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WE’VE ROUNDED UP some of the best ways to ensure your home is a sensory masterpiece, from cozy textures and hunger-inducing colors to natural forest scents and impeccable sound absorption. Turn to page 50 for tips on customizing every element of your space so it creates the exact sensory response you’re going for!
Photo courtesy of Birch Bay
Photo by Ben Stainbrook
Photo by Chloe Nelson
Photo by Brandee Simons
Online Exclusive
Sometimes our writers get started on a piece and find there’s just too much great information (or too many fabulous quotes) to fit the page space—a good problem to have! When that happens, we’ll often let them write the piece their heart wants to write and put the extended version up as a Web Exclusive, which is what we’ve done here with Chloe Nelson’s article about the Whatcom County Cruising Association. Read the print piece on page 24, then head to our website for even more of the story (plus more photos)!
Giveaway
Enter to win three bottles of wine from our Best of the Northwest 2024 Best Wineries Winners. Featuring wines from Bertelsen Winery, Samson Estates Winery, and Dynasty Cellars.
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DURING THE SUMMER months, when the sun stays up for hours in the evening and the lakes are beckoning to us in the heat, many of us spend more time and energy outside the house than inside. But before we know it fall will be here, and we’ll be itching to redecorate and move things around. Which is exactly why August is the home decor issue here at Bellingham Alive: so you can start thinking about things and gathering inspiration now, and set yourself up for success when it’s time to actually get stuck in!
This year we’ve got a fun twist on the theme for you with our feature article: Design to Satisfy the Senses. And yes, we even found a way to incorporate taste—without making you lick the wallpaper! Check it out on page 50 and let us know which ideas tantalize your senses and inspire you to make your home more you. And for even more visual and textural inspiration, head to page 40 to see photos and learn about Habitat for Humanity in Whatcom County’s 2025 Trashion Show, where contestants used unconventional materials (aka trash) to create beautiful, fascinating outfits that defied expectations and showcased the designers’ creativity.
Not ready to think about interiors yet? We’ve still got plenty of outdoorsy content for you to enjoy, from a delicious recipe for Tomahawk steak
grilled on an open flame (p. 92) and a great new coffee trailer to try on your next day at the park (p. 85) to an article about protecting our local waterways with the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association (p. 22) and a round-up of fabulous guided tours in the area (p. 28). If you’re craving a weekend camping by a lake but you don’t have a lot of gear or just don’t love sleeping on the ground, you’ll definitely want to read about my family’s recent visit to Lakedale Resort (p. 26). Not only did we get to sleep in a king-sized bed while still breathing the fresh air through the tent walls, but we even had our own bathroom!
We’ve also got the lowdown on the Fairhaven Chicken Festival (p. 36), recommendations for fun sunglasses to fight the late summer evening glare (p. 46), an update on the very exciting addition of another Trader Joe’s location in Bellingham (p. 18), and so much more. And don’t miss our Local Writer Limelight (p. 23)—this month’s author is a favorite in our house, especially the musical words and lively illustrations of “Ella’s Umbrella.”
However you choose to spend these last days of summer, I hope you get the most out of them in exactly the way that serves you best. For me, that will likely mean eating a lot of fresh fruit and staying in the shade as much as possible. I’ll see you in September!
Your participation directly supports Brigadoon Service Dogs in our mission to provide trained service dogs to veterans, children, and adults with physical, developmental, and behavioral health disabilities.
To donate auction items or for more information please call us at 360-733-5388 or email development@brigadoondogs.org.
Thank you for your support!
Mary Kinser
Growing up in Washington state, Mary learned early on that rainy days provided the perfect excuse to curl up with a good story. Mary is now a collection development librarian for Whatcom County Library System, where she gets to spend her days spreading the joy of reading. In her free time, she enjoys travel, board games, long walks, and baking delicious treats. She and her husband share their home with one son, one cat, and far too many books. p. 23
I’m Chef Matthew Boudousquie, a New Orleans native who has called Bellingham home on and off since childhood. My journey in hospitality started in Louisiana and Georgia, flourished here and on Orcas Island, and led me back to New Orleans before returning to the Pacific Northwest for good. My love for farm-to-table cooking runs deep, and I’ve been fortunate to build relationships with local farmers and fishers who shape my approach to food. p. 92
Diane Symms
Diane Symms is the founder and co-owner of Lombardi’s Restaurant Group. After a 45-year career as a restaurant owner and brand developer, she recently retired—but her passion for hospitality, Italian culture, and great wine remains as vibrant as ever. Her love of all things Italian, especially wine, inspired six research trips to Italy, where she explored regional products and recipes that could be adapted for the American palate. Her commitment to authenticity helped shape Lombardi’s into a beloved local brand known for approachable Italian cuisine and thoughtful wine pairings. p. 90
Julie Trimingham
Julie Trimingham is a mother, writer, and nontribal member of the Sacred Lands Conservancy (SacredSea.org), a Lhaq’temish-led non-profit dedicated to protecting Native sovereignty, treaty rights, sacred sites, and the life and waters of Xw’ullemy (the Salish Sea bioregion). Her heart is filled by the work to protect and promote ancestral place-based knowledge so that we can all learn to live here, with one another, and with Mother Earth, in a good way. p. 20
LEADERSHIP BREAKFAST YWCA IS ON A MISSION
CEO of YWCA USA as our keynote speaker.
Join us for the 2025 Leadership Breakfast—an inspiring morning of connection, community, and impact. Enjoy treats and coffee, a silent auction, raffle, and the chance to invest in housing for women and children.
Friday, September 26, 2025
8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Hotel Bellwether, Bellingham
Secure your seat today! Featuring
PUBLICATIONS
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Welcome Newcomers Guide
PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER
Lisa Karlberg
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Anne Godenham
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Kristen Boehm
ART AND GRAPHICS MANAGER
Brandee Simons
DIGITAL CONTENT CREATOR
Isabel Hyde
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Michael Roe
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Christopher Jones | Therese Reyes
WRITERS
Nicole Kimberling
CONTRIBUTORS
Matthew Boudousquie | Mary Kinser
Courtney Shannon Strand | Diane Symms
Julie Trimingham
EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS
Isabel Mullet | Chloe Nelson
Ben Stainbrook
OFFICE MANAGEMENT
Jenn Miranda
CLIENT SERVICES CONCIERGE
Megan Gonzales
CONTACT US
CORPORATE OFFICE
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, 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.
It's always so uplifting. We love trying all the things you have ever listed in your round ups, all the local places. We don't have much need for magazines anymore, but Bellingham Alive is still one we keep and fight over to read!
– Cheryl R., Ferndale
Thanks you for your kind words, Cheryl. One of our key missions is to provide uplifting, joyful editorial for our readers. There is so much negativity around us we feel it is important to showcase the positives things in our life that we can enjoy and experience.
– Lisa K., Publisher
We love your magazine—I give subscriptions away as Christmas gifts! – comment from a lovely Skagit County reader at Berry Dairy Days Festival It always warms my heart when I hear this! This is exactly why I started Bellingham Alive 16 years ago. I wanted to give the community a magazine they could be
proud enough to share it with friends and family, while at the same time giving businesses a way to reach these readers and share their message. Thank you for supporting us and our local buisnesses. – Lisa K., Publisher
Was cruising the magazine section at Fred Meyer looking for anything that might catch my eye and BOOM your cover with the fresh farmers market finds instantly did the trick! I was born and raised in Bellingham and that was my sign it's time for me to subscribe! Thank you.
– Mike B., Bellingham Mike, thank you for supporting us and giving Bellingham Alive a place in your home. One of our goals is to provide something in every issue that, whether you are a native resident born and raised, or a newcomer to our area, you’ll find something or someplace new to learn about and enjoy.
– Lisa K., Publisher
Photo by Brandee Simons
Derby Derby Do!
WRITTEN BY CHLOE NELSON
THE KIPLINGCOTES DERBY originated in 1519 in Britain, earning the title of Britain’s oldest horse race. Now, over 500 years later, this horse derby still takes place annually on the third Thursday of March. The term “derby” itself is widely thought to originate from an Earl of Derby, who started his own horse race almost 300 years after the Kiplingcotes. Since that early use of the term, derbies morphed into other forms and can be found all over the world. From football derbies to ducky derbies to fishing derbies, there’s a derby out there for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the best derbies around the North Sound!
Birch Bay Derby Day
Coming up on Aug. 23, this year’s Birch Bay Derby Day (previously called Discover Birch Bay Days) promises a fun-filled day of community, culinary delights, and family-friendly competition—all benefitting the Friends of Birch Bay Library.
Whether you’re in it for the adrenaline rush of the Love Your Library Fun Run & Walk or the gambling rush of the Poker Run, want to show off your crab-catching prowess at the Billy Brown Crab Derby, or prefer to “quack on” your rubber ducky (if you can remember which one of the 6-700 it is!) from the sidelines at the Duck Derby, there’s a race for everyone. And there’s great food and plenty of vendor booths to check out in between competitions. So come on down, put on your best game face, and get ready to win awesome prizes—previous years’ winners have nabbed everything from gift cards to local eateries to day passes for local activities!
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Trout Derby
This is the 10th year that the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is hosting its annual statewide Trout Derby, and it’s going to be no small affair. Beginning on April 26 and running through Oct. 31, the derby is sponsored by more than 100 businesses throughout the state, with prizes exceeding combined value of $54,000.
“It was created to help motivate people to get out and enjoy the fishing opportunities in Washington,” says WDFW Communications Consultant Michael Foster to Cascadia Daily News.
Lake Erie, Sixteen Lake, and Lake McMurray are representing Skagit County, and Lake Padden is representing Whatcom County. The derby trout are recognizable by a WDFW orange tag near the dorsal fin. If you catch one, make sure to fill out the form online and collect your prize! Anacortes, Conway, Arlington, Bellingham, wdfw.wa.gov
Photo courtesy of Bellingham Roller Betties and Bellingham Media Group
Photo courtesy of Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce
Bellingham Roller Betties Roller Derby
The Bellingham Roller Betties’ slogan, “Breaking Hearts and Body Parts,” pretty much sums up the energy this roller derby brings to the city. Five different teams compete under the Roller Betties umbrella.
Ranked 55th out of 99 teams in the North America West region at the time of writing, the Bellingham AllStars are a competitive Women’s Flat Track Derby Association team.
The Cog Blockers are a team of fierce and unified individuals that band together against their opponents.
Team FLASH (Formidable League of Amazing Super Heroes) is full of seasoned veterans and newcomers, with “lightning fast reflexes” and “legs of steel.”
Tough Love and the Grit Pit put their best foot forward to ensure that they are some of the toughest derby teams out there.
The Roller Betties’ 2025 season ran from March 1-June 28, featuring five double-header bouts where the Roller Betties’ teams faced off against neighboring leagues and each other. There was even a themed bout: “Lord of the Rinks”! In 2026, the Bellingham Roller Betties will ring in their 18th season—head on over to their website to check them out! Bellingham, bellinghamrollerbetties.com
Photo courtesy of Bellingham Roller Betties and Bellingham Media Group
Photo courtesy of Bellingham Roller Betties and Bellingham Media Group
Photo courtesy of Bellingham Roller Betties and Bellingham Media Group
Northwest Washington Fair Demolition Derby
The Demolition Derby is a local summer favorite, and it’s back for 2025! The derby will take place on the first two nights of the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden, Aug. 7-8, starting at 7 p.m.
The point of a demolition derby is to be the last car standing! Cars crash and parts fly while skilled drivers battle it out. This event is open to all ages, as long as you’re up for some good ol’ fashion destruction.
The demo derby is organized by the Whatcom Demo Derby Club, a passionate group of locals who love the action, pageantry, and destruction of demo derbies. They’re also organizing a September Derby on Sept. 13 at the Sumas Rodeo Ground.
Tickets for the Northwest Washington Fair Demo Derby can be purchased at nwwafair.com, the fair’s office, or by phone. VIP and group tickets are also available. Don’t miss out on a thrilling night of demolition derby fun! 1775 Front St., Lynden, 360.354.4111, nwwafair.com
Howard Bowen Youth Fishing Derby
Do you have children in your life looking to join derbies as well? Luckily there are specific derbies just for kids! Every year, the American Legion hosts the Howard Bowen youth fishing derby at Howard Bowen Park in Sumas. Taking place in early June, this derby is completely free and has two separate classes for boys and girls ages 4-8 and 9-13.There are prizes for the largest fish caught as well as the first, second, and third fish caught. Check out the 52nd Howard Bowen youth fishing derby in 2026 to enroll! Sumas, cityofsumas.com
Honorable Mention: Lummi Island Reefnet Festival
Our honorable mention isn’t technically a derby. Rather than focusing on competitive fishing, the Lummi Island Reefnet Festival celebrates the traditional reefnetting practices of the Lummi people. This year’s fest is on Aug. 16 at the Salish Center for Sustainable Fishing Methods, which organizes the festival with the goal of educating folks on this ancient practice, still practiced today in the waters around Lummi! Reefnetting is widely considered one of the most sustainable ways to farm salmon, as it involves carefully netting salmon under expert supervision.
At the festival, enjoy fresh reefnet-caught salmon, other delicious foods and a beer garden, live music from bands The Walrus and Lost at Last, arts and crafts, educational booths, and even boatrides out to the reefnet gears to see how the practice works! This all-day, all-ages affair is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the beautiful outdoors, engage in local culture, and learn about protecting our salmon and waters. Lummi Island, salishcenter.org
Photo courtesy of the American Legion Sumas Memorial Post #212
Photo courtesy of The Salish Center for Sustainable Fishing Methods
S ATU R DAY & SUN DAY
S Q U A LICUM HA RBO R
Food Vendors • Beer, Wine & Cider Garden • Live Music • Lummi Nation Firepit Salmon
Cooking Demos • Dockside Seafood Market • Toy Boat Building • Meet Your Fisherman
THANKS TO A grant from Puget Sound Energy’s Green Power Community Support Program, the Community Boating Center (CBC) in Bellingham was able to install a new solar energy system in early May.
This project marked a major step forward for CBC’s goal of fully operating on 100% solar-generated electricity, moving away from fossil fuels. Over the next 30 years, the nonprofit is expected to save about $125,000 in electricity costs, savings which CBC plans to reinvest in other community programs.
“This solar project is more than just an investment in renewable energy,” says Bryan Rust, CBC’s Executive Director. “It’s an investment in the people we serve. Every dollar saved on utilities will help us expand our Community Enrichment Programs, fund more scholarships, and support youth internships, especially for historically marginalized communities.”
The solar system was designed and installed by Ecotech Solar, a Bellinghambased company with over 20 years of renewable energy experience. They’ve completed over 1,800 solar projects across Northwest Washington since 2004.
“We are proud to support the Community Boating Center’s efforts to create a more inclusive and sustainable future,” says Chris Poh, President of Ecotech Solar. “The CBC’s mission aligns closely with our own values of community empowerment and environmental stewardship.”
Since 2020, the CBC’s programs have grown by over 900%. In 2024, there was over $140,000 in free or low-cost programming, and over $15,000 in individual scholarships awarded. The savings obtained from this solar program will help increase these numbers in the future. 555 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.714.8891, boatingcenter.org
Kick off a beautiful day in Burlington at the Train Wreck Bar & Grill for a hearty breakfast. Options include omelets, French toast, and their famous Breakfast Bloody Mary.
New TJ’s in Town
Trader Joe’s
WRITTEN BY ANNE GODENHAM
THIS PAST MAY, after years (perhaps decades) of wishing and hoping and even directly begging the corporate headquarters of Trader Joe’s, another store finally opened in the North Sound! While Skagit County residents may be disappointed that the beloved chain has added another Bellingham store instead of a Skagit one, the positive effects of having a second location are already clear: customers are thrilled at the new store’s much larger parking lot; many residents are closer to the new location; and parking at the Sunnyland store has been significantly less like an un-fun game of bumper cars since the opening. 4255 Meridian St., Ste 200, Bellingham, 360.217.2007, traderjoes.com
Walk off the breakfast calories with a stroll down Fairhaven Avenue. Featuring a few different barber shops, Spruced Up Thrift Store, Melody’s Flowers, and more!
WRITTEN BY BEN STAINBROOK
Photo by Ben Stainbrook
The Power of Art and Culture
The Sophia Grace Gallery
WRITTEN BY ISABEL MULLET | PHOTO COURTESY OF SOPHIA GRACE
WHEN YOU STEP into the Sophia Grace Gallery in Ferndale, you’ll feel an immediate sense of curiosity intertwined with fascination. The owner, Dr. Sophia Kidd, greets her guests with a warm welcome, and her passion for art is truly magical—she has always known that she wanted to make her career involve art.
When I visited the gallery in June, the exhibit was “Maps of No Return,” featuring the work of the artist He Gong. He Gong moved from Chengdu, China to Los Angeles at age 31, and the art in this exhibit expresses his complex feelings about his life in China, his life in the United States, and the contrasts between the two. Sophia explained to me her own interpretations of the culturally rich paintings that hung on each wall. While each piece is unique, they all carry the same underlying message:
“Creating art for places you’ll never return to, and feeling as if you don’t belong in one culture, thus the name, ‘Maps of No Return.’” says Sophia. According to her, He Gong wanted people to “feel multidimensional when viewing his work.”
As the tour wrapped up, Sophia discussed her future plans for the gallery. She’s excited to continue creating a friendly space where people can engage with the community, collect art, and learn about the ways art can teach you about yourself and the world around you. For more information about the gallery, Dr. Sophia Kidd, and upcoming exhibitions, please visit the gallery website. 2026 Main St., Ste. B., Ferndale, 360.988.3645, sophiagracegallery.com
When you decide you need lunch, don’t pass up Railroad Pub & Pizza on Spruce Street. Pick from a nice variety of drinks, sandwiches, salads, and wood-fired brick oven pizza.
Spend some time in the outdoors with a visit to Skagit River Park. Choose from the selection of playing fields, as well as the nearby disc golf course, and the Burlington Dike Trail along the Skagit River.
Beloved Business’s New Home in Historic Building
Greenhouse
THE OWNERS OF Greenhouse home and furniture store in downtown Bellingham are restoring and renovating the building at 1210 North State Street, which once housed The Color Pot. The building was originally built in 1922, and Co-Owner Bre Green is excited to preserve its historic features. The makeover is transforming the space into Greenhouse’s new home, with a warehouse upstairs and a wide-open sales floor below for streamlined operations. Green says some brands will be expanded on top of the current product range.
Green’s goal is to move in by September 2025, and invite shoppers in soon after. Watch for a grand opening announcement on their socials! 1235 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.676.1161, greenhousehome. com KRISTEN BOEHM
End your day with a treat at Burlington Homestyle Smoothies & Cafe. In addition to smoothies, the menu boasts ice cream, boba, shaved ice, and more!
He Gong, Blue Pool, Acrylic with stencil technique,
Since Time Immemorial
Joshua Olsen
INTERVIEW AND PHOTO BY 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.
Joshua Olsen is an enrolled member of the Nooksack Tribe. A former Community Food Co-op cashier and baker, and Whatcom County Library System tribal liaison, he now works for Nooksack’s Cultural Natural Resources Department and continues to practice commercial and subsistence fishing. As a student of the Nooksack language, Lhechelesem, Joshua contributed to the Sacred Land Conservancy’s piece on Indigenous place names for the Mountaineers magazine: “The Many Faces of a Mountain.”
We’re here at Nugent’s Corner, by the Nooksack River. Traditional Nooksack land. Is this where you grew up?
I grew up in the Deming and Acme area, various places along the river. I actually camp down at the river here quite a few nights out of the year mostly, you know, for fishing purposes. It’s a way of life. Fishing, either commercial or subsistence, has always really sustained me, my family, and previous generations of my family.
Who taught you how to fish?
My dad. He taught me different ways on how to do it. A lot of times we were just scraping by without any kind of boat, and we’d have only one raggy set net, and we’d go find some place
to throw it into the river. After, we’d pack out probably eight or 10 large fish by hand at night. They’d either be tied together through their gills or in a bag—I'll always remember being a little kid and packing more fish than I can reasonably carry up a hill.
What’s a set net?
You have a heavy rope made with lead—the lead line—and that holds the bottom of the net taut from the top of the net, which is attached to a rope with corks or floats on it. The net goes out into the river, and you've got part of the net on the bank.
You throw one end into the middle of the river?
You look for places in the water where it is flowing upstream, and that's pretty much where the fish like to hang out. That's where they relax, because they can just kind of float around in the same spot. And generally, the rapids will push them into that backwardsmoving water.
And is set net a pretty traditional way to fish on the river?
It's a post-colonial way to fish on the river. Pre-colonial times, our people would use dip nets and gaff hooks, spears. They would also construct weirs all the way across the river, and then the fish would be funneled into a trap or chute where they could be sorted into which ones to let go and which ones to keep.
I know you’re a student of language as well as of history. I started studying the language back in 2010, and just a few years ago I began talking and meeting with George Adams. More recently, I’ve been doing the master apprenticeship with him. I've also been meeting with him and people from the University of British Columbia. There's some people who are associated with UBC who are
intent on finishing the dictionary and grammar book that was started by, I believe, Brent Galloway, who passed away before he could finish it. So these linguists have taken up that work and I've been able to meet with them and give them my opinion, as someone who's not a trained linguist, about the work and how the book is structured.
As you're learning the language, do you find that it changes your perspective or opens up the world in any kind of way?
It's a verb-based way of speaking, rather than noun-based like English. The words are based on actions and doing. It kind of reinforces that saying: thoughts become words and words become actions. I think it encourages a more pragmatic view of things: what things do, rather than what they are.
What do you like to do for fun?
I just like to hang out with people, visit with friends and family, play with remotecontrol boats. I do a lot of crafting. I practice archery and work on an old truck that I'm restoring piece by piece. I watch anime (a lot of anime). Yeah, just lots of different things. I used to garden a lot. My favorite thing is sharing new experiences with my son, he's 11, it's an opportunity to connect with and heal my own inner child in being there for him. I'm just pretty grateful and proud to be born into the life that I was born into. It was tough—it's still tough—but I'm still grateful for it.
How do I say “thank you” in Nooksack?
Nooksack has historically used 3 different languages: Lushootseed from the south, Halkomelem from the north, and Lhechelesem from Nooksack and Lake Whatcom. In Lhechelesem, I say Yólh kw'omalh ashoy…
Yólh kw'omalh ashoy, Joshua!
NSEA Continues to Fight for Salmon Recovery
Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association
WRITTEN BY BEN STAINBROOK
PHOTOS COURTESY OF NOOKSACK SALMON ENHANCEMENT ASSOCIATION STAFF
THROUGH NUMEROUS EDUCATION and volunteer programs, the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association (NSEA) has been working with local community members to remove barriers and create watersheds for salmon recovery for the past 34 years. Created in the wake of the Regional Fisheries Enhancement Group (RFEG) Program, established by Washington state legislature in 1990, NSEA is now a multi-million-dollar non-profit, and continues to make strides in supporting salmon growth throughout Whatcom County.
They concluded 2024 with over $3.08 million in revenue, 45% of which was from private contributors, and a team of about 4,000 people, mostly student scientists and volunteers, but also teachers and interns. NSEA also boasts a 16-member board of directors and a six-acre campus, which hosts summer camp events to teach preschoolers about salmon conservation.
The Current Five-Year Plan
NSEA’s current five-year strategic plan, which covers 2025-2030, was built with a community-based approach. The organization conducted surveys and individual interviews and held group learning sessions, pooling all the data together for analysis.
“What do they think we should be prioritizing? What are we not paying attention to? What are we doing really well that we should keep doing?” says Annitra Peck, the executive director at NSEA. “That way we can be strategic and focused with our work and really know when we need to stay in our lane and what we need to say no to.”
Five strategic priorities were highlighted: the restoration of watershed habitats, providing salmon with a voice through outreach and education, getting community members to engage in salmon recovery, growing the capacity of NSEA to meet recovery demands, and maximizing recovery impacts through various partnerships.
Budget Cuts and Pivoting
Recent government budget cuts have threatened some NSEA operations, including field work and education programs. Peck says they’ve had to cancel their plans for in-stream work, which can only be done during the “fish window,” July 15 through the end of September.
“As a non-profit, we rely on grant programs,” says Peck. “We are in a tricky time right now, trying to figure out how we continue on in a new funding landscape.”
With their initial plans canceled, Peck says NSEA has pivoted to what they’re calling the Legacy Project. Reformed habitat sites around 20 years old are checked on and receive care where needed. For example, plant protection like tubes or wiring that were applied to freshly-planted trees must now be removed to prevent any negative impacts.
“We face challenges and adversity, and when we can get through it and rise above it, we’re often stronger because of it,” says Peck.
How You Can Get Involved
“The main mission is that we engage our community in the process of salmon recovery,” says Peck. “There is a place for everyone to do something, and it all helps towards our mission.”
The official NSEA website has everything you need to learn more about local salmon recovery efforts. Annual impact reports published on the site provide the community with detailed information from the past year, including the number of volunteers, number of trees planted, number of work sites established, number of events hosted and what kinds, and so much more. Be sure to check the work party schedule and sign up for their newsletter to learn how you can join your community in supporting salmon recovery with NSEA! 3057 E. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham, 360.715.0283, n-sea.org
Kendall Creek before in-stream work
Kendall Creek 6 years post in-stream work
Book Reviews
WRITTEN BY MARY KINSER
“Back After This” by
Linda Holmes
Cecily Foster dreams of hosting her own podcast, and until then, she’s busy keeping everything going as a producer. Relationships are the last thing on her mind—so when her boss pitches a show focusing on Cecily’s dating life, she immediately says no. Unfortunately, the company is in trouble, and her boss needs a hit. Cecily finally agrees to let a relationship coach set her up on 20 blind dates and provide “feedback” (aka criticism). At first it seems fine, but then Cecily keeps running into photographer Will and his rowdy Great Dane. There’s no denying that there’s a connection between Will and Cecily, but is it something more? Now Cecily must choose between trusting the expert or trusting her heart. Author and NPR “Pop Culture Happy Hour” host Linda Holmes delivers another sweet, funny, and relatable modern love story that readers will adore.
“Sounds Like Love” by Ashley
Poston
With a hit song on her resume, songwriter Joni Lark should be at the top of her game professionally. But the truth is, Joni is stalled. Her creative inspiration has fled in the face of worries about her mother’s health and her parents’ recent decision to shutter The Revelry, the music hall where Joni grew up. She heads home to regroup, but there’s a new problem: Joni suddenly begins hearing an unfamiliar melody—and a man’s voice—in her head. This person can read her thoughts, and, more startling, Joni can read his. When the mystery man shows up at The Revelry, the two are intent on breaking the connection. And the only way to do that seems to be turning that strange melody into a song—together. Whimsical and magical, this fresh romance delivers characters you’ll root for in a novel that’s pitch-perfect for summer.
Katie Kulla in conversation with Amy Frye, “Farm-Raised Kids”
August 3
Village Books welcomes author, illustrator, and farmer Katie Kulla for a discussion of Kulla’s latest book, “FarmRaised Kids: Parenting Strategies for Balancing Family Life Running a Small Farm or Homestead.” 2 p.m., Village Books & Paper Dreams, 1200 11th St., Bellingham, 360.671.2626, villagebooks.com
Literary Events
“Naked in the Now” Workshop with Marijke McCandless
August 9
Local Writer Limelight
COURTNEY SHANNON STRAND is a Bellingham-based author passionate about children’s literacy. Known for her catchy and engaging picture books, she brings humor, heart, and rhythm to every page. Her published titles include “Ella’s Umbrella,” “Roundup Rodeo,” and “Hollyhock Hill,” available at courtneyshannonstrand.com, Village Books, the Whatcom Museum’s Museum Store, Minted Method, and Greenhouse Home. When she’s not writing, Courtney is dreaming up new characters or exploring the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. She’s currently working on a kids’ concept picture book, a middle grade novel, and a memoir. Follow her writing journey on her blog and social media @CourtStrand.
Marijke McCandless, the awardwinning author of “Naked in the Now: Juicy Practices for Getting Present,” will be hosting a writing workshop geared toward “diving into the unknown.”
2 p.m., Village Books & Paper Dreams, 1200 11th St., Bellingham, 360.671.2626, villagebooks.com
Wayne Lee, “Dining on Salt: Four Seasons of Septets”
August 10
Wayne Lee is an award-winning poet. He’ll be discussing his most recent book, “Dining on Salt: Four Seasons of Septets,” a memoir about love, loss, and recovery. 4 p.m., Village Books & Paper Dreams, 1200 11th St., Bellingham, 360.671.2626, villagebooks.com
Photo courtesy of Courtney Shannon Strand
Red, White, and Blue Antique Automobiles
Whatcom County Cruising Association
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY CHLOE NELSON
ON MAY 4 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Whatcom County Cruising Association (WCCA) hosted its first antique car show of the year. People arrived from all over Whatcom and Skagit Counties to show off their vehicles, from cities such as Maple Falls, Mount Vernon, and Ferndale. Over 130 vehicles were registered for the show—WCCA even had to turn people away!
WCCA was started in 1985 by 12-14 people, including Carl Bishop, Gary Patterson, Gary Abercrombie, John Lira, Andy Ochoa, Greg Irwin, Ken and Louise Sager, Larry Schaffer, and Jim Russell. Their first car show was a year later, and there are now three shows annually: the Spring Car Show in May, the Firecracker Car Show in July, and the Fall Car Show in September. The club donates the profits from the car shows to nonprofits such as the Boys and Girls Club of Whatcom County (Ferndale location), the Ferndale Food Bank, Project Santa Claus, and the Vietnam Veterans Chapter #165.
Awards were given out at the end of the May show, including Favorite Truck, WCCA Choice, Favorite Motorcycle, and Award in Excellence. There were also individual awards for the best vehicle from the 30’s to the 2000s. Schaffer won the Participant’s Choice award for his 1948 Thames Panel. He has won around 200 trophies from various car shows. Schaffer’s winning vehicle is just one of many that he has worked on in his vast car garage.
“The cars he’s built are beautiful,” says Russ Gregor, a member of WCCA. Working on cars appears to run in Schaffer’s blood, as his dad was a car mechanic. There’s photographic evidence of Schaffer working on cars as early as 4 years old, marking the beginning of his lifelong passion for cars.
Schaffer bought his first car in 1988, built it from the ground up in his shop the following year, and had it on the road by 1991. Since the original build, the car has had three different paint jobs and has traveled 60,000 miles. The third car Schaffer ever bought is the rarest car he owns: a 1936 English Ford CX he built from scratch. According to him, there are fewer than 50 recorded in the world and fewer than five in the United States, making this car incredibly valuable.
Schaffer also has an equally impressive, if not more so, antique model vehicle collection. He keeps them in glass cases that he built himself, in a black-and-white tiled room down the hallway from his garage. In addition to the 2,700 models themselves are many scenes with miniature figurines, including a COVID-19 swabbing station, a car wash, and an outdoor farmers market.
“I’m a little car crazy, as you can tell,” laughs Schaffer.
WCCA’s 60+ members range in age from the late teens to 90s; the majority are over 50, and Gregor wants more young people to get involved. Not because the club would benefit from an increase in enrollment, but also because the older the members get, the harder it is to run the car shows. There’s no age limit, and many members tend to bring their kids!
If you’re interested in antique vehicles, WCCA is the perfect place to start! If you’re considering joining the club, you’ll need to attend a minimum of two events or meetings. The membership application costs $20 for an individual or $25 for a couple. To meet some members before joining, head to the last WCCA car show this year, the Fall Car Show on Sept. 1. Ferndale, wccacruisers.org
Thank you to our wonderful supporters that voted us into the Best of the Northwest! We really enjoy helping with your home and office improvements.
SHADE CONCEPTS
~ Window Fashions Your Way ~ 360-733-7956 shade-concepts.com
Sleeping in the Woods—On Your Terms
Lakedale Resort
WRITTEN
AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY ANNE GODENHAM
ONE OF THE most wonderful things about our region is that it offers ways for everyone to enjoy nature, and one fabulous property on San Juan Island is taking that offer a step further: Lakedale Resort makes camping in the woods accessible to even the most dirt-averse among us.
“It’s kind of like a curio cabinet,” says Operations Director Richard Pitchford. “Where you’ve got two of these and seven of these…could we build a 500-room hotel building here? Sure we could, [but what you get instead is] something for everybody, and the experiences are totally different.”
The 82-acre property offers no fewer than eight different forms of accommodation, from classic tent camping and RV campsites to fully plumbed log cabins and luxurious rooms at the kid-free lodge. And for those who want to sleep in the fresh air, but not on the ground, there’s glamping: choose a canvas cabin for a comfy queen bed (or reserve the bunkhouse for a larger group) or level up to a canvas cottage to add a private bathroom and prime water views.
But, Pritchard notes, there’s no division among the different accommodations. Besides the fact that the Lodge is 16+, the entire property is available for every guest to enjoy. And there’s a lot to enjoy: three lakes, all of which are available for swimming and fishing and two of which also offer boating/paddle boarding; bikes (and helmets) of all sizes for guest use on the property; a beach with changing cabanas and a giant chess board; a fully stocked Activity Tent with
everything the whole family needs to do crafts and tie-dye shirts; and a range of stunning outdoor sculptures scattered around the landscape.
When my family visited Lakedale in mid-May, the rain kept us inside our cozy canvas cabin for much of the time, but when the sun came out we took full advantage of the activities; my son’s favorite was either riding the tractorshaped water tricycle or eating soft serve from the general store. Tough call— luckily he didn’t have to choose.
“On any given day, [the general store] is sort of the beating heart of the property,” says Pritchard. “We’ve got hot dogs, we make pizzas, we have some grab-and-go food. We’ve got, obviously, souvenirs and kitschy stuff for the kids. And then we’ve got camping supplies and fishing supplies…wood that we sell for firewood…and this is where all the boat rentals happen.”
This year, boat and fishing pole rentals are free—more like borrowing. The Activity Tent, too, offers complementary crafts alongside those that incur a small materials fee. And there’s no age cutoff, Pritchard notes: “It’s mostly geared towards kids…[but] we’ve got everybody from seven to 77 out here doing tie-dye.”
And for those of us who just want to relax? Well, there’s the beach, of course, but there’s also a lakeside deck for gathering, complete with Adirondack chairs and a fire pit. When the team decided to make the Lodge adults-only, there was some grumbling among the other guests.
“A lot of people obviously want to hang out on a deck,” Pritchard says, “And so we built one.”
And that’s the thing I found perhaps most inviting about Lakedale: there’s probably already something for everyone, but on the off-chance that they don’t have what you want, the staff is dedicated to finding a solution.
BELLINGHAM SUMMERS ARE filled with lush greenery, vibrant fields of flowers, and the perfect balance of sunshine and a cool breeze. Guided tours are a great way to enjoy these jaw-dropping views! No matter what type of adventure you're seeking, guided tours offer something fun for everyone.
1
San Juan Outfitters
At San Juan Outfitters, experience the thrill of whale watching and wildlife tours with local naturalists and guides. Most tours start in Roche Harbor and can be done on paddleboards, sea-kayaks, and sit-in kayaks. 248 Reuben Memorial Dr., Friday Harbor, 360.378.1962, sanjuanislandoutfitters.com
2
Craft Cycling Tours
Craft Cycling Tours offers a multiday summer bike tour, taking you through the most scenic parts of Whatcom. This five day tour includes riding 25-50 miles a day, as well as food, hotel, and gear accommodations. 480.524.0808, craftcyclingtours.com
3
Dragonfly Kayak Tours
Dragonfly ensures that you'll have a beautiful experience traveling through the Salish Sea, learning about the waters, and making new friends. Tours range from beginner lessons to multi-day trips. Tours are led by certified instructors. 3125 Mercer Ave., Ste. 101, Bellingham, 360.453.7036, dragonflykayaktours.com
4
San Juan Cruises
For a classic whale-watching experience on the Salish Sea, San Juan Cruises is our go-to. See orcas, humpbacks, and minkes (as well as a ton of non-whale wildlife) while you dine on fresh lasagne and chocolate chip cookies. 355 Harris Ave., Ste. 104, Bellingham, 360.738.8099, whales.com”
5 Skagit Guided Adventures
On Skagit Guided Adventures’ Birding Eco Tour, prepare to familiarize yourself with everything about birds in Skagit. From the Skagit Bay to the Salish Sea, bird species and their ecosystems are diverse, so bring your binoculars and favorite people! Anacortes, skagitguidedadventures.com
SPOTLIGHT AUGUST TOP PICKS
SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK: “AS YOU LIKE IT” BY BAAY
August 2-3
Join the Bellingham Arts Academy for Youth (BAAY) in Boulevard Park for their version of Shakespeare’s “As You Like It,” performed by students ages 13-17. Following heroine Rosalind’s journey in the Forest of Arden, this play is rich with themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and love. Pack some snacks and drinks, grab seats at the front, and enjoy an afternoon of live theater. 1-3 p.m., Boulevard Park Stage, 470 Bayview Dr., Bellingham, 360.778.7000, bellingham.org
SKAGIT COUNTY FAIR
August 7-10
With Paradise Amusement theme park rides, three stages of live entertainment, and plenty of animal friends, the Skagit County Fair is sure to be exhilarating! As you venture through the fairgrounds, grab a delicious bite to eat from the classic fair-style food selection and enjoy the beauty of Skagit in August. Skagit County Fairgrounds, 501 Taylor St., Mount Vernon, 360.416.1350, skagitcounty.net
LA CONNER CLASSIC BOAT & CAR SHOW
August 2
The La Conner Classic Boat & Car Show is celebrating its 25th anniversary! Whether you’re a collector, enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun day in the sun, this show has something for everyone. Don’t miss the classic Cruise-In through downtown before grabbing a bite to eat from one of the many food vendors and making your way through the collection of restored classic boats and cars. 10 a.m.-2 p.m., La Conner Marina, 615 Dunlap St., La Conner, 360.466.4778, lovelaconner.com
LYNDEN PRCA
RODEO
August 11-12
The Lynden PRCA Rodeo is celebrating 20 years this summer! Experience the thrill of watching professional athletes compete in classic rodeo events, including barrel racing, bull riding, and the second year of Women’s Breakaway Roping. Whether you’re a returning fan or first-time goer, the Lynden PRCA Rodeo has fun for everyone. 7 p.m., Northwest Washington Fair, 1775 Front St., Lynden, 360.354.4111, nwwafair.com
NOISY WATERS MURAL FESTIVAL
August 15-17
This free, family-friendly event pits world-renowned muralists against each other in a good-natured live-painting competition, with winners receiving commissions for large-scale murals throughout Bellingham. With interactive art, an upcycled fashion show, kids activities, live music, local vendors, food, and drinks, the Noisy Waters Mural Festival is an exciting celebration of art, culture, and community. Bellingham’s Waterfront, 298 W. Laurel St., Bellingham, noisywatersmuralfest.com
Photo courtesy of La Conner Chamber of Commerce
“THROUGH THE LIGHT: THE SUBLIME IN CONTEMPORARY NORTHWEST ART”
August 1-31
This is one of two new contemporary exhibits open through Sep. 28 at the Museum of Northwest Art. “Through the Light” features the work of six PNW artists curated by guest curator Chloe Dye Sherpe. Each piece invites the viewer to envision the world through elemental lenses of light, water, earth, and energy. Reconsider your environment to reconnect with the sublime! Museum of Northwest Art, 121 S. First St., La Conner, 360.466.4448, monamuseum.org
“AARON LOVEITT: SUCCESSION, WITHIN A LANDSCAPE UNFOLDING”
August 1-31
This is one of two new contemporary exhibits open through Sep. 28 at the Museum of Northwest Art. It features three large sculptures by artist Aaron Loveitt: “Revere,” “Reap,” and “Recover,” representing the past, present, and future of our rapidly transforming Northwest landscape. These striking abstract works are made with industrial materials like salvaged aluminum. Museum of Northwest Art, 121 S. First St., La Conner, 360.466.4448, monamuseum.org
FERNDALE BLOCK PARTY
August 1-2
For the fourth year in a row, FrinGe Brewing and the Ferndale Arts Commission present the FerndALE Block Party, a celebration of local craft brews and cider. With live music, food trucks, local vendors, and fun for the whole family, this two-day community party is one you won’t want to miss. FrinGe Brewing, 5640 3rd Ave., Ferndale, fringebrewing.com
ANACORTES ARTS FESTIVAL
August 1-3
The sun’s out, and you should be too! The Anacortes Arts Festival is back and taking over downtown for three days of community fun. Visit over 220 artisan vendors, a fine art show at the Depot Art Center, and two stages of live entertainment. With a beer garden, a wine bar, a youth area, and lots of food options, this free festival is perfect for the whole family. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Downtown Anacortes, 360.293.6211, anacortesartsfestival.com
DRAYTON HARBOR PIRATE FESTIVAL
August 2
The Drayton Harbor Pirate Festival (AKA the Maritime Festival) promises an exciting day of pirate-themed fun with crafts, 40 arts and food vendors, and live music. Plus, sail over to the Blaine Marine Park Playground for a treasure hunt, theater performances, mermaid pictures, storytime with Blaine Library, and so much more at Pirate Daze! 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Blaine Harbor Boating Center (Gate 2), 235 Marine Dr., Ste. 2, Blaine, blainebythesea.com
Photo courtesy of Anacortes Arts Fest
Photo by R. Lauman
Undiscovered and Original Rock and Roll
Lopez Uncovered Music Festival
WRITTEN BY KRISTEN BOEHM | PHOTOS BY PEYTON PERDUE
AUGUST’S OPENING ACT
is a heart-filled showcase of regional, original talent, with over 30 bands playing across two days of rock and roll. Please welcome to the stage: Lopez Uncovered Music Festival, also known as LUMF!
LUMF started in 2021 to celebrate uncovered, original music and uncovered faces post-lockdown (hence the name, Lopez Uncovered). Co-Founders and The Fieldboats bandmates Chris Aiken and Doug Poole aim to platform regional music and provide a unique community-building jam for North Salish Sea bands.
LUMF began operating on a donation-based model last year, which means no tickets. Sponsors and donations at the door cover overhead costs, after which “100% of net profits go directly to the artists!”
Performers this year include Bellingham’s Robert Sarazin Blake, Anacortes’s The Enthusiasts, and Friday Harbor’s Shadow Basket. The festival takes place at the Lopez Center for Community and the Arts outdoor pavilion, where LUMF staff and volunteers build a second stage for the weekend. In addition to partying Friday evening and all day Saturday, attendees will enjoy a beer garden, food trucks, vendors, kids’ activities (LUMF is family-friendly!), and shopping at the all-important merch table. New this year, the festival is working with friends at Sunnyfield Farms to provide camping grounds.
Mark your calendars now for LUMF 26 in early August! They aim to “raise the bar” each year, so you definitely have something to look forward to next summer. Lopez Center for Community and the Arts, 204 Village Rd., Lopez Island, 360.468.2203, lopezuncovered.com
Events Agenda
BELLINGHAM KIDS FEST
August 2
Kids Fest returns this August with a day full of family fun! Enjoy free ice skating, mini golf, bounce houses, crafts, obstacle course, foam sword duels, face painting, and so much more. Plus, the 2025 Kids Fest introduces the WTA Kids Art Contest, the winners of which will be featured on one of two WTA hybrid buses. 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Civic Stadium, 1355 Civic Field Way, Bellingham, cob.org
ACID BALL MUSIC FESTIVAL
August 2
The Acid Bad Music Festival is returning to Trackside Beer Garden for a fourth year! Immerse yourself in a day of transcendent psych rock, swirling colors, and cold brews. Gather your friends, grab a bite to eat at the Portal Village, and get ready to hit the dance floor! Trackside Beer Garden, 298 W. Laurel St., Bellingham, kulshanbrewing.com
EVENT CALENDAR
Photo by Brandee Simons
SENIOR DAY IN THE PARK
August 6
This annual festival for older adults is the Whatcom Council on Aging’s premier event! It’s free to attend, and features all the makings of a summer day of fun: BBQ, music, a resource fair with more than 100 vendors, and the company of friends and neighbors. It’s free to attend, and any proceeds from the $6 lunch will go to support the Whatcom Council on Aging’s programs. 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Hovander Park, 5299 Nielsen Ave., Ferndale, 360.733.4030, whatcomcoa.org
DEMOLITION DERBY
August 7-8
Buckle up for the Northwest Washington Fair Demolition Derby! Grab a drink and some fair snacks, and watch as cars smash, crash, and battle it out in a display of skillful destruction. With non-stop action, this event is the ultimate adrenaline rush. Get your tickets before they sell out! 7 p.m., Northwest Washington Fair & Event Center, 1775 Front St., Lynden, 360.354.4111, nwwafair.com
NORTHWEST WASHINGTON FAIR
August 7-16
Classic family fun awaits at the Northwest Washington Fair! From carnival rides, animal exhibits, and deep-fried bites to live performances, a country shuffle, and competitive rodeo events, the fair is the perfect way to celebrate summer. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Northwest Washington Fair & Event Center, 1775 Front St., Lynden, 360.354.4111, nwwafair.com
BIPOC WALKS: LOW-TIDE EXPLORATION AND PICNIC
August 9
Join other BIPOC community members for a lovely day out with Wild Whatcom. Bring a dish and share in a potluck picnic before heading enjoying some tide-pooling on the beach at Marine Park. You may find some cute critters in the tide-pools! 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Marine Park, 100 Harris Ave., 360.389.3414, wildwhatcom.org
Photo by Mike Urban
RADIO FOREVER FESTIVAL
August 9
Celebrate community radio at KZAX 94.9 FM’s first Radio Forever Festival! This event features renowned multimedia art collective Negativland in a one-time live broadcast. Plus, enjoy sets from Bellingham-based Cat Valley, Seattle rapper and filmmaker Fantasy A, and KZAX DJs. While listening to the music, explore large-scale outdoor art installations, or head inside for interactive exhibits by local artists, Whatcom Museum, and SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention. 4-11 p.m., Make.Shift Alleyway, 306 Flora St., Bellingham, kzaxradio.org
WHATCOM LAND TRUST PRESENTS AND EVENING WITH HOB OSTERLUND
August 14
Award-winning photographer and author Hob Osterlund is the founder of the Kaua’i Albatross Network, which promotes safe nesting habitats of Laysan albatross (mōlī) and other native birds. Champagne and dessert will accompany Osterlund’s engaging presentation on Laysan albatross, after which she’ll sign copies of her hit book, “Holy Mōlī: Albatross and Other Ancestors.” All
proceeds from this evening will benefit the Whatcom Land Trust! 6:30-8 p.m., Community Boating Center Wheelhouse Building, 555 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.650.9470, whatcomlandtrust.org
SPARK IN THE PARK
August 8, 16, 30
SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention is bringing hands-on science outside! At this recurring event, explore the world of science—all kinds. From lessons on tidepools at the Marine Life Center to creating hoop gliders at Squalim Creek Park and learning everything you need to know about the sun, moon, and stars at Zuanich Point Park, the opportunities are endless. Bellingham, 360.738.3886, sparkmuseum.org
TEMPERATE HABITS 5TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY
August 16
Grab your leis and sunglasses; Temperate Habits Brewing is celebrating its fifth year of beer with cold brews, tasty bites, games, and live music at its annual outdoor lū'au. Free and open to all ages, this party is the perfect summer outing for the family. 12-9 p.m., Temperate Habits, 500 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon, 360.399.7740, temperatehabitsbrewing.com
VALLEYFEST 3V3 BASKETBALL
August 16-17
Get ready for a weekend of excitement at the ValleyFest 3v3 Basketball Tournament. This 16-court hoop fest invites players in grades 3-12 to shoot their shot in a fast-paced, high-energy competition. Come out and enjoy live music and local bites while you cheer on your team! 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Riverwalk Plaza, 506 Mt. Vernon Terminal Railroad, Mount Vernon, 360.333.8575, hoopforthevalley.org
STARCOURT, I AM THE INTIMIDATOR, MAMORLIS, OLD MACHINES
August 21
Metal bands Old Machines, Mamorlis, and I Am The Intimidator (who’s selftitled concept album revolves around NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt, Sr.) open this evening of cosmic and dark music. Headliner Starcourt’s “horrorsynth” music will transport you to a realm of ‘80s horror, dance, and extreme guitar riffs. Come to this show for “Cosmic Trails & Epic Tales.” 9 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.778.1067, shakedownbellingham.com
2025 ANACORTES CANCER WALK
August 23
Bring friends and family out for the 10th annual Anacortes Cancer Walk, a fundraiser organized by the local nonprofit Your Story Foundation. Food and water stations will be available along the suggested 10-mile course, and participants are encouraged to walk as much or as little as they like. The first $10,000 raised will be donated to the Merle Cancer Care Center’s Medical Relief Fund at Anacortes’s Island Hospital. 8:30 a.m., Seafarers’ Memorial Park, 601 Seafarers Way, 360.488.7040, Anacortes, p2p.onecause. com/2025anacortescancerwalk
Photo by Mike Urban
BIRCH BAY DERBY DAY
August 23
End the summer with a splash at Birch Bay Derby Day. Enjoy a day of friendly competition with the Friends of Birch Bay Library Fun Run, the Billy Brown Crab Derby, a family-friendly poker run, and, of course, the Duck Derby down Terrell Creek. Stick around for the vendor market, tasty food, and community fun. Birch Bay Dr., Blaine, birchbaywa.org
FIELD
& FIBER: A SKAGIT & WHATCOM FARM TO YARN TOUR
August 23-24
Led by Echo Mae, local fiber historian and writer, this two-day adventure weaves through Skagit and Whatcom fiber farms and showcases the journey from farm to yarn. Connect with farmers and their animals, explore a fiber and yarn mill, and discover the local history of this age-old craft. This tour is a cozy, hands-on celebration of local fiber and textile arts you won’t want to miss. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Skagit and Whatcom counties, 360.738.0167, nwyarns.com
DOG DAYS OF SUMMER FESTIVAL
August 24
Calling all dogs and their human friends: the Dog Days of Summer Festival is back! Support the Whatcom Humane Society and enjoy an afternoon of caninethemed fun, with costumes, games, contests, local vendors, animal-friendly
food, a human-friendly beer garden, and more. This festival is free and offers excitement for pets and people of all ages. 11 a.m.- 3 p.m., Whatcom Humane Society Division Street Shelter, 2172 Division St., Bellingham, 360.733.2080, whatcomhumane.org
VOX: THE ART OF THE INNER MONOLOGUE
August 27
Artists from Rising Waters Collective will perform a contemporary English version of “La Voix Humaine,” a onewoman chamber opera about a brilliant mind unravelling. This site-specific, onenight only performance will incorporate the historic Lairmont Manor into an “intimate, immediate, and emotionally electrifying” experience. 7-9 p.m., Lairmont Manor, 405 Fieldston Rd., Bellingham, risingwaterscollective.org
NORTH CASCADES BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL
August 30-31
Looking for Labor Day weekend plans? Head out to the North Cascades Bluegrass Festival for two full days of live music. Come for the world-class bluegrass bands and workshops, and stay for the food and craft vendors, a beer and cider garden, and endless memories. Check out the on-site camping options, and get your tickets before they sell out. Deming Log Show Showgrounds, 3295 Cedarville Rd., Bellingham, ncbf.fun
Party Fowl Take Over Fairhaven
Fairhaven Chicken Festival
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY
BEN STAINBROOK
THE FOURTH ANNUAL Fairhaven Chicken Festival resulted in a packed Village Green for four hours on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. There was no shortage of juggling from the juggler, laughter from delighted children and, of course, chicken dancing! The successful event, hosted by the Fairhaven Association, kept everyone entertained with games like egg-onspoon racing, a chicken calling contest, and a chicken costume contest featuring many creative outfits—including a “chicken jockey” from the popular video game Minecraft.
Live music was provided by The Mighty Bayou Opossums, a local Bellingham band that specializes in New Orleans-style tunes. Between festival events, families kept their kids entertained with different mini-games scattered around the green, like ring toss and cornhole. A few vendors were mixed in with the games, including local arts, crafts, and freeze-dried candy! Be sure to make plans for the 2026 festival, as it’s sure to be another cluckingly beautiful afternoon in Fairhaven! Bellingham, enjoyfairhaven.com
Photo by Todd Folsom
Create
MCINTYRE HALL PRESENTS
Hasta La Muerte
Tinsley Ellis
Portland Cello Project
Ruth Moody
International Guitar Night
Tony Jackson Jungle Book
Gadan
Valentine’s Django Jazz
Changui Majadero
Wind In The Willows
Ladies of Laughter
Solas
Alash
Northwest Ukulele Jam
Chamber Music Series
Young Artist Recital
COMMUNIT Y EVENTS
Cantabile Chamber Choir
Northwest Youth Symphony Association
Pacific Northwest Opera Rinaldo
Ariadne auf Naxos
Skagit Symphony Season
Skagit Community Band
Skagit Valley Academy of Dance Nutcracker
Skagit Valley Chorale
Heralding Christmas Celebrating in Song
Skagit Valley College
Oklahoma! Mariachi Festival
Theater Arts Guild
Little Mermaid
Subscriptions
Photo by Chloe Nelson
Someone’s Trash Is Someone Else’s Fashionable Fit
Habitat for Humanity in Whatcom County Trashion Show
WRITTEN BY CHLOE NELSON
VIBRANT SPARKLES, RADICAL acceptance, flamboyant creativity, safety in expression, unbridled joy—these are just a few phrases that describe this year’s Habitat for Humanity in Whatcom County Trashion Show. The show was created six years ago by Hillary Pritchard, Habitat’s operations manager, as part of Habitat’s annual auction in support of repurposing and reusing materials. Now the Trashion Show has blossomed into a stand-alone event, thanks to the tremendous support from the public. The first solo performance took place in 2024 and was a huge success.
“I want to say 130-150 [people attended], it was great. We sold a lot of tickets and got a lot of excitement from community members and sponsors as well. It was a great turnout,” says Kelli Fulton-Ratliff, events and donor relations manager for Habitat. Habitat raised a total of $20,000 in 2024, and for good reason.
The Trashion Show is unlike any other public show in Whatcom County. Not only are there fun yearly themes, but at least 75% of each outfit needs to be made from trash to qualify. In the past designers have used recycled bits from men’s ties, flattened bottle caps, fabric scraps, and recycled plastic bottles in their outfits. There are four cash prizes for each show: Most Wearable ($250), Most Trashy ($250), and Most On Theme ($500) are scored by a small panel of judges, while People’s Choice ($300) is voted on by attendees. Designers can either model their ensemble themselves or bring someone to model their piece.
This year’s theme was Whimsical Wonderland, a response to the public’s desire to create an environmental ensemble.
Photo by Chloe Nelson
“People last year were like, ‘You should do something where people are creatures, because we want to build outfits with arms coming off of them, like a nature theme,’” says Elle England, Habitat’s communications manager. “Once we secured our spot at the Circus Guild, it easily evolved into being more of an enchanted circus theme, just because it goes so well with the venue.”
Bellingham’s Circus Guild was packed to the brim on May 3, and Habitat provided lots of pre-show activities. Fun drinks, tarot readings, and an auction for goodie baskets entertained the audience before and after the show. Right when you stepped in the door, an employee was waiting to apply wet glitter to everyone’s faces with a paintbrush, helping people get into a fun, creative mood. As such, the crowd’s energy was high before the show even started, so you can imagine the volume of the room during each model’s walk. The sheer amount of support and joy radiating from audience members was contagious as they cheered loudly for their favorite looks. This year’s designers brought unique looks to the table, including tea party dresses, a dragon with a sloth puppet dressed like a knight, and a model with an ocean net draped across their body.
Photo by Kristen Boehm
Photo by Kristen Boehm
Photo by Kristen Boehm
“People are so creative that you’re like, ‘How did they even put that together?’ Then at the same time, I wish I had that creativity where I could look at garbage and see a dress,” says England. Not only do the outfits look incredible, but the fact that they also hold up through movement, in itself, is impressive. “It’s one thing to be like, ‘this is a good idea,’ and another to make it look that good. Then it stays together for a whole fashion show, they’re walking up and down the runway and not falling apart.” After the exhibition finished, audience members were given the opportunity to meet the models/designers and see the clothes up close.
This year, there were three winners of the Trashion Show. Nancy Watts, a retired middle school science teacher, won “Most Wearable” and “People’s Choice” for her outfit titled “Garden of Transparencies.” Watts’ outfit was modeled by Graciela Leibowitz and was made from recycled overhead projectors and included a stole made from teddy bears.
The “Whimsical Visionary” award went to “Trash Dragon,” designed and modeled by Tatiana
Photo by Chloe Nelson
Photo by Chloe Nelson
Photo by Kristen Boehm
Stone. This look was composed of bubble wrap insulation, plastic and cardboard food containers, and repurposed personal protective equipment (PPE)—and, of course, a sloth puppet dressed like a knight to slay the dragon!
“It was a wonderland theme, so I thought of fairytales and I was like, ‘I gotta be a trash dragon,’” says Stone. You’d never know from looking at it that Stone started this masterpiece only four days before the fashion show.
Last but not least, the award for “Best Use of Trash” went to “Office Siren Vendetta,” known at the time as “Bride of the Tide,” designed by Isabella Antoun and Sophia McCracken and modeled by McCracken. The beach inspired this outfit, with components such as a roll of film, broken plates, a thrifted wedding gown, circuit boards, wires, and sea glass.
If you want to enjoy a show featuring some of the most supportive, funny and creative people you’ll ever meet, don’t miss the 7th annual Trashion Show in 2026! 1825 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.715.9170, hfhwhatcom.org
Photo by Chloe Nelson
Photo by Chloe Nelson
Photo by Kristen Boehm
Visit the Treasure Trove in the Loft of the Skagit Valley Co-op
Skagit Valley Co-op Mercantile
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY
NICOLE KIMBERLING
SINCE 1973 THE Skagit Valley Food Co-op has been bringing local, organic, fair trade, and natural grocery items to the residents of Mount Vernon and beyond. But did you know that this philosophy applies to their wearables selection as well? Climb the stairs to the Co-op’s Mercantile and you can find fashionable soft goods and jewelry that are as gorgeous as they are sustainable.
On a recent visit I asked a pair of cheerful employees who happened to be on duty to name their favorite items. Dale immediately pointed me in the direction of the Boody bras. Made of super soft bamboo viscose and available in a variety of skintoned neutrals, Boody offers bras and other undergarments for both men and women. And speaking of intimate wearables—let’s talk about socks. From sassy novelty options to Darn Tough hiking and running socks, you’ll be able to find a pair to keep your toes warm here.
The second-floor gift shop also carries a wide variety of products from Maggie’s Organics, a garment manufacturer dedicated to promoting fair trade and ethical practices from start to finish. From using fibers from sustainably run farms to working to ensure garment workers receive fair wages, Maggie’s Organics is dedicated to creating products where “every resource and every person has been treated with dignity.” This loungewear is both comfortable and stylish.
Perhaps inspired by the many visitors Skagit Valley hosts during the annual Tulip Festival, the Co-op’s Mercantile also offers adventure-ready accessories: sunglasses, lots of hats, hair clips, tote bags, and umbrellas. Several feet of wall space are also devoted to scarves, some transparent and delicate, others more substantial. The clothing selection changes frequently. One day a shopper might find organic cotton crocheted cardigan shrugs, another day a selection of fine, kimono-style bathrobes might appear.
Co-op employee Amber pointed out the SoulKu line of jewelry as a favorite of their younger customers. Every piece of jewelry from this brand is handcrafted by a community of
work-from-home moms in North Carolina that the company calls its “Mama Makers.” These delicate necklaces are made from Mighty Miracle nylon cord and feature at least one small gemstone, all packaged in a pretty envelope that explains the meaning of the stone. The envelope is also personally signed by its Mama Maker, creating an extra-special gift. The rest of the jewelry selection is just as thoughtfully curated, with both national and local artists represented.
I should mention here that there’s a lot more than clothes to see on this upper story. There’s a whole section devoted to kitchen gadgets, a shelf of cookbooks, and a selection of diaries and greeting cards, as well as a kid’s corner that contains toys, novelty gifts, select kids clothing, and other soft goods like bibs. The Mercantile spills over into the Deli’s Mezzanine seating area with a view of the Co-op’s wine aisle where you can soak in the satisfaction of shopping local with your new goods in tow.
Part tree house, part Aladdin’s cave, this easily overlooked section of the store is truly a browser’s paradise. 202 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon, 360.336.9777, skagitfoodcoop.com
TWRITTEN BY ISABEL MULLET
HE SUN IS bright and sunglasses are the perfect summer accessory! Whether you're venturing into the mountains, meeting your friends for lunch, or taking a stroll along the water, protect your eyes with stylish frames that can complete any outfit.
1 David Spencer Eyewear Eyes On Fremont Bellingham, $210 1303 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.647.0421 shop.eyesonfremont.com
2 Rainbow Optx Aviator Sunglasses
Third Planet Boutique, $38 200 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.778.3765 thirdplanetboutique.com
Backcountry Essentials, $205 1417 N. State St., Bellingham 360.543.5678 backcountryessentials.com
5
Avril Sunglasses eleventh st GOODS, $110 1143 11th St., Bellingham 360.366.8040 eleventhstgoods.com
Mens, Womens and Kids cuts. Beard and Mustache Trims. Hair coloring, Waxing and Stylings
Stone Owner & Stylist “I aim to create a welcoming and relaxing environment where you can feel comfortable and confident. Whether you’re looking for a dramatic change or a subtle refresh, I’m here to help you achieve your hair goals.”
PEACEHEALTH’S NETWORK OF hospitals and clinics in Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan counties use the power of collaboration to deliver exceptional patient care. PeaceHealth locations support each other with advanced care, the latest technology and a commitment to community wellbeing.
Comprehensive Care Close to Home
PeaceHealth offers a range of services across its locations, so patients can get top-tier treatment close to home.
PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham is the region’s Level II trauma center, offering comprehensive specialty care and centers of excellence in cardiovascular, cancer, spine and joint replacement.
PeaceHealth Peace Island Medical Center in Friday Harbor offers San Juan Islanders a broad range of services, including family medicine, 24/7 emergency care, an inpatient medical unit, outpatient rehabilitation therapy, outpatient surgery, chemotherapy, 3D mammography, echocardiography and both CT and MRI imaging. The availability of these services reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for essential treatments. But when higher-level, urgent care is required, patients are triaged and flown to PeaceHealth St. Joseph.
Additionally, Bellingham-based PeaceHealth specialists travel to Peace Island weekly, providing cardiology, gynecology, orthopedics, oncology and pediatrics services.
PeaceHealth United General Medical Center in Sedro-Woolley provides outstanding medical and radiation oncology services at its Cancer Center, which recently acquired a new, high-precision linear accelerator (LINAC). This advanced technology allows Island and Skagit County patients to receive top-notch cancer treatment without leaving their community. Other services offered at United General include inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services, an inpatient medical unit, surgery and advanced diagnostic imaging. An adjacent PeaceHealth clinic provides primary and specialty care, including cardiology, general surgery, orthopedics and obstetrics/gynecology.
Triage and Transport
When patients require higher-level treatment, PeaceHealth’s triage and transport system ensures they receive care promptly. For example, patients at PeaceHealth United General experiencing a heart attack, trauma or stroke will be triaged, stabilized and transferred to PeaceHealth St. Joseph for care, then can return to PeaceHealth United General for acute rehabilitation.
The dedication and coordination of medical professionals within the network make the collaboration work. For example, PeaceHealth Peace Island flight nurses have accompanied a heart patient to PeaceHealth St. Joseph for a procedure and returned to cover the emergency department within the same shift. Jeff Krusniak, DO, has orthopedic clinics at Peace Island and United General and has practice privileges at all three hospitals. He strives to keep care within the community whenever possible, ensuring patients receive the best treatment options without unnecessary referrals.
Embracing Technology and Innovation
PeaceHealth is at the forefront of adopting new technologies to enhance patient care, including the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in heart imaging medicine and the need for expanding cardiovascular services to meet increasing demand. Since 2020, St. Joseph Medical Center has performed more than half of in-patient cardiac procedures for San Juan Island patients, and 68 percent of all outpatient cardiovascular procedures.
The Role of Philanthropy
Philanthropy plays a vital role in PeaceHealth’s collaboration to provide great care. At PeaceHealth St. Joseph, the Peter Paulsen Pavilion will expand the emergency department, relocate the childbirth center, integrate pediatrics, and add a rooftop helipad. These enhancements, made possible through generous donations, will save crucial minutes in emergency situations. The PeaceHealth Peace Island facility was built in partnership with the San Juan Community Foundation. The LINAC expansion at United General’s Cancer Center welcomed patients within a year of the fundraising campaign’s completion.
PeaceHealth’s regional collaboration ensures that patients in our region receive exceptional care close to home, while setting the standard for community-focused healthcare.
Peak Hydration IV Therapy & Wellness Lounge 1216 Bay St., Bellingham 360.526.2125, peakhydrationlounge.com
3. Farmers Market Open Saturdays 9am-2pm
Anacortes Farmers Market 611 R Ave, Anacortes WA 360.982.8092, anacortesfarmersmarket.org
4. Enhance Your Natural Beauty with Expert Services!
Aloha Bobbie Studio 308 Front St, Lynden 360.244.3222, creativedesignlynden.com
5. Entire Store 15% Off
Dank of America - Now 2 locations 2530 Peace Portal, Blaine 5309 Guide Meridian, Bellingham
6. By Appointment Only
Midtown Barber Book Online: Midtownbarber.booksy.com 360.595.7556, Inside Fit EvoBellingham 1504 Iowa St, Bellingham
INTERIORS
WRITTEN BY ANNE GODENHAM AND KRISTEN BOEHM
FEELING AT HOME in a space is all about satisfying the senses—not only sight and touch, which are the usual focus of interior design advice, but sound, smell, and, yes, even taste! We’ve rounded up some of the best ways to ensure your home is a sensory masterpiece, so you can surround yourself and your guests with a more holistic experience.
From cozy textures and hunger-inducing colors to natural forest scents and impeccable sound absorption, here’s how to customize every element of your space so it elicits the exact sensory response you want.
TOUCH
Bring the Heat
IS THERE ANYTHING more inviting than a crackling fire? Whether you’re snuggling up beside a fireplace or wood stove or huddling around an outdoor chiminea or pit, fire warms our flesh and our hearts.
Outdoor fireplace at Craft Stove
Photo by Anne Godenham
Cushy Comfort
Touch goes beyond texture! Soften any room with the use of plush carpets and rugs, thick throw blankets, oversized cushions, and padded furnishings. For more professional or “awake” spaces, the opposite rings true—tile, hardwood floors, and firm furniture are more likely to keep you alert.
There are so many more ways to make walls touchable than the usual orange peel or stucco finish. Wainscotting, textured wallpaper, and even thoughtfullyapplied rock will all add depth and dimension.
Heavy Metal
Metal fixtures and touches are a classic home decor addition, but you can go beyond the standard smooth shine by choosing finishes like soft matte, antiqued, brushed, or even hammered.
Clean up in Comfort
Bring more joy into everyday life by improving non-negotiable daily ‘chores.’ Showering is already nice, but it could be exceptional if you indulge in a showerhead with great pressure, luxurious products that soften skin, and fluffy towels that actually make you want to get out.
Winsome Walls
Photo by Kristen Boehm
Rugs by NO Design
Sound Control to Major Tom
WHETHER YOU LIKE to rock out at 11 or maintain a low flow of orchestral music, you’ll want to make sure you have control over your sound system. Place speakers in strategic locations to ensure consistent or specific coverage, and don’t forget to place at least one outside for summer gatherings!
Instrumental Decor
If you play an instrument (or several), don’t keep them hidden away. Working instruments into your interior design says a lot about your personality, and can spark your guests’ curiosity. Plus, you’re bound to play more often when you have easy access to your strings, keys, reeds, or whatever else you play!
Photo courtesy of Elysian Instruments
Handpans made by Elysian Instruments
At-Home Studio
Need some serious acoustic control for an at-home studio? Get a crash course from Kelsey Omeis of KLSY Interior Design on YouTube. In her video “Acoustics 101,” she speaks with an expert from Snowsound USA, a leader in acoustic design. Discover their range of textiles, art, furniture, and more at snowsoundusa.com.
Let it Flow
From a tabletop fountain to a wall-mounted waterfall, an indoor water feature is an impressive way to add to your home’s ambiance. The folks at Midwest Tropical are nationwide leaders in indoor water features, and Chuckanut Bay Gallery & Sculpture Garden has been known to host and sell an artisan fountain or two in their time.
While music and nature sounds are wonderful, most of us don’t love unexpected loud sounds. Sound absorption is key to help you control your auditory environment—everything from cushions, rugs, and curtains to ceiling panels and even certain types of wallpaper can help.
Hush Hush
Photo courtesy of Midwest Tropical
SIGHT
Surround Yourself with Beauty
ART ADDS STYLE and personality to your home, whether you go for antique oil paintings, contemporary murals, or macrame hangings—or an eclectic mix. And don’t forget sculptures, like these stunning wave pieces from David Wight Glass Art!
Creating depth can elevate a space by making it look more complicated and intentional (it’s the opposite of having a one-dimensional, “empty”-feeling room). Layer colors with different temperatures or saturations, decor of varying sizes, like a stunning piece from David Wight Glass Art!
Think Deep
Photo by Kelly Shorten
Photo by Anne Godenham
David Wight Glass Art
As Far as the Eye Can See
As much as possible, keep windows clear and accessible to ensure natural light and connection to the world outside. Bellingham-based business King of Kings Window Cleaning keeps windows crystal-clear in Whatcom and Skagit Counties.
Choose Joy
These days, it’s easier and easier to incorporate your artistic taste into everyday decor items—everything from cushions to electric mixers! If color and pattern bring you joy, include them wherever you like! Even the most chaotic maximalism is a valid choice.
Play with Shapes
It’s never too late to bring fresh energy to a room by playing with shapes. For instance, opting for acute and obtuse angles over right angles will create dynamism in your design reminiscent of retro-futurism (think “The Jetsons”). Check out Kirby Furniture (kirbyfurniture.com) for some inspiration.
Photo by Ian Gleadle Photography
Photo by Anne Godenham
TASTE
Stimulate Your Appetite
AWELL-KNOWN TIDBIT OF poppsychology is that certain colors can stimulate appetite. Warm colors like red and yellow appear often in natural foods, and may encourage you to enjoy a hearty meal!
In Plain (Pretty) Sight
We eat with our eyes first, so start at the very beginning with visible storage that gets you excited about food. Open shelving heaving with gorgeous handmade bowls, pot racks full of copper sauciers, glass jars full of pantry items—whatever makes you happy!
Food photography, fruit-laden still lifes, and even infographic posters showcasing your favorite spirits—any of these can add a visual element of taste to your home. There’s no limit to how food shows up in art, so get creative!
Interactive and Delicious
Snackable food displays are a classic element of homemaking and hospitality. Have a fruit bowl in the kitchen, a snack tray in the living room, or even a hotelstyle drink station in the guest bedroom!
Photo by Anne Godenham
Photo by Anne Godenham
"Incorporating elements of food and drink into interior design isn’t just functional—it instantly adds a touch of warmth and hospitality. It says, ‘Come on in, we’re always ready for company.’ Whether it’s a bowl of fresh fruit on the counter, herbs growing in a windowsill, or a few bottles of wine on display, these subtle touches engage the sense of taste and make a space feel truly lived-in and inviting."
Erica Egner, Perennial Style
Lean into Temptation
Love to cook but struggle to get started? A brightly-colored mixer, a beautiful pizza oven, or a shiny bronze pot filler will call out to you, reminding you to try that new recipe you bookmarked!
SMELL
Home-a Aroma
USING CANDLES, WAX melts, or other scentdiffusers throughout your home allows you to carefully layer scents to create your perfect personal atmosphere. You can source locally-poured candles from PNW Candle Co. in Sedro-Woolley and Salty Farms Candle Company in Mount Vernon (home of the 2025 Skagit Valley Tulip Festival’s official candle).
What’s Cookin’
This is a longcherished homeshowing hack, but it’s worth mentioning when considering the sense of smell! Nothing changes the vibe in your home like throwing some bread or cookies in the oven, a simmer pot on the stove, or a stew in the crockpot.
Wood if You Could
Unfinished pine and cedar diffuse their essential oils into a room, resulting in their signature scents.
Tuck sachets of wood chips into closets and drawers, or accept the temporary nature of unfinished wood decor and furniture, to gain the benefit of their woodsy aroma!
A Breath of Fresh Air
Embrace outside living areas to keep fresh air circulating through your home and your lungs! For inspiration, look to Laura Caldwell. On top of running her online vintage store, Left Coast Revivals, she also shares her travels, thrift hauls, and home projects on her YouTube channel. In a 2022 video, Caldwell shared the remodel and design process for this gorgeous breezeway at her home in Oregon, carefully created for form and function even in rainy PNW weather.
Photo by Laura Caldwell
Breezeway styled by Laura Caldwell of Left Coast Revivals
Nature’s Perfume
Bring nature inside and let it freshen and scent the air. You can grow eucalyptus indoors (or purchase a handful of stems) for a year-round calming scent. Potted jasmine, citrus fruit trees, and herbs are other great options for fragrant houseplants.
Photo by Kristen Boehm
Houseplants at Babygreens
Jo Joe’s Doughnuts Smith & Vallee Gallery
GRAND PRIZE PACKAGE
WINE & DINE ALL YEAR!
Get ready for an unforgettable year of local flavors and fine wine!
One lucky winner will receive:
5 mixed-variety cases of wine from Best of the Northwest award-winning local wineries
7 dining certificates, each valued at $100, to indulge in some of the best eateries in the PNW.
It’s the ultimate celebration of the finest food, drink, and local culture from our little corner of the Pacific Northwest!
Daily winners are automatically entered to win Grand Prize package.
Up to 31 Grand Prize entries when you enter daily!
Enter
Contest open August1–31. Prizes awarded daily. Email address required to enter. Daily winners are automatically entered to win Grand Prize package. Limit one entry, per person, per day. No purchase necessary.
DAILY PRIZES
AUGUST 1–31
One-Night Stay & Dine at Swinomish
Casino & Lodge
Enjoy a one-night stay and a $50 promotional Dining Card! ($225 value)
Gift Basket
A special gift basket curated from Skagit’s Own Fish Market awaits you featuring an array of local goods from the Pacific Northwest.
$75 Gift Card Good for 1 free haircut & hot lather shave at Wally’s Barber Shop!
$50 Gift Certificate The Ultimate Dining Experience.
$50 Gift Card to Chuckanut Manor
Nestled on Chuckanut Drive with stunning views of Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands
FREE Full Set of Eyelash Extensions from Aloha Bobbie Studio ($140 value)
3 Year Subscription to Bellingham Alive Joyful Local Editorial
$100 Gift Card
Enjoy one of the most beautiful golf courses in Bellingham.
$50 Gift Card to Nicki’s Bella Marina Experience award-winning dining on the waterfront!
$100 Gift Certificate
Visit Y’s Buys Thrift Boutique where every dollar spent supports women and children in YWCA Bellingham programming.
$150 Gift Card
Visit our 5 acre nursery for all your gardening needs.
$75 Gift Card
Good for 1 free haircut & hot lather shave at Wally’s Barber Shop!
Scents of Wellbeing Traveler packs
$50 Gift card
Specialty Grocery, Wine, Cider, Vermouth, Cocktail Accompaniments & Gift Baskets
$50 Gift Card to McKay’s Taphouse & Pizzaria
Includes 2 synergies, car vent clip, and 4 aromatherapy inhalers. For frequent roadtrippers & travelers. ($61 value)
$50 Gift Certificate
Relax, Rejuvenate & Refresh at Bellingham’s premier IV Therapy & Wellness Lounge
$75 Gift Certificate for Jazz Brunch or Dinner for two at Amendment 21
$50 Gift Card
Organic Bulk Herbs, Teas, Teapots, Essential Oils, Flower Essences, Salves, Tinctures and more
$50 Gift Card
Experience authentic New Mexico flavors in the Pacific Northwest!
$75 Gift Card
Haven + May, a home, gift and apparel boutique located in Lynden.
Yamato Indigo Shibori Kit from Northwest Yarns & Mercantile Indigo dye, bandanas, tengui, and more. Everything you need to explore shibori!
($55 value)
$75 Gift Certificate A farm-to-table meal ready when you are! Just re-heat and eat! 31 30 29 28 23 22 21 20 15 14 13 12 7 6 5 4
$75 Gift Card
Good for 1 free haircut & hot lather shave at Wally’s Barber Shop!
Artisan Chocolate Authentic Gelato
chocolatenecessities.com
$50 Gift Certificate
Visit us at either Bellingham location or redeem online.
$50 Gift Card
3-Locations - Mount Vernon, La Conner, Bellingham. Happy Hour, Dine-In or Take Out. Large selection of Tequilla & Mezcal
$75 Gift Certificate
Salon Bellissima gift card, good for a haircut with any stylist. (valued at $75) and Strong Hairspray (valued at $42)
$50 Gift Card
Classic Service with Modern Style 2x Best of the Northwest winner
Stay & Dine at Swinomish Casino & Lodge
Enjoy a one-night stay and a $50 promotional Dining Card! ($225 value)
Free spa visits
Ten 20 min visits to Steam, Salt, or Sauna. ($200 value)
Classic Service with Modern Style 2x Best of the Northwest winner
One-Night
Pros to Know
We’re pleased to share these select industry professionals with you; they can assist on any and all projects, from small updates to major home remodels. Start on a firm foundation with these pros to know!
The Pros
Solar by Barron | p. 70
Russell’s Window Coverings | p. 70
Jennifer Ryan Design | p. 71
Highline Construction | p. 71
The Glass Guru | p. 72
Mountain Pacific Bank | p. 72
My Garden Nursery | p. 73
John’s Waterproofing | p. 74
Kent’s Garden & Nursery | p. 74
Windsor Plywood | p. 75
Fouth Corner Frames & Gallery | p. 75
Northstar Stone & Landscape Supply | p. 76
Devine Countertops | p. 76
Stockton’s Paint | p. 77
Pearson Builders | p. 78
Dewarrd & Bode | p. 78
A1 Design Build | p. 79
Larrabee Springs | p. 80
Marr’s Heating, AC, Plumbing & Electrical | p. 81
SOLAR BY BARRON
Barron Heating AC Electrical & Plumbing is a fourgeneration family business serving Northwest Washington since 1972. While HVAC remains at our core, we now offer much more.
Solar by Barron provides WholeHome™ energy solutions, powering your home or business from the ground up. As a SIX-TIME award-winning clean energy company with 30+ years of experience, our certified solar designers combine energy-efficient solutions with solar power to help reduce your electricity bill. Now is the perfect time to go solar with a 30% tax credit!
We offer expertise in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, solar, fireplaces, indoor air quality, and more. Backed by 175+ employees, we are committed to our Mission: Improving Lives™.
barronheating.com
360.676.1131
5100 Pacific Hwy, Ferndale
RUSSELL’S WINDOW COVERINGS
Locally owned and operated for more than 25 years Russell’s Window Coverings has been bringing you a huge range of options, styles, and designs for your home or office.
Russell’s brings to you a vast selection of window treatments perfect for just about any window imaginable. From our classic horizontal blinds to our timeless plantation shutters and motorized shades, we’re sure to have a look and design that meets your specific needs.
Specializing in Hunter Douglas products, which are well known for quality and customization options, we offer a variety of products and outstanding service, ensuring you get the personalized look that suits your lifestyle, décor and budget.
Call us today or scan the QR code to schedule a complimentary consultation to discuss the beautiful options available for your home.
873 Hinotes Court, A-2, Lynden
360.656.6579
RussellsWindowCoverings@gmail.com
WindowShadesAndShutters.com
JENNIFER RYAN DESIGN
Jennifer Ryan Design is a Bellingham based interior design and remodeling company bringing sophisticated whimsy to your most treasured space. Jennifer has an uncanny ability to combine unexpected patterns, colors and textures making your home reflect your distinct personality.
From concept and design to production, Jennifer Ryan Design projects run smoothly and professionally, with a high level of collaboration between clients and subcontractors. Committed to exceeding expectations, Jennifer understands each individual clients’ wants and dreams.
Whether it be a kitchen, bathroom, home gym or office, even your entire home, Jennifer will realize your vision in ways you never imagined. Her hands-on approach assures that all elements are seamlessly executed, and your wishes and goals are met.
See for yourself why clients and design professionals alike rave about Jennifer Ryan Design. Jennifer’s impeccable design, attention to detail and easy work style will Design Your Way Home.
Five-time gold winner for Best Builder, Highline Construction consistently ranks first for quality customer care and expert level design, building, and excavation services. Clients choose Highline for their end-to-end service and their ability to deliver on their promises. Their respected design-build team has long been known for their large-scale residential remodels, additions, and new builds, while their civil construction/ excavation team offers site prep, stormwater management, grading and yard expansion, gravel driveways, block walls, and more.
Continued growth places Highline as a business to lookout for in the commercial and multi-family arenas. With the same promise for superior service to commercial clients, Highline has been praised for their work with Spark Museum, Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, Lummi Housing Authority, Lydia Place, and City of Mount Vernon.
Clients have deemed Highline a “first-class, five-star builder” who is “timely, pleasant, and responsive” resulting in a “fantastic experience from start to finish.”
Whatcom + Skagit 360.746.5455 highlinewa.com
THE GLASS GURU
Our team takes pride in being your premier destination for all things glass. With a rich history of serving the local community, we’ve earned a reputation for delivering topnotch craftsmanship and unparalleled customer service. We offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet your every need, from residential glass repairs and installations to commercial glazing projects.
We understand that each client is unique, which is why we prioritize personalized attention and customized solutions. Our team of skilled professionals boasts years of collective experience and is committed to exceeding your expectations at every turn. Whether you’re looking to enhance the aesthetics of your home with a stunning new shower enclosure or seeking energy-efficient solutions for your commercial property, we have the knowledge and expertise to bring your vision to life.
We’re more than just your local glass experts – we’re your partners in transforming spaces and creating lasting impressions. Get to know us, and discover why we’re the go-to destination for all your glass needs!
Since opening our Bellingham branch in Barkley Village in the summer of 2024, we have offered personalized service and fast, local decision-making for individuals and businesses. Our 100% local ownership ensures your money stays in the community, supporting local initiatives. We are committed to being a communityoriented bank that genuinely cares about the well-being of everyone in the area. Our staff are active community members who live, work, and engage alongside you. We believe in giving back through loans to small businesses, providing financial education, volunteering our time, and building local partnerships. Our commitment to community involvement is essential; we aim to grow while supporting local communities and their businesses. We have received a warm welcome and look forward to engaging with everyone in the area!
2200 Rimland Drive Suite 110, Bellingham 360.685.8477 www.mp.bank info@mp.bank
PROS TO KNOW \ BANKING
MY GARDEN NURSERY
My Garden Nursery is the fun and colorful garden center on East Bakerview Road with the big purple flamingo out front!
We’re known for our enormous selection of fresh and happy outdoor plants, lush indoor tropicals, and everything you need to help your plants thrive. But plants are just the beginning. You’ll also find fragrant soaps, funky socks, unique jewelry, and one-of-akind gifts—plus delicious treats from the Purple Flamingo Café food truck, including specialty coffee, hot maple donut holes, and grilled paninis.
What truly sets us apart? Our amazing staff of friendly gardening experts! Tony, Cheryl, Michelle, Noah, and Nancy are here to help with all your plant questions, big dreams, and garden goals. Whether you’re new to gardening or a seasoned grower, they’ll send you off feeling confident, inspired, and ready to dig in.
Each month brings something new to see, taste, and experience! Say hi to Dilly and Dally, the resident cats, while you’re here.
September: Sasquatch September October: Clearance Carnival + Dilly and Dally’s Birthday Party
November: Fresh Christmas trees, wreaths, paperwhite bulbs, Amaryllis, and Santa pet pictures
December: Shop unique gifts and tropicals in a twinkling holiday wonderland January: The Indoor Plant-a-Palooza! Seminars and Workshops, Tropical Plant Swap, Spend Frequent Flower Points. February: The Big Berry Bonanza! Fruit Tree Seminars and Food Samples
JOHN’S WATERPROOFING
John’s Waterproofing has been proudly helping the PNW with below-grade water issues since 1974. We proudly do the work we do, so homeowners, like you, can enjoy a healthier home, starting from the foundation. Whether your home has a basement or a crawl space, we have the solution to ensure your concerns are addressed and have the science to back it up!
At John’s, we offer the best in the industry products and our highly trained crews will ensure you will receive WOW service. Since being in the industry for over fifty years, we can proudly say that we have seen it all and fixed it all. If your home has musty odors, high heating and cooling costs, standing water, is damp, or just hasn’t been looked at in a few years, we are here to help.
Give us a call and schedule your free inspection and estimate!
Serving Eugene, Greater Portland, Vancouver, Everett, Bellingham, and Nearby Areas
johnswaterproofing.com
425.243.1276
12108 Mukilteo Speedway Suite A1 & A2 Mukilteo, WA
KENT’S GARDEN & NURSERY
Experience the ultimate oasis for all your gardening needs at our 5-acre plant nursery on 5428 Northwest Drive! With an unrivaled selection of plants, trees, shrubs, edibles, perennials, and more, we have everything you need to transform your outdoor space. Our extensive selection also includes garden art, planters, water fountains, and more!
Our amazing staff is ready to assist you, whether you’re a beginner, a master gardener, or a professional landscaper. Our experienced team can guide you with your specific needs.
If selecting plants is too overwhelming, we offer plant design services to include an in-home consultation, convenient jobsite delivery and even plantings. We love to make your gardening experience fun and enjoyable and can meet you wherever you are at in your plant journey.
Bring the kids and explore the largest nursery in Whatcom County! Discover why Kent’s has been a trusted source for quality plants for over four decades.
5428 Northwest Drive, Bellingham 360.384.4433
kentsgardenandnursery.com
kentsgarden@gmail.com
PROS TO KNOW \ NURSERY
WINDSOR PLYWOOD
When plywood is in the name, it’s easy to assume that Windsor sells plywood. Well they do, and a lot of it for that matter, but you’ll find so much more than plywood when you walk through their doors. In fact, Windsor Plywood has been in Bellingham for over 50 years and in that time, they have evolved in to one of the Pacific Northwest’s premium building materials suppliers. Whether you are a professional builder or a true weekend warrior, Windsor will have the expert advice and quality finishing products you expect and deserve. You will find some of the latest trends like live edge lumber and shiplap as well traditional building materials from decking and fencing to lumber and mouldings, as well as the largest selection of domestic and exotic hardwoods in the area. Windsor also has the area’s longest running door shop where they pre-hang interior and exterior doors to your exact needs and offer custom milling and cutting of their products as well as prefinishing in their spray facility.
1208
windsorplywood.com
FRAMES / PROS TO KNOW
FOURTH CORNER FRAMES & GALLERY
Locally owned and operated with over 90 years of combined experience in picture framing, we are experts at handling all types of art including needlework, memorabilia, mirrors, posters, canvas stretching and more. We use conservation methods and materials and our unparalleled customer service and knowledge help us guide you in finding the perfect showcase for your treasured art, keepsakes, and memories. Courteous, guaranteed workmanship! Ask about “Frequent Framer Rewards”.
Our gallery showcases original works of art by regional artists including Steve Mayo, Laurie Potter, Jane Hamilton Hovde, Stephen McMillan and Frank Craig. We are in the lower level of Bay Street Village on the corner of Bay and W. Holly St in Bellingham’s Historic Old Town.
Member of Allied Arts of Whatcom County, Downtown Bellingham Partnership, and a member of the Professional Picture Framer Association since 1982.
Open 10am – 5:30pm Monday -Saturday.
NORTHSTAR STONE & LANDSCAPE SUPPLY
Northstar Stone & Landscape Supply has been a leading provider of Hardscape and Masonry supplies in Whatcom County for 22 years.
Northstar maintains a large inventory of Natural Stone, Retaining Wall Block, Pavers, Stone Veneer and Pond Supplies along with various gravels, soils and bark. We offer a large and diverse variety of products to fulfill your landscape and building needs. In addition, our showroom is filled with beautiful Amethyst, Fossils, Specialty Stones & Gems.
Northstar Stone & Landscape Supply is a destination shop for locals as well as our out-of-town visitors. Our friendly knowledgeable staff are here year-round 7 days a week to assist you with your home, professional and commercial projects. Delivery is also available if needed. We welcome you to stop by and see where your imagination leads you.
4840 Pacific Hwy
Bellingham, Wa. 98226
360.383.9090
Northstarstone.net
info@northstarstone.net
DEVINE COUNTERTOPS
Devine Countertops is a small but mighty familyowned business that has been serving homeowners and contractors for over 10 years. Specializing in a wide range of home improvement products and services, at Devine we go beyond just selling countertops—we are a one-stop shop for all your remodeling needs. From highquality countertops and custom cabinetry to elegant tile, flooring, and custom quartz showers, we have everything you need to transform your space.
We understand the importance of making informed decisions without breaking the bank. Our team works closely with clients, offering expert guidance to keep within their budgets while helping to create stunning, functional spaces.
In addition to our top-tier products, we also offer free interior design services to help customers bring their vision to life. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to remodel your kitchen or a contractor in need of reliable supplies and expert advice, Devine Countertops is committed to delivering excellent results, every time.
For nearly nine decades, Stockton’s Paint has been the trusted name for paint, stain, and expert service in northwest Washington. Family-owned since 1937 (in fact you may see three generations working together at the same time), Stockton’s Paint has built a reputation rooted in quality, community, and deep product knowledge—something big box stores just can’t match.
With three convenient locations—1413 Railroad Ave in Bellingham, 1515 Freeway Dr in Mount Vernon, and our newest store at 1255 Barkley Blvd in Bellingham, which opened in April—we’re proud to bring top-tier paint and design solutions closer to home.
Stockton’s is your destination for premium products, including industryleading paints from Benjamin Moore and superior stains from Woodluxe and Proluxe. Picking the perfect color can be hard but we try to make it easier by offering color samples to test out before you commit to the one. Looking to refresh more than your walls? We also offer a curated selection of wallpaper and custom window coverings, complete with in-home consultations to help you choose the perfect look and fit for your space.
What truly sets Stockton’s Paint apart is our dedication to personalized service. Our knowledgeable team brings decades of experience and a passion for color to every project—whether you’re tackling a single room or a full home renovation. At Stockton’s Paint, you’re not just another customer—you’re part of the family.
Visit one of our three locations today and discover the difference that quality, experience, and heart can make. And as a thank you for your business, mention you saw us in Bellingham Alive for a 50% off one color sample.
1255 Barkley Blvd. Suite 109, Bellingham, 360.203.0392, Barkley@stocktonspaint.com
1515 Freeway Dr. Mount Vernon, 360.336.2855, MountVernon@stocktonspaint.com
PEARSON BUILDERS
With 98 years of experience, Pearson is the premier luxury custom-home builder known for crafting exceptional residences throughout the Pacific Northwest, including the challenging terrains of the San Juan Islands.Whether you’re a tech entrepreneur, a professional, or just wanting to improve your quality of life, Pearson understands how to build a home that reflects your vision and values.Their in-house woodshop produces one-of-a-kind custom details, while their LEED-certified professionals prioritize high performance in every build. You can depend on their team to selfperform much of the construction for unmatched quality control and efficiency. Plus, you’ll have realtime access to project management software to stay informed and involved throughout the project.Timeless design, generations of experience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence is what sets them apart. From custom homes to private commercial projects, and even the smallest remodels, Pearson delivers superior craftsmanship, care, and commitment to every build.
110 W Van Wyck Rd, Bellingham 360.733.2160 pearson-builders.com
DEWAARD & BODE
DeWaard & Bode has been the trusted appliance experts in Whatcom, Skagit, and Island counties since 1946. From professional in-house delivery and installation to factory-certified technicians and experienced knowledgeable sales staff, we support our customers from start to finish with a superior standard of service — that’s the DeWaard & Bode difference. We’ve grown by putting people first, whether it’s developing our talented employees, guiding families through major purchases, or partnering with builders and designers on large-scale projects. We offer unmatched value and selection across 3 retail showrooms — from scratch-and-dent savings to high-end, luxury appliance packages. In a market where national chains aim to dominate, it’s our local roots and commitment to community, professional in-house services, and personalized care that set us apart. Earning trust across generations takes more than good pricing — it takes consistent follow-through. The future belongs to those who combine big-store efficiency with small-town integrity — and that’s what we deliver every day.
3944 Meridian St. Bellingham 360.733.5900
dewaardandbode.com
info@dewaardandbode.com
A1 DESIGN BUILD
Like a great bike, your favorite hiking boots or your best friend, the best home holds you up, not back. It’s beautiful, smart, performance-driven and ridiculously durable.
For over 70 years, A1DesignBuild has been providing Bellingham and the Whatcom community with excellent construction services. Back in 1955, we were primarily a foundation repair business, but since then we have grown into a worker owned cooperative that specializes in building high performance homes. Our expertise is marrying beautiful aesthetics with intentional utility, so your home becomes a source of joy and comfort for many years to come.
But we’re more than just builders of homes. We also help build community. Through our nonprofit A1andALL, we help raise money and donate 10% of our profits to organizations in need, which include Whatcom Youth Pride, Animals for Natural Therapy, the Birchwood Food Desert Fighters, Lydia Place, HomesNOW! and many more. Together we can all make a difference.
If you’re interested in learning more about our services or our nonprofit, scan the QR code on this page. And, as a bonus for stopping by, we’ll send you a free iced coffee drink (or drink of your choice) to cool off with on a hot summer’s day. It’s a snap.
At A1DesignBuild, we believe the best homes are born from collaboration, clear communication, and craftsmanship. Whether you’re remodeling a single room or building your dream home from the ground up, we walk beside you every step of the way.
3310 Northwest Avenue, Bellingham
360.734.5249
a1designbuild.coop
LARRABEE SPRINGS
larrabeesprings.com
360.296.7220 info@larrabeesprings.com
Nestled in north Bellingham is Washington’s largest, green built, solar community: Larrabee Springs. It’s the vision of Caitac USA that has been brought to life by green builder Alex Wynstra of AJW Builders. Travel north on Cordata Parkway to West Kline Road and you’ll find modern green-built homes,treelined sidewalks, walking trails, and open green spaces weaving through maturing wildlife buffers. Mindful development and rigorous green building practices have become the standard here, resulting in healthier homes and a healthier environment. Solar power is a core feature rather than an afterthought. Every home comes with 8 solar panels which not only reduces utility costs but reduces the carbon footprint.
Critical structural components—including foundations, framing, roofs, and building envelopes—undergo exceptional scrutiny. The team combines craftsmanship with proven technologies to protect homes from fire, moisture, and sound. As many building materials as possible are sourced locally from Whatcom County and installed by local contractors reducing transportation emissions and keeping dollars circulating within the local economy. While sustainability is at the core, livability is never compromised. You won’t find buildergrade materials at Larrabee Springs, every detail reflects the commitment to lasting quality. This commitment to higher standards does not mean higher prices. Larrabee Springs has some of the most affordable new homes in Bellingham, proving that sustainability, craftsmanship, and value can coexist. Take a tour today!
MARR’S HEATING, AC, PLUMBING & ELECTRICAL
Marr’s Heating, AC, Plumbing and Electrical has been providing top-of-the-line residential heating and cooling services to Whatcom County since 1965 – 60 years and three generations of local family operation! The Marr’s mission is clear: “To provide an exceptional customer experience by developing exceptional employees.” Simply put, when you do work on your home, you want a contractor who cares about every single little detail like it’s their own home. You want them to pick up the phone every time you call and create 100% clear expectations for the final result and solutions. We at Marr’s understand that and execute that everyday, as that is exactly how we would want to be treated. We put a special focus on installing high-efficiency heating and cooling options, such as forced-air Heat Pumps, Ductless Heat Pump systems and improved furnaces. These options have risen in popularity as homeowners make the move towards more efficient systems in newer and older homes alike. Additionally, we offer a variety of yearly maintenance plans to help home owners keep their equipment operating at peak efficiency, and their energy bills low. If you’re looking to upgrade your system, Marr’s is pleased to offer free, in-home consultations.
Everything from heating and cooling systems, general plumbing, hot water systems, electrical upgrades or home generators. Your Local Professionals.
Explore Sophia Grace Gallery next door!
Writers! Save the date: Aug 2-3 “Get Your Ekphrazz On” ekphrastic writing workshop, reading, and book making. Early registration: info@sophiagracegallery.com Dine at
Open Wed-Sat 12-6, Sun 1-5. Maps of No Return: He Gong Solo Exhibition extended through August 31. sophiagracegallery.com
Bellingham Technical College Culinary Cafe 86
Tomahawk Steak with Grilled Corn & Peach Salsa 92
Photo courtesy of Doc Swinson’s
IF YOU’RE IN the mood for a fruity, refreshing drink, rum punch is the one for you! Punch is widely considered to be the first cocktail, from which all other cocktail variations stem, and this version is perfect for a late summer day or a tropical vacay. The taste of the fruit outweighs the flavor of the rum, so it’s also great for people who don’t like the taste of alcohol, but still want to enjoy a little buzz. It’s easy to make at home (just combine the ingredients and shake), and it can also be scaled up to serve a crowd.
Ingredients
2 ounces white rum
1 ounce pineapple or mango juice
1 ounce orange juice
½ ounce lime juice
½ ounce grenadine or strawberry syrup
Sliced fresh fruit
Instructions
Combine liquids in a cocktail shaker.
• Shake well.
• Garnish and enjoy!
Kitchen Tips & Tricks: Pantry
CHLOE NELSON
Uniquely Spirited Tasting Room Opens in Ferndale
Doc Swinson’s Barrel Lab
WRITTEN
BY
KRISTEN BOEHM
DID YOU KNOW Ferndale is home to an internationally-acclaimed whiskey brand? If you answered “no” and want to learn more, keep your curiosity about you when you visit Doc Swinson’s new Barrel Lab.
Doc Swinson’s was founded in 2017 by four Whatcom County residents, including Master Blender Jesse Parker. After sourcing American whiskies from top producers, Parker finishes and blends the spirits using various techniques and casks from all over the world. The results are experimental and eye-opening. Now, with distribution in 22 states, international buzz, and hundreds of awards, Doc Swinson’s is focused on getting local whiskey-enjoyers in on the open secret.
“This is our first tasting room,” says Chief Marketing Officer Joe Mattson. “This is our home and we want to … create a legacy and really welcome the community here.”
The Barrel Lab opened in June 2025 and is located at Doc Swinson’s Ferndale headquarters. As the name suggests, you’ll be surrounded by actual barrels used in the finishing process, from their floorto-ceiling solera setup to bigger-than-you cognac casks from France. Behind the bar you’ll find the multi-talented Tasting Room Manager Marz Nixon, who will guide you through your tasting experience. Order a curated flight to get the most range, or sip a selection from the Captain’s List, Exploratory Cask Series, or the vaulted blends of the Library.
Walk-ins are welcome 5-7 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, and Saturdays from 12-4 p.m. Book a tour, watch for special events, and shop their bottles online. 1370 Commerce Pl., Ferndale, docswhiskey.com
Choose Your Storage Style
There are many different styles to choose from for organizing your pantry, all resulting in a tidy, clean aesthetic. Popular choices include glass jars, wicker baskets, and grid storage baskets.
Label, Label, Label!
No need to purchase a label machine— all you really need is a Sharpie and some masking tape! Labelling helps make everything more accessible. Bonus points if you add the expiration dates and the date each product was opened!
Rum Punch
Photo by Brandee Simons
Shake Up Your Coffee Routine
Ballistic Brew WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY KRISTEN BOEHM
BALLISTIC BREW IS a travelling coffee trailer with unique drinks, a sense of adventure, and a growing customer base throughout Whatcom County.
The Everson-based business was founded in August 2024 by Jillian Ball, with help from husband Kent, daughter Kenzie, and son Burke. While they originally planned to focus on special events on weekends (they can bartend out of the trailer, too!), their main focus shifted to “daily parks” thanks to customer demand.
“People were kind of starting to crave our coffee,” says Ball. “How it’s evolved in a short amount of time has just been very humbling, very exciting. I’m really in awe because I’ve just received so much support.”
You can find Ballistic Brew in a different North Whatcom County location almost every day, like Lynden, Nooksack, and Sumas. Their coffee is fresh-roasted by LaShaw Ranch Roasters near Spokane Valley, and they use low-acidity roasts, two shots per drink, and lactose-free milk as a standard.
Their menu features Classic Brews, specialty Ballistic Brews like the chocolate and salted caramel Burke Bomb (named after Ball’s son), and Loaded Refreshers made with real fruit, energy, and vitamins, like the tropical and spicy Cannonball.
If you’ve been craving a hit of something different to shake up your coffee routine, find Ballistic Brew’s next daily park on Facebook @ballisticbrewwa or Instagram @ballisticbrew2024. Everson, getballisticbrew.com
See Through, I See You
A big part of staying organized is knowing what you have! Opt for transparent doors, or even no door, on your cabinets and pantries to help keep track of what you’re storing. To take it a step further, keep a running list of supplies!
Rise
Above
Is there extra space above your organizers that isn’t being used? Shelf risers can help! These risers make it possible to maximize space while making sure your pantry still looks sleek and organized.
Add Some Hooks
If you’re feeling extra inspired and want to dive into Marie Kondo-level organization, consider adding some hooks to the pantry! These can live on the back of the door and be used for hand towels, oven mittens, aprons, utensils, and much more!
BTC’s Culinary Arts Cafe Is Crushing It
Bellingham Technical College’s Café Culinaire
WRITTEN BY CHLOE NELSON | PHOTOS COURTESY OF BELLINGHAM TECHNICAL COLLEGE
TWICE A YEAR, Bellingham Technical College (BTC) presents the community of Whatcom County with the opportunity to enjoy food made by their own culinary students at Café Culinaire. The cafe was started around 20 years ago by Michael Baldwin, a former chef instructor at BTC. Now, the program is taught by Nicole Carter. Carter has been working at BTC for 14 years and discovered her love of cooking through her mother.
“My mom was the worst cook on the planet; [learning to cook was a matter of] survival at one point,” says Carter. Since then, she has worked as a line cook, a restaurant manager, a private chef, a bartender, a waitress, a caterer, a butcher, and now a chef instructor. “I was bouncing around because I wanted to learn it all…I found my passion at a young age and I feel really privileged.”
Café Culinaire’s three-course tasting menu allows the students to get some realworld experience both cooking for the public and working front-of-house. The
students switch back and forth between these roles every 3 weeks.
“Having the public come in is super important, [the students] get live feedback and we have comment cards. If there are customer issues, they deal with them… and we make sure they’re ready for that,” says Carter.
Carter works with other chef instructors to pick the recipes for Café Culinaire. They do their best to work with dietary restrictions, providing vegetarian and gluten-free options on every menu. Each dish caters to the students’ skill levels, as Carter wants to make sure the students are growing within their abilities.
“I always like to say, I’ll let you struggle, [but] I won’t let you fail,” says Carter.
Not only does Carter pick the meals, but she also does all the grocery shopping for the department. Carter intentionally purchases from several local businesses such as Puget Sound Food Hub Cooperative, Acme Farms+Kitchen, Charlie’s Produce, Grace Harbor Farms, Twin Sisters Creamery, and Boldly Grown Farm.
There are different themes for the winter and spring quarters, with past themes including the Pacific Northwest and International Cuisine. The themes are always well-loved by the public, which is shown in how quickly the reservations sell out.
“It sells out in about four seconds and I get hundreds of emails…I wish we could have a better way for [more] people to experience it,” says Carter.
For the past two years, construction on the Campus Center building has forced Café Culinaire to relocate to a classroom in the G Building on campus; the work is expected to be completed sometime in 2026. Since the move to this smaller space, the Café’s capacity has decreased from 36 to 24 working students and 13 to 11 tables for diners. As such, getting a seat at the cafe has become more competitive than ever. If you’re thinking of getting a reservation, make sure to email Carter before 9 a.m. when the cafe opens for the season and check the menu on their website! 3029 Lindbergh Ave., Bellingham, 360.752.7000, btc.edu
DINING KEY
$20
. $20–34 $35–49 $50 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.
WHATCOM
11TH HOUR TEA & COFFEE BAR Tea, Coffee
833 N. State St., Bellingham 360.788.4229, 11thhourteaandcoffeebar.com
11th Hour Tea & Coffee Bar has an extensive menu of drinks around $3–5, with a variety of teas, golden milks, tea lattes, superfood lattes, and a full line of espresso items. The intimate space is cozy and encourages conversation between friends and strangers alike. The energy, menu, and location attract everyone from college students and families to health-minded folks.
ACCOMPLICE American
1232 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.778.2336
If you’ve been to Carnal in downtown Bellingham, you know meat is their forte. For even more protein-forward goodness, head to the restaurant’s burger offshoot, Accomplice, located right next door. Originally created as a destination for casual takeout during the pandemic, the space was remodeled to include a quirky dining area plus a variety of sandwiches and house-made sauces.
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.
AVENUE BREAD & DELI Deli
1313 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 1135 11th St., Bellingham 2301 James St., Bellingham 444 Front St., Lynden 360.715.3354, avenuebread.com
With several convenient locations in Bellingham and a location in Lynden, Avenue Bread is a favorite lunch spot for many. Fresh ingredients make these sandwiches unusually good the bread is made by their bakers, and the vegetables and meat are all of the highest quality. Avenue Bread also offers some of the freshest, tastiest breakfast sandwiches around.
If fresh shellfish is your gastronomic highlight, you’re in the right place at B-Town Kitchen and Raw Bar. Items from the Small Plates menu make terrific appetizers or adult-beverageworthy snacks. The heated patio provides an urban vibe suited for parties or gatherings.
A bantam is a type of small chicken. At Bellingham’s newest southern-inspired chicken rotisserie, you get what the name promises. The Buttermilk Fried Chicken has breading that’s thick, crispy, and somehow not greasy at all. While the downstairs is family-friendly, the upstairs is reserved for those 21 and older.
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.
Cold press juices make up the bulk of the menu at Big Love Juice. However, these aren’t your average juices. Big Love Juice uses a hydraulic press, rather than the traditional high-heat methods that eliminate much of the vitamins and nutrients found in fruits and vegetables. Customers looking for something a little heartier can also pick from a multitude of smoothies, soups, salads, bowls, and loaded toasts.
THE BIRCH DOOR CAFE American
4192 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.306.8598, birchdoorcafe.com
The Birch Door Cafe does not fall short on charm, variety, or serving size. Brunch enthusiasts will be delighted by the three pages of breakfast options. Dishes include traditional pancake breakfast platters, French-style baked omelets, egg scrambles and Benedicts, and plenty more. Listen for the ringing of the kitchen bell every time one of these massive breakfasts is served.
Tucked away in the heart of Fairhaven, this iconic Bellingham eatery serves up craft cocktails and American fusion eats on the third floor of the Sycamore Square building. Come for happy hour and stay for the delicious food and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
BLACK SHEEP Mexican
215 W. Holly St., Ste. 101, Bellingham 360.526.2109, blacksheepbellingham.com
The good folks at Black Sheep are all about serving up food with a focus on scratchmade, fresh ingredients. With homemade tortillas, fresh garnishes, and slow-braised meats, each taco tastes and looks like a small masterpiece just waiting to be demolished.
Named for the farm where they began growing their decadent heirloom tomatoes, Brandywine Kitchen sources many of its ingredients locally, upholding their “from seed to plate” philosophy. The menu offers vegetarian and gluten-free options and a rotating selection of beer from local breweries.
Cafe Velo is a European-inspired cafe with a twist in addition to serving fresh espresso, the cafe also doubles as a bike shop. With plenty of outdoor seating and bike racks customers can bask in the fresh air while enjoying a beverage or sandwich named after one of the owner’s favorite climbs from bicycle racing. This is more than just a place to quickly grab a bite; it’s a place to build community.
JUXT TAPHOUSE American
119 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.656.5223, juxttaphouse.com
JUXT’s unique 28-tap draft system allows for a rotating selection of locally sourced beer, wine, cider, cold brew, and cocktails. Because cocktails are mixed and ready on-request, JUXT can deliver something unfound in other bars: cocktail flights. The food menu is also large and varied, with options to satisfy any palate or hunger level. True to the bar’s spirit, it juxtaposes fine dining items with pub-friendly comfort foods like nachos, burgers, and poutine.
Located inside the Chrysalis Inn & Spa in Fairhaven, Keenan’s at the Pier features fresh, local cuisine and a full bar. Keenan’s highlights the beauty and style of the Pacific Northwest with fresh ingredients that are seasonal and regionally sourced. Enjoy Bellingham Bay views from every table. Reservations are highly recommended.
In a world of freeze-dried and processed prepackaged foods, The Loft strives to be an exception. From the fresh, locally caught salmon and halibut, to the cage-free organic eggs, they believe the ingredients make the dish. Their dressings, sauces, and seasoning are all from scratch, with original recipes using fresh, local, organic products as often as the seasons allow.
LOMBARDI’S Italian 21 Bellwether Way, Ste. 112, Bellingham 360.714.8412, lombardisitalian.com
This waterfront bistro pairs classic Italian eats with a standout wine list and idyllic views of the Squalicum Harbor. Their menu features ingredients both local and imported, with items like sauces, dressings, and desserts made in-house from scratch. Keep an eye out for events including wine dinners and monthly wine club meetings.
LORENZO’S Mexican
221 Central Ave, Sedro-Woolley 360.856.6810, lorenzosmexicanrestaurant.com
Lorenzo’s was established in 2006 with the goal of bringing an authentic Mexican restaurant to the communities of Bellingham, Mount Vernon, and Sedro-Woolley.The staff is friendly and welcoming, and customers are always made to feel at home.
LYNDEN DUTCH BAKERY American 421 Front St., Lynden 360.354.3911, lyndendutchbakery.com
Guests of Lynden Dutch Bakery will have a hard time picking just one sweet treat. Options include pies, donuts, fritters, cakes, and seemingly countless more. The wide variety of scones are some of the shop’s most popular items, along with a savory selection for those missing their sweet tooth. Fruit pies use berries grown just a few miles from the shop, and the owners sell many of their pastries to local businesses for wholesale.
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.
MCKAY’S TAPHOUSE & PIZZERIA American 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.
NEW MEXICO TAMALE CO. Tex-Mex
4151 Meridian St., Ste. 106, Bellingham, 360.389.8841, nmtamale.com
From flavor-packed handmade food to a warm and welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder this Southwest-inspired eatery landed on Yelp’s “Top 100 Places to Eat in 2020” list. 95% of the restaurant’s menu is vegan and 100% of items are gluten-free and lard-free.
Wine Pick of the Month
WRITTEN
AND PHOTOGRAPHED
BY DIANE SYMMS, FOUNDER OF LOMBARDI’S IN BELLINGHAM AND WINE LOVER
SUMMER IS MY favorite time of the year for white wine, and my favorite is from Brian Carter Cellars in Woodinville. This Washington winery is known for its exceptional blending of WA wine and this one is my favorites during the summer months when I want a rich, full-flavored wine to pair with lighter summer meals or just sitting on the deck enjoying the warm weather.
NICKI’S BAR AND GRILL/ NICKI’S BELLA MARINA American, Seafood
2615 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham 360.332.2505, nickisbellamarina.com
Harborside visitors can grab a bite at Nicki’s Bar and Grill or rent out the floor above, Nicki’s Bella Marina, for private events with spectacular views of Bellingham Bay. Once you’ve had a chance to check out the water, take your first glance at the large menu. The burgers are big, juicy (there are even Wet-Naps on the table), and flavorful.
THE NORTH FORK BREWERY Eclectic, Bar
6186 Mount Baker Hwy., Deming
360.599.2337
Pizza and beer is a pairing that truly stands the test of time. At Deming’s long-running North Fork Brewery, which opened in December of 1997, the two remain as strong as ever. The North Fork’s brews are made in small batches by their longtime brewer and his custom draft system. The old-style pub feels homey and familiar, with quirky decorations like a glass wall encasing rows and rows of beer bottles. It’s a warm, inviting place to escape the biting temperatures outside.
SCOTTY BROWNS American Cuisine
3101 Newmarket St., Suite 201, Bellingham
360.306.8823
scottybrownsrestaurant.com
Scotty Browns offers an edgy, energetic ambiance, a varied menu of mainstream and upscale creations, and excellent drink options for all ages. Outdoor dining is a popular option during warmer weather. Some items on the menu, like appetizers, change seasonally, so you know you’ll never get bored. Casual to upscale dining options range from hamburgers, rice bowls, and pastas to higher-end seafood and steaks. Just flying through? Grab a bite at their second location inside Bellingham International Airport.
Skylark’s Hidden Cafe in Fairhaven is worth seeking out. From decadent breakfast items and house specialties to hearty dinner entrees, the menu at Skylark’s is varied and every bite delicious. Come for the food and stay for the jazz on select evenings.
SLO-PITCH SPORTS GRILL AND CASINO
3720 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.733.2255, slopitchcasino.com
Conveniently located right on Meridian, SloPitch serves up a great burger and fries. With excellent happy hour specials in a casual, sports atmosphere, Slo-Pitch is a great place to watch the game or take a midday break.
Serving fresh, healthy meals with the customer in mind is what Super Mario’s is all about, and it’s the consistent flavor and quality of the food that keeps bringing people back. The veggies are chopped fresh daily, nothing is frozen, nothing is cooked until it’s ordered, and nothing is deep-fried.
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.
TASTE OF INDIA Indian
3930 Meridian St., Ste. 107, Bellingham 360.647.1589, tasteofindiabellingham.com
At Taste of India, all the dishes are rich, delicious, and authentic. Dishes come with your choice of pulao rice or the classic Indian bread naan. Taste of India offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, all with exquisite and well-developed flavors. For those unsure of what to order, or those who want to try multiple dishes at once, try the lunch buffet.
UNDERGROUND BURGER American
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.
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.
Bellinghamsters who love Thai know the name Wanida! Now with two locations, Wanida Thai serves up authentic Thai food from appetizers, soups, noodles, curries, and stir-fry. Whether you’re satisfying a craving with Phad Thai or trying something fresh like their Papaya Salad, you won’t be disappointed by their menu.
SKAGIT
13MOONS AT SWINOMISH CASINO & LODGE Seafood, Steak
Located on the waterfront within the casino, 13moons is sure to catch your attention. The menu offers a wide variety including first plates, entree salads, seafood, and steaks. Give this go-to place for locals a try and you will be walking away satisfied.
A’Town Bistro’s careful sourcing of ingredients, creative approach to food and drinks, and comfortable atmosphere are why it’s about to become your new go-to restaurant. Pair your meal with something off the ever-changing cocktail menu. Bitters, shrubs, and syrup are made in-house and the creative cocktails are composed by staff or sourced from a collection of vintage bartending books.
On the Bastion Brewing Company menu you’ll find classic salads, an array of interesting burgers, and crispy chicken wings drenched in your choice of sauce. Food arrives impressively quick, and even more impressive is the quality of the food.
CALICO CUPBOARD American
901 Commercial Ave., Anacortes,, 360.293.7315, 720 S. 1st St., La Conner, 360.466.4451, 121-B Freeway Dr., Mount Vernon, 360.336.3107, calicocupboardcafe.com
Since 1981, Calico Cupboard has been serving the purest, most heart-healthy, and high-quality ingredients. Using freshly milled, organicallygrown, whole grain and unbleached flour, the cafe aims to promote its local farmers and gratify your body in the process. Sit down for breakfast
or lunch, or just order from the bakery and grab an espresso to go. Calico Cupboard will leave you full, but feeling homey, healthy, and happy.
LA CATRINA TACOS & TEQUILA Mexican
517 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon 360.336.5566, catrinastacostequila.com
Catrina Tacos & Tequila is known for their take on Street Tacos with a multitude of meat fillings to choose from, double tortillas, cilantro, and onions but that’s certainly not the only mouthwatering option. With plenty of drinks to sample, there’s always another reason to visit again.
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.
COA MEXICAN EATERY Mexican
1065 E Sunset Dr., Bellingham, 360.526.2108 1810 Riverside Dr, Mount Vernon, 360.840.1938 214 Maple Ave., La Conner, 360.466.0267 coaeatery.com
One bite of a taco or one sip of a margarita and you’re hooked. This eatery offers frequent customer appreciation days, offering 50 percent off food if you pay in cash. Deals and good food what more could you want? Even on a different night, with the choice of fajitas, burritos, chimichangas, or flan, you won’t be disappointed.
CONWAY PUB & EATERY American
18611 Main St., Conway 360.445.4733
Don’t let tiny Conway fool you this pub packs big flavor. Though the town is unincorporated, business is never slow in this watering hole. Farmers often come here after a hard day’s work, as well as bikers making a pit stop on a scenic weekend ride. Brimming with beer and Americana spirit, Conway Pub & Eatery is a Skagit Valley icon.
HOURS TO HAPPY
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SOUTHSIDE BAR
Located in historic Fairhaven, Southside Bar is here to serve you. Join us from Happy Hour to Late night any day of the week and you will find a welcoming atmosphere full of lively people, great drinks, and classic hospitality. Stop by, grab a drink, and you will see why our motto is “welcome home.”
Happy Hour:
Sunday: All Day Happy Hour Monday - Thursday 3-6pm 1323 11th St, Bellingham drinkatthesouthside.com
Amendment 21, located inside Hotel Leo, brings a prohibition-era vibe to the heart of downtown Bellingham with expertly crafted cocktails, a lively atmosphere, and rich history. Enjoy Jazz Brunch with live music every Saturday and Sunday, weekly Friday night live music, daily Happy Hour, and special events—always served up with a perfect pour.
In the heart of downtown Bellingham Jack’s Bar offers a modern twist on timeless charm. We host a menu of thoughtfully curated cocktail classics and inventive contemporary libations. Jack’s is the go-to spot for quality pours in a relaxed environment - whatever your preference, we offer something for everyone. Happy Hour: Sun-Thurs: 5 - 7 pm 219 W Holly St, Bellingham, drinkatjacksbar.com
Tomahawk Steak with Grilled Corn & Peach Salsa
WRITTEN BY CHEF MATTHEW BOUDOUSQUIE | PHOTOS BY ANNE GODENHAM
LONG, GOLDEN EVENINGS and backyard gatherings are what summer is all about—especially when there’s a perfectly cooked tomahawk steak from Widnor Farms cooking nearby. One of my favorite ways to enjoy the season is cooking outdoors with family, friends, and good music.
While my usual go-to is a butter-basted steak in a cast iron skillet with rosemary, garlic, and cracked black pepper, summer often inspires me to take it outside. A Smoked & Grilled Tomahawk Steak is bold, dramatic, and downright delicious. Rather than sticking to the usual steakhouse sides, try elevating your cookout with a vibrant Grilled Corn & Peach Salsa and a punchy, herb-forward Chimichurri. Pair them with smashed potatoes or roasted fingerlings—but let the steak shine.
You can visit the farm store at Widnor or their online store at widnorfarmsblog.com, and check out their social media as well.
Smoked & Grilled Tomahawk Steak
Instructions:
• Season your tomahawk generously with kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and garlic powder.
• Preheat your smoker to 275°F.
• Smoke the steak until it reaches your desired internal temperature (120–125°F for rare, 130–135°F for medium-rare).
Once smoked, transfer the steak to a hot grill to sear for 1–2 minutes per side until beautifully crusted.
• Let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices and flavor.
Grilled
Corn & Peach Salsa
Ingredients:
3 ears fresh sweet corn, husks on 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted ¼ cup chopped cilantro
3 ounces fresh lime juice
1 ripe avocado, diced into ¼ inch pieces
2 ounces mezcal or tequila (optional, but highly recommended) ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Instructions:
• Grill corn (in husks) until lightly charred. Let cool, then cut kernels off the cob.
• Grill peach halves until slightly charred. Cool, then dice.
• In a mixing bowl, combine corn, peaches, cilantro, avocado, cherry tomatoes, lime juice, and tequila. Season with salt and pepper. Toss gently and serve.
Chimichurri
Ingredients:
4 ounces olive oil
1 ounce red wine vinegar
½ cup chopped parsley
¼ cup chopped cilantro
6 garlic cloves, finely minced
2 red bell peppers, seeded and finely chopped
2 teaspoons dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
• In a bowl, mix all ingredients thoroughly. Let sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Spoon over steak before serving, or use as a basting sauce while grilling. Also excellent with seafood, chicken, or grilled vegetables.
Meet Chef Matthew I’m Chef Matthew Boudousquie, a New Orleans native who has called Bellingham home on and off since childhood. My journey in hospitality started in Louisiana and Georgia, flourished here and on Orcas Island, and led me back to New Orleans before returning to the Pacific Northwest for good. These days I’m in real estate with Compass Real Estate, partnering with my wife, Kerri—but my passion for food remains strong. I still consult, teach cooking classes at the Community Food Co-op, and offer private chef services. Whether my focus is on food or real estate, I give both the same level of detail and care.
Dad’s Diner A-Go-Go in Anacortes is the epitome of creative flavors and fun presentation. Add in the superior customer service in a comfortable, casual atmosphere, and it’s no wonder so many locals eat here weekly. The space is decorated with framed photos of dads, most of whom are local an appreciation of their loyal fan base. Every edible item is a labor of love, just how Dad would make it at home.
NELL THORN Seafood
116 1st St., La Conner, 360.466.4261, nellthorn.com
Nell Thorn is seafood-heavy, so trying one of their seafood dishes is a must. Their daily specials take into account the freshest catches, but you’ll also typically find a seafood pasta, filet-topped salad, and oysters on the menu.
THE OYSTER & THISTLE RESTAURANT & PUB Seafood, Steak
205 E. Washington St., La Conner 360.766.6179, theoysterandthistle.com
The Oyster & Thistle Restaurant and Pub takes the time to prepare food with care. Their pastas are handmade and hand-cranked using semolina flour and an egg-rich dough. You’ll also find plenty of fresh, expertly shucked oysters and perfectly seared sea scallops.
The Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Drive is perched among towering conifers above the oyster beds. Housed in a structure dating from the 1920s that has survived many incarnations, the restaurant owes its reputation to its remote, quintessentially Pacific Northwest setting. But people don’t dine at The Oyster Bar for its location alone. While oysters are the signature offering, The Oyster Bar offers a variety of other fine-dining choices and is known for its extensive wine cellar.
SAKURA JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR Japanese
1830 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington 360.588.4281, sakuraburlington.com
Professional Teppanyaki chefs take you on a journey of delicious and interactive dining at Burlington’s Sakura Japanese Steakhouse. Using the freshest ingredients and perfect seasonings, they stir-fry your meal right before your eyes, creating a fabulous feast. Choose from steak and chicken to salmon and shrimp; each meal is served with soup, salad, rice, and vegetables. If it’s sushi you crave, they also offer a full sushi bar.
ISLAND COUNTIES
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
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.
SALT & VINE French
913 6th St., Anacortes
360.293.2222
An international cheese, wine, and charcuterie shop, Salt & Vine offers the best of both worlds. It’s a boutique artisan grocery where you can sit down and enjoy the offerings, and then, if something tickles your fancy, you can take it home to enjoy later. While some choose to grab-n-go, others decide to stay a while. The cozy, intimate environment works great for a date night or happy hour with friends.
SKAGIT VALLEY’S FARMHOUSE American
13724 LaConner Whitney Rd., Mount Vernon 360.466.4411, thefarmhouserestaurant.net
Craving home-cooked food but don’t want to make it yourself? Skagit Valley’s Farmhouse may be what you’re looking for. When first entering the building, you walk past a mouthwatering pie showcase and through a gift shop that has the perfect items for Ma and Pa. The decor is reminiscent of country living. Even though their breakfasts are famous, try their lunch and dinner menus as well when you eat here, you’re home.
Located along the waterfront of Anacortes, this is not your run-of-the-mill sports bar. While you can go the more classic bar-food route, this restaurant offers Italian, barbeque, seafood, Southern, among many other cuisine styles. Find the latest lines, watch the race, or grab a beer and grub as you watch every play, pass, and score.
TACOS & TEQUILA Mexican
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!
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.
INN AT LANGLEY American
400 First St., Langley, 360.221.3033, innatlangley.com
If beauty were a taste, this would be it. As a guest, you’re taken on a mouth-watering culinary journey through a multi-course tasting menu. Not only is the meal a delight for the taste buds, but there are also surprises at each turn, whether it’s the presentation or the accoutrements. Each guest is served as if they are the only one in the dining room. The menu is prix fixe, with an additional charge for wine pairing. Dinner here is more than just a meal; it’s an experience.
ISLAND SKILLET Homestyle
325 Prune Alley, Eastsound, 360.376.3984
Beloved by loyal patrons for its large portions and casual, customizable meals, Island Skillet is a must-stop for anyone visiting Orcas Island. A rustic metal rooster outside the entrance sets the tone. Start the day with a skillet breakfast complete with a bottomless cup of coffee. Sandwiches rule the lunch menu, and you can choose from a lengthy list of sides and customizations for most items, so you can totally have it your way.
PRIMA BISTRO French
201 1/2 First St., Langley
360.221.4060, primabistro.com
A quintessential South Whidbey dining experience in the heart of Langley, Prima Bistro marries gourmet French cuisine and classic Northwest ingredients. The selection of red and white wines offers options for connoisseurs of every stripe, along with a full bar. For fabulous food, elegant ambience, and world-class views, be sure to visit Prima on your next visit to Whidbey Island.
SALTY FOX COFFEE American
85 Front St., Friday Harbor 360.622.2486, saltyfoxcoffee.com
Items on the menu at Salty Fox are quick to whip up, but still healthy and satisfying. It’s an ideal stop for ferry riders on a time schedule, along with the locals who stop in for breakfast or lunch. Guests can take anything to go, including sealed wine and beer, much of which is locally made on the island.
SAN JUAN ISLAND BREWING CO.
American
410 A St., Friday Harbor, 360.378.2017, sanjuanbrew.com
At San Juan Island Brewing Company all the brews are named after San Juan-inspired concepts, and if you can’t decide what brew to try, order a sampler. If they weren’t in the business of brewing, San Juan Island Brewery would be in the business of pizza. Order one of their wood stone pizzas and you won’t be disappointed. The thin crust is crispy on the bottom, but still soft and chewy.
TOBY’S TAVERN Seafood
8 NW Front St., Coupeville, 360.678.4222, tobysuds.com
Overlooking the scenic Penn Cove in the center of old Coupeville, Toby’s Tavern offers diners a dive bar ambience with a delicious menu of seafood favorites. Steamed and soaked in a scrumptious mix of simple seasonings, wine, and juices, Toby’s robust offering of mussels makes for a memorable visit.
VINNY’S RISTORANTE Seafood
165 West St., Friday Harbor
360.378.1934, vinnysfridayharbor.com
Ciao! Vinny’s welcomes diners to their Friday Harbor Ristorante, mirroring the feel of this warm Italian restaurant. Dishes change monthly and reflect the desire to serve simple, gourmet Pacific Northwest seafood and modern comfort Italian. As well as a good selection of pastas, Vinny’s has seafood and meat entrees, many of them traditional favorites. The cocktail list includes the classics, along with some fun offerings.
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Red Star Taco Bar’s Philly CheeseSteak and Korean BBQ Beef tacos bring something new to the table! Pair them with a nonalcoholic Afternoon Colada
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TASTES GREAT
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Recently opened in the old Little Dog Coffee Co. shack, Full Steam Coffee Co.’s Avo Turkey Bacon sandwich on ciabatta is a power-packed lunch on the go!
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Martini Brunch changes up their menu frequently, but there’s almost always a dreamy Eggs Benedict on offer! Heads up: this spot is 21+.
Makeworth Coffee
Roasters offers fresh Avo Toast with customizable add-ons, all of which create a vibrant and tangy burst of flavor!
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Rock and Rye Oyster House serves a delectable Poutine appetizer, perfect for sharing! For more happy hour bites, try their flavorful Beef Carpaccio
Now in a permanent location at the Fairhaven Bus, Tam Tam Pizza is known for their locally sourced ingredients and artisan pies, like the Cascadia Mushroom and Norcino Pepperoni pizza!
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Calico Cupboard Cafe’s Yogurt Parfait is a delicious way to start the day. Served with granola, berries, and a freshly baked muffin—what’s not to love!
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Black Sheep’s irresistible tacos pair perfectly with their Dude-a-Rita margs. You can get these macho margaritas in flavors like prickly pear, mango, and pineapple, add a tajin rim, and even make it 5-star spicy!
Photo courtesy of Martini Brunch
A high-priority mail train to Seattle leaves the Cascade Mountains behind on a sunny afternoon.
