THINK CougsFirst! FOR THE SUMMER!

Seasoned, steadfast and staunch—as proud and loud alumni of Washington State University, supporting our beloved alma mater is a way of life. From lengthy travels to witness games firsthand to cheering for educational programs as they are internationally recognized, future and current Cougs are faithfully loyal to the place that is and was home for their schooling years.

Continue to show support for WSU and your fellow Cougs by shopping and supporting crimson and gray in your every day goings with CougsFirst! and their trusted Coug partnerships. CougsFirst! is a nonprofit corporation encouraging Washington State University alumni and friends to think CougsFirst! for daily products and services, from a Tuesday night bottle of wine to selecting an architect or banker.

Unlike some collegiate networking groups, CougsFirst! is operated as a standalone nonprofit organization. The volunteer initiative is the creation of six alumni who believe the bond Cougars share around academics and athletics should also extend to the business arena.

“Our goal is to use special events, social media, advertising and other marketing so WSU alumni and friends can network and interact in a positive business environment,” says Jack Thompson, one of the CougsFirst! founders.

As you plan for summer fun, refresh your knowledge of Coug-businesses you can source for seasonal supply!

Backyard BBQ:

Invite friends and family over to partake in outdoor seasonal festivities with Hen & Co., dedicated to designing unique cards and paper products.
Make sure the barbeque is primed, the pool is clean and the hot tub is cranked up with Aqua Quip, the premium retailer of aqua and grilling services and equipment.
Book DJ T-Free to spin the hits in the background.
Throw Special K Ranch steaks on the grill with the seasoning of Savory Spice Shop rubs mixed in.
Don’t forget to pop and pour a few bottles of Gordon Estate wines, from estate-grown Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot to late harvest Gewürztraminer dessert wines.

Beachtime:

Priority number one—get your Campus Pride Sportswear swim gear for the summer, from men’s and women’s swimsuits to towels and water bottles.
Pack a cooler full of Beecher’s Handmade Cheeses, some of the Marco Polo Bar & Grill’s world famous roasted chicken to-go or get serious with catered grub from Herban Feast Catering & Events.
Visit Valley RV Supercenter and Broadmoor RV SuperStore to get serious about campers or Bruce Titus Automotive Group for more conventional road-tripping wheels to your favorite beach.

Getting around:

Take advantage of the weather and see the region in all of its splendor, using Visit Seattle, the exclusive Seattle visitors guide, as your road map.
Explore the sights and sounds of the city on the Emerald City Trolley.
End your day with a cocktail and a place to rest your head at Seattle’s Hotel Andra or the Hyatt at Olive 8.
Cruise over Lake Washington via one of the bridges and stay at the Bellevue Marriott or settle into the neighborhood vibe of the Heathman Hotel in Kirkland with plenty of local activity surrounding the lodges.