tourism and the fiscal health of a community

Mel MonkelisExecutive Director, Whatcom Events

Home of the Ski to Sea and the Muds to Suds Races

Infrastructure in Place

• TIME Magazine 2011 – Rates Bellingham 9th Most Active City in America

• SUNSET Magazine 2011-Best Place to Play Year-round

1911 Mount Baker Marathon

• Purpose-Get Mount Baker declared a national park

2012 Ski to Sea Race

• Generates 1.2 million dollars into economy

• Brands Bellingham as the recreational center of the Northwest

• Highlights 7 different sports on 1 day

• Over 6 million page views on website

• Put Runners in Ferndale and Mountain Bikes in the Mountains

• Involve More Community Events to Draw More Visitors for the Weekend

• Increase Racer Attendance without Losing Uniqueness

Planned Changes to Ski to Sea

Visitors to Our Community• Spends $352.00 if in

Hotel• Spends $130.00 if staying

with friends• Food & Drink Sales Tax

Revenue #2 in City Generating $1,738,000.00 in 2011

The Mountain Runners

Film

Nominated Grand Priz Graz 2012

International Mountain & Adventure Filmfestival Graz

Infrastructure Part 2

• Mt Baker Ski Area, Galbraith Mountain, San Juan Islands, Nooksack River, Rolling Countryside, Mt. Baker Foothills, Bellingham Bay, and on…

• Whatcom County and Bellingham Parks, WHIMPS, Greater Bellingham Running Club, Whatcom Association of Kayak Enthusiasts, Mount Baker Club, Mount Baker Bicycle Club, and on…

Branding Our Area

http://map.veloland.ch

Whatcom CountyOne place to go online for:Bike Rides, Kayaking Trips, Hikes, Mountain Bike Trails, Swimming, Skiing, Hotels, Events, and more…