Bellingham Alive | October | 2019 by K & L Media

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CONTENTS

Best of the Northwest It’s the feature you’ve all been waiting for — Best of the Northwest! You voted (more than 600,000 times), we counted, and now the final results are in. In 126 categories, you showed us which businesses in Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan Counties are worthy of our gold, silver, and bronze medals. From Best New Restaurant to Best Plumber, we left no voting stone unturned. Huge congratulations to all our winners, and to you, our readers, for turning out to vote!

BellinghamAlive.com

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US #1 APPLIANCE STORE

A LOCAL FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS SERVING NORTHWEST WASHINGTON FOR NEARLY 80 YEARS

OCTOBER 2019 112

Mixing Tin Hogwarts Cocktails at Rook & Rogue

113

Sip Wine Judging

114

Restaurant Review Bantam 46

115

8 Great Tastes

AGENDA 119 Featured Event Bellingham ComiCon

Game Changer Mount Baker Care Center

In the Know Burnish Clay Studio

WELLBEING

In the Know HomesNow! Tiny Homes

Autumn’s Bounty

Heard Around the Sound Fall Weather Fun

Beauty Going Gray… On Purpose

Heard Around the Sound Bloodworks Northwest

FEATURE

Community The Good Time Girls

Book Reviews

Who Knew Bellingham Facts

Culinary Events

Savvy Shopper Wild Fibers

Best of the Northwest

124

Top Picks

126

Out of Town

HABITAT

39 Local Find Makeworth Market

19 Schuh Farms

111

LIFESTYLE

127 The Scene Raid Relief to Reunite Families 30 Spotlight Kevin Coleman 32

99 Featured Home Fountain District

NOTES

Five Faves Scary Movies 104

SHOP

Garden Preparing for Winter Birds

DINE

Editor’s Letter

Contributors

Letters to the Editor

Pretty Penny & Guerrero Hair Studio

107

Savor the San Juans

Meet the Staffer Luna the Office Cockatiel

Necessities Bellingham Essentials

109

Dining Guide

128

Lasting Image

October 2019 7

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 Big Rock Garden Park As the seasons start to change in earnest, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to keep exploring. This monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s online exclusive is all about Big Rock Garden Park, an easy, local outing that offers accessible trails and plenty to see. Soak in lush gardens, maple trees, and a selection of permanent sculpture art by local and international artists. Learn more about this Bellingham sanctuary and feel inspired to get out and experience the beauty of early fall.

Join us on

for:

Previous digital editions now available online.

pinterest.com/northsoundlife

]

Weekend

AGENDA NSLife Recipes

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NSLife Halloween

NSLife Health & Beauty

Home Decor

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NOTES Editor’s Letter

A Spooky, Kooky Time

alloween has always been my favorite holiday, and not just because every tooth in my mouth is a sweet one. What I love about Halloween is how ridiculous it is, and yet how deeply it’s ingrained in the American psyche. However strange, its rituals and symbols seem just as normal as watching pyrotechnic devices explode in July or delegating a tiny nude cherub — armed with bow and arrow — to serve as our mascot of love in February. Think about it. For one night a year, we carve scary faces into pumpkins. We decorate our homes with things we’d normally be horrified to find indoors: bats, spider webs, and human skeletons. We bob for apples. On this night, serious adults dress up as hot dogs or superheroes or unicorns. Children roam the streets, forgoing the age-old warning to never take candy from strangers and instead… take candy from strangers. And unless you want to be that neighbor, it’s also expected that you, the stranger, will provide said candy. For free. But only if the child chants: Trick or treat! For reasons unbeknownst to both child and stranger, a candy particular to this ritual is a chunk of sugar shaped like a kernel of corn, only many times larger than any naturally occurring kernel of corn. On one hand, the whole set-up seems wildly American. Fun! Sugar! Excess! Adventure! On the other hand, it reads like something from a quasideranged utopian fairy tale. What’s not to love? One thing I especially admire about Halloween is the trust required

of trick-or-treating. It’s an unwritten pact that — excluding those who opt out for religious reasons — people will open their doors and provide treats to whomever or whatever comes knocking. When else do we do this? Some of us go weeks or even months without interacting with our neighbors, only to find them, on this night, at our doorsteps in masks and costumes, demanding candy. We’ve become a culture that would rather drive to the store than ask our neighbor for a cup of sugar, and yet, on Halloween, parents happily usher their offspring to the doors of countless neighbors, asking for sugar in a different form. It’s a reminder that we are, no matter our politics or backgrounds, part of a country that is still openhearted and playful enough to engage in something as whimsical as Halloween. We’re all still neighbors. We all want candy. We all take pleasure in giving something sweet to others, knowing it was once us who traveled the streets with our parents, guardians, or friends, collecting goodies from kindhearted strangers. In this issue, in addition to stories inspired by the season, we present you the winners of our annual Best of the Northwest competition. While competition is another fundamentally American endeavor, I hope you’ll view this contest with the same appreciative wonderment with which one can view Halloween. Here we are, a community of people, opening our doors to celebrate one another, to provide the things we need or the things that just make life more fun. 

BECKY MANDELBAUM Editor In Cheif

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THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST IN THE NORTHWEST!

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

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Dan Radil Dan is a lifetime resident of Washington who took an interest in the state’s wine industry in the mid-1980s. A freelance wine writer and educator for the past 20 years, he and his spouse, Zacchoreli, make a habit of enjoying great food and Northwest wines both at home and on the road. His free time often centers around the yard and garden, volunteer work for the Whatcom Beer & Wine Foundation, and following his beloved Washington State University Cougars.  p. 113

Lizz Roberts A librarian since birth, Lizz loves books, stories, reading, learning, and helping others do the same. Born and raised just across the Mississippi River from New Orleans, she also loves to talk about (and eat) great food. In 1997, Lizz decided to move “home” and transplanted herself to the Pacific Northwest, where the trees and mountains are tall and the mushrooms tasty. Most days, you’ll find Lizz working at Whatcom County Library System’s South Whatcom Library.  p. 29

Jeff Mack Jeff Mack, owner and member of Bellingham Bay Builders, has fallen in love with building twice in his life. The first was at the University of Idaho while constructing large-scale, interactive public art installations. The second time was when he found Bellingham Bay Builders, an employeeowned cooperative that focuses on sustainable solutions for residential and commercial construction. When he’s not working with his teammates, he’s usually with his family enjoying the rugged coastlines of Whatcom County.  p. 99 12

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love IIIIlove love love love this town. this this town. town. this town. this Thanks, Bellingham. Thanks, Thanks, Bellingham. Bellingham. Thanks, Bellingham. ™ IThanks, love being here to help life go right a community Bellingham. ™ ™ in I love I being lovebeing being here here to help help lifelife golife right go right inina™acommunity incommunity a community I love here to to help go right ™ every day. where people are making a difference I where love being here tomaking help rightevery in aevery community people are a difference every day.day. where where people people are making are making a life difference agodifference day. Thank you for all you do. where are making Thank you all you do.do.a difference every day. Thank Thank youpeople for youfor allfor you all do. you Thank you for all you do. Joe Treat Ins Agcy Inc Joe Treat Ins Agcy IncInc Treat, Agent Joe Joe Treat Joe Ins Treat Agcy Ins Inc Agcy Joe Treat, Agent 2600Joe Elm Street Joe Treat, Agent Treat, Agent 2600 Elm Street Treat InsWA Agcy Inc Bellingham, 98225 2600Joe Elm 2600 Street Elm Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Joe Treat, Agent Bus: 360-733-0870 Bellingham, Bellingham, WA 98225 WA 98225 Bus: 360-733-0870 Elm Street Bus:2600 360-733-0870 Bus: 360-733-0870 Bellingham, WA 98225 Bus: 360-733-0870

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EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Lindsey Major

CONTRIBUTORS

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Jeff Barclay | Cassie Elliott | Jeff Mack Dan Radil | Lizz Roberts

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Sam Fletcher | Ray Garcia Questen Inghram | Tyler Kendig

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Loved all the Winery Staycations

“Nearly every branch of my family has a winemaker in it. In the small spaces allowed of college living, I’ve experimented as well. It’s amazing seeing such representation of our vibrant wine and brew culture in Washington State — one of the many things I’m going to miss covering as my internship comes to an end.” — Sam F., Bellingham

“My husband and I LOVE wineries and we hadn’t even thought of actually staying at one until we read through the September issue. We have started planning our next wine tasting adventure which now includes staying on property at one of the wineries, maybe even two! Thanks for a great read.” — Jennifer K., Anacortes

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“I greatly appreciate and love the article done on me and my art life by Ray Garcia… I immensely enjoyed working with Ray and found the finished article to be very well-written and put together. Thank you for finding me and for the local coverage.” — Leo O., Guemes Island

Moved from San Francisco “Our family recently relocated to Bellingham from San Francisco, CA. I ran across your publication as I checked out at the local FredMeyer. We use every issue as a resource for retail and restaurants to visit. Never did I imagine there would be such a wonderful publication in this slice of heaven. Keep providing us with great options.” — Kendra S., Bellingham

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NOTES

Keep Serving up Brew Stories

Gratitude from a Local Artist Bellingham Alive welcomes comments and feedback for our Letters to the Editor section. We’d love to hear what you have to say and are open to story ideas about the people, places, and happenings in the North Sound (Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan counties). Let us know what you like, and what you’d like to see in the magazine! Contact editor Meri-Jo Borzilleri at editor@bellinghamalive.com.

Letters to the Editor

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October 2019 15

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

Luna What is your role at the magazine and how long have you been with K & L Media? I’ve been the office pet here at K & L Media since June 2019. My main responsibilities include spreading cheer, patrolling the hallways, and leaving tiny beautiful feathers in people’s offices.

What is your background?

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I was hatched about 13 years ago. When I was a very young bird, I lived with a family that had a cat. One day, the cat and I got into a little tiff and it unkindly removed one of my wings. Not long after this, Lisa Karlberg — who happens to be the president and publisher of K & L Media — found me on Craigslist and brought me into her family. That was in 2006. I’ve been part of the Karlberg family ever since.

What is your favorite part of working for a regional lifestyle magazine? Probably all the free swag and not having to worry about walking around or over Sadie, my black lab. She always get’s in my way when I am at home.

What are some of your hobbies? I enjoy singing, whistling, riding on people’s shoulders, dancing with my refection in the mirror, mocking people, ringing my toy bell, and eating sunflower seeds. 

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

Over 50 Years of Farming in Skagit Valley Schuh Farms WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY LARA DUNNING

n 1963, Steve and Susan Schuh purchased their first 80 acres of Skagit Valley farmland. Over 50 years later, they’ve expanded to 250 acres and now manage Schuh Farms with their children, Jennifer and Andy. Today, the farm includes a store along Memorial Highway that has an espresso stand and a barn with a commercial kitchen. The farm also operates a seasonal berry stand and booths at 12 farmers markets during the summer months. … continued on next page

… “My parents didn’t come from a farming family,” says manager Jennifer Schuh. “But they both were raised in the valley and developed a love of farming.” Almost all of the fresh produce — berries, lettuces, tomatoes, cucumbers, peas, squash, pumpkins, melons, and more — is grown and harvested on their property. They also provide local potatoes from Skagit Valley farmers, and bring over Eastern Washington produce such as asparagus, stone fruits, and peppers.

BAKED GOODS AND FRIENDLY GOATS The farm also specializes in delicious pies and scones, gooey cinnamon rolls, coconut macaroons, and colossal cookies. A favorite among the Schuh family is the Monster cookie, made with peanut butter, oatmeal, and M&M’s. The farm even boasts its own line 20

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of jams, jellies, and syrups, and sells farm-themed housewares, garden herbs, hanging baskets, and freshly cut flowers. Visitors are encouraged to pay a visit to Sweetie Pie and Cuddles, two goats who love to greet store visitors. Guests can also stop by the large chicken coop, home to a wide variety of chicken breeds — look for Henny Penny, a small Banty hen with feathered feet — all of whom provide fresh eggs for the store. During October, new additions arrive: three little pigs and two Holstein calves. On the weekends, farmers are on hand to chat about the farm animals and dairy production.

FALL AND WINTER ON THE FARM Fall festivities kick off the first weekend of October for the Skagit County Festival of Family Farms (festivaloffamilyfarms.com), and

continue through the end of the month. Families can explore three pumpkin patches and an educational corn maze. On the weekends, visitors also enjoy hayrides, tractor rides, and roasted corn on the cob. “One of the things I love about working on the farm is that every month is something different,” says Jennifer. “The fall is so colorful with all the winter squashes, gourds, and carrots.” During November and December there are fresh-cut trees, including flocked trees, as well as holly, wreaths, garlands, gift baskets, and Christmas decorations. The store closes from January to mid-March, but pick-ups can be arranged for pies, canned goods, and farm fresh eggs.  15565 SR 536, Mount Vernon 360.424.6982 | facebook.com/Schuh-Farms

Game Changer

what they want, thereby reducing waste and saving the care center money — but what’s most interesting to Bosman are the unexpected effects. One unanticipated change is that, rather than prepping for a large, single meal, the cook staff now prepare many small meals throughout the day. This makes the environment more relaxed. Some say they’d never go back to the old way. Residents are also showing signs of improved physical and mental health. Dietitians have noticed trends in weight gain and stabilization, and staff have noticed greater alertness and livelihood in the dining room. Residents interact a lot more, comparing food choices and getting ideas for meals, Bosman says. Complaints have gone down, so staff attitude has risen. The overall dynamic of the dining experience has been much happier and more enjoyable since these changes.

A Simple Philosophy Mount Baker Care Center & Summit Place Senior Living

SPREADING JOY

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY SAM FLETCHER

ssisted care facilities typically serve a large number of residents on a limited budget. As a result, the options for meals and living accommodations can sometimes feel slim. Mount Baker Care Center & Summit Place Senior Living, however, has found a way to offer improved dining services while saving money along the way. In everything they do, the care center’s philosophy is centered around the residents, Dining Services Director Jozef Bosman says with enthusiasm. The staff likes to imagine what it would be like to live there, what services they would want. To create

LIFESTYLE

the kind of dining experience they would enjoy themselves, they developed a completely new menu tailored to the residents’ needs.

MORE THAN JUST A MEAL The resident dining room now offers a full menu with daily specials. They offer build-your-own sandwiches, and even have a chef who specializes in pastries. All of this is available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The new menu, which offers diverse choices and provides residents a sense of agency, has had a rippling effect. Some of the changes were expected, such as reduced food waste — residents now order only

Mount Baker Care Center & Summit Place Senior Living also offers plenty of activities, such as movie showings, wine and cheese tastings, beer and pizza nights, and a senior prom. In partnership with a nearby daycare, they host intergenerational activities such as barbeques, art sessions, and reading time. Bosman also leads cooking classes, many times with dishes from around the world. If a certain food item is popular, it often ends up on the menu. All of this revolves around a simple philosophy: Put the residents’ needs first. “A lot of people with dementia and Alzheimer’s, their memory has gone a bit, and they might not remember,” Bosman says. “But in that moment, they’ll be very happy.”  2905 Connelly Ave., Bellingham 888.603.9945 | mtbakercarecenter.com

October 2019 21

IN THE KNOW

Big Move for Tiny Homes

IN THE KNOW

Shaping Clay & Community

urnish Clay Studio opened last February, after owner Heather Hitts moved from Seattle to join Bellingham’s vibrant clay community. If you visit the homey studio, located on North State Street, you might take note of the pots and plates on display, smell the chalky clay in the air, or hear a radio quietly playing in the back. The studio offers several ways to get involved. Less-experienced ceramists can take a one-session course, while those looking to expand their knowledge can sign up for an eight-week class. The studio also offers a membership program for those who simply want a place to work or need access to a kiln. Aside from hosting private parties and personal lessons, the space also serves as a supply store with the most diverse selection of tools in the area.

What’s Your Favortie Haunted House? In the spirit of this ghastly month, here are five locations that will give you chills and thrills. Ray Garcia

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What’s most important to Hitts, though, is the community around the art. In Seattle, she made art alongside a software developer, an insurance executive, and a waitress. Despite having different backgrounds and viewpoints, they came together with a common passion. Adult life can be limiting, Hitts says. Between family and work, it’s easy to get caught in a bubble of perception and ideas. That’s what her studio is for — developing a diverse community of people who share a love of clay. “It just provides a safe space for people to push their boundaries, push their horizons,” Hitts says. “They think they’re coming here to just play in the mud, but really it’s also about getting to experience other people.” Sam Fletcher

Elke B. — Lotus Hall Loftus Hall in Wexford, Ireland! It’s original, not much restored, and would be a perfect set-up for a scary movie. Many medieval graveyards around there.

ver the summer, HomesNow! Not Later received a permit allowing them to operate a tiny home encampment, Unity Village, in Fairhaven. Since 2017, the nonprofit has worked to improve the lives of those experiencing homelessness by providing safe, temporary housing and necessities such as showers, cooking facilities, and bathrooms. They also help people find employment and access stable long-term housing. The organization previously operated a tent encampment called Safe Haven in the Sunnyland neighborhood. Jim Peterson, president of HomesNow!, says he always wanted to employ tiny homes over tents, emphasizing how they give residents a better sense of security. Despite the big move, Peterson says they are all glad to be in a new location, seeing it as an opportunity to educate another community about homelessness and the people who experience it. “We want to show people that not all homeless people are drug addicts, alcoholics… they’re just like everybody else.” Ray Garcia

Steven T. — The St. James Hotel The St. James Hotel in Cimarron, New Mexico is a creepy and eerie place. They have rooms where lights will turn on, on their own. It’s filled with cold chills and weird noises.

Heard Around The Sound

LIFESTYLE

Where Can I go for Fall-Weather Fun?

elebrate the season with some classic autumn activities. Take a hayride, sip some cider, or get lost in a corn maze. Whatever you do, enjoy the falling leaves and the cool Pacific Northwest breeze.

At Gordon Skagit Farms in Mount Vernon, you can buy a wreath, drink warm cider, solve a corn maze, and explore their haunted barn the first weekend of October.

■■

They Want to Suck Your Blood

loodworks Northwest is a local, independent nonprofit that connects donors to lifesaving services. Their largest program — blood donation — serves more than 90 hospitals in the region. They also provide transfusion consultations with physicians; clinical care to patients with blood diseases; research through lab work and medical breakthroughs; and support for patients undergoing transplant procedures. The Bloodworks Cord Blood Program is the first of its kind in the Northwest and has partnerships with hospitals in Washington, Oregon, and Hawaii. Through these hospitals, Bloodworks retrieves and stores umbilical cord blood, an important component in stem cell research. These cells can also be used in cancer treatments and immune or metabolic disorders. Bloodworks also collects bone marrow in collaboration with the National Marrow Donor Program. Bone marrow is critical in the possible cure of several diseases and some types of cancer. If you’re interested in becoming a bone marrow donor, all it takes is one cheek swab to determine what kind of match you’ll be. Only about 30 percent of people are able to find a match within their immediate family, so donors are critical. If you’re interested in becoming any kind of donor, stop by Bellingham’s Bloodworks Northwest location on West Bakerview Road in the plaza behind Woods Coffee. The organization especially encourages those with type O blood to donate. For more information, visit bloodworksnw.org. Lindsey Major

Kaylee B. — Wilson Library This isn’t really a house, but Wilson Library at Western. When I used to work there, I saw the pages of a book flipping on their own. Local ghost hunters investigated the place too.

The Cloud Mountain Farm Center is hosting a Fall Fruit Festival on October 5 and 6. There’ll be more than 200

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types of fresh fruits and veggies, cider pressing, live music, and caramel apples. On October 26 and 27, the horrifying and legendary haunted hayride at Orcas Island’s Camp Orkila is sure to be frightfully fun. Those who prefer less scary activities can enjoy pumpkin carving and archery.

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Pick your own apples and pumpkins at Bellewood Acres, which is open daily through October. There’s a corn maze, train tour, and fresh apple cider — need we say more? Questen Inghram ■■

COMMUNITY

Bay Breeze Restaurant Is Remodeled and Ready

fter a storm surge last December flooded and severely damaged Bay Breeze Restaurant in Birch Bay, owner Christopher Choi worked hard to get it back open for business. After a seven-month remodel, the restaurant reopened this past summer with new flooring, refurbished furniture, and the same

Maria A. — The Winchester Mystery House The Winchester Mystery House in San Jose, California. I’ve been to many haunted tours and houses all around the U.S. and it’s the only one where I felt a presence.

relaxing, seaside style it had before the storm. Bay Breeze first opened in May of 2018 and has been cooking up seafood and American classics from clam chowder, oyster shooters, and burgers to more unique dishes like smoked salmon macaroni and cheese and Thai chicken lettuce wraps. Questen Inghram

Isa K. — The Montague Manor The Montague Manor on North Garden Street has to be my favorite, because it is very much haunted by the spirits of the Montague family who inhabited it in the 1900s.

October 2019 23

LIFESTYLE Special Advertising

ALLEN LAW FIRM The Injury Experts

Laws and Paws A Local Injury Firm Takes Office Comforts to a New Level WRITTEN BY KENDRA NICHOLAS | EDITED BY KIM DAVEY PHOTOGRAPHED BY JAMES HADDOCK

hether it be the hundreds of steadfast clients or the familiar and cherished supply delivery folk, there isn’t a one that won’t expect a canine or other furry friend to greet them when they come through the door at Allen Law Firm. While this isn’t a common discovery in an injury law firm, it is however, a near guarantee at Allen Law Firm. Most often, these fur friends will be staff animals from home. Like Craig and Karen Allen’s sweet spaniels Millie and Mae, Sheila Rowe’s huggable (literally) pup Wiley George, or Jana Zook’s goofy gremlin Bennett. What’s more unusual are Allen Law Firm’s numerous borrowed visitors. These visitors include but are not limited to: Marike and Odin, the giant bear-fluffed German shepherd brother-sister duo’, Sophie the new and approved borrowed office Border Collie, and Tater Tot, the beloved and certainly magnanimous grand bunny to Shawna Frolich. Shawna Frolich, the illustrious Labor and Industries paralegal AND office-elected head of the animal lover’s department, lives and breathes the notion of animal therapy and comfort. Shawna comments, “I have always been an animal lover and was overly thrilled when I accepted a position at Allen Law Firm, where we are encouraged to bring our pets to work. When I started here years ago, I had a feisty Dachshund named Cooper. Although Cooper has since gone to doggie heaven, I’m lucky enough to bring Sofie and Tater Tot (AKA Tato) to work with me.” 24

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Craig comments further, “having well-behaved animals in the office effectively takes the edge off of incredibly stressful situations for our injured clients. It truly adds a feeling of home, not only for the Allen team, but for anyone who walks through our front door. Law offices can tend to feel cold or uninviting, but we like to keep it warm and welcoming.” Craig Allen and his team enthusiastically participate in many fundraising events supporting the Whatcom Humane Society. Each year they attend as a group, the Sunset Cruise, Dog Days of Summer, Sips & Suds and several others. This year’s annual Sips & Suds event was hosted at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal and featured many local beer, wine, and cider selections, all of which are donated to the Whatcom Humane Society event. Craig and his wife of 37 years, Karen, attended the event and fell in love with a fluffy little fur ball called Turbo. Turbo was fostered and is now officially cared for by Amy, the foster care coordinator at WHS. Craig and Karen insisted they help finance Turbo’s extensive medical needs in addition to their usual contributions to the Humane Society, an action Craig and Karen display often and dearly for people and animals alike. Karen notes, “As a child, my dad was always willing to take in any stray that came along. From that, I learned how appreciated an animal can make you feel. Whether a horse, cat or dog, LOVE THEM ALL! There is no better friend.” With Amy’s coordination, WHS provides all basic care supplies during the foster experience and are always in need of safe homes for such. Amy comments, “Currently there are 63 animals in foster, mostly kittens, some nursing moms, a couple of reptiles, and a dog or two. Summertime, (we call it “kitten season”) is when we desperately need foster homes

because so many animals are giving birth and we just don’t have the kennel space at the shelter. This also helps us keep animals healthy! As soon as an illness breaks in the shelter, it can be difficult to keep it from spreading. Kittens and puppies are the most vulnerable population, they are SO susceptible to illnesses that it’s super important we get them to a foster home as quickly as possible. They come back to the shelter once they are big enough to be spayed/neutered (must be 8 weeks old and at least 2 lbs.) and then they get adopted!” *For more information on the WHS foster care program and fund-raising events, please contact, Amy at foster@ whatcomhumane.org and/or WHS’ events manager Dana Browne, at events@whatcomhumane.org It’s clear for the staff and clients at Allen Law Firm, that we won’t soon stray from our common passion and love for animals. In addition to all our furry friends mentioned previously, you can also be sure to meet Bliss the royal Corgi, Jamie the beloved southwestern mutt, and whichever variety of new furry friends we adopt along the way.

We want to thank WHS for creating wonderful opportunities for us to celebrate, donate, and cultivate our everlasting love for the rescue and care of animals in need. *Please join us during the month of November, as we hold a Pet Food/items Drive for WHS! A wish list of items needed can be found at whatcomhumane.org and may be dropped off at 1900 “D” Street in Bellingham. Drop-off will be on Fridays between the hours of 8:30 and 3pm. *Please visit www.craigkallen.com or contact Kendra@craigkallen.com for more details regarding your donation or questions with your injury claim.  1900 D Street. Bellingham, WA 360.714.1900 | craigkallen.com

October 2019 25

LIFESTYLE Community

The Good Time Girls A Guided Walk Through Bellingham’s Gory Past WRITTEN BY BECKY MANDELBAUM PHOTOGRAPHED BY KOLBY LABREE AND ANDREA HOLODNICK

f you’re ever in Fairhaven and spot a woman dressed in a Victorian-era corset and skirt, don’t be alarmed. It’s probably just one of The Good Time Girls leading a historical walking tour of Bellingham. If you’re like me, the word history might make you run for the hills. But the owners of The Good Time Girls know how to bring history alive. The Girls offer three main tours: Sin and Gin, Gore and Lore, and Bellingham History. The tours appeal to all kinds of people, from history buffs to those who just love a good story. Some of the tours include an adult beverage, making them a nice option for those who also love a good drink. In honor of the season, I tagged along on a private Gore and Lore Tour of Fairhaven, led by tour guide and co-owner Kolby LaBree. LaBree and her partner Wren Urbigkit inherited The Good Time Girls in 2018, after founders Sara Holodnick and Marissa McGrath decided it was time to “pass the corset strings.” LaBree studied anthropology at WWU and has worked in historic preservation; Urbigkit identifies as an “armchair historian and public speaking nerd.” Every tour, LaBree and Urbigkit dress up in costume and makeup. For our tour, LaBree wore a white corset, black skirt, and pointed black boots. After a quick introduction, we followed her to one of the many historic markers that 26

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dot Fairhaven’s sidewalks. Once you know to look for them, you’ll see them everywhere. The markers offer tiny, cryptic peeks into Fairhaven’s past, with inscriptions such as “Here is where Mathew was cut in two by a streetcar” or “Site of City Drowning Pool: Dogs Only.” To help illustrate her stories, LaBree carries a packet of laminated photos. One of the first photos we saw was a mugshot of the Bedspring Killer, a barber who murdered his wife in bed and then tried to conceal the crime by flipping the mattress. The Bedspring Killer was only one of the villains we learned about on our tour. Thanks in large part to LaBree’s excellent storytelling abilities, I found myself engrossed by the seedy characters and conflicts that defined the Fairhaven of a hundred years ago. Our tour culminated in the Sycamore Square building, where a ghost in a green dress is rumored to haunt the halls. To make sure we left feeling sufficiently creepedout, LaBree sent us off with a recording of electronic voice phenomenon — i.e. spooky ghost sounds — that paranormal researchers collected in the building. The eeriest was a preternaturally deep voice that sounded like an evil cookie monster. Going on the tour was akin to reading a good book; Afterward, I saw the world with new eyes. Fairhaven was no longer a friendly neighborhood with cute boutiques and restaurants, but rather a rollicking boomtown where arsonists devastated buildings and coroners displayed anonymous corpses on the street. Speaking of dead bodies, LeBree and Urbigkit hope to add Bayview Cemetery to their roster of spooky tour locations this fall. Check their website for a complete list of offerings.  360.389.3595 | goodtimegirlstours.com

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Book Reviews

In the Know

WRITTEN BY LIZZ ROBERTS

Inheritance: A Memoir of Genealogy, Paternity, and Love by Dani Shapiro Alfred A. Knopf 255 pages

After casually taking a DNA test, Dani Shapiro discovers the father she has known and loved her entire life is not her biological father. Overnight, her entire world shatters as the history she has been so sure of is called into question; her Jewish heritage, her family relationships, her very identity. In “Inheritance,” Shapiro recounts with vivid prose and exquisite gentleness the upheaval both within herself and amongst family and friends as she gradually uncovers the secrets kept by her parents. Shapiro’s skillful storytelling carries you along moment by moment; you feel her shock of recognition when she sees a video of her biological father, whose features, even hand gestures, are achingly familiar.

5 Ingredients: Quick & Easy Food by Jamie Oliver Flatiron Books 320 pages

Jamie Oliver’s “5 Ingredients: Quick & Easy Food” takes a fresh look at the old idea of cooking with limited ingredients. In his unmistakable style, Oliver presents 130 healthy recipes that claim to give “maximum flavor with minimum fuss.” Pantry items are also limited to five: salt, pepper, red wine vinegar, an olive oil for cooking, and another to drizzle. Oliver easily delivers on his promise of both speed and ease. But there are three other qualities that make the book outstanding. First, the design: Every two-page spread includes the recipe, nutritional information, and photos of the five ingredients as well as the finished dish. Second is the master class in cooking you receive just by reading the instructions. Lastly, the recipes are truly tasty!

LIFESTYLE

October 5, 10:30 A.M. My Old Man and the Mountain Blaine Library 610 3rd St., Blaine 360.305.3637, wcls.org Local author and mountaineer Leif Whittaker will give a multimedia presentation about his debut memoir. Inspired by his trips to the Himalayas with his father, Jim Whittaker, who was the first American to summit Mt. Everest, Leif’s tale is one of perseverance, humor, and ambition.

October 12th, 7 P.M. Jennifer Gold & Kate Kaufmann Book Talk Village Books 1200 11th St., Bellingham 360.671.2626, villagebooks.com Two Pacific Northwest writers examine the theme of being female without children. Gold’s “The Ingredients of Us” is a thoughtful novel about baking, infidelity, and resilience. Kaufmann’s “Do You Have Kids? Life When the Answer is No” examines the freedoms and challenges of the lives of women who are not mothers. The event will be held in the Readings Gallery.

Who Knew? What Makes Bellingham So Great? The Air We Breathe Take a deep breath — we have good news. Last year, the American Lung Association ranked Bellingham as a top metropolitan area for the cleanest air. Bellingham was lauded for its ozone quality as well as the quality of its yearround particle pollution.

The Water We Drink Water, water everywhere… and lots of it to drink. In a 2016 taste contest hosted by the American Water Works Association, Bellingham’s drinking water won Best Tasting Water in the Pacific Northwest. Our clean, tasty water comes from Lake Whatcom but originates as mountain snowfall.

The Beer We Brew In 2018, Chuckanut Brewery and Aslan Brewing both won gold medals at the 2018 World Beer Cup. Chuckanut Brewery won for its Pilsner and Kolsch while Aslan took home the gold for its Frances Farmer, a specialty Saison. Cheers to Bellingham!

The Coffee We Roast We may have dark and rainy winters, but at least we know how to make a great cup of joe. In 2018, Bellingham appeared among National Geographic Traveler’s list of 20 unexpected cities with the best coffee. This past July, Food and Wine ranked Camber Coffee as the best coffee roaster in Washington. Becky Mandelbaum

October 2019 29

LIFESTYLE Spotlight

Ripple of Positivity Kevin Coleman WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY LINDSEY MAJOR

ife may imitate art, but when it comes to local visual artist Kevin Coleman, art also imitates life. His series of colorful, realistic water drop pieces titled “Ripple of Positivity” accurately represents the ripple of positivity he creates as an artist, philanthropist, and champion of the arts in Bellingham. Coleman started his Ripple of Positivity series in 2017 as a means to discover a new personal happiness. “I found, looking in nature, that if you look at a water drop, there’s a story within a water drop. And when you go down to a molecular level, you realize that everything is different. We’re all different. Everything is our own perception.” During the day, Coleman spreads his positivity as the community relations and business development manager at WhatcomTalk, where he connects people and businesses. Not only does his work at WhatcomTalk benefit the community, but he also plays a large role in local nonprofit work. He’s donated a dozen paintings to charity fundraisers, teaches art and creativity at the Boys & Girls Club, and is currently working on a program to recycle discarded glass cannabis containers — the first program of its kind. He hopes to use the glass jars to create art kits for underprivileged youth. In December of 2018, Coleman competed against his husband, Keith, for the Bellingham Regional Chamber of Commerce Man of the Year award. Coleman won, in recognition of the positivity he brings to the community. “Working with WhatcomTalk, and going out and expressing what the positive people are doing and [what] businesses are doing positive things

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APPS WE L VE Check Yourself Keep a Breast Foundation This app makes self-examination easy. Set a monthly date to receive push notifications reminding you to check yourself every month. This app guides you through all the motions and what to feel for. It can also send you advice on how to eliminate risk factors.

Breast Cancer Healthline Healthline Networks, Inc. Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed or are in remission, you’re not alone in your breast cancer journey. This app is a social community support chat room, allowing you to connect with others on the same path.

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to represent them has allowed me to live a more positive life — waking up every day to find the positive instead of the negative.” Before moving to Bellingham, Coleman and his husband adopted two sons. The transition to fatherhood had a great impact not only on Coleman’s life but on his art as well: “[My art] is not the same at all. It’s much more in-depth, much more vibrant in color. Daring, I would say daring. Being an artist and being a parent, we tell our kids, ‘You can be anything you want to be,’ and living what you are is so important. And if my kids can see that I’m living who I am, through

my artwork and by giving back to the community… then they see that I’m being the best possible me I can be.” The Allied Arts — for which Coleman serves on the Board of Directors — is having their 40th anniversary on October 13. The Artist Invasion Extravaganza is taking over the entire Heliotrope Hotel for the day, with 15 artist installations in each room, including Coleman’s own works. His set will feature art that incorporates 3D and glow-in-the-dark elements. The event will have food trucks, a beer garden, and all kinds of swag. “We want our city to know the arts matter.” 

Manage your medications in a list format, with dosage amounts and times to help keep you organized. You can also share your list and schedules with others to help keep you accountable. This app will also send you push notifications to remind you when it’s time to take your dose.

Breast Cancer Reference Look It Up 4 Me, Inc. A cancer diagnosis can come with heavy, muddled language, for both the patient and their loved ones. Use this app to easily navigate hard-to-understand medical conversations and vocabulary terms. Education also helps prevention. Lindsey Major

October 2019 31

Five Faves

SCARY FIVE MOVIES FAVES WRITTEN BY LINDSEY MAJOR | PHOTO COURTESY OF PARAMOUNT PICTURES

BellinghamAlive.com

Image from Pet Semitary courtesy of Paramount Pictures

LIFESTYLE

1 2 3 4 5

Pet Semitary (2019) (R) In this adaptation of the Stephen King novel, a father moves his family to rural Maine. While exploring their new, expansive property, the daughter stumbles upon a mysterious graveyard. When the family cat dies, and Dad buries him there, things go from bad to worse.

Get Out (R) Chris agrees to visit his white girlfriend’s parents. Upon their arrival at the grand upstate home — complete with an entirely African-American staff — Chris begins to realize things are not as they should be.

Historic Hospitality

The Curse of La Llorona (R) Social worker Anna ignores the warning of a mother accused of child abuse after her children are found wounded and drowned. Soon, the same horrors start haunting Anna’s children.

The Haunting of Hill House (TV - MA) While not a movie, this 10-episode Netflix series is still chilling. The Crain family experiences real-life nightmares past and present, with flashbacks between their current family mortuary and previous family mansion.

A Quiet Place (PG - 13) After an alien species that hunts by sound arrives on Earth, a family must learn to survive in total silence. With three children and a pregnant wife, it’s not easy to keep quiet.

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October 2019 33

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SHOP

Savvy Shopper · Necessities · Local Find

The Art of Feeling Pretty Pretty Penny Clothing & Guerrero Hair Studio WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY BECKY MANDELBAUM

f you’re looking to revamp your look, head to the corner of Elm and Monroe Streets in Bellingham, where you’ll find Pretty Penny Clothing and Guerrero Hair Studio. The vintage clothing boutique and hair studio are owned by Bellingham native, Sarah Dunbar, and her husband, Nick St. Mary, respectively. The pair met in Oakland, but moved to Bellingham in 2016 to be near Dunbar’s family and find a calmer pace of life for themselves and their daughter, Vienna. … continued on next page

… For two years, the couple operated Pretty Penny’s original Oakland location from Bellingham, taking frequent trips to California to check on the store. When the travel became too much, they decided to reincarnate the store in Bellingham. “There isn’t anything quite like what we do here in town,” St. Mary says. “[We’re] a lifestyle shop...It’s an art, for us, what we do.”

EVERYONE IS WELCOME Dunbar, who is warm and cheerful, carefully selects every item in Pretty Penny with the customer in mind. “I want to give people what they want,” she says. This means an array of gently-used vintage jeans, jumpers, and dresses as well as a curated collection of new products such as sunglasses, socks, natural apothecary items, and bralettes. For Dunbar, Pretty Penny is about more than clothing — it’s about building and connecting with community. “We’ve retained probably 60% of our Oakland customers,” she explains, referring to those who still shop through Pretty Penny’s popular online store. Dunbar strives to create a safe shopping experience for anyone and everyone. “I don’t follow people around, I don’t 36

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judge.” If customers do want help, she’s ready to spring into action, helping people pick clothes that make them feel good. “I really enjoy getting to see how people feel once they find the right size, or find something they would have never picked out themselves.”

NATURAL STYLE Before opening his studio next to Pretty Penny this past August, St. Mary cut hair at Argyle Hair Salon. His new studio is bright and cheerful, with rust-colored styling chairs and a beverage station where clients can enjoy coffee or tea. “In the winter time in Bellingham it’s gloomy… I want everything as happy and comfortable as I can make it.” St. Mary strives to use organic, paraben-free, and chemicalfree products. “I want to create a clean-air space for people who have smell and scent sensitivities,” he says. He specializes in straight razor haircuts, a more organic, natural way to cut hair. He also does color.  2330 Elm St., Bellingham 510.816.6062 | guerrerohairstudio.com 360.393.3212 | prettypennyclothing.com

We are so thankful for this recognition as our practice celebrates 85 years of independent optometry in Bellingham!

411 E. Magnolia Street, Bellingham | 360.647.2020. | www.binyonvision.com

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*Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 9/14/19–12/9/19 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed See complete terms distributed with reward card. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. ©2019 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein within 4 weeks of rebate claim approval. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card balance 6 months after card issuance and each month thereafter. are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners. 19Q4MAGVIC2 See complete terms distributed with reward card. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. ©2019 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners. 19Q4MAGVIC2

SHOP Necessities

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Made-to-Order Bellingham Mug by Downing Pottery etsy.com, $42

Bellingham Essentials In this issue, we celebrate the Best of the Northwest. Although there’s no “best town” category, we like to think, if there were, Bellingham would take home the gold. Whether you’ve lived in Bellingham your whole life, are a recent transplant, or moved away and now miss our little town by the sea, show some Bellingham love with these five hometown essentials. Becky Mandelbaum

Bellingham Bumper Stickers bhamstickers.com, individual stickers starting at $1.95

4 Bellingham Flag T-Shirt Bay to Baker Trading Company, $23.95

11×14 Beeringham Print by Brittany Schade Art etsy.com, $25

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A Home Away From Home

Local Find

SHOP

Makeworth Market WRITTEN BY RAY GARCIA | PHOTOGRAPHED BY SAM FLETCHER

hen it comes to blending business and aesthetics, the folks at Makeworth Market have it down to a science. Back in May, the new shop opened its doors to the corner block of East Chestnut and North State, offering the surrounding community an Instagram-worthy gathering place. In addition to serving as a cheerful, welcoming space where people can hold workshops and events, Makeworth also offers an assortment of drinks, treats, and merchandise. The business is split between four owners — KJ Plank, Mike Gaetke, Michael Borden, and Corey Silversmith — each of whom shares a similar heart for the concept behind the market. Their main vision: to create a place where people can come together, no matter the reason. “When I was about 15 years old, I spent a lot of time in cafes meeting friends and hanging out,” Silversmith says. “I love the way it made me feel. It was my home away from home.”

THE ENVIRONMENT Upon taking your first steps in Makeworth Market, you’re instantly welcomed by the scent of fresh ground coffee and the subtle buzz of chatting patrons. The two-story shop is spacious and bright, qualities further amplified by the use of blank space. “We wanted to go with the white aesthetic to kind of make it feel open and airy. To be a bright place in the dark days of the nine months of the year,” Silversmith says. In similar fashion, the decor is posh, yet delicately dispersed to prevent a cluttered look. From the gold-accented centerpieces to the picturesque photography on the walls, Makeworth offers an elegant and calm space whether you’re studying, working, or socializing.

WHAT YOU CAN BUY THERE Apart from their tasty coffee and pastries, Makeworth Market also boasts an impressive list of cold beer and cider on tap, stylish stationery, and a limited selection of clothing and jewelry. With every product found inside the store, Silversmith says they either know or have built a relationship with the makers of said product. “We want what we offer to align with what we wanted people to feel,” Silversmith says. “We wanted them to know that everything they see, buy, taste, touch, or whatever, is made by someone that really cares about the quality and craftsmanship.”  1201 N. State St., Bellingham 360.933.1678 | makeworthmarket.com October 2019 39

SHOP Savvy Shopper

A Passion for the Fiber Arts Wild Fibers WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY LARA DUNNING

706 S. First St., Mount Vernon 360.336.5202 | wildfibers.net 40

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THE SHOP Wild Fibers in downtown Mount Vernon has been inspiring fiber artists for nearly 15 years. Located next to the historic Lincoln Theatre, the shop is a one-stop destination for everything fiber and fiber-related. Come for supplies and leave with inspiration for your next knitting or crochet project.

THE ATMOSPHERE The shop itself is visual eye candy, festooned with brightly colored yarns and decorated with beautiful knit sweaters, hats, shawls, scarves, gloves, and socks, all lovingly knitted by the staff. Guests can peruse at their leisure and are encouraged to ask questions. Near the register is a welcoming seating area; in the back, you’ll find a large classroom.

KEY PEOPLE The owner, Sarah Parker, manages the shop with six part-time employees, all of whom share a love of the fiber arts. Parker learned to knit at the age of seven and professes to have “always been crafty.” She had taken a hiatus from knitting when she visited a hat shop in England. Inside, she saw a woman knitting and remembered how much she enjoyed the craft. About five years later, she opened Wild Fibers.

“When people come into the store, I want them to be inspired,” says Parker. “Maybe they want to learn how to knit or crochet, pick up a new project, or learn a new technique. Whatever level they are at when they come into the store, I always want people to feel welcomed and see this as a place to seek help and ask questions. Knitting is technical, and we want them to be successful.”

WHAT YOU’LL FIND Wild Fibers offers skeins (yarn ropes) in a variety of colors, price points, and brands, including Mode at Rowan, Sugarplum Circus, and Brooklyn Tweed. You’ll also find tools of the trade, such as single sets of knitting needles, sock rules, kits, magazines, instructional books, and patterns. Select items may also be purchased online. Instruction begins in the fall, and includes classes for beginners, classes that focus on technique, and classes that revolve around a project, such as making a sweater. The shop participates in two tours: the Puget Sound LYS Tour in May and the Slow Yarn Crawl PNW in the winter. To express gratitude for their 15-year milestone, which comes in 2020, the shop is thanking customers with a new loyalty program. 

October 2019 41

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WELLBEING Nutrition · Take a Hike · Beauty

Autumn’s Comforting Bounty WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY CASSIE ELLIOTT

he leaves are starting to fall, the days are getting shorter, and the evenings are just cool enough for a sweater. Autumn may signal the end of summer, but it’s also the beginning of my favorite time of year: the time to cook soups, stews, and other warming comfort foods. Even better: Because we’re in no rush to go anywhere, we can often let these meals slow cook and simmer. October is also a perfect time to reap the bounty of our gardens — or our local farmer’s field — that are bursting with potatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, tomatoes, and squash. … continued on next page

… As a kid, squash was never on the top of my favorite foods list, but rather on the “Do I have to eat that?” list. Now, I can’t get enough of it, especially since I discovered one of the greatest kitchen gadgets ever invented: the vegetable spiralizer! Full disclosure: After I bought my spiralizer, it sat in the box, unopened, for more than four years. It now occupies a place of honor in my kitchen, and it’s all because of this recipe. If you’re looking for a flavorful, gluten-free meal that incorporates all the fresh foods of the season, then this is the recipe for you.

1 teaspoon mushroom powder 1 teaspoon Italian herbs 1/2 teaspoon kosher sea salt 1 teaspoon Worcestershire or fish sauce 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper

ZOODLES WITH MEATBALLS MARINARA

• In a large bowl, mix ground beef, egg, and spices until well combined.

SIMPLE MARINARA SAUCE INGREDIENTS 1 38-milileter can tomato sauce 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/4 teaspoon chili pepper flakes 1/2 teaspoon oregano 1/4 teaspoon rosemary 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper Chopped fresh basil to garnish

INSTRUCTIONS • Preheat oven to 400 F. • Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and place baking rack on top.

• Roll meatballs. Make sure they are all the same size so they cook evenly. • Bake on middle rack in oven for 18–20 minutes. • Remove from oven and set on paper-towel-lined plate. • Serve with zoodles and my Simple Marinara Sauce, or place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for use later.

MEATBALL INGREDIENTS 1 lb. ground beef 1 large egg 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder 44

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• To prepare the zucchini, use a spiralizer to cut into long strips. Using a steamer basket placed over a pot of boiling water, cook for 2–3 minutes or until al dente. 

Beauty

WELLBEING

To learn more about the process of dying gray, I sat down with Katie, a stylist at Bellingham’s Vanity Hair Studio on Dupont Street.

What is the process of going from your current hair color to gray/silver? Katie: The first thing you’ll want to do is get the hair to lift to a pale blonde. So then once you’ve lifted to the lightest possible level, which needs to be a level nine or level 10, then you go in and kind of have to personalize the color combination to get it to whatever picture [the client] showed you. The thing with doing it on brunettes is that it’s 2019 — most people have colored their hair. So it usually takes at least two processes to lift it to a white blonde. So now you’re looking at going in for multiple services in order to achieve this.

What are some upkeep tips? Katie: Something I like to recommend when people are going through a bleach process, especially multiple, is purchasing an at-home conditioning mask or coming into the salon for conditioning treatments. It’s just really good for your hair and helps it process and hold the color longer. Also, purple shampoo essentially neutralizes all those gold and yellow tones that, obviously, if you’re doing a gray, people don’t want.

A Silver Lining Going Gray... On Purpose

What tips do you have for making naturally gray hair more vibrant?

WRITTEN BY LINDSEY MAJOR

he latest hair trend is not what you might expect: Young women all over the country are dying their hair gray or silver. To those that have naturally gone gray — and perhaps tried to reverse the phenomenon by dying their hair a different shade — it might seem perplexing. Why would young women want to go gray? I like to think of it as a mini-revolution, interpreting the trend as a stand against the notion that women should feel averse to

aging, that there’s something inherently less beautiful about gray hair. By choosing to go gray, women redefine the color — and the process of aging as a whole — as something beautiful. It’s also a matter of expressing our agency. Women can do whatever we want, whether it’s letting our hair change naturally or dying it gray — or pink, or blue, or any color we want. Women should be able to look however we want to look, embrace it, and celebrate it.

Katie: I would probably gear a little bit more towards a really fine weave of a highlight and then tone those to try and match whatever their natural gray is. Just because a lot of people don’t go 100 percent natural gray at once, you know, they start at 30 or 40 percent, then go to 50 or 60, then eventually they’re 100 percent gray. So depending on their existing level of gray, that’s how I would go forward. Or if they desire something that’s a little more vivid, maybe then we go into it with a white and do that. 

October 2019 45

WELLBEING Special Advertising

PeaceHealth Nurse Navigators Pathfinders for Cancer Patients

here are few things scarier than a cancer diagnosis — and receiving one can throw a person into absolute confusion. There’s a long list of things that need to be done before a first visit with an oncologist. What must be done first? And in what order do other things follow? Add to all of this a wait time between diagnosis and treatment that feels like an eternity. It can all be overwhelming at a time when fear of the unknown may make simply navigating each day a challenge. About 10 years ago, hospitals realized that patients didn’t always fully understand the steps and processes involved in the medical approach to cancer treatment. To help, they created a position called a nurse navigator. At PeaceHealth, a nurse navigator is assigned to patients who receive a specific type of cancer diagnosis. They’re in charge of guiding patients through the system and can be the only constant during a complicated process filled with multiple doctors and specialists. After a cancer diagnosis, patients must schedule a long list of procedures, tests, imaging, specialist visits, and other appointments. Each step must be completed in order, giving the oncologists all the necessary information to devise the best possible treatment. Before nurse navigators, steps would often be

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taken out of turn, leaving patients and doctors with wasted time and extra visits, which cost the patient — and their insurance company — money. “I help guide them through the world of testing, procedures, and doctor appointments while giving them support and information,” says Kathy Millson, one of several nurse navigators for PeaceHealth. “I use my skills to educate, guide, answer questions, and be available and present at appointments, so they feel they are not alone at this time.” Millson schedules visits in the order they’re needed and answers patient and family questions. She’s available as a constant resource anytime a request arises and works as the conduit between departments to ensure the patient is taken care of in every possible way. “A lot of patients have challenges,” Millson continues. “It could be that they don’t drive or have a car, or they’re worried they don’t have insurance or will have financial constraints.” Millson connects them with financial advocates, directs them to help with insurance, and assists them in finding transportation. “Supporting them makes their outcome more successful and less stressful.” Millson has been a practicing oncology nurse for 40 years. She’s well versed in answering questions and can educate patients, easing their

minds when they’re unsure about procedures and exams. “There can be 12 different doctors at one point involved with the patient’s care,” says Millson. “They’ll call me when they don’t know who to talk to when they’re sick. I know the right questions to ask to direct them to the right doctor.” She compares her position to that of a tour guide. “I do all their scheduling ahead of time,” she says. “I’m with them as they go through these different places and tests, so they’re not alone; they’re supported and educated along the way.” Having this support can significantly relieve anxiety and fear during what is, for most people, a very challenging time. The best thing about nurse navigators is that their services are free. “Patients can call me, and there’s no charge to them or their insurance. It’s just to help ease their mind and to know that I’m there beside them,” says Millson. She loves her job and wouldn’t trade it for anything. “I have the opportunity to have conversations at a very meaningful time in their lives,” says Millson. “Being a nurse can be challenging, but I feel I can bring hope and support to patients while they travel through this disease.” If you have questions or would like help from a nurse navigator, please call the PeaceHealth St. Joseph Cancer Center at 360-788-8222. 

Your family won’t wait. Neither should your health. PeaceHealth’s Same Day Care Clinic is open seven days a week to help you get back on your feet fast.

Save time. Schedule online. 3015 Squalicum Parkway, Suite 140 Monday–Friday 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. § Saturday–Sunday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

peacehealth.org/appointments

Best Nonprofit Organization

BUSINESS SERVICES Best Clean Energy Company

Best Attorney

Best Live Theatre Best Mechanic

Best Place for a Kid’s Birthday Party

Favorite Northwest Destination

Best Shoe Store

Best Family-Friendly Activity

Best Boutique

Best Cocktail

Best Men’s Clothing

FASHION & RETAIL

Best Breakfast

Best Summer Camp

Best Food Truck

Best Store for Baby

Best Bakery

Best Fresh Produce

Best New Restaurant Best Fine Dining

Best Brewery

FOOD & DRINK

Best Flooring Company

Best Pizza Best Wine Shop

Best Hardware

Best Sandwich Best Distillery

Best Garden

Best Architect

Best Roofing Company

Best Interior Design

HOME & GARDEN

Best Landscape Design

Best Electronics Store

Best Toy Store Best Antique Store

Best Groomer

Best Doggie Daycare

Best Kitchen & Bath Design

Best Pet Store

KIDS

Best Dog Trainer

Best Private School

BEST OF THE NORTHWEST

PETS

Best Builder

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Best Pre-School

Best Pet Store

Best Home Decor

Best Local Artist

Best Local Band

Best Dentist

Best Boarding Kennel

Best Veterinarian

Best Physical Therapist

Best Festival

Best Art Gallery

Best Auto Dealer

Best Chiropractor

Best Creative Company

Best Museum

Best Casino

Best Cannabis Shop

Best Florist

Best Lodging

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Best Hike

Best Live Music Venue

Best Men’s Haircut

Best Wedding Venue Best Photographer

Best Fitness Center

ROMANCE & OUTINGS

Best Date Night Best Place To Meet Singles

Best Yoga

Best Health Food Shop

Best Spa

Best Salon

Best Orthodontist

Best Family Practitioner

Best Naturopath

Best Pharmacy

Best Golf Course

Best Tourist Attraction

Best Local Artisan Best Furniture Store

ARTS + BEST LOCAL ARTIST

Katie Walton, Red Barn Art Studio 7929 Thomas Rd., Bow 360.319.5139, katiewaltonart.com

Moving up from bronze in 2018, Katie Walton also took the gold in 2017. The Skagit-based artist is driven by themes of “place and the female spirit.” She launched Red Barn Art Studio in 2012 where, in addition to creating her own ceramics and mosaics, she also offers art classes. SILVER Jen Parker, ReImagined Bellingham, 360.820.3049 BRONZE Ben Mann, Ben Mann Studios Bellingham, 360.920.4022

BEST LOCAL BAND | PERFORMER

The Replayzmentz Birch Bay 360.371.5436

For the third year in a row, you’ve voted The Replayzmentz into gold. Maybe it’s because their classic rock tunes speak to music lovers of any generation, or maybe it’s because they’re just that darn good. Whatever it is, this Birch Bay band has won your hearts and your ears. SILVER SpaceBand Bellingham, 360.961.7123 BRONZE The Jack Benson Band Bellingham, 360.319.3103 BEST ART GALLERY

Courtyard Gallery 701 S. First St., La Conner 360.466.1200, courtyardgallery.biz

SILVER Make.Shift Art Space Bellingham, 360.933.1849 BRONZE Mighty, Tiny Art Gallery Bellingham 50

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Winner for the third year in a row, Courtyard Gallery in La Conner features works from artists all over the country as well as those in our neck of the woods. The gallery features bronze, glass, and wooden art as well as sculptures, fountains, and chandeliers. Small gifts and jewelry are also available for purchase.

ENTERTAINMENT BEST MUSEUM

Whatcom Museum, Lightcatcher 250 Flora St., Bellingham 360.778.8930, whatcommuseum.org

SILVER Lynden Pioneer Museum Lynden, 360.354.3675 BRONZE SPARK Museum Of Electrical Invention Bellingham, 360.738.3886

Named for its main design feature, an enormous wall that captures sunlight, this LEED Silver-Level certified museum hosts a rotating selection of art exhibitions. The Family Interactive Gallery offers a learn-through-play experience perfect for a memorable family outing. This year marks Lightcatcher’s first gold since 2014 — last year it took silver.

BEST LIVE THEATER

BEST FESTIVAL

Mount Baker Theatre

The Historic Fairhaven Festival

104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

Fairhaven, Bellingham fairhaven.com

Last year, Bellingham’s beloved historic theater took silver, but most other years it has brought home the gold. The iconic theater offers diverse performances and curated events ranging from musicals like RENT to screenings of scary movies to big-name speakers like Gloria Steinem. It’s a community centerpiece for good reason.

As Bellingham’s biggest street party, it’s no surprise this festival won your hearts and your votes. This year’s festivities took place the same day as the Ski to Sea Relay Race and featured live music, tons of food options, a wine and beer garden, and activities for kids and adults alike.

SILVER Bellingham Theatre Guild Bellingham, 360.733.1811 BRONZE Lincoln Theatre Mount Vernon, 360.366.8955

SILVER Bellingham Pride Bellingham, bellinghampride.org BRONZE Bellingham SeaFeast Bellingham, 360.746.8852

BEST CASINO

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE

The Skagit Casino Resort

Wild Buffalo House Of Music

5984 N. Darrk Ln., Bow 877.275.2448, theskagit.com

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

This year, The Skagit Casino Resort stole the gold from last year’s winners, who previously held a nine-year winning streak. The Skagit Casino Resort offers nearly a thousand slots, three restaurants, and world-class live entertainment every weekend. Its hotel packages set you up with a mix of dining, casino play, and golf.

Voted best music venue since 2011, Wild Buffalo House of Music never fails to deliver big names and even bigger fun. A cornerstone of Bellingham’s music scene, it offers regular ‘90s dance parties, lip sync battles, and attracts a variety of artists ranging from Paul Wall to Built to Spill to Justin Townes Earle.

SILVER Silver Reef Casino Resort Ferndale, 360.383.0777 BRONZE Swinomish Casino & Lodge Anacortes, 888.288.8883

SILVER The Shakedown Bellingham, 360.778.1067 BRONZE The Beach at Birch Bay Birch Bay, 360.392.8403 October 2019 51

FASHION + RETAIL BEST COSMETIC ARTIST

Isaac Meyers 2836 W. Maplewood Ave., Bellingham 206.946.2446, immakeup.com

With years of experience working with clients including Rihanna, Etta James, and Adriana Lima, you know Isaac Meyers is a pro at what he does. In addition to his hair and makeup services, Meyers also offers airbrush makeup workshops. He is also happy to service commercial and editorial needs, with packages for half or full-day events. SILVER Keely Clevinger Bellingham, 360.599.4049 BRONZE Elizabeth Marie Bellingham, beautybyelizabethmarie.com

BEST FURNITURE STORE

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

Samuel’s is the largest — and frequently voted the best — furniture store in Northwest Washington. In addition to their wide, affordable selection of furniture, Samuel’s also offers incomparable customer service, including free interior design, top-notch delivery service, and high-end brands. © Lindsey Major

SILVER Wiser’s Furniture Lynden, 360.778.3870 BRONZE Griffith Furniture & Mattresses Bellingham, 360.734.3730

BEST CONSIGNMENT SHOP

BEST BOUTIQUE

Labels

Betty Be Good

2332 James St., Bellingham, various locations 360.738.0333, labelsconsignment.com

8125 Birch Bay Square St., Ste. 201, Blaine, various locations 360.441.7691, shopbettybegood.com

Labels was founded on Ellis Street in Bellingham in 2004. The business quickly outgrew the space, leading to the two current locations on Northwest Avenue and James Street. Labels also supports local charities including Lydia Place, We Care, Ragfinery, and WeSNiP.

Suzanne Smith founded Betty Be Good with one goal in mind: to mesh her love of fashion with her passion for helping victims of human trafficking. Betty Be Good donates two percent of gross sales to local causes. Learn more by visiting the Betty Be Good website, or check out our story on the shop in our August 2019 issue.

SILVER The Clothes Rack Bellingham, 360.738.7759 BRONZE Wee Ones Reruns Bellingham, 360.733.6794

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SILVER Cheeks Lynden, 360.778.1849 BRONZE Fringe Bellingham, 360.312.4067

We’re the biggest jewelry store on our block

Thank You for voting Labels Best Consignment ♥

360.676.1210

3927 Northwest Ave.

360.738.0333 2332 James St.

WEST

GOLD

Give your Designer Clothing, Accessories, and Household Furnishings a New Home ♥ LOCALLY OWNED AND LOCALLY GROWN SINCE 2004

1730 LaBounty Drive in Ferndale (360) 384-2803 borthwickjewelry.com Exit 262 on I-5, in the Grocery Plaza outlet

BEST of the

2017

and

of the

NORTH

WEST

GOLD

LOCALLY OWNED SINCE 1959.

Jack & Michelle Johnson

When it comes to servicing and repairing your garage doors and openers, no one does it better than Overhead Door. No matter what brand or model... from simple tune-ups and repairs to full replacement and upgrades...trust the experts at Overhead Door to get the job done right – right away. 202 Ohio St., Bellingham, WA | (360) 734-5960 | ohdbellingham.com

TWO LOCATIONS

BEST

2017

CONSIGN WITH US!

A public reminder for those who believe that bigger is better.

FASHION + RETAIL

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING

BEST APPLIANCE STORE

BEST ANTIQUE STORE

Quinn & Foster

Judd & Black Appliance

Penny Lane Antique Mall

128 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.671.2000

2001 James St., Bellingham 360.733.7722, juddblack.com

427 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.671.3301, pennylaneantiquemall.com

The men’s department at Quinn & Foster features high-end and designer options for clothing, shoes, and accessories. Follow their social media channels for “outfit of the day” inspiration and shop updates.

If you’re looking for a new fridge, washing machine, or any other appliance, Judd & Black is the place to go. The retailer offers six locations across the North Sound and has been voted top dog time and time again.

New items arrive daily to this antique mall in Old Town Bellingham. Open since 1990, Penny Lane provides space for over 40 vendors, selling items such as furniture, jewelry, kitchen wares, and so much more.

SILVER Buckle Bellingham, 360.734.2819 BRONZE Whistle Workwear Bellingham, 360.676.7182

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

SILVER Aladdin’s Antiques and Records Bellingham, 360.647.0066 BRONZE More than Antiques Lynden, 360.354.7576

BEST SHOE STORE

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING

Hilton’s Shoes

Sojourn

113 W. Magnolia St., Bellingham 360.734.3090, hiltonsshoes.com

1317 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.571.5704, sojournbellingham.com

Hilton’s was founded right here in Bellingham in 1924 by Joseph Hilton himself. In the 90 years the shop has been in business, it’s stayed in the family. With that kind of experience, Hilton’s knows exactly how to help customers find their sole mates.

Sojourn has been providing customers with upscale fashion, handbags, and jewelry since their founding in 1994. Their location on Railroad Avenue is perfect for stopping in during a downtown stroll. SILVER Cheeks Lynden, 360.778.1849 BRONZE Statement Apparel Bellingham, 360.734.9595

Celebrating

25 Years

Downtown Bellingham 1317 Railroad Ave. Bellingham, WA 98225 360.671.5704

Women’s clothing and accessories for your Northwest Life

Thanks for your vote! 2945 Newmarket Ste. 107 | 360.734.9595 © Tyler Kendig

SILVER 12th Street Shoes Bellingham, 360.733.2066 BRONZE Fairhaven Runners & Walkers Bellingham, 360.676.4955

Open 6 days a week 10am–6pm

October 2019 55

FASHION + RETAIL

BEST BOOKSTORE

BEST JEWELRY SHOP

BEST LOCAL ARTISAN

Village Books

Ben Bridge Jewelers

Jen Parker, ReImagined

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

1 Bellis Fair Pkwy., Ste. 122, Bellingham 360.671.6070, benbridge.com

Bellingham 360.820.3049

Village Books has deep roots in both Bellingham and Lynden. Opened in 1980, the bookstores offer new, used, and discounted books and regularly host readings, discussion groups, and writing workshops. Cornerstones of the literary community here in the Northwest, these bookstores are a must-stop for both local and visiting bibliophiles.

Samuel Silverman opened his first store in downtown Seattle in 1912. Now, with stores in 11 states, Ben Bridge is still dedicated to one thing: “Helping customers celebrate special moments.” Whether you’re on the market for an engagement ring, a birthday present, or something just because, check out Ben Bridge’s tasteful selection.

Jen Parker creates her art using found things — sometimes, what she even refers to as “rubbish.” These pieces are made from 95 percent repurposed or salvaged materials, ReImagined into something beautiful. You can find Parker and her work at the Whatcom Art Market, Bellingham Farmers Market, or though Facebook or Instagram.

SILVER Eclipse Book Store Bellingham, 360.647.8165 BRONZE Pelican Bay Books & Coffeehouse Anacortes, 360.293.1852 56

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SILVER Fairhaven Gold Bellingham, 360.733.4667 BRONZE Borthwick Jewelry, Inc. Ferndale, 360.384.2803

SILVER Chris Moench, Good Earth Pottery Bellingham, 360.671.3998 BRONZE Joe Treat, Artist Bow

420 FRONT STREET * LYNDEN WA

Thank you for voting us BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING & BEST BOUTIQUE!

INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK

@CHEEKSJEANS

Sick and tired of carrying that extra weight?

Hypnosis works even when everything else has failed.

Free Consultations • Private & Conﬁdential Kathie Hardy RN MS MBA CH 360.842.6600 Bellingham Towers 119 N. Commercial, Ste 195 SalishSeaHypnosis.com

Thank you to our loyal customers! 113 W Magnolia St. Bellingham, WA 98225 369.734.3090 hiltonsshoes.com

BEST SPORTING GOODS STORE

Yeager’s Sporting Goods 3101 Northwest Ave., Bellingham 360.733.1080, yeagerssportinggoods.com

Ira Yeager started his business in 1921 by selling motors out of his garage, an operation that quickly led to his first storefront right outside Bellingham. When this grew quickly as well, his store doubled in size. Ira worked until late in his life and, after his passing, his grandsons now run the shop. SILVER Dave’s Sports Shop Lynden, 360.354.5591 BRONZE Holiday Sports Burlington, 360.757.4361

Thank You for Voting

Joy of Pilates

BEST Pilates Studio Reformer, TRX, OsteoPilates & Personal Training

Check out our New Client Specials & Fantastic Classes! 360.224.1433

2130 Grant Street, Bellingham

www.joyofpilates.net

October 2019 57

HEALTH BEST FITNESS CENTER

BEST MEN’S HAIRCUT

Bellingham Fitness

V’s Barbershop

1730 N. State St., Bellingham 306.733.1600, bellinghamfitness.com

414 W. Bakerview, Ste. 107, Bellingham 360.656.6911, vbarbershop.com

Bellingham Fitness is no stranger to our Best of the Northwest contest. It’s earned multiple golds over the years, attesting to its members’ satisfaction. The gym offers a judgement-free environment with award-winning personal trainers, a range of classes, and programs for seniors. Enjoy the amenities of a large club with the friendliness of a small gym.

Based on the founder’s memories of going to the barber shop with his dad, the goal of V’s is to “provide a first-class barber shop experience at a reasonable price.” Come for quality cuts, hot-lather straight-razer shaves, mustache and beard trims, men’s facials, and even a shoe shine.

SILVER 30 Minute Hit Bellingham, 360.656.5367 BRONZE Homestead Fitness Center Lynden, 360.354.1196

SILVER Wally’s Barber Shop Bellingham, 360.647.0807 BRONZE Envy Salon for Hair Mount Vernon, 360.424.1017

BEST DENTIST

BEST OB | GYN

Clough Dental

Bellingham OB/GYN

3136 Squalicum Pkwy., Bellingham 360.671.5800, cloughdental.com

3200 Squalicum Pkwy., Bellingham 360.671.4944, bellinghamobgyn.com

Dr. Scott Clough, Dr. Halee Hyatt, and their passionate team strive to offer a “one-stop shop.” In addition to general exams and cleanings, the clinic also offers root canals, orthodontics, extractions, teeth whitening, sleep apnea treatment, and implants, all with the aid of the latest technology, such as 3D imaging.

Repeat winners for the second year, the five physicians and two advanced registered nurse practitioners at Bellingham OB/GYN provide dedicated care for women. They offer a range of obstetric ultrasound services as well as services for contraception, pelvic pain, menopause, infertility, and more. They also host classes on breastfeeding, childbirth, and infant care.

SILVER Faith R. Bult Dentistry Bellingham, 360.715.3333 BRONZE Love Dentistry (Formerly Sweet Tooth Dental) Bellingham, 360.752.1600

SILVER Maureen Kelty, PeaceHealth Bellingham, 360.671.2425 BRONZE Julianne Snell, Barkley Women’s Healthcare Bellingham, 360.671.5700

BEST CANNABIS SHOP

BEST NATUROPATH

2020 Solutions

Emily Sharpe, The Natural Health Clinic

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

1707 F St., Bellingham 360.734.1560, doctorsharpe.com

2020 Solutions delivers high-quality cannabis products in a professional, discreet environment. As one of the state’s first cannabis stores, they’ve earned your gold votes since we first created the category in 2016. Stop by for concentrates, edibles, and a variety of cannabis strains at different price points.

Dr. Sharpe won gold last year, too, and it’s no surprise. She runs a general naturopathic practice and specializes in the care of fatigue, thyroid, allergies, weight loss, and gastrointestinal, hormonal, and menopausal issues. She also does well exams for children and sees male patients, particularly for male hormone imbalances.

SILVER Trove Cannabis Bellingham, 360.393.3459 BRONZE Satori Bellingham Bellingham, 360.746.8478 58

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SILVER Jess Ardern-Wilson, Bellingham Naturopathic Clinic Bellingham, 360.526.8887 BRONZE Sarah Garrett, Fairhaven Integrative Health Bellingham, 360.676.1285

+ BEAUTY BEST SALON

BEST HEALTH FOOD SHOP

Honey Salon

Community Food Co-Op

310 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.778.3858, honeybellingham.com

315 Westerly Rd., Bellingham, various locations 360.734.8158, communityfood.coop

Honey Salon delivers everything from a simple cut and style to balayage, hair painting, split end repair, and lash and brow tinting. They also offer makeup services, including an option for a makeup lesson. They are Bellingham’s first Green Circle Salon — a distinction that recognizes eco-friendliness.

The Community Food Co-Op has won gold every year since 2010. With locations in downtown Bellingham and in Cordata, the Co-Op reliably delivers fresh, local produce while supporting community ties. More than just a place to get groceries, the Co-Op also offers classes on everything from nutrition and cooking to nonviolent communication. SILVER Skagit Valley Food Co-Op Mount Vernon, 360.336.9777 BRONZE Haggen various locations, 360.733.8720

SILVER Zazen Salon Spa Bellingham, 360.715.1050 BRONZE Argyle Salon Bellingham, 360.752.0788

October 2019 59

Design / Build Remodeling Service

BEST FAMILY PRACTITIONER

Karen D. O’Keefe, Bellingham Bay Family Medicine 722 N. State St., Bellingham 360.752.2865, familycarenetwork.com

You can find Dr. Karen D. O’Keefe at Bellingham Bay Family Medicine, where she works to “keep the entire family healthy as a whole.” Her areas of expertise include women’s health, preventative medicine, and sports medicine. No stranger to our magazine, she earned gold in 2016, 2017, and took silver in 2018.

NORTH

WEST

GOLD

of the

WEST

SILVER

of the

2017

BEST

NORTH

of the

2016

BEST

NORTH

2016

BEST

WEST

GOLD

Thanks for Voting us #1!

SILVER John Heimstra, Lynden Family Medicine Lynden, 360.354.1333 BRONZE Kathryn Bergen, Skagit Regional Clinic Mount Vernon, 360.814.6230

360.738.8525 DreamMaker-NW.com

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

Thank You For Voting Us

Best

Sporting Goods!

Yeager’s

3101 Northwest Ave., Bellingham 360.733.1080, yeagerssportinggoods.com

BellinghamAlive.com

Natural Way Chiropractic & Massage 2000 N. State St., Bellingham, various locations 360.671.1710, naturalwaychiro.org

You’ve given the gold to Natural Way Chiropractic & Massage for many years. With locations throughout Whatcom County and Skagit County, the chiropractors and chiropractic assistants at Natural Way offer spinal adjustments, massage therapy, and nutritional counseling. Patients receive an individualized healing plan to help achieve a pain-free life. SILVER Bellingham Chiropractic Center Bellingham, 360.676.1140 BRONZE Olson Family Chiropractic Lynden, 360.318.1240

HEALTH + BEAUTY BEST PHARMACY

BEST ORTHODONTIST

Hoagland Pharmacy

Yeh Orthodontics

2330 Yew St., Bellingham 360.734.5413, hoaglandpharmacy.com

3100 Squalicum Pkwy., Ste. 101, Bellingham, various locations 360.676.9222, yehorthodontics.com

Hoagland Pharmacy started in Bellingham in 1981 and now serves Whatcom, Skagit, Island, and Snohomish Counties. Many customers have been with them since the ‘80s, attesting to their dedication to personalized care. In addition to their retail pharmacy, they offer a long term care pharmacy, respiratory services, and medical equipment.

Dr. Yeh has been creating beautiful smiles for all ages of clients since 2003. Today, his practice operates five locations throughout Whatcom and Skagit Counties. Happy customers appreciate his openness and approachability throughout their treatment. Younger clients appreciate the Disney movies and arcade games in the waiting room.

SILVER Haggen Pharmacy various locations, 360.671.3300 BRONZE Hilltop Pharmacy Mount Vernon, 360.428.1710

SILVER Cummins Ortho Bellingham, 360.676.1900 BRONZE Shoff Orthodontics various locations, 360.676.1401

STATS

Total number of categories Top

5 categories with the most votes Best Resturant Best Book Store Best Appliance Store Best Cannabis Shop Best Pet Store

126

Number of new gold winners this year

Votes for one company

2,892 Businesses winning for the first time ever!

617,423 Total number of votes October 2019 61

HEALTH + BEAUTY

BEST YOGA | PILATES STUDIO

BEST MEDI-SPA

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPIST

Joy of Pilates

RejuvenationMD

Capstone Physical Therapy

2130 Grant St., Bellingham 360.224.1433, joyofpilates.net

2219 Rimland Dr., Ste. 105, Bellingham 360.685.8408, rejuvenationmdmedspa.com

Joy of Pilates moved up from last year’s silver, recognizing their commitment to helping members gain strength. They offer a variety of classes including sunrise, classical, and advanced Pilates, as well as classes designed to improve bones, balance, and flexibility. Members receive a free private session and half off a massage.

Gold winners since 2015, RejuvenationMD delivers high-quality care to patients in Bellingham and Burlington. Every patient starts with a free one-hour consultation to determine how to achieve a healthier, more attractive self. Their services address a wide variety of issues including acne, cellulite, sun damage, tattoo removal, wrinkles, and hair loss.

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

SILVER 3 Oms Yoga Bellingham, 360.671.3510 BRONZE FLUX Power Yoga Bellingham, 360.671.0198

BellinghamAlive.com

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

Winner for the second year in a row, Capstone Physical Therapy operates locations in Bellingham, Lynden, Ferndale, and Blaine. They offer physical, occupational, massage, and hand therapy and specialize in balance and fall prevention, work place injuries, neck and back pain, auto accident injuries, women’s health, and more. SILVER Performance Physical Therapy Bellingham, 360.714.0870 BRONZE CorePhysio Bellingham, 360.752.2673

• • • •

2016

BEST of the

2017

BEST WEST of the NORTH NORTH

WEST

GOLD

THANKS FOR VOTING US BEST RETIREMENT COMMUNITY BEST SPA

The Chrysalis Inn & Spa 804 10th St., Bellingham 360.392.5515, curiocollection3.hilton.com

Regularly voted as the Northwest’s best spa, the Chrysalis Inn and Spa delivers revitalizing treatments to the public and guests of The Chrysalis Inn. It offers hot-stone and deep-tissue massage, facials, and makeup, nail, and waxing services. Guests enjoy a waterfall, pond, and can zone out with an adult coloring book. SILVER Blessings Aveda Salon Spa Bellingham, 360.671.9650 BRONZE Bella Body & Sol Bellingham, 360.383.7070

Attractive Private Apartments Complete with Kitchens Transportation ◆ Travel ◆ Classes Fitness ◆ Wooded Views Nature Trails ◆ Monthly Rental For a personal tour or more information,

Call (360) 671-7077

3115 Squalicum Pkwy, Bellingham

www.thewillowsbellingham.com

October 2019 63

HEALTH + BEAUTY BEST MANI | PEDI

Jimmy’s Personal Care Spa 1327 11th St., Bellingham 360.933.4268, jimmyspersonalcare.com

Jimmy’s Personal Care Salon has won your votes year after year. With superior services, affordable prices, and environmentally friendly products, the salon lives up to its original goal of being “clean, green, and relaxed.” Stop in for some pampering or book the space for a spa party or bridal shower. SILVER The Chrysalis Inn & Spa Bellingham, 360.392.5515 BRONZE Nina’s Nails & Spa Bellingham, 360.922.7243

BEST MASSAGE

The Apothecary Spa 419 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.299.2112, theapothecaryspa.com

Located on the second floor of the Majestic Inn and Spa in Anacortes, The Apothecary Spa is one of the leading spas in Washington. Their talented team of technicians use the highest quality products to deliver facials, peels, massages, waxing treatments, and body treatments. SILVER Still Life Massage and Float Bellingham, 360.647.2805 BRONZE The Chrysalis Inn & Spa Bellingham, 360.756.1005 BEST EYE CARE

BEST RETIREMENT FACILITY

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER

Northwest Eye Clinic

The Willows Retirement

Gene Kelly at Bellingham Fitness

3015 Squalicum Pkwy., Ste. 260, Bellingham 360.733.4800, northwesteyeclinic.com

3115 Squalicum Pkwy., Bellingham 360.671.7077, thewillowsbellingham.com

1730 N. State St., Bellingham 306.733.1600, bellinghamfitness.com

The physicians at Northwest Eye Clinic offer a range of services including routine eye exams, laser eye surgery, cataracts surgery, and macular degeneration and injection treatments. Whether you’re looking for a new pair of glasses or need help with dry eyes, this clinic, which also won in 2018, has you covered.

The Willows is a frequent name in our Best of the Northwest issue. It won bronze last year and has taken gold a few times before. Residents enjoy beautifully furnished apartments, a caring staff, and perks such as an on-site salon, massage studio, and a weekly farm stand during the early fall and summer.

Gene Kelly has been a trainer at Bellingham Fitness since 2008. Over the years, he’s helped hundreds of clients get into shape and stay there. His passion is helping people become strong so they can go on big adventures. He’s also developed a program to help seniors reverse their age.

SILVER Binyon Vision Bellingham, 360.647.2020 BRONZE Vision Plus various locations, 360.393.4000 64

BellinghamAlive.com

SILVER Orchard Park Assistant Living Bellingham, 360.647.3708 BRONZE Lynden Manor Lynden, 360.354.5985

SILVER Erica Washburn, BodyScape Fitness Bellingham, 360.927.5454 BRONZE Leah Spoelstra Lynden, 360.820.9174

of the

2016

BEST

NORTH

WEST

MASSAGE THERAPY

-Accident & Injury Treatment -Medical Massage -Relaxation Massage

ZE BRON

FLOAT THERAPY

-Stress & Anxiety Relief -Athletic Training Support & Recovery -Pain Management

2034 James St

360.734.6140

Mon-Fri 7am-6pm Saturday 7am-5:30pm

THANK YOU FOR VOTING FOR US! And Thank You For Shopping Local!

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

of the

2015

BEST

NORTH

WEST

GOLD

of the

2017

BEST

NORTH

WEST

GOLD

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

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

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

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

360.671.1710 | Naturalwaychiro.org

OUR MISSION: TO PLAN AND BUILD ENDURING ST RUCT URES IN CONCERT WITH OUR COMMUNITY AND SHARED ENVIRONMENT

Spacious Suites Bus trips to appointments

Complimentary lunch & tour

We measure

success differently.

believe that a vibrant business supports the personal development of the workers.

believe in democratic decisionmaking and a fair distribution of profits.

For

a complete list of our guiding principles please visit our website.

We support and admire the courage it takes to question assumptions.

We believe in working with community

members to create a shared prosperity, a healthy local environment, and strong community orginizations.

BELLINGHAM BAY BUILDERS A Workers Cooperative

24 Hour stafﬁng Great food

Voted Best Retirement Facility

844 W. Orchard Drive Bellingham, WA 360-647-3708

PREMIUM COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL ROOFING SERVICE IN WHATCOM COUNTY

Thank you for voting us “Best Roofing Company” esary.com • 360.318.0604 License # ESARYRS175KE Whatcom • San Juan Skagit • King County

HOME + GARDEN BEST INTERIOR DESIGN

BEST HARDWARE | LUMBER STORE

Kennedy Interior Design

Hardware Sales

100 Pine St., Ste. 204, Bellingham 360.303.0909, kennedyinteriordesign.com

2034 James St., Bellingham 360.734.6140, hardwaresales.net

For their first appearance in the last five years, Kennedy Interior Design takes first. Projects with Kennedy can range from new residential constructions to tenant remodels, medical modifications, and even public school and university consultations.

Hardware Sales is an unstoppable force, winning gold year after year. As a prime example of a Bellingham small business, locals continuously vote for this beloved hardware sales giant. It’s inspiring to see a community rally around a local business so passionately.

SILVER Spiral Studios Bellingham, 360.202.0635 BRONZE Jennifer Ryan Design Bellingham, 360.733.9519

SILVER Bellingham Millwork Supply Co. Bellingham, 360.734.5700 BRONZE Windsor Plywood Bellingham, 360.676.1025

BEST LANDSCAPER | LANDSCAPE DESIGN

BEST HOME DECOR

Erin Landscaping & Masonry

Greenhouse

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

1235 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.676.1161, greenhousehome.com

For the third year in a row, your votes have earned Erin’s the top spot. Their unbridled customer service doesn’t go unnoticed by customers — the proof is on the testimonials page of their website.

Winning this top spot every year since 2015, Greenhouse is back again. Now under new ownership, the store remains the same as it’s been since 1972. This long-standing community staple offers a wide variety of style for every design taste. SILVER Urban Collective Bellingham, 360.393.4908 BRONZE Petals and Blooms Ferndale, 360.920.1294

SILVER Molly Maguire Landscape Architect Bellingham, 360.542.4052 BRONZE Evergreen Coast Lawn Care LLC Blaine, 360.410.8271

October 2019 67

HOME + GARDEN BEST GARDEN | NURSERY

Garden Spot Nursery 900 Alabama St., Bellingham 360.676.5480, garden-spot.com

After taking silver last year, Garden Spot Nursery is back at number one for the fourth time in the last five years. Tucked behind Trader Joe’s, this nursery offers seasonal classes on top of their extensive retail space. SILVER My Garden Nursery Bellingham, 360.366.8406 BRONZE Kent’s Garden & Nursery Bellingham, 360.384.4433

BEST ROOFING COMPANY

Topside Roofing & Siding 161 E. Horton Rd., Bellingham 360.752.2220, topsideroofing.com

Topside Roofing has earned a medal every year since this category was introduced in 2017. They are happy to service Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties, providing top-notch work. In addition to residential and commercial roofing services, Topside also offers treatments for doors, decks, and windows. © Tyler Kendig

SILVER Mt. Baker Roofing, Inc. Bellingham, 360.733.0191 BRONZE Esary Roofing & Siding Burlington, 360.318.0604 BEST ELECTRONICS STORE

BEST BUILDER

BEST FLOORING COMPANY

Audio Video Excellence (AVX)

Chuckanut Builders

Great Floors

5978 Guide Meridian Rd., Bellingham 360.398.8447, avxc.com

1000 N. State St., Bellingham 360.734.3201, chuckanutbuilders.com

346 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.738.3599, greatfloors.com

After a couple bronze and silver awards, AVX has nabbed the gold. With their impeccable attention to detail, voters across the region continuously recommend AVX. From residential to commercial services and from inside to outdoors, AVX can do it all.

Chuckanut Builders has appeared somewhere on this list every year for the last five years. In their residential and commercial projects, Chuckanut uses only carefully selected eco-friendly materials. They also source products locally whenever possible.

Great Floors has been providing outstanding service to the Pacific Northwest since its humble beginnings in the ‘70s. What started as a carpet peddling business in Montana now has 16 retail locations, with main offices in Idaho.

SILVER Reference Media Bellingham, 360.714.8860 BRONZE Skagit Whatcom Electronic Supply Inc. Mount Vernon, 360.336.3073 68

BellinghamAlive.com

SILVER The Franklin Corporation Ferndale, 360.384.6200 BRONZE Moceri Construction, Inc. Bellingham, 360.671.3381

SILVER Robinson Hardwood & Homes Bellingham, 360.671.9663 BRONZE Fairhaven Floors Bellingham, 360.820.1678

FAQ

of the

2017

2016

BEST NORTH BEST WEST

Design Your Way Home

NORTH

WEST

GOLD

How does the contest work? It’s pretty simple. When voting opens, our website page lists each category with a free-write answer box, so voters can input whatever business they wish to vote for. There are a few rules, however. The most important is that you can only vote once… and we check! You must also vote in at least 10 categories, and the winning business must be located in Whatcom, Skagit, or San Juan Counties.

Do you know if someone votes more than once? YES! It’s actually easy to tell when someone is cheating. We export all voting data and review it by hand, checking IP addresses and deleting any repeats. We also sort by submission time and can tell if someone logged on to multiple devices and entered identical information. We can ping each submission IP address on a map and further investigate submissions, and we do! We are confident that our results are VERY accurate!

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

Are winners just advertisers with your company? No way! Many of our advertisers began placing ads after winning Best of The Northwest in prior years and discovering our popularity and readership numbers. Many were already advertising, and many don’t advertise with us at all.

Do the companies who win get to write their own information for the feature? Nope! Our editorial staff writes the feature without any input from the winning businesses. We are highly protective of our editorial integrity, and never allow sales to affect the competition’s written content.

October 2019 69

HARDWOOD

WATE RPROOF

HARDWOOD

Trends come and go, but the unique character of hardwood is timeless.

Exquisite | 1058 Champagne Oak

STOP IN TODAY TO SEE OUR IN-STOCK SELECTION!

Come see what’s new in [Dealer Area] the ﬂoor covering world! The Color Pot is here to assist you.

1210 N State St., Bellingham

Exquisite | 1058 Champagne Oak

360.734.4020

thecolorpot.com

[Dealer Area]

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US “BEST ROOFING COMPANY”

TOP QUALITY TOP SERVICE TOP WORKMANSHIP Whatcom County’s only factory-certified GAF Master Elite roofing contractor!

OUR SERVICES • Roof Installation • Siding Installation • Gutter Installation • Residential Windows • Roof Repair

360.752.2220 161 E. Horton Road | Bellingham, WA topsideroofing.com

HOME + GARDEN BEST KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN

BEST ARCHITECT | BUILDING DESIGNER

DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen

JWR Design

3311 Northwest Ave., Bellingham 360.558.3171, dreammaker-remodel.com

104 Front St., Lynden 360.354.0333, jwrdesign.com

After winning bronze last year, DreamMaker is back at number one. Their affordable and quality renovations have voters mentioning them year after year. DreamMaker prides themselves on being on-time and on-budget. Their friendly and knowledgeable customer service is just the crown molding.

Whether you’re looking to build a new home or remodel a bathroom, JWR is proud to offer a wide variety of options. From stock plans to custom-build consultations, you’re sure to end up with the home of your dreams.

SILVER A-1 Builders & Adaptations Design Studio Bellingham, 360.734.5249 BRONZE Puget Construction & Landscape Lynden, 360.325.9216

SILVER Zervas Architects Bellingham, 360.734.4744 BRONZE Falconworks Bellingham, 360.319.2076

October 2019 71

FOOD+ DRINK BEST WINERY

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

The ancestry of Dynasty wines traces back to the Roman Empire — winemaker Peter Osvaldik’s family reigns from central Europe. The European origins instill an old-world approach to winemaking, resulting in crisp white wines and robust reds. The rosé is also a must-have. SILVER Coach House Cellars Bellingham, 360.306.8794 BRONZE Mount Baker Vineyards & Winery Everson, 360.592.2300

BEST SANDWICH

Avenue Bread 1313 Railroad Ave., Bellingham, various locations 360.715.3354, avenuebread.com

Check out the Avenue Bread cafe locations in downtown Bellingham, Fairhaven, James Street, and Lynden for a truly delicious sandwich. Whether you’re looking for breakfast or lunch, something with crunchy vegetables or dripping with sauce, Avenue Bread is sure to please. SILVER The Sandwich Odyssey Bellingham, 360.738.6919 BRONZE Old World Deli Bellingham, 360.738.2090 BEST STEAK | FINE DINING

The Steak House at Silver Reef 4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale 360.384.7070, silverreefcasino.com

SILVER Dirty Dan Harris Steakhouse Bellingham, 360.676.1011 BRONZE Max Dale’s Steak & Chop House Mount Vernon, 360.424.7171 72

BellinghamAlive.com

The Steak House serves up steaks that are definitely delicious: smothered in steak butter, broiled at 1,800 degrees, and naturally aged. The Steak House also boasts a large wine bar, with many reds to compliment your exquisite entree.

BEST BAKERY | DESSERT SHOP

BEST TAKE-OUT

BEST FOOD TRUCK

Pure Bliss Desserts

Viking Food

StrEAT Food

1424 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.739.1612, pureblissdesserts.com

Bellingham 360.922.0819, ordervikingfood.com

Bellingham 360.927.0011, streatfood.me

The Pure Bliss team is no stranger to winning this category. Voters love this dessert shop’s wide selection of cakes, pastries, coffees, and on-tap options. Their recently expanded space is the perfect place for a bite of something sweet.

Order food from all around town right to your door with Viking Food’s delivery service. For a smaller fee than big-name competitor services, Viking Foods partners with more restaurants than the other guys. Order online or on their app.

If you’re on the hunt for some StrEAT food, check out their website to see which local stop they’re serving each day. With menu options ranging from cajun po boy sandwiches to gyro pitas, there’s something for every taste bud.

SILVER Lynden Dutch Bakery Lynden, 360.354.3911 BRONZE Mount Bakery Bellingham, 360.715.2195

SILVER Boomer’s Drive-In Bellingham, 360.647.2666 BRONZE Wanida Thai Cuisine Bellingham, 360.746.8642

SILVER Hot Mess Food Truck Bellingham, 360.599.8852 BRONZE Big Stick Barbecue Bellingham, 360.224.4451

October 2019 73

FOOD + DRINK BEST BURGER

BEST SEAFOOD

The Filling Station

Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill

1138 Finnegan Way, Bellingham, various locations 360.715.1839, fillingstationnw.com

7 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360.527.3473, anthonys.com

After great success with their original Fairhaven location, The Filling Station recently opened a second spot in the Sunnyland neighborhood. Both locations frequently host fundraiser nights, so check their social media profiles for updates.

If you’ve ever wanted to boat to dinner, Anthony’s Hearthfire offers moorage for diners right outside the restaurant. If the views of the harbor aren’t enough for you, the restaurant also offers pristine views of the San Juan Islands. With a menu featuring fresh seafood and high-quality beef, this is a great spot for the whole family. SILVER Rock and Rye Oyster House Bellingham, 360.746.6130 BRONZE Drayton Harbor Oyster Company Blaine, 360.656.5958

Courtesy of Filling Station

SILVER Fiamma Burger Bellingham, 360.733.7374 BRONZE Burgermaster Mount Vernon, 360.899.4075

BellinghamAlive.com

THE BEST OF YOUR ANSWERS Best Casino Drive to BLI and then go to Vegas; Silver Thief (AKA Silver Reef ‘cause they take all my money)

Best Local Artist Bob Ross

Best Consignment Shop My mom’s closet

Best Interior Design Martha Stewart & Snoop Dog; My sister

Best Auto Dealer A family member

Best Grocery Store Grandma’s pantry

Best Plumber Me, ha; My plunger; Butt crack! Lol

Best Janitorial | Cleaning My teenagers when they are grounded; I like it dirty

Best Place to Work At home; Your mom’s house

Best Date Night

BEST COCKTAIL

Galloway’s Cocktail Bar 1200 10th St., Ste. 102, Bellingham 360.756.2795, gallowayscocktail.bar

Located in the Fairhaven Village Inn, this cocktail spot will transport you to a different decade. Visiting Galloway’s is like stepping into a 1920s speakeasy, with beer, wine, and specialty cocktails you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re in the mood for food, they’ve also got a few cheese plate options and some sweet treats from fellow gold winner, Pure Bliss. SILVER Northwater Bellingham, 360.398.6191 BRONZE The Temple Bar Bellingham, 360.676.8660

4/4/2004; Wine, my couch, and my dog; Netflix and chill

Best Wedding Venue Dad’s lake house; My backyard; None…DON’T DO IT!

Best Hike My couch to the bathroom

Favorite NW Destination Home

Best Place to Meet Singles Whatcom County Jail; My house; You tell me; That doesn’t exist; Walmart

Best Dentist Toothbrush

Best Place for Kid’s Birthday Your house; The library so they can’t make noise; Grammy’s house

Best Financial Advisor Under your mattress

October 2019 75

CRAFT COCKTAILS DAILY HAPPY HOUR TASTY BITES

gallowayscocktail.bar | 360.756.2795

1200 10th St Suite #102 Bellingham, WA

20127018 2017 2016

T BESST E B NORTSBHTEST of the

e of th

WETH RTHEST NOR SNWOTESBNTOGORLTD H WE WEST of the

of the

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery 2026 Main St., Ferndale 360.306.8998, leaderblock.com

Back in the day, the Leader Block building served as a makeshift speakeasy during prohibition. It’s rumored that you can still catch a glimpse of the Lady Leader Block ghost while dining on Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery’s delicious food and award-winning selection of wines. SILVER Crossroads Barbecue Bellingham, 360.306.3624 BRONZE Bantam 46 Bellingham, 360.788.4507

BellinghamAlive.com

FOOD + DRINK

BEST HAPPY HOUR

BEST WINE SHOP

BEST GROCERY STORE

Latitude Kitchen & Bar

Seifert & Jones Wine Merchants

Haggen

1065 E. Sunset Dr., Bellingham 360.707.7400, theloftbellingham.com

19 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.393.3271, sjwinemerchants.com

Latitude on Sunset recently revamped their already pleasing happy hour menu. Now, choose from food options such as arancini balls, a burger, or tacos for under 10 bucks. There are also beer and wine specials for less than five dollars.

This year marks the fourth year in a row Seifert & Jones has taken home the gold. Outside of their retail selection, they also provide an array of services, such as handselecting bottles for events. If you’re in downtown Bellingham, take a stroll through the shop on Prospect Street.

2900 Woburn St., Bellingham, various locations 360.733.8720, haggen.com

SILVER The Temple Bar Bellingham, 360.676.8660 BRONZE Bellingham Bar and Grill Bellingham, 360.733.2579

SILVER The Vault Wine Bar Blaine, 360.392.0955 BRONZE Compass Wines Anacortes, 360.293.6500

Haggen’s business dates back to the Great Depression — the original Economy Food Store opened on Bay Street right here in Bellingham in 1933. Since then, Haggen Food and Pharmacy has grown to 15 locations across the state of Washington. Fun fact: It was the first grocery store to have a Starbucks inside. SILVER Community Food Co-Op Bellingham, 360.734.8158 BRONZE The Markets LLC Anacortes & Birch Bay, 360.714.7700

October 2019 77

FOOD + DRINK

BEST BREAKFAST

BEST SUSHI

BEST FRESH PRODUCE

The Birch Door Cafe

Kuru Kuru Sushi

Joe’s Gardens

4192 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.306.8598, birchdoorcafe.com

11 Bellwether Way, Ste. 101, Bellingham 360.392.8224, kurukurubellingham.com

3110 Taylor Ave., Bellingham 360.671.7639, joesgardens.com

Looking up the menu to write this blurb had my mouth watering. The Birch Door, which has occupied the space on the Guide since 2017, offers a unique breakfast menu that accommodates even the pickiest eaters. Try the pancakes with Georgia pecans cooked inside, or choose something from the “Stylish Eggs” section. Peach mimosas? Yes, please.

Voters love a good conveyer belt — and Kuru Kuru delivers. While guests may pull dishes directly from the belt that runs the entire restaurant, they can also order specialty menu items. There is comfortable seating for large parties, or just grab some take-out and enjoy at home.

A truck farm is a century-old term for a farm that trucks its produce from the gardens to local markets. Joe’s Gardens started in the ‘20s, but in 1933 moved to the location where it still stands today. Joe’s is one of only a few original truck farms in Whatcom County that still operates, selling their goods at a stand on the farm.

SILVER Homeskillet Bellingham, homeskilletinsunnyland.com BRONZE Arlis’s Restaurant Bellingham, 360.647.1788

BellinghamAlive.com

SILVER Bluefin Sushi Bellingham, 360.752.2583 BRONZE Zen Sushi & Bar Bellingham, 360.734.7888

SILVER Youngstock’s Nursery & Produce Bellingham, 360.366.8173 BRONZE Bellingham Farmers Market Bellingham, 360.647.2060

FOOD + DRINK

BEST CHEF

BEST PIZZA

Dan Van Norman, 13moons

MOD Pizza

12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes 360.588.3525, swinomishcasinoandlodge.com

2925 Newmarket St., Ste. 101, Bellingham 360.746.8563, modpizza.com

A frequent face at Bellingham Alive’s Meet the Chef events, Van Norman has worked at 13moons in Swinomish Casino Resort & Lodge for a few years now, building a reputation worthy of this award. His areas of expertise include working with native indigenous ingredients and identifying and preparing the freshest seafood varieties.

MOD — or Made on Demand — does just what they say they do. The pizzas, which are customizable at no additional cost per topping, are cooked quickly in a giant wood-fired oven. Take a pie to go or stay and enjoy the MOD-ern atmosphere. Side note: Their caramelized pear iced tea is to die for.

SILVER Carver McLellan, Latitude Kitchen & Bar Bellingham, 360.707.7400 BRONZE Cinnamon Berg, Cosmos Bistro Bellingham, 360.255.0244

SILVER Övn Wood Fired Pizza Bellingham, 360.393.4327 BRONZE La Fiamma Wood Fire Pizza Bellingham, 360.647.0060

October 2019 79

FOOD + DRINK BEST FISH & CHIPS

Nicki’s Bella Marina 2615 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham 360.322.2505, nickisbellamarina.com

As silver and gold winners for the past three years, Nicki’s clearly knows how to make a mean fish and chips. Each of their cooked-toorder fish and chips baskets comes with an all-you-can-eat supply of their famous steak fries. Order them once and you’re sure to come back. SILVER Fairhaven Fish & Chips Bellingham, 360.733.5021 BRONZE JoFish Seafood and Grill Lynden, 360.922.0187

BEST BREWERY

Kulshan Brewing Company 2238 James St., Bellingham 360.389.5348, kulshanbrewing.com

Kulshan has two locations to best serve the community: the beer garden and small-batch brewery on James Street and the taproom and production brewery on Kentucky Street, lovingly referred to as K2. Both locations offer a great rotation of food trucks every day, listed on their website. SILVER Boundary Bay Brewery Bellingham, 360.647.5593 BRONZE Aslan Brewing Company Bellingham, 360.778.2088

BEST FRESH MEAT | SEAFOOD

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Carne

Jalapeños

1205 Washington St., Bellingham 360.647.8686, carnebellingham.com

1007 Harris Ave., Bellingham, various locations 360.656.6600, jalapenos-wa.com

Carne is dedicated to offering the freshest selection of meat and seafood possible. This old-fashioned butchery serves up Northwest meats and sausages, all locally and sustainably sourced.

Based on authentic Mexican food, Jalapeños has been a Bellingham staple for years. Check out any of their three locations, or try their catering options for your next big get-together.

SILVER Addie’s Angus Ranch Mount Vernon, 360.399.9213 BRONZE Barlean’s Fishery, Inc. Ferndale, 360.384.0325

BellinghamAlive.com

SILVER El Ranchito Lynden, 360.354.8388 BRONZE El Gitano Burlington, 360.755.9010

Sunset Location

Now Open!

• Happy Hour: 3:30–6 pm • 1/2 Price Wine on Wednesday

1801 Roeder Ave Bellingham WA 98225 360.306.5668 Thank you for choosing us Best Happy Hour and Best Chef

1065 E Sunset Drive Bellingham WA 98226 360.707.7400

latituderestaurants.com

FOOD + DRINK

BEST DISTILLERY | SPIRITS

BEST BAR & LOUNGE

Bellewood Farmstead & Distillery

B-Town Kitchen & Raw Bar

6140 Guide Meridian Rd., Lynden 360.318.7720, bellewoodfarms.com

714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360.392.6520, btownkitchen.com

Bellewood is the first Washington farm-to-glass distillery, proudly growing the fruit that goes into the production of their gin, vodka, and brandy. You can try all their spirits at the tasting room from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day. Distillery tours are also available by appointment.

For the second year in a row, you declared B-Town the best place to grab a drink and chill out. Come for their relaxed, upscale atmosphere, and stay for a stellar food and drink menu.

SILVER Chuckanut Bay Distillery Bellingham, 360.738.7179 BRONZE Granny Strong Spirits Bellingham, 360.739.4528

BellinghamAlive.com

SILVER Swim Club Wet Bar Bellingham, 360.393.3826 BRONZE Fireside Martini and Wine Bar Bellingham, 360.738.1000

BEST COFFEE | TEA SHOP

Woods Coffee 8874 Bender Rd., Lynden, various locations 360.933.1855, woodscoffee.com

We’ve all driven through a Woods drive-thru for a pick-me-up, but have you ever been to their roastery or bakery? The roastery on Lakeway Drive is sure to have a blend that’s right for you. The bakery in Lynden is where all the pastries are made fresh each day, ready to be delivered to each of their 18 locations.

Thank You To All Of Our Customers! Voted 2019 “Best Mexican Restaurant ” Now Delivering with Viking Foods & UberEats!

SILVER Black Drop Coffeehouse Bellingham, 360.738.3767 BRONZE Curb Shots Ferndale, 360.384.4866

BEST INTERNATIONAL CUISINE

Asian 1 4285 Meridian St., Ste. 101, Bellingham, various locations 360.752.2422, asian1.us

Best Grocery Store

Best Pharmacy

Best Health Food

Formerly called Pad Thai, the newly renamed Asian 1 serves food so healthy, it’s like cooking at home. Check out their other location in Burlington. SILVER Mykonos Greek Restaurant Bellingham, 360.715.3071 BRONZE Busara Thai Cuisine Bellingham, 360.734.8088

BEST ITALIAN

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

Fresh, handmade pasta and bread are all prepared in-house daily at D’Anna’s. What started as a wholesale pasta business in Seattle quickly turned into the cafe on State Street after rave reviews came in from restaurants that served the homemade product. After two expansions, there is now plenty of seating. SILVER Mambo Italiano Café Bellingham, 360.734.7677 BRONZE Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery Ferndale, 360.306.8998

New! There’s nothing better than a hearty craft beer with our formidable English cheddars from Ford Farm. Available in Smoked Coastal, Caramelized Onion, Coastal Cheddar and Double Gloucester with Spring Onions and Chives. We recommend you mix and match to discover your own dream team.

Delicious

Duos

Smoked Coastal Cheddar Rich, full-bodied and smoked with oak, this cheese has a sharp bite and a light smokiness.

Pair with a British pale ale

The sweet, malty character and floral hoppiness of this pub ale complement the depth of this mature, smoked cheese.

October 2019 83

KIDS BEST STORE FOR BABY

Bellingham Baby Co. 100 Fifth St., Ste. A, Lynden 360.756.2452, bellinghambabycompany.com

Bellingham Baby Company features products made by mothers. They also offer personalized products if you want a gift that goes above and beyond. They are located in Lynden in the Waples Mercantile Building. Can’t visit? They’ll ship to your door! SILVER Sweet Peas Boutique Lynden, 360.778.2905 BRONZE Bunnies By The Bay Anacortes, 877.467.7248 BEST TOY STORE

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

Winning gold for the ninth year in a row, Fairhaven Toy Garden believes that toys should engage a child’s imagination and help them develop. From building blocks to advanced board games, they show that no one is too old for toys! Located in downtown Fairhaven, the store also has online shopping options. SILVER Launching Success Bellingham, 360.527.2641 BRONZE Yeager’s Sporting Goods Bellingham, 360.733.1080 BEST PLACE FOR A KID’S BIRTHDAY PARTY

BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITY

BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL

Vital Climbing Gym

Perch And Play

Assumption Catholic School

1421 N. State St., Bellingham 360.399.6248, vitalclimbinggym.com

1707 N. State St., Bellingham 360.393.4925, perchandplay.com

2116 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.733.6133, school.assumption.org

Children will be engaged and fit if they have their birthday at Vital Climbing Gym! The staff offers personal training on how to rock climb, ensuring an afternoon full of fun and an evening full of rest, and possibly sparking many years of adventure.

Founded by a single mother, Perch and Play knows parenting can be hard. They’ve got an indoor playground and a drop-off program so that you can run errands while your child plays at ease. The space is also a great option for kids’ birthday parties and other celebrations.

Assumption Catholic School provides an accessible education founded on Catholic values for children from preschool through the eighth grade. Students are encouraged to develop wellness in mind, body, and spirit and to make a difference in the world.

SILVER Trampoline Zone Bellingham, 360.255.0722 BRONZE Perch And Play Bellingham, 360.393.4925 84

BellinghamAlive.com

SILVER Summit Trampoline Bellingham, 360.227.0202 BRONZE Bellewood Farms Bellingham, 360.318.7720

SILVER Franklin Academy Bellingham, 360.733.1750 BRONZE Lynden Christian Schools Lynden, 360.318.9525

BEST SUMMER | OUTDOOR CAMP

Camp Firwood 1740 Lake Whatcom Blvd., Bellingham 360.758.2741, campfirwood.org

Hosted on Lake Whatcom since 1954, Camp Firwood’s mission is to bring kids together to grow, have fun, and learn about the Christian faith. There’s pottery, paintball, studio art, rock climbing, and more in this summer program founded on building a short-term intentional community — unplugged and in the outdoors! SILVER Bellingham Girls Rock Camp Bellingham, bgrc.org BRONZE The Firs Bellingham, 360.733.6840 BEST PRE-SCHOOL

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

Also winning gold for Best Childcare and After-School Program, Generations Early Learning and Family Center supports individual learning styles and personal development. They use The Creative Curriculum, based on 38 different learning objectives to help your child succeed in the future. SILVER A Child’s Life Learning Center Bellingham, 360.738.8960 BRONZE Loving Space Preschool Bellingham, 360.676.1355 BEST CHILDCARE | AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM

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

Set in a residential care facility, this unique early childhood program aims to promote wellbeing for the children, their families, and the residents in a truly intergenerational approach. Generations Early Learning and Family Center aims to provide a safe, nurturing space where children can grow while their parents are working. SILVER Bellingham Childcare & Learning Bellingham, 360.676.0950 BRONZE Gabriel’s Art Kids Bellingham, 360.739.9365 October 2019 85

PETS BEST PET STORE

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

For four years in a row, you’ve given the gold to Mud Bay. With locations throughout the Pacific Northwest, Mud Bay offers only the healthiest products for your four-legged friends. They do their homework on pet nutrition and the companies that make and manufacture pet food so that you don’t have to.

SILVER petStop Bellingham, 360.738.3663 BRONZE Bow Wow & Woofs Blaine, 360.332.3647

BEST GROOMER

BEST DOGGIE DAYCARE

BEST BOARDING KENNEL

City Dogs

BossDogs Training LLC

Hyline Hotel For Dogs

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

7827 Enterprise Rd., Ferndale 360.927.2932

1014 E. Hemmi Rd., Everson 360.398.0174, hylinehotel.com

After a consultation to determine the best care possible, your pup will have their nails trimmed and their hair shampooed and brushed. Groomers even trim and style to create the perfect appearance. In addition to this keen eye for detail, they also offer halfpriced services for dogs rescued from The Alternative Humane Society of Whatcom County or Happy Tails, Happy Homes.

The folks behind BossDogs Training LLC are genuine dog lovers. They actively try to connect with each dog they encounter, hoping to better their behavior in some way before departure. With the day play service, they will address any potential problems your dog may be having. They also offer pack walks and ongoing classes focusing on training, behavior modification, and socialization skills.

At Hyline, dogs aren’t fenced in on concrete flooring. They play in three different indoor areas as well as 25 different exercise yards in the countryside. Beyond all members participating in an intensive monthlong training, there are three certified vet assistants on staff. The best part, however, is their focus on individual attention, designating play groups to spread the love as much as possible.

SILVER Happy Pooch Lynden, 360.318.9949 BRONZE Shake and Shine Bellingham, 360.296.5226 86

BellinghamAlive.com

SILVER Tails-a-Wagging Bellingham, 360.733.7387 BRONZE Rover Stay Over Lynden, 360.306.5931

SILVER 3 Schips and a Girl Bellingham, 360.927.6033 BRONZE Northwest K-9 Inn and Spa Bellingham, 360.384.6578

BEST DOG TRAINER

Cedarwoods Canine School 5602 Guide Meridian Rd., Bellingham 360.384.6955, cedarwoods-k9.com

For 24 years, one family has given countless dogs the attention and care they need to make perfect companions. Cedarwoods Canine School is a 3,000 square-foot training facility offering group classes and private lessons for dogs and owners to work on problem areas. As well as obedience, the McGrady family focuses on creating cherished pets and strengthening bonds. SILVER BossDogs Training LLC Ferndale, 360.927.2932 BRONZE Michael Nichols - The Dog Guy Bellingham, 360.255.9832

BEST VETERINARIAN

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST SANDWICH THESANDWICHODYSSEY.COM (360) 738-6919

Thank you for voting us

BEST DOG GROOMER 6 years in a row

711 E Holly Street, Bellingham P. 360.756.9515 citydogsgrooming.com

Where every dog is special! 8115 Birch Bay Square St., Suite 111, Blaine 360-332-3647 | bowwowandwoofs.com

Northwest Veterinary Clinic 8115 Birch Bay Square St., Ste. 135, Blaine 360.366.5434, nwvetclinic.com

Northwest Veterinary Clinic offers care in the form of dental, parasite control, dieting plans, radiology, surgery, therapeutic lasers, blood tests, boarding, and so much more. They pride themselves in hearing a patient’s concerns and addressing them on a personal level while making sure your pet is relaxed and well-cared for. SILVER Fountain Veterinary Hospital Bellingham, 360.733.2660 BRONZE Kulshan Veterinary Hospital Lynden & Ferndale, 360.354.5095

Thank you for voting us Best Pet Store October 2019 87

ROMANCE FAVORITE NORTHWEST DESTINATION

Friday Harbor San Juan Island 360.378.2810, fridayharbor.org

In the past, Friday Harbor has fluctuated between silver and bronze, but this year it reigns supreme. Located on San Juan Island, this charming town is the ultimate destination for a weekend getaway. From the historic harbor’s diverse museums to its variety of wildlife tours, we can only say that this win is well deserved. SILVER Mount Baker Glacier, 360.734.6771 BRONZE Deception Pass Oak Harbor, 360.675.3767 BEST TOURIST ATTRACTION

La Conner 360.466.4778, lovelaconner.com

It’s no surprise La Conner caught our voters’ attention. The breathtaking town has been named “One of the Best Getaways in the USA” and “Town that Captures the NW Spirit.” Graced with a gorgeous waterfront along the Swinomish Channel, this town has a charm that can’t be beat. SILVER Fairhaven Bellingham, hfa.fairhaven.com BRONZE Anacortes 360.293.3832, anacortes.org BEST PLACE TO MEET SINGLES

BEST HIKE

Rumors Cabaret

Oyster Dome

1119 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.671.1849, rumorscabaret.com

Chuckanut Rd. 206.625.1367, wta.org

Since its grand opening in 1984, this LGBT+ friendly hotspot has been a staple of Bellingham’s vibrant nightlife. With great cocktails, live music, and karaoke Mondays, Rumors offers its visitors the perfect opportunity to play matchmaker. Sashay your way onto the dance floor and mingle with singles for a night you won’t forget.

For five consecutive years, Oyster Dome has taken home the gold. The five-mile hike features a 1,050-foot elevation gain with the highest point reaching up to 2,025 feet, but don’t be discouraged. The trail offers a picturesque trek through the forested lands of Blanchard Mountain with stunning views of the San Juan Islands. What’s not to love?

SILVER Uisce Irish Pub Bellingham, 360.738.7939 BRONZE Silver Reef Casino Resort Ferndale, 360.383.0777 88

BellinghamAlive.com

SILVER Fragrance Lake Trail Bellingham, 206.625.1367 BRONZE Heliotrope Ridge Trail Deming, 360.856.5700

BEST DATE NIGHT

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

Need to break the ice? There’s a good reason why The Upfront Theatre has won Best Date Night for five years straight. Whether it’s the first date or the hundredth, The Upfront offers the best improvised comedy in town, ensuring that you and your date spend an afternoon laughing with each other rather than at each other. SILVER Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery Ferndale, 360.306.8998 BRONZE Bellingham Symphony Orchestra Bellingham, 360.756.6752 BEST WEDDING VENUE

Lairmont Manor 405 Fieldston Rd., Bellingham 360.647.1444, lairmontmanor.com

For the third year in a row, the enchanting Lairmont Manor has seized the crown. The 25-room, Italian Renaissance-style estate is a preserved landmark, gracing the Fairhaven community for over 100 years. From its lush gardens to the one-of-a-kind statuary, this historic gem is the idyllic venue for the wedding of your dreams. SILVER Evergreen Gardens Ferndale, 360.384.0739 BRONZE 3C’s Farm Deming, 360.599.2408 BEST GOLF COURSE

Raspberry Ridge Golf Course 6827 Hannegan Rd., Everson 360.354.3029, raspberryridgegc.com

Following its bronze win back in 2016, Raspberry Ridge has made an incredible comeback, taking gold for the first time in over four years. The nine-hole golf course offers its putters an on-site pro shop, a full-service restaurant, and an abundance of sand and water hazards to make for an interesting game. SILVER North Bellingham Golf Course Bellingham, 360.398.8300 BRONZE Shuksan Golf Club Bellingham, 360.398.8888

Thank you to all the voters for making our 35th Anniversary so special by voting us the “Best Golf Course

in 2019.”

Come out to our Customer Appreciation Day Oct 5th.

6827 Hannegan Rd., Everson 360.354.3029, raspberryridgegc.com

October 2019 89

SERVICES BEST FLORIST

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

Winner for the second year, Belle Flora offers beautiful arrangements for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a Christmas wreath, a centerpiece, or a bouquet that says “I love you” or maybe “I’m sorry,” Belle Flora is the place to go. They also provide floral arrangements for weddings and events.

SILVER Pozie By Natalie Bellingham, 360.927.1286 BRONZE Jensen Ferndale Floral Ferndale, 360.384.1616

BEST BANK

BEST ATTORNEY

BEST PLUMBER

WECU

Emily Rose Mowrey

Spectrum Plumbing and Heating

600 E. Holly St., Bellingham, various locations 360.676.1168, wecu.com

1313 E. Maple St., Ste. 400, Bellingham 360.685.0145, limitlesslaw.com

753 E. Smith Rd., Bellingham 360.739.9207, spectrumpandh.com

Emily Rose Mowrey is the founder and primary attorney at Limitless Law PLLC as well as a professor of business law at Whatcom Community College. Her areas of expertise include estate planning, probate, real estate, bankruptcy/debt settlement, business law, and LGBT/polyamory law. Outside of work, you can find her rolling with the Bellingham Roller Betties.

Moving up from silver in 2018, Spectrum Plumbing and Heating offers both residential and commercial services. They deliver expert, affordable commercial plumbing solutions and emergency, 24/7 plumbing services throughout Bellingham. Whether you’re remodeling your business, have a clogged drain, or find water leaking at 2 a.m., these are the people to call.

WECU has served Whatcom County for more than 80 years. This award marks their fifth consecutive year in first place. As a not-for-profit financial cooperative, and the area’s largest credit union, WECU offers great savings, lending rates, and a commitment to customer service for its members and the local communities that it serves. SILVER Peoples Bank Various locations, 360.734.9811 BRONZE Industrial Credit Union Various locations, 360.734.2043 90

BellinghamAlive.com

SILVER Allen Law Firm Bellingham, 360.714.1900 BRONZE Kulshan Law Group Bellingham, 360.392.2855

SILVER Gary’s Plumbing and Heating Bellingham, 360.734.9700 BRONZE Viking Plumbing, LLC Ferndale, 360.306.5569

BEST PLACE TO WORK

Western Washington University 516 High St., Bellingham 360.650.3000, wwu.edu

Moving up from silver in 2018, WWU is home to more than 16,000 students and employs faculty across more than 175 academic majors. Faculty and staff enjoy a ton of perks including discounted cell phone service, reduced ticket prices for events, and discounted access to the Wade King recreation center.

SILVER Peoples Bank Various locations, 360.734.9811 BRONZE 2020 Solutions Bellingham, 360.734.2020

BEST MECHANIC

BEST NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION

Harmony Motorworks

Lydia Place

1922 Grant St., Bellingham 360.671.2420, harmonymotorworks.com

P.O. Box 28487, Bellingham 360.671.7663, lydiaplace.org

For the fourth year in a row, you’ve voted Harmony Motorworks as best mechanic. For 30 years, they’ve offered reliable customer service and care. They now service most Japanese and European models in a state-ofthe-art shop staffed by Bosch-Certified technicians. With fair, competitive pricing and down-to-earth employees, you can’t go wrong.

Winner for the third year in a row, Lydia Place aims to “disrupt the cycle of homelessness and promote sustained independence for current and future generations.” It operates programs for family housing, parent support, mental health, campus housing, and community re-housing. Blending compassion and action, it’s no wonder it keeps earning your votes.

SILVER Bellingham Automotive Bellingham, 360.676.5200 BRONZE Chuck’s Midtown Motors Automotive Repair Inc. Bellingham, 360.733.1527

SILVER Whatcom Humane Society Bellingham, 360.733.2080 BRONZE Blue Skies For Children Bellingham, 360.756.6710 October 2019 91

BEST CREATIVE COMPANY

ClickMonster Web Design & SEO 2435 Strider Ln., Ste. 105, Bellingham 360.389.3093, clickmonster.com

Gold winners for the second year in a row, ClickMonster Web Design and SEO helps grow your online presence and, as a result, your business. They’ll optimize your website so you attract more customers and more effectively communicate your story. From web hosting to content creation, they do it all.

Thank You for voting us

BEST AUTO DETAILER!

SILVER FizzPop Media Bellingham, 360.999.5161 BRONZE Stambaugh Designs Bellingham, 360.383.5662 BEST AUTO DETAIL SHOP

Final Touch Auto Spa 1204 East Sunset Dr, Bellingham tintladyusa.com | 360.778.2348

Locations in Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden, & Everson!

1916 Iowa St., Bellingham 360.392.8676, finaltouchautospa.com

Who says your car doesn’t deserve a day at the spa? Moving up from last year’s silver medal, Final Touch pampers your car so you don’t have to. In addition to interior and exterior washes, they also offer window tinting, rock chip repair, paint sealants, pet hair removal, and odor removal. SILVER Tint Lady Bellingham, 360.778.2348 BRONZE Master Auto Detail Bellingham, 360.306.6597 BEST LODGING

Holiday Inn & Suites Bellingham 4260 Mitchell Way, Bellingham 360.746.6844, ihg.com

New Ferndale location now open! 1887 Main St. Ferndale | 360.778.1167 4260 Cordata Parkway #107 Bellingham | 360.756.5055 Friday & Saturday 11am–12pm | Sunday–Thursday 11am–10pm

BellinghamAlive.com

First time on the winners list, Holiday Inn & Suites Bellingham is a perfect place for both corporate travelers or visiting friends and family. Guests enjoy a free shuttle to Bellingham International Airport as well as an indoor pool and easy access to the hotel’s restaurant, Northwater. SILVER Hotel Bellwether Bellingham, 360.392.3100 BRONZE The Inn at Lynden Lynden, 360.746.8597

SERVICES

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

Katheryn Moran Photography Bellingham 425.766.3755, katherynmoranphotography.com

Katheryn Moran is a frequent name in our Best of the Northwest issues; in 2017 she took gold and last year earned bronze. Based in Bellingham, she serves clients all over the Pacific Northwest, capturing their most important moments. Her expertise is in weddings, family and newborn photography, food styling, and business branding. SILVER The Fleming Studios Lynden, 360.306.1146 BRONZE Erin Cox Photography Various locations, 360.708.2850

BEST AUTO DEALER

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR

BEST CORPORATE MEETING SPACE

Toyota of Bellingham

Nicole Burdick, Waddell & Reed

Four Points by Sheraton

1100 Iowa St., Bellingham 360.676.0600, toyotaofbellingham.com

2122 Barkley Blvd., Ste. 200, Bellingham 360.714.3388 bellinghamteam.wradvisors.com

714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360.671.1011, marriott.com

Placing for the first time, Toyota of Bellingham has been offering “professional, transparent, and straight forward customer service” since 1960. They offer new and preowned vehicles as well as a state-ofthe-art Toyota service center. They strive to make your experience as easy as possible with free shuttles, Wi-Fi, and loaner cars. SILVER Dewey Griffin Suburu Bellingham, 360.734.8700 BRONZE Northwest Honda Bellingham, 360.676.2277

Burdick also won gold back in 2017, attesting to her role as one of Bellingham’s most trusted financial advisors. When working with clients, she tailors her advice to each individual’s circumstances, working with them to meet their goals. Although she’s based in Bellingham, she serves clients throughout Whatcom County. SILVER Shannon Day, Edward Jones Bellingham, 360.746.8762 BRONZE Bryant Engebretson, Tradewinds Capital Management Bellingham, 360.715.9000

Winners in 2016, Four Points by Sheraton brings home the gold once again. With nine event rooms, nearly 14,000 square feet of event space, and 10 breakout rooms, it’s the perfect place to host your next meeting. Custom catering and event planners make it a great option for large conferences and galas, too. SILVER Squalicum Boathouse, Port of Bellingham Bellingham, 360.676.2500 BRONZE Gateway Centre Executive Suites Bellingham, 360.685.4200

October 2019 93

SERVICES

BEST AGRICULTURAL COMPANY

Twin Brook Creamery 9728 Double Ditch Rd., Lynden 360.354.4105, twinbrookcreamery.com

First time winners, Twin Brook Creamery is a family-owned-andoperated dairy in Lynden. Their purebred Jersey cows produce delicious high-protein milk without any synthetic hormones. You can find their milk, cream, half & half, chocolate milk, and seasonal eggnog at grocery stores, markets, and co-ops throughout northwest Washington. SILVER Rader Farms Lynden, 360.354.6574 BRONZE Boxx Berry Farm Ferndale, 360.380.2699

BEST INSURANCE AGENT

BEST CLEAN ENERGY COMPANY

BEST JANITORIAL | CLEANING SERVICE

Cassie Robles, Rice Insurance

Western Solar Inc

Boppity Boo Cleaning Service

1400 Broadway, Bellingham 360.734.1173, riceinsurance.com

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

Bellingham 360.523.4696

For the third year in a row, you voted Cassie Robles as the best insurance agent in the Northwest. As a personal agent at Rice Insurance, Robles specializes in auto, home, flood, renters, and earthquake protection. She strives to deliver the “best coverage at the most competitive price.”

Winners for the second year in a row, Western Solar serves Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan Counties, among others. With experience installing hundreds of projects for both homes and businesses, it’s no surprise they’ve become one of the Northwest’s primary providers of solar electric systems and electric vehicle charging stations.

Whether you want to refresh your home or office or need a deep clean before a move, Boppity Boo has you covered. In addition to traditional cleaning they also offer pressure washing, window cleaning, and painting, caulking, and staining. They even offer a free cleaning for those undergoing cancer treatment.

SILVER Joe Treat, State Farm Insurance Bellingham, 360.733.0870 BRONZE Terry Stach, State Farm Insurance Bellingham, 360.389.5938 94

BellinghamAlive.com

SILVER Ecotech Solar Bellingham, 360.318.7646 BRONZE Solar by Barron Various locations, 360.676.1131

SILVER Northwest Professionals Lynden, 360.354.4145 BRONZE Absolutely Clean various locations, 360.676.0479

INC.

irresistibly

fresh flowers

Thanks for voting us Best Florist!

Shop local and call Belle Flora 360-734-8454 or online at bellinghamflowershop.com

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

THANKS FOR VOTING US

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

SERVICES

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

Allison Trimble, Coastal Realty 3020 Upland Way, Ferndale 360.961.5537, allisontrimble.com

If you’re looking to buy or sell a horse property or hobby farm, Allison Trimble is the person for you. She comes from a family of real estate brokers — she’s the third generation, to be exact — and has a rich equestrian background. Her goal? To help sell your property as quickly as possible.

SILVER Brandon Nelson Partners Realtors Bellingham, 360.389.2489 BRONZE Chris Erdmann, Bellwether Real Estate Bellingham, 360.739.4236

HONORABLE MENTIONS Congratulations to all the national corporations that received a nod from voters this year! Macy’s Men’s Clothing, Women’s Clothing

Chuck E. Cheese Kid’s Birthday Party

REI Men’s Clothing

Whole Foods Market Health Food Shop

Sierra Trading Post Men’s Clothing Men’s Wearhouse Men’s Clothing Petco Pet Store

Dick’s Sporting Goods Sporting Goods Store

Best Buy Electronics Store

Barnes & Noble Book Store

Rite Aid Pharmacy Pharmacy Carter’s Store For Baby

Trader Joe’s Health Food Shop, Grocery Store

BellinghamAlive.com

And a big congrats to Bob The Builder who received a whopping 31 votes for Best Builder!

A Blast From The Past

We Care How You Look Wally’s Barber Shop 314 E Holly St #100 Bellingham 360-647-0807

CONGRATULATIONS

TO A L L OUR

WINNERS! The Beauty of Efficiency

Thank you for voting for us BEST BUILDING DESIGNER

JWRDesign.com 360.354.0333 104 Front Street, Lynden WA

ARTISAN DESIGNED · FAMILY FOCUSED · BUILDER FRIENDLY

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST INTERNATIONAL CUISINE

We’re in business for 16 years and growing. Our Regulars making an excellent choice by choosing Asian 1 when they dine out. Unlike others, we are proud to purchase non-frozen meat and vegetables, hand cut & prepared daily. No added Preservatives or MSG, and all the fat is trimmed from the skinless chicken breast, pork, and beef. Our food is made fresh to order. We make our sauces from scratch. We spend more money on labor and fresh nutritious ingredients to ensure your health, good taste, overall satisfaction AND return visits. THANK YOU TO ALL!

Please visit our website below to know more about us.

www.Asian1.Net 4285 Meridian St. Bellingham, WA 1(360) 752-2422

A comfortable extra bed for any room! Spare Room Furniture – Wallbeds N More 2420 James St. Bellingham, WA 98225 360.778.3516, WallbedsNMore.com

• All Wood Construction • Made to Order • High Quality & Multi-Purpose

WITH OVER 28 YEARS EXPERIENCE, I WORK TO ENSURE MY CLIENTS SUCCESS. WWW.KARENTIMMER.COM

Use every room to its full potential. KAREN@KARENTIMMER.COM 360.410.0848

Wallbeds “n” More are no longer a relic of the past. Allow your guests to sleep in a real bed while maximizing any room’s space efficiently. Come visit the largest multipurpose furniture showroom in the PNW. Located next to Trader Joe’s in Bellingham. Showroom hours: Mon - Sat 10am-3pm, or by Appointment

Windwood Enterprises is a family-owned and operated company, specializing in residential, commercial, and landscape installation. Whether you have a large or small project, we are the team you can trust. The leaves are changing color and cooler weather is right around the corner. Now is the perfect time for leaf removal, trimming and fertilizing. We also have a truck that will blow in new bark, top soil, mulch or wood chips; we can do the work for you in less than half the time and with no mess. Find us online at windwoodent.com.

PO Box 2722, Ferndale | 360.380.4000

HABITAT Home Remodel Tips and Tricks · Featured Home

Art and Play in the Fountain District WRITTEN BY JEFF MACK PHOTOGRAPHED BY RADLEY MULLER

perfect blend of high-performance detailing and traditional, craftsman design, this Broadway Park Neighborhood home fits seamlessly … continued on next page

HABITAT Featured Home

â&#x20AC;Ś into its well-established surroundings. The bright, inviting color palette and warm timber frame details begin at the curb and continue into the interior. The open floor plan and expansive walls allow ample space for the home ownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; artistic details and displayed artwork to take center stage. As this home was designed for family living, â&#x20AC;Ś continued on next page

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HABITAT Featured Home

… abundant closet and cabinet storage space make it easy to stay organized. The cavity beneath the staircase also makes for a great toy storage area, or a tiny hideout in which kids can play. The exterior insulation, heat pump technology, and a heat recovery ventilation system keep the interior healthy and comfortable for everyone in the family. 

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HABITAT Garden

Preparing Your Yard for Winter Birds WRITTEN BY QUESTEN INGHRAM

n a cloudy winter day, there’s nothing better than seeing the bright yellow flash of a goldfinch or hearing the sweet song of a Swainson’s thrush. If you’re hoping to attract more birds to your yard this fall and winter, Pam Borso, long-time member and current volunteer coordinator for the North Cascades Audubon Society, shares some tips for how to transform your yard into a haven for birds.

DON’T RAKE LEAFLITTER “Being a lazy gardener and letting your yard be messy is actually okay for wintertime,” Borso says. Stray twigs, leaves, and dead flower heads can provide a good habitat for insects, which in turn serve as a food source for birds. If you do wish to clear your yard, use the leaflitter to cover your flower beds which will provide cover for insect pupae as well as your dormant flowers.

the species found year-round in our region, expend energy traveling to your feeder, so don’t leave them empty-beaked or let the nectar freeze! Be sure to also clean the feeder regularly, as fungus is harmful to hummingbirds.

PROVIDE A HEATED BIRDBATH Birdbaths provide an important water resource and attract birds year-round. Having one with a heater prevents freezing during the cold winter months. Cleaning the bath regularly is a must for the health of the birds.

PLANT NATIVE SHRUBS AND TREES WITH WINTER BERRIES Choose shrubs and trees that provide winter berries such as serviceberry, Twinberry, Indian Plum, Salal, chokecherries, and Oregon grape. It’s important that the plants in your yard are native, since local birds, plants, and insects co-evolved together. Robins especially appreciate berries!

BE INTENTIONAL IN THE SEEDS YOU PROVIDE

BONUS: DITCH THE LAWN!

Different birds like different seeds, so don’t buy commercial mixes. Consider using shell-less seeds, as the leftover casings might attract rodents. Suet — seeds mixed with lard or peanut butter — provides necessary fat for woodpeckers, chickadees, and sparrows. Remember to clean and restock your feeders regularly!

One of the best things Borso recommends for the overall health of the environment is to get rid of your lawn. Grass lawns use excessive amounts of water and often require chemical fertilizer and pesticides to maintain. For a nicely landscaped and natural yard, use wood chips instead.

COMMIT TO YOUR HUMMINGBIRD FEEDERS If you start feeding hummingbirds, it’s important to continue feeding them throughout the winter. Anna’s Hummingbirds, 104 BellinghamAlive.com

If you’re interested in learning more about birds, the North Cascades Audubon Society meets at 7 p.m. on fourth Tuesdays at Old City Hall in Bellingham. To become a member or find events, visit northcascadesaudubon.org. 

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DINE

8 Great Tastes · Dining Guide · Mixing Tin · Sip

The Bounty and Culture of the San Juan Islands Savor the San Juans WRITTEN BY LARA DUNNING

long with some of the most scenic vistas in the state, the San Juan Islands are known for their fertile farmlands, vibrant culinary scene, and active artist community. Every fall, this “gourmet archipelago” welcomes visitors to learn about the flavors of the islands and what makes its community so unique at Savor the San Juans (September 21 to November 9). This seven-week event features farm tours, wine tastings, wine dinners, a beer festival, and two film festivals. … continued on next page

TASTE THE ISLANDS To sample what the islands have to offer, visitors can attend Bite of the San Juans (October 27) in Friday Harbor. Admission is free, and bites (starting at $3) showcase the best flavors from Orcas, Lopez, and San Juan Island. Nibble on a few tastes while waiting in line for the ferry or pop in during the Friday Harbor Film Festival. For more, attend a wine tasting dinner at Coho Restaurant and Madrone Cellars Wine Dinner, or attend Hops on the Rock on Orcas Island, where more than 20 Northwest brewers showcase their beer.

… MEET A FARMER The farm tours on San Juan Island (September 21 and 22), Orcas Island (September 28 and 29) and Lopez Island (October 5 and 6) cover a wide range of activities and attractions ranging from herb cultivation and sheep shearing to heritage wheat and draft horses. At each location, visitors get a glimpse into farming life along with activities specific to that farm, which may include opportunities to taste food and meet farm animals.

During this event, the Friday Harbor Film Festival (fhff.org) shows more than 30 documentary films, including feature-length and short films that enlighten and entertain. The event also hosts an awards night and filmmaker’s forum. Film showings take place at five different locations in downtown Friday Harbor; tickets are purchased as a punch card. The three-day event (October 25 to October 27) kicks off with an opening night gala to honor all filmmakers in attendance and show a special screening of “Ghost Fleet.” If you’d like to stay overnight, select accommodations feature specials. To see the full list and to discover more about Savor the San Juan events and times, go to visitsanjuans.com.  888.468.3701 | visitsanjuans.com

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WATCH A FILM, BE INSPIRED

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.

1149 N. State St. & 1144 10th St., Bellingham 360.383.5336, biglovejuice.com Cold press juices make up the bulk of the menu at Big Love Juice. However, these aren’t your average juices. Big Love Juice uses a hydraulic press, rather than the traditional high-heat methods that eliminate much of the vitamins and nutrients found in fruits and vegetables. Customers looking for something a little heartier can also pick from a multitude of smoothies, soups, salads, bowls, and loaded toasts.

4192 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.306.8598, birchdoorcafe.com The Birch Door Cafe does not fall short on charm, variety, or serving size. Brunch enthusiasts will be delighted by the three pages of breakfast options. Dishes include traditional pancake breakfast platters, French-style baked omelets, egg scrambles and Benedicts, and plenty more. Listen for the ringing of the kitchen bell every time one of these massive breakfasts is served.

BRANDYWINE KITCHEN Regional NW

ANTHONY’S HEARTHFIRE GRILL Steak, Seafood

1317 Commercial St., Bellingham 360.734.1071, brandywinekitchen.com

Seafood, American

714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360.392.6520, btownkitchen.com If fresh shellfish is your gastronomic highlight, you’re in the right place at B-Town Kitchen and Raw Bar. Items from the Small Plates menu make terrific appetizers or adult-beverage-worthy snacks. The heated patio provides an urban vibe suited for parties or gatherings. BANTAM 46 American, Southern 1327 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.788.4507, bantambellingham.com A bantam is a type of small chicken. At Bellingham’s newest southern-inspired chicken rotisserie, you get what the name promises. The Buttermilk Fried Chicken has breading that’s thick, crispy, and — somehow — not greasy at all. While the downstairs is family-friendly, the upstairs is reserved for those 21 and older.

FAT SHACK American 414 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.366.8752, fatshack.com

FIRESIDE MARTINI & WINE BAR Eclectic, Bar 416 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.738.1000, firesidemartini.com

Named for the farm where they began growing their decadent heirloom tomatoes, Brandywine Kitchen sources many of its ingredients locally, upholding their “from seed to plate” philosophy. The menu offers vegetarian and gluten-free options and a rotating selection of beer from local breweries.

Fireside is out to make a name for itself. Their menu changes on an almost daily basis and uses only fresh, local ingredients. Cocktails are based on in-house infusions of spirits, a collection found only at Fireside, and their beer options range from local to obscure to international. LATITUDE* American

1065 E. Sunset Dr., Bellingham 360.707.7400, theloftbellingham.com

COBALT GRILL AND LOUNGE American

B-TOWN KITCHEN AND RAW BAR

With plenty of outdoor seating — and bike racks — customers can bask in the fresh air while enjoying a beverage or sandwich named after one of the owner’s favorite climbs from bicycle racing. This is more than just a place to quickly grab a bite; it’s a place to build community.

Fat Shack offers a variety of 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. Along with its unapologetic embrace of deep-fried food, Fat Shack serves up some surprises. Its hamburgers are hand-pressed, hand-seasoned, and never frozen.

THE BIRCH DOOR CAFE American

WHATCOM

The Hearthfire menu speaks to the everyday eater, not just the special occasion treat of Anthony’s. Seasonal items, such as peaches or huckleberries in the summer, complement salads, entrees, and drinks. Steaks, seafood, and items on the Woodfire rotisserie round out the selections.

DINE

BIG LOVE JUICE American

7 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360.527.3473, anthonys.com

Dining Guide

1304 12th St., Bellingham 360.526.2905, colbaltgrillwa.com Sandwiched between the historic Waldron building and Fairhaven Gold sits Colbalt Grill and Lounge, formerly Whiskey’s Burger Bistro. The menu emphasizes local seafood, natural products, and an array of selections from the bar. The drinks menu is a whopping five pages long, with an expanding list of cocktails, wine, and other spirits, including 31 whiskeys. Try the Coconut Prawns with sweet chili sauce or the BAMB Burger, a blend of beef and lamb with feta cheese, arugula, roasted tomato, pesto mayo, and a fluffy bun. For dessert, indulge in the warm Apple Raisin Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce.

Sunset’s Latitude Kitchen + Bar serves the same quality food we’ve come to expect and love from Bellingham’s iconic waterfront Loft 48.5 restaurant. Our menu speaks to the everyday eater, not just special occasions. Serving the freshest ingredients, prepared with classic technique and global inspiration. Latitude restaurants believe in offering casual fare while supporting sustainability and our local hard-working fishermen and purveyors! THE LOFT AT FORTY EIGHT FIVE* American 1801 Roeder Ave., Bellingham 360.306.5668, theloftbellingham.com Situated overlooking Squalicum Harbor and the San Juan Islands offering some of the most gorgeous and inspiring scenery in Bellingham Waterfront at Bellingham’s iconic waterfront restaurant.

CAFE VELO Coffeehouse, Deli 120 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.392.0930, cafe-velo.cc Cafe Velo is a European-inspired cafe with a twist — in addition to serving fresh espresso, the cafe also doubles as a bike shop.

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DYNASTY CELLARS THANKS FOR VOTING US

BEST WINERY!

LEADER BLOCK WINE CO. & EATERY Italian 2026 Main St., Ferndale 360.306.8998, leaderblock.com Leader Block pairs their extensive wine list with an Italian, from-scratch menu that emphasizes flavors of the region. This upscale menu makes it a perfect spot for a date or special occasion, while the friendly Ferndale atmosphere and kids’ menu keeps it appropriate for family dinners as well.

2169 E Bakerview Rd, Bellingham 360.758.2958 | dynastycellars.com

MUTO RAMEN & SUSHI Japanese, Sushi 105 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham, 360.647.3530 19505 44th Ave. W., Ste. K, Lynnwood 425.322.7599 Muto Ramen does not disappoint for those looking for both atmosphere and flavor at a reasonable price. From udon noodles and yakitori to long lists of different ramen, sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri, guests can look forward to many visits of exploring the wide selection of Japanese dishes. NICKI’S BAR AND GRILL/ NICKI’S BELLA MARINA American, Seafood

2615 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 Wet-Naps on the table), and flavorful. NORTHWATER Regional NW 4260 Mitchell Way, Bellingham 360.398.6191, northh2o.com From breakfast to late night dinner, northwater’s 185-seat restaurant features a diverse menu of Pacific Northwest dishes made from locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. The restaurant’s waitstaff is personable and enthusiastic — eager to answer our questions about ingredient sources and what desserts they’d recommend.

Nickis Bar and Grill on the waterfront in Bellingham serving award winning, hand dipped, tempura style fish & chips. Build your own burger featuring our handcrafted USDA chuck patties and fresh baked buns.

NORTH

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SILVER

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2017

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NORTH

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VOTED BEST FISH & CHIPS

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2615 South Harbor Loop Drive, Bellingham 360.332.2505 | nickisbellamarina.com

ON RICE THAI CUISINE Thai 206 N. Samish Way, Bellingham, 360.714.9995 2200 Rimland Dr., Bellingham, 360.738.9995 1224 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.676.9995 onricethai.com Ask any college student: On Rice is the place to go in Bellingham. With its affordable lunch specials and three locations around town, it’s easy to enjoy one of On Rice’s flavorful Thai dishes. All dishes are available with chicken, pork, beef, seafood, or tofu and can be made as spicy as you want them to be.

Dining Guide

DINE

ÖVN WOOD-FIRED PIZZA Pizza 1148 10th St., Bellingham 360.393.4327, ovnwoodfiredpizza.com The clean lines and urban upscale atmosphere of this pizza restaurant promise some very good food — and they deliver on that promise. They also serve crispy salads and excellent cocktails. Dining here is the perfect way to spend an elegant lunch or intimate dinner.

CULINARY EVENTS Blue Skies for Children Annual Dinner & Charity Auction October 12, 5:30 P.M.

PEL’MENI RESTAURANT Russian 1211 N. State St., Bellingham 360.715.8324, restaurantwebx.com/PelMeni 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. Smother them with vinegar, sour cream, and hot sauce for the full effect.

This year’s theme is “Hope Anchors the Soul.” Come for a plated meal, live and silent auctions, a dessert dash, raffles, and games. Tickets are $95; proceeds help bring enrichment programs to low-income, foster, and homeless children in Whatcom and Skagit Counties. Four Points by Sheraton 714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham | blueskiesforchildren.org

Pascual Toso Winemaker Dinner

SKYLARK’S HIDDEN CAFE Eclectic

October 18, 5:30 P.M.

1308 11th St., Bellingham 360.715.3642, skylarkshiddencafe.com

Pascual Toso has been making wine in Argentina since the late 19th century. Taste the fruits of their long winemaking history while savoring a gourmet meal. Learn about the wines from the winemakers themselves and receive discounts on any bottles that pique your interest.

Skylark’s Hidden Cafe in Fairhaven is worth seeking out. From decadent breakfast items and house specialties to hearty dinner entrees, the menu at Skylark’s is varied and every bite delicious. Come for the food and stay for the jazz on select evenings. SUPER MARIO’S Salvadorian

Semiahmoo Resort 9565 Semiahmoo Pkwy., Blaine | semiahmoo.com

3008 Northwest Ave., Bellingham 360.393.4637, super-marios.com

Wines by the Water

Serving fresh, healthy meals with the customer in mind is what Super Mario’s is all about, and it’s the consistent flavor and quality of the food that keeps bringing people back. The veggies are chopped fresh daily, nothing is frozen, nothing is cooked until it’s ordered, and nothing is deep-fried.

October 19, 6 P.M.

THE STEAK HOUSE AT SILVER REEF HOTEL C ASINO SPA Steak, Seafood 4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale 360.384.0777, silverreefcasino.com This award-winning restaurant offers elegant dining and an intimate atmosphere. Prime-grade steaks are broiled at 1,800 degrees to lock in the natural juices and finished with a special steak butter. They also have an extensive wine list. This dining experience rivals any of the big-town steakhouses in quality and service without the big-city price tag. SWIM CLUB WET BAR American, Bar 1147 11th St., Bellingham 360.393.3826, swimclubbar.com “To drink is to swim, and this is the club we do it in.” This wet bar on the edge of Fairhaven boasts a rotating food and drink menu, along with seasonal pop-ups. The owners wanted to evoke the carefree, fun nature of a pool party, with decor and drinks that boost the vacation vibes. Even in a February snow storm, Swim Club still feels like a tropical getaway.

The Bellingham Bay Rotary Club presents Wines by the Water at the Hotel Bellwether Ballroom. Guests can taste wines from across the world while snacking on gourmet appetizers courtesy of the Hotel Bellwether’s Lighthouse Grill. Tickets are $95, with proceeds benefiting the Rotary Club and the numerous charitable organizations it supports. Hotel Bellwether 1 Bellwether Way, Bellingham | bellinghambayrotary.com

Chocolate Sculpture Class October 26, 2 P.M. If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to make a centerpiece out of chocolate, here’s your chance. Learn to create a 100% edible sculpture from the knowledgeable chocolatiers at Forte Chocolates in Mount Vernon. This class is part of the shop’s 2019 Chocolate Class Series; check their website for more class offerings. Forte Chocolates 1400 Riverside Dr., Ste. D., Mount Vernon | fortechocolates.com

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TASTE OF INDIA Indian 3930 Meridian St., Ste. 107, Bellingham 360.647.1589, tasteofindiabellingham.com

Rook & Rogue Board Game Pub

At Taste of India, all the dishes are rich, delicious, and authentic. Dishes come with your choice of pulao rice or the classic Indian bread naan. Taste of India offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, all with exquisite and well-developed flavors. For those unsure of what to order, or those who want to try multiple dishes at once, try the lunch buffet.

Hogwarts House Cocktails Price: $8

TEMPLE BAR Bistro, Bar 306 W. Champion St.,Bellingham 360.676.8660, templebarbellingham.com Continually recognized for their craft cocktails and small plates, Temple Bar aims to please. In between delicious bites made from locally sourced ingredients, sip on a unique cocktail with house-made infusions and bitters.

SKAGIT 13MOONS AT SWINOMISH CASINO & LODGE Seafood, Steak

12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes 360.588.3525, swinomishcasinoandlodge.com

f you’ve ever dreamed of getting your letter from Hogwarts, travelling to the majestic campus, and trying on the Sorting Hat, the cocktail list at Rook & Rogue will help your Harry Potter dreams come true. With four house drinks, try them all to see which one truly suits your taste.

GRYFFINDOR This bright red cocktail, served in a traditional whiskey rambler glass, is simultaneously sweet and tart. With strong flavors of cranberry and lime, after a few of these, you’ll be feeling quite brave.

It’s sweet and juicy, easy to drink, with a mango flavor as bold as its yellow color. Ingredients: Mango vodka, mango syrup, ginger ale

RAVENCLAW As the smartest house, Ravenclaw has also inspired a smart and tasty drink. This tropical blue oasis in a glass will whisk you away to the beaches of the Black Lake. Ingredients: Peach schnapps, blue curacao

SLYTHERIN

Ingredients: Vanilla vodka, lime, cranberry

With the distinct taste of green apple, don’t let this cocktail sway you to the dark side — it’s plenty sweet once you get to know it.

HUFFLEPUFF

Ingredients: Sour apple vodka and schnapps Lindsey Major (proud Hufflepuff)

Pub owner Laura mentioned this was the best-selling of the four houses — and for good reason.

206 W. Magnolia St., Bellingham 360.207.4038 | rookandrogue.com

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Located on the waterfront within the casino, 13moons is sure to catch your attention. The menu offers a wide variety including first plates, entree salads, seafood, and steaks. Give this go-to place for locals a try and you will be walking away satisfied. ANELIA’S KITCHEN Polish 513 South 1st St., La Conner 360.399.1805, aneliaskitchenandstage.com A welcoming atmosphere, local food prepared with care, and great music make Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage a must-visit. The assortment of house-infused Polish vodkas and myriad of local beers on tap will make you wonder why you didn’t visit sooner. Na zdrowie! CALICO CUPBOARD American 901 Commercial Ave., Anacortes, 360.293.7315 720 S. 1st St., La Conner, 360.466.4451 121-B Freeway Dr., Mount Vernon, 360.336.3107 calicocupboardcafe.com Since 1981, Calico Cupboard has been serving the purest, most heart-healthy, and high-quality ingredients. Using freshly milled, organicallygrown, whole grain and unbleached flour, the cafe aims to promote its local farmers and gratify your body in the process. Sit down for breakfast or lunch, or just order from the bakery and grab an espresso to go. Calico Cupboard will leave you full, but feeling homey, healthy, and happy.

Sip

DINE

Wine Judging Requires Sniffing, Swirling, and Tasting Your Way Through a Lot of Wine WRITTEN BY DAN RADIL

f you tell someone you’re taking part in a wine judging, you’re likely to hear how “lucky” you are. Drinking all of those wines has to be fun, right? Certainly, there’s an element of enjoyment to the process, and most judges would agree that looking for a near-perfect wine that stimulates the senses in terms of color, aroma, mouthfeel, and flavor is both challenging and rewarding. The key to wine judging, however, is not drinking the wine — it’s tasting it. Swirling, sipping, and then spitting gives the taster plenty of clues about the wine’s quality or flaws, body style, finish, and whether or not it’s a good representation of the grape. While this tasting technique is essentially a form of “wine speed dating” in which first impressions are critical, from a practical standpoint, it’s also a way for wine judges to remain upright during the course of the competition. Take, for example, last August’s Bellingham Northwest Wine Festival.

The pre-event judging featured nearly 200 wines from Washington and Oregon wineries. The panel of judges was allocated less than two days to blind taste through the entire list of entries and award bronze, silver, gold, and double gold medals along with the Best in Show trophy… no easy task. Even so, the panel was able to agree on a clear-cut winner: the Thurston Wolfe Winery 2016 Petit Verdot, an expressive, full-bodied red wine from Prosser, Washington packed with black licorice and dark fruit flavors that finish with beautifully integrated tannins. In addition to the Petit Verdot, a gold medal from all the judges earned five other wines double gold recognition: Eternal Wines 2016 Eternal Darkness Syrah, Jones of Washington 2017 Reserve Chardonnay, Mellisoni Vineyards 2017 Chardonnay, Thurston Wolfe Winery 2016 “The Geologist” Red Wine, and Treveri Cellars NonVintage Sparkling Gewurztraminer. Local wineries also fared well in last year’s competition. Margarita

Vartanyan’s 2015 Carmenere aged in French oak barrels and Rob Dhaliwal’s Samson Estates Cassis Dessert Wine both earned gold medals. The pair of Whatcom County winemakers took home an additional seven and three medals, respectively, for other wines in the competition. In addition, Dynasty Cellars’ Peter Osvaldik earned a perfect three silvers for three entered wines, while Tom Davis and Tracy DeGraff of GLM Wine Company scored silver and bronze for their two entries. Is wine judging foolproof? Of course not. Every person has inherent preferences or aversions regarding certain smells, flavor characteristics, textures, or even particular wines. In other words, one person’s recommendations won’t always align with your own. Just remember, in the world of wine, it’s consensus we’re looking for… and that rarely means unanimity. When in doubt, the solution is remarkably simple: taste — and judge — for yourself. 

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DINE Restaurant Review

From Ice Cream to Fried Chicken Bantam 46 WRITTEN BY BECKY MANDELBAUM PHOTOS COURTESY OF BANTAM 46

ou might know Bantam’s owner, Ben Scholtz, for his first business: Bellingham’s beloved Mallard Ice Cream. For years, Scholtz toyed with the idea of starting another local business. When space in the same building as Mallard opened up, the opportunity resurfaced in earnest. Rather than starting with a business idea, Scholtz worked backwards. He had the space; he had a pool of loyal, talented employees from Mallard; and he had ample connections to local suppliers. All he needed was a concept. “My criteria for concepts were: What would work with the space? What would work with the audience? What would we enjoy doing?” Scholtz says. The answer? Chicken. Bantam 46 opened in May and has already seen great success. The interior alone is worth a visit. While the downstairs is family-friendly, the upstairs is reserved for those 21 and older. Large second-story windows produce a tree-house feeling and, above the bar, fiber optic lights create the illusion of a night sky with twinkling stars.

WHAT TO ORDER The restaurant’s cocktail menu is enough to keep you busy. If you’re looking for something light, fizzy, and refreshing, try the Stick Around Punch ($12). Wine lovers: Go for the delectable Woodline Vine ($13). When it comes time for food, vegetarians should fear not. The extremely satisfying Root Salad ($16) comes with a generous helping of kale as well as shredded beets and carrots, bleu cheese, and candied walnuts. The Hushpuppies and Remoulade ($12) are another great meat-free starter. If you’re not hungry enough for a whole rotisserie chicken ($40 with sides), go for the Buttermilk Fried Chicken ($22), which comes with a boneless thigh and breast. The meat is tender and juicy and the breading is thick, crispy, and somehow not greasy. Enjoy with fresh and mild coleslaw, a buttery biscuit with herbal honey, and an additional side of your choice. If you can resist the mac and cheese, go for the Bourbon Baked Black Eyed Peas, which are sweet, smoky, and full of southern goodness. The restaurant now offers brunch every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come for the Chicken and Waffles ($20), but stay for the Pomegranate Mimosas ($12). Fun fact: all prices at Bantam 46 include gratuity.  1327 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.788.4507 | bantambellingham.com 114

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CATRINA TACOS & TEQUILA Mexican 517 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon 360.336.5566, catrinastacostequila.com Catrina Tacos & Tequila is known for their take on Street Tacos — with a multitude of meat fillings to choose from, double tortillas, cilantro, and onions — but that’s certainly not the only mouthwatering option. With plenty of drinks to sample, there’s always another reason to visit again.

GREAT TASTES

ENCORE* Epicurean Dining 5984 North Darrk Ln., Bow 360.724.0124, theskagit.com/encore Located within The Skagit Casino Resort, the newly remodeled and re-energized Encore restaurant strives itself in creating everything in house from scratch by utilizing fresh and natural ingredients from locally sourced products. Inside the room, featured photographs of personalities from the music industry, recognizing The Skagit Casino Resort’s long history with entertainment; a platform that differentiates them from local competition. Take an epicurean dining adventure and discover one of the best restaurants in the region.

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.

GREEK ISLANDS RESTAURANT Greek 2001 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.293.6911, greekislandsrestaurant.shop Some of the very best Greek food in our area comes from this versatile and excellent menu, with plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and glutenfree options. They serve both authentic food, such as classic gyro plates and spanakopita, while also mixing in American and seafood options, such as pork ribs and fish and chips.

IL GRANAIO Italian 100 W. Montgomery St., Ste. 110 Mount Vernon 360.419.0674, granaio.com Owner Alberto Candivi gets up every morning to make some of the day’s pastas by hand, sculpting basic ingredients into the building blocks for lavish, rich Italian dishes served throughout the day. When the ingredients call for a lighter hand, his restaurant also turns out reserved, delicate dishes. Il Granaio is a practice in the intricacies of cuisine, displaying the best flavors Italian food has to offer. With more than 30 items on the entree menu, the list can be quite daunting — and the dessert menu is also impressive. The wine menu is also expansive, and the beer menu features several local craft brews. Their grappa selection does the Italian cordial the justice it deserves. 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. Their daily

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The name Fat Pie says it all. If you’re looking for pizza that leaves you stuffed, the Motown pizza with Detroit-style crust is sure to fit the bill. With three types of meat and plenty of veggies, this pie is as good as your favorite Motown hits. The next time you’re craving a stick-to-your-ribs breakfast, head to Old Town Cafe and order the Farmer’s Skillet. A mound of crispy home fries and grilled veggies comes topped with everyone’s favorite trio: cheese, sour cream, and salsa. If you’re feeling extra hungry, add a fried egg or flakey biscuit.

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When I ordered the Train Wreck Cheese Steak from the Train Wreck Bar & Grill in Burlington, the waitress warned me that there was “a bit of a kick.” The red peppers and beef grilled with chili sauce weren’t necessarily spicy, but perfectly flavorful.

If you find yourself cruising through Mount Vernon, make sure to stop by COA Mexican Eatery and treat yourself to their iconic Loco Burrito. Apart from the usual rice and beans, the dish comes with a delectable grilled mango pico de gallo, primeton crema, and mole sauce.

If you’re looking for a plate to share with friends over a glass of wine, try the Formaggi e Salumi at Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery in Ferndale. A mixed selection of local and international cheeses and meats, local honey, fruits, and nuts come together for a perfect snack. The Phad See Yew at Wanida Thai Cuisine has plenty of broccoli, carrots, and your choice of tofu or meat. The dark sauce is perfectly sweet and salty, stir-fried with rice noodles and egg. Order a level three spice if you want a bite that still leaves room for flavor. If you stumble across Hot Mess and they happen to be serving the special Pesto Philly, you absolutely have to try it. The pesto aioli is dripping and gooey and perfectly complements the thin-sliced steak. Scotty Browns, located in the hoppin’ Barkley Village, is a great place to grab a bite before a movie. The Southwest Rice Bowl is a great option — add the blackened chicken and queso for a bit of protein and a kick of flavor. The Editorial Team

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DINE Dining Guide specials take into account the freshest catches, but you’ll also typically find a seafood pasta, filet-topped salad, and oysters on the menu.

restaurant offers Italian, barbeque, seafood, Southern, among many other cuisine styles. Find the latest lines, watch the race, or grab a beer and grub as you watch every play, pass, and score.

TAQUERIA LA BAMBA Mexican THE OYSTER & THISTLE RESTAURANT & PUB Seafood, Steak

205 E. Washington St., La Conner 360.766.6179, theoysterandthistle.com The Oyster & Thistle Restaurant and Pub takes the time to prepare food with care. Their pastas are handmade and hand-cranked using semolina flour and an egg-rich dough. You’ll also find plenty of fresh, expertly shucked oysters and perfectly seared sea scallops. 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. You can also order breakfast all day, fresh salads, hearty bagels, or one of the baked goods brought in three times a week from nearby bakeries. THE RHODY CAFE American 5521 Chuckanut Dr., Bow 360.766.6667, rhodycafe.com The Rhody Cafe is a spot with a cozy, home-style feel that places emphasis on fresh, local Washington ingredients. Even the pew-like benches that line the walls were built by a local carpenter. Small glass vases hold fresh-picked flowers and plants that sit next to small paper dessert menus on pressed wood tables, giving the air of a family dining room. The Rhododendron changes its menu three times a year to follow what is fresh, in season, and available. SKAGIT RIVER BREWERY American 404 S. 3rd St., Mount Vernon 360.336.2884, skagitbrew.com Made with Yakima Valley hops and Northwest barley and wheat, Skagit River Brewery produces the finest beers with distinguishable tastes. Seasonal beers also appear on the menu for locals to try something new. To complement the beers and non-alcoholic drinks, the brewery also prides itself on its selection of foods from wood-fired pizza to house-smoked ribs. Beer brings people together. At least it’s proven so at Skagit River Brewery. SWINOMISH SPORTS BAR & GRILL American

2222 Riverside Dr., Ste. 850, Mount Vernon 360.424.0824 Off the road and inside a small plaza sits a little gem — a family-run, low-key Mexican restaurant. Taqueria La Bamba offers authentic taco truck food in a sit-down restaurant. The salsas are spicy, full of flavor, and made in-house. If you’re looking for authentic Mexican food at a low price, eat here and you won’t be disappointed.

SAN JUAN

PRIMA BISTRO French 201 1/2 First St., Langley 360.221.4060, primabistro.com A quintessential South Whidbey dining experience in the heart of Langley, Prima Bistro marries gourmet French cuisine and classic Northwest ingredients. The selection of red and white wines offers options for connoisseurs of every stripe, along with a full bar. For fabulous food, elegant ambience, and world-class views, be sure to visit Prima on your next visit to Whidbey Island. SAN JUAN ISLAND BREWING CO. American 410 A St., Friday Harbor 360.378.2017, sanjuanbrew.com

The menu of this Orcas Island eatery may be small, but it is mighty. Breakfast and lunch are served late and their menu features meat and produce grown on the island. Don’t forget about their bakery before heading out — all sweets and baked goods are made in-house.

At San Juan Island Brewing Company all the brews are named after San Juan-inspired concepts, and if you can’t decide what brew to try, order a sampler. If they weren’t in the business of brewing, San Juan Island Brewery would be in the business of pizza. Order one of their wood stone pizzas and you won’t be disappointed. The thin crust is crispy on the bottom, but still soft and chewy.

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. You can enjoy lunch, or even an extended breakfast, daily in spring and summer. They are famous for their brunch, but you might try stopping by later in the evening for their dinner menu — a special treat. INN AT LANGLEY American 400 First St., Langley 360.221.3033, innatlangley.com If beauty were a taste, this would be it. As a guest, you’re taken on a mouth-watering culinary journey through a multi-course tasting menu. Not only is the meal a delight for the taste buds, but there are also surprises at each turn, whether it’s the presentation or the accoutrements. Each guest is served as if they are the only one in the dining room. The menu is prix fixe, with an additional charge for wine pairing. Dinner here is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. $ $ $ $

12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes 888.288.8883, swinomishcasinoandlodge.com Located along the waterfront of Anacortes, this is not your run-of-the-mill sports bar. While you can go the more classic bar-food route, this

Beloved by loyal patrons for its large portions and casual, customizable meals, Island Skillet is a

BellinghamAlive.com

CATKIN CAFÉ American 11 Point Lawrence Rd., Olga 360.376.3242, catkincafe.com

ISLAND SKILLET Homestyle 325 Prune Alley, Eastsound 360.376.3984

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must-stop for anyone visiting Orcas Island. A rustic metal rooster outside the entrance sets the tone. Start the day with a skillet breakfast complete with a bottomless cup of coffee. Sandwiches rule the lunch menu, and you can choose from a lengthy list of sides and customizations for most items, so you can totally have it your way.

TOBY’S TAVERN Seafood 8 NW Front St., Coupeville 360.678.4222, tobysuds.com Overlooking the scenic Penn Cove in the center of old Coupeville, Toby’s Tavern offers diners a dive bar ambience with a delicious menu of seafood favorites. Steamed and soaked in a scrumptious mix of simple seasonings, wine, and juices, Toby’s robust offering of mussels makes for a memorable visit. SALTY FOX COFFEE American 85 Front St., Friday Harbor 360.622.2486, saltyfoxcoffee.com When owner Andrea Hampton put together her coffee shop’s food menu, she worked hard to create items that were easy to make, but still healthy and satisfying. She wanted to be able to serve ferry riders on a time schedule, along with locals who come in for breakfast or lunch. Guests can take anything to go, including sealed wine and beer, much of which is locally made on the island.

Best Bar & Lounge

Leader Block

Fine Italian Cuisine

Wine Co. & Eatery

Craft Cocktails

2026 Main Street Ferndale, WA 98248 360.306.9889 | leaderblock.com

Award-Winning Wine List Retail Wine Sales Live Music Family Friendly

Best Italian

Best Date Night

Best New Restaurant

Full Service

416 W Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.738.1000

We’re proud to be your choice for Best Live Theatre.

Join in the 2019-2020 Season!

Best Live Theatre

Plan a Trip to Your Award-Winning Venue at MountBakerTheatre.com

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MOUNT BAKER THEATRE.COM • 360.734.6080 Mount Baker Theatre is a 501(c)(3 ) nonprofit organization dedicated to the performing arts.

AGENDA

Featured Events · Listings · The Scene · Final Word

Bellingham ComiCon Excelsior OCTOBER 19

ind everything your comic-loving heart desires at this local comic convention. From traditional comic books to celebrations of current pop culture, your inner-nerd is sure to have an exciting day. Attendees can take part in a costume competition, meet celebrity guests, shop for comic-related goodies, and so much more. The event also raises money for several local charities; past beneficiaries include the Alternative Humane Society of Whatcom County and Blue Skies for Children. Keep up with the website and Facebook pages for more information.  Ferndale Events Center 5715 Barrett Rd., Ferndale | bellinghamcomicon.com

AGENDA Events

Spokes

CASINOS HERMAN’S HERMITS & PETER NOONE OCTOBER 4, 8 P.M.

Enjoy a night dedicated to the nostalgia of the British invasion of rock music. Herman’s Hermits is a pop/rock band from Manchester that has been perfecting its sound for over a half century. Peter Noone has been seen all over the world in operas, talk shows, and award shows. This is a personality you don’t want to miss. Tulalip Resort Casino 10400 Quil Ceda Blvd., Tulalip 888.272.1111, tulalipresortcasino.com HARMONIOUS FUNK BAND OCTOBER 5, 9:30 P.M.

Seven spunky, energetic musicians will take the stage, delivering classic funk grooves as well as their own fresh ones. The group’s charisma and style will keep you dancing, smiling, and clapping all night long. This is a night of great fun that funk-lovers won’t want to miss. Tulalip Resort Casino 10400 Quil Ceda Blvd., Tulalip 888.272.1111, tulalipresortcasino.com

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LOS LONELY BOYS OCTOBER 18–19, 8 P.M.

Come to the Pacific Showroom in The Skagit Casino for Los Lonely Boys, an American Chicano Rock trio from Texas. They often mix in elements of blues, soul, country, and Latin folk. On their site, the band says, “We’re not interested in songs about how you look and what kind of car you drive and how much money you have. We want to create music that’s about the love and energy and spirit we all carry. It comes from a bigger source than ourselves.”

lesser-known works to give the audience a rounded and provoking experience. WWU Performing Arts Center 516 High St., Bellingham 360.650.6146, wwu.edu DIRTY DOZEN BRASS BAND OCTOBER 19, 7:30 P.M.

The Skagit Casino Resort 5984 Darrk Ln., Bow 877.275.2448, theskagit.com

For more than 40 years, the New Orleans-based Dirty Dozen Brass Band has fused jazz, funk, and R&B to create a sound they like to call musical gumbo. They’ve toured across 30 countries on five continents, recorded 12 albums, and have played with everyone from Norah Jones to Modest Mouse. This is a show you won’t want to miss.

CLASSICAL

Mount Baker Theatre 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

BENJAMIN HOCHMAN OCTOBER 4, 7:30 P.M.

Drawing influence from some of history’s greatest composers — Bach, Mozart, Kurtág, and Lieberson — classical pianist Benjamin Hochman possesses an intellectual curiosity and emotional wonder as he plays. He often performs well-known pieces as well as his favorite

CONCERTS DEREK DUFFY OCTOBER 4, 5:30 P.M.

Born in Kilkenny, Ireland, Derek Duffy has performed in countries across the world for over 40 years. He speaks heavily on the immigrant experience,

fusing traditional music with the art of storytelling. His performance is part of the Bellingham Irish Festival, from October 4–6, with different Irish entertainers appearing throughout the town’s meaderies, pubs, and lounges. Honey Moon Mead & Cider 1053 N. State St. Alley, Bellingham 350.734.0728 bellinghamirishfestival.com LOS LOBOS OCTOBER 4, 8 P.M.

Celebrating their 45th anniversary tour, Los Lobos plans a spirited night of rock and roll tunes that span the last five decades of their musical career. With three Grammys under their belts, the band has blazed a prominent trail in the music industry, incorporating influences from their Mexican-American heritage. It will surely be a night to remember. Lincoln Theatre 712 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon 360.336.8955, lincolntheatre.org FRU SKAGERRAK OCTOBER 9, 6 P.M.

The three members of Fru Skagerrak hail from each of the Scandinavian countries. They’ve fused their specialties to create a unique twist on traditional Scandinavian music. It is said that their music takes you through the feelings of Scandinavia, exemplifying the area’s diverse geography and immense beauty.

Whatcom Artist Studio Tour

COME SEE WHERE CREATIVITY BEGINS!

First 2 weekends in October ✽ Oct. 5,6 & 12,13 A FREE SELF-GUIDED ART TOUR

Visit our website for additional information and Google Maps with easy locators for all the studios!

For more info: studiotour.net facebook.com/WhatcomArtistStudioTour

The Firefly Lounge 1015 N. State St., Bellingham thefireflylounge.com

Charles Dickens’

SON VOLT OCTOBER 17, 8:30 P.M.

Son Volt is an alternative rock, country, and blues band from Illinois. Come to the Wild Buff to hear songs from their 10th and newest released studio album, “Union.” The album strives to mend sounds from the past with those of the present as a unifier for the divisive state the nation has fallen into. Band founder Jay Farrar asks the question, “What can we do to bring our society back together?” Wild Buffalo House of Music 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net PETUNIA & THE VIPERS OCTOBER 26, 8 P.M.

Petunia & The Vipers breathe a rugged autonomy: the lone cowboy, the fierce warrior. Drawing influence from Latin

A Christmas Carol Directed by Nathan Kessler-Jeffrey Tickets: Adults $23 Students $12 Student Rush $5 (at door only) *Thursday is Pay What You Can

(360) 378-3210 sjctheatre.org

December 14 (Lopez Island) December 15 (Orcas Island) December 19*-22 (San Juan Island)

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AGENDA Events

3 Oms Yoga

rhythm, country, blues, and rock, the group defies labels and breaks borders. Known for his honest songwriting and fast singing, Petunia may quite literally leave you breathless.

has since been completed and is known as the late composer’s most musically adventurous opera. Don’t miss the chance to experience Puccini’s final showpiece on the big screen.

The Conway Muse 18444 Spruce St., Conway 360.445.3000, conwaymuse.com

Regal Barkley Village 3005 Cinema Pl., Bellingham 844.462.7342, regmovies.com

CHRIS PUREKA & LAURA GIBSON

SPOKES

OCTOBER 26, 9 P.M.

OCTOBER 17–20, TIMES VARY

Chris Purkeka is an acoustic singersongwriter from Connecticut. She has been an ongoing writer for the feminist publication “off our backs” and other magazines, but her music focuses on deeper emotions and interactions she’s had. Laura Gibson, a singer-songwriter from Oregon, blends genres with the help of multiple instruments. Come for an unforgettable combination of style.

Decidedly not about bikes, this dance piece by Kuntz and Company — a nonprofit, professional dance and theater company — explores everything from friends, family, and love to penguins, monkeys, arm-wrestling, and breakdancing. Blending motion with meaning, this event isn’t one to miss.

The Shakedown 1212 N. State St., Bellingham 360.778.1067 shakedownbellingham.com

THEATER TURANDOT OCTOBER 12, 9:55 A.M.

Before Italian opera composer Giacomo Puccini died, he marked the end of his legacy with “Turandot,” a three-act production that he left unfinished. It

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Firehouse Arts and Events Center 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.510.4711, kuntzandco.org

the music of the night with this screening that is sure to leave goosebumps. Mount Baker Theatre 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com MATILDA THE MUSICAL DATES AND TIMES VARY

Something magical is stirring at Lincoln Theatre with their production of “Matilda the Musical.” Theatergoers will experience the wacky and wonderful world from the beloved children’s book by Roald Dahl while listening to the original songs of Tim Minchin, a composer and comedian. This Tony Award-winning musical will have the whole family in high spirits. Lincoln Theatre 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon 360.336.8955, lincolntheatre.org BOEING BOEING DATES AND TIMES VARY

SILENT FILM SPOOKTACULAR: THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA OCTOBER 21, 7 P.M.

“The Phantom of the Opera” is thought by many to be one of the greatest silent horror films ever created. Imagine watching this classic masterpiece in a historical theater from 1927 with the acclaimed musician Dennis James performing the score on a Mighty Wurlitzer pipe organ. Lose yourself in

Originally produced in 1962, “Boeing Boeing” was remounted on Broadway in 2008, resulting in a Tony Award for Best Revival. The comical production follows Bernard, a sly bachelor living in Paris, the city of love. The catch? He’s engaged to not one or two, but three women — all of whom are flight attendants. San Juan Community Theatre 100 2nd St., Friday Harbor 360.378.3210, sjctheatre.org

An Acoustic Evening with Al Stewart #1 Hits

“Year of the Cat” “On the Border” “Time Passages” “Nostradamus”

“Finessed with distinctive, old world sound and history-minded imagery” — Knight Rider Newspaper

Thursday, November 7, 2019 7:30 pm

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

100 Second Street, Friday Harbor sjctheatre.org | (360) 378-3210

RUN LIKE A GIRL 10K & HALF MARATHON OCTOBER 5, 9 A.M.

Rally your posse and put on some leg warmers because Bellingham’s Run Like a Girl Half Marathon is back. The event is a non-competitive and gender-inclusive race that focuses on good times and fun prizes. At the finish line, local firefighters will give each participant a hand-crafted finisher’s medal. You will learn what it truly means to run like a girl. Fairhaven Park 107 Chuckanut Dr., Bellingham runlikeagirlbellingham.org GARDEN TEAM OFFERINGS OCTOBER 6, 12 P.M.

Sometimes it’s nice to get your hands dirty — cathartic, almost. It’s equally satisfying when it means getting to grow and harvest your own produce. At the Center for Spiritual Living, you will be able to do both at their workshop on Harvesting and Preserving Vegetables, Fruits, and Herbs, taught by their very own gardening team. Center for Spiritual Living 2224 Yew St., Bellingham 360.734.4160, csl-bellingham.org

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AGENDA Top Picks

OCTOBER O C TO B E R

O C TO B E R

Rocktoberfest Downtown Blaine blainechamber.com

Sippin’ On Cider Lost Giants Cider Co., Bellingham letsshiftgears.com

5 O C TO B E R

Orcas Island Film Festival Eastsound, Orcas Island orcasfilmfest.com

10 – 14

O C TO B E R

Lake Padden Half Marathon Lake Padden, Bellingham nwenduranceevents.com

O C TO B E R

4 – 5

Beir on the Pier Historic Port of Anacortes Warehouse, Anacortes anacortes.org/beer

O C TO B E R

4 – 6

Bellingham Irish Festival Downtown Bellingham bellinghamirishfestival.com

O C TO B E R

Dan Brubeck Plays Dave Brubeck Sudden Valley Dance Barn, Sudden Valley fswl.org

12 O C TO B E R

Friday Harbor Film Festival San Juan Community Theatre, Friday Harbor fhff.org

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25 – 27

THERAPEUTIC HIP OPENING WORKSHOP OCTOBER 19, 1 P.M.

The holiday season is right around the corner, much like the stress that accompanies it. Fortunately, 3 Oms Yoga offers workshops to teach you how to release all that negative tension, allowing you to focus on the festivities. Explore the complexity of your pelvis with Cat Enright, a certified yoga therapist, whose teachings will remind you that it’s all in the hips. 3 Oms Yoga 1319 Cornwall Ave., Ste. 200, Bellingham 360.671.3510, 3omsyoga.com

SPECIAL EVENTS BLACK CAT DINNER & AUCTION This event benefits the Humane Society of Skagit Valley, which cares for more than 2,500 animals annually. It will feature a dinner as well as silent and live auctions. Show your support for your four-legged and furry friends! Best Western Plus 2300 Market St., Mount Vernon 360.757.0445, skagithumane.org LYNDEN CRAFT & ANTIQUE FALL SHOW OCTOBER 17–19, 10 A.M.

More than 100 crafters, artists, and antique vendors will set up shop for the weekend in Lynden. Expect to find artisan homewares, decor, and unique treasures at one of the largest craft and antique shows in the region. Northwest Washington Fair Expo Building 1775 Front St., Lynden lyndencraftantiqueshow.com PASCUAL TOSO WINEMAKER DINNER OCTOBER 18, 5:30 P.M.

Does an expertly crafted five-course dinner with select wine pairings meet your tastes? Guests will be educated by Pascual Toso about their wines. Hosted by Semiahmoo Resort, there’ll be plenty of activities before and after your meal. Reservations required. Semiahmoo Resort 9565 Semiahmoo Pkwy., Blaine 360.318.2000, semiahmoo.com BLEEDINGHAM FILM FESTIVAL OCTOBER 26–27, TIMES VARY

Fan of horror flicks? Check out the entrants for 2019’s Bleedingham

OCTOBER 5, 5 P.M.

Bleedingham Film Festival

local film competition, which awards categories such as best story, best special effects, and scariest film. The Night Gallery, the festival’s Halloween party, takes place at the Majestic Ballroom on October 26 at 5 p.m.

missed. An opening reception will take place on October 4 at 6 p.m.

Pickford Film Center 1318 Bay St., Bellingham 360.738.0735, bleedingham.com

TRAVELOGUE WITH GRETCHEN LEGGITT

VISUAL ARTS KAPPY TRIGG SHOWCASE OCTOBER 1–31, TIMES VARY

Ballard-based Kappy Trigg is an abstract artist who creates complex monotype prints. Colorful, intentional, and layered, Trigg’s art will be featured for the month of October in Friday Harbor’s WaterWorks Gallery, a short walk from the ferry terminal. WaterWorks Gallery 315 Argyle Ave., Friday Harbor 360.378.3060, waterworksgallery.com THE LAND WE LOVE OCTOBER 4–26, TIMES VARY

Allied Art’s “The Land We Love” exhibition is a showcase of art that depicts and celebrates the beauty of the region. Featuring art by local veterans, painters, and the Bellingham Metal Arts Guild, this series can’t be

Allied Arts of Whatcom County 1418 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.676.8548, alliedarts.org

OCTOBER 17, 7 P.M.

The Whatcom Museum is hosting a talk by prolific local artist Gretchen Leggitt. Leggitt has traveled by bike across seven countries, creating art along the way. See her art and photos and hear her tales in Old City Hall. The talk is free for museum members or $5 suggested donation. Old City Hall 121 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.778.8974, whatcommuseum.org CURATOR’S TOUR: ED BEREAL OCTOBER 18, 1:30 P.M.

Whatcom Museum Curator Amy Chaloupka will lead a personal tour of the new exhibit “WANTED: Ed Bereal for Disturbing the Peace.” Bereal is a local painter and installation artist whose art is inspired by his politics and his experience as a guerrilla street performer during the ‘60s and ‘70s. Whatcom Museum 250 Flora St., Bellingham 360.778.8974, whatcommuseum.org

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AGENDA Events

BC Beer Awards and Festival

OUT OF TOWN SEATTLE

VANCOUVER

WATER LANTERN FESTIVAL

JONAS BROTHERS: HAPPINESS BEGINS TOUR

OCTOBER 12, 4 P.M.

OCTOBER 11, 7:30 P.M.

Enjoy a magical night with your family and friends at the Seattle Water Lantern Festival. This family-friendly event stresses the importance of peace and love, providing participants with an unforgettable night under a dazzling sky of warmth and light. Each purchased ticket comes with a lantern to decorate, a commemorative bag, and a wristband.

After leaving their fans burning up in the sensation of their glory days, the Jonas Brothers are back and they’re fierier than ever. As one of the most anticipated comebacks of the decade, the recent announcement of their Happiness Begins tour celebrates the band’s reunion since their split in 2013.

Seattle Public Theater 7312 W. Green Lake Dr. N., Seattle waterlanternfestival.com

Rogers Arena 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver 604.899.7400, rogersarena.com BC BEER AWARDS AND FESTIVAL

TRICK OR DRINK

OCTOBER 19, 4 P.M.

OCTOBER 26 & 31, TIMES VARY

At the height of BC Craft Beer Month comes the 10th annual BC Beer Awards and Festival, known as the signature consumer tasting event of the month. The one-day event hosts 45 of BC’s best breweries and will present awards in more than 30 categories. What’s better than an evening spent sipping a cold one?

If you’re looking to continue the Halloween festivities after putting the kids to bed, this bar crawl is just for you. Assemble your most frightening crew of witches and vampires for a spirited night of trick-or-drinking. This two-day, 21+ event boasts the best bars and drink specials in town. The scariest thing you’ll have to look forward to is the morning after. Pike Brewing Co. 1415 First Ave., Seattle 310.384.3789, facebook.com/barcrawlerz

Croatian Cultural Centre 3250 Commercial Dr., Vancouver bcbeerawards.com

Events are posted on a first-come first-serve basis. Submissions must be received four weeks prior to the event with all the necessary information. Please submit event name, dates, times, short 40-word description, cover charge or ticket price, event venue including street address, a phone number, and a website. Any event from Seattle to Vancouver will be considered with priority placed on listings from Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan counties. Bellingham Alive is not responsible for errors in submissions. Please email all submissions to events@bellinghamalive.com.

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The Scene

AGENDA

RAID RELIEF TO REUNITE FAMILIES On a warm evening in late August, about 50 people gathered on the lower level of Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship Church for Raid Relief to Reunite Families’ anniversary fundraiser and ally training. The event marked exactly one year since Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raided Bellingham on August 29. In addition to hearing stories and testimony from victims of the raid, two representatives from the Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network (WAISN) conducted a presentation on what non-immigrant allies can do in the event of ICE’s presence in the area. The event raised about $2,000, which will go toward providing basic, ongoing needs for the families impacted by last year’s raid. Lindsey Major © Lindsey Major

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NOTES Lasting Image

“About the middle of summer our four-winged friends appear around our many lakes and ponds. This 12 spotted skimmer at Lake Padden stayed still long enough for me to get a shot.” JEFF BARCLAY, FERNDALE

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