October 2025 | Bellingham Alive by K & L Media

Branch Manager

Bellingham - Barkley NMLS# 1688652 jpeterson@ourfirstfed.com

Ferndale NMLS# 720584 jalvarez@ourfirstfed.com

Zoe Shook

Branch Manager

Fairhaven NMLS# 2108042 zshook@ourfirstfed.com

Photo credit: Kevin Thompson

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

This recognition means so much to me because it comes from our incredible community—the very place I am grateful to live in and work every day. Thank you for trusting me with one of life’s most meaningful decisions and allowing me to be a part of your journeys.

I truly wouldn’t be who I am without you, and I would not be here without your continued trust and support.

It is a privilege to serve Bellingham and Whatcom County, and I look forward to many more years of supporting my clients and community with dedication and care.

With love and gratitude,

JULIAN FRIEDMAN owner | team lead

Best

of our annual Best of the Northwest readers’ choice contest. For the entire month of July, readers, fans, followers, clients, friends, and family alike voted for their favorite local businesses. We are proud to feature the top three from each category... here are your 2025 Best of the Northwest winners.

BEAUTIFUL BY DESIGN

Photo by Allison Holm

Savvy Shopper Sojourn

Photo by Aidan Hadley

Photo by Erica Egner

Online Exclusive

If you’re looking for somewhere spooky to explore this month, head to SedroWoolley and take a wander around the Northern State Recreation Area—but make sure to read our Web Exclusive first! While the site of an early 20th-century psychiatric institution makes for a great place to speculate about ghosts, there’s so much more to Northern State Hospital’s grounds than just rumors of hauntings. Writer Allison Holm spoke with a knowledgeable source about the site’s many iterations and stories and got the low-down for us on this fascinating piece of North Sound history.

Giveaway

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

BE IN THE KNOW

TRAVEL THE GLOBE WITH US

Discover Traveltobalive, an inspiring Instagram page capturing vibrant travel moments from around the globe. From hidden gems to cultural experiences, each post invites followers to explore, dream and live fully. Perfect for wanderlust seekers, Traveltobalive turns everyday scrolling into a passport to adventure. Follow along and get inspired.

Photo by Allison Holm

Another October Issue, with Much to Celebrate!

It’s that time of year again: time for our much-anticipated Best of the Northwest issue (and the equally anticipated BONW party)!

Connect with us

BellinghamAlive.com

Editor@Bellinghamalive.com

BellinghamAlive

@BellinghamAlive

360.483.4576 x4

I actually started as editor in chief the same week as our 2023 party— four days after my onboarding, I stood in the ballroom at the Holiday Inn & Suites by the airport, stunned into borderline wallflower behavior by the sheer number of people who’d come out to celebrate the winners and participants of that year’s reader’s choice awards. I’d known about the awards before working at Bellingham Alive, of course, but I had no idea how much they meant to local business owners and readers—now, in my third year, I not only understand what BONW means to our community, but I share your excitement.

It’s so much fun to go through all the many shops, restaurants, businesses, and people you nominate each year. Of course, it’s exciting to see who’ll win, but it’s equally enjoyable to learn about new nominees who, while they may not yet have the votes to win, have already earned a loyal fan base. Every time I think I know even half of the hot spots and interesting people in our region, you all surprise me with new information—I love that about this job!

So thank you, to all the business owners and artists and organizations who campaigned, and to all the readers and community members who voted. I hope you all enjoy reading this month’s feature as much as we’ve enjoyed putting it together.

The rest of the magazine is full of wonderful stories for you too, of course! The second Monday in October is Indigenous Peoples Day; we'll be marking the occasion by reflecting on how to improve our relationship with our indigenous neighbors and heeding the other thoughtful advice in the article on page 20. And for those of you who’ve been curious about the platforms you may have seen out on Legoe Bay this past August, we have a fascinating piece for you on page 112— our writer Nicole Kimberling got to tag along with Lummi Island Wild for a day of reef netting.

Last but not least, it wouldn’t be October without some spooks and sweets! Add a little gothic touch to your wardrobe and celebrate Halloween all month with our Style Necessities (p. 50). And there’s no need to wait until the 31st to get your sugar fix: Pure Bliss Desserts is celebrating 15 years in business (p. 118), and I’m sure they’ll have some delicious ways to prep your palate. Too stressed to get into spooky season? Head to Moondog Head Spa & Haunt (p. 46) for the kind of head trip that’ll leave you feeling better from top to toe—and say hi to Frank the skeleton while you’re there!

As for me, I’m headed out on maternity leave at the end of this month (keeping fingers and toes crossed that I’ll make it to the party first!), so I’ll leave you in the extremely capable hands of my colleague, Kristen Boehm. Have a great winter and I’ll see you all in January!

ANNE GODENHAM Editor in Chief

Chef Matthew Boudousquie

Boudousquie is a New Orleans native who’s called Bellingham home on and off since childhood, working in hospitality and as a chef in both the South and the PNW. His love for farm-to-table cooking drove him to build relationships with local farmers, and shaped his approach to food. Now settled here, Boudousquie teaches cooking classes at the Community Food Co-op, offers exclusive private chef services, and is a real estate broker along with his wife Kerri at Compass Real Estate.  p. 120

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. 27

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, 32

LATE FALL TRIP IDEA:

MT. HOOD TERRITORY SHINES IN NOVEMBER

While summer and winter tend to steal the spotlight in Oregon, there’s something uniquely magical about late fall in Mt. Hood Territory. November brings crisp air, cozy experiences and fewer crowds — making it the ideal time for a peaceful, scenic getaway just outside of Portland.

Fewer Crowds, More Tranquility

By November, the summer rush has subsided, and the ski season hasn’t ramped up yet. This means popular spots like Trillium Lake, the Salmon River Trail and historic Timberline Lodge are quieter and more peaceful. It’s the perfect time to enjoy nature’s beauty without waiting in line or jockeying for space on the trail.

The Best Of Both Seasons

November in Mt. Hood Territory offers the best of fall and a preview of winter. In the lower elevations, vibrant fall colors can still linger on hiking and biking trails. Higher up, earlyseason snow dusts the trees

and mountaintops, creating a stunning contrast. This mix makes for unbeatable photo opportunities — especially at locations like Jonsrud Viewpoint in Sandy.

Cozy Getaways

Cooler temps are the perfect excuse to book a cozy cabin, a hotel with a fireplace or even a vacation rental with a private sauna. Sip hot cider under the stars, warm up after a brisk fall hike or simply unwind with a good book as the rain taps gently on the windows. These stays offer a peaceful retreat and a place to relax from the everyday hustle.

Seasonal Sips

After your outdoor adventures, try a cider tasting at Stone Circle Cider. Or if you’re visiting during the Thanksgiving weekend, winemakers throughout the area keep the tasting room fireplaces crackling, light candles to inspire a cozy mood and pour special releases surrounded by acres of vineyards.

Small Towns With Holiday Cheer Late fall kicks off the holiday spirit with festive small-town markets and events. Find handmade gifts and local foods in walkable downtowns like Canby, Oregon City and Lake Oswego. Don’t miss holiday themed events in communities as well.

SCAN FOR MORE FALL TRIP IDEAS

omht.us/nov

Jonsrud Viewpoint

Stone Circle Cider

Clinical Discovery. Exceptional Retina Care.

World-class retinal care in Bellingham and Burlington.

At Pacific Northwest Retina, we are proud to bring advanced retinal treatment and cutting-edge clinical research to Skagit and Whatcom Counties—delivered by nationally recognized specialists like Dr. Eric Hansen.

Dr. Hansen provides expert, compassionate care backed by the latest advancements in retinal medicine for diseases such as agerelated macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusions.

He and our team of skilled, fellowship-trained surgeons offer a full spectrum of surgical services, including locally in Whatcom County.

Whether you’re a patient or a referring provider, you can count on timely, expert care—close to home.

PUBLICATIONS

Bellingham Alive Local Life

NSL Guestbook

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 EXECUTIVE

Therese Lewis

WRITERS

Allison Holm | Nicole Kimberling

Chloe Nelson | Sadie Youngquist

CONTRIBUTORS

Matthew Boudousquie | Mary Kinser

Julie Trimingham

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS

Ethan Anest | Silas Burchim

Aidan Hadley | William Morton

Rylie Obergfell | Logan Schreiber

Courtney Sipila | Ben Stainbrook

OFFICE MANAGEMENT

Jenn Miranda

CLIENT SERVICES CONCIERGE

Megan Gonzales

CORPORATE OFFICE

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

INQUIRIES & SUBSCRIPTIONS jenn@bellinghamalive.com bellinghamalive.com 360.483.4576

ADVERTISING sales@bellinghamalive.com 360.483.4576

EDITORIAL INQUIRIES

editor@bellinghamalive.com 360.483.4576

Sound Off

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

Reading the recent article on generational farming reminded me of my grandparents’ farm in Ferndale. Thank you for sharing those local stories that connect us all.

– Melissa S., Bellingham Thanks so much for sharing the memory of your grandparents Melissa. It is our hope that the stories we write help connect our community in a way that social media can't.

Lisa K., Publisher

This magazine is so elegant and nicely put together. I really really enjoy it, but mainly it is the only magazine I can actually afford! Hope you stay around a long long time.

– Becky H., Anacortes

Thank you so much for your support, Becky. One of our goals has been since the beginning 16

years ago to make this publication affordable to all who want to read it. I am so happy to hear we are hitting this benchmark as it does get harder with print costs and distribution going up. That being said, we are committed to that goal and offer a subscription rate that helps us achieve it.

Lisa K., Publisher

Thank you again for the work you do in shining a light on our community—I learn something new every time I pick up your magazine.

– Melissa K., Bellingham

Melissa, you touched on one of our key editorial goals: to find stories that help people—whether they've lived in the area all their lives or are new to the communities we serve— learn something they didn’t know.

Lisa K., Publisher

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

& Lori Dodge Owners, Samuel’s Furniture

Photo by Brandee Simons

Meet the Sales Team!

By now, you know a good amount about our editorial team—after all, we write a lot of the pieces in Bellingham Alive, and you may even have interacted with us out in the three-dimensional world! But there are two people on our staff who are not only crucial to the magazine’s production, but also essential parts of the team dynamic. Meet Michael and Therese, our sales team, who handle everything from communication with our advertising partners and awarding Best of the Northwest winners to attending events and promoting the magazine around our coverage area.

Photo by Anne Godenham

Michael Roe

Michael Roe is our senior account executive. He’s been with Bellingham Alive since 2021 and is a lifelong Bellingham resident. He loves working with local businesses to help promote their products and services. His favorite part of the job is that it keeps him up-to-date on all the amazing businesses we have in our community.

Michael and his wife Aminah enjoy road trips in the Puget Sound and are on a journey to find all the best chicken wing restaurants in the region. Michael is also a musician who plays multiple instruments and loves recording in his home studio.

To connect with Michael about potential advertising opportunities, email him at michael@bellinghamalive.com.

Therese Lewis

Therese Lewis is our newest account executive at Bellingham Alive! A recent transplant from sunny Orange County, she’s diving into the local scene just in time for her favorite season—fall!

When she’s not teaming up with amazing local businesses, you’ll find her reading, Zillow-scrolling (yes, it’s a hobby!), or spending time with her husband and their pup, Heidi. She’s all about movie nights, bike rides, home-cooked meals, and exploring local spots around town with friends. Passionate about all things local, Tee can’t wait to connect with you!

To reach out to Therese about potential advertising opportunities, email her at therese@bellinghamalive.com.

WE THANK YOU

WECU is honored to be voted “Gold” nine times for Best of the Northwest. Many thanks to our local community for its continuing partnership.

Ivan Colin, Artist and Muralist 28

Camano Island 30

Squad’dam’a’hon Terry Phair 32

Photo by Brandee Simons

Photo by Julie Trimingham

Indigenous Peoples Day

WRITTEN BY TAH-MAHS ELLIE KINLEY AND JULIE TRIMINGHAM

INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY, which falls annually on the second Monday of October, is a chance to celebrate the contributions and living cultures of Indigenous peoples. “Indigenous people” usually refers to a people who are the original inhabitants of a place and whose lifeways, language, and spirituality profoundly connected to their homeland. Here in what we now call Bellingham and the surrounding areas, Indigenous peoples include Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, Upper Skagit Indian Tribe, Samish Indian Nation, as well as First Nations just north of the border.

Tah-Mahs Ellie Kinley, a fisher, member of the Lummi Nation, President of the Sacred Lands Conservancy, and co-author of this piece, says “We’ve literally always been here, and even though there have been efforts to erase us from our lands and from the history books, we’re still here. Indigenous Peoples Day is a good start towards seeing us and all Indigenous peoples, recognizing our sovereignty, and respecting the relationships we have with our lands and waters.”

For those of us who are not Indigenous, it is a chance to learn about and reflect on true —if painful—histories; to honor the resilience of these communities; and to work towards a healed and healthy future for us all. Much like land acknowledgments, Indigenous Peoples Day can be a step towards mutual understanding, respect, and affection. Also like land acknowledgments, Indigenous Peoples Day is most powerful when it is the first step among many. Here are some possible next steps:

• Learn about the territory on which you live, work, and play. What mountains, islands, waters, forests, and fields define the place you call home? Do some still bear their ancient names? On whose land do you stand? (If

you don’t know, you can search native-land.ca.) How might you learn about, engage with, and support your local Native communities? Many nations, tribes, and organizations hold public events and festivals. For instance, check out the Treaty Day Film Festival in Bellingham every January; Lummi Nation’s Stommish Water Festival every June; and the Indigeversal Collective Murals year-round down at the waterfront. Local Native-led non-profits like Children of the Setting Sun Productions, Se’Si’Le, House of Tears Carvers, Gathering of the Eagles, Healing through Hope, and White Swan Environmental, and many Native artists, storytellers, musicians, fishermen, educators, business people, and leaders are all actively working in our communities. Watch for Indigenous Peoples Day events on your community calendars.

• Learn about and uphold the Treaties. The Point Elliott Treaty of 1855 is a treaty between the United States and various tribes (all federally recognized tribes are also sovereign nations, capable of entering into such treaties). It allows those of us who are not members of the signatory tribes to live in the area that is roughly west of the Cascades and north of Seattle (inclusive). As citizens of the United States, it is our obligation to ensure that Treaty promises are protected and fulfilled. One of the most significant Treaty clauses guarantees the right to fish, as salmon has always been the backbone of Coast Salish life. While our waters once nurtured a breathtaking abundance of salmon, that is no longer the case. Dams, pollution, fish farms, and other harms to habitat have created a salmon crisis. There are not enough fish in the sea to support the lifeways and livelihoods of all tribal members who are

Photo by Julie Trimingham

due such. We honor the Treaty by working to protect and revitalize these lands and waters, so that the wild Pacific salmon and other native marine life can return to their natural great numbers and be sustained. (Here, we can see that upholding Treaty rights, respecting Native sovereignty, caring for Mother Earth, and caring for one another are all connected efforts!)

• Learn about broadly Indigenous principles and worldviews, and let them unfold in their own way in your heart. While “Indigenous” contains a multitude of unique cultures throughout the world, one aspect held in common is a spiritual, practical, reciprocal relationship with the places they lived in for millennia. Principles like “take

only what you need and never take it all” ensure ongoing harvests. Asking permission, saying thanks, and expressing humility in our relationships with nature fosters a sense of kinship and care. Books like Robin Wall Kimmerer’s “Braiding Sweetgrass” and Tyson Yunkaporta’s “Sand Talk” are good introductions to some Indigenous ways of knowing and being. This is not about denying your own culture or appropriating somebody else’s; it is about learning how to (re)connect with Mother Earth and all of creation. When you understand that every living being, every rock, and every drop of water is a relation, then you know yourself to be part of a great family. There is such joy in belonging.

Photo by Julie Trimingham

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Photo by Julie Trimingham

• Follow, support, and collaborate with Indigenous / Native leadership. Indigenous peoples have been living in sacred relationship to place since time immemorial; they caretake our homelands with many thousands of years’ worth of experience and wisdom. Our world is hurting right now in many ways. Ancestral wisdom can help guide us into a good future, as it has proven to be durable and life-affirming in a way that more extractive policies have not. When Indigenous people speak up, advocate, protest, or suggest policies—listen and support them. They are protecting our shared home here on this beautiful earth, and they know that we are all family, and in this together. 

Photo by Julie Trimingham

Photo by Brandee Simons

Photo by Messial-Marie C. Cruz

Photo by Dani Winters Photography

Photo by Julie Trimingham

Screen Screams

Bleedingham

WRITTEN BY AIDAN HADLEY | PHOTO COURTESY OF BLEEDINGHAM

ANYONE LOOKING FOR even more scares this Halloween season should stop by Bleedingham, Bellingham’s annual horror film festival. From Oct. 24-26, attendees can enjoy horror to the max with fun events happening throughout downtown Bellingham. Run by Gary Washington, Michelle Barklind, and Langley West, Bleedingham has been a passion project since 2012.

“We decided, hey, there's a lot of stuff in town, but there's no horror,” Washington says. “It's not like we want just horror and blood and stuff, we just wanted to be able to have fun and joke around and do something.”

The festival has since expanded, now garnering almost 150 film entries each season. And as it's grown, Bleedingham still hasn’t forgotten about its community. Audience members who attend any of the film screenings have the chance to receive prizes from local Bellingham businesses.

The festival spans three days, beginning with the Night Gallery, a gothicthemed masquerade party, with some vendors mixed in throughout. The next two days are filled with film screenings, award ceremonies, and panels with experienced filmmakers.

Diehard horror fans should also make sure to check out Bleedingham’s “Beyond Washington” set, where filmmakers from out of state get the chance to showcase their work on the last day of the festival.

“There is some really scary stuff in there, year after year, consistently,” Washington says. “It's the best of everything that's not in our state.”

Dates, times, and more information about Bleedingham can be found on their website. Bellingham, bleedingham.com 

A Beautiful Day in Blaine

WRITTEN BY CHLOE NELSON

What’s a better way to start your day than having breakfast at a cozy cafe? Monte’s Just a Bite Cafe has everything you could ask for: omelettes, corn hash scramble with eggs and buttermilk pancakes with tater tots! This beautiful eatery is cash-only and has 4.6 stars on Yelp.

Culinary Couple Begins New Chapter

Next Chapter Cafe

WRITTEN BY AIDAN HADLEY

BELLINGHAM RESIDENTS

MAY be familiar with the stories of Jennifer Worthley and Bryan Matamorosa, the culinary couple who own It’s The Sweet Things and Bry’s Filipino Cuisine, respectively. Now they’re embarking on a new venture, this time together. Found on the second floor of Fairhaven’s Village Books, Next Chapter Cafe features the best parts of each of their established businesses.

“It's called Next Chapter because it's like our next chapter,” Worthley says.

Customers will find a happy blend of handcrafted pastries and delicious Filipino cuisine at Next Chapter—with a menu that includes everything from vegan milkshakes to chicken adobo, it won’t be hard to leave satisfied.

“It just kind of works. I think it’s the fact that we are married,” Worthley says. “This is sort of like a direct representation of our own selves and our own lives.”

Next Chapter is open seven days a week and can be both your sweet and savory fix. 1200 11th St., Ste. 201, Bellingham, Instagram @ nextchapterbham 

After your delicious meal, it’s time to go on a little nature walk. This is the perfect time of year to do so; the fall leaves are in their prime and they want you to know it! Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve comprises 54 acres with views of the San Juan Islands and the Strait of Georgia. This is an easy walk and winds throughout the forest.

Art by the Sea

The Blaine Art Gallery

WRITTEN BY SILAS BURCHIM

IF YOU HAVEN’T been to the Blaine Art Gallery yet, you’re in luck—after being closed for the month of August as part of the Blaine Downtown Revitalization project, the gallery is now back up and running and ready to accept visitors once more!

The Blaine Art Gallery is home to a variety of work including paintings, mixed media, and more by local artists. The art gallery also contains a quaint gift shop featuring souvenirs that are sure to enrich lovers of the arts, such as prints and wine bags. The shop also includes youth courses to teach the kiddos to express themselves creatively.

In addition to normal opening hours, you can visit the gallery on Oct. 11 for the 2nd Saturday Art Walk. This event includes a revolving assortment of local art as well as refreshments provided by restaurants in the area. Bring the family and enjoy the art of Blaine area creatives. The event is free, but the memories are priceless.

The revitalization project aimed to improve the downtown area of Blaine by repairing sidewalks, replacing trees, and generally beautifying the area; it has made Blaine an even more ideal location for visiting. If you’re interested in checking out the area after your gallery visit, there’s no shortage of great shops to explore. So make sure to explore Blaine for a full day of art, culture, shopping, tasty meals, and gorgeous sights! 922 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine, blainebythesea.com 

CJ’s Beach House has you covered for lunch! Coming from Point Whitehorn, you’ll already be in a beachy mood, so this is the natural choice. CJ’s offers seafood, burgers and mouthwatering crème brûlée.

Local Community Action Agency Celebrates 60 Years of Service Opportunity Council

WRITTEN BY ANNE GODENHAM PHOTO COURTESY OF OPPORTUNITY COUNCIL

SINCE 1965, OPPORTUNITY Council has been meeting “local needs with local solutions” in Whatcom, Island, and San Juan Counties. From housing and basic needs to job skills and health care, the organization offers a combination of financial, educational, and community support that seeks to “help build just, equitable communities across Northwest Washington.”

Reflecting on the legacy they’ve built so far, Executive Director Greg Winter says: “Our 60-year mission is more than a set of programs. It’s a promise: that no matter the challenge, we will keep showing up, innovating, and walking alongside those striving for opportunity.”

Head to their website to learn more and get involved—and check out this month’s agenda for more information on the celebratory gala! oppco.org 

After lunch, it’s time to shop a bit! Betty Be Good not only supplies hand-picked, affordable pieces, but they also donate 2% of their daily gross sales to clothes for survivors of human trafficking.

Dinner time! For dinner, you’ve got to hit up Gateway 1890 Taphouse & Grill. Gary Slavin has had the goal since college to open a bar, hence the opening of the grill in the winter of 2021. They provide burgers, wraps, salads and delectable drinks such as a Moscow mule and vodka soda.

Rooted in Place: A Craftsman’s Life on Lummi Island

Thomas Lutz

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY KRISTEN BOEHM

THOMAS LUTZ IS the craftsman behind Uisce Irish Pub’s 36-foot mahogany bar in Bellingham, the custom dining furniture at the now-defunct Willows Inn, and dozens of bespoke pieces of fine furniture all over the Pacific Northwest. After 32 years living on Lummi Island, he finds it difficult to imagine living anywhere else.

Lutz grew up in the New York suburbs and studied engineering at the University of New Hampshire, but he wasn’t settled on what to do next. As early 20-somethings, he and his then-girlfriend Samya decided to move across the country, landing in Bellingham as self-declared “East Coast refugees.” He thought about becoming a musician, or a farmer—but then, at Artwood Gallery in Fairhaven, he met wood furniture maker Alan Rosen, who was looking to take on apprentices. Lutz thought it would be a good way to kill a year while he waited for in-state tuition to go back to college.

That was 1994. Within a few weeks of commuting to Rosen’s shop on Lummi, Lutz fell into an unabiding love with both furniture making and the island itself. He and Samya relocated to Lummi and never looked back.

Since then, they’ve raised twin sons, now adults with inherent connections to Lummi’s ecology and the ability to work with their hands. He volunteered as an EMT firefighter on Lummi for 13 years, nurtured a side career as a photographer and digital artist, and loves boating on the Salish Sea. He even gets to live a little bit of the farming life he once considered—his family has lived on and caretaken a property laden with gardens and goats for over two decades.

Practice Makes Passion

With no prior experience, Lutz spent his yearlong apprenticeship in Rosen’s shop sanding, finishing, and absorbing as much as he could.

“Furniture-making is creative, but it’s also highly technical. You’re always working within constraints while trying to be as inventive as possible. That balance makes it a fascinating challenge with an endless learning curve,” he says. “It never feels overwhelming, because I am completely commited to the craft.”

In 2003, Lutz secured his “dream studio space,” looking out into Legoe Bay. As a one-man operation, he’s the designer, woodworker, delivery driver, and everything in-between.

“My practice is rooted in a biophilic approach to design— each piece is intended as a bridge between the natural world and human-built spaces,” he says. He brings his love for the region into his work with local woods, includes natural imperfections, and adds hand-hewn textures. Rather than lacquers and stains, he prefers oil, wax, and fire for finishing.

His works combine beauty and utility, and are often made in close collaboration with clients. It’s a creative puzzle he finds endless satisfaction in solving: realizing his clients’ visions and his own drive for excellence, all within a given budget.

Rooted but Reaching

After three decades of living the dream, Lutz wants to keep doing what he’s been doing—just with a little more reach.

“I’ve had mostly word of mouth, but I’m seriously trying to expand at this point,” he says. “I'm wanting to connect more with architects and be more on the radar of Seattle designers. I want to be their guy.”

To see Lutz’s furniture and other projects (like the interior of a boat named the Peapod, full kitchen interiors, and even total cabin renos), check out his portfolio online or schedule a studio visit. 4232 Legoe Bay Rd., Lummi Island, 360.220.5324, thomaslutzfurniture.com 

Book Reviews

WRITTEN BY MARY KINSER

Oh, how the once-golden Bishop sisters have fallen. Nothing about their adult lives resembles their well-heeled childhood. Debra is drowning in medical debt, Pam’s contentious divorce drained her dry, and Harper is underemployed and ducking creditors. And then, salvation appears. The Wheel is a women-only financial “gifting club”—definitely not a pyramid scheme!—and the returns are beyond belief. Debra and Pam are all in, so Harper joins too, despite her misgivings. But the pressure to keep working the Wheel begins to mount, and the solution that appeared so perfect may instead be the sisters’ downfall. The tension builds slowly but steadily in this page-turning thriller. Come for the messy family drama, stay for the fiercely plotted suspense.

A Novel about Crime and Family”

by Lou Berney

Think crime novels aren’t for you? “Crooks” may make you reconsider. In 1960s Vegas, Buddy Mercurio is a low-ranking mobster getting exactly nowhere. When Buddy catches department store clerk Lillian swiping cash from a customer, it’s love at first sight. “Mercurios Don’t Play by the Rules” is their family motto. These words play out differently over the coming decades for each of the five Mercurio children. Some embrace the family legacy, while some can’t quite seem to reject it. Yet the siblings remain tied together no matter how far they drift apart. An unconventional structure—each part of the novel has a tight focus on one family member—keeps the story moving, but it’s the richly-drawn characters that make this one memorable. By turns poignant, gritty, and dryly funny, “Crooks” is crime fiction in a class by itself.

J.A. Jance, “The Girl from Devil’s Lake”

October 4

Join J.A. Jance as she celebrates the release of “The Girl from Devil’s Lake,” the newest installment of her New York Times bestselling Joanna Brady series. 6-7 p.m., Village Books and Paper Dreams, 1200 11th St., Bellingham, 360.671.2626, villagebooks.com

Local Writer Limelight

Ginn Hale

Ginn Hale is a fantasy and science-fiction author residing in Bellingham. Her works have been translated into several languages and produced in audio by Tantor Media. Her first novel was shortlisted for the Lambda Literary Award and won the Spectrum Award.

Hale’s newest series, “Price of a Thousand Blessings,” was released April 2025, by Bellingham-based publisher Blind Eye Books. Here’s what it’s about:

Cymin’s final magic tournament promises to be thrilling and bittersweet. After it’s done, he must use his power to feed a Storm Tower and protect the world from fei’lux storms. But before his conscription, he intends to put on a dazzling show.

But when disaster strikes the celebrations, Cymin’s actions not only plunge him into the battle between foreign provocateurs and his own nation’s spies, but captures the attention of the mythical Wraiths--one of whom has been searching for him in secret for hundreds of years. Courtesy of Nicole Kimberling, editor of Blind Eye Books

Literary Events

Jennifer Hahn presents “Pacific Harvest: Foraging as a Healing Passport to Place, Plants, Animals and Nature”

October 9

Local author Jennifer Hahn visits to share her knowledge of the cultural, culinary, and ecological uses of foraging, and how you can do it too!

6-7 p.m., 5044 Mt. Baker Hwy., Deming, 360.592.2422, wcls.org

Barbara Sjoholm, “The Reindeer of Chinese Gardens”

October 12

Award-winning author and translator Barbara Sjoholm stops by to share her newest historical fiction book, “The Reindeer of Chinese Gardens,” set in 19th-century Port Townsend. 4-5 p.m., Village Books and Paper Dreams, 1200 11th St., Bellingham, 360.671.2626, villagebooks.com

“El Dorado Drive” by Megan Abbott

“Crooks:

Photo courtesy of Nicole Kimberling

Making His Mark

Ivan Colin, Artist and Muralist

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY BEN

STAINBROOK

DOWNTOWN BELLINGHAM IS becoming somewhat of an art exhibit, featuring works sanctioned and unsanctioned from many local artists and muralists. One artist making his mark on the scene is Ivan Colin, an abstract artist and muralist who first moved to Bellingham in 2017.

Originally from Napa Valley, California, Colin was drawn to art during high school, when he saw it as a skill to grow during class outside of the required material.

“Do you get bored in school, or you’re just not paying attention? I wanted something to do that wasn’t interrupting class and being a clown,” says Colin. “By doodling and drawing, you actually might be able to retain the information better, since it’s a different way of engaging with the lecture or with what the teacher’s saying.”

Colin wasn’t sure he could make a living from art, so he started at Linfield University in Oregon as an accounting major, and to play soccer. However, the accounting classes didn’t last long, and with the guidance of professors and advisors, Colin took some art classes and realized that life as an artist was very possible. But it was soccer that would lead Colin to Bellingham!

“My Dad loves the game, and that’s something he was able to teach all of my brothers, because that’s his expertise,” says Colin. “I finished school, and I still wanted to continue playing at a higher level. I just haven’t satiated my ambition for the game.”

He joined Bellingham United, a semi-pro team that plays in the Evergreen Premier League of Washington. Colin was treated like a brother by his teammates, given a place to stay, and soon after, met his now-wife. After a brief stint playing soccer in California, Colin returned to Bellingham in 2021. Now he’s making an impact on the city with his art.

Early on, Colin was inspired by graffiti art and its abstract patterns. Nowadays, nature is his biggest inspiration, and not necessarily plants, animals, or nature scenes, but things that happen naturally. Visual candy, such as a pattern on a concrete wall not formed intentionally, or an oil spill on the street, showing off some rainbow colors.

“Nature…was what I was consuming around me,” says Colin. “And that happened to be Oregon’s beautiful environment, and Washington just gets greener the further north you go.”

You can find Colin’s art on the outside of Cheba Hut, the interior of Beach Cat Brewing South Paw, and most recently (at the time of writing), in mural form inside Armory Pickleball. And that’s only a few of his projects.

“I hardly like what I make until I’m removed from it emotionally,” says Colin. “Paintings are never finished, they’re only abandoned, and that’s how I feel a lot of times. I just got to walk away. Drop the mic and walk away, you know; just gotta cut yourself off somehow.”

Check out Colin’s website for more photos of his work or to reach out for commissions to spruce up the vibe of your home or business with some genius visuals! Bellingham, 707.501.8485, ivancolin.com 

An Easy Day Trip with Fall-ish Vibes

Camano Island

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY ALLISON HOLM

IT’S BEEN COINED “the easy island” for its bridge access, but Camano has more to offer than its lack of ferry lines. Less than an hour from Bellingham, with pristine beaches, plenty of hiking options, and foodie-worthy eats, Camano checks the box for a cozy fall day trip.

Step Into Nature

Pack your Merrells—Camano is full of easy hikes and combable shores. The island is home to two state parks: Camano Island State Park, with year-round camping, and Cama Beach Historical State Park, home to the (permanently closed) historic Cama Beach cabins. Both offer miles of interconnecting trails and plenty of views. If you’re there on a weekend this fall or winter, don’t miss Cama Beach Cafe & Catering, serving up family style brunch overlooking Saratoga Passage. Iverson Spit Preserve boasts flat, sandy shores, beach fort-worthy driftwood, and a hike along the “Hobbit Trail” (yes, there will be gnomes). Barnum Point County Park impresses with its wide, forested trails and madrona-dotted beaches. English Boom offers an easy stroll and unmatched views along the site of an old log boom. Grab a pint at the small but popular Ale Spike Camano Island Brewing on the way out.

Eat Like an Islander

The Camano Commons is a social hub where you’ll find plenty of food options (as well as an adorable plant shop, library, and Camano Island Coffee Roasters). Try Primal Taco, The Baked Cafe (stellar burgers and breakfast sandwiches), or a local cider and loaded tots on the patio at Tapped Public House. The Camano Commons Marketplace is your go-to spot for espresso and some of the best baked goods around (the almond croissant is to die for). Head upstairs to the loft for additional indoor seating, surrounded by cozy gifts and local art. For a steak-and-cocktail sort of vibe, snag a spot on the deck at Blue Heron Kitchen & Bar. Down the road, Rockaway Bar & Grill is a local favorite for American pub food. Book a teetime while you’re there; Rockaway sits on the island’s 18-hole golf course, Camaloch Golf Course

Farm Stands:

A Camano Must Camano is dotted with farm stands—some are year-round, and most are honor-system. Black Dogs Harvest has goat milk soaps, local-maker crafts, plus apples and squash in the fall. Island Harvest Farm’s stand is open through November; autumn brings squash, dry beans, and pie pumpkins. Craving a treat? Shoebox Baking Company and Camano Cookies both fill their stands with sweet and savory goodies. Just be sure and check their business pages for days and times.

Historic Farms and Attractions

Historic Kristoferson Farm hosts experiences throughout the year, including U-cut lavender in summer, cider press and pumpkin launch in the fall, and holiday markets and wreath-making in the winter. Feeling adventurous? Book a ziplining tour through the property’s forests though their company, Canopy Tours NW. Arrowhead Ranch offers year-round activities, from the annual soap box derby to its Makerspace workshops (woodworking, metalworking, and more). Take a date axe-throwing or make your own live-edge charcuterie board. Fall brings a cute pumpkin patch and cider press. Got littles? They’ll love the new L.A.N.E. (Little Arrowhead Nature Explore), a half-acre space designed for the under-5 crowd to explore nature through outdoor play.

Art lovers should check out the Matzke Fine Art Gallery and Sculpture Park, exhibiting over 75 works of art across the 10-acre property. Check out the indoor gallery for more inspiration.

Need more time to explore Camano? There are plenty of vacation rentals on the island where you can extend your stay. 

Since Time Immemorial

Squad’dam’a’hon Terry Phair

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.

Squad’dam’a’hon Terry Phair is a Lummi Nation tribal member, commercial fisher, diver, current board member of SeaFeast, and owner of the Lummi Seafood Market. The market sells fresh, frozen—and their own “Salmon Woman” canned—fish and seafood at their store in Ferndale, Squalicum Harbor Dockside, and the Bellingham Farmers Market. Their Čha•k’os Fire Pits—where they cook salmon in the traditional Coast Salish way—can be found at events throughout the area. linktr.ee/lummiseafoodmarket

Squad’dam’a’hon is an Indian name that was put on me by late Hereditary Lummi Chief Tsi’li’xw William (Bill) James. I share that name with my son, Jaden Phair-Williams, Squad’dam’a’tud. The name comes from the Snoqualmie, the moon people, and carries a gift of salmon. My younger son, Sky Phair-Williams, he carries the name Chi’yad’Kanim. On what we have recorded, Chi’yad’Kanim was the brother of Squad’dam’a’hon, and their mom and dad were the first ones here in this place. So these names are thousands of years old. Late Bill gave my partner Laura Williams the name Plelaelut, which is tied to reef netting. We're all close to salmon. Late Bill told me the teaching is that we can't be dragging our names in the dirt. We have a responsibility to be good people, to do our best to keep salmon close to our people.

Your business, Lummi Seafood Market, is part of keeping the salmon close?

It’s one more way for us to get salmon for our ceremonies, and it’s one more way for Lummi and other tribes, for all of Bellingham, to access healthy salmon. I harvest salmon and seafood, and I also buy from Lummi and other tribal and local fishers. We all work together to make sure everybody can enjoy this beautiful protein.

How did you get started in fishing?

My dad and uncles were full-time fishermen, so I got to spend my childhood fishing for salmon at Point Roberts. That’s how I’d pay for school clothes and how I bought my first vehicle. But I didn't realize how special salmon was until I got a bit older. Our family spent a lot of time apprenticing with late Bill James, and that’s when I started understanding how important it is to have salmon in our diet, to have canned salmon in our pantry, to be able to share with others.

You’re also a diver, yes?

I began my diving career on Johnny Felix’s boat, then I kind of hopped around and dove with almost everybody in the Lummi dive fleet. With diving, you either get good at it or you quit. A lot of people quit. There’s not too many divers left in Lummi anymore. Today, there’s five or six boats when there used to be about thirty. On my vessel now, we dive for geoduck, red sea cucumbers, red and green sea urchins, and other seafoods.

What's it like down there, underwater?

We weigh ourselves down with heavy weights and wear boots, so we're walking on the bottom of the Salish

Sea. We walk around and harvest—we can go as far as a couple hundred feet away from the boat. We have a hose that's hooked up to us; we’re breathing compressed air. We also have a backup oxygen tank on our back and comm wires to speak to each other. Sometimes, it's too murky and you can't see without a flashlight, but usually you can see five to ten feet away. You have to be careful, check your dive gear, not take too many risks, not be greedy. I was taught by Steve Solomon that the first thing you do when you're leaving home and you're getting ready to jump on your boat: you pray that you make it home safe.

I’m always impressed by how much you need to know, all the skills you need to have, to harvest the sea in a good way. It’s hard work.

We spent a lot of time with late Bill, and I remember asking his mom, Auntie Fran, “What is it to be a Lummi? What did the old people say?” And she always said, “To be Lummi is to be a hard worker.” She and late Bill were really hard workers, always keeping their minds and hands busy, and always teaching.

You brought out this beautiful platter of smoked salmon for us to nibble on, and throughout our conversation you’ve talked a lot about sharing.

Our people, long time ago, were a potlatch society, we shared resources and gifts with one another. The wealthiest person was the one that could share the most—not the one that could fill up his bank account, but the one that could share with all the villages and make sure everybody had enough food, blankets, and other resources. We need to return to these ancestral ways and practice them on a day-to-day basis. Back then, we always worked together. This world, this western civilization we live in now, could benefit from those kinds of teachings. As Chief Sealth said, “We cannot eat money.”

Hy’shqe, Terry!

FIVE FAVES

WHETHER YOU’RE IN THE mood for a mid-day treat, an after-dinner delight, or a breakfast on the go, donuts can fill many culinary niches. Although the basic ingredients for a donuts are fairly ordinary—flour, yeast, baking powder, sugar, and butter—the quality of donuts can vary immensely. Below are five of our favorite donut shops around the area!

WRITTEN BY WILLIAM MORTON

Lafeen’s Family Pride Donuts and Ice Cream

If you’ve been around the Bellingham area for long enough, chances are you’ve heard of Lafeen’s Donuts, the oldest and, in many people’s opinions, best donut shop in town. Open seven days a week, Lafeen’s embodies everything a classic donut shop should. 1466 Electric Ave., Bellingham, 360.647.1703, facebook. com/LafeensFamilyPrideDonuts

Mochinut

Mochinut serves up the Hawaiianoriginating mochi donut, with a light, crispy coating and a chewy, soft interior. Made from rice flour, they are stretchier and chewier than traditional donuts, and the round mochi shape is undeniably adorable. 228 N. Samish Way, Bellingham, 360.656.6844, mochinut.com

Maple.Bar

Maple.Bar, opened in 2022, is a local coffee shop with a fun, welcoming, nostalgic, and colorful feel. If you’re a fan of maple, this place is for you— in addition to maple bar donuts (of course), they also have maple bar lattes, and many other flavors of treats! 4252 Cordata Pkwy., Bellingham, 360.441.5440, maple.bar

Donut House

To get your donut fix at any hour of the night or day, head to Donut House’s 24-hour drive-through in Anacortes. Locals and out-oftowners alike flock there for soft, fluffy classics and crisp apple fritters, plus savory pastries and espresso! 2719 Commercial Ave., Anacortes, 360.293.4053, donuthouse.shop

Darren’s Donuts

The owners of Darren’s Donuts have been making donuts since 1985, so it’s no surprise they’ve become a staple of the Mount Vernon area. Open seven days a week, Darren’s offers fresh, handmade donuts, from classic fritters to old-fashioned to maple bacon bars, with the occasional seasonal special to shake things up. 1800 Riverside Dr., Mount Vernon, 360.424.4085

SPOTLIGHT OCTOBER TOP PICKS

BELLINGHAM EXIT: EAT UP

October 8–12

The multi-stage, multi-sensory Bellingham Exit music and arts festival is back (sadly, for its last year) with a new theme: Eat Up! Events will take place throughout downtown Bellingham, transforming familiar music venues with breathtaking art installations. This festival offers ticketed events and free pop-up concerts that music and comedy lovers can RSVP for! Downtown Bellingham, bellinghamexit.com

LA CONNER WA FABLES FAIRE

October 11

Come one, come all! Immerse yourself in a world of myth and legend at the first La Conner WA Fables Faire. For just one day, La Conner will transform into a fantasy wonderland, complete with Washington Shakespearean Festival’s two traveling stages, the Soccs & Buskin Ren Faire Band, creative workshops, artisan demonstrations, and more! Don’t miss this free, family-friendly opportunity to dress up and enjoy some magic! 12–6 p.m., 204 Douglas St., La Conner, washakespeare.org

FERNDALE OKTOBERFEST 2025

October 4

Raise a stein; it’s Ferndale Oktoberfest time! Don’t miss this 21+ night of classic Bavarian fun. Grab dinner from the food truck to pair with your favorite brews, compete in some friendly, traditional Bavarian games, join the costume contest, and dance the night away. With tickets at just $30 (which includes entry and two drink tickets), joining this celebration is a no-brainer! 5–10 p.m., Pioneer Pavilion, 2007 Cherry St., Ferndale, ferndaledowntown.wildapricot.org

WHATCOM FRIGHTMARE: THE HAUNTED BARN

October 17–19, 24–26

It’s spooky season, and there’s no better place to celebrate than at Whatcom Frightmare’s The Haunted Barn. Gather your bravest crew and prepare for a night of unforgettable terror! Whatcom Frightmare is all ages (“children under 5 will be scared for free”), and hosts both Light Scares and Full Scares. Pioneer Park, 2000 Cherry St., Ferndale, facebook.com/whatcomfrightmare

BLEEDINGHAM

October 31-November 2

Join horror fans and creators alike for a haunting celebration of the genre and art of filmmaking! Bleedingham began in 2011 as a celebration of Washington state indie filmmakers, but quickly grew to include short horror films from all over the world. Come if you dare and discover your next favorite scary movies. Pickford Film Center, 1318 Bay St., Bellingham, bleedingham.com

Photo by Tosha Wade

DOCTOBER

October 2–26

Throughout the month of October, you are invited to the Pickford Film Center to view dozens of documentaries! The entries cover a range of topics, but they’re all made with care. Some events will even be accompanied by guest speakers, group discussions, and more. At the largest documentary festival in the Northwest, the screenings are sure to entertain. Pickford Film Center, 1318 Bay St., Bellingham, 360.738.0735, pickfordfilmcenter.org

BIER NEAR THE PIER

October 3–4

Want to enjoy local beer? Anacortes’ annual beer festival, Bier Near the Pier, is back again for the 14th year! Enjoy some live music, food, and beer from local and faraway breweries. This year, they're bringing back the costume contest to win tickets for next year's event! The costume contest is open to all event attendees. Tickets cost $65 per person. Depot Arts Center, 611 R Ave., Anacortes, 360.293.7911, business.anacortes.org

20TH ANNUAL CONCRETE GHOST WALK

October 4, 11, 18, 25

Don’t go stumbling downtown in search of specters of the past; do it with a professional guide! The 20th annual Concrete Ghost walk is coming, and your tour guide will help you explore the historic town center with stories of miners and loggers, as well as tales of love from beyond the grave. Concrete Theatre, 45920 Main St., Concrete, 360.853.8784, concrete-wa.com

FALL FESTIVAL

October 4

Start your holiday shopping early at the Blaine and Birch Bay Fall Festival! Find thoughtful gifts and one-of-a-kind goods from dozens of local craft and artisan vendors. Plus, enjoy giveaways and raffles, family-friendly games, coffee and baked goods, s’mores roasted over a wood fire, live music, and more. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini St., Blaine, 360.656.6416, bbbparkandrec.org

Agenda Events

SKAGIT VALLEY FESTIVAL OF FAMILY FARMS

October 4–5

The Skagit Valley Festival of Family Farms invites locals and out-of-towners to tour Skagit farms, meet farmers, and experience the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Enjoy hands-on activities, tastings, hayrides, and educational exhibits while exploring the valley’s diverse crops and livestock. This festival promises fun for all ages, rain or shine! 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Skagit Valley, 360.421.4729, festivaloffamilyfarms.com

LYNDEN MUSIC FESTIVAL

October 8–12

It’s time for the Lynden Music Festival! There will be a variety of live music performances all around Lynden for people of all ages. From coffee shops to music halls, the city will be filled with music! Headlining this year is Sixtiesmania, a '60s cover band, and local legends Baby Cakes. Check out the schedule and get your tickets today on Lynden Music Festival’s website. Lynden, 360.510.0654, lyndenmusicfestival.com

WILD & SCENIC FILM FESTIVAL

October 9

Are you a fan of nature and short films? Join the Skagit Fisheries Enhancement Group in hosting the Wild & Scenic Film Festival in Mount Vernon! These films will show a variety of environmental movements across the globe and share how they impact humanity. This touring festival is here for one day only and open to all ages; get your tickets before they sell out! 6–9 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon, skagitfisheries.org

SPOOKY CAMPOUT WEEKEND

October 10–11

While the cold fall chill might not be what one expects for a camping weekend, the crisp air and dark nights create a perfect environment to get into the Halloween spirit. This campout weekend in Lynden will include trick-or-treating, a costume contest, a potluck party, and more. After all, sharing scary stories is always best around the campfire. Lynden/ Bellingham KOA Journey, 8717 Line Rd., Lynden, 360.354.4772, koa.com

BLAINE’S OYSTERFEST & SEASIDE BASH

October 11

Blaine’s Seaside Bash brings a full day of coastal fun with live music, local

vendors, fresh seafood, a chainsaw wood carving contest, and family-friendly activities along the waterfront. Stroll downtown, enjoy delicious bites, and take in scenic views while celebrating the charm and community spirit of Blaine by the sea. Don’t forget to wear orange for the community photo! 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Downtown Blaine, blainebythesea.com

BREW ON THE SLOUGH

October 11

Celebrate the region’s best brews and craft beer culture at the 2025 Brew on the Slough, La Conner’s annual beer festival. With drinks from local breweries, bites from local food vendors, and live music by The Fat Fridays, this evening is all about community. This is a popular event, so secure your tickets while you still can. 5–9 p.m., Maple Hall, 104 Commercial St., La Conner, 360.466.4778, lovelaconner.com

TRAILS TO TAPS RELAY

October 12

The Trails to Taps Relay is an eight-leg, 35-mile running adventure connecting Bellingham’s parks and breweries. Teams of four to eight runners tackle scenic trails and city paths, with each leg ending at a different local brewery. Celebrate at the Kulshan Trackside finish line with craft beer, food, and music! 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Lake Padden Park West Entrance, 4882 S. Samish Way, Bellingham, 360.746.8861, trailstotapsrelay.com

LAUGHING HAMSTER COMEDY FESTIVAL

October 13–18

Get ready to laugh at the first-ever Laughing Hamster Comedy Festival, showcasing hilarious acts from local favorites and national talent. With seven shows across Bellingham venues like Uisce Irish Pub, Rumors Cabaret, and The Upfront Theatre, this six-day festival promises high-energy performances and plenty of surprises for comedy lovers of all kinds! Bellingham, laughinghamster.com

WOMEN’S ADVENTURE FILM TOUR

October 16

The Women’s Adventure Film Tour is coming through Bellingham this month! Enjoy an exciting selection of films sharing the raw, thrilling stories of women pushing boundaries to achieve adventurous goals. From extreme sports to personal journeys, this film tour celebrates real women’s stories of courage and self-discovery.

7 p.m., American Alpine Institute, 4041 Home Rd., Ste. A, Bellingham, womensadventurefilmtour.com

SHOOT THE TRAILS AWARDS

October 18

It’s time for Whatcom Mountain Bike Coalition’s biggest fundraiser of the year, Shoot the Trails. Join the community in viewing and voting for your top local mountain bike videos and photos. Plus, put your name in to win premium raffle prizes, sip cold brews, and enjoy food truck bites. This is an all-ages event with free admission for kids 12 and under! 5 p.m., Fishermen’s Pavilion, 2559 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham, wmbcmtb.org

“SESAME STREET LIVE! ELMO & FRIENDS SAY HELLO”

October 18

Did you hear the news? Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, and their friends at “Sesame Street Live! Elmo & Friends Say Hello” are coming to Bellingham! Get ready to sing and dance with your favorite “Sesame Street” friends in this interactive show. Don’t miss this afternoon of growing smarter, stronger, and kinder! 2 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

MURDER BY DEATH FAREWELL TOUR

October 22

Catch Murder by Death on their farewell tour, right here at home! The band is bringing their unique blend of indie rock, Americana, and dark folk to the Mount Baker Theatre stage one last time, and you won’t want to miss it. Known for their haunting lyrics and cinematic sound, Murder by Death promises an unforgettable night of music spanning their two-decade career. 7 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

PEACE BUILDER AWARDS

October 24

Celebrate community at the 22nd Annual Peace Builder Awards! This ceremony honors individuals and organizations that foster trust, healing, and connection in Whatcom County. Enjoy dinner and an evening of programming while supporting the Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center’s mission to promote peace and understanding. 5–8:30 p.m., Four Points by Sheraton Bellingham Hotel & Conference Center, 714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham, 360.676.0122x128, whatcomdrc.org

Preserving Heritage, Feeding Community

Skagit Valley Festival of Family Farms

WRITTEN BY RYLIE OBERGFELL | PHOTO BY JESSAMYN TUTTLE

EVERY OCTOBER, SKAGIT farms open their gates for the annual Skagit Valley Festival of Family Farms, a two-day celebration of agriculture and heritage.

This year’s event takes place Oct. 4–5 and features around 14 participating farms across Bow, Burlington, Concrete, Mount Vernon, Rockport, Sedro-Woolley, and La Conner, where visitors can wander orchards, meet animals, sample fresh produce, and hear stories passed down through generations.

“It started with a group of local farms that wanted to be able to share the generational history of their farms,” says Tricia Plymale, the festival’s executive director. “From grandparents to child[ren] to grandkids, and then the changes that may happen over time.”

The focus is on family-owned and -operated farms—a rare approach in today’s business-driven agricultural world.

“Keeping the focus on family farms continues to be a challenge,” Plymale says. “Profitability is difficult, but we really focus on supporting the farms that are still doing it, to help them be as successful as possible.”

Each farm offers something different—from beef cattle to produce to flowers. Visitors can take self-guided tours and hear farmers reflect on both tradition and change.

“You really get to see the difference in the land and ecology and hear what their great-grandparents might have raised, compared to what they’re raising now,” Plymale says. “Despite hardships like weather and financial strain, the rewards are clear. Every flower that blooms, every calf that’s born healthy—it shows your stewardship was good.”

For Plymale and the farmers, the festival is more than an event—it’s a living story of heritage, resilience, and community. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Skagit Valley, 360.421.4729, festivaloffamilyfarms.com 

ART’S ALIVE! 40TH ANNIVERSARY

October 24-27

Celebrate the 40th anniversary of Art’s Alive! in La Conner, with a juried fine art show, artist demonstrations, and exhibits at Maple Hall. Explore the 2025 Invitational Show, “Timeless,” and walk down memory lane through the “LEGENDS” gallery, a collection from past Featured and Invitational Artists. Plus, meet talented creators, explore diverse mediums, and enjoy live music, all in the heart of this charming waterfront town. Maple Hall, 104 Commercial St., La Conner, 772.766.3523, artsalivelaconner.com

OPPORTUNITY COUNCIL 60TH ANNIVERSARY GALA

October 25

Opportunity Council is celebrating a major milestone this year! Join your community in reflecting on six decades of service, advocacy, and impact. Enjoy an evening of food and drinks, entertainment, and stunning views of Bellingham Bay, all while supporting the programs that help local families and individuals grow and succeed. The Hotel Bellwether Ballroom, 1 Bellwether Way, Bellingham, oppco.org

PUPKIN 5K & 10K FUN RUN

October 26

Kick off your Halloween weekend with the PupKin 5K & 10K Fun Run at Skagit River Park. This festive race invites four-legged runners and walkers of all levels (plus their human friends) to dress in costume and enjoy a scenic course along the Skagit River. Prizes will be awarded for top finishers, both canine and human! 9 a.m., Skagit River Park East Playfields, 1100 S. Skagit St., Burlington, burlingtonwa.gov

BARKLEY BOO-LEVARD TRICK OR TREAT

October 31

Having trouble finding the perfect spot to take the kids trick-or-treating? This Halloween at Barkley Village, local businesses will be handing out candies to the young monsters! This safe and fun trick-or-treating celebration is a guaranteed way to ensure the kids have a great holiday without having to worry about dangerous surroundings or bogus candy. 4–6 p.m., Barkley Village Gazebo & Newmarket Street, 2924 Newmarket St., Bellingham, 808.674.7185, barkleyvillage.com

Las Cafeteras: Hasta La Muerte 11/7

Celebrating life and death in the spirit of the Indigenous/Mexican practice known as Day of the Dead.

Tinsley Ellis 11/15

“A legend of American blues music… Ellis delivers a sermon on the power and glory of the blues.” ~ Premier Guitar

Portland Cello Project: Sunshine Stars 11/22

Reimagining everything from Bach to Beyoncé... PCP pushes boundaries with their cello-driven performances.

Ruth Moody 1/30

International Guitar Night 1/31

Tony Jackson 2/6

Jungle Book 2/7

Gadan 2/13

Changui Majadero 3/6

Wind In The Willows 3/8

Northwest Ukulele Jam 3/15

Ladies of Laughter 3/21

Solas 3/27

Alash Tuvan Throat Singers 3/28

And so much more!

Photo

Aidan Hadley

Finding the Fun in Fashion

Sojourn

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY AIDAN HADLEY

The Shop

SANDWICHED BETWEEN AVENUE Bread and The Bagelry, Sojourn is the perfect lunch break shopping stop. Sojourn first opened in 1994, when Owner Peggy Platter saw a lack of boutiques in town and an empty lot on Railroad Avenue, and had a vision. Tired of the bigname stores that once occupied Bellingham’s downtown, Platter was determined to bring a local touch to the city’s shopping market.

“I love being part of the local business community,” Platter says. “Being a small business in a world of online shopping is so important to me.”

The Atmosphere

Walking into Sojourn feels like putting on headphones; the sounds of the chaotic outside world are blocked out and replaced with a calm ambiance. The rustic brick walls that line the shop are adorned with effortlessly stylish mannequins,

all dressed by the Sojourn team. To the left of the entrance, customers are met with a large jewelry case, showcasing all of the fine accessories Sojourn has to offer. In the back of the shop are the dressing rooms, along with a selection of tops, a mirror, and a perfectly Instagrammable plant wall.

The People

While Sojourn may be a small, local boutique, its customer base is anything but small. When curating pieces to sell in the store, Platter wants there to be something for everyone.

“Our youngest customer is 13 and our oldest customer is 95,” Platter says. “Sometimes, we have three generations shopping here at Sojourn.”

Despite appealing to a wide audience, however, Platter is still able to have relationships with her customers. She enjoys everything from styling customers who may want help finding the perfect piece to keeping tabs on items customers are waiting for.

What You’ll Find

Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or a classic staple for your closet, Sojourn has something for you. They sell primarily women’s clothing, shoppers will find dresses, tights, jeans, jewelry, and more! Aiming to satisfy even the pickiest customers, Platter travels far and wide to find the perfect pieces for Sojourn’s inventory. She focuses on breathable and natural fabrics, and tries to find pieces that can be dressed up or dressed down.

“When I’m at an event, I love to see someone in Sojourn clothes,” Platter says. “It’s nice to see we made someone happy.”

Favorites

Platter’s current favorite piece from Sojourn is a pair of wide-leg jeans that she was wearing herself on the day of my visit. She says that she gravitates towards clothes that are comfortable and memorable, which perfectly describes Sojourn’s inventory. Platter meticulously picks out the pieces that make it onto Sojourn’s racks, and she aims for everything she sells to be flattering, gracious, and fitted.

“We want fashion to be fun,” Platter says. “When you wear a good outfit, you feel good.” 1317 Railroad Ave., Bellingham, 360.671.5704, Instagram @sojournbham 

IUnique Bellingham Studio Puts Your Head First

Moondog Head Spa & Haunt

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY KRISTEN

BOEHM

F YOUR SCALP is haunted by half-hearted hair care, there’s a place in Bellingham where you can go to revive it. Moondog Head Spa & Haunt is the private studio of hairstylist Deirdre Miller. It may share space with the ghosts of the Herald Building, but that’s not why Miller called it a haunt.

“I’ve just always been drawn to the macabre,” she says. As a self-described lover of “fall, Halloween, and all things spooky,” Miller chose to use the word “haunt” as a synonym for the original definition of “salon,” a place to relax and connect. Fred the Skeleton greets you when you walk in, acting as an ambassador to the holistically balanced space. “It was really important to me to create a space where there’s a mix of lightness and darkness, because that’s just life and that’s who I am.”

Miller is originally from Skagit Valley, and has worked as a stylist in Bellingham for nearly 20 years. Moondog (which is also named for her beloved dog Luna and a Beatles lyric) is

her first independent studio, where she offers her high-end razor haircuts and a rare type of personal care: head spa.

For those not in the know, a head spa is a type of health and beauty treatment focused specifically on your scalp and, to a lesser extent, your hair. The two are linked, of course, but the scalp tends to be more neglected.

“Every head spa is going to be different,” says Miller. “My interpretation comes from the Japanese traditional head spa, where it really focuses on scalp health, circulation, relaxation, and just reminding people that your scalp is skin. Your face keeps going; it’s not just hair.”

A Moondog head spa experience begins with a conversation, where Miller asks about anything bothering you, which products you use, and your stress levels (that’s why her recommended new client appointment is called “Talking Heads”). Next, there’s the option to get a closer look at your scalp via a handheld micro-camera, a trichoscope.

This helps Miller identify any issues, like clogged follicles or flakes.

From there, she customizes the experience to suit each client. Once you’re “burritoed at the bowl,” (laid back on a comfortable salon chair at a washing bowl), she’ll use steam, aromatherapy, massage, shampoos, conditioners, and other magic to refresh and revitalize your scalp.

Miller uses a small curation of products from ethical, sustainable, and organic or clean-ingredient companies like Reverie, CULT+KING, Areté, and HuiHui Essentials. More than just the products, head spa is about sensation—scents, sounds, and soothing touch, from a waterfall of water to scalp massage to release tension (looking at you, chronic headache-havers out there). As a holistic hairstylist with a background in reiki and healing touch, Miller is also happy to add energy healing into your service.

At the end of your service, you can use the trichoscope to see the difference. Miller loves educating clients on at-home scalp care, and offers a shorter appointment for returning clients seeking scalp maintenance or seasonal detoxes. Her separately booked haircut appointments can also feature “scalp ritual” add-ons. She always wants her clients to leave feeling “relaxed, grounded, and educated.”

“The head spa focuses on tending to a forgotten part of your body, and that helps you connect to the rest,” Miller says.

“The head spa focuses on tending to a forgotten part of your body, and that helps you connect to the rest,” Miller says.

Moondog Head Spa & Haunt is private for that exact purpose. Wherever your head’s at, Miller encourages you to “show up as you are, flaky scalp and all.” 1155 N. State St., Ste. 304, Bellingham, moondoghaunt.com 

The Boudousquie Group at Compass Real Estate

Helping clients buy, sell, and invest in Real Estate Serving Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan Islands

Kerri 360.739.5188

kerri.boudousquie@compass.com

Matthew 504.215.3003

matthew.boudousquie@compass.com

Private Chef & Catering Services Award-winning Chef Matthew Boudousquie

Resilience Natural Medicine is a woman-owned naturopathic practice in Bellingham, led by Dr. Camille Koontz, a dedicated naturopathic doctor and registered nurse. We go beyond symptom management, addressing the root causes of health concerns to help you achieve lasting wellness.

Through naturopathic medicine and wellness coaching, we empower you with natural therapies and expert guidance to support your body’s innate healing. Our holistic, personalized approach prioritizes your unique needs—helping you build resilience for a vibrant, fulfilling life.

A Gentle Beam of Relief: How Radiation Therapy Is Easing Joint Pain Without Surgery

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF PEACEHEALTH

FOR MANY PEOPLE living with chronic joint pain, the idea of radiation therapy might sound intimidating— something reserved for cancer treatment. But a growing number of patients are discovering that low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT) is offering a surprising new path to relief, especially for conditions like osteoarthritis, plantar fasciitis, and even stubborn scar tissue called keloids.

“We’re seeing really promising results,” said Victor Gonzalez, MD, a radiation oncologist at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham “Patients with moderate to severe osteoarthritis are experiencing meaningful pain relief, with minimal side effects.” Dr. Gonzalez recently presented a continuing education session on LDRT to internal medicine and family medicine physicians and clinicians at PeaceHealth.

Dr. Archana Chivukula, a non-surgical musculoskeletal physician with PeaceHealth collaborated with Dr. Gonzalez to ensure patients have access to LDRT. “We’re seeing encouraging outcomes,” she said, “and patients are grateful for an option that doesn’t involve surgery or long-term medication use.”

Unlike high-dose radiation used in cancer care, LDRT uses a much gentler dose—typically less than 1 unit per session. The goal isn’t to destroy tissue, but to calm inflammation. “It’s like flipping a switch in the immune system,” Dr. Gonzalez said. “We’re creating an anti-inflammatory environment that helps the body heal.”

One of the most compelling aspects of LDRT is its potential to delay surgery. “We’ve treated patients who weren’t quite ready for a knee replacement or had other health concerns that make surgery risky,” Dr. Gonzalez noted. “While it may not be a permanent fix for everyone, it can buy time and improve quality of life.”

Neal Wychock, clinical manager of radiation oncology at PeaceHealth St. Joseph and United General Cancer Centers, highlighted that insurance will cover LDRT, “Although preauthorization is required, most insurers will cover LDRT, provided patients have undergone an initial course of therapy first, such as physical therapy, cortisone injections, or prolonged use of NSAIDs” ,” he said. “But so far, we haven’t seen many denials—especially when patients are referred by orthopedics after receiving a proper workup.”

The treatment itself is quick—just 10 minutes per session—and most patients experience little to no side effects. “The most common thing we see is maybe some discomfort from having to sit on the treatment table,” Dr. Gonzalez said. “The risk of long-term harm, like secondary cancer, is extremely low—comparable to getting a couple of CT scans.”

Still, not everyone is a candidate. “The primary limitation is age. It’s not recommended in patients under 50,” Dr. Gonzalez cautioned. “Additionally, if you’ve got bone-on-bone arthritis, or rheumatoid arthritis, it’s not as effective or durable”

Low-dose radiation therapy is gaining traction in the United States, though it has been a standard treatment in Europe, particularly Germany, for decades. Many healthcare institutions are already offering LDRT as a non-surgical option for patients who have exhausted first-line therapies such as NSAIDs, physical therapy, or cortisone injections.

LDRT is available at the PeaceHealth St. Joseph Cancer Center and PeaceHealth United General Medical Center in Sedro-Woolley. For patients seeking non-surgical options for their joint or muscular pain, LDRT may be the gentle beam of hope they’ve been waiting for. 

Victor J. Gonzalez MD

Archana Chivukula MD

SHOP LOCAL

1. Co-op Bakery Carrot Kiss Cake | $5.99 per slice

Skagit Valley Food Co-op 202 S 1st Street, Mount Vernon 360.336.9777, skagitfoodcoop.com

2. *NEW* Menopause Program Peak Hydration IV Therapy & Wellness Lounge 1216 Bay St., Bellingham 360.526.2125, peakhydrationlounge.com

3. Professional and Compassionate Dog Grooming Services

City Dogs Grooming 1225 Roeder Avenue #106, Bellingham citydogsgrooming.com, 360.756.9515

4. Entire Store 15% Off

Dank of America - Now 2 locations 2530 Peace Portal, Blaine 5309 Guide Meridian, Bellingham

5. Enhance Your Natural Beauty with Expert Services! Aloha Bobbie Studio 308 Front St, Lynden 360.244.3222, creativedesignlynden.com

6. By Appointment Only

Midtown Barber Book Online: Midtownbarber.booksy.com 360.595.7556, Inside Fit EvoBellingham 1504 Iowa St, Bellingham

Gotta Get Gothic Garments!

WRITTEN BY CHLOE NELSON

G RAY SKIES, CONSTANT downpours, and spooky season all mean one thing: it’s time to let your inner goth out! There’s nothing quite like matching your outfit to the dark weather outside and fully getting into the spirit of the season. We’ve provided you with some darker outfit staples, from bigname brands to local shops!

Dr. Martens 2976 Platform

Chelsea Boot

Journeys, $169

1 Bellis Fair Pkwy., Ste. 610, Bellingham

360.734.8141, journeys.com

Blu Pepper Bell Sleeve

Crochet Cardigan in Black Fringe Boutique, $42 201 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.312.4067, wearfringe.com

Women’s Lechery Floral Mesh Tights

Target, $24

30 Bellis Fair Pkwy., Bellingham 360.734.0220, target.com

Women’s Levi’s Faux-Leather Jacket with Laydown Collar

Kohl’s, $120

40 Bellis Fair Pkwy, Bellingham 360.527.0701, kohls.com

5 Free People Make You Mine 1/2 Slip

Deer Hazel, $88 165 Spring St., Friday Harbor 360.622.0430, deerhazel.com

READERS' CHOICE AND EDITOR'S TOP PICKS

31 Days of Voting | 130 Categories | 390 Winners

78,318 Submissions

1,212,472 Individual Votes A 16-Year Tradition

Since 2019, Cordata Gallery (formerly Gallery Syre) has been surprising and delighting art lovers in Bellingham and beyond with unique contemporary art and thoughtfully curated shows. Whether you’re a collector or simply an appreciator, rotating exhibitions like “Modern Meets Primitive” are sure to engage more than just your eyes. SILVER: WHATCOM ART MARKET

CHUCKANUT BAY GALLERY & SCULPTURE GARDEN

For 64 years now, locals and visitors have been flocking to the Anacortes Arts Festival for a weekend of arts, entertainment,

and fun. While the art and drinks aren’t free, attendance and entertainment (and people-watching) are, so it’s the perfect way to enjoy a summer day in one of the prettiest cities in Skagit County.

Photo courtesy of Cordata Gallery

Photo courtesy of Anacortes Arts Festival

SILVER: SUMMIT ADVENTURE PARK

19345 Kelleher Rd., Burlington

avalonlinks.com

With three pristine 9-hole courses set against the stunning backdrop of the Cascade Mountains on one side and the Olympics on the other, Avalon Golf Links is a reader favorite for a reason. It’s clear why members love to spend a gorgeous Washington day at the links.

SILVER: NORTH BELLINGHAM GOLF COURSE

BRONZE: SHUKSAN GOLF CLUB

MCINTYRE HALL BRONZE: LINCOLN THEATRE

Editor's Pick

Best BONW Beat Dropper

For every Best of the Northwest, there’s a Best of the Northwest celebration with hot tracks spun by DJ Clint Westwood! This Bellingham local is a vocalist, producer, mixing engineer, and amazing DJ with Speaking Feather, a music and multimedia production company based out of Lummi Nation. Thanks for the memories, DJ Clint, and here’s to many more!

Want to experience another world without having to leave your seat? Plan to attend a concert by the Bellingham Symphony Orchestra or the Skagit Symphony for peace of mind through music!

Looking to get your groove on? Dancing Dana Carr LLC runs the Sunset Silent Disco on Saturdays throughout spring and summer at Zuanich Point Park! Let the sunset be your spotlight as you move freely under golden skies with wireless headphones, great beats, and an inclusive crowd.

Photo by Anne Godenham

READERS' CHOICE

Photo by Anne Godenham

Museum

Children's Museum of Skagit County

432 Fashion Way, Burlington, 360.757.8888 skagitchildrensmuseum.net

No matter the age, there’s something for every kid at the Children’s Museum of Skagit County! You’d never know from looking at it that the unassuming storefront in Burlington’s quiet outlet mall houses everything from a sand box and climbing gym to imaginative play rooms, train set, art room, and so much more.

SILVER: WHATCOM MUSEUM

BRONZE: SPARK MUSEUM OF ELECTRICAL INVENTION

LOCAL BAND / PERFORMER

Robert Sarazin Blake

Bellingham, 360.306.0477 robertsarazinblake.com

LOCAL ARTIST

Jason LaClair

Instagram @jason.laclair.946

SILVER: RON PATTERN BRONZE: CHRIS MOENCH

Editor's Pick

SILVER: HOT DAMN SCANDAL BRONZE: BABY CAKES

Most Inventive Comedy Show

From goats to comedians, drag queens to musicians, Repeating Gossip really leans into the variety part of the term “variety show.” The weekly show, written and produced by students at Western Washington University , has built a reputation for inclusivity, inventiveness, and range—appropriately, given its name, it’s garnered quite the audience through word of mouth.

Modern Meets Primitive

PURE JOY

An exhibition of the works of Joy Olney

Cordata Gallery invites you to Modern Meets Primitive, an exhibition featuring the works by local artists Richard Nash, Brian O’Neill, and David Syre

Opening reception: October 11, 2-4 PM

Open to public: October 11 - December 13, 2025 Tues-Sat, 11-4 and by appointment

Open to the public: July 12 - August 30, 2025

Tuesday-Saturday, 11-4pm and by appointment

465 W. Stuart Rd. Bellingham WA 98226 (360) 746-8745

info@cordatagallery.com www.cordatagallery.com @cordatagallery Brian O’Neill

info@cordatagallery.com www.cordatagallery.com @cordatagallery

Cordata Gallery is located in the Cordata neighborhood with extensive parking.

BUSINESS / SERVICES

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

Bellingham Automotive is a trusted one-stop auto shop for all your car needs! They pride themselves on offering full service repair and maintenance for both foreign and domestic vehicles The addition of special touches like a 3-year or 36,000-mile warranty on parts and labor are part of what makes them your favorite auto repair shop.

LUCKY'S

FLAT BLACK

Tint Lady

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

Whether you’re looking to fall back in love with your old car or protect your new investment, eight-time Best of the Northwest winner Tint Lady is the place to go. They’re “Bellingham’s premiere automotive enhancement destination! They’ll ”hook you up with everything from interior and exterior detailing to window tints to a next-level ceramic coating.

SILVER: PRECISION MOBILE AUTO DETAILING

BRONZE: FINAL TOUCH AUTO SPA

Photo courtesy of Bellingham Automotive

Photo by Isabel Hyde

Manna Insurance Group

700 Front St., Lynden, 360.922.0149, mannainsurancegroup.com

Manna Insurance Group is a Lynden-based, community-focused company that puts you first! They can walk you through finding the best policies for home, auto, business, and more, and are proud to offer compassionate customer care far beyond just the basics.

SILVER: TIM SLESK, STATE FARM

BRONZE: TERRY STACH, STATE FARM

Joyco Digital

103 E. Holly St., Ste. 505, Bellingham 360.525.3046, joycodigital.com

Joyco Digital has been chosen by local businesses like Bow Sanctuary, Griffith Furniture & Mattresses, and Bellair Tours & Adventures for their cuttingedge, personalized methods. They can help you with social media management, content creation, web design & SEO, and even copywriting to drive your success while taking a huge amount of work off your plate. SILVER: SWELL MEDIA

FIZZPOP MEDIA

Photo by Isabel Hyde

READERS' CHOICE

PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center

2901 Squalicum Pkwy., Bellingham, 360.734.5400, peacehealth.org

Since 1891, PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center has been caring for patients in Bellingham and beyond. Their Level II Trauma Center handles emergencies and critical care, while less acute medical needs are served by more than 750 physicians and clinicians across a huge range of specialties.

5100 Pacific Hwy., Ferndale & 560 Burlington Blvd. Burlington, 360.812.2516, barronheating.com

SILVER: WESTERN SOLAR BRONZE: ECOTECH SOLAR

1313 E. Maple St., Ste. 201, Bellingham 360.685.4200, thegatewaycentre.com

SILVER: SQUALICUM BOATHOUSE BRONZE: BELLINGHAM MAKERSPACE

SILVER: WESTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY BRONZE: LUMMI NATION

Bellingham, 360.594.5990, cascadehomecleaning.com

SPREE CLEANING BRONZE: BOPPITY BOO CLEANING SERVICE

SILVER: NORTHWEST AUTOHUB BRONZE: DEWEY GRIFFIN

Photo courtesy of PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center

READERS' CHOICE

Ziad. I. Youssef, Bellingham Injury Law PLLC

360.255.5046, crashlaw.net

SILVER: LIMITLESS LAW PLLC

BRONZE: COPPINGER LAW P.S.

Gary's Plumbing & Heating

4760 Pacific Hwy., Bellingham 360.776.6923, garys-plumbing.com

SILVER: MARV'S PLUMBING

BRONZE: SULLIVAN PLUMBING

TITLE COMPANY

Whatcom Land Title Company

Multiple locations, 360.676.8484, whatcomtitle.com

SILVER: GUARDIAN NORTHWEST TITLE & ESCROW COMPANY

BRONZE: CHICAGO TITLE OF WASHINGTON

Brandon Nelson, Compass Real Estate

1318 12th St., Bellingham, 360.319.0696, brandonnelson.com

SILVER: JULIAN FRIEDMAN, JULIAN & COMPANY

BRONZE: ALANA MEY, COMPASS REAL ESTATE

2172 Division St., Bellingham, 360.733.2080 whatcomhumane.org

SILVER: LYDIA PLACE

BRONZE: SUSTAINABLE CONNECTIONS

Hope Healing Peace

Redlight Kitchen & Bar

109 Grand Ave., Ste. 101, Bellingham 360.393.4483, redlightkitchenandbar.com

This downtown Bellingham bar and restaurant has been a popular haunt for years, and with good reason! Whether you’re looking for an exceptional cocktail, delicious food (we especially love their wontons), or just a cozy, friendly atmosphere, Redlight has what you need.

SILVER: BIN 13 WINE BAR

BRONZE: KEENAN'S AT THE PIER

Photo by Maddy Takata

Photo by Teo Crider

Galloway's Cocktail Bar

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

SILVER: MATTHEW'S HONEST COCKTAILS

BRONZE: AMENDMENT 21

Estelle

1147 11th St., Bellingham, 360.656.5045 bistroestelle.com

SILVER: NELL THORN

BRONZE: LOMBARDI'S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & WINE BAR

El Tapatio

Multiple locations, tapationw.com

SILVER: THE GALLEY BRONZE: LUMPIA LUV

James Zamory jameszamory.art

Fans of Bellingham restaurants Carnal and Accomplice will be familiar with Co-Founder James Zamory’s talent in the kitchen, but his culinary expertise will soon be available nationwide through specialty jerky and meat sticks. Plus, he uses the byproducts of his cooking to produce incredible works of visual art—talk about using the whole animal!

SILVER: DOUG ELLIOTT BRONZE: MATTHEW BOUDOUSQUIE

Bellingham, 360.223.4900, cravecatering.net

SILVER: CALYPSO KITCHEN

BRONZE: THE SKAGIT TABLE

Aslan Brewing Company

Multiple locations, aslanbrewing.com

SILVER: WANDER BREWING

BRONZE: KULSHAN BREWING COMPANY Crave Catering

Any barbecue fan knows there’s a lot of range in what makes a BBQ joint good— starting with the style. Big Stick Barbecue’s meats are cooked low and slow, Texas style, with no shortcuts and a focus on fresh ingredients. The results speak for themselves!

SILVER: HOMESCHOOL BBQ

BRONZE: DOUBLE BARREL BBQ

Photo courtesy of James Zamory

READERS' CHOICE

Community Food Co-op

1220 N. Forest St. & 315 Westerly Rd., Bellingham communityfood.coop

SILVER: BELLINGHAM FARMERS MARKET

BRONZE: THE GREEN BARN

Coffee / Tea Shop

COF&

1209 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.306.8101, colcofy.com

Pronounced ‘coffee,’ a play on the Spanish word for “and,” y, COF& cafe brings Colombian warmth and flair to downtown Bellingham. Not only do they make excellent coffee—from specialty Colombian beans—but their dedication to sustainability matches their commitment to quality.

SILVER: LOCUS

BRONZE: CAFE BLUE

Skagit's Own Fish Market

18042 WA-20, Burlington 360.707.2722, skagitfish.com

SILVER: BELLINGHAM DOCKSIDE MARKET

BRONZE: BARLEAN'S FISHERY

Namaste Royal Taste of India

234 D St., Blaine, 360.526.5607 & 1213 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham, 360.746.7954, namasteblaine.com

Namaste the Royal Taste of India opened almost two years ago in Blaine to high demand and, thanks to its success, opened a second location in Bellingham early this year. With classics like butter chicken and korma, plus tons of vegetarian options, you’re sure to enjoy this taste of India!

SILVER: CAFE AKROTERI

BRONZE: ASIAN1

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Most Mouthwatering Menu for Variety Lovers

Are you the type of person who wants it all from a menu? B-Town Kitchen and Raw Bar can satisfy your cravings with everything from hot wings to calamari, oysters to bison sliders to po boys, steak to wild mushroom risotto, and a range of classic and original cocktails to boot.

Heat, Eat, Repeat

Experience locally-sourced meals made in Mount Vernon from Gold winner The Skagit Table—their delicious, professionally-made food is ready to enjoy in-person or take home. Bellingham-based or just want something more regimented? Sign up with Plantage for weekly meal prep pickups!

Black Sheep in downtown Bellingham serves up crave-worthy, bite-sized eats with bold flavor. With taco options from pork belly to mushroom and kale, each handheld delight is packed with personality. Bite-Sized Bliss

Il Granaio Authentic Italian Restaurant

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

Tucked away on the edge of downtown Mount Vernon in an old grain tower is a restaurant that serves up hearty Italian fare with an elevated-casual atmosphere. Il Granaio has long been a favorite destination for handmade pasta, authentic flavors, and warm, family-style service.

SILVER: STORIA CUCINA

BRONZE: LEADER BLOCK TRATTORIA & BAR

Roe’s laid-back approach to fine dining has taken Bellingham by storm since they opened in November of last year. Opened and operated by a power couple from Portland (Izzi and Dan Rehbein, the manager and chef, respectively), Roe invites you to come as you are to experience seasonal, local seafood served up in creative ways.

SILVER: SOHO BELLINGHAM ASIAN KITCHEN & BAR

BRONZE: HEY DUMPLIN

Photo by Teo Crider

Photo by Dakota McKay

COA Mexican Eatery & Tequileria

1810 Riverside Dr., Mount Vernon

360.840.1938, coaeatery.com

1065 E. Sunset Dr., Bellingham

360.526.2108, coaeaterybellingham.com

623 Morris St., La Conner

360.466.0267 coalaconner.com, coaeatery.com

SILVER: NEW MEXICO TAMALE COMPANY BRONZE: JALAPEÑOS

Nell Thorn

116 1st St., La Conner

360.466.4261, nellthorn.com

SILVER: CHUCKANUT MANOR SEAFOOD & GRILL BRONZE: THE OYSTER BAR

Blue Fin Sushi

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

SILVER: ZEN SUSHI & BAR BRONZE: HOKKAI RAMEN & SUSHI

The Steak House at Silver Reef

4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale, 360.384.7070 silverreefcasino.com/dine/the-steak-house

SILVER: 13MOONS RESTAURANT BRONZE: CARNAL

Bertelsen Winery

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

SILVER: EAGLE HAVEN WINERY BRONZE: DYNASTY CELLARS

Skagit Valley Food Co-op

202 South First St., Mount Vernon 360.336.9777, skagitfoodcoop.com

From fresh local produce and thoughtfullysourced meat and dairy to delicious prepared foods for every diet and lifestyle, the Skagit Valley Food Co-op in Mount Vernon’s got what you need for your weekly shop or your next gathering. And don’t miss the Mercantile section upstairs for fun gifts and housewares!

SILVER: HAGGEN BRONZE: WHOLE FOODS MARKET

Photo by Anne Godenham

READERS' CHOICE

Wines

1405 Commercial Ave., Anacortes, 360.293.6500 compasswines.com

For true wine aficionados looking for a shop whose inventory spans recent releases and past vintages, Compass Wines is the go-to. Founded by a former restaurant manager and a Seattle businessman, they’ve been serving Anacortes and the greater North Sound with their combined expertise for more than 20 years.

Photo by Anne Godenham

FASHION & RETAIL

Penny Lane Antique Mall

427 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.671.3301

Instagram @penny_lane_antique_mall

With more than 5000 square feet of inventory from around 40 different vendors, there’s so much to explore at Penny Lane Antique Mall! One could easily spend an entire day there, perusing everything from vintage housewares and clothing to funky posters and bumper stickers—the hardest part is choosing what gets left behind.

SILVER: PENNY PINCHERS

BRONZE: ALADDIN'S ANTIQUES AND RECORDS

Village Books and Paper Dreams

1200 11th St., Bellingham

360.671.2626 & 430 Front St., Lynden 360.526.2133, villagebooks.com

SILVER: PELICAN BAY BOOKS & COFFEEHOUSE

BRONZE: EASTON'S BOOKS

Cheeks Jeans

420 Front St., Lynden, 360.778.1849 cheeksjeans.com

SILVER: SOJOURN BRONZE: THREE FRENCH HENS

Samuel's Furniture

1904 Main St., Ferndale 360.384.3388, samuelsfurniture.com

SILVER: GRIFFITH FURNITURE & MATTRESSES

BRONZE: WILSON'S FURNITURE

Editor's Pick

Best Places to Craft & Conquer

We have an amazing array of arts and crafts businesses, and all of them give back to the community by providing us with the means and studio space to create. From Bellingham’s friendly neighborhood shop, Apple Yarns, to Mount Vernon’s newly remodeled imagination destination, Tri-Dee Arts, we love you guys!

Glamorous Dress Shopping at Every Size

Whether you’re looking for a wedding dress, a prom dress, or a fun and flirty cocktail dress, Astrea Bridal in Mount Vernon has hundreds of options in a huge range of sizes.

Fairhaven is full of stylish boutiques that will keep you in fashion. Shout out to the shopkeeps at eleventh st GOODS for keeping us draped in the latest! “Small Shop, Major Style”

Photo by Tony Mueantonthian

READERS' CHOICE

ADORED

913 Harris Ave., Bellingham shopadoredboutique.com

With its tall windows giving passersby a look into the airy interior and stylish displays, Adored Boutique is one of the most inviting shops in Fairhaven. Step through the doors and you’ll find that the reality exceeds expectation: the beautiful clothing, jewelry, and gifts are outmatched only by the relaxing environment and friendly staff.

SILVER: BETTY BE GOOD BRONZE: FRINGE BOUTIQUE

Yeager's Sporting Goods

3101 Northwest Ave., Bellingham 360.733.1080, yeagerssportinggoods.com

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

SILVER: STOWES SHOES & CLOTHING BRONZE: MACY'S

SILVER: DAVE'S SPORTS SHOP BRONZE: BACKCOUNTRY ESSENTIALS

Neeter House of Luxury

40 Bellwether Way, Ste. 101, Bellingham 360.778.1613, neeterhouseofluxury.com

SILVER: BORTHWICK JEWELRY BRONZE: WARREN JEWELERS

Bellingham, 360.920.3064 paintedpeace.com

SILVER: REIMAGINED BRONZE: MARIE'S BEES

Whether you're new to running (or another foot-focused activity) or know exactly what you need, the team at Fairhaven Runners & Walkers has the specialist knowledge and helpful attitude you need. As they put it, they're “running and active lifestyle advisers, not salespeople.”

Photo courtesy of Melissa Hatcher

Business Categories

390 Winners

78,318 Submissions

1,212,472 Individual Votes Celebrating 16

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Spencer Audiology Clinic

2114 James St., Bellingham, 360.483.1232 spenceraudiology.com

Spencer Audiology Clinic’s experts will perform a range of hearing tests to help you figure out what’s going on with your hearing and work with you to decide how best to address it, from communication adjustments to hearing aids. Whatever your needs and lifestyle, they’ll guide you to the solution that fits!

SILVER: MIRACLE-EAR HEARING AID CENTER BRONZE: RAINIER HEARING

PIECE OF MIND CANNABIS BRONZE: CASCADE HERB COMPANY

Photo by Cocoa Laney

V's Barbershop

414 W. Bakerview Rd., Ste. 107, Bellingham 360.656.6911, vbarbershop.com

SILVER: WALLY'S BARBER SHOP BRONZE: OLD 99 BARBERSHOP

FLUX Power Yoga

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

Teachers at FLUX have two main focuses: their students’ bodies—improving their flexibility, strength, and cardiac performance—and their students’ minds. Every yoga class in their infrared-heated, 95-degree studio promises not only a physical challenge but also “inspiration and philosophy” and, of course, fun!

SILVER: BARRE3 BRONZE: FLOW MOTION

Editor's Pick

Toastiest Tans

Bellingham Acupuncture and Wellness

2801 Meridian St., Ste. 102, Bellingham 360.756.5866, changschinesewellness.com

SILVER: DR. SHANNON FREEMAN, A BETTER WAY ACUPUNCTURE AND ENERGETIC MEDICAL QIGONG BRONZE: AVALON ACUPUNCTURE ACUPUNCTURIST

For a sun-kissed look without the sun, Bronzed Hide and Beauty in Ferndale offers food-based, custom airbrush tans that leave your skin glowing and guilt-free. Craving the real rays? Soak up natural vitamin D at Clayton Beach—just a short hike south of Bellingham, with tide pools and scenic views. However you bronze, a summer glow is just around the corner!

Most Likely to Launch the Next Beauty Icon

Whether it’s through their services at Zorganics Beauty Salon and Spa, their classes at Zorganics Institute of Beauty and Wellness, or their Zorganics Cosmetics product line, we think this multi-faceted Bellingham business is most likely to launch the next beauty icon!

READERS' CHOICE

4255 Meridian St., Ste. 200, Bellingham 360.217.2007 & 2410 James St., Bellingham 360.734.5166, traderjoes.com

So many of us love this national chain for their inexpensive imports and funky-flavored snacks, but they're also a great resource for shoppers with dietary restrictions and specific health requirements. From gluten-free bread to dairy-free yogurt, they've got a bunch of delicious alternatives for most nutritional needs—now in two Bellingham locations!

Photo by Ben Stainbrook

PURE Skin Wellness Spa

419 S. 2nd St., Mount Vernon, 360.336.6161 pureskinwellnessspa.com

Owner Melissa Harris believes that “skincare is healthcare,” so naturally her spa focuses on more than skin-deep services. From facials that encourage a balanced nervous system to medspa therapies that help clients feel “radiant from the inside out,” PURE is dedicated to holistic wellness, rest, and intentional self-care.

SILVER: KUCUMBER SKIN LOUNGE

BRONZE: ZAZEN SALON SPA

Lisa A. Kaepernick, PeaceHealth

2901 Squalicum Pkwy., Bellingham 360.788.6360, peacehealth.org

SILVER: CHINN GYN

BRONZE: DR. CARLA RUSSO, THE PINK DAHLIA

Bellingham Integrative Medicine

1707 F St., Bellingham, 360.389.7070 bellinghamintegrativemedicine.com

SILVER: DR. EMILY SHARPE, NATURAL HEALTH CLINIC BRONZE: DR. TASMIN WILHELM, ND

PHYSICAL THERAPIST

Whatcom Physical Therapy

Multiple locations, whatcompt.com

SILVER: CAPSTONE PHYSICAL THERAPY BRONZE: PERFORMANCE PHYSICAL THERAPY

RejuvenationMD

2219 Rimland Dr., Ste. 105, Bellingham 360.526.6107, rejuvenationmdmedspa.com

SILVER: M.D. MEDSPA

BRONZE: LIFE AESTHETIC CENTER

Photo

READERS' CHOICE

Salon Bellissima

1215 Old Fairhaven Pkwy., Ste. B, Bellingham 360.715.1052, salonbellissimabellingham.com

For a luxurious—but still comfortable and eco-friendly—salon experience, you’ll want to book in with the lovely stylists at Salon Bellissima. Their expertise extends beyond bespoke cut and color appointments to include high-end highlighting techniques like balayage, texture services like Brazilian blowouts, and even styling and waxing services.

SILVER: HONEY SALON & THE HIVE

BRONZE: LUCY BE HAIR

Yeh Orthodontics

Multiple locations, yehorthodontics.com

SILVER: SCHMIDT ORTHODONTICS

BRONZE: SHOFF ORTHODONTICS ORTHODONTIST

Covering six acres just outside of Ferndale is Laurel Lavender Farm . A u-pick farm established by Bruce and Karen Duim in 2017, it's more than just lavender. Stop by for a showcase of many different wildlife, both plant and animal, and, of course, the wonderful smell of fresh lavender! Most Calming Outdoor Getaway

If you’re looking for cutting-edge beauty services that help you express yourself, Cherry Bomb Esthetics and Tattoo is the place to go for those little touches that add a lot. They offer lash, brow, and wax services, plus nails, facials, and even tattoos, all in a creative, warm, and friendly environment in downtown Bellingham. Most Thoroughly Modern Beauty Collective

Photo courtesy of Salon Bellissima

Photo courtesy of The Willows

HOME & GARDEN

/ NURSERY

Kent's Garden & Nursery

5428 Northwest Dr., Bellingham, 360.384.4433 kentsgardenandnursery.com

SILVER: CHRISTIANSON'S NURSERY & GREENHOUSE

BRONZE: MY GARDEN NURSERY

Sasquatch Pest Control

5051 Guide Meridian Rd., Bellingham 360.410.2199, sasquatchpestcontrol.com

Want your pests to be as rare and hard-to-find as our most elusive local celebrity? Bellingham-based Sasquatch Pest Control serves Whatcom and Skagit counties, and prides themselves on their reliability, free consultation inspections, and their service guarantee. For friendly, honest pest control, you voted them the best around!

SILVER: BIO BUG PEST MANAGEMENT BRONZE: NORTHWEST PEST MANAGEMENT

Morris Originals morrisoriginals.com

Morris Originals is a Ferndale-based design firm led by Principal Corry Morris that seamlessly blends logistics with creativity. Even with their expansive portfolio reaching as far as Montana and Texas, they view every project, large or small, as “an exciting opportunity to develop a one-of-a-kind result.”

SILVER: HAVEN DESIGN WORKSHOP

BRONZE: CONCEPT DESIGN, LLC

Lynden, 360.398.9461, whatcomlandscapes.com

SILVER: MSNW GROUP, LLC

BRONZE: PUGET CONSTRUCTION & LANDSCAPE

Photo by C9 Photography

Photo courtesy of Sasquatch Pest Control

Greenhouse

1235 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.676.1161 greenhousehome.com

If you’re local, you know and love Greenhouse! They’ve been providing home goods and furniture to the local area for decades.This year, they’re moving from the iconic corner spot on Cornwall Avenue to a new home on State Street, into a historic building with unique charm. We look forward to exploring the new space!

SILVER: IDEAL

BRONZE: CHUCKANUT BAY GALLERY & SCULPTURE GARDEN

Jennifer Ryan Design

2100 G St., Bellingham, 360.319.7092 jenniferryandesign.com

SILVER: SVC INTERIORS & DESIGN, INC.

BRONZE: HOMEPORT INTERIORS

Editor's Pick

Loveliest Lighting

Highline Construction

5977 Guide Meridian Rd., Bellingham 360.746.5455, highlinewa.com

SILVER: CHUCKANUT BUILDERS

BRONZE: A1DESIGNBUILD

Augusta Lawn Care Services

5309 Guide Meridian Rd., Ste. 3, Bellingham 360.350.5500 & 1777 S. Burlington Blvd., Ste. 431, Burlington, 360.488.4991 augustalawncareservices.com

SILVER: WHATCOM LAWNS

BRONZE: NORTH COUNTY LANDSCAPE CO.

Looking for your next favorite lamp? Fishtrap Creek Interiors and Lighting in Lynden has all sorts of classic options, and Chuckanut Lighting in Burlington (part of the Crescent Lighting family) has a modern selection for any home project!

the Homefires Burning

Do you wanna bring the outdoors indoors? Make your yard just as comfortable as your living room with patio furniture or even a hot tub from Rich’s Clearance Outlet! Add an outdoor fireplace from Craft Stove and you’ll never want to go back inside!

Have a green thumb but hate mess? On the lookout for fabulous home decor? The Garden Room in Fairhaven is here to satisfy all your design needs without getting your hands dirty. With a wide array of plants, soaps, decor, and more, The Garden Room makes outfitting your home a breeze! Best Place to “Dig in” to Design

Photo by Kelly Pearce

READERS' CHOICE

Raedwood

803 Everson Rd., Everson 360.392.8034, raedwood.com

Whatcom County family business Raedwood has been growing quickly over the past decade, and purchased industrial space in Everson last year. Now, they’re area leaders in “comprehensive cabinet design-engineering and manufacturing,” showcased by their online portfolio of modern flush cabinetry.

SILVER: OPTIONS CABINETRY BRONZE: SUN KITCHEN & BATH

BEST Glass Shop

The Glass Guru

7344 WA-539, Lynden, 360.594.5028 theglassguru.com

If you need windows, mirrors, or glass doors, The Glass Guru is always ready to help! Their team knows why Bellingham homeowners choose them, according to their website: for “trusted results with a local touch.”

SILVER: LYNDALE GLASS BRONZE: LOUIS AUTO & RESIDENTIAL GLASS

Devine Countertops

4107 Strider Loop Rd., Bellingham & 360 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington 360.656.5901, devinecountertops.com

SILVER: AQUI ESTA TILE & STONE BRONZE: CREATIVE SURFACES LLC

Hinotes Ct., Ste. A2, Lynden, 360.656.6579 windowshadesandshutters.com

SILVER: SHADE CONCEPTS BRONZE: WALLS & WINDOWS

4071 Hannegan Rd., Ste. K, Bellingham 360.382.2780, homeportinteriors.com SILVER: MOUNT VERNON CARPET

Photo by Isabel Hyde

Photo courtesy of Raedwood

Audio / Video Store

Reference Media

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

If you’re serious about your media equipment, there is no better team to turn to than the dedicated folks at Reference Media. Beyond creating your dream home theatre, they can also hook you up with temperature, lighting, and shading controls for crafting the perfect atmosphere in home or commercial spaces.

SILVER: AUDIO VIDEO EXCELLENCE

BRONZE: AUDIO VIDEO RESOURCE INC.

HARDWARE / LUMBER STORE

Hardware Sales

2034 James St., Bellingham, 360.734.6140 & 2012 King St. Bellingham, 360.734.6141, hardwaresalesrentals.com

SILVER: BELLINGHAM MILLWORK SUPPLY CO.

BRONZE: BUILDERS ALLIANCE

BEST

ROOFING COMPANY

Topside Roofing & Siding

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

SILVER: MT BAKER ROOFING

BRONZE: S&S ROOFING, LLC

Editor's Pick

Infatuated with ceramics? So are we! We never miss a chance to pop into Good Earth Pottery in Fairhaven to see and shop unique clay pieces from dozens of curated regional artists. And when you’re raring to get your own hands into some wet clay, Burnish Clay Studio is a great choice for classes and studio memberships Clay All Day!

Least Boring Boards

If you like to entertain, or you just want to make everyday cooking a little more beautiful, swap out your old plastic cutting board for one of Geometric Forest’s gorgeous handmade wooden boards! Whatcom local Andy Thorp embraces unusual patterns and combinations, and his meticulous craftsmanship makes each board a unique stunner.

Photo by Kaylin Stiefer

2901 Connelly Ave., Ste. B101, Bellingham 360.752.6336, intergenchildcare.com

SILVER: KIDS N US BRONZE: THE FRANKLIN ACADEMY

MACH1 Adventure Park

4190 Cordata Pkwy., Bellingham

360.733.3350, mach1bellingham.com

Previously a “speedway and arcade,” MACH1 reopened this July as a full indoor adventure park, with tons of new brightly-colored and bouncy attractions that will keep kids running, jumping, and laughing until they drop. Meanwhile, parents can take a load off and relax in rest areas with open sightlines.

SILVER: PLAYDATE BELLINGHAM BRONZE: STATION 49

KIDS

910 Harris Ave., Ste. 107, Bellingham mintedmethod.com

SILVER: SPROUTS CLOTHING & MORE BRONZE: WEE ONES RERUNS

Yeager's Sporting Goods

3101 Northwest Ave., Bellingham 360.733.1080, yeagerssportinggoods.com

SILVER: FAIRHAVEN TOY GARDEN BRONZE: LAUNCHING SUCCESS

Photo by Isabel Hyde

CHILDCARE | AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM

Generations Early Learning & Family Center

2901 Connelly Ave., Ste. B101, Bellingham 360.752.6336, intergenchildcare.com

SILVER: BLOSSOM CHILDCARE AND LEARNING CENTER

BRONZE: WHATCOM CENTER FOR EARLY LEARNING

The Franklin Academy

3000 Northwest Ave. & 1509 E. Victor St., Bellingham, 360.733.1750, thefranklin.academy

SILVER: ASSUMPTION CATHOLIC SCHOOL

BRONZE: LYNDEN CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Summer / Outdoor Camp

Explorations Academy

1701 Ellis St., Ste. 215, Bellingham, 360.671.8085 explorationsacademy.org

As an experiential education school, Exploration Academy’s adventurous programming focuses on “immersive learning through excursions.” Although they’ve had to pause their high school and summer programming for 2025 due to budget challenges, they’re looking forward to remodeling and reinstating the programs ASAP!

SILVER: CAMP FIRWOOD

BRONZE: CAMP KIRBY

PLACE

FOR A KID'S BIRTHDAY PARTY

Summit Adventure Park Bellingham

4329 Meridian St., Bellingham, 360.220.7620 summitbellingham.com

SILVER: MACH1 ADVENTURE PARK

BRONZE: PLAYDATE BELLINGHAM

Editor's Pick

Big Top Don’t Stop

The Shoestring Circus makes its way to Bellingham every year, offering 90 minutes of fun acrobatics and performances that people of all ages can enjoy. Make sure to grab a ticket next time they are in town! The Bellingham Circus Guild can help fill your circus needs in the meantime.

Whole Crew Hikes

If you’re an avid hiker, having kids doesn’t need to put an end to your hobby—the North Sound has a ton of trails that work for every age, from backpack-sized babies to easily-tired toddlers and beyond! Paved or graveled low-elevation trails like Tommy Thompson Trail and Padilla Bay Shore Trail in Skagit are perfect for strollers and balance bikes, and the mellow Lake Padden Park loop is great for more coordinated kids.

Best Grown-Up HideOut at a Kids’ Venue

No matter the season, you and the kids can enjoy yourselves at Bellingham’s indoor playground, PlayDate BLI. Parents can park themselves in the cafe with a clear sightline to the play area, so the adults can actually converse and enjoy their smoothie or local beer while the kids go nuts. And when everyone gets hangry, there are nuggets and pizzas on offer too!

Photo by J. Bacchus Taylor

Veterinarian

PETS

Kulshan Veterinary Hospital

6220 Portal Way, Ferndale & 8880 Benson Rd. Lynden, 360.354.5095, kulshanvet.com

Kulshan Veterinary Hospital provides high quality care to exotic animals, small animals, large animals, and even farm animals! Whether they’re providing medical services or helping animals in need with their Stray Animal Program and Angel Fund, they’re always striving to give all animals the best possible treatment.

SILVER: ANIMAL EMERGENCY CARE BRONZE: MAPLEWOOD ANIMAL HOSPITAL

Mud Bay

Multiple locations, mudbay.com

SILVER: RED'S AQUARIUM & PET SUPPLY BRONZE: PETSTOP

In need of a furry friend or a scaly sidekick? Kementari’s Creatures in Bellingham sells crawly pets and their supplies, and Saving Pets One at a Time (or S.P.O.T.) is a grassroots organization in Burlington working to foster and adopt cats and dogs.

Puget Hound

3710 Williamson Way, Bellingham 360.527.3647, gopugethound.com

SILVER: ROVER STAY OVER BRONZE: DOGGY COME PLAY DOGGIE DAYCARE

Easiest Way to Clean up After Fido

We love our pets, but cleaning up after you let the dogs out is less appealing than playtime and cuddles. Luckily, Cascade Canine Cleanup is all about “clean yards, happy pets, and eco-friendly solutions”! This Whatcom County service will come out for standalone or recurring clean-ups to keep your yard tidy, so that both you and your pups can enjoy it to its fullest.

Photo by Isabel Hyde

Pawsitive Dog Training School

Bellingham, 360.527.3647 pawsitivedogtrainingschool.com

A well-trained dog is a happy dog, especially because they’ll be invited along to more of your social activities. Pawsitive Dog Training School believes every dog can learn obedience and commands, and offers “board and train” programs, group classes, and customized one-on-one sessions.

SILVER: WHISPERING X K9 TRAINING ACADEMY BRONZE: TAILS-A-WAGGING

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

Roeder Ave., Ste. 106 Bellingham, 360.756.9515 citydogsgrooming.com

ROMANCE

Belle Flora

2400 Yew St., Bellingham, 360.734.8454 bellinghamflowershop.com

For sophisticated, professional floral arrangements that are sure to wow every time, go to Bellingham's Belle Flora! From locally-sourced flowers in summertime and same-day delivery in Bellingham to full-scale wedding services, you'll never drop the ball on a romantic overture with Belle Flora on your side.

SILVER: HART'S FLORAL

BRONZE: JENSEN'S FERNDALE FLORAL

Editor's Pick

Cutest Couple-Owned Business You’ll Root For

Bakery It’s The Sweet Things and Filippino restaurant Bry’s Filipino Cuisine may not have much in common on the surface, but there’s a culinary super-couple behind them! Married chefs Jennifer Worthley and Bryan Matamorosa own them respectively, and recently opened a joint venture which combines the best of both businesses! Find New Chapter Cafe inside of Village Books and Paper Dreams in Fairhaven.

Most Dateable Cocktail List

Step into the lush glow of Matthew’s Honest Cocktails, this year’s Silver winner for Best Cocktail. Perfect for date nights, this lounge offers masterfully crafted drinks from rosemary gimlets to barrel-aged old fashioneds. The cozy, romantic setting invites connection and conversation.

EVENT VENUE

Lairmont Manor

405 Fieldston Rd., Bellingham 306.647.1444, lairmontmanor.com

SILVER: FIREHOUSE ARTS & EVENTS CENTER

BRONZE: SQUALICUM BOATHOUSE

1147 11th St., Bellingham 360.656.5045, bistroestelle.com

SILVER: THE UPFRONT THEATRE BRONZE: LIGHTHOUSE GRILL

Katheryn Moran

Photography

Bellingham, 425.766.3755 katherynmoranphotography.com

SILVER: PETER JAMES PHOTOGRAPHY

BRONZE: JAGGER PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOGRAPHER

Photo courtesy of Belle Flora

The Racket Bar & Pinball Lounge

1220 N. State St., Bellingham 360.778.1067, ordertheracket.com

The Racket is open every evening, with 14 buzzing, pinging pinball machines for you to play. Challenge yourself, your friends, or someone you've just met to a game, have a seat at the bar and enjoy delicious food and drinks, or mingle before catching a show at the Shakedown.

SILVER: RUMORS CABARET BRONZE: UISCE IRISH PUB

Photo by

Azzurra 104

Necessities 106

Photo by Erica Egner

A Retro Cabin that Stands the Test of Time

Arch House

WRITTEN BY AIDAN HADLEY

NESTLED IN THE Mount Baker Rim community, Arch House is a beautifully designed two-bedroom, one-bathroom, arched frame cabin. The home was first purchased in 2021 by Erica and Alex Egner, who hoped to create a mountain getaway that could also serve as a vacation rental. They spent the next year and a half designing, renovating, and tailoring the home to their vision.

“We’re both designers,” says Erica. “The desire to create and make beautiful things is something we naturally share.”

Arch House wasn’t the first project that the couple worked on, however. Before buying another

Photo by Erica Egner

Photo by Kelsey Bumsted

fixer-upper when they moved to Bellingham in 2017, they spent eight years fixing up their first home in Texas.

“When we bought our first home together, our design vision was far bigger than our budget,” says Erica. “Hiring out every project wasn’t an option, so we learned to do a lot of it ourselves.”

The Egners were first drawn to Arch House because of its funky, retro charm. Seeing as it was built in the 1970s, they wanted to preserve as much of the home’s original style as possible, while blending that with their modern aesthetic.

“It was important to us to keep a lot of the existing character,” says Erica. “So items like the spiral staircase, wood-burning stove, and all the wood paneling throughout were left untouched.”

The Egners set out to complete as many of the renovations themselves as possible, hoping to rely on subcontractors only rarely. While juggling two kids and their day jobs, they were able to complete renovations at Arch House in 16 months.

The small size of the cabin was both a blessing and a curse to the Egners. It helped keep the project grounded, but also made completing renovations difficult. Features like the spiral staircase made transporting materials and furniture to the second floor especially cumbersome.

“Virtually all the [upstairs] building materials had to come in through the secondstory balcony sliding door,” says Erica. “We even installed a temporary pulley system to lift the new sliding glass door that was way too heavy to safely carry up a ladder.”

The bathroom was by far the biggest transformation. The Engers took it down to the studs, removing the old shower insert themselves and hiring a contractor to handle tiling the new shower and floor.

Photo by Erica Egner

“It was a major transformation and a huge upgrade from its dingy, dated predecessor,” says Erica.

For Erica, Arch House marked a shift in her career path. About a year after completing the renovations and listing Arch House on Airbnb, she found herself wanting to do it all over again. So she decided to combine her love for design with everything that she learned from hosting her home on Airbnb.

“That’s how Perennial Style—my virtual design business for shortterm rentals—was born,” says Erica. “Since then, I’ve also begun co-hosting properties for other owners in the area, managing all the ins and outs of running their vacation rentals.” Bellingham, 940.594.7558, perennial.style 

Photo by Kelsey Bumsted

A New Chapter for Gift Shopping in Fairhaven

Azzurra

WRITTEN BY RYLIE OBERGFELL

PHOTOS BY TEO CRIDER

AZZURRA GIFT SHOP Owner Sasha Leaman didn’t start her career in retail—in fact, she never even worked in a shop before opening one of her own. A healthcare professional with a clinical doctorate in physical therapy, Leaman’s path to curating a refined and serene storefront in Fairhaven was anything but typical.

“It was a long-held dream,” she says. “One I figured maybe I’d get to in 10 or 15 years—if ever.”

A Dream Takes Shape

But life, as it often does, intervened. A series of personal events collided with a serendipitous opportunity: a lease became available on a storefront in Fairhaven. It was the mirror image of a beloved space across the street, one she and her husband had admired from afar. Around the same time, Leaman reconnected with Becky, the retiring owner of a shop in Seattle, that she’d always loved. Becky became both a mentor and a generous guide, offering not just wisdom but fixtures—glass shelves, an Italian fountain—that now form the bones of Azzurra.

“It all happened within two weeks. I got pregnant, found the lease, and decided to just go for it.”

Leaman now runs the shop alongside her husband, splitting time with their son, Oak. The early part of the week is spent in full-time parenting mode; by the end of the week, they’re all together in the store.

“It’s definitely a partnership,” she says with a smile.

Step inside Azzurra and you’re met with quiet elegance—a space designed to feel light and intentional, from the wallpaper to the marble-slab counter and the hand-built wooden stage.

“Azzurra is Italian for a soft shade of blue,” Leaman explains, noting that she wanted a name that evoked a feeling rather than a literal meaning. Growing up on a 20-acre sheep farm surrounded by wild rose bushes, quail, and rabbits, she drew inspiration from that pastoral setting when designing the shop’s logo—a whimsical rabbit on a weathervane meant to feel inviting, light, airy, and uplifting. Her goal is simple: even if visitors don’t buy anything, they leave feeling good.

“I wanted it to be refined but approachable,” Leaman says. “Not too sparse like a gallery, and not too cluttered. Just enough to let you breathe.”

The aesthetic draws inspiration from old-world Europe, with French music playing gently in the background. Leaman has curated a unique selection of goods—candles from Trudon, the oldest active candle house in the world; botanical scents from Carrière Frères; linen textiles; niche perfume from Iceland and New Zealand; and decoupage glass trays from a New York artist—often with help from her mother, whose artistic eye she greatly values. While

Azzurra doesn’t currently carry local brands, everything in the shop is chosen with story and intention.

“It’s not just about the object,” Leaman says. “It’s about what it means—what it adds to someone’s day.”

A Community Hub

The shop has quickly become a place of connection.

“Fairhaven feels like a third space,” Leaman says, referencing the European concept of a place that isn’t home or work, but something in between. “We’re not just here to sell something—we’re here to slow down, chat, and maybe bring a little beauty into someone’s day.” That sense of community is part of what makes Azzurra feel so rooted—neighbors stop by regularly, nearby shop owners have been welcoming, and Leaman often finds herself in meaningful conversations with locals who just wander in. “The people here really care,” she adds. “It’s been a huge part of making this dream sustainable.”

And for Leaman, stepping away from healthcare was never about giving up purpose—it was about redefining it. 1200 10th St., Ste.104, Bellingham, 360.815.8212, Instagram @shopazzurra 

The Northwest’s Specialty Contractor

WRS is a specialty contractor doing business in the PNW and beyond since 1982. From asphalt paving & maintenance to civil construction to mass earthwork and so much more, WRS proudly offers a wide range of services led by a trusted team of experts. Contact us today to learn more. We look forward to working with you!

wrsweb.com

360.366.3303

info@wrsweb.com

We believe banking should feel local, personal, and rooted in the community. That’s why we keep every deposit, every loan, and every decision right here in the place we all call home. Contact us or stop by our Barkley Village branch today to see what community banking can be.

Gourds, Glorious Gourds!

WRITTEN BY WILLIAM MORTON

GOURDS, ONE OF the oldest plants to be cultivated by humans, belong to the same family as pumpkins and squash and have seen many uses throughout history: utensils, bowls, containers, bird feeders, tchotchkes, and mantelpieces. And, of course, they’re a favorite for fall decor! With Halloween on the horizon, what better time to stock up on a couple of decorative or functional gourds?

Melrose International Foam Pumpkin and Gourd Decor (Set of 2)

Lowe’s, $38 1717 Freeway Dr., Mount Vernon 360.424.5838, lowes.com

2 Autumn Harvest Pumpkin, Gourd, Acorn, & Leaf Decoration Set

Michaels, $30 4383 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.738.7932, michaels.com

Raw Birdhouse Bungalo Meadowbrooke Gourds, $21 717.776.3470, mbgourds.com

4 Gourd Bowl

Amish Gourds, $25 717.788.4474 amishgourds.com

5 Decorative Gourd

Art Supply Warehouse, $5 714.891.3626 artsupplywarehouse.com

Falling For White Pumpkins

BY LISA KARLBERG

AS FALL ARRIVES, we head to the fireplace, cuddle up in sweaters, and lean into the season. Eager for fall, many of us may start filling our homes with festive hues of burnt orange and browns…but have you thought about incorporating white and mint green pumpkins? This current trend blends with any décor. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Front Porch

Create a welcoming entry by decorating a couple chairs with seasonal pillows, a fall sign, a lantern, and a small arrangement of white pumpkins. Add a miniature hay bale for depth and interest.

Centerpiece

Gather different-sized pumpkins, incorporate a bird’s nest, fake birds, or add candles to soften the feel. Use candle pillars of different shapes and sizes to add appeal. Want another design feature? Add some garland. Start with nine feet of garland and create an “S” shape in the middle of your table. Situate the rest of your décor elements between the garland.

Mantel

Incorporate pumpkins by using candle pillars of varying heights; top them off with small pumpkins and candles. Want more? String leaf garland around the candlesticks or add a fall photo or festive sign that pulls the colors together.

Place Setting

Use small white pumpkins as a creative way to finish off your place setting. Want to let your guests know where to sit around the table? Create a nametag and use jute to tie around the stem. 

Photo by Nicole Kimberling

Solar Power Meets Traditional Ways on Legoe Bay

Reef Netting Salmon with Lummi Island Wild

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY NICOLE KIMBERLING

LEGOE BAY SITS on the western side of Lummi Island, the long, low strip of land that Bellinghamsters see when they look across the water from downtown. Being something of an Indoor Girl, I never expected to go anywhere near a commercial salmon fishery, but when Ian Kirouac of Lummi Island Wild invited me on a tour of one of their reef netting rigs I could not resist. What, I wondered, was so special about this way of catching fish? We pushed off the beach in Legoe Bay in an aluminum skiff on the hottest day in August. The sun glinted off the waves as we aimed for a line of small platforms set on pontoons floating not far from shore.

Only one rig was manned that day, but these fishermen are engaged in conservation, rather than commerce—Jeff Jacobsen and Bob Cicinotta are out counting fishes for the Pacific Salmon Commission. These numbers are critical to ensuring enough salmon return to the Fraser River for each species to endure and remain plentiful.

Salmon are born in freshwater rivers and lakes, then spend their adult lives at sea before returning to their birthplace to spawn and, ultimately, perish.

“The migrating salmon come up through the Rosario Strait.” Kirouac pointed southward to the body of water between

Jeff Jacobson

Lummi and Orcas Islands. “Then they cross Legoe Bay on their way north to finish their life-cycle by spawning in the Fraser River. Hopefully, some of them run into our rigs on the way.”

So what is reef netting? It’s when fishermen, using underwater lines and long, floating ribbons, create the perception of a reef underwater in order to coax migrating fish upward toward the surface, then direct them over a net, where they can be caught.

This method was developed by the indigenous Coast Salish Peoples, who originally used eelgrass and cedar to create their illusory reefs. Not much has changed since then.

I was excited to step onto a rig and see for myself what it’s like to work on the water. My first impression was the shocking quiet. The second was how easy it would be to fall into the water.

The platforms are small—only a couple of yards wide and maybe 15 feet long. They’re arranged in pairs with a small net strung between them, underneath the waves. On each end of the floating deck sits a tall ladder, around 12 feet high, where the fishermen take their positions to look down through the glassy summer water to spot their target fish so they’ll know when to pull their net.

Kirouac invited me to climb up and see the view and… Friends, I did try, but I only made it to the 10-foot rung before the rocking of the platform and dizzying height forced a humiliating descent. Kirouac stood up top, fearing no fall, pointing out salmon jumping far across the bay.

“You live a crazy life,” I remarked. Kirouac only laughed.

During the times that they are allowed to take salmon, the reef netters are on those ladders for hours, peering into the mesmerizing waves and waiting.

When salmon arrive, the fishermen give the call, and with the help of solar powered motors the net is pulled and the fish inside are hauled into a smaller holding tank—the size of a large bathtub. There the reef netters are able to reach in and individually release every fish that they didn’t mean to catch, keeping only the target fish and eliminating bycatch.

When all they have left in the tank are salmon, they lift the fish out, cut a gill, and put them into slush ice immediately. The fish never struggle for hours in a gill net or thrash on a line, so the meat is free from adrenaline, which gives the product a sweet, mild quality—and the fish arguably one of the most humane deaths in the industry.

Bob Cucinotta

This is a catch counted in hatch marks, rather than tons. There’s even a whiteboard showing the number of sockeyes and pinks caught this year to prove it.

“A big ocean-going vessel will catch in one day what we catch in an entire season, but they also measure their bycatch in tons,” Kirouac tells me. “Reef netting is truly sustainable. And we’re the only people in the world doing it anymore. It’s unique in the world and it’s happening right here in Legoe Bay.”

At the end of the excursion, I asked Kirouac what, more than anything, he wanted readers of Bellingham Alive to know. His answer was unhesitating, “Taste. Trust. Truth. The taste is the best in the world and you can trust that we are telling you the truth about sustainability.” 3131 Mercer Ave., Ste. 105, Bellingham, 360.366.8786, lummiislandwild.com 

Ian Kirouac

Boots, Burgers, and Beers: Bringing Community Back

Conway’s Pub and Eatery

WRITTEN BY SADIE YOUNGQUIST | PHOTOS BY ASHLEY CRERAR

AFTER FACING SOME challenging years, an iconic Skagit County staple is making a comeback as a go-to spot for locals and visitors. Under new ownership, Conway’s Pub and Eatery is being refreshed with a focus on revitalizing the neighborhood atmosphere while preserving the pub’s roots. Long known for its oysters, burgers, and dive bar charm, Conway’s is once again the lively gathering place that patrons enjoyed for decades.

“We wanted to restore the pub to its glory days and create a community feel again,” says Owner Nate Sheridan. “So many locals have come in here and thanked us; they wanted this back so badly.”

When Nate and his wife Connie purchased Conway’s Pub and Eatery in February, it wasn’t their first encounter with the establishment. As lifelong Skagitonians, their connection to the pub dates to 1991, when Nate’s aunt and uncle first purchased it and began shaping it into the beloved landmark it is today. Since then, the Sheridans have built memories there, as young adults and as parents with their kids growing up just down the street. Although they didn’t get involved in operations until they purchased the pub this year, it felt like a natural next step to carry on the legacy.

With a fresh coat of paint and some cosmetic updates, Conway’s has a new look while retaining its familiar ambiance. The pub offers indoor and outdoor family-friendly dining along with a full-bar. The menu still boasts longtime favorites, including their signature burgers, while adding appetizer and vegetarian options. Classic traditions such as Waldo Wednesday (steak night special) and Spaghetti Mondays have also returned. Meanwhile the popular outdoor oyster bar, revamped over the summer, continues to serve up crowd-pleasers like oyster shooters, BBQ oysters, and their legendary pan-fried oysters.

“Our burgers and oysters have always been the biggest draw here— especially the pan-fried oysters, sautéed oysters, and oyster shooters,” explains Connie. “That’s what people ask for the most. So, we simplified the menu to focus on the favorites and gave them updated names to keep things fresh.”

The weekend scene at the pub has been re-energized with entertainment again, including karaoke nights and performances by live bands. Families are welcome too, with plans to introduce regular kids’ trivia and karaoke nights for the younger diners. Bikers will continue to find a home at Conway’s, as it remains a favorite stop during the annual Oyster Run and the Ride for Our Troops Poker Run.

One of the minor changes you might notice is in the name, Conway’s Pub and Eatery (it used to be Conway, no possessive), emphasizing the sense of community that the Sheridans want to bring back to the pub. With a tight-knit staff and support of friends, family, and fellow business owners, they have seen long-time locals begin to return. Even though the journey for the couple has been consuming it has also been rewarding to revive the pub’s character that the area has missed.

“We’re just really thankful to get the opportunity to do this,” they say, capturing the spirit behind Conway’s revival. 18611 Main St., Conway, 360.445.4733, conwayspubandeatery.com 

Dark ‘n Stormy

THE DARK ‘N Stormy is a classic, and the perfect drink to make at home! With only three steps and ingredients including the garnish, it’s also one of the more accessible cocktails to make on a budget. While the exact origin of this cocktail is unknown, it’s likely that sailors were the original enjoyers: the rum combined with the ginger can help to settle queasiness, a perfect refreshing remedy for upset stomachs at sea. Technically, the Dark ‘n Stormy is trademarked and must be made with Goslings Black Seal Rum, a dark rum from Bermuda which the company claims originated the drink. If you use another dark

Five Different Ways to Make Squash

WRITTEN BY CHLOE NELSON

rum, it’s just a tasty rum and ginger. For a citrus twist, replace an ounce of the ginger beer with about a half ounce of fresh lime juice! CHLOE NELSON

Ingredients:

2 ounces Goslings Black Seal Rum

Ginger beer (about 6 ounces)

Lime wheel for garnish

Instructions:

• Pour ginger beer into a tall glass over ice.

Top off with dark rum. Take the lime wheel, place on top as garnish, and you’re all done!

Stuffed

Stuffed squash takes a bit of creativity and always results in a crowd-pleasing dish! You really can’t go wrong with almost any stuffing ingredients, but some of the most popular include cheese, Italian sausage, onions, bell peppers, carrots, and a variety of other vegetables.

15 Years of Bliss

Pure Bliss

WRITTEN BY WILLIAM MORTON

WALKING INTO PURE Bliss Desserts, it almost feels like you’ve been transported to another world; elegant and classy interior decor calms the eyes, appearing in various colors of muted and matte pink, white, and black. On the wall to the left of the entrance is their motto, painted in sharp black letters: “From scratch. Small batch. Locally sourced.” The tenets that Pure Bliss Desserts lives by, according to Founder and Co-Owner Andi Vann.

Vann’s love for baking started in middle school.

“I had a pretty big sweet tooth,” Vann says, explaining that she spent a lot of time in her parents’ kitchen, experimenting with recipes. That childhood passion turned into Vann’s profession, and the rest is local history. Pure Bliss Desserts celebrates its fifteenth year on Oct. 26, but Vann says the time has gone by in a flash: “I feel like I’ve only known this, and I feel like we just started yesterday.”

A few milestones do stick out: the 2012 hiring of a manager to help handle the growing team; the 2016 change of locations; and the 2018 construction project to expand the dessert shop’s small footprint. Outside the bakery, the birth of Vann’s daughter in 2014 and her son in 2017 also marked a change: she realized she couldn’t keep spending 100 hours in the shop while raising a kid (and then two).

If anything, though, the additional demands on her time only increased the already high level of gratitude she already had for her incredible team of bakers and employees.

“I’ve always believed in the power of delegation and the power of a team to be truly effective,” Vann says. And the result of the teamwork at Pure Bliss is sweet indeed. 1424 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.739.1612, pureblissdesserts.com 

Stir Fry Parmesan Squash

This is perfect for someone who is in a rush but still wants to make a filling, healthy meal. The ingredients mainly consist of olive oil, parmesan, squash, and garlic powder, but it can be modified in tons of ways! I recommend adding steamed peas and carrots to top off what is already a mouth-watering spread.

Farm-Fresh Classic American Eats!

Acme Diner

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED

BY BEN STAINBROOK

LOCATED JUST SOUTH of the Mount Baker Highway in the small town of Acme, the Acme Diner is a true American diner. This must-stop location features a full selection of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options to satiate your hunger at any time of day. The food is sourced fresh from local farms, giving your tastebuds the full Pacific Northwest experience.

Aside from the indoor bar, there is also an outdoor beer garden, perfect for summer evenings! Swing by on a Friday or Saturday evening, and you’ll likely find a local artist or band singing some tunes (check out the website for the schedule).

Upon entering the cozy red structure, you’ll be greeted by kind staff members. While the overall aesthetic isn’t retro, you still get a classic American diner vibe from the seats, tables, and the old school jukebox.

In addition to the main menu, the diner also features a selection of fresh desserts. Be sure to examine the pies, and choose a flavor of ice cream for a delightful milkshake from local Edaleen Dairy!

The diner is open six days a week, Wednesday to Monday, from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. and closed on Tuesdays. They serve breakfast from open until 2 p.m., while dinner starts at 3 p.m.; lunch is available all day. If you find yourself heading towards Mt. Baker and the North Cascades, or returning from a long hike, treat yourself at the Acme Diner with a well-deserved meal! 2045 Valley Hwy., Acme, 360.595.0150, acme-diner.com 

Breaded, Baked or Fried

This is a simple yet delicious dish that can serve as a main course or a side. Have flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and bread crumbs in a third. Slice your squash into thin slices, coat with flour, dip into the egg, then coat with the crumbs! Bake or fry those bad boys for delicious crispy and moist breaded squash.

•

Squash and Stuffing Casserole

This filling, colorful dish contains the perfect combination of foods to wow everyone at Thanksgiving dinner! With onion, sour cream, and lots of crowdpleasing herbs, everyone will be asking for the recipe after giving it a taste.

Cheesy Squash

Pairing cheese and squash is simple, easy, and accessible for anyone wanting to add some extra flavor and texture to their meal.

Butternut squash is delicious sautéed with cheese, baked in mac and cheese, and cooked with shredded cheese.

Seared Pork Chop with Parsnip Purée, Roasted Delicata Squash, Brown Butter Pecan Sage, & Spiced Apple Chutney

WRITTEN BY CHEF MATTHEW BOUDOUSQUIE PHOTOS BY ANNE GODENHAM

OCTOBER IS ONE of my favorite months in the Pacific Northwest, with its shorter days, crisp air, and sudden abundance of earthy roots, winter squash, and apples. It’s the season when food leans into comfort—warm, golden, and a little indulgent. This dish brings it all together: the sweetness of roasted delicata squash, the silkiness of parsnip purée, the savoriness of a perfectly seared pork chop, and the nutty richness of brown butter pecan sage leaves. To brighten things up, I add a spiced apple chutney that’s tart, sweet, and fragrant with allspice, cinnamon, and clove, which cuts through the richness and ties the whole plate together.

Parsnips often get overlooked, but they’re the unsung heroes of fall cooking: sweet, starchy, and perfect for a smooth, velvety purée that anchors the dish. Delicata squash, with its edible skin, roasts up caramelized and nutty with just a touch of maple. Then there’s the star: the almighty bone-in pork chop, seared golden-brown and juicy, finished with rosemary and garlic. The chutney, scattered pomegranate seeds, and crispy sage bring color and vibrance, making the plate as beautiful as it is comforting.

It’s a dish that feels festive and elegant, yet it’s simple enough to cook at home on a cool October evening.

Seared Pork Chops

Ingredients:

4 bone-in pork chops

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 sprigs rosemary

2 garlic cloves, peeled and left whole

Instructions:

• Season chops with salt and pepper and sear in oil along with rosemary and garlic, 4–5 min per side, until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 145°F inside. Rest.

Parsnip Purée

Ingredients:

1 pound parsnips, peeled and roughly chopped

1 Yukon Gold potato, peeled and roughly chopped

2 cups stock (chicken, beef, or veggie)

½ cup cream

2 tablespoons butter

½ teaspoon nutmeg

Salt, to taste

Instructions:

• Simmer parsnips and potato in stock until soft, then blend in a food processor or blender with cream, butter, nutmeg and salt.

Roasted Delicata Squash

Ingredients:

2 Delicata squash

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon maple syrup

Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

Slice squash in half and deseed with a spoon, then cut into ¼ to ½ inch and coat with oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F for 20–25 min, until fork-tender.

Apple Chutney

Ingredients:

3 apples, peeled and diced

½ red onion, diced

½ cup apple cider vinegar

¼ cup brown sugar

¼ cup raisins

1 teaspoon ginger

½ teaspoon cinnamon

¼ teaspoon clove

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

¼ teaspoon all spice

Pinch red pepper

Salt, to taste

Instructions:

• Simmer apples, onion, vinegar, sugar, raisins, and spices until thick (potato masher is your friend). Taste and add salt.

Brown Butter Sage

Ingredients:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 cup pecan halves

8–12 sage leaves

½ cup pomegranate seeds

Parmesan, freshly grated

Instructions:

• Melt butter over low heat and add pecans, watching carefully to keep it from burning, until solids begin to brown and smell nutty. Add sage leaves and fry until crisp.

Assembly

On a base of parsnip purée, place a pork chop and spoon over chutney—set squash on the side. Finish with crispy sage, pecans, Parmesan, a drizzle of melted butter, and pomegranate seeds.

DINING KEY

under $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.

ANTHONY’S HEARTHFIRE GRILL

Steak, Seafood

7 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360.527.3473, anthonys.com

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

B-TOWN KITCHEN AND RAW BAR

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

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

BANTAM American, Southern

1327 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.788.4507, bantambellingham.com

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.

BAYOU ON BAY Cajun, Creole

1300 Bay St., Bellingham 360.392.8736, bayouonbay.com

Bayou on Bay in downtown Bellingham serves classic dishes from the Cajun and Creole cuisines of the Deep South: frog legs, hush puppies, gumbo, and seafood boil, to name a few. Their menu was updated after coming under new ownership in 2025.

BRANDYWINE KITCHEN Regional NW

1317 Commercial St., Bellingham 360.734.1071, brandywinekitchen.com

Named for the farm where they began growing their decadent heirloom tomatoes, Brandywine Kitchen sources many of its ingredients locally, upholding their “from seed to plate” philosophy. The menu offers vegetarian and gluten-free options and a rotating selection of beer from local breweries.

CARNAL American, Barbecue

1234 North State St., Bellingham 360.306.3587, eatcarnal.com

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

CHINUK Breakfast, American 714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360.392.6517, chinukbellingham.com

Located inside the Four Points by Sheraton Bellingham Hotel & Conference Center, this lively breakfast cafe serves flavorful Northwest cuisine. With sweet and savory dishes, including chef’s specials like crab cake benedicts, you’re sure to enjoy starting your day here.

D’ANNA’S CAFE ITALIANO Italian

1319 N. State St., Bellingham 360.714.0188, dannascafeitaliano.com

If you’re looking for good Italian food without having to resort to a national chain, D’Anna’s may be the place for you. The emphasis here is on the food, not the frills. The restaurant stands out in many ways, but D’Anna’s delicious, homemade pasta is what really makes it special.

DRAYTON HARBOR OYSTER COMPANY

Seafood, Regional NW

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

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

INFUSION CUISINE

Italian, Mexican, Chinese 6912 Hannegan Rd., Lynden 360.778.1726, infusioncuisine.com

Infusion Cuisine has a menu that features a little bit of everything. The three most popular types of cuisine are Italian, Asian, and Mexican, and all the dishes on Infusion Cuisine’s menu fit into one of these categories. No matter what you’re in the mood for, there’s something for everyone at Infusion Cuisine.

JACK NIEMANN’S BLACK FOREST STEAKHOUSE German, Steak 638 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine 360.306.8342

Black Forest Steakhouse offers a versatile dining experience. It’s fancy enough for special occasions, anniversaries, and graduation celebrations, but it’s also a place you’ll want to go to any day. Black Forest cooks their steaks different than most other steakhouses: They broil them in a 1,600-degree oven, leaving the meat tender and flavorful.

LEADER BLOCK TRATTORIA & BAR Italian

2026 Main St., Ferndale 360.306.8998, leaderblock.com

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

THE LOFT Northwest, American & Seafood

1801 Roeder Ave., Ste. 120 Bellingham 360.306.5668, theloftbellingham.com

From 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.

LYNDEN DUTCH BAKERY American

421 Front St., Lynden 360.354.3911, lyndendutchbakery.com

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

MI MEXICO Mexican

241 Telegraph Rd., Bellingham 360.647.0073, mimexicobellingham.com

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

THE MILL AT SEVENTH French

655 Front St., Lynden 360.778.2760

The Mill is the type of place where one could spend a full afternoon grazing on cheeses, sipping cocktails, and enjoying a good book. The bistro-like atmosphere gives the restaurant a European vibe without losing the welcoming small-town service of Lynden. The menu is full of bistro plates like fresh salads, paninis, soups, and, of course, meats and cheeses.

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

Skagit Valley Food Co-op is the best place for organic groceries, fresh produce, and everyday essentials.

Open Daily to Everyone | Downtown Mount Vernon | skagitfoodcoop.com

THE NORTH FORK BREWERY Eclectic, Bar

6186 Mount Baker Hwy., Deming 360.599.2337

Pizza and beer is a pairing that truly stands the test of time. At Deming’s long-running North Fork Brewery, which opened in December of 1997, the two remain as strong as ever. The North Fork’s brews are made in small batches by their longtime brewer and his custom draft system. The old-style pub feels homey and familiar, with quirky decorations like a glass wall encasing rows and rows of beer bottles. It’s a warm, inviting place to escape the biting temperatures outside.

ON RICE THAI CUISINE Thai

209 N. Samish Way, Bellingham, 360.714.9995

2200 Rimland Dr., Bellingham, 360.738.9995 1224 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.676.9995 onricethai.com

Ask any college student: On Rice is the place to go in Bellingham. With its affordable lunch specials and three locations around town, it’s easy to enjoy one of On Rice’s flavorful Thai dishes. All dishes are available with chicken, pork, beef, seafood, or tofu and can be made as spicy as you want them to be.

OTHERLANDS BEER Brewery, European 2121 Humboldt St., Bellingham 360.746.8118, otherlandsbeer.com

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

RIFUGIO’S COUNTRY ITALIAN CUISINE Italian

5415 Mount Baker Hwy., Deming 360.592.2888, ilcafferifugio.com

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

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 Eclectic

1308 11th St., Bellingham

360.715.3642, skylarkshiddencafe.com

Skylark’s Hidden Cafe in Fairhaven is worth seeking out. From decadent breakfast items and house specialties to hearty dinner entrees, the menu at Skylark’s is varied and every bite delicious. Come for the food and stay for the jazz on select evenings.

SLO-PITCH SPORTS GRILL AND CASINO

3720 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.733.2255, slopitchcasino.com

Conveniently located right on Meridian, SloPitch serves up a great burger and fries. With excellent happy hour specials in a casual, sports atmosphere, Slo-Pitch is a great place to watch the game or take a midday break.

TEMPLE BAR Bistro, Bar

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

Continually recognized for their craft cocktails and small plates, Temple Bar aims to please. In between delicious bites made from locally sourced ingredients, sip on a unique cocktail with house-made infusions and bitters.

SKAGIT

BASTION BREWING COMPANY American 12529 Christianson Rd., Anacortes 360.399.1614, bastionbrewery.com

On the Bastion Brewing Company menu you’ll find classic salads, an array of interesting burgers, and crispy chicken wings drenched in your choice of sauce. Food arrives impressively quick, and even more impressive is the quality of the food.

Photo by Kristen Boehm

1 8 TASTES GREAT

Indulgence is just a sandwich away with Old Town Bakery’s Jambon Buerre! Dijon mustard, cotto ham, smoked prosciutto, triple cream brie, all complimented by a thick layer of Camargue butter—this is a treat and a half.

For a casual and filling lunch stop, the Roast Beef on Grilled Focaccia from Caffe Adagio is perfect. Rich focaccia, mozzarella, roast beef, and tomato make this feel both hearty and delectable!

Cof& in downtown Bellingham serves more than delicious espresso! Their Bucaro Sandwich features corned beef, fresh avo, provolone cheese, veggies and their unbeatable signature Colombian sauce.

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

Big flavor comes in just a few bites at Crooked Spoon in Fairhaven. You can get two flavors, even in the single scoop size! We loved the combo of Peanut Butter Fudge and Amaretto !

If you’re the kind of person who likes your burritos hand-held (aka no sauce), you’ll want to swing by La Terraza Taqueria in Mount Vernon. Their Supreme Burrito Carnitas is bursting with delicious slow-cooked pork, the usual trimmings, plus guacamole and sour cream (so, all the good stuff).

Mix and match all your favorite kinds of tacos at Bordertown Mexican Grill with their Taco Platter! With filling options like birria, fish, brisket, and more, you are guaranteed to find the perfect combination for you!

Banter’s Breakfast Sando is a simple but delicious morning meal on a “good bun,” with eggs, bacon, smoked gouda, tomato, and secret sauce. Everything you need to start your morning right!

Everyone’s talking about Elk St. Tavern’s delicious Burger with Bacon & Cheddar, but don’t forget about the Elk Street Frites on the side! They’re pillowy on the inside and perfectly crisped on the outside.

RED SCHOONER

BY CAYMUS VINEYARDS

BY LISA KARLBERG

Red Schooner is a distinctive red wine produced by the Wagner family, renowned for their flagship label, Caymus. What sets Red Schooner apart is its unconventional approach: Malbec grapes are grown in the high-altitude vineyards of the Andes Mountains in Mendoza, Argentina, then carefully chilled and shipped by sea to Napa Valley. This maritime journey—referred to as a “voyage” and denoted on each bottle—allows the Wagners to craft the wine using their signature Napa winemaking techniques while showcasing the bold character of Argentine Malbec.

The resulting wine is rich and fullbodied, with deep flavors of ripe plum, black cherry, fig, and dark chocolate, complemented by smooth tannins and a velvety finish. Red Schooner does not list a vintage but instead uses a voyage number to mark each release, underscoring its adventurous concept. It offers a luxurious, fruitforward profile that is both powerful and approachable, appealing to a wide range of wine drinkers. Red Schooner is ideal for pairing with grilled meats, hearty pastas, or enjoyed on its own as a bold, flavorful experience.The current Voyage is number 12. Enjoy! 

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, lacatrinamv.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.

CHUCKANUT MANOR Pacific Northwest

3056 Chuckanut Dr., Bow 360.766.6191, chuckanutmanor.com

Tucked along Samish Bay, Chuckanut Manor has been serving flavorful Pacific Northwest fare for more than 50 years. 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.

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.

FORTUNE MANDARIN Chinese, Mandarin

1617 Freeway Dr., Mount Vernon 360.428.1819, fortunemandarin.com

Tea warmed over a candle, delicious drinks with a slight exotic twist, tender and flavorful meat, and vegetables cooked to perfection are expected at this peaceful bar and restaurant with Chinese decor. The owner and staff remember regular patrons, creating a sense of community alongside mouth-watering food.

IL GRANAIO Italian

100 W. Montgomery St., Ste. 110 Mount Vernon

360.419.0674, granaio.com

Il Granaio is a practice in the intricacies of cuisine, displaying the best flavors Italian food has to

offer. With more than 30 items on the entree menu, the list can be quite daunting and the dessert menu is also impressive. The wine menu is also expansive, and the beer menu features several local craft brews. Their grappa selection does the Italian cordial the justice it deserves.

THE OYSTER BAR Seafood

2578 Chuckanut Dr., Bow 360.766.6185, theoysterbar.net

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

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.

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!

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.

TERRAMAR BREWSTILLERY

Craft Brewery and Pizza

5712 Gilkey Ave., Edison, 360.399.6222 terramarcraft.com

Producing thoughtfully crafted, small-batch beer, cider, spirits, and pizza from farmed and foraged ingredients of Skagit Valley. The brewery taproom is all ages and dog-friendly. The distillery’s “Speakeasy” is 21+ and highlights Terramar’s spirits in creative cocktails. Patio dining surrounded by views of Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains.

THE UNION TAVERN LOCAL 902 American 902 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.873.8245, theuniontavern-local902.com

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

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.

FRIDAY HARBOR HOUSE Regional NW

130 West St., Ste. 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.

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.

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 Juaninspired 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.

SOUTHSIDE BAR

4 HOURS TO HAPPY

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 Mon–Thurs: 3–6pm 1323 11th St, Bellingham drinkatthesouthside.com

COA MEXICAN EATERY & TEQUILERIA

Our featured tequila bar showcases only 100% agave tequilas and mezcales served in our crisp drinks or just to sip the fine aged flavors. We offer glutenfree, vegan, and vegetarian options. The warm atmosphere along with the staff makes the COA experience that much more unforgettable.

Happy Hour: Mon–Fri: 3–6pm 1810 Riverside Drive, Mount Vernon, 360.466.0267 | 623 Morris St., La Conner, 360.466.0267 | 1065 E Sunset Drive,Bellingham, 360.526.2108

NICKI’S BELLA MARINA

Voted Best Of The Northwest year after year! Come try our Waterfront & patio dining!

Happy Hour: Daily Tues-Sat 3-6pm 2615 S Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham, 360.332.2505, nickisbellamarina.com

LEADER BLOCK TRATTORIA + BAR

Mangia Mangia Happy Hour 4PM To 6PM M - F , 3PM To 6PM Sat, 3PM To 8PM Sun, “Bar Seats & Vault Only” Specialty drinks $2 off/Well Drinks & Select Beers $3 off. Wines - $7 Whites & Reds | Bubbles $9 Food 25% Off Menu Prices. Free Parking

Happy Hour: Mon–Fri: 4pm–6pm Sat: 3pm–6pm | Sun: 3pm–8pm 2026 Main St., Ferndale, 360.306.8998 206.484.9255 Cell/ Text, leaderblock.com

As the elders of Louisiana would say, “baby, you just keep on living…”

PHOTO AND QUOTE BY

DEANTHONY LEWIS

THE GLASS GURU

Welcome to The Glass Guru of Bellingham, where expertise meets excellence in glass services! Serving Whatcom and Skagit counties, our team takes pride in being your premier destination for all things glass. With a rich history of serving the local community, we have earned a reputation for delivering top-notch craftsmanship and unparalleled customer service. As your trusted neighborhood glass specialists, we offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet your every need, from residential glass repairs and installations to commercial glazing projects.

At The Glass Guru of Bellingham, 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 energyefficient 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. Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or contractor, we invite you to experience the unparalleled service and craftsmanship that have made us a staple in the Bellingham community. Get to know us, and discover why we’re the go-to destination for all your glass needs!

October 2025 | Bellingham Alive

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