Press Releases - Launching Success Learning Store

News and Press Releases

5/7/13

HAPPY 10TH ANNIVERSARY, LAUNCHING SUCCESS! COMMUNITY GEM CELEBRATES A DECADE

Launching Success Learning Store invites the public to join in celebrating its 10-year anniversary Saturday, May 18, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event begins with a ribbon cutting, symbolically opening the store doors to the next decade. As part of the ceremony, and as a token of their gratitude to the community that has helped them thrive, owners Dan and Barbara Sanford are donating to one of the many non-profits they greatly admire, The Firs conference grounds and afterschool adventures programs.

Special guests include representatives of the Bellingham Chamber of Commerce and of the store's many partner organizations in the community. A special 10-minute LEGO® challenge, where children are timed in building a brick creation, will be offered, along with door prizes and a variety of games for all ages.

Initially started as a small boutique shop on Northwest Avenue, Launching Success is now the region's largest retailer of its kind and has become a valued parent and teacher resource center. Seven years ago the company moved to its own, more expansive building on Prince Avenue (just east of Meridian and one block north of the Bakerview Road). It has developed into a specialty toy store while adding unique products such as educational tools for special needs children and literacy learning materials by David Matteson.

The store has averaged 18% growth annually since its inception, due in part to its Internet sales and to its ability to serve a wide variety of groups, from parents and grandparents to preschools and senior centers. Over the years it has hosted hundreds of seminars, state-certified STARS programs for early learning directors, and countless classes for its customers, including the free Kids Kreate activities held on the 1st Saturday of each month. Since 2003, Launching Success' annual sales have quadrupled. Its Rewards Club started with just 500 patrons the first year and now has more than 20,000.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business. It serves throughout the region of Skagit, Island, and Whatcom Counties and lower British Columbia. For more information go to www.LaunchingSuccess.com, www.facebook.com/LaunchingSuccess or call 360-527-2641

4/18/13

THREE NEW HIRES LAUNCH LOCAL LEARNING STORE INTO NEW TERRITORY

Launching Success Learning Store welcomes aboard a team of three Community Relations Directors to focus on sharing the store's educational materials, quality toys and games, services, activities, and workshops with schools, businesses, organizations, and consumers.

Jodi Boon earned her B.A. in Elementary Education from Western Washington University and taught kindergarten and first grade for eight years. "Launching Success has such amazing offerings for parents, teachers, grandparents, care providers, and businesses," Boon says. "I already adore the store as a teacher and parent, and I am delighted to now be an employee, promoting a small business that provides quality products and services for all ages and stages of learners."

Amy Blackwood has been a writer and editor for more than 15 years. She has extensive experience in community and public relations, including three years as a Communications Specialist at a school district in St. Louis, Mo. Her young son and daughter are thrilled their mom's new job is at "the best toy store in town." "My favorite people are children, followed closely by parents and teachers, so working at Launching Success is a dream job for me," Blackwood says. "I'm excited to be a part of such a great community resource."

Sherri Willand brings six years of volunteer experience with school districts and Parent Teacher Organizations, including serving as a Volunteer Coordinator for Ferndale Holiday Giving Store. She has enjoyed building relationships with parents and teachers. "Ifeel that Launching Success is going to be a great place to use my talents as well as have fun selling products I believe in," says Willand. "The store has something for everyone, from the individual teacher or parent to big organizations and businesses, and I'm looking forward to spreading the word to all."

Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties and has Northwest Washinton's largest selection of educational materials, quality toys, and games for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The store is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. For more information, go online (www.LaunchingSuccess.com, www.facebook.com/LaunchingSuccess) or call 360-527-2641.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

(Left to Right: Jodi, Sherri, Amy)

4/8/13

TEACHERS TREATED WITH SPECIAL DAY AT LOCAL LEARNING STORE

Area teachers get the attention and gratitude they deserve at Launching Success Learning Store's Teacher Appreciation Day!

On Saturday, May 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the store will be kicking off Teacher Appreciation Week in studious style, with prizes, classroom aids, and special deals for our community's hardworking educators. This is the seventh year the locally owned Bellingham store has held this event in conjunction with the nationally observed teacher appreciation week (celebrated May 6-10 this year).

Typically long lines of participants arrive early for the highly sought-after gift bags full of various school materials from the store's suppliers, available only to the first 50 people to enter the door at 10 a.m. Additionally, door prizes are given away every 15 minutes throughout the four-hour celebration, and grand prizes for 3 lucky recipients are drawn at the event's end. Teachers in attendance can preview products for the 2013-2014 school year. Refreshments are provided by Costco and Starbucks, while Mary Kay provides a sample of pampering goodies.

The event honors all who teach, including home-schooling parents as well as classroom teachers. The general public is also invited. "We are committed to helping our schools and want to show our appreciation for teachers' dedication," explains store owner Barbara Sanford, a former teacher herself.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business started in Bellingham 10 years ago. Located at 133 Prince Avenue, just east of Meridian one block north of Bakerview, it serves educators and parents throughout the region of Skagit, Island, and Whatcom Counties and Lower British Colombia. For more information go to www.LaunchingSuccess.com, www.facebook.com/LaunchingSuccess or call 360-527-2641.

2/18/13

TERESA TODD JOINS LAUNCHING SUCCESS LEARNING STORE

Teresa Todd has joined Launching Success Learning Store as a Sales Associate. After raising her family, she completed her teaching degree from WWU in 2011. Teresa completed her student teaching at Sunnyland, currently substitute teaches, is teaching a watercolors class at Launching Success, and works in the store sharing her passion for learning.

Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties, and has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials, toys and games for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The store is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian, just one block north of Bakerview. Find them online at www.LaunchingSuccess.com, on facebook, or call them at 360-527-2641.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

11/12/12

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE!

Our trained toy experts know you want to choose the perfect gifts for the children in your life. Here are just a few examples that will surely bring smiles to their faces!

Gifts for 1 year olds

Corolle Dolls- Specifically designed for bath time play, Corolle's Tidoo dolls float in water and dry quickly.
Wee Wedgits- An educational, fun, and exciting teaching toy for creative building play.
Hohner Tube Shaker- Delightful to hold, swivel and play! Start early to instill that love of music.

Gifts for 2 year olds

Bath Toys by Alex- Big soft dog squirters for children to clean at bath time. Magic ink "dirt" disappears in warm bath water and reappears as they cool. Set includes 3 dog squirters and a mini washcloth to get them clean. Phthalate-free. Safe for babies, too. Ages 6 months and up.
My First RC GoGo Fire Truck- Squeezable, soft and safe remote control vehicle. Two button controller is easy for kids to drive.
Tranquil Turtle- Projects a magical underwater light effect with gentle wave motion. A perfect gift to welcome a new baby.

Gifts for 3 & 4 year olds

Stomp Rocket Jr.- Stomp on the launch pad and a blast of air propels the rocket over 100 feet in the air!
Beka Easel- Made in the USA with all natural wood and whiteboard and chalkboard surfaces. Folds for easy storage.
Bruder Trucks Cement Mixer- Incredibly realistic, doors open, mirrors fold, and the engine is visible. Made in Germany.

Gifts for 5 & 6 year olds

Teaching Cash Register- Cha-ching! Award-winning talking register brings pretend stores to life.
ZOOB Building Sets- This building set has a big difference from all the others; the pieces move after kids put them together. Lifetime guarantee.
Art Sets by Creativity for Kids- Fashion Headbands! Create ten awesome accessories with this ultimate headband set.

Gifts for 7 & 8 year olds

Magformers- Magnets are completely encapsulated in plastic, rotate to their attraction position for instant connection, and never reject. There are countless creative, imaginative and geometric structures possible.
Qwirkle- This game is as simple as matching colors and shapes but it also requires well-planned strategy. Available in a travel version, also.
Snap Circuits Jr.- Keep kids playing and learning with cool science toys. Develop electrical engineering skills at an early age.

Gifts for 9 year olds and up

Light-Up Air Power Soccer Disk- disk hovers over the ground, wood floors, and low-pile carpets with air. Great for the soccer enthusiast.
Loopdedoo- Friendship bracelet spinning tool. Just wrap your threads around the loopdedoo device, turn the knob, guide the thread and minutes later you're done! Fast, easy and fun. The designs are endless!
Remote Control Machines- Build your own motorized machines and control them with a remote. Assemble up to 10 models. The kit comes with three motors, remote control unit, battery holder, 48 page color instruction book, and 182 building pieces.

Launching Success Learning Store creates a welcoming atmosphere with a staff of educators ready to provide you with the help you need in choosing the right toy for the child in your life. We also believe it is important to contribute to our local community by helping over 40 local non-profits that support children and families of our community. Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties and has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials, toys, and games for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The store is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. Find them online at LaunchingSuccess.com, facebook.com/Launchingsuccess, or call them at 360-527-2641.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

10/10/12

LAUNCHING SUCCESS LEARNING STORE CELEBRATES THIRD ANNUAL NEIGHBORHOOD TOY STORE DAY ON NOV. 10

More than 500 stores from coast to coast will participate

As a child, nothing compared to the enchanted feeling of shopping for toys at your local toy store. Gazing with wonder at the aisles of exciting choices...holding your new toy for the very first time...anticipation building inside you as you finally took your new gifts home.

On November 10^th,Launching Success Learning Store will join over 500 stores across the country to celebrate the third annual Neighborhood Toy Store Day.

“When you shop at an independent toy store, you are entering a universe of play possibilities,” explains Kathleen McHugh, President of the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA). “Neighborhood Toy Store Day is about celebrating the role the local store plays in the community. We are highlighting the expertise your local store has in selecting just the right toy to help your child grow and learn through play.”

Independent toy stores can even help you find top toys for the children on your list this holiday season with help from The 2012 Best Toys for Kids Award list.

Barbara Sanford, co-owner of Launching Success, explained, "With our expert understanding of how kids play, ASTRA members have created a list of toys that deliver the highest value, inviting imaginative discovery and encouraging creative thinking."

As part of the festivities, Mrs. Claus will be there with all the supplies and postage your child needs to send their letter to the North Pole. You receive 20% off one item of your choice, see and play with ASTRA's Best Toys for Kids 2012 winners, enjoy helicopter demos from 11-3, relax with refreshments, and much more. To continue its strong support of the community, Launching Success will also donate 5% of purchases to the Agape Home for Women and Children.

Consumers can be confident that more of the dollars spent in local, independently-owned stores, stay in the community- 25% more in contrast with national chains, according to the 3/50 Project. Resident business owners pour more money and energy back into the community in the form of everything from tax dollars to charity donations to participating in local initiatives through civic associations and area chambers of commerce.

Launching Success Learning Store, and active member of ASTRA, creates a welcoming atmosphere with a staff of educators ready to provide you with the help you need in choosing the right toy for the child in your life. We also believe it is important to contribute to our local community by helping over 40 local non-profits that support children and families of our community.

Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties and has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials, toys and games for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The store is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. Find them online at LaunchingSuccess.com, facebook.com/LaunchingSuccess, or call them at 360-527-2641.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

7/25/12

LAUNCHING SUCCESS JOINS ASTRA

Launching Success Learning Store, specialty toy retailer, recently joined ASTRA, the American Specialty Toy Retailer's Association. The Association believes in the right of all children to achieve their full potential through fun and positive play. ASTRA members are encouraged to educate parents and the community at large about the importance of play and disseminate information about appropriate toys and playthings.

ASTRA provides a forum for the specialty toy industry to come together to expand the professional knowledge of its members so that they may further the common goal with regard to children, the community and their individual business.

For more information, contact Jen Zimmermann, Store Manager, at 360-527-2641.

Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties and has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The store is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. Find them online at www.LaunchingSuccess.com at www.facebook.com/launchingsuccess, or call them at 360-527-2641.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

7/18/12

AN LE AND GWEN BYNON JOIN LAUNCHING SUCCESS

Launching Success is excited to announce that they have hired two new Sales Associates- An Le and Gwen Bynon.

An completed her degree in English Literature this in June 2011, and is now pursuing her Masters in Teaching at Western Washington University. Some of her classroom experience has come from teaching in the Nooksack and Shuksan Middle Schools. She is also bilingual in English and Vietnamese.

Gwen completed her teaching degree from Western Washington University this past June, and has since received her teaching certificate in both Elementary Education and Special Education. She student taught locally at Parkview and Larabee Elementary Schools.

Launching Success Learning Store has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents and is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. Find them online at www.LaunchingSuccess.com, www.facebook.com/LaunchingSuccess, or call them at 360-527-2641.

See our page on Our Team to learn more about An and Gwen, and the rest of us!

5/9/12

TEACHERS BEING HONORED AT FUN DAY AT LEARNING STORE

Area teachers will be honored with gift bags, prizes, and refreshments during Launching Success Learning Store's Sixth Annual Teacher Appreciation Day, Saturday, May 19th from 10am -3pm.

The first 75 people to enter the door at 10am receive bags full of various gifts from the store and from suppliers. There will be 3 grand prize drawings for a set of 6 classroom chairs, a Park Tower garage for creative child's play, and a chart stand with whiteboard. Additionally, door prizes will be given away every 15 minutes throughout the celebration. Refreshments will be provided by Costco and Starbucks of Lynden. Lisa Chovil's Mary Kay Cosmetics team will also be there to provide free products and fun games.

The event honors all who teach, including home schooling parents as well as classroom teachers. The general public is also invited to join the celebration. "We see every day how committed our teachers are to educating our children and we want to let them know how much we appreciate all their hard work," said Dan Sanford, co-owner of Launching Success.

Launching Success Learning Store has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents and is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. Find them online at www.LaunchingSuccess.com or www.facebook.com/LaunchingSuccess, or call them at 360-527-2641.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

4/25/12

LOCAL STORE PROMOTES EMPLOYEE TO MANAGER

Jen Zimmermann has been promoted to Store Manager at Launching Success Learning Store, continuing in her role as senior buyer as well. Zimmermann has a degree in Elementary Education from WWU and is a former teacher and Sunday School director.

"This is a great opportunity for me to contribute even more to the success of the store and the great team we have here," said Zimmermann.

4/20/12

NSSEA NATIONAL CONVENTION ATTENDANCE

Launching Success Learning Store's Jen Zimmermann and Barbara Sanford, primary buyers for the educational store, recently attended the national convention of the National School Supply and Education Association (NSSEA) in Baltimore, Maryland. This convention provided a key opportunity for the Bellingham businesswomen to attend seminars on trends in the industry and to receive best practices ideas fro similar retailers.

"This was such a great opportunity to discover new educational materials for our teachers and parents," said Barbara Sanford, co-owner of Launching Success. This year the exposition hosted 316 dealer companies with 28% new publishers joining the show for the first time.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

4/13/12

LEARNING STORE CELEBRATES CHILDREN'S BOOK WEEK

Launching Success Learning Store is proud to participate in Children's Book Week May 7-11th, an event established in 1919 in the belief that children's books and literacy can change a person's life.

To celebrate, Launching Success is offering free story times to children ages 2-5 with a story and snack from 10:30-11am, May 7th-11th. "I love the opportunity to open up a child's world through books," said Jen Zimmermann, store manager and buyer, who taught kindergarten for 7 years. In addition, for every children's book purchased at Launching Success the week of May 7th, additional books will be donated to the Agape House and Hope House.

Launching Success encourages children to read throughout the summer by offering a Summer Reading Program. Contact the store for details.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

1/9/12

COUNTY CHILDREN'S GROUPS RECEIVE HELP FROM LEARNING STORE

Local educational retailer, Launching Success Learning Store, reported $7,100 in gifts this past year to 48 area non-profits who serve children. A large portion of these donations were support for fund-raising auctions. Those who received more substantial in-kind contributions from the store included Rebound of Whatcom County, The Firs, Blue Skies for Children, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Washington.

This year the store held 9 elementary school shopping fundraisers, called “Parent Shopping Nights” where a portion of the sales are given back to the schools. Launching Success also participates in 9 local Scrip programs, donating a portion of the sales back to those schools.

During the holidays the store’s staff wrapped Christmas gifts for donations and raised $126 for The Hope Center, based in Lynden. Other special projects included educational game collection for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Washington and a holiday craft sale to benefit Blue Skies for Children.

Again this year, over $1,000 dollars in educational materials from Launching Success were sent to village schools in Kenya through Whatcom County-based programs Project Education and Tembo Education Project that assist with school development in Africa.

Launching Success Learning Store has a mission to help provide children in our community with the best tools for learning, according to store owner Dan Sanford. “Our entire team welcomes the chance to help these many schools and non-profit organizations who share similar goals.”

Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties and has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The store is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. Find them online at www.LaunchingSuccess.com, at www.facebook.com/launchingSuccess, or call them at 360-527-2641.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

12/5/11

GAME DRIVE A BIG SUCCESS FOR BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS “SCHOOL BUDDIES” PROGRAM

Launching Success Learning Store hosted a game drive in October to collect new and gently used games for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of NW Washington’s School-based Mentoring Program. Over 40 board games were donated by generous community supporters.

The Big Brothers and Big Sisters who participate in the School Buddies program, located in 9 Bellingham schools, spend one hour per week at the child’s school, playing games, shooting hoops, or helping with homework. This innovative program that encourages activities with a socio-emotional focus is shown to have a great academic impact of high quality and long duration.

“We are so excited to receive these games as we head into the winter months. This will ensure we have enough games at each of our schools. Playing games is more than just fun or educational, it is a way to form a relationship.” said Bliss Goldstein, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of NW Washington.

Launching Success Learning Store has Northwest Washington’s largest selection of educational materials for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents and is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. Find them online at www.LaunchingSuccess.com, at www.facebook.com/LaunchingSuccess or call them at 360-527-2641.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of NW Washington is the largest mentoring organization in Northwest Washington. Administrative offices are located at 4204 Meridian Suite 101, Bellingham, Washington. Find them online at www.bbbs-nw.org, www.facebook.com/bbbsnwwa or call them at 360-671-6400.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

11/16/11

EDUCATION STORE HOLDS OPEN HOUSE TO HELP NON-PROFITS

Launching Success Learning Store is kicking off the holiday season with an Open House that benefits three local non-profits on Saturday, November 19^th, from noon – 4 pm.

In keeping with the owners’ strong commitment to children, 10% of all sales during the event will be donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters, Blue Skies for Children, and The Firs for all the work they do to support our children.

The Angel Tree from Project Hope is also up and available if you want to make a local child’s holiday just a little brighter. Refreshments will be served.

Launching Success Learning Store has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The store is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. Find them online at www.LaunchingSuccess.com, at www.facebook.com/launchingsuccess, or call them at 360-527-2641.Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

10/25/11

NEIGHBORHOOD TOY STORE DAY OFFERS FAMILY FUN IN BELLINGHAM

Toy demonstrations, games, and prizes are being offered to area families in
observance of Neighborhood Toy Store Day on November 12th at Fairhaven Toy
Garden and Launching Success Learning Store.

As a reminder of the important role that local stores play in our
communities, the day is being promoted by the American Specialty Toy
Retailing Association (ASTRA) stores and will be celebrated in communities
across the nation.

At Launching Success Learning Store off Meridian Street, children will be
treated to demonstrations of remote control helicopters and new games
selected from ASTRA's “Best Toys for Kids” Award list. Activity kits provided
by the company, Be Amazing, will be shown as well as LEGO robots created by
a robotics trainer from local company Bricks and Beyond.

Door prizes will be given out. Families will also be able to select an
"angel" if they wish to prepare a gift bag of food and toys for needy
children in Whatcom County before the holidays. Join us from noon - 4pm.

At Fairhaven Toy Garden we invite you to come play with us from 2:00-6:00 pm!

You can learn to juggle from Kyle, help build a remote controlled machine from a

Thames and Kosmos kit, try fun activities from Plan Toys and Wikki Stix, play games,

eat cookies, and win great prizes. You will also have an opportunity to help a local charity,

Blue Skies for Children.

Dan Sanford, co-owner of Launching Success Learning store, says that using
neighborhood stores increases consumer choices and preserves local jobs and
helps local charities. "Research shows that for every $100 spent in locally
owned stores, $68 returns to the community in the form of taxes, salaries,
contributions, and free programming. In contrast only $43 returns to the
community when consumers shop at national chain stores", cited Dan. "Of
course, little comes back to our area when using national internet sales
providers."

Folks who remember the magical feeling of shopping in their neighborhood toy
store as a child can rekindle that experience for their own children during
this fun-packed day. For more information see the websites for complete
list of activities and times at www.launchingsucces.com or
www.fairhaventoygarden.com.

10/21/11

JAMES ROBERTSON JOINS LAUNCHING SUCCESS LEARNING STORE

James Robertson has joined Launching Success as Customer Service and Sales Lead. He comes to us from Silverdale where he worked at a major bookstore. “My passion has always been the love of learning and helping people so being at Launching Success is the perfect place for me”, said James.

Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties and has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The store is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. Find them online at www.LaunchingSuccess.com, at www.facebook.com/launchingsuccess, or call them at 360-527-2641.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

10/10/11

EDUCATION STORE SNAPS INTO LEGOS®

Launching Success Learning Store has joined the ranks as one of very few specialty toy stores in the Pacific Northwest to be designated as a principle distributor of the newest categories of LEGOS®.

In addition to having been an authorized reseller of LEGO® Education Division products, such as Duplo® and City®, Launching Success in now able to carry additional varieties of LEGO® including Mindstorms®, Creator®, and Technic®. Many of these products are of interest to older children and adults for advanced hobby and mechanics play. Launching Success also offers LEGO® by the scoop for customers who wish to individually select the pieces they want.

“We have lined up for this authorization and we have built our LEGO® constituents steadily,” explains store owner Barbara Sanford. “We are celebrating this new ability to meet the increased customer demand which is growing more diverse and more sophisticated.”

In recent years, through partnership with local company, Bricks and Beyond, the store has been hosting young child robotics classes using LEGO® brand products and LEGO® - inspired computer software. Other instructional organizations outside of Whatcom County have been using Launching Success Learning Store as a source for its LEGO® brand robotics supplies.

Launching Success Learning Store has Northwest Washington’s largest selection of educational materials for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents and is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview in Bellingham. Find them online at www.LaunchingSuccess.com, at www.facebook.com/LaunchingSuccess or call them at 360-527-2641.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

9/8/11

LAUNCHING SUCCESS SPONSORS GAME DRIVE FOR BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS “SCHOOL BUDDIES” PROGRAM

A drive to provide new and gently used games for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of NW Washington’s School-based Mentoring Program is being sponsored by Launching Success Learning Store.

The Game Drive is being conducted October 3 – 29^th at Launching Success. Donations of new and gently used games may be dropped off at Launching Success between 10 am and 6 pm Monday through Saturday. As an incentive, people who donate a game may purchase a new game at Launching Success for 10% off retail.

The Big Brothers and Big Sisters participating in the School Buddies program spend one hour per week at the child’s school, playing games, shooting hoops, or helping with homework. This innovative program that encourages activities with a socio-emotional focus is shown to have a great academic impact of high quality and long duration.

“Having enough games at the schools for our School Buddies program makes all the difference in the quality of the relationships between our Bigs and our Littles,” said Bliss Goldstein, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of NW Washington. “It also helps us expand the program into other schools so we can serve more of our children.”

Some examples of games with educational merit are Cadoo, Connect 4, Scrabble Junior, Uno, Farkel, and Blokus.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of NW Washington is the largest mentoring organization in Northwest Washington, serving over 400 children in two counties. Administrative offices are located at 4204 Meridian Suite 101, Bellingham, Washington. Find them online at www.bbbs-nw.org, www.facebook.com/bbbsnwwa or call them at 360-671-6400.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

4/28/11

TEACHERS HONORED AT FUN DAY AT LEARNING STORE

Area teachers will be honored with gifts and demonstrations during Launching Success Learning Store’s annual Teacher Appreciation Day, Saturday, May 14^th. This is the fifth year running for this event which offers gift coupons, new product demonstrations and special displays to help teachers with their classrooms.

The first 50 people to enter the door at 10 am receive bags chock-full of various gifts from the store and from suppliers. There will be grand prize drawings for a sand table, set of children’s chairs, or $100 store gift certificate. Additionally, door prizes will be given away every 20 minutes throughout the celebration. Refreshments will be provided by Costco and Starbucks. Free massages will be provided by Blue Heron Massage (Tom Gurney) and Mary Kay will provide free products to take home.

The event, which runs from 10 am. to 3 pm, honors all who teach, including home schooling parents as well as classroom teachers. The general public is also invited to join the celebration.

Launching Success Learning Store has Northwest Washington’s largest selection of educational materials for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents and is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. Find them online at www.LaunchingSuccess.com, www.facebook.com/LaunchingSuccess, or call them at 360-527-2641.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

4/20/11

STORE OFFICIALS ATTEND NATIONAL EDUCATIONAL SUPPLY CONFERENCE

Launching Success Learning Store's chief buyer, Jen Zimmermann, and store owner, Barbara Sanford, recently participated in the educational industry's largest national convention in San Antonio, Texas. During the event, the two attended numerous workshops related to retail management strategies, display and marketing, and product trends in addition to placing orders for the newest classroom and general education materials. The conference is organized by the National School Supply and Education Association and included vendors from over 400 companies. Participation by the Bellingham representatives afforded them a chance to meet with Launching Success' business partners, The Dallas Pen Corporation, and representatives from companies such as Educational Insights, Learning Resources, Scholastic, Evan-Moor, Pacon, Trend, and a wide variety of others.

Launching Success Learning Store has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. Find them online at www.LaunchingSuccess.com or www.facebook.com/LaunchingSuccess, or call them at 360-527-2641.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

4/17/11

LAUNCHING SUCCESS LEARNING STORE CELEBRATES 8 YEARS IN BUSINESS

After a year of extensive research into the needs of educators in our region, Launching Success Learning Store opened in May, 2003. Dan and Barbara Sanford, co-owners, invite the public to join them and their staff in celebrating their 8th year in business. Enjoy prizes and refreshments on Thursday, May 5th, between 4 and 7 pm at the store.

Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties and has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The store is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. Find them online at www.LaunchingSuccess.com, at www.facebook.com/LaunchingSuccess, or call 360-527-2641.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

3/4/11

LAUNCHING SUCCESS FEATURED IN NATIONAL MAGAZINE

Launching Success Learning Store was featured in the February 2011 issue of Educational Dealer, the magazine of the school supply industry.

In the article, Dan and Barbara Sanford, who own and operate the business, shared their expertise in creating a locally owned educational supply store and then adapting to the marketplace during the past 10 years, growing despite the current economic times.

Co-owner Barbara Sanford said, “Dan and I were both pleased to be able to share what we have learned over the years to help other educational stores around the country.”

To read the article, go to http://eddealermagazine.com/readmore_03.php.

The oldest and most reliable source of industry information, Educational Dealer is a name that readers associate with quality information and valuable product ideas. Its interviews, news, retailing tips, reports on industry trends and helpful display ideas strike a winning balance that meets the needs of all dealers – from retailers and catalogers to resellers and online merchants. Find them online at http://eddealermagazine.com.

Launching Success Learning Store has Northwest Washington’s largest selection of educational materials, toys and games for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents and is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. Find them online at www.LaunchingSuccess.com or call them at 360-527-2641.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

2/2/11

SCIENCE FAIR FRENZY IN FULL FORCE

The season for science gear has arrived for many Whatcom County schools as countless children plan the best way to illustrate a scientific principle. Mons and dads frequently get into the act helping in the treasure hunt for the various tools that make the presentation work.

Popular subjects for science fair projects this year relate to green energy, motorized transport, and robotics, reported by staff at Bellingham's Launching Success Learning Store. "It is not surprising students would gravitate to these fields," explains store buyer Jen Zimmermann, "given President Obama's call for renewed American competitiveness in these areas."

Kids began snapping up science fair equipment as early as December this year, according to Zimmermann. "Folks were looking for solar electrical systems, robotic machine parts, and items to complete electrical circuits. Additionally, there has been early demand for insect farms, gears and pulleys, and microscope slides, and owl puke," she reported. Sales in science supplies have been running 10 to 15% ahead of last year.

Launching Success anticipates the push for science each year at this time, stocking good quantities of Science Fair books and standard presentation boards. The store offers volume discounts for presentation boards to parent/teacher organizations.

"We love to see the children come in with their checklist of components at an early stage," Zimmermann said. "It is tougher to help the anxious mom or dad who is in a desperate, last minute search for rare or exotic items but we do our best to find a solution or steer them into a modified display."

Launching Success Learning Store has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents and is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. Find them online at www.launchingsuccess.com, on facebook, or call them at 360-527-2641.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

1/25/11

ZIMMERMANN JOINS LAUNCHING SUCCESS LEARNING STORE

Jen Zimmermann has joined Launching Success as Principle Buyer. She is a graduate of Western Washington University in elementary education, a former teacher of kindergarten and first grade, and currently a Sunday School director as well.

"It's important to me that we have the right teaching tools available to make sure our children get the best education possible", stated Zimmermann.

Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties and has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The store is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. Find them online at www.LaunchingSuccess.com, at www.facebook.com/launchingsuccess, or call them at 360-527-2641.

Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.

1/25/11

CHILDREN DIVE INTO ROBOTICS USING SNAP BLOCKS AT LAUNCHING SUCCESS

While Lego bricks has been a popular play toy for decades, a new twist has kids energized in a new way. Migrating ideas from Vancouver, Canada, a local team of instructors initiated robotics using snap blocs or "bricks" through workshops for young children late last spring.

Children starting at age 7 for the classes, learn to integrate sensors and motors while using a computer program to build a working model. “We try to keep our numbers to eight participants at a time at two levels,” according to instructor Kimberly Gustafson, who calls her organization, “Bricks and Beyond.”

Gustafson, whose own son, Carter, is also crazy over robotics, got her initial attending adult workshops from Gateways International Robotics School in British Columbia. She now partners with educator and graduate student Beth Williams to provide sessions located at Launching Success Learning Store in Bellingham.

Already Bricks and Beyond has held summer and fall programs and is slated to start its next session Saturday, January 29th, from 12 noon to 2:30 p.m. Other mid-week and advanced sessions are scheduled for later in the spring.

Equipment is provided for attendees while they experiment but products to take and play with at home are purchased at Launching Success Learning Store, which is at 133 Prince Avenue in Bellingham. The store has substantially boosted its inventory in robotics and Lego gear over the past year, according to store owner and buyer Barbara Sanford. “We have to hustle to keep up with local demand and the huge interest in these products from our Canadian customers,” she reported.

Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties and has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The store is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. Find them online at www.LaunchingSuccess.com or www.facebook.com/launchingsuccess, or call them at 360-527-2641.

1/24/11

LAUNCHING SUCCESS BUMPS UP DONATIONS PROGRAM

Local organizations that help children got an extra boost this past year by larger than usual contributions by Launching Success Learning Store. The store’s 2010 giving program included a total of $7,360 to 60 different institutions including public and private schools, family assistance agencies, and clubs that help children.

“All but a few of the donations were for Whatcom County groups,” according to store spokesman Dan Sanford. “An additional 17 organizations joined the list of recipients in 2010 for funds that grew by 50% from 2009.”

Major recipients this year included schools in the Bellingham, Ferndale, and Meridian School Districts, Agape House, and Boys and Girls Clubs. Outside of the area large donations were sent to Southwest Alaska School District, Project Education in Kenya, and New Generation orphanage in Haiti.

While much of the contributions is in-kind for fund-raising auctions, this year Launching Success added an ambitious SCRIP program and a series of school “shopping nights” to help parent/teacher organizations raise money for classrooms. The SCRIP program allows parents of school children to buy gift certificates from their parent/teacher organization.

During December employees of Launching Success collected donations for helping customers with gift wrapping--all to raise funds for Project Hope and the Christmas Angel giving program.

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