Welcome | 2024

2024

BITES ON A BUDGET

EAT & DRINK RETAIL EDUCATION HEALTH SERVICES PROS TO KNOW

Local Helps Local Your trusted local credit union since 1936.

It’s banking—in your best interest.

LE ARN MORE AT WECU.COM

Welcome TO THE HOME OF

GIANT JACKPOTS!

PLAY.

‘s

Closest CASINO

EAT.

STAY. CA SINO• R ESO R T

theskagit.com • On I-5 at Exit 236 • 877-275-2448

2

Aquatic Adventures

88

Bites on a Budget

BellinghamAlive.com

Photo Courtesy of Bellingham Cider Co

60

Photo by Casey Cook

Contents

Enjoy Olympic Peninsula • Explore • Relax

• Refresh

Enjoy iet u Q e th n Seaso

A Bounty of Experiences and miles of memories await on the Olympic Peninsula.

From Sea -to -Summit & Canal -to -Coast www.EnjoyOlympicPeninsula.com

WELCOME 2024 Online Exclusive

9

Publisher’s Letter

10

County Executive’s Letter

12

Elected Officials

14

Human & Public Services

112

Lasting Image

WELCOME TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD

42

School Board Representatives

43

Report Card

44

Colleges, Universities, Preschools, & Public Schools

46

Private Schools

48

Summer Camps for Every Kid

RETAIL Photo by Cocoa Laney

6

EDUCATION

Photo Courtesy of Camp Fire

NOTES

80

Pacific Northwest Style Guide

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Photo by Brandee Simons

TASTE

20

Bellingham

HEALTH

25

Barkley Village

26

Fairhaven

28

Sudden Valley

52

Medical Clinics & Services

30

Ferndale

53

Urgent Care, Naturopaths, Addiction & Cancer Treatment

54

10 Must-Try Beauty Treatmeants

Photo by Zoe Deal

LIFE

32

Lynden 34

Blaine & Birch Bay

36

Mount Baker Foothills

38

Lummi Island

4

BellinghamAlive.com

60

Aquatic Adventures

68

Social Clubs & Civic Groups

70

Places of Worship

74

Outdoor Sports & Recreation

76

Pets

88

Bites on a Budget 96

Wineries of Whatcom County

97

Dining Guide

SPECIAL ADVERTISING 56

Health & Medical Profiles

106

Pros to Know

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

Haven Design Studio FACES

THE FACE OF

INTERIOR DESIGN Jennifer Ryan Design 360.319.7092 jenniferryandesign.com

Jennifer is a multi-talented authority on all things beautiful, fashionable, and functional, with a passion for bringing style and personality to your home’s most important spaces. Jennifer Ryan Design offers it all —design, planning, production, and contractor services. A chameleon of sorts…starting in her “designer” heels and then transforming into her contractor wear. From start to finish, Jennifer will help you create the surroundings you’ll enjoy for a lifetime.

“Creating beautiful rooms that are well designed, comfortable, and reflective of the people who live there is my goal as a designer.”

“Creating rooms that are well built, with quality materials, attention to detail, while making sure my clients are well taken care of during the process is my goal as a contractor.”

Notes Welcome-Whatcom.com

PUBLICATIONS Bellingham Alive NSL Guestbook Welcome Newcomers Guide

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER

Weekly Online Exclusives Visit bellinghamalive.com for the downloadable digital edition. Stay connected to discover daily online content featuring local businesses and happenings in Whatcom and surrounding counties. Learn about new restaurants, local chefs, business owners, outdoor entertainment ideas, home inspiration, and much more! You’re sure to find a hidden gem with every click! Check it out online at bellinghamalive.com

Lisa Karlberg

OFFICE MANAGEMENT Jenn Miranda

EDITOR IN CHIEF Anne Godenham

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Kristen Boehm

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Brandee Simons | Estella Young

Photo by Dean Davidson

MARKETING & EVENTS COORDINATOR George Murray

WRITERS Cocoa Laney

CONTRIBUTORS Photo Courtesy of Bellingham Roller Betties

Eat & Drink

Out & About

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.

Photo by Brandee Simons

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.

6

BellinghamAlive.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Maya Heinselman | Ellie Coberly

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Amberleigh Brownson Kelley Denman | Michael Roe

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Photo Courtesy of Triad River Tours

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.

Julie Trimingham | Amberleigh Brownson Janille Dutton | W Scooter

Megan Gonzales

CONTACT US INQUIRIES & SUBSCRIPTIONS jenn@bellinghamalive.com 360.483.4576 x4

ADVERTISING sales@bellinghamalive.com 360.483.4576 x1

Newsletter

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to stay up-to-date on local restaurant happenings as well as events, deals, and promotions from your favorite local retailers.

EDITORIAL INQUIRIES editor@bellinghamalive.com 360.483.4576 x2 bellinghamalive.com

We’ve Got That OPEN TO THE PUBLIC 365 DAYS A YEAR

SILVERREEFCASINO.COM I-5 · EXIT 260

GOLFLOOMIS.COM

Publisher’s Letter

Notes

Welcome Home Explore your new area and discover why so many LOVE Whatcom County.

Photo by Diane Padys

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 Village Inn and leads all the way to Bellingham’s downtown core. On the way, visit Boulevard Park, 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 exploring, 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. Leader Block Trattoria & Bar in Ferndale was remodeled late 2022 and is a not-to-miss experience, as is Packers Kitchen + Bar at Semiahmoo Resort, which is located on the waterfront of Semiahmoo Bay with beautiful views of White Rock, B.C. They hold amazing waterfront barbeques with live music in the summer.

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 Northwest Washington Fair or the Northwest Raspberry Festival and get a firsthand taste of the area’s bountiful crops. It also hosts the annual Whatcom Home & Lifestyle Show in April, for those needing to update their home and garden.

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 2024 9

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. Thirty-five years 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, must-see 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 blueberries and are the number-two dairy producing county in our state, but there’s much 10

BellinghamAlive.com

more than that. From farm fresh 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 DC, 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

Founded in the PNW, Gene Juarez has been dedicated to serving the region for more than 50 years. We are thrilled to offer our personalized salon services, skin care, waxing, lash and brow services in a luxe modern facility in Downtown Bellingham.

book on genejuarez.com

or call (360) 308-4000

Gene Juarez Bellingham 1411 Railroad Ave Bellingham, WA 98225

Notes Elected Officials

County Council

City Mayors

DISTRICT 1*

DISTRICT 2

BELLINGHAM

BLAINE

Kaylee Galloway

Todd Donovan

Kim Lund

Mary Lou Steward

360.303.1644, kgallowa@ co.whatcom.wa.us

360.483.8474 tdonovan@co.whatcom.wa.us

360.778.8100 mayorsoffice@cob.com

360.371.8618 msteward@cityofblaine.com

DISTRICT 3

DISTRICT 4

FERNDALE

LYNDEN

Tyler Byrd

Mark Stremler

Greg Hansen

Scott Korthuis

360.778.5021 tbyrd@co.whatcom.wa.us

360.851.1776 mstremle@co.whatcom.wa.us

360.685.2350

360.354.1170

DISTRICT 5

AT LARGE-POSITION A

NOOKSACK

SUMAS

Ben Elenbaas

Barry Buchanan

Kevin Hester

Bruce Bosch

360.778.5025 belenbaa@co.whatcom.wa.us

360.224.4330 bbuchanan@co.whatcom.wa.us

kevin@cityofnooksack.com

bbosch@cityofsumas.com

AT LARGE-POSITION B

EVERSON

Jon Scanlon

John Perry

360.592.3149 jscanlon@co.whatcom.wa.us

360.966.3411 mayor@ci.everson.wa.us

*Civic positions subject to change.

12

BellinghamAlive.com

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

REAL ESTATE Christine Cicchitti Windermere Real Estate 360.296.3814 cicchitti@windermere.com

Welcome to Whatcom County. I’m sure you will fall in love with our County once you have seen it.

Born and raised here, I can show you some of the best places to live, whether you want to be close to the water (Blaine, Birch Bay, Fairhaven, Chuckanut, Bellingham) or to the Mountain (with the Mt. Baker ski area), or to the Canadian border (so you can cross over quickly) and then there are the areas in between, like Ferndale and Lynden and Meridian areas. So many different places to call home, with so many friendly people and a great vibe all around. Call me to find the best place for you to live.

Notes Human & Public Services

HUMAN & PUBLIC SERVICES Border Crossings Lynden 360.354.2183

Pacific Highway, Blaine 360.332.5771

Peace Arch, Blaine 360.332.8511

Sumas 360.988.2971

Marine, Biotoxin, & Red Tide Information

Point Roberts Senior Activity Center

800.562.5632

Sumas Community Senior Center

Public Libraries Bellingham Public Library - Barkley 3111 Newmarket St., Ste. 103, 360.778.7290

Bellingham Public Library - Central 210 Central Ave., 360.778.7323

1487 Gulf Rd., Point Roberts 360.945.5424 461 Second St., Sumas 360.988.2714

Whatcom Council on Aging/ Bellingham Senior Activity Center 315 Halleck St., Bellingham, 360.733.4030

Whatcom Love INC 360.671.6201

Bellingham Public Library Fairhaven

Shelters

1117 12th St., 360.778.7188

Agape Home for Women & Children

Birch Bay Vogt Library Express 7948 Birch Bay Dr., Blaine

1215 F St., Bellingham, 360.733.3796

Food Banks

Blaine Library

Department of Social & Health Services

610 3rd St., 360.305.3637

600 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham, 360.756.5750

Bellingham Food Bank

Everson Library

Lighthouse Mission Shelter

1824 Ellis St., 360.676.0392

104 Kirsch Dr., 360.966.5100

910 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.733.5120

Blaine Food Bank

Ferndale Library

Lydia Place

500 C St., 360.332.6350

2125 Main St., 360.384.3647

1701 Gladstone St., Bellingham, 360.671.7663

Commodity Foods | Lummi Nutrition Education Program | Community Services

Island Library

New Way Ministries

2144 S. Nugent Rd., 360.758.7145

360.354.9930

Lynden Library

Womencare Shelter & Domestic Violence Services

2830 Kwina Rd., 360.384.2366

Ferndale Food Bank 1671 Main St., 360.384.1506

Foothills Food Bank 8255 Kendall Rd., Maple Falls, 360.392.8149

Lynden Project Hope 205 S. British Columbia Ave., 360.354.4673

Meals on Wheels 315 Halleck St., 360.733.4030

Nooksack Valley Food Bank

216 4th St., 360.354.4883

North Fork Community Library 7506 Kendall Rd., Maple Falls, 360.599.2020

YWCA Bellingham

Point Roberts Library

1026 N. Forest St., Bellingham, 360.734.4820

1437 Gulf Rd., 360.945.6545

South Whatcom Library 10 Barn View Dr., Sudden Valley 360.305.3632

Sumas Library 461 2nd St., 360.988.2501

100 E. 2nd St., Everson

Point Roberts Food Bank 1487 Gulf Rd., Point Roberts, 360.945.5424

360.715.1563

Social Services & Other Adult Protective Services (DSHS) 877.734.6277

Alcoholics Anonymous 360.734.1688

Senior Services

Blaine Community Assistance Program

Blaine Community & Senior Center

360.392.8484

Licensing

763 G St., Blaine, 360.332.8040

Blaine Family Service Center 360.332.0740

Auto, Boat, & Trailer

Everson Senior Center 111 W. Main St., Everson, 360.966.3144

Brigid Collins Family Support Center

Ferndale Senior Activity Center

360.734.4616

360.676.6740

Driver 360.676.2096

Hunting & Fishing 360.902.2464

Marriage 360.778.5100

1999 Cherry St., Ferndale 360.384.6244

Burn Ban Information

Lynden Community/Senior Center

360.778.5903

401 Grover St., Lynden 360.354.2921

Northwest Regional Council 600 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham, 360.676.6749

Care Crisis Response Line, Compass Health 800.584.3578

Child Protective Services (CPS) 866.829.2153

14

BellinghamAlive.com

Coast Guard Emergency

BoltBus (Cordata Station)

360.734.1692

360.676.7433

Department of Social & Health Services

Greyhound

877.501.2233

Lummi Island Ferry

Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services Helpline 360.715.1563

Forest Fire Reporting 800.562.6010

Lummi Victims of Crime 360.312.2015

Northwest Washington American Red Cross 425.252.4103

Pass Reports (WSDOT) 800.695.7623

Poison Information Center 800.222.1222

Tl’ils Ta’á’altha Victims of Crime 360.325.3310

Washington Recovery Hotline

Maple Falls Post Office 7392 Mt. Baker Hwy., 800.599.2917

Mount Baker Post Office

800.231.2222

3150 Orleans St., 800.752.9825

Sumas Post Office

360.778.6200

534 Railroad Ave., 800.988.2613

San Juan Islands Ferry

Veteran’s Services

888.464.3701

Washington State Ferries 888.808.7977

Bellingham Vet Center

Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA)

3800 Byron Ave., Ste. 124, Bellingham 360.733.9226

360.676.7433

Whatcom County Veterans Program

WTA Paratransit

509 Girard St., Lower Level, Bellingham 360.778.6050

360.733.1144

Bellingham International Airport 360.671.5674

Paine Field (Everett)

Whatcom County

425.388.5125

311 Grand Ave., Ste. 103, Bellingham 360.778.5102

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SeaTac)

UTILITIES

206.787.5388

866.789.1511

WWU Survivor Advocacy Services at the Counseling & Wellness Center 360.650.7982

Special Needs Resources Max Higbee Center 1400 N. State St., Ste. 101, Bellingham 360.746.7181

The Arc of Whatcom County

Voter Registration

U.S. Post Offices

Cable, Satellite, & Phone

Acme Post Office 2026 Valley Hwy., 800.595.2189

CenturyLink

Bellingham Post Office

800.244.1111

315 Prospect St., 360.650.3735

DirecTV

Blaine Post Office

855.842.4388

701 Harrison Ave., 800.332.7184

DISH

City Center Post Office

866.943.9823

104 W. Magnolia St., Ste. 100 360.752.9822

Frontier

Custer Post Office

Whidbey Telecom

7632 Portal Way, 800.366.5666

360.321.1122

Deming Post Office

Xfinity by Comcast

Tourism Information

5014 Deming Rd., 360.592.2032

800.934.6489

Bellingham | Whatcom County Tourism

108 Blair Dr., 360.966.4700

2602 McLeod Rd., Bellingham, 360.715.0170

Whatcom Developmental Disabilities Program 360.778.6012

360.671.3990

844.232.9134

Everson Post Office

Electricity

Ferndale Post Office

City of Blaine Electric Water & Sewer Services

5703 4th Ave., 360.380.3127

Transportation

Glacier Post Office

Alaska Marine Highway System

Lummi Island Post Office

City of Sumas Electric Water & Sewer Services

360.676.8445 ext. 3

2211 N. Nugent Rd., Ste. 2, 360.758.2320

360.988.5711

Amtrak Reservation

Lynden Post Office

Puget Sound Energy Inc.

800.872.7245

600 Front St., 800.354.8545

888.225.5773

360.332.8311

9973 Mt. Baker Hwy., 360.599.3208

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 15

Notes Human & Public Services Whatcom County Public Utility District No. 1 360.384.4288

Propane CHS Northwest Multiple locations, 360.354.4595

Garbage, Recycling, Compost BELLINGHAM Green Earth Technology (compost) 360.354.4936

Sanitary Service Company 360.734.3490

Northwest Recycling, Inc. 360.733.0100

Recycling & Disposal Services, Inc. (Whatcom) 360.384.8011

Economy Propane 2163 Natures Path Way, Blaine, 360.332.3121

Northwest Propane 8450 Depot Rd., Lynden, 360.354.4471

AmeriGas 5387 La Bounty Dr., Ferndale, 360.384.4922

Vanderyacht Propane 6811 Guide Meridian Rd., Lynden, 360.398.1234

360.318.9933

Deming 360.592.5094

Everson | Nooksack 360.966.5757

Ferndale 360.384.0303

Lynden 360.354.4400

Maple Falls 360.599.2823

Sumas

Water & Sewer

360.988.9563

Bellingham Water & Sewer Services

Police & Sheriff (Non-Emergencies)

360.778.7900

POINT ROBERTS, BLAINE, LUMMI, BIRCH BAY, POINT WHITEHORN

Blaine

Birch Bay Water & Sewer District

Bellingham Police Department

360.371.8000

505 Grand Ave., Bellingham, 360.778.8800

Cando Recycling & Disposal

Blaine Electric Water & Sewer Services

Blaine Police Department

360.945.2636

360.332.8311

Everson Police Department

NOOKSACK, EVERSON, SUMAS

Everson Water & Sewer Services 360.966.3411

Nooksack Valley Disposal & Recycling

Ferndale Water & Sewer Services

360.351.3400

360.384.4006

Internet CenturyLink 800.244.1111

CSS Communications Inc. 877.671.4878

DirecTV 855.842.4388

HughesNet 855.530.7700

Frontier 844.232.9134

PogoZone 360.676.8772

Xfinity by Comcast 800.934.6489

Lynden Water & Sewer Services 360.354.3446

Nooksack Water & Sewer Services 360.966.2531

Sumas Electric Water & Sewer Services 360.988.5711

Whatcom County Public Utility District No. 1 360.384.4288

LAW ENFORCEMENT

BellinghamAlive.com

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

Washington State Patrol & Border Patrol

Fire & EMS (Non-Emergencies)

Emergencies

Bellingham

360.380.0408

360.778.8400

16

322 H St., Blaine, 360.332.6769

911

U.S. Customs & Border Protection

FEB 25 3 : 00 PM

In Bloom Einav Yarden piano

MAY 5 3 : 00 PM

The Dream of America

Est. 1997

Meeka Quan DiLorenzo

BEST DOG GROOMER

For tickets, please visit our website or call

1225 Roeder Ave Ste. 106, Bellingham P. 360.756.9515 citydogsgrooming.com

cello

B E L L I N G H A M S Y M P H O N Y. O R G

Voted

(360) 734 - 6080

9 years in a row

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

BEAUTY SALONS Salon Bellissima 1215 Old Fairhaven Parkway, Ste. B, Bellingham, 360.715.1052, salonbellissimabellingham.com

Located in Fairhaven since 2011 Salon Bellissima has been providing services in an atmosphere that offers comfort and style in a positive, uplifting environment. Each stylist is widely trained and have many decades of combined experience. Whether your needs are custom bridal hair and makeup, personalized colors and highlights or a haircut to fit your everyday style, Salon Bellissima has a stylist that will take the time to listen and provide you with the hair you desire.

Partnering with Green Circle Salons we are a certified sustainable green salon and continue this commitment with the use of Davines products which is known for their leading-edge efforts in creating a more sustainable future both for the Earth as well as the Beauty Industry. Last year alone we recycled 379 lbs. of hair, foils, and waste.

WELC ME To the Neighborhood

Cities of Whatcom County

F

BY THE NUMBERS 230,677 estimated residents 103,710 housing units $396,500 median value of owner-occupied housing units $1,219 median gross rent 93.2% people age 25 or older who graduated high school $70,011 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.

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 heading north, you’ll encounter Custer along I-5 and Lynden nestled northeast of Ferndale. 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 2024 19

Cities Photo by W. Scooter

In the Loop Bellingham is informally known among locals and tourists alike as the “City of Subdued Excitement,” and if you walk down Prospect Street with your eyes peeled you just might catch a glimpse of the mural that started it all. It’s painted on the side of #109, which used to be Lone Wolfe Antiques in 1995, when the slogan was coined

by Stephen Stimson, building owner and frequent Mr. Peanut cosplayer-about-town. When Stimson’s mother suggested a mural on the building’s exterior wall, he included the slogan, and we’ve all been using it ever since.

If you’re looking for a peaceful waterfront walk that’s wheelchairand stroller-accessible, check out Boulevard Park. The park itself is beautiful, right on the water and full of rolling lawns, and there’s a well-maintained boardwalk that leads to the edge of Fairhaven.

(Fun fact: the original town of Bellingham was located in what is now Boulevard Park.)

The blue-and-green Bellingham flag, designed by Bradley James Lockhart of Lariat Creative, is full of meaning. The Bellingham Bay is represented by the blue half circle while the Nooksack Indian Tribe and the Lummi Nation are signified by two stars. The word “Whatcom,” meaning “noisy waters,” is represented by three wavy lines.

Originally located in Ferndale,

New Mexico Tamale Company

was ranked among Yelp’s top 100 places to eat in 2020, and it’s only gained in popularity since then. To increase access even more, they’ve since moved the restaurant to Bellingham and set up online ordering through their website—definitely a must-try!

20

BellinghamAlive.com

Bellingham Bloedel Donovan Park

F

ROM THE BUSTLING

downtown area to the serenity of Bellingham Bay, this city 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.

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 diversity.

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 crispy eggplant bao at the new Redlight Kitchen & Bar location, date night bites at Temple Bar, or Peruvian

Photo by Tim Bies

Whatcom Museum

sandwiches at Cafe Rumba, 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, from cozy Camber Coffee to the spacious and contemporary Makeworth Coffee Roasters.

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 wellknown names such as Ira Glass, David Sedaris, and even Jane Goodall have all graced its stage over the years. Other quintessential music venues include Wild Buffalo House of Music, The Shakedown, and all-ages venue The Blue Room, all 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 interactive exhibitions like Mindport. In terms of handmade goods, places like Brazen Shop + Studio and Circa Pottery Shop + Gallery provide a brick-and-mortar space for artisans to sell their wares.

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 makers. 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 is invited to visit local artists’ private studios during the Whatcom Artist Studio Tour.

Mount Baker Theatre Photo by W. Scooter

... continued on next page

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 21

Penny Farthing Bar & Restaurant

...

Bellingham is also a dream destination for those who are interested in the fine art of craft beer. Boundary Bay Brewery & Bistro, Aslan Brewing Co., and Structures Brewing are downtown classics, while the Sunnyland neighborhood boasts spots such as Wander Brewing, Kulshan Brewing, and Otherlands Beer, the latter of which is also known for its must-try Eastern European eats. With more than 15 breweries to choose from, you’ll be hard-pressed to pick a favorite. Cider drinkers should check out Bellingham Cider Co., whereas Chuckanut Bay Distillery serves up some of Bellingham’s finest spirits and shareable snacks at its restaurant, the Penny Farthing Bar & Restaurant.

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 22

BellinghamAlive.com

Chuckanut Bay

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

Photo by W. Scooter

Photo Courtesy of Chuckanut Bay Distillery

Cities

public, private, Montessori-style, and faith-based options.

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 Vancouver, 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

Photo by Melissa MCCarthy

Lake Whatcom Trail

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 and trail runners can also head to the Chuckanut Mountains for day hikes such as Fragrance Lake, Lost Lake, Raptor Ridge, or the breathtaking Oyster Dome. For a backpacking adventure, Pine and Cedar Lakes is an ideal overnight destination.

No visit to Bellingham would be complete without a stop by 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 residents are proud to call this idyllic city their home. 

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 23

Town Halls

YOUR COMMUNITY

REAL ESTATE

RESOURCE

City of Bellingham 210 Lottie St., Bellingham, 360.778.8000

26+ YEARS OF COMBINED EXPERIENCE

EXPERT NEGOTIATORS

435 Martin St., Blaine, 360.332.8311 CONNECT WITH US!

RELOCATION SPECIALISTS

City of Blaine RACHAEL WILSON | MANAGING BROKER | 360.319.2234 LAURA REHBERGER | BROKER | 360.224.7496 KAYSIE BERRY | BROKER | 360.821.5224

City of Everson

LILAC LISTINGS AT RE/MAX WHATCOM COUNTY | 913 LAKEWAY DRIVE BELLINGHAM, WA 98229

City of Ferndale

111 W. Main St., Everson, 360.966.3411 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 4819 Alderson Rd., Ste. 103, 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

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

24

BellinghamAlive.com

Photo by Zoe Deal

Photo by Zoe Deal

Cities

Barkley Village

N

ESTLED IN THE northeast corner of Bellingham is Barkley Village, an urban community with a 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 and Hamann’s Gallery & Gift.

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 Vitality Bowls, Overflow Taps, Just Poké, Scotty Browns, and Zen Sushi & Bar. 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 myriad 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.

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, Bellingham Veg Fest, 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 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 they collaborate with craft breweries to donate money to water projects in low-income 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 plenty of 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. 

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 25

Cities Photo by Brandee Simons

Fairhaven

Boulevard Park

H

EAD TO THE southern end of

Bellingham’s city limits and you’ll encounter Fairhaven, a waterfront historic 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

Downtown Fairhaven

26

BellinghamAlive.com

Photo by Zoe Deal

In the Loop If you’re looking for a venue to host a mellow party or small wedding, the Roeder Home is a hidden gem. This beautiful historic home sits on lush grounds just outside downtown and can be rented for the day from the Parks Department.

Built between 1903 and 1908

by Henry Roeder, one of Bellingham’s first influential businessmen, the home can host up to 125 guests for a day fee of just $275 ($250 if you’re a Whatcom resident).

Local Parks Bellingham, Barkley, Fairhaven, Sudden Valley Arroyo Park 1700 Old Samish Rd.

Birchwood Park 2709 Cedarwood Ave.

Bloedel Donovan Park

Fairhaven Village Green Photo by Brandee Simons

2114 Electric Ave.

Boulevard Park is an integral part of Bellingham’s character. Featuring distinctive redbrick 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 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. Pop into Babygreens Plant Shop for a new indoor plant and fun pot to go with.

For women’s clothing, head to Three French Hens, Serendipity, Eleventh St GOODS, 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 (which also features artisan truffles on the mezzanine level at Evolve Chocolate + Cafe).

If you’re feeling low on energy, you can duck into one of Fairhaven’s numerous cafes for an afternoon pick-me-up. Teeny Cafe Blue has house-made pastries and a homey ambiance, whereas Colophon Cafe is a Fairhaven icon. When it comes to libations, Galloway’s Cocktail Bar is a must-try for craft cocktails and artdeco ambiance. Beer lovers will feel right at home at Corner Taphouse, Stones Throw Brewery and Paws for a Beer, the latter of which is Bellingham’s first and only dog-friendly tavern. Gold Fern, a natural wine bar and bottle shop, is

the perfect stop for wine-lovers who appreciate an organic approach to their favorite glass.

Food options abound in Fairhaven: there’s brunch at Skylark’s Hidden Cafe, Thai-Lao fusion at Maikham Lao & Thai, French pastries at Iron Rooster Bakery, Hawaiian-style bowls at Fairhaven Poke, and plenty more. Pizza lovers are spoiled for choice between Övn Wood Fired Pizza and Mambo Italiano Cafe. On date night, Bistro Estelle has an excellent duck confit, whereas Keenan’s at the Pier offers waterfront views within the luxurious Chrysalis Inn & Spa. 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. 

470 Bayview Dr.

Cornwall Park 3424 Meridian St.

Euclid Park 1500 Euclid Ave.

Fairhaven Park 107 Chuckanut Dr. N.

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 2235 Verona St.

Sehome Hill Arboretum 600 Arboretum Dr.

Squalicum Creek Park 1001 Squalicum Way

Squires Lake Park 2510 Nulle Rd.

St. Clair Park 2015 St. Clair St.

Sudden Valley Dog Park 22 Marina Dr.

Ted Edwards Park 4150 Oriental Ln.

Whatcom Falls Park 1401 Electric Ave.

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 27

Cities Photo by Dean Davidson

Events Bellingham, Barkley, Fairhaven, Sudden Valley January Padden Polar Dip & Resolution Walk/Run

February Fairhaven Chocolate Walk

March Whatcom Cultural Arts Festival St. Patrick’s Day Parade

April Bellingham Beer Week Dirty Dan Murder Mystery Weekend

May Ski to Sea Race & Fairhaven Festival CASCADIA International Women’s Film Festival

June Padden Triathlon Bellingham SwimRun

July Bellingham Festival of Music Bellingham’s 4th of July Celebration Bellingham Pride Tour de Whatcom Downtown Sounds (July and August)

August Downtown Sounds (July and August) Bellingham Traverse Noisy Waters Mural Festival

September Bellingham Bay Marathon Bellingham VegFest Eat Local Month

October Bellingham SeaFeast Whatcom Artists Studio Tour Cloud Mountain Farm Fruit Festival

November Allied Arts Holiday Festival of the Arts Fairhaven Winterfest

December Holiday Port Festival & Gingerbread House Contest *Event dates are based on 2023 events and are subject to change.

28

BellinghamAlive.com

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 7,000 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—suburban 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 two swimming pools (one of which is Olympic-sized) fool you—home prices are actually lower

Lake Whatcom

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 System is nearby too.

If you’re looking for a bite to eat, local eateries include Tino’s Pizza & Pasta Co. 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 lastminute 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 BAY BUILDERS A Workers Cooperative

One of the Best Conditioned Courses in the Pacific Northwest

OUR IN

MISSION: CONCERT

TO

WITH

PLAN OUR

AND

BUILD

COMMUNITY

AND

ENDURING

STRUCTURES

SHARED

ENVIRONMENT

205 W Smith Road, Bellingham 360.398.8300 northbellinghamgolf.com

Award-Winning Wealth Management We are proud to announce that our team has been recognized as a:

Toni L. Taft, CFP®, AAMS®, ADPA® Managing Director – Investment Officer Master of Science in Personal Financial Planning

Josh G. Barrett

Financial Advisor First Vice President – Investment Officer

William J. Zollner

Financial Consultant Associate Vice President – Investment Officer

Maricel Dalere

Senior Registered Client Associate

tel: 360-714-2761 toll-free: 877-819-5264 william.zollner@wfadvisors.com

TAFT BARRETT

WEALTH MANAGEMENT GROUP of Wells Fargo Advisors

23 Bellwether Way, Suite 200 Bellingham, WA 98225

www.taftbarrettwmg.com

Investment and Insurance Products: NOT FDIC Insured / NO Bank Guarantee / MAY Lose Value The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams rating algorithm is based on the previous year’s industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC. Investment performance is not a criterion. Self-completed survey was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria. Fee paid for use of logo. Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. PM-07242025-6292506.1.1

Photo by Mariah Currey

Cities

Ferndale

Pioneer Park

Photo by Mariah Currey

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.

30

BellinghamAlive.com

Photo by Dean Davidson

The 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 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. Birders flock to Tennant Lake Park for its wetlands, walking trails, and variety of native birds.

Local Parks Hovander Homestead Park 5299 Nielsen Ave., Ferndale

Jensen Family Forest Park 8051 Stein Rd., Custer

Star Park 5477 Ferndale Rd., Ferndale

Centennial Riverwalk Park 5667 Front Ave., Ferndale

Events June Lummi Nation Stommish Water Festival

July Ferndale Old Settlers Picnic

December Olde Fashioned Christmas *Event dates are based on 2023 events and are subject to change.

In the Loop

Photo by Mariah Currey

Names are hard! Ferndale was originally known as “Jam,” thanks to a two-mile log jam on the nearby Nooksack River, but luckily that name didn’t stick. Alice Eldridge, the city’s first schoolteacher, rechristened the city Ferndale, and the name caught on.

River Walk

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.

Despite its size, Ferndale’s food scene is one to watch. It’s the headquarters of Barlean’s Fishery, Inc., which has been providing Whatcom County with fresh seafood since 1972. There’s also the

family-owned Anytime Toffee, a.k.a. the place to go if you’re looking to satisfy a sweet tooth.

In terms of restaurants, the Leader Block Trattoria & Bar is a regular winner for Best Italian in Bellingham Alive’s Best of the Northwest Readers’ Choice Awards. Other notable eateries include Yeah Baby Boards for Insta-worthy charcuterie boards and Battle’s Kitchen for authentic Cajun and southern bites.

DownTime Taps, FrinGe Brewing, and District Brewing are popular watering holes. 

Unless you’re a frequent visitor to Flow Motion Yoga, you might never know that Ferndale’s very own salt therapy spa is tucked inside. Comprising an amethyst cave, an infrared salt sauna, and even a Himalayan salt cave crafted from floor to ceiling of Himalayan salt boulders, Flow Motion’s salt therapy promises relief from inflammation, allergies, and a host of other afflictions.

Hovander Homestead Park is a

not-so-hidden hidden gem. With hundreds of acres to explore, a fragrance garden, and barnyard animals from May to October, there’s something for the whole family. Go on a clear day to catch epic views of Mount Baker.

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 31

Cities

In the Loop Starting in the early 1900s, Lynden was settled by an influx of Dutch immigrants, leading to a town founded on dairies, tulips farms, and bakeries—many of which remain today. Lynden continues to lean into its Dutch heritage through local architecture, including a downtown windmill, and business names like Lynden Dutch Bakery and Dutch Mother’s Restaurant.

As recently as the 1940s, Dutch was spoken in many homes in Lynden, and old-country customs in decoration and cooking were passed down through the generations.

There were even four Dutchlanguage churches in town.

Whatcom County has the largest per capita crop of raspberries in the world. The Northwest Raspberry Festival happens in Lynden at the peak of summer harvest, attracting visitors from across the state.

Bellewood Farms is your destination for seasonal fun. Whether it’s apple cider and pumpkin picking in the fall, Christmas trees, sleigh rides, and hot toddies in the winter, or u-pick apples in the summer, there’s always something to do. The farm store, café, and distillery deliver delicious goods year-round.

32

BellinghamAlive.com

Lynden The Inn at Lynden

L

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 tightknit 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. In terms of the famous berries, you can buy a punnet or pick them yourself at local farms such as Haugen’s Raspberries, Clark’s Berry Farm, and Kamm Creek Farm. Lynden is also home to dairy farms like Twin Brook Creamery, who produce some of the best milk that Whatcom County has to offer.

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.

During the fall, you’d be remiss not to visit Bellewood Farms & Distillery for a day of family-friendly fun. Their property features a pumpkin patch, a corn maze, and approximately 25,000 apple trees—so yes, you’re obliged to try the cider before you leave.

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 smalltown charms make it an ideal place for families. The Lynden School District serves over 3,000 students and includes three elementary 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 at Seventh. Front Street is also home to other noteworthy stops including Village Books & Paper Dreams, the Jansen Art Center, Cheeks Jeans, The Newsroom Pub, and Overflow Taps. Only a block away, Lynden Skateway reigns supreme as the only roller rink in Whatcom County, and the nearby Inn at Lynden offers luxurious lodging in the historic Waples Mercantile Building.

Local Parks Bender Fields 8770 Bender Rd.

Berthusen Park 8837 Berthusen Rd.

Lynden City Park 8460 Depot Rd.

Events March Spring Craft & Antique Show

April Whatcom Home & Garden Show

June Lynden Farmers Day Parade

July Northwest Raspberry Festival

August Northwest Washington Fair Vintage Farming Days

October Fall Craft & Antique Show

December Lynden Lighted Christmas Parade *Event dates are based on 2023 events and are subject to change.

Photo by Esther Chong

Lynden Windmill

Lynden City Park

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 33

Cities

Blaine & Birch Bay

Peace Arch Historical Park

Blaine Located right next to Canada, the bordertown 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 34

BellinghamAlive.com

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.

Afterwards, stop for a bite to eat at one of Blaine’s local restaurants. Choices include Border Town Pizza 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 Paso del Norte is the place to go for authentic Mexican fare.

Need a pick-me-up? A latte from The Railway Cafe should do the trick. Alternatively, if you’re looking to wind down after a long day, a pint of craft beer from Gateway 1890 Taphouse & Grill or glass of wine at The Vault Wine Bar & Bistro, is sure to quench your thirst.

Local Parks Bay Horizon Park 7467 Gemini St., Blaine

Birch Bay State Park 5105 Helweg Rd., Blaine

Blaine Marine Park 200 Marine Dr., Blaine

Halverson Park

Photo Courtesy of Birch Bay Waterslides

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 1275 Blaine Ave., Blaine

Birch Bay Waterslides

Semiahmoo Park 9261 Semiahmoo Pkwy., Blaine

The Semiahmoo Spit is another worthwhile 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 Plover Passenger 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.

Birch Bay If you drive just south of Blaine, you’ll reach the tranquil beach community of Birch Bay. The area gets its name from the body of water enclosed by Point Whitehorn and the Semiahmoo Peninsula. Sitting at roughly 10,000 residents, Birch Bay features a picturesque waterfront with plenty of recreation year-round.

The crown 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.

If you’re looking for a quick bite, Rooted by the Bay has coffee and early morning eats. For dining, your options include CJ’s Beach House for Italian, and The Beach at Birch Bay. There’s also Beach Cat Brewing, one of the newer additions to Whatcom County’s ever-growing craft beer scene.

Birch Bay Waterslides is a popular summertime destination for families, and in addition to the slides, amenities include basketball and volleyball courts. 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 & Woofs.

Events January Polar Bear Plunge at Birch Bay

March Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival

July Blaine’s Old Fashioned Fourth of July Festival & Street Fair

August Drayton Harbor Days | Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival Birch Bay Days & Crab Festival

December Annual Ring of Fire and Hope *Event dates are based on 2023 events and are subject to change.

Communities Birch Bay Village Association 8055 Cowichan Rd., Blaine, 360.371.7744

Sandy Point Improvement Company 4460 Decatur Dr., Ferndale, 360.384.3921

Sudden Valley Community Association 4 Clubhouse Cr., Bellingham, 360.734.6430

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 35

Cities

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 which one you pick, you’ll encounter no shortage of charming 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 plenty 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. 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 Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and portions of the North Cascades National Parks. Here you’ll find several lodging options as well as eateries such as Graham’s 36

BellinghamAlive.com

Artist Point

Restaurant, 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, Lake Ann, 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, Raspberry Ridge Golf Course, and Cloud Mountain Farm

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

Silver Lake Park 9006 Silver Lake Rd., Maple Falls

South Fork Park 1530 Mosquito Lake Rd., Deming

Events June Deming Logging Show

July Everson-Nooksack Summer Festival *Event dates are based on 2023 events and are subject to change.

Center, an organic farm that offers regular fruit tasting events. If you’re hungry, Herb Niemann’s Steak House has authentic German eats, and Good to Go Meat Pies make the perfect on-the-go snack.

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 longest 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. 

PSE is on track to nearly double its clean energy portfolio by 2025.

We’re with you, Whatcom.

More at pse.com/TOGETHER

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 37

Cities

In the Loop 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.

Lummi Island is a small community, with around 900 residents, no stop lights or gas station, and no large grocery stores. But they do have arguably the most important service: a library. Borrowed books can be returned at any Whatcom County library or book drop.

Lummi Island is a bicyclist’s paradise: relatively flat, with almost no traffic and stunning views all around, and small enough to get around quickly without a car. If you don’t have a bike you want to bring on the ferry, check with your accommodation to see if they have loaners available.

If you’re on the island on Friday or Saturday between 4 and 6 p.m., consider pausing for a tasting at Artisan Wine Gallery. Check out their collection of fine wines from all over the world, sold alongside local artisan cheeses.

Tribes Lummi Tribal Office 2665 Kwina Rd., Bellingham 360.384.1489

Nooksack Indian Tribe Main Office 5016 Deming Rd., Deming 360.592.5176

38

BellinghamAlive.com

Lummi Island

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, or grab a bite and a brew at Beach Store Cafe. 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 seeking a workout, the south leg is also 7 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 that speak of humanity’s connection to nature. The public is invited to stop in on the first Saturday of every month.

Vitreous Visions functions as a gift shop, studio, and gallery for glass artwork by Art Hohl.

During the thrice-yearly Lummi Island Artist Studio Tour or by appointment, visitors can meet artists working in mediums from woodwork to pottery, metalwork, painting, and more. 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 & Breakfast is a dream for those who enjoy cooking with farm-fresh ingredients. They provide well-stocked 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. They also sell fresh produce and eggs at their farmstand.

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 over 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. 

TOURISM

tourismabbotsford Lakeland Flowers

Photo by Robert Vinnedge

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 39

15

YEARS

Providing LOCAL content for 15 years, WE SPEAK to where you live.

2021

WELC To The Neighb ME orhoo d

EDUC AT HEALT ION H SERVIC ES EAT & DR RETAIL INK PROS TO KN OW

BellinghamAlive.com / SUBSCRIBE For advertising information and rates call or email today. p. 360.483.4577 or sales@bellinghamalive.com

Education

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 41

Education

School Board Representatives Ferndale*

Lynden*

Erika Creydt

Dr. Kevin Erickson

Khush Brar

Director District 1

President, Director District 1

Director Position 1

360.990.3848

360.380.1644

Katie Rose

Ben Lazarus

Antonio Machado

Danny Martinez

Director Position 2

Director District 2

Director District 2

Director Position 2

360.594.1415

360.603.1062

360.332.5881

martinezd@lynden. wednet.edu

Scott Ritchey

Cliff Freeman

Director Position 3

Director District 3

Nancy Button

Jim Verburg

Director District 3

Director Position 3

360.676.6400

360.332.5881

360.961.9323

verburgj@lynden. wednet.edu

Jenn Mason

Ryan Ford

Steve Childs

Tonya Hickman

Director Position 4

Director District 4

Director District 4

Director Position 4

360.927.4672

360.410.4437

360.332.5881

hickmant@lynden. wednet.edu

Douglas Benjamin

Don Leu

Peggy Uppiano

District 5 Director

Vice President, Director District 5

Kenneth “Spin” Owsley

860.680.3752

360.927.1154

Bellingham Camille Diaz Hackler President, Director Position 1

Blaine

brark@lynden.wednet.edu

360.441.1808

Vice President, Director Position No. 5

Director Position 5 petersenc@lynden. wednet.edu

360.202.6150

All representatives taken from election results and school board websites as of late 2023

42

BellinghamAlive.com

*Images not available

Report Card SCHOOL

BELLINGHAM SCHOOL DISTRICT

STATS A B C D

360.676.6400, bellinghamschools.org students enrolled graduated in 4 years per-student expenditure classroom teachers average years of teaching experience

SCHOOL MERIDIAN SCHOOL DISTRICT 360.398.7111, meridian.wednet.edu

11,623 85% $16,983 861 13.9

students enrolled graduated in 4 years per-student expenditure classroom teachers average years of teaching experience

BLAINE SCHOOL DISTRICT

MOUNT BAKER SCHOOL DISTRICT

360.332.5881, blainesd.org

360.383.2000, mtbaker.wednet.edu

students enrolled graduated in 4 years per-student expenditure classroom teachers average years of teaching experience

2,098 91% $17,725 154 15.4

students enrolled graduated in 4 years per-student expenditure classroom teachers average years of teaching experience

FERNDALE SCHOOL DISTRICT

NOOKSACK VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT

360.383.9200, ferndalesd.org

360.988.4754, nv.k12.wa.us

students enrolled graduated in 4 years per-student expenditure classroom teachers average years of teaching experience

STATS A B C D

4,547 88% $17,997 337 13.6

students enrolled graduated in 4 years per-student expenditure classroom teachers average years of teaching experience

1,813 86% $17,175 120 11.4

1,656 71% $20,686 131 13.3

1,917 86% $17,830 142 11.6

LYNDEN SCHOOL DISTRICT 360.354.4443, lynden.wednet.edu

students enrolled graduated in 4 years per-student expenditure classroom teachers average years of teaching experience

3,429 88% $15,643 211 14.4

Data compiled by the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction from recent school years. Data pulled late 2023.

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 43

Education Whatcom Family Cooperative Preschool 1041 24th St., Bellingham, 360.726.2096 whatcomfamilypreschool.org

Western Washington University: Alma Clark Glass Hall

Photo Courtesy of Western Washington University

Public Schools

Colleges & Universities

Christ Lutheran Preschool

Bellingham Technical College

5904 Vista Dr., Ferndale, 360.380.2233 clcferndale.org/preschool

3028 Lindbergh Ave., Bellingham 360.752.7000, btc.edu

Northwest Indian College 2522 Kwina Rd., Bellingham 360.676.2772, nwic.edu

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

Preschools Bayside Co-op Preschool 910 14th St., Bellingham 360.329.2818, baysidecoop.com

Blossom Childcare and Learning Center 2945 Douglas Ave., Bellingham 360.752.2699, blossomchildcare.com

Busy Kids Enrichment and Preschool 1604 Brookwood Dr., Ferndale 360.933.0644, busykidschildcare.com

Children’s Co-op Preschool 1409 18th St., Ste. 6306 Bellingham, 201.564.4227 childrenscooppreschool.com

44

BellinghamAlive.com

Gabriel’s Art Kids 2215 D St., Bellingham, 360.739.9365 gabrielsartkids.com

Gardenview Montessori School 2117 Walnut St., Bellingham P.O. Box 28636, 360.527.9638 gardenviewmontessori.org

Lakeside Cooperative 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

Montessori at Samish Woods 1027 Samish Way, Bellingham 360.650.9465, samishwoods.org

North Bellingham Learning Center 5275 Northwest Dr. Bellingham, 360.383.9289

Peace Arch Montessori Preschool 549 Cherry St., Blaine, 360.684.2926 peacearchmontessori.com

Tinker Tots Preschool 1553 B St., Blaine, 360.489.6202 tinkertospre.weebly.com

BELLINGHAM ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS Alderwood Elementary 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 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 lns-onlinelearning.org

Northern Heights Elementary School 4000 Magrath Rd., 360.647.6820 northernheights.bellinghamschools.org

Parkview Elementary 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

MIDDLE SCHOOLS Fairhaven Middle School 110 Parkridge Rd., 360.676.6450 fairhaven.bellinghamschools.org

Kulshan Middle School 1250 Kenoyer Dr., 360.676.4886 kulshan.bellinghamschools.org

Lummi Nation School 2334 Lummi View Dr., 360.758.4300 lns-onlinelearning.org

Shuksan Middle School

Photo Courtesy of Whatcom Community College

2155 Yew Street Rd., 360.647.6840 wadeking.bellinghamschools.org

2717 Alderwood Ave., 360.676.6454 shuksan.bellinghamschools.org

Whatcom Middle School 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

Options High School 2015 Franklin St., 360.647.6871 options.bellinghamschools.org

WCC’s Cedar Hall

Sehome High School

Fisher Elementary School

2700 Bill McDonald Pkwy., 360.676.6481 sehome.bellinghamschools.org

501 N. 14th St., 360.354.4291 fe.lynden.wednet.edu

Squalicum High School

Isom Elementary School

3773 E. McLeod Rd., 360.676.6471 squalicum.bellinghamschools.org

8461 Benson Rd., 360.354.1992 ie.lynden.wednet.edu

Whatcom Intergenerational High School

Lynden Academy 1986 Main St., Ste. A, 360.354.3510 la.lynden.wednet.edu

1 Bellis Fair Pkwy., 360.543.8282 intergenerational.school

Lynden High School 1201 Bradley Rd., 360.354.4401 hs.lynden.wednet.edu

LYNDEN Bernice Vossbeck Elementary School

Lynden Middle School

1301 E. Bridgeview Dr., 360.354.0488 bve.lynden.wednet.edu

8750 Line Rd., 360.354.2952 ms.lynden.wednet.edu

School District Early Dismissal & Closure Information Closure Information (TV): KOMO (channel 4) KING (channel 5) KIRO (channel 7)

Bellingham School District Start & End Times:

Snow Route Information:

Elementary School: 8 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Early Dismissal: 12:20 p.m.

*Start and end times for other districts in Whatcom County vary by school. Please visit individual school district websites for more information.

KCPQ (channel 13)

Middle School: 9:15 a.m.–3:45 p.m.

Early Dismissal: 1:15 p.m

Closure Information (radio):

High School: 8:30 a.m.–3:15 p.m.

Early Dismissal: 2:00 p.m

KGMI (790 AM)

bellinghamschools.org/snow-routes

KAFE (104.1 FM)

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 45

Education

FERNDALE, CUSTER, LUMMI ISLAND

BLAINE, POINT ROBERTS

Sumas Elementary School

Beach Elementary

Blaine Elementary School 836 Mitchell Ave., Blaine, 360.332.5213 blainesd.org/o/blaine-elementary-school

1024 Lawson St., 360.988.9423 se.nv.k12.wa.us

3786 Centerview Rd., Lummi Island 360.383.9440 lummi-island.com/here/beach-school

Cascadia Elementary 6175 Church Rd., Ferndale, 360.383.2300 cascadia.ferndalesd.org

Central Elementary 5610 2nd Ave., Ferndale, 360.383.9600 central.ferndalesd.org

Custer Elementary 7660 Custer School Rd., Custer 360.383.9500, custer.ferndalesd.org

Eagleridge Elementary 2651 Thornton Rd., Ferndale 360.383.9700, eagleridge.ferndalesd.org

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

Point Roberts Primary School 2050 Benson Rd., Point Roberts 360.945.2223, blainesd.org/o/ point-roberts-primary-school

Ferndale High School

EVERSON, NOOKSACK, SUMAS

5830 Golden Eagle Dr., Ferndale 360.383.9240 ferndalehigh.ferndalesd.org

Everson Elementary School

Horizon Middle School 2671 Thornton Rd., Ferndale 360.383.9850 horizonmiddle.ferndalesd.org

Skyline Elementary School 2225 Thornton St., Ferndale 360.383.9450, skyline.ferndalesd.org

Vista Middle School 6051 Vista Dr., Ferndale, 360.383.9370 vistamiddle.ferndalesd.org

216 Everson Goshen Rd., 360.966.2030 ee.nv.k12.wa.us

Nooksack Elementary School 3333 Breckenridge Rd., 360.966.3321 ne.nv.k12.wa.us

ACME, DEMING, GLACIER, MAPLE FALLS 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

Mount Baker Academy 5100 Mitchell Rd., Deming, 360.383.2078 mtbaker.wednet.edu/o/mba

Mount Baker Junior High 5100 Mitchell Rd., Deming, 360.383.2016 mtbaker.wednet.edu/o/mbjh

Mount Baker Senior High 4936 Deming Rd., Deming, 360.383.2015 mtbaker.wednet.edu/o/mbhs

Private Schools

Nooksack Valley High School

BELLINGHAM

3326 E. Badger Rd., 360.988.2641 hs.nv.k12.wa.us

Assumption Catholic School

Nooksack Valley Middle School

2116 Cornwall Ave., 360.733.6133 school.assumption.org

404 W. Columbia St., 360.966.7561 ms.nv.k12.wa.us

Alternative Learning Experiences

Ferndale Family Partnership

Alger Learning Center & Independence High School

Lynden Academy

Sedro-Woolley, 800.595.2630, independent-learning.com

Lynden, 360.354.6675, lynden.wednet.edu/lynden-academy

Bellingham Family Partnership Program (BFPP)

Meadows Montessori School

Bellingham, 360.676.6424, fpp.bellinghamschools.org

Ferndale, 360.778.3681, meadowsmontessori.org

Blaine HomeConnection

Meridian Parent Partnership Program (MP3)

Blaine, 360.332.8182, blainesd.org/o/homeconnection

Bellingham, 360.398.9324, meridian.wednet.edu/mp3

Cascades Montessori Middle School

Mount Baker Academy

Bellingham, 360.306.8723, cascadesmiddle.org

Deming, 360.383.2078, mtbaker.wednet.edu/o/mba

Cedar Tree Montessori

Skagit Academy

Bellingham, 360.714.1762, cedar-tree.org

Mount Vernon, 360.428.6207, skagitacademy, mountvernonschools.org

Feather & Frond Forest School

Wild Whatcom Nature Preschool

Bellingham, contact@featherandfrond.org, featherandfrond.org

Bellingham, 360.389.3414, wildwhatcom.org

46

BellinghamAlive.com

Bellingham, 360.703.8303, sites.google.com/ferndalesd.org

Bellingham Christian School 1600 E. Sunset Dr., 360.733.7303 bellinghamchristianschool.org

Blue Heron Montessori School 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

Franklin Academy 1509 E. Victor St., 360.733.1750 thefranklin.academy

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

Natural Learning Center 1207 Ellsworth St., 360.488.7030 naturallearningcenter.org

The Alger Learning Center & Independence High School 100 Pine St., Ste. 103, 360.595.2630 independent-learning.com

Whatcom Hills Waldorf School 941 Austin St., 360.733.3164, whws.org

A Blast From The Past

We Care How You Look

FERNDALE Meadows Montessori School (PK-6) 2377 Douglas Rd., 360.778.3681 meadowsmontessori.org

Providence Christian School NW (K-12)

Thank You for Voting Us Best Men’s Haircut

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

Wally’s Barber Shop

314 E. Holly St. #100 Bellingham, 360.647.0807

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 47

Education ish

ish

p

am

e Fir

m Sa

of fC sy yo e s t te ur ur Co Co o o ot ot Ph Ph

p

m Ca

e Fir

am

S

Ph

ot o

Co

ur

te

sy of W

ild

W

ha tc

om

Summer Camps For Every Kid WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY

S

UMMER CAMPS ARE a surefire way to keep your kids social, active, and

challenged—and give you a bit of relief from childcare during the long summer months. There are plenty of camps to choose from locally, but if you need a bit of guidance to get started, we’ve put together a round-up of some of our very favorites.

For the Outdoors Lovers Wild Whatcom is a port of call for all community members who want to get better acquainted with the nature that surrounds us—and yes, this includes the littlest among us.

Their three-day camps are aimed at grades 1-3, whereas older kiddos (up to grade 8) have several five-day camps to choose from. Camp themes vary by age group, but topics include everything from marine life to the art of stealth, storytelling and nature connection, and even wilderness survival.

Dragonfly Kayak Tours offers their Happy Orcas Adventure Camp at Larrabee State Park during the summer months. This day camp is a great way for little ones to get acquainted with all the adventures that the Salish Sea has to offer, from tidepooling to snorkeling and (of course) kayaking. Kids will also participate in arts and crafts and learn how to be good environmental stewards.

Photo Courtesy of Spark Museum

48

BellinghamAlive.com

Camp Fire Samish has been around since 1910, and they offer a wide variety of both day camps and sleepaway camps through their Camp Kirby programming. Camps take place on the 47 acres of forest, grasslands, and beach that spread 1 ½ miles along beautiful Padilla Bay. Given this unparalleled access to the wilderness, it’s no surprise that activities tend to be nature-centric, with a focus on both providing an outdoor living experience and helping youth to build resilience and self-confidence.

Last but not least, Vamos Outdoors Project provides not just outdoor recreation opportunities but mentorship and academic programs. They have a priority of service for Latine, migrant, multilingual, newcomer, and low-income families, and while programming is year-round, their summer activities include instruction in everything from boating to backpacking.

Best of all, programming is free of cost to participants and includes necessary gear, food, and even transportation.

Photo Courtesy of Wild Whatcom

For the Athletes

For the Artistically Inclined

Photo Courtesy of Camp Fire Samish

If your kiddo is looking for new ways to get active this summer, Whatcom YMCA is a great place to start. They offer sports camps and clinics in everything from track and field to basketball, soccer, and even a multi-sport day camp. Not so much into sports? Perhaps Adventure Camps are more up your kid’s alley. These field-based day camps take place at outdoor locations across the country; for example, the Trail Blazer Adventure Camps get kids out and about on local trails for four days of hiking, exploration, and play.

Up-and-coming soccer players can get excited about Whatcom FC Rangers’ Junior Rangers Summer Program, which provides an approachable introduction to competitive soccer for players born between 2012 and 2016. Whatcom Sports and Recreation also holds youth soccer camps at the Bellingham Sportsplex not just during the summer but during all school break periods.

The Bellingham Bells Baseball Club has several day camps throughout the summer, including a beginner’s camp and a softball camp. Basketball players will want to check out iHOOP Training for their all-levels summer day camps.

But camp options aren’t limited to team sports. North Coast Gymnastics Academy holds 4-day camps all throughout the summer for aspiring gymnasts, and VITAL Climbing Gym in downtown Bellingham has all-levels summer camps for climbers ages 6-12.

Photo Courtesy of Spark Museum

For the Budding Scientists Tech-minded young ones will find their community at Bellingham Coding + Robotics Club camps, which combine intro coding, STEM, and robotics with outside sports and activities. In 2023, they offered camps in not just one but three locations to serve families across both Whatcom and Skagit counties.

In the summer months, Whatcom Community College gives grade schoolers a taste of higher ed with their Kids’ College and Teen Programs. Classes cover a variety of subjects, including art and cooking, though many are geared towards STEM and technology.

The SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention is known to offer a “chooseyour-own-adventure” day camp for kids ages 8-12. Sessions usually occur in midJuly, and programs culminate in campers building their own physical game using basic coding and simple circuits.

Nestled in the foothills of the North Cascades, Camp Saturna is ideal for groups of junior scientists who want more hands-on opportunities. Their environmental education camps are specialized for kids grades 5-8, with curriculum covering topics such as local and regional geology, ecosystem relationships, forest succession, natural resource management, and much more.

Creative-minded kids are sure to feel right at home at the Bellingham Arts Academy for Youth (BAAY), which has been offering instruction in performing and visual arts since 2006. Summer camps usually include week-long daytime Home BAAYse Camps in July, Camp LarraBAAY at Larrabee State Park in August, and more! Unique Technique Studios and Dancing 4 Joy also offer day camps specifically geared towards young dancers.

Kids with big imaginations will also be well-suited to summer camps at Majestic Adventures. They offer day camps throughout the summer, each one centered around a different fantasy “quest” that allows kids to be the heroes of their own adventure. The Whatcom Museum’s week-long summer day camps are also adventure-oriented; we especially loved their Cinematic Swashbucklers camp last August. The program took inspiration from famous films and guided kids in developing a trailer for their very own movie.

For visual artists, Inner Child Studio has a range of one- and two-day camps for kids, including a summer art camp.

For something even longer, Gabriel’s Art Kids holds week-long camps during school breaks. Pace Atelier Art Studio also has summer art camps for kids and teens, and participants can experiment with mediums ranging from painting to ceramics, mixed media, and much more.

Last but certainly not least, Bellingham Girls Rock Camp (BGRC) uses music as a method to empower girls and queer youth ages 8-17. During this week-long day camp, kids learn instruments, attend workshops, form bands, write songs, and even perform them at the camp’s conclusion. But BGRC is about more than just music alone; attendees also gain tools for self-expression, critical thinking skills, and leadership skills. Photo by Susan Hemingson

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 49

Expert care in your hometown Caring for friends and neighbors is an honor.

Carter Kiesau, MD Orthopedic Surgeon PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center

peacehealth.org/expert-care

Health

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024

51

Health

W

Healthcare HATCOM COUNTY’S HEALTHCARE sys-

tem is excellent, so you’re sure to find a provider that’s right for your individual needs. Healthcare is also one of the largest industries in Whatcom County, and Bellingham’s hospital, PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center, is the area’s top employer. In 2022, the hospital was awarded an “A” rating in a patient safety assessment by the Leapfrog Group.

Whether you’re looking for a family practitioner, a naturopath, or more specialized care, you’ll find that there’s a wealth of services available for everyone. PeaceHealth St. Joseph Cancer Center offers interdisciplinary and compassionate care to cancer patients. Whatcom County also has plenty of providers specializing in mental health, as well as several addiction treatment centers. Moreover, resources like the Chuckanut Health Foundation invest experience and resources into advancing community health. 

Hospitals PeaceHealth St. Joseph Hospital 2901 Squalicum Pkwy., Bellingham 360.734.5400

Medical Clinics & Services

PeaceHealth St. Joseph Hospital

Lummi Tribal Health Center

Unity Care NW

2592 Kwina Rd., 360.384.046

220 Unity St., 360.676.6177

Maidenhair Hormone Clinic for Women

Village Family Health

1201 13th St., Ste. 103, 360.788.5173

Whatcom County Pregnancy Clinic

Mt. Shuksan Family Medicine & Dermatology 2101 Cornwall Ave., Ste. 101, 360.647.1900

BELLINGHAM

NorthStar Medical Specialists

Associates in Family Medicine

1345 King St., 360.676.1696

3130 Ellis St., 360.734.4404

Northwest Walk-In Health Clinic

Bellingham Asthma & Allergy

2220 Cornwall Ave., 360.734.2330

3015 Squalicum Pkwy., Ste. 180 360.733.5733

PeaceHealth Cascade Brain & Spine Center

Bellingham Health

710 Birchwood Ave., 360.788.6870

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

Family Care Network, North Sound Family Medicine 2075 Barkley Blvd., Ste. 105, 360.671.3345

52

BellinghamAlive.com

PeaceHealth Same-Day Clinic at Cordata Main

910 Harris Ave., Ste. 102, 360.734.2131 1310 N. State St., 360.671.9057

EVERSON, SUMAS Nooksack Tribal Clinic 2510 Sulwhanon Dr., Everson, 360.966.2106

PeaceHealth Sumas Medical Clinic 112 Columbia St., Sumas, 360.988.9404

Sea Mar Everson Medical Clinic 6884 Hannegan Rd., Everson, 360.354.0766

FERNDALE

4545 Cordata Pkwy., Ste. 1A, 360.738.2200

Ferndale Family Medical Center

PeaceHealth Same-Day Care at Fairhaven Plaza

5580 Nordic Way, 360.384.1511

3125 Old Fairhaven Pkwy., Ste. 106 360.788.8388

6060 Portal Way, 360.676.6177

PeaceHealth Same-Day Clinic at Medical Office Plaza

LYNDEN

3015 Squalicum Pkwy., Ste. 140 360.788.8420

Planned Parenthood 1530 Ellis St., 360.734.9095

Sea Mar Community Health Center 4455 Cordata Pkwy., 360.671.3225

Unity Care NW

Dickson Medical Clinic 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

Photo by Manuel Rodrigo del Pozo;

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

Naturopathic Clinics BELLINGHAM Bellingham Natural Family Medicine 1810 Broadway St., 360.738.7654

Fairhaven Integrative Health

Bridges Treatment and Recovery

1200 Old Fairhaven Pkwy., Ste. 305 360.676.1285

6044 Portal Way, Ste. 103, Ferndale 360.393.4218

Halleck Holistic Health

Clarity Mental Health & Recovery

208 Halleck St., Ste. 101, 360.325.8976

1155 N. State St., Ste. 522, Bellingham 360.676.4458

Natural Health Clinic 1707 F St., 360.734.1560

Ideal Option Bellingham

Northwestern Clinic of Naturopathic Medicine

3800 Byron Ave., Ste. 122, Bellingham 877.522.1275

1903 D St., 360.734.9500

MGA Crisis Intervention

Northwest Life Medicine Clinic

3628 Meridian St., Ste. 139, Bellingham 360.200.5658

851 Coho Way, Ste. 202, 360.746.6923

Nooksack Tribes Genesis II

Pacific Center for Naturopathic Medicine 1308 Meador Ave., Ste. C109, 360.734.0045

Resilience Health & Wellness 1903 D St., 360.922.8692

2505 Sulwhanon Dr., Everson 360.398.6399

Sea Mar Visions Youth Treatment Center 1603 E. Illinois St., Bellingham 360.647.4266

FERNDALE London Health Center 2376 Main St., Ferndale 360.384.2900

Cancer Treatment Centers

Addiction Treatment Centers

PeaceHealth St. Joseph Cancer Center

Bellingham Naturopathic Clinic

Bridges Treatment and Recovery

1313 E. Maple St., Ste. 102, 360.738.3230

1221 Fraser St., Ste. E-1, Bellingham 360.714.8180

3301 Squalicum Pkwy., Bellingham 360.788.8222

North Cascade Cancer Center 381 W. Horton Rd., Bellingham 360.370.2873

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024

53

Health

10 Must-Try Beauty Treatments WRITTEN BY JENN MIRANDA

A

DAY AT THE spa is fast becoming the go-to for self-care

as more people realize the benefits simple treatments can provide. These therapies can reduce stress, repair aging skin, soothe ailing muscles, and so much more. Check out these 10 local treatments you must try (at least) once!

Photo Courtesy of Flow Motion

Halotherapy Session in a Himalayan Salt Cave Halo means salt in Greek, and halotherapy refers to a special type of equipment that disperses dry salt into the chamber in the air you breathe. Salt therapy is said to be very beneficial for your upper respiratory system and skin, is a natural antiinflammatory, and is even said to reduce wrinkles and other signs of aging. Flow Motion in Ferndale offers an incredibly rare Himalayan Salt Cave with Halotherapy as well.

Float Therapy A zero-gravity float session using 1,000+ pounds of Epsom salt not only transforms your skin in just an hour, but it also soothes aches and pains. The stillness and calming effect are an experience you must try to believe. Still Life Massage and Float offers float pod sessions that include private rooms stocked with a full shower, hair treatments, ear plugs, music, and more.

Hyperpigmentation Facial with Scalp Massage add-on A hyperpigmentation facial helps reverse the signs of aging and brightens the skin for an overall glow that looks and feels amazing. Spero Skin Spa offers this specialty facial with an option to add a 20-minute relaxing scalp massage to boost your treatment to next-level status.

Plasma Pen Therapy

Photo by Cloud9 Photography

Plasma pen therapy is a non-surgical treatment that is said to eliminate fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen and elastin production. RejuvenationMD’s team of physicians, master estheticians, and registered nurses specialize in this popular alternative to surgery, performing eye lifts, neck lifts, jawline augmentation, and more in their state-of-the-art aesthetic skin treatment and wellness center.

54

BellinghamAlive.com

Halo Hybrid Fractional Laser evolé Mediclinic is the first medi-spa in our area to offer this newer treatment using the Halo, a hybrid fractional laser that simultaneously delivers pulses of ablative and nonablative energy to the skin. Taking away the downtime of previous similar treatments, you can get the glow of tighter, rejuvenated skin that is makeup-ready the very next day.

Infrared Sauna Infrared treatments have potential health benefits including stress reduction, improved circulation, and more. Zazen Spa’s Infrared Sauna offers a relaxing and invigorating start to any of their salon and spa services. Add some sauna time in their luxury spa setting before getting your nails done while you sip on a glass of wine.

Fairhaven Barkley Bakerview Lynden Ferndale Blaine Birch Bay Bothell

• Orthopaedics • Work Injuries • Hand Therapy • Sports Injuries • Auto Injuries • Post Surgical • Pelvic Health

Shirodhara Shirodhara is an Ayurvedic body therapy that involves a stream of warm oil flowing over your forehead and scalp. Offered by Mahal Bodywork, this therapy is said to bring a deep sense of calmness and relaxation and induce stillness in the mind. It’s also an amazing treatment for your scalp and hair.

Foot Relief Reflexology Pain relief, nerve stimulation, increased blood flow, and so much more can be achieved through reflexology.

Sandalwood Spa’s licensed massage therapists offer up a treat for your feet using reflexology combined with Swedish and deep tissue techniques.

Reiki

Thank you for voting us Best of the NW in 2017-2023!

www.capstonept.com

REAL ESTATE IN THE SAN JUAN ISLANDS

Heart Centered Reiki specializes in reiki, a Japanese-style technique of healing where hands are used to channel energy from the head to the seven chakras of the body. This is said to leave you refreshed, uplifted, light, and calm.

Soak + Swedish Muscle tension, stress, and skin issues, oh my! The Spa at the Chrysalis Inn Bellingham offers a soak add-on before enjoying a massage. They draw quite a beautiful bath using aromatherapy and dead sea salt, known to hydrate the skin and reduce inflammation, in a private room.

The Swedish-style massage promotes relaxation, relieves tension and stress, improves circulation, and soothes aching muscles. 

Megan McLean BROKER

360.223.7990

meganintheislands@gmail.com

LOPEZ ISLAND

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024

55

Health & Medical Profiles

Fit Evo Bellingham Fit Evo is not your typical fitness center. Owner Steve Avila and general manager Jerad Crawford have worked hard to create a community that provides their members with all of the tools they need to achieve their fitness goals. That is why they have been voted “Best Fitness Center” and “Best Personal Trainer” in the Best of the Northwest voting two years in a row.

Here are some of the amenities you can find at Fit Evo. • Weights & Equipment - Enjoy all of the equipment on our spacious, well-organized gym floor. From Squat Racks and Bench Presses to isolation machines to hit all of the muscle groups. We also have plenty of room for stretching and functional training. All of your fitness wants and needs can be met with what we have to offer.

• Fit Evo App - All of your fitness needs in an easy to use app on your phone. Track your steps and heart-rate during your workout, find and create meal plans, book a class, or work with a personal trainer, all from the app! The app even helps you build your own custom workout plan.

• Group X Classes - Fit Evo offers a variety of fitness classes with our certified instructors.

Classes include: - Group Power - HIIT (Hight Intensity Interval Training) - TRX - Gentle Flow Yoga - Pop Pilates - Zumba - Booty, Core, and MORE • Cardio Deck and Cinema - Fit Evo offers two cardio sections, the cardio deck and Cinema.

Yes, we have a movie theater in the GYM, with new movies and series streaming daily.

Choose between exercise bikes, treadmills, ellipticals, stair machines and more.

• Kids Club - In house childcare! Safe, professional, highly-trained childcare staff who love working with children. We offer accommodations for all age groups from 3 months to 12 year olds. Strict deep cleaning and sanitization procedures 3 times a day to ensure the health and safety of all children.

Open 8am - 1pm daily and 4pm to 7:30

Monday through Friday.

• Smoothie Bar - Need a boost? Fit Evo’s Smoothie Bar has the performance enhancing snacks and smoothies you need. Chocolate Peanut Butter, Tropical Sunrise, Cookies and Creme, or build your own protein package smoothie. Great for gym goers on the move. We also have a variety of energy and hydration drinks.

• Midtown Barbershop - Stay fresh and looking sharp with our own in house barber Midtown Barbershop. Aminah Ladybarber (@ aminahladybarber) back to back “Best of the NW” winner, offers classic cuts with a modern twist. Book online at midtownbarber.booksy.com • Personal Trainers - Craft a customized program to fit Your needs with a Fit Evo Personal Trainer! No matter your fitness level, one of our personal trainers can build a workout plan that fits your lifestyle, and guide you to your fitness goals!

• Sauna and Tanning Beds - Both locker rooms are equipped with a dry sauna. Fit Evo offers stand up and lay down tanning beds to keep you bronzed and glowing year round.

The only way to truly appreciate all of what Fit Evo has to offer is to see it in person. We would love to have you come by Fit Evo and try our facilities. Stop in and speak to our staff or visit bellinghamevo.com to learn all about our award winning facility.

1504 Iowa St Bellingham WA 98229 360.617.4653 bellinghamevo.com Hours: Mon–Thur 4:00am–12:00am Friday: 4:00am–11:00pm Sat–Sun: 6:00am–11:00pm

56

bellinghamalive.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Health & Medical Profiles

Care Medical Group Physical Therapy We will work with you to understand your unique circumstances, perform a comprehensive exam, and design a personalized treatment program that meets your goals.

Occupational Medicine Proudly meeting the needs of over 200 employers in Whatcom County with workplace injury care, physical exams, and fit testing.

Primary Care

Urgent Care

Understand your unique health goals and establish a thorough treatment plan while accessing complete care, such as routine checkups, health-risk assessments, immunizations, and screening tests.

We are here to fulfill your urgent care needs as they arise. Most medical care is available on a walk-in basis, with the convenience of having x-rays and labs on site.

4043 Northwest Ave Bellingham, WA 98226 360.743.4300 caremg.com Mon-Fri: 8am - 7pm Sat: 9am - 4pm

Northwest Gastroenterology & Endoscopy Providing comprehensive digestive healthcare

What Do We Do at NW Gastro/Endo?

At Northwest Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, we promote digestive health and ensure the well-being of our community. We offer expert care for prevention and management of diseases of the digestive tract, such as: · Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) · Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) · Inflammatory Bowel Disease · Liver Disease · Colon cancer prevention

The Vital Role of Colonoscopy in Colorectal Cancer Screening When detected early, colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers. The cornerstone of early detection is colonoscopy.

A colonoscopy is not only a powerful screening tool but also a preventive one. If polyps are discovered during the procedure, they can be removed on the spot, significantly reducing the risk of colorectal cancer.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

When Should I Start Getting Checked?

Recommendations are to begin screening for colon cancer at age 45. If you or your immediate family members have a history of colorectal cancer, polyps, or related afflictions, earlier screening is encouraged.

Why Choose NW Gastro/Endo?

Northwest Gastroenterology was founded in 1979 and is the largest gastroenterology group in Whatcom County. We offer in-person clinic visits, telehealth appointments, and a physician managed infusion center and endoscopy center, all in our new Barkley Village location. To ensure the highest quality care, we participate in the GIQuiC national registry, a voluntary program for continuous improvement of GI healthcare techniques. Our staff of over 100 people are fully dedicated to protecting your digestive health.

Northwest Gastroenterology & Endoscopy New address: 3111 Woburn St., Bellingham 360.734.1420, nwgastroendo.com

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 57 2024 57

Premium Craft Cannabis

we are a small friends and family operation that puts our heart and soul into every plant to bring you our best cannabis experience

For use by persons 21+ only Cannabis products can have intoxicating effects and my be habit forming.

Cannabis can impair concentration, coordination and judgement.

Been injured in a car accident?

“Seek Medical Massage EARLY for best recovery.”

Did you know?

Your car insurance can cover the cost of your medical treatment regardless who was atfault. The coverage is called PIP, Personal Injury Protection, and it doesn’t cost you anything more. By law, this is your right. Your rates will NOT increase by seeking therapy.

ADVANCE D

MEDICAL MASSAGE WHIPLASH INJURY SPECIALISTS

Call to learn more: 360.527.9566

mmwellness.com 1112 Finnegan Way, Bellingham WA

Photo Courtesy of Snohomish County Tourism Bureau

Life

Feature

Aquatic Adventures

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 59

Life Aquatic Adventures

WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY AND KRISTEN BOEHM

O

UR REGION’S WATERS have something to offer everyone. There are endless

ways to have fun in the sun while also respecting the culture, ecology, and history of the waterways that make Whatcom County so special. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!

Geography Crash Course: Bays, Rivers, and Lakes Bays of the Salish Sea

The northernmost body of water is Semiahmoo Bay, which is named for the Semiahmoo First Nation and, after many years of cannery operations, is now home to Semiahmoo Resort and Spa. Semiahmoo Bay feeds into Drayton Harbor in Blaine, which is separated from the bay by the Semiahmoo Spit.

Below Semiahmoo Bay is Birch Bay. Birch Bay State Park boasts both saltwater and freshwater shoreline. It’s a popular pick for camping, boating, picnics, fishing, and hard shell clamming (as Birch Bay is abundant in Dungeness crab). Below Birch Bay is Lummi Bay, which is located off the coast of Lummi Nation.

Lummi Bay lies above Bellingham Bay, which extends from Lummi Peninsula to Clark’s Point and borders the city of Bellingham. The city’s waterfront was an industrial site for more than a century, but this era ended with the closing of the Georgia-Pacific mill in 2007. Now, the City and Port of Bellingham are working to clean up the 12 toxic waste sites left behind. To learn more about the cleanup sites, visit re-sources.org.

South of Bellingham Bay is the three-mile-long Chuckanut Bay, which features scenic spots like Clark’s Point and Teddy Bear Cove. Below Chuckanut Bay is tiny Pleasant Bay, then Samish Bay, which can be admired from Larrabee State Park, Clayton Beach, and the Oyster Dome lookout. Fun fact: Samish Bay is known for its oysters. In fact, it’s the site of the first-ever Pacific oysters, which have populated the waters since 1919 after being thrown from a cargo ship.

60

BellinghamAlive.com

Rivers and Lakes to Know Whatcom County is home to a variety of rivers, streams, lakes. So many, in fact, that we could never name them all—but we can give you a quick guide to some of the most notable ones.

The Nooksack River originates in the Mount Baker Wilderness and begins in earnest at the merging of three forks—the North, Middle, and South Forks—near the city of Deming. The scenic North Fork is especially notable, as it gathers icy runoff from the East Nooksack Glacier.

Whatcom County is home to a whopping 113 lakes, and perhaps the most notable is Lake Whatcom. It provides drinking water to more than 100,000 residents of Bellingham and the surrounding county. Lake Whatcom is also home to summertime recreational spots like Bloedel Donovan Park and Lake Whatcom Park. Just south of Bellingham is Lake Samish, which also features a swimming area and is another popular spot for boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Other popular lakes serve as hiking destinations in the Chuckanut Mountains, including Fragrance Lake, Lost Lake, and Pine and Cedar Lakes.

Lake Padden and Squires Lake are surrounded by trails that make them ideal for family hikes, and Silver Lake and Baker Lake are classic picks for fishing, boating, and camping.

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 61

Life Aquatic Adventures

Waters of the North Sound, Yesterday and Today When speaking about our region’s waterways, it’s important to acknowledge the Coast Salish peoples who have been stewarding them since time immemorial. The following words are courtesy of the Sacred Lands Conservancy, an Indigenous-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the life, culture, and sanctity of the Salish Sea. A few hundred years ago, when European ships pulled into what is now called Bellingham Bay, the men aboard couldn’t see the land for all the trees; the trees were so big, the forests so thick.

Fish were so plentiful you could walk across their backs. We’ve always said, “When the tide is out, the table is set,” meaning, at low tide, there are clams, mussels, oysters, so much food to be harvested! The waters and the lands have always provided for us.

In our Lhaq’temish language, Xwlemi chosen, there is no word for famine. We never went hungry. All of our villages were right on the water. The waterways of the Salish Sea connected us with one another, and with our traditional fishing, hunting, and gathering places. The waters connected us, the waters provided for us. Our songs, stories, culture, and spirituality are of and in this place. We are one with all the life here, with the waters, with the rocks, with the fish, the whales, the eagles.

62

BellinghamAlive.com

Water is life. We can’t survive without fresh water to drink, without the salmon that depend on healthy rivers and a healthy Salish Sea. Right now, our waters are threatened by pollution, by large industrial projects, by marine vessel traffic. The Salish Sea has become crowded, dirty, noisy—and this affects the health of all our relations who live underwater. Salmon runs are threatened, our resident orca population is endangered. Our fishermen are hurting, economically and emotionally. We are a fishing people.

We can’t survive without fish, without salmon.

The Point Elliott Treaty that we signed with other tribes and the United States government in 1855 promises that we have rights to fish, hunt, and gather in our traditional territory for as long as the mountain still stands and the river flows. This promise is meaningless if there is nothing left to fish, hunt, and

gather. The Treaty is the supreme law of the land. It’s up to all of us, tribal and U.S. citizens, to uphold the Treaty promises.

This means we all need to work together to ensure the health and vitality of the Salish Sea and all the rivers that feed it.

We have always been in reciprocal relation with this place. We know that Mother Earth provides for us, so we take care of her the best we can. Take only what is needed.

Never take the first, nor the last, of whatever you may be harvesting. Give thanks. Be generous. These are lessons of this place. We encourage all who now make their homes here, and those who may be visiting, to also be in such a relationship with this place.

We live in such a beautiful part of the world! Enjoy it!

But as you recreate upon the waters, or on the islands, in the forest, on the mountain, please take time to learn the history of this place. We have been here since time immemorial; our history is long. We have learned good teachings about how to live here, and we welcome the chance to share these teachings.

The history of the past couple hundred years is brutal, but acknowledging the truth of history allows us all to learn from it, heal, and move forward into the future in a good way.

Learn about this place, about the finned, the winged, the four-legged creatures, about the trees, the rocks, the waters.

How might you be kind and generous, how might you caretake, and be thankful? How might you treat this place as if it were your dearly beloved?

To learn more about the Sacred Lands Conservancy and their work, visit sacredsea.org.

You can also find Since Time Immemorial, Bellingham Alive magazine’s recurring series spotlighting community members whose families have been here since time immemorial, at bellinghamalive.com.

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 63

Life Aquatic Adventures Photo Courtesy of Community Boating Center

Water Sports Round-up

Kayaking

Whether you prefer the lake, river, or the bay, kayaking is one of the most popular ways to explore the waters of the North Sound. You’ve likely gathered by now that there are quite a few waterways to explore; to get you started, the Port of Bellingham has a Whatcom Water Trails map. It highlights 22 water trails in the county and is accessible at bellingham.org.

You can purchase your very own kayak from Yeager’s Sporting Goods or rent from places including Bloedel Boat Rentals and Bellingham’s Community Boating Center. Alternatively, if you’d like to try your hand at sea kayaking, you can take a how-to course from the Community Boating Center.

For a day of adventure, take a guided tour from a company like Moondance Sea Kayak Adventures. If you prefer after-dark excursions, Moondance even offers nighttime bioluminescence tours!

Community Boating Center

Photo by Casey Cook

Diving While there’s plenty of fun to be had on the water, don’t overlook the adventures that lie beneath the surface. The Salish Sea is a treat for divers of all stripes, from snorkelers to scuba divers and even free divers (who, unlike scuba divers, do not use a breathing apparatus). Gone Diving in Bellingham is Whatcom County’s top resource for everything from gear to lessons.

A note: If the opportunity to see sea creatures is more appealing than the act of diving, then bring the whole family to the Marine Life Center at Squalicum Harbor. This freeadmission attraction lets you get up close and personal with local marine life (including an octopus!), and they even feature a touch tank.

Marine Life Center

64

BellinghamAlive.com

Photo Courtesy of Triad River Tours

Paddleboarding Here’s a fun fact: While canoes were invented long ago in the Arctic to be used as hunting vessels, paddleboards originated in Hawaii, and their popularity didn’t take off until the 20th century. While kayakers sit down and operate their vessel with a double-bladed paddle, stand-up paddleboards (or SUPs) are propelled with a single-blade paddle. Kayaks have the advantage when it comes to stability, but SUPs are more portable—and some of them are even inflatable!

Most places that rent kayaks also rent SUPs, and we’d also be remiss not to mention Lakewood on Lake Whatcom. Students, alumni, and faculty members at Western Washington University are all eligible for discounted rentals on water crafts from SUPs to sailboats. You can also rent or buy your very own SUP from Kite Paddle Surf at Squalicum Harbor. (Thrill-seekers take note: If paddleboarding isn’t extreme enough for you, they also specialize in kitesurfing, windsurfing, and more!)

Rivers and Rafting When we think of water-based outdoor recreation, the lakes and bay might come to mind first—but don’t forget about our region’s rivers. Some might opt for a leisurely float in some of the Nooksack’s calmer waters, but for folks who prefer a bit of adventure, the Nooksack also has whitewater rapids that can be experienced with the help of a trained guide.

A word of caution: It should go without saying, but while it may be a safe bet to go paddleboarding alone, you don’t want to do the same on a raft. Whitewater rafting is dangerous, and it’s imperative to go with an experienced and certified professional.

The Nooksack is rated as having Class III rapids!

Companies like Triad River Tours can guide you through these waters safely, as their certified guides receive extensive training and operate tours using state-of-the-art equipment.

The Glacier-based company Wild and Scenic River Tours also offers excursions on the Nooksack River. If you want an adventure on the river but would prefer to skip the rapids, Triad also has more laid-back scenic tours.

Triad River Tours

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 65

Life Aquatic Adventures

Aquatic Life

With thousands of miles of shoreline, wetlands, lakes, and rivers, it’s no surprise our area is home to a truly boggling amount of plants and animals!

The North Sound is the northernmost region of Puget Sound, which is the nation’s second largest estuary by shoreline. Estuaries occur where salty and freshwater meet, often where rivers let out into the sea, creating a brackish water. This means that we have both freshwater and saltwater wildlife.

Salmon

Dolphins and Whales

The estuaries support some of our most famous wildlife: salmon. Our watershed rivers are spawning grounds for the anadromous Pacific salmon, which include Chinook, coho, pink, sockeye, and chum.

Anadromous fish lay their eggs in freshwater rivers, where the young hatch, grow, and eventually travel downstream to the sea for their adulthood. When it’s time, the fish return back to the rivers from whence they came to start the cycle all over again. These annual pilgrimages, known as salmon runs, have always been a vital part of the PNW’s ecosystem and way of life.

There are more species of whales and dolphins (cetaceans) around here than you might think, including Pacific white-sided dolphins, humpback whales, minke whales, fin whales, and dall’s porpoises, but perhaps the most recognizable of marine mammals for many Washingtonians will be the orca.

Also known as killer whales or qwe ‘lhol mechen, meaning “our relations below the waves” in the Lummi language, orcas are the largest type of dolphin and top predators within their ecosystems. We have resident and transient orcas—transient orcas come and go from inner Washington waters, travel in groups of two to six, and hunt other marine mammals like harbor seals, smaller dolphins, and whales. Southern Resident Killer Whales have localized. They feed only on salmon (primarily Chinook) and live in three pods (J, K, and L) with matriarchal social systems.

Photo by Ken Rea

Nearshore Creatures Harbor seals These adorable fellas are sightable yearround from the coasts of the Salish Sea. Adults are between five and six feet in length, and 245–300 pounds. They’re blue-gray with darker speckles and eat up to 10% of their body weight daily.

Tidepooling When the tides go out, natural pools are left in rocky outcroppings and basins, and inside of these protective underwater valleys are bursts of life, including small fish, crabs, urchins, sea stars, and more.

66

BellinghamAlive.com

Photo by Dean Davidson

Clam digging Around our inland sea shores, you’ll find native littleneck clams, Manila clams, butter clams, and horse clams, all diggable with a shellfishing license.

Oyster farms The shellfish farms in our area encourage the growth of clams and oysters in their habitats, then harvest them for locals and beyond to enjoy, making Eastern and Pacific oysters a bountiful and important part of our aquaculture!

35 LUXURY ROOMS

MEETING ROOM

SHOPPING & DINING

PREMIER COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL ROOFING Covering Whatcom County SINCE 1967

COMPLIMENTARY BIKE USE. HEALTH CLUB PASS. FREE YOGA.

WHAT'S NOT TO LOVE? 100 5th Street, Lynden, WA 98264

innatlynden.com

Esary.com Skagit: (360) 757-0933 Whatcom: (360) 318-0604 San Juan: (360) 468-3278 King: (206) 546-5336

360/746-8597

YOUR LOCAL CATCH HANDMADE IN BELLINGHAM SINCE 1955 CUSTOMIZED TO FIT YOUR LIFESTYLE

WITH OVER 60 YEARS OF BELLINGHAM ROOTS NORTHWEST MARINE INDUSTRIES HAS BEEN PERFECTING FIBERGLASS BOAT BUILDING RIGHT IN YOUR OWN BACK YARD NMIBOATS.COM 809 HARRIS AVENUE, BUILDING 6 BELLINGHAM, WA 98225 Call (360) 389-5351 to order or to schedule a tour!

Photo by Mysti Willmon

Life Community Engagement

Photo by Ann Marie Cooper

Photo by Brandee Simons

Social Clubs & Civic Groups Bellingham Bay Rotary Club bellinghambayrotary.com

Bellingham Central Lions Club

Whatcom Art Guild Artist - Janille Dutton

bellinghamcentrallions.org

Bellingham City Club

Social Clubs & Civic Groups

bellinghamcityclub.org

Bellingham Elks Lodge elks.org

W

HETHER YOU’RE HERE

for a year or forever, there’s plenty to love about life in Whatcom County. In fact, 2022 rankings by Livability placed Bellingham as the 53rd best place to live in all of the United States—and it’s no secret as to why. The website commended our arts scene, remote work friendliness, and access to the great outdoors. In addition, it gave special mention to the area’s numerous breweries and “vibrant downtown!”

In other words, there are tons of perks to life in Bellingham and Whatcom County as a whole. Our quality of life is high, plus it’s virtually impossible to run out of things to see and do. From annual events to unique 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. 

LGBTQ+ Resources

Bellingham Homebrewers Guild

Bellingham Queer Collective

Bellingham Knights Chess Club

bellinghamqueercollective.org

bellinghamchess.com

Out Bellingham

Bellingham Metal Arts Guiild

meetup.com/out-bellingham

bmag-wa.org

Queer Youth Project

Whatcom Young Professionals

nwys.org/queer-youth-project

bellingham.com/wyps

Washington Gender Alliance

Newcomers & Neighbors of Whatcom County

washingtongenderalliance.com

Whatcom PFLAG

Whatcom Art Guild

LGBTQ+ Western (WWU)

whatcomartguild.org

lgbtq.wwu.edu

Whatcom Artists of Clay & Kiln whatcomartistsofclayandkiln.org

Senior & Community Centers Bellingham Senior Activity Center 315 Halleck St., Bellingham, 360.733.4030

Blaine Community & Senior Center 763 G St., Blaine, 360.332.8040

Everson Senior Activity Center 111 W. Main St., Everson, 360.966.3144

Ferndale Senior Center 1999 Cherry St., Ferndale, 360.384.6244

Lynden Community/Senior Center 401 Grover St., Lynden, 360.354.2921 1487 Gulf Rd., Point Roberts, 360.945.5424

BellinghamAlive.com

whatcomnewcomers.org

pflagwhatcom.org

Point Roberts Senior Activity Center

68

bellinghamhomebrewersguild.org

Whatcom Association of Celestial Observers whatcomastronomy.com

Whatcom County North Rotary portal.clubrunner.ca/813

Whatcom Horticultural Society whatcomhortsociety.org

Whatcom Women in Business wwib.org

Whatcom Women’s Network whatcomwomensnetwork.com

Whatcom Writers & Publishers whatcomwritersandpublishers.org

Sumas Senior Center

The Volunteer Center of Whatcom County

461 Second St., Sumas, 360.988.2714

whatcomvolunteer.org

BEST SALON

Welcome to Your New Homes — Both of Them...

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.

First Time Clientsmention Bellingham Alive and receive $10 off your first haircut or $20 off your first color service 1401 Dupont ST Bellingham, WA 98225 360.922.6806 www.vanityhairbellingham.com

Photo by Liz Hjelmseth

Life Places of Worship

First Congregational Church of Bellingham

Places of Worship

W

HATCOM COUNTY WELCOMES people from

all walks of life, and this inclusivity also applies to religion. According to data from Sperling’s BestPlaces, nearly 30% of Whatcom residents describe themselves as religious. While a majority 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 small communities of Baptists, Episcopalians, Methodists, Pentecostals, and other denominations.

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

Roughly 1% of Whatcom County residents identify with Judaism, Islam, and Eastern religions, and the county also offers resources and services for these faiths. Jewish residents can attend services at the Congregation Beth Israel or get involved at 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.

Church of the Assumption 2116 Cornwall Ave., 360.733.1380

Faith Lutheran Church 2750 McLeod Rd., 360.733.3970

First Christian Church 495 E. Bakerview Rd., 360.734.6820

First Congregational Church of Bellingham

Living Water Fellowship 4767 Guide Meridian Rd., 360.398.9838

My Church 3218 Fielding Ave., 360.306.3687

North Bellingham Church of Christ 1063 W. Bakerview Rd., 360.389.2234

North Cascades Christian Fellowship 3800 Dana Rd., 360.734.3837

2401 Cornwall Ave., 360.734.3720

Northwest Baptist Church 3545 Northwest Ave., 360.733.3620

Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship

Good Shepherd Community Church

1207 Ellsworth St., 360.733.3837

1254 W. Smith Rd., 360.384.5403

567 E. Kellogg Rd., 360.734.5228

Christ the King Community Church

Life Church

St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Church

4173 Meridian St., 360.733.1337

747 Marine Dr., 360.733.8980

510 E. Sunset Dr., 360.734.8745

2818 McLeod Rd., 360.676.1357

70

BellinghamAlive.com

Spring Creek Bible Church

JUDAISM Congregation Beth Israel 751 San Juan Blvd., 360.733.8890

Rohr Center for Jewish Life 102 Highland Dr., 360.393.3845

ISLAM Islamic Society of Whatcom County 1244 Nevada St., 360.752.9399

SIKHISM Gurdwara Guru Nanak Parkash 777 W. Smith Rd., 360.312.1190

UNSPECIFIED Unity Spiritual Center 1095 Telegraph Rd., 360.733.2270

Bellingham Shambhala Center 2825 Meridian St., Ste. 201, 360.483.4526

Lynden Bethel Christian Reformed Church 1105 Liberty St., 360.354.2361

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

Freedom Church 405 Front St., 360.325.2015

Grace Baptist Fellowship

“Your goals are my goals. I work tirelessly to make your home buying or selling process as efficient, stress-free and lucrative for you as possible.”

338 N. Park St., 360.354.2913

Hope Lutheran Church 900 E. Grover St., 360.354.4211

Lynden Community Church 680 Grover St., 360.354.2226

Netherlands Reformed Church 8581 Depot Rd., 360.354.6645

North County Christ the King 1816 18th St., 360.318.9446

Protestant Reformed Church 317 N. Park St., 360.354.0496

Second Christian Reformed Church 710 Front St., 360.354.3961

kate-fadden.com katefadden@johnlscott.com 360.483.6483

Life Places of Worship Photo by Thomas Hughes

Church of the Assumption

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

Sonlight Community Church

Cornerstone Community Church

8800 Bender Rd., 360.354.3434

5732 Olson Rd., 360.384.3661

St. Joseph’s Catholic Church

Evergreen Community Church

205 12th St., 360.354.2334

6899 N. Enterprise Rd., 360.384.6310

Triumph Lutheran Church

Third Christian Reformed Church

Faith Bible Community Church

5719 Church Rd., 360.384.1129

514 Liberty St., 360.354.1448

5702 3rd Ave., 360.393.3761

United Church of Ferndale

United Methodist Church — Lynden

Ferndale Alliance Church

2034 Washington St., 360.384.3302

500 14th St., 360.354.4169

6100 Church Rd., 360.384.4279

Whatcom New Life Assembly

Lynden URC (United Reformed Church)

Ferndale Seventh-Day Adventist Church

2290 Main St., 360.384.4101

8650 Benson Rd., 360.656.6140

2488 Main St., 360.384.1526

Ferndale Church of Christ 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

72

BellinghamAlive.com

First Baptist Church 5759 Vista Dr., 360.384.3111

Good News Fellowship 1252 W. Axton Rd., 360.384.1515

Northwest Washington Holiness Association 5942 Portal Way, 360.380.0890

St. Joseph Catholic Church 5781 Hendrickson Ave., 360.384.3651

2550 Thornton Rd., 360.380.2938

Blaine Birch Bay Bible Community Church 4460 Bay Rd., 360.371.2300

Christ Episcopal Church 382 Boblett St., 360.332.4113

Freedom Community Church 508 G St., 360.332.7506

Grace Lutheran Church 702 G St., 360.332.6589

Advertorial Life 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

Photo by Scott Sayers

Acme, Deming, Everson, Maple Falls, Nooksack Acme Presbyterian 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

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 Christian Fellowship 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

What Makes a Community Church?

Community is Christ the King’s Middle Name

C

HRIST THE KING Community

Church began in 1988 with 54 people who committed to love God, love each other, and love the community around them. Today, as a network of five campuses throughout Whatcom County, the same values permeate every gathering, whether inside or outside a church building. Based on a deep conviction that God loves the whole community, serving our community has become a hallmark of Christ the King (CTK) Church.

So, what does it mean to be a community church?

For CTK, it starts with bringing people together to worship, find community, and make a difference— right where they live. Christ the King has campuses in Bellingham, Downtown Bellingham, Blaine, Ferndale, and Sudden Valley. Each location has its own pastor and own unique flavor, tailored to its unique community.

Being a community church also means caring for neighbors who are struggling.

CTK partners with 15 local nonprofits— some faith-based, some not—to meet a range of human needs. In focus areas of homelessness, people with disabilities, kids

and families, food insecurity, and survivor support, staff and volunteers from CTK actively serve alongside and learn from community partners who care about the same things God cares about.

In 1996, Christ the King launched a food bank to address Whatcom County’s growing food insecurity.

Today, that ministry has become the CTK Food Share & Farm. On just a few acres of donated land, the CTK Farm yields more than 50 tons of fresh produce per season—all distributed to families through 22 local food share partners. Learn more about CTK’s community partners and the CTK Food Share & Farm at ctkserves.org.

Being a community church also means showing up when the community is hurting. After 2022’s historic flooding, CTK Response Teams showed up to volunteer in the recovery effort. As well, CTK regularly offers its facilities and staff to host memorial services for fallen first responders or when a death touches a large segment of the community.

Christ the King Church invites you to find out for yourself what it’s like to be part of their community. Learn more at ctk.church.

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 73

Life Sports & Recreation

Outdoor Sports & Recreation

Golf Courses Bald Eagle Golf Club 1350 Pelican Pl., Point Roberts, 866.460.0368

Bellingham Golf & Country Club 3729 Meridian St., Bellingham, 360.733.3450

Birch Bay Village Golf Course

W

8169 Cowichan Rd., Blaine, 360.371.2026

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 a national park, several state parks, and many county parks within the county’s limits.

Mountain bikers from all over the country seek out Bellingham for its world-class trails on Galbraith Mountain. With more than 65 miles of single-track 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.

Avid runners also have a variety of races to choose from throughout the year, from the Bellingham Bay Marathon to the legendary Ski to Sea Race. 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 yearround 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, 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.  74

BellinghamAlive.com

Dakota Creek Golf Course 3258 Haynie Rd., Custer, 360.366.3131

Grandview Golf Course 7738 Portal Way, Custer, 360.366.3947

Homestead Golf Course 115 E. Homestead Blvd., Lynden 360.354.1196, Ext. 2

Lake Padden Golf Course 4882 Samish Way, Bellingham, 360.738.7400

Loomis Trail Golf 4342 Loomis Trail Rd., Ste. 9787, Blaine 360.332.1725

North Bellingham Golf Course 205 W. Smith Rd., Bellingham, 360.398.8300

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

Sandy Point Golf Course 4460 Decatur Dr., Ferndale, 360.384.3921

Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club 8720 Semiahmoo Pkwy., Blaine 800.231.4425, Ext. 5

Shuksan Golf Club 1500 E. Axton Rd., Bellingham, 360.398.8888

Sudden Valley Golf Course 4 Clubhouse Cir., Bellingham, 855.506.2219

Sports Teams Bellingham Bells (Baseball)

Major Athletic Events Bellingham Bay Marathon bellinghambaymarathon.org

Bellingham Traverse bellinghamtraverse.com

Chuckanut 50k chuckanut50krace.com

bellinghambells.com

Chuckanut Classic

Bellingham Blazers (Youth Hockey)

chuckanutclassic.org

whatcomsportsandrec.com/blazers

Lake Whatcom Triathlon

Bellingham Roller Betties (Roller Derby)

lakewhatcomtriathlon.com

bellinghamrollerbetties.com

skitosea.com

Chuckanut Bay Rugby (Rugby)

Special Olympics Washington

chuckanutrugby.com

specialolympicswashington.org

Whatcom FC Rangers (Soccer)

Tour de Whatcom

whatcomfcrangers.org

tourdewhatcom.com

Ski to Sea

Photo by Judd M. Greenwood

Shifting Gears letsshiftgears.com

Whatcom Association of Kayak Enthusiasts wakekayak.org

Whatcom Mountain Bike Coalition (WMBC) wmbcmtb.org

WMBC JoyRiders (Women’s Bike Club) wmbcmtb.org/joyriders

Major Hiking & Walking Areas Arroyo Park Chuckanut Mountain Park Hovander Homestead Park Interurban Trail Galbraith Mountain Larrabee State Park Mount Baker National Recreation Area

Whatcom Falls Park

Semiahmoo Park

Sports & Outdoor Clubs

Silver Lake Park Whatcom Falls Park

Bellingham Mountaineers bellinghammountaineers.com

Bellingham Triathlon Club

Major Biking Areas

Roller Betties

Photo Courtesy of Bellingham Roller Betties

bellinghamtri.org

Bellingham Yacht Club

Bay to Baker Trail

byc.org

Chuckanut Mountain Park

Bellingham Pickleball Club

Civic Field Dirt Jump Track

bellinghampickleball.org

Greater Bellingham Running Club

Galbraith Mountain

gbrc.net

Interurban Trail

Mount Baker Club

Lake Padden Park

mountbakerclubsite.wordpress.com

Railroad Trail

Mount Baker Bicycle Club

Semiahmoo Park

mtbakerbikeclub.org

Silver Lake Park

Nooksack Nordic Ski Club

Whatcom Falls Park

nooksacknordicskiclub.org

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 75

Life Pets

Pets 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? Whatcom Humane Society will help match you with the forever companion that’s right for you and your family. Alternatively, if you prefer reptiles to mammals, Kementari’s Creatures is the place to go for more exotic new additions to the family.

For animal lovers who aren’t looking for commitment, a visit to NEKO: A 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. 

Piper, after rigorous physical therapy from Mountain Veterinary Hospital

Photo Courtesy of Mountain Veterinary Hospital

W

HATCOM COUNTY IS a haven for pet owners, and

Veterinary Hospitals BELLINGHAM

Northshore Veterinary Hospital 1486 Electric Ave., 360.738.6916

Animal Emergency Care

The Chuckanut Valley Feline Center

4176 Meridian St., 360.758.2200

1214 Dupont St., 360.671.7707

Banfield Pet Hospital

Village Veterinary Hospital

4379 Guide Meridian St., 360.734.9459

236 36th St., 360.647.1980

Bellingham Veterinary 720 Virginia St., 360.734.0720

BLAINE

Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital

Blaine Animal Hospital

4176 Meridian St., 360.982.0166

Northwest Veterinary Clinic

Fairhaven Veterinary Hospital 2330 Old Fairhaven Pkwy., 360.671.3903

Fountain Veterinary Hospital

8892 Blaine Rd., 360.332.6813 8115 Birch Bay Square St., Ste.135 360.366.5434

2430 Meridian St., Ste. 2., 360.733.2660

FERNDALE

Larrabee Animal Medicine PLLC

Ferndale Veterinary Hospital

1110 Larrabee Ave., 360.527.9533

2069 Main St., 360.389.5989

Maplewood Animal Hospital

Kulshan Veterinary Hospital

2869 W. Maplewood Ave., 360.715.1430

6220 Portal Way, 360.354.5095

Mountain Veterinary Hospital

Whatcom Veterinary Hospital

3413 Mt. Baker Hwy., 360.592.5113

5610 Barrett Rd., 360.384.0212

76

BellinghamAlive.com

LYNDEN Lynden Veterinary Hospital 1919 Front St., 360.354.7988

Kulshan Veterinary Hospital 8880 Benson Rd., 360.354.5095

NOOKSACK/SUMAS Nooksack Animal Hospital PC Inc. 302 W. Columbia St., 360.966.3207

Dog-Friendly Parks Arroyo Park 1700 Old Samish Rd., Bellingham

Bender Fields 8770 Bender Rd., Lynden

Bloedel Donovan Park 2114 Electric Ave., Bellingham

Fairhaven Park 107 Chuckanut Dr. N., Bellingham

Photo Courtesy of NEKO: A Cat Cafe

Hovander Homestead Park 5299 Nielsen Ave., Ferndale

Lake Padden Dog Park

NEKO: A Cat Cafe

Dog-Friendly Breweries & Bars

4882 S. Samish Way, Bellingham

Beach Cat Brewing

Lincoln Park

7876 Birch Bay Dr., Ste. 101, Blaine 360.366.8065

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 2510 Nulle Rd., Bellingham

Stemma Brewing Co. 2039 Moore St., Bellingham, 360.746.8385

Stones Throw Brewing Co. 1009 Larrabee Ave., Bellingham 360.362.5058

Elizabeth Station 1400 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.733.8982

El Suenito Brewing Company 1926 Humboldt St., Bellingham, 360.543.6809

Humane Societies, Shelters, Pet Stores, & Wildlife Rescues

FrinGe Brewing

Alternative Humane Society

5640 3rd Ave., Ferndale, 360.398.6071

360.671.7445

Goods Local Brews

Are You My Human? Dog Rescue & Lounge

2620 Northwest Ave., Bellingham 360.671.3085

1307 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham areyoumyhumandogrescue.com

GRUFF Brewing Co. 104 E. Maple St., Ste. 101, Bellingham

NEKO: A Cat Cafe

Kulshan Brewing Co.

1130 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.656.6217

2238 James St., Bellingham, 360.389.5348

Kementari’s Creatures

The North Fork Brewery Barrel House & Beer Shrine

207 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham, 509.607.6971 7472 Valley View Rd., Ferndale, 360.366.3863

22 Marina Dr., Bellingham

1900 Grant St., Ste. 101, Bellingham 360.224.2088

Sunset Pond Park

Otherlands Beer

2172 Division St., Bellingham, 360.733.2080

3424–3462 James St, Bellingham

2121 Humboldt St., Bellingham, 360.746.8118

VanderYacht Park

Paws for a Beer

WHS Northwest Wildlife Rehabilitation Center

1945 Washington St., Ferndale

501 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.733.7297

3671 Mt. Baker Hwy., Everson, 360.966.8845

Whatcom Falls Park

Schweinhaus Biergarten

1401 Electric Ave., Bellingham

1330 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.671.0206

Squalicum Dog Park 1001 Squalicum Way, Bellingham

Sudden Valley Dog Park

Sardis Raptor Center Whatcom Humane Society (WHS)

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 77

Follow us on Instagram @BellinghamAlive

For the latest from Bellingham Alive in local events, news, giveways, and more!

Experience The PNW Lifestyle BIRCH BAY SQUARE EXIT 270 OFF I-5 IN BLAINE, WA

Shop.

Dine.

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

Retail

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Fashion

Pacific Northwest Style Guide

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024

79

Retail

Pacific Northwest Style Guide PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

D

RESSING FOR THE weather

across the seasons of the PNW is… not exactly straightforward.

Sure, we have chilly winters and warm summers, but everything in between can oscillate wildly, making it hard to build up a wardrobe!

In general, you’ll want outfits that can be bulked up or stripped down.

“Warm” is a relative term—so don’t put away the knitwear too soon (you’ll likely need it ‘til July). Day-to-day weather can be unpredictable, and layers are still key for most outfits.

To kickstart your wardrobe shopping, we’ve styled four different looks using apparel from a few of our favorite local shops. A piece of advice: If you have to purchase just one new item, we recommend a good pair of rainboots.  *Items and prices were available and correct as of April 2023.

Cozy Knits

Dean Davidson Necklace Three French Hens, $462

Double Zero Knit Tank Fringe, $32

Volcom Jeans Fringe, $80

Blu Pepper Cardigan Betty Be Good, $45

Blowfish Martina Taupe Sneakers Fringe, $55

Model Ava Curtright 80

BellinghamAlive.com

$

Outdoor apparel

HYFVE Zip Fleece Fringe, $58

Gray Knit Cap Yeager’s Sporting Goods, $15

Xtratuf Ankle Boot, Yeager’s Sporting Goods, $100

Rabbit EZ Tee Fairhaven Runners and Walkers, $58

Rabbit EZ Joggers

Fairhaven Runners and Walkers, $88

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024

81

Retail

$

Everyday Denim

Cici’s Knots Macrame Earrings Fringe, $18

Jean Jacket

Three French Hens, $265

AG Cigarette Jeans

Three French Hens, $198

Jeanne Simmons Hat

Three French Hens, $60

Zenana Top

Betty Be Good, $40

Blowfish Martina Taupe Sneakers Fringe, $55

82

BellinghamAlive.com

Thank you for voting us

21 BELLWETHER WAY, STE 107 BELLINGHAM, WA 98225 P. 360.778.1613

Best Art Gallery

1103 11th Street (Fairhaven)

OPEN DAILY

360-738-8564

11 am - 6 pm

WhatcomArtMarket.org

Timeless Quality, Reliable Installation and Upright Service.

Vignette® Modern Roman Shades

360.656.6579 or 360.961.4918 | 873 Hinotes Court A2 | Lynden, WA 98264

WindowShadesandShutters.com RussellsWindowCoverings@gmail.com

NEETERHOUSEOFLUXURY.COM

Retail MARIES BEES mariesbees.com

QUALITY SHOES & SERVICE SINCE 1940.

Award-Winning Raw local honey for our family to yours. Try our famous Zinger Creamed Honey, Savory Honey and our Honey Oxymel. Try them all in cocktails, on cheese, or on toast. Hive tours in the summer. 100% Woman-owned.

PEAK HYDRATION

420 E FAIRHAVEN AVE, BURLINGTON 3607550570 MONSAT 96

peakhydrationlounge.com 1216 Bay St., Bellingham, WA 98225 360.526.2125 Rejuvenate, rehydrate, and refuel at Bellingham’s premier IV Therapy and Wellness Lounge, offering Nutrient IV bags, Wellness Shots, Medicinal and Cosmetic Botox, Dietician Services, and a Weight Loss Program all by an experienced, professional staff, using hospital-grade supplies, and the highest-quality nutrients. #wehaveabagforthat STATEMENT APPAREL 2945 Newmarket St., Bellingham 360.734.9595, statement-apparel.com Winner of multiple Best of the Northwest Reader’s Choice awards, Statement Apparel in Barkley village carries casual, comfortable women’s clothing that fits the Northwest lifestyle. Some of the many lines we carry include Tribal, FDJ, Foxcroft, Habitat, Jag, Liverpool, and Marjorie Baer.

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.

FAIRHAVEN RUNNERS & WALKERS 1209 11th St., Bellingham 360.676.4955, fairhavenrunners.com Fairhaven Runners is a super-friendly store for walkers, runners, travelers and people who just want their feet to feel happier. We carry shoes, socks, watches, clothing, packs, sport nutrition, sunglasses, headlamps, and more!

THE APOTHECARY SPA 419 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 320 E. Fairhaven Ave., Ste. 100, Burlington 360.299.2112, theapothecaryspa.com The award-winning Apothecary Spa is a refuge in a world filled with demands on your body, mind, and time. Inspired professionals are dedicated to providing treatments that bring healing and restore balance as we take you through an unforgettable experience. Two locations to serve you.

WILD VALLEY APOTHECARY 320 E. Fairhaven Ave. Ste. 100, Burlington 360.299.2112, wildvalleyapothecary.com We offer bulk herbs, spices, and salt with a great selection of delicious house-blended teas.

This boutique has many fun, unique gifts—a one-stop shop for a bit of self-care. Stop in and look; you don’t even have to buy anything… but we’re pretty sure you’ll want to!

84

BellinghamAlive.com

$

BELLA BOUTIQUE & CONSIGNMENT 1887 Main St., Ste. 103, Ferndale 625 Peace Portal, Blaine 360.778.1181 bellaboutiqueconsignment@gmail.com

ADORED BOUTIQUE

STORY ONE - NATURAL MEMORY SUPPORT

913 Harris Ave., Bellingham shopadoredboutique.com

2045 Andre Ct., Ferndale, 909.744.7119, www.storyone.shop

Bella Boutique & Consignment, a fashion haven in Ferndale, offers curated selections of men’s, women’s, and juniors’ clothing.

As a consignment boutique, we blend style and sustainability. Exciting news: a second location in Blaine is coming February 2024.

Are you struggling with memory issues or mental fog? Story One has the natural solutions. Our Mushroom Boost and Healthy Herbs & Roots supplements are expertly formulated to sharpen focus, boost cognition, and improve recall. Feel sharper and clearer today!

THE CLOTHES RACK

GOOD EARTH POTTERY

2426 Yew St., Bellingham 360.738.7759

1000 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.671.3998, goodearthpots.com

The Clothes Rack Women’s Consignment Store specializes in selling quality gentlyused 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.

Good Earth Pottery is a contemporary ceramics gallery located in the historic Fairhaven District of Bellingham since 1969.

The gallery offers a carefully curated collection of handmade pottery and ceramic art by artists from the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

USTA MARTIAL ARTS 1733 H St., Ste. 330, Blaine 360.685.8782 facebook.com/USTAMartialArtsBlaine Train in the martial art of Taekwondo. Build confidence, fitness, and stregth. Strengthen life skills and self defense. Practical exercise—plus it’s fun!

Little Tigers (4 – 6 yrs) Children (7 – 12 yrs) Teens (13 – 17 yrs) Adults (18+ yrs) Family (7+ yrs).

NORTHWEST YARNS & MERCANTILE

A lovely boutique located in Historic Fairhaven offering women’s clothing, bath and body, and unique gifts as well as locally handmade jewelry and handbags. You are sure to find something special for yourself and your loved ones!

THREE FRENCH HENS 1100 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.756.1047, threefrenchens.com 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.

Major brands include Joseph Ribkoff, Eileen Fisher, AG Jeans, Paige, and Nic & Zoe. We love finding the perfect look for your everyday style, or any occasion.

1401 Commercial St., Bellingham 360.738.0167, nwyarns.com

CURRENT AND FURBISH 1115 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.733.3224, currentandfurbish.com

One of the best fiber arts shops in the Northwest! Located in historic downtown Bellingham, we offer a wide variety of fiber arts supplies including yarn, fabric, fiber, spinning wheels, embroidery kits, classes, events, and so, so much more. Pop in to see everything we have to offer.

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 ever-changing shop of treasures.

Always unique, always interesting.

Voted #1 Again!

Thank You!!

“We are thrilled to have been selected Best Furniture Store in the county for the ninth year in a row! We are so thankful to all of you who have supported Samuel’s!”

Bob & Lori Dodge Owners, Samuel’s Furniture

Voted BEST PLACE TO BUY FURNITURE 9 Years in a Row

1904 MAIN ST. FERNDALE, WA 98248 360.384.3388 • SAMUELSFURNITURE.COM

Follow us on

Instagram

Let’s Eat!

@BellinghamAlive

Grocery Store!

Open Daily to Everyone! • Downtown Mount Vernon • skagitfoodcoop.com Local Produce • Organics • Bulk Foods • Deli + Bakery • Wellness • Mercantile

For the latest from Bellingham Alive in local events, news, giveways, and more!

Taste

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Feature

Bites on a Budget

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024

87

Taste Bites On a Budget

N

OT SURE WHERE to dine out that won’t break the

bank? We’re here to help with a guide to some of the best-value bites all over Whatcom. Beyond just college student classics, we’ve included healthy fare, upscale options, and portions plentiful enough to share.

BITE ON A

BUDGET

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Photo by Cocoa Laney

WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY AND KRISTEN BOEHM PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY AND DEAN DAVIDSON

5

$

*All prices correct as of October 2023.

BEST BREAKFAST

& UNDER

Photo by Cocoa Laney

The Bagelry is a low-cost classic for good reason.

This Bellingham standby serves up bagels and cream cheese for just $3.90, or $4.35 to upgrade to flavored cream cheese (trust us, the cinnamon walnut raisin is worth the extra 45 cents).

If you’re craving eggs and carbs with just $5 to spare, you won’t have to travel far. Cool Beans Coffee has several locations around Bellingham, including one off Lakeway, and this coffee stand is our top pick for some of the least costly breakfasts in town. Just $4.75 will get you a bagel fully loaded with ham, egg, and glorious melty cheese.

88

BellinghamAlive.com

Photo by Cocoa Laney

For homestyle fare, we’d be remiss not to mention Marlin’s Cafe, located within Nelson’s Market. Their breakfast sides are very reasonably priced: Think two eggs for $4, biscuits for $4 a pop, and a large pancake for $5. If you’re craving biscuits and gravy, know that a small order (two biscuits) at Diamond Jim’s Grill is just $3.95.

Last but not least, Da Vinci’s Market keeps things tasty and affordable with a build-your-own breakfast menu. A double order of house-made biscuits and gravy is just $4.99, whereas a single is a whopping $2.99. Eggs and hash browns are just $1 more apiece (and bacon, ham, or sausage just $2 more).

Photo by Cocoa Laney

TACOS, BURRITOS, AND MORE

5

$

& UNDER

When it comes to cheap eats, there’s one dish that just can’t be beat: the $1 carnitas (braised pork) tacos at Mi Rancho Meat Market. For $.50 more you can choose asada (steak), pollo (chicken), adobada (marinated pork), or buche (pork stomach), or you can get birria (stewed beef) for $1.99.

Check out Netos Market & Bakery, where you can get a quesadilla for $3.90 or a huarache (an oblong fried

masa base spread with beans and topped with meat and veggies) for just $5– they also have $1.50 tacos!

Pupusas are griddle cakes made from masa and stuffed with anything from beans and cheese to pork, and they’re the national dish of El Salvador. To try one for yourself, pick up a pupusa for under $5 from Morazan Salvadorian Restaurant on Bakerview in Bellingham.

BY THE SLICE

5

$

& UNDER

Photo by Cocoa Laney

If bagels and tacos are the answer to a budget-friendly breakfast and lunch, then pizza by the slice reigns supreme at dinner. Pye Hole in downtown Bellingham has two by-the-slice options that clock in at $5 and under: cheese ($4) and pepperoni ($5). Greene’s

Corner also has $5 cheese slices plus a rotating selection of pints.

There’s also McKay’s Taphouse and Pizzeria, another Bellingham staple that offers not just craft beer and trivia but pizza by the slice.

Last but certainly not least, Westside Pizza in Cordata has perhaps the best lunch bargain in town: two slices of pizza plus a soda for $6. Yes, that’s technically $1 over this category’s price limit, but we think it’s too good of a deal not to mention.

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024

89

Taste Bites On a Budget

5- 10

$

$

ASIAN EATS

When we think about Vietnamese food we often jump right to pho, and while a big bowl of delicious noodle soup is always a good idea, don’t sleep on the bahn mi. Bahn Mi & Bubble Tea stuffs their huge French rolls with perfectly seasoned meat or tofu, cucumber, jalapenos (optional), and tangy pickled carrots and daikon, for a wonderful and filling meal that costs just $7.99!

If soup is what you’re after— especially if the weather is cold and rainy or you’re feeling a bit rough— QQ Li has you covered.

You can get a hearty bowl of Wonton or Hot and Sour Soup for just $9.49.

Super Duper Teriyaki in Bellingham has some pretty unbeatable lunch specials. From 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., customers can get an order of Chicken Teriyaki for just $9.75.

Photo Courtesy of Super Duper Teriyaki

5-$10

$

90

BellinghamAlive.com

GRAB-AND-GO

If you find yourself out and about with just $10 in your pocket, you have several options for sustenance. The Samosas ($5.50 – $6.50 for two) and Pakoras ($7.95) at India Grill in downtown Bellingham are a great option when ordered as takeaway, and both can be ordered vegetarian!

For something a little more warming, pick up some soup from Best Chopsticks, where you can grab a large Wonton Soup for $5.95 (or $6.95 for Wonton Noodle Soup), a large Hot and Sour Soup for just $4.50, or get a little fancy with Roasted Duck Noodle Soup for $9.95.

Photo by Cocoa Laney

HEALTH-CONSCIOUS PICKS

5-$10

$

Photo by Cocoa Laney

All food can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet—but even so, it’s no secret that what’s good for your wallet isn’t always good for your body. Even still, eating healthy on a budget is certainly possible with a bit of research.

For a health-conscious and affordable breakfast, you can’t go wrong with Wild Oat Bakery & Cafe. They have a completely vegan menu and always opt for organic and local ingredients when possible. Before 11 a.m., you can nab a Breakfast Sandwich with scrambled tofu eggs and melted cheeze on an English muffin for $6.95, or a Breakfast Burrito for $9.95.

At Caffe Adagio, a big bowl of the soup of the day clocks in at $4.99, and the sizable Adagio Salad is just $7, and it comes topped with plenty of protein in the form of grilled chicken and mozzarella. Alternatively, you could swing by Leaf & Ladle for a bowl of soup ($7) or side house salad ($5.75).

Don’t miss Bellingham classic Old Town Cafe. Their Vegetarian Chili is $7.25-$8.25 (or ask for it Super for $1.75 more and get all the fixings). Add a small green salad, packed with veggies, lettuce, sprouts, and sunflower seeds for protein, for just $6.50.

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024

91

Taste Bites On a Budget

5- 10

$

$

PLENTIFUL PORTIONS

Super Mario’s has some of the best Salvadorian food in town, and their meals are also impressively substantial for the price. Just $9 will get you a hefty Wonder Burrito with all the fixings, with meat and vegetarian options.

If size is important when it comes to your burrito, you may also want to check out The Burrito King, the self-proclaimed “home of the big-ass burrito.” Their gigantic wraps are stuffed with your choice of meat, plus beans, veggies, cheese, sour cream, salsa, and optional jalapenos—all for only $8.99.

If you prefer tamales over burritos, then Frelard Tamales should be on your radar. Weighing in at ½ pound each, these tamales are certainly filling—and best of all, each is just $7. They all come with crema, pickled veggies, and salsa, and flavors range from traditional picks like chorizo and cheese to vegetarian and vegan options.

Photo by Cocoa Laney

$

10-$15

Photo by Cocoa Laney

BOWLS ON A BUDGET

What’s not to love about Cafe Rumba? It’s no secret that this Peruvian cafe has some of the most unique (and delicious) sandwiches in downtown Bellingham—but their Quinoa Bowl is equally notable. Piled high with avocado, salsa criolla, aji amaro, and chimichurri, plus your choice of meat or vegetable, it packs in a surprising amount of flavor for the price (a mere $12). If you’re still sold on the sandwiches, Cafe Rumba has been running a special where all their sandwiches are $10 every Thursday!

92

BellinghamAlive.com

Guud Bowls is one of our go-tos on those nights where comfort food is called for, but the idea of cooking is too much. Best of all, this delivery-only restaurant prices most of its meals at $15 or under (dishes rotate by the week). Many of their eats are plant-based, so it’s also a great pick if you’re dining with dietary restrictions.

With most options ringing up around $15, you get plenty of bang for your buck at Hokkai Ramen and Sushi. The flavors are top-quality, the portions are generous, and the sushi is always fresh. If seafood isn’t your style, try the Pork Katsu Don ($14.95), or spring for the Vegetable Ramen ($13.95) for a meatless option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

$

10-$15

Photo by Dean Davidson

Photo by Cocoa Laney

MADE TO SHARE

Based at Goods Local Brews, food truck Dumpling Girls makes for a perfect outdoor lunch date for couples.

The dumplings, spring rolls, and Crab Rangoons ($8 for five) are all perfect for sharing. $12 gets you four Chinese Buns or 10 Potstickers, and the Donuts make a great shared dessert at $6 for three.

Ethiopian food is meant to be shared, which is one of the (many) reasons why we love meals at Ambo Ethiopian Cuisine. Dishes come served over a bread of spongy injera, a fermented Ethiopian flatbread, and full-sized portions are large enough to easily be split between two. We recommend

an order of the Yemisir Wat ($12), a fragrant spiced green lentil stew, for a vegetarian option, or the sumptuous Alicha Wat ($14), a tender lamb stew, for those who enjoy meat.

Orders include a vegetable side of your choosing!

Of course, when it comes to shareable plates, one dish reigns supreme: the almighty cheese board. Temple Bar will whip one up for just $15, featuring a selection of three “select artisanal” cheeses plus baguette and accouterments. (Pro tip: If you stop in during Happy Hour, you can get a cheese plate plus an entire bottle of wine for just $25 total.)

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024

93

Taste Bites On a Budget

If you have a little bit more to spend on your meal but want to taste every penny’s worth, there are plenty of options around that pack in the value! The Fork at Agate Bay has some incredible options for hearty lunches. Their Po’ Boy sandwiches come with hand-cut fries and sell for $20 dollars each! Pick from the Cajun Shrimp or Pulled Pork Po’ Boys, or maybe side-step to the Mushroom and Asparagus Risotto ($16), a plateful of comfort without the meat.

Nothing fills you up like a German meal, so you can’t go wrong at Herb Niemann’s Steak & Schnitzel House when you’re feeling hungry. Their bar menu offers some great dishes to hit the spot—for only $20, you can order their Niemann’s Steak Burger, a ¾-pound ground chuck burger

94

BellinghamAlive.com

Photo by Dean Davidson

BEST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK + 20 Photo by Cocoa Laney

$

with veg, served with french fries! Like it a bit more juicy?

Order it as a Steak Burger Dip to get it on a toasted hoagie with au jus. Or, for a meal that will make you crave a stein of ale to wash it down with, try their Brat & Sauerkraut ($20), house-made bratwurst with sauerkraut and German potatoes.

Although you can build your order from the ground up at Drayton Harbor Oyster Company, with grilled oysters starting at $2.75, you can also opt to keep things simple by ordering the Fry Basket ($16). It comes with your choice of deep fried oysters, fish, or shrimp, with french fries, coleslaw, and sauce. They farm their own oysters up there in Blaine, and they’re proud of having gone from a small community supported aquaculture farm to a bustling community-focused oyster bar.

Bellingham Cider Company has value-packed options for everyone in your party. Their Red Lentil Quinoa Sandwich ($18) is vegetarian, and with a few tweaks can be gluten free and call ahead for vegan option. It comes stacked with red lentil, garbanzo, quinoa, sweet potato, alfalfa, and tomato, with tzatziki and spices to taste! For meat appreciators, they manage to bring a Snake River Farms Burger to the table, made with northwest-raised beef and stacked with white cheddar cheese, garlic aioli, and veggies for only $20.

Want a home-cooked style meal in a romantic setting? Visit The Black Cat in Fairhaven. The Gouda Chicken ($25) off their dinner menu comes with tender chicken breast with gouda pesto topped with cream, parmesan, and tomato. The plate comes complete with sides of garlic mashed potatoes and brussels sprouts. For another meal that’s as comforting as it is filling, try their Grilled Cheese & Creamy Tomato Soup ($15) at lunchtime.

Those of us who’ve enjoyed hibachi before will know that it’s a meal and a half. For $22 at Kyoto Japanese Steakhouse, you can have a full course of miso soup, salad, steamed rice, hibachi vegetables, and noodles! For just three more bucks, add in chicken for protein. Their bento specials are also a great way to pack in the value, as you get miso soup, gyoza, salad, rice, and a sushi roll or entree of your choice for $17−$20.

One doesn’t walk away from an evening at Mambo Italiano Cafe in Fairhaven hungry; it simply doesn’t happen. Most of their delicious pasta dishes hover around the $20 mark, and between the richness of the food and the large serving sizes, you’ll never go wanting. Take it from us, if you can’t finish your Fettuccine con Pollo with Gorgonzola Cream ($22) at the restaurant, it makes excellent leftovers the next day.

Photo by Dean Davidson

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024

95

Wineries of Whatcom County WRITTEN BY AMBERLEIGH BROWNSON

If you’re an oenophile, Whatcom County does not disappoint! With a varying collection of passionate winemakers and grape-growers, this region has only just begun its vinicultural growth. Here’s a selection of area wineries for you to explore.

Van Vino Vineyards Snuggled on the border of Lynden in the beautiful farmlands of Blaine is Van Vino Vineyards. Award-winning grower of estate Pinot Noir, Zach Deloof, also makes wine with various varietals from Washington’s esteemed Red Mountain AVA. Open to tastings by appointment (and hoping to open a public tasting room soon), this is an ideal trip to see the hillsides and sprawling growing region coupled with tasting some extremely well-made wine as a finale.

9029 Markworth Rd., Blaine 360.354.1977 Blaine, vanvinovineyard.com

GLM Wine Co. Making wine as GLM Wine Co. since 2002, Tom Davis and Tracey DeGraff have a quaint and trendy garage winery in Blaine, just before you cross into British Columbia, Canada. With a vine growing along the entrance and a large garage door that invites the outdoors in, the winery creates the perfect atmosphere to taste their Eastern Washington-sourced grapes and learn about the terroir that makes Washington special. Specializing in “enrobed” wine (think opposite of rosé), and Double Gold iterations of less commonly known varietals, GLM Wine Co. is sure to please every palate. 1678 Boblett St. Blaine, 360.332.2097, glmwine.com

Lagom Vineyards This family-owned and -operated winery spans six acres in the lush Nooksack Valley. With the goal of producing high-quality wines starting with the highest-quality grapes, Lagom implements sustainable and regenerative farming practices and hand-harvests their estate fruit. While 96

BellinghamAlive.com

they’re not yet open to the public (they plan to open their tasting room sometime this year), their wines are available on their website for shipping and local pickup. They provide varietals that thrive in our growing region: Siegerrebe, Pinot Gris, and Madeline Angevive—the Pinot Gris is made as a pet-mat sparkling wine.

5535 Hillard Rd., Everson 360.393.3247, lagomvineyards.com

Barmann Cellars Not only can you find sustainablymade wine with minimalistic simplicity, you will also find ciders and piquette to delight your senses and push the “normal” of wine-making to its outer-edges.

Embracing pet-nat and natural fermentation, owners Stephanie Barmann and Jesse Nickerson employ techniques to showcase the flavors nature intended. 7802 Silver Lake Rd. Maple Falls, 360.319.0847 barmancellars.com

Dynasty Cellars Multi-award-winners for too long to count, winemakers Peter and Olga Osvaldik harness their love for Walla Walla fruit into the glass with Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and their 100%-for-charity 400 STRONG red blend. Their tasting room in Bellingham is the perfect spot to pause between shopping and visiting Puget Sound to sip, sample, chat, and mingle with locals. 2169 E. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.220.4111, dynastycellars.com

Samson Estates Winery With fruit wine being Rob Dhaliwal’s strength and mainstay, including all the berry options, Samson Estates has branched out to feature other offerings such as Syrah, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Riesling. If you venture to Everson though, be sure to try their Oro hazelnut wine—it really is liquid gold.

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

Welcome Road Winery Owners Leigh McMillan and Kristen Dorrity source their certified-sustainable grapes from top growers in Yakima Valley and have tasting rooms in Seattle and Bellingham. With a cozy, laidback feel, their downtown Bellingham location offers samples of their humble award-winning wines, and is replete with a coffee shop and retail offerings.

300 W. Champion St., Bellingham 206.486.0788, welcomeroadwinery.com

Vartanyan Estate Winery Owner and Winemaker Margarita Vartanyan welcomes visitors from near and far in her cottage-like tasting room with beautiful views of Mount Baker and a plethora of varietals to choose from including Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere, GrÜner Veltliner, Merlot, Pinot Gris, and Syrah, to name a few. 1628 Huntley Rd., Bellingham 360.756.6770, vewinery.com

A votre sante!

Taste Dining Guide

DINING KEY

FAIRHAVEN VILLAGE TACOS Brazilian, Fusion

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to $9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $10–19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $20–29 . . . . . . . $30 or greater . . . . . . . . . . . . . Breakfast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lunch

1020 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.746.8247 facebook.com/fairhavener Frequent visitors of Bellingham’s historic Fairhaven district are sure to have noticed the bright red landmark known as the “Fairhaven Village Bus.” You can find delicious Brazilian barbecue treats such as tacos, soups, tamales, and bakery goods.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dinner . . . . . . . . . .Family-Friendly

KURUKURU SUSHI Japanese, Sushi

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Takeout . . . . . . . . Outdoor Seating

KuruKuru Sushi, which translates to “go around Sushi,” offers not only a good meal, but a good experience as well. Along with the more traditional sushi, delicious lightly tempura-fried sushi also makes its way around the conveyor belt. If you don’t see something you like, the chefs behind the counter will gladly make something for you.

. . . . . . . . . . Reservations . . . . . . . . . . . Happy Hour Menu items and prices are subject to change, so check before you go. See all our restaurant reviews on our Taste tab at bellinghamalive.com * Review provided by restaurant.

11 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360.392.8224, kurukurubellingham.com

LITTLE CHEERFUL American 133 E. Holly St., Bellingham 360.738.8824

AMBO ETHIOPIAN CUISINE Ethiopian 902 N. State St., Bellingham 360.756.1627, amboethiopian.com If you’ve never had Ethiopian food before, get ready—you’re in for a treat. Ambo has something to offer meat eaters and vegans alike, and it’s the best kind of comfort food: Hearty, healthy, and warming on a soul-deep level.

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.

THE MILL AT SEVENTH French 655 Front St., Lynden 360.778.2760

BIG LOVE JUICE American 1144 10th St., Bellingham 360.383.5336, biglovejuice.com Photo by Brandee Simons

MEET OUR SOMMELIER Amberleigh Brownson

Cold press juices make up the bulk of the menu at Big Love Juice. However, these aren’t your average juices. Big Love Juice uses a hydraulic press, rather than the traditional high-heat methods that eliminate much of the vitamins and nutrients found in fruits and vegetables.

Customers looking for something a little heartier can also pick from a multitude of smoothies, soups, salads, bowls, and loaded toasts.

NORTHWATER Regional NW

Amberleigh Brownson has been a local sommelier and international wine judge in Whatcom county for eight years. She is a four-time award winner from Wine Spectator for her wine program and wine pairing dinners, and has become an opinion leader in the Washington wine world, particularly in Whatcom County.

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.

4260 Mitchell Way, Bellingham 360.398.6191, northh2o.com

CAFE VELO Coffeehouse, Deli 120 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.392.0930, cafe-velo.cc Cafe Velo is a European-inspired cafe with a twist— in addition to serving fresh espresso, the cafe also doubles as a bike shop. With plenty of outdoor seating—and bike racks—customers can bask in the fresh air while enjoying a beverage or sandwich named after one of the owner’s favorite climbs from bicycle racing. This is more than just a place to quickly grab a bite; it’s a place to build community.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

From breakfast to late night dinner, northwater’s 185-seat restaurant features a diverse menu of Pacific Northwest dishes made from locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. The restaurant’s waitstaff is personable and enthusiastic—eager to answer questions about ingredient sources and what desserts they’d recommend.

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 97 2024 97

Taste Dining Guide

Kyoto Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar Kyoto Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar is perfect for a fun family dinner out or to celebrate your special occasion.

Featuring bold, fresh flavors, our sushi and hibachi are sure to dazzle the five senses. We feature a full bar with beer on draught, a nice sake selection, regional wine, and delicious classic cocktails.

115 N. Samish Way Bellingham, WA 98225 360.756.0058 kyotobellingham.com

Dynasty Cellars 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.

2169 E Bakerview Rd, Bellingham 360.758.2958, dynastycellars.com

DYNASTY CELLARS

White Branches

The North Fork Brewery

Whether you are celebrating in our beautiful tearoom for a delicious full tiered tea service with delectable bites, or joining us for an enchanted event in the cabaret or theatre room, you are guaranteed to be delighted and amazed at White Branches!

Planning a private event or weddings? We also offer buyout packages, full catered menus, performances and more.

A new wine bar and art gallery is opening this spring, so come for a visit and experience the magic in Skagit!

The North Fork is a casual, comfortable roadhouse on Highway 542. Enjoy hand tossed pizzas, grinders, appetizers, salads and craft beer. All of our beer is made on-site and includes an assortment of freshly brewed, small batch ales, lagers, and barrel-aged sours. Relax in our Beer Shrine dining room that is family friendly. Come for weekly food specials and daily Happy Hour. Wines, ciders and house-made root beer are also available. We are open year-round.

100 E Montgomery St., Mount Vernon, WA 360.848.1192 ww.whitebranches.com

98

BellinghamAlive.com Welcome-Whatcom.com

6186 Mt. Baker Highway, Deming 360.599.BEER northforkbrewery.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE PENNY FARTHING BAR & RESTAURANT

Follow us on

American

Instagram

1309 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.738.7179, chuckanutbaydistillery.com Between craft cocktails and creative dishes designed for sharing, a night spent at the Penny Farthing will be one to remember. The bar and restaurant are operated by (and located within) Chuckanut Bay Distillery, and their house-made spirits are complemented by creative and locally-sourced dishes.

@Traveltobealive Follow us around the world as we discover places new and old, near and far. From UNESCO heritage sites to food, hotels, and more, we have your bucket list covered.

RED GINGER ASIAN CUISINE Asian 1208 E. Maple St. Bellingham, WA 98225 360.306.8629 redgingerbellingham.com Newly opened this summer, Red Ginger offers traditional authentic asian cuisine at a great price point. Their take on mongolian beef, Seven Flavor Beef, is exceptional. Dine-in or take-out, give them a try.

SKYLARK’S HIDDEN CAFE Eclectic 1308 11th St., Bellingham 360.715.3642, skylarkshiddencafe.com Skylark’s Hidden Cafe in Fairhaven is worth seeking out. From decadent breakfast items and house specialties to hearty dinner entrees, the menu at Skylark’s is varied and every bite delicious. Come for the food and stay for the jazz on select evenings.

STORIA CUCIA AND BAR CICOTTI Italian

109 Grand Ave., Ste. 102, Bellingham 202 Grand Ave., Bellingham 360.734.1929 | 360.656.6802 storiacucina.com | barcicotti.com Storia Cucina & Bar Cicotti are local Italian restaurants keeping the classics alive! Every dish, cocktail, and wine has a rich connection to Italy’s food and beverage history while adding Pacific Northwest flair. We have rotating daily specials and a daily happy hour.

TEMPLE BAR Bistro, Bar 306 W. Champion St.,Bellingham 360.676.8660, templebarbellingham.com Continually recognized for their craft cocktails and small plates, Temple Bar aims to please.

In between delicious bites made from locally sourced ingredients, sip on a unique cocktail with house-made infusions and bitters.

WAKE ‘N BAKERY American

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

6903 Bourne St., Glacier 360.599.1658, getsconed.com Wake ‘n Bakery is a staple rest stop along Mount Baker Highway. If you’re in need of a sweet treat and hot coffee to bring the feeling back to your numb fingers, this will fit the bill. Whether you’re traveling to or from the mountain, watch for its signs as you pass through Glacier — the cafe is about a block off the highway.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

VOTED BEST FISH & CHIPS

VOTED BEST BURGER

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

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 99 2024 99

Taste Dining Guide

The Fork at Agate Bay

Paso del Norte

The Fork at Agate Bay is a Southern scratch kitchen and bar.

We are a neighborhood hangout and a destination location.

Focusing on sourcing local, we make everything in house: from our shrimp and grits to our woodstone pizza. We offer fresh pressed cocktails, house made bitters, and liqueurs with an extensive wine list. We welcome you!

We are a Family owned Restaurant with many years in the business. Please come by for lunch or dinner, 7 days a week with a wide variety of dishes that will be sure to fill everybody’s appetite. Paso Del Norte Mexican Restaurant has a full bar/lounge with an extensive selection of mixed drinks, wines, beers, and other alcoholic and no-alcoholic drinks. Live entertainment on weekends. Come try our mouthwatering, authentic Mexican cuisine!

2530 Northshore Rd. 360.733.1126 theforkatagatebay.com

758 Peace Portal Drive, Blaine 360-332-4045 • pasodelnorte.net

COA MEXICAN EATERY & TEQUILERIA MODERN MEXICAN FOOD

COME VISIT OUR NEW LOCATION IN BELLINGHAM!

BEST TEQUILA BAR SHOWCASES ONLY 100% AGAVE TEQUILAS AND MEZCALES

LOCATIONS 1810 Riverside Drive Mount Vernon, WA | 360.466.0267 623 Morris St. La Conner, WA | 360.466.0267 1065 E Sunset Drive, Bellingham, WA | 360.526.2108

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram,

COA Mexican Eatery 100 Welcome-Whatcom.com BellinghamAlive.com

COAEATERY.COM SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Dining Guide Taste

Holly’s Meat Pies

Galloway’s Cocktail Bar

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.

Now one easy location!

Step into the timeless allure of Fairhaven’s deco-era cocktail bar. Indulge in award-winning signature cocktails crafted with precision and flair. Explore seasonal menus with our tasty small bites designed to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you prefer the ambiance of indoor dining or a heated outdoor space, we’ve got you covered. Looking to host a memorable event? Discover our private event spaces for an unparalleled party experience.

4073 Hannegan Road, Suite J Bellingham, 360.778.1111 hollysmeatpies.com

Lombardi’s Italian Restaurant “This is definitely the best Italian restaurant in Bellingham, a perfect place to relax, enjoy excellent food and a spectacular location, right by the marina. Service is excellent; friendly and efficient. The best Calamari anywhere. Really, a terrific dining experience”.

—Open Table / Google reviews Serving Lunch, Dinner and Happy Hour. Large list of wines by the glass, craft cocktails and local beers. Nice for groups in our party room.

21 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360.714.8412 lombardisitalian.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

1200 10th St., Ste. 102, Bellingham 360.756.2795 gallowayscocktail.bar

Skagit’s Own Fish Market Skagit’s Own Fish Market offers the kind of high-quality fresh and local seafood expected from a best of the northwest winner, coupled with personal and knowledgeable service.

We also have a range of delicious freshly-prepared dishes including fish tacos, prawn tacos, crab sandwich, lobster roll, oyster hoagie, pan fried oysters, shrimp cocktail, and crab cocktail. Come to Skagit’s Own Fish Market, where you’re assured a warm welcome, and where you’re guaranteed to see the very best local seafood..

18042 WA-20, Burlington 360.707.2722, skagitfish.com

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 101 2024 101

Taste Dining Guide

CHeBA Hut

Bellingham Cider Company

CHeBA Hut Bellingham-Oldtown is located in the iconic “Rocket Donuts” building in Oldtown, beside the restored Rocket itself! The decor boasts murals from local artists highlighting PNW lure! Play a board game or attend weekly events like Video Game nights, Bingo, or Trivia nights! To top off our stellar vibe, we serve up the best dang “toasted” subs, salads, and munchies, AND have a FULL BAR! Fun for all ages in all stages!

Bellingham Cider Company is a local craft cider producer and restaurant with a full bar overlooking Bellingham Bay and the Waterfront District of downtown. We practice sustainability through our net-zero fully solar-powered facilities while sourcing from local farms and businesses. We make smallbatch ciders from 100% Washington apples with no added sulfites, colors or preservatives. Our award-winning lineup of ciders reflects the freshest ingredients. We are committed to being Fiercely Local.

306 W Holly St., Bellingham 360.684.3323

205 Prospect St., Ste. A-105, Bellingham 360.510.8494, bellinghamcider.com

The Bagelry

The Vault Wine Bar, Bistro, & Event Space

Since 1984, The Bagelry has been a landmark in Bellingham, the place to meet for breakfast, lunch, coffee, or snacks and to enjoy one of our fabulous bagels. You can find a great cross section of local people at any time of day enjoying these traditional bagels.

There is nothing like a good bagel, and at The Bagelry, we proudly produce the best bagels in the Northwest. The bagels at The Bagelry are made in the time-honored tradition that is hard to find today even in New York. With no preservatives or additives, The Bagelry’s bagels taste like the bagels that our grandparents loved!

1319 Railroad Ave. 360.676.5288 bagelrybellingham.com

102 Welcome-Whatcom.com BellinghamAlive.com

With a carefully curated wine list, expertly crafted cocktails and a menu of elevated dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, The Vault is a perfect destination for a casual night out or a special occasion. Come visit us in Blaine, WA and choose from hundreds of great wines while you enjoy live music and events, paired with local flavors. Also enjoy our fabulous heated deck! Reservations accepted.

277 G St., Blaine WA 360.392.0955 thevaultwine.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

A Stunning Venue for your Big Day!

Our Bellingham location offers everything needed to create a stunning event to remember forever.

Now booking for 2024 & 2025

Trust us with the details and planning so you can relax and enjoy yourself.

Contact us for rates and availability.

We guarantee you won’t be disappointed!

1500 E Axton Rd, Bellingham, WA 98226 ShuksanGolf.com | (360) 398-8888

WE WON

BEST O Presente

d by

2023

F THE NORTHW EST

THE ULTIMATE DINING EXPERIENCE

Grazie Tutti ( Thank you all ) for voting

Leader Block Trattoria & Bar

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT Located in the heart of Downtown Ferndale in the historic Leader Block building 2026 Main St, Ferndale, WA 360.306.8998 / Cell & Text: 206.484.9255 | leaderblock.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 103 2024 103

Taste Dining Guide Chef Courtney Bourasaw Voted Best Caterer 2023

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram,

Skagits newest, locally sourced, allergen friendly, ready to eat, pick up spot! Stop by to see what’s in the cooler or visit our website to inquire about catering.

225 S 1st St, Mount Vernon 360.312.4074 theskagittable.com

The Skagit Table

The Skagit Table

GLM Wine Co.

The Skagit Table

Making Innovative Northwest Wines since 2002. Open for tasting Saturday and Sunday only 12:00 pm to 5 pm.

Enjoy tasting a variety of our small batch wines, made from excellent grapes from single vineyards in the Rattlesnake Hills appellation. A mural of the Glacial Lake Missoula and its floods adorns the frieze inside of the winery. Dogs and kids are welcome!

All our produce & meats are sourced directly from local farmers. The Skagit Table prepares meals that are meticulously crafted to be free of gluten and refined sugars for a healthy dining experience. Available for catering, in-store fresh pre made meals daily for pick-up, and we can do custom made to order meals.

1678 Boblett Street, Blaine, WA 98230 PO BOX 1965, Blaine, WA 98230 360.332.2097 glmwine.com

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram,

225 S 1st St Mount Vernon, WA 98273 360.312.4074 theskagittable.com

Photo by @genesisphotography

McKay’s Tap House & Pizzeria

Van Vino Vineyards

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.

We are a family owned winery here in the Puget Sound of Washington State. Van Vino Vineyards is a small boutique winery located below four acres of vines! We are well known for our estate Pinot Noir, Madeleine Angevine among others and Red Mountain wines. Visit our website to purchase wine with the option to ship to you or free local pickup. Email us with inquiries regarding private tastings and events.

Tasting room opening soon. Follow us on social media for news and promotions.

1118 E Maple St., Bellingham 360.647.3600 | McKaysTaphouse.com

9029 Markworth Rd, Blaine WA vanvinowine@gmail.com vanvinovineyard.com

104 Welcome-Whatcom.com BellinghamAlive.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

ORGANIC FARMING Boldly Grown Farm 8855 Ershig Rd., Bow, WA 98232 @boldlygrownfarm 360.330.4516 info@boldlygrownfarm.com boldlygrownfarm.com

Boldly Grown Farm was born out of a desire to make the world a better place.

Owners/Operators Amy Frye and Jacob Slosberg (that’s us!) came to Skagit Valley after meeting at the University of British Columbia farm. Our passion to feed our community with high-quality, sustainably grown food while stewarding the land, fostering agricultural careers, and building community led us to start Boldly Grown in 2015. Now located in Bow (just off Chuckanut), we and our dedicated team grow 35 acres of Salmon-Safe and organically certified vegetables, grains, legumes and flowers. Come check out our year-round farm stand, winter CSA, or visit one of the many local restaurants and retailers that carry our products. We’d love to be your farmers!

Pros to Know We are pleased to share with you these select professionals, from building to home improvement, who can assist you on all your projects—large and small. Whether you’re planning a minor update or a major build, start your project on a firm foundation!

106 BellinghamAlive.com

The Pros RAEDWOOD | p. 108 Windsor Plywood | p. 108 Highline Construction | p. 109 Alexei Ford Design Build | p. 109 Topside Roofing | p. 110 Whatcom Lawns | p. 110 Garden Spot Nursery | p. 111

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 107

EVENT

LISTINGS Arts, Culinary, Festivals, Live Performances, Races and More.

KITCHENS & TAILORED CASEWORK SOLUTIONS info@raedwood.com | 360.392.8034 |

@raed.wood

Raedeker Corp dba Raedwood | Reg: CC RAEDW**841RR | UBI: 604055990

UNIQUE WE SPECIALIZE IN

AND HARD TO SOURCE HOME FINISHING PRODUCTS

For Local Events Go to...

BellinghamAlive.com/ Events

.

1208 Iowa St. Bellingham Ph: (360) 676-1025 • Fax: (360) 676-4357 e: kasp@windsorplywood.com

Visit us online at windsorplywood.com

CONSTRUCTION / PROS TO KNOW

HIGHLINE CONSTRUCTION Four-time gold winner for Best Builder, Highline Construction consistently ranks at the top for quality customer care and expert-level design, building, and excavation services. Founded in 2011 and locally-owned and -operated, Highline offers not just dependable building services, but also boasts an impressive in-house design team. Having an interior designer, a project designer, and a licensed architect on staff is part of what makes Highline so special. Clients choose Highline for their end-to-end service, knowing Highline’s design and production teams work together seamlessly to deliver on their clients’ unique dreams. In addition to providing exceptional customer care and craftsmanship for both residential and commercial clients, Highline is community-minded and donates to numerous local nonprofit organizations each year.

360.746.5455 highlinewa.com

GENERAL CONTRACTOR / PROS TO KNOW

ALEXEI FORD DESIGN BUILD Alexei Ford Design Build is a uniquely creative designbuild company offering a full range of services from concept to completion. Our experienced in-house team of designers, managers and craftsmen are skilled at actualizing all types of construction projects, including highly creative and nontraditional designs. Alexei Ford, with his 35 years of professional experience in the building industry, leads his team with integrity, and always strives to get the best results for his customers.

You may be a first-time home buyer needing small repairs, preparing to build your dream home, or needing improvements to your commercial property. We can help you with all your construction needs. Alexei Ford and his team work hard to understand their clients’ needs and dreams by attentively listening and getting to know what inspires them. Consistently being patient and available to our clients becomes the foundation of a project uniquely suited to you.

Let us make working with you our next mutual success.

228 E. Maple St., Bellingham 360.220.5452 alexeiforddesign.com

info@afdesignbuild.com Office hours Mon-Thur 7:30am-5pm

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 109

Do YOU have a WHATCOM LAWN? 360.354.5124 | sales@whatcomlawns.com | whatcomlawns.com

call to book an estimate today!

Lawn Mowing, Trimming & Edging Weeding & Raking of Planting Beds Shrub and Hedge Trimming Tree Pruning Irrigation Install Irrigation Repair & Maintenance Landscaping & Planting

Hydro-Seeding Lawn Fertilization & Weed Control Sod Install Lawn Moss Control Bark, Mulch, Compost, Topsoil, Woodchip Install Lawn Aeration Land Clearing & Brush Cutting Lawn Grub Control Pavement Pressure Washing Lawn Thatching Tree Removal & Stump Grinding Overseeding Year Round Maintenance Healthy Lawn Packages

From our management team to our lawn and landscape maintenance crews, you will be provided with professional services from our experienced staff. Our lawn and landscape maintenance crews are fully insured and share Whatcom Lawns’ passion for helping homeowners rediscover quality, exceptional customer service, and the beauty of a well-maintained yard once again!

WHATCOM LAWNS

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

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

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US “BEST ROOFING COMPANY”

110

BellinghamAlive.com

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

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

GARDENING Garden Spot Nursery Garden Spot Nursery 900 Alabama Street Bellingham, WA 98225

Garden Spot Nursery is a neighborhood garden center and boutique, open year round and offering everything you need for your home and garden. They have a wide variety of indoor and outdoor plants, pottery, gifts, and supplies. Whether you are looking for quality product, expert advice, or just a peaceful place to take a break, Garden Spot is your nursery!

Classes and events are happening every Saturday morning, so check the website or pick up a class list in the store.

Garden Spot is staffed by gardeners with a wide variety of specialties who are just as excited as you are to get growing. Whatever your project or question, they have your back. Let’s grow better together!

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 111

Notes Lasting Image

“One of the things I appreciate most about living in Whatcom County is the breathtaking diversity of ecosystems we have access to. I live near a beautiful beach and yet I can drive to Artist Point in a little over 90 minutes. What more could an aspiring photographer wish for?”

—PETE MITCHELL

112

BellinghamAlive.com

THE GLASS PRO TO KNOW

THE GLASS GURU Bellingham 360.927.9395 theglassguru.com

Thinking about ways to update your home? Consider window replacements, custom mirror frames, shower and bath enclosures, glass insert upgrades to your doors, foggy window repair or more. Your favorite neighborhood glass shop, The Glass Guru of Bellingham can be the onestop shop you’ve been searching for.

Give your home more than just paint for a change; give yourself that beautiful shower enclosure you’ve been dreaming about. Maybe you want an updated patio door to complete a light and airy look to your living room.

If you’re looking to refresh your home, our glass professionals at The Glass

Guru can help you cross various services off your wish list. We aim to save you time, money and hassle, so you can be rest assured that you are getting the best deal and the best options for your home. So take a scroll through Pinterest (@glassguru), then set up an estimate with the glass pros, The Glass Guru of Bellingham.

We are only a phone call away, call us at 360-927-9395 and schedule a free estimate, your home dreams are closer than they seem.

You can also contact us via email, bellingham@theglassguru.com

Welcome Newcomers Guide 2024 113

We

Whatcom!

Come see why our team received “Best Bank” in Best of the Northwest by Bellingham Alive and “Best Bank” in Cascadia Daily News. We’re excited to help you navigate your options on the path to financial well-being.

Arne Arnesen

Jami Peterson

Julie Ranson

Kimberly Tucker

Mike Higgins

Tiffany Bergsma-Evans

Sr. Director of Commercial Banking aarnesen@ourfirstfed.com 206-790-2742

Branch Manager Ferndale Branch NMLS# 539980 ktucker@ourfirstfed.com

Branch Manager Bellingham Barkley Branch NMLS# 1688652 jpeterson@ourfirstfed.com

Treasury Management Officer Whatcom, Skagit Counties mhiggins@ourfirstfed.com 360-303-8700

Branch Manager Bellingham Fairhaven Branch NMLS# 422234 jranson@ourfirstfed.com

Mortgage Loan Officer NMLS# 487561 tbergsmaevans@ourfirstfed.com 360-303-9540