Bellingham Alive | October | 2018

NORTHWE E H T S

2018 OF

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OCTOBER 2018

CONTENTS

49

of the

2018

T S E B

H T R O N

T S E W

LIFESTYLE 19

Mama’s Garden

20

By the Numbers

21

Lasting Image Semiahmoo Sunset

23

In the Know Bleedingham

24

In the Know Bringing the Outside In

27

Community Opportunity Council

28

Game Changer Bob Hall

29

Book Reviews

29

Who Knew?

30

Spotlight Pickford Film Center

31

Apps We Love

32

Five Faves Costumes for Grown-Ups

SHOP 35

APSE jewelry

38

Necessities Fall Camping Gear

39

Local Find Urban Collective

40 Savvy Shopper Skagit’s Own Fish Market

WELLBEING

Best of the Northwest The envelope, please. In this issue, you’ll find results from our ninth annual contest, which featured a record 126 categories and more than a half-million votes cast for businesses and services in the North Sound’s Whatcom, Skagit and San Juan counties. Find out who was voted the favorite new restaurant, dog groomer, Northwest destination, cannabis store, brewery, plumber, real estate agent, and hotel, among others. One thing’s for sure — your enthusiasm for all things local came through loud and clear.

43

Nutrition Chili via Instant Pot

45

Beauty Skin Care Rehab

46

Take a Hike Baker Hot Springs

FEATURES 49

Best of the Northwest

96

Midterm Elections

We are the operators, boilermakers, pipefitters, instrument & analyzer technicians, electricians, crane operators, engineers, planners, schedulers, safety leaders, and supervisors that work together to make products and energy that improve lives. We are also residents of Washington State and Whatcom County and we are dedicated to operating in a safe and environmentally sound manner to sustain our home’s beauty.

Monte Staley, a U.S. Navy veteran, has worked for the Phillips 66 Ferndale Refinery for twenty-four years and currently serves as the Operations Alarm Specialist. It’s his responsibility to ensure that process alarms are designed and implemented to provide Process Control Operators sufficient time and information to run the units safely and within the optimization targets. Monte, and his wife Lesley, have raised two children here in Whatcom County. Monte and Lesley’s son Charles (pictured) also works at the Ferndale Refinery in the Crude rail facility and has recently qualified as an engineer. In their off time, you’ll find the Staley family enjoying Whatcom County's trails with their dogs, Leeloo and Udo.

MIDTERM ELECTIONS In the past, interest in midterm elections for seats in U.S. Congress, set for November 6, barely registered a blip among the national electorate. Not this time. Ken Karlberg examines the roiling state of today’s political climate, and how fear and the consolidation of power threaten the founding principles of our country. The essay looks at how we got here, and how the midterms could serve as a harbinger of what’s to come as the country — and our democracy — stand poised at a dangerous intersection of history.

96

HABITAT 103

Featured Home Sandy Point

109

Remodel Garage to Game Room

DINE 113

The Rhododendron Café

115

Dining Guide

117

Culinary Events

118

Sip Whatcom County Wineries

121

Restaurant Review San Juan Island Brewing Co.

122 Mixing Tin Övn’s Charlie 125

8 Great Tastes

AGENDA 127 Featured Event Jane Goodall 132

Top Picks

134

Out of Town

135

The Scene Orca Building Opens

NOTES

6

BellinghamAlive.com

10

Editor’s Letter

12

Contributors

15

Letters to the Editor

16

Meet the Staffer Sarah Sibley

136

Final Word

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NOTES On the Web

Be sure to check us out at:

BellinghamAlive.com Submit your events on our calendar!

Do you have an event that you would like our readers to know about?

BellinghamAlive.com offers an events calendar where viewers can search by day, venue, event type, or city.

Go to bellinghamalive.com.com/events and submit your event today. Once your event has been approved by our editorial staff, it is live.

ONLINE EXCLUSIVE Some local groups are making a push to get out the vote for the Nov. 6 midterm elections for U.S. Congress and local seats. Are you registered? (There’s still time — deadline for mail-in and online registration/address changes is Mon. Oct. 8. In-person registration deadline is Mon. Oct. 29.) Do you know where to drop your ballot? Welcome to Voting 101, where we’ll give you some details and basic answers to questions you might have, or might be too embarrassed to ask.

Join us on

for:

Previous digital editions now available online.

pinterest.com/northsoundlife

]

Weekend

AGENDA NSLife Halloween

8

BellinghamAlive.com

NSLife Furry Friends

NSLife DIY Fall Decor

Wine, Spirit, & Brew

Sign up for our FREE entertainment e-newsletter to get the latest on upcoming events and more!

BellinghamAlive.com

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October 2018 9

NOTES Editor’s Letter

Best of the NW Brings the Unexpected

S

ometimes our Best of the Northwest issue surprises even us. Every October since 2010, the contest — one that celebrates your favorite North Sound places for everything from Best Casino to Best Tattoo Shop — is a highlight for readers. Last year’s record number of votes still stands, but this year’s 513,294 individual votes is a close second. That’s more than half a million votes, a display of how strongly you feel about local business and services in Whatcom, Skagit and San Juan counties (and maybe how much some of you want to win).

This year, the Best of the Northwest contest’s ninth, we were surprised by the number of new winners: 46 businesses broke through to became gold winners for the first time; 37 took silver or bronze for the first time after never winning anything.

But one of the biggest surprises involved a repeat winner: Wally’s Barber Shop. It isn’t just that Wally’s won again for “Best Men’s Haircut” — Wally’s is a Bellingham institution for old-school cuts and warm, lathery straight-razor shaves, the go-to place for everyone from college students to military.

Wally’s owner and namesake, Wally Whaley, died in June. Then, we got a surprise: When fans of Wally’s cast their contest votes last month, some of them included short notes and kind words (p. 88) for Wally’s family along with their ballots.

Wally’s wife, Renate, 75, isn’t sure how the shop won this year. Unlike many businesses who set out to drum up votes, Renate says she did not mount any sort of campaign.

“We didn’t tell the customers to vote for us,” she says. It just happened. It’s one of the good things that has happened to the family in a difficult summer.

Wally had been sick for months but kept working, wearing oxygen as he cut hair in his 314 E. Holly Street shop. Still, his death stunned his customers. Wally was working right up to two days before he died.

On a recent September morning, a “Barber Wanted” sign hangs in the window. “Wally left a big hole,” says Renate, shop manager.

“To replace him, every day we need about three people. He always outcut everyone.” The shop needs barbers, but not many are trained in traditional cuts these days, she says. “We require people to give quality haircuts.”

The shop has nine chairs and could use four or five more barbers, says Renate, who still performs the final inspection on every client’s cut.

The customers keep coming. When Renate opened the doors earlier than usual on this day — 8:15 instead of 8:45 a.m., two customers were already waiting for their 9 a.m. cuts. A sign reads: “No texting or chewing gum while in barber chair.”

Wally’s Barber Shop looks like a happy place, its walls and countertops crammed with merchandise, comfy black sofas and padded armchairs surround a table with jars of candy and cookies. Kids must love it (the staff cuts women’s and children’s hair too).

It’s still about family here. Wally’s daughter, Deanna, is the most-requested barber now, known for her expertise in the fades, flattops, and high-and-tights, just like her dad.

Wally’s gone, but Wally’s Barber Shop isn’t going anywhere.

“We just keep going, cutting hair,” says Renate, proudly.

We congratulate Wally’s, and all the Best of the Northwest winners this year. Here’s hoping you keep going too. 

MERI-JO BORZILLERI Editor In Chief

10

BellinghamAlive.com

C A SINO• RESORT

OVER 400 SHOWS IN 17 YEARS, & MANY MORE TO COME!

Entertainment IS OUR GAME!

LeAnn Rimes • Mavis Staples • Survivor • Dennis DeYoung: The Music of Styx • The Midtown Men • Wynonna & The Big Noise • Arlo Guthrie • Emmylou Harris • Aaron Neville • The Marshall Tucker Band • Killer Queen • John Michael Montgomery • Tower of Power Morgane Latouche • Vanessa Williams • Lonestar • Don McLean Grand Funk Railroad • Andy Gross • The Commodores • Pam Tillis Margaret Cho • Leann Womack • Pablo Fancisco • Lisa Alvardo • Alex Raymundo • Charlie Musselwhite • Melissa Manchester • Heart By Heart • Helen Hong • Owen Benjamin • Elton John Tribute • Bret Michaels • Crystal Gayle Sebastian Maniscalco • The Supremes • Glenn Miller • Revolvers • Beach Boys & Friends • Johnny Rivers • Herman’s Hermits • Wilson Phillips • Lee Greenwood • Tony Orlando • Doc Severinsen • The Coasters Leon Russell • 5th Dimension America • Toni Tenille • Spirit Of Ireland • Neil Diamond • Trace Adkins • Three Dog Night • Nitty Gritty Dirt Band • Oak Ridge Boys • Bill Engval • Blood, Sweat & Tears • Natalie Cole • Michael Bolton • Dwight Yokam • Keith Urban • Leann Rimes • Disco Mania • Gladys Knight • Righteous Brothers • Patty Loveless • Seattle International Comedy Competition • Ronnie Milsap • Dave Mason • Joe Diffie Gino Vannelli • Joe Nichols • Collin Raye • The Smothers Brothers • Tanya Tucker • Australia’s Thunder From Down Under • Josh Gracin • Rita Coolidge • Aaron Tippin • Caroline Rhea • Rita Rudner • Restless Heart • Black Hawk • Little Texas • Vikki Carr • Men Of Las Vegas • Debbie Reynolds • The Letterman • Christmas Show • Vegas Pin-Ups • Joan Rivers • The Marshall Tucker Band • Heartland • Charo • The Fab Four • Judy Collin • Vince Mira • Abbacadabra • Brenda Lee • Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers • Frankie Avalon • Petula Clark • Hotel California • Bruce In The USA • Phil Vasser • Starship • John Reep • Dk Morgan • America's Diamond • Eddie Money • Lorrie Morgan • Chicago Tribute • Fab Four Tribute • Pam Tillis • Sawyer Brown • Vince Mira • Brenda Lee • Bruce Hornsby • The Turtles • Neal Mckoy • Ricky Neslon Tribute • Little Anthony • Richard Marx • Lonestar • Repp And Ferrara • Terri Clark • Rockoberfest • Survivor • Josh Gracin • Garrett • Wilkins & The Parrotheads • Marlin James • Henry Cho & Dat Phan • Phil Vasser • KBRC Rocks The Skagit • Manhattans • Debby Boone • KAFE • Breakfast Club • Blue Oyster Cult Tribute • Buckaroo Blues Band • Rat Pack Tribute • Craig Morgan • Nathan Anderson • Darryl Worley • Journey Tribute • Mo Trouble • Rich Little • Blues Traveler • Roy Clark • Rock And Roll Heaven • $5 Fine • Jo Dee Mesina • C AS I N O • R ES OR T Southern Fried Chicks • Foghat • Broken Trail • Delbert Mclinton • Fabulous Thunderbirds • Timothy Schmitt theskagit.com • On I-5 at Exit 236 • 877-275-2448 • Super Diamond • Smithereens • KMPS Country Nights • Diamond Rio Barb & valid Frank Leon • allPaul Must•be 21 or older with ID. Details • at Rewards Club. Russell Management reserves rights. ©2018 Upper Skagit Indian Tribe dba Skagit Valley Casino Resort.

Revere • Jim Breur • John Anderson • Joan Osbourne • Hells Belles • Presidents Of The USA • Rockabilly Romp

LOVERBOY OCTOBER 19 & 20

NOTES Contributors

IMAGINE YOUR AD HERE!

Lydia Denney Lydia Denney recently graduated from Western Washington University with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and a minor in Journalism.

She is originally from La Center, but fell in love with Bellingham during her time at school. In her free time, Lydia enjoys reading, writing and spending time with family and friends. Now that she’s graduated, Lydia wants to continue freelance writing while saving money for traveling.  p. 35

Cassie Elliott Cassie is a nutrition blogger and food photographer who believes that if you eat colorful food you are guaranteed it will be nutritious and definitely delicious. She is also the creator of Nutritious and Delicious Appetites by Design to help you feel your best so you can live your best. Her photos and writing can be found on Instagram @paleo_perspective and her website paleoperspective.com.  p. 43

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Tianna Tsitsis

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Dr. Tianna Tsitsis is a triple board-certified physician with a special interest in skin aesthetics. She opened RejuvenationMD in 2014 and has won Bellingham Alive’s Best of the Northwest three straight years. A practicing physician in the area for nearly 20 years, when she is not working, Dr. Tsitsis enjoys spending time with her husband and four children. An avid exercise enthusiast, her hobbies include skiing, running, swimming and biking.  p. 45

Spirits Cocktail recipes Distillery profiles

Plus

Bartender Q & As

Second Acts

Small Bites

Vibrant Mount Vernon

Fall Hikes

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Reach over 200,000 visitors & affluent female readers every issue! sales@bellinghamalive.com

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12

BellinghamAlive.com

Jennifer Ryan Jennifer is a multi-talented authority on all things beautiful, fashionable, and functional. This whirlwind of a woman has a passion for bringing style and personality to life’s most important spaces.

Jennifer Ryan Design offers it all — design, planning, production, and contractor services. From start to finish, Jennifer can help you create the surroundings you’ll enjoy for a lifetime. She was twice voted Best of the Northwest winner, taking gold in 2016 and 2017. jenniferryandesign.com  p. 109

PUBLICATIONS Bellingham Alive NSL Guestbook Couture Weddings MENU Seattle

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Lisa Karlberg EDITOR IN CHIEF Meri-Jo Borzilleri ART DIRECTOR Dean Davidson STAFF WRITERS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Kate Galambos | Sarah Sibley | Catherine Torres

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Kristy Gessner | Kelly Travers | Babette Vickers

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Mariah Currey

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Patrick McMahon

WRITERS Dan Radil

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CONTRIBUTORS Lydia Denney | Cassie Elliott | Ken Karlberg Laurie Mullarky | Jennifer Ryan | Tianna Tsitsis

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Harrison Amelang | McKenna Cardwell Melissa McCarthy | Katie Meier | Eric Trent

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info@bellinghamalive.com BellinghamAlive.com 360.483.4576 x4

Spirits Cocktail recipes Distillery profiles

Plus

Bartender Q & As

Second Acts

Small Bites

Vibrant Mount Vernon

Fall Hikes

SEPTEMBER 2018 DISPLAY UNTIL SEPTEMBER 30 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

NOTES

Inspired to Hike, Imbibe

Bicycle Seats, WD-40 a Recipe for Laughs

The September issue was full of great articles! We were so inspired when we read about Fall Hikes in Whatcom County that we jumped on the Chanterelle Trail right away and have made plans to hike the Chain Lakes Loop. Then we loved reading about all the local distilleries. (Plus, cocktail recipes.) Bellingham Alive basically touched on all my favorite things about fall!

Ken, you are a sick puppy, or should I say your inner Loretta is a sick puppy.

Hilarious! Bicycle seats, WD-40, chastity belts, and a 40-year-old single mother don’t have anything in common except in your brain.

Smoked Apple Martini 13moons Restaurant

Bellingham Alive welcomes comments and feedback for our Letters to the Editor section. We’d love to hear what you have to say and are open to story ideas about the people, places, and happenings in the North Sound (Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan counties).

Let us know what you like, and what you’d like to see in the magazine! Contact editor Meri-Jo Borzilleri at editor@bellinghamalive.com.

Letters to the Editor

Leo D., Birch Bay

Spirits Issue a Favorite

Shannon F., Bellingham

I absolutely loved the Spirits issue — the write ups about the places to go and what they have to offer, as well as the photos of the delicious-looking food!

The content was very informative. I am definitely going to be trying some of these. One of my favorite issues so far!

Susie M., Birch Bay

Corrections: In the August issue’s Northwest Washington Fair story, the headline should have read 108th Year, and Counting. Also, the story incorrectly gave Loretta Lynn’s Whatcom County residence. It is Custer.

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2017

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of the

2015

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October 2018 15

NOTES Meet the Staffer Every issue we introduce you to a staff member at Bellingham Alive.

What is your role at the magazine and how long have you been at K&L Media?

I’m a brand-new staff writer at Bellingham Alive! It’s been three solid months, so far. My role is to seek out interesting, relevant and timely stories, people and events in Skagit and San Juan counties and bring them to you, by way of my own personal storytelling style.

What is your background?

For 10 long years I labored as a writer in advertising agencies.

I wrote everything from television commercials to copy that went on pizza boxes. I even named a craft beer. I lived in lots of big cities and did that whole, “big-city living” thing. Then, eight years ago, when my daughter was born, I decided to be a freelance writer. My goal was to write things I liked and felt passionate about, rather than just words that sold products. It was a real leap of faith, but it paid off. Here I am writing for a magazine!

Sarah Sibley

What is your favorite part of working at a regional lifestyle magazine?

I am curious by nature, so interviewing people is more like a privilege than a job. I actually have to remind myself that I can’t interview someone for two hours because there’s no way I can fit all that info into an article. I love where I live, so diving head first into learning and exploring the San Juan Islands and Skagit County even more is a total pleasure.

What are some of your hobbies and interests?

I’m a contradiction when it comes to hobbies and interests.

I’m an adventurous spirit. I love camping with my family in our van, and traveling as much as possible. But, I’ll be the first to veg out with wine and Netflix once the rainy season hits. I’m passionate about Belgian beers, jazz records, Kansas Jayhawks, Jane Austen. My interests are all across the board too. Everything from birds to couture fashion interests me.

I guess I’m interested in being interesting. 

16

BellinghamAlive.com

Eric Subong, MD is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship trained retina specialist. Hailing from Baltimore, MD, he received both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Maryland.

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He received his BS in Chemistry from Villanova University and MD from Howard University College of Medicine, completing his internship in Medicine at Sinai Hospital/Johns Hopkins.

Specializing in: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Wet & Dry Macular Degeneration Diabetic Retinopathy Macular Edema Macular Holes Macular Pucker Retinal Vascular Occlusion Retinal Detachments & Tears Flashes & Floaters Intraocular Inflammation (Uveitis) Intraocular Infection Congenital Vitreo-Retinal Diseases Ocular Trauma

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LIFESTYLE In The Know · Spotlight Artist · Community · 5 Faves

Fresh from the Farm — Family Style Mama’s Garden WRITTEN BY KATIE MEIER

L

ocated off a winding two-lane road in Deming lies a small farm, Mama’s Garden.

A reddish-brown wooden stand advertises fresh eggs and stands out from the rolling green of the landscape behind. On this summer day, row upon row of flowers adds a pop of color that can be seen from the highway. Behind the flowers lies an expanse of almost every fruit and vegetable imaginable, pumpkins, blueberries, … continued on page 22

LIFESTYLE By the Numbers

25

Historical downtown Bellingham properties owned by Bob Hall, p. 28

WECU THANK YOU!

45

513,294 Total votes in this year’s Best of the Northwest contest, p. 49

We are humbled and honored to earn this distinction for the last four years.

NORTH

NORTH

WEST

GOLD

of the

WEST

2

Master suites in the Alexei Ford-designed Sandy Point house, p. 103

$

2016

BEST

2017

BEST of the

GOLD

28

For the tender bone-in pork chop with applebrandy crème at The Rhododendron Café, p. 114

6 800-525-8703

WECU.COM

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BellinghamAlive.com

Minutes to cook chili using the Instant Pot, p. 44

Insured by NCUA

Hours for Jane Goodall talk at the Mount Baker Theatre to sell out, p. 127

LIFESTYLE

© Harrison Amelang

Lasting Image

“This photograph came to be thanks to a beautiful sunset and a large rock tossed by a strong friend.

What better way to spend an evening than skipping stones over Semiahmoo Bay?” HARRISON AMELANG SUNSET SPLASH

October 2018 21

22

BellinghamAlive.com

years and the Mamas, as they call themselves, rent the land from their father.

It is a complete family business, from their children coming to help when available, to DeKriek and her husband, Kris, supplying the cattle needed to stock their newest venture, beef.

The Angus beef, from the DeKriek farm in Van Zandt, is sold Fridays from 3–7 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. It can also be purchased at Acme General Store and Everybody’s Store.

Mama’s has a stand for produce and eggs that operates on an honor system.

The price for the products varies depending on what you’re looking for.

Single items of produce can cost as low as 50 cents to as high as $4; eggs cost $4 a dozen. The price of beef depends on what cut you are looking for; the price ranges from $6.75 a pound for ground beef to $15.50 for a nicer cut.

In the fall, the farm transforms to harvest season with a harvest festival (see box). The farm not only provides people with fresh produce, it allows their customers to experience and understand where their food comes from. It is a topic that the Mamas are passionate about.

“People want to know how their food is grown, and they want to know where it comes from. It’s really nice that we can offer this choice to our neighbors,” Kalsbeek says. “I think people want to feel like they’re part of the farm and the garden in a way.

They can come here and they can walk around the gardens and a lot of times we’re here so they talk to us. We get to know our customers and they get to know us.”  2600 Valley Hwy., Deming mamasgarden.org

MAMA’S GARDEN HARVEST FESTIVAL WHEN: Oct. 6 and 7 WHAT: Hayride tour, pumpkin patch, corn maze, horse rides (fundraiser for local 4-H group), food truck, chance to purchase pumpkins and fall produce ADMISSION: Free

Photos courtesy of Renee Kalsbeek

… corn, cauliflower, broccoli, zucchini, radish, spinach, peas — the list is almost endless. Large trucks race by honking their horn as co-owner Renee Kalsbeek raises her arm to offer a cheerful wave in return. It is an occurrence that she has become accustomed to.

“Over the years I’ve started seeing more and more people from even as far as Canada that I recognize. We definitely have a lot of regulars that come in, whether locally like Deming and Acme or from out of town, like Seattle,” Kalsbeek says. “A lot of people honk and wave because we know them.”

Kalsbeek owns the farm with her two sisters-in-law, Kim Cook and Kelly DeKriek. Each takes on different responsibilities: Kalsbeek runs the social media and advertising, DeKriek runs the new blueberry U-pick in summer. But Cook is the true green thumb of the operation.

She has been a part of the farm since it opened in 2008. She maintains the crops, decides about crop rotation and where new crops will be planted.

Cook’s experience in agriculture and farming comes from growing up in the industry and years of experience. Their family did dairy milking for several

Frightful Film Festival Rocks Bellingham Bleedingham WRITTEN BY MCKENNA CARDWELL PHOTOGRAPHED BY HARRISON AMELANG

I

“

t was a dark and stormy night...”

It’s classic, a cliché for scary stories, but for good reason. Spooky tales have been told by shadowy voices around campfires and read by flashlight for generations.

If you go back in time, horror stories are some of the first stories ever told, says Langley West. “The most visceral and primordial thing that connects us all as humans is fear,” he says. “Fear drives art and fear drives literature.”

West is one of three co-founders of Bleedingham, a local horror shortfilm festival, being held Oct. 27–28,

In the Know

LIFESTYLE

the weekend before Halloween, in downtown Bellingham.

Since 2012, the festival has been giving filmmakers a chance to bring their own terrifying stories to the screen. Storytellers submit their work to a panel of judges in the hope of winning a “Bloody” in categories ranging from sound design to editing.

The winner of Best Film receives a grand prize of $1,000.

The festival was built around the idea of combining filmmaking with horror, a genre that another co-founder, Gary Washington, says naturally brings people together.

Washington attended Fairhaven College at Western Washington University for documentary film.

After graduation, Washington says he felt filmmakers were limited in what they could create. He wanted to help provide an outlet for people to perfect their craft.

“Under the guise of blood and guts and shadows, the experience of creating a film, submitting it, and having it screened is going to make you a stronger filmmaker,” he says.

Over the years, the festival has expanded, with screenings now shown at both the Pickford Film Center, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, and its nearby Limelight Cinema in downtown Bellingham. Co-founder Michelle Barklind has also worked to organize a Night Gallery where vendors can sell their creepy wares. This year, the gallery will be held at The Majestic Ballroom on Oct. 26.

As Bleedingham grows, the submissions come in at greater numbers, higher qualities, and competition to get screened increases. “It’s become that restaurant you can’t get into in American Psycho,” Washington laughs.

But the core idea behind Bleedingham remains effective storytelling — no matter what camera you’re carrying.

“We don’t lose touch with the ‘do it yourself’ storytelling background, because that’s where it all starts,” Washington says. “We don’t want to lose that connection.”  bleedingham.com

October 2018 23

LIFESTYLE In the Know

Bringing the Outside In Add Color for the Rainy Season Ahead WRITTEN BY SARAH SIBLEY

I

t happens every year, yet are we ever really ready for it?

The gray skies, the rain, the weather pattern that invades our upper left part of the country for the best part of nine months. As Pacific Northwesterners, we get so wrapped up in the beautiful summer months that we often forget about the impending “other” season. Fear not, friends.

With the addition of a few colorful, stimulating, naturally beneficial items inside your home, the rainy season can be the same, wonderful environment you enjoy outside in the sunny season.

First things, first — plants. According to Nick Meza, owner of Babygreens in Bellingham, “Cleaner air, boosts in mood, reduced anxiety, increased productivity and creativity, stress reduction, and general increased sense of well-being are all proven benefits of incorporating living plants into living spaces.” Not to mention, plants brighten every room. It can be a tropical paradise with the addition of cactus, palm plants and succulents.

Nothing turns a rain-soaked frown upside down like flowers. Simply purchasing flowers from the grocery store, 24

BellinghamAlive.com

or your local greenhouse, and filling vases brings loads of color inside and reminds you that summer will return. If you want to have a bit more fun, try temporary floral tattoos from Tattly. This artist collective believes “great design and art can make people happy.” They create collections of non-toxic, vegetable-based ink tattoos.

Infuse your space with sky blue and sunny yellow by adding rugs, blankets and throw pillows in these colors. If it’s gray outside, at least inside it’s bright and lively.

Now, that’s better, isn’t it? You’re breathing clean, healthy air, and surrounding yourself with the colors and blooms of summertime. You’re ready to settle in your sunny space while it’s soaking outside.  Babygreens 1201 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 425.286.4412, plantbaby.com tattly.com

“Our Precious New Baby Filled a Deep Void and Brought Joy And Happiness To Our Family Once Again.”

“O

ur story began after the birth of our daughter in 2013. We decided to have a vasectomy now that we had a boy and a girl. But life had other plans for our family. On March 28th , 2014, we lost our sweet Ella from SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) at just 8 months old. We were devastated, lost and broken.

After a few months, we just couldn’t imagine our son growing up without a sibling — this wasn’t how it was supposed to be or what we planned.

We decided that we had to give a reverse vasectomy a chance

C

hoosing to have a vasectomy is a big decision, as is the decision to have it reversed. Vasectomies are often performed when a man is done having children or does not want to father children. Later on, however, this may change — for reasons ranging from remarriage to a change of heart. Whatever the reason, a vasectomy reversal can be performed and, in most cases, result in a restoration of fertility.

Vasectomy Reversal A correctly performed microsurgical vasectomy reversal is one of the most technically challenging surgeries in urology. The goal is for the urologic microsurgeon to precisely reconnect the damaged ends of the vas in multiple layers under a surgical microscope. This will allow sperm to once again flow and restore fertility after vasectomy.

This outpatient procedure is performed at Bellingham Urology Group’s Surgery Center by Dr. John Pettit. He is one of only a few Urologists in Washington State, and the only one in Whatcom County that performs this procedure.

to heal our whole family. We all felt an emptiness, knowing that this was a long shot and that a new baby would never replace our Ella, but we hoped he or she would bring some sort of closure and understanding.

That’s when we found Dr. Pettit. After researching to find the right doctor, we chose Dr. Pettit and scheduled the surgery.

Dr. Pettit’s expertise and care made the surgery a success.

We now have a happy, healthy 3-year-old boy! He helped us heal in so many ways. Without Dr. Pettit, it would not have been possible to have our rainbow baby!

”

Vasectomy Our Clinic typically performs no-scalpel-no needle vasectomies. The anesthesia is delivered by a spray injection and does not require a needle.

Because this is a simple and minimally invasive procedure, a vasectomy can be performed in-office, and can sometimes only take about 10 minutes to complete! After a short recovery period, also in-office, a vasectomy patient can return home, where he should also rest and avoid strenuous activity. Normal sexual activity can usually be resumed a week or so after the procedure.

This outpatient procedure is performed at Bellingham Urology Group’s Surgery Center by Dr. John Pettit. He is one of only a few Urologists in Washington State, and the only one in Whatcom County that performs this procedure.

Dr. John M. Pettit Over the last 30 years, Dr. Pettit has performed over 150 Vasectomy Reversals with a high success rate. As a result of his experience and skill, patients have flown to Bellingham for this procedure from as far away as Japan and the Caribbean.

Two Locations / / 340 Birchwood Ave., Bellingham 1990 Hospital Dr., #100, Sedro Woolley 360-714-3400 / / BellinghamUrologyGroup.com

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Alan Dunn, Leopold Sales Director, greets a resident at the same entrance Clark Gable and Shirley Temple used when the Leopold was Bellingham’s grand hotel.

Welcome to the New Leopold!

BY PETER FRAZIER

B

uilt in 1929, the Leopold is Bellingham’s most lovely and historic senior living apartments and has been at the center of Whatcom county’s social life for decades.

Even now, ninety years later, thousands walk through this former grand hotel’s doors to visit friends and family and to enjoy events in the Crystal Ballroom. Countless stories have been retold of weddings and graduation parties in the Ballroom, honeymoons in the hotel, loved ones cared for here, and great times in the old Casino bar that used to occupy the space on the northwest corner of the building, and about generations of haircuts at the Leopold Barber Shop.

David Johnston and Bob Hall hired me in 2016 to oversee the operation for them and to lead a wholesale upgrade of the management, marketing, and remodel of the building.

It has been among the most fulfilling work of my career to breathe new life into this old building and its operation so the Leopold can once again take its proper place as a premier home and gathering spot for Bellingham’s people.

Each new staff was hired not only because of their stellar professional qualifications but also because of their ability to authentically care for and enjoy being with the residents. John Meyer, our highly experienced Executive Director, our cando-anything Maintenance Director Keith Malley, and Janie Kaaland, our Housekeeping Director (a quarter century at 26

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After nine decades at the center of Bellingham life, the Leopold is putting the finishing touches on a grand makeover.

the Leopold!), are each beloved by our residents because they take their role seriously and their hearts are huge. Each love people, are kind and patient, and make time to enjoy a good story while going about their busy days.

The owners of the Leopold have lived in Bellingham for most of their lives, and have been renewing historic buildings throughout our community and the state for decades. Their commitment to modernizing the Leopold’s infrastructure goes beyond new carpet and paint, new heating systems and furniture, upgraded fire monitoring, and remodeling of each room. It extends to a commitment to sustainability: a vast solar array to offset our electrical use, new low-flow toilets to save water, LED lighting throughout the whole building, and a more efficient boiler system.

Whether you have been in Bellingham for a lifetime or are new to our community, I invite you to come visit and see for yourself the changes we have made. About 100 of your neighbors, 55 years and older, live happily here, attended by a staff of 27. They have chosen to move from the complications of their houses and take up a vibrant, urban lifestyle, free of the concerns of maintenance, transportation, bill paying, housekeeping, and the need to cook all their own meals. They have entrusted us to provide a warm and welcoming home for them to live independently in the center of downtown, in the heart of our community. We take this responsibility seriously and aim to be conscientious caretakers of this historic building and its residents.

Call 360.733.3500 to schedule a tour, or just walk on in.  1224 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.733.3500 | leopoldliving.com

Community

Help with Heavy Lifting, and More

LIFESTYLE

Opportunity Council WRITTEN BY MCKENNA CARDWELL PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE OPPORTUNITY COUNCIL

A

bumpy bus ride can be an annoyance to some, but it’s a restriction to Bellingham resident Joyce Jarrell.

Severe osteoarthritis in her spine made weekly trips to the grocery store a painful experience until she signed up for the Volunteer Chore Program.

Now, Jarrell has a volunteer come pick her up to go shopping and help carry the heavy bags. “It’s just a big relief,” she says. “It’s actually helped me get on a good schedule of cleaning my kitchen so when she drops off the groceries she can just put all the things away.” This Whatcom County service is designed so older adults, or individuals 18 and over with a disability, can receive assistance with chores while remaining independent in their home.

The chore program is one of many — too many to list — made available through the Opportunity Council.

Associate director Sheri Emerson says this is a good example of what the Opportunity Council does, because it’s both a service for the community and a way to engage volunteers.

Based in Bellingham, the Opportunity Council is a private nonprofit that helps provide thousands of services across five counties. In 2017, they offered 11,185 services to help people find safe housing, and 3,196 services for building financial and job skills, according to their annual report. Basically, if there’s an aid program covering anything from kids’ education to accessing healthy food, there’s a good chance they have their hands in it.

The council also spent more than $28 million last year working with partner organizations to help people access resources like hot meals and health care. Lydia Place, a Bellingham nonprofit, partners with the Opportunity Council to provide support systems for families experiencing homelessness.

“Whatcom County is fortunate to have an organization as dedicated as Opportunity Council working on our behalf,” Emily O’Connor, executive director of Lydia Place, says in an email. “The Opportunity Council is a crucial leader in our community’s effort to address poverty.”

The 1964 Economic Opportunity Act, enacted by President Lyndon B. Johnson, sparked the creation of community action agencies to provide local aid. The Opportunity Council started in 1965 as a small group of volunteers and staff using a borrowed typewriter in the Whatcom County Courthouse.

Today, the 53-year-old agency has three offices on Cornwall Avenue in Bellingham alone, and 282 part-

time and full-time employees. It is one of 1,000 similar agencies nationwide.

Both the passionate employees and responsive volunteers make maintaining such a high number of programs possible, volunteer and event coordinator Summer Starr says. “People who work here are really service-orientated,” Starr says.

“They’re willing to do the work to make sure our community gets the services they need.”  Opportunity Council 1111 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.734.5121 | oppco.org October 2018 27

LIFESTYLE Game Changer

Refreshing Historic Buildings, Reviving Downtown Bob Hall WRITTEN BY ERIC TRENT | PHOTOGRAPHED BY HARRISON AMELANG

B

ob Hall is considered by many to be the father of modern-day downtown Bellingham, and for good reason. He’s perhaps the most influential figure in helping pump life back into an area that was 40 percent vacant in the 1980s.

Today, only two buildings are vacant downtown, says Hall, a developer who owns 25 historical properties in Bellingham. He estimates he owns about 15 to 20 percent of the entire downtown — a list that includes the Herald, Daylight, and Pickett buildings.

“He was really the pioneer in championing the downtown,” says Kathryn Franks, development specialist for Bellingham’s Planning and Community Development Department. “Over time, other people have stepped up. But he was the catalyst to bringing the streets back to life.”

As owner of Daylight Properties, he has put 11 buildings on historic registers and has made a living off renovating edifices no one wanted. “I almost see them as if they’re orphans on the street,” says Hall, 70.

But there was a time in his life when it was difficult to see daylight. Back in 1988, Hall was operating a sweater business from his garage in Bellingham.

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Needing more room, he took a bold step: He rented out his home, bought the dilapidated Unity Building downtown and moved his family in.

Hall, along with his son and daughter, slept on foam pads and cooked on a camp stove on the third floor for a year. They had to join the YMCA to shower. On the verge of foreclosure, he had to either fix up the Unity Building or lose everything.

“I was a long-haired hippie guy,” Hall says. “I didn’t like doing that kind of stuff, but I learned how to do it. It was just a sacrifice I had to do. I learned all these tricks because I didn’t have a choice.”

He cut his hair and bought a suit so he could apply for loans. After recognizing he could make money from restoring properties and renting out units, Hall decided to expand. Now, 30 years and dozens of projects later, he lives in a sprawling, 1916 renovated home in Bellingham’s South Hill neighborhood — a house he’d walk by as a youth and dreamed about living in.

When Bellis Fair Mall was built in 1988, downtown Bellingham vanished overnight, he recalls.

“You could sit on Holly Street and not even see a car on it.”

After reviving his third structure, the Daylight building, he realized he could make a living — and a difference — by breathing new life into forgotten structures. So he began peeling back, literally, 1950sera building facades and revealing hidden masterpieces.

Local historian Lanny Little made a 42-minute documentary about Hall’s effect on the downtown area. “We would have a different city if Bob hadn’t inadvertently entered the real estate business,” Little says. “Nobody wanted the old buildings and saw them as eyesores, whereas Bob decided there was a lot of life left in them.”

In 2016, Hall wrote a book about his craft: “This Old Building.

A guide to buying restoring and managing historic commercial property.” In it, Hall lays out a blueprint on how to fix, finance, and manage old properties.

“I want to save the buildings,” Hall says. “Not just here but everywhere in North America.

“When I was younger, I sold crafts on the street. I sold almost anything that would sell. Now I get to do something to actually make some money, and that I’m proud of.” 

Book Reviews

WRITTEN BY LAURIE MULLARKY LAURIESLITPICKS.BLOGSPOT.COM

Virgil Wander

by Leif Enger 352 pages Grove Press

The author of the classic “Peace Like a River” is back with a beautiful story of life in the hard luck town of Greenstone on the shores of Lake Superior. The story begins with Virgil Wander flying off a cliff in his old Pontiac, suffering a traumatic brain injury and needing his eclectic group of friends to heal him in every way. They include the Finnish man in search of his son, the widow and her son caught in a constant loop of uncertainty, the mayor trying to lift her town back into relevance, the handyman who searches for meaning yet finds explosives, and the hardscrabble family who battles poverty and a big fish. Virgil is the axis they all spin around as the heart of this community is revealed.

Enger’s new book will grip your heart and make you smile.

In the Know

LIFESTYLE

October 6, 11 a.m.

A Spark of Light

by Jodi Picoult 384 pages Ballantine Books

Best-selling author Picoult takes on another controversial issue.

Using a unique timeline, this plot involves an abortion clinic shooting, unspooling backwards.

It begins at the conclusion of the standoff and ends with the first hour of the terror. Each chapter is one hour, as we see into the minds of an occupant of the clinic, the traveling doctor, the nurse, the aunt with a young niece, the SWAT team negotiator, the antiabortion protester, a pregnant woman, the retired college professor, and the shooter himself.

One might think repetition would occur, but instead it forces the reader to look at his/her own prejudices and assumptions.

Skein: The Heartbreaks and Triumphs of a Long-Distance Knitter Blaine Library 610 3rd St., Blaine 360.305.3637, wcls.org Hear how Bellingham art educator Christen Mattix met her Fairhaven neighbors in a unique way: by knitting a half-mile blue rope from a public bench to Bellingham Bay. Over 3½ years, Mattix experienced tales of love, travel, and transformation.

October 31, 3 p.m.

Halloween stories by the Bellingham Storytellers Guild Village Books Fairhaven 1200 11th St., Bellingham 360.671.2626, villagebooks.com While trick-or-treating, swing

by Village Books for some family-friendly tales of spooky ghoulishness! The Storytellers Guild is a talented group of local storytellers sure to enchant even the scariest monsters. This annual event is open to all ages.

Costumes are welcome.

Who Knew? Halloween Candy Trick or Toying?

Trick-or-treating is a young American tradition, and the focus on candy is even younger. During the 1930s and 40s, youngsters could expect anything from fruit to toys. It wasn’t until a couple decades later that Halloween became fixated on candy. Now, almost 600 million pounds of candy are purchased for Halloween every year.

Oldies but Goodies Most candy bars, around 65 percent, were created more than a half-century ago. The Hershey’s Chocolate Bar was the first original American chocolate bar, introduced in 1894, and remains one of the bestselling chocolate bars today.

Hungry as a...horse?

In 1930, Frank Mars named his new candy bar after his favorite horse: Snickers. Perhaps the chocolate, peanut butter, caramel, and nougat creation reminded him of the horse, or he just liked the animal enough to cement its name in history.

We’ll let you decide.

Reagan’s kicker In order to kick his smoking habit, then-governor of California Ronald Reagan turned to jelly beans, preferring the Jelly Belly brand. Over the course of his two terms, Reagan regularly received Jelly Belly shipments. A portrait of him, made from 10,000 beans, is housed at the Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif.

— Harrison Amelang

October 2018 29

LIFESTYLE In the Spotlight

Celebrating 20 Years of Independent Film Pickford Film Center WRITTEN BY ERIC TRENT | PHOTOGRAPHED BY HARRISON AMELANG

W

hen the Pickford Film Center opened in 1998, the 80-seat theatre didn’t even have risers in the back. The back rows were level with the front rows and one had to hope a human giraffe didn’t sit in front of them.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, the Pickford has risers now — but its transformation over the years is much more than structural.

The center hosts annual film festivals such as Bleedingham, an indie horror film festival now in its seventh year, as well as the Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival that celebrates films directed by women from around the world.

There’s also Doctober, a monthlong showing of more than 50 diverse documentaries from human rights issues to artistic visionaries that shed light on matters that don’t regularly get exposure.

It shows Oscar nominations every year as well, including an Academy Awards viewing party where guests,

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many dressed in formalwear, enter via red carpet.

“Seeing films is one of the only ways you can fully immerse yourself in the experience of somebody else,” said Lindsey Gerhard, marketing manager for the Pickford. “As far as enriching the human experience, it’s crucial. Every town should have an independent movie theatre. We try hard to partner with the community to give people a voice.”

From now until Dec. 24, the Pickford is celebrating its anniversary by playing 20 of its most popular films from the more than 10,000 it has shown over the years.

Before the Pickford, the best Bellingham had to offer film-wise was the now-defunct Regal Sehome Cinemas 3. Regal didn’t offer documentaries, foreign, or independent movies, so residents were left seeking independent films elsewhere, said program director Michael Falter. So two decades ago, local film fans banded together to create something special.

Named for Mary Pickford, the Hollywood producer and actress from

a century ago, the film center began as The Pickford Cinema where the Pickford’s Limelight Cinema now sits.

Community volunteers started the Whatcom Film Association in spring 1998, then showed outdoor screenings in Fairhaven and sold memberships to raise money.

They reached their mark by fall and opened at 1416 Cornwall Ave. “The initial excitement was to give this pretty large community the chance to see, listen, and talk about these great films,” Falter says.

After five successful years, they knew they needed to expand. There was a surplus of movies they wouldn’t be able to show without a second and third screen. “People liked what we were doing, but they wanted to see a new theatre,” Falter says.

They purchased the building at 1318 Bay St. in 2005 and raised $3 million over the next seven years through fundraising and grassroots efforts.

When it opened at its current location in 2011, it was renamed the Pickford Film Center and the old theatre was rechristened as the Limelight Cinema.

The Pickford Film Center now boasts three screens and is run mostly by a team of 156 volunteers and 15 paid staff members. The people who scoop your popcorn, sweep the floors, and sell you tickets are mainly volunteers.

It is the only independent theatre between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. that shows films 365 days a year and has built up an individual membership base of 5,748. More than 87,000 tickets were sold for the 364 films shown in 2017.

The Pickford has grown to become an intrinsic piece of the film community. It partners with local businesses for screenings, offers subtitle screenings for those with hearing loss, and all outdoor-rooftop movies are free. The center stands in contrast to Bellingham’s only other movie theatre — Regal Barkley Village Stadium 16, the national chain multiplex with 16 screens located miles from downtown.

Those running the Pickford are also devoted to connecting with students. In the fall they invite every middle school student in Whatcom County, more than 5,000 of them from public and private schools, to watch a documentary for free.

And many films screened at the Pickford are often found nowhere else in the Pacific Northwest, says Lorraine Wilde, public relations manager for Bellingham Film.

“Many documentary films about vital social issues don’t screen in communities of our size, because they can’t draw blockbuster audiences or aren’t big enough to be shown by online carriers like Netflix,” Wilde said. “They deserve screen time because they educate us about the world outside our bubble. Our community is more informed and worldly because of the variety and quality of films Pickford shares.”  Pickford Film Center 1318 Bay St., Bellingham 360.738.0735 | pickfordfilmcenter.org Limelight Cinema 1416 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.738.0735 | pickfordfilmcenter.org

In the Know

LIFESTYLE

Couple Wins 31 Days Of Giveaways

APPS WE L VE Olio Olio Have more food than you can eat, browning bananas but no time to make banana bread, or perhaps opened or half-used containers?

Become part of Olio’s ”food-sharing revolution” — post your foods, or even household items, to give. You’ll be (safely) connected with people nearby. Reduce waste, connect with your community, and eat good food.

bSafe Mobile Software AS

I

n July 2018, Bellingham Alive, along with 31 local businesses, presented the “31 Days of Giveaways.”

Every day in the month of July we e-blast out a new daily prize. All daily winners then get put into the hat for the grand prize. This year, Audio Video Excellence sponsored a grand prize of a 65-inch Samsung Smart TV. We are excited to announce grand prize winners Falon and Adam Finkbonner from Birch Bay. “31 Days of Giveaways” is held annually and daily prizes hold a value of $50 or more.

Watch for next year’s “31 Days of Giveaways” set for June 2019. If you don’t want to worry about missing the contest, make sure to subscribe to our Weekend Agenda weekly newsblast. Not only do we remind you of upcoming weekend events but you will also be in the know for contests, events and promotions.

All daily winners are posted on bellinghamalive.com 

Weekend Agenda Sign Up bellinghamalive.com

Scared walking home alone at night?

Designed by a rape victim and her father, bSafe has a siren-like alarm, sends an SOS to friends or police if you never check in, a GPS tracking device so your friends can find you, even a fake phone call system if you need an excuse to get out fast.

Spooky Halloween Sounds Bosson.Design For those of you who get really into Halloween, this fun app has more than 30 sounds, including a creaky door, werewolf scream, spooky owl, and haunted organ. To take your doorstep to the next level, pick a sound for when the trick-or-treaters arrive.

Craftsy Craftsy This do-it-yourself app for Halloween costumes (or for other crafts yearround) comes with video classes in sewing, knitting, paper crafts, cooking, and more! Interact with instructors and fellow crafters, and download tutorials to watch anytime, anywhere.

— Lydia McClaran

October 2018 31

LIFESTYLE Five Faves

1

FRIGHTFUL FICTIONAL CHARACTERS Victor Frankenstein, Patrick Bateman from “American Psycho,” The Duchess from “Alice in Wonderland,” President Snow from “The Hunger Games” — these are frightening characters, and you’ll score points for your knowledge of literature. Raid your closet or head to the local consignment store to put these costumes together. Then, study up to really get into character.

FIVE FAVES

COSTUMES FOR GROWN-UPS WRITTEN BY SARAH SIBLEY

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2

3

4 5

GET POLITICAL Whether you’re a donkey, elephant, green, or a party of your own making, it’s fun to spoof the political system, past and present, at Halloween. You could stick with the traditional George Washington or Abe Lincoln, or you could get creative. You could be politically incorrect, or fake news, or a political nightmare, or a hanging chad.

BE THE NIGHT Let the nocturnal world inspire you. Cover a solid color t-shirt and pants with feathers, paint your face and become an owl. Seek out some faux fur and a black mask and be a racoon. Wear a black shirt and black pants and wrap yourself in twinkle lights to be the night sky. And of course, there’s that saga between wolves and vampires that happens at night.

SUPERHERO STYLE Here’s a chance to showcase your strengths as a human or to become your favorite superhero. Did you always want to be Superwoman? Go for it! Are you a supermom or superdad? Then it’s time to become your alter ego.

It’s fun to create unexpected superheroes such as Superfun or Superboring.

QUICK LAST-MINUTE CREATIONS It’s the afternoon of October 31 and you’re scrambling.

Whip that white sheet into a ghost costume! Or grab a white painter’s suit from your local hardware store, string lights and toilet paper from the edges of an umbrella, and, viola, you’re a moon jellyfish.

Paint a black mask around your eyes, dress in all black and you’re a ninja.

October 2018 33

THANK YOU FOR YOUR VOTE!

Thank You for voting Labels Best Consignment ♼

Come check us out!

Our store is overflowing with fall merchandise!

TWO LOCATIONS 3927 Northwest Ave.

and

2332 James St.

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LOCALLY OWNED AND LOCALLY GROWN SINCE 2004

Experience the difference of the Inside Passage: Calm Water.

Sund’s Lodge luxury fishing resort invites you to be our guest at one of the most beautiful places on Earth, North Vancouver Island, Sointula, BC. • Fish for salmon, halibut and other species from our boats with enclosed cabins and bathrooms. • Daily excursions with our experienced, licensed guides. • An all-inclusive resort with luxury guest rooms in a historic setting. • Enjoy fine-dining, the Beach Bistro picnic and lunch served from our Burger Boat, all with exceptional service from the Sund’s Lodge Team. • Experience breathtaking natural beauty and wildlife while you fish.

You’ll see Orca, Humpback whales, dolphins, bald eagles and more. • Perfect for friends, business, couples and familes. • It’s an amazing trip of a lifetime! It’s much more than you can imagine. • Owned and operated by Ferndale residents, Bruce and Lisa Barlean.

What are you waiting for?

BOOKING NOW FOR 2019

www.sundslodge.com (360) 480-2510 Malcolm Island, British Columbia, Canada

SHOP

Savvy Shopper · Necessities · Local Find

Bellingham Shop Sells Commitment with Its Jewelry APSE Lets Shoppers Send a Message WRITTEN BY LYDIA DENNEY PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF HAYLEY AND JAROD FAW

© Cody Stacey

J

arod and Hayley Faw are making and selling jewelry with a message.

From their shop on Cornwall Avenue in downtown Bellingham and online, the married couple offers jewelry of all kinds for men and women. The store is called APSE, an acronym for All People’s Shackles Exchanged. And a share of the store’s profits is donated to three different organizations that fight sexual exploitation. … continued on next page

… To the Faws, the shackles are a symbol of lies people see and hear in the media that create fear, like issues surrounding body image, though each piece addresses a different lie. When people buy a product from APSE, the owners describe it as taking away a customer’s anxieties in exchange for adornment and truth. “We wanted to create a brand that instilled human value in people that was already intrinsic,” Jarod said.

“A lot of the time people will purchase things and think, ‘This thing will make me more valuable.’ But you’re already valuable, so you’re worthy of being adorned.”

The beginning of APSE was anything but practical for the Faws. On Nov. 27, 2015, they launched APSE online not knowing that just months later, they would quit both of their jobs to pursue their brand. When the idea of starting APSE began, Hayley and Jarod wanted to create a relationship with the public that could cause social change. They decided to start communicating their goals through jewelry, with pieces available for men and women.

“The concept of what APSE is birthed out of a desire to see creativity as a tool that creates change,” Hayley explained.

After two years of running APSE online, Hayley and Jarod prepared to open a store on Cornwall Avenue, completing all store renovations on their own. Last October, they officially opened their storefront filled with products for their lifestyle brand. Each piece is handcrafted in their shop’s open studio and all their materials are sourced in the U.S. With each new piece, Hayley and Jarod create a written token to explain what the piece symbolizes. They write the messages during the design process and many of the messages address issues surrounding fear.

For each piece sold, whether in store or online, APSE lets the customer choose which organization they would like 10 percent of the profits to go towards: Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County (DVSAS), Fight the New Drug, or the A21 Campaign. Each organization deals with some level of sexual exploitation or abuse and the three organizations together cover local, national and international change. Hayley and Jarod felt that the donations they could make are a tangible way to help create a culture through APSE. Since the brand launched online in 2015, APSE has donated around $8,500 to their chosen organizations.

“So much of the business is just an extension of us,” Hayley said. “The whole intention with opening the storefront was to open ourselves up to new relationships, to new people, to share our mission with people and provide awareness and education about what the brand is about.

You can come sit on our couch and we’ll hang out with you. We’ll make you a cup of coffee.”

Check out Hayley and Jarod’s art online or, the next time you’re shopping on Cornwall Avenue, be sure to stop by their inviting storefront illuminated by natural light and handcrafted treasures.  1307 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham apseadorn.com

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Full Service Fish Market and Lunch Available

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Mon�Sat ��:����pm with lunch until �pm Sun ����pm with lunch until �pm

18042 WA-20 Burlington, WA 360-707-2722 skagitfish.com

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SHOP Necessities

3

Marmot PreCip Rain Jacket Backcountryessentials.net, $100

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Bellingham’s Camber Coffee Cambercoffee.com, $17/bag (monthly subscription)

2

The air is crisp, the colors are breathtaking and the mountains are calling. It’s time to gear up for a different season of camping. Adding a few key items to your camping supply box will help keep you cozy and ready for the chillier months. — Sarah Sibley

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Stainless Steel Opinel Folding Pocket Knife Rei.com, $19.95

Original Puffy Poncho (large) Rumpl.com, $179

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Amazon.com, $16.50

Fall Camping Gear

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Mr. Beams Ultrabright LED Camping Lantern

Local Find

Home Shopping and Staging, Under One Roof

SHOP

Urban Collective WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY KATE GALAMBOS

H

ouse hunting is a personal experience, full of emotion and even a little imagination. Hopeful homeowners often look at dozens of homes before finding “the one.” On the other side of the equation, sellers must make their homes the most desirable possible.

To help with all sides of buying and selling, Solveig Johnson, Bellingham realtor at The Muljat Group, opened Urban Collective in June, a home decor boutique and staging service.

With her combined loved of design and five years of real estate experience, Johnson aims to bring all her talents under one roof with the support of The Muljat Group, she said.

Visitors to Urban Collective will find small decor items such as table settings, candles, pillows, blankets, and unusual books. Larger pieces include a handful of chairs, tables and statement artwork. Johnson describes her style as modern farmhouse mixed with coastal bungalow. White, neutrals, and soft sea tones make up much of her merchandise. The bright, mostly white store highlights Johnson’s hand-selected merchandise. From the oversized white horse painting to fun, textured rugs, Johnson’s young style is reflected in every piece.

Neutral, airy homes allow buyers to picture themselves in the space, Johnson says. Plus, by keeping hard elements neutral, like paint, flooring and tile, homeowners can inexpensively change the look of their home with fabrics and accent decor.

Urban Collective’s merchandise rotates seasonally to keep things fresh, exciting and relevant, she says.

Johnson’s staging services play on similar styles and design strategies as her store, she says. Staging key rooms like the kitchen, master bedroom, dining and living rooms opens buyers to what their future could look like. “People picture dinner parties and holidays in those spaces. Emotional rooms sell houses,” Johnson says. While she may use small touches from the store in her staging process, the majority of decor comes from her separate staging inventory. Consultations start at $250 for buyers still living in their home, while sellers with empty homes can receive a free consultation for Johnson’s staging service for her to develop a bid.

Urban Collective houses real estate services, decor retailer and home staging services all under one roof. “One of the reasons I love real estate is that I get to talk to clients about design,” Johnson says. Whether you’re getting ready to sell your home, looking for the perfect finishing touch to a new house or just in the market for some new accent pieces, Urban Collective checks all the boxes.  2955 Newmarket St., Bellingham 360.393.4908 | urbancollective360.com October 2018 39

SHOP Savvy Shopper

Skagit Surprise: Fresh Fish to Eat and Take Home Skagit’s Own Fish Market WRITTEN BY SARAH SIBLEY PHOTOGRAPHED BY HARRISON AMELANG

18042 State Route 20, Burlington 360.707.2722 | skagitfish.com 40

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THE SHOP

WHAT YOU’LL FIND

If you’ve driven Highway 20 west from Burlington toward Anacortes, you’ve most certainly passed Skagit’s Own Fish Market.

Positioned a half-mile off Interstate 5 on the south side of road, it is in a large, blue, industrial-looking building. It’s not only full of fresh, locally caught seafood, seasonings of all kinds, and other local foods, but it’s a great place to grab a seafood lunch.

Come for fresh fish, and stay for lunch. The menu features an oyster hoagie for $9.99, fish tacos for $6.50 each, and a seasonal Dungeness crab sandwich (market priced), just to name a few. There are tables to enjoy your meal just outside the front door under a covered roof. And really, you should.

In the fall, Dungeness crab is abundant.

It’s commercial crab season and the best time to eat crab, due to the colder waters.

It’s also a good time for mussels and clams.

It’s all about freshness at the market. Tana says, “If it wouldn’t go on my table, it’s not going in our store.”

The shelves are stocked with local items including Trilby’s BBQ Sauce, Dapper Swan Chutneys, Northwest Wild Foods Jams & Honey, Lopez Island Creamery ice cream.

THE ATMOSPHERE This is a friendly, local, no-fuss market with ice-packed display cases showcasing the catch of the day. In summer, when fishing is most abundant, it’s busy from open to close. Check the website for hours.

KEY PEOPLE Tana and Eric Skaugrud own the fish market. They had spent years wintertime-fishing Dungeness crab in the Puget Sound. One day their neighbor left a six-pack of beer on their porch asking for some crab in return. This transaction launched their endeavor, leading to farmers markets and eventually the store that has been in business since 2009.

Fishing has been in both families, going back several generations. Tana credits Eric as being the “heart of the business.” Eric spent years as a commercial fisherman in the Bering Sea.

OWNER’S FAVORITE Tana loves her crab “Northwest style” — cold with a little bit of butter, cocktail sauce and a good salad. For salmon, her go-to recipe is to combine a little butter, soy sauce, brown sugar and lemon, coat the fish with the sauce and then grill or bake it. She loves her oysters raw or barbequed with lime, Worcestershire and wasabi. 

October 2018 41

balance

My work is search and discovery of the causes of your disease, then teaching you how to care for those causes.

YOU GOT YOUR FALL ON

Dr. Emily Sharpe, ND The Natural Health Clinic 1707 F Street, Bellingham

360.734.1560 doctorsharpe.com

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Used as directed, they will work for skin that is dry, oily, combination, sensitive, normal, acne prone, or rosacea prone.

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Esthetician/Skin Care Specialist/Skin Care Consultant

Sensitive Skin Clinic

1229 Cornwall Ave, Suite 310, Bellingham, WA 98225

Online Appointments at SensitiveSkinClinic.com or 415.341.4027

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WELLBEING Nutrition · Take a Hike · Spa Review · Beauty

Simple Cooking Yields Easy Chili WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY CASSIE ELLIOTT

W

hen it comes to cooking, too often people tend to complicate matters when really it can be super simple with just a little planning, a bit of prep and organization, and being focused when it comes time to get down to business. If you are not sure how to pull that off, check out Jamie Oliver’s YouTube channel and his “30-Minute Meals.” What I love most about his approach to cooking is that you don’t have to measure every single ingredient down to the last grain of salt.

Instead just wing it and let your kitchen spirit animal run free!

And that’s why after more than three years I still consider my Instant Pot as my go-to for making quick and nutritious meals that require … continued on next page

… minimum prep and little hands-on time, but still delivers maximum flavor.

This chili, which I have been making for 15-plus years in a big stock pot on the stove, usually takes hours to cook until I realized I could have it on the table in around 45 minutes thanks to the greatest kitchen appliance known to humankind.

I promise this recipe will knock your socks off (especially if you add extra chilis). Make sure to serve it with fresh guacamole, diced tomatoes, red onions and a little sharp cheddar cheese.

INSTANT POT CHILI INGREDIENTS 2–3 tablespoons avocado oil 2 pounds lean ground beef (preferably grass-fed) ½ pound hot Italian sausage (removed from casing) 1 large onion, chopped 4 stalks celery, chopped 1 red pepper, diced 2 teaspoons minced garlic 768 ml can (about 25 oz) diced tomatoes 398 ml can (about 13 oz) chili beans 2 chipotle peppers in tomato sauce, finely chopped 1 teaspoon Red Boat fish sauce 1 tablespoon Frank’s RedHot sauce 2 teaspoons ground cumin* 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika* ½ teaspoon coriander 1/4 cup chili powder 3–4 tablespoons tomato paste 1/4–1/2 cup beef broth (if required) Salt and pepper *To avoid having several different spices on hand I use 3 teaspoons of the Saveur Chili Spice blend in place of the cumin, cayenne, paprika and coriander.

• Add in the remaining ingredients.

• Turn your Instant Pot on and press “Saute.”

• Stir everything, making sure the liquid makes it to the bottom of the pot. If there is not a lot of liquid visible add 1/4 to 1/2 cup beef broth.

• Add the avocado oil and heat.

• Push “Cancel” on the Instant Pot.

• Add the chopped onions to the oil and stir to cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

• Put the lid in place, making sure the vent is turned to “Pressure.”

• While the onion is cooking, chop the celery and bell pepper.

• Push the manual button. Make sure the cooker is on the “High” setting. Set timer for 15 minutes.

INSTRUCTIONS

• Add to the pot with onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

• Add tomato paste and garlic to vegetables and cook for 30 seconds.

• Add ground beef and sausage, season with salt and pepper and cook until no longer pink.

• Toss in the tomatoes with the liquid they are in.

• Add the beans (make sure to drain).

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• Walk away and relax or do whatever you want to do because you don’t need to give your chili another thought until it’s time to put it in a bowl.

• Once the Instant Pot is finished, push “Manual/Cancel” to shut it off.

• At this point you can either wait for the IP to release pressure naturally or if you just can’t wait, manually release the pressure. 

Beauty

Skin Care Rehab?

Try Blood Platelets WRITTEN BY TIANNA TSITSIS

O

ctober starts a wonderful time of the year: leaves change colors, fall festivals abound, and pumpkin spice lattes become popular again. Kids get excited for my favorite holiday, Halloween. What Halloween would be complete without a vampire? At RejuvenationMD, our physicians perform “Vampire” treatments, not only in October, but all year ‘round. Let me explain: These treatments, which involve a person’s own blood, consist of platelet-rich plasma injections. These concentrated platelets are rich in proteins and work to stimulate cellular regeneration and accelerate tissue repair. The plasma was originally used in wound healing, dentistry, and the treatment of sports injuries, but now it has evolved to address aesthetic issues and physiologic dysfunction. It is considered one of the most advanced, effective natural treatments for cellular rejuvenation throughout the body.

Modern technology allows us to concentrate platelets and white blood cells from a patient’s blood by a simple blood draw done in the office. The blood is placed in a centrifuge that separates the plasma and platelets from the other components of the blood. The plasma, rich in platelets,

WELLBEING

is then injected back into your tissues, jump-starting and strengthening the body’s natural healing signals. These injections restore your aging, damaged tissues to a healthy state over one to three months. It is like turning back the clock: what was old is repaired and like new. Because your own blood is used, there is minimal risk of transmissible diseases, infection, allergic reaction or rejection.

If your skin is feeling the effects of autumn by being dry and looking saggy, this plasma treatment can be for you. In a facial, for instance, we take your platelets (as described above) and microneedle them into your face, neck and chest.

This signals to your stem cells to migrate there and now you will form new fibroblasts and skin cells, restructuring your tissue. For facelifts, we first use filler in areas that have volume loss, and then follow that with injecting your platelets. As your filler wanes over time, your platelets activate, and more collagen is made exactly in the areas you want it to be. Hair restoration combines injections and micro-needling to help men and women with thinning hair.

A similar approach can be used for breast lifts and augmentation, and even for restoring sexual health by improving blood flow and sensation. Results cannot be guaranteed and procedures may be uncomfortable, but many have found them to be successful. Treatments typically run from $1,000 to $2,500 and last for a year or more.

As you sit back this fall enjoying your pumpkin bread or sipping your apple spice tea, think about Halloween, vampires, and how you can change so many aspects of your life, your appearance, and your sexual function using the most precious of your own resources, your blood.  October 2018 45

WELLBEING Take a Hike

Baker Hot Springs WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY MELISSA MCCARTHY

S Quick Stats Degree of Difficulty: Easy Length: 0.6 miles Pass/fee: Northwest Forest Pass Elevation: 59 feet

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it, soak, and slow down in the Baker Hot Springs geothermal pools. About an hour-and-a-half outside of Bellingham, in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, this is a hidden sanctuary.

The drive itself is more strenuous than the hike to access these secluded hot springs.

Traveling along North Cascades Highway and down Baker Lake Road will lead you to a service road, Forest Road 1130. That will take you up to the trailhead. Be prepared for gravel instead of pavement and plenty of pot holes, but the payoff is worth it. (Best not to visit in winter — the road can be difficult and sometimes impassable.)

Once you finally reach the end of the road, you’ll see multiple trails departing from the clearing. One will have a spraypainted rock with the words “Hot Springs” written on it. After about a half-mile on this effortless trail, you’ll reach the natural hot springs.

Because of the remoteness of this spot, the springs are usually empty and waiting for you. The steam rising from the still water is extremely inviting.

Soaking in the pools doubles as a sort of mud bath, as the natural sediment in the warm water will ease aches and pains, and detoxify the skin. Like many natural hot springs, you’ll have to bear with some sulfuric aroma. Be kind to this magical spot and leave no trace — some visitors have found unwelcome trash from previous parties, though we didn’t.

The main pool can fit about 10 people and is about three feet deep. The smaller pool crests the ankles, and can only fit about two. So bring some friends for a relaxing departure from the stress of dayto-day life in the Baker Hot Springs. 

We double-dog

dare you

to schedule your mammogram.

Schedule your screening at peacehealth.org/mammo #DoubleDogDare

Investing in our community since 1971

Boys & Girls Clubs Ferndale, Washington

BP is committed to finding meaningful ways to support the Washington communities where our employees live and work. Over the past year, our Cherry Point employees have contributed thousands of hours volunteering with local organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs, Whatcom Literacy Council, and the American Red Cross. We invest in the next generation of Whatcom County, by sponsoring education throughout our community, from Bellingham Technical College to the Blaine High School Technology Student Association.

We’re also the largest contributor to the Whatcom County United Way. For more on how BP is giving back to Washington communities, go to bp.com/Washington

Š 2018 BP Products North America Inc. All rights reserved.

BEST OF THE NORTH WEST WRITTEN BY MERI-JO BORZILLERI, KATE GALAMBOS, SARAH SIBLEY, HARRISON AMELANG, MCKENNA CARDWELL, & ERIC TRENT

YOU VOTED!

The results are in. You — readers from Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan counties — cast more than a total half-million votes this July for your favorite North Sound businesses, places, and people.

From Best Antique Store to Best Vet, you made your choices known.

Here they are.

October 2018 49

ARTS + BEST LIVE THEATRE

BEST LOCAL BAND/PERFORMER

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE

The Upfront Theatre

The Replayzmentz

1208 Bay St., Bellingham 360.733.8855, theupfront.com

Birch Bay 360.371.5436 facebook.com/replayzmentz

Wild Buffalo House Of Music

As Bellingham’s home for improv comedy since 2004, when it was founded by improv king Ryan Stiles, The Upfront Theater has performances every weekend for narrative shows, including a murder mystery. If you catch the acting bug, they also offer improv classes.

SILVER Mount Baker Theatre Bellingham, 360.734.6080 BRONZE Bellingham Theatre Guild Bellingham, 360.733.1811

208 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net

You love The Replayzmentz. You voted this Birch Bay band top performer again this year. Their classic rock style for live music lovers of all ages must be what keeps them at the top of our charts. Rock on, Replayzments.

Drawing local and national acts alike, the Wild Buffalo is the cornerstone of the music scene in Bellingham. With a space that’s big enough to dance and small enough to really enjoy the show, it’s a stellar place for live music.

SILVER Spaceband Bellingham, 360.961.7123 BRONZE Baby Cakes Bellingham, 206.818.0588

SILVER Boundary Bay Brewery Bellingham, 360.647.5593 BRONZE The Shakedown Bellingham, 360.778.1067

BEST CASINO

Silver Reef Casino 4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale 866.383.0777, silverreefcasino.com

Winners for the second year, Silver Reef has more than 1,000 slot machines, a posh hotel and spa, fine and casual dining options (The Steak House is topnotch), and quality entertainment.

SILVER Skagit Valley Casino Anacortes, 877.275.2448 BRONZE Tulalip Resort Casino Tulalip, 888.716.7162

BEST FESTIVAL BEST ART GALLERY

Ski To Sea

Courtyard Gallery

2227 Queen St., #6, Bellingham 360.746.8861, skitosea.com

701 S. First St., La Conner 360.466.1200, aclassactgallery.com

Once again, Courtyard Gallery was voted the best of the Northwest. Located in scenic La Conner, the gallery showcases works from local and national artists. Oooh and ahh at chandeliers, fountains, glass art, and metal and wooden sculptures, with pieces available for purchase.

Some say this adventurous relay race put Bellingham on the map.

The 90-mile team relay, using a variety of transport modes from skis to kayaks, runs from Mount Baker to Bellingham Bay, and Fairhaven’s biggest street festival awaits you at the finish.

SILVER Allied Arts Of Whatcom County Bellingham, 360.676.8548 BRONZE Chuckanut Bay Gallery & Sculpture Garden Bellingham, 360.734.4885

SILVER Northwest Washington Fair Lynden, 360.354.4111 BRONZE Summer Meltdown Festival Darrington, summermeltdown.com

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© Bethany Dailey

ENTERTAINMENT BEST MUSEUM

BEST TOURIST ATTRACTION

BEST LOCAL ARTIST

SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention

Mount Baker

Jody Bergsma — Bergsma Gallery Press

1312 Bay St., Bellingham 360.738.3886, sparkmuseum.org

The SPARK Museum is truly shocking (in a good way). Learn the history of electricity and communication in a hands-on environment that’s truly fun for everyone. Be sure to catch the MegaZapper Electrical Show on the weekend, and dare to enter the Cage of Doom.

SILVER Lightcatcher Museum Bellingham, 360.778.8930 BRONZE Children’s Museum of Skagit County Burlington, 360.757.8888

WA-542 East, Mount BakerSnoqualmie National Forest Mount Baker Ski Area 360.734.6771, mtbaker.us Glacier Public Service Center 360.599.2714, fs.usda.gov.

Mount Baker is the hidden gem of recreation for the North Sound region, with its record-breaking snowfall and miles of summer hiking trails.

Unknowing out-of-towners drive right past Bellingham on their way to British Columbia’s Whistler, and that’s fine. More room for us!

1301 Fraser St., #A5, Bellingham 360.733.1101, bergsma.com

Jody Bergsma is a self-taught watercolor artist who celebrates the animals and nature of the Pacific Northwest. Her work is “a request for a more beautiful, peaceful and harmonious world.”

You can see her extensive collection of work spanning 30 years at Bergsma Gallery Press.

SILVER Ben Mann, Ben Mann Studios Bellingham, 360.920.4022 BRONZE Katie Walton, Red Barn Art Studio Bow, 360.319.5139

SILVER Whatcom Falls Park Bellingham, 360.778.7000 BRONZE Boulevard Park Bellingham, 360.778.7000

FAVORITE NORTHWEST DESTINATION

BEST GOLF COURSE

Mount Baker

Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club

Mount Baker Hwy. 360.734.6771, mtbaker.us

8720 Semiahmoo Pkwy., Blaine 360.371.7015, semiahmoo.com

No matter the season, Mount Baker embodies the Pacific Northwest with its beautiful alpine lakes and tree-lined highway. Whether you’re seeking perfect powder for snowboarding or a late-summer scenic hike, our voters continue to recognize Mount Baker as the best destination for your outside activities.

Rolling greens and expansive fairways provide golfers with a naturally beautiful, technically challenging course designed by Arnold Palmer himself. Grab some friends and spend the day chipping, driving, and putting your way through the 7,005 yards of this Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club course.

SILVER San Juan Islands Friday Harbor, 360.378.5240 BRONZE Boulevard Park Bellingham, 360.778.7100

SILVER North Bellingham Golf Course Bellingham, 360.398.8300 BRONZE Eaglemont Mount Vernon, 360.424.0800

October 2018 51

FASHION + RETAIL BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING

Cheeks Jeans 655 Front St., Lynden 360.778.1849, instagram.com/cheeksjeans

Cheeks has been serving up style for seven years, but this is their first as a gold winner. It’s no surprise.

This unique shop specializes in contemporary denim, seasonal fashion and accessories, shoes and a friendly staff. The perfect place to treat yourself!

SILVER Statement Apparel Bellingham, 360.734.9595 BRONZE Quinn And Foster Bellingham, 360.671.2000

BEST CONSIGNMENT SHOP

BEST BOUTIQUE

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING

Labels Women’s Consignment

Fringe Boutique

Macy’s

1147 N. State St., Bellingham 360.312.4067, wearfringe.com

50 Bellis Fair Pkwy., Bellingham 360.715.6000, macys.com

Fringe is fashion therapy. With a mix of clothing, housewares and lifestyle products, plus functional art from all over the Pacific Northwest, it’s no wonder this boutique leapfrogged from third place last year to first place this year. There’s a little something for everyone.

For a second year in a row, you awarded the gold to Macy’s. This classic destination for menswear blends traditional and modern in office, workout and loungewear collections as well as suits, ties and blazers. A knowledgeable staff can help find anything for any occasion.

SILVER Betty Be Good Boutique Bellingham, 360.685.6552; Birch Bay, 360.441.7691 BRONZE Pretty Simple Burlington, 360.899.4324

SILVER Men’s Wearhouse Bellingham, 360.734.8008 BRONZE REI Bellingham, 360.647.8955

2332 James St., Bellingham 360.738.0333 labelsconsignment.com

Once again, Labels is our readers top choice for consignment store.

Recognized for their expansive, curated selection of stylish and modern clothing items, houseware and home décor in excellent condition. It may not be new, but it’s new to you.

SILVER Buffalo Exchange Bellingham, 360.676.1375 BRONZE The Clothes Rack Bellingham, 360.738.7759

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Helping you see clearly, In order to live life fully.

Schedule an Appointment: 360-733-4800 northwesteyeclinic.com 3015 Squalicum Parkway Suite 260 Bellingham, WA 98225

B Biu

360.676.1904 credoconstruction.com

We would like to thank our clients, suppliers and community for voting us Bellingham’s Best Builder.

FASHION + RETAIL

BEST JEWELRY SHOP

Borthwick Jewelry, Inc. 1730 Labounty Dr., Ferndale 360.384.2803, borthwickdiamondjewelry.com

Back-to-back gold winner, Borthwick Jewelry in Ferndale carries a dazzling array of diamonds, gemstones, gold and silver adornments. Work with their skilled staff to choose the bling of your dreams, wedding sets, the perfect gift, or to restore a family heirloom.

SILVER Jewelry Affair Bellingham, 360.738.7676 BRONZE Silvery Moon Bellingham, 360.715.1393

BEST ANTIQUE STORE

Penny Lane Antique Mall 427 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.671.3301 pennylaneantiquemall.com

It must be nostalgia that makes Penny Lane Antique Mall a gold winner again this year. This bastion of trinkets and treasures attracts collectors, tourists and locals looking for gifts or specialty items. Take time to explore every room and you’ll find something good.

SILVER Aladdin’s Antiques and Records Bellingham, 360.647.0066 BRONZE Etta’s Attic Antiques Ferndale, 360.734.1900

BEST LOCAL ARTISAN

Megan Lee Designs Bellingham meganlynnlee.com

Megan Lee’s design collections focus on a mix of geometric and natural shapes inspired by her life growing up in the Pacific Northwest. With affordable earrings and necklaces, we can all own a piece of this gold winner’s wearable art.

SILVER Good Earth Pottery Bellingham, 360.671.3998 BRONZE APSE Adorn Bellingham, apseadorn.com

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BEST APPLIANCE STORE

Judd & Black Appliance 2001 James St., Bellingham 360.733.7722, juddblack.com

With exceptional customer service, knowledge and a wide-variety of electronics and appliances, you voted Judd & Black top honors. From grills to stoves to washers and dryers, this is the place to outfit your kitchen and other appliance-worthy areas in your home.

SILVER DeWaard & Bode Bellingham, 360.733.5900 BRONZE Appliance Depot Bellingham, 360.527.2646

BEST PLACE TO BUY FURNITURE

Samuel’s Furniture 1904 Main St., Ferndale 360.384.3388, samuelsfurniture.com

A fantastic selection, design assistance and easy delivery is what pushed Samuel’s to the top for our readers. This Ferndale store carries furniture for every room inside and outside the house, with a showroom that has great design ideas and a friendly staff.

SILVER Wisers Furniture Lynden, 360.778.3870 BRONZE Griffith Furniture & Mattresses Bellingham, 360.734.3730

BEST BOOKSTORE

BEST CRAFT STORE

Village Books

Hobby Lobby

1200 11th St., Bellingham 360.671.2626, villagebooks.com

4305 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.650.1090, hobbylobby.com

Literature lovers young and old flock to Village Books to spend hours exploring each of the three stories. Tie in a mezzanine visit to the Evolve Chocolate & Café for a small bite and coffee, and one of the best bay views around.

Fans of crafting appreciate the wide selection of supplies and the informative and friendly staff, which makes it a one-stop shop for customers looking for the items and tools they need to finish any project.

SILVER Barnes & Noble Bellingham, 360.647.7018 BRONZE Eclipse Bookstore Bellingham, 360.647.8165

SILVER Michaels Bellingham, 360.738.7932 BRONZE Joann Fabrics Bellingham, 360.734.8922

October 2018 55

BEST MAKEUP SHOP

Sephora 10 Bellis Fair Pkwy., Bellingham 360.734.7412, sephora.com

With a vast selection of beauty brands, including their own line of quality products, Sephora, winner for a second year, has what you’re looking for. Trained experts can help find your perfect shade, scent or style.

© Alicia Prozinski

© Kaylin Stiefer

SILVER Ulta Beauty Bellingham, 360.671.6004 BRONZE MAC Cosmetics Bellingham, 360.734.4102

BEST PRODUCE

Joe’s Gardens 3110 Taylor Ave., Bellingham 360.671.7639, joesgarden.com

Since 1933, Joe’s has been growing and selling fresh, seasonal produce, as well as local jams, honey, spices and oils. Don’t miss garlic grown from seeds from Italy, available in the fall, or spring’s stunning flower baskets.

SILVER Bellingham Farmers Market Bellingham, 360.647.2060 BRONZE Community Food Co-op Bellingham, 360.734.8158 56

BellinghamAlive.com

BEST SHOE STORE

Hilton’s Shoes 113 W. Magnolia St., Bellingham 360.734.3090, hiltonsshoes.com

With 90 years of experience, Hilton’s Shoes understands the footwear needs of our Pacific Northwest community. Hilton’s carries the sturdy and sensible brands we need, but also the fashionable ones, and employs a staff to help you find the shoe that fits.

SILVER DSW Bellingham, 360.756.6972 BRONZE 12th St. Shoes Bellingham, 360.733.2066

BEST SPORTING GOODS STORE

Dick’s Sporting Goods 20 Bellis Fair Pkwy., Bellingham 360.305.3099, dickssportinggoods.com

Everything you’ve ever wanted in sporting goods is at Dick’s Sporting Goods. All the gear for yoga to hunting and football to fishing. Selection is key at this indoor/outdoor activity emporium.

Load up on equipment for your next adventure.

Spa

Thank You! 804 10th St Bellingham WA

Happy Hour

thechrysalisinn.com

360-756-1005

SILVER Yeager’s Sporting Goods Bellingham, 360.733.1080 BRONZE Dave’s Sports Shop Lynden, 360.354.5591

BEST GROCERY STORE

Haggen 210 36th St., Bellingham Various locations 360.676.5300, haggen.com

Once again, our readers selected the Bellingham-based chain, Haggen, as their favorite grocery store. With locations all over Whatcom and Skagit counties, some open 24 hours, the Haggen folks pride themselves on their wide variety, local produce, gluten-free items and impressive wine selection.

SILVER Whole Foods Market Bellingham, 360.714.6820 BRONZE The Community Food Co-op Bellingham, 360.734.8158 October 2018 57

HEALTH BEST SALON

Salon Bellissima 1215 Old Fairhaven Pkwy., Bellingham 360.715.1052 salonbellissimabellingham.com

Bellissima is consistently in our top three, and now it’s back with gold!

Using natural products and a focus on sustainability, Bellissima’s folks take pride in making customers look and feel good. Stop by their boutique after your session and leave looking like your best self.

© Tyler Bliss Photography

SILVER Argyle Salon Bellingham, 360.752.0788 BRONZE Envy Salon For Hair Mount Vernon, 360.424.1017

BEST SPA

BEST MANI/PEDI

BEST MASSAGE

The Chrysalis Inn & Spa

Jimmy’s Personal Care

Massage Envy

804 10th St., Bellingham 360.756.1005, thechrysalisinn.com

1327 11th St., Bellingham 360.933.4268 jimmyspersonalcare.com

330 36th St., Bellingham 360.756.1100, massageenvy.com

In need of a manicure, pedicure, or simply to detach from your busy schedule? The Chrysalis Inn & Spa will help you relax, rejuvenate, and replenish with everything from facials to massages. Design your own relaxing experience and arrive early to enjoy the wonderful steam room before your bliss begins.

SILVER Zazen Salon Spa Bellingham, 360.715.1050 BRONZE Bella Body & Sol Bellingham, 360.383.7070

58

BellinghamAlive.com

After a busy day exploring Bellingham, relax and rest your feet at Jimmy’s Personal Care in the heart of Fairhaven. Lauded for their excellent customer service, pampering options, and fantastic manicures, Jimmy’s is the perfect place to really “treat yo’ self.”

SILVER Happy Nails Bellingham, 360.671.7836 BRONZE Top Nails Bellingham, 360.676.6281

Whether its trigger-point therapy or aromatherapy, Massage Envy has got you covered when it comes to taking care of your body. Offering everything from skin care to deep-tissue massages to stretching, they will have you feeling invigorated, rejuvenated, and refreshed.

SILVER Advanced Medical Massage Bellingham, 360.527.9566 BRONZE Still Life Massage & Float Bellingham, 360.647.2805

+ BEAUTY BEST FITNESS CENTER

Bellingham Athletic Club 1616 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.734.1616, bellinghamathleticclub.com

For more than 40 years, the Bellingham Athletic Club has been helping the community stay fit, healthy, and connected. Whether it’s some pickup basketball, a game of racquetball, or just some good ol’ weight lifting, the club offers a safe and clean workout environment with certified staff.

SILVER Bellingham Fitness Bellingham, 360.733.1600 BRONZE Anytime Fitness Bellingham, 360.306.5858

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER

Lenny Olson, Bellingham Fitness BEST NATUROPATH

BEST HEALTH FOOD SHOP

Dr. Emily Sharpe, ND

The Community Food Co-Op

1707 F St., Bellingham 360.734.1560, doctorsharpe.com

1220 N. Forest St., Bellingham Various locations 360.734.8158, communityfood.coop

Not feeling like your best self?

Dr. Emily Sharpe can help with everything from hormonal imbalances to weight loss and even allergies in the most natural and healthy ways possible.

Through herbal supplements, diet changes, and lifestyle changes, and more, Dr. Sharpe will have you healthy and happy once again.

SILVER Joseph Wessels Jr, ND Bellingham, 360.734.9500 BRONZE Fairhaven Integrative Health Bellingham, 360.676.1285

The Community Food Co-op continues its winning streak for another year. Well-known for nutritious, fresh, quality food and local produce, the Co-op also offers cooking and educational classes to community members at low cost. Learn, and pick up some lunch too.

SILVER Trader Joe’s Bellingham, 360.734.5166 BRONZE Whole Foods Market Bellingham, 360.714.6820

1730 N. State St., Bellingham 360.733.1600, bellinghamfitness.com

Once again, professional wrestler and Bellingham Fitness bootcamp instructor Lenny Olson is a winner. Knowledgeable in all things fitness, “Dr. Luther” knows what it takes to get you in the best shape you can be, and will help you achieve your fitness goals. He has a proven track record and his clients get results, which is what keeps him at the top of our list for multiple years in a row.

SILVER Jacob Stevenson, JD Elite Fitness Bellingham, 360.920.6168 BRONZE Alicia Kennemer, Love To Move StudioZ Bellingham, 360.483.8027

October 2018 59

HEALTH + BEAUTY BEST MEN’S HAIRCUT

BEST PHARMACY

BEST DENTIST

Wally’s Barber Shop

Haggen

314 E. Holly St., Bellingham 360.647.0807

210 36th St., Bellingham Various locations 360.676.1996, haggen.com

Sweet Tooth Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

This family-owned barbershop specializes in men’s old-school classic cuts like fades, flat tops, military cuts, and more.

Women and children’s cuts are also offered. Unfortunately, the beloved Wally passed away earlier this year, but his legacy and barbershop lives on through his family and every haircut.

SILVER V’s Barbershop Bellingham, 360.656.6911 BRONZE Machete Barbershop Bellingham, 360.603.2488

4101 Eliza Ave., Bellingham 360.752.1600, sweettooth-dental.com

Since opening in 1933, Haggen stores have been helping customers with top produce and pharmaceutical needs. While getting groceries, customers can also get immunized and pick up prescriptions. Unable to make it to the store? You can request refills on prescriptions online!

Sweet Tooth Dental is focused on one thing: your smile. Using state-of-the-art technologies and consistent care, your teeth couldn’t be happier. Not a fan of going to the dentist? Sweet Tooth provides personalized care and visits to help you feel relaxed and comfortable.

SILVER Hoagland Pharmacy Bellingham, 360.734.5413 BRONZE Rite Aid Bellingham, 360.734.8254

SILVER Veltkamp Family Dentistry Lynden, 360.354.5691 BRONZE Barkley Village Family Dentistry Bellingham, 360.733.1334

BEST YOGA/PILATES STUDIO

3 OMS Yoga 1319 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.671.3510, 3omsyoga.com

Been wanting to give yoga a try? 3 Oms Yoga is committed to providing a positive environment focused on connection, growth, and well-being. A variety of classes and experienced instructors will make yoga practitioners of any level feel at home. Workshops like Yoga for Men and Hip Opening exercises are also offered throughout the year.

SILVER Joy Of Pilates Bellingham, 360.224.1433 BRONZE Yoga Northwest Bellingham, 360.647.0712 60

BellinghamAlive.com

TOTAL NUMBER OF INDIVIDUAL VOTES

MOST VOTED-ON CATEGORIES

513,294

Best Cannabis Shop

TOTAL NUMBER OF CATEGORIES

Best Real Estate Agent

126

Best Lodging

BIGGEST VOTE-GETTER

NUMBER OF NEW GOLD MEDALISTS THIS YEAR

2020 Solutions, the cannabis company, with 6,917.

(Note: also received votes for “Best Place to Meet Singles” and “Favorite Northwest Destination”)

46

NUMBER OF NEW SILVER OR BRONZE WINNERS THIS YEAR 37

BEST OB/GYN

BEST CANNABIS SHOP

Bellingham OB/GYN

2020 Solutions

3200 Squalicum Pkwy., Bellingham 360.671.4944, bellinghamobgyn.com

2018 Iron St., Bellingham 360.734.2020, 2020-solutions.com

With an experienced and compassionate team, Bellingham OB/GYN can help with everything from prenatal exams to gynecological surgery.

It also offers classes on childbirth, breastfeeding, and more to ensure a happy transition for the whole family. Also now offering 3D and general reveal ultrasounds.

As one of the first recreational marijuana retailers in Washington, 2020 Solutions knows a thing or two about your cannabis needs. 2020 offers state-grown, high-quality marijuana, awardwinning edibles and treats, glassware, and more.

Budtenders are available to answer any questions and ensure a discreet, professional environment.

SILVER Julianne Snell, ARNP Bellingham, 360.671.5700 BRONZE Dr. Diane Arvin, MD Bellingham, 360.676.8212

SILVER Trove Cannabis Bellingham, 360.933.1133 BRONZE Western Bud Bellingham, 360.393.3459

BEST MEDI-SPA

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPIST

RejuvenationMD

Capstone Physical Therapy

2219 Rimland Dr., #105, Bellingham, 360.685.8408 325 E. George Hopper Rd., #101, Burlington, 360.982.2620 rejuvenationmdmedspa.com

3111 Newmarket St., #101, Bellingham, various locations 360.752.1115, capstonept.com

From the wide variety of wellness options and aesthetic treatments offered, it’s no surprise to see RejuvenationMD receive gold once again. Owner Dr. Tianna Tsitsis and her team offer programs for sexual health, wellness, body contouring, skin care products, and more.

SILVER Kucumber Skin Lounge Bellingham, 360.738.7197 BRONZE Glow Mediclinic Bellingham, 360.647.6991

With locations in Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden, and Blaine, Capstone Physical Therapy is able to help their Northwest patients return to their active lives pain-free. Expert therapists help with ergonomics, fractures, massages, children’s injuries.

They even have an anti-gravity rehabilitation treadmill for lower-body rehab.

SILVER Whatcom Physical Therapy Ferndale, 360.384.5171 BRONZE Performance Physical Therapy Bellingham, 360.714.0870

October 2018 61

HEALTH + BEAUTY

BONW 2018 STATS

HEALTH + BEAUTY

BEST RETIREMENT FACILITY

The Leopold Retirement Residence 1224 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.733.3500, leopoldliving.com

The Leopold doesn’t just offer a place to stay. With a focus on relationships, good food, and a caring staff, The Leopold also offers a place to call home. Located in the heart of downtown Bellingham, residents are close to attractions such as the Mount Baker Theatre and the Pickford Film Center. Vibrant living and worry-free comfort can be found at The Leopold.

SILVER Orchard Park Assisted Living Bellingham, 360.647.3708 BRONZE The Willows A LifeMinded Residence Bellingham, 360.671.7077

62

BEST HEALTH & REHABILITATION CENTER

BEST COSMETIC ARTIST

BEST ORTHODONTIST

Mt. Baker Care Center

Limitless Beauty

Cummins Orthodontics

2905 Connelly Ave., Bellingham 888.603.9945, mtbakercarecenter.com

5452 Northwest Dr., Bellingham 360.599.4049 limitlessbeautypermanentmakeup.com

2550 James St., Bellingham 360.676.1900, cumminsortho.com

Since 1991, residents at the Mt. Baker Care Center have been cared for by registered and licensed nurses who are on call 24 hours a day, and through enrichment activities like gardening and sing-a-longs. Families can rest easy knowing their loved one is in caring hands. Mt. Baker Care Center also offers services like pet therapy and cooking classes.

For two years in a row, Keely Clevenger at Limitless Beauty has been recognized for her customer care and excellent permanent makeup services. She considers herself an artist first, which is clear to see in her passion and detail through her work. Whether it’s eyebrows or tattoo removal, Limitless Beauty is ready for you.

SILVER Christian Health Care Center Lynden, 360.354.4434 BRONZE Shuksan Healthcare Center Bellingham, 360.733.9161

SILVER Arched & Inked Bellingham, 509.818.0850 BRONZE Sarah Rorvig - Makeup Artist Bellingham, 360.303.1722

BellinghamAlive.com

With a desire to help patients smile, it’s easy to see how Cummins Orthodontics has won gold again.

Dr. David Cummins is an accomplished and decorated orthodontist who earned the Navy Achievement Medal while serving in the U.S. Navy. He has also published six scientific articles for peer-reviewed journals and continues to stay current in the field by giving seminars and presentations.

SILVER Dr. Paul Halgren, DDS Mount Vernon, 360.336.3436 BRONZE Dr. Michael Shoff, DDS MS Bellingham, 360.676.1401

BEST FAMILY PRACTITIONER

Dr. Ian D. Bonner, MD

Thanks for voting us Best Massage

722 N. State St., Bellingham 360.752.2865, familycarenetwork.com

Bonner, at Bellingham Bay Family Medicine, grew up on Vashon Island before studying medicine at the University of Washington. He practices family medicine, including obstetrical care, and is interested in physical fitness, orthopedic injuries, and addiction medicine.

StillLifeMassage.com • 19 Bellwether Way Suite 101 • (360) 647-2805

SILVER Dr. Karen D. O’Keefe, MD Bellingham, 360.752.2865 BRONZE Dr. John S. Hruby, MD Ferndale, 360.384.1511

BEST EYE CARE

Northwest Eye Clinic 3015 Squalicum Pkwy., Bellingham 360.733.4800, northwesteyeclinic.com

The Northwest Eye Clinic provides gentle and personal care for all ages, which is what has kept their gold streak going. From cataract surgery to new frames for glasses, the NWEC physicians have helped Northwest families for decades.

Conveniently located near St. Joseph Medical Center.

SILVER Fairhaven Vision Clinic Bellingham, 360.733.1190 BRONZE Vision Plus Bellingham, 360.393.4000

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

Natural Way Chiropractic 2000 N. State St., Bellingham 360.671.1710, naturalwaychiro.org

Natural Way Chiropractic won’t just help heal your aches, pains, and sore joints. They’ll educate you along the way, with spinal X-rays and scans to explain your best options. Since 1995, Natural Way has provided relief through chiropractic, massage, and decompression techniques.

SILVER Brad & Dana Chiropractic Bellingham, 360.733.4222 BRONZE Kurt A. Fuhrmeister, DC Bellingham, 360.676.8590

Barkley Cordata Lynden Ferndale Blaine • • • • • • •

Orthopaedics Women’s Health Work Injuries Sports Injuries Auto Injuries Post Surgical Hand Therapy

www.capstonept.com October 2018 63

MORE

URBAN COLLECTIVE H O M E D E C O R . R E A L E S TAT E S TA G I N G .

CARE LESS WORRY

Thank you for voting us BEST HOME DECOR

DARCY’S STORY OF

CANCER & CARE

BEST NORTH BEST WEST of the

of the

2017

2016

Rowing became a source of peace for Darcy during her cancer treatment. When her spirits flagged, she took to the water and released stress with each oar stroke. Skagit Regional Health – Cancer Care Center’s inclusive approach let Darcy be herself while receiving exceptional treatment.

URBANCOLLECTIVE360.COM | 360.393.4908

NORTH

WEST

GOLD

Design Your Way Home

Interior Design and Remodel

READ MORE OF DARCY’S STORY:

MoreCareLessWorry.com

Jennifer Ryan • JenniferRyanDesign.com • houzz.com/pro/jenniferryandesign jennifer@jenniferryandesign.com • 360.733.9519 • License #JENNIRD885RM

HAND TOOLS

KEYS CHAINSAWS

WORK WEAR

SkagitRegionalHealth.org

2034 JAMES ST EXIT 254 360-734-6140

(360) 657-8660

M-F 7am-6pm Sat 7am-5:30pm

(360) 814-2146

HardwareSales.net

ARLINGTON

MOUNT VERNON

We’ve Got It.

Thank You For Voting Us Best Hardware Store!

Hardware Sales has been a proud member of the Bellingham Community Since 1962.

From cable to plumbing, work wear to gardening, rentals to service and everything in between, we have what you need for the job and our knowledgeable staff is always happy to help you find it!

HOME + GARDEN BEST GARDEN/NURSERY

My Garden Nursery 929 E. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.366.8406, mygardennursery.com

The family-run nursery recently celebrated its third year in Bellingham, winning the number one spot in the hearts of our voters. The colorful business carries conventional and fun gardening supplies for indoors and out, along with a wide array of plants.

© Alicia Prozinski

SILVER Garden Spot Nursery Bellingham, 360.676.5480 BRONZE Kent’s Garden & Nursery Bellingham, 360.384.4433

BEST KITCHEN & BATH DESIGNER

BEST HARDWARE STORE

BEST LANDSCAPER

Legacy Kitchen & Bath

Hardware Sales 2034 James St., Bellingham 360.734.6140, hardwaresales.net

Erin Landscaping & Masonry

1610 Grover St., Suite B-8, Lynden 360.927.4436 legacykitchen-bath.com

Gleaming oak cabinets and spotless granite countertops can add a facelift to any kitchen or bathroom. Our readers say Legacy Kitchen & Bath is a great business to bring the kitchen in your favorite magazine to life in your own home.

SILVER Spiral Studios Bellingham, 360.202.0635 BRONZE DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen Bellingham, 360.614.2052

Voted Best Hardware Store for three years running, the friendly service and expansive selection at Hardware Sales are proving hard to beat. No matter the chore, the family-owned business since 1962 is bound to have the item you need to get the job done.

SILVER Harbor Freight Tools Bellingham, 360.676.1764 BRONZE Lowe’s Bellingham, 360.734.2659

1822 34th St., Bellingham 360.312.4509, erinlandscaping.com

Transform your back yard from a bland lawn into a picturesque dream with Erin Landscaping & Masonry. Continually recognized for high-quality work, Erin can add a custom patio or create a beautiful water feature that’ll give your yard that extra something special.

SILVER North County Lawn Care Custer, 360.510.6890 BRONZE Sound Landscapes Lynden, 360.739.4644

October 2018 65

HOME + GARDEN BEST ELECTRONICS STORE BEST LANDSCAPE DESIGN

Moceri Construction Inc. 1013 Donovan Ave., Bellingham 360.671.3381, mocericonstruction.com

Reference Media 1200 Old Fairhaven Pkwy., Bellingham 360.714.8860, reference-media.net

Moceri Construction’s portfolio of beautiful buildings and landscapes didn’t go unnoticed by our voters. Owner Paul Moceri, a general contractor in the area since 1975, and his team of dedicated employees focus on quality craftsmanship and customer service with every project.

Honored for the second-straight year, Reference Media continues to provide valuable customer service and a wide variety of products. The company’s friendly, knowledgeable staff works hard to help customers find exactly what they’re looking for at the price they need.

SILVER Borrowed Ground Bellingham, 360.927.4469 BRONZE Molly Maguire Landscape Architecture Bellingham, 360.542.4052

SILVER Audio Video Excellence Bellingham, 360.398.8447 BRONZE Best Buy Bellingham, 360.715.0008

BEST ROOFING COMPANY

Mt. Baker Roofing 3950 Home Rd., Bellingham 360.733.0191, mtbakerroofing.com

A part of the Whatcom County community for more than 35 years, Mount Baker Roofing can install anything from composition roofing to aluminum seamless gutters. Its team of experienced employees will make sure there’s a solid roof over your head for the next rainy day.

SILVER Topside Roofing & Siding Bellingham, 360.752.2220 BRONZE Joostens Roofing Bellingham, 360.815.7663

BEST INTERIOR DESIGN

Jonathan O’Brien Interior Design 22 Morning Beach Dr., Bellingham 360.778.2755, jonathanstyle.com

There’s no need to stress over that one room you just can’t seem to figure out. Jonathan O’Brien can design a functional space to complement your style and personality. Inspired by the beauty of Bellingham, O’Brien draws from different periods to craft the perfect atmosphere.

SILVER Jennifer Ryan Design Bellingham, 360.733.9519 BRONZE Falconworks Bellingham, 360.319.2076 66

BellinghamAlive.com

BEST BUILDER

Credo Construction Inc. 4174 Pacific Hwy., Bellingham 360.676.1904, credoconstruction.com

Whether your vision is big or small, a complex design or classically simple, Credo Construction is your go-to general contractor. Winning Best Builder for the second time in a row, Credo’s attention to detail and care for customer service has obviously impressed the voters.

SILVER Chuckanut Builders Bellingham, 360.734.3201 BRONZE Rubicon Homes Ferndale, 360.318.4825

BEST HOME DECOR

Greenhouse 1235 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.676.1161, greenhousehome.com

On the brink of closure earlier this year, new owners BreAnne Hall and Eric Green have taken over Greenhouse, keeping the Bellingham favorite alive. From comfy couches to teal teapots, Greenhouse remains a popular stop to pick up stylish décor for the home and garden.

SILVER HomeGoods Bellingham, 360.715.0640 BRONZE Urban Collective Bellingham, 360.393.4908

October 2018 67

Kitchen & Bath Design

Thank You for Voting Us 2018

Furniture & Interior Design Home Design | New & Remodel

Reference M edia more than a friendly audio shop

Visit Our Fairhaven Showroom

WINNER 7 consecutive years!

Home Automation Lighting & Shading Home Theaters Custom Integration

Award-winning Residential Design Jan Hayes, CMKBD • Thea Stephens, CAPS, CGP

Audio Video Design

www.reference-media.net

COMMERCIAL  RESIDENTIAL  SERVICE spectrumpandh.com | info@spectrumpandh.com | 360.739.9207

At Spectrum Plumbing and Heating you will find expert craftsmanship, affordable prices, friendly technicians and the best customer service in Bellingham.

of the

2017

BEST

NORTH

WEST

GOLD

THANKS FOR VOTING US

BEST PLUMBER

We look forward to continuing to serve our community for many years to come.

BEST ARCHITECT

RMC Architects 1223 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.676.7733, rmcarchitects.com

RMC Architects has once again been recognized for its strong foundation in quality and community. The architects are responsible for some well-known structures: Lynden’s Waples Mercantile, Bellingham’s Community Food Co-op Connections building and the Rocket Building in Fairhaven, Friday Harbor’s Spring Street Landing.

SILVER [bundle] design studio Bellingham, 360.296.2657 BRONZE Steve Olson - Archipelago Construction Belingham, 360.778.3314

BEST FLOORING COMPANY

Fairhaven Floors 2001 Masonry Way, #106, Bellingham 360.820.1678, fairhavenfloors.com

A firm surface beneath your feet is crucial, and voters trust Fairhaven Floors to install the perfect flooring. Winning gold once again, the family-owned business has 31 years under its belt and will care for your flooring every step of the way.

SILVER Great Floors Bellingham, 360.738.3599 BRONZE Lynden Interiors Lynden, 360.354.4149

October 2018 69

FOOD + DRINK BEST NEW RESTAURANT

Bellingham Cider Company 205 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.510.8494, bellinghamcider.com

The Bellingham Cider Company is more than just hard cider. Offering dinner, brunch, and snacks, they’ve put their stamp on the local scene with everything from braised pork belly to coffee-cured salmon crostini. A musttry: Buttermilk Brined Chicken & Brown Sugar Waffle SILVER Hundred North Bellingham, 360.594.6000 BRONZE The Birch Door Café Bellingham, 360.306.8598

BEST INTERNATIONAL CUISINE

Soy House 400 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.393.4857, soyhouserestaurant.com

Authentic Vietnamese cuisine is served up flawlessly at the Soy House restaurant. Steaming hot bowls of pho noodle soups and superb banh mi sandwiches are just some of the traditional highlights found here.

SILVER Wanida Thai Cuisine Bellingham, 360.746.8642 BRONZE Asian 1 Burlington, 360.707.2422

70

BellinghamAlive.com

BEST STEAK/FINE DINING

BEST BURGER

BEST TAKE-OUT

The Steak House at Silver Reef Casino

Fiamma Burger

Viking Foods

1309 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.733.7374, fiammaburger.com

Bellingham 360.922.0819, ordervikingfood.com

Now back-to-back winners, this steakhouse is a powerhouse for fine dining with 24 oz. porterhouse steaks and 9 oz. filet mignons, along with delicacies like escargot and rack of lamb.

This award-winning restaurant cooks to perfection.

With a bunch of burger joints around, winning this award says something about Fiamma Burger. One look and taste of their burgers and you’ll know why. Pick a protein and they’ll pile it high with delectable ingredients and a buttery brioche bun.

For the second year in a row, you’ve picked delivery over dish.

For a small fee, VikingFood is a delivery service that brings you meals from 64 Bellingham restaurants. Just order from their website or call and place an order.

SILVER Dirty Dan Harris Steakhouse Bellingham, 360.676.1011 BRONZE Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill Bellingham, 360.527.3473

SILVER Five Guys Bellingham, 360.734.8300 BRONZE Boomer’s Drive-In Bellingham, 360.647.2666

4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale 360.384.7070, silverreefcasino.com

SILVER On Rice Thai Cuisine Bellingham, 360.714.9995 BRONZE Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N’ Bake Pizza Bellingham, various locations 360.715.1117

BEST BAKERY/DESSERT SHOP

Lynden Dutch Bakery 421 Front St., Lynden 360.354.3911, lyndendutchbakery.com

Only 16 years younger than Lynden itself, this 111-year-old bakery mixes old-school methods with new-school flair to create the best bakery and dessert options around. They even have authentic Dutch bakery items to complement Lynden’s Dutch roots.

© Kate Galambos

SILVER Pure Bliss Desserts Bellingham, 360.739.1612 BRONZE Iron Rooster Bellingham, 360.778.1994

October 2018 71

FOOD + DRINK

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT

BEST FISH & CHIPS

Mi Mexico Family Mexican Restaurant

Fairhaven Fish & Chips

421 Telegraph Rd., Bellingham 360.647.0073, mimexicobellingham.com

1020 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.733.5021, fairhaven.com

Repeat winners of Best Mexican Restaurant, Mi Mexico transports you to their homeland by bringing you authentic dishes like molcajete, served in a boiling-hot mortar bowl, and chicken mole, an unforgettable culinary dish from the Oaxaca region.

Tucked away inside a red double-decker bus in downtown Fairhaven is one of Bellingham’s best-kept secrets: the top-voted fish and chips in the tri-county area. A Fairhaven mainstay and curiosity, this unconventional gem is a must-eat for fish lovers.

SILVER Jalapeños Bellingham, various locations, 360.671.3099 BRONZE Chihuahua Family Mexican Restaurant Ferndale, 360.384.5820

SILVER Nicki’s Bella Marina Bellingham, 360.332.2505 BRONZE JoFish Seafood & Grill Lynden, 360.922.0187

BEST SEAFOOD

Rock and Rye Oyster House 1145 N. State St., Bellingham 360.746.6130, rockrye.com

It may be called an oyster house, but you voted Rock and Rye the best seafood restaurant around. The oysters are locally sourced and the seafood and pasta are fused with classic and modern cuisine to bring you something special in every bite.

© Pat McDonnell

SILVER Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill Bellingham, 360.527.3473 BRONZE The Oyster Bar Bow, 360.766.6185

72

BellinghamAlive.com

BEST BAR & LOUNGE

B-Town Kitchen & Raw Bar 714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360.392.6520, btownkitchen.com

Last year’s winner of Best New Restaurant has now taken the throne of Best Bar and Lounge. B-Town Kitchen and Raw Bar melds a unique blend of Northwest, Asian, and Mediterranean food, while its raw bar offers oyster and Dungeness crab shooters.

SILVER The Temple Bar Bellingham, 360.676.8660 BRONZE Fireside Martini and Wine Bar Bellingham, 360.738.1000

BEST HAPPY HOUR

Bellingham Bar & Grill 1408 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.733.2579, bellinghambarandgrill.com

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How can you beat a happy hour that features a 6-ounce steak and three batter-dipped prawns for $13? Monday through Saturday, from 4-6:30 p.m., you can also get scrumptious fish tacos for $7.50 and a quarter-pound bar burger for $7.

SILVER Keenan’s at the Pier Bellingham, 360.392.5510 BRONZE The Black Cat Bellingham, 360.733.6136

BEST WINE SHOP

Seifert & Jones Wine Merchants 19 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.393.3271, sjwinemerchants.com

For the third consecutive year, Seifert & Jones is at the top when it comes to wine. They offer a global range of fine wine selections, including from artisan, Northwest producers. They even offer free wine-tasting events.

SILVER Vinostrology Wine Lounge & Merchant Bellingham, 360.656.6817 BRONZE BevMo! Bellingham, 360.746.3110

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BEST BREWERY

Wander Brewing 1807 Dean Ave., Bellingham 360.647.6152, wanderbrewing.com

With 12 breweries inside Bellingham’s city limits, it says something that Wander Brewing took the crown this year. And for good reason. Five of this small, family-run team’s seven beers have won multiple Northwest awards.

SILVER Kulshan Brewing Co. Bellingham, 360.389.5348 BRONZE Aslan Brewing Co. Bellingham, 360.778.2088

BEST COFFEE SHOP

Woods Coffee 191 18th St., Lynden 360.933.1855, woodscoffee.com

For the second year in a row, you voted Woods Coffee as having the best brew around. A family operation owned by Wes Herman in Lynden, Woods Coffee now has locations all the way from Bellevue to Delta, British Columbia.

SILVER Caffe Adagio Bellingham, 360.671.1198 BRONZE Tony’s Coffee House Bellingham, 360.738.0802 © Alicia Prozinski

BEST COCKTAIL

Northwater 4260 Mitchell Way, Bellingham 360.398.6191, northh2o.com

Situated next to Bellingham International Airport, Northwater is the perfect place to soothe your pre- or post-flight nerves, or even if you’re just in the mood for an excellent drink. They even have quirky names like “See Dakota Run” and “Year of the Dog.” SILVER Swim Club Wet Bar Bellingham, 360.393.3826 BRONZE Redlight Bellingham

© Pat McDonnell

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BEST TEA/HERB SHOP

The Spice Hut 131 W. Kellogg Rd., Bellingham 360.671.2800, thespicehut.com

A certified minority and woman-owned business, The Spice Hut provides 175 loose-leaf tea varieties and over 100 spices and herbs. They have two retail centers, sell to 60 outlets, and have been operating since 2004.

© Becky Linton

SILVER Wonderland Tea & Spices Bellingham, 360.733.0517 BRONZE Living Earth Herbs Bellingham, 360.734.3207

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BEST PIZZA

BEST SANDWICH

La Fiamma Wood Fire Pizza

Avenue Bread

200 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham 360.647.0060, lafiamma.com

2020 Humboldt St., Bellingham 360.715.3354, avenuebread.com

As repeat winners, La Fiamma Wood Fire Pizza has been dishing out award-winning pizza since 1998, including two Best Recipe awards from the National Association of Pizza Operators. Their hand-tossed pizzas, like the Classico and the Pizziolo, are unrivaled.

The reason Avenue Bread has now won Best Sandwich for the second-straight year is because they also have the best bread you’ll ever taste.

Their homemade craft breads are mouthwatering.

Try their signature rosemary loaf and enjoy its heavenly crust.

SILVER Fat Pie Pizza Bellingham, 360.366.8090 BRONZE MOD Pizza Bellingham, 360.746.8563

SILVER The Sandwich Odyssey Bellingham, 360.738.6919 BRONZE Jimmy John’s Sandwiches Bellingham, 360.738.7550

BellinghamAlive.com

BEST SUSHI

Kuru Kuru Sushi

Waterfront Waterfrontdestination destinationrestaurant! restaurant!

11 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360.392.8224, kurukurubellingham.com

With a rotating conveyor belt sushi bar, Kuru Kuru is something to marvel.

As back-to-back winners, their sitdown bar stretches the length of the restaurant and customers pick and choose their own combinations as they roll by.

Great Great food food indoors indoors & & outdoors! outdoors!

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT

SILVER Zen Sushi & Bar Bellingham, 360.734.7888 BRONZE Blue Fin Sushi Bellingham, 360.752.2583

BEST ITALIAN

D’Anna’s Cafe Italiano 1317 N. State St., Bellingham 360.714.0188, dannascafeitaliano.com

Starting as a wholesale pasta business, D’Anna’s opened their own restaurant when they saw establishments using their pasta were getting rave reviews.

Now they get the recognition. Their handmade ravioli is supreme and the linguini with fresh steamer clams is out of this world.

Open7 7days daysa week Open a week at 11:30a.m. a. m.

Lunch at 11:30 Happy Hour Daily and Dinner Daily at 5 p.m.

Early Dinner Specials Happy Hour Daily and 3 to 6Dinner p. m. Specials 3 to 6 p.m.

Early Catering • Events • Private Rooms • Business Meetings••Weddings Weddings•Rehearsal Meetings RehearsalDinners Dinners Bellingham Marina, 21 Bellwether Way 360.714 360.714 8412, 8412, Info@GiuseppesItalian.com GiuseppesItalian.com

SILVER Mambo Italiano Café Bellingham, 360.734.7677 BRONZE Guiseppe’s Al Porto Ristorante Italiano Bellingham, 360.714.8412

BEST WINERY

Dynasty Cellars 2169 E. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.758.2958, dynastycellars.com

Peter and Olga Osvaldik left their native Slovak Republic in 1983 to begin a new life here, and we’re glad they did. Known for its Bordeaux varietals among others, Dynasty’s year-round tasting room has a fireplace in winter and a summer patio with fountains and flowers.

SILVER Coach House Cellars Bellingham, 360.306.8794 BRONZE Mount Baker Vineyards & Winery Everson, 360.592.2300 October 2018 77

BEST BREAKFAST

The Birch Door Café 4192 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.306.8598, birchdoorcafe.com

A newcomer to the Bellingham food scene, Birch Door Café made a splash when it arrived in summer 2017. They serve excellent lunches, including melts and quiches, but their breakfasts are the real home run hitters. Try their eyepopping, soufflé-like apple pancake.

SILVER Homeskillet Bellingham, 360.676.6218 BRONZE Arlis’s Restaurant Bellingham, 360.647.1788

BEST FOOD TRUCK

StrEAT Food Various locations 360.927.0011, streatfood.me

Pita sandwiches, burgers, street tacos, veggie burgers, Greek dogs, watermelon salad. This food truck has everything for everyone. And that’s why they’re winners for the second year in a row. Check their website to find where they’ll be next.

SILVER Hot Mess Food Truck Bellingham, 360.599.8852 BRONZE Super Mario’s Bellingham, 360.920.4330

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mmaguire@mollymaguirela.com (36O) 542-4O52

© Pat McDonnell

Thank you for your votes!

BEST DISTILLERY/SPIRITS

Valley Shine Distillery 320 S. First St., Mount Vernon 360.588.4086, valleyshinedistillery.com

A boutique distillery in the heart of Skagit County, this distillery creates all spirits in small batches to guarantee the freshest flavors with every drink.

Try out their spirits, craft cocktails, and distinctive tapas in a 100-year-old building in downtown Mount Vernon.

Beyond the

Best Grocery Store Best Pharmacy

Jack-O-Lantern

SILVER BelleWood Distilling Lynden, 360.318.7720 BRONZE Probably Shouldn’t Distillery Everson, 360.412.1632

BEST CHEF

Mataio Gillis 207 Unity St., Bellingham 360.733.1267, ciaothyme.com

Chef at Bellingham’s Ciao Thyme, which he owns with wife Jessica, Gillis has been influenced by his travels, especially to Italy, and is known for using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Ciao Thyme’s special culinary events are popular.

Check the website for event dates.

SILVER Cinnamon Berg Bellingham, 360-255-0244 BRONZE Todd Alan Martin Bellingham, 360.594.6000

Think Outside the Gourd

Pumpkins are perfect for carving, but there are boundless cooking possibilities. Many pumpkins are rich and sweet, lending a fresh, mellow flavor to stews, soups, risotto, or even a basic mac and cheese casserole.

Haggen Food & Pharmacy • See website for store hours • www.haggen.com Barkley Village • Sehome Village • Meridian & Illinois • Fairhaven • Ferndale ©2018 Haggen 180823-05

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KIDS

BEST TOY STORE

Fairhaven Toy Garden 909 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.714.8552, fairhaventoygarden.com

Voted top spot again is Fairhaven Toy Garden, the home of lovable, colorful, and interactive goodies for your little ones. Whether you’re reminiscing on childhood favorites or picking out a new stuffed friend for your youngest, there’s something for anyone in this fun-filled space.

SILVER Launching Success Learning Store Bellingham, 360.527.2641 BRONZE Yeager’s Sporting Goods Bellingham, 360.733.1080

BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITY

BEST SUMMER/OUTDOOR CAMP

BEST PLACE FOR A KID’S BIRTHDAY PARTY

Trampoline Zone

Western Kids Camp

Trampoline Zone

4201 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.255.0722, trampolinezone.net

516 High St., Bellingham 360.650.3308, wwu.edu

4201 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.255.0722, trampolinezone.net

Soar through the air perfecting your front flips or basketballdunking skills. A good time for almost any age, Trampoline Zone is a great opportunity to spend some time laughing with your family or making memories with friends, all while getting good exercise.

When most college students are away for summer, kids take over Western Washington University and make new friends while learning and playing. Each week, kids from first through sixth grade can explore a different theme, from weather to bugs, with fun-filled activities.

Throwing a birthday party but don’t want to jump through the hoops of putting one together?

Save the jumping for the kiddos and let Trampoline Zone do the rest. Westside Pizza and fun-themed decorations like ice cream or monsters are also available for purchase.

SILVER Perch & Play Bellingham, 360.393.4925 BRONZE Best Buds Gaming Lounge Bellingham, 360.398.6183

SILVER Camp Firwood Bellingham, 360.733.6840 BRONZE Bellingham Girls Rock Camp Bellingham, 360.932.4307

SILVER Bellingham Sportsplex Bellingham, 360.676.1919 BRONZE Perch & Play Bellingham, 360.393.4925

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BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL

Lynden Christian Schools 417 Lyncs Dr., Lynden 360.318.9525, lyncs.org

Founded in 1910, Lynden Christian Schools is fully accredited and offers highquality educational programs to students from pre-school through 12th grade. The dedicated staff and supportive environment guide students through the curriculum while encouraging them to connect their learning to Christian ideals.

SILVER Whatcom Hills Waldorf School Bellingham, 360.733.3164 BRONZE Assumption Catholic School Bellingham, 360.733.6133

BEST CHILDCARE/AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAM

Generations Early Learning & Family Center 2901 Connelly Ave., Bellingham 360.752.6336, intergenchildcare.com

Health, happiness, and wellbeing are placed at the forefront of the care at Generations Early Learning & Family Center.

BONW voters have noticed that the center’s thoughtful curriculum and encouragement helps kids explore their natural curiosity in a safe environment.

SILVER Whatcom Family YMCA Bellingham, 360.733.8630 BRONZE AHA! Childcare & Family Learning Center Ferndale, 360.594.1445

BEST PRE-SCHOOL

Generations Early Learning & Family Center 2901 Connelly Ave., Bellingham 360.752.6336, intergenchildcare.com

Once again, readers trust Generations Early Learning & Family Center to introduce their preschooler to education in a welcoming atmosphere. Their carefully tailored curriculum allows every child to experience learning milestones and develop skills in subjects like early literacy and emotional expression.

SILVER A Child’s Life Learning Center Bellingham, 360.738.8960 BRONZE Loving Space School Bellingham, 360.676.1355

BEST STORE FOR BABY

Wee Ones Reruns 2450 James St., Bellingham 360.733.6794, weeonesreruns.net

A Whatcom County staple since 1984, Wee Ones Reruns earned the top spot for its organized, clean store. Shop local and recycle the clothes your little one has outgrown while picking up something new. There’s also an area for children to play while you browse.

SILVER Bellingham Baby Company Lynden, 360.778.3249 BRONZE Carter’s Babies & Kids Bellingham, 360.738.4198

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© Alicia Prozinski

PETS

BEST PET STORE

Mud Bay 1022 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360.922.3900, mudbay.com

Mud Bay has earned a reputation for providing customers with the healthiest food options for their four-legged family members. It also has a great relationship with local shelters around the Puget Sound, providing food to thousands of animals awaiting their forever home.

SILVER Clark’s Feed & Seed Bellingham, 360.733.8330 BRONZE Bellingham Pet Supply Bellingham, 360.393.6121 82

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BEST DOGGIE DAYCARE

Tails-a-Wagging 3959 Hammer Dr., Bellingham 360.733.7387, tails-a-wagging.com

At Tails-a-Wagging, you can trust your pooch is having the time of his or her life in a safe, doggy-filled heaven. With huge facilities, a loving staff, and plenty of furry friends, both dog and owner can rest (or play) easy. They even have web cameras for owners who want to check in!

SILVER Rover Stay Over Lynden, 360.306.5931 BRONZE Hyline Hotel For Dogs Everson, 360.398.0174

BEST GROOMER

BEST BOARDING KENNEL

City Dogs

Hyline Hotel For Dogs

711 E. Holly St., Bellingham 360.756.9515, citydogsgrooming.com

For more than 20 years, City Dogs has been helping pooches of the Northwest have the healthiest coats possible. From the products used, to drying techniques, City Dogs provides a safe and relaxing environment for all dogs. Stop by for an appointment or for a quick selfwash of your canine Monday through Friday.

SILVER Shake & Shine Bellingham, 360.296.5226 BRONZE Bailey’s Bath House Bellingham, 360.733.9274

1014 E. Hemmi Rd., Everson 360.393.0714, hylinehotel.com

For the fourth year in a row, Hyline has earned gold thanks to impressed dogs and humans alike. Canines love Hyline’s care, services, and large 12-acre play area. Going on a trip? Hyline Hotel for Dogs will provide a vacation for both you and your pooch.

SILVER Northwest Kennels Bellingham, 360.384.6578 BRONZE 3 Schips and A Girl Bellingham, 360.927.6033

BEST DOG TRAINER

Bossdogs Training LLC. 7827 Enterprise Rd., Ferndale 360.927.2932

Have a young pup who gets a little too excited to see you, or maybe needs some help understanding leashes? Bossdogs Training is here to help you.

With loving guidance and a firm technique, you’ll be seeing results and your happy dog in no time.

SILVER Cedarwoods Canine School Bellingham, 360.384.6955 BRONZE The Dog Guy Bellingham, 360.255.9832

BEST VETERINARIAN

Fountain Veterinary Hospital 2430 Meridian St., #2, Bellingham 360.733.2660

© Alicia Prozinski

Trips to the hospital can be scary for both animals and their owners, but Fountain Veterinary Hospital makes it as painless as possible. With a knowledgeable and trained staff, no check-up is given without a healthy dose of love and care.

SILVER Maplewood Animal hospital Bellingham, 360.715.1430 BRONZE Northshore Veterinary Hospital Bellingham, 360.738.6916 October 2018 83

ROMANCE BEST WEDDING VENUE

BEST PLACE TO MEET SINGLES

Lairmont Manor

Rumors Cabaret

405 Fieldston Rd., Bellingham 360.647.1444, lairmontmanor.com

1119 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.671.1849, rumorscabaret.com

Lush gardens, a historical estate, and access to local vendors specializing in everything from food to flowers.

Winning the top spot yet again, the Lairmont Manor offers an elegant experience for family and friends to celebrate you and your loved one saying “I do.”

A central hub for fun-filled community events like talent shows and karaoke, Rumors Cabaret provides the perfect atmosphere to dance your heart out or meet someone new. All-inclusive and an all-around good time, anyone 21+ can grab a drink and mingle with some singles.

SILVER Bellingham Cruise Terminal Bellingham, 360.676.2500 BRONZE Evergreen Gardens Ferndale, 360.384.0739

SILVER Bellingham Fitness Bellingham, 360.733.1600 BRONZE State Street Bar Bellingham, 360.733.1619

BEST DATE NIGHT

The Upfront Theatre 1208 Bay St., Bellingham 360.733.8855, theupfront.com

Laughter is always best shared, regardless if it’s the first time you’re meeting up with someone or a yearly anniversary. With hilarious shows like the “Gateway Show” and “Internetland,” The Upfront Theatre is a great way to spend a night out on the town.

SILVER The Vault Wine Bar Blaine, 360.392.0955 BRONZE Rook & Rogue Board & Game Pub Bellingham, 360.207.4038

BEST HIKE

Oyster Dome Chuckanut Dr. wta.org

© Kate Galambos

A beloved hike by locals and passersthrough alike, Oyster Dome offers outstanding views as a reward for its steep incline. Once you reach the top, take a breather enjoying the panorama of the San Juan Islands that earned this hike the gold two years running.

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SILVER Heliotrope Ridge Deming, 360.856.5700 BRONZE Fragrance Lake Bellingham

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$

MassageEnvy.com

MASSAGEBellingham or FACIAL 330 36th Street Bellingham, WAsession* 98225 Intro 60 min.

MASSAGE or FACIAL 360-756-1100 Intro 60-min. session*

M–F 8a - 10p| S 8a - 6p | Su 10a - 5p

M – F 8am - 10pm S 8am - 6pm Su 10am - 6pm

DISCLAIMER: *Offer good for first-time guests only. Intro massage or intro facial session is a 60-minute session consisting of 50 minutes of hands-on services and a total of 10 minutes for consultation and dressing, which occurs both pre and post service. Prices subject to change. Rates and services may vary by franchised location and session. Not all Massage Envy franchised locations offer facial and other services. For a specific list of services, check with specific franchised location or see MassageEnvy.com. Additional local taxes and fees may apply. Each location is independently ME-DNLD-1716-00-001-04X6 owned and operated. ©2017 Massage Envy Franchising, LLC.

MassageEnvy.com

360.756.1100

330 36th Street, Bellingham,WA 98225 DISCLAIMER: *Offer good for first-time guests only. Intro massage or intro facial session is a 60-minute session consisting of 50 minutes of hands-on services and a total of 10 minutes for consultation and dressing, which occurs both pre and post service. Prices subject to change. Rates and services may vary by franchised location and session. Not all Massage Envy franchised locations offer facial and other services. For a specific list of services, check with specific franchised location or see MassageEnvy.com. Additional local taxes and fees may apply. Each location is independently owned and operated. ©2018 Massage Envy Franchising, LLC ME-DNLD-1716-00-001-04X6

Sunset Location

Now Open!

• Happy Hour Every Day 3:30–5:30 pm • Outdoor Dining Year Round • 1/2 Price Wine on Wednesday 1801 Roeder Ave Bellingham WA 98225 360.306.5668

1065 E Sunset Drive Bellingham WA 98226 360.707.7400

latituderestaurants.com

SERVICES BEST CLEAN ENERGY COMPANY

Western Solar 4041 Home Rd., Ste. A, Bellingham 360.746.0859, westernsolarinc.com

Western Solar has led the way in solar technology since its founding in 2002. With 900 homes and businesses powered, 4,594 estimated tons of CO2 offset annually, and more than 21,000 panels installed, they have become a trusted name in clean energy solutions.

SILVER Itek Energy Bellingham, 360.647.9531 BRONZE Sustainable Connections Bellingham, 360.647.7093

BEST FLORIST

Belle Flora 2408 Yew St., Bellingham 360.734.8454 bellinghamflowershop.com

Belle Flora flowers make a great impression no matter the occasion. From customdesigned floral arrangements to a wide variety of plants and fruit baskets, finding the perfect gift for friends, family and significant others is a breeze.

SILVER Pozie By Natalie Bellingham, 360.927.1286 BRONZE M & M Floral & Gifts Bellingham, 360.398.1315

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BEST TAILOR | SEAMSTRESS

BEST PLACE TO WORK

Amy’s Alterations

British Petroleum (BP)

2829 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.756.6515

Cherry Point Refinery, Blaine 360.371.1500, bp.com

Amy provides no-nonsense altering and repairing for men and women’s clothing.

Customers can count on her to offer advice when altering anything from a favorite pair of jeans to a wedding dress.

Amy works with customers by appointment and accepts walkins as well.

BP’s Cherry Point Refinery has earned a reputation as a responsible neighbor and great place to work. The company has donated thousands of hours to nonprofits like the Boys & Girls Clubs as well as giving nearly $5 million to United Way of Whatcom County since 2004.

SILVER Tommy The Tailor Bellingham, 360.650.9168 BRONZE Sew & Sew Bellingham, 360.733.5913

SILVER Western Washington University Bellingham, 360.650.3000 BRONZE 2020 Solutions Bellingham, 360.734.2020

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Phil Multop 2210 Rimland Dr., Bellingham 888.351.2430, multop.com

As the founder and president of Multop Financial, Multop’s experience began in 1976 with just a handful of clients. The business has since grown to serve Whatcom County. He has developed an expertise in tax planning for business owners and retirees.

SILVER James Twining Bellingham, 360.714.1234 BRONZE JD Phillips and Associates Inc. Bellingham, 360.398.9224

BEST LODGING

Rosario Resort & Spa

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

Kathy Stauffer 8105 Birch Bay Square St., Blaine 360.815.4718, kathystauffer.com

With 27 years of real estate experience in Blaine, Semiahmoo and Birch Bay markets, Stauffer has held the top selling position of Semiahmoo for years. Her focus is customer service and her goal is to create relationships with clients, rather than just make the sale.

SILVER Brandon Nelson Partners Realtors Bellingham, 360.389.2489 BRONZE Andrew Fouse Bellingham, 360.647.1313

1400 Rosario Rd., Eastsound 360.376.2222, rosarioresort.com

Located in charming Eastsound on Orcas Island, the Rosario Resort & Spa takes guests away from it all, setting the clock to island time.

Enjoy sweeping views of the San Juan Islands from guest rooms and feast on award-winning dining at your choice of three restaurants.

SILVER Hotel Bellwether Bellingham, 877.411.1200 BRONZE Inn at Lynden Lynden, 360.746.8597

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SERVICES BEST BANK

BEST MECHANIC

WECU

Harmony Motorworks

600 E. Holly St., Bellingham, various locations 800.525.8703, wecu.com

1922 Grant St., Bellingham 360.671.2420, harmonymotorworks.com

WECU is the largest credit union in Whatcom County, serving individuals and small business.

As a not-for-profit financial cooperative, WECU puts members ahead of the bottom line. Services include personal banking, loans, credit cards and online banking.

Since 1979, Harmony Motorworks has been a trusted auto shop here. In 1993 they expanded their shop and began specializing in European and Asian automobiles with their state-of-the art, 6,500-square-foot repair space featuring 12 service bays and extensive parts department.

SILVER First Federal Savings and Loan Bellingham, various locations, 360.714.6812 BRONZE People’s Bank of WA Bellingham, various locations, 360.734.9811

SILVER Bellingham Automotive Bellingham, 360.676.5200 BRONZE Master Auto Tech Bellingham, 360.383.5907

WALLY’S BARBER SHOP Perennial favorite for “Best Men’s Haircut,” Wally’s Barber Shop, lost its owner and top barber when Wally Whaley, 74, died in June.

Wally’s won again this year, and we were touched when some voters sent along brief notes with their online votes.

We’ve included them here: “RIP, my old friend.”

“Rest in peace, Wally.”

“Condolences to the family.”

“Forever Gold! RIP, Wally.”

“RIP, brother.”

“You’ll be missed, man!”

“Be seeing you again some day, Wally!”

“You were the best. Rest in peace.”

“We miss you.”

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AWARD-WINNING EYE CARE

Now in Bellingham

9x Winner!

www.CascadiaEye.com | 360.306.8341 As the premier regional eye care center in Skagit, Island, North Snohomish, and now Whatcom counties, Cascadia Eye brings: • Ophthalmology by experienced medical doctors, including Cascadia Eye founder, Dr. Nannette Crowell • Primary eye care by Dr. James Santoro, with over 34 years optometry experience, and outstanding optometrists Dr. Roslyn Howell and Dr. Jared Rasmussen • Fellowship-trained cornea specialist and surgeon for cataracts, cornea, and other procedures: Dr. Carlindo Pereira

3115 Old Fairhaven Pkwy Bellingham, WA 98225

1400 Broadway St, Bellingham, WA www.riceinsurance.com

OF THE

SILVER

of the

2015

BEST

NORTH

WEST

GOLD

of the

2017

BEST

NORTH

WEST

GOLD

Thank you to all our loyal clients for their continued support over the years, we are thrilled to be recognized year after year and could not do it without you!

ARE YOU IN PAIN? we can help, the Natural Way

• Body aches & Pain • Motor vehicle accidents • Old injuries • Work, sport and play • Headaches injuries

Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden, Mt Vernon, Anacortes and Everett

360.671.1710 | Naturalwaychiro.org

SERVICES

BEST INSURANCE AGENT

Cassie Robles, Rice Insurance 1400 Broadway, Bellingham 360.603.4315, riceinsurance.com

Rice Insurance has been serving individuals, families and businesses since 1946. Named the Best in the Northwest insurance agent yet again, Cassie Robles provides unmatched customer care for each of her clients. She specializes in home, auto, renters, flood, umbrella and earthquake protection.

© Jessie Bloss Photography

SILVER Nancy Leavitt, American Family Insurance Bellingham, 360.733.3626 BRONZE Joe Treat, State Farm Insurance Bellingham, 360.733.0870

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BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

BEST CREATIVE COMPANY

Diane Padys Photography

ClickMonster

Bellingham 360.201.4370, dianepadysphotography.com

2435 Strider Ln., Ste. 105, Bellingham 360.389.3093, clickmonster.com

Diane’s career has taken her to glamorous cities like New York, San Francisco and Seattle. Now, with more than 25 years of experience behind her, she calls the Pacific Northwest home. She has been praised for being easy to work with, affordable and artistically talented.

ClickMonster has been in the business of web design and optimization since the first years of the “wild wild web.” Today, ClickMonster specializes in digital marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), Google Analytics, social media marketing, and web design and hosting.

SILVER Radley Muller Photography Bellingham, 360.366.8050 BRONZE Katheryn Moran Photography Bellingham, 425.766.3755

SILVER FizzPop Media Bellingham, 360.999.5161 BRONZE Bold Eye Media Ferndale, 360.474.5504

BellinghamAlive.com

BEST CORPORATE MEETING SPACE

Squalicum Boathouse 2600 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham 360.676.2500, portofbellingham.com

Impress your colleagues with scenic views of Squalicum Harbor, Sehome Hill and Mount Baker, all from the oversized windows of the Squalicum Boathouse at Zuanich Point Park. The space offers a large stone fireplace, and full kitchen and buffet area, perfect for an all-day work event.

SILVER Four Points by Sheraton Bellingham, 360.671.1011 BRONZE Gateway Centre Executive Suites Bellingham, 360.685.4200

BEST AUTO DEALER

Roger Jobs Motors Inc. 2200 Iowa St., Bellingham 888.251.5340, rogerjobs.com

Roger Jobs Motors specializes in Audi, Porsche and Volkswagen vehicles all at one location. The dealership’s wide array of merchandise makes it a one-stop shop for your next new car.

Jobs also provides regular, convenient servicing for Audi, Porsche and Volkswagen cars.

BEST of the

2018

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October 2018 91

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Anywhere but my job

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For myself

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Nowhere

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October 2018 95

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96

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TRUTH FIRST COUNTRY S ECO N D PARTY THIRD

BY KEN KARLBERG

October 2018 97

These harsh realities are what they are, and what they always will be.

But why does today’s politics feel different? Because it is.

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oday’s politics are ugly, childish, embarrassing, you name it — pick any negative word — with anonymous and self-serving op-eds, tell-all books, lies, insults, hyperbole and manufactured anger. Even our children know that two wrongs don’t make a right, but we are fed a daily dose of immature “Oh, yeah, you are worse” schoolyard antics nonetheless. Absolute loyalty to the party and the party platform is demanded, or else. Senators Jeff Flake, Bob Corker, and John McCain are proof that Republicans will eat their own if they break ranks from the party platform. Democrats may be better, but only on the margin.

And the nation’s mood is no better.

We are badly divided, rabid in our support of our political opinions, certain that “my” party is right, and highly unlikely to consider any alternative except total capitulation by the “other side.” The new political mantra? “Just win, baby, at all costs.”

Change the rules of the game, midgame, if necessary. Nothing short of winning is acceptable, even if it means supporting policies that may not be in the country’s best interests.

The battle for control over the levers of governmental power is not new. Politics has never been for the timid. But today’s politics are a historical anomaly — the levels of hateful vitriol, extreme partisanship, and distrust are palpable, and exacerbated by social media and modern modes of communication that allow disseminators of disinformation to hide in Russia, or in plain sight. Unless civility returns, unexpectedly, this is sadly the new norm of political discourse.

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There is nothing new, however, about the dangers of political power, especially unchecked power and its potential for abuse. In the history of America, and the world for that matter, the examples are many where the pendulum of power swung significantly and those in power ignored the rule of law, institutional norms, the rights of minorities, and common decency.

Sadly, the world suffered for it. Just ask the Jews, or blacks, or women, or ethnic and religious minorities — the list is endless. Never in the history of the human race has unbalanced power moved the world to a higher consciousness of enlightenment.

Let that last thought steep for a moment. Absolute power, or power unchecked, has never advanced the fundamental values of justice, equal protection of the laws, or even human dignity. Never, ever. Why? Because power, and its close cousin, money, corrupts, perhaps not immediately, but eventually. Whenever power has consolidated into the hands of too few, their power became corrosive.

Ultimately, their power and their façade of “legitimacy” imploded.

Adolf Hitler comes immediately to mind. Hopefully, for the sake of their oppressed countrymen, Russia’s Vladimir Putin, Turkey’s president Recep Erdogan, North Korea’s Kim Jong-un, and others like them will soon suffer the same fate.

However, the potential for abuse is not the only inherent risk — power also protects itself. Once in power, those in power tend to take whatever measures are necessary, regardless of optics or damage to democratic institutions, to preserve and protect their power.

Again, this is not an earth-shattering

revelation. In the U.S., both major political parties first fight for power by manipulating the election process and public perception, fairly and unfairly, with or without honor, to their maximum advantage. Then, upon being elected, they immediately circle the political wagons to retain their party’s power and to secure their re-election. The last “white hat” in politics was perhaps George Washington or Abraham Lincoln, and even that is debatable.

These harsh realities are what they are, and what they always will be. But why does today’s politics feel different?

Because it is.

THE MAKING OF A POLITICAL MOLOTOV COCKTAIL Our country is at a uniquely dangerous intersection in history — a highly volatile confluence of unbalanced power, fear, disregard for norms and the rule of law, and loyalty to political party even over truth. Those who follow the stock market are familiar with the term “triple witching.” The catch-phrase refers to the simultaneous expiration of certain options and indexes on the third Friday of each quarter. The phenomenon causes, or can cause, volatile swings in the market. American politics is in a similar “triple witching” cycle, but the impact is beyond financial. The impact is at a granular level of human dignity that tests our nation’s morals and democratic institutions.

PRIMAL FEAR The first of the three “witches” is not new, but it is front and center yet again at an extreme. Perhaps the only power more corrosive than money, or power for power’s sake, is the exercise

Our country is at a uniquely dangerous intersection in history — a highly volatile confluence of unbalanced power, fear, disregard for norms and the rule of law, and loyalty to political party even over truth.

of power driven by primal fear or existential fear that access to the very levers of power are at stake.

In years past, we confronted similar fears, such as the fear of the Soviet Union, communism, and McCarthyism in the 1950s. The American way was at stake, or so McCarthy led the public to believe. That existential fear, stoked

by McCarthy and others, destroyed many, many lives before public opinion, and the politically powerful, turned against the national nightmare.

But McCarthyism only became politically toxic for the powerful when public opinion gave them political cover. Until then, the phrase “speak truth to power” had no political spine.

They were gutless. Congress, are you listening?

At the center of today’s primal fear is the threat to the power status quo posed by the decades-long ripple effect of immigration. The browning of America is inevitable even if all immigration, legal and illegal, ceased today forever. Put simply, the time is fast coming, regardless of our immigration policies, when those who historically enjoyed the privileges that come with power will be outnumbered at the ballot box. Power will no longer pass from privileged elite class of largely white Republicans to privileged elite class of largely white Democrats.

It is a virtual certainty. Power will ultimately pass to all Americans. In this sense, the perceived threat is fake.

The threat is neither existential, nor primal, because political power is not owned by the privileged under our Constitution and Bill of Rights.

Power is shared by all.

Nonetheless, certain elements in society, who comprise minority percentages

within both major parties, are in denial.

They cling to the past — and rather than compete or embrace the unifying moral values that bind all Americans together, those in power who share their perspective seek to exclude and divide out of self-protection. No doubt that terrorism and illegal immigration are legitimate potential threats to public safety, but the degree of the threat need not cause us to abandon our moral DNA. Immigration and terrorism are the modern-day equivalent to McCarthyism. Do we need to learn the lesson, again? Hopefully not.

We can honor our sacred heritage, and simultaneously protect the public’s safety. The concepts are not incompatible if balanced carefully and respectfully.

But for so long as the powerful underestimate the intelligence of the powerless, the public justifications for the exercise of primal power will never be totally transparent. Parts of the Trump narrative are true — such as the need to protect against terrorism.

However, as Trump bragged in his book, “Art of the Deal,” he is the master of “truthful hyperbole.”

The threat of homeland terrorism by immigrants may be real, but the magnitude of the threat is exaggerated to support a sales pitch. The question is at what cost? Justified or not, fear seldom brings out the best in one’s character. Race, class, gender, sexual orientation, and religion are being insidiously weaponized, again, by many policy makers to cause us to fear “non-Americans,” whatever that means, and each other.

Let’s be clear about the moral precipice upon which we are precariously perched. In the current political environment, we are presented with a Hobson’s choice that asks us

to compromise certain national values out of primal fear and to an extent, personal greed. Have we regressed to the point where the President can all but say to blacks, “I can call you a n----- if I give you a job,” or to all of us, “Kiss my ass, I am a job creator?”

Shall we look the other way if we are perhaps better off financially? What is the price of integrity today?

These questions should challenge us. The answers matter. Existential fear prompts the question: Who are we?

POLITICAL TRIBALISM The second of the three “witches,” political tribalism, feeds off this primal fear, causing the major parties to demonize each other like many husbands and wives who are middivorce. Inevitably, this manufactured hate justifies wrongs and bad behavior.

Winning becomes imperative — us against them, Yankees against Red Sox, Alabama against Auburn — even if winning requires disregarding the rule of law and centuries-old institutional norms that are an integral part of the nation’s checks on unbalanced power.

Honor, morality, ethics and respect for the rule of law are often the first casualty, as if these fundamental principles — our national code of conduct — should be optional values when inconvenient.

They are not. Norms such as the Senate filibuster rule or the judicial nomination rules, for example, must be immutable.

Imagine the NBA Finals being played, and Michael Jordan fouls out in Game 7, except that the referees decide that Jordan, and only Jordan gets seven fouls.

Or in the last round of the U.S. Open, Jack Nicklaus hits a shot into a hazard, and he falls out of contention, only to be …

October 2018 99

… given a mulligan. Norms are norms for a reason — they ensure political fairness, they ensure political balance of power, they ensure some semblance of stability when the nation’s mood changes. Frustration by the party in power was by design, not an oversight by our Founding Fathers. Again, the extreme example of Hitler comes to mind.

The tribal temptation to cheat, of course, is neither new, nor limited to one party or the other. President Franklin Roosevelt, a Democrat, became so frustrated with the U.S. Supreme Court’s rulings during the Great Depression that he attempted to pack the court with additional justices who would be more favorable to his agenda. In more recent history, it was Richard Nixon, a Republican, who sought to gain a political advantage and punish his enemies in the 70s. And today, the cheating continues.

This fall’s battle over Brett Kavanaugh’s nomination is but the latest branch of the fruit of the poisonous tree given life by Democrat Senator Harry Reid’s decision in 2013 to eliminate the Senate’s filibuster rule on non-Supreme Court nominations.

The temptation proved too great. Sacrifices in morals, ethics, and indeed, norms, often occur in life when the potential harm is minimized to justify an action. That one compromise of institutional norms gave Mitch McConnell and Republicans free license, in their quest to tip the balance of power in the Supreme Court, to first refuse to take up President Obama’s Supreme Court nomination of Merrick Garland in 2016, and to then slip down the slope even further by eliminating the Senate filibuster rule for Supreme Court nominees in 2017.

One truism is certain — the sharp end of the stick is indifferent to the handler. History tends to repeat itself. Unintended consequences may have given us Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch, but the decisions by McConnell to further flaunt institutional norms will ultimately come at a high cost. Without the strict enforcement of norms and political order, only the “when” and the “how” remain uncertain. We are better than this. Changing the institutional “rules of game” out of political expediency is not just unbecoming. Our government’s moral standing to lead with integrity, domestically and internationally, is at stake. If we can’t walk the walk, who are we to preach?

LORD VOLDEMORT AND THE ASSAULT ON TRUTH Primal fear and moving the political goal posts aside — as damaging as each is to our democracy — nothing threatens democracy more than attacks on truth, the third “male witch equivalent.” Except for objective scientific truths, the search for truth is often elusive and personal because we filter facts through the fabric of our life values. Total objectivity, in this sense, seldom exists. That said, however, the truth should never be what we want it to be. The truth exists independently of what we want based on facts, most of which can be quantified objectively. If truth is the true goal, transparency in the critical thinking process is paramount.

Inconvenient facts can’t be ignored. Otherwise, we are left with “alternative truth” with no basis in fact.

Today’s climate is reminiscent of the Soviet era, or even Russia today, where truth is whatever is good for the party.

Democrats and Republicans alike cherry-pick selective facts or manufacture facts, and then the twisting of the “alternative truth” starts in earnest. We look down our noses at Putin, Josef Stalin 100 BellinghamAlive.com

Today’s climate is reminiscent of the Soviet era, or even Russia today, where truth is whatever is good for the party. or Hitler, but what distinguishes today’s home-grown political propaganda from other dictatorships, past or present? The answer: Not enough. Again, we should be better than this.

The truth gap between our government and all Americans should be only as wide as legitimate differences of opinion can be supported factually.

And yet, the search for truth has too often become a casualty of primal fear, the need to win, and party loyalty.

For many, the truth isn’t even what they want the truth to be at this point — their “wants” have simply given way to what’s good for the party. Their “truth” filter is either broken, or disconnected altogether by choice. In our judicial system, the trier-of-fact stands silent until a judgment is rendered after all the evidence is considered. Judges and juries do not discuss the evidence publicly prior to deliberating, or during the trial itself.

The search for justice demands it. But we are subjected to almost daily updates from the chairs of House and Senate committees investigating the Clinton emails, Russia’s involvement in the 2016 elections, and potential campaign finance violations. Each seeks to influence and/or manipulate public opinion — before all the evidence is even gathered — through the selective release of purported facts. Imagine if judges were allowed to comment, mid-trial, on evidence in front of a jury. The public’s faith in the fairness of the judicial system would be severely undermined.

Admittedly, the search for truth is hard work sometimes. But you can’t find truth if you are looking for it. What we want to be true may not be true; what our party wants to be true may not be. The lessons that we need to learn were taught to us all in elementary school. The path back from the negative impacts of primal fear and over-the-top party loyalty may only be found at the altar of the search for truth. It’s time to put truth first, country second, party third.

THE MIDTERMS ARE COMING. The political pendulum swings back and forth with changes in administration. The pendulum always has. But simply because it always has, doesn’t mean that the pendulum always will, or that we, the people, should accept our fate while the pendulum swings. For the upcoming midterm elections, look past party and apply a new litmus test. Ask candidates difficult questions, like when did they last oppose a position in their party’s political platform, or when they voted with the opposing party on any particular issue. Most of all, challenge them. Ask them if they have the courage to look for the truth independently of what is good for party, or even the country. If you aren’t satisfied with the answer, reject them regardless of party affiliation. A healthy democracy requires courage to be honest and transparent. Truth is an antiseptic. Truth is a patriot. 

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Picture-Perfect on Sandy Point WRITTEN BY MERI-JO BORZILLERI

T

his Sandy Point home in Ferndale was designed with windows, airy comfort and the outdoors in mind. Views of the Strait of Georgia and Sucia Island dominate the house’s west side. Ground-floor living and space above for family and houseguests is a priority.

The home features two master suites, one on the first level and another on the second, plus more bedrooms on the uppermost floor. Alexei Ford, the home’s designer and general contractor, also owns Bellingham’s Ruckus Art Gallery, and his creative influence shows — interior trim was kept to a minimum to accentuate artwork and larger architectural elements. With the home situated on a half-acre of waterfront, the owners enjoy entertaining and nature, with beach walks a part of most days.  Builder | Ian Hamilton, Seattle Designer | Alexei Ford Design Studio, Bellingham Photographer | Tim Chandonnet, Bellingham … continued on next page

HABITAT Featured Home

Large slabs of composite Pennsylvania bluestone add visual warmth to that from the fireplace itself. Asian design influences are seen in the bright Persian carpet and bamboo flooring.

A 1950s Danish teak table highlights the home’s Great Room on the first level.

Lighting lends an art gallery feel to the wall’s framed prints.

104 BellinghamAlive.com

Water-facing windows, including the upper level’s large gabled one, connect living spaces and the outdoors. To maintain the view from the second-level master suite, the new metal roof is kept low, and shades fold into the ceiling on the ground floor for the same reason.

Chuckanut sandstone, from the riprap removed from Bellingham’s Marine Park during an improvement project, provide a local landscaping accent just outside.

October 2018 105

The outbuilding in back (above) was originally a carriage house that was completely refurbished from the foundation up. One of the first residential structures built on the point, today it houses the owner’s hobby shop.

Around this corner (left), a covered picnic spot close to the kitchen makes outdoor eating a breeze. A section of the house-long concrete patio makes an ideal spot for bootwashing and crab-cleaning.

106 BellinghamAlive.com

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HABITAT

Transforming a Garage Into a Game Room WRITTEN BY JENNIFER RYAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY DEBBIE SCHWAB PHOTOGRAPHY

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he challenge: Transform an unused one-car garage into a game room for the family’s two teenagers, a boy and a girl. The parents wanted a hangout where the teens could spend time by themselves and with their friends. In other words, a place they could watch movies, play music and games — and make the usual teenage noise.

The youths were more specific. Their wish list: Room for a disco ball, a foosball table, a drum set, a large TV set with surround sound, hangout space with an Archie comic book theme.

All of this was pretty easy to accommodate with the exception of the television. The garage came with a cement floor, concrete half-wall, no heat, and minimal lighting, but did have a storage loft.

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… I created a pass-through in the floor of the loft and called in my friend Kevin Hall, owner of Metalbox Industrial Designs to build me a custom ladder up the wall and into the loft.

Next, what kind of loft railing is safe for teenagers but see-through so they can view the TV that was to be mounted across the room above the French doors? A glass railing would work perfectly: three-eighths-inch safety glass, one large panel in the center and two smaller side panels would be perfect. Pre-fab deck railings didn’t have the look I was going for, so Hall built me the perfect stanchions to support the heavy glass.

The loft was outfitted with red and white carpet tiles from Flor. This way if there was a spill that couldn’t be cleaned, the homeowners could just replace a square. Also, because the ceiling was low, we got four oversized fur bean bags in lieu of a sofa or chairs.

Another challenge that arose was a window at floor height in the loft. We needed a safety net.

Back to Hall I went. I gave him a drawing and he fabricated metal bars that opened (for an emergency) in a fun Jughead design! Loft complete.

In the main area, I stained the concrete floor in dark brown with a little black thrown in to give it

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some interest and shine, covered the concrete half-wall with corrugated metal, and finished it off with a dark rustic stained wood bar top that could be used for holding drinks, food, and more.

The foosball table takes center stage in the main floor area with the drum set tucked away nicely under the loft.

I painted the walls a bright royal blue reminiscent of the “Archie” era, and the ceiling dark gray. When I hung the disco ball and light in the corner, the wall color became the perfect backdrop to the swirling lights. At some point the previous owners had replaced the garage door with French doors. Not much needed there except to have them etched to add some privacy. Lastly, vintage Archie comic art was added to the walls.

All that was left was the heating issue. I called in Jeff Caldwell with Heating Green to install radiant heaters up high and out of the way. The garage didn’t need cooling, just heat in the winter, and this was the perfect solution. It is low-cost to run and easy to install into almost any space and works especially well with high ceilings.

I tried to keep the kids out as much as possible so they could have a “wow” moment when they first saw it. It worked! 

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8 Great Tastes · Dining Guide · Mixing Tin · Sip

Sense of Place, With Plates The Rhododendron Café WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY HARRISON AMELANG

C

huckanut Drive, also known as State Highway 11, perfectly portrays all that the Pacific Northwest has to offer. The twisting two-lane road offers breathtaking views of bay, beaches, mountains, evergreens, and wildlife before emptying into vast swaths of grassland and farming plains. … continued on next page

… A little farther down the rural road is the town of Bow, and on the left hand sits a small, inviting cafe with a sign out front saying simply “Rhody.”

Inside, The Rhododendron Café feels modern with a farmhouse flair. An old wooden hutch with glass cupboards sits against crisp red and white walls. Pieces of framed artwork hang throughout and decorative plants reach toward hungry customers. Sporadic rumbles of diesel semitrucks are hardly noticeable behind the mellow folk music playing overhead. The restaurant has two main dining rooms, and outside is an open-air, gazebo-like area open when the weather permits.

Owners Lisa Cooney and Jim Kowalski knew they wanted their restaurant to have a focus on fresh, local Washington ingredients when they took over “The Rhody” five years ago.

That goal is realized through the place’s cozy, home-style feel.

Even the pew-like benches that line the walls were built by a local carpenter. Small glass vases hold fresh-picked zinnias that sit next to small paper dessert menus on pressed wood tables, giving the air of a family dining room.

Like the country roads that brought you there, there is no rush at The Rhody. A quiet buzz of activity lives behind the metallic clink of silverware, the chatter of the tables and muted kitchen noise.

Kowalski, also the head chef, specializes in Northwest seasonal cuisine and has mastered the art of reacting to a dynamic part of the culinary world. In order to keep ingredients seasonal, The Rhody changes its menu three times a year to follow what is fresh, in season, and available.

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The result is something beautifully Pacific Northwest that looks, tastes, and is everything Western Washington.

One of their more popular dishes, a tender bone-in pork chop with apple-brandy crème, ($28) brings spinach from Edison, apples from the garden, pork from Bellingham, and spätzle into a warm conglomeration of home-style cooking.

It doesn’t skimp on serving size, either. It’s enough food to fill any weary traveler, especially when paired with a wedge salad ($10, also deliciously fresh). Order the chicken saltimbocca with risotto ($21) for a flavorful and hearty entrée, and save room for the coconut cake with pineapple cream frosting ($8.25), good for sharing.

A quick walk outside will reveal the cafe’s Pacific Northwest and local focus. Edible flowers bloom on small trellises, and a small greenhouse protects peppers, mint, basil and cherry tomatoes from curious critters. Rhododendron plants quietly reside against the restaurant that bears their name. Cooney, who has some help tending to the gardens, also manages a larger garden in nearby Edison that houses more vegetables like cucumbers, which she turns into pickles.

The cafe provides a comfortable setting to explore the special sense of place. The Rhododendron works as a hub, a place where ingredients grown or gathered from different parts of western Washington come together to produce tasty results. The Rhododendron is not just farm-to-table, but life-to-you.  5521 Chuckanut Dr., Bow 360.766.6667 | rhodycafe.com

DINING KEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to $9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . $10–19 . . . . . . . . . . . . $20–29 . . . . . . . . $30 or greater . . . . . . . . . . . . Breakfast . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dinner . . . . . . . . . Family-Friendly . . . . . . . . . . . . . Takeout . . . . . . . . Outdoor Seating . . . . . . . . . . Reservations . . . . . . . . . . Happy Hour . . . . . . . . . New Review Menu items and prices are subject to change, so check before you go.

See all our restaurant reviews on our Eat and Drink tab at BellinghamAlive.com * Review provided by restaurant.

WHATCOM AVENUE BREAD Deli Downtown Cafe: 1313 Railroad Ave., Bellingham, 1135 11th St., Bellingham 2301 James St., Bellingham 444 Front St., Lynden 360.715.3354, avenuebread.com With several convenient locations in Bellingham and a location in Lynden, Avenue is one of Bellingham’s favorite lunch spots.

Fresh ingredients make these sandwiches unusually good — the bread is made inhouse, and the vegetables and meat are all of the highest quality. Avenue also offers one of the freshest, best breakfast sandwiches around — the Eggenue.

B-TOWN KITCHEN AND RAW BAR Seafood, American

714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360.671.1101, fourpointsbellingham.com If fresh shellfish is your gastronomic highlight, you’re in the right place at B-Town Kitchen, in the former Poppe’s 360 space. The Seafood Tower for Two offers plenty to sample; items from the Small Plates menu, like thick handsliced strips of Calamari Steak, make terrific appetizers or adult beverage-worthy snacks.

For an entrée, the Double R Ranch Ribeye Steak, is sauced with Oyster Mushroom demiglace, and served with sides of fresh seasonal vegetables and togarashi red potato mash.

BAYOU ON BAY Cajun/Creole

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1300 Bay St., Bellingham 360.752.2968, bayouonbay.com Bayou On Bay serves a wide variety of classic Cajun/Creole dishes, such as gumbo, jambalaya, po’ boy sandwiches, and hush puppies, to name a few. A house-made remoulade, which accompanies many of the dishes, is worth the trip alone. The bar offers an extensive list of drink options. Bayou on Bay is a must for foodies as well as people just looking for a satisfying meal.

BELLINGHAM CIDER CO. American 205 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.510.8494, bellinghamcider.com The food reminds me of the type of homecooked meal that, as a youngster, you would look forward to when your parents decided to make a special meal. Comfort food is reflected in the simple, yet thoughtful and well-executed dishes. Each dish has a handful of components and ingredients all locally or regionally sourced. The kitchen is open, and you can sit at the bar and chat. Dinner is Wednesday through Sunday, with lunch added on weekends.

The short ribs, slowly braised in beer for hours, are fall-apart tender. With the appetizer of burnt carrots, lightly grilled/charred and fantastic on their own, the meal reminds me of my mother’s pot roast, in the best way. The most popular item on the menu? The chicken and waffles. Some advice: If you order the burnt carrots, ask for them extra dark.

carte, or create a plate with a selection of all three for a hearty and satisfying lunch.

DIRTY DAN HARRIS Steakhouse 1211 11th St., Bellingham 360.676.1087, dirtydanharris.com The “dirt” on Dirty Dan Harris? In a word: excellent. The steakhouse provides warm, friendly waitstaff, quaint historic surroundings, and superb food. Perhaps the best reflection on the restaurant is owner Kathy Papadakis’ waitstaff. Most have worked here for years — and it shows in their enthusiasm for your dining experience. The filet mignon is Dirty Dan’s signature entree. You won’t be disappointed.

Leave room for dessert, however, because the selections are dangerously good.

EAT French 1200 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.306.3917, 4u2eat.com The combination of fresh, local produce, fish, meat, and spirits combine beautifully with classic French cooking at this chic and tasty restaurant. The atmosphere is urban charm, and the service is unparalleled.

FILLING STATION American

CAMBER COFFEE Coffeehouse, American

1138 Finnegan Way, Bellingham 360.715.1839, fillingstationnw.com

221 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.656.5343, cambercoffee.com Camber is more than a coffee shop. Customers can decide to order at the counter for a quicker bite, or enjoy table service for a more traditional restaurant experience. Throughout the day customers will find a full menu for breakfast (or brunch depending on your wake up time), lunch, and dinner. The food is best described as “new American comfort.”

Breakfast items include hearty favorites that are given an upscale facelift, like buttermilk waffles made with whole grains and served with European butter — richer than the American version. The lunch and dinner menu features a half-roasted chicken with summer squash and fennel.

The 1950s vibe resonates within the walls of this all-American burger joint. From the antique gas pump to the car memorabilia lining the restaurant, The Filling Station is Fairhaven’s newest go-to spot to satisfy your hunger. With names like The Chevy Pickup, The Mustang, and the Thunderbird, the menu provides different burger selections along with appetizers like Dip Sticks (deep-fried zucchini strips), Hot Rod (footlong hot dog), or the Junkyard (classic, onion, and tire fries).

GOAT MOUNTAIN PIZZA Italian 211 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.510.6336

CIAO THYME ON THE SIDE CAFE Lunch 207 Unity St., Bellingham 360.733.1267, ciaothyme.com For those who have experienced Ciao Thyme’s gourmet dinners and cooking classes, the new Ciao Thyme on the Side Café is a welcome addition to the delicious work of Jessica and Mataio Gillis, owners of Ciao Thyme catering. As with everything Ciao Thyme does, ­ingredients are fresh, local, and in season.

Choose soups, salads, and sandwiches a la

Red brick walls, local art, and unusual pizzas sold by the pound are all offered in Goat Mountain Pizza’s space in downtown Bellingham. Served on parchment paper on a wooden board, the restaurant’s original pizzas, like potato bacon, the spicy fennel sausage, and the gluten-free caramelized onion/ walnut are among the customer favorites and are worth a taste. Even though the slices are reheated for serving, the pizza still maintains tenderness — especially in the crust, which contains many flavors and a mix of a soft inside with slightly crisp edges. Pizza isn’t the only entree available, as Goat Mountain also

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offers options such as a potato leek soup (which is mouth-watering and itself worth a trip to the restaurant!) and the Goat Mountain salad with quinoa, greens, carrots, candied walnuts, orange pieces, red onions, and a sweet maple basil vinaigrette. Topped off with some local beer and cider, the Goat Mountain pizza experience is complete. Also — Goat Mountain Pizza brings a food truck to events! Keep an eye on their social media to have more opportunities to enjoy a slice!

HOMESKILLET American 521 Kentucky St., Bellingham 360.676.6218, homeskilletinsunnyland.com Owners Tina and Kirby named their restaurant after one of their favorite lines in the movie Juno, when the main character calls a store clerk “homeskillet.” The skillets on their menu came afterward, but are now one of the eatery’s most popular items. A small skillet is filled with perfectly-fried potatoes, eggs, and toppings you choose. Try Tina and Kirby’s personal favorite: the poutine, home fries smothered in traditional gravy, topped with fried eggs, and cheese. Homeskillet can’t be beat with its friendly service, colorful atmosphere and ultimate comfort food.

KEENAN’S AT THE PIER Northwest, American & Seafood

804 10th St., Bellingham 360.392.5510, thechrysalisinn.com Casual yet elegant. Keenan’s at the Pier, located inside the Chrysalis Inn & Spa in Fairhaven, features fresh, local cuisine and a full bar. Keenan’s highlights the beauty and style of the Pacific Northwest with fresh ingredients that are seasonal and regionally sourced. Enjoy Bellingham Bay views from every table where breakfast, lunch, happy hour and dinner are served daily. Brunch on Sundays. Reservations are highly recommended.

LYNDEN DUTCH BAKERY American 421 Front St., Lynden 360.354.3911, lyndendutchbakery.com Guests of Lynden Dutch Bakery will have a hard time picking just one sweet treat. Options include pies, donuts, fritters, cakes, and seemingly countless more. The wide variety of scones are some of the shop’s most popular items. It also has options for visitors missing their sweet tooth.

Breakfast items like eggs, bacon, and breakfast sandwiches incorporate in-house made bread and bagels. The shop pours a Fidalgo Coffee Roasters specialty breakfast blend. Incorporating, as well as supporting, other local businesses is important to the owners. Fruit pies use berries grown just a few miles from the shop, and the owners sell many of their pastries to local businesses for wholesale.

MAGDALENAS Crêperie, European

CULINARY EVENTS DeLille Cellars Vintner Dinner October 4, 6 p.m.

Enjoy a decadent five-course meal from chef Norman Six of Lovitt Restaurant, paired with wine from one of the premier wineries in the nation, DeLille Cellars, which made Wine and Spirits Magazine’s Top 100 Wineries of 2017. This seasonal and locally sourced cuisine includes soft-poached oysters, morel mushrooms, and a blackberry sourdough tart, all paired with their own, carefully selected DeLille wines. Dinner is $89 per person, and reservations are open until Sept. 28.

Lovitt Restaurant 1114 Harris Ave., Bellingham | dsvintners.com

Bergevin Lane Winemakers Dinner October 19, 5:30 p.m.

Bergevin Lane wine and Semiahmoo Resort’s top chefs team up for this five-course dinner in a beautiful setting.

The meal will be prepared by Semiahmoo chefs Bruno Feldeisen, a judge on “The Great Canadian Baking Show” on CBC, and Devin Kellogg, an official delegate of the Slow Food Terra Madre Convention in Turin, Italy, for a can’t-miss evening.

Semiahmoo Resort 9565 Semiahmoo Pkwy., Blaine | semiahmoo.com

Truffle Making Class October 26, 6 p.m.

Rolled, molded, or dipped? Learn how to make handmade truffles and experiment with different flavor combinations and toppings at this event hosted

by Forte Artisan Chocolates in Mount Vernon. Then take home a box of your homemade treats to show off and share with friends and family.

Forte Artisan Chocolates 1400 Riverside Dr., Mount Vernon | fortechocolates.com

1200 10th St., Ste. 103, Bellingham 360.483.8569, magdalenascreperie.com

Eat Island Grown

Paris, London, New York, Vancouver, and Bellingham have them. Little shops where the aromas of sweet and savory crêpes, custom sandwiches, and hot soup du jour fill the air. With a formidable selection of crêpes, it’ll take more than one trip to decide which is better, sweet or savory. But at this eatery, it is criminal to pass up the sweet little numbers filled with velvety smooth vanilla-flavored cream cheese, white chocolate, and your choice of fresh fruit. A crêpe option for every crêpe crave.

October 28, noon

Indulge in some of the best food the San Juan Islands has to offer at this tasting event. Local chefs whip up scrumptious meals and desserts using locally sourced ingredients from San Juan farms. While it’s sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds, there will also be live music and both live and silent auctions.

Brickworks 150 Nichols St., Friday Harbor | visitsanjuans.com October 2018 117

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Looking to Bounce Back Whatcom County Wineries WRITTEN & PHOTOGRAPHED BY DAN RADIL

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ny business has its ups and downs, and the Whatcom County wine industry is no different. It wouldn’t even be a stretch to say that the county has been in a bit of a downward cycle as of late, contracting from a peak of 13 wineries a few years ago to the 10 that now produce and sell wine here.

That doesn’t necessarily mean there’s cause for alarm among Whatcom County wine enthusiasts. On the contrary, there are still plenty of solid, affordable wines being produced by area winemakers and new and better ways to enjoy them.

But the lack of growth does raise questions as to the general health and continuity of the local wine industry.

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What’s behind the current downturn?

And why haven’t more wineries opened here when Washington state, as a whole, continues to expand its role as a player on the domestic and international wine scene?

TIME, MONEY AND BEER When Ken and Jill Peck, husband-andwife winemakers and owners of Blaine’s Dakota Creek Winery closed their doors in 2016, people assumed that something went wrong. Bankruptcy, slow sales, and health issues were all gossipy topics tossed around the wine consumer water cooler as possible reasons for the winery’s “demise.”

As it turns out, the Pecks went out on top when they decided to wrap

things up — without even considering selling the winemaking facility next to their home. Ken had previously retired as a U.S. Customs agent about 10 years earlier. And the closure of Dakota Creek Winery was simply, as he referred to it, a “true retirement.”

One might think that the county’s aspiring winemakers would look at this as an opportunity to fill a void in the local wine industry, but it’s not that easy.

“There’s a lot of hard work to starting a winery and most people don’t realize that,’ says Margarita Vartanyan of Vartanyan Estate Winery, located just east of Bellingham off the Mount Baker Highway. She also cites the time and financial considerations in getting your product on the market as a major detriment to any startup winery.

“A brewery might take three months to get their beer ready, but a winery could take over two years before they are able to sell their wine,” she says. Vartanyan uses her own red wines as an example, which require at least that much time to age in the barrel and bottle before they can be released.

The economics are simple: When wines aren’t ready to sell, the winery isn’t making any money.

Bellingham’s Peter Osvaldik of Dynasty Cellars agrees that this is a difficult time to break into the wine industry in Whatcom County.

“It’s a tight market for any winery,” he says, and the proliferation of Bellingham microbreweries hasn’t helped. “The beer scene has overwhelmed the town.” The area’s younger, college demographic has contributed to a shift in more breweries and beer production… at the expense of area wineries.

GOOD WINES AND INNOVATIVE MARKETING While the Whatcom County wine industry struggles, those loyal to local wineries have reason to be both happy with today’s wines and optimistic about the future.

A case in point: the performance of area wineries at this summer’s third annual Bellingham Northwest Wine Festival, which featured more than 175 wines from the Pacific Northwest. Four

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Whatcom County-based wineries participated in the festival and its judged competition. Fourteen wines were entered; 14 wines earned medals.

Included in the accolades were Everson’s Samson Estates Winery, which captured a gold medal for its Delilah Blackberry Wine, along with a bronze and three silvers that included its Delilah Raspberry Wine and Black Currant and Framboise Raspberry Dessert Wines. Blaine’s GLM Wine Co. earned a silver for its 2017 Rock Flour Sauvignon Blanc plus a bronze medal.

Dynasty Cellars took home a silver for its Irresponsible Red Wine Blend and three bronzes, and Vartanyan Estate Winery won a bronze medal, plus silvers for its 2012 Nebbiolo and 2014 Trilogia Red Wine.

In continuing to produce awardwinning wines, all of these wineries are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to enhance the tasting room experience and bring more visitors to their wineries.

Vartanyan has plans to revive her popular outdoor concert series and frequently hosts special events such as “bottle your own wine” and barrel tastings. Osvaldik has launched a new food menu with plans to expand his outdoor patio area and commercial kitchen. Anne Gould, manager at Samson Estates, continues to promote the winery’s pavilion adjacent to the tasting room as a venue for weddings, office parties, and other special events.

There’s also considerable buzz surrounding Mount Baker Vineyards & Winery near Everson, which was sold earlier this year. The new owners have been working on a much-needed facelift to the tasting room and product rebranding while local wine enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the winery’s reopening.

And Tom Davis, co-owner and winemaker of GLM Wine Co., notes that he saw an uptick in sales this summer at his near-the-border winery, in spite of a weak Canadian dollar.

That’s all encouraging news for Whatcom County wineries and wine drinkers alike. It’s also the bright side about nearing what appears to be the bottom of a business cycle. There’s no place to go but up. 

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Nickis Bar and Grill on the waterfront in Bellingham serving award winning, hand dipped, tempura style fish & chips. Build your own burger featuring our handcrafted USDA chuck patties and fresh baked buns.

2615 South Harbor Loop Drive, Bellingham 360.332.2505 | nickisbellamarina.com

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DINE Dining Guide NORTHWATER Regional NW 4260 Mitchell Way, Bellingham 360.398.6191, northh2o.com From breakfast to late night dinner, Northwater’s 185-seat restaurant features Pacific Northwest dishes made from locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. We found the restaurant’s wait staff to be personable and enthusiastic, and eager to answer our queries about ingredient sources and what desserts they’d recommend. There’s a diverse menu of classic dishes with a twist, like the Seafood Sausage Corn Dogs with blueberry mustard — sweet-from-the-citrus cornbread and spicy from the mustard. Try the Fried Chicken and Waffle, featuring savory flavors of garlic and herbs drizzled with a pepper syrup.

SCOTTY BROWNS North American Cuisine 3101 Newmarket St., Bellingham 360.306.8823 4255 Mitchell Way, Bellingham 360.318.7339 brownsrestaurantgroup.com/scottybrowns Scotty Browns offers an edgy, energetic ambiance, a varied menu of mainstream and upscale creations, and excellent drink options for all ages. Outdoor dining is a popular alternative during warmer weather. The selection of beer, wine, and cocktails is broad enough to accommodate most any mood. If you are into martinis or cosmos, try the Mr. Pink. The name is a little unnerving to order if you are male, but worth the leap of faith. Some items on the menu, like appetizers, change seasonally, so you know you’ll never get bored. Casual to upscale dining options range from hamburgers, rice bowls, and pastas to higher-end seafood and steaks. Also now available in the Bellingham airport, travelers can choose sitdown or takeout pub fare like burgers and pizza. Hours there vary, so call ahead.

ceviche, mussels, halibut, and oysters. The ceviche ($14.5) is colorful, crunchy and tart.

The rockfish is complemented with mango, lime, and blood orange for a zesty, fresh experience. To balance all that citrus, try the chicken liver mousse ($8) as a creamy and indulgent partner to the ceviche. There are “poolside” beverages like the daiquiri, paloma, and Cosmopolitan, all classics with twists. The rum-forward pina colada with caramelized coconut, pineapple, and rum, is delicious.

TASTE OF INDIA Indian 3930 Meridian St., Ste. 107, Bellingham 360.778.1262 At Taste of India all the dishes are rich, delicious, and truly feel authentic. Dishes come with your choice of pulao rice or the classic Indian bread naan. Taste of India offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, all with exquisite and well-developed flavors. There’s also a variety of flavors of naan, including garlic or spinach. For those unsure of what to order, or those who want to try multiple dishes at once, try the lunch buffet.

Serving fresh, healthy meals with the customer in mind is what Super Mario’s is all about, and it’s the consistent flavor and quality of the food that keeps bringing people back. The veggies are chopped fresh daily, nothing is frozen, and nothing is cooked until it’s ordered. In addition, nothing is deep fried.

SWIM CLUB WET BAR American 1147 11th St., Bellingham 360.393.3826, swimclubbar.com The menus depend on the season, changing to take advantage of local ingredients as much as possible, Grayling says. For example, the spring menu, named De Le Mar, or “Of the Sea,” features numerous seafood dishes like

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ANELIA’S KITCHEN Polish 513 South 1st St., La Conner 360.399.1805, aneliaskitchenandstage.com A welcoming atmosphere, local food prepared with care, and great music make Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage a must-visit. The more than 25 house-infused Polish vodkas and myriad of local beers on tap will make you wonder why you didn’t visit sooner. Na zdrowie!

306 W. Champion St.,Bellingham, 360.676.8660, templebarbellingham.com Continually recognized for their craft cocktails and small plates, Temple Bar aims to please.

Begin with the classic Temple Bar cheese plate, a collection of three rotating cheeses varying in texture and flavor. They are often paired with fruit, honey, toasted nuts, and bread.

Next, dive into a piping hot gratin, which varies based on what is in season. In between bites of a salad made with locally sourced ingredients, sip on a unique cocktail with house made infusions and bitters. Finally nibble on the chocolate chili muffins: the perfect end to a charming experience.

TORRE CAFFE Italian

3008 Northwest Ave., Bellingham 360.393.4637

SKAGIT

TEMPLE BAR Bistro

SUPER MARIO’S Salvadorian

cages and desks have been replaced with a sleek marble bar top and custom-made tables.

Sinfully delicious is the Washington Mac & Cheese. Béchamel bourbon cheese sauce that includes local cheeses from Gothberg, Ferndale Farmstead and Twin Sisters, is topped with bourbon and truffle oil. The Seafood Chowder, made with bay shrimp and fresh Dungeness crab, is a sensually smooth and creamy rich soup that arouses one’s desire for more. A talented kitchen also produces flatbread style pizza that is served on thick, hand-crafted wooden trays, which helps keep the pie hot.

119 N. Commercial St., Ste. 130, Bellingham 360.734.0029 If you want an excellent early morning espresso or a taste of old Italy for lunch or just a midafternoon break, Torre Caffe is the place to go.

It’s authentic, right down to their take-home lasagne. Traditional Italian lunch fare (soups, salads, paninis, and lunch-sized entrees) are made daily with the freshest ingredients. Go early, go often. Your tastebuds will thank you.

THE VAULT Bistro 277 G St., Blaine 360.392.0955, thevaultwine.com This is the type of exceptional restaurant that Julia Child would arrive for late lunch and stay through dinner, and then remain for a night cap. Incredibly fresh ingredients make this wine-centric restaurant, located in a former bank building, a treat for the senses. Teller

BASTION BREWING COMPANY American 12529 Christianson Rd., Anacortes 360.399.1614, bastionbrewingcompany.com On the Bastion Brewing Company menu you’ll find classic salads like Cobb and Garden, no fuss burgers that can be gussied up with an array of add-ons including roasted jalapeños, onion straws, pineapple, and crispy chicken wings drenched in your choice of sauce. I ordered a fried fish sandwich with a side of onion rings. The food arrived to my table quickly, impressively quickly. Even more impressive was the quality of this fast-made food. Hot, crispy onion rings accompanied the equally crisp fried fish. A soft bun held the sandwich together. Biting through the Pankocrusted exterior revealed a succulent, flaky fish filet. Sandwich toppings were meant to complement the fish: fresh lettuce, tomato, onion, tangy pickles, and unassuming melted Swiss cheese. Halfway through the soft bun gave way, turning my sandwich into a five-napkin sort of meal in the best way possible.

CALICO CUPBOARD American 901 Commercial Ave., Anacortes, 360.293.7315 720 S. 1st St., La Conner, 360.466.4451 121-B Freeway Dr., Mount Vernon, 360.336.3107, calicocupboardcafe.com Since 1981, Calico Cupboard has been serving the purest, most heart-healthy, and high-quality ingredients. Made with freshly milled, organically-grown, whole grain and unbleached flour, the cafe aims to promote its local farmers and gratify your body in the process. Sit down for breakfast or lunch, or just order from the bakery and grab an espresso to go. From cream puffs to eclairs to gluten-free berry crisp to

Restaurant Review

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Getting on Island Time San Juan Island Brewing Co. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY CATHERINE TORRES

B

rothers Tim and Sean Alyward teamed up with their stepfather, Verne Howard, to open San Juan Island Brewing Company in July 2017. But don’t let being the new kids on the block fool you. These guys know what they’re doing.

The big, beautiful brewery and (kid-friendly) restaurant is just a couple blocks from the Friday Harbor ferry landing.

A basket of stuffed foxes named Barley, their mascot, greets visitors. Laid-back, alternative, island-inspired music from bands like Dirty Heads and Sublime blares through the speakers. You’re going to like it here.

All the brews are named after San Juan-inspired concepts like the Lane 4 Vienna Lager after the old ferry lane designated for Friday Harbor passengers and the Bull Kelp ESB named after the well-known Pacific Northwest seaweed floating in our waters. If you can’t decide what brew to try, order a sampler of five 5-oz. beers ($13). When asked which beer was his favorite, one customer had a tough time choosing. He even enjoyed the IPA, which most breweries make too hoppy for his taste.

For food, start with a sharable pretzel with Quarry No. 9 beer cheese dipping sauce ($9), or fresh ahi poke with fried wontons and cucumber sesame salad ($14).

If they weren’t in the business of brewing, San Juan Island Brewery would be in the business of pizza. Order one of their wood stone pizzas and you won’t be disappointed. There’s a thin crust that’s crispy on the bottom, but still soft and chewy.

It holds the toppings well. A fan favorite is The Pig War ($16) topped with Italian sausage, prosciutto and pepperoni — in honor of the San Juan Island’s historic war, sparked by the death of a pig but settled without a shot being fired. Another great choice, the Farmers Market pizza ($16), is topped with sweet caramelized onions, salty feta, mozzarella, sweet sundried tomatoes, mushrooms, and peppers.

Eventually you’ll have to relinquish your seat, but at least you can keep the good times rolling with a take-home growler of your favorite brew.  410 A St., Friday Harbor 360.378.2017, sanjuanbrew.com October 2018 121

Övn Charlie Ingredients: Vodka, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, strawberry-balsamic gastrique, mint, Lambrusco. $10.95

O

ne of Bellingham’s secrets is Övn, the Fairhaven pizza purveyor, also serves exquisite craft cocktails along with a water view at their restaurant.

Master experimenter and bar manager Karly Steffen named this colorful drink for 14th century King Charles V. Historians say the French king had one of the first and largest strawberry gardens in the world. The Charlie’s flavors, both strong and subtle, are strung together by a unique strawberrybalsamic gastrique.

Order the Charlie and the soothing mint coolness punctures your nostrils and clears your throat just as the drink hits your tongue. Tart lemon, strawberry and Lambrusco emerge, with an underlying herbal sensation of elderflower liqueur.

Steffen suggests pairing Charlie with their Sebba pizza for the complete fruit-and-herb experience.

With soft twinkly lights and 1930s silent films playing on the wall, Övn offers a dine-and-drink experience hard to replicate.  — Harrison Amelang

© Harrison Amelang

1148 10th St., Bellingham 360.393.4327 ovnwoodfiredpizza.com

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cinnamon rolls — the bakery more than satisfies your sweet tooth. On weekend mornings, there may be a wait. However, the food is worth it — with options ranging from omelets to hashes to focaccia sandwiches to burgers.

Calico Cupboard will leave you full, but feeling homey, healthy, and happy.

CALLE Mexican 517 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon 360.336.5566 Calle has generated quite the attention with a write up in Sunset magazine. Known for their take on Street Tacos — with six meat fillings to choose from and handmade corn tortillas — but that’s certainly not the only mouthwatering option. Try the Carne Asada, Posole, or Tortas to name just a few menu options.

The Spicy Mango Margarita, made with fresh mango and jalapeño, is fast becoming a customer favorite. With 60+ tequilas and mescals to sample, there’s always another reason to visit again.

CONWAY PUB & EATERY American 18611 Main St., Conway 360.445.4733 Don’t let tiny Conway fool you — this pub packs big flavor. Though the town is unincorporated, business is never slow in this watering hole. Farmers often come here after a hard day’s work, as well as bikers making a pit stop on a scenic weekend ride. Their food matches their patrons’ big appetites, such as the blue cheese burger topped with crisply, fried shoestring onions or the mouthwatering oyster burger. Packed with flavor and Americana spirit, Conway Pub & Eatery is a Skagit Valley icon.

FORTUNE MANDARIN Chinese/Mandarin 1617 Freeway Dr., Mount Vernon 360.428.1819, fortunemandarin.com Tea warmed over a candle, delicious drinks with a slight exotic twist, tender and flavorful almond chicken, and warm and mildly spicy Mandarin shrimp with broccoli are expected at this peaceful bar and restaurant with Chinese decor. Try the to-die-for meals such as the Szechwan chicken with varying vegetables cooked to perfection, the orange chicken with real orange pieces accentuating the dish, and the egg rolls with the right amount of crunch.

The owner and staff remember regular patrons, creating a sense of community with their hospitality and mouthwatering food.

IL GRANAIO Italian 100 W. Montgomery St., Ste. 110, Mount Vernon 360.419.0674, granaio.com Owner Alberto Candivi arrives at Il Granaio in downtown every morning to make the day’s pastas by hand, sculpting basic ingredients into

the building blocks for lavish, rich Italian dishes served throughout the day. When the ingredients call for a lighter hand, his restaurant also turns out reserved, delicate dishes.

Il Granaio is a practice in the intricacies of cuisine, displaying the best flavors Italian food has to offer. With more than 30 items on the entrée menu, the list can be quite daunting. Il Granaio’s dessert menu is just as lush as the entrée menu. The wine menu is expansive, and the beer menu features several local craft brews. Their grappa selection does the Italian cordial the justice it deserves.

Happy Hour N Cuisine, orthwest St h c yle en Fr

Mon. - Sat. 4pm-6pm Fri. - Sat 9pm - close $1 Off local crafted draft beer and house wine 10 % off the entire food menu and beverage, including specialty cocktails and wine list.

RHODODENDRON CAFÉ American 5521 Chuckanut Dr., Bow 360.766.6667, rhodycafe.com Owners Lisa Cooney and Jim Kowalski knew they wanted their restaurant to have a focus on fresh, local Washington ingredients when they took over the Rhododendron in 2013.

That goal is realized through the place’s cozy, home-style feel. Even the pew-like benches that line the walls were built by a local carpenter. Small glass vases hold fresh-picked zinnias that sit next to small paper dessert menus on pressed wood tables, giving the air of a family dining room.

Kowalski, also the head chef, specializes in Northwest seasonal cuisine. The Rhododendron changes its menu three times a year to follow what is fresh, in season, and available. One of their more popular dishes, a tender bone-in pork chop with apple-brandy crème, ($28) brings spinach from nearby Edison, apples from the garden, pork from Bellingham, and spätzle into a warm conglomeration of home-style cooking. It doesn’t skimp on serving size, either. It’s enough food to fill any weary traveler, especially when paired with a wedge salad ($10, also deliciously fresh). Order the chicken saltimbocca with risotto ($21) for a flavorful and hearty entrée, and save room for the coconut cake with pineapple cream frosting ($8.25), good for sharing.

Coming soon

in mid September EAT will open for Brunch / Lunch on Thursday & Friday 11am-2pm

Live Music Friday and Saturday “Ruby Flambe” live on the 3 rd Thursday of the month at EAT.

DINNER 4pm-9pm | BRUNCH Sat.- Sun. 11am-2pm

1200 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham | 4u2eat.net | 360.306.3917

SAKURA JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE Japanese 1830 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington 360.588.4281, sakuraburlington.com Professional Teppan Yaki chefs take you on a journey of delicious and interactive dining at Burlington’s Sakura Japanese Steakhouse.

Using the freshest ingredients and perfect seasonings, they stir-fry your meal right before your eyes, creating a fabulous feast. Choose from steak and chicken to salmon and shrimp; each meal is served with soup, salad, rice, and vegetables. If it’s sushi you crave, they also offer a full sushi bar for even the most discriminating taste buds.

SALT & VINE French 913 6th St., Anacortes 360.293.2222, saltnvine.com An international cheese, wine and charcuterie shop, Salt & Vine offers the best of both

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DINE Dining Guide

SKAGIT RIVER BREWERY American

worlds. It’s a boutique artisan grocery where you can sit down and enjoy the offerings, and then, if anything tickles your fancy, you can take some home with you to enjoy later. Salt & Vine is a prime location for a midday snack, or a stop after an evening stroll on the docks.

While some choose to grab-n-go, others choose to stay a while. Salt & Vine offers a cozy, intimate environment for enjoying a date night or a happy hour with friends.

404 S. 3rd St., Mount Vernon 360.336.2884, skagitbrew.com Inspiration bred from English and German brews and made with Yakima Valley hops and Northwest barley and wheat, Skagit River Brewery produces the finest beers with distinguishable tastes. If you prefer heavy beer, go for the Steelie Brown, a rich, malty brew that is light on bitterness and hops. Try Sculler’s IPA or Gospel IPA if you want a combination of crisp and refreshing flavors of citrus and grapefruit with varying degrees of hoppiness.

Seasonal beers also appear on the menu for locals to try something new. For those under 21 or those preferring non-alcoholic options, check

2017

BEST of the

NORTH

Thank you for voting us Best Barber Shop WEST

out Skagit River Brewery’s homemade root beer and even have the root beer float for dessert. To complement the beers and non-alcoholic drinks, the brewery also prides itself on its selection of foods from wood-fired pizza to Chelan cherry wood-smoked ribs to clams simmered in a lemon sauce. Beer brings people together. At least it’s proven so in the Pacific Northwest. So, if you’re an avid beer drinker or know people who are, come to Skagit River Brewery to enjoy the ales and agers brewed in town.

TRUMPETER PUBLIC HOUSE Gastropub 416 Myrtle St., Mount Vernon 360.588.4515, trumpeterpublichouse.com The Trumpeter is an ideal combination of high-end, fine dining, and English pub fare.

Try traditional pub selections like shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, or more unique choices like pork tenderloin complimented with an apricot-honey glaze or crab mac & cheese with a creamy Gruyere sauce and wild-caught crab.

Additionally, the Trumpeter looks to accommodate all tastes with our gluten free dishes, and option to make any dish gluten free. Of course, a gastro pub isn’t complete without beer and Trumpeter completes the dining experience with 18 taps of local and European brews.

There’s also a fine selection of wines and other drink choices.

Wally’s Barber Shop 314 E Holly St #100 Bellingham 360-647-0807

VAGABOND STATION Southern 2120 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.421.4227, vagabondtrailerfood.com

WE PUT superhero IN OUR GENETICS! Prime Grade Beef, Prime Cut Burger ANGUS

addies

call to pre-order your Grass or Grain finished Prime Cut Burger with free delivery!

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Vagabond Station is known for its mostly Southern-style menu with a few curveballs.

Dig into a pink and cold prime rib sandwich, a meat-lovers dream that is difficult to find in this day of well-done meat. Try a bowl of hearty chili, or a wiscuit — biscuit dough cooked in a waffle maker. Of course, there’s crispy fried chicken and waffles, and their signature sandwich, the Yard Bird: chicken, cheddar cheese, and gravy piled onto a fresh, fluffy biscuit.

RANCH

WILLOWS ARTISAN CAFE American 18923 Johnson Rd., Mount Vernon 360.848.9189, willowsartisancafe.com

no antibiotics no added hormones

addiesangus.com 360-399-9213

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Inside the Skagit Valley’s greenhouse is a quaint cafe with wooden chairs, faux windows, outdoor fences, fairy lights, hanging greenery, and natural light streaming in. Order the BLTO (bacon, lettuce, tomato, and onion) — a slightly different classic with a twist that will change all BLT sandwiches for you. Or maybe your taste buds crave a little spiciness — then try the Reuben. If it’s a cold, cloudy day, go for a warm, soothing soup that is always served with a side of soft-baked bread. To end the meal, try the key lime pie that perfectly matches its creamy sweet filling with the smooth graham cracker crust. The Willows Artisan Cafe counts on its fresh ingredients and proves its worth with taste.

Dining Guide

DINE

8

GREAT

SAN JUAN

TASTES

CYNTHIA’S BISTRO American 65 Nichols St., Friday Harbor 360.298.8130, cynthiasofcourse.com Located in a renovated 1920s home, this local San Juan Island staple is known for their innovative menu selections, like Seared Ahi Steak with Wasabi Cream and Hanna’s Tofu Scramble. You can enjoy lunch, or even an extended breakfast, until 2 p.m. daily in spring and summer. They are famous for their brunch, but you might try stopping by later in the evening for dinner, served only Friday to Monday, for a special treat.

The following selections have made it past our taste bud test and into our top eight this issue. Step out and give them a try.

You won’t be disappointed.

DOE BAY CAFÉ American 107 Doe Bay Rd., Orcas Island 360.376.2291, doebay.com Whether you’re heading toward the San Juan Islands or don’t mind taking a trip for an unbelievable meal, be sure to make reservations at the ever-popular Doe Bay Café. Owners Joe and Maureen Brotherton have stuck to their philosophy of taking good care of their visitors by providing world-class seafood and vegetarian dishes. Choose from breakfast, lunch, and dinner selections such as Huevos Rancheros with free range, organic over-easy eggs with black beans on griddled corn tortillas, Goat Cheese French Toast, or the Pan Roasted Troller Point King Salmon.

1 2

SAN JUAN ISLAND BREWING CO. American 410 A St., Friday Harbor 360.378.2017, sanjuanbrew.com All the brews are named after San Juan-inspired concepts like the Lane 4 Vienna Lager, after the old ferry lane designated for Friday Harbor passengers, and the Bull Kelp ESB, named after the well-known Pacific Northwest seaweed floating in our waters. If they weren’t in the business of brewing, San Juan Island Brewery would be in the business of pizza. Order one of their wood stone pizzas and you won’t be disappointed. There’s a thin crust that’s crispy on the bottom, but still soft and chewy. It holds the toppings well. A fan favorite is The Pig War ($16) topped with Italian sausage, prosciutto and pepperoni— in honor of the San Juan Island’s historic war that was sparked by the death of a pig, but settled, in amiable island fashion, without a shot being fired.

3 4

There’s something satisfying about tearing into a hot pretzel — the crisp, salty exterior breaking open to reveal soft, fluffy bread. At the Brown Lantern Ale House, its hot pretzels are paired with jalapeño cheese dip.

It’s a cozy hangout for a blustery day in Anacortes.

The Rhododendron Cafe in Bow serves brunch on Saturday and Sunday starting at 10 a.m., and its Montana Huckleberry waffles are a must-try. Warm, melt-inyour-mouth waffles topped with homemade huckleberry coulis and drizzled in Vermont maple syrup. Um, yes please.

If the sun is shining, sit in the courtyard of Slough Food in Edison and order the green salad.

A bed of mixed organic greens is drizzled with olive oil, white balsamic and a sprinkled with sea salt. It’s perfectly simple and absolutely delicious.

The sweet potato tacos from the Black Sheep on Holly Street in Bellingham are a hit whether you’re an avid carnivore or opt to eat meat-free. Served on handmade tortillas, they’re topped with salsa verde, sweet corn salsa, and cotija cheese crumbles.

5 6 7 8

Frozen pizza can’t hold a candle to the real deal — thin, lightly charcoaled crust, fresh, bubbling tomato sauce and ooey-gooey mozzarella cheese.

Hogstone’s Wood Oven on Orcas Island puts the frozen food aisle to shame with its classic, hand-tossed pizza.

The Dungeness crab cakes at the Train Wreck Bar and Grill in Burlington are a house favorite. The crispy cakes are paired with fresh avocado, tomato jam and a garlic aioli.

Squeeze a little lemon over the top, then dig in.

Forget movie theatre popcorn drenched in artificial butter.

At the Pickford Film Center, its popcorn comes with a seasoning bar, not a greasesoaked bag. Have fun mixing flavors, from garlic salt and parmesan to cinnamon/sugar, before watching a film.

Golden Triangle restaurant in Friday Harbor serves up healthy and delicious Thai food. Their Rama sauce dish is sure to warm your insides. Sautéed mixed vegetables and warm peanut sauce are poured over a bed of steaming rice.

— McKenna Cardwell

October 2018 125

EDMONDS

EDMONDS

EDMONDS

AGENDA

Featured Events · Listings · The Scene · Final Word

Western Brings Jane Goodall to Bellingham Tickets Already Sold Out, But Keep Checking — And Hoping OCTOBER 8, 7 P.M.

© Bill Wallauer, the Jane Goodall Institute

F

amed chimpanzee expert and naturalist Jane Goodall, 84, is speaking to a soldout event at Mount Baker Theatre on Oct. 8. Her topic: “Jane Goodall: Tomorrow and Beyond.” Tickets sold out in six hours. Six hours! So, if you’re like many of us, you came up empty. But there’s still a glimmer of hope: Dreu Lambarena, the theatre’s assistant ticket manager, advises anyone seeking last-minute tickets to check the theatre’s website periodically to see if any seats have opened up. Goodall’s talk is part of the Western Washington University Fraser Lecture Series, and she is scheduled to sign copies of her book that will be for sale at the event.  Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham 360.734.6080 | mountbakertheatre.com

and Stephanie Straight is on drums and percussion.

AGENDA Events

Skylark’s Hidden Cafe 1308 11th St., Bellingham 360.715.3642, skylarkshiddencafe.com GALA CONCERT OCTOBER 20, 7:30 P.M.

The Skagit Symphony is celebrating its 39th season and will feature four guest conductors as finalists for the Music Director position. The Gala Concert will include stirring compositions like Verdi’s overture to the opera La Forza Del Destino and Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture. For the orchestral performance of Les Nuits d’Été by Berlioz, conductor Bobby Collins will be leading.

McIntyre Hall Performing Arts & Conference Center 2501 East College Way, Mount Vernon 360.416.7727, mcintyrehall.org

CONCERTS THE STONE FOXES / TANGO ALPHA TANGO OCTOBER 5, 8 P.M.

The Psychology of Yoga

CASINOS

CLASSICAL

WAR AT THE ORCA BALLROOM

WHATCOM SYMPHONY: CLASSICAL AT THE MUSEUM

OCTOBER 12, 8 P.M.

From Long Beach, Calif., War is an American funk band you can groove to.

With hits like “Gypsy Man” and “Low Rider,” War is bound to get the room up and dancing along to their message of brotherhood and harmony.

Tulalip Resort Casino 10200 Quil Ceda Blvd., Tulalip 360.716.6000, tulalipresortcasino.com LOVERBOY AT THE SKAGIT OCTOBER 19, 8 P.M.

The Canadian multi-platinum rock band is coming to The Skagit. Rock out to some of their international hits like “Working for the Weekend” and “Turn Me Loose.” Come visit The Pacific Showroom for some good music and good times.

Skagit Casino Resort 5984 North Darrk Ln., Bow 877.275.2448, theskagit.com

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OCTOBER 12, NOON

The Whatcom Symphony Orchestra will perform in the Rotunda Room as a part of the Whatcom Museum Endangered Species: Artists on the Front Line of Biodiversity exhibition. Composers explore the relationship between music and biodiversity through birdsongs, and listeners can join in a short trivia game.

Whatcom Museum 121 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.778.8930, whatcommuseum.org THE SPENCETET OCTOBER 12, 8 P.M.

Sip on a foamy cappuccino or savor a warm upside-down apple pie while listening to smooth music from the classic jazz quartet The Spencetet.

Spencer Redmond leads on the saxophone through songs ranging from Latin to funk and blues to swing. Robert Ray is on bass, Tom Miller on guitar,

Rock out with Tango Alpha Tango and the energetic, fast-paced music of The Stone Foxes, a quartet from San Francisco. Using politics not only in their lyrics, The Stone Foxes have turned their West Coast tour into a platform to help raise awareness of hunger and homelessness by partnering with SuperFood Drive.

The Shakedown 1212 N. State St., Bellingham 360.778.1067 shakedownbellingham.com WE WERE PROMISED JETPACKS OCTOBER 5, 8:30 P.M.

The Scottish indie rock group is kicking off their first big headline tour in the United States. Having been practicing, writing, and touring for 10 years together since their early 20s, the group has seen changes, marriages, and musical growth, including a recent record signing with European label Big Scary Monsters.

Wild Buffalo House of Music 208 West Holly St., Bellingham 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net CREED BRATTON (OF NBC’S “THE OFFICE”) OCTOBER 16, 8 P.M.

Didn’t get enough of Creed, the odd coworker at Dunder Mifflin, throughout the nine seasons of The Office? Never

fear, because he has accumulated nearly five decades of music for you to listen to, including his seventh full-length album released this year, “While the Young Punks Dance.” Come see him play live and acoustic at The Wild Buffalo.

Wild Buffalo House of Music 208 West Holly St., Bellingham 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net

HEALTH AND WELLNESS RUN LIKE A GIRL BELLINGHAM

10 CIDER HOUSES FOOD TRUCKS + LIVE MUSIC ANACORTES.ORG/BEER

ESSENTIAL REMEDIES: WELLNESS FOR BODY, MIND, AND SPIRIT OCTOBER 9, 6:30 P.M.

Putting Putting youyou first first made made us us #1.#1.

Michelle Mahler teaches a class on mixing different essential oils to create specific remedies. Whether it’s your emotions, your spirit, or your physical body that needs a little pick-me-up, this class will supply the recipes and knowledge on how to use essential oils to help.

Skagit Valley Co-op 202 South First St., Mount Vernon 360.336.9777, skagitfoodcoop.com

360.293.7911

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State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company October 2018 129 State Farm Indemnity Company

Making you our #1 priority is

Fairhaven Park 107 Chuckanut Dr. N., Bellingham 360.255.0517 runlikeagirlbellingham.org

30 BREWERIES

Joe Treat Ins Agcy Inc

What better way to start off the morning than a run along the Interurban Trail starting from Fairhaven Park? Anyone can come support the “Girls on the Run” program and experience the fun and surprises throughout the trail. The run is non-competitive, so grab some friends, maybe a fun outfit (previous participants have been known to sport pink tutus), and choose between a 10K or half marathon.

Putting you first made us #1.

OCTOBER 6, 9 A.M

AGENDA Events activities for all ages. Take a tour of the decorated Pioneer Park houses, including trick-or-treating on the cabin porches, play pin-the-tail on the black cat, and visit the haunted jail.

Pioneer Park 2007 Cherry St., Ferndale 360.384.6461 ferndaleheritagesociety.com THRILLINGHAM Courtesy of Ferndale Downtown Association

OCTOBER 31, 8:30 P.M.

Harvest Festival and Pumpkin Games

SPECIAL EVENTS FOOD BANK PANCAKE BREAKFAST OCTOBER 6, 8 A.M.

Join friends and neighbors for pancakes, eggs, and sausage at a breakfast hosted by the Ferndale Food Bank and the United Church of Ferndale. The food is free, but donations are always welcome.

United Church of Ferndale 2034 Washington St., Ferndale 360.384.3302, ucf1.org WHATCOM ARTISTS STUDIO TOUR OCTOBER 6–7, 13–14; 10 A.M.–5 P.M.

The 24th annual self-guided tour is one of the longest-running juried events in the Pacific Northwest and for good reason — 39 artists open their studio doors so the public can watch them work. You’ll see portraits in the making, spinning pottery wheels, sculptures, and get to ask questions of the artists themselves. Grab a map at most area businesses or online at the website below.

Whatcom Artists Studio Tour studiotour.net CONCRETE GHOST WALK

people 16 years and older. No pets, please.

Concrete Theatre 45920 Main St., Concrete 360.853.8784, concrete-wa.com HARVEST FESTIVAL AND PUMPKIN GAMES OCTOBER 14, 10 A.M.

There is something for the entire family at this 10th annual free event that includes face painting, carnival games, pumpkin decorating, and more. A pumpkin-rolling contest has prizes for the top-three finishers in each category.

Pioneer Park 2007 Cherry St., Ferndale 360.384.1453, ferndaledowntown.org

130 BellinghamAlive.com

Maritime Heritage Park 500 W. Holly St., Bellingham facebook.com/Thrillingham HALLOWEEN DANCE OCTOBER 31, 6:30 P.M.

Gather with your fellow ghouls and goblins on Halloween night at Odd Fellows Hall to watch a monster movie and dance the night away in your best costume. Movie begins at 6:30 p.m. and the live music starts up at 8:30 p.m.

Odd Fellows Hall 112 Haven Rd., Eastsound 360.376.5640, oddshall.org

THEATRE THE WIND AND THE WILLOWS

SCREAM FAIR HALLOWEEN HAUNT

THROUGH OCTOBER 7

OCTOBER 19–31, 7 P.M.

Enjoy the live production of a classic story by the class of the Claire vg Thomas Theater production camp.

Written by Kenneth Grahame, the tale tells the adventure of Toad, who’s interest in motorcars leads him into trouble.

Follow his friends, Mole, Badger, and Water Rat, as they try to protect his house from the weasels of the Wild Wood.

Heart pumping, you turn the dark corner, anticipating the terror lurking just out of sight. Put your bravery to the test and explore the Scream Fair. Adult tickets are $12 and $10 for kids.

The Northwest Washington Fair and Event Center 1775 Front St., Lynden screamfairhaunt.com

EVERY SATURDAY IN OCTOBER, 6 P.M.

Unnerving stories and dark, shadowy secrets are told by locals throughout the parks, alleys, and buildings in Concrete.

The eerie history walk is available to

Join the dead (zombies that is) and shuffle to the annual event bringing Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” to life.

Classes are offered to perfect the classic spooky dance, which will be performed on Halloween night at Maritime Heritage Park from 8–10 p.m. Talent from local dance studios will kickstart the night, followed by the zombie performance, and ending with a dance party. This year, proceeds will be donated to Brigadoon Service Dogs.

HAUNT THE PARK OCTOBER 27, 5 P.M.

Don’t miss Ferndale’s free Haunt the Park event packed full of Halloween-themed

Claire vg Thomas Theatre 655 Front St., Lynden 360.354.4425, theclaire.org

JOIN IN THE COMEDY FUN AND

Make America Grin Again!

Sun Nov 4 3pm

Sponsor Chris & Heather Stockard

Courtesy of October Yates

POP MUSIC IN A TIME MACHINE

Bleedingham

VISUAL ARTS SIDE SHOW OCTOBER 5–20, TIMES VARY

The Theater Arts Guild presents the show based on the true story of Violet and Daisy Hilton, Siamese twins connected at the hip. The show follows their story to fame from England to America during the Depression. Reserve your tickets now.

Prices range from $12 to $26 depending on seat location.

Lincoln Theatre 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon 360.336.8955, lincolntheatre.org DIRECTING: BASICS AND BEYOND OCTOBER 17, 7 P.M.

Executive artistic director at the San Juan Community Theatre, Nathan KesslerJeffrey, leads a directing class covering basic staging, etiquette and other more advanced areas. Whether you’re looking to expand your skillset or dip your toe into directing for the first time, this class is designed to help.

San Juan Community Theatre 100 2nd St., Friday Harbor 360.378.3210, sjctheatre.org

Thur Nov 29 7pm

STUFF: WE BECOME OUR THINGS AND RETROSPECTIVE EXHIBITION SEPT. 15–NOV. 26

Winner of the People’s Choice Award in 2015, artist Nicola Wheston expresses her views of modern consumerism and use of plastics in her series of 10 paintings titled “Stuff: We Become Our Things and Retrospective.” The works took five years to complete and depict the life cycle of the things we purchase, from where they’re created to where they end up, using vibrant colors.

San Juan Island Museum of Art 540 Spring St., Friday Harbor 360.370.5050, sjima.org

Sponsor

THE 39TH ANNUAL

SEATTLE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY COMPETITION SEMIFINALS

SAT NOV 17 8PM Sponsor Season Sponsor

ORCAS ISLAND FILM FESTIVAL OCTOBER 4–8, VARIOUS

The fifth-annual festival will showcase 30 critically-acclaimed films from around the world, as well as a selection of local short films, across two venues and five days. Attendees will be treated to movies shown also at Festival de Cannes and Telluride Film Festival, and will get sneak peeks before their theatrical releases.

BookNow for BestSeats!

Orcas Island Film Festival 221 A St., Eastsound orcasfilmfest.com

October 2018 131

AGENDA Top Picks

OCTOBER O C TO B E R

Hank Green, An Absolutely Remarkable Thing Bellingham villagebooks.com

18

Parks & Rec Travelogue: Wild Nooksack River with Brett Baunton Bellingham whatcommuseum.org

© Ashe Walker

© Brett Baunton

6

O C TO B E R

Brew on the Slough La Conner lovelaconner.com

O C TO B E R

6

O C TO B E R

20

The New Chinese Acrobats Bellingham mountbakertheatre.com O C TO B E R

Courtesy of Mount Baker Theatre

Monster Mash Street Bash Oak Harbor oakharborchamber.com

O C TO B E R

Eat Island Grown Friday Harbor islandgrownsj.com

6 – 7 BellinghamAlive.com

28 O C TO B E R

O C TO B E R

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27

Skagit Valley Festival of Family Farms Skagit Valley festivaloffamilyfarms.com

Trick-or-Treat Downtown Bellingham downtownbellingham.com

31

Events

AGENDA

DOCTOBER — SPETTACOLO OCTOBER 17, 4:15 P.M.

The Pickford Film Center is hosting its annual documentary film festival.

Covering a wide-variety of topics, this month-long event is sure have showings that will pique your interest. One of these documentaries, Spettacolo, directed by Jeff Malmberg and Chris Shellen, features a small town in Tuscany that has translated its problems into a play every year for the last 50 years.

Pickford Film Center 1318 Bay St., Bellingham 360.738.0735, pickfordfilmcenter.org CONSERVATION NORTHWEST ‘CASCADE CROSSROADS’ FILM OCTOBER 20, 1:30 P.M.

Cascade Crossroads documentary about the I-90 Snoqualmie Pass East Project — the construction of North America’s largest wildlife crossings project over and under Interstate 90 east of Snoqualmie Pass. After the 30-minute film, there will be a panel discussion.

Whatcom Museum, Old City Hall 121 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.778.8936, whatcommuseum.org FRIDAY HARBOR FILM FESTIVAL OCTOBER 26–28, 10 A.M.

The 5th annual Friday Harbor Film Festival features documentaries designed to enact positive change and convey important information about the world through compelling storytelling. There will be five different venues where films will be screened throughout the three days, and all films will be shown twice.

Office and Hospitality Center 10 First St., Friday Harbor 360.298.1939, fhff.org BLEEDINGHAM OCTOBER 27–28

The annual independent film festival features two days of the spookiest, most terrifying, and well-crafted horror flicks created by Washington locals as well as filmmakers from around the world.

Screenings will take place at both the Pickford Film Center and the Limelight Cinema in downtown Bellingham.

Tickets are $7.50 for Pickford Film Center members, $8 for students, and $10.75 for all other horror fans.

Pickford Film Center 1318 Bay St., Bellingham bleedingham.com

November 16-18

Thank you for nominating Ski to Sea BEST FESTIVAL again this year!

ABBOTSFORD TRADEX

We thank our entire community for an outstanding year of Ski to Sea Events. It takes a village and we live in the BEST VILLAGE.

ARTISAN MARKETPLACE:

Whether you did the race or cheered people on, volunteered or sponsored — we thank you whole-heartedly for making Ski to Sea possible.

140+ artisans with unique hand made items, perfect for gift giving and decorating your home for the holidays.

SEE YOU MAY 26, 2019!

westcoastchristmasshow.com

Buy your tickets on-line at

Whatcom Artist Studio Tour

COME SEE WHERE CREATIVITY BEGINS!

First 2 weekends in October ✽ Oct. 6,7 & 13,14 A FREE SELF-GUIDED ART TOUR

Visit our website for additional information and Google Maps with easy locators for all the studios!

For more info: studiotour.net facebook.com/WhatcomArtistStudioTour October 2018 133

Courtesy of Woodland Park Zoo

AGENDA Events

Brew at the Zoo

OUT OF TOWN SEATTLE

VANCOUVER, B.C.

BREW AT THE ZOO

‘VANHALLOWEEN’ PARADE

OCTOBER 4, 6 P.M.

OCTOBER 7, 11 A.M.

How often do you get the chance to sip a cider from Portland while watching live penguins? For $34 a ticket or $56 for a premium ticket, you can check out products from more than 60 different breweries while supporting animal conservation. This is an adults-only event, and you must be 21 or over to attend.

See your favorite superheros, princesses and spooky characters brought to life in the Fifth annual Vancouver Halloween Parade and Expo. Bring snacks and set up a comfy spot along with the more than 100,000 other spectators this event attracts. Visit the online website for a map of the parade route.

Woodland Park Zoo 5500 Phinney Ave. N., Seattle 206.548.2500, zoo.org/brew

Halloween Parade Howe St., Smithe St., Granville St., Vancouver B.C. vanhalloween.com

EARSHOT JAZZ FESTIVAL

HOZIER

OCTOBER 7–NOVEMBER 4

OCTOBER 22, 8 P.M.

Venues throughout the city will be filled with the sounds of jazz from around the world for the 30th edition of the Earshot Jazz Festival. There are more than 60 different concerts to attend, from local student ensembles to prominent jazz artists from across the sea.

Spend the night listening to the soul-filled indie music by the award-winning Irish artist, Hozier. His musical repertoire includes the 2013 smash hit, “Take Me to Church” and his selftitled, critically acclaimed debut album released the following year in 2014.

Earshot Jazz 3429 Fremont Pl. N., Seattle 206.547.6763, earshot.org

The Orpheum 601 Smithe St., Vancouver 604.665.3035, vancouvercivictheatres.com

ARCTIC MONKEYS

BUILD YOUR OWN BAT BOX

OCTOBER 23, 8 P.M.

OCTOBER 27, 12:30 P.M.

Uniting classic garage rock with infectious pop, the Arctic Monkeys travel from their home in Sheffield, Europe to promote their latest album, “Tranquility Base Hotel and Casino.” Sing along with lead vocalist, Alex Turner, as they play new music along with old favorites such as “I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor” and “Do I Wanna Know.”

Instructors from South Coast Bat Conservation Society will provide hands-on instruction on how to build a comfy home for bats. After a 30-minute educational talk, you can build a bat box to take with you and hang up. Tickets can be bought as a group for $85, or individually at $19 for adults and $13 for youth.

WaMu Theatre 800 Occidental Ave. S., Seattle 206.381.7848, centurylinkfield.com 134

BellinghamAlive.com

Museum of Vancouver 1100 Chestnut St., Vancouver, B.C. 604.736.4431, museumofvancouver.ca

AGENDA

© Kalie Presteen

© Nathan Grover

The Scene

PHOTOGRAPHY GALLERY IS FIRST TO OPEN IN ORCA BUILDING

© Steve Banasky

© Steve Banasky

An estimated 250 people attended the grand opening of Peter James’s Nature Photography Art Gallery August 23 in Bellingham’s Fairhaven district. After 15 years on Holly Street in downtown Bellingham, James is the first tenant in the new, twostory building located at 1211 Mill Ave., distinctive for the sculpture of a life-size orca that looks to be crashing through the bricked building’s upper corner. Along with seeing the ribbon-cutting, attendees had the chance to have their portraits taken in James’s state-of-the art studio. But the star of the show? James’s 50 or so big and bold nature photographs, many with scenes from places locals would recognize.

To see more, check out peterjamesphotogallery.com.

October 2018 135

NOTES Final Word

Toys ‘R’ Us Ken Pays Tribute to the Inner Toy in All of Us WRITTEN BY KEN KARLBERG

A

dults can be boring. Oops, did I say that? But it’s true — the heavy burdens of financial responsibility, parenthood, our professional lives, and whatever else take their toll. Mark Twain had it right: “The problem with adults is adults.” Okay, he didn’t say that, but he should have. Where does life’s instruction manual say “Must not be playful after age 30?”

I didn’t play often as a child, at least while I was incarcerated. I now practice law, a profession that demands discipline and focus. If you polled our significant others, most would probably confirm that attorneys can be no fun. Why? Because the truth is something is wrong with our brains.

Well, mine anyway. But take note, engineers. I once deposed a woman who was on her fourth marriage; the first three husbands were engineers, the current one was an attorney.

So, get off your high horse.

It takes confidence to be playful in professional settings.

But I found my inner child early nonetheless. As a summer law intern in Atlanta — when I was yet to even be offered a job after graduation — I switched all of the firm name placards while working late one night. Secretaries became named partners, and named partners became secretaries. I came into the office the next morning to a buzz. Apparently, someone had threatened the social pecking order.

I didn’t understand. In my mind, I just used humor to turn “peckers” into “peckees,” and vice versa. Everyone deserves to be a “pecker” for a day, don’t they? It would seem so, there are so many in life. OMG, I may as well have written an anonymous op-ed to the N.Y. Times. The powers-that-be quickly identified the likely treasonous traitor. And they still hired me! Such poor judgment is seldom seen — by the firm, not me. But I made my social point with humor. Attorneys would be nobody without their staff.

Two years later, I was engaged in a “tit for tat” prank battle with a colleague in an adjoining office. He thought that he was funny. He wasn’t. He was young, and hardly worth my time and imagination. Even the King of the Jungle, however, has to prove his superiority from time to time. So I relented. Besides, he needed to learn a lesson after he turned all of my office furniture upside down one early morning. It required a response. I warned him earlier: “Don’t poke the bear, John.”

Proper, Southern humor is no match for pure native Pacific Northwest evil. I bided my time, and then struck with cold vengeance. His office, like most lawyers’ offices, 136

BellinghamAlive.com

was decorated with a collage of family photos. I waited for several weeks until he proudly announced that his very first client, a family friend, was coming to the office. I watched, and when he went to the lobby to greet his client, I pounced.

Clients love family photos, especially family friends. So, I had arranged with one of our paralegals to switch out her family photos with his. Working quickly, we made the substitutions and then waited.

I listened to the introductory pleasantries next door for a minute or so, and then that sweet sound of total prank victory was heard: “Karlberg, you ass!” On his wall were beautiful photos of a wonderful black family. I felt like MacGyver — a little this, a little that, and then comedic magic. Hakuna matata! He never again “punked” me.

Throughout my legal career, I frequently put my professional life at risk for the sake of humor. I once quoted Bullwinkle in a brief to the federal court, and won. But my finest “inner child” hour was as a father to my two daughters, Katie and Jessie. Kids make the best toys. At an early age, we played wherever we went. Sometimes, the humor was simple, subtle, and silly, like when I taught them to go to the cake aisle of the grocery store and turn the boxes of pineapple upside cake upside down. They would run afterward like they stole something.

My fondest memories, however, are of playing hideand-seek at Fred Meyer. We would play for hours with my daughters’ soccer teammates between tournament games.

Once Katie was caught by store management, as she lowered herself into a large plastic garbage can on an end cap display and then put the lid over herself. But in a moment of extreme fatherly pride, her ability to improvise saved her. Without missing a beat, Katie promptly stepped out of the garbage can and declared, “Yes, that’s just the right size. I’ll take one.” My humor training was complete that day — mission accomplished. Her inner toy was alive and well.

I wish for all my readers to take time each day to play and be playful. No one will think worse of you. Make your last breath in life be the breath that you can’t take because you are laughing too hard with someone you love. 

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