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THE CROSSING GUIDE How the Locals Live
Holiday Issue 2014-15
IN THIS ISSUE AN OLD-FASHIONED DIGITAL THEATRE THE CHIP BUTTERS STORY LANGLEY, WA: ART, SHOPPING AND FINE FOOD IMAGINE CHILDREN始S MUSEUM
ROSARIO RESORT:
NESTLED IN NATURE, STEEPED IN HISTORY
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Marisa Papetti editor@thecrossingguide.com MANAGING EDITOR Colleen Harper colleen@thecrossingguide.com LEAD DESIGNER Roman Komarov GRAPHIC DESIGNER Andy Pritiken COPY EDITOR Wes Davis, Sean Peterson PHOTOGRAPHY C9 Photography. All photography in this issue is by C9 unless otherwise noted. www.designc9.com WEBSITE Roman Komarov webmaster@thecrossingguide.com ILLUSTRATION Tammy Findlay and Andy Pritiken CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Todd Hobert CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Davin Michael Stedman, Colleen Harper, Pamela Kuntz, Lorraine Wilde, Stacy Reynolds, Katie Kavulla, Riley Sweeney, Thomas G. Hadley, Ramona Abbott, Shawna Matthews, Doug Ogg, Marisa Papetti, Cait Auer, Dora Bona, Anna Minkler, Mathew Williamson, Megs Thompson, Lara Dunning, Greg Lane, Steven Arbuckle, Caitline Morris AD SALES Marisa Papetti: ads@thecrossingguide.com Peyton Thomas: peyton@thecrossingguide.com PUBLISHING Published on 10% post-consumer paper with soy-based ink. DISTRIBUTION Whatcom, Skagit, Island, San Juan Counties, and Lower Mainland B.C. CONTACT INFORMATION The Crossing Guide 1155 N State St. Ste 510 Bellingham, WA 98225 www.thecrossingguide.com office: (360) 306-8073 fax: (360) 392-8015 cell: (360) 224-2387 editor@thecrossingguide.com
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IMAGINE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Wonder for all ages.
45. THE TRAIN WRECK BAR
AND GRILL So good, we went for breakfast and came back for dinner.
F E AT URE
49. SEMIAHMOO RESORT
37. ROSARIO RESORT He built a mansion on Orcas Island and the rest is history.
page 49
Re-modeled, Re-invigorated & Re-inspired.
53. THERE’S SOMETHING
ABOUT CAMELS Riding camels in the wilds of Whatcom.
57. POEM Penelope by Greg Lane. 59. DATE NIGHT: DOWNTOWN BELLINGHAM We plan great dates so you don’t have to.
61. BOOKS Calling all Bibliophiles.
11. THE CHIP BUTTERS STORY
63.
VAUDEVELLINGHAM Circus arts, comedy, and community in Bellingham, WA.
From humble beginnings in Detroit to Musician Xanadu.
15. ADVENTURE Exploring
page 41
21.
A MAN NAMED TABARI One of Everett’s hidden gems.
73.
A TALE OF TWO MIKES Making music make a difference.
25. SHORT STORY
77. BOOKS THAT MAKE GREAT
Expectations by Dora Bona.
GIFTS
27. AN OLD-FASHIONED
81. THE PASTRAMI KING
DIGITAL THEATRE History and the digital revolution, married in one beautiful place.
29. POEM A Bubble for Jan
5 VOL 1. HOLIDAY ISSUE 2014-15
67.
THE FOUNDARY MAKERSPACE DIY for the 21st century.
Langley, WA.
Authentic New York Pastrami in Everett, WA.
page 15
85.
PLACES TO STAY The Inn at Port Gardner
87.
IN THE BASEMENT WITH A VIPER The inspired modern folk tunes of Petunia and the Vipers.
93.
DISTILL MY HEART Falling in lust at the Mount Baker Distillery.
96. DATE DAY: FERNDALE, WA 101 We plan great dates so you don’t have to.
97. BAY CAFE
Lunch time in Blaine, WA.
99. ALTERNATIVE HOLIDAY SHOPPING Where to buy handmade this holiday season.
107.
READING THE SKY Learning to love PNW weather.
109. ADVENTURE
Exploring La Conner, WA.
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THE REC ROOM THE CHIP BUTTERS STORY Story by Davin Michael Steadman Photos by Todd Hobert
W
hen Chip Butters was a teenager, contemplating his prospects and future in his hometown of Detroit, Michigan, he was torn. He longed to contribute to the sounds of a musical world he had discovered listening to Led Zeppelin records on his giant 1970’s headphones, and he struggled with the temptation of studying for the priesthood, which spelled leaving behind so much of the secular music that he loved. But Chip Butters did have a calling. He was going to spend his life lending a hand to his fellow man. Whether it was serving the church of Rock & Roll, or delivering sermons each Sunday, Butters was on a spiritual journey. He made a choice. He became a recording engineer. Today Chip Butters serves his community by owning and operating a state of the art recording studio, which he has brilliantly integrated into an impressive showcase venue, just 25 miles north of Seattle. The venue side of this 4000 square foot gem, tucked below the streets of Everett, WA, is called The Rec Room. The recording side of this operation, Chip fondly calls ButtersSound Studios. Coming down the stairs into The Rec Room feels a bit like sneaking into the Bat Cave and finding a speakeasy. This seems like the place a guy like Chip Butters was meant to be, but getting from Detroit to his self created music haven was an adventure full of the unexpected. Maybe the moral of the story is that sometimes if you listen
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carefully, you can actually hear one door opening just as the one in front of you closes. That’s exactly what this recording engineer and hard working dreamer from Detroit did. In 1997, after apprenticing in his hometown at two notable Detroit studios, Chip Butters got wanderlust. On a whim, he gambled his future on a gig
Roll. Putting his faith in destiny, Chip packed everything he could into his family’s old 1978 Custom Cruiser and moved right into the studio in Shoreline, WA where he slept for the next two months, and worked round the clock for the next three years, moving up to chief engineer along the way. After building his resume and sharp-
The plan was to build a top studio from scratch within the theater and then reopen the landmark to the public. It meant restoring the attractive venue to its Prohibition era glory. as an intern at the world famous Robert Lang Studios, site of Nirvana’s final recording session and the starting point of endless platinum albums that have changed the ebb and flow of Rock &
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ening his skills working on projects with household names such as Alice In Chains, Duff McKagan, and Eddie Vedder, Chip got an opportunity he couldn’t pass up. A wealthy Seattle investor
came to him with the means to resurrect the long forgotten Columbia City Theater. The plan was to build a top studio from scratch within the theater and then reopen the landmark to the public. It meant restoring the attractive venue to its Prohibition era glory. Full disclosure, when I first ran into Chip in 2006, he was producing my first album with The Staxx Brothers. By then he had already transformed the Columbia City Theater from its last life as a private raver paradise, painstakingly creating a polished and productive facility that served its community. Before he left Columbia City in 2010, he played an unheralded role in changing the face and spirit of that entire up and coming neighborhood, fondly known as the most ethnically diverse zip code in Seattle. One particular morning, I opened the back door to the alley after an all night session (Chip didn’t bother to wake me as he pushed on through till sunrise arranging horn parts for me on
piano.) As I stumbled bleary eyed into the dawn, a garbage man greeted me, telling me with enormous pride that his own brother had recorded there with Chip. He told me it meant a great deal to have a place like this available here, then with a wink and a nod emptied the garbage can and went about his day. For 10 years Chip kept the Columbia City Studio and Theater running almost round the clock, working sometimes 18 hour days, nearly 7 days a week. It was a juggle to even watch, for it wasn’t unusual to have Chip leave you for a moment to study his latest mix, while he ran upstairs to run sound for a sold out burlesque show or trapeze act. During the downturn of the music industry and the economy in general, the ownership of the theater and its recording studio changed hands a few times. In the end Chip was the odd man out, left with no other choice but to leave behind the theater he rebuilt and turn his eyes north for a chance to start over again. On April 1, 2010, he came to Everett, WA. Pete Sikov, the
man who owned the real estate where Columbia City Theater is located, gave Chip a chance to work his magic again, this time under his own name and sole ownership. He had seen what Chip could do first hand and had no doubt that with the love of another blue collar community and an understanding landlord, this kid from Detroit might be able to do for downtown Everett what the Columbia City Theater had done for its own neighborhood. Every recording studio I’ve ever visited, from a college apartment with a closet converted into a vocal booth, to a multi million dollar facility with platinum records lining the hallway, has somehow been a blend of a church, a laboratory, and a lounge. The Rec Room is an exceptional blend. Its concert seating includes black leather couches. A mural overlooks the stage and the stage itself is leopard print. On the opposite end is Chip’s new control room, and his treasured digital console from Columbia City. It’s here, that past midnight marks the end of another 18 hour day: recording a new band, hosting a concert,
often a clinic, or even a church service on Sunday. That’s when Chip can come up his back stairs and climb up the fire escape overlooking the freight trains that slice through town day and night. He can look up at the stars and be thankful. Thankful that the universe and this community has given him the opportunity to serve them each day. The Rec Room Located in Everett WA, The Rec Room is a Full-Production Facility, Showcase Venue & Ultra Lounge, as well as the home of ButterSound Recording Studios. www.recroomtickets.com
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EXPLORING LANGLEY, WASHINGTON by Cait Auer
D
rive under a canopy of heavy wooded evergreen trees before a glimpse of coastline greets you, or stretch out your arms on the deck of a ferry and fly alongside seagulls as you approach the petite historical town of Langley, WA perched on the outskirts of Whidbey Island. Welcome to a community where residents sing happy birthday to complete strangers, a variety of wildlife idly roams across blossoming vegetable gardens and sloping coastal fields, and an appreciation of great food and better company enchants a passerby.
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Whether it is fine dining, adventure, relaxation, or shoppes you are looking for, Langley, WA is full of engaging and unique experiences to be had. DOWNTOWN WATERFRONT WALK: Stroll down the blackberry bush lined trails to the waterfront walkway that is riddled with totem poles, smooth benches, broad picnic tables, and easy entrances into the Saratoga Passage for any kayaker, scuba diver, or swimmer. Spot whale pods from the shore from the end of February into early June and from October through December, and be sure to listen for the ringing whale bell on First Street. MUSIC FOR THE EYES: If your wanderlust tempts you to dream of distant shores, get your fix at Music For The Eyes- an eclectic shop filled with a vibrant array of colorful items from Asia, Africa, and parts of Europe. You’ll find rugs, jewelry, hats, slippers, purses, instruments, textiles, and more. Behind each one-of-a-kind item lies a unique story. Fred and Shannon Lundal, retired diplomats who run the shop, hand pick every product. The Lundals currently make two big trips per year, so each item is exceptionally rare. The pair has established respectful relationships with family businesses, particularly carpet makers from Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, and Iran. CLYDE THEATER: Painted robin’s egg blue with a whimsical accent of yellow stars, The Clyde Theatre resembles a magical time machine to the 1930’s when trips to the cinema were events to remember. Rose shaded curtains drape around the screen and line the interior walls of the one-room theatre, immediately setting the tone for a dignified outing at a great price. Lounge
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on plush chairs and enjoy one of today’s feature films in crystal clear sound and picture quality. Weekend showings include the typical Hollywood faire, but the theatre loves to vary its selections with interesting foreign or independent films. Owners Lynn and Blake consider the Clyde community to be family, and take extra care in accommodating respectful attendees of all ages. PRIMA BISTRO: Cozy up at the French inspired Pacific Northwest cuisine restaurant, Prima Bistro, for an intimate setting accompanied with expertly crafted small and large dishes. Whether you decide to dig into an a la carte plate of truffled wild prawns in rich honey sauce, pan fried veal sweat breads in a refreshingly sweet apricot-thyme gastrique, or Washington clams with house made chorizo bathed in a zesty white wine and tomato coulis, each dish provides bursts of complex flavors that are meant to be enjoyed slowly while accompanied with a glass of their
velvety concoction made especially by dedicated baristas. Abandon all preconceptions of coffee at the door, and taste an expertly brewed cup o’ joe.
as it is shaped and fine-tuned, and pick up the glistening fruits of your labor the next day. Schedule a day with friends and loved ones!
INN AT LANGLEY: Spoil your senses at the Inn At Langley, a luxury resort with a rustic flair, providing breathtaking views of Saratoga Passage and crisp, soothing amenities that reflect the laidback lifestyle of this quiet, calm island. After a day of plucking seashells and soft polished rocks from the shore, soak in a jetted tub or lounge on the European down-filled duvet in an oversized guestroom, suite, or cottage. Drift into a new state of relaxation and succumb to being pampered by their extensive spa services. Dine by the light of their cutting edge restaurant’s double-sided river rock fireplace. Revel in the finesse of an interactive, multicourse dinner prepared by award-winning chef Matt Costello, where every dish resembles a deliciously modern piece of art.
Whether it is fine dining, adventure, relaxation, or shoppes you are looking for, Langley, WA is full of engaging and unique experiences to be had. Witness peaceful nature in the Saratoga Woods Preserve. Horseback ride through weaving trails. Select an exceptional book from one of Langley’s bookstores and lounge in one of the many quiet havens in this town. Treasure the escape and listen to Langley’s heartbeat; if you take the time to feel it and hear it, you’ll feel relaxed and rejuvenated well after you journey home.
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Treasure the escape and listen to Langley’s heartbeat; if you take the time to feel it and hear it, you’ll feel relaxed and rejuvenated well after you journey home. superb wine. With the views of ebbing tide serving as your meal’s backdrop on their deck, let the time roll by and satisfy your taste buds. VILLAGE PIZZARIA: If you crave a tangy pizza that has just the right amount of crispy/soft dough ratio, follow the locals to Village Pizzeria and indulge in an array of savory pies washed down with their famously tasty cocktails. Don’t be afraid to get your hands messy, as the gooey cheese and overflowing toppings are quick to ooze down fingertips. USELESS BAY COFFEE: Artisanal roasted coffee is found in a quiet sanctuary where the Useless Bay Coffee Company blends into the shaded, green scenery. Learn the tricks of coffee roasting on site while sipping on a nutty,
CHOCOLATE FLOWER FARM: Treat yourself to farm-made chocolate themed products at Langley’s Chocolate Flower Farm. Take your love of chocolate to a whole new level with their candles, chocolate-colored flowers, and jams. The farm’s nursery hosts hard-to-find perennials and sultry plants that are perfect to spice up any residential backyard. CALLAHAN’S FIREHOUSE: At Callahan’s Firehouse, experience the opportunity to blow your own glass and create a curvaceous masterpiece in merely thirty minutes. The studio offers diverse possibilities for glassblowers from ages five to one hundred and five, and allows customers to engage in a centuries’ old art form while customizing their project from start to finish. Observe the glass grow soft like taffy
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A MAN NAMED
TABARI Written by Davin Michael Stedman, Photos by Todd Hobert
T
here is a painter that lives on Colby Avenue named Tabari Ahmad. He lives to paint and works full time to live; yet still daydreams about becoming a big stand up comedian like Richard Pryor. Such characteristics would not be so terribly unique if Tabari were not both deaf and, if you care to listen him, a fine storyteller. When he tells his own tale there’s a glimmer in his eye, the shine of a man that chooses to laugh instead of cry. You want to root for the the guy because it’s a hard truth that most painters that ever leave a mark on the world, will have a hard road before them or at least behind. To be worth remembering, a painter pays his dues. It’s a life suited for those brave enough to keep finding comedy in the human condition. Take for instance the true story of how Tabari Ahmad’s very first collection became a permanent fixture of the Everett community.
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The first time I hung out with Tabari we met up at Red Rocks Subs on Broadway. He brought along his 11 year old daughter, occasionally telling her ‘ear muffs’ if he anticipated we might curse (she quickly covered her ears). The first tale Tabari told me really knocked me out. He explained how one day back in 2009, he brought a few of his first pieces to his local barber shop. His barber dug his stuff. He said he had real potential. Tabari was naturally moved and with pride he hung his best work in the shop. But upon his return a few weeks later for a regular trim he discovered his paintings were gone. You see his barber was not an art dealer nor a collector. Customers came in, liked a painting, and made him an offer. The barber sold each painting like a bootleg DVD, with no overhead. When Tabari asked his barber how much money his art sold for, the gentleman shrugged and said “I dunno”. He hadn't bothered to keep track of the money. In fact,
folks that bought the art had no clue about the painter’s identity, because the pieces weren’t properly signed or priced for sale. Tabari added with a wince, then broke into a smile, “I can imagine people coming over to some guy’s house and asking ‘who painted this?’ The host just scratches his head and says, ‘I dunno". In the end Tabari traded his first art collection to his barber for a pair of free hair cuts. "Tabari is one of those people whom you know is an artist and always will be an artist. No matter what other things or jobs are going on in his life, his identity definitely stands out as an artist. In a historical context, Tabari is a contemporary artist who incorporates graffiti and a street art style to his paintings. I love how his portraits are of powerful, yet feminine black women in iconic poses. His portraits have a great energy about them, and bold use of color.” - Painter Shannon Cyphert
After enjoying pot roast subs at Red Rock, Tabari took me up to his apartment and studio on Colby to view his work up close. When we arrived his daughter sat down and jumped back to work on her latest painting. It was a touching experience watching them interact as two artists. While Eden isn’t his daughter by birth, you can see the father’s pride he takes in her progress. It’s touching how much she admires the father figure in her life. It isn’t the easiest hand being a deaf, black painter, in a town where his art is often met with tin eared remarks along the lines of suggesting that his art would sell much better at the local Art Walk, if he instead focused his efforts on painting more popular images like pretty horses, kittens, and puppies. He explains that he loves puppies, he just doesn’t paint them. But he does listen to the masters. Most painters take for granted the lessons they learn in art class, but Tabari Ahmed learned about his idols like Diego Rivera and Frieda Kahlo the same way he first learned about Biggie Smalls. From the word of his peers and word on the street. You should have seen Tabari’s eyes light up when recalled the great day he first heard about the late Haitian-American painter Jean-Michel Basquiat. For Tabari, life is good. I watched him put finishing touches on some of his favorite work on his very first canvas: repurposed wood from his days working at Dunn Lumber. He also recently saved up a couple thousand dollars to purchase a new state of the art hearing aid that allows him to interact with the world like never before. But it’s more than just about new sounds, it about an old soul. As he recalled, as his daughter smiled at him from across the room, “When I was younger I just felt so isolated with my disability, but then I discovered painting, and all these great artists like Picasso and Basquiat. And for the first time in my life, I knew I wasn’t alone. They became my friends.”
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S H O RT STO RY Expectations by Dora Bona be looking forward to the next few months, yet I feel sick with anxiety. Maybe it’s because I have no-one to share it with. I’ve been living alone since Damien left. Within a week of telling him the news, he decided he had to go and “find himself”. Two thousand kilometers away! “You’ve changed Karen” he told me. “This represents commitment and security to you and I understand that. But it’s going to change things between us.”
I
stand in front of the full-length mirror and wrap my arms around a monstrous mound of belly. I look huge. The bright red top I picked up from the op-shop this morning does nothing for me. It’s comfortable though. And God knows, a girl in this state needs comfort! I feel the urge to pitch forward, so I lean back, and stick my belly out to compensate for the weight. My back aches with the effort. I practice different poses in front of the mirror. Then I pile my curly black hair on top of my head and pout seductively. Sophisticated, sexy pregnant woman is the look I’m going for. Hairy beachball is the result. Then I muss my hair, let my shoulders droop and I lurch and heave from side to side. I practise walking up and down with a firm, springy step, head held high. That’s better. Feels good. When I’ve perfected my walk, I shower and dress. I struggle into a pair of sensible black leggings with a stretchy front panel. I pull the tent-like top over my head and step into black sandshoes. A splash of bright red lipstick and voila! I look like Roseanne on a bad day. Over a cup of coffee, I consider the direction my life is about to take. I’m supposed to be feeling excitement, but instead I feel trepidation. I should
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Thinking about this now, it makes me laugh. My best friend Sherry tells me she’s heard that he’s shacked up with some dancer in Perth. And guess what. She’s expecting his baby! I could have moved back in with mum I suppose, but I think I was born with this independent streak. Mum worries about me. “How are you going to manage the early mornings? You’ve never been a morning person Karen” she fusses. I tell her it’s going to be okay. I’ll manage. I finish my coffee. It’s early but I don’t want to miss the bus and be late for my appointment. It’s a crisp, golden morning. People glance at my belly as I make my way down the street to the bus stop and I feel a little self conscious. It’s interesting to watch the look on their faces and I wonder what they’re all thinking. Maybe they think I look a little young to be pregnant. Perhaps my jaunty walk and radiant smile reflects the excitement I feel about what’s to come. Half an hour later, I arrive at the office of Blake Jones, whom I’ve come to know
well over the last few months. The receptionist scrutinizes me as always through little square, wire-framed spectacles, perched on the end of her nose. “He’ll be with you shortly. Please take a seat” There are two other young women like me in the waiting room. They also look uncomfortable as they half sit, half lie on the lumpy waiting room couch. We exchange nervous nods. Then Blake Jones appears at the door of his office. He points to me. “Come on in Karen” So I follow him in. Uneasy. I remember what my drama teacher once told me in school. Whenever you’re nervous, take a deep breath and focus on any object in the room. Block everything else out. It helps you relax. I focus on Blake Jones’ head. Wispy little strands of remnant red hair have
been combed creatively across in a vain attempt to hide the patch that is so conspicuously unadorned. It helps. *** Later in the evening, I sit cross-legged on my bed and sip chilled champagne. It’s an extravagance in which I don’t normally indulge. The phone rings. “Well?” says Sherry “Well what?” I ask innocently “Don’t DO this to me Karen. How did it go? What did he say? Did you make it through the final audition? Did they do the screen test? Did you get the lead for heavens sake!” My smile fills the empty room. “You mean the lead part of a young girl who agrees to be a surrogate mother in Blake Jones latest telemovie? The part
that will earn me $150,000 for three months work and skyrocket me - I hope - to fame and fortune? Is that the part you mean?” Sherry shrieks. “You GOT THE PART!” We talk for over an hour. Afterwards, I fumble with the tape that holds on my padded belly and I toss the thing on the floor. Even though I’m supposed to wear it for as long as possible each day, it’s a relief to get it off. I wonder how women who are really pregnant cope with what must be constant discomfort. I think about my day. The most wonderful day of my life. And I read the contract I’ve just signed with Blake Jones Productions. I know that I’ll have to be up at dawn every morning, and the hours will be long, but I’m ready. Perhaps it’s the champagne, but I just know I have that special glow. 26
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C
urtains pass over my head and the walls bleed sound. An organ has eaten into the stage, a Wurlitzer 2-manual 7-rank style D-2 ‘special,’ a master of machination within the walls, an orchestra of keys and pedals, of strings and pipes and percussion, of two hands and two feet. Above the antique Wurlitzer hangs a sleek digital screen, a recent addition that marries history with modern technology. Envisioned by Edwin A. Halberg and summoned through the mind of architect William Aitken, The Lincoln Theatre breathed its first light in 1926. A period theater in the Spanish style, it was somewhat of an oddity in the Northwest, at a time when more exotic styles were in fashion. Built in down-
town Mount Vernon, it housed silent films while also providing a stop between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. for performers on the vaudeville circuit. The Argus, a newspaper published out of Burlington, WA reported on May 13, 1926: “Nothing like it has ever been constructed before...the theatrical world is sitting back astounded.” The room hums. Surfaces are clad in deep reds, browns and black, transporting me outside of reality even before the show starts. Every surface is a memory of a time when aesthetics didn’t hide function but entangled it. Soft light glows from lamps hung under a slightly domed auditorium ceiling painted sky blue and white. Finding a seat within so many does not make me
feel alone. I am walking through a place possessed with great intent and history. The organ continues to play. One of only two of it’s model, the ‘mighty Wurlitzer’ is something of an artifact, purchased in 1926 for $22,500. It sits front and center on the stage whenever its services aren’t necessary. Today it is brought to life by Glen, one of three volunteer organists that often provide music in the half-hour leading up to a
The Lincoln has been maintained through preservation and restoration, retaining it’s appearance over 88 years. Resurrected as a community arts center in the 90’s after an extended closure throughout the late 80’s, it has found continued community support and development. This was highlighted yet again in 2013 after a successful drive to fund the purchase and installation of the digital projector and file server needed to screen the newest films.
The room hums. Surfaces are clad in deep reds, browns and black, transporting me outside of reality even before the show starts. show. Upon completion he exits with only the slightest affirmation of the applause he is receiving, vanishing stage right. Slowly the room fades, and the lamps dim to only the softest of red light. The walls pull away and images begin to move across the screen.
The lights come up, the room returns, and I remember what it actually feels like to watch a film in a theatre. Even after the bombardment of car engines, the clap of my leather soles on sidewalk, the sights of an enduring downtown, the theatre still holds onto me. It’s shape may get lost in the mass of
blocky architecture, the brick and concrete and glass that has encased everything in sight. But it still rests, somewhere in there, patiently waiting. At the height of its popularity, the Lincoln theatre transported patrons with ambiance as well as entertainment. In its latest incarnation, it continues to inspire visitors with beautiful architecture and carefully chosen films and stage performances. Independent films are usually shown Friday through Monday, along with high-definition broadcasts from the Metropolitan Opera and National Theatre Live during the week. The Lincoln is also host to musical performances from both local and touring acts along with assorted community events. More information can be found at www.lincolntheatre.org/home
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POETRY a bubble For Jan
in your eyes
the goldfinch-song turns into
a streak of green dappled
sunlight
your smile spreads warmly
the goldfinch’s song
lodges in
my heart as
tiny darts
of
sungolden silken
“now” Thom
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I live life beautiful. Hecht Aesthetic Center helps me get there.
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HONEYMOON MEAD & CIDER by Colleen Harper
D
own a dark alley in downtown Bellingham, you’ll find a delightfully warming Autumn secret: Honey Moon’s hot spiced mead. Hand crafted meads blend with house-made cider and signature mulling spices to create a beverage that immerses the senses from the moment you take it into your hand to the very last sip. The aroma is bright citrus greeting you like a warm summer’s day; make sure to relish a good long sniff before you delve into this full bodied draught. Clove, cinnamon and star anise flavors from Wassail mead and fresh mulling spices strike the palate first, then the earthy and delicate floral flavors of Lovers mead. Bitter orange peel from Orange mead balances a syrupy body and the sweetness of cider. A lingering, strong finish pleasantly warms both the belly and the cheeks. At somewhere around 10% ABV (the meads clock in at 13.5%-13.8%, and the cider at 5.9%) you will feel the heat warming you from the inside out long after your final taste. The Honey Moon meadery, like its hot spiced mead, is not for the faint of heart; you must go on a bit of a hunt to get there. Located in Bellingham’s burgeoning alley district, you’ll have to park your car
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and proceed on faith (or google maps), but the extra effort only makes the mead that much sweeter. Sometimes, waterproof outerwear and woolen accessories are just not enough to ward off the penetrating damp and cold of the Northwest. On these days, a mug of hot spiced mead can warm your body while it reminds your soul that summer’s blooming flowers and honey flows promise to come again. Where: 1053 N State Street Alley, Bellingham, Washington in the alley connecting Maple and Chestnut streets, adjacent to the Bellingham Farmers Market Depot. When: 5-11 Monday-Saturday Find more information at www.honeymoonmeads.com
L I B AT I O N S by Anna Minkler You may have noticed in the past few years microbreweries seem to be springing up all over the place. Porters, IPA’s, ESB’s, APA’s, berliner weisses, hefeweizens, altbiers, English ales, strong ales, red ales, imperial stouts, barleywines: a fledgling beer drinker is likely to drown in the midst of all these choices before they can order their first drink So what’s all the hype about? We went to the experts in the industry and asked: What does a newcomer to this endless world of options need to know to enjoy a good microbrew? “Start with a lighter craft beer and slowly move up the food chain to the most aggressive one until you find one you like. Don’t expect that to be your favorite beer forever. Your tastes will mature and you’ll start enjoying more complex, aggressive beers.”
You won’t know what you do (and don’t) like until you try! Malt forward beers will tend to be mellower, while hop forward beers showcase bitterness. There are sour beers, mellow beers, nutty beers, and fruity beers. If you just want a fizzy, light, refreshing beer, a pilsner or a hefeweizen will do the trick. Micro beer is as diverse in flavors and characteristics as wine. You might like a bright fruity Zinfandel, but hate a dry, oaky Chardonnay. Just because you don’t enjoy one micro beer, does not mean you will not enjoy another. Be adventurous, and ask your bartender or server questions; they will be happy to share their knowledge. Cheers!
- Phil Bannan, owner Scuttlebutt Brewery “Don’t start with a double IPA or an Imperial Stout. Get a sampler. Don’t be biased based on color. There are a lot of different flavors to explore. Have fun!” - Brian Cardwell, Head Brewer, Chuckanut Brewery “There is a huge range of flavors in beer. Spend some time sampling a wide range of styles to find what you like.” - Justin Bajema, Certified Cicerone and a BJCP National Beer Judge. “Let Loose! Every brewery is differentthere really is something for every taste bud. The spectrum of hoppyness and lightness and maltiness is wide. You have to step out of your comfort zone.” - Casey Diggs, Operations Manager Boundary Bay Brewery
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by Stacy Reynolds
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I
t’s hard to find a place that isn’t “hooked in” to the hub and the buzz of our networked society. It’s hard to get away from being connected to the present moment of the rest of the world. For me, it can get in the way of vacations. I bring all the busy and distracting parts of life with me—my phone, my laptop—that inevitably become a tether to all the things I wanted a vacation from in the first place. How can you truly enjoy a “getaway” if you can’t get away? It starts with a mansion on an island. Orcas Island, to be exact. It’s an incredible piece of nature nestled in the San
Juan archipelago. Sloping forests are separated by rolling fields. The agricultural sea towns of Orcas Island are completely removed from the pace of the rest of the world. It’s an island-wide attitude. You know you are getting close to the Moran estate when the landscape starts to change. The wild beauty slowly shifts to thoughtfully kept grounds, building anticipation of something beautiful the closer you get to the Mansion. A grassy roundabout surrounded by an impossibly large ship chain pulls your eye up to an incredible building that looks like a ship, ready to pull out to sea. It’s once copper roof,
The wild beauty slowly shifts to thoughtfully kept grounds, building anticipation of something beautiful the closer you get to the Mansion.
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now sea green with patina, caps plaster white walls with porthole windows at the top. The building is grand, and yet simple in nature. Moran Mansion was built in the first decade of the 20th century by Seattle Shipbuilder and Mayor Robert Moran. The main building, now a museum, showcases historic photos from the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, as well as a collection of ships built by the Moran Brothers Company and exquisite original architecture. The building is alive with history. The Mansion overlooks the water, and while immense, it’s impact on the environment feels natural. Harmony between art and nature is part of the essence of what makes Moran Mansion so special. Robert Moran was very passionate about creating a space that celebrated the craftsmanship of man while respecting the beauty of nature. You can see it in the small details of the mansion: the large, yet simple, mahogany doors hanging on hinges only found in large vessels, or the windowed views of nature that hang on the wall like pieces of art. The Moran Estate is a fully functioning resort, complete with an incredible restaurant, lounge, spa, and a variety of outdoor amenities. Enjoy brunch or dinner created from local and farm fresh foods by a world class chef with a stunning view of the Cascade Bay. Swim in either the family or adult pools, play a game of tennis, or relax in their high end spa. If you are adventure minded, Moran State Park right next door has acres of wilderness and miles of trails. In the 1930’s, the army corp of engineers build an impressive observation tower at the top of Mount Constitution. Climb to the top, and you will experience breathtaking 360 degree views of the Canadian Rockies, Cascade Mountain range, and the entire San Juan archipelago.
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I finished out my night with the best Manhattan I have ever tasted. Rosario blends, casks, and ages signature bourbon blends in house. Every cocktail on the menu was interesting and well thought out. Speaking with the bartender, I learned more about bourbon than I could have imagined there was to know. The lounge was cozy and chic, like a good friends living room, with a relaxed and fun atmosphere. I was continually impressed with the knowledge and service of the staff, and the permeating ambiance of the building itself. Did I mention there’s no reception? Really, there isn’t any once you reach the grounds. Not even a weak signal. While they do have free wireless internet, the absence of data at my fingertips was the tipping point that made my experience so incredible. There were no distractions. Nothing to break the spell cast by Rosario. I was completely immersed in the history of the building and the beauty of nature, and forgot that I had left the rest of the world at home. I was truly on vacation. Rosario Resort: 1400 Rosario Rd Eastsound, WA 98245 360-376-2222 www.rosarioresort.com
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BE CONNECTED
Open Daily: 9am to 5pm 904 Potter St., Bellingham Download our free app to access maps and coupons. SEARCH: Bellingham Experience
Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism provides great resources for local venues, shopping and recreation; including maps, an online events calendar, and extensive lodging options. Learn more on our website, by phone or in person.
800.487.2032 | bellingham.org
CROSSING
FREE TRAVEL
Magazine
PRESENTS
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IMAGINE CHILDREN’S
MUSEUM by Lorraine Wilde
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I
n historic downtown Everett, WA, an hour and a half south of the Peace Arch on US I-5, and only five minutes from Seattle Premium Outlets and Tulalip Casino, Imagine Children’s Museum offers fun, educational hands-on exhibits perfect for the growing minds of 1to 12-year-olds. Imagine’s website provides a virtual tour of their 3700+ m2 (40,000+ ft2) of displays on three levels. The toughest decision for my twin ten-year-olds was where to go first. “The Wildlife Clinic and Piccolo Italian Café are among our most popular exhibits,” says Business Manager LynnDee Blair. The Clinic teaches about injured, orphaned, and contaminated animals through wildlife puppets, x-rays, lab coats, and a working microscope. In Piccolo’s, adults become the customers while kids cook, concierge, and serve pretend cuisine.
“The Lodge Exhibit is a parent favorite,” says Marketing Manager Kimberlee Valvick. “Its interactive exhibits connect play to real life situations. Kids learn creatively while taking away new skills that parents appreciate.” On the day of our visit The Lodge was staged for camping with blanket teepees, a boat launch, and a building area with meter-length Lincoln Logs. “Dad’s love this area and the Construction Zone,” says Valvick. My super-hubby, Mike Duryee, played with our boys for over an hour in the Construction Zone and Art Studio on the Lower Level, which also includes an eating area. “I like that you bring your own food and drink instead of paying movie-theatre prices for junk food,” says Duryee.
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Creative Outlets:“The Lower Level is ever changing,” says Valvick. “We bring in guest artists, speakers, and storytellers for interactive learning and fun in our classrooms and Art Studio.” The Studio features a craft activity that changes daily, often using recycled/ repurposed materials. “We like to tie our activity to special days on the calendar,” says Valvick. We went on Canada Day and made Thread Spool Beavers from paper, spools, pom poms, and markers. Tuesday Tales events also showcase a guest children’s author and related craft project. My boys also enjoyed the interactive Music Exhibit, composing their own electronic percussion pieces by passing their hands through light beams. The large Rooftop Rhythms xylophone collection will also satisfy your young musician. The Theatre Exhibit, with a stage and capes, was a hit with my little performer. He ate up the instant feedback from the closed-circuit TV. Even my guy with stage fright experimented behind the scenes with the kid-friendly lighting and sound. Wee Ones: Imagine is prepared for tiny ones too. A separate seashore-themed toddler area provides safe play for the three and under set. Multiple large family restrooms are spread throughout the museum, and they’ve considered cleanliness as well. “All toys and surfaces are sanitized daily,” says Blair. There are also several exhibits just right for younger visitors. Rise and Shine Farm includes a real tractor, ready-toride saddle, and a life-size milkable cow. The Airline Exhibit allows your little one to become pilot, passenger, or flight attendant. The train lover in your family (young or old) will enjoy the Everett & Monte Cristo Railroad Exhibit with information about Everett railroad investors and founders Charles Colby and Colgate Hoyt alongside an enclosed electric train set and hands-on wooden railway. The Air Maze, an intricate system of tubes, blows colorful scarves high into the air at toddler speed, while PJ’s
Place provides a quieter escape for a quick read of a children’s book. Rambunctious?: There is nothing sedate about this museum. The rooftop Tall Timbers Lookout is a safe but expansive play structure to wear out your wild child before that car ride home. The Dino Dig exhibit was newly refurbished this summer and allows young archaeologists to excavate fossils and play among dinosaur skeletons. Getting There: Imagine is easily reached via US I-5 from the Peace Arch just 140 km (87 miles) south, only a couple of turns off Exit 194 Everett Avenue. There is free on-street 90-minute parking or $3 for three hours or after 6 PM ($8 all day) at the adjacent parking garage on Colby Avenue. An elevator is available upon request for disabled access and stroller parking is just inside the entrance. Special Events: Imagine has two birthday rooms for your special day, plus on-site Discovery Camps, Summer Camps, and school outreach programs that keep 639 volunteers, several interns, and a highly trained staff of educators busy throughout the year. The exit through the gift shop wasn’t painful either, providing the usual alongside wildlife puppets and a solid collection of science educational kits. I appreciated that we went on a weekday, with lighter crowds. After running full steam for two and a half hours, my boys still didn’t want to leave. Imagine Children’s Museum is sure to nourish creativity in kids and parents alike.
Imagine Children’s Museum 1502 Wall Street Everett, WA 98201 425-258-1006 www.imaginecm.org
Northwest Ballet Theater:
It’s a holiday tradition for our family. Every year for the last 15 years, we have attended Northwest Ballet’s performance of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. This year you can find your new family ritual at the Mount Baker Theater, McIntyre Hall and the Port Angeles Performing Art Center. 1417 Cornwall Ave #201, Bellingham, WA - (360) 714-1246
www.northwestballet.org 1417 Cornwall Ave #201, Bellingham, WA 98225 - (360) 714-1246
John Bishop ~ Artistic Director
THE
Dracula
Nutcracker
g
Sleeping
THE
A Curse, a Kiss and Magic!
(360) 714-1246
info@northwestballet.org
THE TRAIN WRECK BAR & GRILL
W
by Marisa Papetti
e stopped at the Train Wreck Bar & Grill for breakfast in Burlington, WA on our way east to the gorgeous North Cascade National Park. It’s an odd shaped brick building, long and narrow, standing alone next to the train tracks on Fairhaven Ave, just a few blocks off Highway 20. I knew immediately that we had chosen a great breakfast venue: most of the tables were full of comfortable looking locals at 10am on a Wednesday morning. The interior is casual and clean, with exposed brick and beautifully finished wood tables supported by natural form stumps. We got coffee first, and when I mentioned how good it was to our server Heidi she explained that they roast it themselves, just down the road. I ordered a Monte Cristo and my companion ordered smoked beef brisket
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hash and a side of biscuits and gravy. My Monte Cristo was a twist on the classic, with three slices of French toast, grilled ham, Swiss cheese and two eggs cooked to order inside. I usually prefer my Monte Cristos fried whole in French toast batter, but the strawberry chili and mango mojo dipping sauces more than made up for that deviation from tradition. The smoked brisket hash was delicious too, with caramelized onions, peppers, and hand cut potatoes, and the biscuits were clearly made from scratch. I eyeballed a “train wreck” Bloody Mary on its way to another lucky customer, it was a quart mason jar, with skewers of vegetables, breakfast sliders, and other goodies protruding out in all directions like a breakfast bouquet. If I wasn’t already stuffed, I may have ordered one for myself.
We enjoyed our breakfast so much, that on our way back down from the mountains, we stopped in again to get a look at the dinner menu, and share some appetizers. The place was
(when we could grab her attention for a few seconds amidst the chaos of a packed bar.) Molly informed us that, in addition to roasting their own coffee, the Train Wreck bakes all of their own
We enjoyed our breakfast so much, that on our way back down from the mountains, we stopped in again to get a look at the dinner menu, and share some appetizers. packed, and we were lucky to grab two stools at the bar. We ordered bacon wrapped, cream cheese stuffed jalapenos, Dungeness crab shooters with horseradish cocktail sauce, and buffalo style ‘wings’ that were actually sauce coated popcorn style chicken. We chose beers from a great tap selection of local and regional microbrews and chatted up the bar manager Molly
Important note: This is a bar, and is only open to patrons 21 and up at all hours of the day. Contact Information 427 East Fairhaven Ave Burlington, WA 98233 360-755-0582 www.trainwreckbar.com
breads, smokes their own meat, and actively supports community events and organizations. These guys are not messing around. The food is excellent, locally sourced when possible, prepared in house (no flash-frozen mozzarella sticks here) and served beautifully in an unpretentious and welcoming atmosphere.
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- BELLINGHAM’S BEST KEPT SECRET -
We do
Al & M teratio ore! ns
Vibrant Urban Living
BLACK MARKET BOUTIQUE 2010 N State St Bellingham, WA 360-756-9440
Explore an eccentric collection of clothing & accessories spanning a century of fashion, where vintage and contemporary items come together to create a timeless assortment of beautiful, well made, unique garments that inspire individuality.
Golden Era Elegance with Modern Green Practices
360.733.3500 • 1224 Cornwall Ave. Bellingham www.leopoldretirement.com
The North Fork Brewery:
One of our favourite spots, hit it up after a long day of boarding or just to get out of the cold. While lively Led Zeppelin fills the air, a dancing Vicki Savage hands you a pint of small batch micro brew and a mouthwatering slab of New York style pizza. 6186 Mt. Baker Highway, Deming, WA - 360-599-BEER
Clothing and Accessories: Yeagers Sporting Goods Bellingham, WA Style by: Heather Hulbert of Models NW 48
SEMIAHMOO RESORT:
RE-MODELED, RE-INVIGORATED & RE-INSPIRED by Megs Thompson
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S
teering my Volvo along Semiahmoo Parkway, the thin strip of pavement separating Semiahmoo Bay from the somewhat calmer waters of Drayton Harbor, I’m always struck by the simple natural beauty of this place I call home. It serves as a yellow brick road of sorts, leading from the real world into the wondrous and magical world of Oz, or in our case, Washington’s Seaside Retreat, the Semiahmoo Resort. Making my way around the circular drive and into the parking lot I could tell already that calling the resorts recent renovations a “face-lift” was short-selling the amazing work that’s been completed, and in some places, is still in the process. (I was told there were crews on site at all times, working silently behind the scenes to swap new furniture pieces in for the old, and replacing the existing carpet with a deep blue hued design made from recycled fishing nets. I can honestly say that I saw only one workman, and heard nothing my entire stay.) Already, the resorts new owners, Wright Hotels, Inc. have spent over $9 million dollars completely renovating the locally adored Packers Oyster Bar, as well as creating a brand new restaurant, Pierside Kitchen, whose focus is on bringing fresh ingredients and succulent flavors from our local farms, directly to the table, or fork. (Is it just me, or does the phrase “Farm to Fork” sound much catchier than the more common “Farm to Table?”) From my first step inside the lobby, I was impressed by the absolute delight of every employee I encountered. They not only exuded confidence and pride in their resort, but also an irrepressible admiration for the management and new owners and their unwavering devotion to transforming the Semiahmoo Resort into the luxury destination and venue it’s meant to be. I spent my afternoon feeling much like a carefree slug after receiving the most relaxing and intense massage I have ever experienced. It was obvious I was in amazingly capable hands, and it took all of my willpower to move from my private treatment room back towards the relaxation area for fresh lemon water, and into the sauna to further melt away any remaining stress or tension. In an attempt to wake myself back up, not fully, but at least enough to carry on a conversation, I made my way into Packers Oyster Bar and had the pleasure of meeting its resident
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barkeep, DJ Riemers. A true magician behind the bar, Riemers’ current cocktail menu features a variety of creative drinks named for songs by the uniquely eccentric Tom Waits. I enjoyed the gin based “Hell Broke Luce” (delicious) as well as their most popular beverage, “Hoist That Rag,” a well shaken combination of basil vodka, lemon, rosemary simple syrup, and cucumber juice. Mixmaster Riemers (his official title is Beverage Director) also invited me to sample one of his newest creations, the “Cyclops,” which will be appearing alongside a handful of other X-Men themed beverages on the forthcoming fall cocktail menu. Describing the Cyclops with actual words (as opposed to sound effects of an agreeable nature) is not an easy task. Each sip is packed with the essence of fall; the spices, the crispness of the weather, and the comfort found in a thick pair of socks while
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lounging beside a crackling fire. I joked (all right, I wasn’t really joking) with Mr. Riemers about a scheme to bring a few friends along on my next visit, smuggling pumpkins in our handbags, to carve while sipping a round or two of Cyclops’, responsibly of course.
pino, made from fresh Penn Cove mussels, manila clams, chorizo, jumbo prawns, and a perfectly spiced sauce of tomato, bell pepper, saffron, garlic, shallots, and rouille aioli cooked to perfection, and the Chorizo Prawn Pizza, topped with fresh tomato, arugula, and
From my first step inside the lobby, I was impressed by the absolute delight of every employee I encountered. They not only exuded confidence and pride in their resort, but also an irrepressible admiration for the management and new owners. Bellying up to the beautiful bar in the Pierside Kitchen, I conversed with the chefs as they skillfully prepared everything from cedar plank salmon, to halibut and artichokes within their woodfire oven (not just for pizza anymore). I was unable to decide between the Ciop-
extra virgin olive oil (two of the kitchens best sellers.) Thankfully, I was treated to an absolutely taste bud tingling degustation menu, allowing me to sample 7 of the kitchens impeccable dishes, as well as an array of wine and
spirits that were paired so perfectly with each course that I found myself questioning if Christopher, my palates tour guide through the meal, was actually reading my mind.
(at the time of course), specially designed fish cleaning machines, as well as countless women who spent long days packing the thousands of pounds of salmon that were hauled in.
Midway through the meal, I was encouraged to make my way out onto the deck and experience what can only be described as a stupefying end of brilliant sunset. I was told later that every night, many of the dinner guests leave their tables, and return to their meals only once the show is over.
The Semiahmoo Resort is a spacious venue situated in what I believe to be the perfect location, surrounded on three sides by water, with breathtaking views of Point Roberts and White Rock, BC, as well as numerous local wildlife including porpoises, blue herons, orcas on occasion, and most recently a newborn seal pup, too young yet to open his eyes. The Resort at Semiahmoo really is the premier full-service Northwest destination for weekend getaways, company meetings, weddings, golfing, and exploring the natural beauty that surrounds us.
Many of the existing buildings that make up the Semiahmoo Resort, which first opened in 1986, date back to the early 1900’s when the location was the Alaska Packers Assoc. Cannery. It’s hard to imagine, until you see the pictures, how the phenomenal destination resort that now boasts 212 luxurious yet comforting guest rooms and suites, once housed an array of new-fangled
For More Info, visit: www.semiahmoo.com 9565 Semiahmoo Pkwy Blaine, WA 98230 For Reservation, call: 855.917.376
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THERE’S SOMETHING by Ramona Abbott
I
am sitting atop a camel, riding in a surprisingly smooth gliding motion, gazing towards the horizon, where I see six camels scattered across my field of vision. The sun is beaming down, it is verging on hot, and I peer into the distance to see‌ what is most decidedly not the Gobi Desert. No, I am in Whatcom County, looking out towards white-capped Mt. Baker, and being regaled on the history, habits and fine points of camels, dromedaries and other ungulates. I am at Camel Safari, started and run by Guy Seeklus: a man with a mission,
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boundless enthusiasm and 25 or so camels. When his young daughter wanted an alpaca, he researched them, and on the way to that decision, found himself fascinated with the Bactrian camel. This led to a farm in Whatcom County filled with the delightful creatures, a tiny room filled with vintage camel saddles from all over the world, and one of the most unusual attractions in the area. Camels get a bad rap: lots of stories feature their bad temper, spitting and kicking. However, at Camel Safari, I saw nothing of the like. However, as I
ABOUT C AMELS
walked around the (wonderfully clean and tidy) barns, I did clearly hear Chewbacca’s roar. Turns out that a camel was one of the many animal sounds amalgamated as parts of Chewbacca’s “speech.” In fact, one of the denizens of the farm is named after that famous Wookie.
Here are some of the fun facts I learned about camels:
Native to the steppes of Central Asia, the Bactrian is classified as critically endangered, with an estimated population of less than a thousand truly wild remaining. Far more exist as domesticated animals.
Camels do not store water specifically in their humps. The humps are filled with fat, so a well-nourished camel will have plump, erect humps. As resources decline, the camel will lose weight and girth all over, and the humps will fall over to the side.
Having trouble remembering which animal (dromedary or camel) has one hump or two? Turn the initial letter on its side: Dromedaries have one; Bactrian camels have two.
A wild Bactrian camel can live up to 50 years. In captivity, they typically live 20-40 years. Their long eyelashes and sealable nostrils help keep out sand and dust from the sandstorms in their native areas. When truly thirsty, they can drink up to 15 gallons in a go, and fast! While they are primarily herbivorous, they can eat virtually anything, including rope and very thorny items. (Their mouths are lined with special protection against such things, so no harm comes
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to them if they eat, say, Himalayan blackberries or the like. I was tempted to ask if I could rent some to clear my property.) They love, love, love carrots, and will nibble them ever-so-gently from your hand. They have a bifurcated (split) upper lip which feels like soft velvet when they do so. They shed in the most bizarre pattern you’ve ever seen, with entire panels of fur
and effort. They have what resemble hard calluses on each of their legs as well as another one under their belly, where each area typically rests on the ground. This protects them and makes it comfy in a variety of climates, particularly snow, where they prevent the body mass from getting too cold. Whatever the weather extreme, they can sit in one place comfortably and nibble on whatever’s within reach – whether grass, or snow.
I am in Whatcom County, looking out towards whitecapped Mt. Baker, and being regaled on the history, habits and fine points of camels, dromedaries and other ungulates. peeling off at once. This again resembles something out of a Star Wars film. In fact, I left Camel Safari quite convinced George Lucas had spent some quality time with camels before he wrote his opus. Due to their resource-poor natural environments, camels are all about saving energy
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Riding a camel is a delightful surprise. Camel Safari provides an easy stair arrangement to make getting on and off very simple. Their gait is like a horse, if a horse sailed more smoothly across the land. It’s almost a glide, and it is both relaxing and comfortable.
Camel Safari: 5435 Sand Rd. Bellingham, WA 98226 800-836-4036 www.camelsafari.com
WhatcomArtistStudioTour 2014
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Opening the studio doors of Whatcom County artists for twenty years. Come see where creativity begins...
First 2 weekends in October Oct. 4,5 & 11,12 The more studios you visit the greater your chance to win a piece of artwork! Opening Reception at the Jansen Art Center Thursday October 2, 6-8pm Artwork displayed from October 2 - December 15 An Exhibit at the Book Fare CafĂŠ Artwork displayed from September 1 - September 27 www.studiotour.net
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POETRY Penelope by Greg Lane Stand here betwixt you and me
Penelope
I see both Sundays spread on Wednesday
Penelope!
Let’s eat up the dreams, Penelope
I got pygmy whales falling from our yellow sky
We’re looking for the eighth day and running with ghost seals Standing here betwixt you and me let’s eat up the dreams, Penelope I see both Sundays This place without definition and all connotation the sea of our decade-long dance Mute to song, mute to song I got tiny white crabs swimming in my head, Ohhhhh Penelope! When we going to find the eighth day? Come with me, Penelope Let’s go break masons in the alley where pieces of our song float with pedals and toenails Pedals and toenails We’ll smash from here to both Sundays, crushing the place betwixt you and me Oh…Penelope Penelope
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I see both Sundays Standing in the dive with a 40 and a malfunctioning power converter Call me a scruffy nerf herder, Penelope!!! Eighth day, eighth day Eighth day, eighth day Eighth day, eighth day Eighth day, eighth day I see both Sundays Set sail with me Penelope and eat dreams on the bow Watch them drip Watch them drip Watch them drrrriiipppp Blue, Yellow, Red—these are the sounds of eating dreams, Penelope!
Models Northwest • Model & Talent Management • Bookings • Workshops • Fashion Productions • Event Coordination
www.models-northwest.com
360-305-0106 114 W Magnolia St, St 506 Bellingham, WA 98225 Photography by: Courtney Bowlden (top) Oveth Martinez (middle) • Maegan Hay Imaging (bottom)
DAT EN IGH T DOWNTOWN BELLINGHA M by Marisa Papetti
Chocolate Necessities/Idiom Theater/Temple Bar: A dramatic date for artists, eccentrics and romantics Summer’s long walks and romantic beach lounging sessions have passed, and suddenly planning a date, with a new crush or an old flame, becomes a little more challenging. Never fear, Date Night has you covered. We plan perfect dates, so you don’t have to! You’ll want to buy your tickets in advance for this date, as shows often sell out in this intimate theater. For current shows and tickets, along with more Idiom Theater information, go to www.idiomtheater. com or find them on Facebook. Also look for weekly listings in the Cascadia Weekly and the Bellingham Herald’s Take 5. The Idiom Theater is nestled down the hallway between the Pickford Limelight Cinema and Allied Arts at 1418 Cornwall Avenue. On a cozy fall night in Bellingham, taking a stroll downtown is reminiscent of an autumn eve in New York City - provided you have enough imagination to fantasize you are a block away from the tallest of tall skyscrapers and bustling taxi traffic. Start your date by parking downtown; there is metered street parking all over, but Railroad Ave has the highest concentrations. Metered parking is free in downtown Bellingham after 5pm, and all day weekends. Leave your vehicle behind and you can wander around the heart of downtown, peeking in shop windows and enjoying the fall colors of the many street side planters and maple trees. If you planned an extra 30-45 minutes before the show, head next door to Chocolate Necessities (1426 Cornwall Ave) where
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you can enjoy a warm and delightful mug of drinking chocolate, a dish of house-made gelato, or purchase truffles to enjoy during the show. With an unassuming single door entrance off Cornwall Avenue, the Idiom Theater is a hidden gem, full of local independent creativity, from the comical to the dramatic, and is a great spot for a dose of the intellectual. The Idiom Theater began its 13th season at the end of August 2014. Self-proclaimed “the hardest working theater in the known world,” the theater has provided the community with a healthy mix of locally written material since it was founded in 2001. With shows almost every weekend, the theater is home to works by local performers, collaborators and writers. The Idiom has limited seating in an elevated half circle around the stage. There are no bad seats in this playhouse: each audience member will be able to clearly see and hear the actors from any seat. A great compliment to any night of quality local theater is a classic cocktail. Or two. The Temple Bar, with a classy candle-lit atmosphere, is an intimate, beautiful bar made for quiet conversations. There is no need to drive over and struggle with finding a new parking spot, just head on foot a few blocks to 306 Champion St. They offer a delectable, locally-sourced and seasonally rotating food menu, including items such as daily gratin specials, small plates, tasty grilled sandwiches, meat
and cheese plates and delicious desserts. I suggest ordering a series of hors d’ourves, including a cheese or antipasto plate. What could be more romantic than nibbling decadent snacks off of a shared plate while you discuss interpretations of the nights performance?
'Nuff Said'
Temple Bar offers a plethora of fancy cocktails and an excellent wine list. The ever-evolving wine list has a quality selection of red, white and rosé from around the world with something for everyone. There is also a well-rounded selection of bottled beer, including local favorite Boundary Bay Brewery’s IPA, Stella Artois and a Canadian brewed Belgian-style Unibroue Maudite, to name a few. As far as cocktails go, some choices worth mentioning are the French 75, a light and bubbly gin cocktail; the Sally Tomato, a spinoff of a Bloody Mary with house infused roasted vegetable and jalapeno vodka; and Sam’s whiskey sour, a bourbon classic with a twist of fresh citrus and brown sugar. Daily happy hour is another Temple Bar perk, every day from 3pm to close and all day Sunday. Temple Bar’s happy hour has been voted the best in Bellingham five years in a row by Cascadia Weekly readers.
Total Date Costs: Chocolate Necessities: $10-$15 USD for two drinking chocolates or gelatos and a few truffles for the show. Idiom theater: tickets range from $10-$20 per show, so expect to pay about $30 USD for two tickets Temple Bar: Two cocktails and cheese/antipasto plate $50 USD (gratuity added) Total date budget: $100 (you’ll have enough for a second round of cocktails if you wish) Treating your companion to a night of local culture, intelligent discussion, decadent treats, and world class cocktails? Priceless. Do you have a great date to recommend? email: editor@thecrossingguide.com
The North ForK Beer Shrine, Brewery, Pizzeria, Wedding Chapel and Power Station 6186 Mt. Baker Hwy at Milepost 21 Beautiful Suburban Deming 360-599-BEER (2337)
BOOKS
Revival Read A Long Fatal Love Chase by Louisa May Alcott. You know her from Little Women, but who knew that Alcott wrote romantic-Gothic-thrillers? This story follows the young and innocent Rosamond as she is swept away, betrayed and stalked by her first love. Written two years before Little Women this story is an odd yet fulfilling mixture of Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights; but with the fast pace of an All-American action story. It is easy and addict-
ive to read, and the characters are relatable, complex and believable. It is a wonderfully dark story, shockingly told by the usually wholesome Alcott, and an interesting read for its disparity with her stories. *This title went unpublished in Alcott’s time because it was not suitable for the public due to “sensual” content. Perfect for fans of gothic novels like The Bronte’s and Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca.
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Nonfiction
Kids
Fiction
Liar, Temptress, Soldier,Spy by Karen Abbott. Known for her history books Sin In The Second City and American Rose, Abbott returns to tackle females undercover during the American Civil War. The book is about four women, two confederates and two unionists, doing different jobs to help serve their side of the war. The women do everything from spying, and misleading, to disguising themselves to serve as soldiers.
The Last Dragonslayer Series by Jasper Fforde The third book in the Dragonslayer Series “The Eye of Zoltar” comes out October 7th, which gives new readers plenty of time to catch up on this series, which is quite frankly a delight. This is one of those rare series that crosses all age boundaries. The tales protagonist is a teen, and the stories are clean and full of adventure, interesting characters, laughs and just a brief smattering of romance. I would recommend this book to kids 10-110. Fforde brings his humor to a world full of magic, with dragons, witches, and quests (but don’t call it a quest, because the Quest Council is full of red tape, and the protagonist does not have the money for the fees, so let’s just call it a vacation!).
Stone Mattress by Margaret Atwood. “But how can you have a sense of wonder if you are prepared for everything?”
Abbott weaves exciting, and readable true stories from the Civil War using never before published primary sources along with interviews with the women’s descendents. I loved that there was not the constant repeat of information, as happens often in history books. The book was fast pace, interesting, and different, my only concern is that the title is too “Tinker, Tailor” and will dissuade serious Civil War readers. Readers who liked Confederates in the Attic, and Clare Mulley’s The Spy Who Loved.
Best for Readers who like Terry Pratchett, Eoin Colfer, J. K. Rowling, or Rick Riordan
Margaret Atwood is back in all her glory with a new collection of nine short stories. Her last short stories collection was published back in 2006, and she has saved up a few doozies! Mostly set in Canada, these short stories pull together mystery, suspense, romance, betrayal and fantasy to make tales that are edgy, interesting, and often interwoven, always with a lyrical prose. My one complaint about the book is the layout of the stories. This reviewer received an advance readers copy of the collection, and I hope that they do some shuffling of the stories for a better flow before the book is releasedSeptember 11 Best for those who like Margaret Atwood, Alice Munro, Ian McEwan, or Ursula K. Le Guin
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T H E AT R E by Megs Thompson
COME WITH ME, AND YOU’LL BE, IN A WORLD OF PURE IMAGINATION…
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W
alking through the doors of the Cirque Lab, located just off Harris Ave in downtown Fairhaven, you’re greeted by a sequin clad woman atop a pair of stilts, her coiffed blonde curls nearly touching the rafters above, her smile so unique, that you find yourself anxiously exploring to see what other characters might be scattered about. After dropping your donation into a behemoth top hat, constructed from scraps of the shows many creative costumes, and worthy of the Mad Hatter himself, you follow the giddy sounds of the crowd, some, regular attendees, others, just as curious as you about what treats this local group of acrobats, dancers, aerialists, magicians, comedians, & jugglers could possibly have in store, and settle quickly into a seat, not wanting to miss a thing.
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With only one rule, that no performer may repeat the same act, ever, the artists are tasked with focusing on the honing and perfecting of their unique craft – whether that be juggling a chainsaw & rubber egg (did I mention this gent was doing so single handedly – as in, he legitimately possessed only one arm), performing an interpretive dance routine, sharing a phonetically punctuated Shakespearean monologue, or rousing the crowd as a charismatically charged 13-year old “ringmaster.” The show I attended featured live music courtesy of “The Sailor Berries” - A duo combining the hypnotic vocals, ukulele & kazoo skills of Ani Banani (do yourself a favor and check her out on Facebook) and mystical vibes of Lady Crockett on her musical hand saw. Also an aerial silk acrobatic performance, juggling, and clowning. Amazing! If at the end of the evening you find yourself with a hankering for learning a new skill, the Cirque Lab has some great clubs & classes available to the public.
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One big thing to keep in mind is that Vaudevillingham is a fundraiser. As a show that is staffed and performed completely by volunteers, all proceeds go right back into helping the Cirque Guild continue it’s mission of supporting the circus arts in Whatcom County, and “radically proliferating delight at every opportunity!” (A direct quote from their site that I couldn’t phrase any better myself.) And, while the show is uncensored, there is a large fan base under the age of 12, who eagerly perched on mats as close to the stage as they could get, their smiles wide, and faces frozen in awe. 7pm performances are kept child friendly, while 9pm shows contain occasional adult language and humor. These amazing, one of a kind, eclectic performances can be caught the 15th of every month, at 7pm and 9pm, with a suggested donation of $5-$10 a head. Be sure to get there early, not only so you can snag seats up front, but you also won’t want to miss whatever preshow entertainment is on the schedule. For more details about Vaudevillingham, as well as the Bellingham Circus Guild itself, and how you can get involved, check out their website at www.bellinghamcircusguild.com, or look them up on Facebook. And, be sure to mark your calendar for the 15th of each month!
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by Steven Arbuckle
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F
or people of a certain age, DIY (the idea that you can – and should – “do it yourself”) used to mean huddling over a photocopier with scissors and tape, putting together fliers and ‘zines, or members of a band gathering in a basement or garage to print their own t-shirts. But in the present day, DIY can look a little different – it includes 3D scanners and printers, automated laser cutters, and mobile CNC machines. The three owners of the Foundry, Bellingham’s “makerspace,” noticed that advances in technology have brought us a whole new set of tools, and have created a place where the public can get their hands on them. The idea of the cooperative makerspace is not entirely new – there’s a
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long tradition of people forming co-ops to lower the costs of food and housing, and almost everyone’s experienced carpooling or trading childcare. But in recent years the concept has become even more widespread, and has grown to include organizations that bring together business owners and entrepreneurs. And now there is a place for backyard inventors, crafters, hobbyists, and even light industrialists. Pulling together in this way, the owners and members of the Foundry have access to the kind of space and tools that they probably couldn’t afford on their own. Importantly, they are creating something larger than a collection of tools in the process: a free-form collective of people ready and willing to share specialized knowledge and lend a helping hand. Looking around the building, it’s clear that the Foundry is a place to go to get things done. The central area of the large main room is set up for meetings, workshops and classes. All around the room are a handful of smaller workspaces, each one filled with a set of machines, materials, and tools. A membership gives you access to these tools, and there are classes to give you the training you’ll need to operate them safely. In addition, the owners are on duty to help you make decisions, to list your options as far as methods and materials, to lend a hand with a project, or to demystify a potentially mind-boggling piece of technology. If a member wanted to make a chess set, for example, she would find plenty of help bringing models of the pieces to a 3D scanner, a camera that records a physical form and converts it into a computer file. That file can then be tweaked and perfected on a desktop in the nearby computer lab before it is sent to a 3D printer, which automatically piles up layer after layer of plastic to build a product. Co-founder Jason Davies explained that there are hard plastics and pliant plastics to choose from, plastics of different colors, and even composite plastics that include carbon fiber and aluminum. And, for-
tunately, he is right there to help you decide which you’d like to use. Not all of the tools are so space-age, however. There are sewing machines – including an industrial serger – and a quaintly vintage-looking metal stamper. One workbench includes a full array of familiar tools for working with electronics and basic robotics, including voltmeters, soldering irons, and an oscilloscope. To find the parts you’ll need to build your robot, visit the lounge. There, alongside a refrigerator and vintage arcade games, is a vending machine in which the usual sweet and salty snacks have been replaced with capacitors, resistors, and diodes. Beyond the lounge is another room that you might not expect to see among all the automated machinery: a full wood shop. It features a joiner, planer, router, and other tools, as well as workspaces that can be rented at a slight additional cost to allow members to store projects on-site. When I visited, plans were underway to expand the Foundry’s footprint to include a metal-working shop. Including all age groups in this cooperative adventure is important to the creators of the Foundry, and you will find copious amounts of Legos as well as a set of Builder Boards. An educational toy created in Bellingham, WA Builder Boards are a sort of life-size version of Lincoln Logs made for children to play and experiment with. There are no instructions included, creating a situation that co-founder Mary Keane described as “learning with kids, instead of teaching kids.” This is an attitude that carries over to the calendar of classes and workshops that are offered as well, making it easy to find kidfriendly activities that will not only occupy their time, but hopefully help spark a creative drive in them.
Pulling together this way, the owners and members of the Foundry have access to the kind of space and tools that they probably couldn’t afford on their own.
The Foundry’s physical space, and the tools found there, makes up only one aspect of its mission. It is important to each of the owners that the Foundry also serves as the center of a community. As important as the gizmos are,
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they say that it is equally important to learn from other people, who may bring more experience or a different viewpoint to the table. They are proud to see creative partnerships develop as well, with members cooking up projects together. And the owners are not the only ones curating calendar events – in the website’s forums and especially on the Foundry’s Facebook page, members not only hatch ideas and plan projects, but also dream up and schedule the workshops and classes that interest them. Events include introductions to various computer graphics and modeling programs, the safe use of lasers, seasonal crafts, and experiences designed to introduce youngsters to the idea of building and creating. Co-founder Troy Greig suggests checking the calendar on the Foundry’s website when planning for a visit. With the purchase of a day pass, you may be able to work on a project of your own while the kids take part in an event. And if you’re not already familiar with any of the technology mentioned here, the Foundry is a great opportunity to see it in action – my tour was a lot like a visit to a hands-on museum, with the tools and machines serving as the attraction. Along with the schedule, a list of tools, and a mission statement, the website is the place to go for day passes and memberships. The basic cost is $50 a month, with nice discounts when you join for 6 or 12 months at a time. Membership covers all of the tools and most of the materials. Some technologies are more expensive than others, though, so there are some additional charges for things like the laser cutter and 3D printers. They are open from noon to 10pm Wednesday through Friday, and noon to midnight on the weekend. Come to the Foundry to make something of your own, and you might just find yourself becoming part of something bigger. The Foundry: 1515 N. Forest St Bellingham, WA 98225 360-305-8587 www.bellinghamfoundry.com
A TALE of two
M I KES by Ramona Abbot
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t was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” So opens Dickens’ classic Tale of Two Cities. This is also story of twos: two men, two very different lives. Of trial and redemption. Of humility and hope. And most of all, of the rewards, and joys, of giving. Michael Mathis is the founder of the Burned Children Recovery Foundation (BCRF), an organization that provides a wide range of services to severely burned children and their families. Michael Mulder is a real estate developer and musician, who spent most of his 20s touring North America as half of Salmond & Mulder, an acoustic duo. Describing himself as “where blues meets rock, in the singer-songwriter tradition,” he does not shy
away from his own life experience in his lyrics. His new band, Memphis Rain, is getting ready to release their new album, Little Bit Closer (working title), which Mulder says is the culmination of 13 years of songwriting. The two Mikes met at a dinner event. “I was sitting next to Michael just long enough to hear his incredible story,” Mulder says, “I was profoundly affected. I had never met a burn survivor before, let alone one so eloquent and impassioned to help children.” A compelling story indeed: Mathis was severely burned as a child. His burns were so severe that hospital staff removed all mirrors and reflective objects so that he could not see himself. About a month later, a nurse made what in most cases would be a minor mistake: she brought Michael’s lunch on a chrome tray instead of a white plastic one. “When I picked up the tray and saw myself, it was a very powerful moment,” says Mathis, visibly moved to this day. I thought, “Oh my god. I’m a monster. Who’s going to love me?” A whole lot of people, it turns out. But in the interim, Mathis’s recovery included 64 surgeries. “It was a very difficult time. Flying back and forth by myself, looking like I did. But it taught me some lessons and it gave me some tools. It gave me a kind of strength.”
When Mathis grew up, there was nothing he wanted more than to share those tools and strengths. “There’s not a lot of children who were burned worse than me, and I thought, if I can tell them my story, share my experience, maybe I can help them get out of their house and living full lives.” Thus was the seed planted for what would become the BCRF, and the reason for the kids to have a camp experience with others who share their world: kids who see them for who they are, not the scars their burns left them with. When Mulder heard Michael’s story, he was profoundly moved. So moved that when he attended a Rotary event as a guest, he passed out materials he’d gotten from Michael about the camp, not realizing that this was not according to meeting protocol. But something happened that day too: Rotary members were so taken with the story, they asked him if he would come back and speak to the whole group about the organization. “I said yes,” laughs Mulder, “But when I called Michael and told him, he said, ‘No, you’re not! That’s my story.’” When Mathis shared that story at a subsequent Rotary meeting, the response was also memorable. With tears streaming down his face, one member said, “I never knew, I never really understood what my sister went through, until just now.” Thus was born another relationship, and at last May’s Rotary auction, they raised 83 thousand dollars in 10 minutes, an 74
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astounding outcome that left all participants shocked and thrilled. Since it costs $1500-$2,000 for each child to attend the camp, this meant more than 40 kids would have this lifechanging experience. But it didn’t stop there. “I didn’t know what to do, or how to help further,” says Mulder. “I told him, ‘All I know, all I can offer at this point, is I have a rock band.’ Neither of them knew initially what to do with that, but eventually they realized that there was a way: everywhere the band goes, they ask for permission to bring BCRF with them. “Memphis Rain has been touring and playing concerts throughout Whatcom and Skagit counties, and when we distribute posters, we include information about BCRF. We talk about them from the stage. So we’ve been ‘singing the song’ with Michael whenever we perform.” Michael adds, “This has been a terrific partnership between us and the band. They are more than just another rock and roll band – their lyrics – there’s meaning and purpose behind every song.” One song that resonates in particular on the upcoming album is titled Shame. “We all have shame,” says Mulder. “We all wear scars, it’s just that Michael happens to have his on his face. Mine are no less deep, they are just inside.”
Which is what the Mikes are telling everyone they can, what the kids are hearing at BCRF camp, and what the kids are teaching the rest of us: look beyond the surface, love yourself and others, and when you give, you get so much more than you give. “We have really benefitted from the band, but it’s even more than that,” says Mathis. “These kids change your lives; they really do. It’s a compelling fact when you hear that there are 280,000 burned children in America, and you wonder why you don’t see them. This is a movement to let these kids come out and affect people’s lives.” When asked why he does this, Mulder responds, “The surprise in all this? I don’t think the kids benefit from this as much as I do. When we say come on out, meet the BCRF and these kids, they need you, what we’re really saying is you need them. In ways you don’t even know yet. When a little kid comes up and hugs you, and thanks you, well, I ask you – who’s getting the benefit? I’ve had my soul changed.” Two Mikes, two lives: giving each other the gift of friendship and affecting the lives of severely burned children, one concert and one camp scholarship at a time. A tale of two lives well lived.
You can help BCRF by visiting their website at: Those visible scars are sure hard to wear in public, though. “Humility is a hard thing to swallow on a daily basis,” says Mathis. “This is why it’s so important for these kids to be out there. I tell them all: being out in public, you affect people’s lives. Behind closed doors, you won’t. Find your mission in life to change other people’s lives by being in theirs.”
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www.burnedchildrenrecovery.org You can also participate in Rite Aid’s Kid Cents program: www.kidcents.riteaid.com and choose Burned Children Recovery Foundation as your beneficiary.
B O O K S T H AT M A K E G R E AT G I F T S
For the Little Ones (0-6)
For the Juvie Readers (7-12)
The Book With No Pictures by B.J. Novak is sure to be the hit of the season. A book to be read aloud, filled with creative, fun words, lots of colors, but absolutely no pictures. This is a unique and amusing book for the whole family, and one that is sure to please children and adults alike night after night.
Fortunately, the Milk by Neil Gaiman. Let the madcap adventure begin- in paperback! This jewel of a kids book shows a dad doing what he can- fighting pirates, running from aliens, catching a lift from a stegosaurus in a hot air balloon- all to bring his kids their morning milk. Gaiman brilliantly makes a hero of the everyday dad, with lots of silliness along the way.
Once Upon An Alphabet by Oliver Jeffers. A new picture book from the imaginative illustrator that brought you the “The Day the Crayons Quit.” Each letter is given a mini story all to itself, from an astronaut who is afraid of heights to a ladder-wielding monkey. Adventure abounds for your little one.
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The Witch’s Boy by Kelly Barnhill. An intelligent, multi-threaded story about friendship, choices, and triumphs. Ned is the brother that should not have lived. But when the King comes to steal his mother’s magic, Ned is able to summon his courage to protect the village. This is the start of a prophecy defying story that is bound to please.
For the Teen
Adult Nonfiction
Watched by C.J. Lyon. A scary thrill ride with an important message for readers. Lyon’s engaging story of cyber-crime is an apt read for this day and age. A raw tale of blackmail, trying to protect yourself and your family, and ways to survive in this modern mobile/ cyber age. This is a great spy mystery that will cause real jitters, and have people of all ages turning the pages until late at night.
Foxcatcher: The True Story of My Brother’s Murder, John du Pont’s Madness, and the Quest for Olympic Gold by Mark Schultz. A true story, Foxcatcher explores the odd relationship between the Olympic gold winning brothers, Mark and Dave Schultz, and their sponsor, millionaire John du Pont. The book’s release will coincide with the docudrama starring Channing Tatum and Steve Carell.
The Cure for Dreaming by Cat Winters is a lyrically beautiful book about a headstrong Olivia whose father hires a hypnotist to cure her of her insubordination (her delusions of women’s rights and freedom). Instead, the hypnotist gives her the gift to see people’s true nature. Olivia becomes involved not only in the suffrage movement, but also with the hypnotist. A haunting and exciting story that also teaches a bit about the 1900’s women’s movement.
Yes Please by Amy Poehler. This is a great book for those people who love a funny lady! After the acclaim of Bossypants by Tina Fey and Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? by Mindy Kaling, there is always a bit of hype when the best friend and fellow comedian comes out with her own book. But Poehler pulls it off. A bit biography, a bit advice book, Yes Please is witty, and delightful.
Adult Fiction
Non-Book-Literary-Gifts
Revival by Stephen King. The return of the master of suspense! In 1960 New England, minister Charles Jacobs rolls into town to transform the church. The story follows Jamie, our youthful protagonist, who witnesses the rise and fall of Jacobs. As an adult, Jamie and Jacobs reconnect, leading them both into a world full of demons. This is the King that you remember, the one that keeps you up at night, and doesn’t let you get away.
No idea what to buy the bookworm in your life? Try these great sites for these inspired gifts!
Skylight by Jose Saramago. A beautiful tale about love and longing, Skylight was submitted to publishers in 1953, but Saramago never got a reply. He shelved the manuscript, and now, four years after the death of the acclaimed author, fans will be delighted with Saramago’s newest book. This wonderfully crafted story was worth the wait.
OutofPrint.com: With everything from T-shirts of classic books, to socks, jewery, phone cases and coasters, this site is amazingly fun. The ability to search for products either by category or by authors name is one of the best features of any literary gift sites. Litographs.com: This company takes the first chapter of favorite classic books and arranges the spaces between the words to make a graphic scene representation of the book. You can even choose the color, and whether you would like it on a poster, T-shirt or tote bag. *All books will be released between September and Mid-December. Check with your local bookseller for exact dates!
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Join us this winter for the first annual Bellingham Folk Festival!
C O N C E RT S & WORKSHOPS S Q U A R E DA N C E with The Shadies
DECEMBER 19th & 20th FRIDAY & SATURDAY
www.thebellinghamfolkfestival.com Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship Ellsworth Street
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The Pastrami King by Davin Michael Stedman
L
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et me start at the beginning. About a year ago I was in my hometown of Everett, WA enjoying my routine bowl of Pho soup, which I consider the Vietnamese elixir of life. As I reached for more Sriracha sauce, a young man strolled up to my table. He pulled off his headphones, and struck up a casual conversation, as he recognized me as the guy from ‘that band’. After we chatted for a bit about the veracity of several local legends, I astonished the young man by not knowing about what he considered Everett’s Holy Grail. He literally turned my chair around and pointed across the street through the early autumnal fog and there it was, Barney’s Pastrami & Dip. The very next week I walked into Barney’s shop and it was love at first sight. You pull the newish television off the wall and his could make you feel like the Brooklyn Dodgers might still be in the race for the pennant. It also feels a bit like home, with well over a dozen framed photos of the proprietor’s extended family, Albert Barney, Marilyn Barney, Stevie Ray Barney (who seem to look like the 20th Century icons bearing similar names).
Charmed, I strolled towards the counter. The joint was empty after the lunch rush. Above the hum of the television news I heard the rhythm of Barney slicing pastrami in the back. When he came out to the counter I met a somewhat sweet but shy old man. A bit like Santa Claus, a bit like Beethoven, he sang a ‘dee dee dee’ song that was all his own. Humming along, Barney served me up my very first authentic pastrami sandwich. Like my first taste of Beethoven’s 5th, it was glorious. The pastrami seemed to be jailbreaking from every opening in the bun. Like a snow shovel, the sandwich seemed to simply be the best invention for picking up this much pastrami. I tried to make it last for more than a few minutes, but the pastrami left me in this haze savoring a warm delicately salted afterglow. I battled a Cro Magnon urge to go back for another. I had come face to face with the Pastrami King. I’m not a food critic. You can tell by just looking at me that I love food, and that soon I’ll be loving food again. But I knew I had to bring in a real expert to
explain to me how good Barney’s pastrami truly is in a historical context. Thankfully, my bass player’s lovely mother Judy Amster just happens to be a genuine foodie who has worked with some of the biggest names on the Food Channel. She was also raised in New York City in a close knit Jewish family that made their visits to their local deli a cherished monthly ritual. When we sat down at Barney’s and got down to business, fond memories surfaced in her eyes as she savored her sandwich. Over this time machine made from brisket, she explained that collective memory of the Holocaust and the deep seated fears of starvation it left in its wake changed the relationship subsequent generations of Jews had with food. Judy’s stories floored me. How could she have ignore the scars of the Holocaust as a young girl, when she see could see a Nazi serial number tattooed on the arm of the kind old lady that served her those first pastrami sandwiches. As Judy’s gut punch of a story came to a close, she told me with utmost confi-
dence that Barney’s pastrami was excellent and absolutely authentic. I quickly tried to lighten the mood by sharing my half serious theory that genuine New York & Chicago style beef brisket pastrami was among Jewish culture’s greatest innovations. The pastrami popularized and refined by Jews in America solved the conundrum of a Hebrew God that for least 6,000 years has prohibited the consumption of Fertile Crescent’s real forbidden fruit: BACON. Judy admitted I was very funny, and then wondered aloud about the newest batch of mysteries her Pastrami sandwich created. Was Barney Jewish? How did he come to master this dying art? How did his business survive for the last twenty years selling just pastrami sandwiches and the occasional hot dog? Barney is a famously shy and private man, whose approach to avoiding an interview is best summed up in the 2012 Seattle Weekly article titled, ‘Barney Won’t Talk Pastrami’. Writer Hana Raskin’s popular piece both beams with admiration for Barney’s work, and
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recounts the absurd lengths she went to in ultimately failing to get an interview. It’s a recommended piece of reading that even includes speculation from a source at the Chicago Tribune regarding where Barney’s world class pastrami is being flown in from. Glancing over that article proudly displayed next to Barney’s register raised the stakes, but also inspired me on my first visit. I would simply set out to become Barney’s friend first and foremost, and if a story grew out of that, it was meant to be. There’s honestly just something special about the Mr. David Barney. As Judy explained over lunch, “it takes a certain kind of person and certain experiences to devote one’s life to feeding people.” In this era of extreme ease toward a level of Hipsterdom that is as simple as ordering a highly recommended jar of mustache wax online, it’s an honor to meet someone who is a truly master at anything. Full disclosure: I am prejudiced in this article because for months I wondered if Barney's instincts were correct in declining various profiles and interviews. In this invasive age of social media, privacy is something to be cherished and admired. And seeming impenetrable to the Seattle Weekly was pretty cool. As my deadline approached, I asked Barney if I could interview him for this story. I even shared a few of the bits I wrote about him, and the anecdote
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about Judy Amster grappling with the question of his Jewishness. To my pleasant surprise he laughed out loud with approval and agreed to meet with me the following Monday. On Monday October 13th, 2014, when Barney was closing up the shop, he gave me a couple of gifts. He first he made me a damn good pastrami sandwich. Then he proceeded to hand over an essay about his journey and why he has devoted the last 20 years to this shop. Through the casual interview and his own essay, he answered questions that ranged from the fact that he doesn’t happen to be Jewish, to details
about his work at some of the greatest deli’s in New York City and Chicago, such as Katz Deli, The Stage Deli, and Carnegie Deli. He broke into a smile as he explained that he couldn’t tell me where he actually gets his pastrami, because unfortunately he would have to kill me. Yet all the details he set straight and even his essay, were no match for the most wonderful thing that Barney wanted to get off his chest. Over the years he always dreamed of becoming a writer. In his lifetime, Barney has written two Romance novels. But he’s never shared his work with another soul except a cousin, that loved his work and pleaded with him to share his books with a publisher. Ultimately Barney loves his shop, but the dream he deferred and never quite chased was to became an American novelist. It was a revelation so moving that I don’t want to tell you his story. I want Barney to tell you his story. To hear Barney’s Story in his own words go to thecrossingguide.com/ barneysstory
Barney’s Pastrami: 5130 Evergreen Way Everett, WA 98203 (425) 259-9078
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The Inn at Port Gardner is the only waterfront hotel in downtown Everett, WA. It sits almost directly at the waters edge, with a small courtyard between the building and the shore where guests can sit and enjoy the view. Inside, the lobby is welcoming and beautiful, with high ceilings, a fireplace, and a beautiful wall of windows facing the Marina and guest courtyard.
Our room was well appointed, with a comfortable bed and fresh, fluffy white linens. Each guest can fill out a breakfast basket card (included in the cost of the room) to have breakfast delivered to their door ready to eat or packed to go. Its little amenities like this where a small independently owned hotel can really shine. While the Inn does not have a full-service restaurant of its own, it is walking distance from several great places to grab lunch or dinner. Scuttlebutt Brewery, Lombardi’s, Blue Mango, and the Fishermans Market are just a hop skip and a jump away, and the staff is glad to give you their two cents on where to eat for your particular tastes. “Nice Matters” at the Inn at Port Gardner according to the manager Theresa. I agree: from the smiling face behind the front counter to the friendly staff encountered going about the business of keeping the hotel, it was clear that service excellence was an important part of each guest’s stay.
Located directly next to the Everett Marina, the Inn of Port Gardner is a cozy yet luxurious place to stay with a fabulous view of the working waterfront. With only 33 guest rooms and 6 suites, the friendly staff has plenty of time to make each guest feel welcome. Inn at Port Gardner 1700 W Marine View Dr, Everett, WA 98201 (425) 252-6779 www.innatportgardner.com
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In The Basement with a Viper n
by Davin Michael Stedman
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B Petunia is a cerebral man, deeply inspired by the grand ol’ canon of Country & Western that informed Rockabilly’s earliest rock & soul roots.
efore I set out to interview Petunia, the architect and the man behind the Vancouver, BC band, Petunia and the Vipers, I grilled his publicist Joelle May. I asked her for the best and absolutely worst questions I could possibly ask Petunia in person. She warned me right away that the worst line of questioning would be to be ask him how he came up with such an adorable name. It’s the obvious question that nearly every writer before has addressed, and it’s something Petunia is not keen on answering. However one question she suggested demanded my attention: “Ask Petunia about poker.” It turns out this singer songwriter who has carefully carved out his own brand of mystique, is also a serious poker player. As a Chess player, I waited to make my move. When I finally sat down with Petunia before a show, in the basement of The Green Frog in Bellingham, WA, I tossed out a few questions to test his defenses, as he plotted out a pair of set lists. Then I asked him if he was a legitimate gambler. He looked up with a half smile, and squinted with his left eye as he studied my face. Despite my visions from listening to tunes like his ‘Cricket Song’, Petunia is not in fact the abandoned Canadian son of the father of Country music (that
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yodeling blues singer from Meridian, Mississippi named Jimmie Rodgers). Nor was he raised by wolves. He was raised in a small town in Quebec playing hockey as soon as he could run, like any red blooded French Canadian. He still plays hockey on occasion, though I couldn’t get him to cop to any level of the sporting violence we Americans associate with that northern sport. He winced at the suggestion, as our conversation shuffled towards his recent experience at a Gautama Buddha inspired ten day silent retreat. He explained the surprising benefits of extreme silence and the smallness of a human voice after not speaking for 10 or 11 days. Petunia is a serious fellow. Almost counterintuitively, it appears that some of the most serious men in music are pleasantly agile comedians in closer quarters. Elliot Smith once did the robot from the stage all the way to his car following a gig, just for the gag. Petunia was not going to do the robot. Nor was he funny. But he did surprise me, picking every name off the tip of my tongue while we rapped about our mutual admiration for the humble and dusty architects of the now sprawling Nashville Country music empire. These are
folk heroes most fans of Blake Shelton and Taylor Swift would consider perfect strangers. As I tried to recall the names of men such as the black harmonica player and original Opry cast member DeFord Bailey, Flats & Scruggs, and Bill Monroe’s original banjo player Dave “Stringbean” Akeman, Petunia named them all as if they were on the starting 6 of his fantasy hockey team. While trying to understand his poker game it shed some real light on his inner being, what matters most is the music. What I caught on stage at The Green Frog that night, reminded me bit of the scholarly microscope and tiny universe of Taj Mahal (with out the running conversation with his audience). But like Taj, Petunia served up a set of anthropology you could dance to. itunes might put The Vipers in one single box, but great songwriters each hone their own personal prism. They can break up a ray of light, then manipulate and blend the colors. Then there’s Petunia’s showmanship. It’s subtle. He doesn’t move like Jagger, but he does have 7 kinds of smoke. Petunia faded into the background, trading places with his upright bass player, and just a song later he again slipped back to center stage. On one particular return to the footlights, he played a tune recapturing the crowd with an amplified kazoo, held together with an enthusiastic amount of white tape. Petunia is a cerebral man, deeply inspired by the grand ol’ canon of Country & Western that informed Rockabilly’s earliest rock & soul roots. He’s also an alchemist, carefully remixing the art form’s most explosive elements. The DNA of Country is a mixed up bag of dust storms, rusting plantations, and immigration. It’s all there to be reused. Take for instance the Latin rhythms he’ll subtly employ. Petunia didn’t cop them all from records: like an old hand, he studied with seasoned Mexican musicians that live and die on the stuff. Petunia is one of those writers that has found his own voice on his own unique terms, and has forged his own identity. His music is filled with folk imagery and a fusion of musical traditions that is both nostalgic and completely new. After my meeting with Petunia and catching his show, I was inspired to follow up with an even better round of questions. Here are a few of those more personal questions: Continued next page:
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old hilltop churches, park benches, under bridges, in echoey bathrooms, in run down schoolhouses, old folks homes, birthday parties, funerals, political rallies, hobo junctions, by night, by day, by early morning light, by the light of the moon, in the absolute darkness, drunk, sober, stoned, heartbroken, content, down and out, happy go lucky...in so many shapes
I like when Acadian French singers use non-words. Like Do-do-do... na-na-na, hey-hey-hey...ta-na-nana... it's also pretty respected still in their music.
Davin: Where were you and what were you doing when Jimmie Rodgers first truly moved you? Petunia: Toronto, Ontario, Canada...I was making indie 16mm films on my wind up Bolex paralax-view camera. Davin: What's the greatest lyric in the French language you've ever loved and what does it mean to you? Petunia: I like when Acadian French singers use non-words. Like Do-do-do... na-na-na, hey-hey-hey... ta-na-na-na... it's also pretty respected still in their music. So childlike, so sophisticated in a way at the same time, so cool. Davin: What song recorded by any incarnation or member of The Carter Family has come closest to breaking your heart?
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Petunia: Wow - so many of the original Carter family (A.P., Sara & Maybelle) songs touch me when I hear them: Wildwood Flower...Grave on a Green Hillside...Poor Orphan Child... Motherless Children...I Never Will Marry...those titles sound pretty dour, how about...You Are My Flower, Moonlight Shining Over Dixie, I Wonder How the Old Folks Are at Home? Single Girl/Married Girl, Do Not Disturb...etc. I played in the subway and on streets across Canada (sometimes in NY City) for years making my rent on mostly Carter family songs. I've sung them out when it felt like no one was listening. I've sung them out when I had huge crowds of people listening. I've sung them in trains, trucks, planes, boats, cars,
and sizes have I sung 'em that I can't remember even a fraction of all the times anymore. Mostly I'm just left with a feeling. I had sung them out on a daily basis for years before I really took to the stage. For hundreds and maybe thousands of hours. You might say that I've meditated on their vibes almost 100 years after their initial recordings were made. And yet their songs still ring true to me. Always have. They all speak to me about my own life experience as a street singer and human being, and hold extra emotional weight as a result. They live on in all my music whether referenced or not. I suppose it'd be nice to think that all the music we've sung and played lives on whether through music or otherwise. Why not? For More Info, visit: www.petunianadthevipers.com Scan to Hear “Cold Heartbreaker�:
3 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU R E S TA U R A N T 13 Time Winner
209 N. Samish Way 360-714-9995
1224 Harris Ave 360-676-9995
2200 Rimland Dr. 360-738-9995
www.onricethai.com
Distill My Heart Falling in Lust at Mount Baker Distillery by Megs Thompson
F
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rom the comfort of my front seat, I quickly checked my trusty smartphone, to be sure I had the right address. I don’t know exactly what I’d been expecting when I’d made a date to explore Whatcom County’s first legal post-prohibition distillery operation, but the large cluster of nondescript office buildings, and paved parking lot surrounding me definitely wasn’t it. Pulling open the heavy front door, I was instantly transported to another time and place. To my right perched a petite woman, resting easily in an antique rocking chair, a warm smile on her face, a welcoming hello on her lips, and her fingers busily tapping at the touchscreen of her tablet. Making no attempt to stifle a laugh, I couldn’t help but think that the only thing missing was a pile of mending at her feet, and perhaps a pot bellied stove.
The entire suite had been transformed from what had once been a cookie cutter office space, into the comfortingly rustic living area of a humble log cabin. The walls, stacked with split logs, and fully insulated to withstand any storm that might make its way inside, are decorated with eclectic pieces of memorabilia ranging from age-worn sepia-toned family photos, to newspaper clippings, and miscellaneous experiments (such as moonshine pickles). I was struck again by how, much like the bootleggers of eras past, this distillery was nestled within the heart of Bellingham, hidden in plain sight. When Washington state liquor laws changed in 2012, Troy Smith and his family wasted no time in getting back to their roots, honoring the traditional methods and recipes of Smith’s greatgreat-grandfather, Abe, whose story is told on every bottle of white lightning. They offer numerous palette-tantalizing options, ranging from pure 100-proof moonshine whiskey to 80-proof vodka, as well as a variety of locally-sourced,
fruit-infused moonshines perfect for sipping alone or adding a kick to your beverage of choice. A true small batch distillery, every batch of mash creates just one case of finished product, meaning Smith and his staff are in a state of constant motion. In keeping with their hands-on approach, bottling and labeling is also done individually, by hand, at a small station within the humble production area, while a small tube set plays Green Acres reruns in the background. Seriously, it doesn’t get any more rustic or downhome. During my visit, which I can assure you was only the first of many, I was invited to sample the entire collection, which at this point includes blueberry, strawberry, and raspberry moonshines. While I sipped from small disposable glasses, Smith explained the many exciting new projects that are currently in the works, including a coffee-infused moonshine (in partnership with Fidalgo Bay Coffee), moonshine filled chocolates from locally based Chocolate Necessities, and a flight of moonshine,
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served on a branded wooden paddle, just like those used to stir the mash, available at Poppes 360 Bistro.
Megs Moonshine Muffins
When the time had come for me to leave, I opted to adopt a bottle of Apple Pie Moonshine myself, and quickly found that it’s not only delicious on it’s own, but pretty irresistible when heated with a splash of vanilla creamer (apple pie ala mode), and adds the perfect flavor and spice to homemade pumpkin muffins (recipe below)!
• 3 cups flour
While these delightful spirits can be procured by the glass at a large number of locales throughout Whatcom County, they can also be found at any number of local retailers, including Haggen, and The Market; I strongly recommend taking the time to visit and experience the distillery itself. For more details, as well as to keep apprised of new products, upcoming events, and irresistible recipe suggestions, be sure to check their website at www.mountbakerdistillery.com or follow them on Facebook.
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• 3/4 tsp. each, ground cloves, cinnamon, & ground nutmeg • 2 tsp. baking soda • 1 tsp. salt • 3 cups granulated sugar • 15 oz. pumpkin • 3 eggs • ½ extra virgin olive oil • ½ Apple Pie Moonshine • Optional: 1 cup dark chocolate chips &/or chopped nuts
1. Combine all, in order listed. Spoon muffin tins only half full. 2. Bake in paper lined or greased muffin tins for: * 25 minutes @ 350˚ C for regular size muffins * 35 minutes @ 350˚ C for jumbo muffins - Makes 12 jumbo muffins or 24 regular muffins
DAT E DAY
F E R N DA L E 101: A P E R F E C T DAY DAT E by Marisa Papetti There is a magical park just inside the Ferndale City limits called Hovander Homestead Park. It was built in 1903 by the wealthy Swedish architect Hakan Hovander and his family as a home for them and their livestock and gardens. The 333 acre park boosts a huge red barn, the original family home, two great play areas, an uninterrupted view of Mount Baker, and a small selection of farm animals. The Nooksack River quietly flows in the distance, geese fly overhead and the fields glow green and gold. Just off in the distance is Tenant Lake, with its boardwalk trail over the Marsh and a sensory garden filled with herbs and roses. Walk from the parking area at Hovander to Tenant Lake, this loop takes about 45 minutes to complete and is around 1.5 miles of fairly flat territory. It can get muddy in the winter rains so boots are suggested. Be sure to explore the farm and climb the observation tower to gaze out across Tenant Lake to the mountains. Time to warm up with a little late lunch or early dinner! Head just a mile or so North to Main Street in Ferndale
to the Curry House. I recommend the Chicken Korma and Saag Paneer. The Curry house is great. The atmosphere is definitely different, but the food and service makes up for it. Now that you have been rejuvenated by Eastern spices and had a Naan or two, dessert is in order. Finish your date with a nice cup of hot tea or coffee and a piece of pie at the Hilltop on the Guide Meridian and Axton. My family has been patrons of the Hilltop since 1994, it is a wonderful mix of farmers and locals, a true Americana diner. We love the breakfast and the PIE! If you just can’t imagine the idea of more food head over to Mount Baker Lanes and bowl a few games. Make a little bet on the game. Winner gets a kiss. Do you have a great date to recommend? email: editor@thecrossingguide.com
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FOOD IN BLAINE: BAY CAFE @ BIRCH BAY by Colleen Harper
T
here are countless American diners serving up traditional fortable, lazy ambience of white and cream sandwiches, soups, hot dogs and soda pops in every cor- wooden walls and black and white photographs. ner of the United States. So what makes one stand out from the rest? Bay Cafe serves a standard menu of sandwiches. I sampled the French Dip and the Reuben, both of The Bay Cafe in Blaine, WA is a quaint, comfortable build- which were delicious in their familiar way, served ing on Birch Bay Drive with a fabulous view of the water, a with a scoop of potato salad unpretentiously welcoming wooden front porch, and a white picket fence. plopped on the side and a few extra napkins. They Inside, pictures of 1950’s nostalgia cover the walls, includ- serve ice cream cones, hot dogs, clam chowder ing many photographs of the community 60 years ago. It is and chili, hamburgers, and an assortment of tradeasy to imagine you’ve stepped back in time in the com- itional sandwiches all at a reasonable price.
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So what really makes Bay Cafe stand out? Owner Tammy Pearce’s fierce dedication to her community. One year after opening, the Bay Cafe created an Angel Tree at the Bay, a way for community members to fulfill the Christmas wishes of underprivileged children in the community, and a tradition that has gained momentum every year since. In 2010, The Bay Cafe sponsored the first annual Birch Bay Music Festival, a community event to raise awareness and funds for local animal rescue non-profits organizations. The music festival has been a great success. Summer 2015 will be its fifth year and the festival is growing and moving to a much larger venue. Far beyond any level of nostalgic interior decoration, Bay Cafe’s dedication to building community and giving back to those in need is the real source of the warm and comforting ambiance inside the restaurant. Whether you are enjoying a day at the beautiful Birch Bay State park, or just cruising Birch Bay drive for the amazing views, stop inside Bay Cafe @ Birch Bay and enjoy a taste of real small town USA. Bay Cafe @ Birch Bay 7608 Birch Bay Drive Blaine, WA 98230 360-371-5409
Appel Farms:
The Appel family uses milk fresh from their own 900 cows to guarantee the best quality from start to finish. While John manages every aspect of the cheesemaking, his wife, Ruth managesThe Cheese Shop, leaving Rich to tend to the farm. Each day, we pick out a different cheese to highlight. Stop by the cheese counter to try the “cheese of the day!” 6605 NW Rd Ferndale, WA - (360) 312 1431
Alternative Holiday Shopping: B U Y I N G HAND MADE
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“Knowing that an artist created that item with love, and that the giver picked out that unique one-of-akind item especially for someone, makes that gift very meaningful.” - Katy Borden, Allied Arts, Whatcom County
H
oliday. Shopping. Two small words that conjure memories of late night trips to department stores, panicked brainstorming to find something for the last person on your list, and anxiously watching the mail carrier arrive without the packages you ordered weeks ago. This year, Northwestern Washington artists and crafters offer an alternative definition. Craft markets, holiday bazaars, and art shows provide a shopping environment that’s friendly to your sanity and your community. Handmade and locally crafted items are “so much more personal,” explains Katy Borden of Allied Arts of Whatcom County. “Knowing that an artist created that item with love, and that the giver picked out that unique oneof-a-kind item especially for someone, makes that gift very meaningful.”
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Local holiday markets often benefit charities and community organizations. As Reverend Tamalyn L. Kralman of Bellingham’s Alternative Holiday Market describes, “Many people have become aware that large corporations may not be the way they want to spend their holiday dollars. They want to shop in more responsible ways, buying gifts that will not only delight the gift recipient, but will, perhaps, save a life.” All of the Alternative Holiday Market’s proceeds go directly to local and international charities and non-profits such as Amnesty International, the Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center, and Whatcom PFLAG. Your gifts could “save a threatened whale or bison or support a woman starting her own business in Chile. Whatever the shopper chooses, he or she will know that the money is changing the world in a dramatic way,” Kralman says. To enter
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the multi-faith market, shoppers need only bring a new and clean pair of socks for those in need in Whatcom County. Adding a little fun to the shopping experience, Animals for Natural Ther-
Katy Borden of Artist Services explains, “Allied Arts of Whatcom County’s vision is to enliven and promote the artistic identity within our community and make our region an arts destination and
“Many people have become aware that large corporations may not be the way they want to spend their holiday dollars. They want to shop in more responsible ways, buying gifts that will not only delight the gift recipient, but -Rev. Tamalyn L. Kralman will, perhaps, save a life.” apy will bring ponies and chickens to play and interact with shoppers. If you want your holiday shopping to directly benefit local art and artists, look no further than the 35th Annual Allied Arts Holiday Festival of the Arts.
creative, vibrant place to live….[The Holiday Festival] gives our artists a place to exhibit and sell their work, by being a free event it makes the arts accessible to everyone in our community and it fosters the buy local mentality of our community.”
and shopping strategies. The festival’s activities draw “families together as an experience people of all ages can enjoy, it also allows families to shop for Christmas gifts together, to bounce ideas off each other and to collaborate for gift purchases,” explains Linda Schmitt of the festival’s bookstore. For a true shopping getaway, you can book an overnight stay at The Lights of Christmas and attend live dinner theater. Schmitt notes that, “the lights, music, food and activities create an inspirational setting for a holiday shopping experience.”
For animal enthusiasts, The Northwest Equine Stewardship Center’s Fourth Holiday Bazaar in Monroe puts their proceeds towards rehabilitative care and finding permanent homes for neglected and abused horses. “You can feel good about buying something great and feel good about helping the horses!” says the NWESC’s president Jennifer Warmke. To top off the horse-themed event, children can also take pictures with Santa the Pony. Fun activities like Santa the Pony turn holiday shopping into a family experience. At The Lights of Christmas in Stanwood, shoppers can listen to carolers, watch the nativity and visit Santa Claus and Bruce the Spruce. The festival offers live music, storytelling, a petting farm, pony rides, and train rides. You can sit at The Starry Night Coffeehouse to plan your gifting
Shoppers seeking holiday ambience will also enjoy the Home for the Holidays gift show held in the Bellingham Cruise Terminal on Bellingham Bay. “The Port goes out of their way to decorate this building for the holidays,” describes the show’s organizer Joyce Hill. A “huge fresh decorated Christmas tree in the lobby, lights everywhere, beautiful wreaths,” adorn the venue. Hill adds, “Customers often comment that they wait all year for this event. Several gift shops have closed over the years in Bellingham and local residents have found they can buy very special, different gifts at Home for the Holidays.” Creative and philanthropic energy thrives at Northwest holiday markets and bazaars, inviting you to redefine holiday shopping this season. Indeed, with the wide variety of holiday markets, you are guaranteed to find something for everyone on your list. Use the following list of community holiday markets, and replace the stress and anxiety of conventional shopping with a unique holiday experience that supports artists and community.
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2014 HOLIDAY GIFT SHOWS, ART MARKETS, AND BAZAARS IN NORTHWESTERN WASHINGTON
Millcreek Lions Club Holiday Bazaar, Everett Date: November 15
2nd Annual Legion Riders Arts & Craft Bazaar, Bellingham
Time: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Date: November 15
Where: Penny Creek Elementary School 4117 132nd St. SE,
Time: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Everett, WA 98208
Where: American Legion Post 7, 1688 W Bakerview Rd, Bellingham 98225
Admission: Free Details: www.millcreeklions.org/CraftBazaar.htm
35th Annual Allied Arts Holiday Festival of the Arts, Bellingham
Benefits: Proceeds from bake sale, table rental, and silent auction go to John Fassett Scholarship Fund for Graduating Seniors and Royal Family Kids Camp Admission: Free Accessible: Yes Details: www.legionriderspost7.com/events
Cascade Music Department Fall Gift Fair/Bazaar, Everett Date: November 15 Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Where: Cascade High School 801 E Casino Rd, Everett, WA 98203 Benefits: Cascade High School Music programs Admission: Free Accessible: Most areas are wheelchair accessible Details: www.cascadebands.com/2014-gift-fair
Date: November 14 – December 24 (Closed on Thanksgiving)
Alternative Holiday Market, Bellingham
Time: Wednesday – Sunday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (Closes at 3:00 Christmas Eve)
Date: November 16
Where: 4145 Meridian Street, Bellingham, WA 98226 Benefits: Direct sales, directly to local artisans Admission: Donations appreciated for musicians and kids activities
Time: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Where: Assumption Catholic Church (Gymnasium), 2116 Cornwall Avenue, Bellingham, WA 98225 Benefits: All proceeds go to local and international non-profits
Accessible: Yes
Admission: Bring a new/clean pair of socks for the cold, needy feet of Whatcom County.
Details: www.alliedarts.org/holiday-festival-2014/
Accessible: Yes Details: www.alternativemarket.org
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Homespun Holiday Bazaar, Blaine Date: November 21 & 22
Wiser Lake Friends and Neighbors Holiday Bazaar and Bake Sale, Lynden
Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Date: November 21 & 22
Where: 2355 Burk Road, Blaine, WA 98230
Time: 8:00 am – 6:30 pm
Benefits: Donations go to Starfish Ministries
Where: Ten Mile Grange, 6958 Hannegan Road, Lynden WA 98264
Admission: Free Accessible: No
Benefits: In the past a percent of proceeds went to the Women’s Care Shelter and the ALS Evergreen Chapter. Canned food is collected for Project Hope. Admission: Free
Home For the Holidays, Bellingham Dates: November 20 – 22
Accessible: Yes, except for the beverages and food area downstairs. All crafts are upstairs as well as tables for sitting and enjoying coffee.
Times: Thursday 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm, Friday 9:30 am – 9:30 pm, Saturday 9:30 am – 5:30 pm Where: Bellingham Cruise Terminal, 355 Harris Avenue, Bellingham 98225 Admission: Free Accessible: Yes
NWESC’s Fourth Holiday Bazaar, Monroe Date: November 22 Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Details: www.homefortheholidaysbellingham.com
Where: New Hope Fellowship, 1012 West Main Street Monroe, WA 98272
Lynden VFW Auxiliary’s Craft Show & Bake Sale
Benefits: All proceeds from the space fees, bake sale, raffle and hot lunch will directly benefit the Northwest Equine Stewardship Center (NWESC), a non‑profit organization providing rehabilitative care (veterinary, hoof care, training) to rescue horses.
Date: November 21 & 22 Time: Friday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm and Saturday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Where: VFW Hall, 7011 Hannegan Rd, Lynden, WA 98264
Admission: Free Accessible: Stroller and wheelchair friendly
Benefits: Sales go directly do artists and vendors, and other proceeds go to supporting veterans and their families as well as community youth scholarships.
Details: www.nwesc.org/HolidayBazaar.aspx
Admission: Free
Holiday Gift & Craft Bazaar, Camano Island
Accessible: Handicapped access to both floors
Date: November 22 Time: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm Where: Camano Center, 606 Arrowhead Road, Camano Island, WA 98282 Benefits: Proceeds from registration go to senior services at the Camano Center Admission: Free Accessible: Yes Details: zaar/
www.camanocenter.org/event/holiday-craft-gift-ba-
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Troop 327 Holiday Bazaar, Mill Creek
Admission: Free
Date: November 22
Accessible: Yes, minimal upper-floor use
Time: 12:00 am – 8:00 pm
Benefits: Volunteer-run market supporting Greenbank Farm
Where: Tri-way Grange, 3500 Seattle Hill Road, Mill Creek, WA 98012
Where: Greenbank Farm, 765 Wonn Road, Greenbank, WA 98253
Benefits: Boy Scout Troop 327’s summer trek
Details: www.greenbankfarm.biz/calendar/holiday-market
Admission: Free Accessible: No Details: www.troop327millcreek.org/holidaybazaar/
39th Annual Holiday Bazaar, Everett Date: December 5 Time: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Greenbank Farm Holiday Market, Greenbank Dates: November 28 - December 30, and Saturdays and Sundays between December 6 - 21 Time: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Where: The Carl Gipson Senior Center of Everett, 3025 Lombard, Everett, WA 98201 Admission: Free Accessible: Yes Details: www.everettwa.org/default.aspx?ID=1876
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8th Annual Homemade Arts & Crafts Christmas Bazaar, Blaine
The Lights of Christmas, Stanwood
Date: December 5 & 6
Time: 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Where: Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street, Blaine, WA 98230
Where: Warm Beach Camp & Conference Center, 20800 Marine Drive, Stanwood, WA 98292
Benefits: Proceeds from the cookie walk and table fees benefit the Blaine Senior Center.
Benefits: Ministry, Kids to Camp Scholarship Fund, and other charitable organizations.
Admission: Free
Admission: General admission $15 for adults (13 to 59), $10 for military personnel and seniors (60 and older), $9 for children from 4 to 12, and free for children 3 and younger
Accessible: Yes Details: www.blaineseniorcenter.com/Upcoming-Events
Date: December 4-7, 11-14, 18-23, 26-30
Accessible: www.thelightsofchristmas.com/wheelchair-accessibility Details: www.warmbeach.com/lights-of-christmas
Homespun Holiday Bazaar, Monroe Date: December 6 & 7 Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm Where: Evergreen State Fairgrounds Commercial Building, 14405 179th Ave SE Monroe, WA 98272 Benefits: Evergreen Fair Foundation Admission: Free Accessible: Yes Details: www.evergreenfair.org/xmas-bazaar.asp
Country Christmas and Arts Fair, Langley Dates: November 28, 29 & 30, and December 6 & 7 Times: November 28, 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm, all other dates, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm Where: Island County Fairgrounds, 819 Camano Ave, Langley, WA 98260 Benefits: Supports Island County Fair Association scholarships Admission: Free Accessible: Yes Details: www.whidbeyislandfair.com/documents/102.html
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READING THE SKY by Lorraine Wilde
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hen I planned my move to the Pacific Northwest from Michigan 26 years ago, the first question everyone asked was, “Do you think the weather will bother you?” That year, my mother bought me an umbrella and a raincoat for my birthday. But once I got here, whenever the weather came up with locals, they all quoted Mark Twain’s saying, “If you don’t like the weather in New England, just wait a few minutes.” That wisdom has turned out to be entirely accurate for the Pacific Northwest (PNW) as well. Misconceptions about our PNW weather persist. Despite its reputation, Seattle actually receives less annual rainfall than New York City and Miami. Although our winters are definitely wet, it doesn’t rain here year-round. Most of our precipitation actually falls between November and February while our summers are among the driest (and most beautiful) in North America. As University of Washington Atmospheric Sciences Professor and PNW weather guru, Cliff Mass, explains, “Nowhere in North America are precipitation contrasts greater than in the Pacific Northwest.”
Our unique combination of oceanic and atmospheric conditions, variable terrain, and comfortably mild climate create the stunning sunsets, fantastical snow conditions, and incredible cloud formations appreciated by boaters, hikers, and skiers alike. Each morning, before I decide what to wear, I look out my window and try to read the sky. What do the clouds look like? Are they grey and swollen with moisture or wispily floating in a sea of blue? How high are they? What direction and how fast are they moving and what is lurking behind them? Will it be a scorcher (I’m a wimp, so anything over 27 ˚C [80 ˚F]) or can I even find the sun? My morning habit reminds me of the skill and wisdom that Pacific Northwest Aboriginals/Native Americans and early European settlers must have used and handed down through generations to cope and survive here without cell phones, websites, weather simulations, satellites, and television and radio forecasters we take for granted today. In the end, I dress for the weather I see before me in the sky and bring along what I’ll need for when it improves—or worsens—in the next few hours... because I know it will.
propelling warm water from the tropics closer to the west coast. This translates to warmer than normal winter temperatures that increase the chance of heavy rain dumps and thunderstorms in coastal lowlands, drier than normal conditions over the mountains, and fewer major storm events compared to a neutral year. Skiers will have to keep their fingers crossed that this will be a weak El Niño year, as has happened occasionally in the past, in which normal or above average snowfall occurred despite El Niño’s presence. As Cliff Mass explains, “although the connection between ENSO and future Northwest weather is imperfect, it is essentially the only game in town for Northwest meteorologists looking to provide useful information more than a week or two in advance.” EMBRACING THE RAIN A clear blue sky in the PNW winter rarely stays that way. Our weather is both a draw and a drag for locals and visitors alike. But early on, I chose to love the winter showers and it has influenced why I’ve stayed.
WEATHER PREDICTION (OR THE LACK THEREOF) Predicting the weather here more than two or three days in advance is tantamount to witchcraft. You wouldn’t think it difficult to foresee because our weather here is basically created by the collision of two major influences. The immense and ever-changing Pacific Ocean shares its moisture and brings our mild air temperatures while the steep mountain ranges block and deflect low level air systems, keeping cold air from the east from encroaching. Yet our weather is surprisingly variable over short distances. A drive south along U.S. Interstate 5 will show a pelting horizontal rain one minute and practically clear blue heaven the next. This regional variation, caused by changes in slope and elevation of our terrain, undulating shorelines, and glacially- and volcanically-formed lakes and rivers, make even the most scientific weather forecast no more than a technologically-advanced guess. However, scientists are making improvements in weather prediction. Winter 2015 is expected to be influenced by the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), a cyclic shift in weather patterns that occurs every three to seven years. In a typical or “neutral” year, the winds over the Pacific—called prevailing trade winds—blow from east to west due to the spinning of the Earth. As a result, the water in our area is usually cooler by comparison than Asia and Australia. In an El Niño year like this one, the prevailing winds reverse and flow west to east,
A weather front or low-pressure air system usually approaches my home in Bellingham by swooping over Vancouver Island and the San Juan Islands from the Pacific Ocean, often bringing with it moisture. With the right raincoat, winter in the PNW can bring solace and cozy contemplation. There’s nothing like a hike through a cedar-filled forest in a light drizzle, the mist flitting across my face like a feather. Alone and protected under the canopy, I focus on the sound of the drops tap-tapping on the leaves of a bigleaf maple. Even when it’s spitting cats and dogs, the ever-changing song on my metal roof is the perfect companion to my comfy sweater and hot chocolate. I do my best writing in our darker winter months, in a rain shadow coffee shop, nestled behind my laptop, in front of transforming window full of sky. Love it or hate it, our drizzle-filled winters are an integral part of our days here, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. For more information about PNW weather in the U.S.: Cliff Mass Weather Blog http://cliffmass.blogspot.com/ National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration http://www.noaa.gov/ enter the U.S. postal code of your destination for the most accurate local weather forecast
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HIDDEN CITY: LA CONNER, WA
by Lara Dunning
EXPLORING LA CONNER, WA
S
now geese dot fertile farm fields, eagles perch in treetops, and a posse of wild turkeys trot into the woods on the drive into La Conner. The cornucopia of Skagit Valley continues with farm stands that highlight the harvest, colorful nineteenth-century houses and arts of all mediums that gather along the Swinomish River. This quaint historic waterfront town has hidden sculpture parks nestled in between an eclectic array of shops and restaurants. Each revels in their own creative flare and reflects the flourishing artistic community that makes La Conner unique.
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LE CREMA COFFEE Coziness radiates from this small cabin turned coffee shop. Enjoy your favorite espresso drink while relishing a local favorite, Scone Lady Scones. Absorb the artistic ambiance with La Conner postcards by Bob Patterson and metal works adorning the walls. On sunny mornings wander outside along one of the boardwalk bridges to ruminate in a garden hideaway.
PIONEER PARK Stroll down the La Conner waterfront to Pioneer Park where trails switch-back through a wooded hill. Roam through the shelter of the woods or hike up to Rainbow Bridge and get a close-up of the iconic bright orange deck arch bridge that spans almost 800 feet long across the Swinomish Channel. Murals of animals and forest foliage painted underneath the bridge represent “friends we revere, present, past and future.� From the top, views of La Conner, Shelter Bay and Swinomish Channel are enchanting any time of year.
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MUSEUM OF NORTHWEST ART MoNA, as the locals call it, has made art more accessible with free admission. Saunter through the gallery and be inspired by its latest exhibitions. “To Be Alone Together” pairs Northwest artists with art from MoNA’s permanent collection and “Accreted Terrane” explores the “process of accumulation and erosion.” In the museum’s store, quality pieces, like glass tulips and vases, delicate jewelry, handmade felt hats, scarves and statues, display the brilliance of Washington artists.
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LA CONNER BREWERY
NELL THORN RESTAURANT & PUB
Watch wood fire oven flames flicker over delectable pizzas topped with a specialty four cheese house blend. Munch on pub inspired food, like wood-fired nachos spiced with pepper jack cheese and jalapenos or harvest quesadillas with roasted butternut squash toasted cashews and chipotle sour cream. Wash it all down with a Porter, Pale Ale or the raspberry Belgian that won the Great American Beer Festival Award.
Relish a bite of “Magic Skagit” with the farm to table menu prepared by chef-owners Casey and Susan Schanen. Vegetables, fruits, nuts, cheeses, meats and seafood all come from the bounty of local farmers and waters. Vibrant flavors come alive with skillfully prepared dishes, like Dungeness crab cakes or Samish oysters served with Nell’s lemony aioli, smoked salmon pappardelle with cream, parmesan and herbs or duckling with King Oyster mushrooms, Chinese broccoli and bay scented duck fat fingerling potatoes paired with an autumn elixir. Desert tempts with a salted caramel pecan tart topped with chocolate ganache or the chocolate hazelnut brownie. Cozy up in the bar. Sit outside on the deck or in the formal dining room and watch the boats glide along the Swinomish Channel.
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HELLAM’S VINEYARD
THE WOOD MERCHANT
Jeff Hellam, the owner of Hellam’s Vineyard, has a serious passion for wine and beer. The shop in the historical Lime Dock building offers the best of Washington and worldwide artisanal wines and brews. Many are displayed in Hellam’s own hand-crafted barrel stave wine racks. Have a tasting, purchase a bottle to take home or open it right there and pair it with a savory artisan cheese tray or special weekend Panini. Plush sofas and chairs or the outside “wine deck” with views of Swinomish Channel make this experience one of a kind.
Breathe in the sweet smell of cedar and be astonished by the artistry of woodworking. This all-American gallery showcases the best of Pacific Northwest and United States craftsmen. Find that perfect gift like a recycled golf club crafted into colorful waterfowl or an intricate jewelry box. Exquisite tables and clocks beg to become favorite family heirlooms.
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LA CONNER CHANNEL LODGE Relax in luxurious accommodations snuggled against the Swinomish Channel. Located in the heart of downtown, it’s a great place to stay if you want to explore La Conner by foot. In the morning, cozy up in front of the river rock gas fireplace with coffee and then mosey upstairs for homemade granola and other breakfast goodies. After sightseeing, spoil yourself with a decadent chocolate body scrub signature spa treatment or let the tension slip away with the full body head-totoe Swedish massage. Afterward share a favorite libation on the patio and watch the boats drift by. That evening soak in jetted tubs and fall asleep on a cloud of plush down bedding.
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RE-FEATHER YOUR NEST This hip consignment shop sells unique gently used furnishings and a variety of new home wares to match. It’s easy to “re-mix, re-new, re-do” with their eclectic array of furniture and accessories.
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BUTTERFLY GARDEN Appreciate La Conner from one of most peaceful spots in town, the Butterfly Garden at the Civic Garden Club. Doves coo and bells chime in the wind at this small garden oasis on Second Street. Wander down the path past butterfly bushes and a Vanderwolf’s Limber Pine to the back of the building. Take a moment to muse over the view next to a historic La Conner landmark that was originally built as Grange Hall and served as the territorial Courthouse.
Getaway by the Bay Art radiates from every corner of La Conner. Parks with sculptures and fountains nestle in between historic buildings. Shops are an array of color and tastes. Dining brings out the abundance of the valley. La Conner is a treasure to ponder no matter what you do. Walk through town and discover the La Conner 2014 Sculpture Exhibit. Sample a variety of olives at the Olive Shoppe. Learn about quilts and textiles in the Tudorstyle Gaches Mansion at the Quilt and Textile Museum. Linger in La Conner’s creative force that breathes life into this picturesque waterfront town.
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Navigating The Islands Getting around the islands in the Pacific Northwest may seem a little daunting at first: did you know some of these islands you can actually drive to? Here’s a handy little guide to help you plan your next Island adventure.
How to Ride
There are three ways to ride the ferry: drive-on, bike-on, and walk-on. Prices scale up depending on vessel size, duration, and mode of transportation. If you are planning a day of walking or biking during your visit, leaving your car at the terminal will save you a vehicle surcharge.
Oversized Vehicles
Your vehicle doesn’t need to be large to be considered “oversized.” If you are travelling with bikes, kayaks, or any storage container on top of your car, you could be consider an oversized vehicle, and charged accordingly. If you can, make sure to store your bikes on the back of your car, as over-length charges are easier to avoid. For more information on rules for oversized vehicles, loading procedures, and general information visit: www.wsdot.wa.gov/ ferries/infodesk/faq/general_info/
most southern point of Whidbey Island as ferry wait-times can affect your travel time. From Canada: From I-5 South, take exit 230 toward Burlington. You’ll be taking WA-20 West all the way to the island, crossing Deception Pass. There are incredible views along the way; driving there is a getaway in itself. From Canada (Ferry Option): From I-5 South, take exit 189 toward Mukilteo/Everett, and follow signs for WA-526 West/Whidbey Island Ferry. From Seattle: From I-5 North, take exit 182 toward Mukilteo/Everett. Follow signs for WA-525 North all the way to the ferry terminal.
Quick Facts: • Ferries depart every 30 minutes • US cash, US checks, and all major credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express • Vehicles over 228.6 cm in height will be consider oversized • Parking lots available for ferry passengers (daily, weekly, and/or monthly rates, apply) Website: www.wsdot.com/ferries/schedule/scheduledetailbyroute. aspx?route=muk-cl Insider’s Tip: If you are planning our Ebey State Biking Getaway on page 42, then this is your route!
Currency
All ferries in Washington State DO NOT accept Canadian currency. While most credit and debit cards are accepted, it would be prudent to bring U.S. cash to simplify your trip.
Getting to Camano Island
Camano Island is accessible via Highway 532 in Stanwood, WA. It’s an easy quick drive—about an hour and 15 minutes from the border via I-5 South—making it the easiest island to visit. From Canada: Via I-5 South, take exit 221 and continue to WA-532 West. Follow signs to Camano Island. From Seattle: Via I-5 North, take exit 212, and continue onto WA-532 West. Follow signs to Camano Island.
Getting to Whidbey Island
This Island is accessible via ferry and car, depending on where you’re coming from. If you are travelling from Canada, driving is recommended even if you are travelling to the
Getting to Lummi Island
This island is only accessible via the Lummi Island Ferry in Bellingham, WA. From Canada: Via I-5 South, take exit 260 and follow signs for Lummi Island. From Seattle: Via I-5 North, take exit 260 and follow signs for Lummi Island.
Quick Facts: • Short ride: under a 10 minute ride • Runs every 20 minutes on weekdays (every hour on weekends) • Kids under 19 ride free! • US cash, US checks, and credits with a Visa, Mastercard, and Discover logo are accepted (American Express is not accepted) Website: www.co.whatcom.wa.us/publicworks/ferry/index.jsp
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Getting to Orcas, San Juan, and Lopez Islands Accessing the San Juan Islands requires a ferry ride from Anacortes, WA.
Other Useful Links: Ferry Cams: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/vesselwatch/ CameraDetail.aspx
From Canada: From I-5 South, take exit 230, and continue on WA-20 West From Seattle: From I-5 North, take exit 226 for WA-536 West, and continue on to WA-20 West
Quick Facts: • Ferry ride times vary from 30 minutes, to one hour, depending on your destination. • Discounted fares for Children 6 – 18 years old • Vehicles over 228.6 cm in height will be consider oversized • Parking lots available for ferry passengers (daily, weekly, and/or monthly rates, apply) • US cash, US checks, and all major credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express Website: www.wsdot.com/ferries/schedule/ ScheduleDetailByRoute.aspx?route=ana-sj
Photo courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons
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Your Guide for Easy Crossing Crossing the border can be a stressful event if you’re not armed with the proper information. Keeping track of the numerous rules and regulations can be a bit over-whelming. We can help with that. Below we’ve condensed important need-to-know information into one spot for quick, easy planning of your next trip across the border.
Conversion Chart United States customary units - Metric system
• Using cash is the best way to avoid international fees/charges that can incur with debit or credit card use. • Roaming charges for your phone can quickly add up. Contact your mobile provider at home for travelling data plans.
Coming Home: What To Declare Going From the U.S. To Canada
• 1 inch - 2.54 cm
Exemptions
• 1 foot - .3 meters (1 meter is just a bit longer than what we call a yard)
Absence less than 24 hours:
• 1 mile - About 1.6 km • 1 ounce - 28.35 g • 1 pound - .45 kg (1 kilogram is a little over 2 pounds) • 1 fluid ounce - 29.57 millilitres • 1 pint - .47 kilolitres (a little over 2 pints to 1 kilolitre) • 1 gallon - 3.785 litres • 30 miles per hour - 48.3 kilometers per hour • 40 miles per hour - 64.4 kilometers per hour • 50 miles per hour - 80.5 kilometers per hour • 60 miles per hour, or mph - 96.5 kilometers per hour Quick tip! Here’s some easy math you can do in your head for an approximate temperature:
No personal exemptions for same-day crossing
Absence 24 hrs-48 hrs: You can claim up to CAN $200 without paying duty. You must have the goods with you, and tobacco and alcohol aren't included.
Absence 48 hrs+ You can claim up to CAN $800 without paying duty. You must have the goods with you. Tobacco and alcohol is allotted to a certain amount, depending on your province.
Absence 7 days+ You can claim up to CAN $800 without paying duty. You must have tobacco and alcohol products with you, but anything other than these can arrive later by mail. Minimum duty may apply to tobacco products.
• Fahrenheit to Celsius: Subtract 30 from the current temperature, and divide by 2.
Allowances
• Celsius to Fahrenheit: Multiply the temperature by
Alcohol:
2, and then add 30.
Common Local Practices • For establishments that offer a tip line on your receipt (i.e. restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, taxis, etc.), 15% is considered fair gratuity. 20% is even better.
You may bring: • 1.5 litres of wine (about 2 750-ml bottles) • 1.14 litres of spirits (one large standard bottle) • 8.5 litres of beer (about 24 cans)* *Approximately 4 Growlers of beer is 7.58 litres
• When you’re driving, the left lane of the road is commonly called the “fast lane,” or the “passing lane.” Use this lane to pass slow moving traffic.
Tobacco:
• Chip bank cards (i.e. Interact) are not commonly accepted at many local shops in the states. However, debit cards with a Visa or Mastercard logo are accepted—same goes for major credit cards.
Currency:
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• 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 200 grams (7 ounces) of manufactured tobacco, and 200 tobacco sticks
You must report any amount of currency greater than or equal to CAN $10,000
Foods, Plants and Agriculture: Certain foods are not allowed because they pose a health risk. For a complete list of allowable foods, see the appendix at the bottom of this guide.
Jewellery: Because jewellery is often very valuable, and can be difficult to identify, you should travel with as little as possible. If you plan to purchase jewellery, check with the most recent Canadian regulations first.
Bellingham Airport
Amtrak
BC Ferries
Blue Cab
Bolt Bus
Greyhound
Skagit Bus Lines
Snohomish Bus Lines
WSDOT
Whatcom Bus Lines
Yellow Cab
SeaTac Direct
Restrictions Partial list: • Cultural property • Explosives, fireworks, and ammunition • Banned firearms and weapons (switch blades, silencers, replica firearms, etc.) • Prohibited consumer products (baby walkers, infant self-feeding devices, jequirity beans and items containing them, lawn darts with elongated tips, etc.) • Certain items, like strollers and car seats, that fail to meet regulation. Visit beaware.gc.ca for more information.
What Food, Plant, Animal and Related Products can I bring into Canada? This is an abbreviated list of commonly imported food, animal and plant products you can declare. For changes, and more detailed information, contact the CFIA National Import Service Centre (NISC).
Animal fat or suet • up to 20 kilograms per person
Baked goods, candies, etc. • no goods containing meat • up to 20 kilograms per person
Conifers and garden plants • restricted
Dairy products (e.g. cheese, milk, yogurt, butter) • up to 20 kilograms per person with a value of $20 or less
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Fish and seafood • up to 20 kilograms per person • all species except °°pufferfish °°Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis)
Flowers: cut
Leather goods and skins • fully tanned hides and skins only
Meat and poultry products (for example, jerky, sausages, deli meats and patties,fois gras) • up to 20 kilograms per person
• restrictions on coniferous foliage/green cones
• packages must have identifying marks, indicating what the product is
• must not be for propagation
• proof of country of origin may be required
There may be some restrictions depending on the type of flowers and where they come from. Use the Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) to confirm if a specific item is allowed.
Fruits and vegetables, including herbs: dried • up to 15 packages per person • but not more than 250 kilograms
Fruits and vegetables, including herbs: frozen or canned • fruits °°up to 15 frozen packages or 15 cans per person °°but not more than 250 kilograms • vegetables °°up to 20 kilograms of frozen or chilled vegetables per person
Fruits and vegetables: fresh • one bag up to 4 kilograms of US number 1 potatoes per person and the bag must be commercially packaged • 15 packages or less up to 250 kilograms of fresh fruits and vegetables per person (excluding potatoes) • must be free from soil, pests, leaves, branches and/or plant debris • some restrictions on some fresh fruit and vegetables from California, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington • in British Columbia (BC): restrictions on fresh apples, stone fruit and potatoes
Spices, tea, coffee, condiments • entry permitted
Meat and poultry: fresh, frozen and chilled • up to 20 kilograms per person • one turkey per person • packages must have identifying marks, indicating what the product is • proof of country of origin may be required
Sea shells and sand • sea shells and items made from them are allowed • must be clean and free of sea life, soil and sand
You are not allowed to import sand. Vegetables: fresh • See “Fruits and vegetables”.
Wooden souvenirs • must be free of bark, insects or evidence of insect activity
Know Where You’re Going Whether you’re visiting a friend, or just shopping, be as detailed as possible when talking with border agents. When visiting people, make sure you’re able to provide their address, duration of stay, and any other details about what you’ll be doing during your trip. The more details you provide will help make your crossing that much quicker.
More general info can be found at: beaware.gc.ca
Infant formula • commercially packaged • milk based or non-milk based, (dry/liquid) formula • for personal use only • sealed • up to a maximum of 20 kilograms per person
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NAFTA: North American Free Trade Agreement Goods made and/or assembled in Canada, United States,
Other great news sources and Mexico may qualify for preferential tariff treatment under NAFTA. These goods require special documentation such as a certificate of origin. For more information on items accepted under NAFTA, and where to find the appropriate documentation, visit this website: international.gc.ca
Adventures NW
All Points Bulletin
Bellingham Alive
Bellingham Herald
Bellingham On Tap
Cascadia Weekly
Entertainment News NW
Grow NW
Mt. Baker Experience
The Northern Light
Waterside NW
What’s Up Magazine
Contact the CFIA National Import Service Centre (NISC) for more information on what you can bring across the border. inspection.gc.ca
For more detailed information, you can review the import requirements for specific products using the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) Automated Import Reference System (AIRS). airs-sari.inspection.gc.ca
Border Traffic Here’s a link with border traffic information, updated by the minute. Knowing the best place to cross could save hours off your trip. Make sure to check this site for the best place to cross the border. wsdot.com/traffic
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$ 1
9:00-CLOSE
$2.50
$3.00
O F F E A C H P L AT E AT H A P P Y H O U R
B E LT $3.50
S U S H I $3.75
$4.25