Bellingham Alive | December | 2018 by K & L Media

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DECEMBER 2018

CONTENTS

LIFESTYLE

Apollo 8 to Flight Museum

By the Numbers

Lasting Image

In the Know Audubon Christmas Bird Count

Community Jingle Bell Run for Arthritis

In the Know Loomis Trail Golf Course Sold

In the Know Raising Money for Human Trafficking Shelter

Game Changer Brian Cladoosby

Book Reviews

Who Knew? Christmas Food

Spotlight Christopher Morrison

Apps We Love

Five Faves New Year’s Eve

SHOP 31

Big Three Retailers Move to Bellingham

Necessities New Year’s Party Supplies

New Find Seasons

Savvy Shopper Cheeks

Holiday Shopping Guide

WELLBEING

Looking for some glamor this holiday season? Or perhaps you just want to stay warm in style. Consider an awesome combination of fur and feathers. Fur can provide toasty comfort for a winter outing or a fireside encounter. And try feather vests, shawls, sweaters and hats for that added flair, that extra glow. Boutiques and department stores across North Puget Sound are ready to help. For a peek at what they’re highlighting this season, check out our splashy look at winter fashion.

Feathers & Fur

Blackberries and Biscuits

Beauty Skin Care Goals for 2019

FEATURES 48

Feathers and Fur

Jane Goodall in Bellingham

HABITAT 69

Featured Home Christmas Decor

Remodel The Saratoga Inn

DINE 75

Inn at Langley

Dining Guide

Mixing Tin Toasted Bourbon Mocha at 13moons

Restaurant Review Nicki’s Bar and Grill

Sip Wine Bars and Tasting Rooms on Whidbey Island

8 Great Tastes

AGENDA 85

Featured Event Tree Lighting in Bellingham

Top Picks

Out of Town

The Scene Best of the Northwest Party

NOTES Editor’s Letter

Contributors

Letters to the Editor

Meet the Staffer Lydia McClaran

Final Word

Jane Goodall

Out of Africa and into Bellingham — primatologist and anthropologist Jane Goodall is best known for her work in Africa with chimpanzees. But at age 84, she has a message to deliver worldwide about the need to protect wildlife of all kinds, better understand the forces of evolution, and fight ever-threatening climate change. This fall, as part of a Western Washington University lecture series, she brought her message to Bellingham, speaking to an enthusiastic crowd at the Mount Baker Theatre. But as is her way, she also took time to visit local conservation efforts underway to protect the wilderness, notably the Salish Sea.

December 2018 5

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

ONLINE EXCLUSIVE O Tannenbaum! Looking for a natural tree for the holiday season? You’re in the right place — the North Sound has a number of Christmas tree farms for those hearty folks who want to select and cut their own. In this story, we list information for several farms in Whatcom and Skagit counties. Tip: Don’t wait too long — due to the time it takes for regrowth, some places limit their U-cut seasons to just a few days or weekends, usually starting just after Thanksgiving. Check tree farm websites before you go. To check out the list, see the story at BellinghamAlive.com.

Join us on

for:

Previous digital editions now available online.

pinterest.com/northsoundlife

]

Weekend

AGENDA Holiday Recipes

BellinghamAlive.com

Holiday & Winter DIY

Baking

Wine, Spirit, & Brew

SPECIAL PROMOTION

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NOTES Editor’s Letter

Anders’ Earthrise Turns 50 Apollo 8’s Enduring Christmas Gift

ifty years ago this month, Apollo 8 became the first broke out in the streets and during the Democratic National mission to carry men from Earth’s orbit to the moon. Convention in Chicago. But that’s not all. One of its three crewmen, Bill Then came Apollo 8. Its December 21–27 mission was Anders, now a resident of Anacortes, took the photo, remarkable for what it accomplished, but also for what “Earthrise,” from the space capsule window. It became one of it delivered: Hope, and wonder. The astronauts famously the most famous photos ever taken. read from the Book of Genesis on Christmas Eve. Earthrise On December 24, 1968, Anders, now 85, was supposed to was credited with bringing an awareness of our planet’s be taking pictures of the moon. Along with crew members vulnerability. It was used as a symbol for the first Earth Day Frank Borman and Jim Lovell, Anders had the in 1970. Seen from Apollo 8’s vantage point, camera out to shoot the moon’s surface. It Anders’ photo did not show countries’ was a bleak, forbidding landscape of boundaries or people or ethnicities. It showed the home of all of us. craters, mountains, and gray. Bill’s son, Greg, plans to The sight of Earth, emerging devote an entire room to on the moon’s horizon, left 1968 at the family-run even the astronauts agape. Heritage Flight Museum “Oh my God!” said in Burlington, where Anders, according to Bill and sons Greg the ship’s transcript and Alan honor and and noted in the new fly vintage wartime book, “Rocket Men,” aircraft every spring by Robert Kurson. to fall (see p. 17). “Look at that picture The museum, at over there! Here’s the Skagit Regional the Earth coming up. Airport, is planning Wow, is that pretty!” a major expansion to The transcript of be completed in the the crew and Anders’ next two years. Greg urgency to switch from wants to put the mission, black-and-white film to Earthrise, and 1968 all in color is almost comical, perspective. For history, yes. and underscores just how But maybe also to show that a sublime the sight was. It got troubled and divided nation can astronauts, the most cool-asmend, that we are all in this — and cucumber guys on (and off) the © Bill Anders/NASA on this Earth — together. planet, to act like kids. This month, a half-century ago on Apollo No one had ever seen Earth like this. 8, Bill Anders went where no man had gone before, Swirling white clouds, blue sky and water, all in a and returned with something unexpected. “We came all this magnificent marble, contrasted with the stark moon surface way to explore the Moon,” he famously said, “and the most and the black of deep space. Beautiful, fragile, a suspended important thing is that we discovered the Earth.” speck in the vast universe — it’s easy to see how it would In the final days of 2018, here’s hoping we still hold some make three explorers marvel, and think about how that small of the wonder, and sense of togetherness, that the Apollo blue orb possessed everything they knew and loved. mission brought out in us back then. Merry Christmas to Us, too. The year 1968 had been a turbulent period of all — to all of you on the good Earth.  social and political upheaval in the U.S.: nightly TV news broadcast body counts of American troops in an unpopular war in Vietnam; in one three-month span, Martin Luther King and Bobby Kennedy had been assassinated; riots MERI-JO BORZILLERI Editor In Chief 8

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Second Acts

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Katheryn Moran Katheryn is a lifestyle and natural light photographer specializing in weddings, families and local, fresh food and restaurants. She believes in community, relationships and a good glass of wine. She works hard to document the most important parts of your life in a creative and honest way. She looks forward to meeting you. katherynmoranphotography.com  p. 48

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Arlené Mantha Third-generation baker, and professionally trained pastry chef from Los Angeles, Arlené has taught classes for Bellingham Alive’s “Meet The Chef” series as well as the Bellingham Gluten Information Group. Her passion for comfort food and modern aesthetic has manifested itself in her catering company, Twofiftyflora.  p. 43

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Diane Padys Diane has spent a career making beautiful things more beautiful with her photography. She has lived in San Francisco, Milan, New York, and Seattle. She now resides on Whidbey Island, continuing commercial work in the Pacific Northwest and wherever the assignment takes her. Food, animal, portrait, and architecture photography are real passions. dianepadysphotography.com  p. 69

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Lisa Crosier is a master esthetician and owner of Lisa Crosier Skincare and Beauty Boutique located in downtown Bellingham. Since launching her business in 1994, Lisa’s greatest joy has been helping her clients feel beautiful from the inside out. She and her team of estheticians are specialists in treating problem skin from acne to aging. Lisa is an energetic educator who instructs women and teens on proper care of their skin, so they can achieve maximum results. Lisa enjoys running, Crossfit, and looks for any excuse to head to Mount Baker to ski. lisaskincare.com  p. 46

Happy Holidays AND A JOYFUL NEW YEAR from the staff at

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Divisive Issues Prompt Thought-Provoking Essays Just a little note to let you know that I really appreciated the Karlberg essays in this month’s issue of Bellingham Alive. Lisa’s piece reminds us that we are not alone in our anguish over the country’s social and political turmoil. Ken’s essay informs us that lawyers do have extremely high professional ethical standards, and are just as disappointed with the recent executive branch and partisan interference in the Supreme Court’s makeup. Zacchoreli F., Bellingham

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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.

Thank you for a well-rounded and thoughtful publication. The last two editions contained an essay and a Final Word column by Ken Karlberg (October’s “Truth First, Country Second, Party Third,” and November’s “The Supreme Court’s Scarlet K, and an Apology”). These have been wellwritten pieces and speak for many relating to difficult topics. I look forward to his monthly contributions. Susan H., Bellingham

Letters to the Editor

NOTES

Lisa and Ken Karlberg’s articles in the November edition of Bellingham Alive are the best evidence we have recently seen that good journalism is still alive in the U.S.A. Lisa pinpointed the concern of many reasonable people, irrespective of their political allegiance, and Ken’s article on Judge Kavanaugh’s confirmation hearing accurately and professionally demonstrated an honest lawyer’s opinion. It was good to read both their courageous approaches. Continued strength to your pens with a superb publication! Trevor and Judy H., Blaine Magazine’s Variety, Quality Impresses Month after month, I am impressed with the variety and quality of articles in Bellingham Alive. We are truly fortunate to have such a high-caliber magazine highlighting our beloved neck of the woods. Janet D., Bellingham

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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 with K & L Media? I started at the magazine as an intern this past summer, and was hired as a marketing assistant after a couple of months. I help manage the website, blog, and our social media sites. I am also excited for the opportunity to write the Apps We Love column in the magazine.

What is your background? I have a bachelor of arts degree in dance and minors in anthropology and Spanish from Western Washington University. Books have always been an important part of my life, and I became intrigued by the idea of working in book publishing. After researching what sort of publishers are in the area, I started interning at the magazine and instantly knew it was the right place for me.

Lydia McClaran

What is your favorite part of working for a regional lifestyle magazine? I have lived in Whatcom County my whole life, but since working here I am learning that there is so much I don’t know about it! There are so many new restaurants to eat at, new bands to discover, and new places to visit. There are some pretty cool people doing pretty cool things in our community!

What are some of your hobbies? I also work as a dance instructor at Opus Performing Arts and the YMCA, teaching everything from Irish dance to ballet to hip hop. When I’m not working or teaching, I enjoy living by the North Fork River and spending time with my friends and family. You can likely find me snuggled up with my cat and a good book. 

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

From Apollo 8 to Flight Museum Anacortes Astronaut Marks Milestone of Moon Shot WRITTEN BY KATE GALAMBOS

ifty years ago this December, Apollo 8 astronauts William (Bill) Anders, Jim Lovell and Frank Borman were the first to enter lunar orbit, and Anders — now a resident of Anacortes — joined Lovell and Borman as they read from the Bible that memorable Christmas Eve for all the world to hear. “In the beginning God created heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light,” Anders read in a live radio transmission heard worldwide as the three orbited the moon on December 24, 1968. … continued on page 20

LIFESTYLE By the Numbers

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North Sound volunteers who participated in last year’s National Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count, p. 21

New stores — Hobby Lobby, HomeGoods, and Sierra Trading Post — that replaced Bellingham’s Costco on Meridian Avenue, p. 31

Minimum sun protection factor sunscreen you should be wearing daily here, even in winter, p. 46

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LIFESTYLE

Lasting Image

“A short drive towards Mount Baker, then off the beaten path can lead to some serious views. An adventure with an old friend led to this incredible lookout spot that I have not seen in years.” CODY VANDERWERFF

North Sound photographers, we want to see what you’ve got. We’re looking for locally generated photographs for our Lasting Image feature. We’re seeking local nature photographs — ones that freeze a moment, tell a story, evoke an emotion. We’ll run your photo, along with your name, where you’re from, where the photo was shot, and a short 40-word writeup about the photo (inspiration for it, how you got it, meaning behind it, etc.). The photo must be high resolution (300 dpi) with no watermarks. Send to design@northsoundlife.com. Then sit back and enjoy the view.

December 2018 19

Frank Borman, Bill Anders and Jim Lovell

Greg Anders at Heritage Flight Museum

Courtesy of NASA

… Anders, 85, lives with his wife, Valerie, in the Skagit Valley, where aviation remains a fundamental part of his life. In 1996, he founded the Heritage Flight Museum in Bellingham, and he moved it five years ago to its current home in Burlington at the Skagit Regional Airport. There, amid vintage aircraft, references to Anders’ 1968 Apollo flight abound at the museum and on its website. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Apollo 8’s momentous journey, when the first men to leave Earth’s orbit went to the moon. The men’s mission consisted of 10 lunar orbits, during which time Anders was tasked with photographing the moon’s dark side — the side hidden from Earth. However, it wasn’t his photos of the moon that grabbed the attention of the world, but his unplanned shots of the Earth from space. The famous photo, “Earthrise,” showed our planet as it had never been seen before. The photo brought to light Earth’s fragility and is credited with igniting the environmental movement in the following decade. A framed copy, signed by the crew, is on display at the museum, along with other artifacts. Anders’ resume doesn’t stop at astronaut or even worldfamous photographer. After space travel, he was named to the president’s Atomic Energy Commission, served as the ambassador to Norway, and worked as a successful top executive at both General Electric and Textron. Later, in a project closer to heart, he founded the museum. Today, two of Anders’ sons, Alan and Greg, run the Skagit County museum along with their father with a mission to tell the stories of U.S. combat veterans through the collection’s 14 antique “warbird” planes. While Greg and Bill came to the love of flight through their careers in the U.S. Air Force, Alan had to learn “the hard way,” as Greg put it, through civilian training in flying. 20

BellinghamAlive.com

The collection features giants like the Skyraider, introduced as an armed search-and-rescue vehicle during the Vietnam War. The plane burns about 1.5 gallons of gas a minute (about three at takeoff) and weighs about 7,500 pounds, says Greg as he narrated a recent tour of the museum. Each plane appears to have been meticulously placed in the hanger like a jigsaw puzzle. Walking from one to the next involves ducking and weaving. The planes aren’t held behind velvet ropes — you can actually reach out and touch history. And when the weather’s good, you can see and hear it too, during the museum’s monthly air shows from April to October. “You get to see [the planes] live and breathe here. There is nothing quite like the hearing the Skyraider start up. It is quite the experience,” says Greg. The museum’s Skyraider is one of seven still flying in the world. Greg, who saw combat during Operation Iraqi Freedom, still regularly flies the Skyraider along with his other favorites, the AT-6D Hog Wild Gunner and the P-51 Mustang. The majority of the museum’s vehicles were donated by Bill and Valerie, along with private donations and a few planes owned by Greg and on loan for display. The Anders men, Bill included, still visit the skies regularly in their favorite aircrafts. The museum is planning a campaign next year for a big expansion project, set for completion in 2020. It would nearly double the museum’s size to make room for more hanger space and two additional education rooms to tell the story of Bill Anders’ trip to moon in the context of the turmoil of 1968. Bill and family will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Apollo 8 at the San Diego Air and Space Museum on December 20th.  15053 Crosswind Dr., Burlington 360.424.5151 | heritageflight.org

In the Know

LIFESTYLE

Bohemian Waxwing

Short-eared Owl

Tapping into Your Inner Bird Nerd Audubon’s Christmas Bird Count WRITTEN BY SARAH SIBLEY

alling all bird lovers and naturalists: You can help protect the bird population in your area. Local chapters of the National Audubon Society are gearing up for this year’s annual Christmas Bird Count, set for Dec. 14–Jan. 5. Check Audubon.org or your local chapter’s website for dates and information about bird counts in Whatcom, Skagit, and the San Juan Islands. Last year, between December 13–31, participants across the nation reported spotting more than 56 million birds, including 2,636 different species. Locally, 166 volunteers counted 396 species in Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan counties. According to the North Cascade Audubon Society’s website, this tradition dates to 1900. It was an alternative hunt for those who preferred protecting birds rather than killing them. It created what are now known as “citizen scientists.” With climate change, habitat loss, and the fear of extinction of species, average people are being enlisted

to be a part of the important work of species protection. The count is conducted within geographic circles within a region. The circles, generally 15 miles in diameter, cover a wide variety of habits like saltwater and urban parklands, fields and farms. Participants are assigned a circle, and it is their job to count the different types and numbers of birds in their circle. The numbers are sent to the Audubon Society for analysis. Over the last dozen years volunteers have witnessed a change in the types of birds in our area due to climate change and environmental factors. Seabirds like the Western grebe have declined due to the increase in oil tanker traffic. Large tankers kill the eel grass, which provides a home for herring, which is a source of food for these birds on their migration route, according to Doug Brown, coordinator for North Skagit Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Count. In recent years, warmer winter temperatures have decreased the number of Bohemian waxwings, who need colder weather, and increased the

number of Anna’s hummingbirds and scrub jays, who like the warmth. Previous volunteer and coordinator Paul Woodcock explains why participation in these counts are so important. “We are acquainting people with birds and increasing their interest and participation in order to understand where birds are wintering.” While bird counts are exciting for seeking out rare birds like the snowy owl, Brown wants people to understand that the bird count is more than just a field trip. So, grab your binoculars, a pencil and some paper, and dress warmly. Summon your inner bird nerd and become a citizen scientist. Birds everywhere will thank you. 

North Cascades Audubon Society northcascadesaudubon.org Skagit Audubon Society skagitaudubon.org San Juan Audubon Society sjiaudubon.org

December 2018 21

LIFESTYLE Community

Fighting Arthritis With Bells On Bellingham Jingle Bell Run WRITTEN BY LOGAN PORTTEUS | PHOTOS COURTESY OF LORI MCKNIGHT

he 31st annual Bellingham Jingle Bell Run is expected to draw the largest number of participants in its history this year. The event, set for Dec. 8 starting at Bellingham High School, typically hosts 2,000–3,000 participants and up to 150 fundraising teams.

WHAT THEY DO Festivities begin at 8 a.m. The day’s events include a 5K (3.1mile) run, a one-mile run, a “Run with the Elves” event for kids, and a Dog Trot, featuring colorful costumes. As part of the tradition, jingle bells are handed to each participant to tie to their shoes. All proceeds go to the Arthritis Foundation, which funds arthritis research and community programs, like Mount Vernon’s Kat-Fish Camp for children with arthritis. Many of the teams get donations, raising money for the cause on behalf of individuals close to them with arthritis.

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS The run is among the top five Jingle Bell Runs in the country, surpassing the likes of major metropolitan areas like Chicago, Kansas City, and even Atlanta, the city in which the Arthritis Foundation is based. Every business and organization sponsor for the Bellingham event is local, rather than large corporations. 22

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KEY PEOPLE The run is almost entirely executed by Lori McKnight, who serves as the Jingle Bell Run coordinator and the Arthritis Foundation development director. She conducts outreach to local sponsors, works with community members who are involved, and almost single-handedly plans the event. The event highlights one or two individuals as “honorees” to tell their story about a disability which affects one in four people in the United States. “Every year we highlight several individuals with arthritis, and we honor them telling their stories,” says McKnight. “It brings more education and awareness to people attending the event.” One of the honorees chosen for this year’s Jingle Bell Run is Sally-Jo Bakken, 67. She had been asked to be an honoree before, but turned it down, saying she wanted people to know it’s a disability that affects not only older people, but younger ones like 24-year-old Aja Ruswick, the race’s young-adult honoree this year. “People think ‘Oh, arthritis? That’s your grandparents,’ and I want them to realize that it is also a young person’s disease as well and that’s where the heartbreak is,” Bakken says.

WHO THEY’VE HELPED Ruswick says she was diagnosed with arthritis when she was 12. She went to Kat-Fish Camp and got resources she needed as a child with arthritis — precisely the type of person that benefits from an event like the Jingle Bell run. Since 2007, the event has raised more than $1.8 million for arthritis research and various programs, McKnight says. t 2018 Jingle Bell Run Bellingham High School 2015 Franklin St., Bellingham 360.733.2866 | events.arthritis.com

In the Know

LIFESTYLE

Music, Clothing For A Cause Betty Be Good Raises $10,000 for Human Trafficking Survivors WRITTEN BY HAILEY PALMER

B Lummi Nation Purchases Loomis Trail Golf Course WRITTEN BY HAILEY PALMER | PHOTOS COURTESY OF SILVER REEF HOTEL AND CASINO

hen the Lummi Nation tribe purchased Loomis Trail Golf Course this fall, it not only changed its status from semi-private to public, but also added a valuable amenity to its hotel and casino holdings. Loomis Trail, an 18-hole course with 180 acres of land, was purchased for $3.62 million from Resort Semiahmoo LLC on October 1, according to Whatcom County records. Lummi Nation chairman Jay Julius says the purchase of the golf course was important to the Lummi people and their history as the golf course is located on original tribal land. The purchase of the golf course will also provide visitors of the tribe’s Silver Reef Hotel and Casino another amenity. The hotel and casino are located about 13 miles south of the golf course. Rita Jefferson, chief operating officer of Silver Reef, says the hotel and casino will also be looking to host tournaments and fundraisers with its access to the golf course.

The Loomis Trail Golf Course is the fifth-ranked public golf course in Washington state, according to Golf Week Magazine. The course was host to the 2016 U.S. Amateur Qualifier and the 2015 U.S. Senior Open. The previously semi-private course is now open daily to the public. Greens fees for the weekdays are $42 for 18 holes and $25 for nine holes. Weekends are $52 for 18 holes and $32 for nine holes. “We want to make Loomis Trail available for everyone to enjoy, so the course will be open to the public every day,” Jefferson says. Additionally, Loomis Trail Golf Course features banquet space and serves as an outdoor wedding venue which will continue to be used by the public and Silver Reef.  Loomis Trail Golf Course 4342 Loomis Trail Rd., Blaine 360.332.1725 | golfloomis.com

laine and Bellingham clothier Betty Be Good shared some of its goodness this fall with a Whatcom County refuge for survivors of human trafficking and prostitution. For the fifth anniversary of its Blaine store, the company hosted a fashion show and concert in October that raised $10,000 for Engedi Refuge, a Christian-based program in Lynden. Engedi Refuge provides addiction counseling, residential treatment, education, and job training through its housing facilities and counseling and learning centers. As of spring 2018, the program had helped more than 40 survivors. The Hebrew word “engedi” means an oasis, sanctuary, or safe haven. Suzanne Smith, owner of Betty Be Good, says the store works with different charities and wanted to do something bigger and more meaningful than past work. “I was overwhelmed,” Smith says. “It was a secret goal of mine that we would raise that much at the event. Then, it was announced we had raised $10,000 and that was incredible.” Smith says an anonymous donor contributed a $3,500 matching gift that helped. Hosting more fundraisers is something Smith hopes to do. “It’s a dream of ours to have it annually and with the response we just had I think we’ll be able to do that,” Smith says.  1301 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 8125 Birch Bay Square St., Blaine shopbettybegood.com

December 2018 23

LIFESTYLE Game Changer

Swinomish Tribal Leader Affects Change Locally and Nationally Brian Cladoosby WRITTEN BY SARAH SIBLEY PHOTO COURTESY OF SUZANNE FOGARTY/SWINOMISH TRIBAL ARCHIVE

ative American leader Brian Cladoosby is a hard man to pin down, possibly because he is continually working to improve the lives of his tribe, the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, and of indigenous people everywhere. Cladoosby, 59, has been tribal chairman since 1997 and recently finished three years as president of the National Council of American Indians, where he lobbied President Obama and 24

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other officials on behalf of the interests of all tribal nations. Cladoosby is considered one of the most senior tribal leaders in Washington state. He lives with the approximately 1,000 members on the Swinomish reservation around La Conner, which includes 7,450 acres of upland, 2,900 acres of tideland, and a profitable casino in Anacortes. Cladoosby (pronounced kla-duhsbee) has led tribal efforts to protect a diminishing salmon population, Indian

fishing rights, and tribal sovereignty. He also has fought opioid addiction among his people, sued drug companies, and opposed a controversial oil pipeline proposed through Indian land in North Dakota. Leadership and activism dates back two generations in his family. His great-great grandfather, KelKahl-Tsoot, signed the Treaty of Point Elliot in 1855, which gave the native people of the Puget Sound their land. His grandfather served on the Swinomish Tribal Council more than 24 years. After graduating from Skagit Valley College, Cladoosby knew it was his calling to be the leader of the Swinomish people. On an international level, he has been the co-chair of the Coast Salish Gathering, which brings together British Columbia First Nations and western Washington tribes. He has been an outspoken voice for treaty rights which, he feels, are being broken due to environmental pollution. He testified on behalf of the Swinomish, along with Lummi, Suquamish, and Tulalip in Canada to their National Energy Board to voice concern about building an oil pipeline and the impact it will have. “The air, water and soil never had a voice,” he tells me. “We’re at a breaking point, and the environment can’t handle what it’s being dealt right now. Our Swinomish community wants to bring awareness to the industry, those in government and in the community that we need to seriously look at what we want to leave for our children in the seventh generation.” Locally, Cladoosby says he is “destroying generations of historical trauma starting at home — whether that’s the family home or the community home.” Under his leadership, the Swinomish created fullride college scholarships for students, instituted a free braces program for children, and opened the largest heroin and opioid treatment center in the Northwest for tribal and non-tribal people. He says, “To see our families raising their kids, getting off welfare, getting off food stamps, becoming productive members of society, it’s just awesome to witness.” 

Book Reviews

WRITTEN BY LAURIE MULLARKY LAURIESLITPICKS.BLOGSPOT.COM

The 71/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton 438 pages Sourcebooks Landmark

Agatha Christie meets Stephen King on an Alfred Hitchcock set. The premise is unique: the main character has eight days, in eight different bodies, to find out who killed Evelyn Hardcastle, a young privileged woman newly returned to the family estate in England. The consequences of failure are severe — being stuck in the loop of time forever. The wide variety of characters is impressive: the likable drug peddler, the overweight brilliant aristocrat, the devious artist, the shockingly complex maid, among others — and they all have their roles to play. Be forewarned: This book takes a little time to quash frustration and confusion, but be patient. By page 50, you will be beyond hooked, unable to put down this clever, well-written book until you know all the “whodunnits.” Perfect for a stormy day, this book is best enjoyed while you’re nestled in a cozy chair with a cup of tea.

The Library Book by Susan Orlean 336 pages Simon & Schuster

My grandmother was a university librarian, my first babysitter was the county library, and my first crush was Mrs. Pyle, my school librarian, who wore purple earrings and chose me to stamp the date cards. So yes, I am a lover of libraries and everything about them. So is Susan Orlean. This New Yorker magazine writer has a few bestsellers (think “Orchid Thief”) and her latest is sure to please many bibliophiles. Ostensibly about the story of the 1986 fire at the Los Angeles Central library, this is a love letter to all things “library” — the history, the buildings, the administrators, and the frontline people who devote their lives to books, as well as offering some investigative journalism to unravel a mystery. This book is completely engrossing, utterly fascinating, and extraordinarily wellresearched. I highly recommend it to anyone who has a love affair with books.

In the Know

LIFESTYLE

December 7, 7 p.m. Peter Laufer, Dreaming in Turtle Village Books 1200 11th St., Bellingham 360.671.2626, villagebooks.com Professor, journalist, editor, and award-winning author Peter Laufer examines the effects of human impact and globalization on turtles through a compelling tale of culture, danger, and compassion. Laufer will speak at this free event that will include book signings and an opportunity to meet the author.

December 21, 6 p.m. Fairhaven Family Story Night Bellingham Public Library Fairhaven Branch 1117 12th St., Bellingham 360.778.7188 bellinghampubliclibrary.org Meet with the Bellingham Storytellers Guild for this free monthly event. It begins with an hour of introductory coaching in storytelling, followed by professional storytelling performances at 7 p.m. Four days before Christmas, it might be the perfect way to take a break from the holiday hubbub. All ages are welcome!

Who Knew? Christmas Food Silent Sweets Candy canes haven’t always been the sweet staple people have come to love during the holidays. There are rumors that they were invented in 1670 by the choirmaster of the Cologne Cathedral in order to keep children quiet during service. The stripes and different flavors didn’t come until later.

Everlasting Fruit Cake It’s a dish intended to last all year. The sugar and alcohol content in fruit cake preserves the life of the cake for much longer than it should, which is actually by design. Fruit cakes were meant to be baked at the end of the harvest season and eaten at the beginning of the following harvest season.

Calorie Coma The average Christmas dinner really adds up and not just when it comes to price. The combination of turkey, ham, various side dishes, alcohol, and dessert makes for a great dinner. It also can add up to more than 7,000 calories per person. Eggnog alone can carry some 300 calories per serving. Yet another reason, of several, to avoid it.

Kentucky Fried Christmas In Japan, an estimated 3.6 million families eat KFC around Christmas, according to businessinsider.com. It started with a marketing idea in 1970 when the first KFC opened in Japan. Kentucky for Christmas got its start in 1974 and has been a tradition in Japan ever since. The Christmas buckets can include ribs, cake and wine in addition to chicken. — Hailey Palmer

December 2018 25

Community the Spotlight LIFESTYLE In

Fabric of the Universe © Russell Johnson

Nature, Chihuly Shape Glassmaker Christopher Morrison WRITTEN BY KATE GALAMBOS

BellinghamAlive.com

hristopher Morrison wears a variety of hats: teacher, business owner and professional artist. His studio, Morrison Glass Art, is located in Bellingham, and hosts Western Washington University glass sculpting students and local professionals, in addition to Morrison himself. His journey began across the country in his hometown outside Pittsburgh when his high school art class visited a nearby glass studio. After high school and college careers devoted to glass, he traveled around the country studying glass sculpting technique and finally landed in what he calls the “mecca of glass blowing” in the Puget Sound region. After arriving, Morrison studied at Pilchuck Glass School in

APPS WE L VE Christmas List Better Day Wireless, Inc. With all the craziness surrounding the holidays, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. With this Christmas List app, add each person you need to get a gift for, then enter their gift, the price, and mark off when their present is bought, wrapped, and mailed. This app keeps track of costs to help you budget, all while counting down until the big day!

Elfster Elfster, Inc. Art Monster

The Last Sea Fern

Stanwood and worked with renowned glass blower Dale Chihuly in Seattle. Now, his studio acts as a community hub for glass sculptors of every skill level, from student to professional, and Morrison continues his passion of bringing communities together through a common love of art. Bellingham’s Morrison, 56, will open his Lincoln Street studio to the public on December 1 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to showcase his work. Public installations of Morrison pieces can be found on display at Village Books and at Cascade Brain and Spine Center in Bellingham. His glass art can be purchased at Morrison Glass Art and Whatcom Museum Store in Bellingham; Earthenworks Gallery in La Conner and Seattle’s Glass-House Studio.

Q: HOW ARE YOU INSPIRED?

Q: HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INTRODUCED TO GLASS SCULPTING? My high school art teacher took our class out to a glass blowing studio. That was the first time I had ever seen it. I had I known I wanted to study art in college, but not specifically glass. Then I found Hartwick College, in Oneonta, N.Y., which had a glass studio and ended up running the entire studio by my senior year. From there, I was hooked.

That creative “ah-ha moment” comes outside the studio when I’m on the beach or looking up at the night sky. I get inspiration from being out in nature in general. Just getting away from the regular day-to-day grind.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS? Well, that big creative piece happens outside the studio, but then I have to translate my inspiration. When I have that idea, I’ll sketch and create sort of a storyboard to figure out the more exact formulaic of steps. When you are actually blowing the glass, everything happens so quickly, so there is also creativity in all those little adjustments and choices.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB? I like that I get to wear many hats. I really enjoy mentoring students (Morrison teaches Western students four days a week in his studio). It [glass] is such a unique material, I feel an obligation to teach and pass on what I know. I believe art brings people together and I want to share that.  2111 Lincoln St., Bellingham 360.714.8732 | morrisonglassart.com

If you want to start a gift exchange with family and friends, then Elfster is a must-have. Invite members to your group, and the app will randomly draw names. Then an elf will tell you who you are assigned to as their Secret Santa. You can make a wish list so your Santa knows what you like, or even add wishes to your kid’s list.

Tailor — Personal Stylist Area 120 After you check out our fashion shoot, download this app. You are assigned a personal stylist who will help you shop within your budget for your desired look, and put outfits together from pieces you already have in your closet! The stylists are real people you can chat with at any time at no cost. Another perk of Tailor is free shipping and returns!

Wish ContextLogic Inc. Wish is a shopping app with remarkable discounts. The items are shipped directly from the manufacturers in Asia, so the prices are ridiculously low. You can browse by category for clothes, home decor, electronics, etc. Shipping costs are typically low, though they may take longer to ship. Wish has thousands of merchandise items and also has nightly giveaways! — Lydia McClaran

December 2018 27

LIFESTYLE

Five Faves

BOUNDARY BAY NEW YEAR’S EVE DANCE & DINNER BASH Pull on your favorite cowboy boots and dust off your hat for a Westernstyle New Year’s Eve celebration at Boundary Bay. The Tap and Bistro room with be cleared to make space for line dancing led by Char of the Lynden Line Dancers. When you get tired of dancing, don’t forget to chow down on BBQ cuisine and grab one of Boundary’s famous local brews. Finish the night with a champagne toast and the Lowering of the Keg when the clock strikes midnight. Doors open at 9 p.m. and dancing begins at 10 p.m. 1107 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.647.5593 | bbaybrewery.com

NEW YEAR’S EVE FIVE CELEBRATIONS FAVES WRITTEN BY HAILEY HOFFMAN | PHOTO COURTESY OF BOUNDARY BAY

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BIRCH BAY RING OF FIRE & HOPE Head up to Birch Bay to set the bay aglow with bright-red flares along the shore at 7 p.m. The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce will provide one flare (biodegradable) free per family while supplies last, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Birch Bay Visitor Center. 7900 Birch Bay Dr., Blaine 360.371.5004 | birchbaychamber.com

LAST CHANCE MARATHON Still haven’t completed your 2018 New Year’s resolution to run a marathon? Well, here’s your last chance. Start at Fairhaven Park Pavilion in Bellingham, follow the Interurban trail to Clayton Beach and head back for a nifty 13.1 miles, or do it twice for the full 26.2 miles. 107 Chuckanut Dr., Bellingham nwenduranceevents.com

OAK HARBOR’S NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS Watch fireworks shimmer above the Puget Sound with the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce as they welcome in the New Year at 9 p.m. Hunker down at Windjammer Park where the fireworks will be set off or find another spot along the water to watch the show. Beeksma Drive, Oak Harbor 360.675.3755 | oakharborchamber.com

NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA SEAFOOD BUFFET PARTY Enjoy an elegant gala with fabulous all-you-can-eat seafood and celebratory champagne at Rosario Resort’s The Mansion Restaurant on Orcas Island starting at 5 p.m. Continue the night with a dance party starting at 10 p.m. with live music and hors d’oeuvres.

Historic UrbanHospitality Renewal

1400 Rosario Rd., Eastsound 360.376.2222 | rosarioresort.com

December 2018 29

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SHOP

Savvy Shopper · Necessities · New Find

Costco’s Move Brings Big Three To Bellingham Hobby Lobby, HomeGoods, Sierra Trading Post WRITTEN BY SARAH SIBLEY PHOTOGRAPHED BY HAILEY HOFFMAN

here may come a day when you’ll find yourself in need of craft project materials, a new area rug and a pair of hiking boots. Great news! You can find all these items in one location. After Costco moved north off West Bakerview Road in Bellingham, its store on Meridian Street has become home to Hobby Lobby, HomeGoods and Sierra Trading Post. It’s a one-stop-shopping excursion for everything you never knew you needed. … continued on next page

… Hobby Lobby is a do-it-yourself crafter’s wonderland. Aisle upon aisle of materials can be found for those gifted with the talent to create, and those who dare to get involved with projects that require glue guns, sewing machines or framing materials. There are sections for framed art, custom framing, jewelry-making, paper crafts, wearable art, home décor, party supplies, scrapbooking, floral and wedding décor. There is even an entire section dedicated to seasonal decorations that include craft projects and costumes patterns. Have an idea, but aren’t sure where to start? Hobby Lobby has seasoned, crafty professionals who can guide you through the process. With as many rainy days as we have here in the Northwest, it’s good to have another outpost to help with our next project. Next door is HomeGoods, with everything lovely and functional for your home. The store is incredibly organized, which makes finding your new treasure easy. Is it a supercomfortable pet bed you seek? HomeGoods has a memory foam option ($69.99) for your furry child. I tested several office chairs that ranged from very chic to mid-century modern to traditional office style. They range in price from $69 to $200. There’s an entire wall dedicated to organizing, from baskets and bins to shelves. KidTown is full of children’s bedroom décor and bedding, dress-up clothes, games and books. The Gourmet Kitchen section has everything from wellness products like raw cacao powder ($5.99) to delicious gourmet crackers. According to their website, HomeGoods has buyers who search the world over to seek out “incredible finds at amazing savings.” 32

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Last stop is Sierra Trading Post — a haven for outdoor adventurers featuring everything one could need for exploring our great state and beyond. The store carries top name brands like Smartwool, Sierra Designs, Columbia, and Cotopaxi, to name a few, at steeply discounted prices. You can score a deal on a pair of hiking boots, a tent, or a down coat. The store is stocked with casual and technical clothes and shoes for men, women and kids. Plus, gear for camping, fishing and even bikes. I had my eye on a Simcoe Roadster Classic Bike ($299.99), but sadly the Cotopaxi Daypack ($24.99) was more in my budget. If your next shopping trip includes multiple items, chances are you can track them down in these three stores at the Cordata Center on Meridian Street. t Hobby Lobby 4305 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.650.1090 | hobbylobby.com HomeGoods 4321 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.715.0640 | homegoods.com Sierra Trading Post 4313 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.527.0636 | sierratradingpost.com

Yeager’s T OYLAND

Spend your holidays at the Greenhouse! From gifts, to home décor, housewares, and furniture; we have everything on your list. Don’t miss our holiday events, including pictures with Santa December 1st and more!

Come see Santa in Toyland until Christmas Eve. Call for speciﬁc hours.

3101 Northwest Ave., Bellingham 360.733.1080 yeagerssportinggoods.com

greenhousehome.com | 360.676.1161 1235 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham

SHOP Necessities

Drifters Fish Smoked Salmon Driftersfish.com, 2 jars for $36

Stemless 8 oz. Champagne Flutes Target, 4-pack $9.99

Colorful Happy New Year Bottle Confetti Popper Partycity.com, $6.99

New Year’s Eve Party Supplies The time has come to welcome a new year. Celebrate the past and the future. Indulge in the present moment, and get curious about what’s to come. Whether your New Year’s Eve is a party of one or 100, we’re going to help you ring it in with a few things to make it a bit more interesting. Happy New Year, everyone! — Sarah Sibley

5 4 34

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Domaine Ste. Michelle Sparkling Wines Brut NV BevMo.com, $14.99

The Wild Unknown Tarot Deck & Guidebook Freepeople.com, $39.99

New Find

SHOP

In Winter, Warm-Weather Options Seasons WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY KATE GALAMBOS

andora Grover is no newcomer to Whatcom County, nor is she new to Northwest fashion. Her women’s clothing store, Seasons, has moved around Whatcom County since she opened in 2003. The shop has moved from Birch Bay and Bellingham’s Bakerview Square. Early this year, Grover put down roots in quaint Finnegan’s Alley in Fairhaven, right in the thick of one of Bellingham’s most popular commerce centers. “It has been a delight to be in Fairhaven. The tourists are a great new addition to my customers,” she says. Tourists and Bellingham natives alike will find Grover’s warm personality and wide variety of styles a welcome addition to Fairhaven. In line with her store’s name, Seasons carries women’s clothing for all seasons, all year-round. While it may seem unusual to find sunny, bright-colored

sundresses and shorts in January, the additional options make Seasons an ideal place to stop in before your winter holiday. When it seems impossible to find a wardrobe for your December Hawaiian getaway, Seasons has you covered. Beyond holiday wear, the store offers women age 19 to 90 on-trend pieces as well as timeless classics, Grover says. “I’ve seen three generations of women visit my store together and find items,” she says. In other words, Seasons is a store for some mother-daughter (and even grandmother) bonding. Women will find pieces from around $30 to $130 for casual to dressy occasions. Most of the items in the store are under $100, with a few statement pieces that are a bit more expensive. Grover does her best to find clothing lines from the U.S. and Europe that use quality fabrics made to last. In addition to clothing, Grover carries

an assortment of fun costume jewelry as well as art for the home. The store has featured paintings from Valentina Vidette Davoli-Raab (Valentina V), who resides in Bellingham seasonally and owns Casa Valentina Bed and Breakfast in Bellingham. Valentina is known for her use of bright, bold colors, an interesting contrast to the Pacific Northwest earth tones. With Valentina’s bold art decorating the walls and Grover’s well-considered selection of women’s clothing, Seasons makes shopping relaxing and fun. “As soon as someone enters the store, it becomes their store too. And if ladies enjoy it, that’s all that matters,” she says. Grover encourages new visitors to stop in just to say hello and have a look around.  1106 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.671.1744

December 2018 35

SHOP Savvy Shopper

Clothing, with Style Cheeks WRITTEN BY KATE GALAMBOS PHOTOS COURTESY OF CARLY NAVARRETE & ELYSSA KUIK

ynden native Laura Bouma is making her mark on her small-town home with a stylish women’s clothing store, Cheeks. She started Cheeks in 2011 and since moved into her dream space on Front Street in downtown Lynden. “I remember going to the candy store in here [Dutch Village Mall] when I was a kid,” she says. Now, her women’s boutique is adding a touch of youthful, urban chic to quaint Lynden.  655 Front St., Lynden 360.778.1849 | cheeksjeans.com 36

BellinghamAlive.com

THE SHOP Cheeks is just big enough to dress you from head to toe (including accessories, of course) but not large enough to get overwhelmed. Bouma believes that shopping should be about more than just the items you bring home. The location couldn’t be more charming, with a classic Dutch-style storefront unique to Lynden’s downtown. Need a pick-me-up after shopping? Bouma recommends Katz Coffee and Used Books just down the street for an excellent latte.

THE ATMOSPHERE Bouma’s space is bright and feminine with a touch of vintage whimsy. Most of the store fixtures were made by her dad or father-in-law. “I think it gives the space a really family-friendly atmosphere,” she says. The wide array of tasteful, classic styles makes this a shop mothers and daughters can love equally.

KEY PEOPLE Supporting Bouma are three experienced employees she calls stylists: Amy Thies, Shannon Zylstra, and Elyssa Kuik. Bouma emphasized the importance of her “ladies” and the importance of a strong support network of women. “We are all just busy women and so we help each other,” she says. Another benefit of lady power is the wide array of styles and taste each bring to

the store. Merchandise is chosen by all four women, not just Bouma, which allows for variety in the store, Bouma says. Thanks to Bouma and her stylists, customers can expect supportive customer service they might not find at larger stores or online.

WHAT YOU’LL FIND For Bouma, longevity and quality come first when she is buying for the store. “We should be selective about the clothing we buy. Buying a lot of cheap clothes you don’t love makes it harder to get dressed in the morning,” she says. Rather than just filling closets, Bouma wants to provide highquality, special pieces for her customers that they can wear for years. Customers can expect to find brands with ethical practices like Toms shoes and local artisan jewelry from Grace Designs. Bouma applies the same philosophy of sustainability to her specialty, denim. Customers will find brands like 7 For All Mankind and Hudson Jeans in cuts and washes to flatter all body types. From the trendy skinny to the comeback of the flare and distressed, women will find a pair to invest in. While quality comes at a price — Bouma’s designer jeans are often over $100 a pair — these pieces are not meant to be just “fast fashion.” Instead, Bouma hopes customer will find classic, staple pieces that fit well and survive everchanging trends. 

December 2018 37

Special Advertising Section

Holiday Shopping Guide 2018

Betty Be Good

Trove Coffee

Love La Conner

Cheers to a well-dressed Christmas season! Shop Bettyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two boutiques for top of the list gifts and talk of the town holiday style under $60. Save $10 when you spend $75 before tax.

Trove Coffee offers a relaxing and welcoming environment for our community. Come enjoy exceptional coffee, pastries, savory treats, and sustainably sourced beer & wine! Excellent quality, sustainability, and kindness one cup at a time.

Stroll through our historic waterside village and enjoy a unique shopping experience. Love La Conner this holiday season. Tiny town with Big Charm!

8125 Birch Bay Square, #201, Blaine 1301 W. Bakerview Rd., #105, Bellingham shopbettybegood.com

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228 N. Samish Way, Bellingham 360.393.4953 | trovecoffee.com

Visitor Center: 413 Morris St., La Conner 360.466.4778 | lovelaconner.com #LoveLaConner

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Still Life Massage and Float Give your loved ones the ultimate gift of stillness. Float Therapy is deeply relaxing, pain relieving, and truly restful. The nothingness of Floating is everything and more. 19 Bellwether Way #101 Bellingham 360.647.2805 | stilllifemassage.com

West Coast Wellness From the sophisticated stoner to relieving grandma’s achy joints, WCW Cannabis has got you covered! Readyto-give packages available all holiday season. Friendly and knowledgeable budtenders are here to answer any questions you may have about cannabis — recreational or medical. 3708 Mountt Baker Hwy., Everson 360.392.8309 | wcwcannabis.com This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgement. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children. Marijuana products may be purchased or possessed only by persons twenty-one years of age or older.

Tides of Anacortes

Urban Collective

We have that perfect outfit or gift for your holiday season and beyond. Ugg, Beyond Threads, Sorel, PrAna, Comfy and more. Come visit and spend some time finding something for yourself and the special people on your list!

Urban Collective is your one stop shop for all your holiday needs! Unique hostess gifts, Stocking stuffers, Ornaments and Holiday decor! We will help you be the BEST gift giver this year!

804 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.873.8785 | tidesofanacortes.com

Growlers Keep Give a truly unique gift (or gift certificate) to the craft draft beer, cider, kombucha, or root beer enthusiast on your gift list...an extended shelf life growler fill from our 48 item stock that will “keep” for months vs days. Bakerview Square Shopping Center 436 W. Bakerview Rd., Ste. 111, Bellingham 360.734.0656 | growlerskeep.com

2955 Newmarket St., Ste. 107, Bellingham 360.393.4908 | urbancollective360.com

Kucumber Skin Lounge For the person who has everything — the gift of youth. Anti-aging. Body Sculpting. Skin Rejuvenation. Tattoo Removal. Cosmetic Injections. Coolsculpting®. And 50% off Laser Hair Removal — mention Bellingham Alive. Ring in the new year with fresh, radiant skin. Call 360.738.7197. 436 W. Bakerview, #101, Bellingham 360.738.7197 | kucumberskinlounge.com

December 2018 39

Special Advertising Section

1 Paperboat Who’s on your list? With brand names like Annie Sloan, Brighton, glassybaby the Johnny Was Collection and UGG you can be sure to find that special gift for the people on your holiday list! 1134 10th St., Bellingham (next to the Village Inn) 360.656.6588 | 1paperboat.com

Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery is a new, enchanting from-scratch Italian restaurant in downtown Ferndale that boasts a wine list with over 100 selections, craft cocktails, live music and daily specials. Open every day for lunch and dinner! 2026 Main St., Ferndale 360.306.8998 | leaderblock.com

Fat Shack

Dynasty Cellars

Come grab a delicious hand made burger or Philly Cheesesteak after you finish your Holiday shopping. Located conveniently near Bellis Fair Mall in Bakerview Square. We also have gift cards available for Christmas!

Dynasty Cellars is your wine shop for the holiday season! Wonderful wine selections, food and thoughtful gifts. We also have gift cards available in any amount. We can help you select that perfect wine for anyone on your list! Cheers!

414 W. Bakerview Rd., Ste. 112, Bellingham 360.366.8752 Order online at fatshack.com

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2169 E. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.758.2958 | dynastycellars.com

Pure Bliss Desserts Leave the baking to Bellingham’s favorite dessert shop! Finish your holiday feast with a decadent cake, a batch of bite-size cupcakes, wedges or cookies from Pure Bliss Desserts. And don’t forget blissful gift cards make the sweetest stocking stuffers. 1424 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.739.1612 | pureblissdesserts.com

Skagit’s Own Fish Market We are a full service fish market striving to bring the freshest seafood to your table. We also have a large selection of artisan grocery items for the “foodie” on your Christmas list. Skagit’s Own Fish Market has a great lunch menu served daily with all fresh ingredients. 18042 Hwy 20, Burlington, WA 360.707.2722 | skagitfish.com

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Emâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Herbals

Launching Success

Organic Bulk Herbs, Essential Oils, Infused Oils, and Body Care. Perfect for your personal creations and craft making needs. Browse online for local pickup. Pure Calendula Oil from $9.25.

Support your community and SHOP HAPPY! We have a wide selection of educational toys and games, and more! Friendly staff is available to help pick the just right gift.

Located in the Haskell Business Center behind Civic Field 360.778.2295 | emsherbals.com

133 Prince Ave., Bellingham 360.527.2641 | launchingsuccess.com

Unknown Board Shop Skateboards, longboards, helmets, pads, shoes, clothing, backpacks, hats, beanies, jackets, and accessories for all ages. We sell fun! Unknown Board Shop 105 Grand Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225 Unknownboardshop.com

HIS & HERS

Red Wing Shoes

Third Planet

Quality work and lifestyle footwear, accessories and care products for him and her. We offer Red Wing, Red Wing Heritage, Irish Setter and Vasque. Where fit comes first!

Located downtown, we are a local boutique that specializes in handselected and ethically-sourced gifts, jewelry, crystals, fashion, and dĂŠcor. No matter your age, we truly have something for everyone this holiday season! Mention this ad for 10% OFF.

133 Telegraph Rd., Meridian Plaza, Bellingham 360.733.2500 | redwingshoes.com

200 West Holly St., Bellingham 360.778.3765 thirdplanetbellingham.com

Village Books and Paper Dreams The new Village Books and Paper Dreams Passport grants access to exclusive experiences and prizes, including an overnight at the bookstore. A perfect gift! Price: $30 1200 11th St., Bellingham, 360.671.2626 430 Front St., Lynden, 360.526.2133 villagebooks.com

December 2018 41

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Sehome Professional Center | 405 32nd Street, Suite 100 Bellingham | www.drfaithbult.com | 360.715.3333

WELLBEING Nutrition · Take a Hike · Spa Review · Beauty

Christmas Morning Present: Blackberries and Biscuits WRITTEN BY ARLENÉ MANTHA

uring winter break, my family makes a point to take many sweet walks in the snow with pups, bake French meat pies every Christmas Eve, and make Italian Christmas cookies that need lots of rolling, scooping, and baking for friends and neighbors. Some of our favorite holiday traditions include going to Stanley Park in Vancouver, B.C. to see the amazing lights put on by volunteer firefighters raising money for charity. Then we eat delicious steamed dumplings, go ice skating and enjoy macarons from Ladurée pastry shop. … continued on next page

… But another one of my very favorite traditions is to make blackberries and biscuits on Christmas morning. I eat them with a hot cup of coffee while watching my children, Lucy and Wyatt, unwrap their gifts. This brings great delight to my heart and to my taste buds. I adopted this tradition before I had kids and continued it into their early adulthood. For one, it is an easy recipe that can be prepared ahead of time and simply baked the morning of. It’s so warm and pretty, almost jewel-like, contrasting in color and texture with the warm, flaky biscuits. We freeze our blackberries in August, while they are in season, wild and ripe, growing everywhere around here. In the middle of winter, it’s a treat to smell summer’s blackberries, and even better to taste them on just-baked biscuits.

BLACKBERRY SAUCE Add 20 oz. of frozen but thawed blackberries 1½ cups organic cane sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cinnamon stick Zest of one lemon Zest of one orange 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract or extracts of one vanilla bean 1/4 cup butter

DIRECTIONS • Add all ingredients to a cast iron skillet except the butter, and simmer to reduce the water into a syrupy stream. As blackberry syrup thickens, take off of heat. • Add butter and stir.

BISCUITS 2 Cups flour 4 teaspoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 4 tablespoons butter 1 cup chilled buttermilk

DIRECTIONS • Combine all dry ingredients in a bowl and whisk. • Cut in butter with your fingertips until pea size, working quickly to prevent fat from warming. • Make a well in the center and pour in buttermilk. Gradually fold in to the center. When dough comes together, turn out on a floured surface and roll out and cut into circles with biscuit cutters.

• Open a warm biscuit, add a pat of salted butter and ladle blackberry sauce over biscuits. Add whipped cream, grab a fork and enjoy! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does, whatever winter holidays and traditions you enjoy!  44

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Photos © Lucciana Mantha

• Bake at 450 degrees for 15–20 minutes.

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WELLBEING Beauty

Skin Care Goals: A New You for the New Year WRITTEN BY LISA CROSIER

s the new year approaches, I prefer to focus on goals rather than resolutions or rules that must be followed. Here are my personal goals for glowing skin in 2019 — I invite you to consider adding them to your list as well.

INVEST TIME IN YOURSELF Your skin is the largest organ of the body. Anything going on internally will show up on your skin. Think about the color or sallowness of your skin when you are sick. How you are feeling on the inside is directly correlated to your outside. In my 25 years of esthetics, I have seen a big shift in how clients arrive for a facial. They have a hard time “unplugging” and enjoying the time they reserved for themselves. I see an increased pressure to “do it all” that has made taking care of themselves fall by the wayside. I have worked to win this struggle for myself and know that a balanced lifestyle has a positive impact in all areas of my life including, thankfully, my skin. Don’t forget — you are the one in charge of making this important investment.

WEAR SPF 30 SUNSCREEN YEAR-ROUND Rays that cause cancer and aging are the same in the winter as the summer. Although I have worn sunscreen daily in my moisturizer for more than two decades, I am a child of the 1980s and have seen the inside of a tanning bed. While I enjoyed my darker complexion, I damaged my skin. We get smarter as we age and learn to take precautions to protect our skin. This is your reminder: wear sunscreen with a sun

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protection factor of at least 30 daily even though it is December in rainy Washington. Compare the difference in your skin’s appearance on your stomach or underneath your forearm to areas that receive significantly more sun exposure such as your face and hands. The damage you see today is a result of cumulative sun exposure. When sunscreen is applied generously during your morning routine, you are protecting your skin from wrinkles, aging and skin cancer. Sun protectants have come a long way. There are many great formulas that don’t feel greasy or cause clogged pores. Find one that you’ll enjoy wearing daily and feel confident that you’re using the best preventative wrinkle product on the planet. Don’t forget to treat your hands, neck, and chest. Those are also areas that need attention and prevention.

WASH YOUR FACE TWICE A DAY Not only is this an easy fix for common skin problems, it is self-care at its most basic. Try to get to bed at a reasonable hour so you have time to perform your skincare routine. It is important to consistently use good skincare twice a day, just like brushing your teeth. The most common time to skip your routine is at night when you are tired. Corrective products are especially beneficial at night when the skin is at rest and in repair mode. Your skincare products don’t work sitting in a drawer! This is an extra five minutes well spent. If you sleep in your makeup you are feeding your skin dirt and oil, creating clogged pores and pimples. It just takes a few minutes. When you

maintain this habit, acne is greatly reduced and your skin will look healthy and fresh in the morning.

AGE WITH GRACE, AND LOVE THE SKIN YOU ARE IN! This is my favorite topic, and a daily personal practice. To age with grace, you must love the skin you are in. Many factors cause our skin to age. Some factors we have to accept, while others we can influence. With time, we all have visible lines and lose some of our youthful fullness. We notice our skin becoming thinner and drier. Our genes largely control when these normal changes occur. Our environment and lifestyle choices increase premature aging. Take preventive actions to slow this process. Lifestyle choices like smoking, diet, sleep, lack of exercise and stress are all factors that contribute to wrinkles and create a dull, sallow complexion. A healthy, well-balanced diet, adequate sleep and moderate exercise provide vital nutrients, skin repair and improve circulation. These are important contributing factors to maintaining and restoring healthy skin. Love the skin you are in! This is the only body you have. I know this is easier said than done — but give it a shot. Part of aging gracefully is to accept our aging process as a normal part of life. Stop fighting it and make peace with the beauty you see in the mirror. Wouldn’t that be a great way to start 2019? You will see yourself in a new way: a new you for a new year!  lisaskincare.com

Now what? Wherever you are in your nine-month miracle PeaceHealth can help you answer the question, now what. From pregnancy planning to obstetrics to childbirth, PeaceHealth wants to share in your excitement and keep you healthy for whatever comes next.

peacehealth.org/mother-and-baby

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FEATHERS & FUR Photography

KATHERYN MORAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Styling

LISA KARLBERG

Is it any wonder that, every now and then, we take our fashion cues from the creatures who live outside, in the elements, all year long? In the cold and wet of winter, we crave the warmth that fur, even artificial, can provide. We also can relate to the color and pageantry of birds using feathers to attract attention. For us, feathers — when deployed creatively, like in the following pages — can provide a striking look to combat dispiriting weeks of dark days and a wardrobe that is merely functional. In this year’s fashion issue, we urge you to take a look. And go a little wild.

Taupe Acorn Sweater Yest STATEMENT APPAREL $93

Forest Green Pant Vince

QUINN AND FOSTER $285

Jolien Boots Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Artiste

12TH STREET SHOES $139.99

Long Silver Necklace STATEMENT APPAREL $103

Silver Hoop Earrings Uno de 50 THREE FRENCH HENS $109

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Black Jumpsuit Entro

BETTY BE GOOD $44.90

Multi Faux Fur Vest Cupcakes and Cashmere QUINN AND FOSTER $140

Dragonfly Necklace Uno de 50

THREE FRENCH HENS $365

Ferrara Thin Hinged Bangle Brighton 1 PAPERBOAT $62

Christo Madrid Cuff Bracelet Brighton 1 PAPERBOAT $68

Sahara Bangle Brighton 1 PAPERBOAT $36

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Rust Sweater Dress She + Sky

RYANN MICHELE & CO. $43

Long Cream Fur Jacket Luii

STATEMENT APPAREL $165

Cream Faux Fur Hat Parkhurst STATEMENT APPAREL $39

Bronze Belt Suzi Oher

QUINN AND FOSTER $363

Elsie Boot Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Artiste

12TH STREET SHOES $139.99

December 2018 53

White Blouse Lush SOJOURN $24

Black and White Checkered Jacket Cupcakes and Cashmere QUINN AND FOSTER $175

Black Velvet Pant 7 For All Mankind SOJOURN $189

Marlene Burnished Calf Black Shoes Dansko 12TH STREET SHOES $170

Silver Necklaces Uno de 50

THREE FRENCH HENS $270, $365

Beige Pant Vince

QUINN AND FOSTER $295

Cream Camisole Wishlist Apparel

RYANN MICHELE & CO. $37

White Jacket Love Tree

BETTY BE GOOD $39.90

Cognac Suede Booties Born in California FRINGE $80

Multi Ring Necklace THREE FRENCH HENS $154

Gold Clutch Purse SOJOURN $159.99

Long Diamond Earrings SOJOURN $16

December 2018 55

Black Sweater Jacket Joseph Ribkoff THREE FRENCH HENS $247

White Blouse FoxCroft 1 PAPERBOAT $89

Silver Feather Necklace Uno de 50

THREE FRENCH HENS $270

Silver Round Earrings Jazzola THREE FRENCH HENS $54

Elk Black Leather Pants

THREE FRENCH HENS $168

Marlene Burnished Calf Black Shoes Dansko 12TH STREET SHOES $170

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Cream Sweater Pink Martini SOJOURN $68

Long Sweater Vest Love Tree BETTY BE GOOD $44.90

Black Skirt Bishop + Young

RYANN MICHELE & CO. $85

Fitzgerald Smoke Tall Boots Miz Mooz FRINGE $275

Brown Tassel Necklace RYANN MICHELE & CO. $32

Multi Color Wrap Necklace Scout 1 PAPERBOAT $28

December 2018 57

Lilla P Dress

THREE FRENCH HENS $187

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Black Booties Qupid

BETTY BE GOOD $49.90

Long Gold Earrings Jazzola BETTY BE GOOD $54

Leather Wrap Necklace | Bracelet SOJOURN $24

Metallic Brown Pant 7 for all Mankind SOJOURN $199

Faux Fur Jacket PJ Salvage

RYANN MICHELE & CO. $90

Green Blouse Vince

QUINN AND FOSTER $320

Necklaces Julie Vos

THREE FRENCH HENS $168, $265

Liberty Boots Unity In Diversity

12TH STREET SHOES $190

December 2018 59

Black Lace Dress SNDYS

RYANN MICHELE & CO. $99

Miley Black Shoes Dansko

12TH STREET SHOES $190

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Models

HEATHER HULBERT AND SYDNEY WRIGHT

Hair

HONEY SALON

Make-up

MAKE UP BY BRE SANDERS

BEHIND THE SCENES

Photographer

KATHERYN MORAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Clothing and Accessories

Photos by Hailey Hoffman

1 PAPERBOAT 12TH STREET SHOES FRINGE QUINN AND FOSTER RYANN MICHELE & CO. SOJOURN STATEMENT APPAREL THREE FRENCH HENS

December 2018 61

For Jane Goodall, The Forest Is Home Bellingham Visit One Stop of Many on Dogged Mission to Save Planet Written By Meri-Jo Borzilleri Photos by Rhys Logan/WWU Communications And Marketing

BellinghamAlive.com

Jane Goodall speaks to a sellout audience at the Mount Baker Theatre in October.

amed British primatologist and anthropologist Jane Goodall, 84, isn’t slowing down. She was in town in October for an appearance at the Mount Baker Theatre, through Western Washington University’s Fraser Lecture Series. When tickets went on sale this summer, the 1,519-seat venue sold out in a matter of hours. Reached at her Hotel Bellwether room on a drizzly morning, she deflects an apology about the weather with a soft chuckle. “It’s all right,” she says by phone. “I have so much work to do I don’t have time to be in the weather anyway.” Her trip to Bellingham is one of 300 travel days she has every year. “It’s all horrible,” she says, in her even-keeled, British-accented lilt that makes a complaint sound not so bad. “I think it’s even more days (now), more crammed into the days.” It’s a painful irony — the woman who found her life’s work in a faraway forest living among and studying wild chimpanzees can’t be with them because she’s on a worldwide quest to save them. National Geographic’s documentary “Jane,” released this spring, showed highlights of 100 hours of newly discovered color footage from Goodall’s early years with the chimps in Tanzania’s Gombe forest. Shot in the 1960s, the film is a remarkable look at a freshfaced, thriving woman in her element — on her own, in a remote corner of the world, armed with little more than a notebook and a camera. “It’s the only one that’s been made that actually made me feel like I was back there being 26 years old again,” she says. “It was very special. (Director) Brett Morgen did an amazing job.” In the film she wears low-cut canvas sneakers or sandals or goes barefoot. “They were the best days of my life, when I was out there with the chimps learning stuff all the time,” she says. “It was amazing… I was wishing I could be back in those days. But everything’s changed since then.”

December 2018 63

Chimps and Tools: Changing Conventional Thinking Her early studies were criticized because she had no scientific background at the time, yet she wound up carrying out groundbreaking research. One of her discoveries that revolutionized definitions of humans and evolution: chimps used tools, like a twig, to stick inside a log and “fish” for termites. Before that, toolmaking was considered the realm of humans only. Tourists, of course, have descended upon Gombe, and most of the chimps she knew so well are no longer there. Twice a year, she manages to visit two surviving chimps, Melissa and Gremlin, for a few days. “Last time, Gremlin came down from her tree and walked up to me and stared into my eyes as though she were saying, `Ah, stranger.’”

Spreading the Word — and the Work The Jane Goodall Institute has a presence in more than 100 countries around the globe. She is justifiably proud of Roots and Shoots, her youth program that has grown to involve thousands of young people, from kindergarten to college, in 80 countries, including the U.S., China, and the United Arab Emirates. She places much of her faith for the future in college students, who are conducting field studies like she did. “We try to link the young people together face-to-face when possible but otherwise mostly through technology.” She can’t get to all the programs, she laughs, “but I get to as many as I can.” Her reputation and star status spans generations, longer than scientist celebrities like Neil deGrasse Tyson and Bill Nye, the Science Guy. She retains a sense of wonder.

Bigfoot? Goodall Hopes So She hopes that Bigfoot exists (“I’m basically a romantic, so I hope that they’re there”) and believes modern zoos, with the right conditions, can be a better place than the wild for some species, though not whales or dolphins. “It’s just not right to keep them in pens. It’s really, really not. Elephants is another, probably wolves.” Zoos still have a place in today’s conservation movement. Technology, in the form of virtual reality, can help bring awareness of creatures’ lives and is a “fabulous tool” Goodall says, but it’s nothing like the real thing. “It’s not the same for a small child as being able to look an animal in the eye and smell the smell. There’s a being-ness when you’re with an animal that can never come from virtual reality.”

BellinghamAlive.com

Jane Goodall Institute, Programs See Change

J Jane Goodall observes Gremlin and Gaia in Gombe National Park © Kristin J. Mosher

ane Goodall’s Bellingham appearance happened the same day as the release of a global report warning that without drastic action, we are headed for disastrous climate change faster than we thought — in just a couple of decades, rather than several. Her groundbreaking work with chimps, highlighted by her early career where she lived among and studied wild chimpanzees in Africa’s Gombe forest in Tanzania, has made her one of the world’s most enduring voices in conservation as well. Yet from the year 1900, the chimp population is down from 1 million to fewer than 340,000 today. Now, disastrous climate change is at our doorstep. How does she keep plowing ahead with her life’s work when everything seems so hopeless? She answers by pointing out the scoured hills surrounding Gombe in 1990, where a growing human population had squeezed out the forest, and the epiphany that, as she and the Jane Goodall Institute helped the area’s impoverished people, the chimps’ lives would improve too. The institute’s “Take Care” program, Goodall says, brought technology and a new sense of ownership to 72 villages throughout the range of Tanzania’s last chimps. Residents have proudly learned to use smartphones and GPS to keep track of wildlife. The forest and the chimps are returning. Villagers have ‘‘become our partners in conservation, understanding that conserving the forest is important to their future as well as the chimps.” — MJB

If you want to help, here are some related websites: Janegoodall.org Rootsandshoots.org Goodall was 26 when she started studying the chimps in the Gombe Stream Wildlife Preserve. © The Jane Goodall Institute / Hugo van Lawick

December 2018 65

The author of numerous children’s books, Goodall’s “Roots and Shoots” program shows her belief that young people are key to the conservation movement.

A Reason to Hope Before her talk, Goodall had spent the previous day on a SalishSea.org outing. It was arranged to bring together indigenous people whose lives are affected by the sea that encompasses local Canadian and U.S. waters. She said it was a “fascinating morning.” “They were all hopeful... I don’t know enough about it. I do know there are many, many animal species that have been virtually extinct that have been brought back. There’s a growing awareness around the world of the importance of making safe areas for whales and dolphins and so on. Of course, the salmon are desperately important; they have nothing to eat. Contamination with factory-farmed salmon is a big problem.” In these dire times, Goodall, a quiet force of nature, presses on. What else to expect from someone who carries a leaf from a tree that not only survived the atomic attack on Nagasaki, but blossomed? Next for Goodall: “Just carrying on, doing this as long as I can, and then I hope, if my brain is still functioning, I can have time for writing again.” She has written 31 books, according to her website, including 14 for children. She wants to write at least another: “I expect if I have time, I can come up with several.” Goodall, who has homes in Tanzania and England, wants to next write about extraordinary events in her life, an anthology of “things which people call coincidence but I’m not so sure.” Like the time a couple months ago while appearing before several thousand people in France. The topic turned to the threat of pollution and a vanishing water supply, and one of three glass water bottles on the table in front of her on stage inexplicably shattered. It was caught on video, she says. “Nobody can understand it. It was like a symbol.” Or other times, when twists of fate changed her life’s path. How long can she keep this up? “My body will dictate that,” she says, in that measured voice that has helped connect her, like few others, to wild things. She laughs. “I know I can’t give up while I still can do it. Because it makes a difference, and I only say that because everybody tells me so. I have people come up and say, ‘Well, you’ve given me hope and now I’m going to do my best. I was apathetic, I felt I couldn’t make a difference, but now I realize I can.’” Well into her eighth decade on this precious, vulnerable, breathtaking Earth, Goodall carries on, and carries others along too. In her wake, we are in her debt.

Goodall and ‘The Far Side’

acoma-born Gary Larson once included Jane Goodall in one of his “The Far Side” cartoons: A chimpanzee couple is on a tree branch, the female grooming the male. She finds an offending hair and says. “Well, well. Another blonde hair. Conducting a little more ‘research’ with that Jane Goodall tramp?” Which is hilarious enough, but it gets better. The executive director of the Jane Goodall Institute took offense, and Larson was horrified and apologized. But when Goodall emerged from a couple weeks in the forest and was shown the cartoon, she found it funny. Soon after, the institute had a new executive director, and the cartoon became one of Larson’s most popular. It wound up on a T-shirt, with sales proceeds going to the institute. Larson asked Goodall to write the foreword to one of his final books of cartoons, published prior to his 1995 retirement. — MJB

Dr. Jane Goodall with orphan chimpanzee Uruhara at the Sweetwaters Sanctuary in Kenya. © Michael Neugebauer

December 2018 67

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HABITAT Home Remodel Tips and Tricks · Featured Home

Home for The Holidays WRITTEN BY LISA KARLBERG PHOTOGRAPHED BY DIANE PADYS

olidays, for many, are a time of comfort and family. This home’s seasonal decor brings to mind a layer of freshly fallen snow and all its welcoming brightness. Each unique homeowner has their own way of expressing stylistically what makes them feel good. It could be warm colors, bright lights or tinsel; it could be a theme or a collection of items they have gathered throughout the years. Bringing the outside in, these rooms feature two beautifully decorated trees, natural elements and bountiful garland. When you walk through the door you get an emotional feeling of warmth and home. Take a visual tour on the following pages, get inspired or just feel the holidays within these pages.  … continued on next page

HABITAT Featured Home

Flocked tree with design elements of nests, branches, various wildlife and white boas add a soft presence of false snow. A lit wreath with birds, fur trimming, and branches, combined with candles, various trees and Christmas elements, turn the fireplace into a welcoming holiday scene.

BellinghamAlive.com

The attached master bedroom ties the holiday great room together with a variety of pillows, cozy fur throw, and a holiday centerpieceâ&#x20AC;&#x2030;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x2030;finished off with a reindeer to complete the nature theme. A designed tree in the entryway, with decorated banister garland, holiday picture and stocking holder, creates a corner showpiece.

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HABITAT Remodel

The inn’s 15 guest rooms, including a carriage house, are all different. But every room shares a nice feature — a stone fireplace for a cozy atmosphere, especially in winter. New carpeting, beds, linens, and furniture have refreshed the inn. Over the years, it has evolved to feature a more contemporary look — lighter, simpler, uncluttered — for its wider demographic that includes young families, says owner Jim Pensiero.

Whidbey Island’s Unpretentious Getaway The Saratoga Inn WRITTEN BY MERI-JO BORZILLERI | PHOTOGRAPHED BY DIANE PADYS

he Saratoga Inn isn’t fancy by design — it’s an unpretentious, comfortable, breath-of-fresh-air kind of place built to defer to the grandeur of its setting. Situated on the shores of Saratoga Passage in Langley on Whidbey Island, the inn gives guests views of both water and mountains, a look that squares with the vision owner Jim Pensiero had when he first laid eyes on the site more than 25 years ago. Pensiero, then a senior partner at Seattle’s architectural and engineering firm KPG, said he and colleagues saw a lot for sale with high-bluff views of the water and mountains. “I said to my partners, ‘Hey, you guys want to do an inn?’ So we did it.” Pensiero eventually bought out his partners, and now he and his wife, Jenny, run the inn as a family business. The inn is known for its porch and rocking chairs, two chefs, and vegetarian breakfasts (rooms start at $165 in the offseason, $195 in summer). With the holidays coming, it’s a nice weekend getaway, with an emphasis on privacy and quiet (rooms feature sound isolation through double-wall construction). Happy holidays, indeed.  201 Cascade Ave., Langley 866.749.5565 | saratogainnwhidbeyisland.com 72

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A recent update equipped rooms with state-of-theart heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), an environmental comfort system which completely replaces the room’s air on a continual basis. Besides fresher and healthier air, the system keeps temperatures consistent, eliminating uncomfortable drafts.

PREMIER HOMES SEMIAHMOO

$948,500 | MLS# 1375173

Welcome to Semiahmoo Drive — just steps to private beach access! Enjoy the stunning views from the almost 3/4 acre impeccably landscaped lot nestled between Vancouver & Seattle. Main floor Master suite, open concept living/dining/recently updated kitchen + flexible walk out lower level w/ theater room, family room, 3 more bedrooms, exercise room & room for a wine cellar!

Lynden

Jen Freeman & Leah Crews Windermere Real Estate 8105 Birch Bay Square St., #101, Blaine, 360.305.4747

$648,000 | MLS# 1369156

Spectacular custom built home featuring beautiful views from every room. Located on Homestead’s premier golf course. Open living design, 3bd/2.5ba, gourmet kitchen w/island, hardwood floors, custom cherry cabinets, granite, walk in pantry, eating area, formal dining room, mud room, stunning luxurious master suite. Outdoor living space, covered patio & stone wall, perfect for entertaining! Oversized 3 car garage w/attic storage & work bench, upscale central vac, & security system.

Karen Timmer Windermere Real Estate 360.410.0848 KarenTimmer.com

Orcas Island

$2,100,000 | MLS# 1367636

Rare opportunity to own your very own low bank waterfront home with shared dock! Approximately 70 feet of moorage. Truly breathtaking views with private beach to enjoy all the PNW has to offer! Home is furnished with modern appliances, AC, heat, generator, security system, skylights, hardwood floors, gourmet kitchen open to spacious dining area perfect to gather & entertain, living room with gas fireplace, expansive master suite with jacuzzi tub & an ocean view!

Karen Timmer Windermere Real Estate 360.410.0848 KarenTimmer.com

SEMIAHMOO $829,000 | MLS# 1268465 Semiahmoo’s most sought after fairway neighborhood, Royal Troon, is the setting for this stunning craftsman home. Built by Lindbloom this home showcases his traditional features & custom design. Light flows through floor to ceiling windows with exposed cedar touches. Beautiful open design with spacious gourmet kitchen, lush and bright living room, and fabulous dining area. The master bedroom overlooking the 5th hole fairway and spa-like ensuite is a fantastic retreat! This home has it all!

Kathy Stauffer Windermere Real Estate 360.815.4718 kathystauffer.com

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DINE

8 Great Tastes · Dining Guide · Mixing Tin · Sip

A Feast For The Senses, Seaside Inn at Langley WRITTEN BY SARAH SIBLEY PHOTOGRAPHED BY DIANE PADYS

’d heard about the Inn at Langley. I was vaguely familiar with the James Beard Award-nominated executive chef, Matt Costello, because I’m curious, and a food lover, and a voracious magazine reader. So, when I had the opportunity to stay overnight and dine there recently, I packed my bag and made my way to the quaint seaside community of Langley on south Whidbey Island. The exceptional dining experience, which honestly was just about the best dinner party I’ve ever attended, is a sensory journey for the epicurious. Wrap that in an overnight stay, and it’s an indulgent delight of a destination experience. The rooms at the inn (starting at $335) are all waterfront and face the Saratoga Passage and Camano Island. I stand on the deck breathing in the fall sunshine and salty air. My room includes a deep soaking tub, floor-to-ceiling windows on … continued on next page

… three sides, a luxurious bed, a fireplace, and just the right amount of space. Outside the dining room, a small waterfall cascading gently into a reflecting pool, and magically composed gardens offer a soothing prelude to dinner. I entered the dining room and was immediately served a glass of sparkling wine amid aromas of warm pumpkin and spices as music carefully curated by Costello provided a fitting backdrop. A name card awaited me at a large wooden table in the dining room. The spacious dining room is highlighted with a grand seethrough fireplace, an open kitchen, and one large community table surrounded by several tables for two. On my table are two large terrariums, created by Costello’s wife, Jodi Starcevich, that have tiny human figurines hiding in the miniature, leafy forest. Each guest was served as if they were the only one in the dining room.

Chef de Cuisine Emily Bell delivered at least one course to each guest, taking time to explain what they would be enjoying. With every first bite of each course, I closed my eyes and truly tasted with my whole mouth. If beauty were a taste, this was it. The 12-course tasting menu ($160 per person, additional charge for wine pairing), had some exceptional surprises. Whipped eggs, caviar and chips, and salmon rillette were served on a Plexiglas surface, with an iPad underneath that rotated through pictures of local scenery. The whipped eggs, caviar and chips were a curious combination of satin and crunchy, with flavors of light cream, oil and salt. When the beef rib, mustard and citrus pickle were served, each server blew out what we assumed was just a candle, but was actually warmed cumin oil, and poured the oil over the dish. Buttery, rich meat melted on my

tongue, just as the cumin oil had melted over the ribs. After 15 years as head chef, Costello continues to be inspired by his surroundings and influenced by global cuisine and has a goal of “creating a little dinner party every night,” he tells me the next morning over the Inn’s generous complimentary breakfast. He’s grooming Bell, his chef de cuisine of eight years, to take on a bigger role. Both started as pastry chefs. “We both have an awe of enthusiasm for the same things,” he explains. Says Bell: “I love working with Matt. He’s a great teacher. He’s extremely creative and so patient.” Together, they are hosting the best dinner party I’ve ever been to. It fed more than just my hunger. It fed my soul. t 400 1st St., Langley 360.221.3033 | innatlangley.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 BLUE FIN SUSHI Japanese 102 S. Samish Way, Bellingham 360.752.2583, bluefinbellingham.com At Blue Fin Sushi, fresh sushi is used to create a variety of tasty options like the Tekka roll, which is seaweed, rice, and tuna. The waitstaff is friendly and it’s always entertaining to watch the chefs at work. Blue Fin also offers a full menu of non-sushi food items. Its version of fish and chips, for example, is a must-try: tempura fried salmon pieces served with sweet potato fries with a creamy wasabi sauce for dipping. Blue Fin Sushi also serves a variety of teriyaki, orange chicken, and bento boxes.

CHIHUAHUA MEXICAN RESTAURANT Mexican 5694 Third Ave., Ferndale 360.384.5820 Dine in at one of the largest Mexican restaurants in Washington and experience the authentic cuisine that has come from more than 15 years of dedication to excellent food. Using family recipes passed down for generations, Chihuahua Mexican Restaurant will not only leave you full, but deeply satisfied. EAT RESTAURANT AND BAR French 1200 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.306.3917, 4u2eat.net 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. FAT SHACK American 414 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.366.8752, fatshack.com Popular items are burgers, wings, and their specialty: densely packed sandwiches. The typical “fat” sandwich is some combination of grilled steak and fried chicken, along with cheese and a host of sides, all pressed inside a fresh hoagie roll. It is not for the meek, or for someone looking for a salad bar. But along with its unapologetic embrace of deep-fried food, the Fat Shack serves up some surprises. Its hamburger is hand-pressed, handseasoned Angus beef that’s never frozen, said co-owner Taylor Martin, and is served on a soft, rich Brioche bun. The Philly cheesesteak meat is ribeye from Spokane, flash-frozen. Taylor, his brother, Marcus, and dad and mom Mike and Lori own the place. Don’t call what they serve here fast food, says Lori. “We don’t have a bunch of prepped food,” she said. The Martins take time to cook things right, like allowing chicken fingers to fry for eight minutes to produce just the right crisp. Sunday’s 50-percent-off wings special has become wildly popular, says Mike. THE FORK AT AGATE BAY Eclectic

1317 Commercial St., Bellingham 360.734.1071, brandywinekitchen.com Named for the decadent heirloom tomatoes grown on their farm, the restaurant sources much of its ingredients locally and hold the “from seed to plate” philosophy. The menu offers vegetarian and gluten-free options (like rice-Panko Fish and Chips), and includes beer from both Boundary Bay and Chuckanut breweries. Try the Quinoa-Salmon Cakes with red pepper aioli or a BLT with Hempler’s bacon and maple-tomato relish. Don’t miss the Hibiscus Iced Tea for a refreshing sip or treat yourself to a Raspberry Champagne Cocktail.

DINE

ingredients, The Fork at Agate Bay provides a sophisticated twist on Northwest dining. JAKE’S WESTERN GRILL Southern 8114 Guide Meridian Rd., Lynden 360.354.5588, jakeswesterngrill.com In addition to outstanding barbecue, Jake’s also features a full line of fresh-cut salads, burgers, Southern sandwiches, and a full-service bar. At Jake’s the cornbread and sweet potato fries are a must! If you’re a true lover of Southern barbecue, you owe it to yourself to head north and give Jake’s Western Grill in Lynden a try. THE MILL BISTRO AND LOUNGE French 655 Front St., Lynden 360.778.2760, themilllynden.com

BRANDYWINE KITCHEN Regional NW

Dining Guide

2530 N. Shore Rd., Bellingham 360.733.1126, theforkatagatebay.com As unassuming as they come, The Fork at Agate Bay is a quiet retreat of fine food and wine only a short drive down the east side of Lake Whatcom. Be careful not to be fooled by its quaint exterior; inside you’ll discover a surprisingly upscale atmosphere warmed by a welcoming and rustic charm. Opened in June 2009, it has gained recognition as one of Bellingham’s best restaurants, emerging as a favorite for food connoisseurs. From a simple yet elegant egg breakfast to wild-mushroomstuffed chicken, the menu is a delightful and modern take on the classics. With a full wine bar, an in-house baker, and fresh, local

The Mill is the type of place where one could spend a full afternoon grazing on cheeses, sipping cocktails, and enjoying a good book. The bistro-like atmosphere gives the restaurant a European vibe without losing the welcoming small-town service of quaint Lynden. The menu is full of bistro plates like fresh salads, panini, soups, and, of course, meats and cheeses. NICKI’S BAR AND GRILL/ NICKI’S BELLA MARINA American

2516 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham 360.332.2505, nickisbellamarina.com Harborside visitors can grab a bite at Nicki’s Bar and Grill or rent out the floor above, Nicki’s Bella Marina, for private events with spectacular views of Bellingham Bay. Once you’ve had a chance to check out the water, take your first glance at the large menu. The burgers are big, juicy (there are even WetNaps on the table) and flavorful. From the Quadruple Bypass to the lighter Caesar Salmon Burger, Nicki’s offers options for everyone. Still can’t locate the perfect burger? Nicki’s gives customers the chance to build their own 1⁄3 pound burger, starting at $6.99. From there, choose from a variety of sauces and toppings (just 50 cents to $2.50 extra). If you’re looking for something beyond the burger, fish and chips is your next best option. Nicki’s classic fish and chips is made with two enormous pieces of cod, dipped in their famous tempura batter and served with unlimited steak fries and tartar sauce. 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

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Open 7 days a week with daily drink specials all day

Happy hour 3–6pm We are the biggest Mexican Restaurant in Whatcom County!

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. PEL’ MENI Russian

5694 Third Ave., Ferndale 360-384-5820

Step off busy State Street after your late night festivities for an inexpensive and satisfying fill of plump dumplings. Stuffed with either meat or potatoes, these dumplings are piping hot and sprinkled with cumin, paprika, and cilantro. Because they pair so well with tasty libations, Pel’ Meni manages to consistently have a line out the door as soon as the sun goes down. For $7, you’ll get a plastic, clam-shell container full of savory dumplings. Smother them with vinegar, sour cream, and hot sauce for the full effect.

For All Your Special Occasions

THE RUSTY WAGON OLD TYME FOOD CO. American

6937 Hannegan Rd., Lynden 360.354.5236, rustywagongoodeats.com

1861 Van Dyk Rd. Everson, WA samsonestates.com, 360.966.7787

Happy Hour N Cuisine, orthwest St h c yle en Fr

Monday–Saturday 4–6pm $1 Off local crafted draft beer and house wine 10% off the entire food menu and beverage, including specialty cocktails and wine list.

Now Open

Brunch/Lunch on Thursday–Sunday 11am–2pm

Live Jazz Music Friday and Saturday

DINNER Monday–Saturday 4–9pm

1200 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham | 4u2eat.net | 360.306.3917

BellinghamAlive.com

1211 N. State St., Bellingham 360.715.8324

The menu of The Rusty Wagon overflows with options. Breakfast is served until 2 p.m. every day and has diner favorites like biscuits and gravy or French toast. Burgers are clearly their specialty. Both the dinner and lunch menus have burgers, gourmet burgers, and chicken burgers, all served with soup, salad, fries, or waffle fries. Don’t miss the full bar with sports screens, top shelf liquors, beer, and more. Beyond the catch phrases and cowboy hats, the Rusty Wagon is a family-friendly place to grab a burger. 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 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.

Dining Guide

DINE

SKAGIT

CULINARY EVENTS

13MOONS AT SWINOMISH CASINO & LODGE Seafood/Steak 12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes 360.588.3525, swinomishcasinoandlodge.com Located within the casino, 13moons is sure to catch your attention. Situated on the waterfront, 13moons has a warm and inviting lodge atmosphere. The menu offers a wide variety including first plates, entree salads, seafood, and steaks. We started our meal with generous pours of wine, then moved on to the filet mignon, which was cooked to perfection and mouthwatering. The same could be said for their Marsala Mushroom Pork Chop. The Kobe Burger, made with Wagyu beef, brioche, Cambozola cheese and double-smoked bacon, is impressive. This is a great choice for an evening out. You will walk away satisfied, and you’ll understand why it is the go-to place for locals and visitors alike.

Anti-Inflammatory Feast with Karina Davidson December 5, 6:30–9 p.m. Join chef Karina Davidson at the Bellingham Community Food Co-Op to learn recipes that reflect modern research on inflammation and health. You’ll have the opportunity to observe the making of dishes like Southwestern roast chicken with baked yams and braised greens, seasonal fruit salad, and Chinese chicken. The anti-inflammatory menu follows the principles of the Paleo Diet, specifically focusing on fresh fruits and vegetables.

COA Mexican

Downtown Co-Op Connections Building 405 E. Holly St., Bellingham | communityfood.coop

102 S. 10th St., Mount Vernon, 360.840.1938 214 Maple Ave., La Conner, 360.466.0267 coaeatery.com

Music & Martinis with Martin Lund

One way to reel customers in is to offer dollar tacos on Tuesdays and $5 margaritas on Fridays. That’s just the start. One bite of a taco or one sip of a margarita and you’re hooked. Even on a different night, with the choice of fajitas, burritos, chimichangas, or flan, you won’t be disappointed. Fan favorites include the fish tacos with local grilled fish and spicy mango Pico de Gallo, carne asada burrito seasoned to perfection, and tres enchiladas with an addictive green crema sauce. COA Mexican eatery also offers the last Monday of every month as customer appreciation day, where customers get 50 percent off food. Deals and good food — what more could you want? NELL THORN Seafood 116 1st St., La Conner 360.466.4261, nellthorn.com Nell Thorn is seafood-heavy, so trying one of their seafood dishes is a must. Usually their daily specials take into account the freshest catches, but on the menu you’ll usually find some kind of seafood pasta, filet topped salad, and oysters. If you can’t settle on a starter, choose the crispy polenta cakes. The quiche is executed well with fluffy eggs and a flaky, light crust, while the no-fuss Nell Burger has simple toppings that don’t overburden the perfectly cooked, juicy meat patty.

Thursdays, 6–9 p.m. Jazz pianist Martin Lund will be at the Moran Lounge at the Rosario Resort & Spa on Orcas Island every Thursday in December for music and martinis. The evening will be filled with live music from Lund and a variety of handcrafted cocktails from the resort. Relax and enjoy a cocktail with the soothing sounds of jazz in the background. Rosario Resort & Spa Moran Lounge 1400 Rosario Rd., Eastsound, Orcas Island | rosarioresort.com

Truffle-Making Class December 8, 2–5 p.m. Bring a few friends to Forte Artisan Chocolates and learn how to make your own truffles as part of Forte’s Chocolate Class Series. You’ll learn from an instructor how to make several varieties of truffles including rolled, molded and dipped, and traditional. At the end of class, you will get to take home a box of the truffles you made – in perfect timing for the holidays. Forte Chocolates 1400 Riverside Dr., Mount Vernon | fortechocolates.com

RISTRETTO COFFEE LOUNGE & WINE BAR American 416 1st St., Mount Vernon 360.336.0951, ristrettocoffeelounge.com Ristretto doesn’t have a kitchen, but the baristas know their way around a panini press. Ristretto’s filling, made-to-order Turkey Pesto Panini is served on focaccia bread. The warm turkey plays well with sweet slices of tomato and a creamy pesto mayo. You can also order breakfast all day, fresh salad, hearty bagels, or one of the baked goods brought in three times a week from Skagit River Bakery.

Semiahmoo Winemaker Dinner Series December 13, 5:30 p.m. Make a reservation at Semiahmoo Resort for its Winemaker Dinner Series. This event will feature wine from Cline Family Cellars. Each course of the dinner will be paired with a different wine, specifically picked by executive chef, Bruno Feldeisen and the winemakers. Semiahmoo Resort 9565 Semiahmoo Pkwy., Blaine | semiahmoo.com

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SAN JUAN

13moons The Toasted Bourbon Mocha Ingredients: Disaronno amaretto, Godiva dark chocolate liqueur, Heritage Dual-Barrel Old Fashioned bourbon whiskey, freshly brewed coffee, whipped cream, toasted marshmallow, graham crackers, cocoa powder, $12

estled on the back side of Swinomish Casino is the lovely 13moons Restaurant. When the weather turns cold outside, and you want a lovely view of Padilla Bay, Swinomish Channel, and the San Juan Islands, I can think of no other place to retreat. As you settle in, my suggestion is the Toasted Bourbon Mocha. A warm and sweet concoction straight out of the Irish coffee playbook, it’ll heat you up from the inside out with soothing smoothness, a comfy blanket on a harsh winter day. Parts amaretto, chocolate liqueur, and bourbon balance out the top hat of marshmallow and graham cracker goodness. The coffee grounds the sweetness of the whipped cream and toasted marshmallows and is the perfect first drink to prep for all the remarkable gastronomic delights 13moons has on the menu. Snuggle in. t — Pat McDonnell 12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes 360.588.3525 swinomishcasinoandlodge.com

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 in spring and summer Friday to Monday, for a special treat. INN AT LANGLEY American 401 1st St., Langley 360.221.3033, innatlangley.com There’s really no other place like the Inn at Langley in our area. As a guest, you’re taken on a mouth-watering culinary journey through a 12-course tasting menu. Not only is it a delight for the taste buds, but there are surprises almost in each course, whether it’s the presentation or the accoutrement. On the night we were there, the menu included some exquisite dishes: whipped eggs, caviar and chips, and salmon rillette, served on a plexiglass surface with an iPad underneath that rotated through pictures of local scenery. The whipped eggs, caviar and chips were a curious combination of satin and crunchy, with flavors of light cream, oil and salt. When the beef rib, mustard and citrus pickle were served, each server blew out what we assumed was just a candle, but was actually warmed cumin oil, and poured the oil over the dish. Buttery, rich meat melted on my tongue, just as the cumin oil had melted over the ribs. At $160 per person (prix fixe, additional charge for wine pairing) you’ll enjoy more than just a dinner. It’s an experience. $ $ $ $ VINNY’S Seafood 165 W. St., Friday Harbor 360.378.1934, vinnysfridayharbor.com Ciao! Vinny’s welcomes diners to their Friday Harbor Ristorante, mirroring the feel of this warm Italian restaurant. Dishes change monthly and reflect the desire to serve simple, gourmet Pacific Northwest seafood, and modern comfort Italian. Appetizers of Fior de Latte — a caprese salad — and mushroom medley (mushrooms with a Marsala demi-glace and cambozola cheese) are perfect for sharing and leave space for a summery Capellini Mediterranea (prawns and clams in a light white wine and olive oil sauce). As well as a good selection of pastas, Vinny’s has seafood and meat entrées, many of them traditional favorites like Veal Marsala and Chicken Picatta. The cocktail list includes old favorites and some fun offerings like the Crantini and a rhubarb margarita. Top off a meal with crème brûlée — a light, room-temperature custard topped with a layer of burnt sugar.

BellinghamAlive.com

Review

DINE

Big Views, Bigger Portions Nicki’s Bella Marina WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY KATE GALAMBOS

icki’s Bella Marina (also known as Nicki’s Bar and Grill) has become a favorite among our readers for good reasons: great views of Bellingham’s Squalicum Harbor, massive portions and awardwinning fish and chips. Nicki’s began developing its reputation for quality burgers and seafood in 1992 as Nicki’s Diner in Blaine. In 2002, Nicki’s moved to the big city — Bellingham. Today, harborside visitors can grab a bite at Nicki’s or rent out their floor above for private events; both have spectacular views of Bellingham Bay. Once you’ve had a chance to check out the water, take your first glance at the large menu. The burgers are big, juicy (there are even WetNaps on the table) and flavorful. From the Quadruple Bypass to the lighter Caesar Salmon Burger, Nicki’s offers options for everyone. Still can’t locate the perfect burger? Nicki’s gives customers the chance to build their own 1/3 pound burger, starting at $6.99. From there, choose from a variety of sauces and toppings (just 50 cents to $2.50 extra). If you’re looking for something beyond the burger, fish and chips is your next best option. Nicki’s classic fish and chips is made with two enormous pieces of cod, dipped in their famous tempura batter and served with unlimited steak fries and tartar sauce. For $16.99, you’ll have enough for two (or two meals). Fried options also include shrimp or clams, if cod isn’t your thing. To avoid the calories associated with the word “fried,” try the charbroiled salmon for $19.99 or the prawns for $18.99. No matter what you order, Nicki’s has an at-home feel that warms your soul while you fill your stomach.  2615 South Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham 360.332.2505 | nickisbellamarina.com

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At Home on Whidbey Island Wine Bars and Tasting Rooms WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY DAN RADIL

hidbey Island wine enthusiasts have reason to be happy. In addition to seven wineries clustered around the southern half of the island, the north end of Whidbey lays claim to two venues that are perfect for wine tasting: The Terrace Wine Bar and Bistro in Oak Harbor and Vail Wine Shop & Tasting Room in Coupeville.

THE TERRACE WINE BAR AND BISTRO Owner/operators Morgan Brian Hughes and Keith Kinsey purchased downtown Oak Harbor’s Terrace Wine Bar from the space’s previous owner in 2013. Neither had any winetasting background, although Kinsey’s dad was a restauranteur, providing the duo with at a bit of experience in the foodservice industry. “The wine bar was this, it just wasn’t this,” Kinsey says, motioning to a counter full of patrons on a Friday afternoon and a fully-stocked wine bar. “When we purchased the bar there were 12 bottles of wine. Today we 82

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have about 120 wines and 45 different beers and ciders.” During their ownership, Hughes has been responsible for selecting the wines, while Kinsey has focused on the beer side of the menu, which features breweries with a decidedly Washington flavor. Kinsey also prepares a limited but extremely popular food menu with local favorites that include buffalo mac ‘n cheese and a variety of flatbreads. But even with the highly recommended food choices, it’s the wine list that really shines here. “I probably could have named maybe 10 grapes when I bought the bar and now it’s…200, maybe more,” Morgan says. He enjoys the frequent customer who comes in with a vague description of what they like, and then draws upon his knowledge of wines to pour them what he thinks will be a good match. For those who love the Terrace Wine Bar’s variety, the price list is a bonus: Glass pours begin at only $5 and generally run in the $6 to $8 range;

bottle prices are just as reasonable, with nearly all reds and whites available for purchase at under $30 each.

VAIL WINE SHOP & TASTING ROOM Husband and wife Larry and Patsy Vail moved from Wenatchee to Whidbey Island in 1991. They operated a successful portrait photography studio up until their “first retirement” in 2011, then opened Vail Wine Shop & Tasting Room in Coupeville shortly thereafter. The wine shop specializes in small-producer, 100 percent Washington wines. Patsy recalls the couple’s interest in Washington wines began in the early ‘90s when the state’s wine industry consisted primarily of smaller wineries and “we had a group of friends and drove our sports cars over to (Eastern Washington) wine country. It was essentially a hobby.” “We didn’t really know anything about wine and we had joined a bad California wine club,” Larry jokes, noting that their increasingly frequent

trips across the Cascades allowed them to meet winemakers, make contacts, and cultivate their love of Washington wines. It also led the couple to believe they could open and operate their own wine shop. Their tasting bar includes a six-wine selection that changes weekly and usually consists of three whites and three reds; the remainder of the space is dedicated to bottle sales, with additional seating outdoors and along the railing behind the building and facing picturesque Penn Cove. The Vail’s knowledge of and passion for Washington wines has also extended to tours that they organize and lead, primarily as wine-buying trips for groups that usually run from 20 to 35 people. Back at the wine shop, guests will also find a small menu that includes smoked salmon, assorted cheeses, and Italian black truffle-salted popcorn. Friday’s “flights and bites” is easily the shop’s busiest day, Larry says. The Vails also have what they term a “consumer-oriented” wine club that boasts about 400 members. From a pre-selected list, members have the freedom to choose the price point, quantity, and even the color of their monthly wine order. “I wish I would have retired sooner,” Larry says with a smile. “I love the social aspect of the business and I love discovering new wines.”

KEY TO SUCCESS: LOCAL SUPPORT The owners of both the Terrace Wine Bar and Vail Wine Shop & Tasting Room agree that strong, local support, coupled with each business’s commitment to providing a hometown, personal touch has been the key to success. Not surprisingly, that level of personal service extends to out-oftowners as well who are encouraged to stop in and taste some great wines in the same atmosphere that keeps Whidbey Islanders coming back. t The Terrace Wine Bar and Bistro 791 SE Fidalgo Ave., Oak Harbor 360.720.2322 | terracewine.com Vail Wine Shop & Tasting Room 22 NW Front St., Coupeville 360.632.2227 | vailwineshop.com

GREAT TASTES

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.

1 2 3 4

Within walking distance of your favorite bars in Bellingham, El Capitan’s Gourmet Sausages and Pretzels offers a satisfying meal after a night out. The X.O. a quarter-pound pepper-andsmoke sausage with two strips of bacon, barbeque sauce, cream cheese, and onions.

Between the from-scratch menu, live music, and the friendly, local attitude, Mr. Believable’s barbeque in Friday Harbor is a sight to see — and taste. The smoked brisket melts in your mouth, coming with braised greens and baked potato.

At Rachawadee Thai Cafe in Mount Vernon, those in the mood for a noodle soup should try the Noodles Boat, a thick, savory broth with meatballs and stew beef complemented by bean sprouts, celery, and green onions.

For those seeking a happy hour bargain, Chihuahua Mexican Restaurant in Ferndale offers $3 lime margaritas during everyday happy hour from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Diners should try the fajitas, large servings of your choice of marinated meat, sizzling on a platter with sautéed tomatoes, onions, and green peppers in a specialty sauce.

Beyond its personable staff and dim-lit, intimate setting, Temple Bar in downtown Bellingham offers a thoughtfully selected food menu, which includes their unique spiced lamb meatballs — a blend of grass-fed lamb and natural beef with sheep feta, a subtle paprika tomato sauce, and creamy polenta. Try one of the best chicken wing restaurants in Bellingham, To & Go Burgers and Wings. Their wing selection is diverse and isn’t overpowered by too much batter. Try the garlic and parmesan wings, which perfectly balances the two flavors. Knowing that your seafood’s local is great, but knowing the exact bay your oysters came from is unmatched. At Chuckanut Manor Seafood and Grill in Bow, take your pick from their selection of oysters, including the buttery, honeydew-finished Kumamoto raw oysters from Samish Bay. For those seeking singular, refreshing salad options in Mount Vernon, the Third Street Rocket salad from C-Square Third Street Cafe is an excellent find. The salad includes roasted beets, organic arugula, almonds, local apples, chèvre, and a delicious grilled lemon vinaigrette. — Logan Portteus

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AGENDA

Featured Events · Listings · The Scene · Final Word

Downtown Bellingham Tree Lighting DECEMBER 1, 5:30 P.M.

oin the Downtown Bellingham Partnership and City of Bellingham for the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Market Depot Square downtown, featuring special performances from local acts, and appearances from everyone’s favorite winter celebrity, Santa Claus, and Bellingham mayor Kelli Linville, among others. While you’re there, grab a sweet seasonal refreshment, make an ornament with your children, and watch the beautiful evergreen tree glow with blue and white lights. This free, family-friendly event is a perfect way to kick off the holiday season and spread holiday cheer throughout the community.  Depot Market Square 1100 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.527.8710 | downtownbellingham.com

AGENDA Events

CASINO

CLASSICAL

THE CLAIRVOYANTS CHRISTMAS

CANTABILE CHAMBER CHOIR: WINTER AGLOW! CONCERT

DECEMBER 1, 8 P.M.

DECEMBER 13, 7 P.M.

Come witness the magical acts of Thommy Ten and Amélie van Tasslive at The Skagit Casino Resort. Most widely recognized from their secondplace standing in “America’s Got Talent” in 2016, the Austrian duo have toured across the world, dazzling audiences with their symbiotic, magical performances.

DECEMBER 2, 3:00 P.M.

The Skagit Casino Resort 5984 DarrkLn., Bow 877.275.2448, theskagit.com

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 415 S. 18th St., Mount Vernon 425.289.6803 cantabilechamberchoir.org

CHRISTMAS WITH THE RAT PACK

Listen to the Cantabile Chamber Choir perform a wonderful array of holiday songs and highlight the beauty of winter life in the great Northwest. A regular ticket is $14 to listen to the beautiful voices of 28 Skagit Valley locals.

DECEMBER 21, 8 P.M.

‘MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT’ CONCERTS

The Rat Pack tribute band makes its way from Las Vegas to British Columbia to perform the classics from Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., and Frank Sinatra. Actor-singer-comedians Andy DiMino, Lambus Dean, and Gary Anthony will be accompanied by the Sin City Orchestra as they perform in tribute to the original Rat Pack.

Traditional holiday songs with a modern twist, brought to you by a small, intimate ensemble. Come experience holiday cheer with the Orcas Choral Society, which has been offering unique ensemble performances since 1978.

DECEMBER 8, 7:30 P.M., DECEMBER 9, 2:00 P.M.

Orcas Center 917 Mount Baker Rd., Eastsound 360.376.2281, orcascenter.org

Spanish Brass is an internationallyrecognized and admired brass group that has been performing for about 30 years. They have made 22 recordings in their collective career and have founded two international brass festivals. The group received the I Bankia Music Talent Award in Spain for most influential musical artists of 2017. Come experience their Christmas concert performance just in time for the holidays. Mount Baker Theatre 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com MAGICAL STRINGS — CELTIC YULETIDE DECEMBER 16, 3 P.M.

Witness generations of traditional Celtic music with the acclaimed family ensemble, Magical Strings, in their 40th annual Yuletide performance. Three generations of the Boulding family will perform, accompanied by the Tara Academy Irish Dancers and awardwinning fiddler Jocelyn Pettit. Lincoln Theatre 712 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon 360.336.8955, lincolntheatre.org

River Rock Casino Resort 8811 River Rd., Richmond, B.C. 604.247.8900, riverrock.com

SPANISH BRASS CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Magical Strings — Celtic Yuletide

BellinghamAlive.com

Your Financial Future: Will You Be Ready?

CONCERT THE CALIFORNIA HONEYDROPS AT THE WILD BUFFALO DECEMBER 9, 8 P.M.

The California Honeydrops have come a long way, celebrating their seventh studio album and 10th year as a band. What began as two friends busking in an Oakland subway station has turned out to be a decade of partylike concerts, with audience interaction and jam sessions. Come witness this eclectic band whose goal is to help you come out of your shell. Wild Buffalo House of Music 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net

NY CS 7790428 BC006 01/14 GP10-01505P-N06/10

Susan Rice Financial Planning Specialist Financial Advisor 2200 Rimland Drive, Suite 105 Bellingham, WA 98226 360-788-7005 • 800-247-2884 susan.e.rice@morganstanley.com

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BLACK WATER LIVE AT THE MAINSTREET BAR AND GRILL DECEMBER 22, 8 P.M.

Join the Mainstreet Bar and Grill for an evening of blues, funk, soul, and your favorite oldies brought to you by Black Water. Sing along, grab a bite to eat, and

Give the Gift of Homemade Cookies are always appreciated! Make it a festive tradition to create these tasty treats using quality baking ingredients from Haggen.

Get the recipes at nwfresh.haggen.com

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

December 2018 87

AGENDA Events

Rogers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella

let loose for the holidays with feel-good, reminiscent songs. The Mainstreet Bar and Grill 2005 Main St., Ferndale 360.312.9162, places.singleplatform.com

HEALTH AND WELLNESS DANCE FOR PEOPLE WITH PARKINSON’S

Shopping Center at Front Street and 17th Street and will move toward downtown Lynden. Lynden Chamber of Commerce 518 Front St., Lynden 360.354.5995, lynden.org

DECEMBER 1, 5 P.M.

This dance class is specifically designed for people with Parkinson’s disease and other movement or neurological disorders. Caregivers and supporting family or friends are welcome. No cost or reservations required, simply show up and dance with others.

Head down to the edge of the Swinomish Channel in La Conner for their annual tree lighting ceremony to kick off the holiday season on the first day of December. Watch Santa Claus ride in on a big, red firetruck while you munch on some festive holiday cookies. It’s a great event for the whole family.

SPECIAL EVENTS NORTHWEST LIGHTED CHRISTMAS PARADE DECEMBER 1, 6–7:15 P.M.

Celebrate the holidays with family, friends, and the community by attending the annual Northwest Lighted Christmas Parade! The parade will feature an entourage of lit-up cars, trucks, floats, wagons, and other festive vehicles. The parade will begin at the Fairway

BellinghamAlive.com

Bellingham Cruise Terminal 355 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.676.2500, portofbellingham.com BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

LA CONNER COMMUNITY TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY

THROUGH DECEMBER 6

Ballet Bellingham 1405 Fraser St., Bellingham 360.746.8508, balletbellingham.com

Claus and a few winter princesses will stop on by all three days.

Gilkey Square 103 Morris St., La Conner 360.466.3125, lovelaconner.com

DECEMBER 8, 8:30 A.M.

Head to the Sedro-Woolley Community Center to enjoy a wonderful breakfast with the famous bringer-of-cheer, Santa Claus. Kids can take pictures with Santa, listen to the Cascade Middle School choir perform holiday songs, and also get a free breakfast of pancakes, sausage links, fruit, milk, and juice, hosted by Beta Sigma Phi. Sedro-Woolley Community Center 703 Pacific St., Sedro-Woolley 360.855.1841 sedro-woolley.chambermaster.com

HOLIDAY PORT FEST AND GINGERBREAD HOUSE DISPLAY

THE FANCIFUL FROZEN TEA

DECEMBER 7–9, VARIOUS TIMES

Fulfill your child’s wildest winter dreams this season by joining the Ice Princesses of the popular film “Frozen” at the stunning Giesecke Ballroom for tea. Witness a magical duet from the princesses, accompanied by tea, desserts, story time, and more.

Hop on down to the Bellingham Cruise Terminal for a weekend of holiday cheer with a gingerbread house competition, live performances from local artists, and free cookies and cider. This year’s gingerbread house competition theme is “Home Sweet Home” and is open to everyone of all ages and abilities. Santa

DECEMBER 8, 12 P.M. AND 4 P.M.

The elegant event will conclude with candlelit caroling with the princesses. Giesecke Ballroom 1026 N. Forest St., Bellingham 866.366.3836, whenyouwishevents.com JAN BRETT AT BELLINGHAM HIGH SCHOOL

a production that prompts the question: How far are you willing to go to make a name for yourself? Bellingham Theatre Guild 1600 H St., Bellingham 360.733.1811 bellinghamtheatreguild.com

McIntyre Hall Performing Arts and Conference Center 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon 360.416.7727, mcintyrehall.org

DECEMBER 9, 10 A.M.

Join author Jan Brett as she comes to Bellingham High School to talk about her new children’s book, “The Snowy Nap,” a prequel to her bestseller “The Hat.” Tickets for the Village Books event are available for $5 and will go toward the purchase of the book. Bellingham High School 2015 Franklin St., Bellingham 360.671.2626, villagebooks.com

THEATRE SHIPWRECKED: THE AMAZING ADVENTURES OF LOUIS DE ROUGEMONT THROUGH DECEMBER 9

See the telling of Louis de Rougemont and his one-of-a-kind tale of exploration and adventure that captivated 19th century England directed by Les Campbell. Experience the high seas, faraway islands, and mythical creatures in

RODGERS AND HAMMERSTEIN’S CINDERELLA DECEMBER 8 AND 9, VARIOUS TIMES

Witness the enchantment of the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical that offers a contemporary take on the childhood classic, “Cinderella.” The bold performance will include a full orchestra and all your favorite scenes, from the pumpkin carriage to the glass slipper, along with new twists unique to this performance. Mount Baker Theatre 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham 360.733.5793, mountbakertheatre.com THE NUTCRACKER DECEMBER 14, 7:30 P.M., DECEMBER 15–16 2 P.M.

Come experience the Northwest Ballet Theater’s 20th season performance of “The Nutcracker” live at the McIntyre Hall Performing Arts and Conference

Center. The NBT will perform the cultural staple with elements meant to freshen things up, including background projections and new backdrop scenery and sets, offering a special take on a beloved theatre classic. Tickets range from $15–$40.

‘COMFORT AND JOY’ WINTER FUNDRAISER DECEMBER 7, 5–9 P.M.

Rebound of Whatcom County’s “Comfort & Joy” winter fundraiser celebrates the Christmas season while helping those less fortunate. Rebound’s services bring comfort and joy to children and families in need in our community. Included is a buffet dinner, beverages, dessert, a paddle auction and much more. Tickets are $75 and available for sale online (see below). Settlemyer Hall, Bellingham Technical College 3028 Lindbergh Ave., Bellingham 360.714.0700, reboundfamilies.com

The experience of a lifetime is closer than you think. Sund’s Lodge is so much more than luxury calm-water fishing. It’s unplugging, surrounded by extraordinary beauty. It’s seeing humpbacks, orcas and dolphins up close, every day. It’s gourmet dinners with friends, followed by sunsets over the water, every night. It’s the stuff bucket lists and memories are made of, and it’s closer than you think.

Want the perfect holiday gift? We’re booking now for 2019. Reserve by Dec 15 and we’ll send you a beautifully wrapped Sund’s lodge gift package to put under the tree. Visit www.sundslodge.com Sund’s Lodge, located off North Vancouver Island BC, is owned and operated by Bruce and Lisa Barlean of Ferndale, WA

December 2018 89

AGENDA Top Picks

DECEMBER DECEMBER

DECEMBER

Mostly Magic with John Walton: A Holiday Tradition Bellingham mountbakertheatre.com

La Conner Holiday Celebration La Conner lovelaconner.com

DECEMBER

Island Lights Festival Friday Harbor, San Juan Island sanjuanislands.org

DECEMBER

Commercial Street Night Market Bellingham downtownbellingham.com

DECEMBER

21 DECEMBER

Wine Dinner at The Mansion with Mark Ryan Winery Eastsound, Orcas Island visitsanjuans.com

Fairhaven Fa La La Bellingham fairhavenwinterfest.com

DECEMBER

O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy Bellingham mountbakertheatre.com

DECEMBER

Aida The Met: Live in HD Eastsound, Orcas Island orcascenter.org

BellinghamAlive.com

Events

• • • MOUNT BAKER THEATRE • • •

AGENDA

Give a Forever Memory!

VISUAL ARTS CURATOR’S GALLERY TOUR OF ENDANGERED SPECIES: ARTISTS ON THE FRONT LINE OF BIODIVERSITY

For:

DECEMBER 8, 1:30 P.M.

Join curator of art Barbara Matilsky for an in-depth tour of featured artists while discussing key themes involving endangered species and biodiversity, while also examining the process of organizing the exhibit.

PORTLAND

Old City Hall 121 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.778.8930, whatcommuseum.org NEEDLE-FELTED GNOMES DECEMBER 12, 5:30 P.M.

An excellent opportunity to create your own holiday gift for friends and family, the needle-felted gnome workshop, hosted by Feral Felts at TheRagfinery, is both easy and incredibly fun. These little creatures are each one-of-a-kind and can be turned into a pin, magnet, or hand-held stuffy for kids. No craft experience required!

For:

Mus Hips ical ters

As seen on

NBC’s The Sing Off

CELLO PROJECT JAN

Vo Fanacal tics

PLAYS RADIOHEAD, COLTRANE & BACH

JAN

WITH SPECIAL GUEST PATTI KING OF THE SHINS.

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Girls ’

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The Ragfinery 1421 N. Forest St., Bellingham 360.738.6977, ragfinery.com THE INTERNATIONAL SENSATION

ANGEL ORNAMENT WORKSHOP DECEMBER 15, 1 P.M.

Design your own beautiful copper angel ornament just in time for the holidays. With a wide range of texturing techniques like hammers, stamps, and stencils, this is the perfect time to create that homemade ornament to complete your holiday tree or general decor. All levels of experience welcomed! Jansen Art Center 321 Front St., Lynden 360.354.3600, jansenartcenter.org PICKFORD FILM CENTER: THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL DECEMBER 24, 6:15 P.M.

This Christmas Eve, follow the adventures of hotel concierge Gustave and lobby boy Zero in “The Grand Budapest Hotel”shown at the Pickford Film Center for only $3. The film, released in 2014, is yet another Wes Anderson masterpiece with a captivating storyline and meticulous set design and production that is unlike any other movie. In honor of its 20th anniversary, the Pickford is showing 20 of its most popular films. Pickford Film Center 1318 Bay St., Bellingham 360.738.0735, pickfordfilmcenter.org

JAN

24 & 25

FEB

Sponsor

Kate Riordan For:

Dan Loverce s

DRINK IN THE MUSIC AT THIS LIVELY CONCERT WITH A WORKING PUB ON STAGE!

For:

Co m ed Fans y

As seen on

NBC’s Dancing With the Stars A DRAMATIC FUSION OF TRADITIONAL DANCE, MARTIAL ARTS AND ACROBATICS!

FEB

Sponsor

LAUGH OUT LOUD WITH THREE FEMALE COMEDIANS WITH BIG LEAGUE RESUMES! Sponsor

MAR

Winner of Six Tony Awards FEB

Wow them with Broadway!

Season Sponsor

Book Now & Be Merry! 360.734.6080 • MountBakerTheatre.com

Departure

s from Dai

Mount Baker Theatre is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the performing arts. *Plus applicable fees

December 2018 91

AGENDA Events

Disney Presents the Lion King

Out of Town SEATTLE DISNEY PRESENTS THE LION KING DECEMBER 13–JANUARY 6

The musical adaptation of the classic 1994 film is on tour once again. “The Lion King” became Broadway’s highestgrossing show after opening in 1998. There have been more than 6,000 shows to make it one of Broadway’s longest running productions. The national tour hits Seattle with classics like “Circle of Life” and new songs to keep the longrunning show fresh. Paramount Theatre 911 Pine St., Seattle 206.682.1414 seattle.broadway.com

BellinghamAlive.com

JOHN LEGEND — A LEGENDARY CHRISTMAS DECEMBER 18, 8 P.M.

Join singer John Legend as he sets out on tour to accompany the release of his first holiday album. The album, “A Legendary Christmas,” was released on Oct. 26 and features classic Christmas songs such as “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and “Silver Bells.” Six original tracks will also be featured on the album. WaMu Theater 800 Occidental Ave S., Seattle 206.381.7848 centurylinkfield.com

WINTER SOLSTICE BEER FESTIVAL DECEMBER 7, 5 P.M.–DECEMBER 8, 12 P.M.

The Mobile Food Rodeo will be hosting the first Winter Solstice Night Market. Featured are more than 150 pop-up shops, more than 25 local and regional breweries, and live music. General admission tickets are $25 in advance and $35 at the door. Designated driver tickets are also available for $10 at the door. Magnuson Park Hangar 30 6310 NE 74th St., Seattle Mobilefoodrodeo.com

VANCOUVER, B.C. BALLET BC PRESENTS THE NUTCRACKER DECEMBER 7–DECEMBER 9, TIMES VARY

The beloved story of the Nutcracker gets a Canadian twist with a snowy pond hockey game and a battle on Parliament Hill in the Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s telling of the story. See the adventures of Clara, the Nutcracker Prince, and the Sugar Plum Fairy unfold. The ballet is full of surprises and entertainment for all ages. Queen Elizabeth Theatre 630 Hamilton St., Vancouver, B.C. 604.665.3050 vancouvercivictheatres.com CONAN AND FRIENDS: AN EVENING OF STAND-UP AND INVESTMENT TIPS DECEMBER 14, 8 P.M.

Get a $25 coupon for every $150 gift card purchased.

Gift Cards and coupons can be used for hotel stays, spa treatments, even restaurant dining! purchased between Black Friday Nov 23-Sun Dec 23. 804 10th St Bellingham WA

thechrysalisinn.com

360.756.1005

Go see talk show host and comedian Conan O’Brien as he hits the road for the first time in eight years when he embarks on the Conan and Friends: An Evening of Stand-Up and Investment Tips tour. The 18-city tour includes special guests Ron Funches, Laurie Kilmartin, Moses Storm, and Flula Borg. Queen Elizabeth Theatre 630 Hamilton St., Vancouver, B.C. 604.665.3050 vancouvercivictheatres.com VANCOUVER GEM AND MINERAL SHOW DECEMBER 7–DECEMBER 9

Come to Western Canada’s largest gem show, featuring more than 100 of Canada’s best gem, mineral, and jewelry vendors. In addition to vendors selling items, there will be lectures and demos, along with hourly prizes. Take a look at rare fossils, gems, crystals, and jewelry. General tickets start at $8 for one day and $12 for three days with discounts for students and seniors. Vancouver Forum 2901 E. Hastings St., Vancouver, B.C. 604.253.2311 vancouvergemshow.com

December 2018 93

AGENDA The Scene

BellinghamAlive.com

The Scene

AGENDA

2018 BEST OF THE NORTHWEST PARTY

An estimated 400 people drank beer and wine, sampled hors d’oeuvres, posed for instant photos, and danced to the DJ’s playlist at the annual Best of the Northwest cocktail party October 19 at Holiday Inn & Suites, near the Bellingham International Airport. The party, hosted by us here at Bellingham Alive magazine, honored gold, silver, and bronze medal-winners in the magazine’s 9th annual Best of the Northwest contest, where readers voted for their area favorites in 126 categories. More than a half-million votes were cast. Guests received courtesy wine glasses, a raffle ticket for gift baskets, and swag bags filled with other goodies. — Hailey Hoffman

December 2018 95

NOTES Final Word

For Goodness Sake Ken’s Challenge for the Holidays — Love Thy Neighbor WRITTEN BY KEN KARLBERG

ife confuses me sometimes. As a young boy growing up in rural Whatcom County, I was taught right from wrong, to hold myself accountable, to work hard, and to judge others and myself not necessarily by our achievements, but rather by whether we push ourselves to extract the most from our genetic gifts. Those who worked hard to be the best version of themselves that they could be, even if they were not especially gifted, were to be admired and respected. Those who did not, were not. These teachings became the moral and ethical backbone of my life — well before I was exposed to big city life, racism, bigotry, religious schisms, and today’s toxic political environment. I was fortunate, I suppose. I believed what I was told, in part because my value system was intact before it was tested in earnest by the chaos of the world. This is what makes Whatcom County such a special place to raise children even today. It is a bubble of sorts. Today, the bubble in Whatcom County is closer to reflecting a true cross-section of life. By contrast, when I grew up in the 1960s and 70s, there were no blacks, or 96

BellinghamAlive.com

Asians, or other racial minorities in my schools except for handful of Lummis, many of whom were my friends. I did not even know that synagogues, mosques, or the Quran existed. And homosexuality, it was nameless and invisible. In an odd way, this lack of diversity was a blessing — I didn’t know to discriminate. I had no negative experiences that darkened my heart. I was taught to love all human beings, to give everyone their dignity, and I did. I was surrounded as a child and teenager by a goodness that I only later learned was not universal. The 60s and 70s were a different time, of course. With no internet and no cell phones, my world was small, and in retrospect, naive. But I believed what I believed, and I never questioned my childhood value system. When I left Whatcom County after high school to test myself, I left home wrapped in the protective cloak of morals and ethics taught to me by this community and my parents — and I never looked back. I drew upon these lessons often; they were my protective armor against conflicting forces that I never imagined as a youth. And while I understand the challenges and harshness of life better now, I still believe in the power of goodness as a shield against the poisons in life. I don’t understand, and have never understood, prejudice, discrimination, and hate. I don’t understand the recent attack on the Jewish temple in Pittsburgh and the hatred of Jews by some. I never understood racism, misogyny, and any form of religious persecution, much of which is driven by fear of the unknown, or a misguided need to feel superior, or a perceived existential threat. Whatever the explanation, this wonderful community taught me to fight these primal fears, to be better than the worst of my emotions, and to love my neighbors as extended family — black, white, brown, orange or green, gay, lesbian, transgender, Jewish, Muslim, Christian, atheist or agnostic, rich or poor. As Benjamin Franklin famously said, “We must, indeed, all hang together, or most assuredly, we shall all hang separately.” In all of my travels throughout the world on business, I was always struck by the universality of each culture’s common bonds. At the most base of levels, we are all the same — we worry about our children, we worry about our health and safety and the health and safety of our loved ones, we worry about finances, and we worry about whether our lives have mattered. These worries bind us all together. If we focus on the sameness, our differences become so much less consequential. For the holidays, let’s all practice what every generation of parents has preached to generations of kids. Be ambassadors for kindness, for goodness sake. If you are out shopping and see someone, especially someone who may be different than you, don’t just pass silently by, or wait for the other person to speak or interact. Be proactive. Engage them, spontaneously, and watch their faces brighten with surprise. Step into another’s shoes and think, “What could I do to make this person feel appreciated and worthy?” and then do it. The response is likely to warm your heart. We each have a responsibility to be part of the solution. There is nothing that ails our world that can’t be improved one person at a time by random acts of kindness. 

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Holidays HAPPY

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