Bellingham Alive August 2022

Home Styling

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Contents You’re probably no stranger to seasonal eating, but what if that concept was applied to decorating? A new season is the ideal time to give your home a refresh, bring the outside in, and make the most of decor accents that you probably already own. To help you get started, we’re bringing you a crash course in how to restyle your space with the seasons, from fresh florals to cozy candles and everything in between.

Photo by Cocoa Laney

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Home Styling

by Season

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Courtesy of Emily Zimmerman

LIFE

Out and About Yurts at Lakedale Resort

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Spotlight Whatcom Museum Curator of Art

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Pets Stylish (and Subtle) Pet Decor

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5 Faves Community Craft Shops

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Dining Guide

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Local Find Widnor Farms

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STYLE

16 People in Your Neighborhood Three Ways of Seeing Color 18

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Local Find Salt & Rain

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Savvy Shopper Wild Material

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Necessities Summer Sandals

Heard Around the Sound

Local Find Slough Food

New Bars and Breweries

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Culinary Events

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Sip Madrone Cellars

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8 Great Tastes

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Mixing Tin Kiwi Bloom Cooler

Beer Fridge

AGENDA

Lululemon Lands in Fairhaven

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Top Picks

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Local Events

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The Scene

Fair Must-Sees Monthly Giveaway

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Community The LIDO Collective

Beauty Zorganics

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Book Notes Reviews and Events

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This Month in Bellinghistory

TASTE 76

Review Banter After Hours

Game Changer Bunanza Rabbit Rescue Ranch and Adoption Center

23 Wellness Volli Bellingham

SPECIAL ADVERTISING 43

31 Days of Giveaways

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Pros To Know

NOTES

78 Chef’s Corner Lonestar Queso

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Courtesy of Volli

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Photo by Cocoa Laney

30 Years of the Bellingham Farmers Market

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Online Exclusive

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Editor’s Letter

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Contributors

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Letters to the Editor

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Meet the Team

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Lasting Image

August 2022 3

Photo by Cocoa Laney

AUGUST 2022

Notes

What’s Online

Online Exclusive

Courtesy of Shuksan Rod Co.

Photo by Cocoa Laney

INSTAGRAM

The Blue Moon Paloma is a fan favorite at Honey Moon, and at first glance, its vibrant colors are reminiscent of a late-spring sunset.

Better yet, this cocktail is every bit as tasty as it looks. Adding a splash of blueberry mead to a well-loved pairing (in this case tequila and grapefruit soda) gives the drink additional sweetness and depth, taking it from ordinary to truly memorable.

HANDMADE FLY RODS IN HOMAGE TO OUR RIVERS: Q&A WITH SHUKSAN ROD CO.

This month’s Mixing Tin is the Blue Moon Paloma from Honey Moon.

Read more about it in the full article, written and photographed

by Cocoa Laney. Link in bio! @honeymoonalleybar

Photo by Cocoa Laney

“A split-cane fly rod is a traditional bamboo fly rod, made in the style and fashion that fly rods were made over 100 years ago, before the dawn of synthetic materials like graphite and fiberglass. What differentiates these rods is primarily the craft element behind them; they’re entirely handmade, crafted with simple but exacting hand tools. As such, they’re made to last.”

To learn more about the craftsmanship behind Jimmy Watts’ one-of-a-kind fly fishing rods, visit us online at bellinghamalive.com.

EVENTS CALENDAR Be sure to check out our events calendar. If you have an event that you would like our readers to know about, bellinghamalive.com offers an events calendar where viewers can search by day, venue, event type, or city.

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

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Photo by Cocoa Laney

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Bar 542 is more than a bar: It’s a love letter to Pacific Northwestern recreation, culture, and community.

Owner Helen Neville is also the mind behind Seven Spice Cafe, and while Seven Spice’s menu was inspired by her world travels, Bar 542 is about “[recognizing] the sense of place we have here.”

Read more about @542bar in the full article, written and photographed by Cocoa Laney. Link in bio!

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Notes

Editor’s Letter

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Walls That Tell Stories

HETHER IT’S A hand-sewn quilt, a thoughtfully curated bookshelf, or heirloom china, we all have pieces that make our homes feel truly lived in. For me, the most rewarding part of decorating is finding creative ways to showcase these items.

I have a personal tendency to hang onto art, although I’m not just talking about fancy paintings. I also mean postcards from travels, vintage photographs found at flea markets, my partner’s mother’s embroidery, and even a custom cutting board carved by a dear friend. (The latter is too precious to risk damaging, so instead of leaving it in the kitchen, it lives on the wall above my desk.)

I’ve carried my most important pieces through more moves than I can count, and if we’re being honest, I’m more liable to spend money on art than furniture. I justify this by saying I want to support creatives and their work; this is true, but also, new art is way more fun than a shoe rack or side table.

My walls tell my story, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

If I was less sentimental, I might be more judicious about my art collection — but decor that’s purely aesthetic has never been my goal. Are the pieces in my home cohesive? Not always. Do they remind me of loved ones and, perhaps most importantly, make me feel at home? Absolutely.

It’s easy to get caught up in trends, but if you ask me, the best part about

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interior design is the opportunity to curate pieces that have stories. I love creating spaces that are elegant, but beauty alone isn’t enough — imbuing my space with meaning is what truly makes me feel at ease.

This month’s feature is all about restyling your decor along with the seasons. The transition from summer to fall is an opportune time to freshen up your dwellings, and as you do so, I invite you to reflect on what elements make your house feel like a home.

Maybe you love seasonal flowers (p. 60), cozy candles (p. 61), or handcrafted decor by local artisans (p.

49). If you, too, are into art prints, you can find a whole list of our favorites (sorted by season!) on p. 54.

Whatever your interest, a new season is the perfect time to revitalize your space and make sure you’re surrounded by beauty all year long — whatever that means to you.

Interior design is personal above all else, and we hope this issue will inspire you to create meaning in your home whenever possible. From my home to yours, happy decorating! 

COCOA LANEY Editor In Chief

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Notes Contributors Kolby LaBree Kolby LaBree is owner/operator of Bellinghistory Tours with the Good Time Girls, purveyors of guided walking tours and other historical edutainment in Bellingham since 2011. The Good Time Girls are available year-round for private tours and virtual events. See Bellinghistory.com for current offerings!  p. 21

Vote for us for Best Roofing Company

Steven McCarragher Steven works at Garden Path Fermentation in Skagit Valley and has resided in Bellingham for a decade now. He is passionate about local beer and wine and is most likely found playing pinball.  p. 84

#MTBAKBR782KS

L E A D E R S

Mary Kinser

IN LUXURY

Growing up in Washington state, Mary learned early on that rainy days provided the perfect excuse to curl up with a good story. Mary is now a collection development librarian for Whatcom County Library System, where she gets to spend her days spreading the joy of reading. In her free time, she enjoys travel, board games, long walks, and baking delicious treats. She and her husband share their home with one son, one cat, and far too many books.  p. 21

Jessamyn Tuttle Jessamyn Tuttle is a writer, photographer, master gardener, weaver, and musician. She started a food blog (foodonthebrain.net) in 2007 and has been writing ever since, contributing to Edible Seattle, Grow Northwest, the Skagit Valley Herald, Cascadia Weekly, and the Cascadia Daily News. A native Washingtonian, she lives in the Skagit Valley with her husband and a number of cats.  p. 20

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PUBLICATIONS Bellingham Alive NSL Guestbook Welcome Newcomers Guide

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Lisa Karlberg

EDITOR IN CHIEF Cocoa Laney

ART DIRECTOR Dean Davidson

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Kristy Gessner | Michael Roe Mia Sperandeo

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Mariah Currey

EDITORIAL/MARKETING COORDINATOR Anelyse Morris-Bohlke

MARKETING/OFFICE ASSISTANT Taylor Poulos

CONTRIBUTORS Carolyn Cummins | Mary Kinser Kolby LaBree | Alissa Lawton Steven McCarragher | Jessamyn Tuttle

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Gaia Crans | Sophia Struna

OFFICE MANAGEMENT Jenn Miranda

CORPORATE OFFICE K & L Media, Inc. 432 W. Bakerview Road, Suite 101 Bellingham, WA 98226

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COVER Photo by Cocoa Laney. Shot on location at the Bellingham Studio with styling courtesy of Wander Design + Rentals.

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Letters to the Editor

I just love your magazine! The articles and ads are always done up nicely. I moved here recently and enjoy every issue. Thank you for keeping us informed about the region and kudos to everyone on your team!

— Brooke G., Blaine

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Picnic Possibilities Nomad Charcuterie and Wine Real Estate Agent Q&As Orcas Island by the Hour JUNE/JULY 2022 DISPLAY UNTIL JULY 31 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

Bellingham Alive welcomes comments and feedback for our Letters to the Editor section.

We’d love to hear what you have to say and are open to story ideas about the people, places, and happenings in the North Sound (Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan counties). Let us know what you like, and what you’d like to see in the magazine! Contact our editor at editor@bellinghamalive.com.

I started subscribing to Bellingham Alive six years ago and haven’t missed an issue. I just needed you to know I think you put out one of the best city magazines I have seen. Thank you for providing our community with such positive stories.

Notes

The June issue including picnics was so refreshing and enjoyable. I have used some of the tips already for backyard get-togethers with friends.

— Katie V., Lynden Congratulations to your team on celebrating 150 issues! What an achievement for everyone involved.

You put out a beautiful publication that is packed with information for both residents and people visiting the area. Here’s to 13 more years!

— Susan H., Bellingham

— Leah H., Bellingham

Correction: The byline in our June/July Chef’s Corner article incorrectly credited Chef Marcello Mazzoleni as Marco Mazzoleni. These errors were our fault, and we apologize to Chef Mazzoleni and Lighthouse Bar and Grill.

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August 2022 11

Notes

Meet the Team

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

I am an intern here at Bellingham Alive, and have been here since April 2022!

What is your background?

I am originally from Tacoma, Washington, and am a senior this year at Western Washington University. In spring, I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in news/editorial journalism and a minor in history. During my three years at Western, I have been lucky enough to work on two student publications which included being a reporter, editor, and even managing editor for the independent student publication, The Western Front. I have had my work published in The Western Front and Klipsun as a writer and was also a member of Western’s Society of Professional Journalists chapter. I think it would be safe to say — I love journalism.

What’s your favorite story you’ve written for Bellingham Alive?

I have loved the opportunity to meet so many people in the community and highlight their stories through the magazine. I have countless favorite memories and stories that I have had the chance to write at Bellingham Alive; however, I would specifically highlight the community pieces that I was able to work on. There is something really exciting about getting to hear someone’s story and work with them to bring it alive through the details as well as visually, and that is what especially stood out for me when I wrote about a local vegan food truck and a women-exclusive mountain biking group. I would also say writing about Eleventh St GOODS was very memorable for me because not only was it my first in-person interview for the magazine and spread in the June/ July edition, but it turned out to be a beautiful looking piece thanks to so many great minds working at the magazine who put it all together. It really captured the essence of a great spot that is right here in Bellingham.

What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about your community during this internship?

This may not be surprising to everyone, but I have come to learn just how great it is to live and be here in Bellingham.

Having to do two years of school online and from home was not what I had always envisioned for my time in college.

Being able to come back and be part of Bellingham Alive then allowed me to explore all of the nooks and crannies of where we live. Working to encapsulate Bellingham and what makes this place so special through words and people’s stories will be something I never forget. 

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Three Ways of Seeing Color 16 Volli Bellingham 23

Photo by Jessamyn Tuttle

Spotlight: Amy Chaloupka, Whatcom Museum Curator of Art 26

Life

Community

The LIDO Collective

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August 2022 15

People in Your Neighborhood

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Three Ways of Seeing Color UST ASK AN artist: Color dictates how we perceive

Jimena Berzal de Dios

You mention that you also have an interest in interior design! Does your home have a specific color palette, and if so, why did you choose it?

When I think about decorating, I don’t consider the psychological associations of a color, but rather the overall mood I would like to inhabit.

After my first year in Bellingham, I wanted an upbeat yet calm palette for my living room. I thought of the feeling of overlooking the Mediterranean sea, or the type of experience that the beach paintings of Joaquín Sorolla create. I already had a blue couch, but I was after something more specific those paintings evoke: the freshness, the sun, and the breeze.

I ended up creating that mood with greens and yellows — it was zesty, light, and fresh. There’s also something casual and carefree about a stroll on the beach, so I ended up using and painting ReStore building materials to create make-shift furniture, and I also reworked an old coffee table to look like driftwood. The Western library at the time was giving away old maps, and some ended up in a wall-to-wall collage that brought seas and mountains to the living room.

Courtesy of Jimena Berzal de Dios

everything from interior spaces to the seasons and, of course, works of art. In the spirit of our annual home decor issue, we asked three creatives — a florist, an art historian, and an art teacher — about how they approach color in their own work, as well as how those principles can be applied to interior design.

serenity, and safety. Nowadays these associations are used purposefully by many financial institutions in their logos.

And yet, there’s “feeling blue.” We do not know exactly how this association originated. Geoffrey Chaucer wrote about “tears blue,” so the connection between emotional pain and blue has a long history as well.

Jimena Berzal de Dios Art Historian at Western Washington University

Broadly speaking, what is color theory, and how do colors influence our perception of day-to-day life?

Color theory studies the nature of colors, how we perceive them, and how to use them effectively. We often think of colors’ associations with emotions, like red and passion. Another important factor is how much a color or combination over- or under-stimulates our senses. Both extremes create negative responses, even physical stress.

Emily Zimmerman

Emily Zimmerman Director and Teacher at BellinghamART

How has our perception of color and art changed over the centuries? Can you give a few examples of this phenomenon?

As an artist and as an art teacher, what do you think the value of color is to what you do, and how you instruct your students?

Color perception is both nature and nurture. Take blue: In psychological terms, our response to blue evokes tranquility,

As an artist, color is everything! My style is very bright. I tend to use a little bit of all the colors. It’s so much fun! I

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Courtesy of Emily Zimmerman

Life

think my art can look like I just went for it with color, but there is a lot of thought behind where each color goes. As an art teacher, I want kids to have the background knowledge to have fun with color and inject their own style. But knowing the fundamentals of color is what I try to instill — once they really know and understand them they can have fun!

Can you tell me about how specific colors or color combinations can change a piece of art or shift how it is created?

Color has the capability of evoking mood and atmosphere.

For example, maybe you want to create a more calm, soothing feel — so you would steer clear of bright, saturated colors, and instead calm your colors with white or a complementary color. You can imagine how different a piece would be if painted in reds versus shades of blue.

One of our teachers here told me about a color theory project which illustrates this. Choose an outdoor scene and take a photo of it in the morning, at noon, and in the evening (this works better when it is not overcast). Now paint them.

You will see how the colors and saturation of the colors changes throughout the day. By use of color, you should be able to portray the time of day.

I have painted a few murals over the years and these are so fun to use color for! They can really change a space drastically! In 2020 I painted a mural at the Skagit Valley Food Co-op. We had a big, drab, gray wall in the parking lot, and we were going through a tough year (everyone was).

So I went nuts with color.

It was so fun to see how much adding color to the parking lot made the whole place way happier and lighter. You could see some of the heaviness lifted from people when they walked by. I love that about color, and art in general. It has the ability to change how people feel. 1701 Ellis St., Bellingham, 360.738.8379, bellinghamart.com

Jodi Pears Florist and Flower Gardener at Floralie Flower Farm

In terms of your floral services (bouquet subscriptions, workshops, full service weddings), what’s your philosophy on color?

I try to grow ingredients that complement each other and lend themselves to being cohesive.

I’m very inspired by nature and the season — the season that we are in will definitely lend itself to the products we grow, as well as the color palette.

How do you use color to create a specific ambiance or mood?

I am not afraid of color, and my overall aesthetic as a farmer florist has evolved throughout the years. I used to hate yellow, burgundies, and brighter colors, but I find that a pop of buttercream yellow or a warm peachy orange can

Photo by Carly Navarrete

As an artist, what have you found to be your most exciting work with color? Why?

Jodi Pears

really elevate a design. My designs usually convey a feeling of nature, femininity, and intrigue.

Do you have a color palette that you tend to gravitate towards in your work? If so, what is it and why?

It really depends on the season and the feeling I’m wanting to convey. I definitely lean towards airy, bright pastels in spring, whereas in fall I’m very drawn to rusts, earthy, or more moody tones. Saying that, I do think it’s possible to find either colors in either season. To me it’s most important to find ingredients that are actually in season where an event is being held to convey your message in the most sincere way.

What does your home look like? Does it have a specific color scheme?

I see my home as a blank canvas that I can add to throughout the seasons with florals, or adding a cozy blanket in the fall. Our home is a work in progress; we built it a few years ago. I knew I wanted mostly white so I could add all the special items to make it feel like home without feeling constricted to one color. (Editor’s note: Read our feature on p. 46 to see how Jodie’s florals accomplish this!) Custer, floralieflowerfarm.com  August 2022 17

Life

Heard Around the Sound

The Very Best Brews, Delivered to You Beer Fridge

Photo by Jenn Sonker

T New in Town: Bellingham’s Newest Bars and Breweries

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ANGING FROM BRAND new

establishments to expansions of some of Bellingham’s well-known spots, this summer is packed with grand openings of several new watering holes. Here is everything you need to know about what’s coming your way:

North Fork Brewery North Fork Brewery is well-known around town for its delicious pizza and equally satisfying beer. Now in its 25th year, something new has joined the North Fork legacy.

Opening inside Bellingham Cider Company’s production facility, the location won’t serve pizza, but it does have its very own barrel house to produce more sips such as beers, barrel-aged drinks, and sours.

The Penny Farthing at Chuckanut Bay Distillery After opening in late summer, this spacious “steampunk chic” expansion of Chuckanut Bay Distillery is an exciting addition for foodies and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

The bar-restaurant has locallysourced ingredients filling the menu

Five Must-Sees at the Northwest Washington Fair WRITTEN BY GAIA CRANS

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as well as new and fun alcohols that not only support the meals but educate individuals about all of the unique libations there are.

El Sueñito Tamales and beer on a warm summer day — sign us up! One of Bellingham’s newest spots, El Sueñito, will not only serving delectable meals and drinks but opening itself up to all as an LGBTQ+ friendly establishment.

The gay- and Mexican-owned brewery’s late-summer opening brings customers local and Mexican craft beers while also curating a warm and welcoming environment.

Darach Brewing Company The last stop in the brewery round-up is an exciting one, with plans to open its doors within the year.

Darach Brewing Company is focused on “spontaneous and mixed-fermentation beers and IPAs,” and will be located right in the heart of downtown, making yet another refreshing stop on a night of bar and brewery hopping. SOPHIA STRUNA

HE DOG DAYS of summer are ideal for kicking back with your favorite brew — but whether you’re a beer aficionado or just hoping to broaden your palate, navigating the world of craft beer can be overwhelming. Enter Beer Fridge, a Bellingham-based subscription service that connects consumers with exciting, rare, and unique beers from North Sound breweries and beyond.

“Beer Fridge was born on the back of a brewery napkin after we [Co-Founder Travis Kane and I] decided we wanted to get into the direct-to-consumer subscription segment with our favorite product... craft beer!” says Co-Founder Jacob Bassett. “With so many amazing craft breweries in our area and across the country, we knew we wanted to help craft beer lovers discover new breweries, try unique beers, and connect more local breweries to their fans.”

Beer boxes can be ordered as a one-time purchase or modifiable subscription (as part of the “can club”). Current offerings include the Bellingham Born and Brewed (local beers), Knockout (IPAs), Acid Trip (sours), Greatest Hits (variety pack), and plenty more.

Even better, the boxes can be given as a gift.

Beer Fridge is always coming out with new and quirky gift boxes, which Bassett notes are “just as fun to receive as they are to send.” Standouts include holiday-themed boxes and the Brunch & Booze Gift Box, which was curated in partnership with Bliss Box Collective.

“We’ll be rolling out some really cool themed boxes like … a baseball box and a Washington State craft beer award winner box, to name a few,” Bassett says.

On the hunt for a one-of-a-kind present for the beer snob in your life? Gift the gift of craft brews by visiting Beer Fridge online at getbeerfridge.com. COCOA LANEY

Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show

Carnival Rides

Watch muscle-clad wood-cutters face off to show some trees who’s boss.

This competition is filled with enough excitement and danger for the whole family, while also educating attendees about the history of logging skills.

Satisfy your need for thrill with exciting rides or relax on the ferris wheel — the twinkling lights of the carnival at night is a beautiful sight for guests of every age.

Courtesy of Bellingham Farmers Market

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ACH MONTH, WE give you the opportunity to win a prize from local merchants. You can enter once per day on bellinghamalive.com. A winner will be chosen by random draw, and notified via email and/or phone. It’s our way of saying thank you for your support and for continuing to help encourage shopping and dining local. Below is the Enter-To-Win prize for this month.

$50

A Party with Produce!

30 Years of the Bellingham Farmers Market

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New Mexico Tamale Company

OME CELEBRATE THE Bellingham Farmers Market’s

30th birthday — but instead of cake and balloons, the market’s organizers want to share new events and its history with the community.

The first Saturdays of August and November will feature Fill Your Pantry days to inform customers about what’s in season and encourage them to stock up, whether it’s strawberries to make jam or hardy winter squash for the cold months.

And on Wednesdays at the Waterfront, kiddos can join activities to learn about gardening and healthy eating. Each week they’ll earn a stamp to fill their Kids Club Passport for potential prizes and Kid Coins to either save up, pool with siblings or friends, or spend right away on fruits and vegetables.

The Wednesday markets, unlike Saturdays, also allow wellbehaved dogs to browse with their families.

While the official organization was formed in 1992, its history with Bellingham grows even deeper, originally sprouting from pop-up markets by grassroots citizens in the ‘80s and earlier.

“I think it’s very humbling to see how that hard work has paid off to really create this vibrant organization that is sustainable,” says Market Director Lora Liegel. Liegel created a special anniversary page on the market’s website — an archive to document its history.

“We have some vendors that have been with us for 25–30 years, so it’s kind of fun to see their pictures and just remember those times,” Liegel says.

The market accepts FMNP and SNAP EBT cards with a program to match what is spent on fresh produce.

For more information, visit bellinghamfarmers.org. GAIA CRANS

Small Animal Experience Who doesn’t love baby animals?

Visit a variety of these cute creatures like rabbits, pigs, and goats, and ask volunteers questions to learn all about them.

Lululemon Lands in Fairhaven

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HAT FIRST OPENED in 2020 as a new housing hub in the historic Fairhaven, is now home to one of the most popular sporty leisure brands today. Bellingham’s Lululemon pop-up is located within Fairhaven Towers, a newly constructed five-story feature erected in the place of the once-prominent Fairhaven Hotel.

Pop-ups represent a business’ short-term lease within a traditional storefront and are meant to create flexibility within a shifting retail environment. With Fairhaven’s Lululemon, however, this style of store hasn’t changed the wide variety of athletic clothing they are best known for. Not to mention, the shop is also offering services ranging from training sessions to yoga and online classes.

1215 12th St., Ste. 101, Bellingham, 360.733.3552, lululemon.com SOPHIA STRUNA

The Nerveless Nocks Legendary All American Classic Thrill and Stunt Show

Tasty Treats

A state-of-the-art stunt show, featuring gravity-defying acrobatics and daredevil stunt riders challenging the Globe of Death, that will keep everyone on the edge of their seats!

Chow down on plenty of delicious fair foods including two favorites: the MooWich, creamy ice cream sandwiched between two large cookies, and poffertjes, a traditional Dutch treat resembling small, fluffy pancakes.

August 2022 19

Life

Community

Showcasing the Creative Energy of Skagit County The LIDO Collective WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JESSAMYN TUTTLE

V

ISITORS TO DOWNTOWN Mount Vernon

might not have noticed the Lido Building in the past, even though it’s right next door to the popular Skagit Valley Food Co-op. Once housing the Lido Theater, the building was used as the Skagit Democrat headquarters for the last ten years, but since April it has been the home of the LIDO Collective, a local art showcase founded and run by the Mount Vernon Downtown Association.

The shop, newly remodeled into a bright white space with pale wood flooring, now holds paintings, photographs, wood furniture, cases of handmade jewelry, glasswork, handwoven scarves and knitted hats, cards, printed clothing, and linens, all by local artists.

“The Downtown Association has always seen supporting the local art community to be a key part of its mission,” says Ellen Gamson, executive director of the Downtown Association.

“Skagit Valley has a strong and deep vein of creative energy.”

For the last few years the downtown association has been running a pop-up shop space, available monthly to applicants, which is frequently rented by artists. A regular downtown art walk has also been popular.

“We’ve always used art as a tool for the revitalization of downtown,” Gamson says.

During the pandemic, seeing how much artists had been struggling, she decided to create another venue. The Downtown Association received a Nonprofit Community Recovery grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce that paid for the remodel, fixtures, and the first 20

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two months of rent. Since then they have been paying full rental price for the space, and hope the shop will become self-sustaining over the next few years.

They decided that they wanted the shop run professionally, so they tapped local businesswoman Kate Pickett, who owned the specialty clothing shop Embellish for many years. Gamson gives full credit to Pickett for her merchandising vision. In addition to Pickett, the shop employs two part-time sales associates. They hope to add e-commerce soon, to expand the market for the art being sold.

“We want the whole experience to be quality,” Gamson says.

The shop carries work by more than 30 artists, but Gamson feels there is room for more. “We don’t want to be cluttered but we want to have a lot.” Currently featured work includes hand printed fabrics by Kristin Loffer Theiss and ceramics by her husband Chris Theiss, resin and wood pieces by Caroline Hall, woodcut prints by Gene Jaress, glass mosaics by Katie Walton, and much more. Selection will change over time, not just as artists bring new work in, but as the displayed work changes seasonally.

The effect is elegant and colorful, but with plenty of room to appreciate each piece. Even before they started showing art, Gamson says, “One of the things I appreciated about this space … is that there was light and air.” Now that the shop is open, she says, “it’s a space full of light, air and beauty … it’s a reflection of the valley.” 300 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon, 360.503.3626, lidocollective.org 

Book Notes

Life

Literary Events

Book Reviews WRITTEN BY MARY KINSER

SYLVIA WREN IS a legend. As a groundbreaking feminist

The Cherry Robbers

by Sarai Walker

artist, her work is revered the world over. Yet Sylvia herself is an enigma, as she has always wanted to be.

Now in her 80s and approaching the end of her career, Sylvia is contacted by a journalist with information about Sylvia’s past as Iris Chapel, heiress to the Chapel firearms fortune. Reluctantly, Sylvia is pulled back into memories of her childhood in a gloomy Victorian home with a distant father and a mother haunted by terrifying visions. And then there are her five sisters: Aster, the first to marry and first to die, and the others, who one by one are touched by a seemingly inescapable legacy of death. Is it the family’s livelihood that invites so much tragedy? Or something deeper? The Cherry Robbers is a deliciously dark fury of a novel, a blend of Gothic mystery and coming-of-age story unlike anything you’ve ever read.

AS CHILD STARS, identical twins Sam and Elli Hart

I’ll Be You

by Janelle Brown

were inseparable, spending hours on set with only one another for company. When their television career ended, the sisters took different paths. Elli chose a settled suburban life, while Sam railed against the vagaries of fame and took solace in self-destructive behaviors. Elli was always there to rescue Sam, but eventually it became too much and the sisters stopped speaking. Then Sam’s father summons her home. Elli left behind her toddler to head to a spa retreat, but now she’s disappeared.

Desperate to understand, Sam begins looking for her sister — and what she finds suggests that the mysterious “women’s empowerment” group Elli has joined might actually be a cult. With each new revelation, author Janelle Brown ratchets up the tension a little further, making it almost impossible to stop reading. This is one thriller that deserves a spot in your summer beach bag.

August 1–31

The Sealey Challenge thesealeychallenge.com

Aug. 9 is National Book Lovers day, but you can celebrate for the entire month by joining the community challenge of reading a different book of poetry every day. Plan your reading list, and prepare by visiting local libraries, bookstores, or little free libraries.

August 18, 1 p.m.

Meet Local Authors, Buy Their Books

Seaport Books 106 1st St., La Conner 360.399.1800, seaportbooks.com

Meet, chat, and connect with the creative energy of local authors and book lovers at an outdoor book market. Browse tables of books, buy them directly from their creators, and help inspire young writers to continue to read and work on their craft.

August 19, 1–2:30 p.m.

Books and Bites

Blaine Library 610 3rd St., Blaine 360.305.3637, wcls.org

This month, the library’s book choice is a vibrant tale of exploration, isolation, and connection — “Legends of the North Cascades” by Jonathan Evison. Visit in person or online to join in on riveting conversations about a parent and child’s love and their survival in the wilderness.

This Month in Bellinghistory WRITTEN BY KOLBY LABREE OF BELLINGHISTORY TOURS WITH THE GOOD TIME GIRLS

Aug. 3, 1883

Aug. 5, 1918

Aug. 12, 1926

Aug. 23, 1974

Forest fires raged throughout the region, much to the discomfort and danger of loggers and settlers in the interior.

The city street commissioner lamented that, due to skyrocketing feed prices, the care of eight horses for one month cost more than it did to provide fuel for all the vehicles of the fire department for six months.

A party of six Japanese men from Seattle, Portland, and San Francisco summited Mount Baker with local guide William L. Cochran.

A Bellingham police officer was led on a madcap chase by a pair of streakers who ran down State Street and vicinity clad in nothing but boots.

August 2022 21

Life

Game Changer

A Nonprofit with a Heart for Hops Bunanza Rabbit Rescue Ranch and Adoption Center WRITTEN BY GAIA CRANS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

I

F YOU SEE a lost pet bunny hopping around in the wild,

it might not be there by accident — every year, domestic rabbits get abandoned as owners lose interest or can’t care for them. They end up wreaking havoc on gardens, getting disoriented on roads, and bringing diseases to wild rabbit populations, but luckily, the Bunanza Rabbit Ranch and Adoption Center is a safe haven for bunnies on their journey to forever homes.

Founder and President Elizabeth Olson became a selftaught bunny guru after falling in love with a starving, teenage rabbit that was left on her property.

“Baby bunnies are adorable and then they turn into hormonal monsters after a few months,” Olson says. “The solution to that is super simple: spay/neuter, and then they go back to being adorable.”

She kept finding more of these abandoned pets and slowly became a bunny beacon of knowledge for the community.

Olson’s been saving rabbits for more than seven years, the first five as a guerrilla bunny-rescuer, but in 2020 Bunanza became a federally recognized nonprofit organization and has adopted out more than 400 rabbits since. Olson is currently planning a Bunanza art auction for late October and working with several veterinarians to organize a vaccine clinic.

The Buns One kind of rabbit you won’t find at Bunanza are wild ones like Eastern cottontails. Those are handled by legally sanctioned wildlife rehabilitators such as the Whatcom Humane Society. Bunanza rescues domestic rabbits, which come in a wide variety of breeds, sizes, colors, and names, and Olson knows every one! To name a few, there’s Muppet, Yam, Carlo, Speckles, Rogue, Vogue, Bean, and Black Bart (who’s very friendly despite his infamous outlaw namesake).

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Most are socialized and friendly, but there are two who are especially so. “Bun-bassadors,” Stuart and Zora, often accompany Olson to events due to their enduring patience with overzealous children.

Bunanza is always accepting more help but does have a small returning group of volunteers including Olson’s righthand gal, Brooklyn Castellani-Kelsay, a student at Western Washington University. She began volunteering for Bunanza in the summer of 2021 and is now the treasurer of Bunanza’s board of directors. As a photographer, she often poses her favorite bunny models for portraits.

“This is my favorite part — when the weather’s nice and they can come outside like this and just kind of frolic about and hop,” Castellani-Kelsay says with a bunny in her lap.

Hopping Home Prospective adopters aren’t required to have previous experience and begin by answering a questionnaire ensuring their household is bunny-friendly. After meeting with the adoptable rabbits, which are all spayed/neutered and vet verified as healthy, Olson decides if they’re a good match.

The last step is a $60 adoption fee per bunny.

Bunanza also does fosters with a three-month commitment and will loan out all needed equipment.

“At the end of three months, buns can either come back to us, or if they have fallen madly in love, they can adopt their bunny at a discounted [adoption] fee and with a ridiculous 80% off on equipment.”

Olson encourages anyone to visit the bunnies, even to just say hi.

“We are very happy to have people come out and see buns whether they think they’re interested in adopting or not.” Lynden, 360.224.1886, facebook.com/BunanzaRabbit 

Wellness

Life

A Brand-New Hub for Indoor Entertainment Volli Bellingham WRITTEN BY ANELYSE MORRIS-BOHLKE | PHOTO COURTESY OF VOLLI

A

S SUMMER WINDS down to a close, it’s time to

take advantage of those precious sun rays before they disappear for the rest of the year. While you may feel the crunch to get in one last beach trip, picnic, or hike, take solace in the fact that fun games and sports are now available year round at Volli.

Bellingham’s newest indoor entertainment hub Volli opened in early July, offering a variety of indoor and outdoor recreation activities. Primarily a pickleball sports bar, Volli combines fun, food, and drinks to create a one-of-a-kind social outing experience that’s fun for all ages.

Owners Allan and Dave Jones are no strangers to the family fun ventures. It all started when Allan opened an ice cream store in Tennessee, with the duo eventually going on to develop more than 15 Summit Adventure Parks and Catapult Adventure Parks across North America, South America, and Puerto Rico.

“With Dave operating a Summit Adventure Park in Bellingham, the epicenter of the current nationwide pickleball craze, it was an easy leap to recognize the pent-up demand for indoor pickleball courts and other family games,” says Chief Operating Officer John Oldham. “Post-pandemic, there is a strong demand for social clubs and activities to bring the community together for wholesome fun, food, and drink.”

A Place To Play Together The venue is equipped with 24,000 square feet of indoor space as well as a 2,000-square-foot patio for outdoor activities. The star of the show is pickleball, with courts available for reservations seven days in advance, in 1–3 hour time slots ($40–50 per hour). Other available games include cornhole, darts, shuffleboard, golf simulators, and more.

“Building a pickleball sports bar has been a dream for a long time. This is a state-of-the-art facility focused on the competitive and fun sport of pickleball,” Dave says. “If pickleball isn’t your thing, we’ve got every indoor activity under the sun. We’ll also have outdoor space for dining and fair-weather activities. Volli has it all.”

Come with a friend or with a crowd! Volli can accommodate up to 40 people in their event space as well as provide on-site catering and organized game tournaments. So whether you’re looking for a fun corporate event, birthday party, or bachelor party — it’s the perfect spot for group celebration.

“Volli brings more than an indoor pickleball facility (which is sorely needed). It brings a social club that strengthens the sense of community and belonging to the neighborhood,” says Vice President of Marketing Brett Wagner. “By mixing traditional adult games like cornhole and shuffleboard with the latest technology in sport simulators, we offer enjoyment for all ages and interests.”

Visitors can also enjoy bottled drinks and pre-packaged snacks at the snack bar and pro shop. Rotating food trucks may also be on the horizon.

While Volli is a sure-to-be hit on the Bellingham scene, the fun doesn’t stop there. Volli will also be opening a location in Marysville (September 2022) and Dallas/Fort Worth (early 2023).

“We are very excited to bring the Bellingham community a family-friendly venue with great food and games for folks of all ages,” Allan says. “There isn’t anything like this in Whatcom County or anywhere in Washington State, and we’re thrilled to expand to other locations around the United States.” 4190 Cordata Pkwy., Bellingham, vollibellingham.com  August 2022 23

Life

Out and About

A Glamping Getaway on San Juan Island The Yurts at Lakedale Resort WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

F

OR AN ISLAND of just 55 square miles, San Juan

has more to offer than its size might imply. Its natural beauty is certainly no secret: think lush forests, picturesque parks, and panoramic views of the Salish Sea. But beyond the great outdoors, the island also boasts museums, events, art galleries, and restaurants in spades.

To make the most of San Juan Island, it’s necessary to immerse yourself in both its ecology and its culture — and the yurt village at Lakedale Resort makes the perfect base for doing just that. Imagine embracing the very best parts of camping, except with the addition of (more than) a few creature comforts.

Lakedale’s yurts are tucked away amid 82 acres of forest, so you can expect to wake up to the sound of birdsong or spot foxes on an evening stroll to one of three springwater lakes. Despite all that serenity, however, the yurt village is anything but rustic.

I spent a weekend at Lakedale in June 2022 and, having never set foot in a yurt before, I honestly had no idea what to expect. Imagine my surprise upon arriving and discovering that these accommodations are comparable to standalone suites — right down to the private outdoor hot tub. The term “glamping” doesn’t even begin to cover it.

I love traditional camping, but let’s face it: No one wants to show up for a concert or dinner reservations after sleeping on the ground. Luckily these yurts offer both a bathroom and a plush king-sized bed, so you can commune with nature without sacrificing a hot shower or a good night’s sleep.

But this is just the bare minimum — each 450-square-foot structure comes decked out with a kitchenette, barbecue, dining areas (both inside and on the back deck), and even a Smart TV. During my stay, I reveled in everything the Lakedale property has to offer (namely barbecues, hikes, and plenty of waterfront lounging). Even so, I feel like I barely scratched the surface: Guests can enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, complimentary bikes, and more.

Lakedale also makes an idyllic base camp when exploring the rest of the island, and the bustle of Friday Harbor is easily accessible via car. One of San Juan Island’s most notable restaurants, Duck Soup, is even located just across the street from the resort. As for nature, a myriad of state and national parks — from the grassy expanses of the American Camp to the rugged cliffs at Lime Kiln Point — are also within close reach.

Even when the weather is less-than-stellar, there’s nothing quite like cozying up in a yurt with a blanket, book, and glass of red wine. I spent a relaxing final evening dozing off to the gentle patter of rain, and when it came time to catch the ferry the next day, I felt more refreshed than I had in months.

My ideal vacation involves a healthy mix of outdoor recreation and culture — a paddleboard excursion followed by a wine tasting, per se. If that sounds like your kind of fun, consider booking a yurt for your next island getaway.

Lakedale Resort has everything you need to get the best of both worlds on San Juan Island, and my only regret was that I didn’t stay a night — or a week — longer. 4313 Roche Harbor Rd., Friday Harbor, 360.378.2350, lakedale.com 

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YOU R T RU E N ORT H TEAM As Your True N or th Team, Rob i n and Traci str ive to ensure thei r cl i ents feel as thoug h they are getting t wice the attenti on, t w i ce the resourcef ulness, and t wice the creativ it y i n g ui d i ng thei r cl i ents th roug h either the buy ing o r selling pro ces s.

They real l y do want to b e Your Tr ue No r th Team in ever y sense of thei r l og o. Let them g uide yo u o n yo ur real estate j ourney. Li steni ng to you a nd representing yo ur pr io r ities will al ways b e thei r “ True N or th ” i n any transactio n.

Your True North Team Robin Kallman 707.318.7190

SCAN HERE TO VISIT WEBSITE:

robinkallman@compass.com

Traci Miles 360.941.6321 traci.miles@compass.com Who can you trust on your real estate journey?

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

SkagitRegionalHealth.org/BeWell

Spotlight

Photo by Chris Scarborough

Life

Fresh Perspectives on Culture and Community Amy Chaloupka, Curator of Art at the Whatcom Museum WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY | PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE WHATCOM MUSEUM

T

HE WHATCOM MUSEUM is well-regarded for its

thought-provoking fine art exhibitions, and as the museum’s curator of art, Amy Chaloupka plays a key role in bringing them to life. With more than 15 years of curatorial experience under her belt, she’s passionate about introducing dynamic and inclusive artwork to the North Sound community.

“The mindset of curation, and the mindset of museums, has really shifted in the last 10 years,” Chaloupka says.

“I think it’s starting to be ingrained that we’re here to foreground other voices. With [‘Many Wests’] our intent is to center the artists’ perspectives and experiences, and less the curatorial voice.”

Chaloupka is an alumna of Western Washington University and holds an MFA in sculpture from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Prior to joining the museum on a full-time basis, she worked in the curatorial department at the Kohler Arts Center and as an independent curator (including for exhibitions at both the Whatcom Museum and Western).

“Many Wests: Artists Shape an American Idea” Chaloupka’s role at the Whatcom Museum allows her to connect the community with contemporary art that’s both exciting and challenging. Many of the museum’s exhibitions have been recognized far beyond just Bellingham; for example, a 2019 retrospective of local artist Ed Bereal received coverage from the New York Times.

For the exhibition “Many Wests: Artists Shape an American Idea,” which is currently on view in the Lightcatcher Building, Chaloupka also worked in partnership with five other museums — including the Smithsonian American Art Museum. The exhibition is supported as part of the Art Bridges Initiative.

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BellinghamAlive.com

The idea of the American West might bring to mind images of heroic cowboys and pristine, sun-soaked landscapes, but this mythology — albeit romantic — isn’t necessarily based in truth. “Many Wests” seeks to challenge these prevailing cliches. It includes work from 48 artists, many of whom belong to groups whose stories are misrepresented in or absent altogether from traditional Western narratives.

The show will be on view in Oregon and Utah before reaching its final stop in Washington, D.C. — but before it reaches wider audiences, Bellingham residents have the unique opportunity to see it locally until Aug. 21.

The Role of a Curator In addition to developing programs and exhibitions like “Many Wests,” Chaloupka is involved in areas ranging from grant writing to community engagement via nonprofits, tours, the city’s Arts Commission, and even local schools (which her own children attend).

“There’s not much separation. If I’m working on volunteering in the schools, I love to try and find an opportunity to get those kids drawing,” she says. “I’m always wearing my artist/curator hat when I’m out in the bigger community.”

While Chaloupka’s role is undoubtedly public-facing, she’s careful to note that she, her colleagues, and community partners work highly collaboratively, and thus everyone has a part in making the Whatcom Museum what it is. She herself is extremely hands-on when it comes to installing new exhibitions, noting that working in direct connection with artists feeds her own sense of creativity. Given her background in sculpture, she has a particular interest in site-specific pieces.

“I love working with artists on new proposals on works that have not been completed yet and to see them be realized

Stylish (and Subtle) Pet Decor

F

OR MANY PET owners, it can be pretty obvious

to the outside world that you have an animal at home. From the “I love my rescue pup” bumper sticker on your car to the cat hair that refuses to come off your black pants, there are lots of ways our four-legged friends make their presence known to others. However, if you’re looking to trick the eye, here are some recommendations for pet-friendly items that will blend right in with your home decor.

Sneaky Litter Bins Perhaps the biggest eyesore that comes with being a cat owner is the litter box. Even if you can’t see it, you can probably smell it. Luckily nowadays you can find some pretty inventive ways to hide the box in plain sight. Retailers offer adorable disguised litter boxes in the form of nightstands, tables, and even planters!

in the exhibition space,” Chaloupka says. “Not every curator is comfortable working with artists on new works because of the unknown variables involved … but I love to jump into projects like that.”

Looking Ahead The Whatcom Museum is returning to in-person events in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the public opening celebration for “Many Wests” was the first to occur at the museum in two years. Although the exhibition is set to close at the end of August, Chaloupka is already excited about what’s coming next.

“Un/Natural Selections: Wildlife in Contemporary Art,” a large group exhibition borrowed from the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson, Wyoming, is set to open on Sept.

10. As with “Many Wests,” the show includes a variety of different artists working across diverse mediums, including sculpture installations.

“The representation of nature and the natural history of this region is something that’s at the heart of our mission and will be a connection point to this upcoming exhibition,” Chaloupka says. “I think the artworks commenting on human/animal interactions will be something that the community is really going to enjoy.”

The museum’s website has further information on the show plus a full calendar of events (including docent tours, youth docent tours, and even monthly curator tours led by Chaloupka herself).

Moreover, fine art exhibitions are just the beginning of what you’ll find at the Whatcom Museum. For the price of a 20-ounce coffee, you can bring the kids to the Family Interactive Gallery, learn about regional Coast Salish tribes upstairs in the Lightcatcher Building, immerse yourself in local history at Old City Hall, and much more.

As pandemic restrictions ease, Chaloupka has the sense that people are “looking at things with fresh eyes” — herself included. Whether you’re looking to deepen your knowledge about this community or be challenged by new perspectives and ideas, the Whatcom Museum has something to offer everyone. 250 Flora St., Bellingham, 360.778.8930, whatcommuseum.org 

Mini Couches If your pet is a couch hog, this is the purchase for you.

You can find tiny loungers, chaises, and sofas that range in style and color — meaning you can coordinate them to match your living space. Your pet will love it and you can sprawl out on the couch whenever you please.

Scratcher Look-Alikes Constantly yelling at your cat to stop scratching the furniture? Let them have it — scratching posts now come in furniture lookalikes like nightstands, plants, and tiny houses. While this may not completely deter them from using their claws on your loveseat, it’s certainly worth a shot.

Stealthy Staircases Tiny staircases can be both adorable and helpful to dogs who are older, smaller, and/or have joint pain. There are sets in all sizes; most are plush, but you can find some wood ones to match hardwood/laminate flooring. For something that’s both fun and effective for cleaning, try stairs with washable cover pads. ANELYSE MORRIS-BOHLKE August 2022 27

Life

5 Faves

1

Northwest Yarns and Mercantile Both colorful and cozy, Northwest Yarns provides fine fibers and yarns from a large variety of plants and animals. They also have spinning wheels, looms, needles, and more to get your project started. This craft store believes everyone should have an opportunity to learn, so stop by for a free beginner class. 206 W. Magnolia St., Bellingham, 360.738.0167, nwyarns.com

FIVE FAVES

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Community Craft Shops WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY GAIA CRANS

2

Ragfinery Affordable upcycled fabrics, textiles, and handmade goods are what you’ll find in constant rotation at the Ragfinery along with a dedicated spirit to sustainability and supporting local artisans. Attend a workshop for education or inspiration. 1421 N. Forest St., Bellingham, 360.738.6977, ragfinery.com

3

Tri Dee Arts Discover the largest selection of unique art supplies and gifts north of Seattle at Tri Dee Arts. Paint your own piece of personalized pottery or attend classes and events at their interactive studio.

KITCHEN DESIGN STUDIO NET “Bespoke Design with Your Lifestyle and Budget in Mind”

Service to Discerning Clients in the Great NW Since 2004.

Call Marshall at (360) 966-3929 to Discuss Your Needs And Schedule a Complimentary Initial Consultation.

215 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon, 360.336.6131, trideearts.com

4

Oasis Bead Lounge Who knew an extensive collection of beads, jewelry, textiles, and antiques could fit into such a tiny shop — but Oasis Bead Lounge has it all. You could spend hours looking through this unique selection! 1413 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.733.3085, oasis-bead-lounge.business.site

5

Mystic Art Supply While offering a lively mix of artistic materials and gifts, Mystic Art Supply also supports its community.

Come by to admire the displayed works of local artists and learn directly from them at guided lessons and workshops. 101 N. 1st St., Ste. 1&2, La Conner, 360.399.1617, mysticartsupply.com

EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOM VIEW HOME WITH CITY, LAKE & OCEAN VIEWS ON 2.5 ACRES Magnificent. Sophisticated. Bespoke. Perched high above Bellingham with commanding views of Bellingham Bay, Lake Whatcom and the San Juan Islands sits this luxurious retreat.

A perfect blend of historic grace and contempory elegance. Located in a gated community of only 8 homes. Minutes to Barkley Village and downtown Bellingham.

1844 VINEYARD PLACE, BELLINGHAM

4 bd | 6 ba | 5,418 sq ft | $3,450,000

Kristal Grimstead | Broker Luxury Marketing Specialist 360.441.2202 kristal@kristalgrimstead.com

August 2022 29

Life

Special Advertising

PeaceHealth Orthopedics Offers Solutions for Foot, Ankle Injuries

F

OOT AND ANKLE ISSUES

caused by injuries, arthritis or bunions can cause plenty of pain and frustration, limiting mobility and enjoyment of life.

When these kinds of problems arise, a trip to PeaceHealth Orthopedics and Sports Medicine in Bellingham can yield solutions. Their multidisciplinary team of orthopedic surgeons, sports medicine specialists, nurses and assistants work together to treat all manner of foot and ankle issues in a single location and features an array of surgical and non-surgical interventions.

Operation Determination Dr. Carter Kiesau is an orthopedic surgeon with 16 years of experience specializing in foot and ankle 30

BellinghamAlive.com

procedures with a special interest in arthritis prevention and sports injuries. He is part of the team treating orthopedic and sports injuries at Bellingham’s PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center.

According to Dr. Kiesau, the most common foot or ankle injuries span across all age groups and include sprains and fractures of bones, and tears and ruptures of various ligaments and tendons. Many injuries do not require surgery, though severe injuries may. Dr. Kiesau says it’s always important to see a patient and determine a very exact extent of injuries to identify treatment options.

Arthritis In the case of arthritis-based issues of the foot or ankle, there are multiple non-surgical treatment options.

Non-surgical treatments include steroid shots, braces, and physical therapy. Dr. Kiesau says doctors suggest what activities a person should do to prolong their remaining good cartilage, helping delay surgery. If surgery becomes necessary, improvements in techniques and technologies have resulted in patients lacing up their shoes a lot sooner than before.

“The technology is always getting better,” Dr. Kiesau says of surgeries.

“Total knee and total hip replacements

have been around for a long time. Total ankles are a newer, and constantly improving, technology. It’s an exciting time for people with ankle problems.”

Bunions Another orthopedic issue commonly treated by the PeaceHealth Orthopedics and Sports Medicine team is bunions, which are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe.

These deformities can affect all age groups, and impact a person’s running, exercising, and shoe-wearing abilities.

Bunions are another area where new technologies have refined surgical techniques making recovery much faster. Dr. Kiesau says post-surgery patients can often put weight on their foot in a walking boot the same day they have surgery.

Whether it’s non-surgical or surgical, the goal of any orthopedic treatment is to get patients back on their feet as soon as possible, doing the activities they love.

If you’re searching for additional trustworthy information on foot and ankle injuries and how surgery might affect you, Dr. Kiesau recommends visiting footcaremd.org, a patientfriendly website from the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society.

Authored by and republished with permission from WhatcomTalk 

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Celebratingg

Years Y

Local Find: Salt & Rain 34 Savvy Shopper: Wild Material 36 Necessities: Summer Sandals 38

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Beauty

Zorganics

Style

40 August 2022 33

Style

Local Find

Clothes Kids Want To Wear Salt & Rain WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY | PHOTOS BY COURTNEY DODD

A

S THE OWNER of Salt & Rain, Megan Wright

sews colorful children’s apparel that kids feel good in — and every piece is handmade here in the North Sound.

“I like anything vibrant, cheerful, I love things with a retro flair,” Wright says. “Everything has to be wearable.

Everything has to be comfortable, machine washable.”

Wright started her business seven years ago making bandanas and headbands under the name Lucky Mama Designs, and the brand has undergone many evolutions in the years since. Some of these changes are personal to Wright, who says that Salt & Rain has always been “exactly what I needed at the time — and it’s still exactly what I need right now.”

“Over the years, [Salt & Rain] has been a creative outlet hobby, and has been our full income,” she continues. “It slowed down when I needed it to, and it ramped up when I needed it to.”

No matter where she focuses her attention, the core of Wright’s work has remained the same: She makes clothes that kids want to wear. From rainbow overalls to tie-dyed pullovers and patterned dresses perfect for twirling, her designs are as fun to adorn as they are to look at.

Wright has sold to shoppers across the U.S., Canada, and Europe, but she didn’t actively seek out customers in 34

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Bellingham until this year. She’s taken a step back from online orders, instead preferring to focus her attention on markets such as Valley Made Market and the Bellingham Farmers Market (where she can be found most Saturdays).

Whether she’s selling locally or internationally, Wright tackles every aspect of the business herself, from designing to sewing, shipping orders, and maintaining a social media presence. She currently does not have employees — but she does receive plenty of moral support from her own two children.

“My kids are really great about reading books to me while I cut fabric at the kitchen table,” Wright says. “It’s really sweet, and they’re both really creative kids too. So they’ll pull up an art project … and we just kind of hang out.”

Beyond her own family, Wright’s inspiration comes from sources such as women’s fashion trends and even outfits she herself would have liked to wear as a kid. She’s also conscious of the lack of gender-neutral options for children’s clothing, and as a result, all her sizes are unisex.

“I get asked all the time, ‘Is this for a boy or girl?’ with my designs, and I don’t see anything wrong with putting a unicorn on a boy,” Wright says. “I think rainbows are not gendered, unicorns aren’t gendered. Why gender florals?

You know, it’s nature!”

Parents can also feel good about shopping Salt & Rain; unlike other kids’ clothing items, Wright’s creations can be worn for a long time before they are outgrown. In addition, the designs are made from high-quality fabrics and dyes that are both “earth-friendly and kid-friendly.”

“If I wouldn’t put it on my kids, I’m not going to try to sell it to someone else,” Wright says.

If you’re in the market for kids’ clothing that’s anything but beige, visit @salt.and.rain to see where Wright will be selling next. Bellingham, shopsaltandrain.com 

August 2022 35 Photo by Kendra Barnard

Photo by Jenn Relerford

Photo by Ashley Tarnate

Style

Savvy Shopper

PNW Lifestyle Captured in Clothing Wild Material WRITTEN BY SOPHIA STRUNA | PHOTOS COURTESY OF LISSA CLEAR AND PAVAN LAIL

The Shop After finding a passion for photography in high school and jumping into the design business just two days after graduating college, Wild Material is an impressive culmination of Owner Lissa Clear’s hard work and love of her craft.

“I started from the bottom,” Clear says about the early steps in her career.

After garnering enough experience, she was ready to do it on her own. However, it took plenty of time, uncertainty, and a global pandemic for Clear to land where she is now.

Today, Clear is creating “Pacific Northwest-inspired apparel” that she designs and produces all by herself in her storefront.

“I have an embroidery machine, I do my photography, and then sewing,” Clear says. “So I try to do as much as I can in-house.”

The Atmosphere After growing up in Colorado and visiting Bellingham on vacation, Clear was always longing for Pacific Northwestinspired apparel to adorn. When it came time to develop her own brand with her design skills, she knew exactly what direction to go in.

“I definitely want it to be welcoming,” says Clear.

“I want to keep it local and just minimal.”

If you were to glance at a map, the store would seemingly look tucked away along a far-stretching Elm 36

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Street. Once you step inside, however, you are immediately swept away into a moody blue and emerald green Pacific Northwestern wonderland.

With wood paneling, dozens of colorful items lining the walls, and a large tapestry of a sweeping mountain landscape featuring the store’s name, there is no doubt that our region’s ambiance has been encapsulated within her store.

Key People While Clear is proud of the work she does herself, she says a lot of the support she has received throughout the process of opening her own store has come from her family and loved ones.

In fact, it was during Clear’s process of finding a permanent storefront that she worked part-time with her Etsy shop in her parent’s basement to save up money for her own equipment. Eventually, after hopping from location to location and moving into design full-time in 2020, Clear found her current residency in the fourth location.

Around the store, shoppers can also easily spot a few items that hold a special place in Clear’s heart, including a camera and jewelry that belonged to her grandmother.

What You’ll Find Along with Clear’s own designs, she has also begun including the products of other local producers, creators, and artists to sell within her store.

This means everything from locally made soaps to jewelry, watercolor paintings, and even items from her mom’s own Etsy store.

“Owning a business is hard,” Clear says. “I started this to make T-shirts and design T-shirts, and that’s like 10% of what I do. So if I could help other businesses figure it out along the way, that would be great.”

Favorites Among Clear’s abundance of items offered within the store, there are a few designs and items that she is particularly fond of, including the popular PNW Landscape Crew ($55) which features one of her first designs.

Additionally, Clear noted the Little Bear Onesie ($18) which even features tiny ears, a very Pacific Northwest style Long Sleeve Plaid Flannel Shirt ($56) which features more of her designs on the chest, and the City of Subdued Excitement Crew ($48). 2500 Elm St., Ste. 10, Bellingham, shopwildmaterial.com  August 2022 37

Style

Necessities

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The Perfect Summer Sandals WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

W

E STILL HAVE a few

precious weeks of summer sun left, and if you want to make the most of them, you’ll want to dress the part.

Nothing says “summer wardrobe” quite like sandals — and whether you’ll be sporting them at the beach, a cookout, or somewhere more formal, our local businesses have a pair for any occasion. Here are just a few of our favorites to get you inspired. 

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Revere Santa Fe Back Strap Sandal Beck’s Shoes, $160 113 W. Magnolia St., Bellingham, 360.734.3090, beckshoes.com

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Blowfish Heidi Wedge Sandals

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Donald Pliner HELEN Sandal

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Qupid Athena Sandal

Fringe, $65 1147 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.312.4067, wearfringe.com

Quinn + Foster, $228 128 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.671.2000 quinnandfoster.com

Betty Be Good, $30 8125 Birch Bay Square St., Ste. 201, 360.441.7691, shopbettybegood.com

August 2022 39

Style

Beauty

A Local Beauty Empire Zorganics WRITTEN BY ANELYSE MORRIS-BOHLKE PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

F

ROM ITS ETHICALLY-SOURCED line of beauty

products to its teaching and salon services, Zorganics has developed quite a name for itself in Whatcom County and beyond. While the reach of this company is vast and versatile now, its origins stem back to an entrepreneur, her daughter, and her dreams.

Zorganics Founder Frida Emalange has done it all, with more than 20 years of experience as a master esthetician, cosmetologist, and manicurist. While Bellingham’s Zorganics Salon and Spa and Zorganics Institute didn’t open until the late 2010s, the idea for Zorganics came to Emalange in 2001 when she moved to Bellingham with her daughter (and company namesake) Zora.

“Zora means ‘dawn’ or ‘rising sun,’” she says. “As the name implies, our goal is to ensure that our customer feels as fresh as the sun as it signals the start of a new day.”

Armed with her beauty background, Emalange opened Zora’s Styling Salon, a salon that catered to all hair types with a specialization in ethnic hair and hair extensions.

After spending some time in Bellingham, she decided to start product development research for Zorganics hair and skin products — releasing the brand Zorganics Cosmetics in 2007.

“I wanted to make sure that my customers utilize only the best hair and skincare products,” Emalange says. All Zorganics products are carefully and sustainably sourced from organically-grown, cruelty-free resources.

Since the brand dropped fifteen years ago, Zorganics Cosmetics has drastically expanded — now offering 10 skincare lines for all skin types, including lines for men’s skincare and babycare. The brand has also gone on to integrate wellness-focused products with chakra-balancing body scrubs and essential oils. Products can be purchased online or at Zorganics locations.

A Beauty-ful Place for Learning The local chain continued to grow, with two additional Zorganics Beauty Salon and Spas opening in Bellingham and Bellevue in 2011. After opening the smaller Grand Avenue location in 2017, Emalange felt it was finally time to open a beauty school. Zorganics Institute opened on Bakerview Road in 2018.

“I could not imagine the beautiful city [of Bellingham] without a beauty school,” she says. “People should not have to drive out of town everyday to go to school.”

The Zorganics Institute offers similar services to all other Zorganics locations, with the exception that the services are performed by beauty students. The Institute 40

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offers a variety of career programs that span from four and a half months to a little over a year and prepare students for careers as cosmetologists, barbers, hair designers, estheticians, manicurists, massage therapists, and beauty instructors.

Aside from offering services such as haircuts, styling, facials, manicures, waxes, and other cosmetic services, the Institute is proud to offer free services to those battling cancer and awards $2,500 scholarships to high school students and BIPOC (Black, Indigineous, and people of color) under the non-profit Zorganics Foundation.

“Having lost both my parents to cancer and having friends who have or have survived cancer and understanding what cancer patients go through during their treatments — I know how important it is to use safe products and to offer solutions for patients with hair loss,” Emalange says.

After years of growth and success, Emalange says her excitement grows with every graduate from the Zorganics Institute.

“As an internationally-trained beauty professional, I am passionate about providing clients with result-driven products and services,” she says. “Passing my knowledge to Zorganics Institute students and watching them grow to be successful is very exciting.” 410 W. Bakerview Rd., Ste. 112, Bellingham, 360.318.6411, zorganicsinstitute.edu and zorganics.com 

PROMOTION

SHOP LOCAL 1. Relax with CBD Starting at $19.99 Bella Rose Boutique 1134 10th St., Bellingham luvbellarose.com, 360.746.8163

2. Vases From Thailand $14.50 each

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Hamann’s Gallery & Gift Barkley Village, Bellingham 360.733.8898

3. Tarot Garden Seed Packets

by Sow the Magic | $7 each Wild Valley Apothecary 320 E. Fairhaven Ave., Ste. 100, Burlington 360.299.2112, wildvalleyapothecary.com

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320 E. Fairhaven Ave., Ste. 100, Burlington 360.299.2112, wildvalleyapothecary.com

5. Roller Shades by Hunter Douglas | Price based on size Russell’s Window Coverings 873 Hinotes Ct., A2, Lynden 360.656.6579, windowshadesandshutters.com

6. Joseph Ribkoff | Starting at $128 Three French Hens

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100 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.746.1047, threefrenchhens.com

7. Classic Clipper Cut | $30+ Midtown Barbershop Inside Fitness Evolution midtownbarber.booksy.com 360.595.7556

8. Loma Hair Products Shampoo and Conditioner Liter Duo | $62.95 Sunset Beauty Supply 1225 E. Sunset Dr. #150, Bellingham 360.758.0359, sunsetbeautysupply.com

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8 August 2022 41

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August 2022 43

DAILY PRIZES

AUGUST

1–31 8

2

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3 $50 Gift Certificate

One-Night Stay & Dine at Swinomish Casino & Lodge Enjoy a one-night stay and a $50 promotional Dining Card! ($239 value)

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$50 Gift Certificate Off of any aesthetic service or product of your choice. Free consultation available.

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Locally Owned Since 1994 Serving Sandwiches On Fresh Baked Bread With Meats Roasted In House, Soups Made From Scratch, And Daily Specials.

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$60 Gift Card

Birdie Package

Northwest Yarns – your local fiber arts shop featuring yarn, embroidery supplies, fabric, looms, spinning wheels, gifts, and so much more.

One-night hotel stay at Silver Reef Casino. Round of golf for two at Loomis Trail Golf Course with golf cart and range balls! ($249 value)

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Salon Bellissima

$50 Gift Certificate

Haircut with a deep condition and style. ($85 value)

Bellingham Cider offering 20 taps, seasonal locavore fare and waterfront views.

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Gift Card for 1 Free Round of Golf $50 Gift Certificate Casual, comfortable clothing and accessories for women.

Golfers will enjoy the panoramic views of Mt. Baker while being challenged on this beautiful course! ($70 value)

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Sous-vide style food for dogs. 100% human grade. ($174.99 value)

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$75 Gift Certificate A farm-to-table meal ready when you are!

Just re-heat and eat!

The finest Pacific Northwest fresh seafood and other locally home made products.

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60-minute Float Therapy

$50 Gift Card Handcrafted, small batch toffee that puts a smile on your face. Enjoy the sweet things in life!

20lb Bulk Box of “A Pup Above”

$100 Gift Card for Skagit’s Own Fish Market

Are you ready to experience the ultimate stillness? ($75 value)

$50 Gift Certificate for My Garden Nursery The colorful and fun garden center!

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2 TAPS Show Tickets Aug. 16th, 7PM State-of-the-art lighting, video, and flawless live sound at Mount Baker Theatre. ($139 value)

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$60 Labels Gift Card Hello friend! Did you know a $60 gift card buys you a complete and fabulous outfit at Labels?!

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$50 Gift Certificate for Garden Spot Nursery Your favorite spot for plants, pottery and gifts!

Hawaiian Restaurant in Downtown Bellingham.

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Bellingham Travel and Cruise We’ve got your travel covered with a set of Portland Leather passport wallets. ($75 value)

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Culture Cafe $50 Gift Card

$50 Gift Card Fat Shack serves Burgers, Wings, and our famous Fat Sandwiches.

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$50 Gift Card Snowy River Cocktail Co.

One-Night Stay & Dine at Swinomish Casino & Lodge Enjoy a one-night stay and a $50 promotional Dining Card! ($239 value)

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One Free Hour Pass Volli Bellingham 60 min Swedish Massage and a Signature Facial ($195 value)

Howard Miller Designer Clock From Wilson’s Furniture. ($ 249 value)

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$100 Gift Card for Ben Mann’s Artwork Can be redeemed at Fairhaven studio location.

No expiration date.

Art title: “Canyon Dog”

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1 Hours Pass for a pickleball court reservation! This gift certificate allows the use of 1 court for 1 hour for up to 4 individuals for free.

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Board Shop

$50 Gift Card Large Charcuterie Board Yeah Baby Boards gift card valued at $165

Come in to see us for everything you need to get cruising on four wheels.

4 Passes for LockBreaker Escapes escape room experience ($140 value)

$50 Gift Card for Otherside Bagel Co

August 2022 45

Home Styling by Season

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WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY AND ANELYSE MORRIS-BOHLKE

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Photos by Cocoa Laney

he changing of the seasons is an exciting time, especially here in the North Sound.

Fall’s arrival is reflected in our wardrobes and farmers market hauls — but as you swap flip flops for boots and summer veg for autumn squash, it might be time to consider refreshing your home too. Matching your living spaces to the season is a fun way to stay connected to the outdoors, celebrate holidays, and express your individual style all year long.

Redecorating doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank either — sometimes all you need are a few statement pieces to amp up your space. Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa by a warm fire during the winter months or preparing a summer BBQ in your kitchen, you can restyle your home to cater to your seasonal needs and give you the perfect vibes year-round.

Photos shot on location at the Bellingham Studio with styling courtesy of Wander Design + Rentals.

119 N. Commercial St., Ste. 760, Bellingham, thebellinghamstudio.com

August 2022 47

Building a Neutral Base

K

eeping your base decor simple will allow you to make subtle changes with the seasons while still tailoring everything to your personal taste. For ideas on how to get started, check out these tips from Rachel Louws of Salt & Cedar Interiors (saltandcedarinteriors.com).

Be picky with patterns (and colors): Any pattern in a neutral palette will marry well with season decor. Think narrow stripes, herringbone, or window pane.

Our favorite neutrals are different muted tones in the gray, mushroom, navy, blush, white, and cream palettes.

Switch it up by room: In a kitchen, it’s less about fabric prints and more about materials; for example, neutral stoneware, baskets, and metals. In the warmer months, we would recommend lighter accents like woven baskets, linen napkins, and colorful berry baskets. In the winter, we’d choose a heavy wood bowl filled with seasonal fruit, a display of stacked wood cutting boards, or a metallic planter. In a living room, we would instead focus more on the use of textures and pillows (depending on the season).

Invest in timeless artwork: Any art piece that you love should have a permanent place in your home regardless of the season. We love landscapes, vintage prints, and modern pieces from local artists. If you like the ability to change out your art seasonally, you could experiment with a Frame TV which allows you to have a resting art piece when your TV is not in use.

Choose practical items: Most of us don’t need more knick-knacks, so we love to design for the season while also being practical. We are big fans of using cloth napkins for everyday meals, while changing out our napkin collection for the season — plaids for fall, metallics for the holidays, mini florals for spring, and stripes for the summer.

Location, location, location: The best places for seasonal decor are your front porch, entryway console table, and fireplace mantle. We also love a seasonal moment in the kitchen! Maybe it’s Christmasthemed mugs and a hot chocolate bar in the winter, or a bowl of lemons in the summer. These are places that set the tone for your entire house.

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Rachel Louws and Olivia Huvane of Salt & Cedar Interiors

Photos by Jen Fox Photography

Embrace the power of plants: You can never go wrong with a potted plant — they’re a classic piece that can be used year-round. If you want it to adapt to a season, you could plant a tree in a lightweight pot that can be housed in a woven basket in the summer or spring, then easily moved to a heavier stone planter in the colder months.

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Decorating with Intention

“Design for your uniqueness, because that’s what our world truly needs: you.”

Alissa Lawton, Wander Design + Rentals

Photo by Tony Mueantonthian

Try your hand at DIY seasonal accents: The potential is infinite: You could dip-dye napkins, make candles, sew curtains, or even try your hand at creating floral displays.

Tip: Source your blooms sustainably from local growers such as Floralie Flower Farm. Floret Flowers in Skagit is also an invaluable resource for up-and-coming flower gardeners, and their in-demand workshops have received national press attention.

Photo by Carly Navarrete

easonal decor isn’t just meant to be stylish — your home is your haven, and so the objects you display should also feel meaningful. To learn more about how to design spaces that are both fashionable and personal, we spoke with Alissa Lawton, stylist and director of events for Wander Design + Rentals (rentwander.com). Lawton also writes about everything from interior design to simple living on her blog, Haven Illume (havenillume.com).

Floralie Flower Farm

Seek out items that have stories: This doesn’t necessarily mean buying new — you could instead display mementos (such as children’s drawings or holiday cards), found objects from your travels, or one-of-a-kind pieces from antique shops.

Tip: Penny Lane Antique Mall (Bellingham) and Red Door Antique Mall (Mount Vernon) are both great starting points when it comes to antique shopping.

Accent with beloved books: Wire stands and floating bookshelves allow your favorite reads to double as chic (and functional) decor. For example, displaying seasonal recipes from your favorite cookbook will keep your kitchen counter feeling fresh.

Tip: Consider picking up a cookbook by a local author. “The Weeknight Mediterranean Kitchen” by Samantha Ferraro and “Ethiopian Feast: The Crown Jewel of African Cuisine” by Mulunesh Belay were both penned by chefs right here in the North Sound!

Above all, only invest in items that are meaningful to you: It’s easy to get caught up in curating an Insta-worthy home, but your space is meant to bring you joy, not your mother-in-law or strangers on the internet.

“Take inspiration from nature, from publications, from brands — but only pluck the pieces that make sense for you,” advises Lawton. “Your home is a reflection of your beautiful self/ selves, just as it should be. Design for your uniqueness, because that’s what our world truly needs: you.”

Penny Lane Antique Mall

August 2022 49

Seasonal Styles

2 5

Springtime is an opportunity for change: We’re not just talking

Think beyond traditional color palettes: “Decor and design in your

Never underestimate the power of fragrance: Make spring blooms

about spring cleaning here. Purging your space of unwanted clutter is one way to shake things up — but while you’re tidying, try rearranging your furniture too. It will breathe new life into a room and (hopefully) inspire you to clean previously hard-toreach surfaces.

home is so personal that I think you should use the colors that feel lifegiving to you,” Lawton says.

Spring is often associated with pale pinks, yellows, and greens, but don’t worry if you’re not a pastel person. The season is all about new beginnings, so why not seize the opportunity to incorporate whatever colors bring you joy after a long winter?

such as lilacs, daffodils, and even cherry blossoms a focal point — after all, they smell just as delicious as they look. Essential oil diffusers are another easy way to keep your home smelling fresh, and you could even consider changing up your cleaning products to suit the season.

“I love the Mrs. Meyers line, and even just swapping out my cinnamon or evergreen dish soap or hand soap with the lilac scent … makes doing dishes a little bit more fun,” Lawton says.

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Spring 1 Jug from Phoebe Wahl & Co., $90

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Ceramic flower vase from Phoebe Wahl & Co., $35

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Ceramic mug from Phoebe Wahl & Co., $28

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4 Hillery Sproatt blanket from Phoebe Wahl & Co., $198

5 Book from Phoebe Wahl & Co., $30

6 Photo by Cocoa Laney

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Tray from Phoebe Wahl & Co., $29

7 Floral candle from Phoebe Wahl & Co., $29

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“Decor and design in your home is so personal that I think you should use the colors that feel life-giving to you.”

Flowers courtesy of Floralie Flower Farm

Alissa Lawton, Wander Design + Rentals

Phoebe Wahl & Co. 112 Grand Ave., Ste. 101, Bellingham, 360.525.3627, phoebewahl.shop

Photos shot on location at the Bellingham Studio with styling courtesy of Wander Design + Rentals. 119 N. Commercial St., Ste. 760, Bellingham, thebellinghamstudio.com

Floralie Flower Farm 8851 Custer School Rd., Custer, 360.389.7313, floralieflowerfarm.com

August 2022 51

Seasonal Styles 1 Glasses from Garden Room, $26 for four

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2 Cookbook from Garden Room, $35

3 Pitcher from Garden Room, $114

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Serving board from Garden Room, $70

5 Napkins from Garden Room, $21

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7 Flowers courtesy of Floralie Flower Farm

Photos by Cocoa Laney

Planter from Garden Room, $15

Photos shot on location at the Bellingham Studio with styling courtesy of Wander Design + Rentals.

119 N. Commercial St., Ste. 760, Bellingham, thebellinghamstudio.com

8 Cupcakes courtesy of Pure Bliss Desserts

9 Charcuterie utensils from Petals and Bloom, $40

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Garden Room 1006 Harris Ave., Ste. 120, Bellingham, 360.734.9949, gardenroomfairhaven.com

Pure Bliss Desserts 1424 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.739.1612, pureblissdesserts.com

Floralie Flower Farm 8851 Custer School Rd., Custer, 360.389.7313, floralieflowerfarm.com

Petals and Bloom 5780 N. Star Rd., Ferndale, 360.920.1294, petalsandbloomsdecor.com

Summer

“Those little things are not very expensive, but they can be really tactful when you’re freshening up the table design.”

Alissa Lawton, Wander Design + Rentals

Don’t shy away from color: “We’ve

been in a world of neutrals for a few years now, and I think that the trend toward color is really coming back in all facets,” Lawton says.

Summer is the perfect time to incorporate pops of brightness. This can be as easy as switching out the slip covers on your accent pillows or draping an eye-catching throw blanket over the couch.

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Treat the food as the focal point:

If you’re setting up for a summer cookout, remember that seasonal, deliberately arranged spreads are artful in their own right.

“There’s so many wood charcuterie boards, cutting boards, and serving boards that can easily have beautiful displays of food on them,” Lawton says. “That can really become a focal point on the table.”

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Get inspiration from items you already own: In terms of tablescapes,

start with the silverware you have, then add in new and budget-friendly accents. Bring in bursts of color with bright napkins, platters, pitchers, or even a table runner.

“Those little things are not very expensive, but they can be really tactful when you’re freshening up the table design,” Lawton says. “Use plates that you have already, your own forks and knives, your own flatware.”

August 2022 53

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Art All Year Long

ooking for a simple yet fun way to ensure your decor always feels fresh? We recommend investing in a collection of art prints. They’re affordable, easy to store, and can be swapped in and out of frames depending on the vibe of the season. Luckily our region has no shortage of creatives — and you can give back to our local arts scene by purchasing some of their work.

Spring “First Warm Spring Day”

17×22" giclee print by Phoebe Wahl $90, phoebewahl.shop

Summer “Feeling Rosy”

12×16" print of original painting by Kendra Castillo $43, kendracastillo.com “Siren Sunset”

14×13" canvas print by Quinn Dimitroff of Quinnarie Studio $100, society6.com/quinndimitroff

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“Just Go For It”

4×6" giclee print on 1" mat by Ciara Sana $15, artbyciara.com

Fall “Bellingham Coffee”

8.5×11" print by Kristen Frakes of Kick Step Design $20, kickstepdesign.com “Lummi Island from Skagit”

6×4.75" oil on paper by Nicki Lang $40, nickilang.com

Winter “Barn Owl”

8×10" print of pen and ink drawing by Amanda M. Jorgenson $20, amandamjorgenson.com

“The Way Up”

6×8" linocut print by Sarah Finger of Skyline Printworks $30, skylineprintworks.com

August 2022 55

Seasonal Styles

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Break out your coziest blankets and pillows: When it comes to fall decor, the

first area that comes to Lawton’s mind is the couch. It’s time to swap out light linens for warmer, heavier knits to keep you bundled all season long.

“Toss the fresh summer colorful pops off of the couch — not that you need to do away with color, but [bring] in some more of those fall tones,” she says. “Maybe some deep greens, oranges, tones we see in nature, some terracotta.”

Look to nature for inspiration:

Autumn is the ideal time to forage for organic materials such as ferns, leaves, and grasses. Consider crafting a custom wreath, swapping traditional florals for fall branch arrangements, or even incorporating seasonal produce items such as squash and gourds (not just jack-o-lanterns!).

“I always am careful about what I’m burning in my house,” says Lawton. “But soy-based, coconut-based [candles] — those things are all great, and they’re comfortable and cozy.”

A good candle will add ambiance and (ideally) make you want to spend more time indoors as the weather starts to change. Choosing the right dish or holder is also an opportunity to add flair — we recommend seeking out beautiful, textured ceramics that are crafted locally.

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Go crazy with (healthy) candles:

Photos shot on location at the Bellingham Studio with styling courtesy of Wander Design + Rentals. 119 N. Commercial St., Ste. 760, Bellingham, thebellinghamstudio.com

“Toss the fresh summer colorful pops off of the couch — not that you need to do away with color, but [bring] in some more of those fall tones. Maybe some deep greens, oranges, tones we see in nature, some terracotta.”

Alissa Lawton, Wander Design + Rentals

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Fall 7

3 5

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1

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Small pink vase from Petals and Bloom, $6

Candle from Petals and Bloom, $26

Throw blanket from Petals and Bloom, $65

Wooden dish from Petals and Bloom, $20

5

6

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White vase from Petals and Bloom, $30

Beige throw pillows from Petals and Bloom, $48

Brown lumbar pillow from Petals and Bloom, $40

Petals and Bloom 5780 N. Star Rd., Ferndale, 360.920.1294, petalsandbloomsdecor.com

August 2022 57

Seasonal Styles

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3

Embrace the spirit of the season — even after the holidays:

Bring a personal touch or two to your table: Handmade elements, such as

“I personally tend to stick to things that feel winter-inspired more so than holiday, necessarily, so I can use them longer,” Lawton says. “Like beautiful wood serving boards, bringing in napkins that feel like they fit with the wintertime … velvet tends to feel like a cozy fabric, and there are a lot of options for that on the tabletop too.”

Subtle white lights, rich woods, tapered candles, and neutral tones feel seasonal — but unlike most Christmas decor, these elements can be displayed through February or March.

calligraphed menus and custom place cards, are easy ways to bring the spirit of the season to the table.

“When you’re looking at your table and you have gathered the plates and all of the hard goods, [think] about topping that with thoughtful elements,” Lawton says.

“When we have Christmas dinner or whatnot, our kids always make the place cards.”

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Create coziness wherever possible:

We often think of this season in relation to holiday gatherings, but a serene winter’s day can also inspire us to turn inward. In need of a recharge?

Try transforming a corner of your space into a sanctuary for all things hygge, complete with a journal, pen, candles, and your favorite cup of tea.

Winter 1 Tea bowl from Phoebe Wahl & Co., $33

2 Plate from Phoebe Wahl & Co., $31

1 4

3 Journal from Current and Furbish, $14

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6

5

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Photos by Cocoa Laney

Candle from Current and Furbish, $28

Photos shot on location at the Bellingham Studio with styling courtesy of Wander Design + Rentals. 119 N. Commercial St., Ste. 760, Bellingham, thebellinghamstudio.com

“I personally tend to stick to things that feel winter-inspired more so than holiday, necessarily, so I can use them longer.”

Alissa Lawton, Wander Design + Rentals

Current and Furbish 1115 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.733.3224 currentandfurbish.com

Petals and Bloom 5780 N. Star Rd., Ferndale, 360.920.1294, petalsandbloomsdecor.com

5 Tea towels from Current and Furbish, $69

6 Dish from Current and Furbish, $25

7 Throw blanket from Petals and Bloom, $50

Phoebe Wahl & Co. 112 Grand Ave., Ste. 101, Bellingham, 360.525.3627, phoebewahl.shop August 2022 59

Photos by Cocoa Laney

Bringing the Outdoors In Plant Q&A with Kym George of Urban Treasury If you had to pick a favorite plant to represent each season, which would you choose, and why?

The summer plant for me is the hibiscus; it is tropical and can live all year indoors here in Washington.

When the time is right, you can move the hibiscus onto your deck and watch it bloom all summer long.

In fall I love chrysanthemums, which symbolize happiness and vitality.

Urban Treasury has “Gardens in a Bag” that grow “mums” right in your kitchen window.

Winter is for sure the poinsettia, hardy yet indoor-only in our zone.

The poinsettia is a beautiful addition to holiday decor (but please keep out of reach of your pets!).

Spring is my favorite season, and the peace lily will not disappoint. It is a lovely house plant and you will have blooms all year!

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Let’s focus on our current season! What are your favorite ways to capture late summer vibes using plants and florals?

I like to mix house plants and cut flowers to make a tablescape that can go from the dining room to the deck (i.e. pothos with sunflowers). You can also put a philodendron plant in a basket, insert small cups with cut cosmos and marigolds around it, then disguise the cups and plant container with moss.

Color, cheer, and sweet smells — that’s what summer is all about!

Can you share a few ideas on how to incorporate plants native to the PNW into seasonal home decor?

Oh, this is easy! I love to forage the trails at Whatcom Falls Park to find elements such as small stones, sticks, pinecones, and of course mosses to make beautiful big moss bowls. Not only is it a fun project, a beautiful

moss bowl will add a touch of elegance to any space. We will have classes to show how to make them this summer.

Urban Treasury also specializes in vintage home goods, barware, et cetera. Beyond plants, do you have any suggestions for curating vintage seasonal decor?

We believe in repurposing whenever possible. Everyone is biking and hiking in our area this summer, so it’s nice to bring that vibe indoors. If you find an old bike rim, plant it with succulents.

In fall, have a big old basket full of pinecones with our lovely home scents.

In winter, put out an old tray with beautiful vintage cups and spoons for morning coffee and light a candle to start your day. I also love a lot of pillows and throws to snuggle up with in the evening. 1031 N. State St., Ste. 102, Bellingham, facebook.com/urbantreasury

Courtesy of handmade. la conner

handmade. la conner

Scents of the Season

Photo by Emilie Friske

Coziest Candles The small-batch candles from Saffron and Sass are crafted with the most eco-friendly components available, including dried and pressed botanicals sourced right here in the Pacific Northwest. Their inventory features a wealth of nature-inspired scents such as fiddlehead, aurae, fig leaf, and redwood.

Candles from Reclamation Candle Company are quirky, sweet-smelling, and always eco-friendly. As opposed to traditional containers, their candles come in vintage teacups and glasses (and yes, they can be cleaned and used for cocktails or coffee once the candle burns out!). True to style, their La Conner brick-and-mortar also features a coffee bar.

We love the seasonal scents from Orcas Island Candle Co. Their summer lineup boasts options like rosemary and

Bella Rose Boutique

citrus, sweet orange chai, and even candles inspired by island locations such as Mountain Lake. Best of all, every candle is hand-poured using non-toxic ingredients such as soy wax and essential oils.

Artisan Soaps Barn Cat Creations makes artisan soaps for any time of year. Pick up their Tropical Sorbet scent in the summer, the Cashmere Luxe during winter, and the floral-scented, woodsy Lavender Forest in the spring.

Samish Bay Soaps has been making delightfully scented soaps since 1997, and each bar is made from pure essential oils. Scents like lemonder (lemon + lavender) will make your bathroom smell like summer all year long, whereas their fir needle bar is practically guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit.

If you prefer a brick-and-mortar shopping experience, handmade. la conner has bath and body products to soothe both the skin and the soul. Fairhaven’s Bella Rose Boutique also has everything from soaps to scrubs, bath bombs, lotions, and anything else you might need for an evening of pampering. In Bellingham, the newly-opened MW Soapworks storefront prioritizes soaps by regional artisans as well as those from marginalized communities.

Do-It-Yourself Scents Maybe you’ve heard of Anne-Marie Faiola — as the “Soap Queen” of Whatcom County (and, well, the rest of the U.S.), she runs both a DIY blog (soapqueen.com) and Bramble Berry, a hugely successful craft supply company. Bramble Berry is a DIY lover’s dream, with kits for everything from soap to bath bombs, cosmetics, skincare, and more. They also offer a wealth of kits for seasons and holidays such as Halloween and Valentine’s Day. August 2022 61

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Pros To Know We are pleased to share with you these select building professionals who can assist on your projects, whether you’re planning a small update or a major home construction project.

Start your project on a firm foundation.

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The Pros Alyssa Fitz - KeyBank Mortgage Fitz Funding Team | p. 71 Barron Heating AC Electrical & Plumbing | p. 64 Corwin Electrical Services | p. 67 Garden Spot Nursery | p. 64 Highline Construction | p. 70 Homeport Interiors | p. 69 Jennifer Ryan Design | p. 64 Kimbler Insurance Agency | p. 71 Madali’s Exceptional Cleaning Services LLC | p. 66 Marr’s Heating and Air Conditioning | p. 68 Northwest Fine Furnishings | p. 67 Options Cabinetry | p. 69 Reference Media | p. 72 Russell’s Window Coverings | p. 72 Taft Barrett Wealth Management Group | p. 68 Topside Roofing and Siding | p. 66 Windsor Plywood | p. 70 August 2022 63

PROS TO KNOW \ PLUMBING

BARRON HEATING AC ELECTRICAL & PLUMBING Home comfort goes WAY beyond just heating and cooling.

Choose a company you know and trust for all your home performance needs with Barron Plumbing, the newest division of Barron Heating AC Electrical & Plumbing.

Barron’s experienced team of licensed Plumbers offer a wide range of plumbing services like WholeHome™ Plumbing and Drain and Sewer Inspections, as well as water filtration systems, sump pumps, traditional and tankless hot water heaters, and more. Don’t get caught in hot water — or without! Let Barron keep your home or business safe and comfortable from the pipes on up.

As your Home and Building Performance Experts since 1972, Barron serves both residential and commercial customers in the I5 corridor from Blaine to Marysville, Oak Harbor to Concrete, and the San Juan Islands. At Barron Heating AC Electrical & Plumbing, we stand by Our Mission: Improving Lives™.

5100 Pacific Hwy., Ferndale 360.685.5182 barron-plumbing.com

PROS TO KNOW \ INTERIOR DESIGN

JENNIFER RYAN DESIGN Jennifer Ryan Design is a Bellingham based interior design and remodeling company bringing sophisticated whimsy to your most treasured space. Jennifer has an uncanny ability to combine unexpected patterns, colors and textures making your home reflect your distinct personality.

From concept and design, to production, Jennifer Ryan Design projects run smoothly and professionally, with a high level of collaboration between clients, and subcontractors. Committed to exceeding expectations, Jennifer understands each individual clients wants and dreams.

Whether it be a kitchen, bathroom, home gym or office, even your entire home, Jennifer will realize your vision in ways you never imagined. Her hands-on approach assures that all elements are seamlessly executed, and your wishes and goals are met.

See for yourself why clients and design professionals alike rave about Jennifer Ryan Design. Jennifer’s impeccable design, attention to detail and easy work style will Design Your Way Home.

Jennifer Ryan Design 360.319.7092 jennifer@jenniferryandesign.com JenniferRyanDesign.com

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GARDEN SUPPLY / PROS TO KNOW

GARDEN SPOT NURSERY 900 Alabama St., Bellingham 360.676.5480 garden-spot.com

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!

Summer is a great time to spruce your garden, find flowers for the pollinators, and get your pottery on sale. Pottery is always 30% off through August!

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!

August Classes August 6th 9AM LANDSCAPE DESIGN Back by popular demand! Join landscape designer and artist Debra for a crash course in landscape design.

She will help you realize your garden dreams. Bring pictures for individual advice! Class is free.

August 13th 9AM POLLINATORS, A GARDENER’S BEST FRIEND Join us for this class on pollinators.

We will talk about what’s blooming in the garden now for butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, and more. Care for your pollinators year round! Class is free.

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PROS TO KNOW \ SIDING

TOPSIDE ROOFING AND SIDING For over 30 years Topside Roofing & Siding has provided and installed Quality Products from the most well-known home improvement brands in the industry.

We are licensed and bonded through the state and are in good standing with the Better Business Bureau.

We are proud to be a GAF MASTER ELITE® Contractor. Only 2% of roofers in North America are invited to become GAF MASTER ELITE® Contractors.

As a GAF MASTER ELITE® Contractor our employees are all trained and tested by GAF to ensure we install their products to manufacturing standards.

As a result, our workmanship and warranties are unmatched. Homeowners throughout the area have grown to know us and depend on us and our “Commitment to Quality.”

We are proud to offer our services in all of Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties. Including Bellingham, Lynden, Ferndale, Blaine, Anacortes, Burlington, Mount Vernon and more.

161 E. Horton Rd. Bellingham 360.752.2220, topsideroofing.com

PROS TO KNOW \ HOUSE CLEANING

MADALI’S EXCEPTIONAL CLEANING SERVICES LLC Good housekeeping starts at Madali’s Exceptional Cleaning services LLC where she has served all of Whatcom County and other surrounding areas for over 20+ years. Offering superior customer service to each and every client Madali has expanded into a larger business that not only offers outstanding residential and commercial cleaning but has scaled into: • Sanitizing and disinfection • Apartment turnovers • Office cleaning • School facilities • Post construction • Retail shopping centers • Medical centers • Move out cleanings and more!

At Madali’s Exceptional Cleaning Services LLC you can only expect the best worth ethic, passion and attention to detail with every job she books. Madali’s Exceptional Cleaning Services LLC is licensed, bonded and insured.

We also offer eco-friendly options!

360.326.6454 cleaningservicebellingham.com

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ELECTRICIAN / PROS TO KNOW

CORWIN ELECTRICAL SERVICES Corwin Electrical Services is a family owned and operated company started in May of 2016. Our focus is to provide quality, reliable service at a fair price for the long run. When the economy is on an upswing and prices are climbing we maintain our same fair price and great customer service so our customers keep calling us back in the future!

We offer many different types of electrical services from Industrial, Commercial, Residential, Generator installations, Private utility locating, Load study monitoring, Parking lot light servicing, and more!

Corwin Electrical Services strives to provide high quality, reliable work with great customer service. Our trained and certified electricians go above and beyond to make sure every customer is satisfied.

Steve Corwin 360.920.1893 Corwinelectrical.com

FURNITURE STORE / PROS TO KNOW

NORTHWEST FINE FURNISHINGS For more than 44 years, Northwest Fine Furnishings has been dedicated to helping its customers turn their house into a home. Let our expertise and large selection of furniture and giftware from trusted brands like Intercon, Cal Lighting, Stylus, Whittier, Oakcraft, and Sunny Design, along with our extensive selection of lighting companies, give you the ability to create the look you have always envisioned for your home. From oak and cherry, to maple and pine, we have a wide variety of finishes for all of your wood furniture needs and our wide selection, both contemporary and traditional, offer over 400 fabric options for you to choose from. Add a touch of class and sophistication to your home with our wide selection for all rooms — bedroom, living room, dining, office, and more! Visit our impressive showroom today and let’s find the right choices for you!

919 Riverside Dr., Mount Vernon 360.424.8455 nwff.com

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PROS TO KNOW \ HEATING

MARR’S HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING Marr’s Heating and Air Conditioning has been providing top-of-the-line residential Heating and Cooling services to Whatcom County for over 55 years — and three generations of local family operation! The Marr’s mission is clear: “To provide an exceptional customer experience by developing exceptional employees.” Simply put, Marr’s Heating is committed to serving their customers the right way by hiring with excellence, training with excellence, and installing only the most reliable equipment. Marr’s Heating puts a special focus on installing high-efficiency heating and cooling options, such as forced-air Heat Pumps and Ductless Heat Pump systems. These options have risen in popularity as Whatcom County homeowners make the move towards renewable energy sources. Additionally, Marr’s offers a variety of yearly maintenance plans to help the homeowner keep their equipment operating at peak efficiency, and their energy bills low — and if you’re looking to upgrade your system, Marr’s is pleased to offer free, in-home consultations!

1677 Mt. Baker Hwy., Bellingham 360.734.4455 marrsheating.com

PROS TO KNOW \ FINANCIAL PLANNING

TAFT BARRETT WEALTH MANAGEMENT GROUP

William J. Zollner Financial Consultant Associate Vice President Investment Officer

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

Josh G. Barrett Financial Advisor First Vice President Investment Officer

The Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors and Top Women Wealth Advisors ranking algorithm are based on industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC, which does not receive compensation from the advisors or their firms in exchange for placement on a ranking. Investment performance is not a criterion.

Investment and Insurance Products: NOT FDIC Insured CAR-0622-02871 68

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NO Bank Guarantee

The Taft Barrett Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors, focuses on what is most important to you, your family, and your organization.

Our team of experienced professionals provide the tailored advice, knowledge, and global resources needed to help make informed, confident decisions about your current and future wealth.

We are committed to providing exceptional client service and are dedicated to helping make a meaningful difference in your life by bringing together the diverse skills, extensive experience, and advanced credentials of our dedicated wealth management professionals.

Congratulations to Toni L. Taft on her selection to the 2022 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors and the 2022 Forbes Best-In-State Top Women Wealth Advisors.

MAY Lose Value

23 Bellwether Way, Ste. 200, Bellingham 360.714.2761 william.zollner@wellsfargoadvisors.com www.taftbarrettwmg.com

CABINETRY / PROS TO KNOW

OPTIONS CABINETRY You’ll find everything you need at Bellingham’s one-stop interior design center — Homeport Interiors and Options Cabinetry. Locally owned and operated with our in-house design team offering Interior Design, Kitchen and Bath Design, and Space Planning.

Options Cabinetry is focused on creating beautiful and functional cabinetry for every lifestyle, budget, and dream while providing original custom designs that allow our clients to set themselves apart. Let our designers at and Options Cabinetry help you get started today. No project is ever too big or too small; too long or too short.

Whether it’s your home or business, custom design is our specialty, and we can’t wait to help your dream become a reality.

KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN. INTERIOR DESIGN. SPACE PLANNING. FURNITURE DESIGN. CABINETS. CARPET. FURNITURE. KNOBS AND PULLS. HARDWOOD. LUXURY VINYL PLANK. TILE. LAMINATE. COUNTER TOPS AND MORE.

4071 Hannegan Rd., Ste. K, Bellingham 360.746.8759, optionsci.com

TILE / PROS TO KNOW

HOMEPORT INTERIORS You’ll find everything you need at Bellingham’s onestop interior design center — Homeport Interiors and Options Cabinetry. Locally owned and operated with our in-house design team offering Interior Design, Kitchen and Bath Design, Furniture & Décor, and Space Planning.

HomePort Interiors is focused on creating unique designs while reflecting our client’s personality and lifestyle, by capturing their design dreams and making them a reality. We have a wide selection of choices from eco-friendly carpets, distinctive wood flooring, luxury vinyl and European tile that meet your personalized needs. Our broad selection of custom furnishings allows you to create a beautiful space. Let our designers help you get started today. No project is ever too big or too small; too long or too short. Whether it’s your home or business, custom design is our specialty, and we can’t wait to help your dream become a reality.

KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN. INTERIOR DESIGN. SPACE PLANNING. FURNITURE DESIGN. CABINETS. CARPET. FURNITURE. KNOBS AND PULLS. HARDWOOD. LUXURY VINYL PLANK. TILE. LAMINATE. COUNTER TOPS AND MORE. 4071 Hannegan Rd., Ste. K, Bellingham 360.392.8754, homeportinteriors.com

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PROS TO KNOW \ CONSTRUCTION

HIGHLINE CONSTRUCTION Repeat Gold Winner for “Best Builder” in Bellingham Alive’s Best of the Northwest competition, Highline Construction consistently ranks at the top when it comes to quality customer care and expert level design and building 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 will work together seamlessly to deliver on their clients’ unique dreams. They’re known for their custom homes and remodels and are now offering excavation services. In addition to providing an exceptional customer experience and quality craftsmanship, Highline is community-minded and donates to numerous local non-profit organizations each year.

1420 Meador Ave k105, Bellingham 360.746.5455 highlinewa.com

PROS TO KNOW \ LUMBER SUPPLY

WINDSOR PLYWOOD When plywood is in the name, it’s easy to assume that Windsor sells plywood. Well they do, and a lot of it for that matter, but you’ll find so much more than plywood when you walk through their doors. In fact, Windsor Plywood has been in Bellingham for over 50 years and in that time, they have evolved in to one of the Pacific Northwest’s premium building materials suppliers.

Whether you are a professional builder or a true weekend warrior, Windsor will have the expert advice and quality finishing products you expect and deserve. You will find some of the latest trends like live edge lumber and shiplap as well traditional building materials from decking and fencing to lumber and mouldings, as well as the largest selection of domestic and exotic hardwoods in the area. Windsor also has the area’s longest running door shop where they pre-hang interior and exterior doors to your exact needs and offer custom milling and cutting of their products as well as prefinishing in their spray facility.

1208 Iowa St. Bellingham 360.676.1025 windsorplywood.com

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INSURANCE AGENT / PROS TO KNOW

KIMBLER INSURANCE AGENCY Local • Independent • Trustworthy • Auto/Home • Life/Health • Commercial Quotes are free, advice is free, savings are free.

Contact us to see if we can help with your insurance needs!

Kimbler Insurance Agency LLC

Alex Kimbler Insurance Agent 360.312.5104 KimblerInsurance.com Alex@KimblerInsurance.com 1313 E Maple St., Ste. 750, Bellingham

MORTGAGE LENDER / PROS TO KNOW

ALYSSA FITZ - KEYBANK MORTGAGE FITZ FUNDING TEAM Newly positioned at KeyBank, I have been in Whatcom county’s financial industry for the past 10 years. With a license in Financial Para-Planning and a degree from WWU, I am prepared to move mountains for you. It’s important to have a dependable and literate Mortgage Advisor on your side when shopping or refinancing and I guarantee to under-promise and over-deliver. I am available 24/7 to my clients and I work hard to get to YES! With KeyBank I am able to offer 0.25% off your rate. I have many portfolio mortgage options that offer as little as 0% down and never any private mortgage insurance. My favorites include our Physician/Dentist, Key Community and SilverKey Mortgages. Fixed and Adjustable Rate terms make finding the right payment easy — we will work together to find the best fit for you.

Call me or visit me in branch today. Let’s plan for your real estate success!

Alyssa Fitz - Mortgage Loan Officer NMLS # 2062677, WA-31-99-0351 1221 N. State St., Bellingham Office: 360.527.4473 Mobile: 360.441.6319

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PROS TO KNOW \ WINDOW COVERINGS

RUSSELL’S WINDOW COVERINGS Locally owned and operated for more than 25 years Russell’s Window Coverings has been bringing you a huge range of options, styles, and designs for your home or office.

Russell’s brings to you a vast selection of window treatments perfect for just about any window imaginable. From our classic horizontal blinds to our timeless plantation shutters and motorized shades, we’re sure to have a look and design that meets your specific needs.

Specializing in Hunter Douglas products, which are well known for quality and customization options, we offer a variety of products and outstanding service, ensuring you get the personalized look that suits your lifestyle, décor and budget.

Call us today to schedule a complimentary consultation to discuss the beautiful options available for your home.

873 Hinotes Court, A-2, Lynden 360.656.6579 RussellsWindowCoverings@gmail.com WindowShadesAndShutters.com

PROS TO KNOW \ HOME ELECTRONICS

REFERENCE MEDIA Technology’s goal is to make life easier and more enjoyable. Through music, movies, lighting, shading, and smart home integration, Reference Media has adopted that goal. With 18 years of local proprietorship, Reference Media strives to make meaningful connections between personal tastes and cutting-edge electronics.

Whether adding a media room for family movie night, creating a two-channel stereo system for audiophiles of any level, dialing in the perfect color temperature in low voltage lighting, automating window shades, or tying all of it together with Crestron Home, we thrive on the satisfaction of our customers.

Our in-house systems in our brand-new showroom feature many of our product lines and can be incorporated into any budget. Life is best played as a long game. Reference Media is here to facilitate our customers happiness for years to come. Visit to see how Reference Media is “more than just an audio shop!”

1611 N State Street Bellingham 360.714.8860, reference-media.net

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Real Estate Built on Honesty & Integrity - working to ensure my clients success -

We m e a s ur e s uc c e s s diffe r e ntly .

WHATCOM, INC.

We believe in democratic

decision making and a fair distribution of profits.

We recognize and appreciate the good will of our clients, the beauty and abundance of our Pacific Northwest home, the camaraderie and friendship of our coworkers, and the

opportunity to express ourselves creatively through our craft.

We strive to reduce our

environmental impact through conscientious business practices, thoughtful design, and building with respect for our limited resources.

We pursue our work because it

brings us joy and satisfaction.

For a complete list of our

Guiding Principles visit our website.

Karen Timmer Branch Broker - CRS, ABR, CNE 360-410-0848 Over 30 Years Experience KarenTimmer.com

CLEAN CARE & RESTORATION

Before

After

Serving all of Whatcom and most of Skagit county for over 45 years, Swan’s Clean Care and Restoration cleans carpets, area rugs, and upholstery.

Free estimates!

360.676.0655 swanscarpetcleaning.com 2010 Pacific St., Bellingham

CELEBRATING

13 YEARS

International Eats MENUS FEBRUARY 2020

VALENTINE’S DAY, AM TO PM

DISPLAY UNTIL FEBRUARY 29 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

DREAM EN SUITE BELLINGHAM COCKTAIL WEEK

BEST

HOME & REMODEL

OF THE

NORTHWEST PLUS Featured Homes

Adding Texture to Your Home Gardeners’ Secret Tips

MARCH 2018 DISPLAY UNTIL MARCH 31 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

OCTOBER 2019 DISPLAY UNTIL OCTOBER 31 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

SUMMER FU N

Comfy & Cozy

Spirits

BU CKE T LI ST

WINTER FASHION

Cocktail recipes Distillery profiles

Plus

Bartender Q & As

Second Acts

Small Bites

Vibrant Mount Vernon

Fall Hikes

SEPTEMBER 2018

DECEMBER 2017

DISPLAY UNTIL SEPTEMBER 30 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

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JULY/AUGUST 2020 DISPLAY UNTIL AUGUST 31 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

Olympic Dreams on Hold

Smoked Apple Martini 13moons Restaurant

Guide to Style in the North Sound

Pros to Know

Gardening Q & A

See, Make, Play Local Art for the Five Senses

FEBRUARY 2019 DISPLAY UNTIL FEBRUARY 28 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

Spectacular Seafood

Inner Beauty

Ski to Sea

Mount Baker Theatre at 90

PLUS MAY 2017

NOVEMBER 2019

DISPLAY UNTIL MAY 31 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

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Holiday Shopping Guide Andy Beech Guitars Herb’s Cider

Bringing fresh local content since 2009. WE SPEAK to where you live.

For subscriptions and advertising information and rates call 360.483.4576 ext. 4 or bellinghamalive.com

Review: Banter After Hours 76 Local Find: Widnor Farms 80 Sip: Madrone Cellars 84

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Chef’s Corner

Taste

Lonestar Queso

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Taste

Review

The Cheekiest Happy Hour in Town Banter After Hours WRITTEN BY GAIA CRANS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

I

F YOU WANT to feel like you’re

on a sunny beach vacation without leaving Bellingham, After Hours is the place to be! The combination of cozy seating, chill music, bright boho decor, and arrangement of tropical plants will make you feel like you’re lounging in a hammock with the sea breeze in your hair and sand between your toes.

After Hours first opened in March 2022 as a second Banter (formerly ANMLY) location, with Banter as the morning joint and After Hours as the evening joint.

“Our cafe space has come a long way, and we’ve figured out how to work within the confines of it, but 76

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at the end of the day, the physical space itself holds us back,” says Owner Emile Diffley, whose ultimate goal with After Hours was to create a playful, cheeky environment that also serves high-quality products. “This was a cool opportunity to step into a space where we could expand our seating capacity, and have the resources of a fully equipped commercial kitchen to continue to get creative with.”

The After Hours menu is constantly changing as the inventive kitchen and bar tweak in-house recipes, play around with fun and unique ingredients, and search for ways to improve. Along with the food’s creativity, the menu is also

intentionally set up to accommodate dietary limitations.

“We have an awesome team that is driven, passionate, and has the necessary skill set to make this restaurant thrive,” Diffley says.

One crucial member of his team is Chef Kai Despain, who works alongside Diffley to make mouthwatering creations using his keen palate and ingenuity. One of Despain’s favorite dishes is the Teriyaki Bowl ($15).

“I spent four years working at a Japanese sushi bar when I was 15, so teriyaki is very close to my heart,” Despain says, and Diffley is influenced by past experiences in a similar way.

“I was very fortunate to have the opportunities to work in some pretty amazing food and beverage operations between Los Angeles and Australia,” Diffley says.

Diffley has occupied almost every restaurant position from dishwasher to barista to manager and finally decided he wanted to return to his hometown, Bellingham, to open Banter and eventually After Hours as culmination of everything he learned while working.

Cuisine To start, we had to try a signature share plate — the Fried Tostones ($9), another one of Chef Despain’s favorites, features crispy, warm plantains that are salty and savory with a hint of sweetness.

They are served with a delectable mojo verde sauce made with citrus juice, cilantro, and peppers that brightens up the dish and adds some spice.

Once your appetite is whetted, you can fill up fully with the All Time Bowl ($16), a beautifully arranged mix of shredded red cabbage, nutty

cauliflower, harissa tomato chutney, avocado, and pickled fresno with turmeric cashew cream, lime, and Tajin, all on a warm bed of brown rice. This rainbow of colors is crunchy, fresh, and packs a perfect amount of heat.

Libations As you move on to drinks, you’ll be met with creations that are equally as flavorful as the food. The Chupacabra ($12) is a good example. Its color resembles a soft sunset over the Badlands complete with a splash of red Tajin cascading down the side of the glass, and a lime garnish to brighten it up.

“Our Chupacabra is nearly addicting. It’s essentially a turmeric mezcal margarita,” Diffley says.

“Easy sipping but has some zing, very refreshing — especially this time of year.”

And the perfect way to end your evening is sipping on The Beetnik ($12). This cocktail’s name and elegant reddish purple color reveal its main ingredient: beet juice, which pairs

perfectly with the London dry gin, green chartreuse, lavender simple, and lemon. Its deep, earthy flavor is cut by a garnish of beetroot powder and sugar, but it’s all tied together and kept light by a frothy layer of aquafaba (a vegan alternative to egg white).

Despite After Hours’ flawless blend of delicious food, drink, and casual atmosphere, Banter hasn’t settled yet.

Stay tuned for a third location coming to Fairhaven as the team continues their experimental food journey, this time with all-day brunch vibes. 114 Prospect St., Bellingham, 360.788.4849, banterhospitality.com 

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Chef’s Corner

Lonestar Queso Chef Stew Navarre of Jack’s BBQ RECIPE COURTESY OF JACK’S BBQ | PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

T

AKE IT FROM us: When it comes to Tex-Mex,

Ingredients

the Lonestar Nachos at Jack’s just can’t be beat.

In addition to a healthy portion of chips and beans, the star ingredient in this dish is brisket slow-cooked over 18-foot specialty woodfire grills. All of this comes together thanks to Jack’s signature queso, which is made extra special thanks to smoked veg and three types of cheese.

While the average home chef might not have a Texas-style barbecue in their backyard, they can certainly put their own spin on Jack’s queso. This dip is smoky, lightly spicy, and almost sinfully cheesy — honestly, what’s not to love? We can’t get enough of it with chips, but really, nachos are just the beginning. Jack’s queso can be served with most any Tex-Mex dish that needs little extra richness.

¼ cup diced yellow onion ¼ cup smoked and diced Roma tomato ¼ cup smoked and diced poblano pepper 1 teaspoon vegetable oil Pinch of salt 1 ¼ cup milk ¹/³ cup cream ½ teaspoon chili powder ¼ teaspoon paprika Pinch of cayenne (or more if you like spice) ½ pound diced yellow American cheese ½ pound diced pepper jack cheese

Meet the Chef

• Start by smoking the tomatoes and poblano peppers on your smoker or grill until they just begin to soften.

Once cooked, dice the vegetables.

First and foremost, Chef Stew Navarre hails from Texas, so it’s safe to say he knows a thing or two about Tex-Mex. His father worked on an oil rig, meaning that Navarre was able to travel at a young age — all the while picking up culinary influences from cities around the world.

After realizing he wanted to pursue cooking professionally, Navarre attended the Culinary Institute of America in New York. He then worked in various restaurants in Houston, Texas, before relocating with his wife to Seattle, where the original Jack’s location is based.

“Long story short, we found Jack’s Barbecue and … it’s like home here,” Navarre says. “It’s part of my DNA. I’m originally from Texas, and so I get to have all the things that I miss about Texas at work — good food, and you know, lots of Texans come in and they feel like they’re at home.”

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Assembly

• Saute onions and salt in vegetable oil. Once onions are soft and translucent, add the tomatoes and peppers. Saute everything until soft and set aside.

• In a small sauce pot, combine the milk, cream, chili powder, paprika, and cayenne. Bring to a simmer.

• Turn off heat and whisk in the cheese. Whisk until it’s all melted.

• Last but not least, stir in the sauteed tomatoes, onions, and peppers. Enjoy! 

Dining Guide Taste

DINING KEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to $9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $10–19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $20–29 . . . . . . . $30 or greater . . . . . . . . . . . . . Breakfast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dinner . . . . . . . . . .Family-Friendly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Takeout . . . . . . . . Outdoor Seating . . . . . . . . . . Reservations . . . . . . . . . . . Happy Hour . . . . . . . . . . . New Review Menu items and prices are subject to change, so check before you go. See all our restaurant reviews on our Eat and Drink tab at bellinghamalive.com * Local restaurants need you now more than ever! However, due to COVID-19, some restaurants August be temporarily closed. Remember to call ahead or check online for delivery and pick-up options.

WHATCOM AFTER HOURS American, Craft Cocktails, Vegan

114 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.788.4849, banterhospitality.com If you want to feel like you’re on a sunny beach vacation without leaving Bellingham, After Hours is the place to be! The casual, cheeky atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great space to spend the evening trying out some unique, flavorful food and creative cocktails.

BAR CICOTTI Italian 202 Grand Ave., Bellingham 360.656.6802, barcicotti.com When creating Bar Cicotti, Storia Cucina owner Jonathan Cicotti took his inspiration from Italian bars, which he descibes as “espresso bars by day, drinking bars by night.” If you’re looking to unwind in style, you’re invited to share snacks and bottle of wine with friends in Bar Cicotti’s chic courtyard.

CHINUK RESTAURANT Steak, Seafood

NORTHWATER Regional NW

714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360,392.6520, chinukbellingham.com

4260 Mitchell Way, Bellingham 360.398.6191, northh2o.com

Chinuk’s menu contains many specialties, but its biggest attribute is its versatility. The menu features delicious Northwest-inspired cuisine made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Located inside the Four Points by Sheraton Bellingham, it’s perfect for a family on the road, a business lunch, or an intimate dinner out.

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

FAIRHAVEN POKE Hawaiian

ON RICE THAI CUISINE Thai

1102 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.922.7494, fairhavenpoke.com You’ll be taking a personal trip to the islands when you bite into Fairhaven Poke’s poke bowl concoction. The iconic raw fish, doused in a unique blend of sauces, along with a variety of other topping options are piled onto a bed of homemade sushi rice or salad. Customers then garnish their bowls with additional condiments such as furikake, a Japanese nori seasoning.

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

FAT SHACK American 414 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.366.8752, fatshack.com Fat Shack offers a variety of burgers, wings, and their specialty: densely packed sandwiches. The typical “fat” sandwich is some combination of grilled steak and fried chicken, along with cheese and a host of sides, all pressed inside a fresh hoagie roll. It is not for the meek, or for someone looking for a salad bar. Along with its unapologetic embrace of deep-fried food, Fat Shack serves up some surprises. Its hamburgers are hand-pressed, hand-seasoned, and never frozen.

PEPPER SISTERS Mexican, Pacific Northwest 1055 N. State St., Bellingham 360.671.3414, peppersisters.com Customers have been diving into their plentiful plates of comforting burritos, quesadillas, and other specialties since 1988.

The spunky atmosphere only elevates the already upbeat mood of the place. With bright booths, samplings of art, and lively music, it’s nearly impossible to feel sour. Regular patrons groove to Stevie Wonder as they plunge their forks into massive burritos filled with red chili pesto, sautéed mushrooms, grilled onions, potatoes, green chilies, and cheese.

LEADER BLOCK WINE CO. & EATERY Italian

2026 Main St., Ferndale 360.306.8998, leaderblock.com

SUPER MARIO’S Salvadorian

Leader Block pairs their extensive wine list with an Italian, from-scratch menu that emphasizes flavors of the region. This upscale menu makes it a perfect spot for a date or special occasion, while the friendly Ferndale atmosphere and kids’ menu keep it appropriate for family dinners as well.

3008 Northwest Ave., Bellingham 360.393.4637, super-marios.com Serving fresh, healthy meals with the customer in mind is what Super Mario’s is all about, and it’s the consistent flavor and quality of the food that keeps bringing people back. The veggies are chopped fresh daily, nothing is frozen, nothing is cooked until it’s ordered, and nothing is deep-fried.

MUTO RAMEN & SUSHI Japanese, Sushi 105 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham, 360.647.3530

UNDERGROUND BURGER American

Muto Ramen does not disappoint for those looking for both atmosphere and flavor at a reasonable price. From udon noodles and yakitori to long lists of different ramen, sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri, guests can look forward to many visits of exploring the wide selection of Japanese dishes.

8114 Guide Meridian Rd., Lynden undergroundburgers.com If you’re craving a classic burger experience, Underground Burger offers delicious, affordable burgers made from locally raised, certified Angus beef. The restaurant began as a virtual kitchen based out of Jake’s BBQ, but quickly expanded

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Local Find

Bridging the Gap Between the Farm and Your Food Widnor Farms WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY PHOTOGRAPHED BY KIANA LINDSEY PHOTOGRAPHY

S

URROUNDED BY LUSH pastures and barnyard

animals, visitors to Widnor Farms might feel as though they’ve stepped into a storybook. All this bounty is thanks to the hard work of the Widen family, who gave up city life in order to restore a 1916 farmstead tucked away in Custer.

“I grew up around livestock, but I didn’t grow up on a farm,” Brianna Widen says. “I grew up on a dead-end street in La Conner, and I desperately craved this kind of lifestyle.”

Although Brianna’s husband Ryan had a similarly suburban upbringing, the pair were fascinated by the idea of homesteading and self-sufficiency. They also saw farming as a way to teach their three children about nutrition and the “hard work that goes into creating and to filling their bellies.”

“We started the farm in 2017, with just the idea of wanting to raise our own meats,” Brianna says. “And then we had so many people asking for half a cow or half a pig that we ended up deciding that we wanted to raise meats for other people. And then it grew into this.”

Business picked up more seriously in 2020, as COVID19 shortages emptied shelves and drove customers to seek food directly from the source. Now, Widnor Farm provides ethical, high-quality, and delicious meat direct to consumers in Whatcom County and beyond.

Specialties include forest- and pasture-raised pork, grassfed Icelandic lamb, pasture-raised chicken, and dry-aged beef finished with barley. In addition, the farm services the community with raw milk, eggs, and various farm goods ranging from soap to honey.

Can’t decide how to prepare your meat? No worries — the Widnor Farms blog has plenty of recipes. (Take it from us: You’ll want to cook with care, because this meat is among Whatcom County’s best.)

Customers can order online, pop into the farm store on Saturday mornings from 10 a.m. til 2 p.m., or subscribe to the Widnor Farms “Farm Club.” The latter two models allow the Widens to connect directly with their customers, which Brianna says is a highlight of their business.

“Farm Club is a subscription-based option where customers get to choose how much meat they want each month, and we curate it based on their preferences,” she says.

“It has been so much fun to encourage people to go outside of their comfort zone with their menu and meal planning.”

Through both direct interactions and social media, Brianna is happy to answer questions and share what farming looks like for her family on a day-to-day basis. She leads “Farm School” classes for both kids and adults in the warmer 80

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“The goal behind these [dinners] isn’t just connection with our customers; it’s really a connection for them with their food.”

Brianna Widen months, and her attentive, transparent approach to raising livestock is a deep source of pride.

“You know, a lot of people make a lot of assumptions about farmers and farm life,” Brianna says. “And we try to bridge that gap so they can understand why we do things the way we do … because not every farm is the same.”

For an even more intimate experience, Brianna encourages the community to join them for one of Widnor Farm’s dinner events (a.k.a. the “ultimate date night” for foodies). Attendees enjoy their meal beneath a century-old orchard, and since menus are determined by farm inventory and seasonality, each dinner is one-of-a-kind. Moreover, almost all ingredients are sourced from the farm — yes, even the butter.

“When we launched our dinners last year, it was really the culmination of all of those things that were important to us,” Brianna says. “The goal behind these isn’t just connection with our customers; it’s really a connection for them with their food.”

For a closer look at farming, family, and food, follow Brianna on Instagram @widnorfarms — or, as the season draws to a close, visit the Widnor Farms website to reserve a space at their dinner table. 1858 W. Badger Rd., Custer, 360.941.0935, widnorfarmsblog.com

To learn what it’s like to attend a Widnor Farms dinner, read our online exclusive at bellinghamalive.com 

Dining Guide Taste

Happy Hour

into a permanent spot where you can order dine-in or to-go. Round out your meal with waffle fries and a chocolate shake.

Mon-Thu 3pm-6pm ® TM

SKAGIT

Burgers • Wings Fat Sandwiches

(360) 733-6136

Blackcatbellingham.com

A’TOWN BISTRO Regional NW 418 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.899.4001, atownbistro.com A’Town Bistro’s careful sourcing of ingredients, creative approach to food and drinks, and comfortable atmosphere are why it’s about to become your new go-to restaurant. Pair your meal with something off the ever-changing cocktail menu. Bitters, shrubs, and syrup are made in-house and the creative cocktails are composed by staff or sourced from a collection of vintage bartending books.

– BOB’S CHOWDER BAR & BBQ SALMON Seafood, American

3320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.299.8000, bobschowderbarandbbqsalmon.com Treasured for its fresh and local seafood, Bob’s Chowder Bar & BBQ Salmon has long been a favorite dining destination in Anacortes. The restaurant specializes in all-things seafood, from fried calamari to oyster burgers and grilled wild prawns. Pair your meal with a huckleberry or sarsaparilla soda, wine by the glass, hard cider, bottled beer, or a featured beer on tap.

CONWAY PUB & EATERY American 18611 Main St., Conway 360.445.4733

take-out • delivery Order Online 360.366.8752

•

Fatshack.com

Sun-Thurs 11am to 1am

Fri-Sat 11am to 3am

Join us at Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery for an experience of excellence: fine dining, from-scratch cuisine, award-winning wine list, craft cocktails and attentive service.

Great for date night, special occasions or just to catch up with a friend. We welcome children as well!

Don’t let tiny Conway fool you — this pub packs big flavor. Though the town is unincorporated, business is never slow in this watering hole. Farmers often come here after a hard day’s work, as well as bikers making a pit stop on a scenic weekend ride.

Brimming with beer and Americana spirit, Conway Pub & Eatery is a Skagit Valley icon.

THE FAIRHAVEN Deli 100 N. Burlington Blvd., Burlington, 360.746.3183, fairhaventogo.com Offerings at The Fairhaven are diverse enough to please every palate, and the flavors of each ingredient are carefully considered. Rotating specials and seasonal dishes make each visit unique and exciting.

2026 Main St., Ferndale, WA 98248 Make reservations by calling: 360.306.8998 or online at leaderblock.com

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Local Find

A Culinary Oasis in Edison Slough Food WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

T

UCKED AWAY IN downtown Edison, Slough Food

is a delicatessen/cafe specializing in food and drink from both around the world and down the road. If you haven’t discovered its magic yet, an afternoon in the eatery’s idyllic courtyard should be high on your agenda.

“We have a lot of regulars for sure, but we always have new faces,” says Owner R. John DeGloria. “[New visitors] feel like they’ve discovered someplace — this little town, or this oasis in the middle of nowhere, which is really what [Edison] is. It’s a pretty unique spot.”

DeGloria understands Edison’s eclectic spirit on a deep level, having left a Seattle career in restaurants and wine to return to his Skagit roots. Slough Food was first opened in 2004, and for a period of time, DeGloria even lived in the apartment above his business. This meant that the courtyard area (then just a parking lot) doubled as his backyard; as he slowly added furniture, customers started to take note.

“Originally, it just was wine and cheese and specialty grocery,” DeGloria says. “Customers would come back [to the courtyard] and I didn’t even have a menu — I just would say, ‘I’ll pour you a glass of wine!’”

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Culinary Events Laminate Pastry: Croissant, Danish, and Puff August 1–3, 12–5 p.m.

Yearning to be a pastry professional? This three-day course will have you on your way in no time. Learn how to make laminated dough (dough that is separated by thin layers of butter) from scratch. Wow dinner guests when you learn how to create fruit tarts, turnovers, napoleons, pain au chocolat, bear claws, croissants, and more!

Soon enough Slough Food began offering a small menu of soup, salads, and panini. The courtyard also continued to evolve as DeGloria brought in more seating, lights, and flowers. Over a period of years, the space transformed into a veritable sanctuary along the Edison Slough.

DeGloria, who studied abroad in Italy in the ‘90s, modeled his business after Italian alimentari, or delicatessens, and the international influence shows. The result is a one-of-a-kind hybrid: In addition to showcasing regional culinary offerings, Slough Food would also be right at home in a small-town Tuscan piazza.

“I’ve always blended European specialties and local specialties,” DeGloria says. “So we’ll have some Dalmatian fig spread on the self, and then we’ll also have some strawberry rhubarb jam and some cherry jam that this lovely lady named Anne makes out in Anacortes. We’ll have some pecorino tartufo from Tuscany and then we’ll also have Ladysmith, a delicious fresh cheese from Samish Bay Cheese one mile east.”

The same philosophy applies to wine and liquor; when browsing Slough Food’s vast inventory, it’s not uncommon to see a Portland gin or Yakima Valley cabernet alongside offerings from Spain, Italy, or France.

Customers can certainly pick up goodies to-go, but if you ask us, the best way to enjoy Slough Food is to spend time lingering over drinks and nibbles in the courtyard. From Breadfarm baguette to curated cheese plates, grilled panini, olives, Marcona almonds, and even tinned Matiz octopus, there’s plenty of deliciousness to pair with your vino.

Slough Food occasionally hosts events such as paella parties, oyster parties, or even luaus (no pre-registration is required). But even on a normal Thursday, the courtyard is the perfect venue for catching up with old friends — and perhaps meeting new ones too.

“Something happens almost every single day, it seems,” DeGloria says. “I love it when people come in, and when they’re leaving, they’ve transformed — they feel like their blood pressure has dropped. It’s a very convivial spot, they’ve met someone else … yeah, it’s a real meeting place.”

To experience the magic for yourself, visit Slough Food Wednesday–Sunday from 11 a.m.–6 p.m. 5766 Cains Ct., Bow, 360.766.4458, sloughfood.com 

The Bread Lab 11768 Westnar Ln., Burlington 360.707.4640, kingarthurbaking.com

French Pasty Intensive August 8–10, 12–5 p.m.

Immerse yourself in French cuisine from our corner of the country! This three-day class covers classic French pastries.

Attendees will learn a variety of techniques used to make pate a choux, eclairs, French macarons, brioche, and kouign-amann.

Can’t make it this month? You can make your culinary escape to Paris in October too.

The Bread Lab 11768 Westnar Ln., Burlington 360.707.4640, kingarthurbaking.com

Wines of Whatcom August 13, 4–6 p.m.

It’s that time of year again! Wines of Whatcom is happening for the third time, allowing local vintners to showcase their wines from across Whatcom (and Skagit). Hosted by Bellewood Farms, this philanthropic event includes hors d’oeuvres, food, live music from Matt and Rebecca Ridenour, and a silent auction — all of which benefits Wild Bird Charity.

Bellewood Farms & Distillery, 6140 Guide Meridian Rd., Bellingham bellewoodfarms.com

Date Night: Bar Cicotti Dinner and Curator Tour August 16, 5:30–8 p.m.

Head to Whatcom Museum for a night full of education and libations. Start with a three-course pre-fixed Northern Italian menu and glass of wine from Bar Cicotti. After dinner, Museum Curator of Art Amy Chaloupka is giving a guided tour of the “Many Wests: Artists Shape an American Idea” exhibition. Dinner space is limited so book your tickets while you can!

Lightcatcher Building 250 Flora St., Bellingham 360.778.8930, whatcommuseum.org August 2022 83

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Sip

European-Style Sips on San Juan Island Madrone Cellars WRITTEN BY STEVEN MCCARRAGHER | PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

W

HEN ONE FIRST disembarks the ferry on San Juan Island, visitors are greeted by bustling restaurants and shops along Friday Harbor’s marina. What’s not as immediately noticeable, sporting only a watercolor logo of a Madrona tree, is the tasting room for the boutique cidery/winery Madrone Cellars — but you’d be remiss not to stop in for a glass.

Owners Shaun and Amy Salamida began achieving their lifelong dream of a winery in 2017 working out of Amy’s father’s garage. Within the year they had found the ideal production space, a farmhouse dating back to 1900. After establishing as a mainstay at the small and colorful San Juan Farmer’s Market, they signed the lease for their current tasting room location in 2020.

“It was definitely a challenge to try and open in the middle of a pandemic, but we made it through and are happy to have a space where locals and visitors can come and enjoy our wines and ciders,” Shaun says.

Madrone focuses on making cider in the petillant natural method (pet-nat for short). Borrowing from similar techniques used in champagne, this cider is conditioned in bottles. This means the final stage of fermentation occurs in the very glass you pour from, rather than being forcecarbonated. The old world innovation of petillant natural allows the most genuine expression of the apples and pears, while also empowering these ciders to be aged for years.

Like most responsible production operations, Shaun and Amy do everything they can to reduce food miles associated with their fermenting. According to Shaun, 60% of their pears and apples are sourced from San Juan Island itself, 84

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while all other fruits are carefully picked from farms using biodynamic processes. Having planted their own acreage of vines on the island, they’ll soon be able to farm their own grapes for wine.

There are three kinds of flights available in the tasting room: cider, wine, and sparkling wine. A wide variety is found here, including cider using kiwi berries (an increasingly en vogue fruit that thrives in Western Washington’s climate).

Shaun’s personal favorite right now is the Piquette Sparkling Rosé. For the uninitiated, a piquette is a lower alcohol wine created by pressing grapes a second time with the addition of water. Easy on the liver and the eyes, it’s beverages like these that perfectly pair with a midday picnic or sunset beach.

I would almost characterize the tasting room’s decor as minimalist. Sparse modern-chic chairs, a well-polished bar, and a beautiful patio (which plays host to numerous summertime events) are all offset by the sheer magnitude of bottles lining the walls.

Having already offered you two potentially new words for your vino vocabulary, let me assure you that there is nothing to fear in the way of intimidation here. The folks behind the bar sport the same welcoming smile and willingness to share.

“There is a lot to learn about wine and cider, and we really want the experience for people to be fun and educational regardless of their current knowledge about wines or ciders,” Shaun says. “In the end it really comes down to the enjoyment of wine and cider and the story behind the making and farming, and that’s what we strive to bring to customers who come into our tasting room.” 40 1st St. S., Friday Harbor, 970.319.2821, madronecellars.com 

Dining Guide Taste

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IL GRANAIO Italian 100 W. Montgomery St., Ste. 110 Mount Vernon 360.419.0674, granaio.com

GREAT

Courtesy of YunGaNe

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

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THE OYSTER & THISTLE RESTAURANT & PUB Seafood, Steak 205 E. Washington St., La Conner 360.766.6179, theoysterandthistle.com The Oyster & Thistle Restaurant and Pub takes the time to prepare food with care. Their pastas are handmade and handcranked using semolina flour and an eggrich dough. You’ll also find plenty of fresh, expertly shucked oysters and perfectly seared sea scallops.

2

SHAMBALA BAKERY & BISTRO American 614 S. 1st Ave., Mount Vernon 360.588.6600, shambalabakery.com Crack open Shambala Bakery and Bistro’s menu to find all-day breakfast options and an array of sandwiches, salads, pizzas, and lighter fare items such as quiche and soup. Their daily specials take advantage of what’s in season.

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SKAGIT VALLEY’S FARMHOUSE American 13724 Laconner Whitney Rd., Mount Vernon 360.466.4411, thefarmhouserestaurant.net Craving home-cooked food but don’t want to make it yourself? Skagit Valley’s Farmhouse may be what you’re looking for. When first entering the building, you walk past a mouthwatering pie showcase and through a gift shop that has the perfect items for Ma and Pa. The decor is reminiscent of country living. Even though their breakfasts are famous, try their lunch and dinner menus as well — when you eat here, you’re home.

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The Stone Pot Bibimbap at YunGaNe is a flavor-filled bowl of pure happiness. The hot stone bowl will keep the seasoned veggies and egg warm throughout the meal and crisp up the bed of rice.

Biscuit Breakfast Sandwiches at Camber are a perfect way to kick off the day — Earthly Delights in particular, with its combination of herbed zucchini pickles, fried egg, farmhouse cheese, and sundried tomato pecan pesto served between housemade buttermilk biscuits.

Vitality Bowls offers a variety of yummy, nutritional food, but for meat lovers, the Steak Wrap can’t be beat with steak, grains, greens, roasted tomato, chimichurri, garlic aioli, and sunflower seeds wrapped up in a tomato basil tortilla.

Looking for a perfect dinner and dessert combo? Look no further than Maikham!

Start with the Khao Soi — egg noodles with herbs, curry, and either meat or tofu, and then follow it up with Taro Sticky Rice, steamed in a banana leaf to achieve ooey gooey goodness.

5 6 7 8

TASTES

Sopitos, complete with meat, cotija cheese, cilantro, onion, cabbage, pico de gallo, and topped with avocado, are always yummy, but some of the best are at Taqueria Tecalitlan — and for a great price at that!

Looking for a vegetarian version of a classic, juicy burger? Chow down on the Garden Burger at Boomers Drive-In! The meatless patty is sandwiched between a warm bun, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and pickles, and it’s topped off with Boomer’s special sauce to leave you craving more.

Find your new favorite breakfast sandwich at Otherside Bagel Co. with the Bagel Bagel. The bacon, egg, tomato, hashbrown, cheese, and Southwest schmear loaded between two slices of delicious bagel will ensure your morning gets started right.

Supon’s Thai Kitchen brings a savory twist to the sweeter, Americanized version of pad thai with their Thai Style Pad Thai made using the original Thailand recipe. It’s still complete with all the fixings and sprinkled with crushed peanuts for a perfect blend of flavors and textures.

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ISLAND COUNTIES

L&L Libations

CYNTHIA’S BISTRO American

Kiwi Bloom Cooler

65 Nichols St., Friday Harbor, 360.298.8130, cynthiasofcourse.com

Ingredients: Gin, muddled lime, kiwi, cucumber, St-Germain, cava $11

Located in a renovated 1920s home, this local San Juan Island staple is known for their innovative menu selections. You can enjoy lunch, or even an extended breakfast, daily in spring and summer. They are famous for their brunch, but you might try stopping by later in the evening for their dinner menu — a special treat.

FRIDAY HARBOR HOUSE Regional NW 130 West St., Friday Harbor 360.378.8455, fridayharborhouse.com It’s hard to beat the view of the ferry landing, marina, and San Juan Channel from Friday Harbor House — the hotel and restaurant provide a sweeping panorama of water and sky. In addition to the delicious food menu, Friday Harbor House is one of the few island restaurants to offer a full bar at brunch every day of the week.

INN AT LANGLEY American

Photo by Cocoa Laney

400 First St., Langley, 360.221.3033, innatlangley.com

W

HEN SUMMER IN

Bellingham rolls around and the temperatures have surpassed ordinary comfort levels, it is fair to say the perfect drink to cool down with shouldn’t be sickeningly sweet or lacking in flavor. Enter L&L Libations, whose summer lineup is perfect for beating the heat while also enjoying something undeniably thirst-quenching.

The Kiwi Bloom Cooler’s soft green glow radiates from the muddled cucumber and kiwi chilling on ice — this alone is enough to invite you in. With the first taste, it would 86

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be easy to quickly order the next round in a pitcher.

If there is one word to describe the cooler, it would be refreshing.

The gin and St-Germain sit back as the cucumber’s mellow flavor is cut with a slight tang of kiwi and elderflower sweetness. The finishing touch that brings it all together is the bubbling champagne that adds a delightful fizz at the end. Sip after sip, the drink continues to be a satisfyingly crisp beverage that no one should miss out on this summer. 1107 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.746.8365 SOPHIA STRUNA

If beauty were a taste, this would be it. As a guest, you’re taken on a mouth-watering culinary journey through a multi-course tasting menu. Not only is the meal a delight for the taste buds, but there are also surprises at each turn, whether it’s the presentation or the accoutrements. Each guest is served as if they are the only one in the dining room. The menu is prix fixe, with an additional charge for wine pairing. Dinner here is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. $$$$ ISLAND SKILLET Homestyle 325 Prune Alley, Eastsound, 360.376.3984 Beloved by loyal patrons for its large portions and casual, customizable meals, Island Skillet is a must-stop for anyone visiting Orcas Island.

A rustic metal rooster outside the entrance sets the tone. Start the day with a skillet breakfast complete with a bottomless cup of coffee.

Sandwiches rule the lunch menu, and you can choose from a lengthy list of sides and customizations for most items, so you can totally have it your way.

PRIMA BISTRO French 201 1/2 First St., Langley 360.221.4060, primabistro.com A quintessential South Whidbey dining ­experience in the heart of Langley, Prima Bistro

Dining Guide Taste

marries gourmet French cuisine and classic Northwest ingredients. The selection of red and white wines offers options for connoisseurs of every stripe, along with a full bar. For fabulous food, elegant ambience, and world-class views, be sure to visit Prima on your next visit to Whidbey Island.

85 Front St., Friday Harbor 360.622.2486, saltyfoxcoffee.com When owner Andrea Hampton put together her coffee shop’s food menu, she worked hard to create items that were easy to make, but still healthy and satisfying. She wanted to be able to serve ferry riders on a time schedule, along with locals who come in for breakfast or lunch.

Guests can take anything to go, including sealed wine and beer, much of which is locally made on the island.

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410 A St., Friday Harbor, 360.378.2017, sanjuanbrew.com At San Juan Island Brewing Company all the brews are named after San Juan-inspired concepts, and if you can’t decide what brew to try, order a sampler. If they weren’t in the business of brewing, San Juan Island Brewery would be in the business of pizza. Order one of their wood stone pizzas and you won’t be disappointed. The thin crust is crispy on the bottom, but still soft and chewy.

Wally’s Barber Shop

314 E. Holly St. #100 Bellingham, 360.647.0807

TOBY’S TAVERN Seafood 8 NW Front St., Coupeville, 360.678.4222, tobysuds.com Overlooking the scenic Penn Cove in the center of old Coupeville, Toby’s Tavern offers diners a dive bar ambience with a delicious menu of seafood favorites. Steamed and soaked in a scrumptious mix of simple seasonings, wine, and juices, Toby’s robust offering of mussels makes for a memorable visit.

VINNY’S RISTORANTE Seafood 165 West St., Friday Harbor 360.378.1934, vinnysfridayharbor.com Ciao! Vinny’s welcomes diners to their Friday Harbor Ristorante, mirroring the feel of this warm Italian restaurant. Dishes change monthly and reflect the desire to serve simple, gourmet Pacific Northwest seafood and modern comfort Italian. As well as a good selection of pastas, Vinny’s has seafood and meat entrees, many of them traditional favorites. The cocktail list includes the classics, along with some fun offerings.

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Agenda

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Agenda Top Picks

AUGUST SKAGIT COUNTY FAIR August 10–13

Photo by Eric Jacobs

Entertainment is endless at the Skagit County Fair with three live show stages, carnival rides and food, Mutton-bustin’, a kids’ pedal tractor pull, archery demonstrations, and a wide range of exhibits, contests, and races. There will also be animals both big and small, including horses, goats, dogs, cats, cattle, pigs, rabbits, birds of prey, and even dinosaurs! Skagit County Fairgrounds, 501 Taylor St., Mount Vernon, 360.416.1350, skagitcounty.net

SUBDUED STRINGBAND JAMBOREE August 11–13

Photo by Ben Shaevitz

Sing and stomp to funky folk music at the Subdued Stringband Jamboree. Come for a day or camp for the weekend with this local music community festival. Bicyclists can camp for free, and there’s no fee at all for kids under 14! Children can enjoy the music with their parents or head over to Kidsville for arts, crafts and activities. Deming Log Show Fairgrounds, 3295 Cedarville Rd., Bellingham, stringbandjamboree.com

ANACORTES ARTS FESTIVAL August 5–7 For 60 years, this vibrant festival has connected artists and enriched the community with creative spirit. The Anacortes Arts Festival will feature hundreds of artisan booths, working studios for artists to demonstrate their crafts, fine art exhibitions, and a discovery area for kids. Visit the beer and wine gardens or food trucks to stay refreshed and jam out to live music.

DRAYTON HARBOR MARITIME FESTIVAL August 6–7, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Come spot dazzling mermaids and rugged pirates at the Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival! Hoist your flag and sail over to this weekend of family fun where you’ll find vintage steam boats, a pirate parade and costume contest, a market and craft fair, scavenger hunt, and enough food to sink a ship. Blaine

WINES OF WHATCOM 2022 August 13, 4–6 p.m.

Test out your sommelier skills at the third annual Wines of Whatcom. Local wineries will be showcased along with a silent auction and live music from Matt and Rebecca Ridenour. Whether you go for the VIP upgrade or not, all tickets include unlimited tastings which can be enjoyed alongside hors d’oeuvres and other food. Proceeds support Wild Bird Charity. Bellewood Farms and Distillery,

Boating Center, 235 Marine Dr., Blaine, 800.624.3555, blainechamber.com/ events

6140 Guide Meridian Rd., 360.318.7720, bellewoodfarms.com

NORTHWEST WASHINGTON FAIR August 11–20

SAN JUAN COUNTY FAIR August 17–20

Throw on an eye-patch and walk your peg-leg over to the Birch Bay Pirate Daze, where kids will battle for prizes in a costume contest to look like the most scoundrel pirate they can be. The little pirates will hunt for buried treasure, play games, and enjoy the music of the day with their best mates. Blaine Marine

The Northwest Washington Fair has such an abundance of fun activities you won’t even know where to start. There’s the carnival for rides and games, prize-winning and baby animals, delicious fair food, and all kinds of family entertainment from rodeo and derby to daredevils and lumberjacks to circus acts and musical performances. Northwest Washington Fair

The San Juan County Fair has been providing agricultural education and entertainment to the community for more than a century! Come for a day or camp for a few and check out the vast variety of performers, vendors, art, produce, and livestock showcases and competitions like the Trash to Treasure creative event or the Zucchini 500 race. San Juan

Park Playground, 272 Marine Dr., Blaine, blainebythesea.com

and Event Center, 1775 Front St., Lynden, 360.354.4111, nwwafair.com

County Fairgrounds, 849 Argyle Ave., Friday Harbor, 360.378.4310, sjcfair.org

Downtown Anacortes, Commercial Ave., Anacortes, 360.293.6211, anacortesartsfestival.com

BIRCH BAY PIRATE DAZE August 6, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

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Events Agenda

CASINOS Start August off right with a night with Brett Young, chock-full of songs swirling with West Coast vibes and some Southern swing. The multi-platinum artist known for his relatable lyrics and “Caliville” genre of music is on his U.S. and national tour, headlining 33 cities and hitting Tulalip along the way. Young’s singles “Not Yet” and “Lady” are just among some of his most recent successes, as his 2017 album “Ticket to L.A.” has reached some of the highest peaks in the music industry. 10200 Quil Ceda Blvd., Tulalip,

Courtesy of Mount Baker Theatre

BRETT YOUNG August 5, 7 p.m.

The Mavericks

888.272.1111, tulalipresortcasino.com

DAUGHTRY AND BLACK STONE CHERRY August 11, 7 p.m.

Fans of rock rejoice! Daughtry, a Grammy-nominated band founded in 2006 after its leading man Chris Daughtry was a finalist on the fifth season of American Idol, and Black Stone Cherry, a four-man rock band with notes of their Kentucky Southern roots, are taking to the Tulalip stage for one night of headbanging and radical rock noise. 10200 Quil Ceda Blvd., Tulalip, 888.272.1111, tulalipresortcasino.com

FOURTH ANNUAL CAR SHOW August 14, 11 a.m.

Now in its fourth year, car lovers will have the chance to bask once again in the glow of glimmering, newly buffed hot rods while strolling to the pleasures of live music. Angel of the Winds Casino Resort’s annual car show will have attendees picking their favorite car at the end of the day, including anything from the classics, to muscle cars, to trucks.

3438 Stoluckquamish Ln., Arlington, 360.572.3943, angelofthewinds.com

KOOL & THE GANG AND AVERAGE WHITE BAND August 26, 7 p.m.

If you are looking for something to take you back to the 1960s, then a double feature night with Kool & the Gang and Average White Band is exactly what you need. The former, who are often considered legends in the music industry, have been together since 1964 and have revolutionized R&B ever since. The latter, finding its start in 1965 Scotland, has a little bit of a different style, falling more into the funk genre while making nods

to some of the R&B greats. Combined, the two bands are sure to put on a show full of melodic and funky sounds that will have you grooving for days afterward. 10200 Quil Ceda Blvd., Tulalip, 888.272.1111, tulalipresortcasino.com

CLASSICAL SATURDAYS WITH THE SYMPHONY August 6, 2 p.m.

Bellingham Symphony Concertmaster and violinist, Dawn Posey, is taking her turn to educate kids and adults alike in this month’s installment of Saturdays with the Symphony. The educational event will occur at the Lightcatcher Museum and will allow those in attendance to learn about Posey’s work as a professional musician while also hearing her play the incredible work of women composers. 250 Flora St., Bellingham, 360.756.6752, bellinghamsymphony.org

CONCERTS MILES HARRIS & THE DEEP CUTS WITH THE DIEGO ROMERO BAND August 3, 5:30 p.m.

THE MAVERICKS August 3, 7 p.m.

The Mavericks have had their ups and downs since they first formed in 1989, but after years of being together and apart, the group’s reconnection in 2012 has meant three new albums and a tour that includes a stop at Mount Baker Theatre. The self-described “eclectic rock and country group” has continually bent the limits of genres and even recently produced their first album completely in Spanish. Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

NRBQ August 7, 8 p.m.

NRBQ, which stands for New Rhythm and Blues Quartet, has actually been called “the world’s greatest bar band” for their individualistic and incredibly unique music that melds countless genres into one melodious sound. The group has continually provided something different and exciting for fans to enjoy and is bringing their excitement to Wild Buffalo for a night of constant fun. 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net

Come support local Bellingham with Downtown Sounds and the last show of the festival’s concert series. What started 17 years ago as just a collection of people has become something much larger. Now with plans to fill three blocks downtown, anyone who loves good tunes and being surrounded by those who feel the same can attend and hear the sounds of Miles Harris & the Deep Cuts and celebrate the community with great music. 1313 Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.527.8710, downtownbellingham.com

BOMBINO August 12, 9 p.m.

Niger-born songwriter and guitarist, Bombino, is sure to put shivers down your spine with his incredibly nuanced and talented performances. With six albums under his belt, the artist’s music draws heavy inspiration from political struggles in his home country which have been translated into his sound that is reminiscent of countless guitar-playing greats. 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net

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Courtesy of La Conner Chamber of Commerce

Agenda Events welcoming, and exciting competition sure to make any participant proud of their hard work.

With three different divisions categorized by age, kids ranging from five to 11 can participate in varying races — including a swim in a local pool, a safety-proofed bike ride, and a run through nearby fields. By the end, kids will have earned their very own participation medal, a crowning prize for the hard work of a young athlete in training. Bellingham, cob.org

HAMSTER ENDURANCE RUN August 13–14 Classic Boat & Car Show

JOE HARKNESS August 13, 2 p.m.

Everson-based country singer and songwriter, Joe Harkness, is ready to fill the air with country melodies at Samson Estates Winery. The evening already set with the swinging drawls of country tunes will be accompanied by a relaxing seat on the lawn and delicious food truck bites from WTF: Where’s The Food. Samson Estates Winery, 1861 Van Dyk Rd., Everson, 360.966.7787, samsonestates.com

THE AUSTRALIAN PINK FLOYD SHOW August 16, 7 p.m.

What started as an obsession with Pink Floyd back in the late ‘80s has expanded into one of the most popular touring shoes around. The Australian Pink Floyd Show was the brainchild of Adelaide-based Lee Smith who took his love for the iconic band and turned it into an incredibly authentic resurrection. Currently on their “All That’s To Come” tour, the band’s national recognition has found them right here in Bellingham, bringing the rock ‘n’ roll right home. Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

THE POLISH AMBASSADOR August 18, 9 p.m.

This incredibly diverse and lively artist is taking to Wild Buffalo to give a performance full of funky, versatile, and even psychedelic tunes. The Polish Ambassador came to fruition through the work of David Sugalski who started his iconic jumpsuit wearing musical persona 92

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as a “sound-art passion project that came to life.” His high-energy EDM has taken him across the world and landed him right here in Bellingham for a night of heart-pumping music. 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net

LAKEDALE MUSIC FESTIVAL August 26–28, Times Vary Get set up in a lodge, yurt, or camp site for the weekend, or just come for a day, to enjoy warm summer evenings by the lake with outdoor jazz. This all-ages fifth annual music festival features Brian Nova and will benefit children’s arts education organizations. 4313 Roche Harbor Rd., Friday Harbor, 360.378.2350, lakedale. com

BELLHAVEN JAZZ FESTIVAL August 27, 12–7 p.m.

What could be better than a day of jazz and wine? With four artist performances spanning a period of six hours, anyone entranced by the soothing tone and swinging riffs of jazz is sure to find a perfect chance to soak in the genre at Samson Estates Winery for their Bellhaven Jazz Festival. Samson Estates Winery, 1861 Van Dyk Rd., Everson, 360.966.7787, samsonestates.com

HEALTH AND WELLNESS BELLINGHAM YOUTH TRIATHLON August 7, 9 a.m.

Since 1999, the Bellingham Youth Triathlon has been giving kids in the area the chance to participate in an athletic,

Do you ever feel like a hamster on a wheel when you go for that morning jog around the neighborhood? While the Hamster Endurance Run may be playing on that idea, it is all for a good cause. The idea behind the race is to have participants running for four different periods of time, including 32, 24, 12, and 6-hour stretches. Different lengths of runners are in turn staggered throughout the two days for their 2.6-mile trail around the beautiful Lake Padden. Lake Padden Park, 4882 S. Samish Way, Bellingham, wallatrails.com

BELLINGHAM OFF-ROAD TRIATHLON August 20, 7 a.m.

If an 800-meter swim, a 9K mountain bike ride, and a 2.6-mile run sounds like your perfect day, then the Bellingham Off-Road Triathlon is here for you. The event well known throughout the Pacific Northwest is designed for athletes of any level and takes place within Bellingham’s gorgeous natural scenery while participating in some exciting athletic competition. Lake Padden Park, 4882 S. Samish Way, Bellingham, 360.746.2701, bellinghamtri.org

PIGS ON THE WING August 27, 7:30 p.m.

This seven-person band is ready to deliver some of the iconic classics of the British rock band, Pink Floyd, while also expanding the limits of what a tribute band traditionally does. Pigs on the Wing originated in 2006, and since then has allowed the Pacific Northwest’s original style to swirl into their love and performances of the rock classics. Any show is sure to give listeners and fans of Pink Floyd or local music everything they could hope for. 100 2nd St. N., Friday Harbor, 360.378.3210, sjctheatre.org

SPECIAL EVENTS DOWNTOWN SIN AND GIN TOUR Every Saturday, 7 p.m.

Bellingham’s very own historical guides, the Good Time Girls, are presenting a fun new tour adorned with costumes and bounties of unheard historical truths about the town. The tour itself focuses on the local red-light district and saloon environment that was largely prominent during prohibition. The hourlong tour only takes a mile of walking, making it the perfect way to learn about where you live! Downtown Bellingham, 360.369.3595, bellinghistory.com

BIRCH BAY BAND WORKSHOP August 1–4 In its 63rd year, the Birch Bay Band Workshop has returned from its COVID19-induced hiatus and is prepared to share music and appreciation for the local scenery with all who attend. With four specialized music clinicians prepared to conduct everything from concert and jazz sessions to playing the work of under-recognized composers, the workshop is likely to bring together band enthusiasts and musicians alike. 516 High St., Bellingham, 360.650.3000, tedbrownmusic.com

CLASSIC BOAT & CAR SHOW August 6, 10 a.m.

Celebrate the beginning of August in La Conner with the 22nd annual Classic Boat and Car Show, perfect for the entire family. Don’t miss out on this celebration of an abundance of vehicles — ranging from classic hot rods to yachts — while soaking up the final month of the summer sun.

La Conner Marina, N. 2nd St., La Conner, 360.466.4778, members.lovelaconner.com

ENCANTO DANCE CAMP August 8–11, 9 a.m.

If the phrase “we don’t talk about Bruno,” means anything to you, then Dancing For Joy’s Encanto dance camp is the place to be this summer. The four-day event will take campers for more than 10 hours each day and be packed with plenty of dancing, crafting, “Encanto,” and of course, snacks.

4073 Hannegan Rd., Ste. F-H, Bellingham, 360.715.0900, dancing4joy.org

NOOKSACK SALMON ENHANCEMENT ASSOCIATION WORK PARTY August 13, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

Summer is a great time to help out some salmon before they begin to run in the August 2022 93

Agenda

Events

fall. Register now to join the NSEA community work party at a scenic park on the Nooksack rover to remove invasive vegetation and clean up garbage to restore this vital salmon habitat. The NSEA will provide all necessary supplies as well as transportation from Bellingham.

Vanderyacht Park, 1945 Washington St., Ferndale, 360.715.0283, n-sea.org

Spacious Suites Bus trips to appointments Cable and Wifi Included 24 Hour staffing Great food Pet Friendly

SUMMER FUN ROD RUN August 26–28

Gardening can be one of the most relaxing leisure activities around. So grab a cold drink, put on your gloves, and head to Chuckanut Center garden for a chance to garden with the community!

After gardening for around three hours, courtesy of the Chuckanut Center Board, a meal will be provided allowing for a continuation of mingling and celebration of the hopefully lively and bountiful efforts in the garden. 103 N.

There is nothing more rewarding after a fun run than a weekend full of beautiful cars, tasty ice cream, and lots of food. Fourth Corner Elites Car Club is offering just that with their Summer Fun Rod Run during the last weekend of August. With Friday’s Ice Crème event, breakfast served on Sunday, a car event, and trophies given out for the fun run, the weekend is sure to have absolutely everything necessary to satisfy your summer outing desires. 3295

Chuckanut Dr., Bellingham, 470.236.8374, chuckanutcenter.org

ALICE IN WONDERLAND BELLINGHAM August 13 Have you ever felt like watching a movie or reading a book just wasn’t enough? Sometimes, what we need is a little bit of imagination, and Clued Upp Games has the perfect opportunity for you to get immersive. This month, the group is putting on Alice in Wonderland Bellingham, a day-long adventure throughout town that will act like one big escape-room game — with you in the middle. Perfect for everyone old enough to go on an adventure, your day will be packed with finding and decoding clues, completing challenges, and solving the mysteries that lay within Bellingham.

BREWFEST ON THE SKAGIT August 13 It’s that time of year again: Lincoln Theatre’s fundraiser, BrewFest on the Skagit, is set to return to Mount Vernon this August. The day-long event is the perfect recipe for a joyful summer day, filled with local drinks, games, food, and music all within Edgewater Park.

Edgewater Park, 600 Behrens Millett Rd., Mount Vernon, skagitvolunteercenter.org

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

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360.770.8340, cascadedays.com

WEED AND FEED August 13, 10 a.m.

Bellingham, cluedupp.com

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exciting events being put on at Cascade Days. Now in its third year, the celebration is a town-wide event noted to have visitors expecting “a nostalgic day of fun!” The day is sure to be packed with everything the family could imagine, so don’t forget to support the local organizers and hit Concrete for a good time. Concrete,

CASCADE DAYS August 20–21 Duck races, chainsaw carvings, and parades are among just a few of the

Cedarville Rd., Deming, 360.319.0185, fourthcornerelitescarclub.com

DOG DAYS OF SUMMER FESTIVAL August 28, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Bring your furry family members to celebrate for free at the Dog Days of Summer festival. Browse more than 60 pet-themed vendors, food trucks, relax in the beer garden, participate in games and activities, watch exciting canine contests, get a caricature of your pooch, and help raise money for the Whatcom Humane Society so they can continue to support domestic, wild, and farm animals. Whatcom Humane Society, 2172 Division St., Bellingham, 360.733.2080, whatcomhumane.org

VISUAL ARTS GATKA MARTIAL ARTS SHOW August 5, 6 p.m.

You might find something extra special and exciting while on your First Friday Artwalk this month. The Gatka Team, a locally based Sikh martial arts group, is going to be putting on a show for any and all who walk by and take a minute to enjoy. The specific type of martial arts is a centuries-old style of “stick-fighting, intended to simulate swords,” that came from Punjab. The talented individuals putting on the show can be spotted fighting in Depot Market Square. 1100 Railroad Ave., Bellingham, 360.778.7000

The Scene

Agenda

Courtesy of Lydia Place

Lydia Place’s 10th Annual Handbags for Housing Bellingham’s most fashionable fundraiser and auction is back and better than ever!

Lydia Place’s 10th annual Handbags for Housing event took place in person June 9 on the Barkley Village Green. The evening raises money to aid families experiencing homelessness in Whatcom County, and this year’s grand total was a whopping $125,000 — the biggest sum yet!

The 2022 theme was “Big Lights, Fashion City,” and fashion show awardees include Cori Lovejoy (model of the year), Quinn and Foster (most cohesive collection), Social Fabric (most avant garde), Buffalo Exchange (best incorporation of handbag), and Third Planet (best incorporation of theme).

August 2022 95

Lasting Image

Photo by Carolyn Cummins

Notes

This is from my recent walk through Berthusen Park in Lynden. So lush and green! Always love being outdoors and was happy to find this gem of a park, after having lived here for 32 years!

CAROLYN CUMMINS

North Sound photographers, we want to see what you’ve got. We’re looking for locally generated photographs for our Lasting Image feature. We’re seeking local nature photographs — ones that freeze a moment, tell a story, evoke an emotion.

We’ll run your photo, along with your name, where you’re from, where the photo was shot, and a short 40-word write-up about the photo (inspiration for it, how you got it, meaning behind it, etc.). The photo must be high resolution (300 dpi) with no watermarks. Send to dean@bellinghamalive.com. Then sit back and enjoy the view.

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Take turns taking turns.

The iconic design and legendary handling of a Porsche. All with enough room for five. The hardest decision won’t be when you drive it. But rather, who gets to. Porsche. There is no substitute.

Experience the Cayenne.

Porsche Bellingham 2200 Iowa Street Bellingham, WA 98229 Tel: (360) 734-5230 www.porschebellingham.com ©2022 Porsche Cars North America, Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of traffic laws at all times.

European model shown. Some options may not be available in the U.S.

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