Bellingham Alive | October | 2023

OCTOBER 2023 DISPLAY UNTIL OCTOBER 31 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

Inside 381 winners of

the 14th annual

readers’ choice awards

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Contents Best Of The Northwest

50 Each October, we bring you the results of our annual Best of the Northwest readers’ choice contest. For the entire month of July readers, fans, followers, clients, friends, and family alike voted for their favorite local businesses. We are proud to feature the top 3 from each category...here are your 2023 Best of the Northwest winners.

Photo Courtesty of Aslan Brewing Company

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FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR SKIN Our Patients Tell the Real Story Halo® Pro Laser Stimulates collagen, restore firmness and elasticity.

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

OCTOBER 2023 Photo Courtesy of Bellewood Farm

LIFE

STYLE

20

25 Fall Favorites 24

Heard Around the Sound Bison Bookbinding & Letterpress

Beauty Willow Collective

Photo Courtesy of Poppy & Pomegranate

42

TunaBird Bikes

123

44

Savvy Shopper Poppy & Pomegranate 48

Unlock the Hotel Leo

Necessities Must-Have Cozy Clothes

Kitchen Tips & Tricks Home-Cooked Halloween 125

Dining Guide

128

Local Find The Skagit Table

130

Sip Q & A with Barmann Cellars

132

Wine Pick of the Month

L & L Bakery

HOME

Porsche Seattle North 26

People in Your Neighborhood Sunchea Phou of YaY Novelty

Featured Home The Silver Residence

110

Local Find The Cusp Apothecary

Book Notes Reviews and Events

112

Remodel Getting Through the Gloom

28

Game Changer Shifting Gears

114

Necessities Fall Decor

30

Out and About Stay & Sea Lummi Island

32

Since Time Immemorial Sk’aliCh’elh-tenaut/Tokitae

27

36

5 Faves Metaphysical Shops

Photo by Leigh Hellman

120

136

Top Picks

139

Local Events

142

The Scene

SPECIAL ADVERTISING

TASTE 118

Photo Courtesy of Mystical Wares

AGENDA

106

Opener: Pumpkins: A User Guide Review The Fat Beet

34

Bellingham Injury Law, PLLC

38

PeaceHealth

47

Shop Local

NOTES

122

Local Find YunGaNe

8

Online Exclusive

10

Editor’s Letter

12

Contributors

15

Letters to the Publisher

16

Meet the Team

144

Lasting Image

October 2023 7

Notes What’s Online

Online Exclusive

Photo by Amanda Klein

PREVIOUS EDITIONS

Walla Walla Valley is a fertile American Viticultural Area (AVA) in Southern Washington (and a little bit in Northeastern Oregon). Earlier this year, Cocoa Laney traveled to Oregon for our April issue, and took the time to get to know several wineries in the town of Walla Walla. Walla Walla’s Airport district is home to the Airport Wineries, an Incubator Project founded in 2000 to give up-and-coming winemakers a foot in the door with a low-cost location. Get to know a few of the wineries, including itä wines, Hoquetus Wine Co., and Eternal Wines– and maybe plan a trip for Walla Walla’s annual Fall Release Weekend, coming this year November 3–5!

Giveaway $50 LIGHTHOUSE BAR & GRILL, located in Hotel Bellwether

Photoofby KyleBellwether Szegedi Photo Courtesy Hotel

Each month we give you the opportunity to win a prize from local merchants. You can enter once per day, each day of the month. A winner will be chosen by random draw and notified via submission email. It’s our way of saying thank you for your support and for continuing to help encourage shopping and dining local.

AUGUST WINNER: JAMES BURDETTE

Join us on Pinterest! @bellinghamalive

ARE ONLINE!

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

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

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

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Check us out online at

bellinghamalive.com for giveaways, contests, web exclusives, and more!

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Follow Us @bellinghamalive

Photo by Kristen Boehm

Notes Editor’s Letter

Embracing Change and New Chapters

L

OOKING BACK NOW, it’s

strange to think that just a few years ago, I was a total stranger in this place. In fact, before 2021 I had never even stepped foot in the state of Washington— nor, for that matter, had I seen much of the west coast in general.

A midwestern/east coast native, the thought of wandering through dark, fern-filled forests and rugged coastline held a peculiar allure for me. A nagging voice had been beckoning me here,

Little did I know that I was about to fall head over heels in love— not with a person, but with a place.

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calling out quietly from somewhere deep in my soul. Some might call it a sacred hunch, an inner knowing, or intuition. Whatever it was, I did what any true adventurer does when they hear that unmistakable sound— I listened. I listened and I followed it, mile by mile, all the way up to the mysterious, deep waters of the North Sound.

Today, I can still play back the memory, fresh as if it were a photo taken just yesterday: the moment I realized that this place was going to change my life. I had just embarked on an epic, cross-country adventure, traveling with my dog in search of I knew not what. I sat perched in the driver’s seat, salty air streaming in through my open window. To my left, the glittering blue waters of Chuckanut Bay filled the driver’s side window; to my right, a dense, moss-cloaked cedar forest bent above my head in a tunnel of green. I stared in awe, transfixed by this spectacle of natural beauty that measured beyond anything I’d witnessed before anywhere else in my life.

“This is the most incredible place I’ve ever seen,” I thought to myself. “I think…

I think I could actually live here.”

Little did I know that I was about to fall head over heels in love— not with a person, but with a place. After spending a few months on these shores, but knowing there was still much more to be seen west of the Rockies, I proceeded on in my travels.

I wandered my way through the wind-battered beaches of Oregon, the towering redwoods of California, the otherworldly deserts of Arizona and Utah, and postcard-worthy peaks of Colorado. Wherever I went, though, and however beautiful the view— this

place never left my mind. So now, two years later, here I am.

I want to express my gratitude to you, the people of the North Sound, for the opportunity to serve you all through my work at this publication, and especially for making this such a special place to be and to call “home.”

The pride you take in cultivating your community through the connections we create with each other, in everyday life and here on these pages, shines to me like a beacon of hope in a world that often feels stormy and unpredictable. I truly appreciate the opportunity to hear your stories, to help share and amplify your voices, and get to know you all better in due time.

Thank you for welcoming this wandering stranger to your shores with open arms, and letting her put an anchor down where previously, she had none. Without knowing it, you have captured the heart of a tumbleweed, inspiring her to grow some roots and surprising her with the most precious and unexpected of gifts— a place to call home. 

Sincerely,

AIMEE HELM Editor In Chief

COME FOR THE COWORKING

Community

STAY FOR THE SCHEDULE YOUR FREE WORK DAY AT HERCONNECTIONHUB.COM

Notes Contributors

L E A D E R S

Mary Kinser

IN LUXURY

Growing up in Washington state, Mary learned early on that rainy days provided the perfect excuse to curl up with a good story. Mary is now a collection development librarian for Whatcom County Library System, where she gets to spend her days spreading the joy of reading. In her free time, she enjoys travel, board games, long walks, and baking delicious treats. She and her husband share their home with one son, one cat, and far too many books.  p. 27

Kolby LaBree Kolby LaBree is owner/operator of Bellinghistory Tours with the Good Time Girls, purveyors of guided walking tours and other historical edutainment in Bellingham since 2011. The Good Time Girls are available year-round for private tours and virtual events. See Bellinghistory.com for current offerings!  p. 27

Tina L. Kies Tina is the owner of Chikara PR, LLC, a comprehensive public relations and content marketing agency. She is a nationally recognized and award-winning communicator with more than 20 years of professional industry experience. For more information, visit chikarapr.com.  p. 42

Dani Winters Dani Winters is a local photographer that works in Whatcom County and beyond. You’ll see her working events for corporate functions as well as farm events. From family photography, to newborn photography to weddings, she loves shooting it all! When she’s not working with photos, Dani works at a local dahlia farm as their Dahlia Tubers Program Manager, managing a team to cultivate the growth and reproduction of tubers to sell around the country to gardeners and create beauty within their own gardens.  p. 19, p. 114

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kate-fadden.com katefadden@johnlscott.com 360.483.6483

“I am blown away by receiving this award! Thank you to everyone who voted, and especially to my amazing clients, friends, family and colleagues… I am filled with gratitude for each of you!”

PUBLICATIONS Bellingham Alive NSL Guestbook Welcome Newcomers Guide

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Lisa Karlberg

EDITOR IN CHIEF Aimee Helm

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Kristen Boehm

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Estella Young

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Brandee Simons

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Amberleigh Brownson Kelley Denman | Michael Roe

MARKETING & EVENTS COORDINATOR George Murray

WRITERS

0%

APR

12-MONTH INTRO 1

3 x 25 k

REWARDS 2

BONUS POINTS 3

Do what you love and get rewarded with WECU Lux Visa.

Cocoa Laney | Julie Trimingham Leigh Hellman | Jessamyn Tuttle Alison Poppe | Andre Segura

CONTRIBUTORS Mary Kinser | Kolby LaBree Tina L. Kies | Dani Winters Amberleigh Brownson Dave Brogan

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Maya Heinselman

OFFICE MANAGEMENT Jenn Miranda

WECU.COM/LUX 1 0% Intro APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers. Balances transferred from existing WECU cards do not qualify. 12-month period ends after 12 statements cycles. After 12 months, variable rate of 19.15% APR - 26.15% APR will apply, depending on creditworthiness. Rates and terms subject to change at any time without notice.

2 3x rewards points applies to Dining, Entertainment, Home Improvement, and Streaming purchases.

All other categories receive 1x rewards points.

3 To receive 25,000 bonus points, you must spend $2,500 on your WECU Lux Visa in the first 90 days.

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Megan Gonzales

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 Designed by Estella Young and Brandee Simons

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Letters to the Publisher Notes “Thank you for being a moment of peaceful connection to my community. It speaks volumes in a sea of chaos.”

“I absolutely LOVED the cover of your summer issue! So bright and beautiful, great one!”

—Lara M., Facebook

—Netty W., Lynden Hi Netty, we are so glad you are finding Bellingham Alive a peaceful place to connect with your community. It means we are succeeding in our mission to be a positive voice. Best to you, —Lisa K.

Have something to say? We’d love to hear from you! Contact our editor at editor@ bellinghamalive.com.

Congratulations to all our 31 Days of Giveaways winners as well as our grand prize winner, Christine Hodson! To view a full list of winners, head online to bellinghamalive.com.

“I’m so excited to get my magazine each month, I know you have been doing a lot more for us male readers, was wondering if you have ever consider doing an issue on classic cars? Just a thought!”

Lara, I love the challenge of deciding on our covers monthly, finding just the right photo that will grab attention and speak to the main content of the magazine is key. —Lisa K.

“This year's Unexpected Ingredients article was so interesting. I love that you always pull in local bars and bartenders to help round out all the great information and it gives my husband and I new places to try!”

—Kerri M., Bellingham

—Brian S., Lynden Brian, we actually haven’t thought of that but will defenitely discuss in our annual editorial meeting coming up. Thank you for the suggestion. — Lisa K.

WOW, Kerri, you said it in a nutshell! That’s exactly what we think of when creating these feature stories for our readers.

Tying great information with community businesses is a focus of ours. —Lisa K.

Voted #1 Again!

Thank You!!

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

Bob & Lori Dodge Owners, Samuel’s Furniture

Voted BEST PLACE TO BUY FURNITURE 9 Years in a Row

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

October 2023 15

Photo by Kristen Boehm

Notes Meet the Team

Spacious Suites Bus Trips to Appointments Cable and Wifi Included 24 Hour staffing Great food Pet Friendly

Maya Heinselman What is your role at the magazine?

I’m an editorial intern here at Bellingham Alive. I just started at the end of August and I mostly write stories for the magazine, as well as edit and fact-check pieces.

What is your background?

I was born in Arizona, but have spent most of my life in Colorado.

After finishing high school, I moved to Bellingham to attend Western Washington University and just graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature this past June. Since then, I’ve been attempting to successfully navigate the real world! This is my second editorial internship and I have enjoyed learning more about this field and the work it takes to be a part of it!

Voted Best Retirement Facility

What do you hope to accomplish in the future?

My dream would be to work as an editor or publisher of a magazine or newspaper. I’d love to make an impact on the community by being a part of this kind of work and sharing stories that are important to the people who read them.

What do you do in your free time?

844 W. Orchard Drive Bellingham, WA 360.647.3708

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When I’m not working, I enjoy reading, painting, cooking (and, of course, eating), and forcing my cat to spend time with me. 

f O t s e B 2023

Quartz Shower

Cabinets Featuring the River Walk Luxury Condos

Countertops Get everything you need for your homes interior with our one stop shop.

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office@devinecoutertops.com

4107 STRIDER LOOP RD, BELLINGHAM, WA 98226

Shifting Gears 28 Stay & Sea Lummi Island 30

Photo by Dani Winters

Sk’aliCh’elh-tenaut / Tokitae 32

Local Life

Life

25 Fall Favorites

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October 2023 19

Life Fall Favorites

Good Time Girls’ Gore and Lore Tours

Bellewood Farms

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

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Photo Courtesy of Mt. Baker Theatre

Bellingham Cider Co.

Photo Courtesy of Bellingham Cider Co.

25 Fall Favorites Your Ultimate Autumnal Bucket List WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY

T

HE DAYS ARE growing longer, the weather is cooler, and there’s a faint hint of

something sweet— perhaps pumpkin spice?— wafting through the air. You know what that means: Autumn is on the horizon once again. From Halloween events to outdoor fun, here are just a few of the activities we’re excited about this October.

Just because summer is over doesn’t mean we have to stay inside! Instead, venture out on a hike to admire the fall foliage. Maple Pass Loop in the North Cascades is iconic for a reason, though getting there is a bit of a trek. For something more accessible, climb the Chanterelle Trail over Lake Whatcom and enjoy the vibrant leaves, abundant mushrooms, and unbeatable views.

It wouldn’t be fall without cider, and Bellewood Farms is king when it comes to all things apple. Visitors can expect fresh-squeezed cider, U-Pick apples, cider cocktails and slushies, plus a variety of baked goods to boot. Apple cider donuts, anyone?

Test your mettle at Whatcom Frightmare, Ferndale’s premier haunted house. We’re willing to bet that even the (self-proclaimed) bravest visitors won’t leave without letting out a few screams.

Enjoy a jaunt down Mount Baker Highway, then make sure to stop to enjoy the views at Picture Lake. This aptly-named scenic area turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow in October, making it the perfect backdrop for photos.

Don your favorite fishnets for the Rocky Horror Picture Show. This cult classic will be screening at both the Lincoln Theatre and Mount Baker Theatre, with MBT’s event even featuring a live shadow cast. Whether you’re a virgin or a veritable Rocky Horror expert, you’re invited to come do the time warp (again).

Dive into the spookier side of Bellinghistory at the Good Time Girls’ Gore and Lore Tours. These guided walking tours take place in both Downtown Bellingham and Fairhaven weekly, and they cover everything from true crime to Bellingham’s creepiest local legends.

Toast the season with a pumpkin beer! Breweries like Gruff Brewing Co. and Bellingham Cider Co. produce their own pumpkin-flavored libations each year, but for an even wider selection, McKay’s Taphouse devotes an entire subsection of their menu to this boozy autumnal treat.

When Oct. 31 rolls around, gather the whole family for trick-or-treating in Downtown Bellingham. The event is always free, and kids can collect candy from a wide variety of local businesses (100+ as of 2022!).

Photo Courtesy of Good Time Girls

Photo Courtesy of Bellewood Farm

Photo Courtesty of B’Town Fall Fest

Photo by October Yates

B’Town Fall Fest Photo Courtesy of Chamber of Concrete

Bleedingham

‘Tis the season for film festivals!

At the Pickford, audiences can enjoy both Doctober (best for documentary lovers) and Bleedingham (best for horror fans). There’s also Orcas Island Film Fest, which was ranked as one of USA Today’s 10 best film festivals in the country as of this year.

Get lost in one of the North Sound’s many corn mazes. Our favorites include the FFA’s corn maze, which has been a local favorite since 1999 and raises money for Lynden High School’s FFA Booster Club.

You’ll also find some of Whatcom and Skagit’s best corn mazes at local pumpkin farms, so why not pick out the perfect jack-o-lantern while you’re at it? See p. 118 for everything you need to know about pumpkins, from recipe ideas to local farms and more.

Kick off autumn in style at B’Town Fall Fest in Burlington! On the last weekend of September/first day of October, head to Skagit River Park for a maker’s market, food vendors, a 5K fun run, and much more.

Get spooked at the Concrete Ghost Walk, which takes place every Saturday night throughout the month of October.

Attendees will be treated to a walking tour “that’s partly historical, sometimes hysterical, and usually more than a little bit creepy.”

Semiahmoo Resort is known to go all-out for October, from their Halloween-themed movie nights to pumpkin carving, trick-or-treating, and more. Located just half an hour from Bellingham, it’s the perfect spot for a (slightly spooky) seaside staycation.

Don’t despair when the days grow shorter: Instead, make the most of the season with a beachside bonfire at Birch Bay State Park. Don’t forget to pack ingredients for s’mores!

Stock up on fall produce at the Bellingham Farmers Market, which takes place at the Depot Market Square every Saturday morning. From root veggies to radicchio, you’ll be sure to find plenty of seasonal ingredients grown right here in the North Sound.

If you ask us, fall is the very best time to take a San Juan Islands Farm Tour. Each island devotes a weekend to these tours; Lopez Island’s happens to take place in Oct. 6–8.

Concrete Ghost Walk

Photo Courtesy of Jon Brunk

Bellingham Farmers Market

... continued on next page October 2023 21

Pacific NW Quilt & Fiber Art Museum

Photo by Abbie Kunch Photography

Photo by Dean Davidson

Life Fall Favorites

Autumn Market at the Port

... Given the rainier weather, it’s natural to want to spend more time inside, so why not use the season as an opportunity to catch the latest exhibition at the Whatcom Museum?

We’re also big fans of the Pacific Northwest Quilt & Fiber Arts Museum and Museum of Northwest Art, both in La Conner. As far as art galleries go, Smith & Vallee Gallery is among the region’s most renowned.

Hit up some autumnal waterfront events as they pop up around the North Sound. Favorites include the Autumn Market at the Port in Anacortes and Bellingham SeaFeast, a waterfront seafood celebration, both taking place Oct. 14–15.

Autumn is the perfect season for a cozy cabin getaway! Lakedale resort

on San Juan Island has six log cabins available to rent. If you instead prefer to stay closer to home, Mt. Baker Lodging should be your go-to for (pet-friendly!) cabins, many of which feature hot tubs.

The upside to autumn’s rainy, darker weather? Wild mushrooms! Learn to identify the edible ones by taking a course with our friends at the North Cascades Institute.

Dine at some of Bellingham’s most (allegedly) haunted eateries. Fairhaven’s Sycamore Building is said to be occupied by an otherworldly “Green Lady,” and as legend has it, she’s a pretty big fan of The Black Cat. Now is the time to find a brand-new indoor hobby to keep you sane through the winter. Take up knitting with the help of the good folks at Northwest

Yarns & Mercantile, learn to throw pottery at Burnish Studio, or try out mediums ranging from watercolors to metalsmithing at the Jansen Art Center.

Amateur Sherlocks can put their detective skills to work at Ferndale’s Mystery in the Park. For this annual event, local actors bring a Halloween mystery to life— and it’s up to you to solve it.

Okay, let’s just admit it: Pumpkin spice lattes are actually really good, even if some versions are a sugar crash in a cup (looking at you, Starbucks). For a better brew with more wholesome ingredients, we recommend ordering yours from a local coffee shop. Black Fern Coffee in Bellingham and Ristretto Coffee Lounge and Wine Bar in Mount Vernon had our two favorite PSLs in 2022. 

Photo Courtesy of Christian Martin

Photo by Dean Davidson

Photo Courtesy of Black Fern Coffee

North Cascades Institute

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Black Cat

Black Fern Coffee

Spend the Fall and Winter with your Garden Spot Friends

Did you know that your favorite nursery is open year round?

October kicks off the cool season with pumpkins, gourds, fall planters, and all the autumnal delights. As temperatures drop, spirits rise!

When the pumpkins are gone, the wreaths and greens arrive. You can also find garland, ornaments, gifts, and both live and cut Christmas trees.

Garden Spot’s Boys and Girls Club fundraiser has been supplying families with the perfect Christmas tree for decades. Whatever your holiday, garden, or gift needs, your Garden Spot Friends are here for you all year!

Putting Your Garden to Bed October 7th, 10am

Lasagna Bulb Planter Make and Take October 14th and 15th, 10am

It's time to tuck the plants in for their winter sleep. Nancy will Create a layered planter full of color from now through teach you all about putting your garden to bed and getting spring. This bulb planter includes layers of bulbs and is your plants and soil ready for dormancy. Class is free. topped with winter pansies. Class fee is $39.99.

Plant a Pumpkin Make and Take

Halloween Terrarium Make and Take

We love pumpkins and they make great fall planters!

Stuff a fancy pumpkin with pansies, cabbages, kale, and more and be the talk of the neighborhood with your unique planter. Class fee is $29.99.

Make a tiny, indoor landscape under glass in this fun, hands-on class using small houseplants, rock, miniature pumpkins, and Halloween figurines. Great for kids and families! Class fee is $39.99.

October 21st, 10am

October 28th, 10am

Life Heard Around the Sound

A Four-Wheel Shop For Your Two-Wheel Ride

Photo Courtesy of Bison Bookbinding & Letterpress

TunaBird Bikes Mobile Shop

New Location, Hot Off the Press!

Bison Bookbinding & Letterpress

B

ISON BOOKBINDING & Letterpress

has served the book arts appreciators of Bellingham with their letterpress printmaking, book-binding, and stationery selection since 2004. Now, we can look forward to a second location situated inside the Granary Building!

“Downtown Bellingham has been our home for 19 years. It’s always been part of our mission to build a vibrant and thriving downtown for our community, and we’re proud of our contribution,” says Carly James, who owns and operates Bison with her husband, Kevin Nelsen.

“We’re so excited about Bellingham’s new Waterfront District– we wanted our shop to be part of it!”

The new location boasts 3,000 square feet of space, including a patio overlooking Waypoint Park and the waters of Bellingham Bay. The layout is designed to integrate their retail, a selection of stationery from around the world that James works hard to

Unlock the Hotel Leo

is an exhilarating 80-minute experience at the historic Downtown Bellingham Hotel Leo. We asked Chris Waltner, the creative director, what some of the most fascinating aspects were along the immersive, escape-room style tour.

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curate, with their studio space, so that customers can get an up-close look at Bison’s machinery and production process. Their presses will be housed in the Granary shop, but both locations will have bookbinding equipment so that Nelson can do the meticulous work of repairing and binding books wherever he happens to be.

So far, the Granary location has only been open on the patio for Saturday Pop-Up events, but they’re hoping to have a full opening this month. If you haven’t yet been enticed to visit, the new location will also have a small performance space and a selection of snacks and non-alcoholic beverages called Little Foods. Bison’s monthly Write More Letters Club will also be starting back up again this fall, so keep an eye out for developments! 112 Grand Ave., Ste. 101, and 1207 Granary Ave., Ste 160, 360.734.0481, bisonbookbinding.com

TunaBird Bikes is your full-service bike shop on wheels! Owners and spouses Adrian and Autumn Salvetti began the business in Breckenridge, Colorado in 2020, and started growing success in short order.

“In November of 2022, we moved the shop into a brand-new van, took the leap of faith, and relocated to Bellingham in search of year-round biking, foggy forests, and days on the water,” says the Salvettis. “We are so incredibly happy to be here and are very proud of the hard work we have put into our business!”

TunaBird’s decked out van is capable of everything “from flat fixes to complete overhauls and suspension services,” even restoration projects. Thanks to Adrian’s 20+ years of experience (he built his first BMX bike at 15 years old and never looked back), they can tackle any type or size of bike. Autumn keeps every part of the business on track, spearheading their commitment to great relationships with customers.

Being on wheels means TunaBird can come to you, whether you’re at work, at home with the kids, or anywhere else in Whatcom County.

They’re even known to work events and races, keeping everything tuned for optimum performance!

“We’re always happy to talk bikes and provide advice,” the Salvettis say.

“If you see our van out in the wild, feel free to come say hi!”

360.961.2709, tunabirdbikes.com

KRISTEN BOEHM

KRISTEN BOEHM

The Building and Restoration

The Namesake

The original hotel on the site was the Byron Hotel, built in 1899. The current Hotel Leo is a 1926 addition, the only structure left standing after 1967. What mysteries could have been uncovered during the 2019 restoration… ?

Leopold Schmidt was a GermanAmerican beer baron and brew master who established Bellingham Bay Brewery. He purchased the hotel in 1910, and died inside it in 1914, leaving behind a curious legacy.

Photos Courtesy of L & L Bakery

New Sweet Spot Opens in Blaine L&L Bakery

L

&L BAKERY, NAMED for mother Laura Potter and daughter

Lili Adie, opened their public location in late July 2023. The business, started in 2019, was previously run from their home.

Potter has been a certified chef and custom cake creator for around 35 years. Adie says her mother instilled the same passion in her.

“Her and I have always been the types that care a lot for people and love food so much,” she says. “Food to us is like sharing our love for others.”

L&L Bakery specializes in custom event cakes. These cakes are bespoke, detailed, and often-times extravagant– they can be anything from a convincing oversized peach to something multi-tiered and covered in piped decorations.

“It’s just always so fulfilling when they have an image in their mind that they’re trying to explain to me, and then I take that and make something out of it,” says Adie. “Just being able to make it their perfect dream cake is super exciting for me, and very rewarding.”

Now at their storefront, customers can walk in and take their pick of cookies, macarons, cinnamon rolls, cake by the slice, and even some savory options! They have drip coffee and espresso, perfect to compliment your treat, and places to sit and relax. They’re also hoping to get a grab-and-go cakes section up and running! Business has been going well, and Potter and Adie hope you come in to see them soon.

“Everyone’s been so extremely welcoming and so grateful that we’re here,” says Adie. “It just makes me so happy, and every little bit of it’s so worth it.” 477 Peace Portal Dr., Ste. 101, Blaine, 360.392.8459, landlbakery.com KRISTEN BOEHM

New Facility for Local Luxury Auto Lovers

P

ORSCHE BELLINGHAM DEALERSHIP has

relocated its retail business to Lynnwood.

Their new facility, called Porsche Seattle North, encompasses 40,000 square feet and is Porsche’s Generation 5 design, which is modern, open, and engaging for clients.

The new location is only about 60 miles away, and will still serve Whatcom County customers while being more accessible to clients in the south.

And the Bellingham location is far from abandoned! Within the next 18 months, it will be completely rebuilt and serve as the Porsche Bellingham Service Center, a state-of-the-art service and parts facility. 18600 Hwy. 99, Lynnwood, 425.298.0780, porscheseattlenorth.com KRISTEN BOEHM

The Secret Societies

The Exploration

The Speakeasy

Bellingham’s history is steeped in organizations like the Freemasons, the Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias, and more. Unlock the Hotel Leo’s fictional “once rumored” secret society plays into the storyline of the tour.

You’ll be given access to the hotel’s Lobby, Crystal Ballroom, Rose Room, Library, and even off-limits areas like the basement and original Boiler Room.

Take in the restored historic beauty of these areas as you hunt for clues.

At the end of the experience, you’ll be welcomed to the hotel’s speakeasystyle bar, Amendment 21, and granted access to an exclusive menu! Sip some craft cocktails and discuss everything you’ve discovered.

October 2023 25

Life People in your Neighborhood

Intentional Choices for Positive Change Sunchea Phou of YaY Novelty WRITTEN BY KRISTEN BOEHM PHOTO COURTESY OF SUNCHEA PHOU

T

WO LOCAL BUSINESSES, the Foundation and COF&,

have joined forces to bring the city something new: Downtown Bellingham’s first-ever coffee event lounge.

The space is the newest addition to Owner Brian Womack’s collective of businesses — and it’s just one small piece of his entrepreneurial and philanthropic efforts.

It can sometimes be easy to forget that little choices and actions everyday are what build up into lasting change. For Sunchea Phou, an entrepreneur in Sedro-Woolley, making a lasting positive impact has been a guiding principle.

Phou’s life began in Cambodia, where she and her mother survived the Cambodian genocide. They left the country when Phou was 7 years old, and spent five years in a refugee camp before immigrating to Montreal in the late ‘80s. Despite arriving with very little means and education, Phou went on to study fashion engineering (which integrates computer sciences and fashion design), and began a successful corporate career.

“It’s the technical side of fashion,” Phou explains. “I basically execute [designs] from 2-D to 3-D.” Phou worked for large brands like REI, Eddie Bauer, and Nike.

She built a heart-monitoring harness for use by NASA, and helped to bring the Seattle Seahawks’ NFL uniforms to life. But in this corporate playing field, Phou felt that something was missing.

“Being in the industry, personally I noticed that it is all about money … Everything is all about the bottom line,” she says. “I want to use my experience and skill to be more beneficial to humanity and the environment. Because I already have the connections and the skill to do it, if I don’t, then it’s ‘shame on me,’ in a way.”

This personal mission is partially motivated by Phou’s visit to Cambodia in 2001. It was the first time she had been able to return to her home country, and she realized that “there was a lot of need, especially for genocide survivors.” In order to generate enough income and be able to help, she needed to start her own business– YaY Novelty.

“The name, YaY Novelty, stands for ‘why and why’,” says Phou.

“Why create the company and why create the products. I created

“I created the company so I can generate more resources to help the genocide survivors, and…

I created the product because I saw that a lot of cheap products had been made [and] flooded the market, and contributed to more problems, especially for the environment.”

— Sunchea Phou, YaY Novelty Owner 26

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the company so I can generate more resources to help the genocide survivors, and… I created the product because I saw that a lot of cheap products had been made [and] flooded the market, and contributed to more problems, especially for the environment.”

Phou’s first products, the YaYwallet and the YaYbag, were carefully created to be durable, reusable, and handy for everyone. Phou is aiming to reduce the waste generated by cheap reusable products, like the $1 or $2 reusable bags that usually break after a few uses and end up in the trash. That, as Phou points out, “is not better than the plastic bag.”

YaY Novelty has since diversified into many other products, including stationery, self-care, reusable household goods, and even some consumable products that use Cambodian flavor profiles. One of Phou’s hopes for YaY Novelty is to remind, or even teach people for the first time, that Cambodia exists, has a long history and culture, and is still in need of help.

“I try to… bring awareness of where Cambodia is and what’s happening,” says Phou, who says that people who ask her where she’s from often don’t know where Cambodia is.

“It’s just like, if they don’t even know the country or where it is, most likely they [don’t know] what’s going on in the country, [or what is] happening there.”

Sunchea donates resources to Cambodia as she can, including money, food, and even at one point helping to build a simple school. But lasting changes for people and the environment can also be made by making choices that add up over time. “[My YaYbag] might seem expensive, but it’s a long-term investment,” she says.

She also notes that although her products can be purchased through large online retailers, purchasing directly from small businesses is another small choice that makes a large positive impact. Sedro-Woolley, yaynovelty.com 

Book Notes Life

Book Reviews

Literary Events

WRITTEN BY MARY KINSER

October 12, 1:30 p.m.

Hook-a-Book Discussion Group

YOU KNOW THEIR NAMES. You might even know their

Edison’s Ghosts: The Untold Weirdness of History’s Greatest Geniuses

by Katie Spalding

famous accomplishments. But do you know how truly, well, weird they were? Probably not— which is exactly where mathematician and author Katie Spalding shines. Pulling back the layers of reverence that surround well-known geniuses like Isaac Newton, Leonardo da Vinci, Marie Curie, and others, Spalding shows us how very imperfect these high achievers really were. Learn about Albert Einstein’s disastrous attempts at sailing; Ben Franklin’s “prank” electrified wine glasses; Nicola Tesla’s unhealthy attachment to a pigeon; and Sherlock Holmes creator Arthur Conan Doyle’s astonishing gullibility. Readers will find the book’s premise, that geniuses are maybe not that special after all, relatable and deeply reassuring. (By the way, don’t skip the footnotes! Those are some of the best bits.) Blending an impressive amount of research with irreverent, often biting humor, “Edison’s Ghosts” is a highly entertaining slice of history perfect for holiday gifting.

STÉPHANE BREITWIESER’S CRIMES seem almost

The Art Thief: A True Story of Love, Crime, and a Dangerous Obsession

by Michael Finkel

unfathomable. In the span of six years, from 1995 to 2001, the French thief and his girlfriend stole more than 200 paintings, sculptures, and priceless objects from museums across Europe.

They committed their crimes in broad daylight, swiping artworks from small collections, sometimes with guards and cameras present. What’s more incredible is Breitwieser’s motive: not financial gain or notoriety, but a mania for surrounding himself with remarkable beauty. As a collector, Breitwieser stashed his plunder in his attic apartment, building a giltlined refuge filled to bursting with nearly $2 billion worth of treasure. It’s hard to believe “The Art Thief” is not the work of a novelist’s imagination, but every bit is backed in research and interviews with Breitwieser himself. Author Michael Finkel spins this incredible true story into a compulsive page-turner; readers will be astonished both at the thief’s brazenness and just how long he escaped detection.

Skagit Cellars 106 1st St., La Conner 360.840.7240, seaportbooks.com

If you haven’t yet, come to the monthly meeting of the Hook-a-Book Discussion Group, run by La Conner’s Seaport Books shop. They meet every second Thursday at Skagit Cellars winery (right next to the bookshop!), and discuss a book of the group’s choosing.

October 14, 6 p.m.

Tim Donahue, “The James Gang” Village Books 1200 11 St., Bellingham 360.671.2626, villagebooks.com

Poet, journalist, and Western Washington University graduate Tim Donahue will be at Village Books in Fairhaven to present “The James Gang,” his debut novel. In this story, ex-sitcom star Hersey James is given a “mysterious proposition” by his eldest daughter, and must make tough choices regarding his fame and family.

October 19, 7 p.m.

Pacific Corner Poets

Honey Moon 1053 N. State St., Bellingham 360.734.0728 facebook.com/pacificcornerpoets

This poetry group is still quite new, having been established in 2023. They host monthly open mic nights that each have a featured reader, oftentimes an established author or poet. Arrive at Honey Moon mead and cider bar at 6:30 p.m. for signups, and 7 p.m. to hear the local talent.

This Month in Bellinghistory

WRITTEN BY KOLBY LABREE OF BELLINGHISTORY TOURS WITH THE GOOD TIME GIRLS

Oct. 2, 1892

Oct. 13, 1905

Oct. 20, 1911

October 28, 1903

The fire captain turned arsonist known as “Spider Biles the Fire Bug” was captured after starting his latest fire in Fairhaven.

A fisherman reported that he “came very near being captured by a ferocious devilfish,” or octopus, near the Great Northern tunnel at Chuckanut, when the “monster of the deep” reached out a tentacle in an effort to ensnare him.

The Sanitarium Baths on Elk (now State) Street advertised their new “Electric Light Sweat Bath,” which appears to have been a wooden cabinet lined with incandescent light bulbs with a hole at the top for a person’s head to protrude through.

The results of the election were in and the consolidation of the cities on Bellingham Bay passed and New Whatcom and Fairhaven joined to become “Greater Bellingham.”

October 2023 27

Life Game Changer

Building Confidence and Community through Outdoor Recreation Shifting Gears WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY | PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHIFTING GEARS

H

AVE YOU EVER wanted to

learn to kayak or mountain bike, but have no idea where to start? You’re not alone. Breaking into outdoor sports can be daunting, especially for women— but Shifting Gears is dedicated to leveling the playing field.

Shifting Gears is a Bellinghambased organization that breaks down barriers to accessing outdoor recreation. They offer welcoming, positive programming where women from all walks of life can make their outdoor dreams a reality, whether they involve finding a hiking partner or learning to ride a mountain bike.

According to Board President Kari Humphreys, the organization began with a group of four female friends.

Each shared a common experience: “being intimidated by male dominated 28

BellinghamAlive.com

outdoor recreation, sports, and having that be a barrier for us.”

“Through that conversation, we started to envision a different way,” says Humphreys. “And realized that we might have something here, with this idea that a group of women learning something together is often a really powerful experience.”

Humphreys says that Shifting Gears’ programming is aimed at women because, historically, women have not been included in sports like climbing and mountain biking.

They envision a future in which all people— regardless of gender, race, or socioeconomic status— can take up space in the outdoors.

“We are just trying to level the playing field in that way, and build access through knowledge and through experience, through

confidence building,” Humphreys says. “We’re like that friend that says, ‘Oh, you’re interested in mountain biking? I mountain bike; let me show you, come with me next week.’”

Shifting Gears offers programs for mountain and road biking, hiking, backpacking, sea kayaking, and rock climbing. These include weekly sea kayaking excursions with the Community Boating Center, climbing nights at VITAL Climbing Gym, and group rides that are accessible to all skill levels. Most programming takes place during the summer months, and details about programming (including equipment and registration info) is available online.

In addition to learning new skills, participants create camaraderie with other like-minded women.

Shifting Gears’ programs might be

the starting point, but Humphreys says that these connections often go deeper than the activity alone.

“Getting a group of women together has a special sort of magic,” she continues. “We found that people were willing to be vulnerable and share what they were afraid of, or share how they surprised themselves that day, or something they’ve learned about themselves that day.”

Humphreys also loves how supportive, inclusive outdoor recreation lets participants reconnect with their inner kid.

She recalls a beginner mountain biking excursion where one of the participants was initially very nervous. Once beginning the ride, however, anticipation gave way to unbridled joy.

“I hear, while we’re riding, this high pitch squeal and laughter and somebody exclaiming, ‘I feel like a kid again!’” she says. “[It was] this beautiful moment of like, we’re adults, and yeah, we get scared sometimes. But we can still do scary, hard things. We can also remember how to play again.”

“Getting a group of women together has a special sort of magic,” Board President Kari Humphreys

Want to get involved? Shifting Gears offers a variety of volunteer opportunities and community events, including the Sippin’ on Cider fundraiser taking place at Lost Giants Cider Co. on Sept. 9.

Proceeds from the fundraiser support the organization’s current offerings as well as expanded programming in the future. After all, Shifting Gears is a growing organization, and Humphreys wants to continue introducing new opportunities both through their own programming and community partnerships.

“I would just say keep an eye on us,” Humphreys says. “And if there’s something that someone is really wanting to do with us that we don’t currently offer, we want to know about it.” Bellingham, 360.746.9841, letsshiftgears.com 

October 2023 29

Life Out and About

The Makings of an Authentic Island Experience Stay & Sea Lummi Island WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

A

FIVE-MINUTE FERRY RIDE is all it takes to

visit Lummi Island, but despite its proximity to Bellingham, this seaside escape feels like a world unto itself. From the quirky arts community to the local farms, fishing traditions, and picturesque sunsets, this island has far more to offer than many realize— and nobody knows this better than Ashley and Brittany Swaen.

The Swaen sisters are fifth-generation islanders and owners of Stay & Sea, a full-service vacation rental management company on Lummi Island. Their rentals range from rustic cabins to luxury beachfront properties, but the company’s ethos goes beyond accommodations alone. Rather, the heart of Stay & Sea lies in the Swaens’ love for Lummi Island and the folks who call it home.

“We wanted to not just have a business where we manage vacation rentals, but to make it more of an experience for people,” says Brittany.

The Swaens go above and beyond to incorporate this “island experience” into every aspect of their guests’ stays, whether that be through partnerships with island farms and fishermen or throwing collaborative culinary events. In years past, Lummi’s reputation as a fine dining destination meant that certain events felt inaccessible to locals, but the Swaens ensure that their offerings are approachable to islanders and mainlanders alike.

“When we began our business, we really wanted people to have that authentic island experience, partner with as many local businesses as we can, employ islanders, and just really try to localize everything,” continues Brittany.

So what, exactly, does the quintessential Lummi Island experience look like? According to the Swaens, it’s all about embracing a more relaxed pace of life. There are few businesses on the island, so its major attractions are the smaller, day-to-day moments: preparing a gorgeous dinner with island-grown ingredients, hunting for agates on the beach, biking to the nature preserves, or cozying up around a fire.

My partner and I spent two nights in Stay & Sea’s Harlowe House property, a gorgeous three-bedroom with waterfront views, abundant natural light, and one of the comfiest beds I’ve ever slept in. Lummi makes an idyllic destination for both creative retreats and regular remote work; unsurprisingly, having the Salish Sea right outside your window makes everything feel more inspired. Outside of work hours, we made our morning oatmeal (and evening cocktails) with fruit from Full Bloom Farm, watched the sunset from the beach each night, and devoted as much time as possible to soaking in the scenery.

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That’s not to say everything was easygoing; a steep lunchtime trail run to Lummi Peak certainly got our heart rates up. (Hikers beware: You gain 1,000 feet of elevation in 1.5 miles!) Lummi is also ideal for bikers and birders, so if you enjoy getting outdoors, you’re unlikely to get bored here. But beyond the nature preserves and recreation opportunities, the “island experience” has another key ingredient: the community.

“I think the local people are what really makes this place.

It’s a huge community of amazing artists,” Ashley says. “In general, the community is just very caring.”

If you want to connect with locals, the thrice-yearly artist studio tours give a behind-the-scenes look at the local creative scene. Additionally, the Beach Store Cafe is the go-to gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. It’s currently the only option for dining and drinks, though this is soon to change.

The Swaens say that new businesses will be opening on the island soon, including a coffee stand. While Lummi holds strong to its heritage, there’s an up-and-coming generation of islanders helping to shape its future— and if the folks at Stay & Sea are any indication, this future looks bright.

“We have different demographics [on Lummi Island],” says Ashley. “Some people have had their homes in their family for a long time. ... There’s a lot of new people out here too, but they’re just as amazing. I feel like the island is this vortex that just draws in really kind people.”

Lummi Island, 360.746.0805, stayandseavacations.com 

Thank you for voting Hotel Bellwether the Best Luxury Hotel in the Northwest!

Hotel Bellwether on Bellingham Bay | (360) 392-3100 | www.hotelbellwether.com

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Life Since Time Immemorial

Since Time Immemorial Sk’aliCh’elh-tenaut / Tokitae WRITTEN BY JULIE TRIMINGHAM | ARTWORK BY JASON LACLAIR

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, Nooksack, and other Coast Salish peoples is knowledge about how to live in our shared home in a good, life-sustaining 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.

This month, in a bit of a departure, we are featuring Sk’aliCh’elh-tenaut, who was also known as Tokitae or Lolita.

Although she was a killer whale who was captive at the Miami Seaquarium for decades, she was also an important part of the Lhaq’temish community. Lummi tribal member Tah-Mahs Ellie Kinley has worked for years advocating for Sk’aliCh’elh-tenaut.

In this work, Ellie has often shared that ancestral teachings hold that killer whales, in general, are simply humans who put on killer whale regalia in order to live under water, and that the Southern Residents, in particular, are members of the Lhaq’temish family. Both Southern Resident and Lhaq’temish societies are matriarchal, depend on salmon, and call the Salish Sea home. For both, families are sacred.

“We mirror each other,” Ellie says. “We are taught, ‘What happened to them, happens to us.’” The Lummi language term for orca is qwe’lhol’mechen, meaning “our relation under the waves.” Like the Lhaq’temish and other Coast Salish peoples, the Southern Resident orcas have been here since time immemorial.

Jim Washington, who sits on the Lummi Indian Business Council, explains, “Qwe’lhol’mechen are our elders. They showed us the way. They taught us how to hunt. They showed us how to stay together, how to be family.”

Sk’aliCh’elh-tenaut was stolen from her L-pod family in 1970, when she was likely 3 to 6 years old. This was during the killer whale capture era, when as many as one-third of the Southern Residents were violently taken from their families and sold to aquariums, effectively erasing an entire generation. The late beloved hereditary Chief Tsilixw Bill James of Lummi Nation compared this capture era to the boarding school era, when Native children were likewise stolen from their families, sent away, and denied their languages, cultures, relations, and homelands. Like captured qwe’lhol’lmechen, many of those human children were abused, many died, many never came back home.

For over fifty years, twice a day, every day, Sk’aliCh’elh-tenaut performed for visitors to the Miami Seaquarium. It was as a showgirl that she was called “Lolita.” Her trainers, caretakers, and the activists who rallied for her freedom called her “Tokitae,” 32

BellinghamAlive.com

or “Toki” for short. This Chinook jargon word meaning “nice day, pretty colors,” had been given to her shortly after she was captured. The late Tsilixw gave her the Lummi name Sk’aliCh’elhtenaut, after the ancestral village of Sk’ali, close to the place of her capture at Penn Cove on Whidbey Island.

One of the ways that Southern Resident orcas communicate is by singing. As a baby and young child, Sk’aliCh’elh-tenaut was taught the L-pod family song by her mother. Even in captivity, she continued to sing this song.

Lummi elder Shirley Bob tells a story of recent visit to the Miami Seaquarium, when she went to hold a healing ceremony for and with Sk’aliCh’elh-tenaut: “When I sang to her, she went down, and she came up. She went up in the air like that and she splashed, and she got me all wet! And she comes and looks at me, and the caretaker said, ‘She knew you, she knows the connection between you and her.’”

Sk’aliCh’elh-tenaut was described by those who knew her best as sweet, affectionate, agreeable, and unusual in her ability to survive circumstances that others did not.

In 2017, Lummi Nation began working to bring Sk’aliCh’elh-tenaut– their relation– out of captivity and back home to the Salish Sea, where her mother still swims today.

In an unprecedented collaboration, Lummi tribal members worked with a number of activists, non-profits, philanthropists, politicians, and eventually the Miami Seaquarium, on a plan to safely and responsibly bring her home. Sk’aliCh’elh-tenaut was active, healthy, and playful; the plan was fully financed; all the complicated logistics were aligning when, in August of 2023, suddenly and unexpectedly, Sk’aliCh’elh-tenaut passed away in her tank at the Miami Seaquarium.

Lummi Nation then called for the return of her ashes, so that she could be laid to rest in the Salish Sea. Lummi Youth Council President Damien Kamkoff has said, “She’s still coming home.

Maybe not in the way we wanted, but she’s coming home.”

Sk’aliCh’elh-tenaut was always more than one whale: she carried many meanings, teachings, and stories. She was an avatar of healing. She carried hope, she carried the possibility of righting an old wrong, of heeding Native calls to action, of beginning to get back into the right, reciprocal relationship with the natural world.

Anthony Hillaire, Chairman of the Lummi Nation, has said, “A great leader brings everyone together. She was a great leader.”

This poem written by Jay Julius, founder and President of the non-profit Se’Si’Le and former Chairman of Lummi Nation, and by his daughter Teja Julius, was read aloud during a celebration of Sk’aliCh’elh-tenaut’s life held this past August by Lummi Nation. 

SPIRIT – LOVE – HOME I am the spirit of family and community… look around you.

I am the spirit of Love… continue to fight for our existence.

I am the spirit of Salmon… this is how we live on.

I am the spirit of the water… the water is my “giver of life” and the Salish Sea is our Home.

I am the spirit of struggle… the newcomers just don’t know or understand.

I am the spirit of family… let’s all come together as one.

I am the spirit of perseverance… you and I never gave up.

I am the spirit of Hope…

I am HOME, despite all odds.

I am the spirit of forgiveness… but let’s not forget.

I am Sk’aliCh’elh-tenaut / Tokitae / Lolita.

I am the spirit of healing… see the truth in our story.

I am keeper of the Spirit.

October 2023 33

Lawyer Up! When those words come up, it usually means you’re about to head into a pretty serious legal situation. Tensions rise around the uncertainty and instincts tell you that you need help balancing the playing field.

I’ve made a 20 year career out of taking the stress of a problem and diffusing it into real solutions for people, but I still remember when the judge told me I’d have to come see him after I had a few more gray hairs, so he’d take me more seriously. Well…

I’m still here after all these years. This Lebanese Lawyer born in the Middle East, raised in Texas and seasoned in the PNW is proud to call Bellingham and Whatcom County his community and home. It’s a special honor to get voted BONW 2023 on my 20th Anniversary of practicing law.

THE UPDATE: I still fly the MYTRAFFICMAN.NET brand, but my brother at arms, Todd M. Anderson has taken over the DUI and Criminal Defense practice as TM Anderson Law Firm LLC and I work an exclusive number of criminal defense cases each year while focusing the majority of my time on personal injury cases at BellingamInjuryLaw.NET and focusing on my favorite non-profit for civil legal aid, LAW Advocates.

2023 was a big reset for me. After ending a 16 year relationship and re-organizing my practice, what’s risen is a clear sense of community, a calling to serve and a drive to connect with more people who are vested and excited to make an impact on the future of our neighbors, friends and family in Whatcom County. I’m also committed to seeing increased access to justice, and making room for new ideas and new leadership.

You’ll often find me reading or kicking off the day with a good conversation at my favorite coffee house (The Black Fern Bellingham) before a workout, and the rest of the day is usually at the office or with friends and family.

If you want to connect or looking for a way to serve, look me up at ziad@ziadlaw.net or go online to BellinghamInjuryLaw.NET.

Ziad Youssef, Founder 360.255.5046 BellinghamInjuryLaw.NET

We represent victims injured in serious accidents, including passengers, pedestrians, bikes, or motorcyclists injured due to someone else’s negligent driving.

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BellinghamAlive.com

Ziad I. Youssef Representing Victims of Serious Accidents

BellinghamInjuryLaw.net | 360.255.5046

Life 5 Faves

1

Sacred Cedar Co. A Native-owned and -operated shop on the Swinomish Channel. Here you’ll find body care, intention candles, healing teas, crystals, books, and self-reflection decks to help you reconnect with yourself and all things sacred.

128 1st St., Ste. 4–5, La Conner, 425.309.4798, sacredcedarco.com

FIVE FAVES

36

BellinghamAlive.com

Metaphysical Shops WRITTEN BY KRISTEN BOEHM | PHOTO COURTESY OF SACRED CEDAR CO.

35 LUXURY ROOMS

MEETING ROOM

SHOPPING & DINING

FRIENDLY FACES.

2

BRIGHT SMILES.

The Stone Moon A cozy Bellingham classic, The Stone Moon is home to three local tarot readers! Each brings different styles and skills to their readings, allowing you to find the reader who’s right for you (like finding the right therapist!). 1304 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.393.4390, thestonemoon.com

3

CARING SERVICE.

WHAT'S NOT TO LOVE?

Mystical Mermaid You’ll find anything you could want at Friday Harbor’s Mystical Mermaid! Explore their indoor garden, crystal healing room, and selection of thousands of products and over 50 artists’ works. 270 Spring

100 5th Street Lynden, WA 98264 innatlynden.com 360/746-8597

St., Friday Harbor, 360.298.3281, mysticalmermaid.com

4

Wise Awakening Like the name implies, this shop is here to help you on a journey of self-discovery and transformation. They focus on sound, vibration, and finding your modality. They even have a sound chamber and specialists to help you! 314 E. Holly St., Ste. 101, Bellingham, 360.756.8075, wiseawakening.com

5

Mystical Wares This large shop specializes in shungite products, including their very own Shungite Honey, and hosts the Mystical Wares Metaphysical Fair twice monthly! These all-day events showcase tons of local businesses and practitioners, so you’re sure to find what you need. 17869 State Route 536,

THANK YOU for voting us Best Creative Company!

We are committed to helping our clients share their brand stories and elevate their reputations through digital and traditional marketing and advertising platforms.

Mount Vernon, 844.888.0555, mysticalwares.com

WWW.SWELLMEDIASOLUTIONS.COM

October 2023 37

Life Special Advertising

Kevin Steel: PeaceHealth

Advanced cardiac imaging technology is now available in Whatcom County. Photo courtesy PeaceHealth

Jason Stoane: Mt. Baker Imaging

PeaceHealth and Mt. Baker Imaging: Working Together To Provide Advanced Cardiac Care

P

EACEHEALTH CARDIOLOGISTS AND Mt. Baker

Imaging have collaborated to create access to some of the newest noninvasive cardiac imaging technologies, not only in the state of Washington, but in the entire country.

“We really have something unique going on in Bellingham,” says PeaceHealth’s Director of Cardiac MRI, Dr. Kevin Steel. Dr. Steel works closely with Mt. Baker Imaging’s Dr. Jason Stoane. Together, they provide patients with the newest state-of-the-art cardiac imaging technologies, including using FDA-approved artificial intelligence software to enhance the relevancy, accuracy and efficiency of testing.

Cardiac CTs (CCTA) A cardiac CT scan shows the inside of the coronary arteries revealing narrowing or blockages. For the past 15 years, Mt. Baker Imaging has provided CCTA as an alternative diagnostic exam in the initial work-up of coronary disease. Last year, Mt. Baker Imaging incorporated a new FDA-approved artificial intelligence (AI) technology called Fractional Flow Reserve CT (FFRCT) where off-site computers not only analyze the CCTA exam for blockages, but also evaluate the effect of these blockages on the blood flow through diseased vessels.

As contrast dye travels through the arteries, its brightness can change when it slows at a blockage. FFRCT detects the change in blood flow — information previously obtainable only with a catheter and a specialized pressure wire.

Using this technology is better, easier and can be accomplished in an outpatient setting. It’s also quicker and safer for patients than if they’d had a catheter inserted. Mt. Baker Imaging, Dr. Stoane adds, was the first facility in the state to bring the FFRCT technology to an outpatient center.

about what is going on inside the heart muscle, Dr. Steel adds, allowing doctors to see scar tissue, fluid, and inflammation.

“It’s something I’m really proud of,” Dr. Steel says. “The cardiac MRI gives you a complete evaluation of the heart muscle, more than ultrasound and nuclear medicine exams. You get not just pictures of the heart, like a CT scan, but you also get the motion of the heart and an evaluation of the heart muscle itself. You also get movies of the heart and the valves and how they work.”

Mt. Baker Imaging is also among the first free-standing outpatient cardiac centers in the nation to provide MRI-based stress testing, says Dr. Stoane. Traditionally, these procedures are only done in hospital settings, and typically only at large academic-based medical centers. “We worked hard to create a safe, welcoming environment to be able to offer these highly specialized advanced exams in the outpatient setting,” says Dr. Stoane.

“It’s the next generation technology for cardiac stress testing, and instead of following in someone else’s footsteps, working together, we paved our own way,” says Dr. Stoane.

Both Drs. Stoane and Steel say the support of their organizations — and the non-competitive way they have viewed each other — is a big part of why their collaboration has been so successful.

These advanced technologies attract patients regionally from Seattle to Canada and offer safer, faster, and more accurate testing that can lead to more nuanced and successful treatment of cardiac issues.

“We’ve been at the forefront in the state of Washington and the Pacific Northwest in bringing these new technologies to benefit the patients of Whatcom County,” Dr. Stoane says. “It’s a testament to the desire of our respective organizations to be able to provide this kind of cutting-edge technology for our patients.”

Cardiac MRI and Stress Cardiac MRI Mt. Baker Imaging and PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center also perform cardiac MRIs that give unique information 38

BellinghamAlive.com

This article has been edited for length and was originally published in Whatcom Talk, and written by Matt Benoit.

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Willow Collective 42 Shop Local 47

Photo Courtesy of Poppy & Pomegranate

Necessities 48

Style

Savvy Shopper

Poppy & Pomegranate

44 October 2023 41

Style Beauty

Salon Owner Merges High-Fashion Services with a Hometown Vibe Willow Collective WRITTEN BY TINA L. KIES | PHOTOS BY TINA L. KIES AND MAKENA MARIE PHOTO

T

HE TERM “BREAKING

boundaries” doesn’t always come to mind when you’re discussing a hair salon, but for Willow Collective Owner Mary Taylor, breaking boundaries is precisely what she envisioned doing when she opened her salon doors in 2022.

Situated in the heart of Conway in south Skagit Valley, Willow Collective offers its patrons high-fashion salon and beauty services with a smalltown feel that is not only professional and on-trend, but welcoming and comfortable. Located just two minutes off I-5, this quaint space is the perfect central point for its clientele who travel from Seattle, Bellingham, and Whidbey Island for its expansive service menu from hand-tied hair extensions and waxing services to facial treatments and medspa technology.

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Small Town Roots Willow Collective wasn’t always its name. A smaller-scaled version of the salon first opened its doors around the corner from its current location in downtown Conway under the name Willow on Main back in 2017.

At that time, it was just Taylor, no collective of artists, and just hair services. Her son, Landon, was still a toddler and doing hair was a means of helping the family income while doing something she loved.

Taylor was a graduate of the Art Institute of Seattle, earning a degree in fashion marketing and design in 2004, followed by a cosmetology license from Everett Community College in 2011. Born and raised in Conway, she had the heart of a small-town girl with big city business savvy and

an entrepreneurial spirit; a high-end fashion taste and sensibilities but loved her Conway roots enough to come back home and settle down, even after her career path had taken a divergent turn into corporate banking.

A Collective of Artists If you ask her, Taylor will tell you that what she has intentionally curated is a collective of extraordinary artists under one roof that offer a blend of salon and beauty services that afford individuals an opportunity to look and feel high maintenance while living low maintenance lifestyles. Their pillars of service include a hair salon, massage, eyebrow waxing, tinting, microblading, facials, MedSpa, and eyelash extensions and enhancement.

“We offer a variety of services, but I’d say we’re best known for

our long-lasting hair extensions and low maintenance, lived-in color blonding,” says Taylor. “Our clientele wants to look fresh and current without having to sit in a chair every eight weeks.”

The approach to beauty is multi-faceted, which provides clients with longer-lasting results and less time spent in the salon.

One hair extension appointment might see three different methods, such as keratin tips, hand-tied, or beaded row extensions. The diverse methodology provides less visible grow-out and longer wear time.

“I like to break boundaries, and applying multiple methods on one client is just one way that we’re currently doing that,” adds Taylor.

“Offering the wide range of services that we do under our roof is another way we’re setting the bar. I don’t know of any other salon in our area that is offering the high level of diversity that we are at Willow Collective.”

Willow Collective currently operates with six stations and four treatment rooms within its 3,400-square-foot space, maintaining seven stylists, a massage therapist, and a nurse practitioner.

The salon sees on average 50 to 60 clients each day and continues to welcome new clientele.

We Are a Family When you walk through the doors, you’re greeted with something special: a sense of community, hospitality, and family. The space itself encourages the eye to wander with an open-concept design, tall 11-foot ceilings, an inviting color schematic that elegantly blends city sophistication with cozy farmhouse comforts, a complimentary coffee and Lotus bar, and a “husband” lounge in the back for spouses or guests that need a place to relax while they wait.

“We want our clientele to feel like family,” encourages Taylor. “We tried to create a destination, not just a salon. If our clients need a pick-meup, we’ll make them a coffee; if they get hungry during their treatment, we’ll walk across the street to the

Conway Tavern and pick them up some lunch.”

In Conway, everyone knows everyone. Clientele have mainly come through word of mouth or referral.

“Since opening Willow on Main seven years ago to the rebrand, relocation, and opening of Willow Collective in 2022, I haven’t had to market my business,” concludes Taylor. “I’m still in disbelief sometimes at the magnitude of success we’ve had, but attribute it to our loyal and happy clients, and the high level of service and skill we provide everyone who trusts us with their service needs.” 18628 Main St., Conway, 360.661.2294, willowcollectiveconway.com  October 2023 43

Photo Courtesy of Poppy & Pomegranate

Photo by Matt Nienhuis

Style Savvy Shopper

Because Everyone Deserves Flowers Poppy & Pomegranate WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY

The Shop It’s difficult to walk out of Poppy & Pomegranate without smiling. Open since April 2023, this floral and gift shop brings a breath of fresh air to Fairhaven’s historic district.

Owner Elyse Perron-Evans began Poppy & Pomegranate as a floral service in 2019, offering a-la-carte and full-service floral delivery for all occasions, special and otherwise. With the new brick-and-mortar, she’s expanded to offer everything from local art to pottery and even jewelry.

The Atmosphere Upon walking into the space, two things are immediately noticeable: a neon sign reminding visitors that “you deserve flowers” and the scent of— what else?— fresh blooms. Poppy & Pomegranate’s wares mostly adhere to a cheery color palette of pinks, yellows, and dusty oranges. Rather than feeling formal, the shop has the kind of ambiance that makes you want to sit and stay for a while.

“There are studies that show that having flowers in your space, even a week after getting them, you have less anxiety,”

Perron-Evans says. “Your moods continuously increase. I know that’s it’s a luxury, but even just every other week, being able to have something fresh and changeable can just make a world of difference to how you feel.”

Key People As soon as she broke into the floral industry, Perron-Evans knew she wanted a retail space of her very own. But Poppy & Pomegranate isn’t just the culmination of a personal dream; it’s her way of connecting with the community and supporting local artists.

Fittingly, the shop features an upstairs workshop space where creators can host community-led events. It’s already played host to several floral workshops, but Perron-Evans is quick to underline that the possibilities extend beyond blooms alone.

“I want it to become a space that people feel they can rent and then host a class … whether it’s candlemaking, dyeing things with natural ingredients, even if it’s a paint-and-sip,” she says. “It goes into that whole community aspect; I just want this to be a space where people can come in and feel a part of something.” ... continued on next page

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Bellingham Office: 102 S. Samish Way, Bellingham · 360.734.1999 Mount Vernon Office: 2120 Freeway Dr., Mt. Vernon · 360.848.6777 diamonddental.com

Thank you for voting us

BEST DENTIST! And thank you to our caring and dedicated team for providing our patients with the utmost quality and comfort.

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October 2023 45

... What You’ll Find Allow me to state the obvious: Poppy & Pomegranate’s most abundant offerings are fresh flowers. But in addition to bouquets, there’s a curated selection of jewelry, art, and gift items like candles, cards, and more.

“My major focus is on supporting other creators as well as local growers,” says Perron-Evans. “Just building a community around flowers, creation, art, and all that kind of stuff.”

With both merchandise and florals, Perron-Evans makes it a point to stay as local as possible. She sources flowers from regional growers such as Whidbey Island’s Grass Becomes A Wave and Ferndale’s Half Moon Farm, as well as the Seattle Wholesale Growers Market Cooperative.

Favorites Perron-Evans loves polymer earrings, and her current favorite flowers include the Queen Lime Orange variety grown by Priscilla at Grass Becomes a Wave. She’s also excited about her varied selection of dahlias, which were perfectly in season at the time of writing. At the end of the day, Perron-Evans believes that flowers are for more than just special occasions— and, if no one has bought you flowers lately, you can always take matters into your own hands. 1003 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.393.3149, poppyandpomegranate.com  46

BellinghamAlive.com

Photo by Matt Nienhuis

Photo Courtesy of MistofMorning

Photo by Matt Nienhuis

Photo by Matt Nienhuis

Style Savvy Shopper

PROMOTION

SHOP LOCAL 1. Cinnamon Creamed Honey $17.99 Marie’s Bees 100% Woman-owned | Local | Raw

2. Fall for our Succulent Candles | $29.99

1

2

Bella Rose Boutique 1134 10th Street, Bellingham 360.746.8163, luvbellarose.com

3. Ten Classes | $155 Jazzercise Bellingham at The Majestic 1027 N. Forest St. (Maple Street entrance), Bellingham bhamjazzercise@gmail.com jazzercise.com

4. Tri-Boost Wellness Shot | $35

3

4

Peak Hydration IV Therapy & Wellness Lounge 1216 Bay St., Bellingham 360.526.2125, peakhydrationlounge. com

5. Louet Erica Table Loom, 2-4 Harness | $408-$518 Northwest Yarns & Mercantile 206 W Magnolia St, Bellingham nwyarns.com, 360.738.0167

6. 1 Month Taekwondo Classes, FREE Uniform included | $130

5

6

USTA Martial Arts in Blaine 1733 H Street #330, Blaine (near Cost Cutter) 360.685.USTA (8782)

7. Def Leppard Upcycle Golden Sweatshirt | $108 She Wolf Wild 1051 N. State St Bellingham www.shewolfwild.com, info@shewolfwild.com

8. Etched Bellingham Glasses in Stemless Wine, Pints, & On The Rocks | $19.95-$21.95

7

8

Hamann’s Gallery & Gift Barkley Village 360.733.8898

October 2023 47

Style Necessities

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2

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BellinghamAlive.com

Must-Have Cozy Clothes WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY

I

Your local destination for quality shoes & service.

F YOU ASK the folks at

Bellingham Alive, October means three things: Best of the Northwest, Halloween, and the return of cozy clothing. Sure, sundresses and sandals have their merits— but nothing quite compares to snuggling up with a warm sweater, a hot drink, and a good book. Looking to embrace the autumnal spirit? Here are some of our top picks for the softest (and most stylish) outfits and accessories this season.

1

Gray Brown Watercolor Kimono

2

Lovely Lavender Women’s Bamboo Socks

3

Wishlist Corduroy Shirt Jacket

420 E FAIRHAVEN AVE | DOWNTOWN BURLINGTON

Betty Be Good, $40 8125 Birch Bay Square St., Ste. 201, Blaine, 360.441.7691, shopbettybegood.com

Cute but Crazy Socks, $12 1323 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.746.6255, crazysocks.com

Fringe Boutique, $54 201 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.312.4067, wearfringe.com

4

Hygge Headband in Merino Wool by Isola Handmade

5

Women’s Long Wool Robe

Cristal McQueen

Thank you for voting us

Best Art Gallery

Ink + Wool, $35 717 Commercial Ave., Anacortes, 360.217.9222, inkandwool.com

Sandmaiden Sleepwear, $396 301 W. Holly St., Bellingham, sandmaidensleepwear.com

Pam Pontious

1103 11th Street (Fairhaven)

OPEN DAILY

360-738-8564

11 am - 6 pm

WhatcomArtMarket.org October 2023 49

READERS’ CHOICE

31 days of voting 127 Categories 381 winners 72,809 submissions 946,062 individual votes

ALL LEADING TO YOUR 14TH ANNUAL 2023 BEST OF THE NORTHWEST RESULTS!

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

BEST CASINO

Silver Reef Casino Resort 4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale, 360.383.0777, silverreefcasino.com

Photo by Saskia Potter Photography

BEST GOLF COURSE

Silver: The Skagit Casino Resort Bronze: Swinomish Casino & Lodge

BEST LIVE THEATRE

Mount Baker Theatre

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

Silver: Upfront Theatre Bronze: Lincoln Theatre

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE

Wild Buffalo House Of Music

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

Silver: The Shakedown Bronze: The Blue Room

BEST ART GALLERY

Chuckanut Bay Gallery & Sculpture Garden 700 Chuckanut Dr. N. Bellingham, 360.734.4885, chuckanutbaygallery.com

Silver: Whatcom Art Market Bronze: Cordata Gallery

Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club 8720 Semiahmoo Pkwy., Blaine 360.371.7015, semiahmoogolf.com

From spa treatments to gourmet dining and unbeatable waterfront views, Semiahmoo truly has it all— so can you really be surprised that their country club is a favorite, too? This private golf course was designed by Arnold Palmer himself, and members receive unlimited access to golf, a driving range, tennis courts, and even a seasonal swimming pool. Best of all, despite being conveniently located in Whatcom County, Semiahmoo’s dreamy natural setting and unbeatable amenities will make any day feel like a vacation.

Silver: North Bellingham Golf Course Bronze: Raspberry Ridge Golf Course

BEST LOCAL ARTIST

Ben Mann

Bellingham, ben-mann.com

Silver: Jody Bergsma Bronze: Kent Nordby

E d i t o r ’s P i c BEST MUSEUM

The Whatcom Museum 121 Prospect St., 250 Flora St., Bellingham 360.778.8930, whatcommuseum.org

Silver: Heritage Flight Museum Bronze: SPARK Museum Of Electrical Invention

BEST INDOOR ENTERTAINMENT

Ruckus Room Arcade and Fun Center Multiple locations, Bellingham ruckusbham.com

Whether you’re 8 or 80, the Ruckus Room welcomes gamers of all stripes. Bellingham’s only all-ages arcade has something to offer kids and grown-ups alike— the only rule is to have fun and not take yourself too seriously. The original Downtown Bellingham location boasts a “vintage vibe” and even serves food and beverages, whereas the newer Bellis Fair Mall location has even bigger prizes. Looking for something to do on a rainy day? The Ruckus Room has you covered.

Silver: 20th Century Bowl Bronze: Volli Bellingham

Photo by Kate Galambos

ks

Community-Led Art Movements Even if you don’t self-identify as an artist, these movements want to reconnect you to your community via creative means. Paper Whale is a Bellingham-based “interactive experience” that encourages everyone to take part in the artistic development of their cities. Keep an eye out for their Speaker Series and events like their Noisy Waters Mural Festival. Children of the Setting Sun Productions is an organization working hard to cultivate and share Indigenous stories and empower future generations. Their Salmon People Project will produce a documentary and video series, and their Young Tribal Leaders program includes the nationally recognized Young & Indigenous podcast.

You can get involved with both of these movements by visiting their websites!

E d i t o r ’s P

BEST FESTIVAL

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

icks

Small Presses With Loud Voices Dr. Sophia Kidd of Igneus Press said it best: “Small and independent press dismantles cultural power structures, so that new and emerging voices can be heard.” Bellingham-based Igneus Press publishes local poetry and connects academics over oceans.

Raspberry Bow Press in Edison also publishes poetry, zines, and their longform collection of recipes, essays, interviews, and art from PNW women, “The Washington Women’s Cookbook.”

Additionally, if you’re looking for more indie titles and zines, we recommend checking out the Alternative Library.

Mount Vernon, 360.428.5959, tulipfestival.org

Why fly to the Netherlands to see spectacular tulips when you could simply take a trip to Skagit instead?

Each April, visitors from all 50 states— and 85 countries on average— flock to Skagit Valley to take in fields upon fields of brightly-colored blooms. This annual extravaganza takes place across 350 acres of tulip fields, with tens of millions of bulbs planted in every color (except blue and black!).

It’s one of Skagit’s biggest claims to fame, so we’re not surprised to hear that our readers voted it as No. 1.

Silver: Anacortes Arts Festival Bronze: Bellingham SeaFeast

Photo by Stiletto Rosso Productions

Photo by Emerita L Wheeling

BEST LOCAL BAND | PERFORMER

The JP Falcon Band Ferndale, jpfalconband.com

JP Falcon Grady originally hails from Montana, but lucky for those of us in the North Sound, he now calls Whatcom County home. Falcon is an Indigenous singer/songwriter who uses his melodic instrumentation and silky-smooth voice as vehicles for storytelling. Together with his band, the aptly-named JP Falcon Band, he draws from influences ranging from acoustic rock to country and even reggae to craft songs that are as heartfelt as they are catchy.

Silver: Baby Cakes Bronze: Robert Sarazin Blake

Most Micro Performances The underground arts scene is called “underground” for a reason– there’s not a lot of publicity around cutting-edge, local performances, which makes them easy to miss. We’ve found that if you want to be tuned in, the best places to keep an eye on are Make.Shift Art Space and mead and cider bar Honey Moon. By providing professional performance opportunities in well-loved community gathering spaces, these hubs consistently reinvigorate Bellingham with live arts. Keep on top of their events calendars to see singers, musicians, poets, painters, dancers, and all sorts!

Editor’s Picks Local Poets We Love

Jane Wong Rena Priest Jessica Gigot Sati Mookherjee Hannah Yerington

Most Magical Venue Some places are capable of taking your breath away and making you feel like you’ve entered a whole new world. To get this feeling any time of the year, we visit White Branches in Mount Vernon. This venue is dedicated to immersive experiences, and they run their own tea parlor steeped in fantasy Victorian decor with a delicious full tea service. It even has a secret Wonderlandinspired room! There’s also a cabaret and theater space where you can sip cocktails and enjoy live performances.

Thank you for voting us Best Spa in the Northwest!

Cerise Noah Realtor® | Windermere-Whatcom cerisenoah@windermere.com 360.393.5826

Your Relocation Sp ecialist 360.393.8829 www.MoveInFlowMotion.com 1920 Main St. Suite 19 Ferndale, WA

Realtor of the Year 2016 Whatcom County Association of Realtors – 2015 President

Photo by Cocoa Laney

October 2023 55

FASHION & RETAIL

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING

Sojourn

1317 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.671.5704, sojournbellingham.com

Local women’s clothing boutique, Sojourn, takes pride in inspiring its customers to embrace their own unique sense of personal style. The shop’s carefully curated mix of pieces chosen from popular brands like Free People (as well as smaller labels and local artisans) seamlessly blends the free-spirited, bohemian charm and casual chic street style that the Pacific Northwest is known for. Whether you’re looking to add some classic staples to your wardrobe, or searching for a unique piece to elevate your look, chances are you’ll find something that truly feels like “you” at Sojourn.

Photo Courtesy of Sojourn

Silver: Statement Apparel Bronze: Tides of Anacortes

E d i t o r ’s P i c k s Down-to-Earth Jewelry Designs If you want to bring a piece of the PNW with you everywhere you go, then you need to check out Linnaea Jewelry. Owner Megan Kirpatrick draws on her background as a field botanist to ethically collect local flora and fauna, then uses a process called electroforming to encase them in copper. She then uses these specimens to create jewelry pieces that are truly one-of-a-kind. On the subtler side, Martini Metalcraft specializes in minimalistic yet elegant jewelry designs, and many of her pieces are inspired by PNW topography and ecology (namely the Albero and Mozzafiato designs).

Most Exciting Pop-Up Market Over the past year, Bellingham has seen the emergence of Wonderz Market, a new indie craft and thrift market that takes place once a month (usually at COF& on Cornwall).

This market was begun by Thrifted Wonderz, a queerowned traveling thrift and consignment business, and has expanded to include booths selling original art, screenprinted clothes, unique accessories, and even tattoo artists.

There’s always undiscovered treasures at Wonderz Market, so don’t miss out! Word to the wise: market lovers should keep their eye on the Granary building in the year ahead.

When they put on a market, they do it to the nines!

BEST JEWELRY SHOP

Neeter House of Luxury 21 Bellwether Way, Ste. 107, Bellingham, 360.778.1613, neeterhouseofluxury.com

Neeter House of Luxury Founder John Neeter, a third generation jeweler who has been serving the Bellingham community for over 30 years, has made it his mission to bring the ultimate in luxury shopping to our corner of the world. Offering an impressive selection of premium quality jewelry, watches, luxury bags, knives, and more, the shop also works with clients to custom design their own one-of-a-kind pieces. Allow Neeter’s resident luxury advisor to guide you around the dazzling showroom, delivering a level of personalized service rarely found outside the likes of Fifth Avenue or Rodeo Drive.

Photo by Katheryn Moran Photography

Silver: Borthwick Jewelry Bronze: Apse

BEST BOUTIQUE

BEST LOCAL ARTISAN

Fringe Boutique

Stephanie Burgess, Painted Peace

201 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.312.4067, wearfringe.com

Silver: Adored Boutique Bronze: Cheeks Jeans

Bellingham, 360.920.3064, paintedpeace.com

Silver: Jen Parker, ReImagined Bronze: Ann Marie Cooper, Good Earth Pottery

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING

Quinn + Foster

1402 11th St., Bellingham, 360.671.2000, quinnandfoster.com

Silver: Backcountry Essentials Bronze: Bay to Baker Trading Company

October 2023 57

Favorite Family-Owned Shoe Store Stowes Shoes and Clothing has been a Skagit staple since 1940, but even after eight decades in business, the Stowe family shows no signs of slowing down. Four generations have helped to keep the store going strong, and if you pay them a visit, you’ll quickly understand why they’ve become so beloved in the Burlington community. In addition to the hospitality, customers can also expect a wide selection of footwear, from house slippers to work boots and brands like Birkenstock, Danskos, KEENs, and more.

Tiniest Treasure Shop When it comes to most treasures per square foot, Hedgerow in Bow Edison wins hands-down. From their artisan home goods to vintage jewelry, you’re likely to stumble upon plenty of goodies you didn’t know you needed— and despite the wide variety of merchandise, Owner Christy Erickson ensures that everything in the shop feels cohesive.

Photo by B. Linton Photography

E d i t o r ’s P i c k s

BEST BOOKSTORE

Village Books

Multiple locations, Bellingham and Lynden, villagebooks.com

With shelves full of volumes to please the most discerning bibliophile, Village Books has been keeping the love of reading alive in our community for over 40 years. A literary labor of love on behalf of its dedicated co-owners, the business’s two locations boast a carefully curated inventory of hand-picked volumes chosen with local interests in mind. Village Book’s sister gift store, Paper Dreams, offers up even more fun and unique items to complement the purchase of your newest page-turner.

Silver: Pelican Bay Books & Coffeehouse Bronze: Henderson Books

BEST CONSIGNMENT SHOP

Labels Women’s Consignment Multiple locations, labelsconsignment.com

Silver: The Clothes Rack Bronze: Foxxy Brown’s

BEST FURNITURE STORE

Samuel’s Furniture

1904 Main St., Ferndale, 360.384.3388, samuelsfurniture.com

Silver: Wilson’s Furniture Bronze: Tracy’s Furniture

BEST SHOE STORE

Fairhaven Runners & Walkers

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

Silver: BBay Running Bronze: 12th Street Shoes

—Brandon Nelson 360.319.0696

Visit www.BrandonNelson.com to contact any of our agents.

INC.

"Our deepest gratitude for your votes, your business, and your referrals, from all of us at BNP Realtors"

irresistibly

fresh flowers

Thanks for voting us Best Florist!

Call Belle Flora 360.734.8454 2408 Yew St., Bellingham

N E E TE R

I P E R S O N A L LY i n v i t e y o u t o share in the experience of shopping with u s. w e h o P E t h at t h e r e l at i o n s h i p b u i lt will lasT for generations to come.

2 1 B e l l w e t h e r W ay, S T E 1 0 7 / b e l l i n g h a m , w a 9 8 2 2 5 / ( 3 6 0 ) 7 7 8 - 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

October 2023 59

BEST APPLIANCE STORE

Judd & Black Appliance Multiple locations, juddblack.com

For a whopping 80-plus years, Judd & Black Appliance has served as a local bastion of multi-generational hometown family business. With six showroom locations to choose from, you won’t have to travel far to get the best in expert, personalized service for your next major home appliance purchase or repair.

Whether you’re in the market for a new dishwasher, refrigerator, washer/dryer, cooking range, or grill, you can rely on the team at Judd & Black to help you make the best choice for your needs, while treating you like part of the family.

Photo Courtesy of Aladdin’s Antiques and Records

Silver: DeWaard & Bode Bronze: Aaron’s

BEST ANTIQUE STORE

Aladdin’s Antiques and Records

427 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.647.0066, aladdinsantiquesandrecords.com

You never know what rare finds and covetable curiosities you’ll discover tucked away in Aladdin’s Antiques and Records. Like the magic lamp of its name, the shop is a veritable treasure trove of wishes-come-true for eagle-eyed shoppers on the hunt for vintage and secondhand items. Within its walls, you’ll find everything from retro clothing and collectibles, to eclectic furniture and home decor, to (of course) an ample selection of funky old school vinyl records. We suggest you set aside plenty of time to wind your way through the abundant aisles, and stop in often to pore over the everchanging cornucopia of inventory.

Silver: Red Door Antique Mall Bronze: Penny Lane

Photo Courtesy of Judd & Black Appliance

Yeager’s Sporting Goods

BEST of the

2016

BEST SPORTING GOODS STORE

OR

NORTH

WEST

ZE BRON

3101 Northwest Ave., Bellingham, 360.733.1080, yeagerssportinggoods.com

Silver: Dave’s Sports Shop Bronze: Holidays Sports

Fairhaven Barkley Bakerview Lynden Ferndale Blaine Birch Bay Bothell

Editor’s Picks

Favorite Artisanal Accessories Sage to Sea Designs PHIA handmade Cascadia Jewelry ggclayco Jo Bird Jewelry

• Orthopaedics • Work Injuries • Hand Therapy • Sports Injuries • Auto Injuries • Post Surgical • Pelvic Health Thank you for voting us Best of the NW in 2017-2023!

www.capstonept.com

October 2023 61

HEALTH & BEAUTY BEST YOGA | PILATES STUDIO

FLUX Power Yoga

1140 10th St., Ste. 101, Bellingham, 360.671.0198, fluxpoweryoga.com

Skagit Naturopathic Clinic 410 Commercial St., Ste. 5, Mount Vernon, 360.424.3460, naturopathicdoc.com

If you’re looking to take a different approach to your health, try looking to Gary Bachman at Skagit Naturopathic Clinic. Readers who are looking to take control of their health using natural methods trust him to educate, support, and empower them every step of the way. Bachman has a whopping four decades of experience in the healthcare industry and is even a registered nurse. Now, as a general practitioner, he regularly works with men, women, and children at his Mount Vernon clinic.

Silver: Bellingham Naturopathic Clinic Bronze: Natural Health Clinic

Photo by Tiffany Brooks

BEST NATUROPATH

As far as power yoga goes, the instructors at FLUX give their students the best of both worlds. The studio’s teaching philosophy hinges on both ancient teachings and modern science, and classes are led using concise, strategic techniques. The result is yoga that’s empowering, easy to follow, and provides quick results when it comes to both physical and mental wellbeing. Seeking a workout that will leave you feeling inspired?

Sign up for their free intro special to see what all the fuss is about.

Silver: Joy of Pilates Bronze: Inspire Studio B’ham

BEST FITNESS CENTER

Fitness Evolution

1504 Iowa St., Bellingham, 360.671.4653, fitnessevo.com

The folks at Fitness Evolution know that everyone has a different goal when it comes to fitness. Some are gym newbies, others want to maintain their strength, and others still are looking for a healthy way to destress after a long work day— and every approach is equally valid. Fitness Evolution provides its members with all the tools, equipment, and classes they could possibly need to reach their unique goals. Best of all, their pricing is always affordable, and the environment at the gym is always judgment-free.

Silver: Bellingham Fitness Bronze: Bellingham Athletic Club

Photo Courtesy of Skagit Naturopathic Clinic

Photo Courtesy of Fitness Evolution

BEST PHARMACY

BEST FAMILY PRACTITIONER

Hilltop Pharmacy

Dr. Julie Terry, MD

1223 E. Division St., Mount Vernon 360.428.1710, rxhilltop.com

Silver: Haggen Pharmacy Bronze: Hoagland Pharmacy 62

BellinghamAlive.com

Bellingham, familycarenetwork.com

Silver: Dr. Catherine Gambs Bronze: Dr. Karena Whitworth

BEST ORTHODONTIST

Yeh Orthodontics

Multiple locations, yehorthodontics.com

Orthodontics might be associated with those awkward teenage years, but the truth is, anyone can improve their smile at any age— and your options aren’t limited to traditional braces alone.

The doctors at Yeh Orthodontics are passionate about crafting standout smiles for kids, grown-ups, and everyone in between. Their compassionate, patient-centered approach makes them a favorite among North Sound residents, which is why they’ve earned gold in this year’s Best of the Northwest.

Silver: Veltkamp Orthodontics Bronze: Schmidt Orthodontics

BEST SPA

Flow Motion

1920 Main St., Ste. 19, Ferndale 360.393.8829, moveinflowmotion.com

Flow Motion isn’t your everyday spa. Sure, this Ferndale gem has the usual yoga classes and massage treatments— but they also boast a full-spectrum infrared sauna, an amethyst cave, and even a Himalayan salt cave and sauna. As the area’s only co-ed, nature-focused healing spa, they strive to create a relaxed, positive environment where visitors can recenter and reconnect with themselves in a holistic manner. All in all, Flow Motion has everything you need (and didn’t know you needed) to feel pampered— which is why our visitors were eager to award them the gold in this year’s competition.

Silver: The Chrysalis Inn & Spa Bronze: The Apothecary Spa

Photo by Kim Summers

October 2023 63

BEST RETIREMENT FACILITY

Orchard Park

844 W. Orchard Dr., Bellingham 360.647.3708, orchardpark.unicarehomes.com

Photo Courtesy of Orchard Park

Whether you are a resident or visiting as a guest, you can expect the caring staff and welcoming atmosphere at Orchard Park Retirement to make you feel right at home. Situated just a stone’s throw from downtown Bellingham, Orchard Park offers a combination of convenience, community, care, and comfort that’s difficult to beat. In addition to spacious, thoughtfully appointed suites, Orchard Park boasts an impressive list of amenities including extensive healthcare and support services, delicious dining menus, and a dynamic monthly activity calendar. With this level of care and quality of service, you can rest assured you’ll have everything you need to live life to the fullest, right at your fingertips.

Silver: Solstice at Bellingham Bronze: Cordata Court

BEST HEALTH FOOD SHOP

BEST MANI | PEDI

BEST MEN’S HAIRCUT

Community Food Co-op

Jimmy’s Personal Care

Wally’s Barber Shop

Silver: Trader Joe’s Bronze: Whole Food Market

Silver: Nina’s Nails & Spa Bronze: Organic #1 Nails

Silver: Barber Shack Bronze: Midtown Barber

Various locations 360.734.8158, communityfood.coop

1327 11th St., Bellingham 360.933.4268, jimmyspersonalcare.com

Coolest Cabarets Looking to get active, but hate hitting the gym? We have a suggestion for you: Hit the dance floor instead. Cabaret Atelier is a brand-new dance studio helmed by Cybele Leon, a crossdiscipline movement artist with an extensive repertoire in the burlesque world. She draws on her varied performing arts background to create one-of-a-kind brand of strengthbased dance courses, with each one culminating in whimsical performances. We also love Unique Technique Dance Studio for their varied offerings, which include not just burlesque but hip hop, jazz, belly dancing, and much more.

Best Walks for Winding Down Bellingham is known for high-intensity activities, but don’t have to get your heart rate up to get active outside. If you’re looking for a slightly more chill way to commune with nature, check out the Wonder Walks presented by Wild Whatcom, a local nonprofit that aims to foster lifelong connections to the great outdoors. This weekly program is all about slow and intentional movement, and yes, you’ll be allowed plenty of time to stop and smell the flowers. Want to go it alone instead?

We recommend checking out the Padilla Bay Trail near Mount Vernon. This low-elevation jaunt packs in plenty of views in its brief 4.4 miles, making it the perfect spot for an evening stroll.

314 E. Holly St. Ste. 100, Bellingham, 360.647.0807

E d i t o r ’s P i c k s

Most Scenic Savasana If you like yoga with a view, it doesn’t get much better than Bellingham Treehouse Yoga. This by-donation class is beloved for several good reasons: First and foremost, you can always expect Instructor Lacy Kemp to throw in a killer core workout.

Secondly, classes are held outdoors during the summer months (either at Kulshan Trackside or Zuanich Park) and scheduled just in time for sunset. As far as studios go, the deck at Bellingham Yoga Collective has impeccable views of the Bellingham Bay, and FLUX Power Yoga holds standup paddleboard yoga— yes, that’s a thing!— at Lake Padden during the warmer months.

Most Sustainable Body Care It’s so important to take care of yourself, but you can’t throw the planet to the wind to do so. Try some solid haircare from SeaBar to reduce waste and ocean pollution. Silt Skincare’s powdered facial cleansers come in reusable/recyclable packages and pack a mighty punch. MW Soapworks and Good Graces body care products are made from natural ingredients, often locally sourced or even hand-reared, and will help take care of all of you from head to foot!

THANKS FOR VOTING US BEST MASSAGE

BEST PERSONAL TRAINERS

Fitness Evolution

1504 Iowa St., Bellingham 360.671.4653, bellinghamevo.com

Silver: Bellingham Training & Tennis Bronze: A Personal View

BEST MASSAGE

Still Life Massage and Float 19 Bellwether Way, Ste. 101, Bellingham 360.647.2805, stilllifemassage.com

Silver: Sunrise Health Spa Bronze: Advanced Medical Massage

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

BEST AUDIOLOGIST | HEARING CENTER

Thank You, Bellingham,

Hearing Northwest

1470 Ellis St., Bellingham 360.226.5607, hearingnorthwest.com

Silver: Spencer Audiology Clinic Bronze: Rainier Hearing

BEST ACUPUNCTURIST

Bellingham Acupuncture and Wellness 2801 Meridian St. Ste. 102, Bellingham, 360.756.5866, bellinghamacupunctureandwellness.com

Silver: Dr. Shannon Freeman Acupuncture Bronze: Bellingham Community Acupuncture

for voting us the Best Audiology Clinic!

We have continued to safely serve our patients and cater to their hearing health needs during this difficult time.

Call to to schedule schedule aa free free screening Call appointment today! screening appointment

today!

360.527.8525 360.312.7272

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

Natural Way Chiropractic 2000 N. State St., Bellingham 360.671.1710, naturalwaychiro.org

Silver: Ascend Chiropractic Bronze: Color Chiropractic

2114 James St • Bellingham

Pamela Spencer, M.A., CCC-A, FAAA Shonie Hannah, M.A., CCC-A, FAAA Suzie Jennings, Au.D.

SpencerAudiology.com SpencerAudiology.com October 2023 65 2022 65

BEST SALON

Vanity Hair Studio

1401 Dupont St., Bellingham 360.922.6806, vanityhairbellingham.com

Hair is one of the most versatile means of self-expression— and nobody knows this better than the folks at Vanity Hair Studio.

Their talented stylists work with every client to help them achieve a look that is distinctly, unequivocally their own. Whether you’re in the market for a trim or a total makeover, you know that you’re in good hands.

Silver: Salon Bellissima Bronze: Blessings Salon Spa

Photo Courtesy of Vanity Hair Studio

BEST EYE CARE

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPIST

Binyon Vision Center

Capstone Physical Therapy

411 E Magnolia St, Bellingham 360.647.2020, binyonvision.com

Silver: Whatcom Eye Surgeons Bronze: Mt. Baker Vision Clinic

Silver: Whatcom Physical Therapy Bronze: FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers

BEST CANNABIS SHOP

BEST DENTIST

2020 Solutions

Diamond Dental

Silver: Trove Cannabis Bronze: Cascade Herb Company

Silver: Ferndale Family Dental Bronze: Bayview Dental

BEST OB|GYN

BEST MED-SPA

Bellingham OB/GYN

RejuvenationMD

Silver: Whatcom Women’s Health Bronze: PeaceHealth Obstetrics and Gynecology

Silver: evolé Mediclinic Bronze: Pure Skin + Wellness Spa

2018 Iron St., Bellingham 360.746.3440, 2020-solutions.com

3200 Squalicum Pkwy., Bellingham 360.671.4944, bellinghamobgyn.com

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Various locations, capstonept.com

BellinghamAlive.com

102 S. Samish Way, Ste. 103, Bellingham 360.734.1999, diamonddental.com

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

PERSONAL C A R E S PA 1327 - 11th St.

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

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

2017

of the

of the

NORTH

WEST BEST

NORTH BEST of the

for voting for us!

WEST NORTH BEST WEST NORTH WEST

We give the Covid vaccine!

We accept most insurance plans

NORTH

Thank you

of the

of the

of the

Sign up at HealthMartCovidVaccine.Com

8am–6pm Monday through Friday and Closed on Weekends

BEST

of the

2021

Drive-Thru Window

of the

2020

with competitive prices.

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

BEST NORTH BEST WEST NORTH WINNER BEST WEST NORTH BEST WEST

2019 2018 2017 2016 2015

Your neighborhood pharmacy

All natural products – Vegan & Ozonated Water Systems 360.933.4268 • JimmysPersonalCare.com

W E UNDERSTA ND YOUR PAIN

WEST GOLD

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

we can help, the Natural Way

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

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

360.671.1710 | Naturalwaychiro.org October 2023 67

HOME & GARDEN

E d i t o r ’s P i c k s

Most Unique New Road The development of Governors Point just south of Bellingham has been a buzzed-about affair, and for good reason: Site Owner Randy Bishop plans to limit construction to just 16 homes while donating the rest of the land to Whatcom Land Trust. But these new homes aren’t the only noteworthy thing about the Governors Point project— even its undulating, black-and-white road is as artistic as it is functional. The builder behind the road is none other than Jason Wheeler of Bellingham’s own Instinct Builders, who took Bishop’s instructions to “let the material do what it wants to do” and ran with them. His efforts have created arguably one of the most striking roads in all of North America, and it brings the Bellingham community one step closer to accessing the natural beauty at Governors Point.

BEST LANDSCAPE DESIGN

Puget Construction & Landscape 360.325.9216, pclwhatcom.com

There’s a reason so many locals trust the team at Puget Construction & Landscape with all their landscaping and home construction needs. The experts at PCL are willing to go above and beyond to repair and revamp your property just the way you want it, and will work with you throughout the entire project to perfect the design and create your dream outdoor living space. Check out the PCL website to learn more about their projects and contact them about your future renovations.

Silver: Project Landworks Bronze: Whatcom Landscapes Rendering Courtesy of Puget Construction & Landscape

BEST GARDEN | NURSERY

Kent’s Garden & Nursery 5428 Northwest Rd., Bellingham 360.384.4433, kentsgardenandnursery.com

Photo Courtesy of Kent’s Garden & Nursery

From creating a unique garden design to learning how to care for your first plant, Kent’s Garden & Nursery has something for everyone. They offer a year-round selection of trees, flowers, and other plants, as well as tools you can use to help them thrive. It doesn’t stop there, though, as you can also find outdoor furniture and decor to make the perfect garden setup. Stop in for a visit or schedule an appointment today to make your dream garden a reality.

Silver: My Garden Nursery Bronze: Skagit Acres

BEST ARCHITECT

Haven Design Workshop

5828 Second Ave., Ste. 101, Ferndale, haven-dw.com

Photo by Point 2 Studio

Haven Design Workshop takes special pride in creating home designs that are tailored to suit each client’s unique vision, needs, and budget.

With 20 years of experience in architecture and home design, the professional team at Haven will guide you beyond the design process, assisting with finding a contractor, obtaining permits, and checking in during construction to make sure everything is going smoothly. Whatever your needs, the experts at Haven are ready to help bring any and all of your home renovation ideas to life.

Silver: Morris Originals Home Design Bronze: Falconworks

E d i t o r ’s P i c k s Most Perusable Pottery Shopping for pottery is an experience to remember at Orcas Island Pottery. Walking around a magnificent garden, gazing at beautiful pottery is a perfect way to spend an afternoon on Orcas.

With chickens and cats roaming the premises, a view of the water, and a treehouse you can peek into, this has to be the most magical way to peruse pottery.

Favorite Fenestrations As anyone who’s built or remodeled a home can tell you, windows and doors go a long way in establishing a room’s atmosphere. Luckily the folks at Lynden Door have your back when it comes to both craftsmanship and customer service. This family-owned company has been in the industry since 1978, so you know they have the knowledge to do the job right.

As far as windows go, we love West Coast Windows Inc. for their expertise, quality, and expansive showroom.

Talented Tile Pros Whether they’re custom home installations or full-scale public art pieces, the tile creations by Debbie Dickinson always make an impression. Dickinson is all about exploring the possibilities of her medium, wielding tile and stone the way others might use paint and ink and creating vivid, expressive scenes. Amy Popelka of Tac Tile Company sees tile as an art form, and she creates all of her ceramics by hand.

She uses a range of techniques and glaze options to bring clients’ ideas to life, and no two projects are ever the same.

BEST TILE | GRANITE SUPPLIER

Aqui Esta Tile

2124 Grant St., Bellingham, 360.734.7374, aquiestatile.com

Photo by Jason Rohner & Dan Ryan

If you need a helping hand in selecting the perfect flooring material for your tastes, needs, and budget, rest assured the experts at Aqui Esta Tile are here to guide the way. Serving Whatcom County for over 30 years, the team at Aqui Esta takes pride in their commitment to delivering high quality products with an exceptional level of knowledge and service. Need some extra inspiration to bring your vision to life? Take a turn around the showroom, where household lifestyle vignettes give you a taste of how everything can come together.

Silver: Devine Countertops Bronze: Euro Style Stone & Tile

BEST BUILDER

BEST KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN

BEST INTERIOR DESIGN

Highline Construction

Kitchen Design Studio

Jennifer Ryan Design

Silver: Bellingham Bay Builders Bronze: Chuckanut Builders

Silver: Options Cabinetry & Interiors Bronze: Alexei Ford Design Build

Silver: HomePort Interiors Bronze: Orderly Design

1420 Meador Ave., Ste. K105, Bellingham 360.746.5455, highlinewa.com

5305 Northwest Dr., Bellingham 360.220.7251, kitchendesignstudio.net

2100 G St., Bellingham 360.319.7092, jenniferryandesign.com

October 2023 71

BEST ROOFING COMPANY

Topside Roofing & Siding

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

With over 25 years of experience serving our community under their tool belts, the pros at Topside Roofing & Siding know the importance of protecting your home from the outside-in. When it comes to excellent customer service, superior workmanship, and reliable warranties you can depend on, the team at Topside is certainly a tough one to beat. While hiring a contractor can seem like a daunting task, Topside is here to guide you through the process, ensuring that your most challenging exterior home projects run smoothly and successfully from start to finish.

Photo by Herbert Studios

Silver: Mt Baker Roofing Bronze: Rainsheild Roofing

Yeager’s Yea ger’s T OYLAND

Thank You to everyone who voted for us!

Thank you for voting Kent’s “Best Nursery”

Fall is for planting!

In Sporting Goods

Contact Kent's

In Toys

360-384-4433

kentsgarden@gmail.com

5428 Northwest Drive Bellingham WA 98226

3101 Northwest Ave., Bellingham 360.733.1080 yeagerssportinggoods.com

Topside Roofing and Siding is so proud to have been voted as Best of the Northwest for 2023!

As a local company, we are delighted to serve all of Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties with the best materials and warranties available. We are licensed, bonded, and have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

We are a Master Elite installer for GAF, a Pabco Preferred Contractor, and a Tesla Certified installer for the Tesla Solar Roof.

We provide FREE estimates. We love working with our customers to find the best materials to meet any budget and help improve the aesthetic of their homes!

Thank you for all your votes!

October 2023 73

Thank you for voting us

Best Fitness Center & Personal Training

ESS

FITN

LITY

FACI

ONAL

PERS

NER

TRAI

GIVE IT A TRY FOR 28 DAYS

IGNITE

Your Body

28 Day Trial

Ride Classes Coach Support Unlimited Group Training Full Access to Open Gyms Two Personal Training Sessions

www.BTTC.fit

74

BellinghamAlive.com

Best Stores for Birders Whether you’re an avid birder or just looking to connect with fauna right outside your window, there’s something magical about building a habitat for wildlife right in your front yard. Wild Bird Chalet has everything you need to make all manner of birds feel right at home, from baths to feeders and even seed that’s blended and packaged right here in Washington State.

Skagitonians can look to Skagit WILD BIRD Supply for an eclectic selection of everything from birdhouses to binoculars, and their passionate employees can help you choose the right feed for your favorite critter, whether they be birds, bats, or even squirrels.

Photo by Kelly Pearce

E d i t o r ’s P i c k s

BEST HOME DECOR

Greenhouse Home

1235 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.676.1161, greenhousehome.com

Silver: Ideal Bronze: Surroundings Home, Gifts and Garden

BEST FLOORING COMPANY

Robinson Hardwood & Homes

2100 Grant St., Bellingham, 360.671.9663, robinsonhardwood.com

Silver: Morris Floors & Interiors Bronze: Carpet Liquidators

BEST YARD MAINTENANCE

Augusta Lawn Care Services Various locations, augustalawncareservices.com

Silver: North County Lawn Care Bronze: TruGreen Lawn Care

Photo Courtesy of Hunter Douglas

BEST WINDOW TREATMENTS

Russell’s Window Coverings

873 Hinotes Ct., Ste. A2, Lynden, 360.656.6579, russellswindowcoverings.com

Whether you’re in the market for stylish new shades, shutters, sheers, curtains, blinds, or drapes, the experts at Russell’s Window Coverings have got you– well– covered! Specializing in Hunter Douglas’s ultra customizable line of products, there’s something here to suit every personal taste and practical need. Russell’s extensive lineup even includes techautomated, light-enhancing, room-darkening, and energy efficient options to keep your space at a maximum level of convenience, coziness, and comfort year round.

Silver: Lorraine’s Window Coverings Bronze: Walls & Windows

BEST HARDWARE | LUMBER STORE

BEST AUDIO | VIDEO STORE

Windsor Plywood

Reference Media

Silver: Hardware Sales Bronze: Bellingham Millwork Supply

Silver: Audio Video Excellence Bronze: HifiHandiman

1208 Iowa St., Bellingham, 360.676.1025, windsorplywood.com

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

THANK YOU for voting us Best of the Northwest!

®Duette

HABITAT SCREEN® 873 Hinotes Ct.; Bldg A2, Lynden, WA Mon - Fri 8:30am - 5:00pm

O. 360.656.6579 C. 360.961.4918 WindowShadesAndShutters.com RussellsWindowCoverings@gmail.com

SPECIALIZING IN and hard to source finishing items for your home.

See us in-store for all your building and renovation needs!

1208 Iowa Street, Bellingham Ph: 360-676-1025 • Fax: 360-676-4357 e: kasp@windsorplywood.com

Store Hours: Mon - Fri: 8:00am - 5:30pm Saturday: 8:30am - 4:30pm • Sunday: CLOSED

October 2023 77

KIDS

BEST STORE FOR BABY

Bellingham Baby Company Lynden, 360.756.2452, bellinghambabycompany.com

Photo Courtesy of Bellingham Baby Company

Stumped on what to bring to a baby shower? A visit to Bellingham Baby Company’s website might be in order. Their offerings range from clothing to toys and even a huge selection of personalized gifts.

In other words, it’s a one-stop digital shop for all things new parents could possibly want. A quick note: While Bellingham Baby Company no longer has a physical storefront, they do offer local pickup at their Lynden location!

Silver: Sprouts Clothing Bronze: Bunnies by the Bay

BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL

BEST SUMMER | OUTDOOR CAMP

The Franklin Academy

The Firs

Silver: Explorations Academy Bronze: Assumption Catholic School

Silver: Camp Kirby Bronze: Happy Orcas Adventure Camp

Multiple locations, thefranklin.academy

4605 Cable St., Bellingham, 360.733.6840, thefirs.org

BEST PRE-SCHOOL

Hillcrest Kids

1400 Larrabee Ave., Bellingham, 360.733.8135, hillcrestkids.com

Formed in 1975 as an offshoot of Hillcrest Church, Hillcrest Kids takes a holistic approach to education by fostering the “growth and development of the whole child– physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual– in an atmosphere of God’s great love.” They offer not just pre-school (for 3-year-olds) but transitional pre-school (for 2 ½-yearolds) and even “Toddler Town” (for 1- to 2-year olds). Across the board, though, Hillcrest Kids’ main mission is to provide a safe, supportive, and stimulating environment where kids can begin exploring their world.

Silver: Gabriel’s Art Kids Bronze: A Child’s Life Learning Center

Photo Courtesy of Hillcrest Kids

October 2023 79

Photo by Dean Davidson

E d i t o r ’s P i c k s

BEST TOY STORE

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

Silver: Yeager’s Sporting Goods Bronze: Launching Success

BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITY

Ruckus Room Arcade And Fun Center Multiple locations, Bellingham ruckusbham.com

Silver: PlayDate BLI Bronze: Children’s Museum of Skagit County

BEST CHILDCARE | AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM

Generations Early Learning & Family Center 2901 Connelly Ave., Ste. B101, Bellingham 360.752.6336, intergenchildcare.com

Silver: Whatcom Family YMCA Bronze: Majestic Adventures

BEST PLACE FOR A KID’S BIRTHDAY PARTY

Life Force Ninja

4201 Meridian St. Ste. 107, Bellingham 360.738.4724, lifeforceninja.fit

Silver: Jungle Playland Bronze: PlayDate BLI

Trendiest Place for Tots We wouldn’t be surprised if you’ve already spotted Minted Method’s minimal, mix-andmatchable kids’ clothes all over social media. With nearly 100,000 followers on Instagram, it’s no secret that they’re one of the most buzzed-about spots for pintsized fashionistas in Whatcom County and beyond. Shoppers can expect everything from onesies to school clothes, accessories, and even some apparel for parents. Best of all, Owner Sasha May places a high focus on ethically made, sustainably sourced fashion, so you know that your dollar is going to a good place.

Cutest Competitions From Sea to Ski to the Bellingham Bay Marathon, the North Sound is known for its athletic opportunities— and kids . We’d be remiss not to mention Junior Sea to Ski, which is open to kids ages 8–18 and featured a brand-new course in 2023, and the Bellingham Youth Triathlon, which prides itself on “initiating kids into the sport of triathlon” since 1999. The Girls on the Run 5K helps empower girls through accomplishment, and they make sure that every participating kid has a grown-up running buddy to cheer her along. Then there’s the Sedro Woolley Kids Fishing Derby, which has been running since 1942 (!) and is open to all kiddos under the age of 14.

Most Stimulating STEM for Students Bellingham + Skagit Coding + Robotics Club provides after school and summer programming for kids grades 1–8, teaching them programming literacy and fundamentals, then advanced math and robotics.

Their ultimate goal is to get kids on an independent project level by high school, giving them a leg-up in STEM while showing them the fun and sociable side of tech pursuits. By allowing kids to learn through completing projects rather than on a sequence-based core curriculum, kids gain deep understanding of every step of the project and don’t move on until they’re ready.

1215 Old Fairhaven Pkwy, Bellingham 360.715.1052 | salonbellissimabellingham.com

Over the past 12 years, our guests have become more like family. You’re the ones who make it possible for us to do what we love, everyday. A huge THANK YOU and XOXO for all of the continued love and support, we appreciate you so much!

October 2023 81 2022 81

EAT & DRINK BEST GROCERY STORE

BEST BAR & LOUNGE

Haggen Food & Pharmacy

Scotty Browns

Multiple locations, haggen.com

Silver: Community Food Co-op Bronze: Whole Foods Market

Multiple locations, Bellingham scottybrownsrestaurant.com

Silver: The Black Cat Bronze: Fireside Martini and Wine Bar

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

Penny Farthing Bar & Restaurant 1309 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.738.7179, chuckanutbaydistillery.com

You probably already know about Chuckanut Bay Distillery, but have you eaten at the Penny Farthing yet? If the answer is no, trust us when we say that you’re missing out on some of the best new dining in Downtown Bellingham.

This eatery specializes in shareable yet sizable plates made with local ingredients, plus craft cocktails that incorporate Chuckanut Bay’s own liquors and liqueurs. (Pro tip: When ordering food, make sure to check the menu for suggested cocktail pairings!) It’s the ideal spot to celebrate date nights, special occasions, or simply a post-work happy hour.

Photo Courtesy of Chuckanut Bay Distillery

Silver: Hot Pot at Soy House Bronze: Matia Kitchen

BEST HAPPY HOUR

BEST FISH & CHIPS

B-Town Kitchen & Raw Bar

Web Locker Restaurant

Silver: Fireside Martini and Wine Bar Bronze: Train Wreck Bar & Grill

Silver: Nicki’s Bella Marina Bronze: Alaska Wild Fish & Chips Co.

714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham, 360.392.6520, btownkitchen.com

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BellinghamAlive.com

734 Coho Way, Bellingham, 360.676.0512, theweblocker.takeout7.com

BEST BREWERY

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Aslan Brewing Company

Boundary Bay Brewery

Jalapeños Restaurant

1330 N. Forest St., Bellingham 360.393.4106 aslanbrewing.com

1107 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.647.5593 bbaybrewery.com

With four locations across town, there’s no question that Jalapeños is a favorite among Bellinghamsters looking to satisfy their cravings for Mexican cuisine. The food here is made with only the freshest of ingredients, so no matter what you order, you know it’s going to hit the spot. (Just don’t forget to order guac to accompany the free chips and salsa!) We’d also be remiss not to mention Jalapeños’ biggest claim to fame: the Big Mama margarita, which packs an impressive amount of tequila into one glass.

Stop in on a Monday to get yours for $5 off, or head in on Taco Tuesday for $3 street tacos and $4 cans of Tecate!

Multiple locations, Bellingham, jalapenos-wa.com

For the first time in Best of the Northwest history, two breweries have tied for the top spot— but we don’t mind, because we think they’re both equally deserving of gold. Established in 1995, Boundary Bay is Bellingham’s oldest brewery, but their beers still stand out from the crowd nearly three decades on. Aslan is a slightly newer addition to the Bellingham beer scene, but since their inception in 2012, they’ve cemented themselves as one of the city’s top picks for organic local brews. How could we possibly expect our readers to pick a favorite between them?!

Silver: Kulshan Brewing Company Bronze: Twin Sisters Brewing Company

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OLD TIE

Photo by Kelly Pearce

Photo by Becky Linton

Photo Courtesy of Aslan Brewing Company

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Silver: Birrieria Tijuana Bronze: Chihuahua Mexican Restaurant

BEST BBQ

BEST PIZZA

Extremes Sports Grill

Railroad Pub & Pizza

Silver: Double Barrel BBQ Bronze: Kelley’s BBQ & Catering

Silver: Westside Pizza Bronze: McKay’s Taphouse and Pizzeria

4156 Meridian St., Bellingham, 360.647.7066, extremessportsgrill.com

122 S. Spruce St., Burlington, 360.982.2133, railroadpizza.com

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BEST ITALIAN

Leader Block Trattoria & Bar

For those not yet in the know, Leader Block is Ferndale’s premier spot for Italian-style eats, an award-winning wine list, and perfect date-night ambiance. Here you’ll find well-loved Italian classics like fettuccine alfredo alongside Northern Italian specialties like ossobuco, lamb, and more. Make sure to mark your calendars for their wine dinners, held every last Tuesday of the month!

Silver: Il Granaio Authentic Italian Restaurant Bronze: Lombardi’s

Photo by Ben Bender

Photo by Dean Davidson

2026 Main St., Ferndale, 360.306.8998, leaderblock.com

BEST CHEF

Matthew Boudousquie, The Bistro At Shuksan 1500 E. Axton Rd., Bellingham, 360.398.8888, shuksangolf.com/bistro

The North Sound has no shortage of chefs, but if you ask us, no one else is doing it quite like Matthew Boudousquie. As a New Orleans native, he combines Southern techniques with Pacific Northwestern ingredients, and the result is one of the most creative restaurants in the region. Boudousquie created the Bistro at Shuksan menu as an edible ode to the Cajun cuisine he grew up on, and every dish is crafted with PNW flair, wholesome farm-to-table ingredients, and a healthy dose of passion.

Silver: Jonathan Cicotti, Storia Cucina Bronze: Sarah Chan, Calypso Kitchen

BEST FINE DINING

BEST WINERY

13moons Restaurant

Bertelsen Winery

12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes, 360.588.3525, swinomishcasinoandlodge.com

Silver: Lombardi’s Bronze: Anthony’s at Squalicum Harbor

20598 Starbird Rd., Mount Vernon, 360.445.2300, bertelsenwinery.com

Silver: Dynasty Cellars Bronze: San Juan Vineyards

BEST BURGER

BEST WINE SHOP

Nicki’s Bella Marina

Seifert & Jones Wine Merchants

2615 S Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham, 360.322.2505, nickisbellamarina.com

Silver: Accomplice Bronze: Fiamma Burger

19 Prospect St., Bellingham, 360.393.3271, sjwinemerchants.com

Silver: Compass Wines Bronze: Gold Fern Wine Bar & Bottle Shop

E d i t o r ’s P

icks

Best BBQ Supply Grilling and chilling is as American as apple pie, but as any home chef will tell, not all grills are made equal.

If you want the best grill or smoker on the market, Gary’s BBQ Supplies in Ferndale can point you in the right direction. But grills are just the beginning: Gary’s also offers smoking pellets, sauces, rubs, grill grates, and anything else you could need to whip up the BBQ feast of your dreams.

BEST FOOD TRUCK

El Tapatio Food Truck Various locations, tapationw.com

Silver: The Mobile Mouth Hole Bronze: Stella Sopra Authentic Italian Food Truck

BEST FRESH PRODUCE

Bellingham Farmers Market

H O M E CO O K E D • F R E S H I N G R E D I E N T S 3236 N O RT H W E S T AV E., B E L L I N G H A M T H AT S W H AT I L I K E I S L A N D G R I L L.CO M 360.778.2766

1100 Railroad Ave., Bellingham, 360.647.2060, bellinghamfarmers.org

Silver: Boxx Berry Farm Bronze: Schuh Farms

BEST LOCAL FOOD MANUFACTURER

Erin Baker’s

427 Ohio St., Bellingham, 360.714.9585, erinbakers.com

Silver: Twin Brook Creamery Bronze: Hempler’s Foods

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BEST BAKERY | DESSERT SHOP

Pure Bliss Desserts

If you haven’t been on a post-dinner date to Pure Bliss at least once, can you really say that you’ve lived? Downtown Bellingham’s most beloved sweets shop specializes in all manner of sugary treats made from scratch, from show-stopping cakes to cookies, cupcakes, and even a range of coffees and beverages. If that wasn’t enough, they regularly offer a variety of (delicious) vegan and gluten-free options, so even folks with dietary restrictions can join in on the sugar rush.

Silver: Iron Rooster Bakery Bronze: Maple Bar

Photo by Sarah Joy Fields

1424 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.739.1612, pureblissdesserts.com

BEST TAKE-OUT

Hana Teriyaki

701 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.715.1668

We’ve all been there: Dinnertime is around the corner, but the work week has been long and the idea of cooking is unfathomable. Moreover, all you want to do is curl up in front of the television with a plate of something salty and satisfying. Frozen pizza might fit the bill, but why settle for less when you could order Hana Teriyaki instead? This no-frills Japanese joint is a Downtown Bellingham staple when it comes to take-out, and their menu is what dinnertime cravings are made of.

Silver: Goji Bistro Bronze: QQ Li’s Chinese Cuisine

BEST CATERER

BEST COCKTAIL

The Skagit Table

Galloway’s Cocktail Bar

Silver: Crave Catering Bronze: Yeah Baby Boards

Silver: L&L Libations Bronze: Amendment 21

BEST SEAFOOD

BEST COFFEE | TEA SHOP

Nell Thorn Waterfront Bistro & Bar

Camber Coffee

Silver: Chuckanut Manor Seafood & Grill Bronze: Packers Kitchen + Bar

Silver: Ristretto Coffee Lounge & Wine Bar Bronze: Makeworth Coffee Roasters

225 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon, 360.544.2229, theskagittable.com

116 1st St., La Conner, 360.466.4261, nellthorn.com

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

221 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.656.5343, cambercoffee.com

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Full Service Fish Market and Lunch Available Shop Our Selection of Locally Made Goods and Gifts Jams • Jellies • Salsas Honey • Sauces

Thanks for voting us Best Happy Hour...

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416 W Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.738.1000, firesidemartini.com

Thanks for voting us Best Seafood

Best of the Northwest Gold Winner,

“Best Caterer”

Hey everyone!

Thank you so much for voting The Skagit Table as best in the catering category!

We absolutely love catering for all kinds of events and bringing life through food!

Sincerely, Courtney Bourasaw, and The Skagit Table Team

Visit us at: 225 S 1st St, Mount Vernon, WA 98273 (360) 312-4074 theskagittable.com Follow us on Facebook,

The Skagit Table

SCAN HERE

OKING O B w No VENTS E y a d i Hol

October 2023 87

All I can say is WOW!!! I honestly have no words to describe how our team is feeling after learning we’ve been awarded The Best of the Northwest Gold Honor for the 3rd straight year. This is very humbling and very much appreciated by all of our staff. The culture we’ve built in our store, revolves around delivering a “World Class Experience” our team lives by, every time we come in contact with a client. This does not mean we are perfect, because we are far from it. We have made mistakes wish we hadn’t, but we always strive to deliver an exceptional experience for our valued clients who continue to show their support year after year. Thank you from the Bottom of Our Hearts for your Loyalty!!!

Sincerely

Rob Hourani, General Manager

We want to show our genuine gratitude to Bellingham Alive and the voters, for acknowledging our dealership as the Best of the Northwest for the 3rd year in a row.

The greatest honor goes to our patrons and our team who have supported the company in attaining its overwhelming success over the years. Thank you for this prestigious award! We look to forward to your consideration next year. — Jason B

Winning ‘Best in the Northwest’ for the 3rd year in a row is a substantial accomplishment. This means a considerable deal to us, here at Toyota of Bellingham. It’s an honor to be a part of a company who cares so much about our clientele, and always conducts business the right way! — Carter T.

Winning Best of the NW for the third year in a row is such an honor. Our team is so thankful for everyone who voted for us! At Toyota of Bellingham, we are a family. We take care of each other and truly believe in our community. Without our community standing behind us we wouldn’t be where we are today! Winning this award shows us that we have the best community backing us!

Thank you for all of you support. — Alyssa R.

Thanks for voting us Best Dealership in Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan counties 1100 Iowa Street, Bellingham 360.676.0600 toyotaofbellingham.com

BEST SUSHI

Fujisan Sushi

Photo Courtesy of Fujisan Sushi

1216 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.392.8430, fujisanzushi.com

E d i t o r ’s P i c k s Most Community-Minded Brewery Bellingham isn’t exactly short on breweries, but one of the community’s newest spots brings something truly special to the table (and no, we’re not just talking about the tamales, although they are delicious). From their Wednesday night run club to their events for special occasions like Pride and Dia de los Muertos, El Sueñito Brewing has become a go-to gathering spot for Bellinghamsters of all stripes. As a queer- and Mexicanowned business, they even sponsor and donate to causes including immigrant justice, LGBTQ+ advocacy and health, and environmental stewardship. Oh yeah, and did we mention that the beer is delicious?

It doesn’t matter if your go-to order is a classic hosomaki roll or something a little more on the wild side (Crazy Lobster Rolls, anyone?). Well-made sushi has the power to make any day feel special— and Fujisan Sushi delivers when it comes to both quality and price. This Fairhaven staple has it all: Ultra-fresh fish, perfectly cooked rice, and even a great selection of sake!

Silver: KuruKuru Sushi Bronze: Blue Fin Sushi

Top Island Eats The San Juan Islands are known for lots of things: beautiful scenery, abundant wildlife, and of course, delicious food. If you find yourself on Orcas Island, you’d be remiss not to eat at the newly-reopened Matia Kitchen. Its innovative, ever-rotating menu and elegant ambiance make it one of the top culinary destinations in the archipelago. Duck Soup has been beloved by islanders and mainlanders alike for decades, and if you’re in the market for a gourmet-yet-approachable meal on San Juan Island, you won’t want to skip it. Lastly, Setsunai Noodle Bar has perhaps the best handmade ramen in all of the North Sound. It’s so good, in fact, that we’d hop a ferry to Lopez Island just to have lunch there.

BEST BREAKFAST

BEST SANDWICH

Calico Cupboard Cafe

Avenue Bread

Silver: The Birch Door Cafe Bronze: Shirlee Bird Cafe

Silver: The Sandwich Odyssey Bronze: Gandolfo’s New York Deli

Multiple Locations, calicocupboardcafe.com

Multiple Locations, 360.715.3354, avenuebread.com

BEST STEAK

BEST INTERNATIONAL CUISINE

BEST DISTILLERY | SPIRITS

The Steak House at Silver Reef

Infusion Cuisine

Chuckanut Bay Distillery

Silver: That’s What I Like! Island Grill Bronze: Mykonos

Silver: Bellewood Farms Bronze: Terramar Brewstillery

4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale, 360.384.7070, silverreefcasino.com

Silver: Kyoto Japanese Steakhouse Bronze: Herb Niemann’s Steak & Schnitzel House

6912 Hannegan Rd., Lynden, 360.778.1726, infusioncuisine.com

1311 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham, 360.738.7179, chuckanutbaydistillery.com

BEST FRESH MEAT | SEAFOOD

Skagit’s Own Fish Market 18042 State Rte. 20, Burlington, 360.707.2722, skagitfish.com

If you’re looking for the freshest fish in town, we suggest paying a visit to Skagit’s Own Fish Market.

This family-owned business has specialized in seafood caught the “traditional way”: locally, by local fishermen— since 1988. Fishing is a long-running tradition for owners Tana and Eric Skaugrud; along with their staff, they combine years of experience with friendly customer service and plenty of good humor.

Silver: Finkbonner Shellfish Bronze: Mi Rancho Meat Market Photo Courtesy of Skagit’s Own Fish Market

E d i t o r ’s P i c k s Boldest New Bakeries Raven Bakery’s hyper-local whole grain goodies have been beloved at the Bellingham Farmers Market for years, but as of 2023, hungry customers can visit Baker Sophie Williams at her new location on Prospect Street. Williams has big plans for the new space, as the storefront provides her with the opportunity to engage with the community about local food systems. We’re also keeping our eye on Dough’s Bakery, a brand-new micro bakery helmed by Bellingham’s own Joey “Dough” Slaugh. Carb lovers are sure to swoon for anything he makes, but we’re especially partial to their beer cheese loaf made with Chili Bravo beer from Menace Brewing.

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Most Indulgent Plant-Based Bites Eating a plant-based diet isn’t just good for the planet.

It’s also good for your body— well, most of the time. Most vegans aren’t living on kale alone, so if you’re craving a treat meal without the meat (or dairy, or egg), you won’t have to look far to find it. The cheesesteak at Sammies Vegan is sure to satisfy any junk food cravings among vegans and omnivores alike. (Pro tip: You can also find Sammies’ biscuits at the new Coffee Shop by Hammerhead Roasters, preferably in the form of a vegan breakfast sandwich). New Public Vegan Food Truck also has a wealth of plant-based goodies, from nachos to burgers and even gyro fries. In the mood for something sweet? Black Fern Coffee always has a range of vegan baked goods to choose from, and the desserts at the Fat Beet are always plantbased and always delicious.

Raising Spirits since 1987

Thank You for voting for us !

Blackcatbellingham.com

Thanks for voting us Best Electronics Store Home Automation designed to simplify and beautify your life Integrated systems customized to suit your home & office Audio/Video | Home Theater | Lighting | Automated Shades | Security Cameras

360.398.8447 • avxc.com October 2023 91

PETS

E d i t o r ’s P i c k s

BEST DOGGIE DAYCARE

Puget Hound

3710 Williamson Way, Bellingham 360.527.3647, gopugethound.com

Silver: Rover Stay Over Bronze: Tails-A-Wagging

BEST VETERINARIAN

Hyline Hotel For Dogs

Maplewood Animal Hospital

1012 E. Hemmi Rd., Everson 360.398.0174, hylinehotel.com

2869 W. Maplewood Ave., Bellingham 360.715.1430, maplewood-vet.com

Silver: Pooch Palace & Kitty Kastle Bronze: Northwest K-9 Inn and Spa

Silver: Kulshan Veterinary Hospital Bronze: Fountain Veterinary Hospital

Photo by B. Linton Photography

BEST BOARDING KENNEL

BEST PET STORE

Mud Bay

Multiple locations, mudbay.com

Discerning owners of four-legged friends already know that Mud Bay is a cut above the rest when it comes to pet supplies. This employee-owned business has been serving kitties and pups across the PNW since 1988, and while they’re perhaps most notable for their variety of healthy foods and treats, pet parents can also buy toys, accessories, bedding, and much more. With that in mind, we’re not surprised to hear that our readers have once again awarded them the gold!

Silver: Pet Place Market Bronze: Bow Wow & Woofs

Creepy Crawliest Pet Providers Do you or someone you love desperately want to own a scorpion? How about a tarantula? Maybe a gecko?

We recommend pursuing this goal with Kementari’s Creatures, a small and familyrun pet business specializing in amphibians, reptiles, and arachnids. They have locations in Bellingham and Mount Vernon, and can supply you with all the particulars you might need– fruit flies, enclosure enrichment the size of your leg, and knowledgeable guidance. After all, no one ever said having an exotic pet was low-maintenance!

Most Meaningful Memorial Fact: This magazine is brought to you by a team of animal lovers. Trust us when we say that we understand how losing an animal can be akin to losing a family member. Radiant Heart knows nothing can take away that grief, but their artful, oneof-a-kind memorials can help you honor your furry friend’s spirit. They’re a petonly funeral service offering on-site cremation; beyond this, they collaborate with local and regional artists to create memorials ranging from urns to art glass and even jewelry.

Favorite Rescue for Adoptions and Adventures Pittie Project PNW is a Whatcom County-based nonprofit with a noble mission: to fight stereotypes about so-called “bully breeds” and help them find fur-ever homes. They’re always on the lookout for fosters and folks willing to adopt, but if you can’t make a longterm commitment, there are plenty of other ways to get involved! The organization hosts regular “pittie pack hikes” where volunteers can take Pittie Project pups on group adventures on trails around Whatcom County.

More info and schedules can be found on Instagram @ thepittieprojectpnw.

Newest Vet on our Radar Bellingham pet owners are buzzing about Cypress Veterinary Hospital. While they only started taking patients in February of 2023, their online reviews are full of praise for their brand new, modern location in Barkley Village.

Dr. Maria Baker, who moved to Bellingham in 2019 with her family, is getting lots of recognition for her care and attention to detail for every cat and dog that comes through the door. If you’re on the market for a new vet for your furry best friend, give their friendly staff a call!

Whispering X K-9 Training Academy With 30 years of experience, helping dogs and humans live happy together.

Thank you for voting!

Thank you for voting us

BEST DOG GROOMER 10 years in a row

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

Best Dog Trainer 2185 Squalicum Mountain Rd. Bellingham WA whisperingx.com Tracy Gorham: 360.393.7097 Neveronx2185@gmail.com

Where every dog is special!

Home of Friendliest Regulars in Town!

“Thank you for voting for us, 2023 Gold Winners for Best BBQ”, The Extremes Sports’ Team JOIN US: • Award Winning BBQ • Gourmet Pizzas • 25 Craft Beers & Ciders on Tab • 16-Flat Screens • 12 Satellite Feeds Extremes Sports Grill & Pizzaria 4156 Meridian Street Bellingham, WA 98226 360.647.7066 www.extremesgrill.com

Thank you for voting us Best Pet Store

8115 Birch Bay Square St., Suite 111, Blaine 360.332.3647 bowwowwoofs.com

October 2023 93 2022 93

BEST DOG TRAINER

Whispering X K9 Training Academy Photo Courtesy of Whispering X K9 Training Academy

2185 Squalicum Mountain Rd., Bellingham, 360.393.7097, whisperingx.com

Whether you’re training a brand-new puppy or trying to teach an old dog new tricks, Tracy Gorham of Whispering X can help. She’s been in the business for more than three decades, so it’s no surprise that she’s a veritable expert at helping pups and their humans live in harmony. Her training philosophy hinges on recognizing every dog and handler as a unique team, and her methods are humane, motivational, and proven to be effective.

Silver: Cedarwoods Canine School Bronze: Pack-9 Training

BEST GROOMER

Bailey’s Neighborhood Pet

1633 Birchwood Ave., Ste. 104, Bellingham, 360.733.9274, baileysneighborhoodpet.com

Photo Courtesy of Bailey’s Neighborhood Pet

If you’re looking to simplify your pup’s grooming routine, Bailey’s Neighborhood Pet should be on your radar. They offer full-service professional grooming seven days a week, which includes everything from haircuts to nail trimming, de-shedding and flea baths, and even special shampoos for dogs with sensitive skin. Need to give Fido a bath ASAP? Washing your dog at home can be a pain, but Bailey’s makes it easy with their waist-height, hydraulic-lift tubs— and because they’re self-service, you don’t even need to make an appointment to use them. What could be easier than that?!

Silver: City Dogs Grooming Bronze: Canine Divine Pet Grooming Spa 94

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

Voted Best Men’s Haircut 8 Years in a Row

Wally’s Barber Shop

314 E. Holly St. #100 Bellingham, 360.647.0807

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ROMANCE & OUTINGS

E d i t o r ’s P i

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER BEST WEDDING VENUE

Lairmont Manor

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

Silver: Broadway Hall Bronze: Maplehurst Farm

Katheryn Moran Photography Bellingham, 425.766.3755, katherynmoranphotography.com

Silver: Radley Muller Photography Bronze: K Hulett Photography

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Noteworthy Karaoke For some folks, karaoke is an excuse to show off their vocal chops. For others (like myself), it’s a way to get silly with friends on a night out. The karaoke at Red Rum is one of our favorites in town, partly because the mai-tais are strong enough to help you get over the stage fright. Katt’s Westside Stories in Skagit delivers everything you could want from a small-town dive bar experience, and their karaoke nights are practically legendary. Last but certainly not least, Sunday karaoke at Cap Hansen’s Lounge is another quintessential Bellingham experience, especially if you need a distraction from the impending work week.

Photo by Linsey Major

BEST FLORIST Photo by B. Linton Photography

Belle Flora

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

BEST DATE NIGHT

The Upfront Theatre

203 Prospect St., Bellingham, 360.200.8697, theupfront.com

They say that the couple that laughs together, stays together— and the Upfront has been delivering some of the biggest laughs in Bellingham. While this improv spot has been around since 2004, it reformed as a nonprofit in 2020 and moved locations to the New Prospect Theater. Now, the theater is fully funded by ticket sales, donations, workshops, and classes. Want to make sure the Upfront continues to be a community staple? Support them by scheduling your next date night around one of their performances.

Whether they’re to commemorate a special occassion or a regular Tuesday, fresh flowers have a way of making all of life’s moments, big and small, feel extra-special. You can count on Belle Flora to provide some of the most beautiful blooms in Whatcom County, as they’ve been family-owned and -operated since 1945. They even offer delivery and subscription services to cut down on hassle and make sure your celebration goes off without a hitch.

Silver: A New Leaf Florist Shoppe Bronze: All About Flowers

Silver: That’s What I Like! Isand Grill Bronze: The Black Cat 96

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BEST PLACE TO MEET SINGLES

Rumors Cabaret

1119 Railroad Ave., Bellingham, 360.671.1849, rumorscabaret.com

As one of Bellingham’s best (and only) nightclubs, Rumors Cabaret is where you go when you want to have a memorable night on the town. DJs keep the party going till late on the weekends, and patrons can also expect regular events ranging from karaoke to drag performances from talented local queens like Mx, Feather Fatale, and Navouny Divinne. Rumors is also Bellingham’s only LGBTQ+ club, making it an essential gathering place for queer folks to meet, mingle, and build community.

Silver: The Shakedown Bronze: Poirier’s on the River

Photo Courtesy of Belle Flora

Best Spots for DIY Date Nights Who says a magical date night requires hitting the town? If you want to make a night at home memorable, we have a few recommendations: First, hit up the newly opened Gold Fern in Fairhaven for a bottle of natural wine. (Owner Sarah Palmer and her knowledgeable staff will help you select the perfect bottle.) Next, stop by Hela Provisions and stock up on imported goodies and treats for a DIY charcuterie spread. Last but certainly not least, handmade.

La conner has everything you need to set the mood, from scented candles to spa-level lotions, potions, and gifts.

Most Scenic Stargazing Spots Stargazing is one of the most romantic activities we can think of, and to see the night sky in all its splendor, make sure to head to Artist Point while the road is still open. Alternatively, the overlook at Lake Diablo in the North Cascades is also well worth the trip, and Samish Overlook is one of the best spots close to Bellingham. (Wherever you go, we recommend bringing camping chairs, blankets, and a picnic dinner to make the evening extra special.)

Artsiest Escapes Sometimes unleashing your inner creativity requires a change of scenery, which is why we love Heartful Retreats in Anacortes. This B&B is all about rest, rejuvenation, and reconnecting with the artist in all of us. Alchemy Arts Center on San Juan Island has seasonal residencies on their scenic San Juan Island property, and they cater to mediums ranging from darkroom photography to ceramics and printmaking.

Last but not least, Lummi Island is well-known for its quirky arts community. To truly immerse yourself in it, we recommend booking a weekend getaway with the island-owned rental management company Stay & Sea.

Best Artist Ben Mann Studio Gallery Thanks Readers for the love!

Open Studio Weekends Nov. & Dec. www.ben-mann.com or call (360)920-4022

Southern inspired, farm to table bistro overlooking the amazing views of Shuksan Golf Course in Whatcom County.

ShuksanGolf.com (360) 398-8888 Chef Matthew Boudousquie

Best of the Northwest 2023 Gold Winner

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SERVICES

E d i t o r ’s P i

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Garden Party for a Good Cause The YWCA isn’t a fitness center; rather, they’re on a mission to support and empower women in need throughout Whatcom County. Did you know that their historic building on North Forest Street in Bellingham offers supported housing for more than 30 women?

You can support them year-round through donations, but if you feel like getting fancy, make sure to attend their annual Garden Tea Party each summer. This annual fundraiser is one of the classiest in town, offering live music, hat making, property tours, raffles, and plenty of delicious food.

BEST CLEAN ENERGY COMPANY

Puget Sound Energy Green Power Multiple locations, pse.com

Silver: Solar by Barron Bronze: Western Solar

BEST TITLE COMPANY

Whatcom Land Title Company Multiple locations, whatcomtitle.com

Silver: Guardian Northwest Title & Escrow Bronze: Chicago Title of Washington

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

Brandon Nelson Partners

1100 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham, 360.319.0696, brandonnelson.com

Okay, so the winner isn’t just one agent– our readers voted this entire team to the top! Brandon Nelson Partners is made up of realtors who live and breathe the PNW life, and know Whatcom County houses inside and out. Brandon Nelson himself is the owner and broker of the business, and has filled his team with skilled agents that can guide you on your journey of buying, selling, or both! On their site, you can read about each member of the team, explore Bellingham’s neighborhoods, and even see about using the BNP moving truck.

Silver: Aldo & Jasmin of The LeVain Real Estate Team Bronze: Kate Fadden Photo Courtesy of Brandon Nelson Partners

BEST JANITORIAL | CLEANING SERVICE

BEST PLACE TO WORK

BEST LODGING

Absolutely Clean Cleaning Services, LLC

Western Washington University

Hotel Bellwether

Multiple locations, 360.676.0479, bellinghamcarpet.com

516 High St., Bellingham, 360.650.3000, wwu.edu

Silver: Spree Clean Bronze: Action Cleaning Services

Silver: PeaceHealth Bronze: BP Cherry Point Refinery

1 Bellwether Way, Bellingham, 360.392.3100, hotelbellwether.com

Silver: Hotel Leo Bronze: The Chrysalis Inn & Spa Bellingham

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Nicole Burdick of Money Maven Financial 909 Squalicum Way Ste. 110, 360.543.6322, moneymavenfinancial.com

Nicole Burdick just can’t be beat. Where many people think of money and finances as an overwhelming, stressful part of life, Burdick is an expert at making them approachable. Through her business, Money Maven Financial, she offers financial planning, investment management, and insurance services, with a focus on educating and empowering women to master their money. She has a book, a blog, and even sometimes classes to help you get started, but when you’re really ready to get a handle on things (be it student loan management or retirement), give her a call.

Silver: Taft Barrett Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors Bronze: Trail Financial Planning

Photo by Dawn Matthes Photography

Most Inclusive Outdoor Recreation Resources The North Sound’s natural resources make it a veritable playground for outdoor recreation enthusiasts— and we think that these resources should be accessible to anyone who wants to enjoy them. Organizations like The AIROW Project provide adaptive recreation opportunities for folks with disabilities, and service areas range from bikes to water safety courses and a variety of summertime programs. We’re also big fans of Shifting Gears, an outdoor recreation organization that aims to break down barriers to entry for women (and build community in the process).

Last but not least, Queer Run Bellingham is a new group that facilitates running meetups for the LGBTQ+ community.

Indigenous-Led Nonprofit to Watch The Sacred Lands Conservancy is a local nonprofit that fights for the protection and revitalization of the Salish Sea. Their activism includes projects like the Lummi Fisherman’s Memorial, the forthcoming Sacred Sea podcast.

(They’ve also partnered with us for our Since Time Immemorial series, and you can read this month’s installment on p. 32!)

Easiest Way to Move On Let’s be honest: Moving houses is a hassle, and we don’t know anyone who actually enjoys the process. Luckily, though, there are services that make it less painful— and First Response Moving is at the top of our list.

Leave the packing (and heavy lifting, and unpacking) to the pros, and you can focus on settling into your new space sans stress. Not moving homes but still need help with moving things around?

First Response even offers in-home arrangement and junk removal services!

BEST AUTO DEALERSHIP

BEST CREATIVE COMPANY

Toyota of Bellingham

Swell Media Solutions

Silver: Roger Jobs Automotive Bronze: Dewey Griffin Subaru

Silver: Joyco Digital Bronze: FizzPOP Media

BEST AUTO REPAIR SHOP

BEST AGRICULTURAL COMPANY

Bellingham Automotive

Boxx Berry Farm

Silver: Lucky’s Auto Shop Bronze: Rod’s Master Auto Tech

Silver: Genuine Skagit Valley Bronze: Rader Farms

1100 Iowa St., Bellingham, 855.444.3883, toyotaofbellingham.com

4116 Hannegan Rd., Bellingham, 360.676.5200, bellinghamautomotive.com

info@swellmediasolutions.com, swellmediasolutions.com

6211 Northwest Dr., Ferndale, 360.380.2699, boxxberryfarm.com

BEST BANK

First Fed

Western Washington, 800.800.1577, ourfirstfed.com

Photo Courtesy of First Fed

Can you believe it? It’s First Fed’s 100th anniversary this year! This local Washington bank has been serving our communities since 1923, and now has 16 locations across five different counties, including Whatcom.

They’re a full service institution, and can provide personal and business banking, help with savings and loans, and much more. Of course, part of why we love them so much is their dedication to supporting our local non-profits. They’ve donated over $8 million to various causes in the past 7 years, and their team provided almost 7000 hours of volunteer service at non-profit organizations.

Silver: WECU Bronze: Bank of the Pacific

BEST CORPORATE MEETING SPACE

Hotel Leo

1224 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.746.9097, thehotelleo.com

On top of being an iconic and historic part of Downtown Bellingham, the Hotel Leo is a wonderful location to get the whole crew together. They offer inspiring meeting spaces; The Crystal Ballroom is elegant and grand, and can come with access to the neighboring Amendment 21 cocktail bar; The Social Lounge suits 10–100 people, with couches and an adjacent Billiards Lounge; the Clark Gable Theater and Historic Leopold Suite are great for smaller gatherings. Between these, the WiFi access throughout the property, and many other available amenities, the Hotel Leo is an amazing corporate event destination.

Photo Courtesy of Hotel Leo

BEST INSURANCE AGENT

Terry Stach, State Farm

424 W Bakerview Rd., Ste. 110, Bellingham, 360.389.5938, terrystach.com

Your friendly neighborhood insurance agent is always there for you, whether you’re setting up insurance or it’s time to handle a claim. Terry Stach’s office in Bellingham serves Whatcom, Skagit, and the San Juan Islands (in fact, they’re licensed to insure anywhere in Washington state!).

He takes a personal interest in making insurance make sense for his clients, so that they pay for what they need, and know what they’re paying for! His office offers various State Farm approved insurance plans, so give him a visit and make sure you’ve got everything covered.

Silver: Dennis Kaiser, Allstate Bronze: Rice Insurance

Silver: Four Points by Sheraton Bronze: Gateway Centre Executive Suites Photo by Studio N Inc.

Thank you for Voting for Fitness Evolution

Best Fitness Center 1504 IOWA ST., BELLINGHAM 360.671.4653

Best Personal Trainer

bellinghamevo.com

Join the Fit Evo Family

Best Men’s Haircut Book Online

midtownbarber.booksy.com

BEST ATTORNEY

Ziad I. Youssef

1828 Franklin St., Ste. D, Bellingham, 360.441.0528, 360lawfirm.net

With 20 years of practicing law under his belt, Ziad I. Youssef has done more for our communities than just win cases. He taught accounting and business law at Whatcom Community College for over 14 years. He founded the MyTrafficMan Legal Care Center of Whatcom County, which educates people about DUI charges and also is home to a paralegal training academy and two law practices. Most importantly, he’s stayed committed to representing the people of Whatcom County (and beyond) in traffic and DUI, personal injury, and other criminal defense cases.

Silver: Limitless Law PLLC Bronze: The Immigration Law Firm PLLC

BEST PLUMBER

Andgar Mechanical, LLC

6920 Salashan Pkwy., Ste. A-102, Ferndale, 360.366.990, andgarhvac.com

Silver: Gary’s Plumbing & Heating Bronze: LaVergne’s Plumbing & Heating

BEST AUTO DETAIL SHOP

Tint Lady

1204 E. Sunset Dr., Bellingham, 360.778.2348, tintladyusa.com

Silver: Master Auto Detail Bronze: Final Touch Auto Spa

BEST NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION

Lydia Place

Multiple Locations, 360.671.7663, lydiaplace.org

Silver: Whatcom Humane Society Bronze: Skookum Kids

Photo by Lemon Wing Photography

BEST BLOOPERS BEST INDOOR ENTERTAINMENT

“Netflix and chill” BEST LIVE MUSIC

“Me on karaoke” BEST LOCAL ARTISAN

“Bread” BEST SHOE STORE

“My sister’s house” & “Your momma’s house” 102 BellinghamAlive.com

BEST DOG-TRAINER

“Cesar Millan”

BEST CANNABIS SHOP

BEST COCKTAIL

“Don’t do it!”

“Easy, a margarita”

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR

BEST WINERY

“My dad”

“One with free samples”

BEST LODGING

“A bed”

BEST PLACE TO WORK

“The ocean”

“Not my job”, “Anywhere but mine!”, & “I wouldn’t know!”

BEST HOME DECOR

BEST PLUMBER

“Halloween”

“Butt crack”

BEST SEAFOOD

TRAILFP.COM

Align your Finances with your Values Fiduciary advisors. Fee only advisory firm.

Registered Investment Advisor in the state of Washington. FINRA CRD #165063

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

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

Josh G. Barrett

Financial Advisor First Vice President – Investment Officer

William J. Zollner

Financial Consultant Associate Vice President – Investment Officer

Maricel Dalere

Senior Registered Client Associate

Bonnie Gregory Client Associate

tel: 360-714-2761 toll-free: 877-819-5264

william.zollner@wfadvisors.com

TAFT BARRETT

WEALTH MANAGEMENT GROUP of Wells Fargo Advisors

23 Bellwether Way, Suite 200 Bellingham, WA 98225

www.taftbarrettwmg.com

Investment and Insurance Products:  NOT FDIC Insured  NO Bank Guarantee  MAY Lose Value

The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams rating algorithm is based on the previous year’s industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC, which does not receive compensation from the advisors or their firms in exchange for placement on a rating. Investment performance is not a criterion. Self-completed survey was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria. Fee paid for use of logo. Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. CAR-0223-00225

www.taftbarrettwmg.com

October 2023 103

We measure success differently.

We believe in democratic decision making and a fair distribution of profits.

We recognize and appreciate the

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

opportunity to express ourselves creatively through our craft.

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

We pursue our work because it brings us joy and satisfaction.

For a complete list of our Guiding Principles visit our website.

Your Story is Our Story Write your next chapter with us.

Full-Service Community Banking Learn more at BankofthePacific.com

The Silver Residence 106 Getting Through The Gloom 112

Photo by Courtesy of The Cusp Apothecary

Halloween Decor 114

Home

The Cusp Apothecary & The Cusp Creative 110 October 2023 105

Home

Featured Home

A Contemporary Wilderness Retreat in the Shadow of Mount Baker Bellingham Bay Builders WRITTEN BY DAVE BROGAN | PHOTOGRAPHED BY MIKEL AMIAS PHOTOGRAPHY

T

HE SILVER RESIDENCE stands

as a remarkable testament to the integration of contemporary architecture, high-performance buildings, and our connection to the natural world. Nestled in a small meadow next to a picturesque pond and seasonal creek, this award-winning, net-zero energy home fosters a deep relationship to nature. Further enhanced by its outdoor amenities and its proximity to the Mount Baker Wilderness Area, the property invites the inhabitants to spend time outside recreating and visiting with one another. Upon returning from a day outside, the heated floors, toasty wood stove, and ample communal or private 106 BellinghamAlive.com

spaces provide a comfortable place for everyone to land.

Imagined and designed as a home where the extended family can gather, the Silver Residence has a diverse set of spaces from airy, generous public rooms with 18-foot ceilings to compact bunk rooms for extra guests. One of the most interesting features of this residence is the cozy gallery that connects the three distinct “buildings.” With floor to ceiling window walls, the gallery serves as an inspirational bridge between the rooms that draws your attention to the meadow and forest beyond. The home’s artful mixture of spaces serves a purpose beyond giving the visitor a

choice between intimate or larger, communal rooms. It also subtly reflects the distinctions between the three “buildings’’ interconnected by the gallery. Each area contains its own unique identity while maintaining their physical and stylistic connection to the rest of the building.

Behind the lovely facade and architectural design are the bones and equipment of a high-performance home. With its low carbon footprint, comfortable year-round temperatures, healthy indoor air, minimal operating costs, and low maintenance exteriors, this home improves the lives of the owners while reducing their impact. ... continued on next page

October 2023 107

Home

Featured Home

... The Silver Residence reaches these objectives using several strategies including a well-sealed framing envelope, a layer of continuous cork insulation immediately under the siding, an air-to-water heat pump for the radiant floor heating, a heat recovery continuous ventilation system, and a small battery-backed photovoltaic solar panel system.

We expect the Silver Residence to be an enduring, comfortable retreat for its owners and their guests for years to come.

Architect: Not/Applicable Projects Contractor: Bellingham Bay Builders Energy Modeler: Ecoe Company Photography: Mikel Amias Photography Home Certifications: EnergyStar and Zero Energy Ready Home Awards: 2023 National Home Innovation Award for U.S. Department of Energy 

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

@raed.wood

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

Your One-Call Solution for Hardwood Flooring

"We're honored to be voted Best of the Northwest for two years in a row! Our family-owned business employs a team of passionate, hardworking, and knowledgeable people. Whether you’re installing all new flooring, or your current floors just need some TLC, we know our team has the skills and expertise necessary to help you love your floors again."

—The Robinson' Team SCAN or Call to Schedule a FREE Estimate Browse our Beautiful Showroom 2100 Grant St., Bellingham, WA 360.360.5445, robinsonhardwood.com

Home

Local Find

On the Brink of Magic The Cusp Apothecary and The Cusp Creative WRITTEN BY ALISON POPPE | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JULIA KOHUT

S

TEPHANIE SHERMAN IS

“fueled by the squirrels”: there is no stop and go when she seemingly scampers between the crafting stations of The Cusp Creative, her production studio and DIY classroom which opened in February of this year. This new space is an extension of her company, The Cusp Apothecary.

Powered by selfanthropomorphised dopamine receptors, she jumped from a Le Cordon Bleu culinary education in Dallas, Texas to achieving her master of science and management (MSM) degree, focusing on millennial motivation and retention, while working for the parent company of Beecher’s Cheese.

“So I jump, jump, jump and when I finally got into my masters, I wanted to figure out how I could keep people, how would I stay, what would be an environment I’d want to be in,” says Sherman.

But before the brick-and-mortar came the arts and crafts with her eldest son, Logan. Crafting enough inventory to fill her house during the pandemic in 2020, Sherman’s husband, 110

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Colin, encouraged her to open up The Cusp Apothecary.

As a budding mage, Sherman shares her handcrafted ritual supplies for all who seek a connection to the universe.

From a DIY pendulum jar ($27) to money prosperity spell kits ($23), Sherman describes her goods to be for the “modern pagan lifestyle”: “I don’t necessarily subscribe to anything,” Sherman says. “It is my modern journey of what fits to me and what is currently good and what helps me serve others, serve myself, and share my light.”

Rather than gatekeeping how to spin resin to make wine glasses, Sherman will gladly share where she sources her materials, how much they cost, and how to recreate the process at home. Sherman says her kits and classes are for those looking to think outside the box.

Visitors of The Cusp Creative can walk in and use most of the floor craft stations without a reservation– Sherman says she needs time to prepare heat guns and spinners for resin crafts – or sign up to enjoy a class taught by her or guests including Dyanna Marshall of Salt & Shadows Studio.

American Made Yoder Smokers Grill Grates Sauces & Rubs Pellets 360-223-1009 CALL FOR APPOINTMENT

As well as offering classes on how to construct your own, Sherman sells pre-made DIY kits through Apothecary and on Etsy for those who are not comfortable “being out of the broom closet just yet.”

Curated for convenience, she describes them as a starting point for peoples’ practice, tweakable for what works for you.

“So, learn on your own– make your own magic,” she says. “Nobody’s going to tell you what to do. But this is at least a recipe to start with.”

The Cusp Apothecary, 128 1st St., Ste. 6, La Conner, 425.478.2072, thecuspapothecary.com | The Cusp Creative, 708 Morris St., La Conner, 425.478.2072, thecuspcreative.com 

October 2023 111

Home

Remodel

Photo Courtesy of Greenhouse Home & Life

Getting Through the Gloom WRITTEN BY ANDRE SEGURA

C

OLDER MONTHS HERE in the Pacific Northwest

are synonymous with the weather getting colder, the days growing shorter, and month after month of overcast skies. It is also a time when we tend to spend more hours indoors, rather than outside, in the hopes of avoiding the gloom and dreary days. For many people, this can be a difficult time of year, but there are a few simple things that you can do to prepare your home to make your space feel warmer and more inviting through those cold winter days. Here are just a few tips and tricks to help you get through the long winter season.

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Focus on Warm Colors Choose colors that elevate your mood. For some, using colors like reds, sunny golds, and oranges can help to brighten your living space and give an impression of a sunnier season. A focus on rich tones rather than primary colors will add to the warmth of your color choice. For an easy change with limited expense, you can switch out curtains, pillows, and throws.

You can even change any artwork you might have. When changing artwork, be sure to focus less on aesthetics and more on images that bring you happiness and comfort.

More Lighting It stands to reason that as the days grow shorter and darker, adding more lighting to your environment can help combat the feeling of isolation and hibernation. It can be as simple as changing the lumens of your light bulbs, making sure to have at least 70 watts per square foot. Switching to daylight bulbs that mimic sunlight (5,000 kelvins) can help as well, however, it is important to make sure your focus is on general

r o f e s s i ona l Ca r Ca re ete’s Auto Repair, LLC

rofe ssiona l Ca r C are

illumination and not specific point lighting. You can even use stronger lighting as a decorative accent. The goal is to increase the overall sense of light to help combat the dreary winter weather outside. If you need help finding new lighting or have questions about illuminating your living space, you can get great advice from the team at Hardware Sales located at 2034 James Street in Bellingham.

ete’s Auto Repair, LLC

r o f e s s i o n a l C a r C a re

Locally owned and operated by Pete and Nita Harksell

Locally owned and operated by Pete and Nita Harksell

6209 PORTAL WAY FERNDALE, WA | CALL 380-CARS | 360-380-2277 WWW.PETESAUTOREPAIR.NET Locally owned and operated by Pete and Nita Harksell www.petesautorepair.net

Soft Textures In addition to changing the color of your surroundings, changing textures can offer a cozier and more inviting feel to your environment. You can do this by changing throw pillows to more plush versions such as velvet, fur, and colorful tweeds. Adding soft throws made of chunky sweater knits, delicate wools, and fleece knits can also make things feel more inviting.

A soft rug in front of any hearth-like area will create a focal point that offers a nice place for relaxation.

Making just a few of these simple adjustments to your living space can dramatically impact the overall feel of your home and provide you with a sanctuary from the long winter months to come while you wait for summer to return. 

www.petesautorepair.net

Photo Courtesy of Chuckanut Bay Gallery

www.petesautorepair.net

October 2023 113

Home

Necessities

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Fall Decor WRITTEN BY KRISTEN BOEHM

W

HEN THE WEATHER

starts to turn, our homes’ primary function swivels from staying as cool as possible and handling summer messes to being warm, cozy dens.

As Halloween creeps ever closer, and the nights get longer and colder, there’s nothing quite as relaxing as curling up with a good book or movie in a festive fall nook. Here are some items of decor to create the perfect October nest, complete with a creepy touch! 

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Jacinta Throw (Set of Three) Griffith Furniture, $168 2501 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.734.3730 griffithfurniturestore.com

Discover the vibrant and carefree lifestyle you deserve at Solstice Senior Living Bellingham! Our community offers luxurious amenities, personalized care, and a welcoming atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.

Experience the best of senior living in Bellingham!

Call 360-671-6060 Solstice Senior Living at Bellingham 2818 Old Fairhaven Parkway SolsticeSeniorLivingBellingham.com

Apothecary Candle Mythologie Candles, $34 Lynden mythologiecandles.com

Mixed Leaf Wreath Target, $40 30 Bellis Fair Pkwy., Bellingham 360.734.0220 target.com

Gus the Ghost Pillow Pottery Barn, $80 potterybarn.com

10 Black Spiders SpookShop, $6 Bellingham 360.752.1668 spookshop.com

Discover the vibrant and carefree lifestyle you deserve at Solstice Senior Living Bellingham! Our community offers luxurious amenities, personalized care, and a welcoming atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.

Experience the best of senior living in Bellingham!

Call 360-671-6060

October 2023 115

Thank you for voting us Best Steak!

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

Pumpkin User Guide 118 YunGaNe 122

Photo by Cocoa Laney

The Skagit Table 128

The Fat Beet

Taste

120 October 2023 117

Taste Pumpkin User Guide

Pumpkins: A User Guide WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY

The season of pumpkin spiced everything is upon us once more— but if you ask us, this versatile ingredient is equally at home in pastas and stews as it is in a latte. In honor of October, we’re providing you with everything you need to know about the season’s spookiest gourd, from its different varieties to cooking tips and more.

Defining “Pumpkin” First things first, let’s clear up a few misconceptions. Pumpkins are winter squash, meaning that they’re considered to be fruits, not vegetables. They technically fall under the Cucurbitaceae family— but the term “pumpkin” doesn’t really mean anything botanically speaking. Colloquially, however, “pumpkin” usually refers to squash cultivated to eat and “gourd” refers to squash cultivated for decoration. All pumpkins are edible, but not all are created equal, and some (namely the jack-o-lantern variety) still work better on the porch than on the dinner table.

Oh yeah, and did we mention there are about a billion different varieties of pumpkins? Don’t feel overwhelmed, though— we’re here to take you on a culinary tour of the more famous (and delicious) names.

Pumpkin Varieties to Know Sugar or Pie Pumpkins and Jack-OLanterns have that classic orange hue; however, the former is best used for pies while the latter is best used for carving. Reddish-orange Cinderella pumpkins are also increasing in popularity due to their striking Ca

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sp er

shape, and their not-too-sweet flavor also lends itself to baked goodies.

Moving on to white pumpkins, the Lumina and Casper varieties are both eye-catching and delicious in sweets.

White Pie pumpkins are also prized for their flavor, and one gourd will yield enough pulp for an entire pie.

Then there are bluish-green pumpkins like the Jarrahdale, which is both visually striking and ideal for pies thanks to its creamy flesh and subtle sweetness. We especially love Kabocha, which is commonly eaten in Japan (see below for recipe).

Then there’s the Long Island Cheese and Musee de Provence pumpkins, which are known as “cheese pumpkins” thanks to their visual similarity to… well, wheels of cheese.

Both of these varieties are sweet and perfectly edible, though they’re also sure to spruce up any porch display thanks to their unique appearance.

Lastly, even the witchy, so-called “warty” pumpkins have their uses in the kitchen. The Galeux d’Eysines is an heirloom variety that may appear to only be ornamental, but its flavor is said to be akin to apples or sweet potato. The bright-green Marina Di Chioggia is named for a city in the

Cin

lla d er e

Veneto region of Italy, and yes, it’s perfect for pasta and gnocchi.

Pick the Perfect Pumpkin If you’d prefer to source your gourd from the grocery store, your best bet for heirloom varieties will be the Community Food Co-op. That said, there are a variety of U-pick pumpkin patches in Whatcom and Skagit counties that are worthy of attention.

In Whatcom, we love Bellewood Farms & Distillery for their pumpkins, apples, and craft liquors.

Stoney Ridge Farm has been owned by the same family for three generations now, and they produce a wide variety of both edible and ornamental gourds. Dan Cramer’s Western Town is exactly what it sounds like: a themed pumpkin patch complete with Old West-themed decor and a hay maze, petting zoo, and pony rides. Lastly, Cloud Mountain Farm Center is a teaching farm that offers not just pumpkins but a variety of organically grown fruits and veggies, plus community events (including a fall fruit festival this month!).

In Skagit, Gordon Skagit Farms is run by a family of third-generation pumpkin farmers, and they grow upwards of 110 different cultivars M ue Bl

oon

across their 300 acres. In addition to three fields of U-pick and we-pick pumpkin patches, Schuh Farms is known for their fresh homestyle baked goods and family-friendly autumnal activities. Last but certainly not least, Valley View Farmstand in Mount Vernon offers 25 varieties of pumpkins and squash in addition to dahlias, raw honey, and a variety of other produce.

Cooking with Pumpkins: Do’s and Don’ts

Ingredients ½ of one medium-sized kabocha squash, cut into 1 ½ -inch cubes ¾ cup dashi stock (we recommend using Hondashi brand, available at most Asian markets) 2 teaspoons low sodium soy sauce 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sake Splash of mirin (optional) • Clean and cube your kabocha, then place them into a pan in a single layer. Pour dashi stock into the pan, cover with a lid, and cook on medium heat. Once dashi begins to boil, mix in remaining ingredients and simmer, covered, for roughly half an hour until the kabocha is fork-tender. Remove pot from heat and leave covered until ready to serve.

Recipe No. 2 (Sweet): Vegan Chewy Pumpkin Cookies Cookie Ingredients 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

a ch r ga

½ teaspoon ground cloves ½ teaspoon salt 1 ½ cups white sugar ½ cup vegan butter, softened 1 cup canned pumpkin puree 1 tablespoon flax seed 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Icing Ingredients ½ cup powdered sugar 1 tablespoon unsweetened oat milk ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract • Begin by making a flax “egg” by combining flax seed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, then allowing the mixture to sit for five minutes to thicken. Next, preheat the oven to 350 degrees and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Combine dry ingredients (flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, cloves, and salt). In a separate bowl, cream together sugar and vegan butter until fluffy, then add pumpkin, egg, and vanilla and continue to beat until the mixture becomes creamy. Finally, mix in dry ingredients until combined and use an ice cream scoop to drop dough onto cookie sheets, flattening each cookie slightly.

• Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until centers are set. While baking, whisk together all icing ingredients until combined. Allow cookies to cool fully, then top with icing and enjoy! 

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o ab

Recipe No. 1 (Savory): Japanese Simmered Kabocha

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K

Do think beyond basic pies. The savory possibilities are endless: Vegan pumpkin curry with red lentils, coconut milk, and garam masala; ricotta, sage, and pumpkin ravioli; garlicky pumpkin soup with smoked paprika… the list goes on!

Don’t store your pumpkin at temperatures outside of the 50- to 60-degree range. Any hotter or colder will cause it to spoil quicker.

Do try your hand at homemade pumpkin puree. To make it, place the halves of a small, de-seeded baking pumpkin cut-side down on a lined baking tray. Roast at 400 degrees for approximately 50 minutes. Once cooled, scoop out the flesh and blend it, then your puree is ready to go.

Don’t get discouraged if your homemade pumpkin puree doesn’t have the right consistency. Too watery? Put the puree in a strainer or cheesecloth and let the extra liquids seep out for at least an hour.

Do try your hand at making your own pumpkin pie spice blend while you’re at it. Most blends include cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger, but we think black pepper, allspice, and cardamom also make great additions.

Don’t throw away your pumpkin seeds! Clean them off, toss them in oil, coat with your favorite spices, and bake them at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.

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Taste Review

A Vegan Family Kitchen Keeping Inclusive Food in Downtown Bham The Fat Beet WRITTEN BY KRISTEN BOEHM | PHOTOS BY COCOA LANEY

W

HEN TALIA SORINSIN-ALLEN and her eldest

daughter, Melissa Sorinsin, were looking for a place to have lunch in Bellingham, they faced a familiar problem.

“It’s really, really hard for our family to be able to go to restaurants,” Sorinsin-Allen says, explaining that her family has dietary restrictions, especially pertaining to dairy. “[Allergens are] in the sauces, in the breads, and those things are not always labeled.”

While driving by the now-closed vegan restaurant, Quantum Leaf, the two saw a “For Lease” sign in the window.

“Within a month, we had everything signed and done,” says Sorinsin-Allen. The mother-daughter team opened The Fat Beet, their vegan and gluten-free-forward restaurant, in the Quantum Leaf space in April 2023. “It’s such an important niche in our community, we didn’t want to give that up.”

“Me and my mom have always dreamed about owning a business of some sort,” adds Sorinsin. “Mom’s definitely the cook here. She’s got all the creative empowerment in the kitchen, and then I get to do all the books and the paperwork and business licensing, and it makes a well-rounded team.”

The restaurant isn’t just a mother-daughter venture— the whole family chips in. Middle child Tasha puts in a lot of work in the kitchen, and Sorinsin-Allen’s wife, Cait SorinsinAllen, handles The Fat Beet’s social media. Along with Melissa’s partner, Tanner Like, these family members form the backbone of the business, providing both labor and creativity.

The Fat Beet family loves to connect with customers by including them in their taste-testing. I was given that treatment myself with the first batch of Sorinsin-Allen’s new twice-baked potato recipe (it was absolutely delicious, though everyone agreed it needed chives).

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After my tasty trial potato, I ordered the Mac ‘n Cheeze ($6) to get started. Super creamy vegan cheeze sauce and gluten-free noodles made up this craveable, comforting side.

I was sipping on the Chai Spiced Mule mocktail ($9), an iced chai, lemon, and ginger beer beverage that was big and tasty enough to accompany my whole meal.

Beets make appearances all over the menu, and with my Beet Bowl ($16) they came in two fashions– marinated and pickled on the side in the Beet Kraut! The bowl also featured fresh avocado, kimchi, rice, nori seaweed, and a spicy secret sauce. Altogether it was a delicious, filling, and healthy meal.

Of course, I couldn’t resist a dessert! The Fat Beet serves vegan ice cream made by local business Alchemy Creamery. I got to try not only the indulgent Petite Sundae ($6), which was a classic delight of vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, strawberries, and walnuts, but also a couple spoonfuls of the special beet ice cream made just for The Fat Beet. The earthy flavor of beets complimented with candied lemon is a unique sweet treat!

Their homestyle food and cozy space are welcoming, and The Fat Beet family hopes that the community will come to see their restaurant as a joyful gathering space.

Now that they’re getting into the swing of running a restaurant, they hope to have more events. Currently, they have Game Nights on Friday, where customers can order a shareable plate and a dessert for $15 and play some of the games they have on hand.

“Everyone’s welcome, we’re an inclusive restaurant for all people,” says Sorinsin-Allen. “We are a vegan restaurant, but [even for] people who aren’t vegan. We want to make really good food and give choices to people.” 1149 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.684.0283, thefatbeet.com 

Bellingham!

THANK YOU for Gold

Join us

Thursday Oct. 26th for our 13th Anniversary Celebration!

11a-10p

Pure Bliss Desserts | 1424 Cornwall avenue, Bellingham

Voted Best Distillery & Best New Restaurant!

TASTINGS, TOURS, & MORE!

TripAdvisor's #1 for Food & Drink Activities in Bellingham

THE PENNY FARTHING BAR & RESTAURANT Inspired cuisine & craft cocktails from locally sourced ingredients 1311 CORNWALL AVE, BELLINGHAM chuckanutbaydistillery.com | (360) 738-7179 Open 7 days a week, see website for hours

Our Kitchen & DISH Foundation reopen, providing opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

360.303.3098 dishfoundation.net ourkitchenbellingham.com

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Taste Local Find

There’s No Home Cooking Like Yun’s Home Cooking YunGaNe WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY LEIGH HELLMAN

T

UCKED AWAY IN a cozy nook in the middle of

downtown, Bellingham’s only Korean family restaurant offers something that you would otherwise have to head down to Seattle or up to Vancouver to find: authentic home-style Korean cooking.

Although most popularly associated with tabletop barbecue grilling, Korean cuisine is hugely varied and includes many soups, stews, noodle, and rice dishes along with the famous kimchi side dish (salted, seasoned, and fermented vegetables of which there are over 100 different varieties). YunGaNe showcases many of these Korean favorites to expand palates and satisfy diners alike.

Colloquially translated to Yun’s Home Cooking, the restaurant is named after Owner and Chef YunHee Cowin.

Cowin grew up on the southern coast of South Korea and learned how to cook in the style of her province, which is known for its bold flavors and rich food traditions. She came to the U.S. over 30 years ago and settled in Bellingham in 1994, where she built a career as a restaurant manager in various hotel and fine dining establishments.

After years of working in other people’s restaurants, she finally made the leap to start her own business in 2019 with the goal of sharing her heritage and culture with her second home country.

There have been challenges to providing an authentic experience for diners, including sourcing ingredients that are not available locally and adapting recipes for U.S. produce.

Cowin makes weekly trips to the Korean markets near Seattle for ingredients and prepares the restaurant’s rotating side dishes fresh daily based on seasonal availability.

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She also plans to introduce samgyeopsal (pork belly grilled at the table)— in addition to the Korean-style fried chicken with her homemade sauce that is already a popular menu item— as her personal spin on the current Korean food trends.

Although the pandemic hit the newly-opened restaurant hard, Cowin is optimistic about the growing word of mouth around her food.

“If people like it, they’re going to tell more people to come,” Cowin says.

Bringing out a tray of steaming dolsot bibimbap (Korean stone pot rice and vegetable bowl) and an array of banchan (Korean side dishes), Cowin took a quick break from preparing the restaurant for the dinner rush to sit down with us for a meal.

The dish— made with a base layer of rice topped with sections of bulgogi (thin marinated slices of beef), seasoned bean sprouts, carrots, lettuce, mushrooms, onions, and zucchini and topped off with a fried egg— is an iconic traditional meal which highlights the nutritious balance between meat/seafood, rice, and vegetables that Korean cuisine is built on.

Kitchen Tips & Tricks: Home-Cooked Halloween Iconic Candy You Can Make Together Halloween doesn’t have to start and end with trick-or-treating. It can be a time for family bonding just as much as the other year-end holidays! Making your own candy corn at home is a great way to get even the little ones interested in helping in the kitchen. Sugar syrup, dried milk, powdered sugar, food coloring, and a few other things join together to make edible dough that you can then mold together into those familiar little triangles.

Re-use Tools for Sustainable Spooks The result, when mixed together in the hot stone bowl, was a delightfully savoy and hearty meal that evoked the universal warmth and joy of the best kind of comfort food.

But it was the company of the owner, sharing her professional passions and frustrations over the brief meal, that really highlighted the power of food as a cultural connection that everyone can be a part of.

“Food opens up the heart,” Cowin asserts. “We are all connected and no one can live just by themselves. My hope is that the future will be more open for everyone.” 1204 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.392.8658, yunganebellingham.com 

Carving pumpkins is so much messy, creative fun. But if you’re like me, you always misplace those carving tools from one year to another, or you damage them and throw them away after just a couple uses. Instead of buying those cheap packs of carving tools every year, invest in a more expensive kit. You’ll save money and space in the landfill, and be able to use them for things like scooping out other gourds, scoring and carving gingerbread, and much more!

Yet Another Use for Pumpkin Seeds If you read our Pumpkin User Guide on p.118, you’ll already have toasted pumpkin seeds on the brain. But you can take it one step further! Blending roasted and shelled pumpkin seeds, or pepitas, in a food processor will yield pumpkin seed butter. This seed butter is minerally and complex in flavor, with a delightfully green coloring that goes perfectly with the spirit of the season.

Tricky Treats The element of surprise is an important part of Halloween, which means that the perfect treats for spooky celebrations are ones with hidden surprises or reveals!

What do we mean? Think about jelly donuts with bright red filling, cakes with a hollow core where M&Ms or sprinkles can hide, or delicious beverages (alcoholic or otherwise) that change colors with the use of butterfly pea flower.

KRISTEN BOEHM

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MEXICAN FOOD HOMESTYLE

TAPATIONW.COM CATERING AVAILABLE LOCATED IN BELLINGHAM AND FERNDALE

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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

AVENUE BREAD & DELI Deli 1313 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 1135 11th St., Bellingham 2301 James St., Bellingham 444 Front St., Lynden 360.715.3354, avenuebread.com With several convenient locations in Bellingham and a location in Lynden, Avenue Bread is a favorite lunch spot for many. Fresh ingredients make these sandwiches unusually good — the bread is made by their bakers, and the vegetables and meat are all of the highest quality. Avenue Bread also offers some of the freshest, tastiest breakfast sandwiches around.

THE BIRCH DOOR CAFE American 4192 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.306.8598, birchdoorcafe.com The Birch Door Cafe does not fall short on charm, variety, or serving size. Brunch enthusiasts will be delighted by the three pages of breakfast options. Dishes include traditional pancake breakfast platters, French-style baked omelets, egg scrambles and Benedicts, and plenty more.

Listen for the ringing of the kitchen bell every time one of these massive breakfasts is served.

BLACK SHEEP Mexican 215 W. Holly St., Ste. 101, Bellingham 360.526.2109, blacksheepbellingham.com The good folks at Black Sheep are all about serving up food with a focus on scratchmade, fresh ingredients. With homemade tortillas, fresh garnishes, and slow-braised meats, each taco tastes and looks like a small masterpiece just waiting to be demolished.

11TH HOUR TEA & COFFEE BAR Tea, Coffee 833 N. State St., Bellingham 360.788.4229, 11thhourteaandcoffeebar.com 11th Hour Tea & Coffee Bar has an extensive menu of drinks around $3–5, with a variety of teas, golden milks, tea lattes, superfood lattes, and a full line of espresso items. The intimate space is cozy and encourages conversation between friends and strangers alike. The energy, menu, and location attract everyone from college students and families to health-minded folks.

AMBO ETHIOPIAN CUISINE Ethiopian

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

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.

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 the friendly 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.

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THE FILLING STATION American 1138 Finnegan Way, Bellingham 360.715.1839 716 Alabama St., Bellingham 360.746.2079, fillingstationnw.com 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), 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.

HILLTOP RESTAURANT American

Visit our year-round farm stand 8855 Ershig Rd. Bow WA 98232 boldlygrownfarm.com @boldlygrownfarm

Open daily, 9am-dusk

Join our Winter CSA November - March Seattle, Skagit and Bellingham

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5645 Guide Meridian, Bellingham 360.398.2462, hilltopcooking.com Three years after Hilltop Restaurant opened, the small cafe turned into a classic diner open 14 hours a day, seven days a week, with delicious takes on all the classic diner eats. It’s the type of place where you’ll hear Ariana Grande’s music softly playing in the background while a waitress in a white apron asks if she can top off your still half-full coffee.

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.

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.

LOCUS American, Eclectic 120 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.306.8556, locusofbellingham.com Ever tried a wine latte? Or a stout with cold brew and Irish cream? How about a smoothie blend of espresso, berries, ice cream, and tahini? These one-of-a-kind creations are all available at Locus, where you’ll find classic and curious offerings of coffee, wine, beer, and food. Breakfast is available all day, and includes sandwiches, bagels, and wraps.

LYNDEN DUTCH BAKERY American 421 Front St., Lynden 360.354.3911, lyndendutchbakery.com

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

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.

MILANO’S ITALIAN SEAFOOD Italian, Seafood

1210 11th St., Bellingham 360.599.2863, milanosrestaurantbar.com Formerly in Glacier, the Milano’s in downtown Fairhaven is your destination for fine Italian dining and seafood. Wine lovers will feel especially at home, as Milano’s boasts the largest wine list in Whatcom County. Despite being a high-end restaurant, it’s also informal. You don’t have to dress up, and everyone is welcome.

MYKONOS Greek 1650 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.715.3071, mykonosbellingham.com Pita bread is pita bread, right? Not at Mykonos.

If you order a starter of hummus, prepare your tastebuds for slices of heaven. If you consider yourself a connoisseur of Greek cuisine, you won’t be disappointed. Mykonos offers excellent value for the price — Pheidippides would be proud.

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BEST I TALIAN RESTAURAN T

&

BEST FINE DINING

LOMBARDISITALIAN.COM • 360.714.8412

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Taste Local Find

Wholesome Meals from the Heart of the Valley The Skagit Table WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY | PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE SKAGIT TABLE

W

E ALL WANT to eat food that makes us feel our

best— but finding the time to prepare nutritious meals is easier said than done. Luckily folks in Mount Vernon can rely on the Skagit Table for fresh, seasonal cooking, whether it be for a catered event or a simple yet nourishing weeknight dinner.

“We had a child that had cancer, and for those two years, we were so busy and overwhelmed, and we could not get healthy food quick,” says Owner and Chef Courtney Bourasaw. “When you go through a stressful time, the last thing you want to do is eat food that makes you feel bad. This was created because of that; I want families to be able to eat food that’s good for them, and healthy is different for everybody.”

Bourasaw began her career as a business owner with the catering company Rainbow Eats. She continues to offer catering through the Skagit Table, but in her Mount Vernon brick-and-mortar, she also has a fridge stocked full with readyto-eat dinners, salads, snacks, and dessert. Many of Bourasaw’s regulars are busy moms, whereas others are devoted because they trust her meals are always allergen-safe. All of the Skagit Table’s offerings are free of gluten, soy, and vegetable oils.

“I want people to be able to open that cooler and not have to read a label and feel confident about what they’re getting every single time,” she says.

Bourasaw partners with local farmers whenever possible, taking inspiration from whatever ingredients they have in abundance. This also means that many of her meals are based around seasonal produce.

In addition, Bourasaw offers catering servings that are not limited to her grab-and-go menu. She excels at classic dishes from a range of cuisines, but she’s most proud of her ability to accommodate special dietary needs.

“I had a client reach out and was like, ‘Can you do Cajun food?’ It was, like, a 300-person wedding. I practiced a little 128 BellinghamAlive.com

bit, I did a tasting for them, and they were like, ‘Oh, this is like living in New Orleans,’” says Bourasaw. “So I don’t know that I have a specialty, but I think special diets is where I shine. … I’ve done weddings that were 100% vegan for 150 people. And today I’m going to be smoking brisket.”

If that wasn’t enough, the Skagit Table even offers ticketed farm-to-table dinners, each of which feature a one-of-a-kind seasonal menu. The evening begins with a farm tour, then proceeds with a multi-course meal, with Bourasaw walking attendees through the backstories of each ingredient.

“More than just the food, [diners] get education,” Bourasaw says. “So I always talk about the produce and the proteins that we have in our dishes, where I sourced it from, what their farm is like, what ‘sustainable’ is for them, what their growing practices are, what their animals eat. I want people to get to know their farmers ... and find farmers that work for them.”

Bourasaw currently has a Halloween-themed dinner in the works, and going forward, she also plans to offer cooking classes for everyday kitchen skills. Want to learn more? Visit the Skagit Table in Mount Vernon, online, or on Instagram @theskagittable.

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

Dining Guide Taste

THE NORTH FORK BREWERY Eclectic, Bar 6186 Mount Baker Hwy., Deming 360.599.2337 Pizza and beer is a pairing that truly stands the test of time. At Deming’s long-running North Fork Brewery, which opened in December of 1997, the two remain as strong as ever. The North Fork’s brews are made in small batches by their longtime brewer and his custom draft system.

The old-style pub feels homey and familiar, with quirky decorations like a glass wall encasing rows and rows of beer bottles. It’s a warm, inviting place to escape the biting temperatures outside.

ON RICE THAI CUISINE Thai 209 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.

THE PURPLE FLAMINGO CAFE American 929 E. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham, mygardennursery.com Longtime customers of My Garden Nursery are in for some exciting and delicious news: Your next visit to the nursery can include flowers, fruit trees, flamingos, and food. The menu features a selection of soups, sandwiches made from Avenue Bread bread, salads, and “flaminis,” a.k.a. paninis. You can also find coffee from Bellingham Coffee Roasters and select desserts.

SUPER MARIO’S Salvadorian 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.

WANIDA THAI CUISINE Thai 1213 Dupont St., Bellingham, 360.746.8642, wanidathai.com 3200 Northwest Ave., Bellingham, 360.393.3138, wanidathaibistro.com Bellinghamsters who love Thai know the name Wanida! Now with two locations, Wanida Thai serves up authentic Thai food from appetizers, soups, noodles, curries, and stir-fry. Whether you’re satisfying a craving with Phad Thai or trying something fresh like their Papaya Salad, you won’t be disappointed by their menu.

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

VOTED BEST FISH & CHIPS

VOTED BEST BURGER

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

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Taste Sip

Q&A with Stephanie Barmann and Jesse Nickerson of Barmann Cellars INTERVIEW BY COCOA LANEY PHOTOS COURTESY OF BARMANN CELLARS

Briefly tell us about the origins of Barmann Cellars.

How did you come to be where you are now?

Barmann Cellars is a product of purchasing a farm with existing perennial plantings coupled with a passion for craft fermentation. Stephanie Barmann has a background in the formal sciences and medical device sales, and Jesse Nickerson is a conventional wine maker turned actuary— both with a long history of home fermentation projects (garage cellars)!

On our farm, we have an abundance of fruit each harvest season, and thus a winery and cidery was a natural fit for us.

What do you think sets Barmann apart from other wineries/cideries in the region?

We aim to produce low-intervention products from organically farmed whole fruit inputs. We often utilize ambient yeast present on our fruit to ferment our wines and ciders. Many of our products are mixed culture ferments, unfiltered, and additive-free— no fining agents or sulfites. We aim to produce an agricultural product that is vintaged and a reflection of the growing season, rather than manipulate our fruit juice with the goal of producing the same product year after year. We also avoid fermenting in plastic and instead utilize oak barrels and stainless steel as our vessels of choice.

Barmann has a wide variety of offerings, and many of them are truly one-of-a-kind. Could you give us a brief overview of your product line?

Barmann Cellars is the mothership for three separate labels: Irrational Wines, 542 Cider, and Poubelle. The Irrational Wine label is produced using estate grown grapes in the Puget Sound AVA, and we also source grapes from other AVAs in Washington State such as Naches Heights.

542 Cider beverages are made using whole fruits from Whatcom County such as apples, pears, quince, kiwi, and plums; some are barrel fermented and others fermented in stainless steel.

Poubelle is a line of beverage that is made by upcycling and rehydrating fruit skins and pomace after pressing, and then pressing them again. Residual sugars and tannins are extracted from the fruit solids before heading off to the compost. The result is a dry, spritzy, light, and refreshing porch pounder!

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Of your current lineup, what bottles are you most proud of?

We are particularly proud of our Pét Nat Siegerrebe, our Send Portal Poubelle, Bambooze Apple Cider, and our Estate Rosé of Pinot Noir (unfortunately sold out at the farm but available at select retailers).

What role does sustainability play in the company?

Sustainability is a core value at Barmann Cellars. One of the first projects we took on when we moved to the property was to install a 70-panel solar array which now powers our farm! We are also actively working with The Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association to restore salmon habitat on our property. To date, we have planted over 300 native shrubs and trees along the salmon spawning stream.

We’re using goats rather than chemicals to remove invasive blackberries from the hillside above our vineyard. We utilize irrigation-free and regenerative agriculture practices in our vineyard and established orchard. We do not till, and we apply minimal sprays, all of which are approved organic. We use zero synthetic fertilizers on the farm.

Keeping living roots in our soils protects our topsoil while increasing our carbon sequestering potential! It also supports the mycorrhizal communities working in symbiosis with our perennial plantings which is how we avoid synthetic fertilizers.

Last but not least, we upcycle our fruit waste to generate new products using the same amount of inputs, thus reducing our carbon footprint per bottle.

Do you have anything exciting in the works for late 2023?

We are opening a tasting room on Route 542 in the fall! We are also set to release our first estate red wine, a Pinot Noir that is tasting delightful. We will also release some early pét nat ciders and wines! 

Dining Guide Taste

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 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 everchanging cocktail menu. Bitters, shrubs, and syrup are made in-house and the creative cocktails are composed by staff or sourced from a collection of vintage bartending books.

BOB’S CHOWDER BAR & BBQ SALMON Seafood, American

1 2

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.

CALICO CUPBOARD American

3

901 Commercial Ave., Anacortes,, 360.293.7315, 720 S. 1st St., La Conner, 360.466.4451, 121-B Freeway Dr., Mount Vernon, 360.336.3107, calicocupboardcafe.com Since 1981, Calico Cupboard has been serving the purest, most heart-healthy, and high-quality ingredients. Using freshly milled, organicallygrown, whole grain and unbleached flour, the cafe aims to promote its local farmers and gratify your body in the process. Sit down for breakfast or lunch, or just order from the bakery and grab an espresso to go. Calico Cupboard will leave you full, but feeling homey, healthy, and happy.

4

When you go to Duck Soup on San Juan Island, you know you’re in for some fine dining.

We have to recommend the Duck Breast, served with herb polenta, braised spinach, tarragon oil, and sweet accompaniments in the form of blueberry and cherry chutney.

If you haven’t visited Sugar Mama Cafe yet, maybe we can tempt you with tales of their Scrambled Egg Grilled Cheese! It’s their threecheese blend of gouda, cheddar, and Jarlsberg with a layer of scrambled eggs, a spicy hit of their homemade tomato jam, all on buttered and toasted bread.

Good sushi is irreplaceable, and we’ve recently discovered the delight of De Asian’s Yellow Tail Jalapeno plate!

Delectable, big slices of yellow tail are arranged on a plate with masago, jalapeno, scallion, sesame seeds, and Ponzu sauce. And this is considered a “small dish”!

The complex flavors of the Guay Tiew Pad Tom Yum at Taste of Thai by Wipa are all pulled together by being stirfried in a smoky high-heat wok!

The base of the dish is angel hair rice noodles, piled high with tomatoes, mushrooms, shallots, bean sprouts, and tons of roots, herbs, and spices.

5 6 7 8

GREAT

TASTES

Little Kitchen Witch is a surefire place to go for fresh and tasty falafel and hummus. Their Pita Fries are snackable deepfried strips of pita bread, seasoned with Za’atar and paprika and served with white tahini dip.

If you’ve been looking for a new spot for tea or sweet treats, don’t overlook Ochalicious! Although they’re known for their iced boba tea, we love their toasty black tea drinks during colder months, like the Roasted Oolong Milk Tea. Don’t forget to try their fish-shaped desserts called taiyaki!

The Lunchbox Diner has welcomed home their “yummy fall comfort food,” the Pear Crisp. This tasty crispy pastry dessert is served with a heaping scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzled with caramel sauce. Pop in any time for their daily specials!

You have to love grown-up takes on classic comfort food. The Smoked Salmon Mac & Cheese at Bay Breeze Restaurant & Bar hits the spot with the smoky salmon, gooey house-made cheese sauce, and topped with parm and mozzarella cheeses.

What’s there not to love?

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Photo by Kristen Boehm

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SKAGIT

Taste Wine Pick of the Month

WINE

PICK

OF THE MONTH October

Dynasty Cellars 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Walla Walla Valley WRITTEN BY AMBERLEIGH BROWNSON

S

OMETIMES WE FORGET about

our very own backyard, living in Washington with such abundant, delicious, vibrant, and varied wine options. But, lest you forget! I am here to remind… Some beautiful iterations are a hop, skip, and a jump away. Among them is Bellingham’s own Dynasty Cellars, this year’s Silver winner for Bellingham Alive’s Best of the Northwest Readers’ Choice Awards, and maker of my wine choice of the month: 2022 Sauvignon Blanc.

Peter and his wife Olga are living a classic “American dream” story, having escaped Communist Yugoslavia in the ‘80s and ended up rooting here in Bellingham where they eventually formed Dynasty Cellars in 1995. They have strong family roots in the wine world (dating back generations, in fact), and how lucky are we that they chose to bring their talents here to the beautiful Pacific Northwest?

Dynasty Cellars is conveniently located right off Bakerview, and you can stop in on Friday or Saturday afternoons between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m., year-round. Upon arrival you will probably meet winemaker Peter 132

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Osvaldik who will be happy to pour you samples, answer questions about his wine, and most likely serve you a small dish of peanuts. Try their awardwinning Port or help local nonprofit wildlife protection by purchasing a bottle of their 400 Strong (100% of proceeds are donated), a chewy and satisfying red blend. Maybe we’ll run into each other this fall at Dynasty Cellars’ outside heated patio where you can sip, covered.

Dynasty Cellars 2169 E. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.220.4111 dynastycellars.com

Tasting Notes: Aromas offer unpeeled pink grapefruit, ripe apricots, hula berry, and chopped basil, which is followed with unctuous citrus pith, starfruit, kiwi, and underripe banana.

Pairing Suggestion: Plum-Feta Frisée Salad, Oysters on the Half Shell, Miso Soup, Rotisserie Chicken, Roasted Sunchokes, Spinach-Pistachio Pesto, Grilled Portobello 

Photo by Cocoa Laney

MEET OUR SOMMELIER Amberleigh Brownson

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.

Dining Guide Taste NELL THORN Seafood 116 1st St., La Conner, 360.466.4261, nellthorn.com Nell Thorn is seafood-heavy, so trying one of their seafood dishes is a must. Their daily specials take into account the freshest catches, but you’ll also typically find a seafood pasta, filet-topped salad, and oysters on the menu.

Thank you for voting for us for

7 years in a row!

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

B oxx B

PROVIDING FRESH BERRIES, VEGETABLES AND FLOWERS IN WHATCOM COUNTY SINCE 1960. erry Farm

B oxx

Find more information on our website!

B erry Farm 6211 Northwest Drive, Ferndale 360.380.2699 boxxberryfarm.com

B ox x B erry Farm

Best Agricultural Company

SALT & VINE French 913 6th St., Anacortes 360.293.2222 An international cheese, wine, and charcuterie shop, Salt & Vine offers the best of both worlds. It’s a boutique artisan grocery where you can sit down and enjoy the offerings, and then, if something tickles your fancy, you can take it home to enjoy later. While some choose to grab-n-go, others decide to stay a while.

The cozy, intimate environment works great for a date night or happy hour with friends.

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 in-house. If you’re looking for authentic Mexican food at a low price, eat here and you won’t be disappointed.

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23rd A nnua l Cha ri t y S oirée & Sil en t A uc tion

sil ent a uction october 26–30 2023 Onl ine

www.bl ueskiesforchil dren.org

Soirée Sa turda y, october 28 2023 Bel l ingham Cruise terminal

BARBER HISTORIANS: “J U S T A L I T T L E O F F T H E T O P ”

NOW BOOKING FOR SPRING 2024 Our Bellingham location offers everything needed to create a stunning event to remember forever.

DOUBLE TAP TO EDIT TEXT Opening Reception Oct. 5 5-7pm Walter Barbershop in Edison, WA circa 1917/ SCHM Collection

ShuksanGolf.com

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Hours: Thursday-Sunday 11am-4pm www.skagitcounty.net/museum 360 466 3365 This project received funding from Skagit County. www.visitskagitvalley.com

Visit “Barber Historians” Oct. 6 through Spring 2024!

Photo Courtesy of Creative Avenue

Agenda

The Autumn Market 140 October 2023 135

SPOTLIGHT

OCTOBER TOP PICKS

Photo Courtesy of Whatcom Frightmare

WHATCOM FRIGHTMARE October 21–22, 27–29

1

Whatcom county’s pride and joy of frightening experiences is back again this year! Whatcom Frightmare is a homegrown haunt that transforms Pioneer Park into a chilling experience for all. Kids are welcomed to come to the scheduled “Light Scares”, where the lights are on and the monsters are silly. The “Full Scares” take place later in the evening and are full of volunteers doing their best to terrify you. Proceeds of Whatcom Frightmare go to the Ferndale Food Bank and Lummi Nation Boys and Girls Club!

Pioneer Park, 2004 Cherry St., Ferndale, 360.966.6223, whatcomfrightmare.com

Photo Courtesy of Whatcom Artist Studio Tour

WHATCOM ARTIST STUDIO TOUR October 7–8, 14–15

2 SEAFEAST October 14–15 This waterfront and seafood festival is a premier annual event! It was founded in 2016 to celebrate and highlight the maritime culture and heritage of Bellingham and Whatcom county. At SeaFest, you can explore the bounty of the Pacific Northwest through our seafood, learn about our aquatic fauna and waterways, and engage in a fun community-minded atmosphere with local businesses, entertainment, and more. Fishermen’s Pavilion & Zuanich Point Park, 2599 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham, bellinghamseafest.org

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DOWNTOWN BELLINGHAM TRICK-OR-TREAT October 31, 4–6 p.m.

This self-guided studio tour began in 1995 with just ten artists, but over nearly 30 years it’s grown to encompass over 50 artists spanning Whatcom county. For these two weekends, you can travel from studio to studio seeing the art and the creators in the places they work! Check out their website for other events, like gallery shows and pop-ups!

Whatcom, studiotour.net

BELLINGHAM EXIT October 11–15

This annual tradition provides an alternative Trick-or-Treating experience for kids of all ages.

Over 100 businesses in Downtown Bellingham will be ready with goodies for costumed kiddos during the early evening on Halloween.

The sidewalks and streets are filled with families and it’s smiles all around! Downtown Bellingham,

Bellingham Exit is a new festival from the people that bring you Northwest Tune-Up in the summer. This music and arts extravaganza is multi-everything: multi-stage, multi-day, and multi-sensory. It promises comedy, music and dancing, a vendor Bazaar, and even familiar spaces transformed into “living, breathing” art installations. With an act line-up from international drag superstar Monet X Change to local band Smooth Kiwi, you won’t want to miss this inaugural event.

downtownbellingham.com

Downtown Bellingham, bellinghamexit.com

McIntyre Hall Performing Arts & Conference Center

23/24 Season

building co m mu n

OCTOBER SKAGIT BRASS QUINTET

J2B2: JOHN JORGENSON BLUEGRASS BAND

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LYRIC & SPIRIT NOVEMBER PACIFIC NORTHWEST OPERA: THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO

mcintyrehall.org

360.416.7727

On the Mount Vernon Campus of Skagit Valley College

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YESTERDAY & TODAY:

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THE ULTIMATE DINING EXPERIENCE

Grazie Tutti ( Thank you all ) for voting

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Events Agenda

CLASSICAL Photo by Frank Stewart

BEYOND BLACK CODES: JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER ORCHESTRA WITH WYNTON MARSALIS October 8, 4 p.m.

The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra is a New York City jazz orchestra made up of 15 excellent soloist and ensemble players who travel, perform, and help educate all year round. Wynton Marsalis, their Music Director, is a world-renowned trumpeter in his own right. This show features songs from Marsalis’s albums “Black Codes from the Underground,” “The Majesty of the Blues,” and more.

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

MIKHAIL VOSKRESENSKY October 20, 7:30 p.m.

Mikhail Voskresensky is a Russian pianist and a living legend. Nearly 90 years old now, he has been a renowned concert performer since 1955. After recently leaving Russia to protest Putin’s actions, Voskresensky is now living and performing in the United States.

Don’t miss seeing this once-in-a-lifetime performance. Performing Arts Center at Western Washington University, 516 High St., Bellingham, 360.650.6146, wwu.edu

CONCERTS LIVE IN CONCERT: GINA CHAVEZ October 13, 7:30 p.m.

Gina Chavez is “a truly independent recording artist” who defines her own genre. Her story and identity plays heavily into her music, which was recently nominated for a Latin Grammy.

Her sound can vary from American rock to modern Latin, which means her concerts are something best experienced in-person from start to finish! Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon, 360.336.8955, lincolntheatre.org

ORIONS BELTE October 14, 5:30 p.m.

Orions Belte is a three-person band categorized as psychedelic pop-rock, with a breezy and groovy style. They formed in Norway in 2018, with their debut album “Mint” earning international praise, and are releasing their new album, “Women,” on Oct. 6. Catch them at this earlier showtime at the Shakedown to hear their new sounds! The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.778.1067, shakedownbellingham.com

WRECKNO October 26, 9 p.m.

Photo Courtesy of Mt. Baker Theatre

Wreckno is a big name in electronic music!

They’re coming to Bellingham, and it’s sure to be a huge party! It’s a must-attend for dancing queens and festival fashionistas. On top of Wreckno’s set, DJs Keags, Pathos, and Hermit are on the bill for this evening, meaning this late-October party will be going strong deep into the night. The Wild Buffalo, 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net

THEATER HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH October 1–8 Buckle up for the hard-rock storytelling of this Tony award-winning show. Hedwig Schmidt bemoans her own life as a chronically unappreciated artist, backed up by the band, The Angry Inch. Well known for being “outrageous and unexpectedly hilarious,” the show is part rock’n’roll, part stand-up comedy, and all raw, inspiring heart. Bellingham Theatre Guild, 1600 H St., Bellingham, 360.733.1811, bellinghamtheatreguild.com

NOEL COWARD’S HAY FEVER October 20–28 This play sounds absolutely silly! Four eccentric family members each invite a guest to their English country house to stay over a hot and wet June weekend in the 1920s. They get up to some “Midsummer Night’s Dream”-esque shenanigans, leading to a show that feels like “a cross between a farce and a comedy of manners.” Performing Arts Center at Western Washington University, 516 High St., Bellingham, 360.650.6146, wwu.edu

MISERY October 27–November 5 That’s right– the classic Stephen King tale is coming to life on stage as a production by Blaine Community Theater. Watch the haunting tale of an author, Paul Sheldon, who’s taken in by his top fan, Annie Wilkes, after being injured in a car crash. But as time passes, it becomes clear that this sanctuary is anything but safe…

Blaine, blainecommunitytheatre.com October 2023 139

Agenda Events AUTUMN MARKET October 14–15

Photo by Gaia Crans

Get some holiday shopping done early at this big rain-or-shine, indoor and outdoor crafts market. For their first Autumn Market, Creative Avenue has gathered over 50 local makers, artists, and craftspeople at the Port of Anacortes for this fun, free-to-attend and familyfriendly event! The Transit Shed Event Center, 100 Commercial Ave., Anacortes, creativeavenuenw.com

VISIUAL ARTS

BELLINGHAM COMICON October 21, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

DOCTOBER October 5–26

Bellingham’s Comicon is a small and mighty gathering of fans, cosplayers, industry professionals, and vendors alike! This year’s guests include James Lloyd, known for his work on the Futurama and The Simpsons comics, and the co-creator of Carnage from Spider-Man, a BCC regular. Come out to support your local crafters and creatives. Ferndale Events Center, 5715

The Pickford’s annual documentary festival is a month-long celebration of non-fiction film! Over 35 carefully selected films will be screened, often accompanied by special guests, group discussions, or pre-screening receptions. Confirmed film selections so far include “Black Barbie: A Documentary” (2023), and “Breaking the News” (2023). Also returning, the Doctober Challenge– watch eight documentaries and collect a prize!

Pickford Film Center, 1318 Bay St., Bellingham, 360.738.0735, pickfordfilmcenter.org

Orcas Island is home to this annual film festival, known around the Sound as a top-tier event. Over 35 films will be screened at venues around the island, and you can buy full festival passes or individual tickets. The films may be domestic or international and span the gamut of genres. If you’re a film fan, don’t miss this fall fest! Orcas Island, oifilmfest.org SURGE: MAPPING TRANSITION, DISPLACEMENT, AND AGENCY IN TIMES OF CLIMATE CHANGE October 14, 2023–January 21, 2024

Barrett Rd., Ferndale, 360.734.7832, bellinghamcomicon.com Photo Courtesy of Fremont Oktoberfest

ORCAS ISLAND FILM FESTIVAL October 11–15

“Surge” is a recurring exhibit at the Museum of Northwest Art that brings scientists and artists together to present new perspectives on the ongoing climate crisis. It was created in partnership with the Skagit Climate Science Consortium. The several month long residency should include exhibits, lectures, and participatory activities. Museum of Northwest Art, 121 S. First St., La Conner, 360.466.4446, monamuseum.org

SPECIAL EVENTS DEMING OKTOBERFEST October 13–14 Party like a German at this year’s Oktoberfest at the Deming Logging Show grounds! This festival is always full of merriment– German food, polka dancing, beer in steins, and even an alphorn playing contest await you. If you want to spend your whole weekend gallivanting in your lederhosen, they have free RV parking so you can set up camp. Deming Logging Show Grounds, 3295 Cedarville Rd., Bellingham, 360.592.3051, demingloggingshow.com

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HALLOWEEN BASH WITH MINIMUM WAGE BAND October 27, 7–9 p.m.

Looking for a good, old-fashioned Halloween party? Look no further than Eagle Haven Winery’s Halloween Bash! The band, Minimum Wage, will provide the classic rock jams for this all-ages party. There will be dancing, games, and of course, costume contests!

Prizes will be awarded for scariest, best individual, and best couple costume.

Eagle Haven Winery, 8233 Sims Rd., Sedro-Woolley, 360.856.6248, eaglehavenwinery.com

STEAM EXPO October 28, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Kids ages 5–12 will love the hands-on, educational fun of the Lynden Noon Kiwanis STEAM Expo. The fields of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math will all be represented by various organizations, interactive activities, and demonstrations at this annual event at the Northwest Washington Fairgrounds. While the kids explore, you can get connected with various resources for their future education. Northwest Washington Fairgrounds, 1775 Front St., Lynden, 360.201.2689, facebook.com/ lyndennoonkiwanis

Photo by Joanna Nesbit

san juan community theatre presents

a jones hope wooten comedy directed by joy van camp

october 6-22, 2023

box office * (360) 378-3210 * www.sjctheatre.org

WELLNESS LUMMI ISLAND LOOP October 8, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Get out on a crisp autumn day and enjoy a run or walk around beautiful Lummi Island. This event features a 5k and a 10k course, and all ages and abilities are welcome. Take it at your own pace and meet up with everyone at the Beach Store Cafe’s garden after for some pizza and drinks (available to buy ahead of time). The race will benefit Lummi Island Foundation for Education. Lummi Island,

FREE EVENT LISTINGS Arts, Culinary, Festivals, Races and More.

ADD EVENT | BellinghamAlive.com/ Events

lummiislandfoundationforeducation.org

TRAILS TO TAPS RELAY October 15, 9 a.m.

Costumes, breweries, and fun with friends! This relay race takes teams of 4–8 people through eight stops are breweries and cideries all around Bellingham, over 35 miles of trails, roads, and parks. After runners complete their legs of the race, they head to Boundary Bay Brewery Beer Garden for the after party. The event even benefits Lydia Place, so you can feel great about getting festive. Bellingham, 360.746.8861,

The first two weekends in October, 10–5 daily.

Meet the region’s finest artists in their creative spaces at this FREE juried event.

Info & map at www.studiotour.net Printed maps available at locations across Whatcom County.

trailstotapsrelay.com

THE BLANCHARD BEAST 10 MILE TRAIL RACE October 21, 9 a.m.

This Greater Bellingham Running Club race is known to be perfect for runners looking to test their mettle with something between a 10k and a halfmarathon. The annual event takes place along a wooded trail with over 2,000 feet of elevation gain in the Blanchard State Forest due south of Bellingham.

Make this your year to conquer the beast! Blanchard State Forest, Blanchard Mountain Trail Lower Parking Lot,

art! art!

COME SEE WHERE CREATIVITY HAPPENS

Bow, blanchardbeast.com October 2023 141

THE SCENE

OUT & ABOUT

Photo by Eric Mickelson

The Scene: Handbags for Housing

T

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LYDIA PLACE

HIS PAST AUGUST Bellingham Alive was a proud

sponsor of the 11th annual Handbags for Housing event, put on in style by Lydia Place. Since Lydia Place has been serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Whatcom County since 1989, they’ve gotten creative with this evening of fundraising. Each year, designer handbags hit the runway to be bid on in a live auction! 2023 saw a Lijau Bubble Bag by Brother Vellies go for $5,500– the highest bid they’ve seen placed on a bag to date. This year’s Riviera Chic-themed event also featured live entertainment, a Handbag Bazaar, a beauty bar, a raffle, a silent auction, and drinks and catering from local businesses, including Probably Shouldn’t Distillery, B-Town Kitchen and Raw Bar, Chuckanut Bay Distillery, Crave Catering, and Sweet Bellingham. Altogether, Lydia Place raised $130,000 during the event. Evenings like this allow them to keep doing the work— after all, 424 children were served by Lydia Place’s Family Housing Program in 2022. 

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Best Local Performer!

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PAINTED PEACE in the Geneva Neighborhood

Colorful Celebrations Galore here at Painted Peace….I would like to extend my heARTfelt thanks to the Readers of Bellingham Alive Magazine for voting Painted Peace as BEST LOCAL ARTISAN in the 2023 Best of the Northwest! I am humbled and grateful to be part of this wonderful community. Please come visit me anytime at Painted Peace Studios for a tour or to do some shopping. Shop for the garden or home and I promise to dazzle you with color and fun. Please call (360-920-3064) to schedule an appointment or visit me online (www.paintedpeace.com)

Stephanie Joan Burgess | steph@paintedpeace.com | 360.920.3064

October 2023 143

Notes Lasting Image

“By the pricking of my thumbs Something wicked this way comes” WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE ... MACBETH

PHOTO BY DANI WINTERS

Dani Winters Photography specializes in family, newborn and event photography, proudly serving Whatcom County!

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