downtown Association. She has been a member of the Promotion Committee for over a year now and brings new ideas and enthusiasm to every meeting. Mary is always there when a helping hand is needed no matter what the task. She is a strong advocate of the Main Street program and the Port Angeles Downtown Association and we appreciate her support and participation.
She and her husband Scott own the Eagle's Flight BB&B and are Patron Members of PADA.
BROWN'S OUTDOOR
AUGUST, 2007
Evan Brown, of Brown’s Outdoor, has been a active member of the Port Angeles Downtown Association. He has been an involved board member for several years and is currently chair of the influential Promotion Committee.
Evan always has a “team” outlook on projects and is a dynamic and resourceful leader. He is an important asset to the organization and his community. Evan is a credit to Brown’s Outdoor and is in keeping with the spirit of the PADA.
RICHARD STEPHENS
AUGUST, 2007
All you have to do is say the name “Richard” and with a smile, everyone downtown knows exactly who you’re talking about.
Richard Stephens is downtown’s cheerleader, its biggest fan, its greatest promoter and it’s most colorful character. As the downtown sales rep for the PDN, Richard makes sure “his” downtown is well covered, by taking care of the advertising requests of individual business owners and the association. Uniquely situated on the side of the business owners and the PADA, he provides valuable information, relaying concerns of business to the association and promoting the association to business owners.
He genuinely cares about each business’ success and each owner’s well being. The feeling is mutual.
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
MICHAEL'S DIVINE DINING
JANUARY, 2008
In recognition of continuous support as a member of the Port Angeles Downtown Association, through sponsorship and participation in events and programs. The integrity and sincerity that is displayed as a Downtown businessman and member of the association is truly appreciated.
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
UNIQUE TREASURES ANTIQUE MALL
MARCH 2008
Barb and Lloyd Gregory’s understanding of the value of customer service and marketing merchandise with varied and seasonal window displays brings return customers to both Unique Treasures Antique Mall and to Downtown. Their continued interest in and support of the Port Angeles Downtown Association through participation in meetings and events is appreciated. Thanks for being a member of the Downtown business community
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH--APRIL 2008
Northwest Fudge & Confections at 110 W. First, is this month’s recipient because of owners Bob and Lindi Lumens’ dedication and determination to be a part of Downtown. After being flooded out of their location in Lee Plaza and 2 months of repairs and remodeling, they are back in their shop and it is bigger and better than before. Not only do they own Northwest Fudge but they are longtime owners of Raven’s World. Additionally, Bob is involved in PALOA and still has time to be an active board member for the Downtown Association. Thanks for being a part of our Downtown community! You are an inspiration to us all.
BUSINESSES OF THE MONTH--MAY 2008
As we all know, it was a very long winter for those businesses located on Laurel Street. Not only were the sidewalks non-existent but the street was closed for much of the construction period to allow for the sidewalk replacement and preservation of the underground on the west side of Laurel between First and Front streets.
The Organization Committee would like to recognize each of those businesses for their patience and fortitude in remaining open during construction and taking it in stride with the knowledge that it was for the betterment of Downtown and for the benefit of the entire community. You are all truly businesses of not only the month—but the year!!
Hat’s off to each of you.
Street Level:
The Relax Station
Rick’s Place
Laurel Street Barber Shop
Olympic Stained Glass
Ernst Fine Art Photography
Christian Science Reading Room
Anderson Gallery
Fountain Square Jewelers
Second Story:
Kristin J. Tucker Accounting
Grant Munro, LLC
Don Perry Insurance/Heritage Tours
Paramount Exports
Family Center Practice
North Olympic Land Trust
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH - JUNE 2008
When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. Mike (alias Coog) aT BUDGET TAPES AND CD'S did just that! Recovering from the “bridge of peril” that led from the street over the moat into his store, he celebrated in style during the TGIF party with a karaoke party on the new sidewalk complete with sofas and green carpet! Thanks for your fortitude during construction and being a longtime business owner Downtown!BUSINESS OF THE MONTH--JULY 2008
In selecting this month’s business of the month, the Organization Committee needed a little information so we asked Joanne Albertson at the Cornerhouse Restaurant how many years of experience she and her employees had. We decided that we couldn’t have said it any better... She says, “Most of our employees have been together a good many years, several of them from the beginning. Next month will be the start of our 23rd year! (July of 1986 I was 30 years old. Time sure fly’s!)
Myself, Darlene, Ellesa, Pam alone have a combined total of about 100 years (and Darlene had about 15 years before that!) A few have already retired, we have even lost a young cook to sudden death a few years ago...(And he had been there 14 years starting as a dishwasher) many of the employees have been husbands, wives, sons and daughters over the years, and Darlene has retired twice and she’s back again!
For the most part, I have been blessed with awesome employees. They have been the reason for return business all these years, and I have been so lucky that good ones have stayed and care so much about the customers. Next time you are in, introduce yourself. They like to know the customers by name... and feel free to ask them their names!”
Thanks for serving Downtown and the community so well. We appreciate your support of PADA and your commitment to your customers.
VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH -- AUGUST 2008
When there’s a weed to be pulled or a pansy to be planted, dirt to sweep, an office to move, or a parade to be organized Tony has always stepped up to participate.
This year’s Fourth of July parade was a lot of fun with an entry from Downtown businesses that stretched half a block, thanks to Tony’s vision and organization. His enthusiasm for and love of Downtown and the community is contagious.
Thank you Butch, we appreciate all you do for Downtown as a volunteer and a business owner.
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH--AUGUST 2008
This month’s recipient is a longtime member of the business community and the PADA. Jack Harmon, wife Terri and their family have made major commitments to the community both from a business standpoint and personally.
The Port Angeles Downtown Association would like to recognize Victoria Express and the Harmon family for their support of the association and the community as a whole. Your involvement and “can do” attitude are valuable assets to us all.
We appreciate you as a downtown business and thank you for your support of the Downtown community and PADA.
This month’s Business of the Month is being recognized for “steppin’ into” the role of new business owners. They transformed a building with no character into a showplace. Kyle and is staff are committed to good business ethics and high standards.
Steppin’ Out, 125 W. First St., immediately became a part of the Downtown neighborhood with window displays and participation in events. And they do it all “in style” with a great attitude and a sense of humor. We’re glad to call them friend and neighbor
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH-SEPTEMBER, 2008
Congratulations to Alan and Cindy Turner, longtime owners of Port Book & News, 104 E First. Their commitment to their customers, strong belief in working together for the betterment of Downtown and participation in PADA events makes them an invaluable part of downtown.
We appreciate your support and willingness to be involved in Downtown and the association. Thanks for being a dedicated member of our downtown community.
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH-OCTOBER, 2008
Olympic Stationers, 122 E. Front St. is this month’s recipient of the Business of the Month award. This longtime Downtown business always puts their best foot forward whether it be with their excellent customer service or eye-catching and ever changing window displays. Karen and her staff consistently work to make sure that their customer’s needs are always met. They truly understand the meaning and the value of being a part of the Downtown business community.
Thanks for being a part of Downtown and a member of the Downtown Association
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH-NOVEMBER, 2008
My Favorite Memory, 110 N. Laurel, has been at its downtown location for only four months but has truly embraced its new home with creativity and a sense of humor. The recent “Twilight” weekend was a huge success because of owner, Tessa Jackson’s efforts. She and her staff organized the scavenger hunt and look-a-like contest with the enthusiasm they put toward any project.
Stop by My Favorite Memory, Tessa and her friends are always working on projects and love to share it with you.
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH--DECEMBER, 2008
Cottage Queen, 119 W. First, is a relative newcomer to Downtown but Marilyn has definitely raised the bar for unique items in a fun environment offering great customer service. She and her staff are innovative and imaginative with both window displays and merchandising. We can always count on Cottage Queen to be involved in Downtown events and promotions. Marilyn has a “can do” attitude and it shows in everything she does.
We are proud to call you a business partner Downtown and we appreciate your support of the PADA.
Can’t wait for the next window display!
ATHLETE’S CHOICE
Business of the Month
January 2009
Through last year’s sidewalk replacement with a sign that said “NO SIDEWALK SALE” and now with a slowing economy and a sign that says “STAYING IN BUSINESS SALE” they’ve met the challenges before them with a “can do” attitude and a bit of humor. We salute their ingenuity and dedication to remaining a Downtown business. We value them as a member and appreciate their support of the PADA and participation in Downtown events.
We look forward to the day when their sign says “WE’RE GLAD WE STAYED DOWNTOWN—CELEBRATION SALE” when better times return, the streets are full of shoppers and the tills are ringing.
Thanks for being a part of our Downtown community.
FEBRUARY 2009
Thank you United Way, 102 1/2 E. First, for all that you do for Clallam County. The help you provide to over 27 partner agencies impacts the daily lives of all of us. You care not only about our community but about the growth and development of downtown as well. Your eagerness to be part of the downtown neighborhood and contribute where you can to help us all to live united is appreciated.
Thank you for your continuing support of the Port Angeles Downtown Association and your neighboring businesses.
MARCH, 2009, BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
This month’s award winner has many faces. We would like to acknowledge the work and vision of the art community in developing a venue to support the arts in Port Angeles. Second Weekend has become an important part of what’s happening Downtown. Things begin on the second Friday of the month with gallery openings and shows throughout downtown and now expanding to uptown and the Fine Arts Center. The Art on the Town art walk follows on Saturday morning along with the gallery openings and art demonstrations. Saturday night, its party time again at Gray’s Studio.
Thanks to each of them for sharing their talents and energy with Downtown and the community. We appreciate your hard work and dedication.
Art Front Gallery
Gray Lucier Studio
Hole in the Wall Gallery
itty bitty BUZZ
Karon’s Frame Shop
Necessities & Temptations
Studio Bob
The Jack Gunter Gallery
The Landings Art Gallery
The Long Gallery
Waterfront Art Gallery
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
MV COHO
The MV Coho is celebrating 50 years of service to our community and we just want to say THANK YOU for everything that you do for our local economy and your many contributions to our community! The Coho has been a longstanding good neighbor to Downtown and we appreciate you being here.
MAY 2009
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
JUAN DE FUCA FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
With a spirit as adventurous as its namesake, the Juan De Fuca Festival of the Arts has become one of the premiere festivals in the Northwest. You’ve opened new worlds and cultures and introduced us to some of the most talented people on the planet.
Your presence downtown adds to the culture and arts we are becoming known for. Thank you for the entertainment that you bring to the community.
THE TOGGERY
JULY 2009
Whether it’s community service or customer service, The Toggery sets the standard at 105 E. First Street.
AUGUST 2009
ODYSSEY BOOK SHOP
Odyssey Book Shop is a longtime downtown business and owner, Craig Whaley has seen many changes in downtown during his 40+ years as a downtown businessman. He remembers the Downtown Parking Association, the Downtown Merchants Association and all the changes that have come and gone. He was a board member for many years, so has first-hand knowledge about Downtown. About five years ago he did major façade restoration to the building and gave it a new life.
Craig will be retiring next month, well kind of. April will be taking over the ownership and he’ll still be working “now and then”, so stop in and wish him well.
Thank you Craig for your many years of commitment and service to the Downtown and your loyal customers. We wish you well in your retirement and hope that you still spend time in the shop, because we know your customers will still be looking for your advice on the “best read” in the store.
SEPTEMBER, 2009
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
FAMILY SHOE STORE
Kevin Thompson is the fourth generation owner of Family Shoe and has been a member of the Downtown Association since its inception and beyond (when he was a lad). He has served at various times as a Board Member and President of the Association always with the best interest of the organization and his fellow business owners in mind. He has worked tirelessly to restore his 1890’s storefront, interior and even the “rooms upstairs”. What a change!
Kevin understands the meaning of customer service and dedication to his trade. We salute him for all that he does and has done for the benefit of Downtown over the years. Kevin, thanks for being a part of Downtown—we’re glad you’re here.
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
NORTH OLYMPIC LAND TRUST
We salute North Olympic Land Trust for their tireless efforts to preserve our way of life through conservation and education. Stream Fest is always a huge success and serves to remind us all how fragile our environment is. The choice to locate their office in a historic building in a historic downtown reflects their commitment to community. We are proud to have them as a downtown business. Thank you.North Olympic Land Trust is located upstairs at 104 N. Laurel, Suite 104.
NOVEMBER, 2009
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
HERITAGE TOURS
You can look out any day and you’ll see Don Perry of Heritage Tours sharing our story with people from around the world. Don, as a longtime downtown businessman and supporter of PADA, we consider him to be the official goodwill ambassador for Downtown! What a great job he does everyday, rain or shine and everything in between, of hosting visitors to Downtown and making sure they enjoy their time and learn about our history.
Thanks, Don, for being a bright spot in our day and making us shine in the eyes of others!
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
DECEMBER 2009
JANUARY, 2010
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
Parker Paint, as one of the oldest businesses in Port Angeles you know customer service.
We thank you for helping to change the color of downtown with discounts to your fellow downtown property owners and your patience and assistance during Our Community At Work – Painting Downtown. We look forward to a hundred more colorful years!
FEBRUARY, 2010
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
Aglazing Art Studio. In addition to the countless hours of hard work and determination that owner Rosalyn Rees put into renovating her new shop at 207 W. First (formerly Wood-n-Shoe), she is always willing, without hesitation, to donate her time, product, and services to our Downtown and community events and fundraisers. We are so glad she decided to locate her business and her energy downtown. Thanks for becoming a part of our downtown community.
MARCH, 2010
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
Necessities & Temptations at 217 N. Laurel has been a part of downtown since 1997 providing just as the name implies, everything you need and would like to have.
Edna was instrumental in the creation of Our Community at Work that succeeded in putting a new face on downtown this past summer. She is always a participant in and supporter of community and downtown events and has a true passion for the community she calls home.
Thanks for all that you do for Downtown and the community.
APRIL 2010
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
The Downtown Association is pleased to recognize White Crane Martial Arts , 129 W. First St., as our Business of the Month. One of the two businesses operating out of the historic downtown underground, White Crane Martial Arts has distinguished itself for it's great training of students in various disciplines of self defense under the instruction of Master Robert Nicholls They are also a vigorous supporter of downtown.
Over the years, Master Nicholls and students of his dojo have enriched downtown through their regular participation in the Fourth of July parade; setting up and operating a haunted house in their subterranean gym; self defense classes to teach what "Bella should have done" during our Twilight Celebration and again this year hosted an Easter Egg hunt as well as many other civic endeavors.
Stop in at White Crane and see for yourself the great combination of civic spirit and an award winning educational program that builds character and strong bodies.
Thanks for being a part of our Downtown community.
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
One of the great champions of Downtown Port Angeles (and the whole North Olympic Peninsula) for many, many years is the Port Angeles Red Lion Hotel and Crab House Restaurant. As a large conference center in the heart of town, Red Lion draws visitors from around the world and then cheerfully sends them out with information and referrals to businesses throughout downtown. Having a large, classy conference center with ample space in ballrooms, private class room space means that many special events can be planned and hosted in downtown Port Angeles all year long, regardless of the weather.
Not only does Red Lion provide convention space to outside vendors but Red Lion has been an exceptional partner directly with downtown, working closely with downtown and the city on major local events like Strait Thunder, the Dungeness Crab and Seafood Festival and the annual Esprit conference - all of which pump large sums of money into our local economy. Over the years Red Lion has provided special room rates for guests of downtown, "loaned" us parking space for Our Community At Work paint trucks, hosted the P.A. Farmer's Market, hosted beer gardens for downtown events and most recently, joined us as a contributing sponsor for the upcoming Jon Schallert Destination Business Seminar by providing the conference space for this event.
For all of this and many other reasons, the friendly staff at both the hotel and in the restaurant, for their eager participation in Our Community at Work and jumping in with a complete repainting outside and extensive outdoor plantings that beautify our waterfront area, for vigorously championing upcoming events in downtown and keeping the PADA apprised of upcoming opportunities to reach out to incoming visitors and tourists, the PADA is pleased to recognize the Red Lion Hotel as our Business of the Month. Thank you for being a part of our Downtown business community.
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
OLYMPIC PENINSULA VISITORS BUREAU
If a visitor to the area wants to see waterfalls, shoot a commercial, or write an article about “Twilight” they call the Olympic Peninsula Visitor Bureau. Working with the Port of Port Angeles, NOVB coordinated the recent effort to welcome nearly 2,000 people to our home with the arrival of 2 cruise ships.
Their knowledge of our tourist areas and our beloved peninsula continue to bring thousands of visitors yearly. Thank you for all you do to promote Port Angeles and the Olympic Peninsula.
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
KRISTIN J. TUCKER ACCOUNTING
Did you know that you can donate your B&O tax to downtown Port Angeles through the Downtown Association and get a 75% tax credit? Washington State has a tax credit program through Main Street that allows you to donate all or a portion of your annual B&O taxes to PADA to support our Main Street programs.
The first business to sign up to help PADA through this program was Kristin Tucker of Kristin J. Tucker Accounting. She has been a long time booster and promoter of downtown including serving numerous terms as an Association board member and officer.
For many years, Kristin welcomed people into her upstairs office on Laurel Street with her characteristic warm smile where she has worked as a CPA and handled tax returns for many local businesses and individuals over the years.
Last year, Kristin purchased the former Bryant Upholstery building at 324 W. First St. While Kristin continued to work on the tax returns at her upstairs office during the spring tax season, workers were busy doing major remodeling, to create an elegant suite of offices that are easily accessible and clients no longer have to face a daunting stair climb.
For her many years of support and service to the PADA and for her efforts in building revitalization at the west end of downtown, the PADA is pleased to recognize Kristin Tucker Accounting as our July Business of the Month. We encourage all of our members to stop in and see the beautiful remodel job at Kristin's office. She’ll have that ever present, warm smile to greet you. Thanks Kristin for being a part of our Downtown community.
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
AUGUST 2010
DUNGENESS LINE
The Dungeness Bus Line, operated by Olympic Bus Lines provides two daily trips between Port Angeles and Seattle and all major spots in between. Students traveling to school, patients off to see a doctor or just folks wanting to travel without the hassle of driving can board a luxury bus and enjoy the beautiful scenery and a ferry ride while enjoying complimentary water and snacks on board the bus, complete with “wi fi” service.
The Dungeness Line stops in Sequim, Discovery Bay, Port Townsend and Kingston, then in Edmonds, the Amtrak train station (Edmonds and Seattle), Seattle Greyhound, major Seattle Hospitals and Sea Tac International. As well as shuttling folks from the peninsula to important appointments on the main land, the Dungeness Bus Line plays a vital part in bringing tourists to the peninsula and into our downtown for major events like Crab Fest, Juan de Fuca Festival, Lavender, Twilight Fest and more.
Need to rent a car for the weekend? The friendly folks at Olympic Bus Lines can help you there or help you book a hotel room through their special rate packages that they have with many fine hotels throughout the Puget Sound region. You may have seen the cute mascots "Dungie" and "Nessie", voiced on the TV commercials by owner, Jack Heckman, and Amanda Bacon, but don't worry, the friendly folks who work at the Dungeness Bus Line are far from crabby - they are very helpful and cheerful and so we are pleased to recognize our local tourism and mass transit partner as our business of the month. Thanks for being a part of PADA and our downtown community.
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
SEPTEMBER 2010
TIGER LILY CLOTHING
Not many businesses expand within their first year, especially during a recession. But like their namesake flower, Tiger Lily Clothing has bloomed wherever planted. Not only have they expanded the business but they became the catalyst for one of the most anticipated building renovations downtown by moving into the Kaufman Miller building and helping with the renovations to create their stylish new home. Be sure to let them know that you appreciate their energy and enthusiasm for Downtown.
their customer service, work ethic and willingness to be a part of downtown community are appreciated. Congratulations to Lyn and Phil for a job well done.
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
OCTOBER 2010
BAY VARIETY
This being October and the time we brace for our biggest promotional event, Downtown Trick or Treat, it is fitting that we should honor Bay Variety as our Business of the Month.
For years Bay Variety has not only sold costumes and decorations for Halloween, they are often a candy source for neighboring downtown businesses. For years, Rudy Heiner and Michelle Adolphsen have taken care of making sure that the backdrop for Free Photos at the Fountain have been set up and that there were fresh bales of hay for the little goblins to sit on.
Bay Variety has led by example for many years as one of the premier businesses that have actively supported downtown promotions, so much so that some are virtually synonymous with Bay Variety. These include the summer Sidewalk Sales, setting up the canopy for Santa to receive children at Tree Lighting and preparing the bags of goodies that Santa hands out to each child. When Mardi Gras comes around, Bay Variety stocks a great supply of hats and necklaces for local business people to buy and dress up with to spread the fun of Fat Tuesday celebrations.
Bay Variety has won previous awards for their seasonal and topical themed window displays, many of them tying in with specific downtown events and promotions. One can always be charmed at the clever way Michelle and staff merchandise products in attractive, innovative ways. In the summer time, tourists are greeted with a profusion of hanging floral baskets out front as well as colorful windsocks and banners.
Bay Variety has long been one of the anchor stores in downtown, that sturdy, reliable, always there kind of business that has just about everything you need. April and Rudy Heiner have been mentors to other downtown businesses and great sounding boards to bounce ideas off of and have kept that family tradition alive by handing over the business to their daughter Michelle and her husband, Mike.
With its quaint charm that hearkens back to the days of the Five and Dime Stores, Bay Variety has a wide product line that is constantly updated making it worth your while to go and spend some time at this outstanding business of the month.
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
NOVEMBER 2010
MAGNA FORCE
A long underutilized building (formerly BofA) is being transformed by Jerry Lamb and his crew with the opening of Magna Force’s corporate headquarters.
We salute them for innovations in conserving energy and reducing waste, transportation and industrial technology and magnetically levitated transport systems since 1993.
Their ingenuity is mirrored in the beautiful interior transformation that reflects who Magna Force truly is. Thanks for adding a new dimension to our downtown business community. Welcome to the Downtown Neighborhood!
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
DECEMBER 2010
BALLET WORKSHOP
In the musical "A Chorus Line", there is a touching lyric that says "every little girl is beautiful at the ballet". For several years now little girls (and boys) have leaped, danced and pirouetted in the rehearsal hall of the Ballet Workshop and have successfully combined dance and music to tell extraordinary tales of romance, magic and beauty. This month the Ballet Workshop will present it's fourth retelling of Tchaikovsky's Christmas classic, "The Nutcracker", a full blown production with a live orchestra, chorus, a growing magical Christmas Tree, falling snow and firing canons during an epic battle between mice and toy soldiers.
Walking into the Ballet Workshop is like entering the magical world of Narnia. Enter through an elegant Georgian style doorway in the alley and descend a concrete ramp deep into the underground sub terrain of downtown, walk past exotic scenery pieces of a Thai palace, an enormous cauldron, tall painted trees and then step into an elaborately painted waiting room set off with beautiful murals reminiscent of a rococo palace. Turn right and you see a long gallery of costumes waiting for the dancers to step inside them and bring these characters to life. Just beyond is the main dance floor with its warm up bars and wall to wall mirrors. It is here that Ballet Workshop director Sylvia Wanner makes the minute adjustments in each dancer's performance to bring out the maximum elegance of the body form and best way to tell the story through gestures and careful use of body language.
On the rare occasion you can get the very busy Sylvia to sit down and talk about her current production or her gifted students you can see her eyes light up and sparkle as she speaks of the accomplishments of her talented dancers. To listen to her describe the story of the Nutcracker it is easy to fall under the spell of this master storyteller and you can sense why this production has so much charm and appeal for local audiences.
Over the years, some of Sylvia's students have gone on to dance professionally on stage, moving into production jobs as choreographers in their own right and leaders of college dance teams. Yet it is the self confidence and poise that her students get through the crucible of a live performance, the elegant posture, the lessons in good manners and proper theater etiquette that gives Sylvia the greatest satisfaction. Young girls, seasoned veterans, senior citizens who fill in the party scene of the Nutcracker, young little moppets who bounce about as colorful "bon bons" - everyone is beautiful at the Ballet Workshop.
For the many years of training of our children in the classic traditions of classical ballet, for the many beautiful productions that have entranced audiences, "Alice in Wonderland", "The Seven Swans" and "Coppelia" and of course "The Nutcracker", for the opportunities to help kids learn and grow in a loving, nurturing environment where they give back to the community in their gift of dance, for all of this, the Board of the Port Angeles Downtown Association is pleased to recognize Ballet Workshop as their business of the month.
Don't miss Ballet Workshop's performance of "The Nutcracker" December 17-19 at PAHS Auditorium. Tickets can be bought at Port Book and News or NW Fudge and Confections.
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
COUNTRY AIRE NATURAL FOODS
JANUARY 2011
With all those New Year resolutions (most of which include something about health and nutrition) Country Aire always comes to mind. They have been a longtime member of our downtown community and association. They consistently offer great service to their customers and products that fit their shopping list. At the same time, it’s a treat for our out of town visitors to stop in and enjoy a downtown market. They are a staple of downtown. Dan and his crew are a great addition to the downtown and we’re so glad they are here.
Thanks for being a part of our Downtown!
![]() | BUSINESS OF THE MONTH FEBRUARY, 2011 Since opening in March, 2010, after an interior renovation Bar N9ne at 229 W. First Street has brought new life to the west end of town. Many of you will remember this location as the old Lid’s Tavern… its certainly come along way since those days. Nine is not just a lucky number in Thailand, but it was also lucky for downtown when Bar N9ne opened. Not only have you infused downtown with your beautiful culture, you have revitalized a building that really needed some luck. Night life was sorely lacking in the downtown core, and you’ve made it rock with 2FAR Second Friday Art Rock! Thank you for bringing some luck to downtown! |
![]() | BUSINESS OF THE MONTH Soho Asian Bistro, 134 W. Front St., has made a home in a location where others have come and gone. Don and his staff did it with a dash of flavor and a large helping of cheerful service. Stir in some fresh, savory food along with a comfortable atmosphere for an affordable price and you have a recipe for success. It’s no wonder Soho is a downtown favorite. |
![]() | BUSINESS OF THE MONTH Our April Business of the Month —Sterling Impressions. Sterling Impressions is a family owned and operated photography studio located at 103 W First St. From professional portraits to passport photographs, Sterling Impressions has all your photographic needs covered. With their family focus, excellent service, and top-notch window display they are a great asset to downtown and well deserving of Business of the Month for April. Thanks for being an important part of downtown and the PADA. |
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![]() | BUSINESS OF THE MONTH June 2011 INDEPENDENT BIBLE CHURCH Independent Bible Church is the type of neighbor we love to have downtown. Their youth group is a great example for our community with their commitment to giving back and taking an ownership in their community. Weeds are not safe when they are around during our annual We admire your outreach through offering clothing to those in need and we applaud your efforts to renovate the façade of your building, one of |
![]() | BUSINESS OF THE MONTH -JULY 2011 |
| BUSINESS OF THE MONTH--AUGUST 2011 UDJAT BEADS Enjoy a touch of the beautiful and exotic when you step into Udjat Beads, 129 E. First St. Crafters, costumers, jewelry makers and people looking for a unique shopping experience love to go to Udjat Beads and sort through the collections of shiny, exotic beads and jewelry findings from around the world. The shop itself looks like the treasure cave of Ali Baba with Persian carpets, draped Indian saris, whimsical statuary and wall decor from across the globe. The great window treatment tells a story all by itself about what is inside for those passing by. Udjat was a Design Award winner for Window Enhancement earlier this year. Without out Lauren’s help with ordering the bracelet beads for Girls Night Out, we would have been unable to provide such a great item that all of the participants raved about. She’s always willing to participate and lend a hand when she can. She is always upbeat the positive and we appreciate her being a part of our downtown community. |
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From your own building façade renovation to signage throughout downtown, you’ve left your very creative mark on downtown for years to come. Matt, we have always enjoyed working with you and your willingness to find solutions that will work best for whatever project comes your way! Thanks for being a part of our Downtown Community! |
![]() SMUGGLERS LANDING BUSINESS OF THE MONTH OCTOBER 2011 |
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| BUSINESS OF THE MONTH Our goodwill ambassador at the entrance to downtown, Kokopelli Grill provided a beautiful streetscape statement all summer for the community and our visitors and continues with a new fall theme. Michael and Candy are always willing to participate in events where possible and have taken a real interest in downtown. They’ve expanded the restaurant to include a great selection of wines and ethnic cuisine. Thanks for being a great addition to downtown! |
| BUSINESS OF THE MONTH NOVEMBER 2011 ODYSSEY BOOKSHOP 40 years of adventures with notable experiences, aptly defines Odyssey Bookshop. Your steadfast passion for downtown, its businesses, employees and heritage is part of the reason Odyssey Bookshop has become iconic. |





