South Whidbey Commons Coffeehouse Bookstore Now Open

Jun 072010
 
 June 7, 2010  Posted by Kathy McLaughlin 2 Responses »

You are all invited to come to the newly renovated SW Commons Coffeehouse Bookstore (formerly known as the Island Coffeehouse).

In February 2010 the Coffeehouse Bookstore closed for partial renovation, as it became apparent that the kitchen floor was sinking. Upon further inspection it was discovered that the middle portion of the foundation was in dire need of repair, while at the same time most of the electrical and plumbing in the nearly 100 year old building needed to be brought up to standards.

This project has been a true community ‘barn raising’ event and after a 14 week hiatus the majority of the project has been completed and the café is now open. Deep gratitude for the countless hours spent by Jim and Jo Shelver, board members and project managers, who skillfully guided the project and to our principle contractor Greg Gilles and Architect Ross Chapin. Their work and the work of many community heroes have made it possible to have a place where the heartbeat of individuals come together to share in the journey of life.

I had a chance to speak with Gena Kraha the Program Director for SW Commons just this week

Gena says that “SW Commons fosters a vibrant community gathering place with a wide range of programs for children, youth, families and seniors.  It is a true “commons” for local culture, community connections, and a catalyst for the local economy and community health.” She noted that this project wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the community. “A heartfelt thank you to the community for stepping forward and contributing their time, talent and treasure to make this project a success, and we look forward to building a future of community with you. “

Baristas from left to right; Izzy Moreno, Caitlin Goldbaum and Ethan Berkley

Here is an excerpt from an essay written by Ian Marsanyi, a former volunteer, who is currently attending Columbia University. I think it does a great job of setting the tone for what SW Commons Coffeehouse Bookstore is all about.

“It is a warm room; cozy but open and inviting no matter how many people are around. In one corner a sofa, functional if not stylish, like the chair next to the fireplace, or the free sack lunches round the back.The hissing of a steam wand pierces through the air, a surprise to new-comers but nothing more than ambiance to regulars. As milk swirls so do ideas, opinions, and weekend itineraries of a thousand individuals, all united by this one place in many times.

Whether you like coffee or tea, it is a hub for interaction with community members both young and old, an outlet for inspiration and experimentation, and most importantly a way for me to give back to the island that has made me the person I am today.”


You can view a slideshow of a photo shoot that I did this past week by clicking on the photo above. You can view the slideshow in full screen by clicking the button in the lower right hand corner of the slideshow.

You can also read the post that we did on South Whidbey Commons by clicking here.

Good Cheer!

South Whidbey Commons

Apr 042010
 
 April 4, 2010  Posted by Kathy McLaughlin 1 Response »

The South Whidbey Commons grew out of a 1998 Family/Youth Summit. A shared vision and plan for an increasingly healthy and connected South Whidbey community was put forth. It is a vision that has taken roots in our community.

Caitlin Golbaum, an Americorp volunteer, comments on the community, the Island Coffeehouse and Books and the South Whidbey Commons were really on target.

“In my short six months here as an AmeriCorps member, I have been consistently impressed by the way this community cares for its own. There are several incredible non-profit organizations in the community that work tirelessly to ensure that basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter are available to everyone. However, there is a fourth fundamental need that often gets overlooked: the need to build relationships with other people. The South Whidbey Commons is a non-profit that is dedicated to providing a safe, comfortable place where members of the community of all ages can build connections.”

The HELP Network, which South Whidbey Commons is a member, is truly unique. There is something special about our community and I do think that it is that small town atmosphere that makes it easier to know each other. Having programs that accentuate that belief in sharing and building connections is a way to ensure that we all feel like we are a part of the community.

South Whidbey Commons offers a wide variety of programs that serve as opportunities for interaction with the community. Their free PlayScape program allows children age birth through kindergarten to play together, while caregivers can visit and share experiences.

The Island Coffeehouse and Books is a welcoming communal space and also serves as a training facility for volunteer youth baristas who go out in the community with outstanding customer service and business skills. Every Friday night at 7pm, the coffeehouse offers free music performances where local and national musicians can connect with an audience in an intimate setting.

The Board knew that their facility had structural problems when it was initially purchased. A sinking foundation was the main issue. Work began on February 1st to correct the problem and to begin the remodeling of the facility. It is expected to be completed during the month of April. While it doesn’t appear that much is going on outside; most of the interior of the facility will be new!

Having a free space where people of all ages can engage in conversation and build relationships is vital to a healthy community.

If you want to learn more about the construction progress you can click on the above photo. The Island Coffeehouse and Books blog was started in September of last year and it is full of information. Blogs are all about having a conversation with the community and they have done a great job!

We have our homes and schools or work; the Third Place is the Island Coffeehouse and Books. You can click on the above photo to view a video on South Whidbey Commons.

This from Rosie’s post on The Third Place:

“I’ve heard it said that we all have three places. Our home, our work and a third place we gather for community, friendly discourse and nourishment of all kinds. It’s tricky for me, since this is where I work, but it is often where I find myself, even when I am not working. I am comfortable here. I am nourished here, literally and figuratively. In a world fraught with so many unhappy, isolating things, it is a comfort to find a place where one feels safe. Where there is a sense of belonging.”

Sound like family? You bet it is!!

If you want to make a donation to South Whidbey Commons here is the link.