2022
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to
Store front
EDUCATION HEALTH SERVICES EAT & DRINK RETAIL PROS TO KNOW
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Stroll the open-air mall and shop unique retail stores and boutiques
Grab a coffee • Pick up a beach picnic • Enjoy breakfast, lunch & dinner
Explore.
Check out our visitors kiosk and specialty merchants
BirchBaySquare.com • 15 mins from Semiahmoo Resort • 15 mins from Bellingham • 10 mins from US-Canada Border
THE FACE OF
REAL ESTATE Christine Cicchitti Windermere Real Estate 360.296.3814 cicchitti@windermere.com
THANK YOU to the community for the support of my business over the last 16 years and counting. I started my real estate business with the thought that I could help people in the most ethical way possible. I had heard all the rumors about realtors, and they were not good. It made me sad to think that I was going into a business that had a bad reputation, so I decided that I was going to do my best to change that. I believe in doing the right thing every time, no matter what. Over the years, my goals have evolved to include giving back to the community in as many ways as I can. I believe that our community has some of the kindest and most giving people living within it. Sometimes, all someone needs is a hand up in life to the next step on their journey.
FACES
OF THE NORTHSOUND
I have great team members who believe in my philosophy and give 100% to all of our clients. Join me in recognizing my team. A huge thank you to the Windermere family for being the BEST real estate company that I have ever worked for. Terri Gunderson: Preferred Lender PRIMARY RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE, INC. Kitty French: Transaction coordinator (not in Photo) Crystal O’neil: Windermere Agent, and buyer’s agent Jim Westford: Windermere Agent, and Land use consultant Jennifer Dodge: Office Manager Tinsel: Front desk at Windermere Ferndale office
50 Ways to Experience Whatcom County
92 6
Welcome-Whatcom.com
Sea to Storefront
Photo by Ana Hinojosa
62
Photo by Pavl Polo
Contents
Be Local. Savor.
Attend.
bellingham.org/plan Adventure.
@BellinghamExperience T H E S TAT E O F W A S H I N G T O N
WELCOME 2022 Online Exclusive
11
Publisher’s Letter
12
County Executive’s Letter
14
Elected Officials
16
Human & Public Services
112
Lasting Image
LIFE
42 School Board Representatives
62
50 Ways to Experience Whatcom County
43
Report Card
70
Community Engagement
44
Public Schools
72
Places of Worship
45 School District Early Dismissal & Closure Information 46
WELCOME TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Private Schools
76
Bellingham 24
Barkley Village
26
Fairhaven
28
Sudden Valley
30
Ferndale
32
Lynden
34
Birch Bay & Blaine
36
Mount Baker Foothills
From Courtroom to Classroom
Photo by Pat McDonnell
47
48
Colleges & Universities
49
Preschools
HEALTH
8
Welcome-Whatcom.com
80
Heart Health for FourLegged Friends
RETAIL Shopping Guide
84
Styled Shoot: Date Night
52
Photo by Dal Neitzel
53 Urgent Care, Naturopaths, Addiction & Cancer Treatment
Lummi Island
Pets
48 Alternative Learning Experiences
Medical Clinics & Services
38
78
84
Photo by Edye Colello-Morton
22
Photo by Esther Chong
Sports & Recreation
Photo by Nick Sadigh with Point 2 Studio
10
EDUCATION
54
Advances in Breast Cancer Diagnostics
56
Health & Medical Profiles
58
Cannabis Listings
88
Necessities
TASTE 92
Sea to Storefront
98
Dining Guide
PROS TO KNOW 104 Business Guide
Photo by Cocoa Laney
NOTES
to where you live.
357
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Notes Welcome-Whatcom.com
PUBLICATIONS Bellingham Alive NSL Guestbook Welcome Newcomers Guide
PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER
Weekly Online Exclusives Visit Welcome-Whatcom.com to discover weekly content highlighting the best Whatcom County has to offer. Learn about new restaurants, local chefs, business owners, and seasonal hiking destinations. You’re sure to find a hidden treasure with every click. Check us out!
Lisa Karlberg
EDITOR IN CHIEF Cocoa Laney
ART DIRECTOR Dean Davidson
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Devan Ballard Kristy Gessner Mia Sperandeo
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Mariah Currey
EDITORIAL/MARKETING COORDINATOR Anelyse Morris
Eat & Drink
Out & About
Let us introduce you to our favorite local restaurants, bars, and mixologists. Discover great recipes from local chefs, so you can recreate your favorite restaurant dishes in your own kitchen.
Looking for a new hike, a thoughtprovoking museum, or just curious about what to do around Whatcom County? This page brings you the area’s best-loved outings, activities, and events.
OFFICE MANAGEMENT Jenn Miranda
WEBSITE Welcome-Whatcom.com
CORPORATE OFFICE K & L Media, Inc. 432 W. Bakerview Road, Suite 101 Bellingham, WA 98226
INQUIRIES & SALES Photo by Elle Cartier
info@welcome-whatcom.com Welcome-Whatcom.com 360.483.4576 x4
Lifestyle
Every city in Whatcom is unique, with plenty to do, see, and explore. Let us be your personal guide. Pick a city and we’ll offer up some tips on where to go for the best shopping, dining, entertainment, and more. 10
Welcome-Whatcom.com
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Publisher’s Letter Notes
Welcome Home Explore your new area and discover why so many LOVE Whatcom County.
W
ELCOME! YOU’VE DISCOVERED the
most beautiful place in Washington state, at least from our point of view. Whatcom County is diverse in so many ways, from the beauty of the landscape to the people who live here. When you come to Whatcom County, you don’t come just to work, you come for a new and better lifestyle that balances work and play. You have come to the right place. Around every corner, you’ll discover why so many of us gravitated here. We come from all different backgrounds and from around the globe. Many just came to visit and ended up finding home, while others were born here and never wanted to leave. Others started their journey at Western Washington University and couldn’t bear the thought of leaving. Whatever the reason, and wherever your journey began, we’re glad you chose Whatcom County to be your new home. As you start to explore the area, be sure to make a trip into Fairhaven. This historic district is full of boutique shops and amazing restaurants, not to mention the South Bay Trail, which starts near Fairhaven Inn and leads all the way to Bellingham’s downtown core. On the way, visit Boulevard Park, or grab a latte from Woods Coffee and enjoy the sunset over Bellingham Bay. Downtown Bellingham is another destination full of history, charm, and plenty to do and see. Wander the streets, check out the eclectic shops, and find your new favorite restaurant. While you’re there, make sure to stop by the Whatcom Museum’s Lightcatcher building, a relatively new structure that
is already an iconic landmark. Another town treasure is Mount Baker Theatre. Many world-renowned productions stop here on their way from Seattle to Vancouver, meaning you get to experience global talent in an intimate atmosphere. It is not to be missed! Head north toward the Canadian border for stunning trails, hikes, clam digging, crabbing, epic sunsets, and oh…the food. Leaderblock Wine Co. in Ferndale has earned a Spectator of the Year award two years running, making it a must-visit. While you’re there, say hi to Amberleigh, she’ll welcome you with open arms and is the sommelier who heads their wine collection and list. Next, find your way to Lynden, our charming Dutch town full of unique boutiques and restaurants. If you love antiquing, Lynden is a gold mine. Visit during the annual Raspberry Festival and get a first-hand taste of the area’s bountiful crops. Mountain lovers, simply drive east on Mount Baker Highway to a little slice of alpine heaven. Whether you’re looking for world-class skiing, epic hikes among lakes and wildflowers, or just a beautiful bike ride through the forest, the Mount Baker area has it all. For something gentler, take your pick of the Chuckanuts, Galbraith, or visit one of the county’s numerous parks. Wherever you go, and whatever city you are now calling home…welcome to the neighborhood! We look forward to meeting you and helping you settle in. Sincerely,
Lisa Karlberg President | Publisher
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 11
Notes Whatcom County Executive’s Letter
Dear Friends! Welcome to Whatcom County!
A
S THE HOMELAND of the
Lummi and Nooksack tribes, Whatcom County has been welcoming newcomers from across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and beyond for many generations. A little more than three decades ago, I too was a new resident, bringing my family from Canada to make a home near the town of Lynden. If you’ve decided to call this place home, then we already have something in common and share love for Whatcom County! I’d like to offer a couple pieces of advice as you settle in. First, stop by your local library and get a library card. Libraries are cradles of local culture and knowledge, and Whatcom County has some great ones with very helpful and friendly staff. They can point you to the local history section, where you can learn about the customs of the Coast Salish people, the outsized dreams of the first pioneers, or the cunning of local smugglers. Also, I’ve found that librarians can advise on much more than books — they’re always ready to share their favorite hikes, mustsee museums, and suggestions for what to do on a free afternoon. Second, set aside some time to explore not just your immediate neighborhood but also the wide array of destinations between Lummi Island and Point Roberts to the west and Mt. Baker and North Cascades National Park to the east. It’s well worth a special effort, and you’ll soon have a dozen outing options for every season and mood. As you may already know, this beautiful corner of the world offers incredible outdoor recreation opportunities — where else can you ski, cycle, and sail all on the same day? Even after half a lifetime here, I am still uncovering hidden gems! Third, discover Whatcom County’s bounty. We’re nationally known for our raspberries and are the number-two dairy producer in our state, but there’s much more than that. From farm fresh
12
Welcome-Whatcom.com
produce and artisan baked goods to our vibrant arts and music scene, you’ll have opportunities to satisfy your established tastes while also pushing your boundaries with new culinary and cultural experiences. Our small-scale, locally owned businesses contribute so much to the color and character of our communities, and I believe that patronizing them is our civic duty! Fourth, don’t forget to introduce yourself to your neighbors and, if you are so inclined, get involved! I think you’ll find that our community is friendly and welcoming. Consider joining a hobby club, service organization, or community group. There’s a wealth of opportunity for civic engagement! My own first steps into the public arena began with my involvement in a foundation to support my children’s schools. Perhaps you too will find something that provides personal enrichment while also giving back to your community. Finally, get to know your representatives in local government. While much attention is given to the goings-on in Washington D.C., it’s your local public servants who are responsible for your roads and parks, schools and emergency services, and so much more. Speaking as County Executive, please know that County Government is here to serve you, and we are committed to being accessible, responsive, and transparent as we do the people’s business. I’m sure in a very short time you will begin to feel that this is a great new home and will be telling all your friends and family what we say — “I love Whatcom!”
Satpal S. Sidhu Whatcom County Executive 360.778.5200 ssidhu@whatcomcounty.us 311 Grand Ave., Bellingham
4428 6812 3456 7890 GOOD THRU
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Notes Elected Officials
County Council
City Mayors
DISTRICT 1*
DISTRICT 2
Bellingham
Blaine
Rud Browne
Todd Donovan
Seth Fleetwood
Bonnie Onyon
360.820.9494 rbrowne@co.whatcom.wa.us
360.483.8474 tdonovan@co.whatcom.wa.us
360.778.8100 mayorsoffice@cob.org
360.201.7239 bonyon@cityofblaine.com
DISTRICT 3
DISTRICT 4
Tyler Byrd
Kathy Kershner
Lynden
Ferndale
360.778.5021 tbyrd@co.whatcom.wa.us
360.220.7535 kkershne@co.whatcom.wa.us
Scott Korthuis
Greg Hansen
360.354.1170 ext. 5 korthuiss@lyndenwa.org
360.685.2350 greghansen@cityofferndale.org
DISTRICT 5
AT LARGE-POSITION A
Nooksack
Sumas
Ben Elenbaas
Barry Buchanan
Marshall Judy
Kyle Christensen
360.778.5025 belenbaa@co.whatcom.wa.us
360.224.4330 bbuchanan@co.whatcom.wa.us
360.966.2531 mayor@cityofnooksack.com
360.988.5711 kchristensen@cityofsumas.com
AT LARGE-POSITION B
Everson
Carol Frazey
John Perry (Photo unavailable)
360.778.5024 cfrazey@co.whatcom.wa.us
360.966.3411 mayor@ci.everson.wa.us
*Term expires January 2022. Civic positions subject to change.
14
Welcome-Whatcom.com
FACES
OF THE NORTHSOUND
THE FACE OF
GARDEN SUPPLY/NURSERY Garden Spot Nursery 900 Alabama St.,Bellingham 360.676.5480 garden-spot.com
Garden Spot Nursery is a neighborhood nursery and boutique, open year-round, where you can find indoor and outdoor plants, gifts, and supplies for all your garden projects. The people at the nursery are what make it so special. Garden Spot’s staff is a group of knowledgeable gardeners, each with a different specialty to help you realize your gardening dreams. The holiday season is a magical time at the nursery. Everywhere you look, lights glitter and illuminate unique, local, and handmade decorations and gifts. You can find greens, wreaths, cut and live trees of all shapes and sizes to bring you cheer during the cold months. If you just need a peaceful place to escape for a bit, come visit anytime.
Notes Human & Public Services
Border Crossings Lynden 360.354.2183
Pacific Highway, Blaine
Bellingham Public Library — Fairhaven
Womencare Shelter & Domestic Violence Services
1117 12th St., 360.778.7188
4120 Meridian St., Ste. 220, Bellingham, 360.671.8539
Blaine Library 610 3rd St., 360.305.3637
YWCA Bellingham
Peace Arch, Blaine
Everson Library
360.332.8511, 360.332.5771
104 Kirsch Dr., 360.966.5100
1026 N. Forest St., Bellingham, 360.734.4820
Sumas
Ferndale Library
360.988.2971
2125 Main St., 360.384.3647
Food Banks Bellingham Food Bank 360.676.0392
Blaine Food Bank 360.332.6350
Ferndale Food Bank 360.384.1506
Meals On Wheels & More 360.746.6480
Project Hope 360.354.4673
Island Library
Adult Protective Services (DSHS)
2144 S. Nugent Rd., 360.758.7145
877.734.6277
Lynden Library
Alcoholics Anonymous
216 4th St., 360.354.4883
360.734.1688
Point Roberts Library
Blaine Community Assistance Program
1431 Gulf Rd., 360.945.6545
South Whatcom Library 10 Barn View Ct., Sudden Valley Gate 2, 360.305.3632
Senior Services Northwest Regional Council 360.676.6749
Licensing Auto, Boat, & Trailer 360.778.5100
Driver 360.676.2096
Hunting & Fishing 360.902.2464
Marriage 360.778.5100
Marine, Biotoxin, & Red Tide Information 800.562.5632
Social Services & Other
Whatcom Council on Aging 360.733.4030
Whatcom County Love INC 360.671.6201
360.392.8484
Blaine Family Service Center 360.332.0740
Burn Ban Information 360.778.5903
Care Crisis Response Line, Compass Health 800.584.3578
Child Protective Services (CPS) 866.829.2153
Coast Guard Emergency 360.734.1692
Shelters
Department of Social & Health Services
Agape Home for Women & Children
877.501.2233
1215 F St., Bellingham, 360.733.3796
Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services Helpline
Department of Social & Health Services
360.715.1563
600 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham, 360.756.5750
800.562.6010
Forest Fire Reporting
Public Libraries
Lighthouse Mission Shelter
Northwest Washington American Red Cross
910 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.733.5120
425.252.4103
Bellingham Public Library — Barkley
Lydia Place
Pass Reports (WSDOT)
1701 Gladstone St., Bellingham, 360.671.7663
800.695.7623
New Way Ministries
800.222.1222
3111 Newmarket St., Ste. 103, 360.778.7290
Bellingham Public Library — Central 210 Central Ave., 360.778.7323
16
Welcome-Whatcom.com
360.354.9930
Poison Information Center Washington Recovery Hotline 866.789.1511
Special Needs Resources Max Higbee Center 1400 N. State St., Ste. 101, 360.746.7181
The Arc of Whatcom County 2602 McLeod Rd., Bellingham, 360.715.0170
Whatcom Developmental Disabilities Program
Washington State
206.787.5388
800.448.4881
U.S. Post Offices
Whatcom County 360.778.5102
Acme Post Office
Utilities
2026 Valley Hwy., 360.595.2189
Bellingham Post Office 315 Prospect St., 360.752.9822
360.778.6055
Bellingham Post Office
Washington Vocational Services
3150 Orleans St., 360.752.9825
725 N. State St., 425.774.3338
Voter Registration
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SeaTac)
CABLE, SATELLITE, & PHONE CenturyLink
Blaine Post Office
centurylink.com, 855.263.9576
701 Harrison Ave., 360.332.7184
Tourism Information Bellingham/Whatcom County Tourism 360.671.3990
360.676.7433
Greyhound 800.231.2222
Lummi Island Ferry
Frontier
Everson Post Office
9973 Mt. Baker Hwy., 360.599.3208
BoltBus (Cordata Station)
dish.com, 1.800.803.3388
5014 Deming Rd., 360.592.2032
Alaska Marine Highway System
800.872.7245
DISH
Deming Post Office
Transportation
Amtrak Reservation
directv.com, 877.554.0770
7632 Portal Way, 360.366.5666
108 Blair Dr., 360.966.4700
360.676.8445
DirecTV
Custer Post Office
frontier.com, 844.232.9134
Whidbey Telecom
Glacier Post Office
whidbeytel.com, 360.321.1122
Xfinity by Comcast
Lummi Island Post Office 2211 N. Nugent Rd., Bldg. 2, 360.758.2320
Lynden Post Office
ELECTRICITY
600 Front St., 360.354.2371
Maple Falls Post Office
City of Blaine Electric Water & Sewer Services
7392 Mt. Baker Hwy., 360.599.2917
360.332.8311
Sumas Post Office 534 Railroad Ave., 360.988.2613
City of Sumas Electric Water & Sewer Services
Veteran’s Services
360.988.5711
Bellingham Vet Center
888.225.5773
360.778.6200
Victoria & San Juan Islands Ferry 206.464.6400
Washington State Ferries 888.808.7977
Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) 360.676.7433
WTA Paratransit 360.733.1144
Bellingham International Airport 360.671.5674
1145 E. Sunset Dr., Ste. 105, Bellingham, xfinity.com, 800.934.6489
Puget Sound Energy Inc.
3800 Byron Ave., Ste. 124, Bellingham, 360.733.9226
Whatcom County Public Utility District #1
Disabled American Veterans
360.384.4288
625 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.384.3382
GARBAGE/RECYCLING/ COMPOST
Whatcom County Veterans Resources 509 Girard St., Lower Level, Bellingham, 360.778.6050
Paine Field (Everett) 425.353.2110
Bellingham Green Earth Technology (compost) 360.354.4936
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 17
Notes Human & Public Services Sanitary Service Company
AmeriGas Propane
Ferndale
360.734.3490
5387 La Bounty Dr., Ferndale, 360.384.4922
360.384.0303
360.733.0100
VanderYacht Propane
360.354.4400
Recycling & Disposal Services, Inc. (Whatcom)
6811 Guide Meridian Rd., Lynden, 360.398.1234
Maple Falls
WATER & SEWER
Sumas
Northwest Recycling, Inc.
360.384.8011
Point Roberts, Blaine, Lummi, Birch Bay, Point Whitehorn
Bellingham Water & Sewer Services
Cando Recycling & Disposal
Birch Bay Water & Sewer District
360.945.2636
360.371.7100
Nooksack, Everson, Sumas
Blaine Electric Water & Sewer Services
360.778.7900
Nooksack Valley Disposal & Recycling
360.332.8311
360.351.3400
360.966.3411
INTERNET
Everson Water & Sewer Services Ferndale Water & Sewer Services 360.384.4269
CenturyLink
Lynden Water & Sewer Services
centurylink.com, 855.263.9576
360.354.3446
CSS Communications Inc.
Nooksack Water & Sewer Services
cssnw.com, 360.671.4878
DirecTV directv.com, 855.842.4388
HughesNet internet.hughesnet.com, 1.855.892.4023
Frontier frontier.com, 844.232.9134
PogoZone pogozone.com, 360.676.8772
Xfinity by Comcast xfinity.com, 800.934.6489
PROPANE CHS Northwest Multiple locations, 360.354.4595
Economy Propane 2163 Natures Path Way, Blaine, 360.332.3121
Northwest Propane Multiple locations, 360.354.4471
18
Welcome-Whatcom.com
360.966.2531
Sumas Electric Water & Sewer Services 360.988.5711
Whatcom County Public Utility District #1 360.384.4288
Lynden
360.599.2823 360.988.9563
POLICE & SHERIFF (NON-EMERGENCIES) Bellingham Police Department 505 Grand Ave., Bellingham, 360.778.8800
Blaine Police Department 322 H St., Blaine, 360.332.6769
Everson Police Department 111 W. Main St., Everson, 360.966.4212
Ferndale Police Department 2220 Main St., Ferndale, 360.384.3390
Lummi Nation Police Department 2665 Kwina Rd., Bellingham, 360.312.2274
Lynden Police Department 203 19th St., Lynden, 360.354.2828
Nooksack Indian Tribe Police Department 5016 Deming Rd., Deming, 360.592.9065
Sumas Police Department 433 Cherry St., Sumas, 360.988.5711
Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office 311 Grand Ave., Bellingham, 360.778.6600
Law Enforcement FIRE/EMS (NONEMERGENCIES) Bellingham 360.778.8400
Blaine 360.318.9933
Deming 360.592.5094
Everson/Nooksack 360.966.5757
WASHINGTON STATE PATROL & BORDER PATROL Emergencies 9.1.1
U.S. Customs & Border Protection 360.380.0408
Historic Hospitality Bright Lights , Big Stars
MOUNT BAKER THEATRE IS NOW OPEN WITH LIVE PERFORMANCES! Performances by Award-Winning Artists
Lookout Sessions Intimate Musical Experiences
Eclectic Selection of Shows
Movie Palace Series for Just $10.50
GO ONLINE TO FIND TICKETS TO UPCOMING SHOWS AND THE LATEST HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDELINES
SEASON SPONSOR
Mount Baker Theatre is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to the performing arts.
Thank you for making us Bellingham’s Best Live Theatre
WELC ME Big Rock Garden Park Photo by Kelly Pearce
To The Neighborhood
CITIES OF WHATCOM COUNTY
F
BY THE NUMBERS 226,847 Residents 99,210 Housing Units $345,700 Median Value of Owner-Occupied Housing $1,060 Median Gross Rent 92.8% People Age 25 or Older Who Graduated High School $62,984 Median Household Income 22 Minutes for Average Work Commute
ROM COASTAL TOWNS to mountain getaways, there’s plenty to explore in Whatcom County. The area features several thriving urban communities as well as world-class access to the outdoors, so whether you’re a city dweller or a nature enthusiast, you’re sure to find a place that suits your style. Bellingham is the county’s largest city, and more than 90,000 people reside within its limits. Affectionately known as the “city of subdued excitement,” it offers the best of both worlds in terms of urban amenities and outdoor adventure. Entertainment, shopping, and dining options abound in the downtown corridor and historic Fairhaven Village. Residents also have access to numerous parks, recreation areas, and trails, so there’s always something to do. The town of Ferndale is located just outside of Bellingham, and if you continue due north, you’ll also come across Custer and Lynden. The border town of Blaine, which contains the seaside village of Birch Bay, is located in the northwest corner of the county. Visitors will find two ports of entry and Peace Arch Park, which straddles the boundary between Canada and the United States. In the foothills beneath Mount Baker, Deming, Maple Falls, and Glacier each offer a unique brand of mountain town charm. Further along Mount Baker Highway is Artist Point, which features an array of trails as well as stunning mountain vistas as far as the eye can see. If you instead take State Route 9, you can pay a visit to the towns of Sumas, Everson/Nooksack, and Acme.
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 21
Bellingham
F
ROM THE BUSTLING down-
town area to the serenity of Bellingham Bay, this “city of subdued excitement” has plenty to offer visitors and residents alike. Its history can be traced back thousands of years as the homeland of the Coast Salish peoples, who thrived off the region’s bountiful seafood and live in the area to this day. After the gold rush spurred population growth among European settlers, four separate towns came into existence: Fairhaven, Whatcom, Sehome, and Bellingham. These settlements were combined in 1903 to form the Bellingham we know today. The city has historically catered to industries such as fishing, mining, and lumber. For a peek at Bellingham’s industrial past, pay a visit to the waterfront, which functioned as a tissue mill from the ‘60s until the mid-2000s. It is currently being redeveloped into a mixed-use space with public art and access to the bay. 22
Welcome-Whatcom.com
Old City Hall
Nowadays PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center and Western Washington University are the city’s largest employers, and Bellingham’s population has nearly doubled in size since the mid-20th century. It continues to draw in transplants from across the state and country thanks to its clean air, natural beauty, and safety. There are more than 20 neighborhoods in Bellingham, including Barkley, Fairhaven, Lettered Streets, Columbia, Birchwood, Cordata, Sunnyland, and Sehome. The Bellingham Bay forms a natural boundary west of the city, and the North Cascade Mountains lie to the east. Located in the southeast is Lake Whatcom, a 10-mile-long lake that provides both drinking water and plenty of summertime fun. Finally, head due south along the bay to visit the Chuckanut Mountains. These
natural wonders can be accessed with just a five-minute trip outside the city, and they contain a wealth of scenic overlooks and trails. Downtown Bellingham is the city’s hub for commercial activity and entertainment. Shoppers can explore everything from upscale boutiques to eclectic gift shops, home decor outlets, and much more. There’s also a diverse restaurant scene, so whether you’re craving custom-made crepes or Ethiopian injera bread, you’ll find an eatery to appease just about any appetite. Need a pick-me-up after your meal? The downtown corridor also has locally owned coffee shops in spades. If you happen to be downtown on a Saturday morning between April and December, swing by Depot Market Square for the Bellingham Farmers Market. It features more than 100 vendors selling everything from local produce to baked goods and even handmade jewelry. Bellingham has a thriving arts culture, and the Mount Baker Theatre is the city’s most iconic venue when it comes to live entertainment. It’s been around since 1927, and names such as Ira Glass, David Sedaris, and even Jane Goodall have each graced its stage over the years. Other quintessential music venues include Wild Buffalo House of Music and The Shakedown, both conveniently located downtown. The Whatcom Museum is a major point of reference for visual art, and it consists of several separate buildings: The Lightcatcher Building (which contains the Family Interactive Gallery), the Syre Education Center, and the distinctive Old City Hall. Bellingham’s downtown area is also home to several independently owned galleries, and Make.Shift provides studios for local artists and musicians. Allied Arts of Whatcom County holds an Art Walk on the first Friday of every month, and it’s a great opportunity to connect with other artists and artisans. There’s also the Rebel Artists of Whatcom, an inclusive arts collective that hosts pop-up markets in Commercial Street Plaza every Saturday. During the first two weekends of October, the public
In the Loop Another perk for Bellingham residents is the city’s proximity to numerous trip-worthy areas. If you’re seeking an urban getaway, you don’t have to look far — Seattle is 90 miles away, and Vancounver, B.C. is just under 60 miles away. For a less metropolitan escape, head south to the Skagit Valley. Skagit County is known for its agricultural bounty, annual Tulip Festival, and access to the San Juan Islands via the port town of Anacortes. The most picturesque way to get to Skagit is by taking Chuckanut Drive Scenic Byway. Nestled between the Chuckanut Mountains and the bay, this stretch of road features stunning views of the water, mountains, and San Juan Islands. Alternatively, if you go east past the Cascade Mountains, you’ll find yourself in the Methow Valley. This area offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and is especially beautiful when the leaves start to turn. Of course, Bellinghamsters don’t even need to leave the city for a dose of outdoor fun. Bellingham is a haven for mountain bikers, and Galbraith Mountain offers more than 60 miles of world-class trails that are also fit for horseback riding and hiking. Hikers can also head to the Chuckanut Mountains for day hikes such as Fragrance Lake or the breathtaking Oyster Dome. For a longer backpacking adventure, Pine & Cedar Lakes is an ideal overnight destination. No visit to Bellingham would be complete without a visit to Whatcom Falls, which boasts four sets of waterfalls and several miles of walking trails. Other must-do walks include the Interurban Trail, which connects Fairhaven and Larrabee State Park, as well as the loop around Lake Padden. In addition to being a full-service marina and public boat launch, Squalicum Harbor has walking trails and is a great spot for sunset-watching. Regardless of age, background, or interests, there’s a place for everyone in Bellingham. It’s no wonder why residents are proud to call this idyllic city their home.
The city’s flag, designed by Bradley James Lockhart, is highly symbolic. The bay is represented by the blue half circle, while the Nooksack Indian Tribe and Lummi Nation are signified by two stars. The word “Whatcom,” meaning “noisy waters,” is represented by three wavy lines. Whatcom County loves its beer, as evidenced by the fact that there are around 17 different breweries within its limits. You can keep track of them all with a Tap Trail map and passport and even redeem stamps for prizes. In the summer, bioluminescent plankton light up the Bellingham Bay with their distinctive blue sparkle. The best way to experience this phenomenon is on a paddleboard, and companies such as the Bellingham Bay
Community Boating Center offer tours from June until September.
Comedy lovers should catch an improv show at Bellingham’s beloved Upfront Theatre. It’s owned by comedian, actor, and Bellingham local Ryan Stiles, whose name you might recognize from “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”. The Acid Ball is arguably Bellingham’s quirkiest piece of public art. Located on the waterfront at Waypoint Park, this industrial artifact was transformed into a radiant and interactive sculpture by Seattlebased architecture firm Muutus.
Photo by Esther Chong
is invited to visit local artists’ private studios during the Whatcom Artist Studio Tour. Bellingham is also a dream destination for those who are interested in the fine art of craft beer. Boundary Bay, Aslan, and Gruff are downtown classics, while the Sunnyland neighborhood boasts spots such as Kulshan and Otherlands. With more than 15 breweries to choose from, you’ll be hard-pressed to pick a favorite. Cider drinkers should check out Herb’s Cider, whereas Chuckanut Distillery brews up some of Bellingham’s finest spirits. The beer may be delicious, but balance is the key to health. Thankfully it’s easy to stay fit and active yearround in Bellingham, and in addition to the great outdoors, there are plenty of indoor fitness centers to pick from. Whether you’re looking for standard gym amenities or niches such as Muay Thai, rock climbing, or even aerial yoga, there’s a gym out there for everyone. For healthcare, Bellingham has Peacehealth St. Joseph Medical Center as well as smaller clinics that specialize in everything from traditional to naturopathic medicine. Whether you’re an athlete or a spectator, the Ski to Sea race is another can’t-miss summertime affair. This multi-sport relay starts with a Mount Baker ski run and finishes with sea kayaking in the Bellingham Bay. Other annual sporting events include the Bellingham SwimRun, Lake Whatcom Triathlon, Bellingham Bay Marathon, and the Bellingham Traverse. In addition to all these fun and games, the city’s educational offerings are a major draw for new residents. Western Washington University was named as the top public master'sgranting institution in the Pacific Northwest by the 2022 U.S. News & World Report College Rankings. Other higher-ed options include Whatcom Community College, Bellingham Technical College, or Northwest Indian College. Younger learners have access to an array of respected K-12 institutions, including public, private, Montessori-style, and faithbased options.
After the four original settlements were combined, the resulting town was first known as New Whatcom. Fairhaven residents weren’t exactly fans of that moniker, so Bellingham was chosen as a compromise in 1903.
The Acid Ball at Waypoint Park
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 23
Photo by Zoe Deal
Barkley Village
small-town spirit. This mixed-use neighborhood was created in 2010 when the Mount Baker neighborhood was split between what is now Barkley and Irongate. It’s situated to the east at the Sunset exit of I-5, just north of Alabama Hill. This walkable urban village offers shopping, sightseeing, and a great selection of restaurants. Many of Barkley’s homes feature views of Bellingham Bay, and apartment dwellers also have plenty of options for upscale rentals. A full calendar of community events means that new residents have ample opportunity to meet their neighbors. Barkley is home to businesses with both local and international reach, and the neighborhood’s commercial heart is situated between Woburn Street and Barkley Boulevard. This area has a high concentration of offices, clinics, and shopping destinations such as Statement Apparel. For groceries, Haggen Food & Pharmacy is also located in the heart of the neighborhood. Not in the mood to cook? Residents can dine out at local favorites such as Jalapeños, Vitality Bowls, On Rice Thai Cuisine, Zen Sushi & Bar, and Luna’s Bistro. To see what the outdoors has to offer, head east down Sunset Drive for the Mount Baker Scenic Byway, an idyllic stretch of road that offers world-class skiing and hiking. If you’d prefer to stick closer to home, Barkley Village has a myriad of trails that will take you all over town. Whatcom Falls, Big Rock Garden, and Northridge Park are only a short distance away. In the summer, Bloedel Donovan Park is the destination for swimming. 24
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Big Rock Garden
Photo by Kelly Pearce
N
ESTLED IN THE northeast corner of Bellingham is Barkley Village, an urban community with a
If you’re looking for something to do this weekend (and throughout the year), Barkley has you covered. On the Barkley Village Green, keep an eye out for events such as the Vietnam Veterans Car Show, Salish to Salish 10K, Barkley Village Wine Walk, and the summer farmers market. In addition, the Concert on the Green event is an annual favorite featuring live music for a good cause. For an evening on the town, start by grabbing happy hour at Scotty Browns or the Blue Abode Bar. Next, head to the Regal Barkley Village IMAX & RPX for popcorn and a movie. To finish off the night, Overflow Taps is the spot for craft beer and wine — and 1% of sales is donated to help build water projects in lowincome countries. In addition to the nightlife, Barkley has plenty of amenities for families. The neighborhood is home to Bellingham Public Library — Barkley Branch, and the Barkley Village Gazebo hosts kid-friendly events throughout the year. Northern Heights Elementary School is the closest school, but students also attend Shuksan Middle School and Squalicum High School.
Town Halls City of Bellingham 210 Lottie St., Bellingham, 360.778.8000
City of Blaine 435 Martin St., Blaine, 360.332.8311
City of Everson 111 W. Main St., Everson, 360.966.3411
City of Ferndale 2095 Main St., Ferndale, 360.384.4302
City of Lynden 300 4th St., Lynden, 360.354.1170
City of Nooksack 103 W. Madison St., Nooksack, 360.966.2531
City of Sumas 433 Cherry St., Sumas, 360.988.5711
Chambers of Commerce Bellingham/ Whatcom Chamber of Commerce 119 N. Commercial St., Ste. 110, Bellingham, 360.734.1330
Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce 7900 Birch Bay Dr., Blaine, 360.371.5004
Blaine Chamber of Commerce 546 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine, 800.624.3555
Everson/Nooksack Chamber of Commerce 103 W. Main St., Everson, 360.966.3407
Welcome to Your New Homes — Both of Them...
Ferndale Chamber of Commerce 2007 Cherry St., Ferndale, 360.384.3042
Lynden Chamber of Commerce 518 Front St., Lynden, 360.354.5995
Sumas Chamber of Commerce PO Box 268, Sumas, info@ sumaschamber.com
Bellingham Travel & Cruise 1801 Roeder Ave., Ste. #144 360.733.1270 bellinghamtravel.com
Unpacking moving boxes leave you ready to pack it in? Let your new neighbors at Bellingham Travel & Cruise send you somewhere to recuperate. All you need pack or unpack is a sarong. We’ve been the neighborhood’s trusted, full-service, travel agency for over 50 years. We hope your next move in Bellingham is to make us your vacation home — that warm and welcoming place you go whenever you want to get away.
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 25
Photo by Zoe Deal
Book a walking tour with the Good Time Girls to find out more about the fascinating — and frequently hilarious — history of Bellingham and Fairhaven. Even longtime locals will learn a thing or two (and have fun while they’re at it).
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Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema
Fairhaven
In the Loop When walking the streets of Fairhaven, keep your eyes peeled for historical markers. Some are informative (“site of Alger Stagecoach Station”) while others are just plain weird (“here is where Matthew was cut in two by a streetcar”).
Photo by Zoe Deal
Photo by Tony Mueantonthian
Iron Rooster Bakery
H
EAD TO THE southern
end of Bellingham’s city limits and you’ll encounter Fairhaven, a waterfront district that’s home to some of Bellingham’s most colorful history. This charming area was one of the four original settlements eventually consolidated into the city of Bellingham. Fairhaven was originally settled as a pioneer town in 1853. It was later founded by Daniel J. Harris, also known as “Dirty Dan,” in 1883, and its economic vitality has since waxed and waned. 19th-century
real estate investors banked on it becoming the terminus of the Great Northern Railroad, but Seattle was chosen instead. In the 20th century, deep-water frontage access to resources made it an ideal site for manufacturing. However, the industry eventually shifted to downtown Bellingham. After decades of booms and busts, Fairhaven was revitalized in the latter half of the 20th century. Modern Fairhaven may not be the bustling city center of centuries past, but its history is an integral part of Bellingham’s character. Featuring
Local Parks Arroyo Park 1700 Old Samish Rd.
Birchwood Park 2709 Cedarwood Ave.
Bloedel Donovan Park 2114 Electric Ave.
Boulevard Park 470 Bayview Dr.
Cornwall Park Photo by Zoe Deal
3424 Meridian St.
Keenan’s at the Pier
distinctive red-brick architecture and plenty of Victorian charm, the downtown area is a delight to explore. At the heart of everything is Fairhaven Village Green, and it’s the perfect spot to stop and enjoy a sweet treat from Acme Valley Ice Cream Cafe or Sirena Gelato. In the summer months on Wednesdays, the green is also home to Bellingham Farmers Market and Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema. Fairhaven features plenty of art galleries, stores, and boutiques, so if you’re in the mood to shop, you’ve come to the right place. For women’s clothing, head to Three French Hens, Serendipity, or Adored Boutique. Bella Rose Boutique also offers a curated selection of bath and beauty products. Bookworms will feel right at home in Village Books, Bellingham’s beloved indie bookstore. When it comes to libations, Galloway’s Cocktail Bar is a musttry for craft cocktails and art-deco ambiance. Beer lovers will enjoy Stones Throw Brewery and Paws for a Beer, the latter of which is Bellingham’s first and only dogfriendly tavern. Food options abound in Fairhaven: There’s brunch at Skylark’s Hidden Cafe, Thai-Lao fusion at Maikham Thai, French pastries at Iron Rooster Bakery, and plenty more. Pizza
lovers are spoiled for choice between Fairhaven Pizza, Övn Wood Fired Pizza, and Pizza’zza. On date night, Dirty Dan Harris Steakhouse has excellent prime rib, whereas Keenan’s at the Pier offers up local cuisine and waterfront views. Fairhaven residents enjoy easy access to numerous gyms, health clinics, and other essentials such as Haggen Food & Pharmacy. Just up the hill is Western Washington University, and Fairhaven also sports a branch of the Bellingham Public Library. For younger students, Lowell Elementary School and Fairhaven Middle School are within walking distance. If it’s nature you’re looking for, Fairhaven Park, Arroyo Park, Marine Park, and Post Point Lagoon Estuary are all connected via the Interurban Trail. The South Bay Trail is a classic and beloved route that stretches from downtown Fairhaven, through the docks of Boulevard Park, and along the water until finally reaching downtown Bellingham. Hop on an Amtrak Cascades train or Greyhound bus at Fairhaven Station for a jaunt to Seattle, Portland, or Vancouver, B.C. Alternatively, take Chuckanut Drive Scenic Byway for stunning waterfront views, access to Larrabee State Park, and trailheads for a plethora of classic hikes.
Euclid Park 1570 Euclid Ave.
Fairhaven Park 1900 20th St.
Lake Padden Park 4882 S. Samish Way
Larrabee State Park 245 Chuckanut Dr.
Little Squalicum Park 640 Marine Dr.
Maritime Heritage Park 500 W. Holly St.
Northridge Park 3400 Carrington Way
Roosevelt Park Verona St.
Sehome Hill Arboretum 800 E. Myrtle St.
Squalicum Creek Park 1001 Squalicum Way
Squires Lake Park 2510 Nulle Rd.
St. Clair Park 2014 St. Clair St.
Sudden Valley Dog Park Marina Dr.
Ted Edwards Park 4150 Oriental Ln.
Whatcom Falls Park 1401 Electric Ave.
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 27
Sudden Valley
L
OCATED ALONGSIDE THE
beautiful Lake Whatcom is the Sudden Valley neighborhood. This serene community is perfect for avid golfers and first-time home owners alike. Now home to more than 8,000 residents, Sudden Valley has grown immensely since its beginnings in 1969. Originally a private property known as “The Ranch,” the 1,200-acre community ecompasses all there is to love about living in Whatcom County. The 20-minute commute from Bellingham makes the neighborhood ideal for those looking for a quieter area that’s still close to city amenities. With an abundance of parks, playgrounds, and lake access, you get the best of both worlds — suburbian perks in a woodsy, isolated atmosphere. Don’t let the access to the 18-hole Sudden Valley Golf Course, a private marina, two community gardens, and
Events Bellingham Cocktail Week February
Whatcom Cultural Arts Festival March
St. Patrick’s Day Parade March
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two swimming pools (one of which is Olympic-sized) fool you — home prices are actually lower in Sudden Valley, making it a great location for those who are starting out or looking to downsize. You don’t have to leave the area to find amenities. The Community Center is home to a gym, sauna, game lounge, dance barn, and children’s area. You can also find lots of social events such as knitting groups, fitness classes, and mahjong. Looking for a quiet work space? A branch of the Whatcom Public Library is nearby too.
Dirty Dan Day Seafood Festival April
If you’re looking for a bite to eat, local eateries include Tino’s Pizza & Pasta Co., Glenhaven Grille, and El Agave Mexican Restaurant. For those who’d rather eat at home but don’t want to drive into town for groceries, the Valley Market & Deli is there for all your last minute meal prep needs. Moving to the area with your kids? Sudden Valley falls under the Bellingham Public School District, with students attending Geneva Elementary School, Kulshan Middle School, and finishing at Bellingham Public High School.
Bellingham’s Haggen Family 4th of July Celebration
Fairhaven Winterfest November
April
Bellingham Pride
Holiday Port Festival & Gingerbread House Contest
Ski to Sea Race
July
December
May
Downtown Sounds
Bellingham Festival of Music
August
*Event dates based on 2021 events and are subject to change.
July
October
Bellingham Beer Week
July
Bellingham SeaFeast
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Photo by Mariah Currey
Centennial Riverwalk Park
Ferndale
I
F YOU DRIVE just northwest of Bellingham, you’ll find the city of Ferndale situated along the Nooksack River. With views of Mount Baker in the east and the
San Juan Islands in the west, it’s safe to say that this spot is picturesque from every direction. More than 14,000 people call Ferndale home, although if you include the surrounding unincorporated areas, that number grows to around 30,000. In addition to the abundant nature and quiet pace of life, Ferndale offers quick access to urban hotspots such as Vancouver, B.C. and Seattle. It began as a dairy and logging town but has since developed into a fast-growing manufacturing city. Given how affordable commercial properties are, prominent companies such as Samson Rope, Superfeet, Cascade Dafo, NutraDried Food Company, and Jack’s Paleo Kitchen call Ferndale their home. Ferndale School District covers not only residents of Ferndale, but also Custer, Lummi Island, and north Bellingham. Overall, the district serves almost 5,000 students between one high school, two middle schools, and six elementary schools. Activities such as boating, hunting, golfing, fishing, skiing, and hiking are all within reach to residents, making Ferndale an excellent home base for families. Originally established by
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the Hovander family in 1969, Hovander Homestead Park is a notable spot for education, entertainment, and trails. The Scandinavian-style Hovander House lies at the center of the park, and the grounds also include a barn complete with live farm animals in the summertime. Nearby Pioneer Park is home to 12 cedar slab log cabins that are maintained by the Ferndale Heritage Society. Throughout the year, visitors can take tours, rent specific buildings, or visit the park for special events such as the Old Settlers Weekend in July and Olde Fashioned Christmas in December. Birders flock to Tennant Lake Park for its wetlands, walking trails, and variety of native birds. To get an even closer look, the Sardis Raptor Center rehabilitates injured birds such as bald eagles, owls, hawks, and falcons. The center also offers educational programs. Despite its size, Ferndale’s restaurant scene is one to watch. Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery caught the attention of the Wine Spectator Restaurant Awards and won an award of excellence in 2019. Other notable eateries include Yeah Baby Boards and The Steak House at Silver Reef, whereas FrinGe Brewing and Main Street Bar and Grill are popular watering holes.
Local Parks Hovander Homestead Park 5299 Nielsen Ave., Ferndale
Jensen Family Forest Park 8051 Stein Rd., Custer
Star Park 5447 Ferndale Rd., Ferndale
Centennial Riverwalk Park 5667 Front Ave., Ferndale
Events Lummi Nation Stommish Water Festival June
Ferndale Old Settler’s Picnic July
Olde Fashioned Christmas December *Event dates based on 2021 events and are subject to change.
In the Loop Due to a two-mile log jam on the nearby Nooksack River, the city of Ferndale was originally known as “Jam.” Alice Eldridge, the city’s first schoolteacher, was also the first to call it Ferndale (and luckily the name caught on). Cheese aficionados are practically required to sample offerings from Twin Sisters Creamery. Their award-winning artisan cheese is some of Whatcom County’s best.
FrinGe Brewing is Ferndale’s first (and only)
Photo by Lindsay Slevin
Centennial Riverwalk Park
Photo by Mariah Currey
commercial craft brewery. It’s located in what was originally the town’s police station, and the building also functioned as a library and post office in subsequent years.
Twin Sisters Creamery
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 31
In the Loop You can pay tribute to Phoebe Judson, also known as the “mother of Lynden,” by visiting her statue in front of the Chamber of Commerce. In addition to coining the town’s name, she is remembered for her midwife services, generosity, and for starting the town’s first school in own home. Whatcom County has the largest per capita crop of raspberries in the world, and more than 65% percent of red raspberries in the U.S. are grown here. The Northwest Raspberry Festival happens in Lynden at the peak of summer harvest, attracting visitors from across the state. The annual Northwest Washington Fair is a must-attend celebration of local agriculture, food, and fun. It has historically been a weeklong event, but after being canceled in 2020, the 2021 fair returned as a 10-day extravaganza. The 2022 festival will also span 10 days. Photo by Lee Eberhardt
Woods Coffee has locations all across the North Sound, but its flagship store is in Lynden.
Artifacts and oddities abound at the Lynden Pioneer Museum, which houses the largest collection of horse-drawn vehicles west of the Mississippi River.
In addition to offering U-pick pumpkins and plenty of seasonal activities, Bellewood Farms is home to Washington’s first apple distillery. Bellewood Distillery crafts award-winning spirits including gin, vodka, brandy, and even pear liqueur.
L
Courtesy of Woods Coffee
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Lynden OCATED ROUGHLY 30 minutes north of Bellingham, the city of Lynden is best known for its bountiful agriculture
and strong Dutch heritage. As the second largest city in Whatcom County, this tight-knit community boasts roughly 15,000 residents and is steadily growing. Even so, visiting Lynden feels like returning to simpler times — with the addition of modern amenities plus a noteworthy shopping and dining scene. Lynden’s economy has historically revolved around the farming of berries, dairy, and row crops. To sample these famous berries, you can buy a punnet or pick them yourself at local farms such as Haugen’s Raspberries, Shumway’s Berries, and Mellema Farm. In the summertime, Lynden hosts two annual events celebrating the area’s rich agricultural tradition: The Farmers Day Parade and the Northwest Raspberry Festival. There’s also the Northwest Washington Fair, an annual extravaganza of food, fun, and farming. When the holidays arrive, the Northwest Lighted Christmas Parade showcases a procession of glittering tractors, floats, and farm equipment. It’s sponsored by Edaleen Dairy, a local farm that produces some of the best ice cream in the county. If you have a sweet tooth, you’re in luck — two of their six storefronts are located in Lynden. As you might imagine, Lynden’s small-town charms make it an ideal place for families. The Lynden School District serves approximately 3,000 students and includes three elementary
Photo by Esther Chong
City Park
schools, one middle school, one high school, and an alternative learning school. Lynden is also home to beautiful parks such as Berthusen Park, Bender Fields, and City Park, a.k.a. Million Smiles Playground Park. It’s also worth mentioning that Lynden is the largest Dutch settlement in the state. To immerse yourself in the town’s storied history, head to Front Street, also known as Old Dutch Town. You’ll find the Lynden Pioneer Museum, which houses a life-sized replica of historic Front Street businesses as well as an early 20th-century farmhouse. For a taste of the Netherlands, stop into Lynden Dutch Bakery for traditional Dutch treats (or check out sister business Just Desserts for all-American goodies such as pie and ice cream). Other worthwhile sights include the 72-foot-tall windmill on the corner of Front and Seventh Street. If you’re hungry, step inside the windmill for a meal or craft cocktail at The Mill Bistro and Lounge. Front Street is also home to other noteworthy stops including Village Books & Paper Dreams, the Jansen Art Center, Cheeks Jeans, and Overflow Taps. Just a block away, Lynden Skateway reigns supreme as the only roller rink in Whatcom County.
Located in the beautiful Fairhaven area of Bellingham, Washington, our community has enjoyed decades of serving seniors while providing support to cherished loved ones.
Local Parks Bender Fields 8770 Bender Rd.
Berthusen Park 8837 Berthusen Rd.
Lynden City Park 8460 Depot Rd.
Events Spring Craft & Antique Show March
Whatcom Home & Garden Show April
Lynden Farmers Day Parade
Schedule a tour today and come see why we are Whatcom county’s Premiere Senior Living Experience!
June
Northwest Raspberry Festival July
Northwest Washington Fair August
702 32nd St. Bellingham
Fall Craft & Antique Show October
360.676.9193
Lynden Lighted Parade
rosewoodvilla. avalonseniorliving.com
December *Event dates based on 2021 events and are subject to change.
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 33
Local Parks Baker Preserve Seacrest Dr., Lummi Island
Bay Horizon Park 7506 Gemini St., Blaine
Birch Bay State Park 5105 Helweg Rd., Blaine
Blaine Marine Park 272 Marine Dr., Blaine,
Halverson Park 5075 Anderson Rd., Blaine
Lighthouse Marine Park 811 Marine Dr., Point Roberts
Lily Point Marine Park 2315 APA Rd., Point Roberts
Lincoln Park 1800 H St., Blaine
Salishan Park
Birch Bay & Blaine
Semiahmoo Spit
1275 Blaine Ave., Blaine
Semiahmoo Park 9261 Semiahmoo Pkwy., Blaine
Events Polar Bear Plunge at Birch Bay January
Blaine’s Old Fashioned Fourth of July Festival & Street Fair July
Fourth of July with Semiahmoo Resort July
Drayton Harbor Days August
Birch Bay Days & Crab Festival September
Wings Over Water: Northwest Washington Birding Festival October *Event dates based on 2021 events and are subject to change.
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Blaine Located right next to Canada, the border town of Blaine boasts wide expanses of coastline, views of Vancouver Island and Point Roberts, and a population of roughly 6,000. Children attend the Blaine School District, which operates a high school, middle school, elementary school, and two primary schools. Between Blaine and Douglas, B.C. you’ll find the Peace Arch, the centerpiece of the Peace Arch Historical Park. It was constructed to celebrate peace between the United States and Canada. To this day, its towering white design is an iconic part of Blaine’s culture and history. The surrounding park is perfect for families and gatherings, featuring 19 acres, 85 picnic tables, playgrounds, and even a kitchen for rent. At nearby Marine Park, visitors can walk the trails and beaches or have a picnic while the kids play on a nautical-themed playground. In the spring the park holds the Wings Over Water Festival, an annual event that features live bird presentations, local vendors, and an all-day birding expo.
After visiting the park, stop for a bite to eat at one of Blaine’s local restaurants. Choices include The Rustic Fork for Italian, Chada Thai for Thai, and Drayton Harbor Oyster Company for seafood. Jack Niemann’s Black Forest Steak House is best for those who prefer turf over surf, and Bordertown Mexican Grill is the place to go for authentic Mexican fare. Need a pick-me-up? A latte from The Railway Cafe should do the trick. The Semiahmoo Spit is another scenic stop to make while in town. Nestled between Semiahmoo Bay and Drayton Harbor, Semiahmoo Park features trails with great views and plenty of wildlife. At the end of the spit is Semiahmoo Resort, an upscale getaway that features luxury suites, a spa, golf, pickleball, beachside activities, and an on-site restaurant, Packers Kitchen + Bar. For an immersive history lesson, take a ride on the Historic Plover Ferry during the summer months. This boat once transported cannery workers between Blaine and Semiahmoo Spit. At the end of the ride, make sure to stop at Alaska Packers Association Cannery Museum.
Photo by Dean Davidson
The Rustic Fork
If you drive just south of Blaine, you’ll reach Birch Bay. The area gets its name from the body of water enclosed by Point Whitehorn and the Semiahmoo Peninsula. Sitting at roughly 9,000 residents, Birch Bay features a picturesque waterfront with plenty of recreation year-round. The crowned jewel of this small community is Birch Bay State Park. With more than 8,000 feet of beaches and warmer-than-usual water (for Washington, at least), the park offers a multitude of activities. For wildlife lovers, Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve is the place to potentially see porpoises, spotted seals, and various birds. For dining, your options include CJ’s Beach House, Bay Breeze Restaurant & Bar, Scampi Osteria, and The Beach at Birch Bay. There’s also Beach Cat Brewing, one of the newest additions to Whatcom County’s craft beer scene. Birch Bay Waterslides is a popular summertime destination for families, and they even host drive-in (or “dive in”) movie nights. Another kid-friendly attraction is Station 49, an amusement park with an arcade, minigolf, and go-karts. The center also features a miniature train that meanders through the park and surrounding forest. After your ride, pick up some drinks and snacks from The Saloon to refuel. Round out the rest of your day by visiting Birch Bay Square for shopping. Among the assortment of stores, you’ll find locally owned businesses such as Betty Be Good Boutique and Bow Wow and Woofs.
Betty Be Good
Photo by Lindsey Major
Birch Bay
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Mount Baker Foothills
M
OUNT BAKER IS a hub for outdoor fun, whether
that be summertime hiking or snow sports after the ski season kicks off. Its surrounding communities are also worth a visit, and you can reach them via two roads: State Route 542 (running northeast from Bellingham, also known as Mount Baker Highway) or State Route 9 (running north and south). No matter one which one you pick, you’ll encounter no shortage of picturesque stops along the way.
Mount Baker Highway Follow the Nooksack river down this breathtaking highway and you’ll soon find yourself in Deming, located within the Nooksack Indian Reservation. This small community (population 350) is also home to the tribe’s government offices. Each June, make sure to catch the Deming Logging Show to witness a myriad of entertaining logging feats, all for the benefit of “busted up loggers” injured in the woods. Of course, no visit to Deming is complete without a visit to North Fork Brewery or Rifugio’s Country Italian Cuisine — or both if you’re extra hungry. Continue northeast along the river and you’ll discover the tiny yet charming towns of Kendall and Maple Falls. There’s not much retail to speak of, but Maple Falls does have a grocery store as well as a coffee shop. Maple Falls is also home to Yuki Yama, a Japanese restaurant, and Frosty Inn, a chalet-esque eatery and lounge. As for the outdoors, Silver Lake Park is located north and offers camping, cabin and lodge rentals, boating, and fishing. Your next stop is Glacier, the gateway to Mount BakerSnoqualmie National Forest and portions of the North Cascades National Parks. Here you’ll find several lodging 36
Welcome-Whatcom.com
options as well as eateries such as Chair 9 Woodstone Pizza & Bar and the popular Wake ‘n’ Bakery. You’ll need the fuel to tackle the hiking trails; popular routes starting in Glacier include Skyline Divide, Church Mountain, and Heliotrope Ridge. If you’re in need of information or a permit, the Glacier Ranger Station has you covered. As you continue, take a detour at the spectacular Nooksack Falls, a nearly 90-foot waterfall located down Forest Road 33. Head back up the highway and you’ll hit Mount Baker Ski Area, a ski resort well-respected for its backcountry access and inbound routes. Fun fact: The area, contrary to its name, is closer to Mount Shuksan than Mount Baker. It’s also the site of the world’s greatest recorded snowfall in one season (1,140 inches!). Your travels will be well rewarded when you reach Artist Point, the final stop along the highway. It offers indescribably spectacular views of the Cascade mountains as well as beloved hikes such as Chain Lakes, Ptarmigan Ridge, and Table Mountain. This area is only accessible from July through October, so make sure to prioritize a visit during the summer months.
State Route 9 Travelers on Mount Baker Highway will find a roundabout at Nugents Corner, and if you go north onto State Route 9 instead of continuing along Route 542, you’ll soon find yourself in the sister towns of Everson and Nooksack. These rural communities are known for their many farms and storied agricultural past. Here you can also visit Samson Estates Winery, known for its award-winning fruit wines, and Raspberry Ridge Golf Course. In July,
Photo by Madeline Takata
Courtesy of Visit Bellingham
Rifugio’s Country Italian Cuisine
Local Parks Deming Homestead Eagle Park 5615 Truck Rd., Deming
Josh VanderYacht Memorial Park 4106 Valley Hwy., Deming
Maple Creek Park 7842 Silver Lake Rd., Maple Falls
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Silver Lake Park 9006 Silver Lake Rd., Maple Falls
South Fork Park 1530 Mosquito Lake Rd., Deming
Events Deming Logging Show June
Everson-Nooksack Summer Festival
More than movies.
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Bellingham's independent, community cinema. For more information, pickfordfilmcenter.org
July *Event dates based on 2021 events and are subject to change.
A Blast From The Past
We Care How You Look BEST
NORTH
NORTH
of the
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2016
catch a parade, live music, and even a pancake breakfast during the EversonNooksack Summer Festival. Sumas is a gateway to Canada, and the Sumas-Huntingdon Border Crossing connects Route 9 with British Columbia Highway 11. There’s also the Sumas International Motorsport Academy (SIMA), boasting a nearly mile-long race kart track that’s considered one of the in North America. If you continue on the highway past Nugents Corner, then turn south at the roundabout after Deming, your new destination will be the town of Acme and the unincorporated community of Van Zandt. These sleepy residential areas, situated in the valley between Whatcom Lake and the Cascade Mountains, are home to fewer than 300 people. You can pick up some fresh produce from Mama’s Garden, cross the Acme bridge, then get your burger fix at the Acme Diner.
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314 E. Holly St. #100 Bellingham, 360.647.0807
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 37
A
10-MINUTE FERRY RIDE into
the Salish Sea will transport you to a quirky coastal community that, despite its proximity to shore, is a world unto itself. Lummi Island’s laid-back, beachy atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for everything from day trips to vacations. Lummi Island is located less than a mile from the mainland, and fewer than 1,000 people call it home. It’s not technically part of the Lummi Indian Reservation, which is located on the peninsula across the water. When your ferry arrives, you’ll find yourself within walking distance of several key locations. If you’re hungry, swing by the Islander Store on Nugent Road to pick up groceries and snacks. The Island Library and Beach Elementary School are also close by, as is Grange Hall, which functions as a historic gathering spot for social events such as weddings and fundraisers. The island is only 9.25 square miles, so when it comes to transportation, biking is your best bet. If you don’t bring your own, you can rent a bike from Lummi Island Concierge. The north loop around the island is a laidback seven-mile ride that begins at the ferry dock and features views of Mount Baker, the San Juan Islands, and the Vancouver skyline. If you’re 38
Welcome-Whatcom.com
seeking a workout, the south leg is also seven miles but includes steep hills and switchbacks. Lummi Island’s slow pace and idyllic scenery have nurtured a strong creative scene, and it’s composed of makers of all stripes. The Ann Morris Sculpture Woods houses bronze sculptures inspired by humanity’s connection to nature. The public is invited to stop in on the first Saturday of every month. Adjacent to Windy Hill Art, visitors will find 8 acres of land featuring kinetic sculptures that interact with both the viewer and the environment. Vitreous Visions functions as a gift shop, studio, and gallery for glass artwork by Art Hohl. Artisan Wine Gallery is a muststop for wine and art lovers alike. On Fridays and Saturdays, join one of their tastings to sample high-quality wines and view work from local creatives. If you plan to stay the night, the island has several guest houses as well as bed and breakfasts. Nettles Farm Bed and Breakfast is a dream for those who enjoy cooking with farmfresh ingredients. They provide wellstocked kitchens, a pizza oven, and even a “kitchen garden.” Full Bloom Farm specializes in unique varieties of cut peonies, and their on-site loft is available for vacation rentals.
Ann Morris Sculpture Woods
Photo by Dal Neitzel
Lummi Island
They also sell fresh produce, eggs, picnic supplies, and specialty foods at their farm stand. For a more upscale experience, The Willows Inn features both lodging and fine dining. Outdoor adventurers should head to Baker Preserve for a steep yet breathtaking hike. It boasts an elevation gain of 1,000 feet over just 1.6 miles, but trust us — the final panorama is worth the trek. You’ll be rewarded with stellar views of the San Juan Islands and Rosario Strait. Baker Preserve is managed by Lummi Island Heritage Trust, which also maintains Curry Preserve on the northeast side of the island. Curry Preserve has more than 50 acres of land, featuring walking trails and plenty of wildlife to observe. Once you’ve had your fill of activities, why not unwind by lounging away the rest of the day on the beach? Many are privately owned, but there are still several options for public access. These include a beach near the ferry dock, Sunset Beach (on the northwest shore), and Church Beach (on the west shore). True to its name, the latter is accessible from the parking lot of Lummi Island Congregational Church. Visitors can also take a stroll through the church’s cemetery or connect with nature in a forested stone labyrinth.
Local Parks Aiston Preserve 1100 Smugglers Cove
Curry Preserve 2449 N Nugent Rd.
Lummi Marine Park 2198 N. Nugent Rd.
Otto Preserve 3560 Sunrise Rd.
Sunset Beach 2675-2779 W. Shore Dr.
In the Loop Visitors can reach Lummi Island by making the 25-minute drive from Bellingham to Gooseberry Point. A 22-car ferry, known as the “Whatcom Chief,” has been transporting passengers to and from the mainland since 1962.
The Pacific Northwest’s premier historic event venue
Keen-eyed beachgoers should look out for a weather-worn petroglyph on a rock at Sunset Beach. It depicts two unblinking eyes and was carved by Lummi natives in the 1700s.
360.647.1444 | info@lairmontmanor.com
Many names have been used to reference this island: First Sa nam a o (meaning “High Mountain”) and Skallaham by natives, then Isla de Pacheco by Spanish explorers, McLoughlin Island by British colonists, and finally Lummi Island in 1853.
The Injury Experts
ALLEN LAW FIRM
For a different way to experience Lummi Island, consider booking a kayak tour with Moondance Sea Kayak Adventures. With the help of an experienced guide, you can enjoy epic views of the coastline and its wildlife, stop for lunch on a picturesque beach, and get to know the history of the Salish Sea.
Courtesy of Full Bloom Farm
Full Bloom Farm
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 39
What communicating is all about
“You don’t get lost at The Franklin Academy. You find something for yourself and, most importantly, for your children.” - Father of a 5th Grader
Now offering physical therapy and treating speech/language impairment, developmental disabilities, autism, genetic syndromes, hearing loss, sensory integration and feeding problems. 1971 Midway Ln, Suite N, Bellingham, WA
360.756.1495 | CONNECTIONSSLP.com
The Franklin Academy is a supportive community with STEM focused education in a safe, small class environment for all grades.
Schedule a tour today!
thefranklin.academy
Courtesy of Whatcom Community College
Education
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 41
Education
School Board Representatives Bellingham
Ferndale*
Blaine President District 4
President District 5
President Position 4
Charles E. Gibson
360.319.1102
Jenn Mason
360.332.3830
Andrew McLaurin
360.410.4437
Vice President District 1 Dr. Kevin Erickson Vice President Position 3
Vice President District 5
Kelly Bashaw
Laura McKinney
360.746.4618
360.543.7920
School Board Director Position 1
School Board Director District 1
Camille Diaz Hackler
Todd Nunamaker
360.441.1808
360.332.5386
360.380.1644
School Board Director District 2 Melinda Cool 360.319.7685
School Board Director District 3 Jessie Deardorff 360.603.0834
School Board Director Position 5
School Board Director District 2
Douglas Benjamin
Dougal Thomas
360.202.6150
360.332.2923
School Board Director Position 2
School Board Director District 3
School Board Director District 5
Katie Rose
Joan Lotze
360.927.1154
360.603.1062
360.440.2848
School Board Director District 4 Steve Childs 360.927.4672
Peggy Uppiano
*Images not available
42
Welcome-Whatcom.com
Lynden
President
Vice President
Steve Jilk
Brian Johnson
360.354.2218
360.354.5002
School Board Director
School Board Director
School Board Director
David Vis
Kelli Kettels
CJ Costanti
360.303.8258
360.201.6609
360.815.3509
Report Card BELLINGHAM SCHOOL DISTRICT 360.676.6400
bellinghamschools.org
11,566 students enrolled 84% graduated in 4 years $14,403 per-student expenditure 808 classroom teachers 13.9 average years of teaching
experience
BLAINE SCHOOL DISTRICT blainesd.org
2,206 students enrolled 88% graduated in 4 years $22,607 per-student expenditure 139 classroom teachers 15.4 average years of teaching
experience
360.383.2000
experience
78% graduated in 4 years
LYNDEN SCHOOL DISTRICT 360.354.4443
FERNDALE SCHOOL DISTRICT ferndalesd.org
4,375 students enrolled 85% graduated in 4 years
mtbaker.wednet.edu
1,725 students enrolled
17 students per average class
$17,114 per-student expenditure
lynden.wednet.edu
126 classroom teachers
3,310 students enrolled
13.5 average years of teaching
experience
$13,304 per-student expenditure
14 students per average class
205 classroom teachers
NOOKSACK VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT
13.7 average years of teacher
experience
360.988.4754
18 students per average class
MERIDIAN SCHOOL DISTRICT 360.398.7111
nv.k12.wa.us
1,923 students enrolled 83% graduated in 4 years
meridian.wednet.edu
$14,317 per-pupil expenditure
1,844 students enrolled
128 classroom teachers
88% graduated in 4 years
15 students per average class
360.383.9209
13.9 average years of teaching
89% graduated in 4 years
17 students per average class
360.332.5881
MOUNT BAKER SCHOOL DISTRICT
320 classroom teachers
$13,481 per-student expenditure 115 classroom teachers
11.5 average years of teaching
experience 17 students per average class
13.0 average years of teaching
experience
*All data from 2020 – 21 school year
16 students per average class
$14,724 per-student expenditure
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 43
Education
Public Schools BELLINGHAM Elementary Schools Alderwood Elementary School
Shuksan Middle School
Courtesy of Bellingham Public School
3400 Hollywood Ave., 360.676.6404, alderwood.bellinghamschools.org
Birchwood Elementary School 3200 Pinewood Ave., 360.676.6466, birchwood.bellinghamschools.org
Carl Cozier Elementary School 1330 Lincoln St., 360.676.6410, carlcozier. bellinghamschools.org
Columbia Elementary School 2508 Utter St., 360.676.6413, columbia. bellinghamschools.org
Cordata Elementary School 4420 Aldrich Rd., 360.676.6461, cordata. bellinghamschools.org
Geneva Elementary School
Bellingham High School
Courtesy of Bellingham Public School
1401 Geneva St., 360.676.6416, geneva. bellinghamschools.org
Happy Valley Elementary School 1041 24th St., 360.676.6420, happyvalley. bellinghamschools.org
Lowell Elementary School 935 14th St., 360.676.6430, lowell. bellinghamschools.org
Lummi Nation School 2334 Lummi View Dr., 360.758.4300, lnsonlinelearning.org
Northern Heights Elementary School 4000 Magrath Rd., 360.647.6820, northernheights.bellinghamschools.org
Parkview Elementary School
Carl Cozier Elementary School
44
Welcome-Whatcom.com
Courtesy of Bellingham Public School
3030 Cornwall Ave., 360.676.6433, parkview.bellinghamschools.org
Roosevelt Elementary School 2900 Yew St., 360.676.6440, roosevelt. bellinghamschools.org
Silver Beach Elementary School 4101 Academy St., 360.676.6443, silverbeach.bellinghamschools.org
Sunnyland Elementary School 2800 James St., 360.676.6446, sunnyland. bellinghamschools.org
Wade King Elementary School
Options High School
Lynden High School
2155 Yew Street Rd., 360.647.6840, wadeking.bellinghamschools.org
2015 Franklin St., 360.647.6871, options. bellinghamschools.org
1201 Bradley Rd., 360.354.4401, hs.lynden. wednet.edu
Sehome High School
Lynden Middle School
2700 Bill McDonald Pkwy., 360.676.6481, sehome.bellinghamschools.org
8750 Line Rd., 360.354.2952, ms.lynden. wednet.edu
Middle Schools Fairhaven Middle School 110 Parkridge Rd., 360.676.6450, fairhaven.bellinghamschools.org
Kulshan Middle School
Squalicum High School
FERNDALE, CUSTER, & LUMMI ISLAND
3773 E. McLeod Rd., 360.676.6471, squalicum.bellinghamschools.org
1250 Kenoyer Dr., 360.676.4886, kulshan. bellinghamschools.org
Whatcom Intergenerational High School
Lummi Nation School
1 Bellis Fair Pkwy., Ste. 104, 360.543.8282, intergenerational.school
2334 Lummi View Dr., 360.758.4300, lns-onlinelearning.org
Shuksan Middle School
Beach Elementary 3786 Centerview Rd., Lummi Island, 360.383.9440, lummi-island.com/here/ beach-school
Cascadia Elementary
LYNDEN
6175 Church Rd., Ferndale, 360.383.2300, cascadia.ferndalesd.org
2717 Alderwood Ave., 360.676.6454, shuksan.bellinghamschools.org
Bernice Vossbeck Elementary School
Whatcom Middle School
1301 Bridgeview Rd., 360.354.0488, bve.lynden.wednet.edu
5610 2nd Ave., Ferndale, 360.383.9600, central.ferndalesd.org
Fisher Elementary School
Custer Elementary
501 N. 14th St., 360.354.4291, fe.lynden. wednet.edu
7660 Custer School Rd., Custer, 360.383.9500, custer.ferndalesd.org
Isom Elementary School
Eagleridge Elementary
8461 Benson Rd., 360.354.1992, ie.lynden. wednet.edu
2651 Thornton Rd., Ferndale, 360.383.9700, eagleridge.ferndalesd.org
Lynden Academy
Ferndale High School
1986 Main St., Ste. A, 360.354.6675, la.lynden.wednet.edu
5830 Golden Eagle Dr., Ferndale, 360.383.9240, ferndalehigh.ferndalesd.org
810 Halleck St., 360.676.6460, whatcom. bellinghamschools.org
High Schools Bellingham High School 2020 Cornwall Ave., 360.676.6575, bellingham.bellinghamschools.org
Lummi Nation School 2334 Lummi View Dr., 360.758.4300, lns-onlinelearning.org
Central Elementary
School District Early Dismissal & Closure Information Closure Information (TV): KOMO (channel 4) KING (channel 5) KIRO (channel 7) KCPQ (channel 13)
Closure Information (radio): KGMI (790 AM) KAFE (104.1 FM)
Bellingham School District Start and End Times: Elementary School: 8 a.m.2:30 p.m. Early Dismissal: 12:45 p.m.
Snow Route Information: bellinghamschools.org/ snow-routes *Start and end times for other districts in Whatcom County vary by school. Please visit individual school district websites for more information.
Middle School: 9:15 a.m.3:45 p.m. Early Dismissal: 12:00 p.m High School: 8:30 a.m.3:15 p.m. Early Dismissal: 1:30 p.m
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 45
Courtesy The Franklin Academy
Assumption Catholic School
Photo by Ebergram Images
Education
Franklin Academy
Horizon Middle School
Point Roberts Primary School
Mount Baker Academy
2671 Thornton Rd., Ferndale, 360.383.9850, horizonmiddle.ferndalesd.org
2050 Benson Rd., Point Roberts, 360.945.2223, blainesd.org/o/ point-roberts-primary-school
5100 Mitchell Rd., Deming, 360.383.2078, mtbaker.wednet.edu/o/mba
Skyline Elementary School 2225 Thornton St., Ferndale, 360.383.9450, skyline.ferndalesd.org
EVERSON, NOOKSACK, SUMAS
The Ferndale Virtual Academy
Everson Elementary School
6041 Vista Dr., Ferndale, 360.383.9200, ferndalesd.org/families/ alternative-learning-education
216 Everson Goshen Rd., 360.966.2030, ee.nv.k12.wa.us
The Golden Eagle Academy
3333 Breckenridge Rd., 360.966.3321, ne.nv.k12.wa.us
6041 Vista Dr., Ferndale, 360.383.9200, ferndalesd.org/families/ alternative-learning-education
Vista Middle School 6051 Vista Dr., Ferndale, 360.383.9370, vistamiddle.ferndalesd.org
BLAINE, POINT ROBERTS Blaine Elementary School 836 Mitchell Ave., Blaine, 360.332.5213, blainesd.org/o/blaine-elementary-school
Blaine High School 1055 H St., Blaine, 360.332.6045, blainesd.org/o/blaine-high-school
Blaine Middle School 975 H St., Blaine, 360.332.8226, blainesd.org/o/blaine-middle-school
Blaine Primary School 820 Boblett St., Blaine, 360.332.1300, blainesd.org/o/blaine-primary-school
46
Welcome-Whatcom.com
Nooksack Elementary School
Nooksack Valley High School 3326 E. Badger Rd., 360.988.2641, hs.nv.k12.wa.us
Nooksack Valley Middle School 404 W. Columbia St., 360.966.7561, ms.nv.k12.wa.us
Sumas Elementary School
Mount Baker Junior High 5100 Mitchell Rd., Deming, 360.383.2015, mtbaker.wednet.edu/o/mbjh
Mount Baker Senior High 4936 Deming Rd., Deming, 360.383.2015, mtbaker.wednet.edu/o/mbhs
Private Schools BELLINGHAM Assumption Catholic School 2116 Cornwall Ave., 360.733.6133, school.assumption.org
Bellingham Christian School 1600 E. Sunset Dr., 360.733.7303, bellinghamchristianschool.org
1024 Lawson St., 360.988.9423, se.nv.k12.wa.us
Birchwood Christian School
ACME, DEMING, GLACIER, MAPLE FALLS
Blue Heron Montessori School
Acme Elementary 5200 Turkington Rd., Acme, 360.383.2045, mtbaker.wednet.edu/o/acme
Kendall Elementary 7547 Kendall Rd., Maple Falls, 360.383.2055, mtbaker.wednet.edu/o/kendall
400 Meadowbrook Ct., 360.733.8860, cordatachurch.org/bcs 920 24th St., 360.306.3669, blueheronmontessori.org
Cedar Tree Montessori 2114 Broadway, 360.714.1762, cedar-tree.org
Explorations Academy 1701 Ellis St., Ste. 215, 360.671.8085, explorationsacademy.org
From Courtroom to Classroom WRITTEN BY DOUG ROBERTSON PHOTOGRAPHED BY PAT MCDONNELL
E
VERY YEAR OUR family goes on a New Year’s
Day hike. The tradition started as a way to share family time when our kids were young. We wanted it to be an activity where we’d reflect on the old and look ahead to the new.
As the kids got older, I would muse that I wanted to do more with my life. As the kids got older, I would muse that I wanted to do more with my life. And on one of those hikes, I came to the conclusion that I should pursue teaching — a career I’d always been interested in, but passed over for law. Even the idea of moving from law to teaching was terrifying: Giving up a decades-long career into which I had poured my heart and soul; leaving my partners, who had become some of my best friends and greatest mentors; learning an entirely new profession; and, most practically, taking an enormous pay cut. So why change? As my kids grew up and out of the house, I realized that the days behind me were beginning to outnumber the days in front of me. The law was getting to be more administrative than I liked. It is, and has been, an “all-in game,” with 60- and 70-hour weeks the norm. I simply wanted more out of life and, in my mid-50s, it was now or never.
Leaving my practice would be hard. Leaving my practice would be hard. Teaching is a challenging profession and I wanted to have a strong foundation before embarking on this new adventure. I had to plan and execute the change over a number of years. I told my law partners a few years in advance so we could plan together. My first transition year, I re-took classes at Whatcom Community College — ones I had already passed as a college student decades ago — to get up-to-date as I wound my practice down, reliving the horror of studying on Sundays again. For my second transition year, I attended Western Washington University’s College of Education, taking the classes necessary to obtain a state teaching certificate. I was fortunate to be offered an adjunct position at WCC.
Teaching is hard! Just like good comedy, it is not just the content, but the delivery. I now teach both political science and economics, and I love it. Teaching is hard! Just like good comedy, it is not just the content, but the delivery. How do I convey federalism, the velocity of money, or current political polarization in a manner that engages and motivates the students to want to learn? At 8 a.m.? To a bunch of 17- to 22-year-olds who go to bed at 2 a.m.? It’s a daily challenge, and it forces me to be a more thoughtful communicator and thinker. Yes, I still get up early and dedicate long hours to “work.” But now it’s to prep for class, research for content and lectures, to grade tests and papers, and to work one-on-one with students. Even though my days are still long, I revel in my second career. Every day is a new opportunity to engage one more student. Seeing the moment when students realize they want to learn how to learn, that “aha moment,” is a better reward than any paycheck.
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 47
Photo by Ashley Hiruko
Education
Western Washington University
Franklin Academy
Natural Learning Center
1509 E. Victor St., 360.733.1750, thefranklin.academy
1207 Ellsworth St., 360.488.7030, naturallearningcenter.org
Gardenview Montessori School
The Alger Learning Center & Independence High School
2117 Walnut St., 360.527.9638, gardenviewmontessori.org
Harmony Elementary 5060 Sand Rd., 360.383.2050, mtbaker.wednet.edu/o/harmony
Montessori at Samish Woods 1027 Samish Way, 360.650.9465, samishwoods.org
100 Pine St., Ste. 103, 360.595.2630, independent-learning.com
Whatcom Hills Waldorf School 941 Austin St., 360.733.3164, whws.org
FERNDALE Meadows Montessori School (PK-6) 2377 Douglas Rd., 360.778.3681, meadowsmontessori.org
Alternative Learning Experiences Bellingham Family Partnership Program (BFPP)
Providence Christian School NW (K-12) 5942 Portal Way, 360.318.1347, pcsnw.org
LYNDEN Cornerstone Christian School 8872 Northwood Rd., 360.318.0663, cornerstoneschool.us
Ebenezer Christian School 9390 Guide Meridian Rd., 360.354.2632, ebenezerchristianschool.org
Lynden Christian School 417 Lyncs Dr., 360.318.9525, lyncs.org
Colleges & Universities Bellingham Technical College 3028 Lindbergh Ave., Bellingham, 360.752.7000, btc.edu
Bellingham, 360.676.6424, fpp.bellinghamschools.org
Northwest Indian College
Blaine HomeConnection
2522 Kwina Rd., Bellingham, 360.676.2772, nwic.edu
Blaine, 360.332.8182, blainesd.org/o/homeconnection
Lynden Academy Lynden, 360.354.6675, la.lynden.wednet.edu
Meridian Parent Partnership Program (MP3) Bellingham, 360.398.9324, meridian.wednet.edu/mp3
Mount Baker Academy Deming, 360.383.2078, mtbaker.wednet.edu/o/mba
48
Welcome-Whatcom.com
Western Washington University 516 High St., Bellingham, 360.650.3000, wwu.edu
Whatcom Community College 237 W. Kellogg Rd., Bellingham, 360.383.3000, whatcom.edu
YOUR COMMUNITY REAL ESTATE RESOURCE
Preschools
LILAC LISTINGS
b y
Bayside Co-op Preschool 910 14th St., Bellingham, 360.329.2818, baysidecoop.com
&
l a u r a
RACHAEL WILSON MANAGING BROKER (360)319.2234
Blossom Childcare and Learning Center
LAURA REHBERGER BROKER (360)224.7496
2945 Douglas Ave., Bellingham, 360.752.2699, blossomchildcare.com
Busy Kids Enrichment and Preschool
r a c h a e l
LILAC-LISTINGS.COM
RE/MAX WHATCOM COUNTY 913 LAKEWAY DRIVE BELLINGHAM, WA 98229
GENUINE RELATIONSHIPS
CUSTOM STRATEGIES WINNING RESULTS
2115 Washington St., Ferndale, 360.933.0644, busykidschildcare.com
Children’s Co-op Preschool 1409 18th St., Ste. 6306, Bellingham, 201.564.4227, childrenscooppreschool.com
Christ Lutheran Preschool 5904 Vista Dr., Ferndale, 360.380.2233, clcferndale.org/preschool
North Bellingham Early Learning Center 5275 Northwest Dr., Bellingham, 360.383.9289, ferndalesd.org/families/ early-learning-center
Lakeside Co-op Preschool 4101 Academy St., Bellingham, 360.647.7578, lakesidecoop.com
Loving Space School 1200 Ellis St., Bellingham, 360.676.1355, lovingspaceschool.org
Lynden Co-op Preschool 500 14th St., Lynden, 360.209.4181, lyndenco-oppreschool.com
Peace Arch Montessori Preschool 549 Cherry St., Blaine, 360.684.2926, peacearchmontessori.com
The Madrona School 2714 W. Maryland St., Bellingham, 360.393.6310, themadronaschool.com
Montessori at Samish Woods 1027 Samish Way, Bellingham, 360.650.9465, samishwoods.org
Tinker Tots Preschool 1553 B St., Blaine, 360.489.6202, tinkertots-preschool.com
Whatcom Family Cooperative Preschool 1041 24th St., Bellingham, 360.726.2096, whatcomfamilypreschool.org
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 49
• GOOD FOOD CHOICES • SPACIOUS SUITES
Voted Best Retirement Facility
A great place to call home!
• IN-HOUSE BUS SERVICE FOR APPOINTMENTS • 24HR. CALL SYSTEM FOR ASSISTANCE • AGE IN PLACE • EXERCISE AND ACTIVITIES
844 W. Orchard Dr., Bellingham • 360.647.3708 • orchardparkretirement.net
“Your family’s health, comfort and safety are our top priority. We care for you because we care about you.” - Dr. Aimée Werremeyer
love-dentistry.com 360 752 1600 4101 Eliza Ave Bellingham, WA 98226
We would like to welcome you to our neighborhood with a big smile. Love Dentistry was founded to provide residents, of all ages, in the Bellingham area a dedicated loving team, comfortable environment and options in dental care. DENTAL MEMBERSHIP PLANS At Love Dentistry we believe everyone needs access to great dental care, whether they have dental insurance or not. Our Love and Care Dental Membership Plans provide the preventive dental care needed such as check-ups, cleaning and yearly x-rays, all with an affordable monthly payment – no insurance, no problem. Find out how a Love and Care Dental Membership plan can meet your dental needs.
We would love to see your smile. Stop by and meet the team and receive a FREE welcome to Bellingham gift.
Health
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 51
Photo by Edye Colello-Morton
Health
PeaceHealth St. Joseph Hospital
Hospitals PeaceHealth St. Joseph Hospital 2901 Squalicum Pkwy., Bellingham, 360.734.5400
Medical Clinics & Services BELLINGHAM
Family Care Network, North Sound Family Medicine
PeaceHealth Same-Day Clinic at Medical Office Plaza
2075 Barkley Blvd., Ste. 105, 360.671.3345
3015 Squalicum Pkwy., Ste. 140, 360.788.8420
Lummi Tribal Health Center 2592 Kwina Rd., 360.384.0464
Planned Parenthood
Maidenhair Hormone Clinic for Women
1530 Ellis St., 360.734.9095
1100 Larrabee Ave., Ste. 100, 360.788.5173
Sea Mar Community Health Center 4455 Cordata Pkwy., 360.671.3225
Associates in Family Medicine
Mt. Shuksan Family Medicine & Dermatology
3130 Ellis St., 360.734.4404
2101 Cornwall Ave., Ste. 101, 360.647.1900
1108 11th St., Ste. 303, 360.797.5171
Bellingham Asthma & Allergy
NorthStar Medical Specialists
Unity Care NW
3015 Squalicum Pkwy., Ste. 180, 360.733.5733
1345 King St., 360.676.1696
220 Unity St., 360.676.6177
Bellingham Health
Northwest Walk-In Health Clinic
Village Family Health
2220 Cornwall Ave., 360.734.2330
910 Harris Ave., Ste. 102, 360.734.2131
PeaceHealth Care Clinics
Whatcom County Pregnancy Clinic
1050 Larrabee Ave., Ste. 204, 360.756.9793
Care Medical Group 4043 Northwest Ave., 360.734.4300
Cedar Male Medical 1100 Larrabee Ave., Ste. 100, 360.255.5355
Family Care Network, Bellingham Bay Family Medicine 722 N. State St., 360.752.2865
Family Care Network, Family Health Associates 3500 Orchard Pl., 360.671.3900
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Welcome-Whatcom.com
2980 Squalicum Pkwy., 360.788.6112
PeaceHealth Cascade Brain & Spine Center 710 Birchwood Ave., 360.788.6870
Travel Medicine Northwest
1310 N. State St., 360.671.9057
EVERSON, SUMAS
PeaceHealth Same-Day Clinic at Cordata Main
Nooksack Tribal Clinic
4545 Cordata Pkwy., Ste. 1A, 360.738.2200
PeaceHealth Sumas Medical Clinic
PeaceHealth Same-Day Care at Fairhaven Plaza 3125 Old Fairhaven Pkwy., Ste. 106, 360.788.8388
6760 Mission Rd., Everson, 360.966.2106
112 Columbia St., Sumas, 360.988.9404
Sea Mar Everson Medical Clinic 6884 Hannegan Rd., Everson, 360.354.0766
FERNDALE Ferndale Family Medical Center 5580 Nordic Way, 360.384.1511
Unity Care NW 6060 Portal Way, 360.676.6177
Sea Mar Ferndale WIC 6046 Portal Way, 360.778.4220
LYNDEN 500 Front St., 360.354.4200
Lynden Family Medicine 1610 Grover St., Ste. D1, 360.354.1333
PeaceHealth Orthopedics & Sports Medicine 1610 Grover St., 360.733.2092
Urgent Care Facilities BELLINGHAM Care Medical Group 4043 Northwest Ave., 360.734.4300
Family Care Network Urgent Care 3130 Squalicum Pkwy., 360.671.4509
Super Track Urgent Care 1050 Lakeway Dr., 360.746.6531
LYNDEN Family Care Network Urgent Care - Lynden 1610 Grover St., Ste. D1, 360.354.4567
POINT ROBERTS Super Track, Point Roberts Clinic 2030 Benson Rd., 360.945.2580
Courtesy of Lighthouse Mission
Dickson Medical Clinic
The Lighthouse Mission
Fairhaven Integrative Health
Bridges Treatment and Recovery
1200 Old Fairhaven Pkwy., Ste. 305, Bellingham, 360.676.1285
1221 Fraser St., Ste. E-1, Bellingham, 360.714.8180
Halleck Holistic Health
Bridges Treatment and Recovery
208 Halleck St., Ste. 101, Bellingham, 360.325.8976
6044 Portal Way, Ste. 103, Ferndale, 360.393.4218
London Health Center
Ideal Option Bellingham
2376 Main St., Ferndale, 360.384.2900
3800 Byron Ave., Ste. 122, Bellingham, 877.522.1275
Northwestern Clinic of Naturopathic Medicine
MGA Crisis Intervention
1903 D St., Bellingham, 360.734.9500
3628 Meridian St., Ste. 139, Bellingham, 360.200.5658
Northwest Life Medicine Clinic
Nooksack Tribes Genesis II
851 Coho Way, Ste. 202, Bellingham, 360.746.6923
2505 Sulwhanon Dr., Building A, Everson, 360.398.6399
Pacific Center for Naturopathic Medicine 1308 Meador Ave., Ste. C109, Bellingham, 360.734.0045
The Natural Health Clinic
Bellingham Natural Family Medicine
910 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.733.5120
Addiction Treatment Centers
1810 Broadway, Bellingham, 360.738.7654
Belair Clinic
Bellingham Naturopathic Clinic
1130 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.676.4485
1313 E. Maple St., Ste. 102, Bellingham, 360.738.3230
1603 E. Illinois St., Bellingham, 360.647.4266
The Lighthouse Mission
1707 F St., Bellingham, 360.734.1560
Naturopathic Clinics
Sea Mar Visions Youth Treatment Center
Cancer Treatment Centers PeaceHealth St. Joseph Cancer Center 3301 Squalicum Pkwy., Bellingham, 360.788.8222
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 53
Health
Advances in Breast Cancer Diagnostics WRITTEN BY MERI-JO BORZILLERI
for breast cancer — like the one that spurred actress Angelina Jolie to get a preventative double mastectomy after she found she had a gene mutation that often leads to breast cance — have received lots of attention. More common have been advances in mammograms. If you’ve had your breasts checked lately, your physician might have asked if your insurance covers a 3D mammography, the latest in advanced diagnostics, which gives a much more detailed picture that can help with early diagnosis. But what few women know is that breast cancer comes in different forms. Knowing this, and the questions to ask if you’ve been diagnosed, can help save your life. Just ask Birch Bay’s Elizabeth Vines. Her hometown doctor in Canada (she is a dual citizen) misdiagnosed her lump, which she first found as a pea-sized bump in February 2014. Six months later, it grew rapidly to the size of half a lemon. As a 35-year-old, relatively young for breast cancer and having no family history, her doctor told her not to worry. In late November, as part of her pre-op testing to remove what he had diagnosed as a cyst, she was horrified to learn the lump was advanced-stage (stage 4) cancer that included a lesion on her liver. Shortly after, she was told she had two years to live. Reeling from the news, she took action when her Canadian cancer center could not get see her until after Christmas. She started calling around for anyone who could help. One agency was the Mayo Clinic in Arizona, near friends who wintered there. She started chemotherapy at Mayo Dec. 3. In Vines’ case, getting a second opinion likely saved her life. Her Mayo Clinic doctors, led by Dr. Robert Northfelt, diagnosed her as stage 3B — the liver lesion was not cancer — and HER-2 positive, an aggressive form of breast cancer best treated with specific cancer-fighting drugs that block hormone receptors. Most people are unaware that different, specific types of breast cancer exist and can respond to targeted treatment. A determined Vines sought a second opinion, asked questions, and learned about her disease. Vines was lucky — one of the drugs, Herceptin, had been around since the ‘90s. The other, Perjeta, was FDA approved in 2012. The two drugs were the major players in a chemo cocktail that proved remarkably effective — after the first two treatments, her tumor had shrunk noticeably. Eventually, the 12-centimeter
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Courtesy of Elizabeth Vines
I
N RECENT YEARS, breakthroughs in genetic testing
mass had shrunk to 4 millimeters, and doctors told her less than 1% of living cancer remained. Even her doctors were surprised. After chemo, Vines still had to undergo a mastectomy and 28 rounds of radiation. But the cancer was gone. She was lucky in another way too. The drugs are expensive and Vines’ family, which included her then-4-year-old son, prepared to sell their house to pay for medical bills. But pharmaceutical company Genentech, which developed Perjeta, had a foundation that offered Vines financial help, paying 75% of her treatment and surgery. It allowed the family to keep their house. “This company changed my life and saved my life in the process,” Vines says. On Nov. 19, Vines celebrated her two-year anniversary of completing cancer treatment, and she is grateful to return to normal life. She still has to take drugs to keep the cancer from returning. But that’s a small price in exchange for being able to help at her son’s school, where she reads to his classes and goes on field trips. She has even started running again. Vines regrets not getting an earlier diagnosis, which could have avoided much agony. But she says that seeking a second opinion and a more specific diagnosis made all the difference in the world. “I felt like I was looking for a miracle and found it,” Vines says. “It was completely life-changing. I had lost all hope. I found there were new drugs and they hoped they would work well for me, and they did.”
QUIZ: BREAST CANCER 1 Approximately how many women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer this year? 50,000 200,000 100,000 More than 250,000 2 In what age range is a woman most likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer? 30–40 Years old 40–50 Years old 50–60 Years old 60–70 Years old 70–80 Years old 3 True or false? Breast cancer can be classified into subtypes based on the proteins on or in the cancer cells, which can help determine the appropriate treatment. True False 4 Which of the following is a breast cancer subtype based on the proteins found in or on cancer cells? Metastatic HER2-positive Stage 1 5 True or false: Only tumors larger than 2cm in diameter can spread to other parts of the body. True False 6 Where is the first place breast cancer is likely to spread? Chest Lymph nodes Ovaries Ribs 7 True or false: Stages 0–1 are known as early breast cancer and stages 2–4 are known as advanced breast cancer. True False Answers 1. More than 250,000 2. 70–80 Years old 3. True 4. HER2-positive 5. False 6. Lymph nodes 7. False Source: Genentech www.gene.com
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 55
Primary Care for Chronic Conditions that Flare CHRONIC HEALTH CONDITIONS ARE A FACT OF LIFE FOR MANY ADULTS. If you’re among them — or not, but simply seeking expert primary care — consider choosing an internal medicine doctor, or internist, to guide your wellness journey. Internists are trained to care for adults and receive additional training to diagnose and treat a variety of difficult-to-manage chronic conditions. Our internists are ready to welcome you as a new patient, to listen and learn about your medical history — and you!
Areas of expertise: Diabetes Control Depression/Anxiety ■ Cardiovascular Health ■ Other Chronic Conditions ■ ■
For more information, call 360-752-5220 to schedule an appointment. In addition to scheduling in-person appointments, we are now offering the option of scheduling video visits — a new service available at this clinic.
Health & Medical Profiles
Northwest Gastroenterology & Endoscopy Come see us under the same roof in our new state of the art building in Barkley Village early 2022.
G
astroenterology is a broad field of medicine with a wide variety of interest. One area that is especially important in medicine is prevention. In the field of gastroenterology, we use endoscopic procedures to help with detection and prevention of diseases, including colon cancer. Colon cancer is the 3rd leading cause of cancer related deaths in the US. The lifetime risk of developing colon cancer, for average risk individuals (those without a family history of colon cancer), is around 5%. Screening for colon cancer is recommended as a means of preventing colon cancer. Recent 2020 guideline updates now recommend beginning colonoscopy at age 45.
SCREENING FOR COLON CANCER WITH COLONOSCOPY, STOOL TESTING, AND IMAGING: How often is screening recommended? For average risk individuals (meaning no family history of colon cancer and no polyp history) if you have a normal colonoscopy with no polyps then every 10 years. If polyps are detected and removed the range can be between 1–7 years depending on various characteristics such as size and specific type of tissue.
Is it safe for screening colonoscopy during the pandemic? We adhere to strict safety standards and personal protective equipment, as well as masking and social distancing. The entire medical team working for your care is vaccinated. Also, currently we pre-test all patients prior to procedure for Covid-19.
Northwest Gastroenterology & Endoscopy New address: 3111 Woburn St., Bellingham 360.734.1420, nwgastro.com
Cascade Prosthetics and Orthotics Since 1982, Cascade Prosthetics & Orthotics has been providing a full range of orthotic and prosthetic patient care in Whatcom and Skagit counties. Our practitioners specialize in the treatment of patients with mobility issues. We offer a full line of stateof-the-art custom and prefabricated devices, designed to help restore you to your greatest potential. If your mobility is limited due to injury, pain, diabetes, amputation, or other conditions — we can help. Our two locations offer ease of access and friendly assistance with medical billing. When you visit us, you’ll meet University of Washington trained and state licensed clinicians committed to providing the best solutions for your unique needs.
Don Buethorn, CPO/LPO
Mount Vernon Office: 17670 Dunbar Rd, Mt. Vernon Ph: 360.428.4003 Toll-free: 800.428.4003 cascadepoclinics.com
Debbie Donaldson, CPO/LPO
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Cindy Diener, CPO/LPO
Ferndale Office: 1360 Sunset Ave, Ferndale Ph: 360.384.1858
Larry Paise, CPO/LPO
Welcome Guide 2022 57
Cannabis Listings Trippy Hippie Cannabis Co. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and overlooked by corporate cannabis today. At Trippy Hippie Cannabis Co., our family-run pot shop makes your cannabis experience our top priority. We share your cannabis curiosity and have curated a menu and staff suited to make sure you bring home the perfect product for you.*
794 Kentucky St, Bellingham 360.788.4220 trippyhippie cannabis.com
Birch Bay Budz
8125 Birch Bay Square St., Ste. 222, Blaine 360.506.7117 birchbaybud.com
Smoking Crow
Western Bud
1401 Iowa St., Bellingham 360.933.1133 westernbud.com
Established in 2017, Western Bud is committed to having the most fire deals in town. We have a twice daily happy hour with 25% off, $0 ATM fee, weekly discounts up to 30% off and surprise flash sales; the deals don’t stop! Our business is to make our guests, and their wallets, happy.*
Piece of Mind Cannabis
100 E. Maple St., Bellingham 360.746.8478 pomcannabis.com
Piece of Mind Cannabis is located in downtown Bellingham. Easy to use online menu, ample parking & daily discounts up to 25% off! We’re open eveyday with friendly faces and medical consultants on hand to answer any questions!*
Support Whatcom farmers at Birch Bay Budz! Home of Whatcom Wednesdays. Whatcom farms 15% off every Wednesday and happy hour every day after 9PM. Use code: “Alive2022” to save 20% off online orders! *Online Sale ends June 30th 2022.*
4264 Pacific Hwy., Bellingham 360.922.0709 smokingcrow.com
Most people would drive out of their way for better produce, better coffee, and better beer — what makes a cannabis store any different? The best stores marry high-quality products with an environment to match. Better product, better prices, & the feeling you get when you revisit your childhood home; that’s Smoking Crow. Welcome home with Smoking Crow.*
West Coast Wellness Located East of Bellingham, WCW offers a comfortable space to indulge in an exploration of cannabis & CBD products. Certified consultants can help you 3708 Mt. Baker Hwy., find the right product to help with Everson relaxation, mental well being, pain 360.392.8309 management & even digestion!* wcwcannabis.com
*This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgement. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children. Marijuana products may be purchased or possessed only by persons twenty-one years of age or older. 58
Welcome-Whatcom.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Local. Craft. Cannabis. +21 I-5 Exit 270 (Next to The Market) 8125 Birch Bay Square Street #222
Where Your Budz Are
360.506.7117 BirchBayBud.com MARIJUANA CAN IMPAIR CONCENTRATION, COORDINATION, AND JUDGMENT. DO NOT OPERATE A VEHICLE OR MACHINERY UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF THIS DRUG. THIS PRODUCT HAS INTOXICATING EFFECTS AND MAY BE HABIT FORMING. THERE MAY BE HEALTH RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH CONSUMPTION OF THIS PRODUCT. FOR USE ONLY BY ADULTS TWENTYONE AND OLDER. KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.
BUY LOCAL
Visit Us Sun.-Weds. 8:00am-9:00pm Thurs.-Sat. 8:00am-11:00pm
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MAKE IT A
BETTER DAY, THE HIPPIE WAY!
794 Kentucky St. Bellingham (360)788-4220 www.trippyhippiecannabis.com WSLCB Required Warning: This Product Has Intoxicating Effects & May Be Habit Forming. Marijuana Can Impair Concentration, Coordination & Judgment. Do Not Operate a Vehicle or Machinery Under the Influence of This Drug. There May Be Health Risks Associated with Consumption of This Product. For Use Only by Adults 21 and Older. Keep Out of the Reach of Children.
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Life
Photo by Elle Cartier
Feature
50 Ways to Experience Whatcom County
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 61
Life 50 Ways to Experience Whatcom County
Ways
W
HETHER YOU’RE HERE for a year or forever,
there’s plenty to love about life in Whatcom County. In fact, 2021 rankings by Livability placed Bellingham as the 37th best place to live in all of the United States — and it’s no secret as to why. The website commended its educational system, arts scene, remote work friendliness, and access to the great outdoors. In addition, it gave special mention to the area’s numerous breweries, coffee shops, and farm-totable restaurants. In other words, there are tons of perks to life in Bellingham and Whatcom County as a whole. Our
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Welcome-Whatcom.com
Written by Cocoa Laney
quality of life is high, plus it’s virtually impossible to run out of things to see and do. From annual events to vibrant local businesses and endless miles of trails to traverse, there’s always something new and exciting to add to your agenda. From January through December, Whatcom County has something to offer residents of all ages, interests, and activity levels. Don’t know where to start? We have a few suggestions for how to experience the very best of this Pacific Northwestern haven. Welcome to your new home — we’re happy to have you here.
Photo by Pavl Polo
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to experience
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Photo by Tony Mueantonthian
Pass a rainy day hunting for treasure at Penny Lane Antique Mall. With more than 10,000 square feet to explore, it’s unlikely that you’ll leave empty-handed.
Observe Great Blue Herons and many other aquatic migratory birds around Drayton Harbor and the Semiahmoo Spit. This area is officially recognized as the northernmost “Important Bird Area of Washington.” Have you ever gotten up close and personal with a glacier? Hikers on the Heliotrope Ridge Trail will be rewarded with a too-good-to-be-true view of the Coleman Glacier at the end of the route.
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Catch an under-the-radar flick at the Pickford Film Center, a local arts nonprofit and the region’s leading independent film venue. Located in the heart of the Bellingham Arts District, this unique theater also serves as a “community living room.”
No matter the time of year, you can lace up your ice skates and hit the rink at the Bellingham Sportsplex. They offer public skating for all levels as well as hockey, indoor soccer, parties, and camps.
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Learn what lurks beneath the Bellingham Bay by visiting the Marine Life Center. This educational (and entertaining) spot also features a touch tank, so the whole family can get friendly with their sea creature of choice.
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Take a tour of the many murals sprinkled throughout Whatcom County. From downtown Bellingham’s colorful and contemporary artwork to Lynden’s historical, Dutch-inspired scenes, there’s plenty of talent to take in.
Courtesy of Yeah Baby Boards
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Start your Saturday off right with a leisurely stroll through Stimpson Family Nature Reserve, followed by a stop at the Bellingham Farmers Market. There’s plenty of locally grown goodness to bring home, plus food trucks if you find yourself in immediate need of fuel.
From Zuanich Park to Birch Bay, there are plenty of venues for the perfect picnic. Make the occasion extra special by bringing along a custom charcuterie spread by Yeah Baby Boards.
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 63
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Take a luxury staycation with your special someone at Hotel Bellwether, located on the Bellingham waterfront. Make it extra memorable by booking a night in the Lighthouse Suite, a three-story lighthouse replica that’s often cited as one of the most unique lodging experiences in the region.
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You’ve heard of brewery crawls, but what about an ice cream crawl instead? In Bellingham alone, options include Mallard Ice Cream, Acme Ice Cream Cafe, Sirena Gelato, Edaleen Dairy, The Selkie Scoop, and more.
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Members and allies of the LGBTQ+ community should keep their eyes peeled for events by Whatcom Pride, a local organization dedicated to promoting the ideals of Pride all year long.
Courtesy of Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce
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Head to the Waterfront Park Pump Track in Bellingham to put your biking skills to the test. To offset the adrenaline, Kulshan Trackside is also on the waterfront and pours local brews that are perfect for quenching a post-workout thirst.
Put your sandcastle skills to the test at the annual Birch Bay Sand Sculpture Competition. Featuring categories for all ages, this unique event is “where sand becomes art…at least until the tide comes in.”
Welcome-Whatcom.com
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Beat the summer heat by dipping your toes into one of the area’s numerous swimming holes. Thrill seekers can get an adrenaline fix by cliff jumping at Whatcom Falls Park, whereas Samish Park and Bloedel Donovan Park offer more mellow beaches. For a different kind of day by the lake, hike the Chanterelle Trail to the top of the Lake Whatcom overlook and take in views of both the water and city. Chances are high that you’ll also spot an interesting mushroom (or 20) along the way. Visit each of Whatcom County’s wineries. From limited edition bottles at Vartanyan Estate to one-of-a-kind fruit wines at Samson Estates, there’s an abundance of unique (and awardwinning) options to choose from. The athletically inclined should check out Bender Fields in Lynden for 56 acres of ball fields and wide open spaces. The park accommodates sports ranging from lacrosse to soccer and even pickleball. Jam out at Downtown Sounds, Bellingham’s annual urban music festival. Happening every Wednesday evening during the month of August, this beloved event draws in musical talent from across the country. Learn about Blaine’s maritime history by taking a ride on the historic MV Plover Ferry. This restored ferry, originally built in 1944, sets sail from Drayton Harbor and travels along the route that cannery workers took in the mid-20th century.
Courtesy of Kulshan Trackside
Life 50 Ways to Experience Whatcom County
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Call (360) 389-5351 to schedule a tour!
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Life 50 Ways to Experience Whatcom County
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Learn all about horseback riding at Kelly Park Stables in Bellingham. Beginners are invited to learn the basics at their summertime day camps, and the venue also offers low-pressure lessons to more experienced riders.
Photo by Alicia Prozinski
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Capture a totally different view of Mount Baker and the North Cascades by booking a photography helicopter tour with Snowking Aviation. If you don’t have a fancy camera at the ready, a smartphone will do just fine.
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Shake up your workout routine by attempting obstacle courses at Life Force Ninja, tackling trampolines at Summit Adventure Park, or practicing poses on a paddleboard with SUP Yoga Bellingham. Make the most out of the “last splash of summer” during Discover Birch Bay Days. This annual fun-filled weekend is packed full of events such as a pancake breakfast, games, and even a rubber ducky derby. Stimulate your brain by mixing science and art at Mindport, a downtown museum space that features both interactive exhibits and fine art. Pick your own seasonal produce at one of Whatcom County’s many U-pick farms. Boxx Berry Farm has an abundance of summertime berries, and Bellewood Farms is the place to go for autumnal apples and pumpkins. Immerse yourself in outdoor sculptures at the Big Rock Garden, located just above Lake Whatcom. This 2.5-acre park includes more than 37 works from both international and local artists.
Welcome-Whatcom.com
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Who says date night requires dinner and a movie? Between minigolf at Flatstick Pub, axe throwing at Bellingham Axe, and escape rooms at The Eureka Room, alternative activities abound in downtown Bellingham.
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Bring the family to Ferndale’s Pioneer Park for the annual Olde Fashioned Christmas Celebration. The park’s 12 historic cabins transform into a unique winter wonderland, and children can even pay a visit to Santa himself.
Photo by Claudia Cooper
No matter the season, taking the South Bay Trail from downtown Bellingham to Boulevard Park is always enjoyable. When you arrive at the park, take in the waterfront views with a hot beverage from Woods Coffee.
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Whether you prefer cats or dogs, you can get your fill of snuggles at NEKO Cat Cafe or Are You My Human? Dog & Rescue Lounge. Their animals are also adoptable, so if you fall in love, you can even bring home a new member of the family. If you’re serious about Sasquatch, a tour with The Bigfoot Adventures might be in order. Participants will learn the best methods for tracking and communicating with this elusive beast. Whether or not you’re a believer, you’re guaranteed to have a good time.
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Courtesy of Bellingham Circus Guild
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Kids and adults alike can lean into their creative side by taking a class at the Jansen Art Center in Lynden. In addition to exhibitions, they offer regular classes in disciplines such as painting, jewelry making, pottery, metalwork, textiles, and more.
If you want to see the circus, you don’t have to wait until it comes to town — it’s already here! Bellingham Circus Guild’s mission is to “radically proliferate delight at every opportunity,” and they offer classes for aspiring aerialists in addition to live performances.
Between November and January, take a detour off Mount Baker Highway to visit Deming Homestead Eagle Park. You’ll get a front-row view of bald eagles as they descend on the Nooksack River to feast on migrating salmon. Sample Dutch delights such as oliebollen, banket, stroopwafel, and speculaas cookies at Lynden Dutch Bakery. This local gem also offers American-oriented goodies including cupcakes, milkshakes, and more. Take a calming stroll through the fields at Ferndale’s Laurel Lavender Farm. You’ll also get a brief overview of the plant’s many uses, and best of all, visitors are invited to pick a bundle to bring home.
Photo by PC Taylor Hodges
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Enjoy freshly caught seafood and waterfront views at Anthony’s at Squalicum Harbor. If you’d prefer to prepare local seafood at home, buy a fresh catch directly from the fishermen at Bellingham Dockside Market.
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For the most adventurous brunch in Bellingham, spend your Sunday morning on the deck of the Schooner Zodiac, a classic sailing yacht from the 1920s. Menus are unique to each cruise, and the whole family is welcome.
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 67
Life 50 Ways to Experience Whatcom County
Photo by Celina Meza
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If you’ve ever dreamed of summiting a mountain, Alpine Adventures is here to help you make that goal a reality. Their experienced guides lead treks to the top of our very own Mount Baker. Support local makers by shopping at Brazen Shop + Studio, located in downtown Bellingham. Many of their one-of-a-kind offerings are handcrafted by local artisans, including jewelry, home goods, and plenty more. Bookworms can lose themselves among neverending shelves at Henderson Books. This Bellingham institution has been around since 1986 and accepts used books for sale or trade. Cheer on the competitors of the annual Ski to Sea Race as they cross the finish line at Fairhaven’s Marine Park. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also sign up to take part in this 93-mile-long multisport relay. Take the whole crew to the Family Interactive Gallery (FIG), located in the Whatcom Museum’s Lightcatcher building. It includes an art studio, more than 15 activity stations, and several self-led programs that encourage exploration, learning, and play. Bust out your best dance moves at salsa nights held by Cafe Rumba, occurring on the first and third Saturday of every month. They hold an intro lesson right before every event, so no previous dance expertise is required. Treat yourself to a day of pampering at Flow Motion in Ferndale. This yoga studio and spa offers everything you didn’t know you needed to feel relaxed, including (but not limited to) an amethyst cave and zero-gravity massage lounge.
Welcome-Whatcom.com
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Courtesy of Burnish Clay Studio
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Rock climbing is a big deal in Whatcom County, and you can learn from the best at VITAL Climbing Gym. The gym offers 24-hour access for members as well as youth clinics, Bouldering 101 workshops, and even personal training.
Get crafty by taking a class or two at Burnish Clay Studio. Whether you’re an aspiring potter or an expert at the wheel, they offer classes to suit all levels.
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Root for the Bellingham Bells, the city’s collegiate baseball team, at Joe Martin Field. Make a bucket list of sunset viewing spots to check off during the summer months. Need some inspiration to get started? Samish Overlook, Cyrus Gates Overlook, and the fire tower in the Sehome Arboretum are all prime locations.
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Quality Furniture at Affordable Prices
Competitively priced furniture and mattresses built to provide long, durable wear for the ultimate in comfort and satisfaction! Come browse the newest designer trends & styles at Samuel’s Furniture.
1904 MAIN ST. FERNDALE, WA 98248 • 360.384.3388 SAMUELSFURNITURE.COM
205 W Smith Road, Bellingham 360.398.8300 northbellinghamgolf.com
Community Engagement
Whatcom Art Guild: Bev Davis working
B
ELLINGHAM’S NUMEROUS SOCIAL clubs are the perfect starting point for those looking to get to know the community, volunteer, or meet like-minded people. From horticulture to chess and everything in between, there’s a home for a wide range of hobbies. Volunteer opportunities abound with the Bellingham Bay Rotary Club and Bellingham Central Lions Club, and artists can find community with other creatives via the Whatcom Art Guild. This city is serious about its beer, so homebrewers can share their craft through the Bellingham Homebrewers Guild. No matter how you identify, Bellingham is supportive of its LGBTQ+ residents. People of all genders and sexual orientations are invited to join initiatives such as the Queer Youth Project and Out Bellingham. For older residents, our numerous senior centers provide a space to stay social and engaged. There’s a multitude of ways to get involved, and with so many opportunities for connection, you’re sure to find your people in Bellingham.
Whatcom Women’s Network whatcomwomensnetwork.com
Whatcom Writers & Publishers
Social Clubs & Civic Groups
whatcomwritersandpublishers.org
Bellingham Bay Rotary Club
whatcomvolunteer.org
The Volunteer Center of Whatcom County
bellinghambayrotary.com
Bellingham Central Lions Club bellinghamcentrallions.org
Bellingham City Club bellinghamcityclub.org
Bellingham Elks Lodge elks.org
Bellingham Homebrewers Guild bellinghamhomebrewersguild.org
Bellingham Knights Chess Club bellinghamchess.com
Whatcom Young Professionals bellingham.com/wyps
LGBTQ+ Resources Out Bellingham meetup.com/out-bellingham
Queer Youth Project nwys.org/queer-youth-project
Washington Gender Alliance washingtongenderalliance.com
WWU Queer Resource Center as.wwu.edu/qrc
Senior & Community Centers
Newcomers & Neighbors of Whatcom County
Bellingham Senior Activity Center
whatcomnewcomers.org
315 Halleck St., Bellingham, 360.733.4030
Whatcom Art Guild
Everson Senior Activity Center
whatcomartguild.org
111 W. Main St., Everson, 360.966.3144
Whatcom Association of Celestial Observers
Ferndale Senior Center
whatcomastronomy.com
1999 Cherry St., Ferndale, 360.384.6224
Whatcom County North Rotary
Lynden Community/Senior Center
portal.clubrunner.ca/813
401 Grover St., Lynden, 360.354.2921
Whatcom Horticultural Society
Sumas Senior Center
whatcomhortsociety.org
461 2nd St., Sumas, 360.988.2714
70
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Life Community Engagement
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Ph: 360-676-1025 • Fax: 360-676-4357 Monday - Friday: 8am-5:30pm Saturday: 8:30am-4:30pm • Sunday: CLOSED
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Life Places of Worship
Redeemer Church
Places of Worship
W
HATCOM COUNTY WELCOMES people
from all walks of life, and this inclusivity also applies to religion. According to data from BestPlaces.net, nearly a third of Whatcom residents describe themselves as religious. While a majority of people identify as Christian, there are a wide variety of communities under that umbrella: 7% of residents are Catholic, 4% are Presbyterian, and 2% are Lutheran. There are also churches for Baptist, Episcopalian, Methodist, Pentecostal, and other denominations. Whatcom County also offers resources and services for residents who subscribe to Judaism, Islam, and Eastern religions. Jewish residents can attend services at the Congregation Beth Israel or get involved at the Rohr Center for Jewish Life. Muslim residents can find their community at the Islamic Society of Whatcom County, and Bellingham’s Sikh temple, Gurdwara Guru Nanak Parkash, also offers an active congregation. Whatever your faith or background, there are communities and places of worship in Whatcom County that are ready to welcome you. 72
Welcome-Whatcom.com
Christian BELLINGHAM Bellingham Bible Chapel 4160 Northwest Dr., 360.312.1013
Bellingham Chinese Christian 2200 F St., 360.734.6707
Bellingham Covenant Church 1530 E. Bakerview Rd., 360.733.5920
Bellingham Gospel Center 2818 McLeod Rd., 360.676.1357
Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship 1207 Ellsworth St., 360.733.3837
Christ The King Community Church 4173 Meridian St., 360.733.1337
Church of the Assumption 2116 Cornwall Ave., 360.733.1380
Faith Lutheran Church 2750 McLeod Rd., 360.733.3970
FACES
OF THE NORTHSOUND
THE FACE OF
TREE CARE
Wonder Tree Care 2717 Kulshan St., Bellingham 360.319.2125 wondertreecare@gmail.com wondertreecarebellingham.com
Wonder Tree Care was born from a love of trees and people. Owners/Operators Ash & Geoff came to Bellingham from Portland, Oregon and saw a need for a tree service that had a deep focus on tree care. From removing large hazard trees for Larrabee State Park to offering shrub pruning instruction to Bellingham homeowners, no job is too big or small, and each job matters. We employ fun, vibrant individuals who leave the ego at the door, and you can trust you will always get a knowledgable and approachable arborist who truly cares about you and your space. At Wonder we wake up every day grateful to be caring for the trees and people of Bellingham.
Life Places of Worship First Christian Church
Protestant Reformed Church
495 E. Bakerview Rd., 360.734.6820
317 N. Park St., 360.354.0496
Good Shepherd Community Church
Second Christian Reformed Church
2550 Thornton Rd., 360.380.2938
1254 W. Smith Rd., 360.384.5403
710 Front St., 360.354.3961
5719 Church Rd., 360.384.1129
Life Church
Sonlight Community Church
United Church of Ferndale
747 Marine Dr., 360.733.8980
8800 Bender Rd., 360.354.3434
2034 Washington St., 360.384.3302
Living Water Fellowship
St. Joseph’s Catholic Church
Whatcom New Life Assembly
4767 Guide Meridian Rd., 360.398.9838
205 12th St., 360.354.2334
2290 Main St., 360.384.4101
My Church
Third Christian Reformed Church
3218 Fielding Ave., 360.306.3687
514 Liberty St., 360.354.1448
BLAINE
North Bellingham Church of Christ
Lynden United Methodist Church
Birch Bay Bible Community Church
500 14th St., 360.354.4169
4460 Bay Rd., 360.371.2300
1063 W. Bakerview Rd., 360.389.2234
United Reformed Church of Lynden
Christ Episcopal Church
8650 Benson Rd., 360.318.0429
Freedom Fellowship
North Cascades Christian Fellowship 3800 Dana Rd., 360.734.3837
Northwest Baptist Church
FERNDALE
3545 Northwest Ave., 360.733.3620
Church of Christ
Redeemer Church 211 Northshore Dr., 360.201.4581
Spring Creek Bible Church 567 E. Kellogg Rd., 360.734.5228
LYNDEN
6300 Portal Way, 360.384.6741
Christ Lutheran Church 5904 Vista Dr., 360.384.1422
Christ the King Community Church, Pioneer Center 5627 3rd Ave., 360.656.6342
Bethel Christian Reformed Church
Cornerstone Community Church
1105 Liberty St., 360.354.2361
Evergreen Community Church
Faith Community Church 586 Birch Bay Lynden Rd., 360.354.0536
Faith Reformed Church 300 7th St., 360.354.3664
First Christian Reformed Church 1010 Front St., 360.354.4560
5732 Olson Rd., 360.384.3661 6899 N. Enterprise Rd., 360.384.6310
Faith Bible Community Church 5702 3rd Ave., 360.393.3761
Ferndale Alliance Church 6100 Church Rd., 360.384.4279
Freedom Church
Ferndale Seventh-Day Adventist Church
405 Front St., 360.325.2015
2488 Main St., 360.384.1526
Grace Baptist Fellowship
First Baptist Church
338 N. Park St., 360.354.2913
5759 Vista Dr., 360.384.3111
Hope Lutheran Church
Good News Fellowship
900 E. Grover St., 360.354.4211
1252 W. Axton Rd., 360.384.1515
Lynden Community Church
Northwest Washington Holiness Association
680 Grover St., 360.354.2226
Netherlands Reformed Church
5942 Portal Way, 360.380.0890
8581 Depot Rd., 360.354.6645
St. Joseph Catholic Church
North County Christ The King
5781 Hendrickson Ave., 360.384.3651
1816 18th St., 360.318.9446
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Welcome-Whatcom.com
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Triumph Lutheran Church
382 Boblett St., 360.332.4113 508 G St., 360.332.7506
Grace Lutheran Church 702 G St., 360.332.6589
Lighthouse Baptist Church 8373 Harborview Rd., 360.371.7740
Northwood Alliance Church 580 C St., 360.332.8610
St. Anne Catholic Church 604 H St., 360.384.3651
Unitarian Free Church 1218 Harrison Ave., 360.332.4781
United Church of Christ 885 4th St., 360.332.6906
ACME, DEMING, EVERSON, MAPLE FALLS, NOOKSACK Acme Prebyterian Church 2054 Valley Hwy., Deming, 360.595.2898
Bethany Chapel 3744 Mt. Baker Hwy., Everson, 360.592.2221
Christ Fellowship 1208 E. Main St., Everson, 360.966.3223
Iglesia Hispana - Hispanic Church 203 E. Lincoln St., Everson, 360.510.0881
Immanuel Lutheran Church 5782 Lawrence Rd., Everson, 360.592.5876
North County Christ the King 8794 Kendall Rd., Maple Falls, 360.988.2037
Nooksack Valley Reformed Church 602 E. 2nd St., Nooksack, 360.966.7903
Nooksack Advent Christian Church 201 Jackson St., Nooksack, 360.966.4573
Paradise Gospel Church 8629 Kendall Rd., Maple Falls, 360.599.9267
River of Life Community Church 4037 Valley Hwy., Deming, 360.592.2279
Silver Lake Community Church 7836 Silver Lake Rd., Maple Falls, 360.599.2680
St. Innocent Antiochian Orthodox Church 7461 Goodwin Rd., Everson, 360.927.8091
St. Peter Catholic Church 6210 Mt. Baker Hwy., Deming, 360.599.2867
Valley Church 904 Nooksack Rd., Everson, 360.966.7631
Islam Islamic Society of Whatcom County 1244 Nevada St., Bellingham, 360.752.9399
Judaism Congregation Beth Israel 751 San Juan Blvd., Bellingham, 360.733.8890
Rohr Center for Jewish Life 102 Highland Dr., Bellingham, 360.393.3845
Sikhism Gurdwara Guru Nanak Parkash 777 W. Smith Rd., Bellingham, 360.312.1190
Unspecified Unity Spiritual Center 1095 Telegraph Rd., 360.733.2270
Bellingham Shambhala Center 2825 Meridian St., Bellingham, Ste. 201, 360.483.4526
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 75
Life Sports and Recreation
W
HATCOM COUNTY IS
a dream destination for outdoor adventurers. No matter the season, its location allows for a variety of activities that would be hard to match anywhere else. Residents and visitors have access to three national parks, several state parks, and many county parks within the city’s limits. Mountain bikers from all over the country flock to Bellingham for worldclass trails on Galbraith Mountain. With more than 65 miles of singletrack trails spread throughout 3,000 acres of forest, the mountain offers endless opportunities for adventure, exploration, and fun. Thanks to the county’s proximity to Mount Baker and the North Cascades, runners, hikers, and backpackers have a goldmine of trails to traverse during the summertime. In the winter months, you can ditch those hiking boots for skis or a snowboard and hit the slopes at the Mount Baker Ski Area. Whether it’s July or December, the Chuckanut Mountains are easily accessible from Fairhaven and offer year-round activities such as hiking, camping, biking, fishing, and rock climbing. Lastly, given our abundant lakes, rivers, and the Bellingham Bay, we can’t forget to mention the recreational activities available on the water. You can set sail from Squalicum Harbor, 76
Photo by Alf Palacios
Sports & Outdoor Recreation
Welcome-Whatcom.com
Marine Park
put in a sea kayak from Marine Park, catch fish, or watch the tide roll in at Larrabee State Park. If it’s a clear day, don’t forget to look inland for stunning views of Bellingham’s cityscape and the snow-capped peaks that lie behind it.
Loomis Trail Golf
Golf Courses
6827 Hannegan Rd., Everson, 360.354.3029
Bald Eagle Golf Club
Sandy Point Golf Course
1350 Pelican Pl., Point Roberts, 866.460.0368
4460 Decatur Dr., Ferndale, 360.384.3921
Bellingham Golf and Country Club 3729 Meridian St., Bellingham, 360.733.3450
Birch Bay Village Golf Course
4342 Loomis Trail Rd., Blaine, 360.332.1725
North Bellingham Golf Course 205 W. Smith Rd., Bellingham, 360.398.8300
Raspberry Ridge Golf Course
Semiahmoo Golf and Country Club 8720 Semiahmoo Pkwy., Blaine, 855.917.3767
Shuksan Golf Club
8169 Cowichan Rd., Blaine, 360.371.2026
1500 E. Axton Rd., Bellingham, 360.398.8888
Dakota Creek Golf Course
Sudden Valley Golf Course
3258 Haynie Rd., Custer, 360.366.3131
4 Clubhouse Cir., Bellingham, 855.506.2219
Grandview Golf Course 7738 Portal Way, Custer, 360.366.3947
Homestead Golf Course 8814 Depot Rd., Lynden, 360.354.1196, Ext. 2
Lake Padden Golf Course 4882 Samish Way, Bellingham, 360.738.7400
Sports Teams Bellingham Bells (Baseball) bellinghambells.com
Bellingham Blazers (Hockey) bellinghamblazers.pointstreaksites.com
Photo by Nick Sadigh with Point 2 Studio
Bellingham Roller Betties (Roller Derby)
Sports & Outdoor Clubs
Larrabee State Park
bellinghamrollerbetties.com
Bellingham Mountaineers
Whatcom FC Rangers (Soccer)
bellinghammountaineers.com
Mount Baker National Recreation Area
Bellingham Roller Betties (Roller Derby)
whatcomfcrangers.org
Athletic Events Bellingham Bay Marathon bellinghambaymarathon.org
Bellingham Traverse bellinghamtraverse.com
Chuckanut Classic
Greater Bellingham Running Club gbrc.net
Silver Lake Park
Mount Baker Club
Whatcom Falls Park
mountbakerclubsite.wordpress.com
Biking Areas
Nooksack Nordic Ski Club nooksacknordicskiclub.org
Bay to Baker Trail
Whatcom Association of Kayak Enthusiasts
Chuckanut Mountain Park
wakekayak.org
Civic Field Dirt Jump Track
Hiking & Walking Areas
Galbraith Mountain
mtbakerbikeclub.clubexpress.com
Ski to Sea skitosea.com
Special Olympics Washington
Semiahmoo Park
Arroyo Park
sobellingham.org
Chuckanut Mountain Park
Tour de Whatcom
Galbraith Mountain
tourdewhatcom.com
Hovander Homestead Park
Interurban Trail Lake Padden Park Railroad Trail Semiahmoo Park Silver Lake Park
Interurban Trail
Whatcom Falls Park
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 77
Life Pets
Pets
W
HATCOM COUNTY IS a haven for pet owners,
Photo by Cocoa Laney
and if your four-legged friends like to explore the great outdoors, they’re sure to fit in fast. Our numerous dog-friendly parks offer stunning scenery and ample space for pups (and their humans) to get some exercise in. If you’re out on the town, know that many of our breweries and bars are happy to accommodate canine companions. Most ask patrons to keep their pets on a leash, but Paws for a Beer allows well-behaved pups with memberships to roam free. The area is also home to a plethora of doggie daycares, trainers, and groomers. Additionally, Whatcom County’s veterinarians can help your pet stay healthy and happy. Some vets are welcoming towards all species, while others, such as the Chuckanut Feline Center, are more specialized. In the market for a furry friend? Our humane societies will help match you with the forever companion that’s right for you and your family. For animal lovers who aren’t looking for commitment, a visit to NEKO Cat Cafe or Are You My Human? Dog Rescue & Lounge might be in order. Be warned, though: Their animals are adoptable, so if you find yourself falling in love, you might not be going home empty-handed.
Veterinary Hospitals BELLINGHAM
Northshore Veterinary Hospital
Whatcom Veterinary Hospital
Animal Emergency Care
1486 Electric Ave., 360.738.6916
5610 Barrett Rd., 360.384.0212
4176 Meridian St., 360.758.2200
Chuckanut Feline Center
Banfield Pet Hospital
1214 Dupont St., 360.757.3722
LYNDEN
4379 Meridian St., 360.734.9459
Village Veterinary Hospital
Lynden Veterinary Hospital
Bellingham Veterinary
236 36th St., 360.647.1980
1919 Front St., 360.354.7988
720 Virginia St., 360.734.0720
Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital
BLAINE Blaine Animal Hospital
Kulshan Veterinary Hospital 8880 Benson Rd., 360.354.5095
4176 Meridian St., 360.982.0166
8892 Blaine Rd., 360.332.6813
NOOKSACK/SUMAS
Fairhaven Veterinary Hospital
Northwest Veterinary Clinic
Nooksack Animal Hospital
2330 Old Fairhaven Pkwy., 360.671.3903
8115 Birch Bay Square St., Ste. 135, 360.366.5434
302 W. Columbia St., 360.966.3207
Fountain Veterinary Hospital 2430 Meridian St., Ste. 2., 360.733.2660
Larrabee Animal Medicine
FERNDALE
1110 Larrabee Ave., 360.527.9533
Ferndale Veterinary Hospital
Maplewood Animal Hospital
2069 Main St., 360.389.5989
2869 W. Maplewood Ave., 360.715.1430
Kulshan Veterinary Hospital
Mountain Veterinary Hospital
6220 Portal Way, 360.354.5095
3413 Mt. Baker Hwy., 360.592.5113
78
Welcome-Whatcom.com
Dog-Friendly Parks Arroyo Park 1700 Old Samish Rd., Bellingham
Bender Fields 8770 Bender Rd., Lynden
GRUFF Brewing Company
Courtesy of GRUFF Brewing Company
Courtesy of Whatcom Humane Society
Whatcom Humane Society
Bloedel Donovan Park
Sunset Pond Park
Stemma Brewing Co.
2114 Electric Ave., Bellingham
3424-3462 James St., Bellingham
2039 Moore St., Bellingham, 360.746.8385
Fairhaven Park
VanderYacht Park
Stones Throw Brewing Co.
107 Chuckanut Dr. N., Bellingham
1945 Washington St., Ferndale
Hovander Homestead Park
Whatcom Falls Park
1009 Larrabee Ave., Bellingham, 360.362.5058
5299 Nielsen Ave., Ferndale
1401 Electric Ave., Bellingham
Lake Padden Dog Park 4882 S. Samish Way, Bellingham
Lincoln Park 1800 H St., Blaine
Little Squalicum Park 640 Marine Dr., Bellingham
Lynden City Park 8460 Depot Rd., Lynden
Sehome Hill Arboretum 600 25th St., Bellingham
Semiahmoo Park 9261 Semiahmoo Pkwy., Blaine
Skallman Park 1190 Yew Ave., Blaine
Squires Lake Park
Dog-Friendly Breweries & Bars
Humane Societies, Shelters, & Wildlife Rescues
Elizabeth Station
Alternative Humane Society
1400 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.733.8982
360.671.7445
Goods Local Brews
Are You My Human? Dog Rescue & Lounge
2620 Northwest Ave., Bellingham, 360.671.3085
1307 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.656.6398
GRUFF Brewing Co.
NEKO: A Cat Cafe
104 E. Maple St., Ste. 101, Bellingham
1130 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.656.6217
Kulshan Brewing Co. 2238 James St., Bellingham, 360.389.5348
Sardis Raptor Center
Otherlands Beer
7472 Valley View Rd., Ferndale, 360.366.3863
2510 Nulle Rd., Bellingham
2121 Humboldt St., Bellingham, 360.746.8118
Squalicum Dog Park
Paws for a Beer
1001 Squalicum Way, Bellingham
501 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.733.7297
Sudden Valley Dog Park
Schweinhaus Biergarten
22 Marina Dr., Bellingham
1330 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.671.0206
Whatcom Humane Society (WHS) 2172 Division St., Bellingham, 360.733.2080
WHS Northwest Wildlife Rehabilitation Center 3671 Mt. Baker Hwy., Everson, 360.966.8845
Welcome Newcomers Guide 2022 79
Life Pets
Heart Health for Four-Legged Friends Q&A with Dr. Brita Kiffney of Northshore Veterinary Hospital
Hello Dr. Kiffney! Please share little about you, your background, and your own pets if you have any. I grew up in Seattle and from a young age was fascinated with animal life. I would spend hours at the zoo as a young child, then started volunteering there when I was a teenager. The diversity of animal life is fascinating and kept me motivated to become a veterinarian. I was fortunate to have parents who supported my dream and graduated from Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1995. We have two cats: Kelso, an 8-year-old male, black, fluffy feline; and BamBam, a four-year-old female black cat. BamBam is tripod (her left hind leg was amputated at a young age due to injury). Our dogs consist of a chihuahua (two years old, adopted from Whatcom Humane Society) named Waldo and a poodle mix who is 12 years old, named Luna.
What’s the most common health problem you see in dogs? What about cats? Itchy skin is the most common issue we see in dogs, whether it be due to fleas, allergies, or infections. For cats, urinary problems are a very common reason for being brought to the veterinary office. The primary symptom of this is inappropriate toileting – where your cat is peeing outside of the litter box, often on clothes, carpets, or other soft items.
I understand that “heart disease” is a catch-all term. Speaking more specifically, what are a few of the most common heart conditions that you see in animals on a day-to-day basis? Heart disease in our dogs and cats really consists of a myriad of different issues. In the Pacific Northwest, we are fortunate to not have very much heartworm transmission, a disease that is transmitted by mosquitoes and infects dogs and, to a lesser extent, cats. It is very common in the southeastern United States.
In dogs, there are two very common heart conditions that we see: Myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) is the most common cardiac condition seen in dogs. It is mostly, but not exclusively, a disease of smaller breed dogs, and is seen in middle-age or geriatric dogs. MMVD leads to degeneration of the mitral valves (the valves on the left side of the heart between the left atrium and left ventricle). Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is another common heart disease in dogs. The heart muscle becomes weak and loses the ability to contract normally. When the heart can’t pump blood properly, the body retains water to increase blood volume, leading to further enlargement of the heart. This can eventually lead to arrhythmias (abnormal electric impulse in the heart) and heart failure. 80
Welcome-Whatcom.com
Does diet play a role? There has been a recent increase in heart disease (cardiomyopathy) in dogs eating grain-free, exoticingredient diets (both home-prepared and commercial). This led the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine to collaborate with researchers to investigate the connection between diet and heart disease in July of 2018. Grain-free food has become increasingly popular due to marketing and unsupported nutritional claims. These diets have been associated with absolute or functional taurine deficiency, which leads to dilated cardiomyopathy.
What about cats? In cats, the most common heart disease is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). HCM causes the heart muscle to become thickened and abnormally stiff, not allowing the normal filling of the heart. This can then lead to fluid buildup in the left atrium and secondary congestive heart failure.
Are there telltale signs that pet owners can watch out for? Clinical signs of heart disease in cats are variable and depend on the severity of the particular animal’s disease. Some cats demonstrate no outward signs of disease, as cats are very good at masking or hiding problems until they become more severe. Often the first time an owner is made aware of their cat’s diagnosis is at an annual exam when their veterinarian hears a murmur or arrhythmia. Early signs of heart disease in cats include an increased resting respiratory rate (the number of breaths per minute).
More severe signs consist of panting, or respiratory distress, and occasionally paralysis secondary to a blood clot. Clinical signs of heart disease in dogs include the increase in resting respiratory rate and decreased appetite but also coughing, much more so than in cats.
exactly like murmurs in a cat with serious heart disease, so radiographs, ECGs, and echocardiograms will be the next diagnostic tools discussed.
Is heart disease more common in certain breeds?
This depends on the severity of their heart disease at the time of diagnosis. Cats with subclinical HCM have a median survival of at least three years, whereas cats presenting with congestive heart failure have a shorter mean survival time. The same holds true of dogs.
Can pets still live a long life after being diagnosed with a heart condition?
Certain breeds of dogs and cats are more prone to heart disease. In dogs, small dogs (less than 20 pounds) are more prone to MMVD, with cavalier King Charles spaniels being the most commonly affected. DCM is seen in several large breed dogs such as the Irish wolfhound, doberman pinscher, boxer, Great Danes, Newfoundlands, Portuguese water dogs, dalmations, and (on the smaller side) cocker spaniels. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is genetically linked in Maine coon and ragdoll cats.
Beyond exercise and a balanced diet, how can pet owners be more proactive when it comes to the health of their four legged friends?
How common is it for a vet to hear a heart murmur during routine exams? Is this always cause for alarm? It is common to auscult a heart murmur in dogs, especially in older small breed dogs, and is not a cause for panic. The veterinarian can quickly assess if your dog is at high/imminent risk of heart failure based on other physical exam findings. The cause of a cat’s murmur cannot usually be determined by listening alone. In many cats, benign murmurs can sound
Finding a veterinarian in your area that you trust is an important part of keeping your pet healthy. There are a myriad of so-called “experts” in dog and cat nutrition (online and at the pet food store) who make recommendations for diets and supplements. If you find a product that you want to use with your pet, ask their veterinarian what they think to ensure it is safe. Regular exams are recommended for your dog and cat, as early signs of disease are often first detected at a well-pet visit. Northshore Veterinary Hospital, 1486 Electric Ave., Bellingham, 360.738.6916, northshore-vet.com
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a unique relaxing retreat offering esthetics & permanent cosmetics By appointment only, book online
www.karasbeautybarn.com
Voted Best Consignment Shop since 2012!
TWO LOCATIONS 360.676.1210
3927 Northwest Ave.
Quinn and Foster is a Men’s and Women’s boutique in the heart of downtown Bellingham. Bellingham, WA 360.671.2000 quinnandfoster.com Mention this ad and receive 20% off one item of your choice.
360.738.0333 2332 James St.
Retail
Photo by Cocoa Laney
Fashion
Date Night
His
Hers
KanCan Jeans, Yeager’s, $69.95
Ginger G Button Off Midi Dress, Fringe, $38
Kuhl Jacket, Yeager’s, $129.95
Final Touch Open Knit Cardigan, Fringe, $68
Belt, Yeager’s, $39.95
Miz Mooz Bethanny Boots, Fringe, $175
PNW Arrow T-Shirt, Bay to Baker Trading Company, $23.99
Necklace, Betty Be Good, $19.90
Alfani Tolland Cap-Toe Oxfords, Macy’s, $69.99
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Retail
Date Night PHOTOGRAPHY Cocoa Laney MODELS Alex Pederson, Eve Chamberlain OUTFITS Bay to Baker Trading Company, Betty Be Good, Fringe Boutique, Macy’s, Statement Apparel, Yeagers LOCATION Hotel Bellwether
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HETHER YOU’RE IN the market for hiking boots or a wedding dress, you’re sure to find what you need in Whatcom County. Bellis Fair Mall is the place to go for familiar brand names, but if you’d prefer to shop local, look no further than Downtown Bellingham and Historic Downtown Fairhaven. You’ll find boutiques and shops offering curated selections of everything from clothing to shoes, jewelry, and more. Venturing just outside of Bellingham, Birch Bay Square in Blaine and Downtown Lynden are also must-visit hubs for shopping, dining, and fun.
ADORED BOUTIQUE 913 Harris Ave. Bellingham shopadoredboutique.com A lovely boutique located in Historic Fairhaven offering women’s clothing, bath and body, unique gifts as well as locally handmade jewelry and handbags. You are sure to find something special for yourself and your loved ones! BELLA BOUTIQUE AND CONSIGNMENT 1887 Main St, Suite 103 Ferndale 360.778.1181, F: @bellaboutiqueferndale Bella Boutique and Consignment is a new boutique and consignment shop in Ferndale. We are a family owned local business that opened up in May of 2021. We offer men and women’s new & consigned clothing as well as fashion accessories and small home décor. Stop by and check us out! THE CLOTHES RACK OC Necklace, Statement Apparel, $69
Parkhurst Hat, Statement Apparel, $49
OC Earrings, Statement Apparel, $29
Charlie B Sweater, Statement Apparel, $87
Sylca Ring, Statement Apparel, $31
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Photo by Cocoa Laney
Liverpool Gia Glider Jeans, Statement Apparel, $83
2426 Yew St., Bellingham 360.738.7759 The Clothes Rack Women’s Consignment Store specializes in selling quality, gently used clothing, shoes, handbags, and accessories. Our clothing features brand names in modern, classic and timeless styles. We have a wide variety of sizes, including plus sizes. By recycling current fashions we are creating a sustainable lifestyle.
CURRENT AND FURBISH 1115 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.733.3224, currentandfurbish.com A colorful, engaging and artistic shop in the historic Fairhaven district with a focus on items produced by small hands-on businesses. From local artists to international artisans, there is something for everyone, Our new ‘consignment basement’ is an everchanging shop of treasures. Always unique, always interesting. FAIRHAVEN TOY GARDEN 909 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.714.8552, fairhaventoygarden.com We offer well-crafted, unique, affordable toys that encourage imaginative play and creativity. By providing a cheerful and welcoming space with many interactive displays, kids of all ages can have an enjoyable and memorable experience. Located right in the heart of historic Fairhaven. We look forward to seeing you in our store! FITNESS GEAR AND TRAINING 1650 N. State St., Bellingham 360.671.5059 Fitness Gear and Training has sold top quality exercise equipment to both home and commercial users for 33 years. We provide sales, delivery and installation as well as after sales service. In addition, we provide private personal training within our retail location in state of the art, private boutique training studios. THE INDIGO DOOR 1201 11th St., Ste. 101, Bellingham IG: @indigo_door_360 The Indigo Door is a gallery of art, spiritual tools, crystals, herbs, pottery, and beads. Enter into a place of harmony and healing and explore your own spiritual path, with our wealth of resources and inspiring art. Enter into a safe haven from the rest of the world where you can learn, heal, grow, and flourish. LIVING PANTRY REFILLERY 2400 Yew St., Bellingham 360.778.2973 684 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine 360.393.4362 Whatcom County’s first Refillery offering over 1000 bulk, Household and Body Care products, many made in the PNW. Bring your own containers! We support small businesses and makers, offering locally made gifts and alternatives to single-use plastic and disposable items.
Photo by Cocoa Laney
LivingPantry.com
Unlisted by Kenneth Cole Peyton Chelsea Boots, Macy’s, $85 Filson Sweater, Yeager’s, $275
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Retail SEASONS BOUTIQUE 1201 11th Ave., Ste. 100, Bellingham 360.671.1744 seasons5.wixsite.com/fairhaven “For Everything there is a Season.” A boutique for both locals and visitors, with Quality, Variety and Great Prices. Casual, travel, leisure wear, denims, wearable art, classic office attire, dressy and after-hours styles, all in feel-good fabrics, plus artisan jewelry and accessories, from the USA and around the world. You’ll always find something different at Seasons, for Daughters, Mothers and Grandmothers! SOUL SISTERS UNIQUE BOUTIQUE 436 W Bakerview Rd., Ste. 109 Bellingham 360.746.8056 IG: @soulsistersuniqueboutique Bellingham’s newest, most distinctive boutique — naturally chic and affordable fashion, accessories and gifts for SOUL SISTERS of all flavors. Our store features quality made clothing with soft, luxurious fabrics and on-trend fashions to have you feeling your best and looking fabulous from head to toe. STATEMENT APPAREL 2945 Newmarket St, Bellingham 360.734.9595, statement-apparel.com Voted Best Of The Northwest 2 years in a row, Statement Apparel in Barkley village carries casual, comfortable women’s clothing that fits the Northwest lifestyle. Some the many lines we carry include Tribal, FDJ, Foxcroft, Habitat, Jag, Liverpool and Marjorie Baer jewelry. Our amazing staff prides themselves on giving excellent customer service to make your shopping experience memorable. A percentage of every sale benefits The Whatcom Hospice Foundation. SURROUNDINGS HOME & GIFTS 1758 Front St. #104, Lynden 360.354.3101, surroundingslynden.com
His
Hers
Broner Hat, Yeager’s, $39.95
Stirrup Ponte Pants, Betty Be Good Boutique, $34.90
Unlisted by Kenneth Cole Peyton Chelsea Boots, Macy’s, $85
Bralette Babydoll Top, Betty Be Good, $39.90 Qupid Shoes, Betty Be Good, $39.90
Bird In Hand Design Necklace, Fringe, $36
Welcome-Whatcom.com
1100 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.7561047, threefrenchens.com
Hyfve Blazer, Betty Be Good Boutique, $49.90
Ellova Leather Earrings, Fringe, $30
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Club Room V-Neck Merino Wool Blend Sweater, Macy’s, $75
Surroundings offers a unique collection of home décor and gifts. Refresh yourself in the beauty, faith, joy and fragrance of this wonderful collection for you and your home. We celebrate each season with colorful florals and accent pieces that will inspire you. Located in Lynden’s Fairway Center, across from the fairgrounds.
Located in the heart of Historic Fairhaven, we carry sophisticated, elegant clothing that elevates your everyday style. Many of our brands are made in the USA, and crafted with organic fabrics and leathers that are built to last forever. Some of our major brands include Joseph Ribkoff, Eileen Fisher, AG Jeans, Hobo, Lilla P, Paige, and Nic & Zoe. We love finding the perfect look for your everyday style, or any occasion. Our mission is to provide you with clothing that not only looks spectacular, but also makes you feel spectacular.
FACES
OF THE NORTHSOUND
THE FACE OF
BEAUTY SALONS Salon Bellissima Nicci Troupe | Owner 1215 Old Fairhaven Parkway Ste B Bellingham, 360.715.1052 Salonbellissimabellingham.com
Style, comfort, professional, widely educated, and a friendly face behind the chair are a few ways we like to describe ourselves. Our state-of-the-art hair salon has been serving the Bellingham community since 2011 with natural sustainability and keeping our planet green always in the forefront. We pride ourselves in keeping current on trends and techniques while using natural based products like Davines and Olaplex you’ll love. Each guest is important to us and we actually take the time to talk to you and find out what you’re looking for and how to achieve it and recreate it at home, whether that’s on a daily basis or for a special occasion. Nicci, the owner, brings with her 17 years of experience in the beauty industry and her staff has been hand-picked by her, and proven to be some of the best in the Northwest, time and time again. Being able to help our guests feel and look their best, is the exact reason why we love our job.
Retail Necessities
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Running Shoes STUDIO GALLERY
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY
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360.920.4022 • ben-mann.com Private Appointments • Commissioned Artwork • Painting Tutorials
HETHER YOU’RE TRAINING for a mile or a
Voted Best Local Artist since 2016
marathon, every runner’s career starts with a trip to the shoe store. Of course, there’s no one-sizefits-all when it comes to running shoes — some are cushioned, others are only lightly padded, and others provide arch support and stability. Not sure where to begin? Luckily our local businesses can help you find a fit that’s sleek, stylish, and tailored to your needs.
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On Cloudsurfer 6 Men’s Running Shoe Fairhaven Runners and Walkers, $150 1209 11th St., Bellingham, 360.676.4955 fairhavenrunners.com
Proud participant in the 28th annual Whatcom Artists Studio Tour: studiotour.net
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Topo Ultrafly Women’s Running Shoe Fairhaven Runners and Walkers, $130 1209 11th St., Bellingham, 360.676.4955 fairhavenrunners.com
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Brooks Ghost Women’s Running Shoe BBay Running, $130 1431 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.738.6900, bbayrunning.com
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Topo Phantom Women’s Running Shoe BBay Running, $140 1431 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.738.6900, bbayrunning.com
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Hoka Rocket Women’s Running Shoe Beck’s Shoes, $194.99 113 W. Magnolia St., Bellingham 360.734.3090, beckshoes.com
2015 2016
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Hoka Clifton Men’s Running Shoe
BEST NORTH BEST WEST of the
of the
NORTH
WEST
420 FRONT STREET * LYNDEN WA WWW.CHEEKSJEANS.COM
ZE BRON
ZE BRON
Beck’s Shoes, $138.99 113 W. Magnolia St., Bellingham 360.734.3090, beckshoes.com
INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK
@CHEEKSJEANS
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Burgers • Wings• Fat Sandwiches
take-out • delivery Order Online 414 W. Bakerview Rd. sTE. 112, Bellingham 360.366.8752 • Fatshack.com ® TM
Sun-Thurs 11am to 1am
Fri-Sat 11am to 3am
Taste Sea
to
Store front Photo by Kristoffer Arestol
Written by Frances Badgett and Cocoa Laney
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Photo by Kristoffer Arestol
Taste Sea to Storefront
Catch Grill it, smoke it, eat it raw — fish is one of the great delicacies, and preparing and eating freshcaught wild fish is a whole new order of seafood dining. If you enjoy the outdoors, the water, and the connection of nature to your plate, here are some great ways to harvest one of the healthiest entrees around.
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Harvesting Shellfish Our nearshore waters are often closed for shellfish harvesting in the summer, but not always. There will be big signs warning you if the beaches are closed, and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (WDFW) website also offers information on closures. Teddy Bear Cove Park, Birch Bay, Drayton Harbor, Larrabee State Park, Point Roberts, and South Birch Point are all public oyster and clam beaches. Birch Bay State Park’s clam band is a great place to dig. From the gravel to the low dirt line, you can harvest littleneck and Manila clams. In the sandy upper intertidal, you can find butter clams, cockles, and horse clams. Oysters can be harvested on the north end of the beach as well.
Angling for Salmon The two main questions most people heading out to fish for the first time ask: When and where? The WDFW website offers information about regulations, timing, areas that may be closed to fishing, maps, and licensing. The site also has maps and information about areas that may be closed for management purposes or for the season. For up-to-the-minute info on the go, download the Fish Washington mobile app. wdfw.wa.gov
Photo by Kristoffer Arestol
Fishing History: Reef Net Fishing
Chartering a Boat
Crabbing
Searching for the right spot to fish on the right day in the right weather can be a challenge. An experienced captain with a good boat can take you to favorite spots, and he will know the best times to go. Whether you are learning how to fish, determining your level of commitment to the sea, or an expert without a boat, grab some friends and spend an afternoon or a weekend reeling in the sea’s bounty. Four charters — R&R Charters, Highliner Charters, Jolly Mon, Stout Fish Charters, and Catchmore Charters — run out of Anacortes. randrfishingcharters.
If getting out on the water and tossing around lines and nets is too much like work for you, crab might be more your speed. No, not the scary crabbing of “Deadliest Catch” — we’re talking about an afternoon of baiting traps, setting pots, and waiting. Go out at high tide, cut your motor, bait the trap (turkey leg seems to be de rigueur for crabbers), and drop the pot. Have a beer, go for a swim, read a few chapters of a good book, and your dinner comes to you. Just be aware that crabs can strip that bait very quickly, so don’t leave it out too long. Bear in mind that you have to measure your crab and not overfish, which is true about almost every form of fishing.
com, highlinercharters.com, jollymoncharters.com, stoutfish. com, catchmorecharters.com
Beyond the shore, there on the sparkling waters of Legoe Bay, you can see the nets, webbed and glinting in the sun like spider webs spun between boats. If you look closely, among the aluminumhulled vessels you can find a few traditional wooden canoes. Today, only the materials of reef netting have changed slightly—otherwise, the historic practice has returned to our waters unchanged from its centuries-old roots. Reef netting is unique to our area, and a very special component of tribal identity.
At the Point Elliott Treaty of 1855, the tribes who signed were granted “the right of taking fish at usual and accustomed grounds and stations is further secured to said Indians in common with all citizens of the Territory.” The Lummi Nation, signatories to the treaty, have held those treaty rights ever since. They were affirmed by the 1974 Bolt Decision. Reef netting was halted in the Puget Sound for several years. In recent years, reef-netting has returned, and with it a return to Lummi roots.
The benefits of reef net fishing are many. For one, the fish (and typically salmon) haven’t entered the rivers yet, making it exceptionally tender. The reef net allows for a high level of selection, as fish aren’t bound together in a bundle. And third, it is easiest on aquatic ecology, as the nets don’t drag on the ocean floor, but float along in the current. For fishermen, it is an efficient tool— according to the Whatcom Land Trust, an 1881 newspaper reported that three reef nets caught 10,000 salmon in six hours.
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buy Perhaps you’re less of a harvest-your-own type, but you like to keep a short distance between your food and your dinner plate. Perhaps you want the freshest, highest quality seafood from a reliable local source. If so, these shops and purveyors will fill your plate, gift basket, or shopping cart with plenty of delicious options.
Photo by Kristoffer Arestol
Bellingham Dockside Market
Mussels
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Shigokus
On market days, head to Squalicum Harbor to buy fresh seafood directly from the folks that catch it — it’s “dock-to-table” service in the truest sense of the term. Product availability depends on conditions, so remember to check the market’s social media the day before. Upcoming market dates are available online. Squalicum Harbor Gates 5 and 7, Bellingham, bellinghamseafeast.org/docksidemarket
Clams
Taylor Shellfish Farm The largest producer of farmed shellfish in the U.S., the Taylors have built their business to nearly 500 employees and 11,000 acres of tidelands. Their farm store is beautifully situated along Chuckanut Drive, and they welcome visitors. For generations this family has provided our area (and now the world) with fresh shellfish. 2182 Chuckanut Dr., Bellingham, taylorshellfishfarms.com
Photo by Ana Hinojosa
Skagit’s Own Fish Market
For those who like to shorten the distance between the source and their dinner plates, Desire Fish is a great option. Fish are typically sold to processors and distributors, and go through many changes of hands before landing on your plate. Not so at Desire, where you get it right off the boat.
Barlean’s Fishery Inc. Specializing in a traditional fishing style called reef net fishing, Barlean’s has been in operation in Bellingham since 1972. They offer all fish preparation services. Their salmon is their most popular item, but they have other varieties of fish as well. 3660 Slater Rd., Ferndale,
Bornstein Seafoods in Bellingham Myer Bornstein started this little seafood company in Bellingham in 1934, and through the stewardship of his descendants, it is still going strong. Though most of their products are for wholesale distribution, they have a robust online presence featuring premium canned albacore and salmon. 1001 Hilton
360.384.0325, barleansfishery.com
Squalicum Harbor Gate 7, desirefish.com
Kumamotos
skagitfish.com
Ave., Bellingham, bornstein.com
Virginica
Pacifics
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Shellfish Photos by Kristoffer Arestol
Desire Fish Company in Bellingham
Owned and operated by Tana and Eric Skaugrud, the Skagit Fish Market is a great place to explore new kinds of fish or pick up favorite standbys. They can identify the finest products and offer advice on preparation. A great place to dive into seafood if you’re at all hesitant. 18042 WA 20, Burlington,
Taste Sea to Storefront
Photo by Kristoffer Arestol
eat
An area with this much available seafood can’t help but have great seafood restaurants. From individual dishes to whole restaurants with a seafood emphasis, we’ll guide you through the maze of inferior and farmed fish to get you to the best places for fresh and wild seafood.
Rock and Rye Oyster House As a staple in Belligham’s seafood scene, Rock and Rye specializes in oysters. They have a full menu, but their oyster offerings are second to none. The exposed brick and dark varnished wood add to the cozy oyster house ambiance, making it an excellent pick for date night. 1145 N. State St., Bellingham, rockrye.com
B-Town Kitchen & Raw Bar
Leader Block Wine Co.
B-Town offers a creative fusion of Asian, Mediterranean, and Pacific Northwestern flavors. They specialize in tapas ranging from oysters to ceviche, and best of all, everything on offer is sustainably caught. Diners can enjoy their meal at the raw bar or cozy up in front of a firepit on their covered patio. 714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham,
Leader Block serves up a variety of Italian-inspired dishes, but their seafood options always stand out (especially when it comes to pasta). Many of their fish are sourced from local businesses such as Barlean’s in Ferndale and Fall Line Fisheries in Bellingham. Make sure to pair your pasta with something special from Leader Block’s unparalleled wine list. 2026 Main St., Ferndale,
360.392.6520, btownkitchen.com
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Lighthouse Bar & Grill Located within the iconic Hotel Bellwether, Lighthouse Bar and Grill offers regionally inspired dishes in a homey yet upscale atmosphere. They offer plenty of choices when it comes to their seafood, but you can taste a little bit of everything by ordering the Northwest Bouillabaisse. It features halibut, prawns, mussels, clams, and even salmon. 1 Bellwether Way, Bellingham, 360.392.3100, hotelbellwether.com/restaurant
Nikki’s Bella Marina If you’re looking for something a little more indulgent, know that the fish and chips at Nicki’s Bella Marina are some of the best in Bellingham. Everything is fried to order in a house-made tempura batter, and “generous” doesn’t even begin to describe the portion sizes. They also offer charbroiled options for those who’d prefer to skip the fried food. 2615 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham, 360.332.2505, nickisbellamarina.com
Keenan’s at the Pier Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or meeting friends for a post-work cocktail, it’s impossible to go wrong at Keenan’s.This fine-dining-meets-casual locale also has one of the best waterfront views in Bellingham. Everything is delicious, but whatever you do, don’t sleep on the oysters. 804 10th St., Bellingham, 360.392.5510, keenansatthepier.com
Photo by Robert Dudzik
Packers Oyster Bar With Drayton Harbor Oyster Farm just over the railing, you really can’t go wrong with the oysters at Packers. Fresh halibut, salmon, cod, and more are served delicately seared to perfection with sauces that complement but don’t overwhelm. With all of that sparkling water surrounding Semiahmoo, it’s a perfect place for an ocean-inspired dinner. 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway, Blaine, semiahmoo.com
Courtesy Anthony’s at Squalicum Harbor
Anthony’s at Squalicum Harbor The Anthony’s family of restaurants are well-known for embracing the “hook-tofork” philosophy before it was cool. Their location at Squalicum Harbor is as scenic as it gets, and the menu includes everything from shellfish to clams, oysters, and — of course — the freshest catches of the day. 25 Bellwether Way, Bellingham, 360.647.5588, anthonys.com
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. . . . . . . . . . Reservations . . . . . . . . . . . Happy Hour 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 * Local restaurants need you now more than ever! However, due to COVID-19, some restaurants may be temporarily closed. Remember to call ahead or check online for delivery and pick-up options.
ASIAN 1 4285 Meridian St., #101, Bellingham 360.752.2422 145 Cascade Pl., #112, Burlington 360.707.2422 asian1.net Our food is healthy and tastes good too. It’s like home cooking. Unlike others, we are proud to purchase non-frozen meat and vegetables, hand cut and prepared daily. No added preservatives or MSG, and all the fat is trimmed from the skinless chicken breast, pork, and USDA Prime Beef. We make all of our cooking sauces from scratch. Our food is made fresh to order. THE BIRCH DOOR CAFE American 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.
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
ESH SHOP FR L & LO C A
CHUCKANUT MANOR 3056 Chuckanut Dr., Bow 360.766.6191, chuckanutmanor.com Along the stunning Chuckanut Drive with breathtaking views of Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands, Chuckanut Manor offers an exceptional dining experience in a casual atmosphere. The newly renovated restaurant is renowned for its unique and delicious Pacific-Northwest cuisine featuring seafood, burgers, vegetarian fare, and a curated selection of wines and cocktails. D’ANNA’S CAFE ITALIANO Italian 1317 N. State St., Bellingham 360.714.0188, dannascafeitaliano.com If you’re looking for good Italian food without having to resort to a national chain, D’Anna’s may be the place for you. The emphasis here is on the food, not the frills. The restaurant stands out in many ways, but D’Anna’s delicious, homemade pasta is what really makes it special.
SATURDAYS DEPOT MARKET SQUARE
1100 RAILROAD AVE, BELLINGHAM, WA
10:00am to 2:00pm
DIRTY DAN HARRIS STEAKHOUSE 1211 11th St., Bellingham 360.676.1011, dirtydanharris.com
WWW.BELLINGHAMFARMERS.ORG
Premium Steaks, Prime Rib, and Fresh Local Seafood set inside a historic building in the Fairhaven Historic District have set this steakhouse apart for over 40 years. Exceptional service, romantic ambiance, seasonal cocktails, and an extensive wine list create an unforgettable dining experience. DYNASTY CELLARS WINERY 2169 E. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.758.2958, dynastycellars.com Dynasty Cellars is open year around and our tasting room offers an all season relaxing experience. We are well known for Bordeaux varietals, Syrah, Zinfandel, Tempranillo and other reds. We hope that you will visit us soon to sample our fabulous selection of local wine. FAT SHACK American 414 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.366.8752, fatshack.com 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.
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Voted Best Breakfast
Voted Best Coffee House
1101 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA, 98225 360-393-5006
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Chuckanut Manor
Galloway’s Cocktail Bar
Along the stunning Chuckanut Drive with breathtaking views of Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands, Chuckanut Manor offers an exceptional dining experience in a casual atmosphere. The newly renovated restaurant is renowned for its unique and delicious Pacific Northwest cuisine featuring seafood, burgers, vegetarian fare, and a curated selection of wines and spirits.
Nestled in the heart of Historic Fairhaven District, Galloway’s Cocktail Bar features tasty, shareable bites and a craft cocktail menu that reflects our dedication to seasonal, high-quality ingredients. Open seven days a week, offering daily happy hour from 3–6pm. Galloway’s Cocktail Bar has won several awards in Bellingham’s Best ranging from Best Bartender, Best Cocktails, to Best Bar and Lounge, come discover what makes us award-winning.
3056 Chuckanut Dr., Bow 360.766.6191 chuckanutmanor.com
1200 10th St. #102, Bellingham 360.756.2795 gallowayscocktail.bar
Westside Pizza
Skagit’s Own Fish Market
At Westside Pizza we promise to prepare, bake and serve our delicious hand-crafted pizzas made from our freshly made dough. The sauce is made from plump vine-ripened California tomatoes, savory authentic meats and freshly grated mozzarella. Customers love our pizza! It’s all about the pizza!
Skagit’s Own Fish Market offers the kind of high-quality seafood, coupled with personal and knowledgeable service. We have a range of delicious freshly-prepared dishes including fresh fish tacos, prawn tacos, crab sandwich, lobster roll, oyster hoagie, pan fried oysters, shrimp cocktail, crab cocktail and clam chowder. Come to Skagit’s Own Fish Market, where you’re assured of a warm welcome, and where you’re guaranteed to see the very best local seafood.
1887 Main Street, Ferndale westsidepizza.com, Hours vary Ferndale: 360.778.1167 Lynden: 360.354.1555 Everson: 360.922.7395 Bellingham: 360.756.5055
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18042 WA-20, Burlington 360.707.2722, skagitfish.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Dining Guide Taste HOLLY’S MEAT PIES 128 W. Main St., Everson, 360.966.2400 1306 Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.778.1111, hollysmeatpies.com Washington’s Original Pasty Co. honors the tradition of the Cornish Pasty. Our handmade pasties are made from scratch. Working with our local sustainable farming community and food co-op we take pride in using only the best ingredients. Just re-heat and eat! Meat, Veggie and Vegan options. Everson and Bellingham locations.
HOMESKILLET American 521 Kentucky St., Bellingham homeskilletinsunnyland.com Owners Tina and Kirby named their restaurant after one of their favorite lines in the movie Juno, when a store clerk says, “This is one doodle that can’t be undid, homeskillet.” The skillets on their menu came afterward, but are now one of the eatery’s most popular items. A small skillet is filled with perfectly-fried potatoes, eggs, and your choice of toppings. Homeskillet can’t be beat with its friendly service, colorful atmosphere, and ultimate comfort food. JALAPEÑOS MEXICAN GRILL Mexican 1007 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.656.6600 501 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.671.3099 2945 Newmarket Pl., Bellingham 360.778.2041, jalapenos-wa.com Jalapeños Mexican Grill lures you in with promises of a cheap lunch special, but after looking at the menu, you won’t stop there. There’s a variety of flavored mojitos and margaritas, and the “Big Mama” alone is proof that Jalapeños doesn’t play around with their drinks. The glasses are huge, and the drinks are good to the last drop.
The Black Cat 35th Anniversary, Raising spirits since 1987. The Black Cat is located on the 3rd floor of the old-world Sycamore Square building. Our social house atmosphere has been an attraction to locals and visitors for decades. It is the perfect place to share an intimate cocktail, or join a group for Happy Hour! 360.733.6136, blackcatbellingham.com Lunch: 11am – 3pm Mon – Sat Sunday Brunch: 10am – 3pm Dinner: 3pm – 10pm every night Happy Hour: 3pm – 6pm Mon – Thur Late Night: 10pm – close nightly
KULSHAN BREWING COMPANY Sunnyland Taproom: 2238 James St., Bellingham Roosevelt Taproom: 1538 Kentucky St., Bellingham 360.389.5348, kulshanbrewing.com We are the Kulshan Brewing Company, a team of hard-working beer lovers dedicated to crafting the highest quality, true-to-style ales and lagers for our northwest communities. Proudly serving Bellingham from two distinct neighborhood taprooms. LITTLE CHEERFUL American 133 E. Holly St., Bellingham 360.738.8824 Little Cheerful is a bustling breakfast spot, ideal for customers looking to enjoy a mouthwatering meal over conversation or a newspaper. The cafe has maintained its popularity through the growth of breakfast cafes in the area. Their menu includes something for everyone, whether you are gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, or an omnivore — and if you are craving eggs benedict, Little Cheerful is definitely for you. Side note: Cash only. THE MEETING PLACE 5711 Vista Dr., Ferndale, 360.922.6146, themeetingplaceferndale.com The Meeting Place in Ferndale! We have everything from homemade pastries, baked fresh daily from Barb’s Pies along with home-style deli sandwiches, paninis, salads and breakfast. Even our soups are made
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Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery is a from-scratch, fine dining restaurant featuring Italian cuisine from seasonal Pacific Northwest ingredients. We have daily specials, over 200 wine selections, an expansive craft cocktail menu using fresh-squeezed juice and the best service in the entire state. We have options for private dining and feature monthly wine dinners. We are here and ready to host your special occasion! We also host monthly wine dinners. Check out our website for details. 2026 Main St., Ferndale 360.306.8998, leaderblock.com
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Taste Dining Guide from scratch. We also have many varieties of gifts that are locally crafted. Come and check us out! Good food, good life.
breakfast wraps and biscuits. Served with a smile!
Steak, Seafood, Local Wine, and Whiskey
THE MILL French
NICKI’S BAR AND GRILL/ NICKI’S BELLA MARINA American, Seafood
655 Front St., Lynden 360.778.2760, themilllynden.com
2615 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham 360.332.2505, nickisbellamarina.com
The Mill is the type of place where one could spend a full afternoon grazing on cheeses, sipping cocktails, and enjoying a good book. The bistro-like atmosphere gives the restaurant a European vibe without losing the welcoming small-town service of Lynden. The menu is full of bistro plates like fresh salads, paninis, soups, and, of course, meats and cheeses.
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.
MUG SHOTS
STORIA CUCINA Italian, Pizza
5750 Vista Dr., Ferndale 360.312.9181, mugshotsespresso@gmail.com
109 Grand Ave., Ste. 102, Bellingham, 360.734.1929, storiacucina.com
Serving locally roasted gourmet espresso by Lotus Coffee and fresh daily baked goods from Avellino Coffeehouse. Beverages include, espresso drinks, tea, hot cocoa, milkshakes, Italian and Redbull sodas, energy drinks, and Pepsi products. Food items include, muffins, scones, cinnamon rolls, cookies, bagels,
WHISKEY PRIME STEAKHOUSE AT ANGEL OF THE WINDS CASINO RESORT
Storia Cucina offers a simple, no-fuss menu meant to reduce decision-fatigue and prioritize quality over quantity. All pasta is made in-house on an imported Italian pasta extruder, and ingredients are as local as possible. The restaurant itself is bright, cheerful, and tastefully decorated, certain to lift your spirits even on a drizzly autumn night.
3438 Stoluckquamish Ln., Arlington 360.474.9740, angelofthewinds.com Enjoy Xceptional steaks and fresh seafood at this upscale casual restaurant. Pair your meal with a locally sourced wine or whiskey from an Xpansive menu. With unparalleled customer service and attention to detail, Whiskey Prime Steakhouse offers a dining Xperience perfect for special occasions or a night out. -
YEAH BABY BOARDS 2015 Main St., Ferndale 360.220.7345 Beautiful and delicious charcuterie boards with a passion for locally sourced ingredients. Each board is packed with a variety of highquality cured meats, hand selected local cheeses, locally crafted sauces, and a variety of fresh produce. We proudly offer options for all dietary restrictions, as well as a selection of beer and wine. -
Dynasty Cellars
Maikham Lao & Thai
Open year around, our tasting room offers a relaxing experience. In the colder months our fireplace seating provides the comfort of home, shared with friends and great wines. Sunny, warm days can be enjoyed sitting on our outdoor patio, surrounded by fountains and flowers. We are well known for Bordeaux varietals, Syrah, Zinfandel, Tempranillo and other reds and whites. Snacks are available with a limited menu.
Maikham (pronounced “maie-khum”) translates to “Golden Silk” which is a reflection of the flavorful Thai and Lao street cuisine that Chef Usanee Klimo experienced growing up in Thailand’s Issarn region. The menu choices are all made from scratch using seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible to create the freshest dishes. Special attention is paid to accomodate all dietary needs, making Maikham a perfect spot for delicious, healthy, memorable meals for everyone. Maikham also offers catering for any event!
2169 E Bakerview Rd, Bellingham 360.758.2958, dynastycellars.com
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DYNASTY CELLARS
1125 Finnegan Way, Bellingham 360.746.8098, maikham.com
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Barb’s Pies and Pastries
Cosmos Bistro
Barb’s Pies and Pastries has been making quality desserts for 20 years, specializing in handmade scratch recipes like grandma used to make. Crafting our products using locally grown berries, we pay close attention to every detail making every item you purchase a work of art. Perfect for any occasion, give us a call or come visit us today!
Cosmos is an American bistro in the heart of downtown Bellingham specializing in local farm focused comfort food. Have a fun filled brunch with mimosa flights and Moka Joe coffee; handmade burgers with local beers and sodas, or meetup with friends and family and enjoy our variety of small bites, salads and entrees paired with regional wines. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free available.
5679 3rd Ave., Ferndale 360.393.3780 BarbsPiesandPastries.com
Barb’s Pies & Pastries
1151 N. State St., Bellingham 360.255.0244, bellinghamcosmosbistro.com IG @cosmosbistrobham FB cosmosbistrobellingham
Bellingham Cider Company
McKay’s Tap House & Pizzeria
Bellingham Cider Co. is a local craft cider producer and solarpowered restaurant with a full bar overlooking Bellingham Bay and the Waterfront District of downtown Bellingham. Our food is prepped fresh and we source our products from local farms and businesses. We make small-batch ciders from 100% Washington apples with no added sulfites, sugars, or preservatives. Our award-winning lineup of traditional and rotating seasonal ciders reflects the freshest local ingredients. We are committed to being Fiercely Local.
McKay’s has been a family owned, family friendly tap house & pizzeria since 2003. We offer 54 different craft beers and ciders on tap, pizza, hot subs, & wings. We also offer gluten free and vegans options. We host several weekly events and nightly shenanigans. If you’re not able to visit us in the tap house we have our own inhouse drivers that will deliver your order right to your door, including select beers for those 21 and over.
205 Prospect St., Ste. A-105, Bellingham 360.510.8494, bellinghamcider.com
1118 E Maple St., Bellingham 360.647.3600 | McKaysTaphouse.com
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Pros To Know We are pleased to share with you these select building professionals who can assist on your projects, whether you’re planning a small update or a major home construction project. Start your project on a firm foundation.
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The Pros Corwin Electrical Services | p. 107 Molly Maguire Landscape Architecture | p. 109 HomePort Interiors | p. 108 Jennifer Ryan Design | p. 109 Judd & Black Appliance | p. 106 Kimbler Insurance Agency | p. 107 Options Cabinetry | p. 108 Russell’s Window Coverings | p. 110 Topside Roofing & Siding | p. 111 Whatcom Lawns | p. 111
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PROS TO KNOW \ APPLIANCES
JUDD & BLACK APPLIANCE 2001 James St. Bellingham 360.733.7722
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Welcome to Whatcom! We’re glad that you are now a part of this amazing community. As a local family-owned business, we at Judd & Black Appliance understand the importance of being a community-minded and sustainably operated company. For over 80 years, we’ve been proud to offer our legacy of quality service and industry experience to local residents like yourself. Located on the five way intersection of State, James, and Iowa Street, our Bellingham showroom has over 30 top name appliance brands on display. We sell, deliver, and install home appliances, and we service everything we sell meaning you get the reliability of quality products as well as the peace of mind that comes with our team of in-house experts. In our business, meeting the needs of our customers is our top priority. That’s one of the many reasons why
Whatcom County has voted us Best Of The Northwest’s #1 Appliance Store for the last four years in a row. It is wonderful that Whatcom County residents are eager to support local independent retailers and we couldn’t be more grateful to be so embraced in this community. With our five stores between Lynnwood and Bellingham, we are dedicated to being Northwest Washington’s trusted source for sales, information, and service in the home appliance industry. Every home has appliances, so knowing who your local appliance experts are could come in handy one day, and that’s why we’re here. Save our phone number. Connect with us on social media. Or come in and chat with one of our appliance specialists. We look forward to meeting you soon and demonstrating first hand why we are the appliance pros you should know.
ELECTRICIAN / PROS TO KNOW
CORWIN ELECTRICAL SERVICES
CORWIN ELECTRICAL
Corwin Electrical Services is a family owned and operated company started in May of 2016. Our focus is to provide quality, reliable service at a fair price for the long run. When the economy is on an upswing and prices are climbing we maintain our same fair price and great customer service so our customers keep calling us back in the future! We offer many different types of electrical services from Industrial, Commercial, Residential, Generator installations, Private utility locating, Load study monitoring, Parking lot light servicing, and more! Corwin Electrical Services strives to provide high quality, reliable work with great customer service. Our trained and certified electricians go above and beyond to make sure every customer is satisfied.
Steve Corwin 360.920.1893 Corwinelectrical.com
INSURANCE AGENT / PROS TO KNOW
KIMBLER INSURANCE AGENCY Local • Independent • Trustworthy • Auto/Home • Life/Health • Commercial Quotes are free, advice is free, savings are free. Contact us to see if we can help with your insurance needs!
Kimbler Insurance Agency LLC
Alex Kimbler Insurance Agent 360.312.5104 KimblerInsurance.com Alex@KimblerInsurance.com 1313 E Maple St., Ste. 750, Bellingham
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PROS TO KNOW \ CABINETRY
HOMEPORT INTERIORS OPTIONS CABINETRY 4071 Hannegan Rd., Ste. K Bellingham, WA 98226 Homeport: 360.392.8754 Options: 360.746.8759 homeportinteriors.com optionsci.com
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You’ll find everything you need at Bellingham’s one-stop Interior Design Center - Homeport Interiors and Options Cabinetry. We are locally owned and operated with our in-house design team offering a combined experience of over 65 years to assist you. Interior Design, Kitchen and Bath Design, Space Planning, selecting finishes and creating a plan to produce a highly utilized, livable space. We know how difficult it can be to shop around at various locations. To make it easier, we carry everything you need, in one design center. Imagine selecting your flooring, counter tops, cabinets, even furniture and decor, as well as getting personalized attention from our design team without visiting more than one place! Options Cabinetry is focused on creating beautiful, functional cabinetry
for every lifestyle, budget and dream. We provide original custom designs that allow our clients to set themselves apart. Whether it’s your home or business, custom design is our specialty and we can’t wait to help your dream become a reality. Let our designers at HomePort Interiors and Options Cabinetry help you get started today. No project is ever too big or too small; too long or too short. “We put the life back into the heart of your home”. KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN. INTERIOR DESIGN. SPACE PLANNING. FURNITURE DESIGN. CABINETS. CARPET. FURNITURE. KNOBS AND PULLS. HARDWOOD. LUXURY VINYL PLANK. TILE. LAMINATE COUNTER TOPS AND MORE
LANDSCAPING / PROS TO KNOW
MOLLY MAGUIRE LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE MMLA offers comprehensive design and planning for residential, commercial and public gardens. Established in Bellingham in 2012, we help individuals and organizations create memorable, site specific exterior spaces to complement their architecture, lifestyles, and unique needs. We work collaboratively providing landscape design services from initial master plans, through detailing for construction and permitting. We can assist with contractor selection and coordination during construction. We create designs for multiple acre properties, to intimate courtyard spaces. Need help crafting your vision? With 28 years of experience, Molly Maguire listens closely to every client. She carefully evaluates each site, cataloging opportunities and constraints. A design is developed with you, creating a beautiful, functional, maintainable garden reflective of your budget. Contact us to discuss your project needs.
119 North Commercial St., Ste. 1340, Bellingham 360.542.4052, fax: 360.543.5681 mmaguire@mollymaguirela.com
INTERIOR DESIGN / PROS TO KNOW
JENNIFER RYAN DESIGN Jennifer Ryan Design is a Bellingham based interior design and remodeling company bringing sophisticated whimsy to your most treasured space. Jennifer has an uncanny ability to combine unexpected patterns, colors and textures making your home reflect your distinct personality. From concept and design to production, Jennifer Ryan Design projects run smoothly and professionally, with a high level of collaboration between clients, and subcontractors. Committed to exceeding expectations, Jennifer understands each clients hopes and dreams. In the wake of Covid-19, Jennifer is taking the utmost care to keep both clients and team members safe. Whether it be a kitchen, bathroom, home gym or office, even your entire home, Jennifer will realize your vision in ways you never imagined. Her hands-on approach assures that all elements are seamlessly executed, and your wishes and goals are met. See for yourself why clients and design professionals alike rave about Jennifer Ryan Design. Jennifer’s impeccable design, attention to detail and easy work style will Design Your Way Home. Jennifer Ryan Design 360.319.7092 jennifer@jenniferryandesign.com JenniferRyanDesign.com
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FACES
OF THE NORTHSOUND
THE FACE OF
WINDOW COVERINGS Russell’s Window Coverings Dave Hamstra | Owner 873 Hinotes Court, A-2, Lynden 360.656.6579 RussellsWindowCoverings@gmail.com WindowShadesAndShutters.com
Beauty, energy efficiency and style are all reflected in your home’s window coverings. If you’re ready to update your window treatments, Russell’s offers you a wide array of options with a huge range of color, design and textiles that will meet your individual needs. From timeless plantation shutters, to classic horizontal blinds and motorized shades, you are sure to find the look and design you desire. Specializing in Hunter Douglas, we are known for quality, customization and top notch service. David Hamstra has over 40 years of experience in the construction industry. His expertise will ensure that you will receive the window treatments and service you and your home deserve. Call today to schedule a complimentary consultation and to view our product line in our showroom.
Notes Lasting Image
“I do not understand the mystery of grace — only
Photo by Dean Davidson
that it meets us where
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we are and does not leave us where it found us.” ANNE LAMOTT