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Interest Rates Effective: 07/31/2024
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First Savings is a High Yield Savings Account (HYSA) designed for children 17 and under. Open with as little as $1 and earn 3.00% APY* toward their savings goals. Rate is variable and may change any time.
Scan the code to learn more, or visit https://www.ourfirstfed.com/personal/savings/first-savings
Interest Rates Effective: 7/31/2024
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From concept and design to production, Jennifer Ryan Design projects run smoothly and professionally, with a high level of collaboration between clients and subcontractors. Committed to exceeding expectations, Jennifer understands each individual clients’ wants and dreams.
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See for yourself why clients and design professionals alike rave about Jennifer Ryan Design. Jennifer’s impeccable design, attention to detail and easy work style will Design Your Way Home.
The North Sound is home to one of the most fantastic art scenes in the U.S.; from ceramics to ballet, galleries to circus performances, we’ve got it all! As summer winds down and we begin to lean into the slower seasons of fall and winter, now is the perfect time to reinvigorate our connection to the arts, and we’ve got a great guide to get you started!
by Dani Winters Photography
This month’s feature article is all about the arts, which of course includes paintings and dance performances—but literature is a huge part of the arts scene, too! The North Sound is a hotbed of literary activity, from writing classes and retreats to independent bookstores that put Amazon’s recommendation algorithm to shame. Check out our website for some of our favorite ways to celebrate the literary arts in our bookish corner of the world. t
2 - ONE TIME GENERAL PREVENTATIVE SERVICE SPRAYS FOR SPIDERS, HORNETS WASP, AND ANTS. WITH A 3 MONTH GUARANTEE
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.
Be sure to check out our events calendar. If you have an event that you would like our readers to know about, bellinghamalive.com offers an events calendar where viewers can search by day, venue, event type, or city. Go to bellinghamalive.com/events and submit your event today. Once your event has been approved by our editorial staff, it is live.
Sign up for our free entertainment e-newsletter to get the latest on upcoming events and more! bellinghamalive.com
$30 A TICKET | DOORS OPEN AT 7:00PM | SHOW AT 8:00PM LIVE IN THE PACIFIC SHOWROOM! OCTOBER 18 & 19, 2024
ELL, IT’S OFFICIAL: summer is over. Now, now, before you let out a wail, bereft at the loss of long evenings and sunny days on the lake, hear me out: fall is better. I happen to think it's the ideal season! Not everyone will agree with me, of course, but that doesn’t mean everyone isn’t capable of seeing at least some of the good parts of autumn.
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If you love being outside, you need only get the right gear—or repair the gear you already have at Madrona Wear (p. 44)—and you can absolutely keep hiking, paddle boarding, camping, etcetera. Or hey, now that your social calendar is probably taking a breath, maybe now's the time to work on revamping your outdoor space at home so you can make the most of the crisp fall days—we’ve got some inspiration for you on page 72!
As for me, while I strongly dislike any temperature over 75 F, I do love being outside when the weather cooperates. But I also love being inside, especially if it’s rainy or dark or windy outside. There’s nothing more comforting to me than sitting by the fire with a hot drink and a good book while a storm rages outside. And speaking of a good book: we’ve got
a profile for you of a beloved local author, D.W. Ulsterman, on page 22. If you’re looking for a new read, you like to write yourself, or you just like supporting the literary arts community, make sure to read this issue’s online exclusive at bellinghamalive.com!
For an in-depth look at the visual and performing arts in the area, check out our Fall Arts Guide (p. 50)! Whether you’re into museums, galleries, dance, theater, or even our circus scene, we’ve got the run-down you need to get started—as an observer or as a participant.
And let’s not forget the culinary arts; so many of us avoid the kitchen during the hot months, and I for one am excited to get back in there now that turning on the oven won’t feel like a capital offense. I’m more of a baker than a cook, but the recipe for Ragù Napoletano (p. 80) we’ve got in this issue is making me reconsider my moratorium on the stove. And I can always satisfy any lingering sweet tooth with a creative treat from Sweet Art (p. 84).
So you see? There’s no need to despair over the end of summer— September has some wonderful things in store for all of us! I hope you enjoy it as much as I know I will. t
ANNE GODENHAM Editor in Chief
Kolby LaBree
nkenoyer@windermere.com natekenoyer.com
Emma Radosevich
As a child, Emma developed a love of literature by reading chapter books with her dad; she made sure he got every character’s voice just right. She still appreciates a great narrator. Emma is a Collection Development Librarian for Whatcom County Library System, where she gets to work with fellow book lovers. When she’s not working, she likes walking on Bellingham trails while listening to an audiobook or NPR podcast. p. 23
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. 23
nkenoyer@windermere.com natekenoyer.com
Tina L. Kies
Tanna Edler
Tanna Edler owns a full service interior design firm based near Yakima, Washington with projects nationwide, and she specializes in residential, commercial, new construction, and remodeling projects. Edler is the only interior designer in Washington State to have been awarded IDS Designer of the Year for nine years, and the first in the Pacific Northwest to have received the IDS Impact Award for charitable interior design contributions in her community. p. 72
Tina is the owner of Chikara PR, LLC, a comprehensive public relations and content marketing agency in Mount Vernon. She is a nationally recognized and award-winning communicator with more than 25 years of professional industry experience. Born in Okinawa, Japan, but raised in rural Skagit Valley, Tina’s professional career began at a prestigious PR agency in Honolulu, Hawaii where she was named the “Young PR Professional of the Year” by PRSA-Hawaii. When she’s not serving her clients or her local community, you can undoubtedly find her with her son with whom she is unabashedly obsessed. p. 34
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Bellingham Alive welcomes comments and feedback for our Letters to the Publisher section. We’d love to hear what you have to say and are open to story ideas about the people, places, and happenings in the North Sound (Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan counties). Let us know what you like, and what you’d like to see in the magazine! Contact our editor at editor@ bellinghamalive.com.
I finally got a chance to sit down with my June/July issue, congratulations on 15 years! It is our go to for date nights and finding local retailers to support. Every issue is well done, both in design and editorial. Congratulations and I look forward to subscribing for another 15!
—Paula K., Blaine
Thank you so much Paula! I am so glad we are your go-to for date nights. We hear this a lot from our readers and its one of the many reasons we highlight our local restaurants and events. Thank you for your loyal readership; it is truly appreciated by all the staff.
—Lisa K.
So exciting, congrats on 15 years!! I remember interning here and having a blast. Here's to another 15!
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Amy, we remember you fondly! Thank you so much for the kind words. As you experienced we truly value our interns and strive to ensure they have a nurturing and fulfilling internship at the magazine. It is so satisfying to see our interns move on to successful careers in whatever field they end up in.
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“Loved” the A to Z feature in August, so many inspiring ideas especially since we are planning a remodel in the next year. Appreciate all your relevant articles and the Pros to Know will be especially helpful.
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Jeff, we are so glad you liked our A to Z feature. It's always fun to sit back and plan what we want to share with our readers then to see them act on it, like yourself, is so gratisfying. And yes! Our Pros to Know section is the perfect place to find reputable companies to hire for all things related to running a household.
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15 years, that’s amazing. I remember subscribing 8 years ago when my family relocated to Bellingham from Indiana—I was so excited to find Bellingham Alive. Keep up the great work and congratulations.
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Yes, it's hard for us to believe it has been 15 years! We are so grateful for the support we get from our readers like yourself and our advertising partners within the pages. Thank you!
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Mural Tour 14
Collaborating Through Challenge 18
D.W. Ulsterman 22
36 Hours in Seattle 26
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY CHLOE NELSON
IF YOU’VE EVER driven down the main streets of Bellingham, you might notice the abundance of outdoor art. Giant swirls of color adorn buildings that house everything from power plants to sandwich shops. These murals depict stunning orca whales, trailing
rainbow flowers, beautiful mountain landscapes, and more.
Even though Bellingham is known for its outdoor art, other cities in the surrounding area have murals that are just as beautiful. These pops of color can be found in towns throughout Whatcom, Skagit, and the San Juan
One Bellingham mural is the largest in Washington State: the “Encogen Mural,” named for the Encogen Northwest power plant on which it’s located. This plant lives at the lower end of Cornwall Avenue and specializes in creating electricity through natural steam- and gas-powered generators.
Gretchen Leggitt started painting this elegant orange and blue mural in 2018 and worked 12-hour days for 3+ weeks. Inspired by the North Cascades, the art also reduces the money and time it takes to clean up graffiti at this location.
On the right side of the sandwich shop Cheba Hut, on Holly Street, lies a large mural depicting the giant white words “Before I Die…”. Under these words are multiple completions of the sentence, filled out by Bellinghamsters, and above is an art piece depicting elements of Coast Salish territory.
“Before I Die” is a global art project started by artist Candy Chang in New Orleans in 2011 after the death of a loved one. The movement is meant to bring people together and help us realize that we all have one thing in common: the desire to love and be loved.
islands. Murals are a way for local artists to give back to their community and express themselves while bringing joy and happiness to the public. These works of art undoubtedly bring more color to these cities of stereotypically gray skies and make driving down the streets much more enjoyable.
The small town of Ferndale, located north of Bellingham, is home to many a-mural. One such mural is composed of colorful hearts, on the side of a dilapidated white building on Main Street. When the Ferndale Arts Commission (FAC) started creating it in 2022, the building was set to be demolished, so the FAC decided to create a simple, cheap mural that would bring fun and color to Ferndale and fully represent everyone.
The mural was painted mainly by volunteers, according to FAC Chair Rebecca Xczar, and it makes for a great photo opportunity.
“We still see people out there taking pictures with it, which is fun because part of what we want to do is give people spots to take pictures. I joke that I do these murals so I have good spots to take pictures of my kids,” laughs Xczar.
If you were to go looking for a car wash in Ferndale, you might come across a beautiful orca mural. Kevin Lee, the 9-year owner of the car wash, commissioned Kaa Shaayí to paint this “Ancestral Spirits” in early 2023, and Shaayí finished it that July. The piece depicts an eagle and an orca in Tlingit design—both Lee and Shaayí are Tlingit Alaskan natives and Shaayí hopes to collaborate with other native artists for future mural work!
Eastsound is a village on Orcas Island, comprising quaint homes amongst the deep gray sea. This town has lots of character, part of which is the mural on the Wassau Station Building. Native islander Stephanie Iverson created this fun, spunky art piece to make an
ugly wall pretty and remind people how important it is to protect the local ocean habitat. Iverson has always wanted to paint a mural and to create something for her community to feel happy about, and the blue water, seals, and sea stars certainly do that.
In the summer of 2021, the city of Friday Harbor asked C. Bennett and Josh Fisher to paint a mural on a 240foot wall downtown on Blair Avenue. The teals, blues, and oranges complete a lively picture of flora and fauna,
complete with the words “A Living Island” in neon green, teal, and yellow. The two men commissioned some youth in the community to execute their vision, and the mural became a community-wide summer project.
Anacortes Artist Bill Mitchell has achieved his goal of making a splash in his community by creating over 150 outdoor murals over 30 years. These murals bring character and color to the main streets of Anacortes, with subjects ranging from the city’s founder Amos Bowman to fictional characters like a mermaid named “Setrocana” (Anacortes spelled backward).
Next time you’re driving through your city, make note of the beautiful outdoor art—there is most likely a great story behind those colorful walls! These are only a small representation of the murals in Whatcom, Skagit, and the San Juans. If you have extra time maybe even stop for a quick picture—especially in Ferndale! t
WRITTEN BY JESSAMYN TUTTLE PHOTO COURTESY OF LESLIE GARRISON
IT’S COMMON TO think of divorce in terms of litigation, which often means conflict, court dates, hard feelings, and a great deal of money. There’s also mediation, which still tends to focus on there being a “winner” and a “loser.” However, there’s another option that many people might be unfamiliar with: collaborative divorce, a process which avoids the court system entirely.
Collaborative divorce was introduced by Minnesota lawyer Stu Webb in 1990, and the Uniform Collaborative Law Act was adopted in Washington State in 2013, but lawyers who use it are still trying to spread the word about it.
“We know people can hire lawyers and go to court,” says Leslie Garrison of Schwarz-Garrison Law Firm in Bellingham, who works in family law. “We know parties can go to mediation, but people just aren’t aware of what collaborative divorce is or what that model looks like.”
The basics of collaborative divorce include a written agreement between all lawyers and clients to stay out of court (including a “disqualification clause” for the current lawyers if the case does go to court—which means both parties will need to hire new attorneys), the use of good-faith negotiation, and the employment of neutral experts.
In a collaborative divorce, both parties still have lawyers, but because of the participation agreement everyone involved can speak freely without the worry that what they say will be used against them in court. The agreement also lays down what Garrison calls “aspirational ground rules.”
“We’re asking a lot,” she says. “Sometimes we’re asking parties to behave towards each other in a way they haven’t been able to in their marriage.”
One of the biggest benefits of the collaborative process is the building of a neutral support team made up of coaches and specialists who are hired jointly by the clients to help with communication and education. Garrison likes to say that this approach levels the playing field. The support team can help address issues like economic security (if one partner has been out of the workforce), work out joint ownership of real estate, or create parenting plans that adjust as a child ages.
“Our job is to help you get the divorce as economically and efficiently and calmly as possible. And I think for most of us who do this work, at the end of the day, it’s because it’s better for the children,” says Garrison. “They’re finding now empirically that exposure to conflict for children is really detrimental, and this is a way to really keep the kids front and center in any divorce.”
The approach also works for pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements, which Garrison much prefers to the traditional method:
“I love it when we’re working with younger couples, because it gives them a really supported environment to have hard conversations that most of us should be having in our late twenties or early thirties with our partner before we get married, and most of us don’t.”
“Not everybody can do collaborative,” says Garrison. “I tell folks straight up that if you can’t bear seeing your spouse on a zoom screen or sitting in the same room, it’s probably not going to work. But that’s also going to impact your kids, right? If you can’t show up for your children at a life event, that’s really sad, and so we try to get them resources to prepare them for those meetings…99% of the time, people can work things out with the support they need.” t
More information can be found at:
• International Academy of Collaborative Professionals, collaborativepractice.com.
• Collaborative Professionals Washington, collaborativeprofessionalsofwashington.org
• Whatcom Collaborative Law Professionals, whatcomcollaborativelaw.com
WRITTEN BY AUBREY BLACK | PHOTO COURTESY OF NEW PROSPECT THEATRE
SINCE OPENING IN December 2022, New Prospect Theatre has seen swaths of talent pass through its doors. Now, with the opening of the Ghost Light Cafe, the folks at New Prospect have created a space for performing artists to gather and hone their craft.
The New Prospect Theatre started a Theatrical Lending Library in the spring of 2024, where artists can borrow books and plays to read and study. The idea for the cafe came from the community created by the Lending Library, and The New Prospect Theatre created a space in the lobby to accommodate gathering creatives.
The Ghost Light Cafe serves root beer and kombucha on tap, Lotus spritzers, Italian sodas, and select packaged pastries from Raven Bakery. The New Prospect Theatre usually offers beer, wine, soft drinks, and concessions during their evening performances. With the opening of the cafe, they aim to offer casual options that encourage conversation and community, with a wide selection of show tunes playing in the background.
The goal of the Ghost Light Cafe is to create a “third place” for those interested in performing arts: a place where connections can be made outside of the “usual” places of home and work. The Ghost Light Cafe aims to be a laid-back gathering place for those who enjoy theatre both on and off the stage.
The Ghost Light Cafe is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. so that creatives of any kind can find the time to drop by. t
207 Prospect St., Bellingham, 360.685.7568, newprospecttheatre.org
WRITTEN BY KRISTEN BOEHM
Curious about the firefighters you’ve seen collecting money around town this summer? They’ve been volunteering for the Fill the Boot Program, a partnership between the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) and the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) to raise funds for people with neuromuscular diseases. The funds go toward research, care, and advocacy for these groups. The program started in Boston in 1954 after a group of families went to the Boston Firefighters to ask them to help fight muscular dystrophy. Since then, firefighters have been raising money all over America, with over $700 million raised so far!
Whatcom County Professional Fire Fighters, the “Local 106,” raises money for Fill the Boot annually. This year, these workers stood at the intersection of Meridian and Bakerview in early June to collect donations. Occasionally, they had people throw money at the firefighters when they drove by because they wanted to donate but weren’t at a stoplight! Others drove multiple times through intersections to donate more money. The Local 106 ended up raising $10,200 this June!
CHLOE NELSON
York is fairly small and dense, which contributes to its close-knit and friendly community. The York Neighborhood Association publishes “The Yorker,” a quarterly newsletter that shares information about community initiatives, projects, businesses, and events. There are annual picnics, holiday celebrations, and even a neighborhood-wide yard-party every summer called York Yard Crawl, which shows off Yorkers’ individual talents while celebrating the community spirit.
THE COMMUNITY BOATING Center (CBC) in Bellingham is about to get even more inclusive! The CBC has long offered access to watercraft, education, and safety equipment, enabling more community members to get out on the water. Now their new Wheelhouse Building, which includes ADAcompliant heated spaces with restrooms, showers, and classrooms, significantly expands CBC’s ability to offer inclusive and engaging boating programs. These programs cater to people of all ages and abilities, teaching safe boating practices, all while encouraging community and marine stewardship.
Initiated last fall, the construction of the Wheelhouse Building was achieved in part through the support of numerous donors and partners, including Exxel Pacific, the Port of Bellingham, and the Rotary Club of Bellingham.
The Wheelhouse Building is part of CBC’s goal for a fully accessible campus, dock, and fleet. Looking to the future, CBC plans to introduce adaptive gear for members with physical disabilities, along with switching to electric safety boats to reduce fossil fuel use. In 2025, CBC also plans to collaborate with the Port of Bellingham on the first accessible dock north of Everett.
Deb Dempsey, a founding board member, highlighted the community's collective effort in bringing the project to fruition.
The Wheelhouse Building marks a significant step in CBC’s mission to provide inclusive boating experiences, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the water.
For more information and to support the CBC, visit boatingcenter.org. 555 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.714.8891, boatingcenter.org KRISTY NGUYEN
Many of us know and love Everson’s Cloud Mountain Farm for their wide selection of plants and knowledgeable nursery staff, but if you’ve never attended one of their workshops you’re missing out!
The Community-Led Workshop series started last year and was developed with the goal of empowering community members with farming skills. The variety of classes is as diverse as our region—they’re taught by a range of professionals from the agricultural, food, floral, and other industries across northwest Washington, and include everything from willow weaving and rainwater harvesting to fruit tree propagation and tincture making.
Classes are currently scheduled to run into November, so there’s still plenty of time to learn how to make your own hand broom!
6906 Goodwin Road, Everson, 360.966.5859, cloudmountainfarmcenter.org ANNE GODENHAM
York is home to several long-standing businesses that are loved city-wide. Nelson’s Market, tucked amongst the homes of York, is a historic grocery and diner that’s been serving the neighborhood since 1895. It’s often used as a meeting space and community hub. Loving Space School is a preschool and kindergarten that focuses on creativity, curiosity, and play, opened in 1993.
York is one of Bellingham’s oldest neighborhoods, nearly in the middle of today’s city map and just minutes from downtown. It’s full of turn-of-the-20th-century homes with Victorian architecture. On a nice day, take a lovely stroll through York and enjoy all the greenery—most houses have yards with gardens, and the interstitial spaces are filled by tall trees, hedges, flowers, and other growth.
WRITTEN BY SADIE YOUNGQUIST
PHOTOS COURTESY OF D.W. ULSTERMAN
THE SAN JUAN Islands offer a unique experience, providing a sanctuary for the creative mind. The mystical beauty and rich history of these islands serve as the foundation for Author D.W. Ulsterman's bestselling San Juan Island Mystery Series. Ulsterman incorporates familiar scenes and landmarks, his attachment to the islands reflected through his quirky characters and vivid settings that capture the aura of this Northwest gem.
“I truly believe that the islands are a magical place,” he says. “I don't know how anybody can visit them and not come away going, ‘this place is different.’”
The fictional ten-book series follows the adventures of a young reporter as she uncovers secrets and solves mysteries spanning from Bellingham to the San Juans. Ulsterman credits the strong females in his own life for influencing the lead female characters in his books. When readers compliment him on representing the female characters so well despite being a man, he responds: “I listen to my wife; I’ve learned that’s what I should do,” acknowledging the value she has added to his character development over the years.
Much like the characters in his novels, Ulsterman draws inspiration from his own life experiences as a lifelong Washington resident and WWU alum. His days spent at Western were a time of significant growth, shaping scenes from around Bellingham that would later appear in his series.
“While studying in the basement of the Wilson library, there was a window near the ceiling by the desk I studied at that allowed you to look up and watch the feet of people as they passed by,” he recalls. “I would create stories about the person those shoes belonged to—sometimes it was humorous, sometimes it was more of a mysterious nature.”
Those experiences would later appear in his books, becoming some of the many settings in the series that resonate with local readers.
When not immersed in storytelling, Ulsterman can be found navigating the Salish Sea with his wife in their Hatteras sportfish, Mad Hatter. Now a full-time San Juan Island resident, he reflects on the impact the islands have had not only on his work, but on his quality of life.
“Since I've moved here, my blood pressure's down and I’m a little more patient. I wasn’t a patient man before,” he admits.
While exploring and interacting around the San Juans, Ulsterman seeks creative ways to capture the Islands’ charm and share it with his readers.
“As long as my fans keep reading, I will keep writing.”
Ulsterman plans to continue the series with the 11th installment, slated for release this fall. San Juan Island, facebook.com/author.dwulsterman t
WRITTEN BY EMMA RADOSEVICH
John le Carré meets “Kate and Leopold” in this genrebending debut.
An unnamed British civil servant transfers to a new hushhush department to work on a secret project: studying the effects of time travel on human subjects. She is paired with Lt. Graham Gore, a navy officer rescued from a doomed 1845 polar expedition, and assigned to work as his “bridge” to the 21st century. The pair live as unlikely roommates in London, where she reports on Gore and his reactions to modernity.
September 13-14
Orcas Island Fall Lit Walk
Eastsound and Anacortes, oilf.org
Immerse yourself in the Pacific Northwest's literary scene! Join the Orcas Island Lit Fest's Fall Lit Walk for author readings across Eastsound and Anacortes. This new event celebrates our local writers and gives authors from the San Juans a chance to reach new audiences in Anacortes!
“The Ministry of Time” by
Kaliane Bradley
As the bridge and her “expat” spend more time together, their relationship starts feeling less like a project and more like a friendship—or maybe more. But dangers are closing in: other expats start succumbing to the bodily effects of time travel. Gore has a stalker. And the bridge keeps receiving coded messages from an ex-colleague who has ethical concerns about the project’s true purpose.
Kaliane Bradley is testing out a lot of ideas here—some of them work better than others. This twisty debut novel is at its best when it leans into quippy dialogue and romance.
“Evenings & Weekends” by
Oisín McKenna
It’s the hottest weekend of the summer and the people of London are ready to let loose.
Phil and his housemates—including Keith, with whom he’s secretly in love—are planning a warehouse solstice party. Maggie, Phil’s best friend, is pregnant and wants one last hurrah in the city before she and her partner, Ed, move to the suburbs. A chance encounter on the Tube between Ed and Phil unearths a secret that they hid from Maggie for years. Meanwhile, Phil’s mother is in London for the weekend with some life-shattering news to share with him—if only he can make time for her.
Between bachelorette parties and dips in local swimming holes, everyone is tuned in to the biggest story of the summer: a beached whale in the River Thames and the marine biologist who looks uncannily like Princess Di.
Debut author Oisín McKenna brings London to life in joyful, chaotic glory. Sexy, sincere, and well worth an evening (or weekend) spent reading.
September 13, 7 p.m.
An Evening with Jodi Picoult, “By Any Other Name”
WWU Performing Arts Center
516 High St., Bellingham 360.650.6146, cfpa.wwu.edu/happening
This event celebrates Jodi Picoult's new novel about two women, centuries apart, who defied societal expectations to write plays under male pseudonyms. Expect a discussion about ambition, courage, and the fight for creative expression.
September 26, 6-7 p.m.
Shoshana D. Kerewsky, “Cancer, Kintsugi, Camino: A Memoir” and “50 Days in May: Reflections Along the Camino de Santiago”
Village Books, 1200 11th St., Bellingham 360.671.2626, villagebooks.com
Local author Shoshana D. Kewersky shares her books about her experiences on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. Her reflections explore themes of faith, identity, and self-discovery.
WRITTEN BY KOLBY LABREE OF THE GOOD TIME GIRLS
September 3, 1919: The Bell Theatre was showing “Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm,” featuring America’s Little Sweetheart Mary Pickford. Admission was 15 cents, war tax included. The theater was located in what is now the left half of the Horseshoe Café.
September 8, 1894: The Blade newspaper announced that the new location of its office on Dock Street (Cornwall) was: “next door to a gun store, and we have made satisfactory arrangements with the gun men. Indignant subscribers take notice and govern themselves accordingly.”
September 16, 1885 : Charles Roth and Lottie Roeder were the first couple to be married at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in the “Parish Hall” building that is still standing on Walnut Street.
Hy’oltse Shirley Bob WITH JULIE TRIMINGHAM
SINCE 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.
Hy’oltse Shirley Bob is a mother, a grandmother, and a Lummi tribal member. Currently she is the Family Cultural Coordinator at Behavioral Health. She has served in many capacities in the education system at Lummi Nation. Additionally, she was a leader in the cultural and spiritual work to bring the qwe’lhol’mechen (orca) Sk’aliCh’elhtenaut (Tokitae / Lolita) out of captivity and back home to the Salish Sea.
I have two Indian names. Xwe ti mi itse and Hy’oltse. And I use Hy’oltse. I’m a Lummi elder. Shirley Bob. I work for Behavioral Health as a cultural coordinator. I’ve worked with Lummi for years. I worked in Head Start since ’72 until 2016 or ’17. Child Welfare, Childcare, Lummi Language, Head Start. I’ve been with education for years, since my kids are small.
I enjoy working with families. Really proud of the children that I’m working with now and in the past. The young leaders at Lummi—Chairman, Vice-Chair, Council members, Director of Child Welfare—those were my Head Start babies. Two of my students have been my bosses. I’m walking with them all and proud of each one. I know it wasn’t just me, it was their families, but what I instilled in them when they were young in Head Start must have stayed with them, because I always talked about love and kindness and how to carry yourself. I didn’t think they were listening, but they were, because look at them now. And I follow them. I follow each one of them, make sure that they’re all okay. I feel bad for the ones that didn’t make it, left the Red Road and they’re gone now, had to follow them to the cemetery.
I learned a lot, and I tell you right now, I don’t know everything. I’m just a person like everybody else. What I teach comes from my heart, and from what I learned when I was growing up, from my elders. That doesn’t come out unless it’s ready to come out. You speak from your heart. Words come out. Sometimes, when I have to get up and talk, that’s what happens to me. I’ll ask my kids later, did I say anything to hurt anybody? Because you always have to say it. I’m sorry if I offended anybody, I apologize. They say, No, Mom, you
done really good. Because it’s not me talking, it’s the ancestors talking through me, telling me what I need to say. The words just come out. I can’t explain it.
That’s who I am.
If it wasn’t for my mother and father and the elders that my dad brought me around to, I wouldn’t be where I’m at today. My directors, the bosses that worked with me when I was going to school, if it wasn’t for them, wasn’t for Head Start, and the classes and training that I got through them, I wouldn’t be where I’m at. All those people helped me, my mom and dad especially.
There’s a saying my dad gave me—he was on Council at the time, and he went through a lot—anyway, he says, Babe, I want you to say this every time you’re down and out: I’m good, I’m great, I can conquer anything. You say that every day in your mind, two, three hundred times a day, or just think it, when you’re having problems. I’m good, I’m great, I can conquer anything. That’ll build your confidence back up. It does, I’ve done it. When I teach the kids, when I talk to them, I tell them, and they love it. I see it on their little posts, or whatever. I’m good. I’m great. So it’s a good affirmation.
My mother always said to pray and ask God for guidance, and that’s what I do. I pray. I don’t go to church. I believe in God. I go to different churches when I feel like going.
The elders say, Walk your talk, and listen. You don’t add anything. You don’t take anything away.
In life. Walk head high, and believe in yourself, and believe in who you are and where you come from. That’s who you are. Be proud of who you are.
The way we are, we live the life that is our culture. We all have cultures, we all have traditions that we live by, so follow that. Do that to the best of your ability, don’t take anything away, don’t add, just do what you need to do. Take care of you and your family. Raise them in a good way, not with anger about what happened years ago—that was done, that’s gone now. Come back here to where you’re at, and move forward.
Walk together. Learn how to live with each other. Indian, non-Indians. Learn how to walk this life together. Because nobody’s better than the other, nobody. In God’s eyes, we’re no better than the other. We’re all brothers and sisters, no matter what color you are, still brothers and sisters. t
Julie Trimingham is grateful to make her home on traditional Lhaq’temish territory, and to work for the Sacred Lands Conservancy (sacredsea.org), an Indigenous-led 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the life, culture, and sanctity of the Salish Sea.
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY ANNE GODENHAM
FOR SO MANY of us, Seattle is a medical or entertainment destination—the kind of place you go for a few hours or a day trip. But one of the benefits of spending a whole weekend there is the opportunity to experience more of the city at a slower pace. And to eat more good things, of course!
One of my favorite neighborhoods to stay in is South Lake Union, and Astra Hotel, Seattle, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel is a great choice for a bit of luxury without any stuffiness. The hotel’s decor is an homage to space travel—‘astra’ means ‘to the stars’ in Latin—down to the constellation-patterned carpets.
“We came up with that name because of the neighborhood that we live in,” says Alleah Pac, Astra’s director of sales and marketing.
“It's always been a hub of progress, [from] when it used to be [mostly] shipyards to now, the tech giants—the neighborhood is very innovative… that's how we came up with the name: forwardthinking and evolving and…launching into space and to the stars.”
The tech-y window shades and space-themed art are great, but by far my (and my son’s) favorite innovation was Sparky, the hotel’s robot butler, who’ll bring a little dental care kit right to your door should you happen to forget yours. He also carries other amenities, snacks, and even room service; my son’s fear turned quickly to love, and the chocolate Sparky brought us only fueled his obsession. We couldn’t walk through the lobby without saying hi to Sparky, and our heartbreak at saying goodbye on our last morning was only eased by the stuffed version of him we brought home with us in the car.
We popped downstairs on our first night for dinner at the hotel’s all-ages restaurant, Otium Grill & Greens (if our son hadn’t been with us, we definitely would have added a drink at the stunning 21+ rooftop bar, ALTITUDE Sky Lounge). We parked ourselves on a curve of the “wavy couch” next to a stunning tiled mural of tropical birds and tucked into Grilled Chicken Inasal—was well worth the 30-minute wait the server warned us of, and in the meantime we devoured The Kraken (crispy fried “shrimp, tubes, & tents”) and the Otium Salad, which was like an elevated little gem Caesar with mint and bacon. Our son’s Otium’s Beecher’s Mac & Cheese satisfied his hunger for all things cheesy while also giving us indulgent leftovers to snack on the next morning.
I crept away during naptime on Saturday to visit Smith Tower right at opening (12 p.m.), which meant it was easy to grab a table by the window to take in the sweeping views of the sound and city. After taking far too many photos of the 1914 building’s gorgeous architectural and historical
details on my way up to the 35th floor, I took my turn around the viewing platform (and took the requisite selfies), then came back inside to indulge in a delicious Ahi Tuna Bowl an Observatory Sour cocktail, which was incredible, with tart passionfruit, tequila, and Creme de Peche.
I met up with my boys back at the hotel and we headed down to the waterfront to catch a boat tour, after which we grabbed an early dinner at Elliot’s Oyster House. Don’t let their waterfront location and longstanding fame fool you: Elliot’s isn’t resting on its laurels. Everything we ate was fresh and delicious, the service was attentive without being distracting, and the entire experience vastly exceeded our high expectations. We started with a dozen oysters (but of course) and a Single Crab Cake and White Clam Chowder for the little one—he absolutely devoured the chowder, and my husband and I stole most of his crab cake. For mains, my husband had
the tender and tangy Tequila Lime Mussels and I had the Grilled Copper River Sockeye Salmon, which was cooked to perfection and so tasty I had to fight off the kiddo. We were too full to indulge in dessert, which was the only (self-made) disappointment of the meal!
On our last morning, we took a short walk to the nearest Café Hagen, a small, upscale local chain with wonderful coffee and unbearably good pastries. We opted for the Weekend Brunch Board because it offered both sweet and savory options and gave us plenty to choose from in attempting to get our kid to eat some real food.
Do Smith Tower is a definite don’t-miss, and it’s right near Pioneer Square, where you can walk across the gorgeous tree-lined plaza, grab a drink from Zeitgeist Coffee and listen to whatever music is playing (on the day I visited it was a full band, courtesy of an Amazon event), or stop in at cool shops like Glasshouse Studio or Seattle’s National Park Store.
It’s also worth making time for a bay cruise with Argosy Cruises, a family-owned, Seattle-operated company that’s been running cruises for more than 75 years. Even on a cloudy, windy day, the one-hour Seattle's Original Harbor Cruise was the perfect activity for our little family—it would be equally great for kid-free adults. The rain held off just long enough for us to get a fabulous view of Seattle’s various
waterfront neighborhoods, and our born-and-bred-local guide, John, offered historical and anecdotal insights that kept us engaged and taught us a few new things while we snacked on popcorn and watched the waves. t
AS THE LEAVES blaze with color and a crisp breeze whispers through the air, the North Sound region comes alive with vibrant community festivals. These celebrations are a chance to connect with your neighbors and rediscover the magic of the place you call home. So grab a locally brewed beer (or cider!), and get ready to dive into five fall festivals that will make your weekends unforgettable.
1
B’Town Fall Fest
Free family fun in Burlington! B'town Fall Fest offers a Kid Zone, vendors, pumpkin flinging, and yummy eats at Skagit River Park. Sept. 28-29, 10 a.m.-3 p.m, 1100 S. Skagit St., Burlington, burlingtonwa.gov
2
Bellingham SeaFeast
Bellingham SeaFeast transforms Bellingham Bay into a foodie haven! Savor fresh seafood, browse local art, and dive into maritime fun with live music, engaging activities, and unique vendors. Oct. 5-6, Zuanich Point Park & Fisherman’s Pavilion, 2600 N. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham, bellinghamseafeast.org
3
25th Annual Mount Baker Film Fest
Bellingham's Mt. Baker Film Fest showcases winter sports films by local creators. Held annually in October, the event features premieres, competitions, and a chance to celebrate the snowy season on the big screen! Oct. 24, Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mtbaker.us
4
Bier Near the Pier
Anacortes' annual craft beer festival is back with a new name and location this year! Held in early October, this event features local and regional breweries showcasing their best IPAs, stouts, and more. Oct. 4-Oct. 5, Depot Arts and Community Center, 611 R Ave., Anacortes, anacortes.org
5 Hops on the Rock Beer Festival
Hops on the Rock is Orcas Island's annual beer festival held over Veterans Day weekend. It features local craft beers, ciders, and wines alongside food vendors and live music. Held outdoors, it's a community celebration of amazing drinks! Nov. 9, Main St., Eastsound
September 14
Explore our local farms at your own pace during the self-guided Whatcom County Farm Tour! Visit 17 participating farms, meet local farmers, enjoy fresh produce, and learn about sustainable agriculture practices in the Pacific Northwest. This free event is a great way to support local farms and experience the bounty of Whatcom County! 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Whatcom County, sustainableconnections.org
September 3 & 10
Lovers of Whatcom history, don’t miss the last two dates of The Whatcom Museum’s annual History Sunset Cruise. Local legend Brian Griffin, an instrumental figure in Bellingham’s development, will narrate as you sail by historic landmarks and sights. Guests will have the run of the San Juan Cruise’s Victoria Star ship, including two levels of indoor-outdoor seating, an on-board snack bar, and beers, wines, and cocktails for purchase. 6-8 p.m., Bellingham Cruise and Ferry Terminal, 355 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.778.8930, whatcommuseum.org
September 21
This free, family-fun event is held annually in September at Christianson's Nursery & Greenhouse in Mount Vernon. It celebrates fall with a giant pumpkin weigh-off for hobbyists and growers, with a chance to win cash prizes. Visitors can also enjoy live music, food, a hay maze, a toad observatory, and carnival games! 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Christianson’s Nursery, 15806 Best Rd., Mount Vernon, 360.466.3821, christiansonsnursery.com
September 7
Skagit’s longest-running craft brew festival has new showrunners: after 21 years, the Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce is taking over running the festival from Lincoln Theatre. Don’t worry, BrewFest will be just as much of a celebration of craft beer, wine, cider, tasty food, and live music as ever, and a portion of ticket sales will still benefit Lincoln Theatre. Find the festival at its new location at the south end of the Skagit Riverwalk! 2-7 p.m., Skagit Riverwalk, S. 1st St. & W. Broadway, Mount Vernon, 360.428.8547, mountvernonchamber.com
September 22
Whatcom County’s only all-vegan festival! Created to celebrate all things vegan, this free event features local businesses and nonprofits, all committed to the health and sustainability of our planet. Activities include food, art & crafts, local goods, raffles, and music. Bellingham Veg Fest is perfect for both the long-time vegans and the vegan curious! 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Barkley Village Green, 2215 Rimland Dr., Bellingham, bellinghamvegfest.org
September 5-8
Experience the richness of Greek culture at Bellingham Greekfest. The community of St. Sophia invites you to enjoy traditional music and dance performances, Greek cuisine and sweets, and don’t forget the beer garden! With free parking and free entry, there’s no reason to miss out on this annual celebration of Greece in Bellingham! St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Church, 510 E. Sunset Dr., Bellingham, bellinghamgreekfest.org
September 6-8
Immerse yourself in music and art at this Orcas Island festival. World-class musicians take the stage alongside stunning visual art installations, creating a weekend of artistic discovery. Workshops fuel creativity, while the breathtaking natural setting adds an unforgettable touch. Prepare to be inspired—this festival celebrates imagination brought to life. Doe Bay Resort & Retreat, 107 Doe Bay Rd., Olga, imaginegathering.com
September 7
September 7
Hit the teal waters of Bellingham Bay to raise awareness and funds for ovarian cancer research through STAAR Ovarian Cancer Foundation. Bring your own or rent any non-motorized watercraft (be it canoe, kayak, or paddleboard) for a fun paddle that launches from the Community Boating Center at noon. Afterwards, head to Skylark's from 2-4 p.m. for music, food, drinks, and prizes! Register at staaroc.co/tealwave. 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Community Boating Center, 555 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.714.8891, staaroc.co/tealwave
The Chuckanut Classic is a signature cycling race held annually by the Mount Baker Bicycle Club. It offers stunning Pacific Northwest scenery with routes for all levels, ranging from a family-friendly 10-mile course to a challenging 100-mile century ride. Mark your calendars if you're looking for a scenic cycling adventure in Bellingham! 7 a.m.- 4 p.m., Portal Container Village, 298 W. Laurel St., Bellingham, chuckanutclassic.org
WRITTEN BY TINA L. KIES | PHOTO BY GEN OF EVE PHOTOGRAPHY
THIS FALL, THE Skagit County Fairgrounds in Mount Vernon will once again transform into a vibrant haven for enthusiasts of the elusive Bigfoot and fans of lively community gatherings. The 3rd Annual Skagit BigFoot Fest, scheduled for September 27-29, promises an unforgettable experience, blending local artistry, music, and a touch of mythological allure.
“Skagit BigFoot Fest is about being the good in our community,” says Marla Chapa, founder of Skagit BigFoot Fest and owner of Marla & Company, the festival’s Title Sponsor this year. “It’s also about believing in yourself even when no one else does.”
In response to the overwhelming success of last year’s event, the festival has expanded to three thrilling days. This year's festival is set to dazzle with over 100 local vendors, ranging from artisanal crafts to innovative businesses, each showcasing the rich tapestry of our region's talent. The eclectic mix extends to nearly 20 live performances on two stages, ensuring continuous entertainment throughout the weekend. Complementing the musical extravaganza, food trucks will cater to diverse palates, and a 21+ beer and wine garden will offer curated selections for connoisseurs. There’s something for the kids, too—an epic Kids Zone featuring fun, interactive activities for the young and the young at heart!
For the adventurous spirits, day two of the festival will kick off with a 5K fun run (September 28), circling the fairgrounds before the main gates open. This event also features an exclusive VIP room, available for those seeking an elevated experience amidst all the festivities.
Noteworthy is the festival's commitment to community and local heroes. Chapa, a Navy veteran and affiliate of the Homes for Heroes real estate program, wanted to ensure that the festival recognized and gave back to all heroes. Day two of the festival will extend a special 25% discount for all heroes, from first responders and educators to those serving in the armed forces.
“Skagit BigFoot Fest is a celebration of our unique area and the spirit of resilience that defines us,” adds Chapa. “The support we’ve received from our community to continue this event, and even grow it, underscores our mission to celebrate and bolster local businesses while fostering a strong sense of community spirit.”
Family-friendly until 7 p.m., the festival ensures a welcoming environment for all ages, with free entry for children under 5 and BigFoot-costumed attendees.
The Skagit BigFoot Fest is more than a celebration of folklore; it’s a tribute to local culture and economy, a festival where mystery meets community, and where every moment is a step toward a brighter, more connected future. For more details and ticketing, visit www.skagitbigfootfest.com.
BIKE MS: DECEPTION PASS CLASSIC
September 7-8
Conquer Deception Pass on two wheels! The Deception Pass Classic offers scenic rides with stunning views of the San Juan Islands. Choose from routes suited to your endurance (1-100 miles) and cycle for a great cause: raising funds for multiple sclerosis research. Starting both days at the Skagit County Fairgrounds, Day 1’s routes will take you south, while Day 2’s travel north. 7 a.m., Skagit County Fairgrounds, 501 Taylor St., Mount Vernon, events.nationalmssociety.org
SKAGIT FLATS MARATHON
September 8
Experience the beauty of the Skagit Valley at the Skagit Flats Marathon! This scenic course winds through Skagit farmlands and rural roads, offering a unique running experience known for being the flattest Boston qualifier in all of Washington State. Choose from a marathon, half marathon, or 5-mile distance to challenge yourself and take in the breathtaking views. 8:15 a.m., Burlington-Edison High School, 301 N. Burlington Blvd., Burlington, skagitflats. skagitrunners.org
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.
WRITTEN BY ANNE GODENHAM | PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE SKAGIT Y
On July 25, around 100 people—staff, members, and supporters of the Skagit YMCA, including Mount Vernon Mayor Peter Donovan—gathered in the gymnasium of the Hoag Road building for the first annual ‘Celebration of the Skagit Y.’ Attendees dined on food from Max Dale’s Steak & Chop House while they listened to addresses from Y CEO Dean Snider and heard blessings and stories from members of the Upper Skagit Indian Tribe. Three big announcements were made: the addition of new exercise equipment to the fitness center; the upcoming rebuild of the Oasis Youth Shelter building; and the planned expansion of Camp Anderson’s outdoor programming. The event’s Presenting Sponsor was TRICO Companies, LLC, and Puget Sound Energy and Miles Sand & Gravel were Supporting Sponsors.
AN EVENING WITH LIANE MORIARTY
September 10
“Big Little Lies” author Liane Moriarty is coming to Bellingham to promote her new book, “Here One Moment.” Village Books has arranged for her to speak at Bellingham High School, and admission ($40) includes a copy of the book. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., so get there early to grab a good seat! 7-8 p.m., 2020 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, villagebooks.com
September 15
The ÖTILLÖ Swimrun originated in the Baltic Sea off the coast of Sweden. A group of friends competed to see who could cross the islands of the Stockholm archipelago the fastest, using only their bodies over land and sea. On Orcas Island, the swimrun course features swims in crisp lakes and runs through forested mountains as competitors race to the finish. Rosario Resort Beach House, 1630 Rosario Rd., Eastsound, otilloswimrun.com
MT. BAKER HILL CLIMB
September 15
Test your cycling endurance at the annual Mt. Baker Hill Climb! This challenge ascends nearly 4,500 feet, taking riders up the scenic Mt. Baker Highway all the way to Artist Point. Brace yourself for steep climbs and switchbacks, but be rewarded with breathtaking views from the finish line. 7 a.m.-12 p.m., Chair 9 Woodstone Pizza & Sports Bar, 10459 Mt. Baker Hwy., Ste. A, Glacier, bakerhillclimb.com
September 18
Come celebrate the winners of the Youth Peace Poetry Contest! Hosted by the Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center, the annual contest encourages Whatcom County youth to write creatively around the central theme of peace. During this free event at Village Books, local youth will read their award-winning poetry aloud. 6-7 p.m., Village Books, 1200 11th St., Bellingham, 360.671.2626, villagebooks.com
September 21
Challenge yourself at the Anacortes Half Marathon! This route winds through Fidalgo Island, offering stunning views of the San Juan Islands. Choose from a half marathon or a 5K to test your limits and enjoy the beautiful views along the waterfront. Half marathon runners get a sweet beanie for participating! 8 a.m., Swinomish Casino and Lodge, 12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes, 888.288.8883, @anacortes_half on Instagram
September 20-21
With more than 170 vendors attending, the 30th installment of the annual Fall Garage Sale is set to be a real doozy of a humdinger! Come on Saturday for the classic car show, or come either day for live music, tasty food, and a ton of antiques, crafts, and other browseable wares. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 501 Taylor St., Mount Vernon, 360.416.1350, skagitcounty.net
September 22
Indulge in "Waffles in Paradise" at Welcome Road Winery! This monthly brunch series happens every third Sunday and features delicious waffles made with local ingredients. Chef Ruby's creations range from sweet (fresh berries) to savory (kimchi!), with local cheese and jam completing the experience. Pair your waffles with mimosas or specialty coffees for a delightful brunch experience! 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Welcome Road Winery, 300 W. Champion St., Bellingham, 206.272.0953, eatlocalfirst.org
September 21
Polish up your classic car for the 10th annual Fall Car Showdown in Skagit Valley! This event features a dazzling array of vehicles, from vintage cars to motorcycles. All classes of vehicles are welcome! Enjoy live music, delicious food, and awards ceremonies. With the addition of a garage and antique sale, it’s a fun day for car enthusiasts and families alike! 9 a.m.-3:15 p.m., Skagit County Fairgrounds, 501 Taylor St., Mount Vernon, 360.416.1350, skagitcounty.net
September 22
Challenge yourself in the annual Bellingham Bay Marathon! Runners can choose from a marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, or relay. It winds along Bellingham Bay with views of the San Juan Islands and North Cascades mountains, making it one of the most beautiful and popular races in the Pacific Northwest. 6:45 a.m.-2 p.m., Depot Market Square, 1100 Railroad Ave., Bellingham, bellinghambaymarathon.org
September 28
The Fidalgo Trail Run winds through the trails of Deception Pass State Park. This scenic race offers courses for all levels, taking runners through forests, meadows, and along the stunning coastline. Be prepared for a stretch over the Deception Pass Bridge (with breathtaking views, if you dare to look down!). 7 a.m.-4 p.m., Bowman Bay, 41229 State Route 20, Oak Harbor, evergreentrailruns.com
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Located at the crossroads of Hannegan and Pole Roads at Hinote’s Corner, Haven + May has quickly become Whatcom County’s go-to place for elegant but still vibey home goods, gifts, and curated women’s fashion.
Walking into this store makes you feel cool. High ceilings and huge windows fill the place with light while quiet, lo-fi beats drift from overhead. The shop’s owner, 28-year-old entrepreneur Madeline Kusch, works the counter every day, ensuring her shop is a welcoming “haven” where clients can add a little calm and beauty to everyday life.
Kusch graduated from the Apparel, Textiles, and Merchandising program at Central Washington University in 2017. She worked her way up in retail to eventually become a buyer in the sports apparel industry in Seattle, all while launching a business making her own line of scented candles in 2020. Kusch visited Lynden frequently to visit her husband Ian’s family. When the couple saw a new retail and business complex being built amongst the berry fields, golf course, and bustling intersection of Hannegan and Pole, they decided to take the plunge, becoming the new development’s first tenants to open for business.
Kusch’s house-made line of candles and wax melts anchors the store’s inventory, but you’ll also find locallyproduced teas, coffees, soaps, and art prints, as well as a curated selection of the coolest denim crop jackets and knitwear I’ve seen this year.
The shelves of tinted glassware caught my eye as soon as I walked in. Precisely merchandised in an ombre fashion, the delicate flower-shaped coupe glasses functioned almost as a work of art and inspired me to think about what I could fill them with. The prettiest cocktail? Mocktail? Even a simple dessert of berries with whipped cream?
But the shop also abounds with elegant souvenirs and hostess gifts such as bath bombs from Ginger June, another woman-owned company located in Hayden, Idaho.
Kusch makes a concerted effort to find and showcase woman-owned businesses local to the Pacific Northwest, so the soaps, teas, coffees and even art prints share that same subdued funky vibe so specific to our region.
The Haven + May “Rise + Pine” dough bowl candle and “Berry Season” seasonal candle are very popular. The house made wax melts are perfect for clients who want warm, sustained fragrance without having an open flame. 6900 Hannegan Rd., Ste 104, Lynden, havenandmay.com t
MADRONA WEAR IS a local business dedicated to giving your activewear new life and keeping torn-up activewear out of the landfill.
The name Madrona comes from the Madrona tree which is a sign of a healthy ecosystem for biologists, which Owner West Persons discovered through years of climbing and being outside. He says of Madrona Wear: “being here in town, it's kind of a landmark of a healthy town where people can go to get their gear fixed.”
Persons started Madrona Wear in 2020, after years working at outdoor companies and realizing there was a huge need for repairing outdoor wear. Lots of people came in looking for a simple repair, but nobody in the retail space was up to the task, resulting in thrown out active wear and expensive replacements. West had some sewing skills, so he took on some clients—he now repairs items from all over the country, even as far away as New York!
Persons doesn’t just fix items; he puts a creative twist on them as well, using a unique thread color or cool patch to give the piece a unique flair.
“We try to be colorful and unique and bright,” he says. “Here in the PNW we get a lot of rain and … dark days and so we're constantly trying to find times to put bright fabric into people's clothes for repair.”
And even pieces that are unfixable get used! All the good parts are either harvested for hardware, used on other pieces, or used as practice or to calibrate the industrial sewing machines. Any scraps that can’t be used in-house are
passed on to a company that recycles them and reuses the fibers and makes new fabric and new products.
The most common repair job Persons encounters is broken zippers, which cause a lot of people to throw out clothing. But on a $100 jacket, it’s worth paying a fraction of the price of a new one to get the zipper fixed.
Madrona also hosts events where they do as many free repairs as they can within a limited time, and they’ve been asked by bigger outdoorsy events if they want to have a booth to do repairs on site for the bikers, climbers, etc.
A big goal for the future of Madrona Wear is to set it up where the community can also attempt to fix their own pieces. There will still be employees there to do repairs, but for the people who just need access to an industrial machine or a buckle or a scrap of fabric this will be the perfect outlet to be able to fix your gear!
When you bring a piece of clothing to Madrona Wear, Persons and his team analyze the garment and give honest feedback on whether or not they can repair it, as well as an estimate of how much it will cost. If it’s unfixable or the cost of repair is too high, you can donate the piece and Madrona will use it for scraps, sewing practice, and calibrating the machines.
Madrona Wear is a great place to shop, get repairs, and meet other people with the same passions for the outdoors. Stop in and visit this local business helping better our planet while helping the community better it too. With their amazing staff and incredible seam work you’ll be blown away at the beauty of Madrona Wear. t
KRISTEN BOEHM
CHERRY BOMB ESTHETICS and Tattoo is a unique beauty collective in downtown Bellingham.
Co-Founders Kelli Morones and Tyleranne Armstrong want to break the industry’s mold of a typical beauty studio experience.
Morones and Armstrong met as cohorts in the first graduating class of Bellingham’s Evergreen Beauty College branch, where they gravitated toward each other due to their shared experience not quite fitting in with the rest of their classmates.
“I feel like the beauty industry can attract a very specific person, and we were both more of the alternative-type people in school,” says Morones. To get ahead of the competitive nature of their industry and bring their unique styles to the Bellingham market, the two joined forces and opened Cherry Bomb just six months after graduating from Evergreen.
Self-described as an “inclusive beauty collective,” Cherry Bomb wants to bring accessibility, inclusivity, and individuality to the esthetician’s realm. Both Morones and Armstrong felt that gendered pricing and language in the industry are outdated and, at times, condescending. Afterall, would you really want to go in and ask for a “mankini” wax?
“There are a lot of places [where] if you’re assigned male at birth, you’re going to get charged more,” says Morones. “I just feel like in the industry as it is, it was probably pretty prohibitive for people who didn’t fall into a binary to get services.”
“For me personally, I was really [focused on] body inclusivity,” says Armstrong. “You see a lot of the time in spas, a certain look of a person [being more represented], but also… they don’t have a lot of accessibility for people who weren’t born in a straight-sized body, or a non-disabled body.”
On top of that, some folks who lean into alternative looks can feel unwelcome in a typical salon. That won’t be a problem in Cherry Bomb’s bright-green-and-pink lobby, Morones’s all-black studio with a wall-mounted skull, or in Armstrong’s bubblegum pink studio.
Armstrong focuses on eyebrows, eyelash lifts and tints, facial waxing, and facial skincare, and was recently certified in tooth gems. Morones offers body waxing and lash extensions, and has extra-fun options like bright colors, tinsel, and UV-glow lashes. It’s important to both of them to offer esthetics services that provide more opportunity for customizing your look.
“It’s not just like correcting a flaw or making someone necessarily ‘more beautiful,’ but making someone feel good on the outside … just like tattoos and piercings, it’s the same thing. It’s not just like a beauty standard thing, more of a selfexpression thing,” says Morones.
When Cherry Bomb moved to its new larger location earlier this year, they were joined by two tattoo artists, Anna (Banana Wheels Tattoo) and Tiger Varah (Tattoos by Tiger). This is a step toward Cherry Bomb’s goal of functioning as a beauty collective, a space where different independent specialists can offer their services, and where customers can one-stop-shop and support small, local providers. Cherry Bomb hopes to run more flash events and find the right nail technician to join the collective in the near future. They also proudly offer a 15% discount to all students and school employees with a valid school ID.
“We are definitely a non-traditional but fun experience,” says Armstrong. “We want everyone to come and enjoy.” 1210 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.726.2372, cherrybombesthetics.com t
1. Medical Weight Loss: Semaglutide & Tirzepatide | Price Varies Peak Hydration IV Therapy & Wellness Lounge 1216 Bay St., Bellingham peakhydrationlounge.com, 360.526.2125
4. Local Winter CSA | $575 Boldly Grown Farm 8855 Ershig Rd., Bow boldlygrownfarm.com, 360.330.4516
2. “Space Dust” by NW77th in black gold with Avulux migraine relief lenses. | Frame $250, lens price depends on style. Binyon Vision 411 Magnolia St., Bellingham binyonvision.com, 360.647.2020
5. International, US, and military flags | prices vary Obsessed With Flags & Gifts
314 E. Holly Street, Bellingham 360.647.0807
3. Hot Honey Made With Raw Local Honey and Spices | $18 Marie’s Bees mariesbees.com, 360.224.2387
6. Mexican Wines from Beso Imports (Anacortes) | prices vary Skagit Valley Food Co-op 202 S 1st Street, Mount Vernon 360.336.9777
2 4
EMBRACE THE CHARM of fall with some cute crochet! Crochet pieces are perfect for the upcoming cold weather, blending timeless charm with modern style. Cozy and fashionable, they add warmth and texture to any wardrobe. This season, embrace the trend with stylishly crocheted cardigans, flats, and accessories. KRISTY NGUYEN
1 Repeat Cotton Knit Cardigan with Tie Neckline Quinn and Foster, $245 402 11th St., Bellingham 360.671.2000 quinnandfoster.com
2
Ariana Ost All The Extras Hair Bow Free People, $48 freepeople.com
3
Kelsi Dagger Brooklyn Frankie Crochet Ballet Flats Anthropologie, $99 anthropologie.com
4 Crochet Sunflower Pearl Earrings Earthbound Trading Co., $13 1 Bellis Fair Pkwy, Bellingham 360.671.3559 earthboundtrading.com
5 Faye Sweater Adored Boutique, $68 913 Harris Ave., Bellingham shopadoredboutique.com
If you’re looking for culture and arts, you’re in the right place: from ceramics to ballet, galleries to circus performances, the North Sound has it all! We’re lucky to be surrounded by incredible artists, performers, and craftspeople, and our community knows how to support them all with engaging functions and stunning exhibits.
The slower, more indoorsy seasons of fall and winter are a great time to reinvigorate our connection to the arts. We’ve got a great guide to get you started, with some of our favorite arts organizations and events—plus ways to get involved personally!
The Lincoln Theatre has been a Mount Vernon gem since its opening day in April 1926, nearly a century ago.
“[Our mission] is to entertain, inform, and inspire our diverse community through cinema, live performance, and educational programs while preserving the historic Lincoln Theatre,” says Damond Morris, the executive director of the Lincoln Theatre. The Lincoln’s calendar boasts live concerts of every genre, theatrical performances from local troupes like NITE Theatre (previously META Performing Arts) and Theatre Arts Guild (TAG), streamed opera and Broadway performances, comedy shows, new and classic films, and other special events.
Program Director Karl Freske was a cofounder at Bellingham’s Film is Truth 24 Times a Second video archive, which unfortunately closed in 2022 after approximately 25 years. After managing that collection of over 20,000 titles, it’s unsurprising that his interesting taste is reflected in his film series, which Morris says can revolve around interesting themes like “French holiday films or 1970s dystopian films.”
“Arts education is another area in which we excel,” says Morris. “Skagit Theatre Camp has been in operation since 2016, and we have now added a second theater camp, separating younger campers from teens. Forty campers spend two weeks learning how to create a theatrical production, dancing, acting, and singing.” Their two-year-old program, Lincoln Players Theater School, also runs classes in Fall, Winter, and Spring.
“The Lincoln works with the community to celebrate culture and connect the content on stage and screen to the mission of local organizations,” he says. This year, Lincoln Theatre worked with Ramon Rivera, who heads both the Mariachi and Folklorico and Latinos in Action programs at Mount Vernon High School, to scale his 2023 Cinco de Mayo concert up into the 2024 Cinco de Mayo Parade through Downtown Mount Vernon. Rivera’s students were integral parts of the process.
The Lincoln Theatre is also currently raising funds for its “Keep Cool” campaign. They’re aiming to update the HVAC system, double ADA seating in the theater, and add ADA lifts between the greenroom, backstage, and stage, plus an ADA bathroom and dressing room in the greenroom
“We are halfway to our goal of $3.2 million for the improvements,” says Morris. “Everyone, onstage and off, will have access to the Lincoln.” 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon, 360.336.8955, lincolntheatre.org
Candlelight Concert: A Tribute to Coldplay on Strings
7 p.m., September 13
Lincoln Theatre
712 S. First St., Mount Vernon
“Arsenic and Old Lace”
Presented by the Theatre Arts Guild September 27-October 13
Lincoln Theatre
712 S. First St., Mount Vernon
Skagit Drag - The Halloween Show
6 p.m., October 19
Lincoln Theatre
712 S. First St., Mount Vernon
“Legally Blonde The Musical” November 8-23
Presented by NITE Theatre
Lincoln Theatre
712 S. First St., Mount Vernon
Skagit County
The theatrical arts are alive and well in Skagit County thanks to organizations like the Theatre Arts Guild, NITE Theatre, Shakespeare Northwest, and the Anacortes Community Theatre. The Skagit Valley Academy of Dance in Mount Vernon, Fidalgo DanceWorks in Anacortes, and the Academy of Dance in Burlington provide all-ages dance education and recitals.
At the crux of theater and music, the Pacific Northwest Opera weaves stories with their voices and high-value productions. Skagit boasts many music organizations, including the Skagit Symphony, Skagit Valley Chorale, Fidalgo Youth Symphony, Skagit Community Band, and various music departments at Skagit’s educational facilities. Catch live concerts not only at Lincoln Theatre and McIntyre Hall, but also at the Conway Muse in Conway and The Heart of Anacortes outdoor venue.
“Sweeney Todd” October 3-27
Anacortes Community Theatre
918 M. Ave, Anacortes
McIntyre Hall is the product of a region-wide desire for a premier performing arts center. Skagit Community Foundation says that, in 1991, a small group of civic leaders in Anacortes arranged a fundraising concert to establish the first endowment for what would become McIntyre Hall.
In 2001, the Skagit Regional Public Facilities District was formed to oversee the creation and maintenance of McIntyre Hall. The building itself was built in 2004 on Skagit Valley College’s campus
in Mount Vernon. Throughout the two decades of its operation, McIntyre Hall has also received support from the City of Mount Vernon, City of Burlington, Skagit County, the Western States Art Federation, the Washington State Arts Commission, and others.
Notably, McIntyre Hall’s calendar of events frequently features classical music concerts. It’s considered the performance home of various community arts organizations like Skagit Symphony, Skagit Valley Chorale, and Pacific Northwest Opera (who specifies that
“The Drop that Contained the Sea”
September 14
Presented by Cantabile Chamber Choir Society, Kulshan Chorus,and Sno-King Chorale
McIntyre Hall
2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon
“McIntyre Hall [is] an ideal venue for opera with superb acoustics and sight lines.”)
But don’t paint McIntyre Hall into a corner. Earlier this year, they featured touring performances like Lightwire Theatre’s “Dino-Light,” a show that utilizes luminous puppetry, “Yesterday & Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience,” and intercultural string duo CelloGayageum. Always read your program carefully, as McIntyre Hall often manages to secure a short amount of time before and after performances for talks or Q&A sessions with the performers. 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon, 360.416.7727, mcintyrehall.org
“EARTH”
October 19
Presented by Skagit Symphony
McIntyre Hall
2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon
“The Hunchback of Notre Dame”
September 12-29
The Claire Theatre
655 Front St., Lynden
“Pastoral”
3 p.m., September 22
Presented by Bellingham Chamber Music Society
Hotel Leo
1224 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham
“Cabaret”
September 27-October 13
Bellingham Theatre Guild
1600 H St., Bellingham
“Moving Forward”
3 p.m., September 29
Presented by the Bellingham Symphony Orchestra
Mount Baker Theatre
104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham
“The Unsubdued Revue 6: Yeehaw!”
October 3-5 & 10-12
Presented by Unsubdued Theatre
Collective
Sidepiece Studio at WinkWink
1302 Commercial St., Bellingham
“Electric”
3 p.m., November 17
Hotel Leo
1224 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham
“Americana”
3 p.m., November 24
Presented by the Bellingham Symphony Orchestra
Mount Baker Theatre
104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham
“Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn”
November 29-December 15
The Claire Theatre
655 Front St., Lynden
“The Liar”
November 29-December 15
Bellingham Theatre Guild
1600 H St., Bellingham
Whatcom County
Rounding up the performing arts scene in Whatcom County is no easy feat. Theatrically, troupes range from the experimental iDiOM Theater to the improv-centric Upfront Theatre, the young company at Bellingham Arts Academy for Youth, the inclusivity-minded Unsubdued Theatre Collective, to the “homegrown” Blaine Community Theater. The Claire Theatre hides inside Lynden’s iconic windmill. New Prospect Theatre is a venue that uses a fringe model— anyone who wants to put on a performance there can. They recently partnered with the Bellingham Theatre Guild, who’s been staging shows in Bellingham since 1929, to create a new performance series, BTG Satellites. And don’t forget about the young performers at Western Washington University’s College of Fine and Performing Arts!
The Bellingham Circus Guild keeps Bellingham’s subdued excitement simmering all year long with their imaginative, aweinspiring shows that combine theatrical storytelling and physical prowess. Shoestring
Circus, UP UP UP Inc., and Cirque Cadia are all local circus troupes as well.
We’ve got classical music organizations like Bellingham Symphony Orchestra, Bellingham Chamber Music Society, North Cascades Community Orchestra, Whatcom Chorale, Bellingham Music Club, and more. We host many and varied music festivals throughout the year, including the Bellingham Festival of Music and, on the contemporary side, Northwest Tune-Up Festival. While large venues like Mount Baker Theatre (read more on p. 53) support prominent touring acts, our local contemporary music venues like The Wild Buffalo, The Shakedown, and The Blue Room stage musical acts for all tastes.
Bellingham Repertory Dance is Bellingham’s professional contemporary dance collective, and Opus Performing Arts School provides a “well-rounded education in dance” for “the serious dance student.” Kuntz and Company is a professional dance and theater that produces original work and provides dance classes for those with neurological disorders.
Could you please tell us about the mission of Mount Baker Theatre?
Mount Baker Theatre (MBT) is a non-profit arts organization dedicated to enriching the region’s culture through dynamic performances, arts education, inspiring engagement in the community, and stewardship of a national historic treasure. Located in the heart of downtown Bellingham’s Art District, MBT is the largest theatrical venue north of Seattle in Washington State. Since opening day in 1927, MBT has been dedicated to showcasing top touring performing arts events, as well as presenting communitydriven events and performances, to audiences in North Puget Sound and the Lower Mainland of British Columbia.
MBT has created a vibrant cultural hub that brings people together through the arts. By providing a diverse range of performances, educational programs, and community events, MBT aims to inspire and engage audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
As Mount Baker Theatre approaches its 100th birthday, what can you tell us about the importance of continuing the legacy of this historic venue?
Mount Baker Theatre is the only survivor of the five original movie palaces built in Whatcom County between 1914 and 1930. The building, built in 1927, is a beautifully restored architectural treasure, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. As MBT approaches its 100th birthday, preserving this historic venue is essential for maintaining a link to our cultural heritage and continuing to provide a space for the community to experience the performing arts.
What types of performances and events can people expect to see from you, in general and for the 2024-2025 season?
Mount Baker Theatre provides a wide range of live theater, music performances, comedy, and more. The 2024-2025 season is our most ambitious season yet, and it has something that will appeal to everyone's taste. The season includes six nationally-touring Broadway productions, family-friendly shows, concerts that span across genres from classical to an interactive sing-along, and visits from big-name stars like Alton Brown, Lyle Lovett, and Cary Elwes.
What would you like our readers to know about Mount Baker Theatre?
MBT has recently launched a newly designed website and state of the art ticketing software making it easier than ever for guests to learn about upcoming shows, purchase tickets, and stay informed about what's going on at MBT.
Alongside the Main Stage shows, MBT has two unique series: Lookout Sessions Series and the Out of the Box Theatrical Series. The Lookout Sessions Series aims to highlight emerging artists and familiar favorites in a more intimate setting, while the Out of the Box Theatrical Series challenges traditional theater norms by showcasing unique and diverse voices.
Additionally, Mount Baker Theatre’s Wade Bennett King Education Series is open to schools and homeschoolers in Western Washington, providing children with the opportunity to engage with live theater and performers while learning about music, culture, geography, and more.
MBT has been igniting imaginations since 1927, and we plan to continue that mission for many generations to come. 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com
Ben Folds Paper Airplane Request Tour
7:30 p.m., September 28
Mount Baker Theatre
104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham
“The Land Has Spoken: Tales of Indigenous Horror”
7:30 p.m., October 18
Mount Baker Theatre
104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham
Jazz Center of Bellingham
Founded in 2016, the Jazz Center of Bellingham attracts regional, national, and international artists to inspire and enrich our community through jazz, a great American artform which they describe as “a celebration of humanity.”
Live jazz is a whole body experience. It’s beautiful to the ears, tantalizing to the mind, and enthralling to the heart, not to mention commanding to the body—we dare you not to tap your toes to the driving and inventive rhythmics. As such, jazz has proven somewhat irresistible to the locals, and three years ago the Jazz Center moved venues to double their seating. Their 115-seat shows at the Firehouse Arts & Events Center in Fairhaven are only gaining popularity.
“Over half our concerts in the past two seasons have been sold out,” say several representatives of the Jazz Center in a collaborative interview with Bellingham Alive. “We’ve seen an increase in season ticket holders [and] an increase in a younger audience.”
The Jazz Center has also created educational and mentoring opportunities for aspiring musicians through their Summer Jazz Classes at Western Washington University and their Combo Classes, which run weekly from October-June. If you’ve been looking for a place to play jazz, they’ve got you covered.
“[In the 2024-2025 season,] we will be presenting many regional artists (Kevin Woods, Dmitri Matheny, Marina Albero, Jose “Juicy” Gonzales, Brian Kirk, Ann Reynolds, Skerik) as well as several Canadian artists (Itamar Erez, Kelby MacNayr, Cory Weeds, Laila Biali, Mike Allen). For national and international artists, we will be hosting Jerry Weldon, Naomi Moon Siegel, Charlie Porter, Jared Hall, Jane Bunnett and Francesco Crosara,” the Jazz Center says. Bellingham, jazcenterofbellingham.org
AGENDA
Itama Erez Quartet
6:30 p.m., September 25
Presented by the Jazz Center of Bellingham Firehouse Arts & Events Center 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham
Naomi Moon Siegel Ensemble | Album Release: “Shatter It”
6:30, November 20
Presented by the Jazz Center of Bellingham Firehouse Arts & Events Center 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham
San Juan Islands
The San Juan Islands are bursting with the performing arts. San Juan Community Theatre is a year-round organization with several facilities for its fully-staged productions, while Island Stage Left performs professional
theater free of charge, often outdoors and with simple production elements. The Actors Theater of Orcas Island considers itself an incubator who brings new people into the theater. The Orcas Center acts as a hub for all performing arts on the islands, including
touring shows, festivals, art exhibits, and The Orcas Dance Collective. The Salish Sea Ballet is a pre-professional ballet school in Friday Harbor. The Archipelago Collective strives to “bring world-class chamber music to San Juan Island.”
Ladies of Hip Hop | Black Dancing Bodies Project: “Speak My Mind”
5 p.m., September 21
Presented in collaboration with Woman in the Woods Productions Orcas Center
917 Mt. Baker Rd., Eastsound
Get Involved!
s Get on the floor at community dance events like the Celtic Arts Foundation’s September Contra Dance (Sept. 7 in Mount Vernon) or at one of the weekly Lindy at the Leo dances with B’Ham Hop.
s Go to a show at the Upfront Theatre and be an integral part of their improv theatrics!
s Join a Bluegrass Jam or Stellar Sounds Session at Honey Moon Mead & Cider’s alley bar, or a Skagit Old-Time Jam if you like that classic sound.
s Enjoy several days worth of performances at arts festivals like Imagine Arts and Music Festival (September 6–8), Lynden Music Festival (Oct. 9–13), and Bellingham Exit (Oct. 10–13).
Pacific Northwest culture, arts, and history are preserved and illuminated at the Whatcom Museum in Bellingham, which aims to “serve as a bridge among diverse people, ideas, and traditions” with their exhibitions, collections, events, and educational programs.
“Really what we are thinking about through our mission is how we can bring art and local history to more people so that it brings them joy, wonder, and curiosity about their place in this world,” says Adrienne Dawson, the director of marketing and PR at the museum.
The Whatcom Museum has three buildings, two for exhibitions and one that houses the museum’s extensive photo archive collection: The Lightcatcher Building, The Old City Hall Building, and the newly renamed Old Fire Station No. 1 (previously the Syre Education Center). The Lightcatcher is home to the museum’s Family Interactive Gallery and their permanent “People of the Sea and Cedar” exhibit, which explores the art and cultures of the Lummi Nation and Nooksack Indian Tribe. It was recently reinstalled under the guidance of the museum’s Indigenous Advisory Council with comprehensive updates and contemporary works from Coast Salish artists like Louie Gong and first-person experiences shared through films produced by Children of the Setting Sun Productions.
September 28-March 2
Whatcom Museum Lightcatcher Building 250 Flora St.,
The museum has made classes and events a priority in 2024. "We have a new program that launched this year called Access for All: Free First Friday,” says Dawson. “On Free First Fridays, we offer free events and activities throughout the day and evening, free admission, and extended hours until 9 p.m.” The museum plans to have different themes for each First Friday that tie into their concurrent exhibitions, with a fresh mix of artists, performers, and experts to lead workshops and activities.
Later this month, the Whatcom Museum will present its newest exhibition, “Under the Inspiration Tree: Celebrating the Work of Thomas Wood,” a career retrospective of a beloved and influential local artist who passed away in 2022. Working closely with Wood’s widow Pamela Brownell and studio print assistant Mandy Turner, the museum brings together nearly 300 works on loan from private collectors across the region for the most comprehensive exhibition of the artist’s work to date. 121 Prospect St., Bellingham, 360.778.8930, whatcommuseum.org, @whatcom_museum on Instagram
La Conner is the place to go for art museums in Skagit County: not only do they have the Museum of Northwest Art (MoNA), which showcases contemporary art from across the northwest in rotating shows, but there’s also the Pacific Northwest Quilt & Fiber Arts Museum, which runs exhibitions and educates visitors about all manner of fiber arts.
Obviously the Whatcom Museum is a fantastic first stop, but the art doesn’t end there! Up in Lynden, the Jansen Art Center (affectionately known as “the J”) offers a huge variety of classes in everything from Fine Arts to Jewelry, and beyond. They also run rotating exhibits highlighting work by a diverse range of artists; their quarterly juried exhibits are especially interesting.
Small as it is, San Juan Island makes space for art. Visitors to the San Juan Islands Museum of Art will find carefully curated exhibits and thoughtful educational programs that “spark reflection, discovery, inspiration, and connections.” And people looking to connect with art by doing will love the classes and events at Alchemy Art Center—they even offer free public art activities in the summer!
Patie Savage & Sheila Simpson-Creps
September 2-October 6
Chimera Gallery
211 Lopez Rd., Lopez Island
Aaron Loveitt
September 5-29
Smith & Vallee Gallery
5742 Gilkey Ave., Edison
“Unraveling the Narrative”
September 6-28
Allied Arts Gallery
1418 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham
“Memories of a Suburban Ind'n | John Feodorov”
September 25-December 7
Western Gallery at Western Washington University
516 High St., Bellingham
“Head as Motif”
September-October
Meloy Gallery
301 W. Holly St., Ste. D.6
Downstairs, Bellingham
Lori Vonderhorst
October 3-27
The Flex Gallery at Smith & Vallee Gallery
5742 Gilkey Ave., Edison
“Along Salish Shores” | Art’s Alive! Invitational and Open Fine Arts Shows
October 25-28
Presented by La Conner Arts Foundation
Maple Hall
104 Commercial St., La Conner
Anne Martin McCool
November 1-30
Scott Milo Gallery
420 Commercial Ave., Anacortes
“Drifting Dreamscapes”
November 1-30
Allied Arts Gallery
1418 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham
Geheim Gallery: Truly Contemporary
Geheim Gallery is described by some as the main contemporary art space in Bellingham, and has been providing a platform for regional modern-day artists since October 2020.
Artist Jason O’Rourke originally began the gallery with a business partner, but now runs the space solo, acting as director, curator, marketer, installation tech, and any other role an art gallery could need. He previously ran Piano Room Studio, a DIY music and art venue in the alley behind what used to be The Firefly Lounge on State Street. Both businesses were casualties of COVID-19, and closed around May of 2020.
“I wanted to re-do what we had, but I couldn’t find a space that would make sense for what we had going on. But then I found this space, and I was like, ‘This would be an incredible space for an art gallery,’” says O’Rourke. “In my opinion, there was nobody really showcasing contemporary art shows and functioning as a contemporary art gallery. I felt like we needed that as a city.”
Since their opening, Geheim has certainly filled the void.
“It’s not easy, but it’s been a good journey. We’re having 12 exhibitions a year, so it’ll be almost 50 exhibitions since we opened,” says O’Rourke. Those 50 exhibitions have featured work from all walks of contemporary art—oil and acrylic paintings, of course, but also neon signs, airbrushed canvas, fine ceramics, woven tablecloths, and large paper-and-brass structures.
Geheim presents mostly solo shows, which allows an artist's voice to fully fill the gallery’s space and maximizes their exposure. Occasionally, they’ll also do split shows and welcome artists from farther out, like internationally-known New York artist Rachel Hayden, who had a show at Geheim in November of 2023. Read artist’s statements, explore exhibits of the past, and inquire about purchasing artwork on Geheim’s website.
Geheim aligns their exhibits’ opening nights with downtown Bellingham’s vibrant, late night First Fridays, which O’Rourke says “everyone loves” and results in the gallery being “pretty packed.” The rest of the time, the gallery is open Friday-Sunday. It’s located just off the bottom of Holly Street, around the corner from Camber and next door to Black Noise Records, making it the perfect arts addition to your weekend visits to downtown Bellingham. Don’t miss another of Geheim’s monthly rotating exhibits! 1228 Bay St., Bellingham, geheimgallery.com
If you’re looking for curated shows including artists from the North Sound and beyond, Perry and Carlson in downtown Mount Vernon and Smith & Vallee Gallery in Bow are can’t-miss stops. For
a more local focus, Mount Vernon’s LIDO Collective, the Scott Milo Gallery in Anacortes, and the La Conner Seaside Gallery showcase and sell a range of work from local artists.
In Bellingham, The Meloy Gallery, Allied Arts of Whatcom County, and Cordata Gallery all host rotating shows, and Chuckanut Bay Gallery & Sculpture Garden features work from hundreds of artists and artisans. Whatcom Art Market is another wonderful place to find work from a diverse group of local artists. Make.Shift Art Space is an arts center in Bellingham that hosts art exhibitions, concerts, and more. Good Earth Pottery is a cornerstone of Whatcom’s ceramics community, having helped to shape both Fairhaven and Bellingham-at-large’s arts scene since 1969. Now owned by local artist Ann Marie Cooper, its gallery space is populated by work from over 40 artists.
San Juan Island boasts two contemporary galleries, Arctic Raven Gallery and WaterWorks Gallery, as well as Paula West Pottery for ceramic art. And the other islands are artsy too: Lopez Island has Chimera Gallery, while Orcas Island has Crow Valley Gallery and Orcas Island Artworks, as well as Orcas Island Pottery.
Artist Studio Tours in the North Sound
s Whatcom Artist Studio Tour, October 5–6 & 12–3, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
s Whatcom Artists of Clay and Kiln Studio Tour, December 7–8, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
s Lummi Island Artists’ Studio Tour, May 2025 (TBA)
s The Wave Art Fest & Studio Tour, Spring/Summer 2025 (TBA)
s San Juan Island Artist’s Studio Tour, June 2025 (TBA)
s NW Art Beat Studio Tour, July 2025 (TBA)
s Orcas Artist Studio Tour, August 2025 (TBA)
MUD Ceramics Studio
Ceramics, pottery, clay, rehydrated rock dust. Humanity has been mucking about with it since prehistory. Bellingham’s newest clay studio wants to get Everyday Joes back in touch with one of our most ancient past times—playing around in the MUD.
Co-Founders Fie and Austin Danson moved to Bellingham five years ago from LA. They originally met in London, where they were pursuing their graduate degrees (Austin in Fine Arts, Fie in Theater). Austin has been “working and essentially living” in clay studios since he first fell in love with pottery at age 14, and introduced Fie to the world of ceramics.
“I remember the first time I walked into the studio he was working at. It reminded me of growing up in theater … being creative with people and working towards something that you're super passionate about. The ceramics studio kind of gave me the same feeling,” Fie says.
“Our mission really is to help art-making be a part of more people’s lives,” says Austin. “I think ceramics is so special because it can be a really easy access point … If you give a ball of clay to anyone, they're going to start pushing it, throwing it around … it’s so natural to do that.”
MUD’s studio and aesthetic is clean, simplistic, and features high-contrast black and white. It’s not just a stylistic choice. Austin says he creates best in a peaceful space, and both Austin and Fie wanted to provide that environment for others. They also took inspiration from gallery spaces, where bright white walls serve to showcase art.
On the technical side, keeping the studio spick and span helps with safety. Clay contains silica, a necessary component for vitrification of the clay. When clay dries, the lightweight dust is easily inhalable, and silica can settle in the lungs and cause silicosis. Fie and Austin ask all their members and students to help keep the studio as dust-free as possible.
MUD is an open-access studio that offers both memberships and classes. Their current classes include three beginner-friendly options: a 12-week course that combines wheel throwing and handbuilding, and two 8-week courses that focus on each separately. One of MUD’s main goals is to onboard beginners and get them to a place of safety and confidence that is transferable to any clay studio. The studio is open 24 hours a day, so that members can work when it’s most convenient for them, and classes take place at various times to work with various schedules.
More specialized courses and workshops are on the way, including a “Creatures & Characters” course that will focus on character design with clay, a handbuilding class with a local tile maker, and a special one-evening “Date Night” class for folks who want to create a clay piece together but are short on time.
Look into joining MUD’s creative community on their website or on their social media (where they ask important questions like, “What’s your favorite mug?” and “Can you throw cream cheese on the wheel?”). 201 E. Champion St., Bellingham, 360.441.6133, mudceramics.org
2024 Paddling Film Festival World Tour
4-6:30 p.m., September 29
Lucas Hicks Auditorium at New Prospect Theatre
207 Prospect St., Bellingham
Orcas Island Film Festival
October 16-20
Various locations on Orcas Island
Bleedingham XIII
October
Presented by Bleedingham Horror Film Festival
Pickford Film Center
1318 Bay St., Bellingham
Doctober
October 5-26
Pickford Film Center
1318 Bay St., Bellingham
Friday Harbor Film Festival
October 24-27
Various locations on San Juan Island
The definitive independent film experience in Whatcom County is to be had at Pickford Film Center, fondly known to locals as The Pickford. Since 1998, Pickford Film Center has aimed to offer programming that honors the past and welcomes the future of filmmaking, reaches a diverse audience with thought- and dialogueprovoking movies, and strengthens the community through the celebration of film.
The Pickford’s programming, which is refreshed weekly, features repertory, firstrun, and independent film. Their series and events are carefully designed to intrigue, educate, and delight Whatcom audiences. They have a summer rooftop series, their Third Eye Cinema series which aims to investigate what makes a cult classic, and Kid Pickford for young audiences. In July, they held screenings of the new documentary film, “Lynden,” which showcases the racial tension in Lynden in 2020, and followed it with a Q&A session with the co-directors, producer, and a film participant.
The Pickford is in the midst of expansion, with construction underway at their new sister location, Pickford on Grand. It’s about a block away from their Bay Street homebase, and will add three more screens to bring Pickford's total up to five. The extra room means more screenings, more events, and reaching more Whatcom cinephiles.
Children of the Setting Sun Productions is a local production company that creates, empowers, and amplifies Indigenous stories. “Scha’nexw Elhtal’nexw Salmon People: Preserving a Way of Life” is a 64-minute documentary that recently premiered at the 35th Annual Bioneers Conference in Berkeley, California. As part of their Young Tribal Leaders Program, they produce the “Young and Indigenous” podcast. They also create shortform films, have filmed a pilot for a comingof-age TV drama, and aim to stimulate the community through their Setting Sun Institute think tank, campaigns, and gatherings.
As mentioned earlier, the Lincoln Theatre shows new and classic films, with special series curated by Program Director Karl Freske (keep an eye out to see if his Noirvember film series will be returning this year). On Orcas Island, head to Sea View Theatre for a handpicked selection of new-release films and special movie events.
If you happened to be at the Whatcom County Home & Lifestyle Show in April, you might have been lucky enough to catch a live chainsaw-carving demonstration where an artist created a large wooden sculpture of a firefighter holding a child. That artist, Jimmy Kitchens, has become a bit of a local celebrity.
Originally from Soldotna, Alaska, Kitchens began carving in his late twenties— he’d been working in construction when a chainsaw-sculptor friend took him on as an
apprentice. Kitchens started with furniture, crafting ornate bed frames and other pieces with nature-inspired accents, and he quickly built up a business selling his work through hunting and fishing events.
In 2015, Kitchens flew down to Skagit County to participate in a carving competition put on by Loggerodeo, where he carved a statue of a saddled salmon. He was hooked: on the competition, on carving large statues, and on the Pacific Northwest. He returned to Loggerodeo the following
year, carving Groot and Rocket from “Guardians of the Galaxy;” he also began branching out to comic cons and carving superheroes to share there.
Since moving to Whatcom County with his partner and their pup, Kitchens has carved everything from Bears and Bigfoot (in various tableaus, including holding a triple-scoop ice cream cone) to Michelangelo the Mutant Turtle and the Mandalorian. If you’re lucky, you just might see him at the next con!
s Support artists directly by shopping at artists markets year-round! Coming up, don’t miss Allied Arts’ Holiday Festival of the Arts, Nov. 22-Dec. 24.
s Make.Shift Art Space is a do-it-all community arts center in Bellingham. Not only do they function as a gallery and music venue, they’ve got affordable art studios and band practice spaces, a community radio station, and tons of workshops you can check out.
Get Involved!
s Join in for First Fridays, community events that happen throughout Whatcom, Skagit, and the San Juan Islands. On the first Friday of every month, galleries, studios, and artisans of all kinds will have their doors open late for you.
s Shop locally for your art supplies! Tri-Dee Arts in Mount Vernon and Dakota Art Store in Bellingham are standing by, eager to help you find what you need for your next art project. Dakota also has a gallery in their adjacent space, and runs a community charity art show in the fall called “6x6.”
WRITTEN BY SENNA SCOTT & NICOLE MILLER PHOTOS COURTESY OF TC LEGEND HOMES
BUILDING THE FOX family’s Net-Zero Energy Home was not without its challenges. Still, the challenges ended up working in everyone’s favor in the end, producing this beautiful and unique home.
The build started in the winter. After the builder, TC Legend Homes, poured the concrete slab, the weather turned and frosted. They saved the slab from freezing using plastic sheets and hay, but the wind kicked up and caused the hay to come into direct contact with the slab as it was curing.
The hay interacted with the concrete and caused color undulations, adding to the home’s character. Funny enough, the customer and the team loved the end result. This ‘happy accident’ is now a new intentional option for future clients who want some extra pizzazz and variety in the coloring of their concrete floors!
This four bedroom, two-point-five bath home was designed to have the first floor
aging in place. The home is 1,978 square feet with an attached 876 square-foot garage. With a 9kW solar array, this home is net-zero, with an annual energy cost savings of $2,800. The Fox Home is DOE Zero Energy Ready Home certified, ENERGY STAR certified, EPA Indoor airPLUS certified, and anticipates to be Built Green 5-star certified!
Additionally, the home is Cool Roof Certified which means that it reflects enough sunlight to cool down the surface temperature. Consequently, less heat transfers into the house and the surrounding air around the house—an effort that is good globally to reduce climate change! The combination of the cool roof and TC Legend’s standard extended eaves, porch, and window layout, as well as the client choosing the lighter color paint on the exterior, will help the house stay cool in the peak of the summer heat.
A remarkable feature of this property is the landscaping done by Lightcatcher Gardens; built with pathways, a garden, a composting system, native shrubbery and plants, a fireplace terrace, and a noise reduction tree buffer, the grounds turn this home into a private oasis.
Custom homes often reflect the character of the client. We always love when clients add their personal touches to a home. In this case that personal touch was in the form of a repurposed trash receptacle as a laundry chute! They also installed a beautiful hummingbird wallpaper in one of the rooms.
“The homeowners were so kind and were such a pleasure to work with,” says Nicole Miller, a TC Legend crew member. TC Legend hopes the whole family enjoys their home for decades to come! TC Legend Homes, 2515 Saint Paul St., Bellingham, tclegendhomes.com t
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY NICOLE KIMBERLING
NORTHWEST FREE REPAIRS isn’t exactly a club, more like a loose organization for people who enjoy doing a good puzzle—while fighting planned obsolescence. Four days a month, they invite the people of Whatcom County to bring in their broken appliances, toys, and household electronics. According to the organization’s statement: they can’t fix everything, but they’ll always try.
Walt Brasken joined the group in 2016. He’s a good allarounder, with an emphasis on Kitchenaid mixers.
“We fill a niche that will never be challenged,” he says, “since we fix things for free. We’re all like-minded people who enjoy the challenge of finding out what’s wrong with things and fixing them. We’re proud of the money that we’ve saved people and the number of items that we’ve kept out of the landfill.”
Timothy Whiteman specializes in sewing machines—in fact, it was his first job in high school, way before he became a Lutheran pastor. Whereas the digital outreach manager for the group, Kent Fransene, has been a technician all his life.
Former Hewlett-Packard Manager John Schneider and Technology Developer Elijah C. both saw ads for the group and decided to join.
“I’ve been showing up ever since and they haven’t told me to leave yet,” Elijah says, with a laugh.
Patsy Darnell first met the other members as a client. After they fixed her radiant fireplace, she decided to stick around and start learning the art of repair.
On a recent visit, the members arrived with tool bags and cases filled with common replacement parts and bits of wire and each took a table.
As the time passed, clients brought their items: a Kitchenaid mixer, a DVD player, a table lamp, and even a Furby were brought to the members for help.
In this age of disposability and planned obsolescence, where companies even use special “security screws” with bizarrelyshaped heads to make sure consumers can’t get inside their own machines to fix them, repairing any machine is practically an act of rebellion. A couple of the NWFR members have special security screw bit sets to get around these measures.
“Using security screws,” Brasken says. “That’s just like a dare to us.”
On another table the ancient and tattered Furby got three members’ full attention. They all bent over the toy like a team of surgeons, focused all-out until the once-silent toy spoke once again, returned to its factory settings.
The day I spoke to the group, repeat client Deborah Fryman, a recent California transplant, had brought her toaster oven for Schneider to have a look at, and was eager to offer praise.
“Before this they fixed my vacuum cleaner—completely rewired it so now it’s actually better than when it was new! And also my desk lamp.” Fryman says, with a smile that radiates huge pride and affection. “They’re just the nicest group of humans.”
When I asked the members if they had anything to tell the world Schneider was quick to reply:
“I just want more people to know about us. We have such a throw-away society these days. I want people—especially young people—to know a lot of things can be fixed.” t
To find out when and where Northwest Free Repairs will appear, or if you’re interested in joining their group, visit their website nwfreerepairs.wordpress.com.
WRITTEN BY TANNA EDLER
PHOTOS BY NIC ASTON
WE TRANSFORMED A drab, outdated outdoor space into a stylish, inviting patio perfect for relaxation, entertainment, and sun-soaking. By creating distinct zones, we maximized functionality and made optimal use of the expansive area. Comfortable seating areas, a dining section, and a sunbathing spot were strategically placed to enhance usability and flow. We updated the design with modern all-weather furniture, vibrant performance cushions, and lush greenery surroundings, creating a delightful oasis for outdoor living. This well-designed, functional patio now serves as a perfect retreat for enjoying the summer season to the fullest.
Client Needs & What We Did:
Optimize seating for a range of activities, including alfresco dining. Ensuring enough seating without overcrowding the space can be challenging, especially in maintaining a balance between comfort and functionality. The clients have BIG parties and loved the idea of zones defining each space, so we arranged various seating options including rocking chairs, lounge chairs, and a dining table and chairs to accommodate different activities and social gatherings. Placing all-weather woven outdoor rugs in seating and dining areas helped to define spaces and add comfort and texture.
Incorporate shade and add privacy. Installing shade structures without obstructing views or sunlight can be tricky, and choosing materials that withstand weather conditions adds complexity. We addressed these concerns by installing umbrellas and positioned the seating arrangement in the directional shade of the trees to provide ample protection from the sun, ensuring comfort throughout the day. We also
utilized the existing tall trees and plants to create secluded areas and shield the patio from neighbors.
Choose vibrant colors, personalized accessories, and natural elements. We used colorful pillows, throws, and decorative elements to add energy and visual appeal to the space, using the landscape and nature for inspiration. We selected fade-resistant furnishings and nature-inspired decor to add that splash of color. For example, orange stems to match the trees and blue plates to complement the skies. To reflect the client's personal style, we included customized decor items, unique planters, and tableware, and we integrated plants, flowers, and natural materials like wood to embrace natural elements. Plus, we played off the existing stone with our palette choices to create a harmonious and inviting environment. Add ambiance with outdoor lighting. Planning adequate lighting without causing light pollution or electrical issues while also ensuring fixtures are weather-resistant can be problematic. We added weatherproof string lights that are easy to take up and down, and solar pathway lights were an inexpensive and responsible option to enhance ambiance and usability during evening hours. 425.737.1193, tannabydesign.com t
Friday, Nov 1st, 5:30pm Four Points Sheraton
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WRITTEN BY AUBREY BLACK PHOTO COURTESY OF CHUCKANUT BREWERY CO.
PICTURE IT: YOU’RE on a game show and made it to the last round. The final question asks you when Oktoberfest, the German folk festival, is celebrated. Your hands start to sweat. You have no more lifelines. You slam your buzzer and answer: “October!”
It’s time to dust off that good sport smile because you have unfortunately lost out on about $1 million. Truthfully, you should’ve walked away with at least a little bit of cash— Oktoberfest is a 16-day festival traditionally celebrated during the last week of September and ending the first Sunday of October.
According to an article from National Geographic, the first Oktoberfest was held Oct. 12–17, 1810, to celebrate the wedding of the Bavarian Prince Ludwig to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The celebration was so popular that they continued to hold it annually, and the rest is history.
The festivities grew in scale as the celebration grew in popularity. What started as a week of games and horse races grew to include cattle markets, merry-go-rounds, chicken roasteries, and beer. Lots of it. Beer-thirsty crowds became such an overwhelming majority of festival-goers that beer vendors had to build temporary stands to accommodate the hordes.
The reason Oktoberfest has bled into September is something Washingtonians are all too familiar with: the rain. Mid to late October was a drizzly time in 19th-century Bavaria which put a bit of a dampener on the festivities. Oktoberfest was moved to take place from late September to early October so the festival could continue with as little interruption from the elements as possible.
But you don’t need a time machine or a ticket to Germany to celebrate Oktoberfest! Bellingham’s very own Chuckanut Brewery is the original brewer of German-style beers in the Whatcom area and is known for its annual Oktoberfest celebration.
This year’s festivities will be taking place on Sept. 14 from noon to 8 p.m. Liter steins of beer will be $10 all day and half of the parking lot will be tented off to ensure enough room for seating. They’ll be hosting True Smoke BBQ, which will be serving an Oktoberfest-themed menu, and Süss Candy with a selection of natural taffy and caramels.
All ages are welcome, and there will be plenty of entertainment for the youngins in the form of cornhole, giant Jenga, and kids’ axe throwing—if you dare. For the grownins, there’s more to do than just drink beer. Chuckanut Brewing will hold a Steinholding competition, where participants must hold a full stein of beer out in front of them for as long as possible. Hammerschlagen is another traditional German game that will be present at Chuckanut Brewing’s Oktoberfest celebration; participants take turns trying to drive a nail flush into a log. What’s more German than holding a beer and slamming a hammer?
They’ll be serving Festbier, the most popular beer served in Germany during modern Oktoberfest celebrations. Music, costumes, and dancing will be the cherry on top of Chuckanut Brewing’s iconic Oktoberfest celebration this year.
If land-based celebrations aren’t your style, San Juan Cruises has four Oktoberfest Brewers Cruises on the schedule for Sept. 27 and 28 and Oct. 4 and 5. Passengers must be 21+, with ticket costs covering the ride, beer, and food available on the passage. The boat departs the Alaska Ferry Terminal in Fairhaven at 6:30 p.m. and returns at 8:00 p.m.
A bratwurst buffet will be served for dinner alongside handpicked Fest Biers and autumn seasonal beers from seven local breweries. San Juan Cruises usually features beer from Boundary Bay and two other local breweries at a time during their normal Brewers Cruises in the summer, but they bring out the big brews for Oktoberfest.
The boat will be decked out in its Oktoberfest best, complete with festive Bavarian music to set the mood. Tickets tend to sell out quickly, so be sure to reserve your space if beer, brats, and fresh air sound like the way you want to start your autumn.
Suppose you’re a landlubber who still wants a variety of brews and chews, and who’s curious about the array of breweries in the Sunnyland area. In that case, you will be delighted to hear that Sunnyland Fest is returning for 2024!
From Sept. 19–22, seven breweries in the Sunnyland Neighborhood will participate in a pub-crawl-style Oktoberfest celebration. Punch cards for new crawlers will be available at all the breweries, so it doesn’t matter where you start.
Buy a brew, stamp your card. Fully stamped cards can be entered into a raffle for a chance to win prizes from the participating breweries. The crawl lasts all weekend, so pace yourself, and bask in the Oktoberfest greatness!
Feel free to buy that ticket to Germany or invent a time machine, but just know that you’ll be missing out on Bellingham’s flight of locally-fueled offerings. t
Eagles Nest Sports Bar
2038 Main St. Ferndale, WA 98248
Alejandro & Jocsan Hernandez are the father and son owners of Ferndale’s newest sports bar. With inspiration taken from our town’s rich history and high school mascot, as well as our intense fandom for all sports, we bring you a new place to eat, drink, catch a game or even play some pool!
Happy Hour
$1 off All Draft Beer
4–6pm Everyday
Ay Chihuahua Cantina
1415 Railroad Ave,Bellingham, WA 98225, 360.656.6337
Located in the heart of downtown Bellingham, WA, Ay Chihuahua Cantina opened its doors in 2023 with a mission to bring the vibrant flavors and lively spirit of Mexico to the local college scene and late-night socializers. We’re here to offer you a unique dining experience 6 days a week.
Happy Hour
Tuesday–Sunday from Open-6pm
-$1 off all bottle beers
-$4 Lime Margarita on the rocks
-$8 personal size asada fries
The Score Sports Bar & Grill
2030 Main St. Ferndale, WA 98248, 360.392.0350 thescoredowntown.com
Welcome to The Score Sports Bar & Grill, Whatcom County’s newest place to watch your favorite games! Highlights include an extensive and varied elevated bar menu, an assortment of local craft beer and spirits, and 13 TV’s to watch ALL the sporting events. Come check The Score!
Galloway’s Cocktail Bar
1200 10th St., Ste. 102, Bellingham, gallowayscocktail.bar
Fairhaven’s favorite deco-era cocktail bar. Pulling inspiration from the 1920s, our curated cocktail menu and eclectic style shine through. Enjoy a food menu featuring shareable and tasty bites local microbrews and fine wines available. Enjoy outdoor dining on our porch overlooking the charming Fairhaven Village Green.
Happy Hour
3–6 pm Daily
Up for a night of carousing, or just a quiet drink with some friends? Here’s a handy list of North Sound drinking establishments to help you get your bearings. (All listings are supplied by the businesses.)
Chihuahua Mexican Bar
5694 3rd Ave., Ferndale, WA 98248, 360-384-5820 chihuahuamexicanrestaurant.com
Alex Hernandez opened Chihuahuas Mexican restaurant in Ferndale in 1994 with a seating capacity for 75 people. 30 years later, Alex has been able to expand his restaurant to accommodate over 300 people, with a bar, an outdoor patio, two dining rooms, banquet room, and a private parking lot.
Happy Hour
Lime Margarita on the rocks $4.99 11am–6pm Everyday
Jalapeños Mexican Restaurant
Barkley, Downtown, Fairhaven, and Meridian jalapenos-wa.com
Jalapeños Family Mexican Restaurants have been serving Bellingham and Whatcom County for over 25 years. All four locations offer dog-friendly outdoor seating, a familyfriendly environment, and lots of food and beverage options to choose from. Come try our new Happy Hour with $4 Pints, $10 Big Mama Margaritas, and appetizer specials!
Happy Hour
All Day Sunday
Monday–Saturday: 3pm to 5:30pm & 8:30pm to Close
1118 Maple St., Bellingham, 360.647.3600 McKaysTaphouse.com
McKay’s Taphouse and Pizzeria is located in the Sehome neighborhood tucked away on the curve of Maple St & Samish Way. We offer 50 rotating taps of beers, ciders and wines. We also offer over 30 canned/bottled options for dine in or to go. We have a family atmosphere, so everyone is welcome.
Happy Hour
Mon–Thurs 3–6pm | $1 off most pints
$3 Slices available all day
Amendment 21
1224 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham, 30.746.9097, thehotelleo.com/dining
Nestled in downtown Bellingham’s historic Hotel Leo, stop in and kick off your night with a cocktail and tasty dinner, or unwind with a nightcap and bar bites. From craft cocktails and local brews to fine wines, we’ve got everything to satisfy your cravings. Swing by for our weekly specials like daily happy hour, Wine Wednesday, or live music.
Happy Hour
$8 Atomic Highballs
Discounted food, beer, & cocktails Tuesday- Saturday 4-6PM
The Soju Spritz
Ingredients: Jinro soju, fresh lime, choice of flavor, soda water
Price: $14
What do you know about soju? This Korean spirit is traditionally made with fermented rice and grains. The brand Jinro was launched in Korea in 1924 and has become the best-selling spirit in the world (nearly doubling the sales of its closest competition).
Many compare soju to vodka, as it’s a similarly simple clear liquor, albeit with a lower alcohol content. This leads to a smoother drinking experience and less morning-after consequences. Soju is a popular substitution in many vodka drinks, as well as an excellent spirit to pair with milder flavors like melon.
At Tokyo Monster Sushi in Birch Bay, you can celebrate soju with their Soju Spritz. I chose to have it with mango syrup, but the bar staff will be happy to use any flavor you like from their wide array. In addition to your choice of flavor, the drink is served up with 4 ounces of Jinro soju, fresh lime, and soda water, making for an easy-drinking refreshment that’ll go along with whatever dish you order.
KRISTEN BOEHM
Know your tofu!
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY CHLOE NELSON
TACO LOBO, FORMERLY located at 117 W. Magnolia St. in Bellingham, closed their doors forever on June 29. The owner, Luis Fernando Santos, has retired after 25 years, and is planning on either selling the building or leasing it.
Santos has lived in Bellingham off and on since 1990. He was in the fishing industry until a commercial fishing accident forced him to stop, and that was when he decided to put his money into starting a Mexican restaurant.
On April 13, 1999, Taco Lobo opened its doors to the public in downtown Bellingham. Santos transformed a former clothing store into a well-known and loved restaurant with colorful decor, art, and music. Much of the food was made in-house, including the tortillas and the salsas. According to the blog “I’ll Eat That,” Taco Lobo was the kind of place you would go for fresh food, a fun atmosphere, and an “authentic taste of Mexico.”
Bellinghamsters have adored Taco Lobo for the past 25 years and many are sad to see the restaurant close, but we wish Santos a healthy and happy retirement! t
WRITTEN BY REBECCA LEHMAN FAY
Not all tofu is created equal. For stir-fries, scrambles, or as a meat alternative, you’ll want to use firm (or extra firm) tofu. To add extra protein to your smoothies, overnight oats, or a mousse, try silken tofu. This smooth, creamy tofu can also be used as an egg or yogurt alternative.
Don’t skip pressing!
Pressing firm tofu removes excess water and prevents it from turning mushy while cooking. If you don’t have a tofu press, simply wrap your tofu in paper towels, set a heavy object on it, and leave for a few hours before cooking.
WRITTEN
BY
KRISTY NGUYEN
PHOTOS BY ANNALISA FISH
GIVE A SHOUT for Bellingham’s only New Zealand-style ice cream spot! Scream, nestled near the waterfront, offers a taste of the Oceania Islands to the Pacific Northwest, showcasing a dessert bursting with fresh ingredients and fruity flavors.
New Zealand-style ice cream, also known as real fruit ice cream, is a little different from your typical American ice cream. At Scream, vanilla ice cream is churned with frozen fruit in a special machine to create this soft serve dessert. Located at the front of Structures Brewing, Scream offers four main flavors: strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, and blueberry. They also offer seasonal flavors.
The ice cream itself is creamy and smooth. It isn’t overly sugary, so it’s subtle enough that you can taste the real fruit that’s blended in. For anyone who's looking for a non-dairy alternative, a version with oat milk is available. Have a sweet tooth? You can also order waffle cones and toppings like sprinkles and crushed Oreos. Scream also sells their fruit ice cream to-go by the pint, perfect for bringing this treat home to enjoy. 601 W. Holly St., Bellingham, screamcones.com t
To cook, or not to cook?
Did you know that tofu can be eaten raw? Pressed extra firm tofu can be used as an alternative to mozzarella. Raw silken tofu topped with scallions, soy sauce, chili oil, garlic, and ginger is a popular Chinese dish. If you prefer cooked tofu, there’s no limitations on how you can cook it. Bake, fry, boil, or grill to your liking!
Don’t skimp on seasoning.
When it comes to seasoning, treat tofu the same way you would treat meat. Marinades can turn tofu from bland nothing to a dinnertime staple. A good marinade will include a fat, an acid, herbs, and aromatics. You can also use a spice rub or breading similar to what you would use for fried chicken or schnitzel.
Get it crispy!
Crispy tofu makes the perfect high protein meat substitute or snack for dipping. Using pressed extra firm tofu, toss cubed tofu in a bowl with oil, salt, and your desired seasonings. Then, coat the cubes in a 1:2 mixture of cornstarch and flour. Bake at 400 F for 20-30 minutes.
AS SUMMER FADES and the evenings turn chilly, fall is a great time to get back to cooking recipes that take time, encouraging us to slow down, and produce rich, indulgent, comforting results. This recipe for Ragù Napoletano from Packer’s Kitchen + Bar is just that: a slow-simmered sauce that’s imbued with a ton of flavor, draped over al dente pasta and oven-baked until the whole thing bubbles and your mouth is watering from the smell. What better way to celebrate the weather cooling down than to pull out a big stock pot, chop up some mirepoix, and get the family together for a delicious autumn meal!
For the Ragù
1 pound boneless short rib, large chunks
6 ounces capicola or pancetta, dice
2 pounds ground beef, 80/20
3 carrots, finely chopped
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
10 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup dry white wine
3 Calabrian chilis, sliced
1 bunch fresh thyme, tied
2 bay leaves
56 ounces whole peeled tomatoes (2 large cans)
½ cup olive oil
Chili flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste
• Place a heavy-bottomed stainless-steel pot over medium heat and add half of the olive oil followed by the carrot and begin to sauté. When the carrots start to soften, add the onion, garlic, and Calabrian chili, and continue to cook until the onions are translucent. (Note: seasoning the vegetables with a pinch of salt will decrease the cooking time and add a baseline of seasoning to your sauce.)
• Remove the cooked vegetables from the pan and set aside. Return the pan to the stove and increase your heat to high. Add the remaining half of the olive oil, followed by the short rib. Brown the short ribs on all sides. Add all the remaining meat and continue to cook on high, stirring constantly until the ground beef is fully cooked. Deglaze the pan with the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any fond (the caramelized bits at the bottom of the pan) that developed while browning the proteins.
• Combine the vegetables with the browned meat and cook on medium until the alcohol smell of the wine is gone. Add all remaining ingredients and simmer on low, stirring occasionally, until the short ribs are tender (approximately 2.5 hours). Season to taste with red chili flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Ragù Napoletano al Forno
1 pound rigatoni or ziti, cooked one minute less than al dente
½ batch ragù Napoletano
6 ounces mozzarella, diced
8 ounces parmesan, grated 1 cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup parsley, minced
• Heat oven to 400°F. In an oven-safe dish, combine the cooked pasta, the ragù, and the mozzarella and mix until well combined. Cover with foil and place in the oven for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, toss the breadcrumbs, minced parsley, and grated parmesan together in an appropriately-sized mixing bowl. After the 30 minutes are up, remove the foil, top with the breadcrumb mixture, and return the dish to the oven for an additional 15 minutes. Once fully cooked, remove the baked pasta from the oven and allow it to rest for five minutes before serving. t
. . 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 Taste tab at bellinghamalive.com
* Review provided by restaurant.
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.
ANTHONY’S HEARTHFIRE GRILL Steak, Seafood
7 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360.527.3473, anthonys.com
The Hearthfire menu speaks to the everyday eater, not just the special occasion treat of Anthony’s. Seasonal items, such as peaches or huckleberries in the summer, complement salads, entrees, and drinks. Steaks, seafood, and items on the Woodfire rotisserie round out the selections.
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.
BANTER AFTER HOURS American, Craft Cocktails, Vegan
114 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.788.4849, banterhospitality.com
If you want to feel like you’re on a sunny beach vacation without leaving Bellingham, After Hours is the place to be! The casual, cheeky atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great space to spend the evening trying out some unique, flavorful food and creative cocktails.
202 Grand Ave., Bellingham 360.656.6802, barcicotti.com
The inspiration for Bar Cicotti comes from traditional Italian bars, which specialize in espresso by day and booze by night. If you’re looking to unwind in style, you’re invited to share snacks and bottle of wine with friends in Bar Cicotti’s chic courtyard.
made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Located inside the Four Points by Sheraton Bellingham, it’s perfect for a family on the road, a business lunch, or an intimate dinner out.
D’ANNA’S CAFE ITALIANO Italian 1319 N. State St., Bellingham 360.714.0188, dannascafeitaliano.com
If you’re looking for good Italian food without having to resort to a national chain, D’Anna’s may be the place for you. The emphasis here is on the food, not the frills. The restaurant stands out in many ways, but D’Anna’s delicious, homemade pasta is what really makes it special.
FIAMMA BURGER American 1309 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.733.7374, fiammaburger.com
One word speaks volumes about Fiamma Burger: variety. With a multitude of patty types and more than 20 menu options, there are endless possibilities for a burger masterpiece. All burgers are served on a fresh-baked bun, with crisp lettuce and all the usual fixings. You can even get a “burger in a bowl,” served without the bread. Spice it up with chipotle ketchup, spicy mustard, or curry mayo, then cool it down with a beer or milkshake.
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
BAYOU ON BAY Cajun, Creole
1300 Bay St., Bellingham
360.752.2968, bayouonbay.com
Bayou On Bay serves a wide variety of classic Cajun/Creole dishes, such as gumbo, jambalaya, po’ boy sandwiches, and hush puppies, to name a few. A house-made remoulade, which accompanies many of the dishes, is worth the trip alone. The bar offers an extensive list of drink options. Bayou on Bay is a must for foodies as well as people just looking for a satisfying meal.
CHIHUAHUA MEXICAN RESTAURANT
Mexican
5694 Third Ave., Ferndale 360.384.5820 chihuahuamexicanrestaurant.com
Dine in at one of the largest Mexican restaurants in Washington and experience the authentic cuisine derived from decades of dedication to excellent food. Using family recipes passed down for generations, Chihuahua Mexican Restaurant will not only leave you full, but also deeply satisfied.
CHINUK RESTAURANT Steak, Seafood
714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360,392.6520, chinukbellingham.com
Chinuk’s menu contains many specialties, but its biggest attribute is its versatility. The menu features delicious Northwest-inspired cuisine
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).
GUUD BOWLS American, Ready-to-Heat Bowls 2625 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham, 360.510.4880, guudbowls.com
Guud Bowls is unlike most food services because they don’t have a storefront. Every weekday, their team cooks and chills bowls of food in a commissary kitchen and hand-deliver anywhere in Whatcom County. Choose from a rotating menu of gluten-free bowls filled with colorful, fresh ingredients. Pop the ready-to-heat bowls in the oven, microwave, or saute in a pan.
Bacchus: The Greek God of Wine. Bacchus: The German varietal. Bacchus Bistro: Langley’s hidden French Top 3 Al Fresco Restaurants in Vancouver… Yes, folks, this is too good not to share!
JUST MINUTES FROM the border is Fraser Valley’s oldest winery: Chaberton Estate Winery, nestled in the bountiful rolling hills of Langley, British Columbia, Canada (our beloved and never-forgotten northern brother). Not only can you try over 20 varietals at their classic tasting room, but you can buy a bottle and sit out on their tasting lawn or dine at Chef Ashley’s quintessential farm to table bistro that overlooks their 55-acre vineyard. How cool is that?
Particularly special is the fact that my grandparents brought me to this winery
as a little girl and we'd share dinner together and enjoy each other’s company with the view of the vines. Having just lost my most adored grandfather (the winemaker who sparked my oenology journey), this was the natural pick to raise a toast in homage to JC Fumagalli, who would have been celebrating his 95th birthday this month.
I was not surprised after visiting and doing my research that this particular pick for September won double gold at SavorNW Wine Awards earlier this year in Cannon Beach and garnered two other top awards. Their list of other winning varietals is long, but there was something special about this pixie. You can join their wine club and find out more at their website, chabertonwinery.com.
Tasting Notes: Intoxicating floral scents of hyacinth, gardenia, and plumeria frame ripe peach flesh and sliced Red Delicious apple. The palate delights with kiwi, starfruit, zesty lime, and essence of rose with a gentle pithy spice finish.
Pairing Suggestion: Chevre-stuffed dates, butter lettuce salad with lemon vinaigrette, herbed couscous, poached lobster, rosemary-basil crusted halibut, key lime pie, mango granita. t
Amberleigh Brownson has been a local sommelier and international wine judge in Whatcom county for eight years. She is a fourtime 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.
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.
MAPLE.BAR Coffee Shop
4252 Cordata Parkway, Bellingham 360.441.5440 | www.maple.bar
Head to Maple.Bar for a cozy-yet-cool atmosphere, great coffee, and perfectlysized donuts. Try the Maple.Bar Signature latte, a maple latte with a deep, authentic flavor and no hint of sickly sweetness. If you really want to go all out, add one of their eponymous Maple Bars, or choose another flavor of donut– they’re all small, almost beignet-sized, squares of fluffy deliciousness.
MI MEXICO Mexican
241 Telegraph Rd., Bellingham 360.647.0073, mimexicobellingham.com
Mi Mexico’s reputation as one of the local favorites among Mexican food lovers is well deserved. The experience starts with a warm, friendly, professional waitstaff in an enjoyable, upbeat atmosphere. From there, Mi Mexico separates itself from the competition with a choice of traditional and non-traditional Mexican dishes, all made with the freshest of ingredients available. From your first bite of Mi Mexico’s homemade salsa to the last bite of your main entree or dessert, you will already be planning your next visit.
OISHII Asian
424 W. Bakerview Rd., Ste. 101, Bellingham 360.671.6007, oishiiteriyaki.com
The next time you find yourself craving Asian fusion, head to Bakerview Square for sushi, teriyaki, noodles, and more. “Oishii” means “delicious” in Japanese and as any of their longtime regulars will tell you Bellingham’s Oishii Teriyaki & Rolls more than lives up to its name.
THE PENNY FARTHING BAR & RESTAURANT American
1309 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.738.7179, chuckanutbaydistillery.com
Between craft cocktails and creative dishes designed for sharing, a night spent at the Penny Farthing will be one to remember. The bar and restaurant is operated by (and located within) Chuckanut Bay Distillery, and
their house-made spirits are complemented by creative and locally-sourced dishes.
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.
1208 E. Maple St. Bellingham, WA 98225 360.306.8629 redgingerbellingham.com
Newly opened this summer, Red Ginger offers traditional authentic asian cuisine at a great price point . Their take on mongoian beef, Seven Flavor Beef, is exceptional. Dine in or take-out, give them a try.
STEAK HOUSE AT SILVER REEF
Steak, Seafood
4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale 360.383.0777, silverreefcasino.com
This award-winning restaurant offers elegant dining and an intimate atmosphere. Prime-grade steaks are broiled at 1,800 degrees to lock in the natural juices and finished with a special steak butter. They also have an extensive wine list. This dining experience rivals any of the big-town steakhouses in quality and service without the big-city price tag.
8114 Guide Meridian Rd., Lynden undergroundburgers.com
If you’re craving a classic burger experience, Underground Burger offers delicious, affordable burgers made from locally raised, certified Angus beef. The restaurant began as a virtual kitchen based out of Jake’s BBQ, but quickly expanded into a permanent spot where you can order dine-in or to-go. Round out your meal with waffle fries and a chocolate shake.
6903 Bourne St., Glacier 360.599.1658, getsconed.com
Wake ‘N Bakery is a staple rest stop along Mount Baker Highway. If you’re in need of a sweet treat and hot coffee to bring the feeling back to your numb fingers, this will fit the bill. Whether you’re traveling to or from the mountain, watch for its signs as you pass through Glacier the cafe is about a block off the highway.
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY ANNE GODENHAM
DOWN ON RAILROAD Avenue in Bellingham, there’s an unassuming little shop—so little you might miss it if you blink while driving by. But Sweet Art, a chocolate shop and art gallery owned by Vivian and Jerry Hruska, doesn’t rely on high visibility.
“We have a good customer [base],” Vivian says. “We don't advertise—[it’s] all word of mouth.”
The power of that word-of-mouth reputation, combined with the quality and creativity of their inventory, is exactly what’s kept Sweet Art going for nearly 30 years.
The Hruskas opened Sweet Art in 1998—they’d moved to Bellingham in 1992 from Laguna Beach, California, where Jerry had run a small chocolate shop and Vivian had managed an art store.
“We like the energy of a college town,” Vivian says of why they moved to Bellingham, “with the youth and the mixture of people that are here.”
For the first five or so years, Jerry worked in electronics repair and Vivian continued to work in retail at various art stores, but when the Railroad storefront became available they knew it was time to get back to running a chocolate shop—this time, with a twist.
“I studied art my whole entire career in college, as well as when I was very young; I was self taught,” says Vivian, who paints under her maiden name: Vivian Mazzola. “I didn't have my own gallery. I would sell out of galleries or street fairs, and that's how I did my art. But then we united and I said, ‘Well, this is perfect!’ Now I have my own gallery and our shop.”
And so, Sweet Art was born. The narrow customer space inside (just wide enough to sidle past another person who’s waffling over what to order) is flanked on the right by refrigerated display cases housing all manner of chocolate truffles, caramels, and shaped treats. On the left and on the wall behind the case, Vivian’s paintings hang in a range of sizes and styles, grouped by subject matter.
“I do go through phases,” Vivian says, smiling at her artwork from behind the counter. “Everything else that is a landscape of sorts is something I've been to or seen. And all my flowers are from either my garden or from the farmers market. And then I have a playful side that I just fool around with, little playful things…they’re like fantasy things.”
And Vivian’s creativity isn’t limited only to the art on the walls. When I ask if the Hello Kittyshaped krispie treats in the case were her idea, she smiles.
“I do all the inventing of flavors and this and that…he came on board with fudge and toffee and turtles, old fashioned [classics]...all the cutesy little artsy things, that’s all me.”
The partnership is clearly a successful one, as 26 years in business and plenty of satisfied customers can attest. Count me among the latter: I bought a milk chocolate pig for my son, who devoured it so fast I barely got an ear nibble, and shared a Salty Dog caramel with my husband. I also shared the dried mango dipped in white chocolate and sprinkled with Tajín seasoning, but it was so good I wished I’d kept it to myself.
The Hruskas have recently begun hiring and training staff to help them with every aspect of the business, including making the chocolates—as Vivian says, “this is a family business and the family does everything.” They’re hopeful that one of their mentees will eventually want to join them in running the
CHUCKANUT MANOR Pacific Northwest
3056 Chuckanut Dr., Bow
360.766.6191, chuckanutmanor.com
Tucked along Samish Bay, Chuckanut Manor has been serving flavorful Pacific Northwest fare for more than 50 years. Open for lunch and dinner, including a daily happy hour from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., the restaurant is known for its mouthwatering seafood dishes, burgers, steaks, stellar service, and breathtaking views of Samish Bay. The dining room and bar are expansive and feature white tablecloths, nautical decor, and rows of windows that show off the magnificent views. In the summer, guests may also dine on the outdoor patio. While the tablecloths might allude to fancy attire, the vibe is casual and everyone is welcome just as they are.
IL GRANAIO Italian
100 W. Montgomery St., Ste. 110 Mount Vernon 360.419.0674, granaio.com
Il Granaio is a practice in the intricacies of cuisine, displaying the best flavors Italian food has to offer. With more than 30 items on the entree menu, the list can be quite daunting and the dessert menu is also impressive. The wine menu is also expansive, and the beer menu features several local craft brews. Their grappa selection does the Italian cordial the justice it deserves.
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.
5984 North Darrk Ln, Bow, 877.275.2448
Fuel your play at The Skagit Casino & Resort’s in-house restaurant, where they cook up everything from Birria Tacos to Shrimp Ceviche. Complete your meal with a Guava Cooler (made with house tequila and Bundaberg guava soda) or other signature cocktail at their walk-up margarita bar!
CAPTAIN WHIDBEY INN American
2072 Captain Whidbey Inn Rd., Coupeville 360.678.4097, captainwhidbey.com
The entire menu features down-to-earth items that are reasonably priced, locally sourced, and well-balanced. While the inn does serve as a special-occasion spot, folks dressed in shorts and a T-shirt are also welcomed. Built in 1907, Captain Whidbey Inn is a historical gem.
DOE BAY CAFÉ American
107 Doe Bay Rd., Olga 360.376.8059, doebay.com
Whether you’re heading toward the San Juan Islands or don’t mind taking a trip for an unbelievable meal, be sure to make reservations at the ever-popular Doe Bay Café. This iconic cafe has stuck to its mission of providing world-class seafood and vegetarian dishes.
FRIDAY HARBOR HOUSE Regional NW
130 West St., #101 Friday Harbor 360.378.8455, fridayharborhouse.com
It’s hard to beat the view of the ferry landing, marina, and San Juan Channel from Friday Harbor House the hotel and restaurant provide a sweeping panorama of water and sky. In addition to the delicious food menu, Friday Harbor House is one of the few island restaurants to offer a full bar at brunch every day of the week.
400 First St., Langley, 360.221.3033, innatlangley.com
If beauty were a taste, this would be it. As a guest, you’re taken on a mouth-watering culinary journey through a multi-course tasting menu. Not only is the meal a delight for the taste buds, but there are also surprises at each turn, whether it’s the presentation or the accoutrements. Each guest is served as if they are the only one in the dining room. The menu is prix fixe, with an additional charge for wine pairing. Dinner here is more than just a meal; it’s an experience.
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If you’ve never tried fried crickets, don’t let squeamishness stop you from ordering the Chapulines Taco at La Catrina Tacos & Tequila. The crispy little landcrawfish have a nutty sort of umami that’s complemented by the fresh pico de gallo on top.
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Storia Cucina’s Homemade Focaccia is made with a sourdough starter from 1971 that has aged like fine wine. Their Lumache Pomodoro effortlessly blends ricotta, parmesan, and Di Napoli tomato sauce to create a flavor profile balanced atop tender pasta.
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It can be difficult to choose just one item from Cafe Akroteri’s sprawling menu of Greek staples. If it’s your first time dipping your fork into Greek cuisine, the Falafel Gyro packs a punch while introducing you to the quintessential flavors of the European Peninsula.
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ISLAND SKILLET Homestyle
325 Prune Alley, Eastsound, 360.376.3984
Beloved by loyal patrons for its large portions and casual, customizable meals, Island Skillet is a must-stop for anyone visiting Orcas Island. A rustic metal rooster outside the entrance sets the tone. Start the day with a skillet breakfast complete with a bottomless cup of coffee. Sandwiches rule the lunch menu, and you can choose from a lengthy list of sides and customizations for most items, so you can totally have it your way.
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Perfect for folks who like a little bit of everything, Tokyo House’s Bento Box lets you mix and match your meal. Each box comes with rice, gyoza, miso soup, and salad, with two slots available for customization. Options range from teriyaki to tempura, plus a range of sushi rolls.
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by Teo Crider Photography
Filled to the brim with flaky grilled fish, bright cilantro and crisp cabbage, California Tacos and Fresh Juices boasts a wonderfully balanced Fish Burrito that is perfectly filling without bogging you down.
While known for its selection of drinks, this popular boba chain also offers dessert. Happy Lemon’s Bubble Waffle has a crispy, golden exterior with a soft, chewy core. Available in original, chocolate, Oreo, and matcha flavors—be sure to pair it with your choice of sweet or savory dip for a satisfying treat!
Our very own locally-owned ice cream truck, Sugar Shack, was out on the streets of Whatcom County this summer serving up classic Good Humor novelties, Popsicle bars with the gumball eyes, and Dark Chocolate Dipped Cheesecake from Chuckanut Bay Foods! These frozen, rich treats are perfect on a hot, melty day.
For a crispy and delicious snack, find the Lumpia Luv food truck and take your pick of their Filipino spring rolls, also known as lumpia! We love the Veggie Lumpia made with veggie protein, carrots, cabbage, onion, and garlic, but there’s also the sweet Banana Lumpia for dessert.
“Ian
and I adore this corner of Washington that we call home and wanted to pay homage to its natural beauty for our midsummer wedding.”
— REBECCA LEHMAN FAY
OPEN SUNDAY & THURSDAY 5PM - 9PM FRIDAY & SATURDAY 5PM - 10PM
OPEN DAILY AT 8:00AM Choose from appetizers, burgers, soups, sandwiches, seafood, pasta and more. Look for a new daily special each month. Your appetite and your wallet will thank you.
There’s too much you’re not allowed to do in this world. So we say YES! Yes, you can feed the seals at the aquarium. Yes, you can drop a crab pot off the 12th Avenue Bridge. Yes, you can eat elephant ears before dinner and lie on the sand by a fire ‘til midnight. Especially if you went hiking, biking, kayaking or surfing all day. And of course you can rent a paddle boat shaped like a swan... it’s Seaside!
