WWU grad to open kids' play spot in Bellingham

Raleigh Kukes is putting her business degree and her parenting experience to work when it comes to starting a new business.

Kukes is the owner of Perch & Play, a children's entertainment area and café at 1707 N. State St., near Bellingham Fitness. Kukes is planning to have Perch & Play open sometime in October, with a grand opening event slated for Saturday, Oct. 20.

The facility will have a play area called the Pea Patch for children under the age of 3; for those between 3 and 10, Perch & Play will have an area that includes a treehouse climbing structure and slide. The rest of the space will have a variety of features, including a café and several seating areas for adults and children. It also will have separate rooms for birthday parties and other events.