Bellingham Alive April 2023

Luxury kitchen appliances to match your lifestyle.

Ask the Appliance Experts at your Bellingham Judd & Black!

BELLINGHAM

MT. VERNON

MARYSVILLE

EVERETT

LYNNWOOD

360-733-7722

360-336-6515

360-659-0822

425-258-2591

425-742-2233

LIQUIDATION & SERVICE 425-258-4557

ONLINE AT

juddblack.com @juddandblack

Contents

43

Whether you go by foot, bike, or car, exploring the PNW is always an adventure—but city-hopping by rail? That’s an entirely different level of luxury.

If you’re itching for a springtime escape, we’re here to tell you what you need to know about exploring our corner of the country on Amtrak.

This month’s feature covers everything from route options to major destinations, lodging, can’t-miss restaurants, and much more.

2

BellinghamAlive.com

Photo by Dean Davidson

Cascades by Train

LIFE

Beauty SeaBar Photo by Cocoa Laney

36

16

18

Heard Around the Sound Frelard Tamales Roads Less Traveled Italy

Photo by Cocoa Laney

6 Ways to Celebrate Spring

D&Tea

38

Springtime Style Guide

Living Pantry in Fairhaven

HOME

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival Artists

62

Monthly Giveaway 20

Community Northwest Navigation Co.

21

Indie Arts Showcase

22

Game Changer The Pittie Project PNW

23

Book Notes Reviews and Events

23

Who Knew?

24

Out of Town Salish Lodge and Spa

26

Since Time Immemorial Santana Rabang

28

64

Remodel Jennifer Ryan Design 66

Local Find GreenCoast Cedarworks

68

Necessities Morning Wake-up Essentials

5 Faves Ferry Stops

34

Savvy Shopper Walking Mod Local Find Jo Bird Jewelry

84

Chef’s Corner Brandywine Kitchen

85

Dining Guide

86

Local Find Nerka Sea-Frozen Salmon

88

Culinary Events

90

Spotlight Alexarc Mastema of Maniac Coffee Roasting

92

Wine Pick of the Month

94

Sip Logan Cider

95

8 Great Tastes

100

Top Picks

101

Local Events

103

The Scene Fairhaven Chocolate Walk

SPECIAL ADVERTISING

STYLE 32

82

Review Nell Thorn Waterfront Bistro & Bar

AGENDA

Featured Home Robin Daly Color & Design

Photo by Katheryn Moran Photography

Courtesy of RoozenGaarde Fields and Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

APRIL 2023

TASTE 80

Travel-inspired Eats

70

Home and Garden Show Listings

NOTES 4

Online Exclusive

6

Editor’s Letter

8

Contributors

11

Letters to the Editor

12

Meet a Staffer

104

Lasting Image

April 2023 3

Notes What’s Online

Online Exclusive

INSTAGRAM Courtesy of Western Washington University

12TH STREET SHOES

Today’s article is a Q&A with Nia Gipson, Coordinator of the Black Student Coalition and Black History Month Planning Committee Co-Chair at Western Washington University.

She speaks about Black student life on campus at WWU, its challenges and joys, and their plans for an Unapologetically Black Black History Month. With answers by Nia Gipson and photos provided by @westernwashingtonuniversity.

Courtesy of Savannah LeCornu

Photo by Kristen Boehm

Since 1999, locals have been visiting 12th Street Shoes in Fairhaven for excellent service and a quality shoe selection that ranges from heels to hardcore Alegria work slip-ons. But the business’s vintage hasn’t stopped Owner Jody Finnegan, who purchased the store in 2003, from keeping up with the times! Her posts, videos, and giveaways on the store’s various social media accounts have kept customers invested and coming back for more.

EVENTS CALENDAR “taʔc haláxp, my name is Savannah LeCornu. I am an Indigenous artist who has been a Bellingham community member for over a decade now. I am Tsimshian (Wolf Clan), Haida, and Nimiipuu (Nez Perce). I am originally from Ketchikan, Alaska.”

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.

Sign up for our free entertainment e-newsletter to get the latest on upcoming events and more! bellinghamalive.com 4

BellinghamAlive.com

Photo by Nic Aston

BE IN THE KNOW

Read today’s article to get to know @savannahpants, a local artist, technical theater professional, and owner of Bellingham-based small business, Savannahpants Art. This was written by Savannah LeCornu with photos provided by Savannah LeCornu and Madison LeFever.

Follow Us

seaside is for Making afternoon-long friends

When your kids meet other kids in Seaside, they don’t have to ask each other what they like to do... because they just met doing it. And they are going to keep boogieboarding, sand castle building, promenade bike riding, bumper car bashing, or whatever else “it” is until you have to beg your kids to come back to the hotel to get ready for dinner.

seasideOR.com @visitseasideOR

Notes Editor’s Letter

The Beauty of Chance Encounters

L

IKE MOST WRITERS, I do the

bulk of my work in mundane places. A normal week entails hopping between a series of familiar locales: the Bellingham Alive office, my home office, my favorite downtown cafe, and… well, that’s about it.

This month’s feature, however, came together somewhere entirely different: on board a moving train. In midJanuary, I took the Amtrak south from Bellingham, overnighting in multiple cities before finally winding up at the route’s terminus in Eugene. It turns out that writing on a train is just about as romantic as it sounds (although I wouldn’t recommend it to those who are prone to motion sickness).

The resulting feature (p. 43) is more or less a travel journal, highlighting what to eat, do, and see at the destinations along the way. Moreover, I could easily write an additional 10 pages on the people I encountered in each city.

I joke that my travel superpower is meeting colorful characters wherever I go — and needless to say, this trip was no exception. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at some of the folks I connected with between Washington and Oregon: • The Australian innkeeper (p. 46) who told me all about kangaroo sanctuaries (and even gave me a veritable biology lesson on wombats). He and his wife also escorted us to and from the station and treated us to a three-course breakfast. What’s not to love?

• The goat journalist I sat next to at a taco bar in Eugene. Yes, you read that correctly: goat journalist. I’ve met plenty of writers with eccentric niches, but the topic of goats is certainly a new

6

BellinghamAlive.com

one — and yet, this woman writes about them for a living. She even ran a goat magazine for seven years!

• The Portland winemaker who also just happens to be a Carhartt ambassador and documentary filmmaker. As the owner of Abbey Creek Vineyard, Bertony Faustin has more than a few stories to share, and he’s even produced a movie (“Red, White, and Black: An Oregon Wine Story”) about minority winemakers in the state.

Check out p. 54 for more on that particular encounter.

• The bartender at Mendelssohns in Portland (p. 53) who was also an alumnus of Western Washington University! My travel companion and I did our best to fill him in on everything that has — and hasn’t — changed about Bellingham in the years since he left.

(Yes, we’re also still mourning the loss of Casa Que Pasa’s potato burrito.)

• The human foosball league in Eugene that welcomed me in as an honorary referee. For those out of the loop, human foosball is similar to soccer, except players are assigned to one spot and hold onto a rope to keep from moving. I didn’t know it was a thing prior to that night, but now I’m game to start a league in Bellingham too.

There are a myriad of methods for getting to know a new city, from visiting cultural sites to exploring nature or even going the Anthony Bourdain route and sampling local cuisine. For me, though, my favorite way to immerse myself in a place is by meeting its people. Some encounters are fleeting; others lead to a prolonged exchange of stories or even a shared meal.

I am forever fascinated by people’s stories, which is perhaps why I love my job here at Bellingham Alive. For more than a decade, this publication has celebrated the endeavors and achievements of those of us who call the North Sound home. This month’s feature profiles slightly more far-flung locales, but

you’ll still find plenty of spotlights and stories from our neck of the woods.

Topics include — but are not limited to — a nonprofit dedicated rescuing at-risk pups (p. 22), a brand-new cider startup (p. 94), a jeweler inspired by adventures (p. 34), and even a local coffee legend (p. 90).

My hope is that, in addition to stoking your wanderlust, the stories within these pages will give you a newfound appreciation for the community we call home. On behalf of the team at Bellingham Alive, I wish you a spring full of exploration, new experiences, and excitement. Happy travels! 

COCOA LANEY Editor In Chief

Welcome TO THE HOME OF

GIANT JACKPOTS!

PLAY.

‘s

Closest CASINO

EAT.

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

Notes Contributors Mary Kinser 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. 23

Jennifer Ryan Jennifer is a multi-talented authority on all things beautiful, fashionable, and functional. This whirlwind of a woman has a passion for bringing style and personality to life’s most important spaces.

Jennifer Ryan Design offers it all — design, planning, production, and contractor services. From start to finish, Jennifer can help you create the surroundings and memories you’ll enjoy for a lifetime. Jennifer Ryan Design has been voted Best of the Northwest 6 years running, Lux Life UK Most innovative Designer in Washington for 3 years, and Best of HOUZZ since 2016. jenniferryandesign.com.  p. 64

Robin Daly Robin Daly is an interior designer whose work appears throughout the PNW while happily based in downtown Bellingham. When she’s not busy with design, you’ll find her exploring interurban trails, brushing up on her oil-painting skills, and searching for the best French fries in town.  p. 62

Leah Foster Leah Foster is the owner of Pumped Bellingham, a low waste living shop, offering bulk home and self care goods sold by the ounce, along with other items to help reduce single use plastic and other waste in your home. She and her husband along with their two kids love living in the PNW and love, exploring, all that Bellingham has to offer.  p. 66

8

BellinghamAlive.com

More ambition per hour.

A pulse-pounding 325 hp. Countless customization options. And a cockpit loaded with innovative comfort and drive-enhancing technology. Rest assured, when you settle in behind the wheel you won’t be settling.

Experience the Panamera.

Porsche Bellingham 2200 Iowa Street Bellingham, WA 98229 Tel: (360) 734-5230 www.porschebellingham.com ©2023 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.

Fresh & Local Flavors

of the PNW! PUBLICATIONS Bellingham Alive NSL Guestbook Welcome Newcomers Guide

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Lisa Karlberg

EDITOR IN CHIEF Cocoa Laney

ART DIRECTOR Dean Davidson

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Amberleigh Brownson Andrew Forrest | Michael Roe

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mariah Currey | Erin James

EDITORIAL/MARKETING COORDINATOR Kristen Boehm

WRITERS Leigh Hellman | Nicole Kimberling Julie Trimingham | Jessamyn Tuttle

CONTRIBUTORS Robin Daly | Leah Foster | Mary Kinser Jennifer Ryan | Azizi Tookas

OFFICE MANAGEMENT Jenn Miranda

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

INQUIRIES & SUBSCRIPTIONS info@bellinghamalive.com bellinghamalive.com 360.483.4576 x4

COVER Illustrated by Erin James.

The 1905 photo by Cocoa Laney.

Train photo by Dean Davidson.

book today at swinomi.sh/13moonsreservations GAMING | DINING | EVENTS | GOLF | LODGE 1.888.288.8883 | swinomishcasinoandlodge.com MUST BE 18 TO GAMBLE. MANAGEMENT RESERVES ALL RIGHTS.

10

BellinghamAlive.com

Photo by Nic Aston

Letters to the Editor Notes

TOP REMODEL TRENDS 2023 Pros To Know Gardening Tips and Trends North Sound’s Iconic Eats

My family has been here for three years and we ALL love your magazine. We love finding new places to eat in there!

Bellingham Alive staff goes above and beyond for customers! I’ll be singing your praises everywhere, thank you so much!

— Jeannie M., Blaine

— Laura, Lynden

Hi Jeannie, I’ve got to say, finding new places to eat is one of my favorite parts of the job. Some newer spots that I’ve been enjoying include Frelard Tamales, Homeschool BBQ, and the Bistro at Shuksan—and, of course, you can check the dining guide and Taste section (p. 85) for more detailed reviews and recommendations. — Cocoa Laney, editor in chief

So happy to hear that, Laura! Our office manager, Jenn, handles customer service.

She’s been with K&L Media for many years now, and we agree that she’s pretty great (and she goes above and beyond for Bellingham Alive staff, too). — Cocoa Laney, editor in chief

Finding places I would never know existed otherwise, that’s why I love your magazine so much, and everyone does!

— Joe F., Bellingham

MARCH 2023

The recommendations from Bellingham Alive are spot-on!

DISPLAY UNTIL MARCH 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.

— Patrice C., Bellingham

Hi Joe, glad to hear it! We love celebrating the people, places, and businesses that make the North Sound such a unique place to live. — Cocoa Laney, editor in chief

Hi Patrice, that’s kind of you to say!

Our staff members, freelancers, and contributors are based all across Whatcom and Skagit, so we’re pretty in the loop about the area’s hidden gems. That said, the excitement about new discoveries never gets old. — Cocoa Laney, editor in chief

“We are proud to have been awarded BEST FURNITURE STORE the last 8 years in a row! What truly sets us apart is our great team and their dedication to making sure every customer receives exceptional customer care — from start to finish.”

Bob & Lori Dodge - Owners, Samuel’s Furniture 1904 MAIN ST. FERNDALE, WA 98248 360.384.3388 • SAMUELSFURNITURE.COM

Voted BEST PLACE TO BUY FURNITURE 8 Years in a Row

April 2023 11

Notes Meet the Team

Megan Gonzales What is your role at the magazine?

I am currently a marketing and admin assistant. Mostly, I post the print content to our digital universe, but I also get to do special projects for the sales team, or the office staff.

What is your background?

My mom, Jenn, is the business manager going on nine years now! I have helped out with events and assisted her over the years during my free time, and for school projects. Now that I am an adult it is nice to be able to work here part time, I definitely grew up loving the magazine and getting to work here from time to time, so I am enjoying having an actual job here now.

What are you most looking forward to working on at K&L Media?

Day Sailing in the San Juan Islands Join us for a 3-Hour Private Trip for $300

Up to six passengers

Sailing from Deer Harbor on Orcas Island Captain Ward 360-376-5581 | classicdaysails.com wardfay@rockisland.com

12

BellinghamAlive.com

I am really looking forward to the home show this year.

I have been helping my mom plan, set up, and run the Bellingham Alive booth since I was a kid and I think it will be a lot more fun this year now that I am officially part of the crew! I also love engaging with the social media community of Bellingham Alive, it’s fun to interact with the fans.

What do you like to do outside of your job?

I am a proud fur mom to two extremely needy cats. I rescued two cats over the past few years and they require a lot of attention and playing time. I also really enjoy reading, painting, golfing, and am a huge movie watcher!

If I am not occupied by one of those things, then I am probably spending quality time with my family. 

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

WINE

GLM Wine Co. Tom Davis and Tracey DeGraff 1678 Boblett St., Blaine glmwine.com tom@glmwine.com

For the last 21 years we have been very fortunate to be able to pursue our passion for wine, both making it and sharing it, with locals and tourists alike.

We named our winery not for some local Blaine landmark, but for the prehistoric lake that unleashed the tremendous floods that left their mark on the entire landscape of Eastern Washington — and thus on its wines: Glacial Lake Missoula. Our flagship wine is named Deluge, reflecting our style of unrestricted exuberance.

We have created a new type of wine: Enrobed Wine, made by fermenting the skins of a red grape with the juice of a white grape, thus combining the flavors of both into a red wine. Our latest enrobed wine — Mars, Marsanne/Shiraz won Double-Gold in the last Bellingham Northwest Wine Competition.

We are open weekends only, Saturdays 12–6pm, Sunday 12–5pm Tasting is free, and dogs are welcome.

Thanks for voting us

Best Golf Course

205 W Smith Road, Bellingham 360.398.8300 northbellinghamgolf.com

Historic Hospitality

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

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

Northwest Navigation Co. 20 The Pittie Project PNW 22

Photo by Diane Padys Photography

Salish Lodge and Spa 24

Life

Six Ways to Celebrate Spring

16

April 2023 15

Bellingham Farmers Market

Six Ways to Celebrate Spring WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY

N

OW THAT THE dark days of winter are finally behind us, it’s official — spring has finally sprung here in the North Sound. Fresh blooms and warmer weather are causes for celebration, so here are a few of our top ideas for making the very most of the season.

Embrace the Outdoors Again The days are (finally) longer, and the weather is (slightly?) warmer. For those of us in the North Sound, this can only mean one thing: It’s time to get back outside. Hit the Interurban Trail for a sunset run or bike ride, or take a hike through the Chuckanut favorites like 16

BellinghamAlive.com

Fragrance Lake, Raptor Ridge, or Pine and Cedar Lakes. Alternatively, spend time tidepooling at Wildcat Cove in Larrabee State Park, or celebrate the season with a beach bonfire in Birch Bay State Park. The trails by Mount Baker will still be too snowy to tackle, but if all goes according to estimates, you still have several weeks to get extra runs in at the Mount Baker Ski Area.

The Anacortes Outdoor Expo is also set to take place April 1–2, so if you’re looking to learn more about all the outdoor opportunities that await you in the North Sound, make sure to mark your calendars. This annual event is a one-stop shop for all your outdoor needs, and you can expect more than 20 recreation providers to be in attendance.

Tackle Your Spring Cleaning Spring cleaning season is upon us, so stock up on supplies at Living Pantry.

Both their Blaine and Bellingham locations specialize in eco-friendly alternatives to everything from bin liners to dish soap. We also love Pumped

Cloud Mountain Farm Center

Bellingham, a sustainably-minded refillery that began as a mobile truck and now has a brick-and-mortar location in the Ohio Street Work Studios.

If you’re feeling a bit too overwhelmed to go it alone, why not recruit the help of a pro? There are a variety of professional organizers serving our area, including Simply Spruced, Organized at Last, and The Orderly Space.

Not in the mood to overhaul the whole house? You can easily make your space feel fresher with flowers.

Local growers including Triple Wren Farms have blooms available at the Community Food Co-op, whereas Bellingham Flower Farm in Whatcom and Beezie + Co. in Skagit even offer seasonal flower subscription services.

See Skagit’s Famous Tulips In Mount Vernon, the start of April is synonymous with the return of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. The annual event is iconic in Skagit County, drawing in hundreds of thousands

Photo by Maia Binhammer

Photo by Diane Padys Photography

Life Spring Round-up

Courtesy of RoozenGaarde Fields and Skagit Valley Tulip Festival Photo by Dean Davidson

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

Tiny Onion Cooking School

visitors from across the globe. Visitors can expect 350 acres of tulips of every color (except blue and black) and a variety of special events throughout the month of April.

One of the most impressive participating farms is Tulip Town, which has been a veritable Skagit Valley institution for roughly four decades. Beyond blooms alone, they offer trolley rides, events, a cafe, and even a gift shop full of goodies to help you remember the experience. (Bonus points: They’re even dog-friendly!) If the tulips have inspired you to tend to your home garden, make sure to stop by sister business Skagit Acres to pick up your own plants, gardening supplies, plus valley-made gifts to take home.

just trust us — this is the trade show to end all trade shows. Attendees can expect plenty of exhibitions to inspire your home and garden decor, plus a variety of speakers and even hands-on classes.

Spring is also an excellent time to pick up a few new plants, and local businesses like My Garden Nursery, Garden Spot Nursery, and Christianson’s Nursery in Skagit can help you find the right fit for your garden’s unique conditions. Looking to learn more about agriculture?

Now that spring has sprung, Cloud Mountain Farm Center will be offering community workshops for all levels of home gardeners.

Grow Your Own Garden

Spring veggies like artichokes, fennel, fava beans, and asparagus are bountiful this time of year, and you can get your hands on them at the Bellingham Farmers Market. It returns to regular weekly scheduling on April 1, so if you’ve missed your Saturday morning

Speaking of gardens — the Whatcom County Home and Garden Show is back and better than ever! After a two-year hiatus, this three-day event is set to return live and in person April 28–30 in Lynden. If you’ve never been,

Eat the Season

market routine, we’re happy to announce that the wait is over.

If, by chance, you find yourself with an abundance of seasonal veggies but no idea what to do with them, never fear: The Community Food Co-op has regular cooking classes (check communityfood.coop for scheduling).

Little ones can even join in on the fun at Tiny Onion Cooking School, a local business that offers cooking lessons catered just to kids and teens.

For something even more personal, reach out to Chef Sarah Chan, the culinary whiz behind Calypso Kitchen. She leads Caribbean cooking classes for groups, couples, and even individuals on request. Chef Ona Lee of Clara’s Canning Co. is another excellent community resource, namely for those interested in sustainability and preservation practices. In addition to her workshops in disciplines like canning and baking, she offers private cooking lessons on request.

Celebrate Our Earth April 22 is Earth Day, and if you’d like to give back to our planet, there are more than a few ways to do so.

For starters, the Bellingham Parks Volunteer Program offers regular small-group work parties, so if you want to have a hand in keeping our public spaces beautiful, now is your last chance until after summer ends. Check out cob.org for a full schedule.

But that’s not all: Whatcom Land Trust, Whatcom Million Trees, and the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association are three other ecoconscious organizations that offer work parties. These events allow folks to make a hands-on difference in their own community, whether that be through protecting salmon habitats or planting trees for the next generation.

If community science is more your jam, check out the North Sound Stewards program presented by RE Sources. These volunteers perform a wide range of community services, from keeping tabs on shoreline health to tracking invasive species. No prior science experience is necessary, and no matter what your skill set or level, there are opportunities for everyone. 

April 2023 17

Courtesy of Frelard Tamales

Life Heard Around the Sound

Sueñito Brewing Company are officially open in Sunnyland as of this February — and if you haven’t given their offerings a try yet, you’re missing out on something truly delicious. Frelard has been a Seattle favorite since 2016, but Owners Osbaldo Hernandez and Dennis Ramey are excited to bring their family recipes to the Bellingham community, too.

“We know we are walking into an industry filled with talented chefs, cooks, and brewers and we cannot wait to add our own homemade and made-from-scratch spices to the mix,” says the team at Frelard and El Sueñito.

Frelard Tamales is a gay- and family-owned business with roots in both the PNW and Mexico.

Ramey hails from Seattle and is a former cancer researcher, whereas his husband Hernandez moved to the U.S. from Mexico at the age of 11 and is a former high school teacher. The couple opened their Seattle brick-and-mortar in 2018 and have been Whatcom County residents since 2019.

Featured Artists: Skagit Valley Tulip Festival WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY

18

BellinghamAlive.com

I

F YOU’RE LOOKING to experience a

Bellingham, frelardtamales.com COCOA LANEY

roadslesstraveleditaly.com COCOA LANEY

Frelard Tamales and El Sueñito Brewing Company RELARD TAMALES AND El

Roads Less Traveled Italy different side of one of the world’s most visited countries, Roads Less Traveled Italy should be on your radar. This Bellinghambased tourism business specializes in “completely customized, off-the-beaten path travel that is accessible to travelers on any budget.”

Owner Erica Mallin is a Bellingham local with more than 30 years of experience as an educator. Prior to retiring from her career as a school counselor, she pursued an associate degree in travel marketing.

“Planning independent travel to Italy over the past two decades has given me a deep personal knowledge of the country,” she says. “Fluent in Italian, I have long-time relationships with locals and am constantly learning about new hidden gems to share with my travelers.”

Mallin chose Italy as her niche because it offers some of the best of everything — beaches, mountains, food, wine, art, et cetera. Her ideal client is someone who’s not afraid to venture off the beaten path, and she places importance on experiences that travelers likely wouldn’t be able to discover on their own.

“If my clients want to go to some of Italy’s world class cities or well-known sights, I offer ways to do this that still build in options for activities and smaller towns in the region that they may not know about,” she says.

Above all, Mallin is passionate about sustainable, ethical travel — so much so that she donates 15% of profits to Planeterra, a nonprofit that supports community tourism enterprises. She also offers travel courses through the Academy of Lifelong Learning and Whatcom Community College, and is planning to host special events at Italian bars and restaurants in the near future. Bellingham,

Tamales to Celebrate Culture, Kindness, and Community

F

Authentic Italy Tailored to You

At their Bellingham location, customers can expect Mexicaninspired beers, 10 different tamales, plus rotating Mexican specialties like mole and adobada tacos. Frelard’s menu is also friendly to those with dietary restrictions and features vegan, vegetarian, and glutenfree options.

But the merit of Frelard and El Sueñito goes beyond food and drink alone. Hernandez and Ramey say that the atmosphere is informed by their company’s founding values: community, kindness, and culture. Above all, they want to create a space for “laughter, music, [and] game and trivia nights,” where life’s achievements (big and small) can be celebrated.

“Come join us and help us make this a space for community to gather,” says the team at Frelard and El Sueñito. “If you have yet to find your hangout spot in town, we challenge you to come make this your spot.” 1926 Humboldt St.,

EACH YEAR, the Skagit Valley Tulip

2023: Kerry Clavadetscher

Festival selects a different regional artist to design the event’s poster. Here’s your introduction to this year’s featured artist, plus a look back at posters from festivals past. You can see the artists’ works online at tulipfestival.org/artists.

Clavadetscher’s poster celebrates “the little people,” or the various small animals that make up nature’s tapestry.

Her poster features a Savannah sparrow, which is a bird that perches on Skagit Valley tulips. kerryclav.com

ENTER-TO-WIN Monthly Giveaway

E

ACH MONTH, WE give you the opportunity to win

Courtesy of D&Tea

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

Never Split the Tea Party D&Tea

T

Calico Cupboard

ABLETOP GAMING FANS have a new destination to

meet, play, and enjoy some tea! Co-owners CEO Travis Peacock and COO Gideon Jones have opened up the first brick-and-mortar location for their tea company, D&Tea. D&Tea was born when Peacock was looking for new avenues to explore after a while of selling Dungeon & Dragons dice at conventions.

Their teas are blends that lend themselves to the theming found throughout D&D culture, with names that evoke popular aesthetics from the game. Elven Bazaar is a spicy masala chai with heavy vanilla notes, and Underdark & Chill is “a nerdy take on a lavender earl grey.” They currently have six teas total and will soon expand to 14!

Visitors to D&Tea’s cafe get to enjoy the brews while sitting in their cozy front room or while launching a campaign with friends in their large, speakeasy-style games room, hidden behind a false wall. Access to the games room cost $5 per person per hour.

“I really love Bellingham,” says Peacock, a Sunnyland resident, “and I think people here want a really comfortable shop where they can play RPGs without the feeling of pressure … to buy games. For $5 you get unlimited tea, access to our library of miniatures, books, dice, and whatever else you need to play.”

D&Tea still tables at over 40 conventions a year, and they ship tea nationwide for online orders. You can also pick up their blends at local games stores Cardhaven, Pair-o-Dice, and Cosmic Games. 2025 James St., Ste. 103, Bellingham, 844.604.1666, dandtea.com KRISTEN BOEHM

Living Pantry Brings Sustainable Shopping to Fairhaven

F

AIRHAVEN RESIDENTS DON’T have to wander

far to find eco-friendly goods. Living Pantry, a.k.a.

Whatcom County’s one-stop shop for sustainable home and personal care products, has opened a brand-new location in Fairhaven at 1132 Finnegan Way. The new store is preceded by Living Pantry’s locations in both Bellingham (2400 Yew St.) and Blaine (684 Peace Portal Dr.). While its Fairhaven iteration won’t have food products, customers at all Living Pantry locations can expect to find a full-service refillery goods for both home- and self-care.

Best of all, by shopping with Living Pantry, you’re not just supporting local business — you’re supporting the health of your home and the planet. COCOA LANEY

2022: Jack Gunter

2021: Jennifer McGill

2020: Jennifer Bowman

Gunter is a Camano Island-based artist working in mediums spanning from illustration to videography and even writing. His vibrant poster depicts blooming tulips using an ancient egg tempera technique. jackgunterart.com

McGill’s work, “Under a Tulip Moon,” captures the tranquility of the tulip fields right at dusk. The Mount Vernon based artist’s paintings often capture the “things of yesteryear,” such as the vintage pickup truck featuring prominently in her poster. jamcgill.com

Bowman’s bright acrylic works have been chosen to represent the festival not once but twice: first in 2004, then again in 2020. The Anacortes artist often uses acrylic paint as a medium of choice, and she also teaches regular workshops. jenniferbowman.com

April 2023 19

Photo by Christine Smith

Life Community

Glaciers, Bears, and Amazing Food: Sailing to Alaska on the Motor Vessel David B Northwest Navigation Co. WRITTEN BY JESSAMYN TUTTLE

H

AVE YOU ALWAYS wanted to sail up the Inside

Passage from Bellingham to Alaska but don’t enjoy big cruise ships or ferries? If your idea of a perfect vacation is a slow tour of wild places and stunning scenery with plenty of time for hiking, kayaking, and storytelling, a cruise on the Motor Vessel David B might be just your style.

Owned and operated by Captain Jeffrey Smith and Christine Smith, the David B is a small motor vessel that was built in 1929 as a tugboat for moving unpowered fishing boats in Bristol Bay up through the 1950s. Jeffrey and Christine started the process of restoring her in 1998 and began doing tours in 2006. They’re now heading into their 18th season, and “every year’s been a little better than the one before,” says Christine.

They expanded the pilothouse to create more indoor space, so in addition to the four small staterooms there is now a roomy common space, a bright dining area, and a galley with a wood burning stove where Christine, who is the ship’s chef as well as naturalist, prepares gourmet meals for the whole group.

“We like people to feel this is their home while they’re on the boat,” says Jeffrey. Every winter the Smiths rework the interior to keep the ship clean and cozy, making new improvements every year.

20

BellinghamAlive.com

Although the interior spaces are cozy, the real focus is on the outdoors. A small covered deck at the stern gives space for taking in views on rainy days, while the roof of the pilothouse has room for steamer chairs or yoga sessions with a 360-degree view of the water. The roof also houses kayaks and a sturdy skiff for shore trips.

“I love taking people into the forest and on the beaches, geeking out on plants and animals,” says Christine. Her favorite part of their trips is viewing brown bears at Pack Creek while Jeffrey’s favorite is watching glaciers calving.

Whatever they do, they value having the chance to truly experience where they are.

“I want them to have the same sort of ‘oh wow this is amazing’ experience that we have every time,” says Christine.

Some trips are just for sightseeing, but others are built around a focus like photography instruction featuring local experts like photographers John D’Onofrio and Alan Sanders.

The classes, which might be held in Glacier Bay, the Alaska Fjords, or the San Juan Islands, cover camera technique and composition as well as post processing, with the aid of a projector in the main cabin.

One benefit of a trip on the David B is that there doesn’t need to be a rigid itinerary. Jeffrey and Christine do plan out

Indie Arts Showcase Cecilee Romano

Photo by Christine Smith

This local creator takes inspiration from the cosmos for her gorgeous space-scapes and night sky-inspired artworks. Cecilee Romano fell in love with painting nebulas in 2011, and now uses her multimedia skills to create art and jewelry for her business, StarStuff Galleries. You may see her on First Friday art walks around Bellingham, at this month’s Rebel Artists of Whatcom market, or check out her website! Bellingham, starstuffgalleries.com

Jessica Warrick

Photo by Christine Smith

You may have seen works by this accomplished illustrator hung in Bellingham businesses as of late, including Nomad Charcuterie and Wine. Jessica Warrick paints gorgeous botanical patterns, often including fauna and other natural motifs. She also creates mythical illustrations with a modern twist of whimsical (and sometimes grim) humor. You can find her on social media @jessicawarrick.

Bellingham, jessicawarrickart.com

Chris Foster Having also been featured on Nomad’s walls since the beginning of 2023, the abstract art of Chris Foster has certainly made an impression in town. His contemporary paintings will have you contemplating how ideas emerge from the subconscious and what happens when unstoppable forces meet. Look him up online or see his work on Instagram @chrisfosterart! Bellingham,

“I love taking people into the forest and on the beaches, geeking out on plants and animals.”

Christine Smith

northwestnavigation.com 

chrisfosterart.com

Leigh Hellman

Photo by Jessamyn Tuttle

each trip to create the best possible experience, but if they run into bad weather, they can simply anchor for part of a day, allowing guests to relax or go for a hike. “We like people to feel like we’re adventuring,” says Jeffrey.

“Our goal is to craft this adventure.”

The David B has open houses every spring before they begin the sailing season. Their next open days will be April 15 and 16, tours available by appointment. Bellingham, 360.474.7218,

Originally from Chicago but currently located in Bellingham, Leigh Hellman likes to bill themselves as “your local eclectic author.” Their writing runs the gamut of critical, journalistic, fiction, and creative nonfiction — including their debut 2018 new adult novel “Orbit,” an intriguing sci-fi story available for order through Village Books. Bellingham, leighhellman.com

April 2023 21

Life Game Changer

Forever Homes for Every Pup The Pittie Project PNW WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PITTIE PROJECT PNW

A

CCORDING TO THE ASPCA, roughly 390,000 dogs

are euthanized in U.S. kill shelters every year — and a substantial portion of these pups fall under the category of “bully breed.” Luckily, there are organizations that help misunderstood dogs find forever homes; here in Bellingham, that organization is the Pittie Project PNW. The Pittie Project PNW is a nonprofit that rescues bully breeds from high-kill shelters. From there, they’re given proper training and matched with owners who can give them the care they deserve. Under the helm of Founder Ashley Georgia, the organization began from a one-time project to adopt out 10 pitbulls in 10 months, and is now a full-fledged 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

So far, the folks at the Pittie Project PNW have adopted out 416 dogs (and one cat, though Georgia says that was a one-off). They’re partners with the Whatcom Humane Society as well as Paws for Life Canines; in regards to the latter, Georgia notes “that many of their dogs that have been 22

BellinghamAlive.com

through the prison training program and have passed their good canine citizenship test prior to being adoptable.”

Georgia has a special fondness for these so-called “bully breeds,” an umbrella term that describes everything from boxers to bulldogs and Staffordshire terriers. That being said, she notes that the word “pitbull” can be misleading.

“I feel like the term ‘pitbull’ makes people feel like that’s a certain breed that they don’t like, but in reality if they did any research, it’s not even a real breed. It’s just a mix,” Georgia says.

But Georgia’s aim with the Pittie Project PNW is to do more than change stereotypes about pitbulls: She wants pet owners to reflect on their treatment of all breeds, and to stop viewing dogs as convenient or disposable. Moreover, she says blaming specific dog breeds for bad behavior can deflect blame off the people that care for them.

“We should be taking responsibility for our actions and how we interact with dogs — not just pitbulls, but dogs in general,” Georgia says. “How much effort are we putting into really knowing what’s best for them, how they think, how they interact?”

Counter to stereotypes, Georgia notes that well-trained pitbulls are intelligent, curious, and very loving. Several examples from the Pittie Project PNW: Princess Penelope, a sweet, obedient 7-year-old pittie who graduated the prison training program with flying colors and loves to go on hikes.

There’s also Jake, a quiet, well-trained 3-year-old who at the time of writing has been with the Pittie Project PNW the longest. He arrived at the organization in poor health, but has since made a full recovery and blossomed into “a really wonderful dog.”

If you’d like to meet these pups and more, there are plenty of ways to get involved. The Pittie Project PNW hosts an adoption fundraiser at Paws for a Beer in Fairhaven every third Saturday of the month, and they’ve also had special-event fundraisers at places like Lost Giants Cider in partnership with Bellingham Treehouse Yoga.

More frequently, Georgia hosts multi-weekly “pittie pack hikes” where volunteers can walk Pittie Project PNW pups on popular trails around Whatcom County (more info can be found on Instagram @thepittieprojectpnw). She also plans to introduce two new programs this summer: Adventure Days (where folks can bring a well-socialized dog along for a day of fun) and Sleepovers (which are similar to Adventure Days, except overnight). The Pittie Project PNW is also always on the lookout for transport volunteers, monetary donations, as well as donations of supplies such as blankets.

All in all, Georgia encourages pet owners to truly value their pups — because, as she notes, “dogs are adding the most value to our lives.”

“I do feel as though the stigma [of bully breeds] is on its way out. But I also feel like the way we view dogs has gotten worse — like, drastically — so that is what I think needs to change,” Georgia says. “They’re not a convenience to us.

They’re a living thing. I think the more we can just be aware of that and hold ourselves accountable, that’ll maybe have a ripple effect.” Bellingham, thepittieprojectpnw.org 

Book Notes Life

Literary Events

Book Reviews WRITTEN BY MARY KINSER

April 11, 12 p.m.

Read Harder Book Club

THE GRANBY SCHOOL is an elite institution with a history

I Have Some Questions for You

by Rebecca Makkai

marred by the scandalous murder of student Thalia Keith in 1995. Athletic Director Omar Evans was convicted of Thalia’s murder, but online crime buffs have speculated for years that the case was rushed to judgment. In 2018, former student Bodie Kane is invited to teach at Granby. She accepts knowing that she’ll be reliving some of the worst years of her life; Thalia was Bodie’s classmate, her death a defining moment of Bodie’s past. Then one of Bodie’s students announces that their class project will center on reopening the case. The memories Bodie has buried now begin to push their way to the present — for Bodie has her own theory about who killed Thalia, and it’s definitely not Omar. Written as a dialogue to an unknown subject, this carefully crafted literary thriller unfolds its truths slowly, building the suspense page by page. “I Have Some Questions for You” melds social commentary and immersive storytelling in one haunting and irresistible package.

VIBHUTI JAIN’S COMPELLING, character-driven novel

Our Best Intentions

by Vibhuti Jain

introduces readers to a fresh new voice in fiction. In the affluent suburb of Kitchewan, Babur Singh believes he has done everything possible to ensure a bright future for his daughter Angela, a talented swimmer. One afternoon Angela stumbles onto a shocking scene — Henry McCleary, her friend’s brother, has been stabbed and left bleeding on the school campus.

The blame falls to a young girl with a troubled home life, one of the school’s only Black students. Henry’s wealthy parents immediately unleash their social connections to garner public sympathy and gain control of the narrative. Before they know what’s happening, Angela and her father find themselves at the center of controversy as the community divides itself along lines of race and class. Book clubs will want to make room on their spring reading schedule for this arresting debut, a thought-provoking reflection on opportunity and belonging.

Haggen, 2601 E. Division St., Mount Vernon 360.336.6209, mountvernonwa.gov/175

Every year, independent editorial organization Book Riot puts out the Read Harder Challenge, a list of prompts that dares you to read out of your comfort zone. The Mount Vernon City Library puts on a Read Harder Book Club, so Skagitonian readers can pick any book that fits the prompt the club is following (for example, “read a book set in a bookstore”), then come to the Mount Vernon Haggen Market Street Cafe to discuss it.

April 13–16

Write Doe Bay

Doe Bay Resort & Retreat, 107 Doe Bay Rd., Olga, 360.376.2291, writedoebay.com

Write Doe Bay is an author retreat designed to encourage, replenish, and stimulate the growth of authors of all ages and genres. During this inclusive stay at gorgeous Doe Bay Resort & Retreat on Orcas Island, authors will meet, mingle, attend workshops, and work on their writing independently.

The beaches and trails of Orcas Island, Doe Bay Spa, and the resort’s restaurants are also available to guests.

Who Knew? Things You Can’t Bring to Canada You might want to walk that one back.

Pack light for your fishing trips.

They take the national sport very seriously.

Although still common in the U.S. today, Canada banned baby walkers back in 2004. It might seem like overkill, but a study that came out in the scientific journal “Pediatrics” in 2018 backed up that decision! It found more than 200,000 incidents of walker-related hospitalizations of infants between 1990 and 2014.

Don’t forget your lucky lure, because live bait is not allowed to be brought over the border into Canada. This means no minnows, smelt, or other baitfish. In January 2022, the border at Ontario raised the stakes by further prohibiting nightcrawlers and frozen minnows, which had previously been allowed.

Crossing the border to play some hockey? While you should definitely bring your protective gear, Canada is going to make sure it’s up to their standards. If your hockey helmet or masks are in any way damaged, altered, or don’t meet the Canadian Standards Association’s guidelines, they won’t be allowed!

No birthday pranks!

Stop us if you’ve heard this one — it’s your birthday, and you blow out the candles with all your might, but somehow the flames spring back up! These popular trick items, relight candles, have actually been prohibited in Canada since 1977 due to the hazard of spontaneous reignition. KRISTEN BOEHM

April 2023 23

Courtesy of Salish Lodge and Spa

Life Out of Town

A Weekend-Worthy Wellness Retreat Salish Lodge and Spa WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

I

MAGINE ENJOYING YOUR

morning coffee while overlooking a 268-foot-tall waterfall, with no immediate responsibilities save for a massage treatment or two. If you’re overdue for a mountain escape, a visit to the Salish Lodge and Spa might be in order — and, given the proximity to Bellingham, this getaway can be easily accomplished in a weekend.

The Salish Lodge is perched on the edge of the iconic Snoqualmie Falls, and its dramatic location will be familiar to fans of the ‘90s TV show “Twin Peaks.” Even the lodge’s interior complements the nature that surrounds it, featuring accents of blues, earth tones, and rich wood.

But the property has more to offer than scenery alone. The Salish Lodge is consistently ranked as one of the PNW’s top resort spas by outlets like Condè Nast, Travel + Leisure, and U.S. News and World Report — and if you

24

BellinghamAlive.com

stay there for a weekend, you’ll quickly understand why.

There’s plenty to write home about when it comes to the lodge, but we’ll start with perhaps the most obvious talking point: the on-site spa. Guests can choose from a variety of massages and treatments using PNW-centric ingredients, or wash away their worries in a soaking pool or hot tub.

A long day of pampering works up an appetite, so luckily the Salish Lodge features two dining options. There’s wood-fired pizzas and craft cocktails at The Attic, or for something a bit more upscale, award-winning gourmet meals at The Dining Room. (Fun fact: The lodge even generates its own honey thanks to an on-site apiary.)

Other activities within the lodge include wine tastings and, with the booking of certain rooms, access to the exclusive lobby-level Club 268 lounge.

Each room also contains a real fireplace

Insider Tips: Snoqualmie and Beyond While you could easily pass a weekend without leaving the lodge, the surrounding area has plenty to offer in terms of dining, shopping, and outdoor exploration. Here are our top recommendations: • Outdoor adventurers will find no shortage of recreation opportunities. For a scenic hike that won’t take up your whole day, check out Little Si Trail. It clocks in at just four miles (and the sweeping views up top and make every mile worth it).

• Feeling thirsty post-hike?

Follow it up with a flight of craft beer from No Boat Brewing Company in Snoqualmie. (I particularly loved the Still No Pickles Hazy IPA and the cleverlynamed Snoqualmie Maybe Citra Pale.)

and either a soaking tub or spa-style shower. Unsurprisingly, the Salish Lodge has ample event space and plays host to a variety of weddings and meetings throughout the year.

It’s undeniable that the Salish Lodge is an upscale destination — but “upscale” doesn’t always mean “exclusive.” During our stay, I spoke with couples and families from all walks of life. This included newlyweds as well as out-of-state visitors who had spent years planning a big anniversary getaway in the PNW. While the lodge’s cozy, rustic-chic ambiance lends itself to romantic retreats, I opted to have a girls’ weekend

with my best friend. Together, we shared a weekend filled with adventure, relaxation, food, and generous glasses of Washington wine. It was clear that each guest — ourselves included — had a deep appreciation for both the lodge and the natural beauty that surrounds it.

After all was said and done, I returned to Bellingham feeling not just rejuvenated but grateful.

Opportunities to truly unplug and recharge are rare — and the chance to do so while surrounded by such natural beauty is rarer still. 6501

• North Bend is both a gateway to the Cascades and a destination in and of itself.

If you feel like venturing out, stop for dinner at the newlyopened South Fork North Bend. Their innovative menu contains everything from classic pub fare to delicious, Asian-inspired tofu bowls, and the cocktails are also not to be missed.

• Last but not least, the railroad town of Snoqualmie is not without its charms.

Before the drive home to Bellingham, we swung by the Bindlestick for fuel in the form of strong coffee and fresh-baked sausage muffins.

Railroad Ave., Snoqualmie, 425.888.2556, salishlodge.com  April 2023 25

Life Since Time Immemorial

Since Time Immemorial Santana Rabang INTERVIEW BY JULIE TRIMINGHAM | PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

S

INCE TIME IMMEMORIAL

is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by Lhaq’temish (Lummi), Nooksack, and other Coast Salish peoples is knowledge about how to live in our shared home in a good, lifesustaining way. We live in a time when we need to restore our relationship with Mother Earth and with one another. We are grateful for these stories, told in the words of each featured individual.

Santana Rabang is currently executive assistant to the secretary of Lummi Nation and is also a student at Fairhaven College. She previously graduated from Northwest Indian College and worked for Children of the Setting Sun Productions, where she is honored to be part of the Salmon People Project and the Young and Indigenous podcast.

Would you please introduce yourself?

My name is Santana Rabang, and I come from Lummi, Nooksack, and First Nations Shxwhá:y Village. My mother is Felicia Lawrence of Lummi Nation, my grandmother was the late Hazel Lawrence, and my grandpa is Felix Gallegos. My great grandparents were the late Madeline Quincy and Peter Paul Lawrence. My father is Robert Rabang, Jr. of Nooksack and Shxwhá:y Village. My grandma was the late Janice Lee Rabang and my grandpa is Robert Rabang Sr. My great grandparents were the late Elizabeth Rabang and Frank Rabang.

You mentioned your parents, grandparents, and greatgrandparents when you introduced yourself?

There’s this saying in our culture that you don’t know who you are unless

26

BellinghamAlive.com

you know where you come from. For me, that’s not only place-based, it’s also ancestral.

How did you come to be where you are today?

I think where I am right now all really stems from a traumatizing experience that I had with tribal disenrollment and pushing me down this journey of advocacy. I find myself very happy and joyful in the moments where I’m advocating for something that’s bigger than myself. When I started working at Children of the Setting Sun Productions, Darrell [Hillaire] really helped spark the confidence in me to use my voice even further, and speak out against various issues Indigenous peoples face. The largest project I had the honor of being a part of was the Salmon People Project.

Now, with my work at Lummi Nation, I’m really following this path of tribal leadership and figuring out what that means to me.

Disenrollment?

I was raised in both Lummi and Nooksack communities, but I was enrolled at Nooksack. All my life I went to cultural gatherings, family birthdays, anything that you could think of, in both communities. These places are a part of me. In 2012, my family got a letter that stated that we didn’t meet certain eligibility requirements for enrollment, and that our Nooksack citizenship was revoked. I was only 16 at the time, and I didn’t understand what was going on. In a lot of Native communities, not everyone’s blood related, but we all consider one another family. So, when I was told that I wasn’t Nooksack by people who I considered family, it hurt. It made me feel like I didn’t belong and ultimately pushed me down a journey of self-discovery.

When I enrolled at Northwest Indian College, I took a cultural sovereignty class where one of the first assignments was to learn our own family tree. Learning my family tree empowered me with the knowledge to feel like I belonged. The education I received regarding identity and belonging allowed me to think beyond a plastic tribal ID or blood quantum or any of these colonial policies that have been pushed in terms of eradicating tribal identity.

Is there a teaching or a story that you hold very close?

When I was in the midst of trying to figure out my life, I went to Oaxaca, Mexico, on a study abroad program.

I was really happy to go, because I felt like I was going to have two months to heal. My idea of healing was very individualized, like my healing would be for me, for myself. I’d talk to my mentor about these feelings I was having, and he shared a saying with me: “No es sanarme, es sanarnos.” It’s not about healing me, it’s about healing us.

For me, that meant when I heal, I help heal those around me.

I know you take care of a number of family members who live with you. There’s all this heavy work that you do. What do you do for lightness, or for filling yourself back up?

I’m a sunset chaser and a sunset lover.

Visiting any type of water and watching the sunset are like my two favorite things in the world.

Hy’shqe, thank you so much.

Enjoy the evening, find a sunset.

I’ve got a midterm paper to work on, but yes!

Julie Trimingham is grateful to make her home on traditional Lhaq’temish territory, and to work for the Sacred Lands Conservancy (SacredSea.org), an Indigenous-led 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the life, culture, and sanctity of the Salish Sea. 

April 2023 27

Life 5 Faves

1

FIVE FAVES

28

BellinghamAlive.com

Port Townsend This artsy little harbor town is a gateway to the Olympic Peninsula.

Plus, between the charming Victorian architecture, thriving restaurant scene, and trails and beaches waiting to be explored, what’s not to love about Port Townsend?

Ferry Stops WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY

2 3 4 5

Friday Harbor All of the San Juans are worth a visit, but San Juan Island is notable because you don’t have to venture far from the ferry terminal to have fun — restaurants, shops, and cultural stops await you in Friday Harbor as soon as you set foot on land.

Bainbridge Island Though easily accessible from Seattle, Bainbridge Island’s small-town appeal couldn’t be more different from the bustle of the city.

Even so, there’s plenty to explore here — including arts and culture, great food, and numerous nature preserves.

Bremerton Bremerton has lots to offer visitors, though it’s perhaps best known for its naval museums and nature access. The city is also home to several notable cultural sites, including one of the oldest outdoor theaters in the U.S.

A pril 14 - 23

Ketchikan, Alaska Unlike the rest of this list, this isn’t a Washington State-run ferry. Bellingham is the southern starting point for the Alaska Marine Highway System, and after 38 hours aboard (!!), you’ll find yourself far away in Ketchikan.

join the hunt for 200 artist created nautical prizes hidden in Anacortes business locations, parks and public areas

visit www.anacortes.org for details and a map

April 2023 29

ECHO HARMONY TATTOO MEDICAL & RESTORATIVE TATTOOS

Fairhaven Barkley Bakerview Lynden Ferndale Blaine Birch Bay Bothell

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

Over 20 years experience working in surgery, I blend my medical expertise with my passion for this art form.

Areola restoration Stretch mark reduction and camouflage Scar camouflage (surgical, traumatic, self harm) Lip blush Eyebrows Contact me to book a consultation!

323.810.8686 echo@echoharmonytattoo.com

Thank you for voting us Best of the NW in 2017-2022!

The convenience of a single visit...

No messy impressions.

No temporary crowns.

No long wait for a permanent restoration.

With our advanced, in-office CEREC® system, you’ll enjoy teeth restoration services that are faster, easier, and more convenient than ever before! Call to schedule your appointment today!

MICHAEL A. SACRO, DDS 360.384.3440 www.ferndalefamilydental.com

www.capstonept.com

Walking Mod 32 Jo Bird Jewelry 34

Photo by Cocoa Laney

SeaBar 36

Springtime Style Guide

Style

38 April 2023 31

Style Savvy Shopper

Hike in Style with Brands You Love Walking Mod WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY KRISTEN BOEHM

The Shop If you haven’t discovered La Conner’s Walking Mod boutique yet, you may be having a hard time finding unique, lifestyle-focused pieces from your favorite outdoor brands. That’s definitely how Owner Eleanor Harbord felt before she founded Walking Mod in 2014.

“I’d go to REI and I just wasn’t finding what I was looking for,” says Harbord. “I knew there was a much nicer grouping of apparel out there that was really hard to find … so I just said, ‘That’s it! I’m gonna open this store.’”

The Atmosphere Walking Mod is tucked in amongst the local businesses of La Conner’s 1st Street. Most weekdays, Harbord will be there to greet you when you walk in (if you’re lucky, 14-year-old shop dog Twiggy may also say hello). The shop has a calming atmosphere, and seasonally appropriate merchandise lines the walls and fills displays throughout the store.

Harbord says most customers are wowed when they walk in. “‘Oh my gosh,’ they’ll say, ‘This is all my favorite brands, this is beautiful,’” she says. “[And] I just want them to feel that they were welcomed, they were taken care of, and they got what they needed.”

Key People Harbord grew up in Victoria, B.C., but has thrived in the PNW for over 30 years. La Conner locals may remember Wags & Rags, the pet boutique Harbord ran there for almost 20 years, with a brief stint in Cannon Beach, Oregon. Switching to apparel came out of Harbord’s lifelong passion for outdoorsy activities.

32

BellinghamAlive.com

Eleanor Harbord and Twiggy

“Well, I’m really active myself. I’m a huge walker, I was a backpacker, a hiker, a cycler,” Harbord says.

“The way I buy [Walking Mod’s merchandise] is if I love it, I buy it.”

Harbord is helped by one other employee, Erin, who has stuck with Walking Mod throughout the entire pandemic.

“She’s the sweetest thing, will help anybody at any moment, and I can’t live without her,” says Harbord. “She’s a lovely part of our business.”

like gloves, sunglasses, and functional Sherpani bags.

In 2019, Harbord added a collection on men’s clothing to her previously women-focused selection, since husbands who came in with their wives were feeling left out. They also started carrying kids’ and baby clothes in the past few years, which has seen a lot of success with young parents who buy with sustainability and durability in mind. Plus, it’s hard to resist tiny Patagonia mittens!

What You’ll Find

Favorites

The shop is full of premier active clothing for many different tastes, like pastel colored Killtec Uyaka Stripe quilted jackets and sleek black Ilse Jacobsen raincoats. While outerwear is a big focus, you can also find workoutsuitable outfits, flannels, and jeans perfect for long walks, lifestyle pieces for any occasion, and other apparel

Killtec is a German brand that creates high-quality outdoors clothing.

According to Harbord, they’re huge in Europe, but extremely picky about who they sell to in North America.

“They are not online; they only sell to stores,” she says. “And they only sell to two stores in the entire state of Washington, one being mine.”

Harbord also shared a special favorite with us — her favorite hikes!

“Oh, I love Deception Pass, that’s one of my all-time favorites,” she says.

“Washington Park in Anacortes, Padilla Bay Shore Trail is lovely, but Deception Pass is my number one.” 707 1st St., La Conner, 360.399.1888, walkingmod.com 

“I knew there was a much nicer grouping of apparel out there that was really hard to find … so I just said, ‘That’s it! I’m gonna open this store.’”

Eleanor Harbord, owner of Walking Mod

April 2023 33

Style Local Find

AdventureReady Jewelry by a Local Artisan Jo Bird Jewelry WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY PHOTOS COURTESY OF JO BIRD JEWELRY

T

HE GREAT THING about Sarah

Brockman’s jewelry is that her pieces can be worn anywhere: hiking, running, rock climbing, on vacation, or to the dinner table. This versatility is intentional, as Brockman’s own outdoorsy lifestyle fuels her creativity. ”I’ve always been a big adventurer,” she says. “And so I was making things that I could put on and leave on and wear for six months while swimming, hiking, running — all of it.”

As Jo Bird Jewelry, Brockman crafts earrings, necklaces, and bracelets from a wide range of materials. Her style could be described as boho, soft and subtle, or even beachy, and everything that she creates is crafted to last.

Brockman has been in business as Jo Bird Jewelry for 15 years, although she’s been creating jewelry since she was a little kid. Both her parents were 34

BellinghamAlive.com

artists, and her mother is also a jewelry designer in Whatcom County. For a time period, Brockman experimented with other mediums while helping her mother make jewelry, but found starting her own business felt like “going back to her roots.” She named it Jo Bird Jewelry after her own nickname, and the rest was history.

“I started out with a little Christmas bazaar, with a 6-foot table, and, like, four or five different styles of jewelry,” Brockman says. “And I think that’s what’s so cool about this medium: You can start small.”

More than a decade later, however, Brockman’s output is anything but small. Jo Bird Jewelry is a full-time business with a devoted client base, especially at the Bellingham Farmers Market. Brockman’s work spans a range of styles and mediums, and she’s often told that Jo Bird has something for everybody. Rather than focusing solely on silversmithing or beadwork, for example, she incorporates a variety of materials. This includes everything from mixed metals to freshwater pearls and leather.

“It’s very eclectic,” Brockman says.

“You know, I use shells that I find on the beach in the Caribbean. I use a lot of glass from the Czech Republic.”

Brockman balances running her business with being a mom to a 10and 7-year-old, and she “absolutely loves” the flexibility that her profession

affords her. Most of her work is made in her home studio while the kids are at school, but she’s also been known to make jewelry in less conventional places. This includes the beaches of Mexico and even deep in the wilderness of Idaho.

“Something that I think that’s special about my jewelry is that I make it everywhere I go,” she says. “So when I go to Mexico, I make like 200 necklaces.

I bring bead kits and trays, and I’m bringing them to the pool with me. I’m doing [work] on my bed when I wake up in my hotel room. That’s kind of special because a lot of jewelry artists can only make their work in their studio.”

You can find Jo Bird Jewelry online, at the Bellingham Farmers Market, and at select stores in Bellingham (including A Lot of Flowers in Fairhaven and Statement Apparel in Barkley Village).

Brockman’s pieces make excellent gifts for fashionable yet adventurous folks, and moreover, each one is a reflection of her passion for her craft.

“With artists, you might think they’re working on their product most of the time — but probably like 10 to 15% of my time is actually making jewelry. The rest of it is … all of the bookkeeping, all the elements of running a business,” she says. “And I enjoy all of that — but making the jewelry is definitely the cherry on the cake. It’s the most relaxing, enjoyable part of my day.” Bellingham, jobirdjewelry.com 

Your local destination for quality shoes, workwear & more since 1940.

420 E FAIRHAVEN AVE | DOWNTOWN BURLINGTON

Guided History Tours with the

www.Bellinghistory.com

1223 E. Division Street, Mt. Vernon • 360.428.1710 • rxhilltop.com

B O

I

U Q

R

We accept most insurance plans 8am–6pm Monday through Friday and Closed on Weekends

U E Q

O

I

L

We give the Covid vaccine!

Sign up at HealthMartCovidVaccine.Com

I N G

S

C

Drive-Thru Window

F O

A

with competitive prices.

Durable medical equipment and multi-dose packaging that bundles medications by date and time for patients.

A N D

E

Thanks for supporting small businesses and for voting us Best Pharmacy.

N

T

Your neighborhood pharmacy

N

T

H

U

T

MON–SAT: 10AM – 6PM SUNDAY: 11AM – 5PM 1402 11TH ST 360 671 2000 QUINNANDFOSTER.COM

Style Beauty

Reduce, Reuse, and Tame Those Split Ends SeaBar WRITTEN BY KRISTEN BOEHM PHOTOGRAPHED BY BEN DUYKER

H

OW MUCH EFFORT do you currently put into

cleaning up our world’s polluted oceans? On a totally related note, are you satisfied with your hair care routine?

SeaBar is a Whatcom County-based company that aims to help you improve the answers to both of these questions.

They produce zero-waste, natural shampoo and conditioner concentrate bars that massively reduce the amount of plastic bottles in your shower. In addition, when you buy SeaBar, your purchase helps fund trash pickups that have removed more than 30,000 pounds of plastic waste from the ocean.

“Through that whole process, as I kind of fell into the beauty industry, I was like, ‘Man, there is so much waste.’”

Greg Dayley, Founder of SeaBar 36

BellinghamAlive.com

Founder Greg Dayley started SeaBar after a couple of experiences left him determined to make a change. The first was an experience he had while free-diving in Hawaii. He saw a sea-turtle tangled in trash, and knew he wanted to make more conscious choices for the environment.

“For about five or six years, about the extent of me doing something about it was choosing paper over plastic,” says Dayley. “But it was always in the back of my mind.”

The second came when he was working with his cousin’s Instagram marketing agency, partnering with “some of the largest hair-related accounts in the world.”

“Through that whole process, as I kind of fell into the beauty industry, I was like, ‘Man, there is so much waste,’” he says.

During those days, he was trying out hair products in his own home, and realized most shampoos and conditioners were made up of mostly water. He’d heard of shampoo bars, solid products which didn’t need to be housed in plastic bottles, and asked his sisters and cousins if they’d consider switching to them. The answer was a resounding “no.” Thus began the attempt to create a better concentrated hair-care product.

“I played around with a bunch of things,” says Dayley.

“I made some shampoo pastes that were like 10% water. ...

I probably made about 100 different versions of SeaBar before I [perfected] it.”

Eventually, he made a concentrated product and put it into old deodorant containers, and sent it to his esteemed council of sisters and cousins. They all came back with glowing reviews.

What makes SeaBar great for your hair? It comes down to ingredients and form. SeaBar’s Moisturize Shampoo ($16) uses three gentle surfactants which are either biodegradable or Ecocert COSMOS certified. Together, they effectively cleanse your scalp and hair without stripping them to the point of harm.

The Moisturize Conditioner ($16) is such an intensely concentrated conditioner that Dayley says it’s like using a deep-conditioning treatment everytime you apply. He says customers attest it leaves their locks silky soft. You can thank the solid form for this concentrated punch!

SeaBar comes in a plastic holder the first time you buy, and refills cost $14 and come in compostable cardboard tubes. Using plastic at all may seem suspect, but Dayley says that plastic is the perfect material for the moist, slippery environment of the shower — as long as we don’t treat it like cheap trash. One plastic bar holder over dozens of plastic bottles is a pretty good trade!

Each purchase of SeaBar helps fund Dayley’s clean-up initiative, Clean Ocean Alliance (previously Pavati Ocean Pickup). The first week-long pickup recovered 30,000 pounds of trash. They’re aiming for their next pickup to be a month long, and recover “100,000+ pounds of trash.”

If you’d like to contribute to that cause, or try out these eco-conscious hair products, you can find SeaBar at their website, or at local stores like Pumped Bellingham, Living Pantry, and at the Bellingham Community Food Co-op.

Bellingham, seabar.com, @seabarcleans 

PROMOTION

SHOP LOCAL 1. Butterfly Boxed Bath Bombs $12.99 Bella Rose Boutique 1134 10th St., Bellingham luvbellarose.com, 360.746.8163

2. Teleties Hair Ties $7.99–$14.99 Fairhaven Runners & Walkers

1

2

1209 11th St., Bellingham 360.676.4955, fairhavenrunners.com

3. Ilse Jacobsen reversible tote bag. Available in three colors. $87 Statement Apparel 2945 Newmarket St., Ste. 107, Bellingham 360.734.9595, statement-apparel.com

4. Botox (Medicinal & Cosmetic) $12/unit Peak Hydration IV Therapy & Wellness Lounge

3

4

1216 Bay St., Bellingham 360.526.2125, peakhydrationlounge.com

5. Classic Clipper Cut | $35 Kids Cut 10 and Under | $25 Midtown Barber 1504 Iowa St., Bellingham (Inside Fitness Evolution) 360.595.7556, midtownbarber.booksy.com

6. 14K Emerald Cut Lab-Grown Diamond Solitaire | $3450 Profess

5

6

1153 N. State St., Bellingham profess.love, hello@profess.love

7. Rye’s 500 mg CBD Balm $50 plus shipping Rye’s CBD ryescbd.com, contactryescbd@gmail.com Facebook: @ryesupcbd Instagram & Twitter: @ryescbd

8. Boat Rental Service Prices Vary Joe’s Canoe Rental

7

8

7306 Halibut Dr., Blaine 360.325.6603, joes-canoe-rental.business.site

April 2023 37

Style Fashion

Springtime Style Guide WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

D

RESSING FOR EARLY spring

in the PNW is… not exactly straightforward. Sure, the days are getting progressively warmer, but “warm” is a relative term — so don’t put away the knitwear just yet (you’ll likely need it ‘til July). Day-to-day weather can be unpredictable, and layers are still key for most outfits.

Luckily we can also begin incorporating brighter elements like pastel colors, denim jackets, and even linens.

To kickstart your spring wardrobe shopping, we’ve styled three different looks using apparel from a few of our favorite local shops. A piece of advice: If you have to purchase just one new item this season, we recommend a good pair of rainboots. 

Springtime Chic Cascadia Jewelry Moon Earrings Fringe Boutique, $40 Gold Chain Necklace Betty Be Good Boutique, $20 Blowfish Liva Boots Fringe Boutique, $65 Reading Glasses Yeager’s Sporting Goods, $5 Linen Lifestyle Shirt-Dress in Blue Zebra Three French Hens, $334

Three French Hens 1100 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.756.1047, threefrenchens.com Fringe Boutique 1147 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.312.4067, wearfringe.com Betty Be Good Boutique 8125 Birch Bay Square St., Ste. 201, Blaine, 360.441.7691, shopbettybegood.com Yeager’s Sporting Goods 3101 Northwest Ave., Bellingham, 360.733.1080, yeagerssportinggoods.com

Model: Ava Curtright

38

BellinghamAlive.com

Cozy Knits Dean Davidson Necklace Three French Hens, $462

Blu Pepper Cardigan Betty Be Good Boutique, $45

Double Zero Knit Tank Fringe Boutique, $32

Blowfish Martina Taupe Sneakers Fringe Boutique, $55

Volcom Jeans Fringe Boutique, $80

April 2023 39

Style Fashion

Everyday Denim Cici’s Knots Macrame Earrings Fringe Boutique, $18 Jean Jacket Three French Hens, $265 AG Cigarette Jeans Three French Hens, $198 Jeanne Simmons Hat Three French Hens, $60 Zenana Top Betty Be Good Boutique, $40 Blowfish Martina Taupe Sneakers Fringe Boutique, $55

40

BellinghamAlive.com

SHOP LOCAL AT

PAINTED PEACE STUDIOS MORE THAN JUST ART POLES!

Skip Patten

Whatcom Art Market Studio Tour dates: (Call or email me to get a formal invite) May 20, 11-3PM June 17, 11-3 PM July 15, 11-3PM August 12, 11-3PM

Spring is right around the corner and it’s time to PLANT YOUR POTS! Come shop locally at Painted Peace anytime by appointment or join me for one of my famous Studio tours! My store is located in the Geneva neighborhood or shop online at paintedpeace.com

Stephanie Burgess, Artist and Owner

(Please contact for address) steph@paintedpeace.com, 360-920-3064, paintedpeace.com Instagram and Pinterest: @painted_peace Facebook: facebook.com/paintedpeacebystephanieburgess

1103 11th Street (Fairhaven)

360-738-8564

OPEN DAILY 11 am - 6 pm WhatcomArtMarket.org

2 1 B E L LW E T H E R WAY, ST E 1 07 B E L L I N G H A M, WA 9 8 2 2 5 P. 3 60.7 78 .1 6 1 3

N E E T E R H O U S E O F L U X U R Y. C O M

OVER 26 YEARS OF REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE

RESULTS MATTER. EXPERIENCE COUNTS.

NATE KENOYER

360-319-3280 nkenoyer@windermere.com natekenoyer.com

For all of your grooming needs, let Wally’s take care of you for any occasion.

Voted Best Men’s Haircut 7 Years in a Row

Wally’s Barber Shop

314 E. Holly St. #100 Bellingham, 360.647.0807

Map Data © Google 2019

Robin Daly Color & Design 62 GreenCoast Cedarworks 66

Photo by Katheryn Moran Photography

Morning Wake-up Essentials 68

Home

A Kaleidoscope of Colorful Possibilities 64 April 2023 61

Home

Featured Home

Designing a Dream Home on Whidbey Island Q&A with Designer Robin Daly INTERVIEWED BY COCOA LANEY PHOTOGRAPHED BY SNOWBERRY LANE PHOTOGRAPHY

Tell me more about the owners of this property.

What were their needs, and what was their vision for the property?

The clients lived the condo life in the heart of Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood for many years, and they were very ready to leave the city. They decided to relocate to Whidbey Island, to her parents’ former dream home.

The house was a fascinating ‘70s/‘80s time capsule that included multiple layers of dated wallpapers, lots of brown woods, and a very disjointed floor plan. The ceilings were shorter than normal, and the insulation and HVAC were inefficient. Good bones, but bad decorating (by today’s standards). However, it’s situated on a bluff with killer views.

The clients needed to upgrade the house for their own needs: to expand and improve functionality of the kitchen, accommodate an extensive library of books and collected treasures, open the floor plan for relaxed living, and erase the dated vibe — all while keeping in mind that the house is very exposed to the elements and takes a beating from the weather 62

BellinghamAlive.com

year ‘round. They wanted to be able to track in dirt, but make it feel airy.

Why did your clients choose you to realize this vision?

The builder was hired first, and they suggested me as the designer. Because I can speak both “contractor” and “client,” I understand the needs on both sides and am able to help facilitate and smooth the process for everyone. Renovations have their stressful moments, and bringing the right designer to the team helps, not hinders, the process.

What were some of the major elements you brought to the table during the design process?

We wanted to incorporate a modern, timeless style that wasn’t tied to any specific design trend and still be able to easily clean all surfaces. Practical elements were used in a beautiful way, like installing high quality luxury vinyl planking for the main floors, and porcelain slab countertops in the kitchen to accommodate hot pots with style.

We utilized a mix of finishes with the custom cabinetry throughout the house. Cabinets were a combination of painted wood, natural walnut and cerused oak to add textural interest, and we repeated these three finishes to unify the floor plan. Window treatments were selected to screen glare and valances were made from natural grasses to keep the texture story strong. Everything was designed to accommodate both elderly cats and future furry friends.

We also used a trick throughout the house to make the rooms feel both taller and modern at the same time: We painted the trim the same color as the walls. You still have

the dimensional aspects of the trim to maintain visual interest, but by minimizing the color contrast we kept the rooms from feeling cut-up, and kept the small house from looking like a cottage.

Did you run into any challenges?

One of the elements that was staying put was the very bossy red brick fireplace — it divides the dining area from the living room, and is a dominant feature in the main living space. We decided to incorporate the texture of the brick without trying to hide it by treating it with a German Schmear finish. Many people would want to reface the entire thing, hiding it with wallboard and tile to obliterate all that groovy ‘70s brick. We decided to go a different direction, and it paid off beautifully.

Furnishings arrived in bits and pieces, and there might have been a crazy saga to the custom sofa, but that story involves a good bottle of wine to tell properly. A really good bottle.

What kind of recognition did the final result receive?

The builder submitted the project to the annual SICBA (Skagit Island County Builders Association) competition, and it won Residential Project of the Year! This was an unexpected surprise, and really made me feel like a part of the community that I enjoy working in so much.  Designer: Robin Daly Color & Design 112 Ohio St., Ste. 101, Bellingham, 206.794.0314, robindalycolor.com Builder: Cascade Custom Homes 35 N.W. Birch St., Coupeville, 360.675.0491, cascadecustomhomes.com April 2023 63

Home

Remodel

A Kaleidoscope of Colorful Possibilities Jennifer Ryan Design WRITTEN BY JENNIFER RYAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY KATHERYN MORAN PHOTOGRAPHY

M

OVING FROM SEATTLE to rural Skagit County

proved to be quite a challenge for these homeowners, but finding the right neighborhood and a good home layout seemed a good place to start.

After settling on a house, they brought me on to make it a home — and, given my clients’ love of color, we were definitely able to have some fun with the design process.

We kept the wall palette neutral in the main living areas, but painted the ceilings a very pale blue on the main floor.

The home received all-new flooring, lighting, black windows, and crisp white trim, crown molding, and doors throughout.

We opened up the stairwell and installed a bespoke iron and copper railing as well. The color came into play in the cabinets: the kitchen, bathrooms, offices, and bonus room.

In the kitchen, we decided to use two colors for the cabinets: a very dark (almost black) green and a clean white. Playing with color and texture made this space truly unique, and our upgrades included a waterfall island with a built-in microwave drawer, a drinks cabinet with copper tile, large pantry, custom hood vent, and traditional subway tile with an iridescent finish all fused into the dining area window seat cabinets.

Beyond this, we incorporated four different cabinet pull styles, brass sconces, pendant and chandelier lighting with copper highlights, a black and gold faucet, and upgraded brass switch plates. All of these unique elements came together to give this kitchen its individuality.

The other large change we made in the kitchen/dining/ living area was the fireplace. What was once a very plain wall fireplace insert became a two-sided fireplace that you could see from all angles. Instead of a traditional mantel, we had a custom glazed plaster surround built.

After a whole home remodel, their new house went from bland to fabulous! Even more importantly, embracing the strong color palette meant that the final result feels tailor-made to their unique taste. Bellingham, 2100 G St., 360.319.7092, jenniferryandesign.com 

After settling on a house, they brought me on to make it a home— and, given my clients’ love of color, we were definitely able to have some fun with the design process.

Jennifer Ryan 64

BellinghamAlive.com

April 2023 65

Home

Local Find

The Gateway to a Sustainable Home GreenCoast Cedarworks WRITTEN BY LEAH FOSTER PHOTOS COURTESY OF GREENCOAST CEDARWORKS

I

MAGINE STARTING YOUR workday by walking into

your shop, “sun angling into the workspace, or rain pattering on the roof, stacks of beautiful cedar stock all around, a new project before you…” That is how Jeff Nelson, owner of GreenCoast Cedarworks, describes the start of his workday. Sounds like a pretty sweet gig to me.

GreenCoast Cedarworks has been designing and building stunning garden and entry gates as well as other property enhancing structures for more than 10 years. Specializing in mid-century modern, Asian-inspired, and craftsman design, Nelson builds each piece with an eye for detail and craftsmanship you will never find in a big box store.

Each gate, bench, or fence panel is built with clear, verticalgrain, Western red cedar and is constructed using joinery rather than nails and screws so that your finished piece will stand up to the PNW weather. GreenCoast can custom build to your specifications and if you’re here in Whatcom, they can even come out for a free consultation.

And what could be better than a gorgeous new entry built just for you and your home? Knowing it was built 66

BellinghamAlive.com

sustainably. Nelson makes every effort to ensure there is as little waste produced as possible as he creates each piece.

Off-cuts are used to craft the detailing in his work and to make the crates his pieces are shipped in.

Nelson even uses some of his off-cuts to make items for the local marketplace, including soap stands you can purchase at Pumped Bellingham or in a gift box from Madrona Gifts! He also recycles/repurposes as much as he is able with the help of like-minded businesses such as Ridwell and the ReStore — but it doesn’t end there.

Nelson takes sustainability to the next level with extra steps such as keeping his shop temperature set below 58 degrees in order to be more energy efficient.

Whether you opt for a custom piece or choose an existing design, Nelson loves working with his clients to ensure they get exactly what they want. He takes pride in his work and the results speak for themselves, with five-star reviews all over the internet, from Houzz to Etsy to Google.

In my opinion, part of making a house a home is including pieces that represent you and your values. That can mean anything from picking up decor during your travels to refinishing your thrift store finds. If you value quality craftsmanship, supporting the local economy, and helping to lighten our environmental impact, GreenCoast Cedarworks shares your vision.

According to Nelson, “there is nothing more satisfying than … the careful piecing together of well-crafted elements.”

Anyone who describes their work with the joy that Jeff Nelson does surely seems worth investing in. Bellingham, 360.224.6872, gccedarworks.com 

CRUISE THE SAN JUAN ISLANDS MEMORIALS

SPECIAL EVENTS

CHARTERS & TOURS

Specializing in meaningful and unique memorials

We can help make your special event unique and unforgettable

Smooth-ride, climatecontrolled vessels.

Frequent educational, nature, and cultural tours

WEDDINGS

COMPANY WORKSHOP

Catered food and wine and decor options available.

Many options available for this memorable company workshop. Catering available.

2011 Skyline Way, Anacortes, WA 98222 cruisethesanjuans.com | 360.293.5920

• • • •

Home

Necessities

1 2 3 4 5

68

BellinghamAlive.com

NORTHWEST

Morning Wake-up Essentials

��� ����i���ng�

919 Riverside Dr. ▪ Mount Vernon 360-424-8455 ▪ www.nwff.com Hours: Mon–Sat 9:30–5:30

WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY

I

F YOU’RE ANYTHING like me,

the idea of maintaining a morning routine often seems more aspirational than realistic. Ideally I’d wake with the sunrise, follow a skincare routine, and maybe do some reflective journaling — but let’s be honest. On most days, getting out of bed is preceded by liberal usage of the “snooze” button, and the first thing I do is pour myself a cup of coffee (probably the first of several).

If you, too, are trying to nail down your morning rituals, the following items just might make waking up more enjoyable. Sure, you won’t have time for skincare and journaling every single day, but it’s the intention that counts — and you’ll likely get very good mileage out of that espresso machine. 

1 2 3 4 5

Let us help you turn your house into a home.

coast salish C O N C R E T E OUR SERVICES

• Residential, New

Construction, and Existing Minor Commercial

• Complete Projects Start

to Finish

• Excavation of Area

• Driveways, Patios, Porches,

• All Finishes

Slabs, Foundations, Retaining Walls, and Steps

DEMING, WA • COASTSALISHCONCRETE@GMAIL.COM • 360.375.4054

Sunrise Alarm Clock Hatch Restore, $130 hatch.co

Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine + Frother DeWaard & Bode, $650 3944 Meridian St., Bellingham, 360.733.5900, dewaardandbode.com

NW Sailing Adventures is your ticket to fully crewed, fully customized, all inclusive sailing charters of the beautiful San Juan Islands.

Your sailing adventure awaits.

541.350.4787 | nwsailing.com

Come Experience The Cruising Lifestyle

Bella il Fiore Ice Roller Bella Rose Boutique, $18 1134 10th St., Bellingham, 360.746.8163, luvbellarose.com PRESENT

2023 Marysville Strawberry Festival

Maple Mug Dry Dock Goods, $55 Burlington, shopdrydock.com

Saturday, June 10–Sunday, June 18, 2023 Asbery Field - 4th & State Ave * Downtown Marysville

Balance Mini Book by Moglea elSage Designs, $10 408 & 410 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon, 360.588.4723, elsagedesigns.com

See Grand Parade at new, earlier start time of 5 p.m.

Info: www.marysvillestrawberryfest.com 360.659.7664

Save the Date!

Turning tongues red for 91 years!

April 2023 69

Whatcom County Home & Garden Show Listings A

fter a two-year hiatus, the 2023 Home & Garden Show is returning April 28–30! This year’s show boasts a new space, the WECU Expo Building.

Bellingham Alive Magazine will be in booths 55 and 56. Come enter to win $200 in local dining certificates, plus we’re giving away free copies of this year’s annual home and remodel issue, our Welcome newcomers guide to Whatcom County, and many more.

You won’t want to miss the opportunity to connect in person with Whatcom County’s most talented home pros. We have information on some of the great vendors attending this year. Here’s your chance to learn more about them before the big weekend arrives.

Special Advertising Section

April 2023 71

Home & Garden Show Listings

TAKE-A-LONG DIRECTORY

CHECK THE BUSINESSES YOU WANT TO TALK TO, TAKE IT OUT, AND BRING IT WITH YOU TO THE SHOW.

Bellingham Alive

Booths 55 & 56

Daiwa by U.S. Jaclean

Booths 23 & 24

Gary’s BBQ Supplies

Booth O12

Judd & Black

Booths FP27–31

Lorraine’s Window Coverings

Booth 4

Mt. Baker Roofing

Booth FP37

Topside Roofing

Booth 13

Vista Materials

Booth 43

WECU

Booth G2

WHERE YOUR HOME PROJECT BEGINS!

APRIL 28TH - 30TH NW WA S H IN G TO N FA IR G R O U N D S , FA R M PAVIL IO N , LYN D E N , WA

FIND TICKETS AND MORE INFORMATION WWW.BIAWC.COM We are excited to have everyone back after 2 years.

We have a great lineup of engaging speakers, workshops, interactive booths, a Food Truck Round up, and a Beer Garden this year!

BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

72

SENTED B RE

Y:

P

B U I L D I N G | H O M E R E M O D E L I N G | I N T E R I O R D ECO R AT I N G G A R D E N I N G & L A N D S CA PI N G | H E AT I N G & CO O L I N G | A N D M U C H M O R E !

BellinghamAlive.com

Special Advertising Section

Home & Garden Show Listings

INSURED BY NCUA

Get a JUMP START on your next project

BOOTH G2

WECU 360.676.1168, wecu.com/HomeEquity

Whether you’re looking to build a new fence, re-do your kitchen, or put a new roof on your house, the costs can be daunting. At WECU, we provide a personalized, collaborative experience with our local experts who are here to discuss your loan options and answer any questions you may have along the way.

A HELOC is one of the most versatile products you can use to tap into the equity of your home. This product gives you the flexibility to borrow when you need it, rather than taking a lump sum all at once. A HELOC is a revolving line of credit that is secured by your home.

Its flexibility makes it a great choice for all types of home improvement projects. Large and small, simple or complex, the HELOC provides peace of mind knowing you have funds in reserve to meet the demands of most improvement projects.

If you have questions, our team at WECU is here to help. As a not-for-profit credit union that has been around for more than 85 years, you can rest assured knowing that our team will always have your best interest at heart.

To learn more about home equity options, visit wecu. com/HomeEquity, call us at 360-676-1168, or come see us at the Whatcom County Home Show April 26–28 at booth G2.

April 2023 73

Home & Garden Show Listings BOOTH 13

BOOTH 43

Vista Materials 6950 Vista Dr., Ste. B, Ferndale 360.366.5239 sales@vistamaterialsinc.com vistamaterialsinc.com

Vista Materials is the new retail branch of Perry Pallet in Ferndale. We are your one-stop shop for landscaping materials! In addition to our recycled wood mulch, we offer over a dozen new products for pickup and delivery. These include soil, compost, rock, gravel, sand, and more.

Topside Roofing 161 E. Horton Road, Bellingham 360.752.2220, topsideroofing.com

Topside Roofing and Siding is a locally owned company that has been providing Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties with quality installations for over 30 years.

We are licensed, bonded, and have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

We are proud to be Whatcom Counties Exclusive Master Elite Contractor. As a GAF Master Elite Contractor all our employees are trained to install GAF products to manufacturing standards. Through GAF, we can provide our customers with the best warranties offered. We are also proud to be a Pabco Preferred Contractor and a Tesla approved and trained installer of Tesla Solar Shingles.

Topside Roofing and Siding provides FREE estimates.

We love working with people to find the best materials for any budget and improving the aesthetic of their home.

We look forward to seeing everyone at the Whatcom County Home and Garden Show April 28–30 at BOOTH 13!

BOOTH O12

Gary’s BBQ Supplies 360.223.1009, garysbbqsupplies.com

Gary’s BBQ Supplies has been committed to bringing you the finest quality American made products for your BBQ needs.

People’s Magazine Voted “best smoker of 2023” Made in America and are made to last for lifetimes.

Reliable, built to last!

Yoder. When it’s time to get serious.

74

BellinghamAlive.com

Special Advertising Section

Home & Garden Show Listings BOOTHS FP27–31

Judd & Black 2001 James St., Bellingham juddblack.com

We are thrilled to be the title sponsor of the Whatcom Home & Garden Show! As a local family-owned business, we at Judd & Black Appliance understand the importance of being a community-minded and sustainably operated company. For over 80 years, we’ve been proud to offer our legacy of quality service and industry experience to local residents like yourself.

Located on the five way intersection of State, James, and Iowa Street, our Bellingham showroom has over 30 top name appliance brands on display. We sell, deliver, and install home appliances, and we service everything we sell—meaning you get the reliability of quality

products as well as the peace of mind that comes with our team of in-house experts.

In our business, meeting the needs of our customers is our top priority. That’s one of the many reasons why Whatcom County has voted us Best of the Northwest’s #1 Appliance Store for the last four years in a row. It is wonderful that Whatcom County residents are eager to support local independent retailers and we couldn’t be more grateful to be so embraced in this community.

With our five stores between Lynnwood and Bellingham, we are dedicated to being Northwest Washington’s trusted source for sales, information, and service in the home appliance industry. Every home has appliances, so knowing who your local appliance experts are could come in handy one day, and that’s why we’re here. Stop by our show booth FP27–FP31 and talk with one of our appliance experts.

April 2023 75

Home & Garden Show Listings BOOTH 4

BOOTH FP37

Lorraine’s Window Coverings

Mt. Baker Roofing 928 Thomas Rd., Bellingham 360.733.0191 www.mtbakerroofing.com

Bakerview Square 410 W. Bakerview Rd., Ste. 101, Bellingham 360.738.8175 lorraineswindowcoverings.com Hours: Mon.–Fri. 9 am–4 pm, Weekends by appointment

Lorraine’s Window Coverings, Inc. offers a large selection of custom window treatments, including honeycomb shades, shutters, motorized shades, Roman shades, roller shades, drapery, sheers, layered shades, and woven wood shades. Call for a free in-home consultation.

Mt Baker Roofing has served Whatcom and Skagit Counties for over 40 years. The company specializes in providing high-quality roofing services, including residential reroofing, gutter & skylight installation, and new construction roofs. We operate year-round to ensure you stay safe and dry.

BOOTHS 55 & 56

BOOTHS 23 & 24

2023

Citie

D,, OD SEAFOO STEAKS, PS AND SI

TOP REMODEL TRENDS 2023 Pros To Know Gardening Tips and Trends 2023 FEBRUARY 28 FEBRUARY DISPLAY UNTIL $4.99 CAN • $3.99 US

RIE & CHARCUTE INGS WINE PAIR

>

ANT RESTAUR E MENU GUID

>

ORY BLACK HIST MONTH

North Sound’s Iconic Eats

EAT & DRI NK RETAIL EDUCAT ION HEALTH SERVIC MARCH ES 2023 PROSDISPLAY MARCH 31 TO UNTIL KNO $3.99 US • $4.99W CAN

Daiwa by U.S. Jaclean

Bellingham Alive Magazine

1025 Industry Dr., Tukwila daiwamassage.com 253.236.5753 ynakamura@usjaclean.com

432 W. Bakerview Rd., Ste. 101, Bellingham 360.483.4576, bellinghamalive.com

Treat yourself to a luxurious massage with Daiwa’s Supreme Hybrid. Experience total relief from stress and muscle tension with our state-of-the-art HybriFlex™ massage technology. The Supreme Hybrid provides full-body, therapeutic human-like massage techniques, airbag compression, inversion stretch, and heat therapy for ultimate relaxation and recovery.

Invest in your health.

76

BellinghamAlive.com

We Lovs e

Bellingham Alive Magazine will be in booths 55 and 56.

Come enter to win $200 in local dining certificates, plus we’re giving away free copies of this year’s annual home and remodel issue, our Welcome newcomers guide to Whatcom County, and many more.

Special Advertising Section

Check out our locally owned & operated locations! westsidepizza.com

Bellingham

Blaine

Ferndale

4260 Cordata Parkway #107

1733 H Street, Unit 200

1887 Main St #104

Bellingham, WA 98226

Blaine, WA 98230

Ferndale, WA 98248

(360) 756-5055

(360) 392-8922

(360) 778-1167

Bellingham

Everson

Lynden

607 Northshore Dr.

102 W. Main St.

107 3rd Street

Bellingham, WA 98226

Everson, WA 98247

Lynden, WA 98264

Coming Soon

(360) 922-7395

(360) 354-1555

115 Samish Way, Bellingham Daily 3:30–9PM 360.756.0058

Travel-inspired Eats 80 Brandywine Kitchen 84

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Logan Cider 94

Taste

Nell Thorn Waterfront Bistro & Bar

82 April 2023 79

Train Wreck Bar & Grill

Plates, Trays, and Automo-meals WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY

O

UR APRIL FEATURE is all about travel, but even if

you don’t have a getaway in your immediate future, you don’t have to actually travel to feel transported.

Sometimes all you need is a good meal — and the North Sound has a variety of transportation-centric eateries that are sure to satisfy your wanderlust (for the time being). From bike cafes to sunset dinner cruises, here are a few of our top picks to get you started.

Trains We’ll start with the most obvious — and perhaps most literal — pick: the Amtrak Cascades bistro car. Beyond your standard sandwiches and coffee, their menu features regionally-inspired breakfasts (like the Snoqualmie Oatmeal) to hearty dinners (like the Mac and Cheese Skillet or Ivar’s Clam Chowder). Even the snack selection is noteworthy thanks to the inclusion of a Cheese and Cracker Tray — and yes, there is also a selection of beer and wine.

Not riding the real-life rails any time soon? Get the next best thing at The Railway Cafe in Blaine instead. This coffee shop/eatery is located in an actual train car, and in addition to the variety of coffee drinks and house-made syrups, they have some of the best pastries by the border.

We’d also be remiss not to mention the Train Wreck Bar & Grill in Burlington. This one-of-a-kind eatery has a playful vibe, creative pub fare, and Bloody Marys with enough garnishes to make a meal. Combine all this with an in-house bakery and house-smoked meats, and it’s no secret why this Skagitonian gem is so beloved.

Boats For those who prefer sea to land, the Chuckanut Cracked Crab Dinners by San Juan Cruises are a dream come true.

Diners can watch the sun set over Bellingham and Chuckanut 80

BellinghamAlive.com

The Fork at Agate Bay

Bays from aboard a luxury touring vessel, which features indoor seating and several viewing decks. While the dinners themselves are centered around Dungeness crab, they also feature Tuscan herb chicken, salad, rice pilaf, fresh bread, and dessert. Cruises run Wednesday-Sunday from June 7 until Sept. 17.

The historic Schooner Zodiac will also be embarking on regular voyages for foodies throughout the 2023 season, including a Salmon Dinner Sail, Brunch on the Bay Sail, and Ales ‘n’ Sails Dinner Cruise. Their season kicks off next month just in time for Mother’s Day, and you can snag your tickets now at schoonerzodiac.com.

To get the seafaring experience without leaving shore, The Fork at Agate Bay has an atmosphere that could easily be described as “boathouse chic.” Case in point: the real 1962 George Pocock Olympic rowing scull hanging from the ceiling. We also love Adrift in Anacortes for their nautical decor and locally-sourced seafood.

Bikes Cafe Velo combines three of Bellingham’s favorite things: espresso, beer, and bikes. On one side of the shop, you can order sandwiches with names that cyclists are sure to recognize (Madone, Stelvio, Ventoux, et cetera) as well as craft coffee and brews on tap. The other side of the shop is a full-fledged bike repair shop — so if you’d like to tune up your bike while enjoying a snack or brew, you know where to go.

At the base of Galbraith Mountain, a.k.a. Bellingham’s top mountain biking destination, you’ll also find Transition Bicycle Company’s Transition Outpost. This bike shop/ demo center/gathering space is all about “bikes, beer, and community.” Drinks and snacks are available on the regular, and if you stop by on a weekend, you can enjoy Asianinspired eats from the Outpost Eats food truck.

Our first two suggestions are all about mountain bikes, but Chuckanut Bay Distillery’s Penny Farthing Bar & Restaurant pays homage to a different kind of bike. The penny farthing was a popular mode of transportation in the 19th century, and although you’re unlikely to spot them in the streets in 2023, you can admire the one mounted above the bar at the Penny Farthing. Bonus fun fact: Bicycles are a recurring motif for Chuckanut Bay, and the bicycle frame

Photo by Lindsey Major

Photo by Ryan Karsen

Taste Travel-inspired Eats

Photo by Ryan Palmer

New Public Vegan Food Truck

used to grind potatoes for their first-ever spirit is displayed in the distillery next door.

Trucks As anyone who’s ever visited a brewery can tell you, the North Sound has a plethora of restaurants on four wheels (and we couldn’t begin to list them all).

If you’re in the mood for international cuisine, Lumpia Luv serves Filipino-American fusion in locations between Glacier and the Bellingham Bay (including at Menace Brewing and Kulshan K1 and K2). Greektown is great for Mediterranean fare, Simmering Tava has artisan Indian eats, and Dumpling Girls specializes in Asian food like spring rolls, noodles, and — as their name would imply — dumplings. We’d also be remiss not to mention Super Mario’s Taco Truck, the unassuming-yet-legendary Salvadorian food truck. Unlike others on this list, Super Mario’s stays at the same location (1422 N. Forest St. in Bellingham) Monday through Saturday.

Lovers of Mexican food are practically spoiled for choice when it comes to food trucks. We couldn’t begin to list them all, but for starters, El Tapatio NW can be found in both Ferndale and Bellingham, and Tacos La Guelaguetza serves authentic Oaxacan eats at two locations in Bellingham (on Samish Way and Meridian Street). Tacos El Tule is on Meridian Street, and beyond just tacos, they have everything from burritos to quesadillas and nachos. Ah! Chihuahua Taco Truck is the mobile version of Chihuahua Mexican Restaurant in Ferndale, and you can often find them at Kulshan K2 in Bellingham’s Roosevelt neighborhood.

Carnivores should check out Mount Vernon-based Wingz n Thingz for fried chicken and Brothers Bus Bistro (located at Gruff Brewing) for burgers. If you’d instead prefer something plant-based, New Public Vegan Food Truck and Sammies Vegan both specialize in comfort food that just so happens to be vegan (although you’d never guess by just tasting it). 

Photo by Claudia Cooper

Photo by Kyle Szegedi

Penny Farthing Bar & Restaurant

Cafe Velo

April 2023 81

Taste Review

A Fresh Philosophy on Farm-to-Table Nell Thorn Waterfront Bistro & Bar WRITTEN BY KRISTEN BOEHM | PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

S

ITTING ON THE Swinomish

Channel, Nell Thorn Waterfront Bistro & Bar is a must-visit in La Conner. This cozy, sophisticated eatery is co-owned by General Manager Albie Bjornberg and Chef James Donohue, who both have an undeniable passion for locally-sourced, artisancrafted, and supremely fresh ingredients.

“Everything just has a special vibrancy about it, because it’s so hyperlocal and hyperfresh—that translates directly to the plate.”

Albie Bjornberg, General Manager of Nell Thorn Waterfront Bistro & Bar 82

BellinghamAlive.com

“Everything just has a special vibrancy about it, because it’s so hyperlocal and hyperfresh — that translates directly to the plate,” says Bjornberg. “[We] make relationships with local farmers and granaries, beef producers, anything and everything.”

“Most of the farmers out here, it’s pretty unreal what they’re able to do with the quality that they’re sending out,” Donohue adds. “Sometimes the guy’s in the field picking the stuff and he’s bringing it over in his golf cart like, ‘Alright, here it is!’ I mean, it is fresh.”

While maintaining relationships with providers to keep certain staples on the menu, they’re always buying from a fluctuating number of area farms, fishermen, and foragers to source ripe, interesting ingredients.

Bar Manager Gwen Knight is equally as excited about innovation and quality. She made us three drinks,

the Moonbeam Rider ($13), the Buddy System ($12) and the Nitro Cold Brew Martini ($12), each showcasing the care and crafting that goes into cocktails at Nell Thorn.

“Our food is so heavily influenced by the surrounding farm area and what’s in season. Our menu changes every day, and I want our cocktails to reflect that same ideology,” she says.

“It’s inspirational! When the first rhubarb of the season comes in and I start playing with fruit again, I get really excited.”

The cocktails, microbrews, and extensive wine list are themselves a top-notch draw, and that’s before you even start sampling the food.

You can’t sit down for a meal at Nell Thorn and not enjoy their fresh baked Nell’s Bread ($5), a sourdough made from Cairnsprings Mills grains with a crunchy crust and soft, hearty body.

We had it with the house-made butter, which changes frequently. When we visited it was flavored with truffle, garlic, and aromatic herbs. Simplicity is not easy, so when a restaurant nails the bread and butter this hard, you know everything after is going to be amazing!

The freshness of Nell Thorn’s ingredients truly shine through in their salads. Their raw greens and veggies are absolutely bursting with juicy flavor, and even cooked they’re firm and crisp, reminding you that some of these things left the ground just days (or sometimes even less) prior.

The Warm Pear and Beet Salad ($21) is perfect for those who love a sweeter palate. Sliced and roasted red and yellow beets from Ralph’s Greenhouse in Mount Vernon are paired with caramelized Bosc pears, gorgonzola, crushed Marcona almonds, organic arugula, and drizzled with burnt honey vinaigrette.

Foodies will know the salad Nicoise is a classic French salad, but Nell Thorn’s take, the Wild Salmon Nicoise ($28), is a masterful display of color and variety that further highlights the tasty bounty of our area. On a bed of Well Fed Farms organic lettuces is a slab of grilled wild Alaskan sockeye salmon. Nicoise olives, rainbow

fingerling potatoes, tomatoes, organic asparagus, capers, soft-boiled egg, parmigiano, and a lemon wedge all add to the layered flavors of this meal.

We were also treated to two of their pasta dishes, the Dungeness Crab Spaghetti ($38) and the Rigatoni Arrabbiata ($28). Nell Thorn makes all of their pastas fresh and in-house, so regardless of if you’re noshing the semolina rigatoni or spaghetti, or the egg yolk tagliatelle, you’re in for noodles worlds away from stale or soggy. The crab pasta was complimented with a rich and zesty butter lemon sauce, while the arrabbiata dish was perfectly piquant thanks to piquillo peppers.

Lastly, we had a meringue dessert, the Pavlova ($12). The meringue is baked to toasty perfection and filled with sage-thyme whipped cream, and topped with a triple berry coulis of raspberry, blueberries, and blackberries.

Our entire experience at Nell Thorn was colored by the blatant joy and pride everyone at the establishment takes in their food, the experience they provide, and in their community. Cruise down to La Conner’s waterfront for a fresh experience every time! 116 S. 1st St.., La Conner, 360.466.4261, nellthorn.com 

April 2023 83

Taste Chef’s Corner

Mexican Tortilla Soup Chef Azizi Tookas of Brandywine Kitchen RECIPE AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRANDYWINE KITCHEN

N

OT SURE WHAT to make for dinner this spring?

We suggest whipping up this Mexican tortilla soup, courtesy of Chef Azizi Tookas of Brandywine Kitchen in Bellingham. It’s comforting enough to warm you up on chilly April evenings, but its bright flavors and spicy kick prevent it from becoming too heavy. Best of all, the options for toppings are practically limitless: You can keep things simple with cilantro and tortilla chips, or go wild with cotija cheese, avocado, and whatever other Mexican garnishes you might find in your pantry.

Meet the Chef Tookas is both owner and chef at Brandywine Kitchen, a Commercial Street institution with deep roots — literally and figuratively — in the Bellingham community. It’s an offshoot of Brandywine Gardens, which began as an heirloom tomato farm and has since grown to include a variety of produce.

Tookas and Co-founder Chris Sunde then took their dual passion for locally sourced cuisine a step further by opening a full-fledged restaurant in 2011. More than a decade later, Brandywine Kitchen continues to be a reflection of their passion for farm-to-table food and sustainable agriculture.

84

BellinghamAlive.com

Ingredients ¼ cup canola oil 3 yellow onions, diced 4 celery stalks, diced 2 sweet peppers, diced ¼ cup minced garlic ¼ cup New Mexican chili pepper powder 1 tablespoon chipotle powder 1 tablespoon cumin 1 teaspoon coriander 1 teaspoon celery salt 8 ounces tomato paste 4 quarts chicken stock

1 14-ounce canned diced tomatoes 1 14-ounce canned black beans, drained 2 cups frozen corn 4 chicken breasts, precooked and diced Sliced avocado (optional, for garnish) Cotija cheese (optional, for garnish) Lime wedges (for garnish) Cilantro (for garnish) Tortilla chips (for garnish) Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions (Serves 8–10) • Heat oil in a stock pot on medium heat.

• Add onions, celery, peppers, and garlic and saute until soft (about 7 minutes).

• Turn to low heat and add in the spices. Cook for 5 minutes more.

• Whisk in tomato paste, then slowly add stock and bring to a simmer on medium-high heat.

• Add diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and chicken and simmer for 10 minutes on mediumlow heat.

• Garnish soup with cilantro, limes wedge, and tortilla chips (avocado and cotija cheese optional). 

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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vegan . . . . . . . . . . . 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 may be temporarily closed. Remember to call ahead or check online for delivery and pick-up options. * Review provided by restaurant.

WHATCOM

ANTHONY’S HEARTHFIRE GRILL

BAYOU ON BAY Cajun, Creole

Steak, Seafood

1300 Bay St., Bellingham 360.752.2968, bayouonbay.com

7 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360.527.3473, anthonys.com The Hearthfire menu speaks to the everyday eater, not just the special occasion treat of Anthony’s. Seasonal items, such as peaches or huckleberries in the summer, complement salads, entrees, and drinks. Steaks, seafood, and items on the Woodfire rotisserie round out the selections.

Bayou On Bay serves a wide variety of classic Cajun/Creole dishes, such as gumbo, jambalaya, po’ boy sandwiches, and hush puppies, to name a few. A house-made remoulade, which accompanies many of the dishes, is worth the trip alone. The bar offers an extensive list of drink options. Bayou on Bay is a must for foodies as well as people just looking for a satisfying meal.

ASHURI BAKLAVA AND CAFE Turkish

THE BIRCH DOOR CAFE American

103 Grand Ave., Bellingham 360.318.3030, ashuri.co

4192 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.306.8598, birchdoorcafe.com

Ashuri Baklava and Cafe is introducing Bellingham residents to the traditional Turkish coffeehouse experience — strong coffee, decadent pastries, and a place to enjoy good company. The owners, brothers Kristofer and Lukas Konutgan, were both born and raised in Istanbul, Turkey. They opened the shop as a way to create a space that felt a bit like home.

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

B-TOWN KITCHEN AND RAW BAR Seafood, American

BLACK PEARL ASIAN FUSION Asian Fusion

714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360.392.6520, btownkitchen.com

1317 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.746.2030, blackpearlasianfusion.com

If fresh shellfish is your gastronomic highlight, you’re in the right place at B-Town Kitchen and Raw Bar. Items from the Small Plates menu make terrific appetizers or adult-beverage-worthy snacks. The heated patio provides an urban vibe suited for parties or gatherings.

Bellingham has an abundance of Asian-inspired restaurants; the trick is to find one that stands out — like the Black Pearl. With all the available extras, it is almost impossible to get the same flavor twice. The pho is clean and refreshing with a variety of different meats to try and sauces to add as extra seasoning.

ACCOMPLICE American 1232 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.778.2336

BANTAM American, Southern

If you’ve been to Carnal in downtown Bellingham, you know meat is their forte. For even more protein-forward goodness, head to the restaurant’s burger offshoot, Accomplice, located right next door. Originally created as a destination for casual takeout during the pandemic, the space was remodeled to include a quirky dining area plus variety of sandwiches and house-made sauces.

1327 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.788.4507, bantambellingham.com

BANTER AFTER HOURS American, Craft

BAR CICOTTI Italian

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.

THE BLACK CAT American

A bantam is a type of small chicken. At Bellingham’s newest southern-inspired chicken rotisserie, you get what the name promises. The Buttermilk Fried Chicken has breading that’s thick, crispy, and — somehow — not greasy at all. While the downstairs is family-friendly, the upstairs is reserved for those 21 and older.

1200 Harris Ave., Ste. 310, Bellingham 360.733.6136, blackcatbellingham.com Tucked away in the heart of Fairhaven, this iconic Bellingham eatery serves up craft cocktails and American fusion eats on the third floor of the Sycamore Square building. Come for happy hour and stay for the delicious food and warm, welcoming atmosphere.

BLUE FIN SUSHI Japanese

202 Grand Ave., Bellingham 360.656.6802, barcicotti.com

102 S. Samish Way, Ste. 105, Bellingham 360.752.2583, bluefinbellingham.com

When creating Bar Cicotti, Storia Cucina owner Jonathan Cicotti took his inspiration from Italian bars, which he describes 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.

Delicious fresh sushi is a given, but Blue Fin also offers a full menu of non-sushi food items, from classic bento boxes to fish and chips.

Peruse their vast menu with help from their friendly waitstaff, then enjoy a mouthwatering close-up as chefs prepare your food behind the bar.

April 2023 85

Taste Local Find

A Sea-to-Plate Love Story Nerka Sea-Frozen Salmon WRITTEN BY LEIGH HELLMAN

they make their home in — run deep in Tele Aadsen’s blood.

Aadsen and her partner, Joel BradyPower, own and operate Nerka SeaFrozen Salmon as fisherfolks who sustainably catch, process, market, and sell wild salmon. Named after their boat Nerka, which was passed down to them from Brady-Power’s parents, Aadsen and Brady-Power have run their business as second-generation trolling fisherfolks since 2006.

Their fishing operations are based out of Sitka in Southeast Alaska during the summer months (May through September) where they spend weeks out on the water at a time between shore returns to unload their catches.

Since their fish are blast frozen within an hour of coming out of the water, they can be safely stored and processed on the boat during the fishing runs.

Once on land, they prepare their fish for selling and delivery in the Whatcom and Skagit regions.

“We want to retain responsibility for the quality of our salmon and

“We want to retain responsibility for the quality of our salmon and their story, all the way from hook to consumer.“ Tele Aadsen, Owner of Nerka Sea-Frozen Salmon

86

BellinghamAlive.com

Tele Aadsen and Joel Brady-Power

their story, all the way from hook to consumer,” Aadsen notes on their decision to be personally involved with all aspects of the ocean-to-market process.

“It’s about having love for something you’re killing and thinking about how to honor fish all the way through.”

Fishing and processing take up the summer months, but once the winter comes the work pivots to marketing and sales. Their commitment to sustainability and personal connection extends to these aspects of their business as well, with a conscious cultivation of loyal customers including some who are legacies from their parents’ catches.

Nerka fishes for two of the five species of salmon: coho and king.

Aadsen describes coho as a milder, everyday salmon whereas king is a decadent, fattier, and more carefully managed salmon. Both their coho and king salmon are sold at local Bellingham businesses and restaurants, including the downtown Community Food Co-op and Rock & Rye Oyster House.

With Aadsen taking the marketing lead, Nerka’s focus is to be inclusive of their land friends in the fishing journey. She highlighted a need to have

interconnected relationships with other communities — both on land and at sea — in order to build an audience and customer base that is informed about the true economic and environmental complexities involved in maintaining sustainable practices with salmon.

But she was quick to stress that the ultimate success of their partnership and business is rooted in their mutually supportive efforts.

“Where Joel is the salmon charmer who runs the Nerka, I run the fish business,” Aadsen says. “While I’m the face our land friends most recognize, I’m delivering a catch that Joel and I are equally responsible for and connected to. Team Nerka is a symbiotic pair, equally reliant on each other’s skills and contributions.”

You’d expect nothing less from the couple behind Nerka’s tagline: “a seato-plate story (told with love).” Bow, 360.303.7770, nerkasalmon.com Aadsen’s collection of essays reflecting on fishing, “What Water Holds,” will be released by Empty Bowl Press in May 2023. Keep up with Nerka Sea-Frozen Salmon on Facebook @fvnerka. 

Courtesy of Nerka Sea-Frozen Salmon

S

ALMON — AND the ocean that

Dining Guide Taste BRANDYWINE KITCHEN Regional NW 1317 Commercial St., Bellingham 360.734.1071, brandywinekitchen.com Named for the farm where they began growing their decadent heirloom tomatoes, Brandywine Kitchen sources many of its ingredients locally, upholding their “from seed to plate” philosophy. The menu offers vegetarian and glutenfree options and a rotating selection of beer from local breweries.

CAMBER COFFEE Coffeehouse, American 221 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.656.5343, cambercoffee.com

s

r

Full Service Fish Market and Lunch Available Take Out Only

g

Mon�Sat ��:����:��pm with lunch until �:��pm Sun ����pm with lunch until �pm

Camber is more than just a coffee shop.

Customers can order at the counter for a quicker bite, or enjoy table service for the restaurant experience. Throughout the day, customers will find a full menu for breakfast (or brunch, depending on your wake-up time), lunch, and dinner. The food is best described as “new American comfort.”

CARNAL American, Barbecue 1234 North State St., Bellingham 360.306.3587, eatcarnal.com Carnal offers hyper-local ingredients that highlight the bounty of the season, with an emphasis on slow-cooked meat entrees. The menu will always feature a chicken, fish, and veggie option, as well as their signature short rib. The covered eating area is perfect for a romantic dinner.

Shop Our Selection of Locally Made Goods and Gifts • Jams • Jellies • Salsas • Honey • Sauces

a

����� WA���, Burlington, WA ������������, skagitfish.com

r

CHAIR 9 WOODSTONE PIZZA & BAR American

10459 Mount Baker Hwy., Glacier 360.599.2511, chair9.com After a long day skiing or snowboarding from Mount Baker Ski Area’s eight chairlifts, Chair 9 is tailor-made for those seeking a place to grab a bite before heading back down the highway. The building is spacious, with two stories of seating and a colorful variety of snowboards decorating the wall. Their pizza is crafted on house-made artisan dough and cooked classically in a wood stone oven. The restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere and delicious menu make it a destination to try on your next trip to the slopes.

CHIHUAHUA MEXICAN RESTAURANT Mexican

5694 Third Ave., Ferndale 360.384.5820 chihuahuamexicanrestaurant.com Dine in at one of the largest Mexican restaurants in Washington and experience the authentic cuisine derived from decades of dedication to excellent food. Using family recipes passed down for generations, Chihuahua

April 2023 87

Taste Dining Guide

Culinary Events

Mexican Restaurant will not only leave you full, but also deeply satisfied.

CULTURE CAFÉ Eclectic 210 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham 360.746.6558, kombuchatown.com

Family Style Easter Brunch

April 12, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Join Chef Bryce Lamb for an upscale yet family-friendly Easter brunch at B-Town Kitchen and Raw Bar! This multicourse menu includes everything from fresh-baked pastries to frittata, roasted pork tenderloin, and even cardamom panna cotta. Reserve your spot via phone (360.392.6520) or online at btownkitchen.com.

B-Town Kitchen & Raw Bar 714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham

Semiahmoo Uncorked: Foppiano Vineyards April 21, 6–9 p.m.

The Uncorked Winemaker Dinner series features a different local (or international) winery at every event, pairing five meticulously-prepared courses with a different wine per course. The menu is kept a secret until arrival, and dinners are both interactive and exciting. This month’s featured winemaker is the Sonoma Countybased Foppiano Vineyards.

This inviting, comfortable place gained a reputation for its all-natural, craft kombucha but it also offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

All the items are prepared in-house with the exception of bread, which is made by Mount Bakery. The menu reflects a great deal of care and integrity, served by authentic and accommodating employees in a communal space that offers karaoke, board games, and live music.

D’ANNA’S CAFE ITALIANO Italian 1317 N. State St., Bellingham 360.714.0188, dannascafeitaliano.com If you’re looking for good Italian food without having to resort to a national chain, D’Anna’s may be the place for you. The emphasis here is on the food, not the frills. The restaurant stands out in many ways, but D’Anna’s delicious, homemade pasta is what really makes it special.

DIRTY DAN HARRIS Steakhouse 1211 11th St., Bellingham 360.676.1011, dirtydanharris.com The “dirt” on Dirty Dan Harris? In a word: excellent. The steakhouse provides a warm atmosphere, friendly waitstaff, quaint historic surroundings, and superb food. Perhaps the best reflection on the restaurant is owner Kathy Papadakis’ waitstaff. Most have worked here for years — and it shows in their enthusiasm for your dining experience. Make sure to leave room for dessert, because the selections are dangerously good.

Packers Kitchen + Bar 9565 Semiahmoo Pkwy., Blaine DRAYTON HARBOR OYSTER COMPANY

King Arthur Baking School: Empanadas April 21, 12–1:30 p.m. (virtual)

Empanadas are a staple in Spanish and Latin American cuisine, and if you’ve ever wanted to learn how to make them at home, now is your chance! Whip up some delicious, authentic empanadas in the comfort of your own kitchen with King Arthur Baking School. From there, these versatile pastries can be eaten as either appetizers or entrees.

Virtual kingarthurbaking.com 88

BellinghamAlive.com

EVOLVE CHOCOLATE + CAFE* Farm to Table 1200 11th St. (upstairs on the mezzanine), Bellingham, 360.220.1898, evolvefairhaven.com In September 2018, Chef Christy Fox along with wife Shannon Fox opened their dream cafe within Village Books in Historic Fairhaven. Bringing in locally sourced protein, produce, dairy, coffee and chocolate, the kitchen has become a wonderland of baked goods, savory hot food & locally roasted coffee and house chai!

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.

FIAMMA BURGER American 1309 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.733.7374, fiammaburger.com One word speaks volumes about Fiamma Burger: variety. With a multitude of patty types and more than 20 menu options, there are endless possibilities for a burger masterpiece. All burgers are served on a fresh-baked bun, with crisp lettuce and all the usual fixings.

You can even get a “burger in a bowl,” served without the bread. Spice it up with chipotle ketchup, spicy mustard, or curry mayo, then cool it down with a beer or milkshake.

THE FILLING STATION American

685 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine 360.656.5958, draytonharboroysters.com

1138 Finnegan Way, Bellingham 360.715.1839 716 Alabama St., Bellingham 360.746.2079, fillingstationnw.com

A board inside Drayton Harbor Oyster Company tracks when the last oyster delivery was made and how long it takes the oysters to get from the ocean to the kitchen. The record? 13 minutes. This level of freshness means oysters so good that people come from all over the globe to taste them. The intimate, casual setting will make you feel like you’re at a friend’s house.

The 1950s vibe resonates within the walls of this all-American burger joint. From the antique gas pump to the car memorabilia lining the restaurant, The Filling Station is Fairhaven’s newest go-to spot to satisfy your hunger. With names like Chevy Pickup, Mustang, and Thunderbird, the menu provides different burger selections along with appetizers like Dip Sticks (deep-fried zucchini strips),

Seafood, Regional NW

Hot Rod (footlong hot dog), or the Junkyard (classic, onion, and tire fries).

FIRESIDE MARTINI & WINE BAR Eclectic, Bar

416 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.738.1000, firesidemartini.com Fireside is out to make a name for itself. Their menu changes on an almost daily basis and uses only fresh, local ingredients. Cocktails are based on in-house infusions of spirits, a collection found only at Fireside, and their beer options range from local to obscure to international.

THE FORK AT AGATE BAY American, Seafood 2530 Northshore Rd., Bellingham 360.733.1126, theforkatagatebay.com Nestled at the fork between Y and Northshore roads near Lake Whatcom sits The Fork at Agate Bay. This relaxed and boat-house-chic restaurant offers a seasonal menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all featuring fresh, local ingredients. The bar boasts an impressive drink menu, with a drink selection based on fresh and local ingredients and tastes.

A Hotel in the Heart of Historic Fairhaven Surrounded by locally owned shops, restaurants, and beautiful bayside wooded trails showcasing the best of the northwest, we are the perfect retreat to pause and enjoy an idyllic escape.

Your stay awaits.

1.877.733.1100 fairhavenvillageinn.com

Follow us on

Instagram

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

GUUD BOWLS American, Ready-to-Heat Bowls

2625 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham, 360.510.4880, guudbowls.com Guud Bowls is unlike most food services because they don’t have a storefront. Every weekday, owners Mike Duncan and Meredith Steven cook and chill bowls of food in a commissary kitchen and hand-deliver anywhere in Whatcom County. Choose from a rotating menu of gluten-free bowls filled with colorful, fresh ingredients. Pop the ready-to-heat bowls in the oven, microwave, or saute in a pan.

INFUSION CUISINE

Italian, Mexican, Chinese

6912 Hannegan Rd., Lynden 360.778.1726, infusioncuisine.com Infusion Cuisine has a menu that features a little bit of everything. The three most popular types of cuisine are Italian, Asian, and Mexican, and all the dishes on Infusion Cuisine’s menu fit into one of these categories.

No matter what you’re in the mood for, there’s something for everyone at Infusion Cuisine.

New Location Now Open Wanida Thai Bistro 3200 Northwest Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225, 360.393.3138 Order online: wanidathaibistro.com

Wanida Thai Cuisine 1213 Dupont St., Bellingham, wanidathai.com, 360.746.8642

April 2023 89

Taste Spotlight that in 32 years I never asked him why he’d chosen to devote his life to coffee. So I sat down with him at Kulshan Brewing in Sunnyland to finally find out.

So for the sake of the people in this town who have never had your coffee, what sets you apart from the rest?

That Coffee Guy Alexarc Mastema of Maniac Coffee Roasting WRITTEN BY NICOLE KIMBERLING PHOTOGRAPHED BY PAT BEGGAN

W

HEN I ASKED Alexarc Mastema to describe

himself he simply said, “I’m just that coffee guy around town,” as if he’d never owned two businesses or been a United States Barista Championship judge infamously known as “Bend Over Intensity” for putting his face right down on the counter next to the cup while judging. When I met him, though, he’d yet to become any of those things and was working as a parking lot security guard for a historic theater in Denver.

We moved to the PNW together and each pursued our dreams. I wrote novels and he, together with partner Teri Bryant, started The Black Drop, where every 30-something millennial who grew up in this town made at least one core high school memory.

Eventually, Mastema and Bryant sold the shop to their employees and shifted focus to roasting coffee only.

Back in the day I remember being very impressed with Mastema’s dream and vision but I’m embarrassed to admit

“At first, you follow the flow but then you have all the momentum of years of experience built up behind you— so the flow becomes a flash flood that propels you along.“ Alexarc Mastema of Maniac Coffee Roasting

90

BellinghamAlive.com

We started our roasting operation in 2005 so we were one of the earlier ones, and at the time the other roasters were focusing on dark and medium roasts, so we decided to focus on light roasts which is my preferred style. Since that time the principles of third wave coffee have picked up in mainstream America, but as far as Whatcom County, we were catching the early wave.

We’ve also recently started to produce single serving coffee in sustainable packaging. Basically, a tea bag that contains coffee — as an alternative to pods, which generate a lot of waste.

But seriously, why coffee though?

At the beginning I just didn’t want to work for anyone else.

My dad was an entrepreneur so I thought, “It’s gotta be easy owning a business, right?”

At my first roasting job I found out that I was a supertaster and that I was good at coffee. I was probably good at other things, but like how water is lazy, I was also lazy and just kept going with the first thing I was successful at. Path of least resistance. Plus being a roaster felt like I was being invited into a secret society.

Then later with the coffee shop, I wanted to make a space where people could chase that golden moment of youth transferring into adulthood that we’d had in coffee shops around 1990.

Surely you’re not saying you’ve lived your whole life by going with the lazy ol’ flow?

Oh, but I have.

(As if to prove his lazy prowess to me, he pauses to phone the bar — that is seven feet away — to request another beer.)

At first, you follow the flow but then you have all the momentum of years of experience built up behind you — so the flow becomes a flash flood that propels you along.

Well, then, has this entrepreneurial life been worth it for you?

Yes, being in business is like having a sexy nightmare.

If you aren’t terrified in one way or another you aren’t going to make it. You have to get comfortable with being uncomfortable, and that’s exciting.

Maniac Coffee Roasting supplies whole bean coffee to restaurants throughout Whatcom County as well as to retail outlets such as the Community Food Co-op. Online ordering and home delivery is available via maniaccoffeeroasting.com 

Dining Guide Taste JACK NEIMANN’S BLACK FOREST STEAKHOUSE German, Steak 638 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine 360.306.8342 Black Forest Steakhouse offers a versatile dining experience. It’s fancy enough for special occasions, anniversaries, and graduation celebrations, but it’s also a place you’ll want to go to any day. Black Forest cooks their steaks different than most other steakhouses: They broil them in a 1,600-degree oven, leaving the meat tender and flavorful.

JALAPEÑOS MEXICAN GRILL Mexican 1007 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.656.6600 501 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.671.3099 2945 Newmarket Pl., Bellingham 360.778.2041, jalapenos-wa.com Jalapeños Mexican Grill lures you in with promises of a cheap lunch special, but after looking at the menu, you won’t stop there.

There’s a variety of flavored mojitos and margaritas, and the “Big Mama” alone is proof that Jalapeños doesn’t play around with their drinks. The glasses are huge, and the drinks are good to the last drop.

JUXT TAPHOUSE American 119 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.656.5223, juxttaphouse.com JUXT’s unique 28-tap draft system allows for a rotating selection of locally sourced beer, wine, cider, cold brew, and cocktails. Because cocktails are mixed and ready on-request, JUXT can deliver something unfound in other bars: cocktail flights. The food menu is also large and varied, with options to satisfy any palate or hunger level. True to the bar’s spirit, it juxtaposes fine dining items with pub-friendly comfort foods like nachos, burgers, and poutine.

KEENAN’S AT THE PIER

traditional sushi, delicious lightly tempurafried sushi also makes its way around the conveyor belt. If you don’t see something you like, the chefs behind the counter will gladly make something for you.

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

LITTLE CHEERFUL American 133 E. Holly St., Bellingham 360.738.8824 Little Cheerful is a bustling breakfast spot, ideal for customers looking to enjoy a mouthwatering meal over conversation or a newspaper. The cafe has maintained its popularity through the growth of breakfast cafes in the area. Their menu includes something for everyone, whether you are gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, or an omnivore — and if you are craving eggs benedict, Little Cheerful is definitely for you. Side note: Cash only.

THE LOFT Northwest, American & Seafood 1801 Roeder Ave., Bellingham 360.306.5668, theloftbellingham.com In a world of freeze-dried and processed pre-packaged foods, The Loft strives to be an exception. From the fresh, locally caught salmon and halibut, to the cage-free organic eggs, they believe the ingredients make the dish. Their dressings, sauces, and seasoning are all from scratch, with original recipes using fresh, local, organic products as often as the seasons allow.

Northwest, American & Seafood

804 10th St., Bellingham 360.392.5510, keenansatthepier.com Located inside the Chrysalis Inn & Spa in Fairhaven, Keenan’s at the Pier features fresh, local cuisine and a full bar. Keenan’s highlights the beauty and style of the Pacific Northwest with fresh ingredients that are seasonal and regionally sourced. Enjoy Bellingham Bay views from every table. Reservations are highly recommended.

LORENZO’S Mexican 902 Highway 20, Sedro-Woolley 360.856.6810, lorenzosmexicanrestaurant.com Lorenzo and Laura Velasco’s restaurant was established in 2006 and brought an authentic Mexican restaurant to the communities of Bellingham, Mount Vernon, and SedroWoolley. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and even owner Lorenzo will occasionally stop by tables to check in with the customers.

LYNDEN DUTCH BAKERY American 421 Front St., Lynden 360.354.3911, lyndendutchbakery.com Guests of Lynden Dutch Bakery will have a hard time picking just one sweet treat. Options include pies, donuts, fritters, cakes, and seemingly countless more. The wide variety of scones are some of the shop’s most popular items, along with a savory selection for those missing their sweet tooth. Fruit pies use berries grown just a few miles from the shop, and the owners sell many of their pastries to local businesses for wholesale.

MI MEXICO Mexican 241 Telegraph Rd., Bellingham 360.647.0073, mimexicobellingham.com Mi Mexico’s reputation as one of the local favorites among Mexican food lovers is well deserved. The experience starts with a warm, friendly, professional waitstaff in an enjoyable, upbeat atmosphere. From there, Mi Mexico separates itself from the competition with a choice of traditional and non-traditional Mexican dishes, all made with the freshest of ingredients available. From your first bite of Mi Mexico’s homemade salsa to the last bite of your main entree or dessert, you will already be planning your next visit.

THE MILL French 655 Front St., Lynden 360.778.2760, themilllynden.com

LOMBARDI’S Italian 21 Bellwether Way, Ste. 112, Bellingham 360.714.8412, lombardisitalian.com This waterfront bistro pairs classic Italian eats with a standout wine list and idyllic views of the Squalicum Harbor. Their menu features ingredients both local and imported, with items like sauces, dressings, and desserts made inhouse from scratch. Keep an eye out for events including wine dinners and monthly wine club meetings.

The Mill is the type of place where one could spend a full afternoon grazing on cheeses, sipping cocktails, and enjoying a good book.

The bistro-like atmosphere gives the restaurant a European vibe without losing the welcoming small-town service of Lynden. The menu is full of bistro plates like fresh salads, paninis, soups, and, of course, meats and cheeses.

KURUKURU SUSHI Japanese, Sushi

NICKI’S BAR AND GRILL/ NICKI’S BELLA MARINA American, Seafood

11 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360.392.8224, kurukurubellingham.com

2615 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham 360.332.2505, nickisbellamarina.com

KuruKuru Sushi, which translates to “go around Sushi,” offers not only a good meal, but a good experience as well. Along with the more

Harborside visitors can grab a bite at Nicki’s Bar and Grill or rent out the floor above, Nicki’s Bella Marina, for private events with

April 2023 91

Taste Dining Guide spectacular views of Bellingham Bay. Once you’ve had a chance to check out the water, take your first glance at the large menu. The burgers are big, juicy (there are even Wet-Naps on the table), and flavorful.

NOMAD CHARCUTERIE AND WINE Wine Bar, International

10 Prospect St., Bellingham, 360.922.8804 Whether you’re an amateur sommelier or a total wine novice, we’re willing to bet that the folks at Nomad Charcuterie and Wine will pour you something surprising. This cozy cafeesque eatery is making a splash in Downtown Bellingham thanks to its well-curated menu, warm ambience, and enviable wine list.

NORTHWATER Regional NW 4260 Mitchell Way, Bellingham 360.398.6191, northh2o.com From breakfast to late night dinner, northwater’s 185-seat restaurant features a diverse menu of Pacific Northwest dishes made from locally sourced and sustainable ingredients.

The restaurant’s waitstaff is personable and enthusiastic — eager to answer our questions about ingredient sources and what desserts they’d recommend.

WINE

PICK

OF THE MONTH

Longship Cellars 2019 Star Ship 100% Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley, $24 WRITTEN BY AMBERLEIGH BROWNSON

K

YLE AND CASSIE Welch estab-

lished their winery in 2013 with the hopes of producing some of the finest wines in the Pacific Northwest and, over the past decade, have established themselves as bona 92

BellinghamAlive.com

OISHII Asian

OTHERLANDS BEER Brewery, European

424 W. Bakerview Rd., Ste. 101, Bellingham 360.671.6007, oishiiteriyaki.com

2121 Humboldt St., Bellingham 360.746.8118, otherlandsbeer.com

The next time you find yourself craving Asian fusion, head to Bakerview Square for sushi, teriyaki, noodles, and more. “Oishii” means “delicious” in Japanese and — as any of their longtime regulars will tell you — Bellingham’s Oishii Teriyaki & Rolls more than lives up to its name.

Keeping in the theme of small European breweries, the menu features only six beers — half ales and half lagers — some of which you’re unlikely to find anywhere else. The café’s menu captures the spirit of European street fare, with dishes like pierogis and falafel. It’s food that allows you to have a couple beers with your friends and feel great.

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

ÖVN WOOD-FIRED PIZZA Pizza 1148 10th St., Bellingham 360.393.4327, ovnwoodfiredpizza.com The clean lines and urban upscale atmosphere of this pizza restaurant promise some very good food — and they deliver on that promise.

They also serve crispy salads and excellent cocktails. Dining here is the perfect way to spend an elegant lunch or intimate dinner.

THE PENNY FARTHING BAR & RESTAURANT American 1309 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.738.7179, chuckanutbaydistillery.com Between craft cocktails and creative dishes designed for sharing, a night spent at the Penny

fide contenders. Their accolades most recently hail from SIP Magazine’s Best of the Northwest Wine Awards, including two Platinums (Carmenere and Cinsault) and two Golds (Tempranillo and Syrah). They have 23 different varietals to choose from at their tasting room in Richland, Washington.

Locally-owned Dickerson Distributors represents them, and you can buy Longship Cellars’ wines at the Community Food Co-ops, Chocolate Necessities in Bellingham, and Mosquito Fleet Mercantile in Friday Harbor, to name a few. Longship Cellars offers three tiers in their wineclub and you can join online via their website at longshipwine.com.

Tasting notes: Poignant scents of damp driftwood, eucalyptus, blackberry preserves, and brown butter precedes a full-bodied palate of brandied cherries, cinnamon caramel-fig, and anise.

Pairing suggestions: Pairs well with Texas-style smoked beef brisket, kielbasa, caramelized onions, candied carrots, wilted spinach salad, or bread pudding with whiskey cream sauce.

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

Farthing will be one to remember. The bar and restaurant is operated by (and located within) Chuckanut Bay Distillery, and their housemade spirits are complemented by creative and locally-sourced dishes.

cowboy hats, The Rusty Wagon is a familyfriendly place to grab a burger.

extensive wine list. This dining experience rivals any of the big-town steakhouses in quality and service without the big-city price tag.

SCOTTY BROWNS American Cuisine 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.

RIFUGIO’S COUNTRY ITALIAN CUISINE Italian

5415 Mount Baker Hwy., Deming 360.592.2888, ilcafferifugio.com Rifugio’s brings fine dining to the “wilderness.” Fifteen miles out on Mount Baker Highway, just past Deming, sits a funky old cafe that has been transformed into an oasis for foodies and coffee-lovers alike. Menu items befit their Italian name and the dinner menu changes weekly, begging for a second trip. A small covered deck with colorful lanterns sits adjacent to the dining room for your al fresco pleasure. Just beyond, in a meadow, sits a red deck used as a stage and centerpiece for special dinners under the stars.

THE RUSTIC FORK Italian

3101 Newmarket St., Bellingham 360.306.8823 scottybrownsrestaurant.com

STORIA CUCINA Italian, Pizza

Scotty Browns offers an edgy, energetic ambiance, a varied menu of mainstream and upscale creations, and excellent drink options for all ages. Outdoor dining is a popular option during warmer weather. Some items on the menu, like appetizers, change seasonally, so you know you’ll never get bored. Casual to upscale dining options range from hamburgers, rice bowls, and pastas to higher-end seafood and steaks. Just flying through? Grab a bite at their second location inside Bellingham International Airport.

2039 Moore St., Bellingham sweetaswaffles.com

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

SLO-PITCH SPORTS GRILL AND CASINO 3720 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.733.2255, slopitchcasino.com Conveniently located right on Meridian, SloPitch serves up a great burger and fries. With excellent happy hour specials in a casual, sports atmosphere, Slo-Pitch is a great place to watch the game or take a midday break.

TASTE OF INDIA Indian

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

TEMPLE BAR Bistro, Bar

SUPER MARIO’S Salvadorian

306 W. Champion St.,Bellingham 360.676.8660, templebarbellingham.com

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.

Continually recognized for their craft cocktails and small plates, Temple Bar aims to please.

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

UNDERGROUND BURGER American

American

The menu at The Rusty Wagon overflows with options. Breakfast is served late and has all the diner favorites, but the burgers are clearly their specialty with a large selection on both the lunch and dinner menus. Don’t miss the full bar with sports screens, top-shelf liquors, beer, and more. Beyond the catch phrases and

Sweet As Waffles offers a wide variety of both sweet and savory waffles, all created from house-made ingredients. They like to get “weird” with the recipes and experiment with unique combinations of toppings.

3930 Meridian St., Ste. 107, Bellingham 360.647.1589, tasteofindiabellingham.com

THE RUSTY WAGON OLD TYME FOOD CO. 6937 Hannegan Rd., Lynden 360.354.5236, rustywagongoodeats.com

Storia Cucina offers a simple, no-fuss menu meant to reduce decision-fatigue and prioritize quality over quantity. All pasta is made in-house on an imported Italian pasta extruder, and ingredients are as local as possible. The restaurant itself is bright, cheerful, and tastefully decorated, certain to lift your spirits even on a drizzly autumn night.

SWEET AS WAFFLES Waffles

442 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine 360.332.4346, therusticforkeatery.com On the menu at The Rustic Fork, you’ll find a variety of authentic Italian dishes, from pizzas and paninis to cannoli and lasagna. All pizzas are 12” and feature a fire-baked thin crust, differentiating the Rustic Fork from other pizzerias in Blaine. Stop by during lunch to choose from sandwiches, paninis, salads, and pasta dishes, or grab some pizza by the slice.

109 Grand Ave., Ste. 102, Bellingham, 360.734.1929, storiacucina.com

8114 Guide Meridian Rd., Lynden undergroundburgers.com

THE STEAK HOUSE AT SILVER REEF Steak, Seafood

4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale 360.383.0777, silverreefcasino.com This award-winning restaurant offers elegant dining and an intimate atmosphere. Primegrade steaks are broiled at 1,800 degrees to lock in the natural juices and finished with a special steak butter. They also have an

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 into a permanent spot where you

April 2023 93

Taste Sip

The Beer Drinker’s Cider Debuts in Bellingham Logan Cider WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

I

F YOU’RE A beer aficionado, you might think you don’t

like cider — but chances are high that Dry Humor will change your mind. This crisp, approachable brew is the flagship flavor from Logan Cider, and it’s already causing a buzz in the Bellingham brewing scene.

Logan Cider is the brainchild of Founder and Co-owners Ryan and Emma Trude, who also happen to be husband and wife. Emma is a fan of English-style ciders, which are often less sweet — but she had trouble finding a U.S. brand to suit her palate. The solution? The couple began brewing cider in their shed in 2018, and thus Logan Cider was born.

“Logan Cider came to fruition and exists for one simple purpose, which is to provide people with an easy-drinking, consistently dry hard cider,” says Ryan.

Another key player in Logan Cider’s development is Co-owner Dylan Preble, who has known Ryan since their college years in Colorado (and even introduced Ryan to Emma).

In addition to his background in sales and marketing, he has his own “cider origin story” that connects him to the brand.

Preble says he was a beer drinker until being diagnosed with celiac disease in 2018. Shortly after, the Trudes had him sample an early version of Logan Cider at a New Year’s party, and the idea of giving up beer suddenly seemed less daunting.

“It’s definitely a beer drinker’s cider,” Preble says — and he’s certainly not alone in that thought.

94

BellinghamAlive.com

The No. 1 feedback that Preble receives from customers is that they normally reach for beer over cider — but Logan Cider is an exception. It’s been described as approachable, “crushable,” and — perhaps most amusingly — the “lawnmower beer of ciders.”

Of course, producing Logan Cider on a larger scale necessitated expanding out of a shed. The company’s roots are still in Bellingham, but they teamed up with the Wenatcheebased cider company The Source to produce Logan Cider for market. The Source uses the Trudes’ recipe as well as their apples of choice (the main one being Pink Lady apples).

“Through all that development and transition — from what was happening in a little shed to having a warehouse with several thousand cans of cider — we’re able to maintain those things that made it different to me the first time I tried it,” Preble says.

Logan Cider’s flagship flavor, Dry Humor, finally hit the market in late 2022 (just six weeks before the time of writing). The team plans to introduce a lower-ABV version and potentially some seasonal flavors; otherwise, the beauty of Logan Cider lies in its straightforwardness.

“There’s so many good-quality hard cider companies out there, especially in Washington,” Ryan says. “We think we do something a little bit unique [in that] we just try to keep it simple.”

You can sample Logan Cider for yourself at various local watering holes including Elizabeth Station, McKay’s Taphouse, and Menace Brewing. (For a full list of locations, visit logancider.com.) Preble and Ryan both feel immense gratitude towards the Bellingham community, noting that so far, Logan Cider has been welcomed into the local beverage scene with open arms.

“I’ve been in Bellingham for 10 years — but I’ve made more friends in the last six weeks of that,” Preble says with a laugh. “Maybe that’s because they know I have cider in my garage.” Bellingham, logancider.com, @logancider 

Dining Guide Taste

8

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

GREAT

WAKE ‘N BAKERY American 6903 Bourne St., Glacier 360.599.1658, getsconed.com Wake ‘N Bakery is a staple rest stop along Mount Baker Highway. If you’re in need of a sweet treat and hot coffee to bring the feeling back to your numb fingers, this will fit the bill.

Whether you’re traveling to or from the mountain, watch for its signs as you pass through Glacier — the cafe is about a block off the highway.

SKAGIT

Courtesy of Peace Arch City Cafe

1

13MOONS AT SWINOMISH CASINO & LODGE Seafood, Steak 12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes, 360.588.3525, swinomishcasinoandlodge.com Located on the waterfront within the casino, 13moons is sure to catch your attention. The menu offers a wide variety including first plates, entree salads, seafood, and steaks. Give this go-to place for locals a try and you will be walking away satisfied.

A’TOWN BISTRO Regional NW

2

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.

3

BASTION BREWING COMPANY American 12529 Christianson Rd., Anacortes 360.399.1614, bastionbrewery.com On the Bastion Brewing Company menu you’ll find classic salads, an array of interesting burgers, and crispy chicken wings drenched in your choice of sauce. Food arrives impressively quick, and even more impressive is the quality of the food.

TASTES

4

Peace Arch City Cafe is the place to go for breakfast at the border. Their Huevos Rancheros consists of eggs, veggies, and beans doused in a spicy red sauce and served with sour cream, avocado, salsa, and tortillas on the side.

Have you ever tried buchimgae? These Korean pancakes contain ingredients ranging from veggies to seafood, and you can try one for yourself at YunGaNe Korean Restaurant. Their Kimchi Pancake features tangy battered kimchi that’s pan fried to perfection.

The Shrimp Pancit at That’s What I Like! Island Grill is nothing short of addictive. This stir fry dish stars garlic, cabbage, carrots, and onions in addition to the seafood, and it can even be made spicy on request.

The indulgent Penne Creamy Pistachio Pesto at Infusion Cuisine is what pasta dreams are made of.

Penne doused in housemade pesto sauce comes served alongside grilled chicken and cheesy garlic bread, and it all pairs great with a crisp glass of white.

5 6 7 8

Between the vibrant atmosphere and authentic Peruvian eats, Cafe Rumba is one of our favorite lunch stops. The sandwiches are unbeatable, but if you also love shortbread and dulce de leche, don’t forget to pick up some buttery Alfajores too.

What’s not to love about the Southern-inspired eats at Bistro at Shuksan? For an authentic taste of Louisiana, try the Jambalaya. Chef Matthew Boudousquie is a New Orleans native, so you know you’re in for something good.

For something healthy yet wholly satisfying, the Roasted Beet and Feta Salad at Chuckanut Manor should do the trick. It comes topped with oranges, pistachios, and a tangy red wine vinaigrette, plus the option to add a protein of choice.

Family-owned Best Chopsticks is no-fuss Chinese food at its best.

The next time you’re craving takeout, try the Orange Chicken with a side of white rice — and ask for extra spice if you’re brave enough!

April 2023 95

Taste Dining Guide 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.

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

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

DAD’S DINER A-GO-GO American 906 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.899.5269 Dad’s Diner A-Go-Go in Anacortes is the epitome of creative flavors and fun presentation. Add in the superior customer service in a comfortable, casual atmosphere, and it’s no wonder so many locals eat here weekly. The space is decorated with framed photos of dads, most of whom are local — an appreciation of their loyal fan base. Every edible item is a labor of love, just how Dad would make it at home.

remember regular patrons, creating a sense of community alongside mouth-watering food.

great place to watch a game, drink a beer, and eat some pizza.

IL GRANAIO Italian

RISTRETTO COFFEE LOUNGE & WINE BAR

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

American

416 1st St., Mount Vernon 360.336.0951, ristrettocoffeelounge.com

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

Ristretto doesn’t have a kitchen, but the baristas know their way around a panini press. You can also order breakfast all day, fresh salads, hearty bagels, or one of the baked goods brought in three times a week from nearby bakeries.

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

THE OYSTER BAR Seafood 2578 Chuckanut Dr., Bow 360.766.6185, theoysterbar.net The Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Drive is perched among towering conifers above the oyster beds. Housed in a structure dating from the 1920s that has survived many incarnations, the restaurant owes its reputation to its remote, quintessentially Pacific Northwest setting. But people don’t dine at The Oyster Bar for its location alone. While oysters are the signature offering, The Oyster Bar offers a variety of other fine-dining choices and is known for its extensive wine cellar.

RAILROAD PUB & PIZZA Pizza, American

FORTUNE MANDARIN Chinese, Mandarin 1617 Freeway Dr., Mount Vernon 360.428.1819, fortunemandarin.com Tea warmed over a candle, delicious drinks with a slight exotic twist, tender and flavorful meat, and vegetables cooked to perfection are expected at this peaceful bar and restaurant with Chinese decor. The owner and staff

96

BellinghamAlive.com

122 S. Spruce St., Burlington 360.982.2133, railroadpizza.com Railroad Pub & Pizza in downtown Burlington has all the charm of a rustic pub with quality food and drinks. The menu boasts several artisan pizza options on a 24-hour aged malted dough crust, as well as soups, salads, and sandwiches. The bar offers a multitude of taps for craft beer and ciders. The wide garage-style windows open in the summer, and the central fireplace heats the space in the winter. It’s a

SAKURA JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR Japanese 1830 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington 360.588.4281, sakuraburlington.com Professional Teppanyaki chefs take you on a journey of delicious and interactive dining at Burlington’s Sakura Japanese Steakhouse.

Using the freshest ingredients and perfect seasonings, they stir-fry your meal right before your eyes, creating a fabulous feast. Choose from steak and chicken to salmon and shrimp; each meal is served with soup, salad, rice, and vegetables. If it’s sushi you crave, they also offer a full sushi bar.

THE SALTED GRAPE Bistro, American 110 N. 1st St. Unit A, La Conner 360.399.1166, thesaltedgrape.com If you’re looking for your new favorite restaurant, head to La Conner and check out Salted Grape Bistro. Before shifting to a career in food, Chef Nathan Salter went to school for art and sculpture. You’ll find traces of his artist talent in his dishes, which are all beautifully plated, with eye-catching shapes, colors, and designs. Pair this with owner and Sommelier Leslie Grover’s wine expertise, and you’re in for a treat.

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.

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.

SWINOMISH SPORTS BAR & GRILL American

12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes, 888.288.8883, swinomishcasinoandlodge.com Located along the waterfront of Anacortes, this is not your run-of-the-mill sports bar. While you can go the more classic bar-food route, this restaurant offers Italian, barbeque, seafood, Southern, among many other cuisine styles.

Find the latest lines, watch the race, or grab a beer and grub as you watch every play, pass, and score.

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

TRUMPETER PUBLIC HOUSE Gastropub

ISLAND COUNTIES

pairing. Dinner here is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. $$$$

CAPTAIN WHIDBEY INN American 2072 Captain Whidbey Inn Rd., Coupeville 360.678.4097, captainwhidbey.com The entire menu features down-to-earth items that are reasonably priced, locally sourced, and well-balanced. While the inn does serve as a special-occasion spot, folks dressed in shorts and a T-shirt are also welcomed. Built in 1907, Captain Whidbey Inn is a historical gem.

CYNTHIA’S BISTRO American

THE UNION TAVERN — LOCAL 902 American 902 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.873.8245, theuniontavern-local902.com Patrons can get the perfect-size dish in a flavor profile to satisfy any craving. With plenty of beers on rotation, there’s the basics plus a surprise or two. Cocktails are another highlight — you won’t find Red Bull vodkas or overly sweetened Mai Tais here. The staff uses fresh juice, quality spirits, and house-made sours and grenadine. Staffers are encouraged to create their own cocktails, and the tastiest concoctions get a place on the menu.

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

65 Nichols St., Friday Harbor, 360.298.8130, cynthiasofcourse.com Located in a renovated 1920s home, this local San Juan Island staple is known for their innovative menu selections. You can enjoy lunch, or even an extended breakfast, daily in spring and summer. They are famous for their brunch, but you might try stopping by later in the evening for their dinner menu — a special treat.

DOE BAY CAFÉ American 107 Doe Bay Rd., Olga 360.376.8059, doebay.com Whether you’re heading toward the San Juan Islands or don’t mind taking a trip for an unbelievable meal, be sure to make reservations at the ever-popular Doe Bay Café. Owners Joe and Maureen Brotherton have stuck to their mission of providing world-class seafood and vegetarian dishes.

416 Myrtle St., Mount Vernon 360.588.4515, trumpeterpublichouse.com Trumpeter is an ideal combination of high-end, fine dining, and English pub fare. Try traditional pub selections or more unique seafood choices. Additionally, Trumpeter looks to accommodate all tastes with gluten-free dishes and the option to make any dish gluten-free.

Of course, a pub isn’t complete without beer and Trumpeter completes the dining experience with 18 taps of local and European brews.

PRIMA BISTRO French

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 400 First St., Langley, 360.221.3033, innatlangley.com If beauty were a taste, this would be it. As a guest, you’re taken on a mouth-watering culinary journey through a multi-course tasting menu. Not only is the meal a delight for the taste buds, but there are also surprises at each turn, whether it’s the presentation or the accoutrements. Each guest is served as if they are the only one in the dining room. The menu is prix fixe, with an additional charge for wine

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

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

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.

April 2023 97

Joshua Amberson Meet Joshua Amberson, a seasoned Real Estate Broker with 5 years’ experience in the industry. He works for Windermere Real Estate Whatcom Inc., the top flight brokerage in Whatcom County, renowned for its excellence. Joshua is a dynamic & creative broker who combines his experience & market knowledge to deliver a client-focused approach with exceptional results for his clients. He is a collaborative Realtor, always willing to go above and beyond to help his colleagues. His dependability, opportunistic mindset and passion for Real Estate are unmatched, making him a valuable asset to any Real Estate transaction. Joshua is diligent in his work, ensuring that each client receives personalized attention and expert guidance throughout their Real Estate Story.

Joshua Amberson Realtor, Broker Windermere Real Estate 360.593.1333 joshuaamberson@windermere.com

Best Museum

Photo by Renee Perran. Courtesy of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival Photo Contest

Agenda

Top Picks

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

100

April 2023 99

Agenda Top Picks

Photo by Eric Jacobs

Photo by Emily Crook Courtesy of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival Photo Contest

APRIL

SKAGIT VALLEY TULIP FESTIVAL April 1–30 The tulips are finally in bloom, which means that Skagit Valley’s most anticipated event is returning for another year! Visit Skagit to see thousands upon thousands of flowers in every color possible, and enjoy some food and festivities while you’re at it.

This year’s growers include Tulip Town, RoozenGaarde, Garden Rosalyn, and Tulip Valley Farms. 311 W. Kincaid St., Mount Vernon, 360.428.5959, tulipfestival.org

29TH ANNUAL SPRING GARAGE SALE, ANTIQUES, AND MORE April 7–8, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

This beloved annual event is so much more than an ordinary garage sale. In addition to plenty of pre-loved home goods, attendees can expect live music and food, plus vendors from all across the region. If you’re looking to stock up on new(ish) decor after spring cleaning, you won’t want to miss this epic weekend! Skagit County Fairgrounds, 501 Taylor St., Mount Vernon, 360.416.1350, skagitcounty.net/fairgrounds

EASTER AT BELLEWOOD FARMS April 8, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Everyone’s favorite bunny will be hopping back to Bellewood Farms just in time for Easter! In addition to the much-anticipated bunny photo ops, families can enjoy music, activities, and food, including Bellewood’s nearaddictive cider donuts. Bring the whole crew and enjoy a day of fun on the farm! Bellewood Farms, 6140 Guide Meridian Rd., Bellingham, 360.318.7720, bellewoodfarms.com

TIDE TO TABLE ‘23: A ROARING ‘20S EVENT April 15, 5:30 p.m.

Enjoy a buffet of fresh seafood, live music by the Brothers K, and a roaring ‘20s theme at the Whatcom Working Waterfront Coalition’s annual fundraising extravaganza! In addition to the food and entertainment, there will even be a live silent auction. Snag your tickets now and get ready to celebrate in the Bellingham Yacht Club’s waterfront Marina Room. Bellingham Yacht Club, 2625 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham, 360.733.7390, byc.org

100 BellinghamAlive.com

SOME-STARS OF NATIVE AMERICAN COMEDY April 21, 7:30 p.m.

Four talented Native American stand-up comedians will grace the stage at Mount Baker Theatre to put you in stitches with their “bare-knuckled humor.” Gilbert “The Naughty Rez Dog” Brown, Kasey Nicholson, Sheila Chalakee, and Jim Ruel are here to share their humor with wise-cracks and elaborate anecdotes.

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

WHATCOM COUNTY HOME AND GARDEN SHOW April 28–30 Presented by the The Building Industry Association of Whatcom County (BIAWC), Whatcom’s biggest and best home and garden show is set to return live and in-person for the first time since 2020! In addition to a myriad of home and garden vendors, the event will feature interactive booths, speakers, workshops, food, and even a beer garden.

Northwest Washington Fairgrounds WECU Pavilion, 1775 Front St., Lynden, biawc.com

APRIL BREWS DAY April 29 Mark your calendars for a day filled with games, food, fireworks, and more than 65 craft PNW breweries. April Brews Day is Bellingham’s biggest beer festival, and the best part is that all proceeds benefit the Max Higbee Center, a local nonprofit dedicated to creating community for individuals with developmental disabilities. Cheers to that! Bellingham, aprilbrewsday.org

DIRTY DAN DAY April 30, 1–4 p.m.

During this free three-hour-long community event, everyone is invited to the Village Green to celebrate the admittedly “colorful” founder of Fairhaven, Daniel Jefferson Harris (also known as Dirty Dan). While you enjoy music by Bellingham’s own Americana band, The Song Wranglers, get into the 1800s spirit with a costume contest, pieeating contest, and fish toss competition!

Fairhaven Village Green, 1207 10th St., Bellingham, enjoyfairhaven.com

Events Agenda PORTLAND CELLO PROJECT: PURPLE REIGN April 27, 7 p.m.

Courtesy of Mount Baker Theatre

This alternative classical outfit performs with the goals of expanding appreciation for the cello and building connections between different musical communities.

As part of those goals, they perform music you wouldn’t normally see played on the cello, and the music of Prince definitely falls into that category! Fall in love with a diverse range of Prince’s songs all over again through this neoclassical lens. Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

CONCERTS Portland Cello Project: Purple Reign

CASINOS MORRIS DAY AND THE TIME April 8, 8 p.m.

‘80s movie and music lovers will likely remember Morris Day as The Kid’s nemesis from the cult classic film “Purple Rain.” Nearly three decades later, you can catch this iconic musician and his Princeformed band, the Time, performing live at Tulalip Resort Casino! Tulalip Resort Casino, 10200 Quil Ceda Blvd., Tulalip, 888.272.1111, tulalipresortcasino.com

THE MACHINE April 14, 9: 30 p.m.

Get ready to groove with the Machine, a PNW-based cover band that gives new life to all your favorite hits from the ‘70s all the way through the aughts. From Michael Jackson to Queen and even Lady Gaga, no contemporary era is off-limits for the Machine, and their variety-packed performances are known to draw in crowds. Tulalip Resort Casino, 10200 Quil Ceda Blvd., Tulalip, 888.272.1111, tulalipresortcasino.com

CLASSICAL SAN JUAN SINGERS: ONE WORLD, ONE BEAT April 1, 7:30 p.m.

At this One World, One Beat concert, the San Juan Singers and their guest musicians will be showcasing energizing music from across several cultures and

genres. The Singers will perform some classic American rock songs, and you’ll also be hearing beats from a local West African drumming group, a didgeridoo player from Orcas Island, and local rock band members. San Juan Community Theatre, 100 2nd St., Friday Harbor, 360.378.3210, sjctheatre.org

AARON CRAWFORD April 1, 6–8 p.m.

The Cooperage Room at Eagle Haven Winery welcomes back the “Cascade country” music artist Aaron Crawford.

Crawford is a grassroots musician who blends traditional country with PNW flavor, harkening back to Washington’s famous grunge roots like Nirvana and Pearl Jam. He prides himself on showmanship, so this intimate venue is the perfect place to enjoy the performance! Eagle Haven Winery, 8233 Sims Rd., Sedro-Woolley, 360.856.6248, eaglehavenwinery.com

THE GRETA MATASSA QUINTET April 12, 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Greta Matassa has earned her place as a celebrated jazz vocalist in the PNW over her 40 year career. She’s recorded 11 albums, been inducted into the Seattle Jazz Hall of Fame, and has spent the last two decades as a jazz educator. The Jazz Center of Bellingham has invited her to our little town to perform with her guitar, bass, drums, and sax quintet! FireHouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.510.4711, kuntzandco.org

ROMANCE April 23, 3 p.m.

Violinist Elisa Barston will be performing a concert of stunning solos, starting with Brahms’s Violin Concerto, followed with Schumann’s Symphony No. 3, which is one of the very few symphonies with five movements. The Bellingham Symphony Orchestra presents these pieces together as an homage to the two composers’ close friendship. Come early for a Pre-Concert Lecture by Dr. Ryan Dudenbostel! Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

BLACKWATER HOLYLIGHT AND COLD GAWD April 5, 7:30 p.m.

Check out this show for a night of heavy, contemplative, post-modern sounds. Blackwater Holylight strives for psychedelic music unhinged from a reliance on riffs and unafraid of tempo changes, which allows for an experience that subverts expectations. Cold Gawd is inspired by shoegaze and nu-gaze, presenting a 2020s take on the dreamy, feedback-filled sound. The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.778.1067, shakedownbellingham.com

DIZZY WRIGHT, JARREN BENTON, DEMRICK April 11, 9 p.m.

These hard-hitting modern rap and hip-hop artists invite you to show up and show out. With musicians from Las Vegas, the West Coast, and the South, the sounds vary from trap-beat backed vocals to bass-heavy, loud jams.

Dizzy Wright heads the evening, with

April 2023 101

Jarren Benton, Demrick, Reezy, and others making this a packed night! Wild Buffalo House of Music, 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net

JP FALCON GRADY WITH SPECIAL GUESTS April 14, 7:30 p.m.

April’s Mount Baker Lookout Session stars JP Falcon Grady. This singersongwriter has been plucking acoustic guitar strings and heartstrings for over 20 years all over the PNW, Canada, Hawaii, and around Montana where he’s from. A proud member of the Blackfeet Nation, this storyteller is likely to move you to tears with his songs.

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

NATTALI RIZE April 27, 10 p.m.

Nattali Rize hit the festival and performance scene in the early to mid 2010s, then released her debut album “Rebel Frequency” in 2017. Ever since, she has become known for spreading her intensely uplifting and revolutionary messages. Appearing with her are musicians Minori and Kumar, similarly known for their powerful lyrics and modern Jamaican music influenced by rap and R&B. Wild Buffalo House of Music, 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net

THEATRE THE ADDAMS FAMILY: A NEW MUSICAL COMEDY April 1–2 This musical delighted delinquents on Broadway from April 2010 to December 2011, and now Mount Vernon’s own META Performing Arts company is bringing it to the Lincoln Theatre! If you can’t get enough of the Wednesday Addams hype, this show is sure to satisfy. What does teenage rebellion look like when you grew up creepy in a normal world? Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon, 360.336.8955, lincolntheatre.org

CASA VALENTINA April 1–2 and 7–9 This show is set in the early 1960s in the Catskill Mountains of New York, where white collar heterosexual men go

102 BellinghamAlive.com

to dress and act as women. The show follows them as they consider whether to go public with their second lives and find freedom in their self-expression, or stay safe in secrecy. Bellingham Theatre Guild, 1600 H St., Bellingham, 360.733.1811, bellinghamtheatreguild.com

I’M NOT A COMEDIAN... I’M LENNY BRUCE April 7 & 8, 7:30–9:30 pm.

Creator and star Ronnie Marmo portrays Lenny Bruce in this solo show about the famous comedian’s life– his ups, downs, and battles both in and out the court. The show enjoyed 125 shows in Los Angeles and nine months of off-Broadway run, and now comes to Bellingham as part of Mount Baker Theatre’s Out of the Box Theatrical Series of intimate, impactful performances. Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

SOMETHING ROTTEN! April 14–16, 21–23 If you’ve never heard of the period parody “Something Rotten!,” buckle up! It’s 1595, and two wannabe playwrights have just been given the key to usurping unbeatable William “The Bard’’ Shakespeare in the form of a vision from Nostradamus. What is this golden ticket? A heretofore unheard of theatrical art known as a “musical”... Don’t miss this 10-time Tony nominated show presented by the Skagit Valley College Music Department! Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon, 360.336.8955, lincolntheatre.org

VISUAL ARTS KATAZOME TODAY: MIGRATIONS OF A JAPANESE ART February 11–June 11 Katazome is a historical Japanese textiledyeing process traditionally used for kimonos. It involves hand-carved stencil papers and a rice-paste resist technique.

Contemporary artists are increasingly applying this centuries-old process to modern expression. Visit this exhibition of works from seven different artists in Whatcom Museum’s Lightcatcher Building. Whatcom Museum, 250 Flora St., Bellingham, 360.778.8930, whatcommuseum.org

Birch Bay Road Race

RARE: RECYCLED ARTS RESOURCE EXPO April 7–April 29 With an imaginative eye, skilled touch, or even just a shift in perspective, found objects and recycled resources can be utilized in provocative and beautiful works of art. Allied Arts of Whatcom County presents this exhibition to educate on how sustainability and beautification efforts can be one in the same. Investigate artists and organizations that make eco-friendly the name of the game! Allied Arts Gallery, 1418 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.676.8548, alliedarts.org

HEALTH AND WELLNESS BIRCH BAY ROAD RACE April 1 The Birch Bay Road Race is an awesome way to jump start a healthy April! At this event you will run the paved roads along the coast of Birch Bay, taking in the beautiful waterfront and nature views.

They offer a 5K, 15K, and 30K distance, and walkers are welcome, so athletes at any level are welcome to attend! Birch Bay Dr., Blaine, orcarunning.co

SKAGIT VALLEY TULIP RUN 10K AND 2-MILE April 22, 9 a.m.

April in Skagit is all about tulips, and at the 37th annual Skagit Valley Tulip Run, you can join in on the festivities while working on your fitness! The 2-mile run starts at 9 a.m., and the 10K starts at 10 a.m. The runs will be chip-timed with an awards ceremony after, but no aid stations will be along the route, so be sure to bring your own hydration and snacks! Skagit Regional Airport, 15400 Airport Dr., Burlington, tuliprun.com

Photo by Emilia Bajkowska Photography

Agenda Events

The Scene Agenda

Fairhaven Chocolate Walk

The second annual Fairhaven Chocolate Walk was a sold-out success! This year’s event, presented

by Enjoy Fairhaven, took place on Feb. 11 with 18 participating businesses and restaurants, including Bella Rose Boutique, Redwood Group NW, Village Books and Paper Dreams, 12th Street Shoes, and many more. During the all-day event, attendees strolled from shop to shop enjoying glasses of wine and collecting sweet treats from chocolatiers including Seattle Chocolate Company, Evolve Chocolate + Cafe, Spokandy, Theo Chocolate, Chukar Cherries, and Boehm’s Chocolates of Poulsbo.

Photographed by Cocoa Laney

April 2023 103

Photo by David Loudon

Notes Lasting Image

Learning that there was a waterfall as large, and as close, as Racehorse Falls made it an instant destination.

It was a perfectly gloomy day in Deming, adding to the intrigue and something I aimed to capture in this shot.

DAVID LOUDON, LYNDEN

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.

104 BellinghamAlive.com

The Premier Medspa in the North Sound is now open and booking consultations in Bothell!

Real patient

Voted Best of The Northwest 8 years in a row!

A top team of Physicians, ARNP’s, RN’s and Master Estheticians providing personalized solutions for face & body 55+ different treatment options to help you become your most confident self Top 1% Provider in the US for Botox® and Fillers #1 CoolSculpting® Provider in Washington’s North Sound

$200 OFF

Call or Email us at info@rejuvenationmdmedspa.com

your first visit for any procedure

Meet Our Providers ®

Read our 5-Star Reviews at

(425) 818-4868 Bothell • (360) 982-2620 Burlington • (360) 685-8408 Bellingham

www.rejuvenationmdmedspa.com

Save-the-Date | Sept 3, 2023 Join our centennial celebration in Port Angeles. Activities, food trucks, beer garden, and free live music. In the meantime, visit our local branches: Bellingham Barkley 1270 Barkley Blvd.

Bellingham Fairhaven 1215 12th St, Suite 105

% 4.65 APY*

13-month CD

Certificate of deposit (CD) requires a $10,000 minimum deposit to open.

Ferndale 1860 Main St.

% 4.25 APY*

25-month CD

Certificate of deposit (CD) requires a $25,000 minimum deposit to open.

Open online, in a branch, or by phone 800-800-1577 Interest Rates Effective: 03/10/2023 APY is Annual Percentage Yield. Penalties may be imposed on early withdrawal. ourfirstfed.com | 800-800-1577

Scan code for details