February 2014 Bellingham Alive Digital Issue by K & L Media

Special Edition

HOME re m od el &

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Made in the North Sound

Wonder Woman: Mimi Osterdahl

Premier Homes: Real Estate Guide

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Things in the rearview mirror: Worries, other drivers, gas stations. The new Porsche Cayenne Diesel redefines what it means to be an SUV. It comes equipped with a 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel engine with common rail injection system that turns out 406 lb.-ft. of torque giving you exhilarating acceleration and superior towing capabilities. Even with all this power it remains remarkably fuel efficient -- 29 mpg highway and a range of up to 765 miles* in a single tank. It sets new boundaries in a category all its own. Porsche. There is no substitute.

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LIFESTYLE

FEATURES

Getting Clean for Spring

Made in the North Sound

By the Numbers

Home & Remodel

Lasting Image

Premier Homes

Calendar February & March

In the Know Saul Weisberg

Wonder Woman Mimi Osterdahl

In the Know Uptown Art Studio

Pepper Sisters

In the Know George Dyson

Meet the Chef Chef Dan Van Norman

In the Know Apps We Love

Dining Guide

Real Heroes Daniel Howard

102 Drink of the Month Dude Man Wheat Ale

In the Know Book Reviews

103 Sip Bergevin Winery

In the Know Who Knew

104 Ciao Thyme

5 Faves Great Dates

105 Seven Good Things

In the Spotlight Oliver de la Paz

Quick Trip Yakima Wine Country

SHOP

DINE

ON THE TOWN

107 Events Around Town 110 Brian Regan

Color Pot

112 Events Out of Town

Necessities Spring Ahead Essentials

112 The Mounties

Around the Sound Jaleh

113 The Scene The Great Gatsby Gala

Savvy Shopper Find your Fashion Again NOTES

WELL BEING

44 Beauty Vintage Glamour: Makeup How-To 46

Calendar Races & Runs

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter

Contributors

Letters to the Editor

Meet a Staffer Frances Badgett

114 Final Word

HOM E remode l &

Congratulations to the local Northwest American Institute of Architects Award Winners: Rocket Donuts in Fairhaven (RMC Architects), Bellingham OB-GYN (RMC Architects), the Perry Center at Bellingham Technical College (HKP Architects) and the Gaston Bay Building (Christensen Design Management). For more inspiring design, see our feature starting on page 57.

Four Spectacular Homes in the North Sound

A Delight-ful Remodel

Brightening Your Bedroom

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el.indd 57 1/29/14 5:30 PM

February | March 2014 7

CON T ENTS On t he We b

More of the great North Sound at

NORTHSOUNDLIFE .COM SHOP. DINE. LIVE. in the North Sound

Restaurant reviews, searchable by city

ONLINE EXCLUSIVE Canyon River Grill Make-Over

Check out Tanna Barnecut’s renovation of the Canyon River Grill. The grill is at the Canyon River Lodge near Ellensburg, WA, a fly-fishing and outdoor recreation destination.

Spruce Up Your Celebration with Spruce Stationery & Design Our top picks and event listings

Printable recipes from our event “Meet the Chef”

Intern at Bellingham Alive! and North Sound Life

Get yourself a head start by interning with K & L Media. If you are a writer, photographer, designer or interested in marketing and PR, an internship provides valuable experience and adds creditability to your CV and portfolio. Get more information online at northsoundlife.com/jobs-and-internships or email editor@klmediacorp.com

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N OTES E di t or ' s L e t t e r

Welcome Home

he French, I’m told, have no word for home, not in the way we use it. So what is home? Is it the place where we spend most of our time? Or is it a place that defines our “from” as the late author Doris Betts used to say? Home speaks a bit about who we are and how we interact with the world. In many ways, Lexington, Virginia will always be my home. It is my “from” that shaped me, the place I gathered the earliest inklings of who I am and what I wanted from the world. I spent my college years in Virginia, not far from home. I had always thought of my subsequent residences as sojourns until I found The Place. In this issue we celebrate being home in The Place we call the Northwest: the rootedness, the connectedness, the comfort and the delight of being home here. Another aspect of home is our bigger home, our community. In this issue, we celebrate our homes with the small businesses and industries that help shape them, that infuse our area with creative energy and beautiful products. Consider the delicate beauty of Bison Bookbinding and Letterpress’s stationery, or the fun and funky fashion of elSage designs. Consider, too, the delicious pasta of Bellingham Pasta Company or the aptly named Chocolate Necessities. Consider the Chinook salmon cooked perfectly in a WoodStone oven at 13moons at Swinomish Casino & Lodge. Consider, too, a quiet moment soaking in the tub with the smell of Bramble Berry’s lavender soap lingering in the air. Premier Homes, our special advertising section, is for those of you who are in a holding pattern, who are renting, or who are frustrated by commutes, or whose idea of home is to move and keep moving. Premier Homes can match you with your dream home and your realtor all in one neat bundle. So whether you live in a view home in Samish Heights or a little craftsman in Mount Vernon, whether you’re grounded in one place or hop all over the globe, we welcome you home.

Frances Badgett

10 NorthSoundLife.com

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N OTE S Co nt r i b u t o r s Lauren Foote As a Western Washington University visual journalism major, Lauren loves any excuse to use the right side of her brain. She enjoys writing, photography, and designing in her free time as well as adventuring outdoors and shopping.  See her article about Uptown Art on p. 26 and her photos on p. 37 and p. 39.

Modern Convenience & Traditional Service appleyarns.com 1780 Iowa St. Bellingham, WA (360) 756-9992

Sarah Rorvig Sarah is a Bellingham makeup artist who specializes in weddings, natural cosmetics and teaching private makeup lessons. She spends part of the year traveling in Costa Rica doing makeup for destination weddings. When she is in town, she races competitively in the Chuckanut Sports Car Club, and is a lover of flowers and a good tequila. sarahrorvig.com  For a romantic Valentine’s Day look, see p. 44.

Zacchoreli Frescobadli-Grimaldi Zacchoreli grew up in the Pacific Northwest, and has lived in Bellingham with his partner of 17 years and their two zany dogs. He is a Cordon Bleu Chef, has a master’s degree in English Studies from Western Washington University, and is a grant writer for a non-profit organization. He and his partner enjoy wine, traveling and anything that has to do with the culinary arts.  For a peek into a great winery, read p. 103.

Celebrating 19 years in Downtown Bellingham

Sarah Brand The founder of Bellingham-based SKB Events, Sarah has been designing and producing client events professionally since 2006. Her background includes planning events both domestically and internationally for a wide array of companies and nonprofits. skbevents.com  For some spring cleaning tips, see p. 19. 360•671•5704 Downtown Bellingham•1317 Railroad Ave.

12 NorthSoundLife.com

Expert knowledge, spirit & imagination to serve you and the area we love. Kathy Stauffer is a dedicated and passionate Real Estate Professional. Offering an uncommon knowledge, exceptional level of service with a determined imagination and devoted spirit to meet your real estate needs.

Visit me at my website: www.kathystauffer.com Kathy Stauffer Managing Broker 360-815-4718 kstauffer@windermere.com

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Not always alcohol related. PUBLICATIONS Bellingham Alive North Sound Life North End Metro PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Lisa Karlberg EDITOR Frances Badgett ASSOCIATE EDITOR Megan Munroe ART DIRECTOR Jana Junge ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Gail Beatty | Christine Clauson Lisa Knight | Kaelen Morris Debbie Robinson | Lorraine Starodub Danielle Titland GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kelly Slater EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Haley Cross | Lauren Foote Dakota Mackey | Ryan Schafer WRITERS Kyla Rohde | Joanna Roddy Maren Vallerand PHOTOGRAPHY Lauren Foote | Kaity Teer CONTRIBUTORS Sarah Brand | Lisa Gresham Zacchoreli Frescobaldi-Grimaldi Ken Karlberg | Jessica Pain Sarah Rorvig PROOFREADER Pat Karlberg WEBSITE & IT Alex Bowen CIRCULATION & ACCOUNTING Kelli Reynolds

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L e t t er s t o t he E d it o r

N OTES

Green is

Good

N e w Ye a r – N e w Yo u

January 2014 Display until January 31 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

Defend or Debunk? 6 Health Myths

Health & Medical Profiles

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In the Spotlight: Cheryl Strayed 12/20/13 5:21 PM

Great Cover, Great Issue What another great issue and I LOVE the cover, continued success to you and your staff in 2014. Jeffery Miles via northsoundlife.com

The Best Best Magazine in Washington! Brittany Milam-Volpenhein via facebook

Ha Ha, Ken! Okay Ken! In Search of the Holy Polyps was hysterical! You never cease to make me chuckle and sometimes laugh so hard that I cry! Kim from Mukilteo via email

Oh. My. God. Your” Final Word” articles should come with a warning label: “DO NOT CONSUME HOT LIQUIDS WHILE READING THIS!” I just snorted hot tea all over my screen and keyboard! I’ve heard guys laugh about the bag of frozen peas, but they never mention the post-surgical samples … Kathy Marshall via email

February | March 2014 15

N OTES Me e t a S t a f f e r

Northsoundlife .com North Puget Sound … We have you covered!

Every issue we highlight an employee of K & L Media.

Frances Badgett Writer, editor and occasional wonk.

Shop.

Savvy Shopper Neccesities Beauty Essentials

Dine.

Restaurant Reviews Recipes Entertaining

Live.

In The Know 5 Favorites Home & Remodel Home Search On The Town Wellbeing Travel & Outdoors

16 NorthSoundLife.com

What is your role at the magazine and how long have you been with K & L Media? I have been the editor since August of 2013. I work with the publisher in setting editorial direction of our publications and the thematic flow of individual issues. I select and research the subjects we cover, assign articles to writers, edit content, coordinate with the designers and keep all the little pieces that make the magazine moving. I make sure all the editorial content is in before the deadline, and I manage a team of freelancers, interns and I coordinate all the editorial photography. Sometimes I write an article or two. What is your background? I grew up in Lexington, Virginia near the Blue Ridge Mountains. My parents just celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary, and still live in the same house I grew up in. I got my B.A. at Hollins University and my M.F.A. at The Vermont College of Fine Arts. I lived in Chapel Hill, NC for several years before coming to Bellingham. I’ve worked in nonprofits and politics, and for the past 10 years, I’ve been the fiction editor of Contrary Magazine, an online literary quarterly. What is your favorite part of working for a regional lifestyle magazine? It’s hard to choose one thing to love about my job, because I work with great people in a cool setting, and I get to be a part of a project that is both beautiful and interesting. I love working with local photographers, stylists, and contributors. And I love the fun we have in the office.

What are some of your hobbies and interests? I’m a fiction writer and a poet in my other life, so I do quite a lot of writing after hours and on weekends. I’m working on getting my first novel, Pale Mother, published. In addition to writing and editing, I also mentor a group of writers in a prison in Georgia called Writers Synonymous. I haven’t played in recent years, but I love playing the cello. One of my greatest joys is exploring the Pacific Northwest with my husband and daughter. 

We Speak

to where you live. BEST

of the

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Hawaii Publisher’s Choice

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Fall Arts Preview 2013 9/25/13 5:41 PM

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Couture Weddings

JUNE | JULY 2013

APRIL/MAY 2013

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Whatcom County Association of Realtors 2014 Vice President

Cerise Noah

Realtor | Windermere-Whatcom 360.393.5826 cerisenoah@windermere.com

LIFESTYLE In The Know · Calendar · Spotlight-Artist · 5 Faves

Getting Clean for Spring BY SARAH BRAND

hh, it’s almost spring in the Northwest! The birds will fly north and begin singing again, the rain will subside and you will once again see the faint glimmer of sunshine through the branches of those soon-to-be-budding trees. There are already little signs of hope in your muddy and moss filled “lawn.” All of the sudden, you are struck by a deep need to open all of your windows, air out your house and stop ignoring the thin layer of mud that covers the floors of your mudroom and entryway. It is time for some serious oldfashioned spring cleaning. Here are few tips and ideas on the best ways to spend your precious hours allocated to this arduous, if satisfying task. The first order of business is safety. This is the time to check all of your smoke detectors — even the ones so high that you have to use a broom handle to reach the test button. Change the batteries, make sure there are no dust bunnies covering sensors and review your family emergency plan. As we live in earthquake and volcano country now is also a good time to check your first aid kit and disaster supplies and make sure you have supplies both at home and in the car. If you’re feeling truly enterprising, this is a great time of year to host a Map Your Neighborhood continued on page 24 …

L IF E S T YLE By t he N u m b e rs

North Sound Women’s Expo

Children under

paint for free at Uptown Art see p. 26

1953

The Color Pot was founded in

by Bill Hewett’s parents.

p. 37

WoodStone has sold more than

Our Meet the Chef host was Chef Dan Van Norman of

13 moons at Swinomish Casino & Lodge. p. 97

10,000 ovens since 1990. p. 52

Find Your Fashion Again is years old.

3½

500

Bergevin Vineyards produced only

Brian Regan has performed on David Letterman more than

20 NorthSoundLife.com

p. 43

Gather up your girlfriends and join K & L Media for a full weekend of fun, informative panels, loads of great vendor booths, contests and a Girls’ Night Out with a silent auction. Proceeds from the auction will benefit the Burned Children Recovery Foundation. We’re offering seminars on personal safety, makeup dos and don’ts, health and wellness, wine tasting tips, relationship tips, and much more! Event Center at Silver Reef 4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale Friday, May 9, 12–5 p.m.

cases of the 2010 Merlot.

Saturday, May 10, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Girls’ Night Out & Auction 6–10 p.m.

p. 103

Sunday, May 11, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

times. p. 110

La st i ng I ma ge

LI F E S T Y LE

“The places where water comes together with other water. Those places stand out in my mind like holy places.” RAYMOND CARVER, WHERE WATER COMES TOGETHER WITH OTHER WATER: POEMS

Photography by Danny Lauve, runner-up of our 1st Annual Photo Contest 2013 Sailboat in waters off Guemes Island

February | March 2014 21

Ca l e nd a r

LI F E S T Y LE

FEBRUARY & MARCH FEBRUARY

FEBRUARY

39 Steps Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham Feb. 14, 7:30–10 p.m. mountbakertheatre.com

Whatcom Reads! presents: Cheryl Strayed Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham Feb. 24, 7:30 p.m. mountbakertheatre.com

Rainshadow Running: The Trail Running Film Festival Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham March 14, 8 p.m. mountbakertheatre.com

Prince Igor San Juan Community Theatre, Friday Harbor March 16, 2 p.m. scjtheatre.org

MARCH

16 MARCH

Peter Pan Mar. 22, 7:30 p.m. McIntyre Hall, Mount Vernon mcintyrehall.org

FEBRUARY

Jamie Laval Live in Bellingham Feb. 26, 7:30 p.m. YWCA Bellingham jamielaval.com

MARCH

MarchFourth Marching Band The Wild Buffalo, Bellingham March 2, 9:30 p.m. wildbuffalo.net

Whatcom Symphony Orchestra Duo Extravaganza: Dan and Victoria Sabo Mount Baker Theatre, March 30, 3 p.m. mountbakertheatre.com

MARCH

February | March 2014 23

L IF E S T YLE I n t he K n ow

…

disaster preparedness meeting for your immediate neighbors. Offered through the state’s Emergency Management Division, Map Your Neighborhood helps neighbors organize resources and materials for emergencies. The next big step in cleaning your house is cleaning your upholstered furniture. Grab your couch cushions and take them outside. Gently beat them to get dust out, and to redistribute the filling. Use your vacuum crevice tool to get your couch and easy chairs clean. Be sure to mine your furniture for large Lego pieces or large coins—they can get stuck and break your vacuum. Removing stains from the arms and other non-washable parts of your upholstery can be tricky business. Furniture manufacturers recommend “dry suds” which are specially formulated for upholstery. Using water and vinegar mixes can work, but they can also leave water stains in their wake. Before using any kind of detergent or formula, test on a small patch that isn’t visible. After getting the furniture in shape, it’s time to freshen your bed. Rotate your mattress, wash your down comforter, and wash your pillows. Most pillows and comforters can, indeed, be machine-washed. Machine-washing kills mold, odors and bacteria — all nasties you don’t want near your head! Follow the recommendations on your comforter’s label, and dry your comforter with clean tennis balls to fluff it back up. If your washers and dryers are too small, choose one of

continued from page 19

24 NorthSoundLife.com

the laundromats in town — you can take in all of your pillows and bedding, monopolize several machines and be done in an afternoon. Q Laundry, which is new in Bellingham, even has locking machines that text you when your machine is done so you get some shopping done while you wait without worrying that someone will leave your linens a sopping wet mess in a cart. Next on the list is the bathroom. Clean out your bathroom drawers. Throw away old make-up — nothing lasts more than 6 months once opened regardless of how long you wish your ’70s style Amy Adams in American Hustle blue eye shadow will serve you. There are probably some old mystery pennies and a few half-melted cough drops in there, too. Throw out old lotions and creams — your skin will thank you. Dispose of old, outdated medicine at Costco, Haggen or other participating pharmacy. Getting rid of old meds not only protects your household from accidental overdoses, it’s good for our watersheds. And, while you’re at it, get that old toothpaste up. It’s just nasty. Now you have cleaned your house from top to bottom. Consider buying some new sheets or a duvet cover, fresh towels and a fancy candle. Put some fern fronds and a few spring flowers from your garden in a pretty vase and relax. You have worked hard and it is time to revel in the freshness with a ‘spa day’ right in your own home! 

WONDER WOMAN BY FRANCES BADGETT

Finding Home BY FRANCES BADGETT

Saul Weisberg started the North Cascades Institute 28 years ago. The Institute is an outdoor educational center. “Our organization takes people outside to fall in love with the place we call home.” It is fitting, then, that the theme of his upcoming lectures for Whatcom Reads! is Finding Home: Exploring Place, Wilderness and Civilization. “We’re all here [in the Pacific Northwest] for a reason. It’s a combination of civic life — we live in a unique cultural place — and wilderness. That combination of wilderness and civilization brings a lot of people here.” Inspired by Cheryl Strayed’s memoir, Wild, Weisberg’s talk will be about our unique relationship with nature. “What intrigued me about Wild is how incredibly unprepared Cheryl was, because I think that’s what a lot of us do when we go on adventures — urban or wild.” Strayed’s book chronicles her hike along the Pacific Crest Trail. Weisberg will be at the Bellingham Public Library on Feb. 11 at 7 p.m. and the South Whatcom Library in Sudden Valley on Feb. 18 at 7 p.m. 

Mimi Osterdahl

n every issue, we will highlight the accomplishments or great careers of women in our area. In this issue, we celebrate Mimi Osterdahl, the new President of the Whatcom County Association of Realtors®. The Whatcom County Association of Realtors® is more than just a loose conglomeration of people who sell houses — it’s a powerful lobbying group that represents the interests of those in the housing and building communities here and in Olympia. The WCAR® is a big group, loaded with conflicting and strong opinions on politics and jetted tubs, transportation and extra garage space. And though it’s true that real estate associates don’t really compete in the traditional sense of business competition — by design they cooperate on sales and purchases — they can still be a tough group to manage. Into the fray steps their newly elected President, Mimi Osterdahl, a woman of good humor,

warmth and lots of grit and determination of her own. Mimi’s story begins with her mother, who, as with many real estate professionals, was a single mother. She raised and supported a family with her real estate career, and became one of the area’s most esteemed associates. Finding herself in need of a career that could support her, Mimi followed in her mother’s footsteps. At first, she hid her association with her mother from the local real estate community. Though close with her mom, she wanted to make it on her own steam. Years later, she has garnered her own stellar reputation, and is, like her mom, a great real estate professional who exudes ethics and fair-mindedness. “I have been celebrating closings since I was seven years old,” she quipped at the WCAR® Great Gatsby Gala, where she was installed as President. Lucky for buyers and sellers in Whatcom, and for the members of the WCAR®, she has kept celebrating.  February | March 2014 25

L IF E S T YLE I n t he K n ow

Uptown Art Studio BY LAUREN FOOTE

ith a paintbrush in one hand and a glass of wine in another, Uptown Art makes creating your latest masterpiece more fun and more social than ever. Newly opened in December near the Bellwether Hotel, the spacious art gallery offers a display of beautifully presented paintings as well as events that help you create your own. Uptown Art owner Robert Mishkin believes that the world needs a social get-together not an art lesson. “It’s not a class, it’s a social gathering that is focused on painting,” Mishkin said. “Our goal is that they get something out of their own talent. It’s an awakening.” The events are scheduled out months in advance giving artists an opportunity to see which objects or themes will be painted, along with event times. Uptown Art also rates their events in different difficulty levels, giving the artists a chance to pick painting events to match their skill level. The events price of $39.95 includes a 16 × 20 canvas, 26 NorthSoundLife.com

painting materials, use of a smock and a complimentary beverage of wine, beer or soft drink. There are also familyfriendly events offered that are geared more toward children and those under the age of 12 paint for free.

“The world needs a social get-together, not an art lesson.” Robert Mishkin

The bay view venue offers a relaxed atmosphere where experienced or beginning artists can use and expand their skills while socializing with friends. The rotating six or so artists instructing the events have all received degrees in fine art from recognizable universities, leaving event attendees in good hands. Their own artwork collections are often on display and for sale.  © Photography by Lauren Foote

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George Dyson’s Answer

Poetry

BY FRANCES BADGETT

very year, Edge.org asks its gigantic constellation of thinkers, intellectuals, scientists and world thought-leaders — among them Richard Dawkins, Steven Pinker, Jared Diamond, Rebecca Goldstein and many others — a question and publishes their answers. Bellingham’s own George Dyson is an annual participant in the Annual Question. George is the author of Turing’s Cathedral, Darwin Among the Machines and many other books and essays, and the owner of Dyson Baidarka & Company. He will also present at TED 2014: The Next Chapter in Vancouver, which starts on March 17th. Herewith his answer to “What scientific idea is ready for retirement?”

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Science *and* Technology The phrase “science and technology” presumes an inseparability that may not be as secure as we think. There can be science without technology, and there can be technology without science. Pure mathematics is one e xample — from the Pythagoreans to Japanese temple geometry — of a science flourishing without technology. Imperial China developed sophisticated technologies while neglecting science, and it is all too easy to imagine a society that embraces technology but represses science, until only technology remains. Or, one particular species of technology might achieve such dominance that it halts the advance of science in order to preserve itself. That science has brought us technology does not mean that technology will always bring us science. Science could go into retirement at any time. Retiring the assumption that as long as technology flourishes, so will science, might help us avoid this mistake. 

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February | March 2014 27

L IF E S T YLE I n t he K n ow

l ReaHEROES

Always on Duty Daniel Howard BY RYAN SCHAFER

aniel Howard was on his way home after spending time in Oregon last May. He had been in Oregon recovering from an injury he sustained while working for the fire department. Near Tacoma, Howard saw a white car cross several lanes of traffic in front of him, and race ahead along the shoulder passing the other vehicles. “At that point I started following them and I called 911 to report I was following a possible DUI,” Howard said, though as he would find out later, the driver’s lack of control was because of a medical emergency. The white car swerved in and out of traffic, hitting the center wall twice, and nearly colliding with several other 28 NorthSoundLife.com

vehicles. Howard switched on his volunteer emergency lights, effectively warning other drivers to keep their distance, and continued to follow. The car left the freeway on a bus only exit, ran a stop sign, and got back on the freeway, shooting right back into traffic. “They darted back into traffic again and then finally got off on exit 147, Kent Area, doing about 70 mph when they hit a small curb and went airborne through a busy intersection.” Howard saw the vehicle climb the on ramp, hit another curb, go airborne again and catch fire. It landed in a ditch near a crowded bus stop. “I told dispatch the location and that they had crashed, the car was on fire, and the people where trapped,” he said. “I dropped my phone and grabbed my fire extinguisher. By the time I got to the car, it was so full of smoke I couldn’t see inside at all.”

A state trooper arrived on the scene to help. The trooper did his best to control the flames while Howard attempted to pry open the driver’s side door. “I then realized there were two passengers and saw that the fire was making its way to the passenger side of the car. I decided to help get the female passenger out first.” Howard rescued her from the car, and handed her off to helpful hands nearby. Together, Howard and the trooper were able to pull the male passenger safely out of the burning vehicle. Moments afterward, the firewall was breached and the entire vehicle was engulfed in flames. Had Daniel Howard and the state trooper been slower to act, both passengers would have been killed. Howard received the Red Cross Real Heroes “Always on Duty Award” for the rescue. 

Book Reviews

I n t he K now

BY LISA GRESHAM

LI F E S T Y LE

The French have no word for home, but this issue, we have several. Whether making a home in a new place, or rooting yourself in a long line of ancestors, our selections this month are all about how we define where we live.

Remodelista by Julie Carlson. 400 pages, Artisan, 2013. If you are not familiar with the website remodelista.com, here is its appealing aesthetic in a nutshell: classic design meets uncluttered, clean simplicity. Carlson teaches this aesthetic by taking twelve houses that embody it well and documenting in lots of yummy photos exactly why they work. A highlight is the chapter The Remodelista 100, which is a guide to best household objects and simple DIY projects with a focus on accessibility and affordability. Suggested sensible rules could help define a remodeling project, like choosing classic objects over trendy ones, mixing inexpensive objects with antiques. Other sections give special attention to kitchen and bath designs for a book that is a “start-to-finish field guide to creating your own domestic sanctuary.”

Yokohama Yankee by Leslie Donald Helm. 384 pages, Chin Music Press Inc., 2013.

Graphic the Valley by Peter Brown Hoffmeister. 272 pages, Tyrus Books, 2013. For Hoffmeister’s protagonist, Tenaya, the Yosemite Valley is the only home he has ever known. Born in a car along the Merced River and raised in hidden camps by parents who taught him survival skills, Tenaya is descended from the Yosemiti, the original inhabitants of the valley. Their lore is central to his understanding of his place in the world, but tourism and development are bringing change to the valley. Hoffmeister’s writing is poetic and original and reminiscent of Brian Doyle’s Mink River. Graphic the Valley was a nominee for this year’s Pacific Northwest Booksellers Award; Hoffmeister (a climber, teacher, and outdoor survivalist) has authored several other books and also writes for Huffington Post, Climbing magazine, and Rock and Ice magazine.

Five generations of Leslie Helm’s family have lived in Japan, from the arrival of his German great-grandfather, Julius, who worked as a military advisor in 1870 and defied custom to marry his Japanese mistress, to Helm’s own upbringing in Japan and eventual marriage to an American woman and their adoption of two Japanese children. This beautiful book makes you feel as if you are sitting in a parlor and looking through a family scrapbook. While telling the story of his family’s 140 years in Japan, Helm also sheds light on political, cultural and racial tensions between Japan and the United States. Lisa Gresham is a librarian and adult services coordinator with the Whatcom County Library System.

Who Knew? Housekeeping Citrus Peels for Kindling Try lighting up your fireplace with lemon or orange peels instead of old newspapers. Citrus peels burn cleaner than paper, and they contain oils that burn longer and help to ignite your firewood. Not to mention they smell good!

Cleaning your Bathroom Before you clean your bathroom you might want to take a shower. The steam will loosen any dirt, grime or mildew, making it much easier for you to shine your walls and counters.

Scratches in Wood Furniture You can use crayon or shoe polish to hide scratches in wood furniture. Just select a crayon or polish that matches the color of the wood, and rub the scratched area gently. When you are finished, scrape off excess wax with a credit card edge and wipe with a cotton cloth.

Squeaky Floorboards If one of your floorboards is squeaking, it’s probably rubbing against the support beam underneath. You can fix this problem by using a stud finder or a nail to find the beam closest to the squeak. Drill a number 8 wood screw through the floor into the beam to silence that squeak forever.

Sources: Harvard University, American Heart Association

February | March 2014 29

L IF E S T YLE F i ve Fa ve s

Keenan’s at the Pier BELLINGHAM

Faves

Great Dates

After a nice stroll around Boulevard Park and Taylor Dock, a sunset dinner at Keenan’s at the Pier would be the perfect way to spend a special evening. Located in the intimate and elegant Chrysalis Inn and Spa, Keenan’s offers fine food, a full wine list and great views. thechrysalisinn.com -> Keenan’s at the Pier

Chuckanut Drive BELLINGHAM

Chuckanut Drive is famous for its heart-stopping curves with dramatic drop-offs and amazing views. Picnic along the way at the many viewpoints, or have a nice, romantic dinner at the Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Bay, which has outstanding food, an extensive wine list and sumptuous views. theoysterbar.net

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The Steak House at the Silver Reef Hotel Casino Spa not only serves up quite possibly the best steak around with unparalleled service, it’s also a romantic spot perfect for wooing your significant other. Also at Silver Reef for Valentine’s Day, the Dinner Theater will be in full swing, and the Red River Cafe will have V-day specials. silverreefcasino.com -> Dining -> The Steak House

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Il Granaio MOUNT VERNON

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February | March 2014 31

CMYK APPROVALS

L IF E S T YLE I n t he S p o t lig h t

Publications • Post Subject: A Fable University of Akron Press (2014) • A Face to Meet the Faces: An Anthology of Contemporary Poetry University of Akron Press (2012) • Requiem for the Orchard University of Akron Press (2010)

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Awards • Furious Lullaby Southern Illinois University Press (2007) • Names Above Houses Southern Illinois University Press (2001)

• Artists’ Trust GAP Grant (2009) • Akron Poetry Prize (2009) • New York Foundation for the Arts Fellowship (2005) • Crab Orchard Award Series Winner (2000)

“The faucet’s slurred talk: a hair the drain could not swallow, the sounds of a w etdeck’s sway as sea-storms rock iron ships like empty plastic cups in the wind.” Oliver de la Paz, At Sea Domingo Learned to Steady His Hand

Poet de la Paz BY RYAN SCHAFER

or many students at Western Washington University, Professor Oliver de la Paz is the amiable and quirky character often seen walking the halls of Humanities building, bobbing his head to his tunes, his large, friendly dog Beau in tow. An encouraging, accessible figure who pushes his students to explore while remaining true to themselves, he amuses his students with funny stories about his children, and once commented in a prose poetry workshop that he might have a “kitten shaped hole in his heart” to explain his belief that kittens and poetry should not be mixed. But contrary to his easy going manner and good humor, the professor has a lot more on his plate than most of his students would likely guess. De la Paz is an award-winning poet, a founding member of an organization called Kundiman, which supports and promotes Asian American poets, and the music editor of At Length Magazine. He is also the vice president of the Associated Writing Programs board, and the chair of the AWP conference committee — something that is keeping him very busy with the annual AWP writers’ conference coming up in February. Writers across the country are looking forward to an exciting line-up of presenters at the conference, which will be held this year in Seattle. De la Paz is busy procuring sponsorship payments and handling other financial concerns to prepare for the event. One might think it frustrating for the author of three volumes of poetry and winner of the Akron Poetry Prize in 2009 to have his hands full with administrative tasks. But he says it is normal for him to dedicate his free hours to administrative work this time of year. “I am not one who engages in writing anything

on my own while the school year is going on,” de la Paz said. “When it’s summer and I’m not teaching I write every day. I tend to use the school time where I have some dead time or when I’m not grading to do administrative stuff because that’s where my brain is at.” La Paz has just published a book of prose poems titled Post Subject: a Fable. De la Paz says it is different from his previous collections. “If anything, it could be compared to my very first book, which is also a book of prose poems. But it’s completely different in terms of tone, it’s much more obsessive I think,” de la Paz said. “It’s very different than the two previous books, which were lineated and broken in verse, a little bit more emotional, these are a little bit more intellectual, I would say, let me add political too.” De la Paz has received numerous awards, including the Artists’ Trust GAP Grant, the Akron Poetry Prize, the New York Foundation for the Arts Fellowship, and the Crab Orchard Award. But he does not measure his success in terms of his own recognition. Though he hopes to contribute steadily to the art of poetry, his greatest passion is for teaching. “I’m not interested in a Pulitzer though that would be great. The awards that I want are the awards that my students achieve.” I asked him if there was any way to summarize the most important lesson he hoped to teach his students. “There is, and it’s also one of my favorite words,” he said. “The word is onward.” He then described his recollection of seeing the word onward in a rejection letter. “Persistence is what this about. Understanding that there are failings, and some of those failings are not quite failings but discoveries. So. Onward.”

February | March 2014 33

L IF E S T YLE Qu i c k Tr ip



Yakima Wine Country Endless Possibilities BY JOANNA RODDY

34 NorthSoundLife.com



eneath a brilliant blue sky, an emerald valley of farms, vineyards and orchards rolls out to the horizon of amber hills. At a glance, it could be Napa, Burgundy or Chianti — but it’s not. Only a few hours from Bellingham, this gem is the unassuming Yakima Valley wine country. Without the crowds or mark-ups of more famous wine regions, nor the expense of an airplane ticket, the Yakima Valley quietly boasts 300 days of sunshine, more than 150 vineyards and grows more than half of the state’s wine grapes from its fertile volcanic soil. From Yakima to Richland there are seven distinct American Viticultural Areas, giving immense diversity to the wine produced there and a landscape of possibility for visitors. What to do Start at the Tuscan-styled Yakima Valley Visitors’ Information Center for maps and winery details to narrow your many wine tasting options. A good bet is to divide and conquer. Save hours in the car and focus on one area per day: Yakima, Rattlesnake Hills, Prosser, Red Mountain or Richland. Visityakima.com maps out suggested day routes of 5–10 destinations. The Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail accesses 15 wineries and a $10 passport gives discounts and free tastings. The town of Prosser centralizes several tasting rooms at Vintner’s Village and the Prosser Wine and Food Park. The brand new Walter Clore Wine and Culinary Center educates about Washington agriculture with exhibits, a tasting bar and cooking demonstrations. Treveri Cellars, whose bubbles have garnered 90+ point scores, is a must-stop for the sparkling wine enthusiast. In the Red Mountain area visit Terra Blanca for its enormous villa and sweeping views and Hedges Family Estate  to feel like you’ve been swept off to Bordeaux in its French chateau. Wilridge Winery gives tastings from 4 boutique wineries in its 1900s era farmhouse and visitors can explore the 85-acre property on Cowiche Canyon. And in historic downtown Yakima, Gilbert Cellars has an impressive tapas menu, live music and stays open late on weekends. Spring Barrel Tasting is Apr. 25–27 with 40 participating wineries. Visitors can learn about the winemaking process, enjoy nibbles and the premier pass for $30 grants access to VIP offerings and a 90+ point tasting on Friday night. Yakima Valley also grows 78% of the nation’s hops. Beer buffs can visit the Toppenish American

Hop Museum and taste local micro-brews at the taprooms of craft breweries Bale Breaker  and Horse Heaven Hills. The March BrewPub Trail, a guided tour of breweries from Yakima to Prosser, will be Mar. 15–17. Where to dine On the wine trail, Terra Blanca’s Cafe Orsa serves wood-fired flat bread and bistro fare on weekends. Mojave Restaurant serves an upscale southwest menu at Desert Wind Winery. Or pack a lunch from Deep Sea Deli’s specialty groceries — many wineries have picnic areas and serve wine by the glass. Back in Yakima, 5 North is an urban foodie’s refuge with a robust bar menu and locally sourced, casual cuisine. Where to stay In Yakima, Rosedell Bed and Breakfast is an elegant option in a Neo-Classical mansion, and the simple grace of converted farmhouse White House B&B is accompanied by their public cafe’s breakfast for guests. On the working farm Cherry Wood Bed Breakfast and Barn, experience truly remarkable accommodations, sleeping outdoors in a teepee replete with queen-sized bed. Cherry Wood also offers the most picturesque way to see wine country with guided horseback and hay wagon winery tours. For a splurge, Desert Wind Winery overlooking the Yakima River houses four luxurious guest rooms within its adobe walls. Wine Clubs to Join Most flexible: Gilbert Cellars’ wine club offers two tiers of discounts on either 12 or 24 bottles to be selected by the member at any time within the year. Red Lover’s: Owen Roe’s Hogshead Clubs are geared toward connoisseurs, sending their most limited production red wines. Most Educational: Steppe Cellars complements wine club shipments with recipe pairings, varietal backgrounds, vertical tastings, and winemaking notes. Yakima Valley wine country harbors endless possibility. The list of notable wineries to visit is impossible to cull, allowing visitors to discover their own hidden gems. It’s easy to romanticize far-away places whose beauty has deservedly made them well-trodden tourist destinations, but our local treasures are also worthy and waiting to be discovered, just a day trip away. 

February | March 2014 35

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The Color Pot’s Dynamic Duo BY HALEY CROSS

ill and Teri Hewett, owners of the Color Pot, seem to be quite the dynamic duo. Bill oversees the office, does estimates, works in the warehouse, installs, cleans up and does whatever it takes for the Color Pot to flourish. Teri works on the sales floor and works with other staff members at selling installations and other services. The two met 25 years ago in Bellingham. Teri, who was born and raised in Battleground, Wash. came to visit a friend in Bellingham, met Bill and fell in love. They just celebrated their 23rd anniversary on Jan. 10. Bill owned the Color Pot when he met Teri and she joined the business in 2005. The Color Pot, located on North State Street was created in 1953 by Bill’s parents, Bud and Charmie Hewett. It served as a paint store, which explains the store’s name. In 1955, the Color Pot expanded their services and got into the window covering business. By the 1960s, they began selling floor coverings. Between 1960 and 1995, the Color Pot slowly stopped selling paint and 85 percent of their business was in floor coverings. Bill said he thought of renaming Color Pot but was reluctant because it is such a well-known shop, so the name was preserved. continued on page 39 …

The Time is Now Home & Garden Show 2014 February 28, March 1 & 2

Photo by Jess Robinson House by Kevin Hall of

Friday 11-9 • Saturday 10-8 • Sunday 10-5 Adults 16+ $8 • Seniors 55+ $7 • Under 16 Free Northwest Washington Fairgrounds, Henry Jansen Ag Building Free Parking

Over $10,000 in prizes given away! Friday is Date Night: Cooking Demonstrations, Beer, Wine, Music & Prizes Beer & Wine Tasting Friday and Saturday Ciscoe Morris Sunday & demonstrations all weekend Visit www.WhatcomHomeShow.com for details Presented by:

Sponsored by:

38 NorthSoundLife.com

Official Program Produced by:

…

Currently, the Color Pot offers free estimates, installs flooring such as carpet, vinyl, laminate, tile and hardwood, installs hard surface countertops and installs Hunter Douglas window treatments. Bill has owned the Color Pot since 1986, when he bought the business from his father, Bud. He did not grow up thinking he was going to run the Color Pot though. Bill worked at theColor Pot for his parents while he was in middle school and high school, but moved on and worked at the Intalco aluminum plant after he finished school. However, he decided to come back to the Color Pot after a 20-year break and has been working there ever since. Working at the Color Pot over the years has been rewarding for Bill. He’s proud that years of hard work has made the Color Pot successful. Teri loves the customers and community that come with owning a retail store. She enjoys working downtown

continued from page 37

and building lasting relationships with new and old customers. Many customers come back for more services and both Bill and Teri like working with old clients and helping them with their remodels. The Color Pot caters to residential, commercial builders and property management. The Color Pot has knowledgeable staff members that help with installations, sales, advertisements, managing the Color Pot’s Facebook page and Craigslist posts among other things. Many flooring stores come and go but the Color Pot still stands. Though the store has evolved and no longer carries paint, it offers a helpful hand for a novice home remodeler in need of flooring or a couple redoing the bathroom, returning for more help from Bill, Teri and their staff. 1210 N. State St., Bellingham 360.734.4020, thecolorpot.com Mon.–Fri. 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

February | March 2014 39

S HOP N eces s i t ie s

Illusion Tunic Fashion designer Stella Carakasi peels back Bellingham fog with this Spring-ready print. $168, Arabella, Bellingham

Canteen Steel Case Watch Even with the time change, this “look-at-me” watch will help to curb chronic tardiness. $275, Golden Tree Jewellers, Langley, BC

Spring Ahead Essentials Daylight Saving Time means we can look forward to longer days and warmer temperatures; infuse these lighthearted, yet vibrant pieces as celebration.

3 7

The Sidney Stripe Scarf Swirls of titanium and yellow; this Italianmade lightweight scarf is 100% silk chiffon. $225, terracottanewyork.com

Grapefruit Soy Candle Fresh and citrus-centered, we’re crushing on this scent that smells like garden-fresh grapefruit. $30, archipelago-usa.com

40 NorthSoundLife.com

Double Daisy Flower Cuff Funky and retro — finally a flower that flourishes without water. $53, sweetromanceonline.com

Customized Daisy Pendant Pendantopia’s handmade, custom pendants capture the brightest flowers in the garden. $10, etsy.com/ shop/Pendantopia

4 Kato-Cosmo Cosmetic Bag Choose from several different fabrics to create a travel bag that’s uniquely you from the inside out. $29, veeshee.com

Join us on

for even more good ideas!

A ro u nd The So u nd

S H OP

Jaleh Boutique BY MAREN VALLERAND

ll of the clothing in Jaleh Boutique is designed and manufactured locally in the Puget Sound. Designer and Jaleh boutique owner Jordanah Monjazeb’s pieces are effortless and versatile, and the price tags are just as attractive as the clothing. Well-spoken and engaging, designer Monjazeb is clear about her vision and describes the line as “Feminine, sophisticated and refined.” Jaleh (pronounced zsa-leh) was intended to provide everyday essentials to keep today’s modern and o n-the-go woman dressed from day to night, “Wherever the day takes her.” Monjazeb is fiercely committed to creating comfortable clothing without compromising style. To do this she designs apparel in flattering fits with special details such as playful cutouts and subtle embellishments. The pieces are designed to layer and to complement other elements of the collection and,

likely, whatever you currently have in your closet. Featuring peplum tops, flowing prints, and sheer elements, the line is romantic, yet polished. Pops of jewel-tone pieces (amethyst, amber, teal) accompany classic black, white and neutral basics. And how can she offer those attractive price tags? By stringing the tags herself. The retailer employs only a handful of employees who are involved in the minute details of creating each piece. From sourcing limited fabrics to stringing tags on finished items, this hands-on approach allows for higher level quality control as well as the addition of thoughtful design details crafted into each article of clothing. With only 100 pieces of each item manufactured, Jaleh apparel is unique, special and is never mass produced. Jaleh Boutique, 1808 136th Pl. N.E., Bellevue, by appointment, 206.724.2950, jalehclothing.com

February | March 2014 41

S HOP S a v v y S h o p p e r

Find Your Fashion Again BY HALEY CROSS

Mon.–Sun. 10 a.m.–7 p.m. 360.366.8047 findyourfashion.com

1740 LaBounty Dr., Ste. #8

THE SHOP Find Your Fashion Again is the new kid on the block. Located in the Cost Cutter Center in Ferndale, Wash., this 6-monthold consignment shop offers a new twist on an old shopping favorite. Shoppers can bring in their used clothes and receive credits toward future purchases, which can be used at either Find Your Fashion Again or their sister store Find Your Fashion. This innovative system allows shoppers to clean out their closets and revamp their wardrobes at the same time, guilt-free. What really sets Find Your Fashion Again apart from other consignment shops is that shoppers can use credits for both new and used clothing. Their first store, Find Your Fashion is now 3 1/2 years old and can be found in Ferndale, near the Ferndale Station. Unlike Find Your Fashion Again, they sell new merchandise. So many customers asked them to sell consignment clothing and merchandise that they decided to sell consignment in the back of the store. The idea was such a hit that they decided to create a new store where they could sell just their consignment items. Their customer base stretches all over the county, from Blaine, to Birch Bay, to Lynden and other cities in between, including Canadian shoppers who wish to escape Bellingham traffic. ATMOSPHERE Intimate, well-appointed boutique. KEY PEOPLE Barb Scoggins is the owner of Find your Fashion and Find Your Fashion Again. She always wanted to open up her own boutique, though she wanted to call it Barbie’s Boutique at first.

After working in construction and working for herself, Scoggins decided to bite the bullet and open up her own boutique, Find Your Fashion. Her father said that she should sell consignment, and once her customers started telling her the same thing, she decided to branch out, creating her consignment boutique: Find Your Fashion Again. Scoggins hopes to expand Find Your Fashion Again soon. She also plans on moving Find Your Fashion next door to Find Your Fashion Again once the lease ends in the spring of 2015, allowing the stores to be physically accessible to shoppers and easier to shop at both boutiques. WHAT YOU’LL FIND Whether you’re hunting for bargains for kids, women or men’s clothing or looking to score some home décor pieces Find Your Fashion Again has something for everyone. They carry clothing from sizes extra small to 3X. Their shop is stocked with shoes, purses, accessories, jewelry and home décor. Scoggins compares the service at Find Your Fashion and Find Your Fashion Again to service a customer would receive at Bloomingdales. They offer personal assistance for the flustered shopper by providing guidance for great gift ideas and help with putting outfits together OWNER’S FAVORITE Scoggins loves designer jeans, especially when she finds them for a great price in her consignment shop because like many people, she says she can’t always afford or doesn’t want to spend a lot of money on a pair of jeans. She also loves coats, jackets and purses because they are an easy way to spritz up any outfit. Her favorite brand is INC, which Find Your Fashion Again carries a lot of. t

February | March 2014 43

WELL BEING Beaut y

Vintage Glamour Makeup How-To BY SARAH RORVIG

Step 1: Skin Never skip skincare. You want to ensure that you have healthy skin to create a masterpiece from your perfect makeup canvas. Always start with a moisturizer suited for your skin type and a light eye cream that is applied with your ring finger (it is your weakest finger, and causes less tugging on your delicate eye area). Primer can be beneficial here too, or it can be blended with the foundation (see Step 3).

Step 2: Eyes I always apply my eye makeup before foundation to avoid having to redo any mistakes or fallout from eye makeup or shadow. Doing the eyes next also allows the moisturizer to sink in and creates supple skin that is foundation-ready. For this look, I started out with a light coat of neutral-toned cream-to-powder eyeshadow base all over the top lid to the brow. Using a blending brush I applied a creamy white to highlight the brow bone and inner corners (near the tear duct), a light greige (grey+beige) in the crease and along the center of the lower lashes and a dark purplish taupe along the outer crease and lower lashes. I then lined the top and bottom 44 NorthSoundLife.com

waterline (the closest skin to the eye between the lashes) with a dark brown eyeliner (try Revlon ColorStay in Black/Brown) and then “smoked” it slightly with a smudge brush. Apply two coats of mascara (and maybe a few falsies for extra pop). Tip: I used all matte eyeshadows for this look, but is it easy to add a sweep of metallic shadow over the top for a little somethin’ extra.

Step 3: Face Apply your choice of foundation (tint, full coverage, etc.) and add concealer as needed under eyes or blemishes. My policy for foundation, especially for an everyday look, is usually less is best. If you have redness usually a tinted moisturizer can fix it. Avoid applying full coverage all over for a few blemishes — just use a precision brush and spot cover. I sometimes add some primer to my foundation blend for two reasons: to sheer out my foundation, and to increase its staying power. Just remember that certain formulas (eg. gel based and oil based) might not vibe well together so remember to do your research. I finished this look with a sweep of soft rose blush and a little contour color in the hollows of the cheek and

around the frame of the face. A shimmery highlighter along the top of the cheeks in a champagne color can be applied for extra glam. Tip: I always use a dual fibered brush to apply foundation — this has been my best friend and favorite tool for years! Investing in a nice foundation brush and cleaning it regularly will prolong its life and prove a worthy investment for your makeup bag.

Step 4: Lips Here I used a very soft pink with neutral tones. I started with a lipliner that was one shade darker than my lipstick and lined the lips and softly faded the color halfway into the center of her lip. Then using a lip brush I applied a sheer coat of a soft nude pink lipstick into the center of the lip and blended it into the liner. This subtle ombre creates a fuller looking lip. (Try MAC “Etcetera” Pro Longwear Lip Pencil+MAC “Honeylove” Lipstick.) Add a sweep of lip gloss and flash yourself a smile to finish off your look. 

Reader Q & A

Looking for a simple-yet-thoughtful idea for Valentine’s Day that will (almost) guarantee some hands-on action? Here is a recipe for an edible, antioxidant and moisture rich massage oil that you can whip up in your kitchen (it also tastes amazing!). The glycerin in this massage “oil” makes it a water soluble blend that warms slightly when air touches it. You can find all the ingredients locally, online, or at most soap making supply shops. Try OtionThe Soapmaking Bar in downtown Bellingham. (otionsoap.com) *Bonus Points for You: Pick up a small bottle at Otion (also olive oil pour bottles work great!) and put a cute/sweet/sexy personalized label on it for your guy or gal. You can also paint the bottle if you have that artistic touch!

SWEET BODY OIL

Any tips for freshening up and not looking like your makeup is melting off your face after a 7 a.m. meeting and working until 7 at night? Any key products to keep in our purse? – Jennifer S. If you have normal/oily skin I would prep your makeup with an aloe based primer, the smallest amount of foundation necessary, and finish with a mattifying powder. If your skin is very oily then mineral powder is NOT the best choice for you since it already has a natural “sheen” to start. My best friend is my blot powder that I keep in my purse for midday touch ups. It deposits minimal product on the skin and just takes down shine (the cakey look isn’t cute) so you aren’t loading extra coverage over your foundation. If your skin is dry and flaky at the end of the day make sure you are starting off with a moisturizing cream (not lotion) and

Valentine’s Day Beauty 

keep a hydrating spray in your purse. Try storing it in the fridge (bonus if your work has one!) for a midday refresher. Try Heritage Store brand Rosewater that you can find at the Bellingham Food Co-Op. Lips are the other thing I find needs touching up throughout the day. For a long lasting lip color I would use the Revlon Just Bitten Balm Stain almost to the outline of your lips and then use a closely matching, usually one shade darker, lip liner to perfect that pout. Avoid gloss if you have a long day because this is the first thing that comes off! For the more simple ladies try a tinted lip balm and reapply as needed for a softer look.

1/4 c. Unscented Glycerin 1/4 tsp. Honey 1/4 tsp. Vanilla Extract Optional: 1/4 tsp. Flavor Oil *Otion has a great selection of edible flavoring oils, get creative and make your own scent! Try Honey Kisses or mix 1/8 tsp. Vanilla + 1/8 tsp. Strawberry.

Mix all ingredients thoroughly except flavor oil. Add the flavor oil and mix well. Put in a glass bottle and store in a cool place for next time. Makes about 2 ounces edible oil. ■■

CHOCOLATE BODY OIL Love chocolate? Thought so. Try this simple recipe that is sure to sweeten things up. No extra flavor needed. 2 Tbsp. Glycerin 1 Tbsp. Cocoa Powder 1 Tbsp. Melted Cocoa Butter

Mix all ingredients together thoroughly. Makes about 2 ounces. ■■

February | March 2014 45

WELL BEING C al enda r

RACES & RUNS

FEBRUARY

Zombies Have Hearts, Too!

Fragrance Lake 10K & 20K

Birch Bay International Marathon & Half Marathon

5K run/walk 9:30 a.m. & 10 a.m. maxhigbee.org



Bloedel Donovan Park, Bellingham

10K run & 20K run 10 a.m.  Larrabee State Park, Bellingham bellinghamtrail.com

Marathon & half marathon 9 a.m.  Birch Bay State Park, Blaine birchbaymarathon.com

MARCH

Padden Mudfest

Stewart Mountain Half Marathon & 5K

6-mile trail run 10 a.m.  Lake Padden Park, Bellingham gbrc.net

Half marathon & 5K run 10 a.m.  North Lake Whatcom Trailhead, Bellingham bellinghamtrail.com

Runnin’ O’ the Green

5 Klick (approx. 3 miles) & 8 Klick (approx. 5 miles) 10 a.m.  Depot Market Square, Bellingham cob.org

APRIL

Run for the Honeywagon

Super Hero 5K

Pooch Scoot 5K fun run/walk

Half marathon walk/run, kid’s 1/2-mile run, & 4-mile walk/run 9 a.m., 9:15 a.m., & 10 a.m.  Nooksack Valley Middle School, Everson  gbrc.net

5K run/walk 9 a.m.  Fairhaven Fitness & Bellingham Tennis Club, Fairhaven fairhaven.com

5K run 9 a.m.  Bloedel Donovan Park, Bellingham runningintheusa.com

inspired

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just savor the scenery, devour it â&#x20AC;&#x201D; as you ski, cycle, paddle, dance, dine, explore, and recharge yourself in the healthiest, happiest, most vibrant corner of Washington State. Find us between the mountains and the sea. One destination, many adventures. 800.487.2032 | bellingham.org

Our area buzzes and hums with entrepreneurial energy. From the cushions of Superfeet to Otionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s delicately blended goatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s milk soap, small businesses are the building blocks of our local economy. In these pages, we celebrate the craftsmanship and creativity of our local businesspeople who build, shape, weave, print and sew for our community.

t n i h e e d a M

d n u o S h t Nor BY FRANCES BADGETT

home[ FOR T H E

Smith and Vallee Woodworks WWU graduates Wesley Smith and Andrew Vallee have been creating handcrafted fine furniture and cabinetry out of their Edison workshop since 1997. Using sustainably harvested wood and environmentally friendly products, Smith and Vallee marry the careful craftsmanship of the past with contemporary sensibility. They employ a crew of 8 assistants, who have sought out Smith and Vallee for their stellar reputation. The website states, “Our team is here because they have a passion for woodworking.” With the level of detail given to each piece, and the size and scope of the projects Smith and Vallee take on, passion would be a necessary job requirement. They have worked on residential and community projects, including the Family Interactive Gallery at

the Whatcom Museum in Bellingham. They have also contributed an exhibit on sustainable forestry to the Whatcom Museum called The Tree Project. On a residential scale, they’ve created everything from desks to dining room tables to full kitchens. Smith and Vallee provide design services and do all installation themselves. They welcome clients’ participation in the selection and procurement of lumber for the projects as well. The personal touch and close relationship with the materials makes for a more meaningful process for both Smith and Vallee and their clients. Smith and Vallee Woodworks 5742 Gilkey Ave., Edison smithandvallee.com 360.766.6230

Greg Aanes Furniture Turning a lifelong passion for wood into a career was a natural step for Greg Aanes, who grew up appreciating the fine woodworking and simple lines of Amish furniture of his native Iowa. Translating that spare aesthetic to the Northwest, Aanes creates furniture that blends nicely into many different periods and styles. Greg says, “To me, furniture is an echo of tradition best expressed in organic lines.” His Brendan Rocker is a perfect example of Greg’s distinctive classic style—the spare lines of Shaker or Amish furniture are graced with a little curve. Aanes’ attention to detail shows in much of his furniture, and particularly in his dining room tables. “One of the

more effective methods to customize a table design are the edge details.” His website features an entire “edge treatment page” for dining room tables. That kind of personalized, detail-oriented craftsmanship sets Greg apart. Greg Aanes Furniture 2109 Queen St., Bellingham gregaanesfurniture.com 360.389.2714

February | March 2013 49

[food[

Chocolate Necessities One step in the door, and the casual customer is suddenly surrounded by the scent of delicious chocolate in every possible form. From edible art like elaborate hand-painted chocolate masks, to decadent drinking chocolate, to creamy gelato, Chocolate Necessities has everything the chocolate enthusiast could possibly want. Kevin Buck started Chocolate Necessities in 1980 while working as an electrician. He happened upon chocolate in Canada that was a world apart from the waxy, oily chocolate he had experienced in the US. Buck began experimenting and working toward the kind of chocolate he experienced on that day in Banff. Most of Chocolate Necessities’ products are Callebaut, which is a full-bodied chocolate in the Belgian tradition. Chocolate Necessities 4600 Guide Meridian 109, Bellingham chocolatenecessities.com 360.676.0589

Bellingham Pasta Company Katie Hinton loved making pasta at home. So much so, she started making more and more of it, growing out of her home kitchen and into a fullfledged business. In 2008, she founded the Bellingham Pasta Company, moving into retail restaurant pasta supply. After selling her pasta at farmers’ markets, restaurants and specialty stores around the area, she opened her own restaurant, The Table, in 2010. Using local ingredients whenever possible, Hinton’s pasta is made fresh right there in The Table’s kitchen. She also offers glutenfree pasta in addition to her traditional selections. The sauces and complementary menu items are all locally sourced and organic whenever possible. Her website states, “Buying locally is more than just providing you with the freshest ingredients available, it also minimizes our carbon footprint while supporting our local economy.” The Table recently welcomed new award-winning executive chef Steve 50 NorthSoundLife.com

Pickrell. They’ve also introduced community seating, which allows the restaurant to accommodate the Mount Baker Theatre crowd in addition to small parties. Bellingham Pasta Company | The Table 100 N. Commercial St., Bellingham bellinghampasta.com 360.594.6000

T HE

Locavore’s

Darlena J’s Nuts Salty. Sweet. Spicy. All three at once. However you like your almonds and pecans, Darlena J. has the perfect flavor combination for you. Crispy and fresh without being too hard or too chewy, Darlena J’s are great with ice cream, beer, wine or just on their own. Owner Darlene Jay got into business by selling seasoned pecans — a favorite snack of her family’s for years. Her business took off, and now she supplies specialty shops, wineries and breweries and participates in area farmers’ markets and food and beverage expos all across the state. Her mission statement is “To offer the freshest, highest quality snack nuts that keep you coming back for more.” Mission accomplished. Darlena J’s Nuts jaysnuts.com info@jaysnuts.com 360.913.0280

Alice’s Pies Alice Clark’s website for Alice’s Pies quotes David Mamet: “Stress cannot exist in the presence of a pie.” After devoting years of her life to the successful transformation of the Pickford Theater from funky art house to the current Pickford Film Center, she decided to turn her attention to the delicate art of pie-making. She began simply, by making pies for parties and potlucks, and the idea grew. She now sells at farmers’ markets in the area and through her website, alicespies.com. Using fresh local ingredients, Alice’s Pies are, by necessity, seasonal. She developed her blueberry pie from a recipe she adapted from an old cookbook. The blueberries have to be ripe and at the height of their season for the pie to meet Alice’s standards. As with everything Alice does, she employs an incredible attention to detail and an exacting perfection to each pie, and the results are oh-so good. Alice’s Pies 2804 Ellis St., Bellingham alicespies.com 360.201.6477

Dream These are local farms and businesses that our area grocers, foodies and chefs turn to for the best in flavor and freshness. CASCADIA MUSHROOMS Owner Alex Winstead built Cascadia Mushrooms from scratch in 2005, and runs it alone with two part-time employees. He began organically farming mushrooms in 2009. What started out as a stand at the local farmers’ market ended up becoming one of the premier suppliers of mushrooms to local restaurants, chefs and grocers. Star Chef Blaine Wetzel uses Cascadia Mushrooms in his signature dishes. Cascadia only grow specialty mushrooms and medicinal mushroom products. No white buttons here. Bellingham. THE BREADFARM The screen door slaps back into place, and then the smell overtakes you: The Breadfarm is one of the great places to just stand and let your nose take it all in. A busy little shop, The Breadfarm supplies local stores and restaurants all over Whatcom, Skagit, Island and Snohomish. The go-to bread for bakeries and sandwich shops, The Breadfarm never disappoints. Dedicated to wholesome, organic ingredients and painstaking process, this bread rises above the rest. Edison. LOPEZ ISLAND FARM Specializing in hormone and antibioticfree grassfed lamb and pasture-raised pork, Lopez Island Farm’s products can be found throughout the Pacific Northwest. They also offer specialty foods from their apple trees. The smallscale farm is environmentally run, using techniques for moisture retention and pasture rotation to protect the farm’s soil. Lopez Island.

e Mad in the

North Sound manufacturing

[

WoodStone In 1990, friends Keith Carpenter and Harry Hegarty formed WoodStone with a few close friends. To this day, they continue to build some of the most sought-after wood-fired pizza ovens in the world. From “island” designs for residential kitchen use, to large ovens for commercial use, WoodStone combines all of the great technology of old wood-and-stone pizza-making with contemporary materials and modern engineering. Clients include Wolfgang Puck and California Pizza Kitchen. Though they recently made headlines for being purchased by Henny Penny, a global food-service equipment company based in Ohio, WoodStone is staying local, retaining all of their current employees and possibly expanding. WoodStone has sold more than 10,000 ovens since 1990, and is often listed among the best places to work in the area. WoodStone Corp. 1801 Bakerview Rd., Bellingham woodstone-corp.com 800.988.8103

Superfeet In 1962, Superfeet founder Dennis Brown met Dr. Bill Pozer and together they began to explore custom orthotics. Brown sponsored Pozer’s study of orthotics, and a partnership blossomed. In the early ’60s, Dennis began making ski orthotics for amputees long before orthotics were widely known. Fast-forward to the ’80s, and Superfeet began making orthotics for runners. Through expansion, research and improvements in manufacturing, Superfeet began offering trim-to-fit 52 NorthSoundLife.com

insoles and insoles for women’s dress shoes. In recent years, Superfeet has added orthotic flip-flops to their line of products. Often cited as one of the best places to work in the country, Superfeet is employee-owned. In 2012, Superfeet opened an office in Scotland, making it Superfeet’s first wholly-owned subsidiary outside the United States. They are currently experimenting with carbon fiber, which is both very lightweight and very strong.

SuperFeet 1820 Scout Pl., Ferndale Superfeet.com 360.384.1820

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e Mad in the

North Sound E sta

blishe

[fashion

d 2014

elSage Designs

Screenprinting maven Phoebe Carpenter Eells draws inspiration from the things she loves: mountains, nature, bikes and family. She began in 2010 by creating prints and small accessories before moving into adding prints to clothing and reclaimed wood. Her designs are simple and eye-catching, and loaded with the iconography of the Pacific Northwest. Eells sources her materials as sustainably as possible, as good environmental stewardship is a core value at elSage. ElSage Designs is part of the 1% For The Planet project, a global organization that encourages businesses to donate 1% of their profits to environmental organizations worldwide.

Texture Clothing Founder Teresa Remple is on a mission to change hemp fabric’s reputation from baggy sackcloth into draped fabric that shapes and flatters. Her style icon is Madeleine Vionnet, who was the first designer to introduce the bias cut to the fashion world. And in looking through Texture’s offerings, one can see why: the bias is a clear theme in Remple’s designs. A native of Vancouver, B.C., Remple leads a team of seamstresses who turn her dreamy designs into reality. Not only is Remple designing her way into the hearts of locals, she also loves to play host to out-of-towners, recommending restaurants and galleries, trails and brews. She enjoys hosting 54 NorthSoundLife.com

so much that she has opened the space above her shop for guests. The Penthouse is a well-appointed space, centrally located in downtown Bellingham. The condo accommodates 6 and is available on airbnb.com. Texture Clothing 1425 N. State St., Bellingham textureclothing.com 360.733.3351

ElSage Designs shop.elsagedesigns.com

goods[ GIFTS AND

Bison Bookbinding + The Paper Mill Owners Carly James and Kevin Nelson started Bison in 2004, just as moveable type was disappearing from newsrooms and print shops all over the world. Filling a need for creative, distinctive stationery and books, Bison has built a nationwide reputation for quality work and beautiful design. Specializing in custom work, they create cards, books and stationery for those seeking an aesthetic that is both visually appealing and tactile. In addition to their press, they also own The Paper Mill in downtown Bellingham. Carly and Kevin work with a group of designers, both locally and internationally. All of their goods are handcrafted in the Pacific Northwest. Their papers and inks are sustainably produced, and all of the packaging is compostable and recyclable. Bison Bookbinding and Letter Press 2906 Elizabeth St., Bellingham bisonbookbinding.com 360.734.0481

Bramble Berry + Otion Known as The Soap Queen, Anne-Marie Faiola got her start soap making as a way to relieve stress while working as a prison guard with an eye toward joining the FBI. Deciding that law enforcement wasn’t the right color of her parachute, Anne-Marie became a soap-maker full-time, and in 1998, she began selling soap supplies to other soap makers. Bramble Berry offers everything a soap-maker needs, start-to-finish, from kits and fragrances to herbal infusions and botanicals. Bramble Berry is far more than a supply house. Faiola and her staff return

every call and email within 24 hours. They also advise soap-makers and offer tutorials and information on The Soap Queen Blog. Empowering other small business owners is a passion of Faiola’s and part of her core mission. Bramble Berry also has a sister business, Otion, a retail venue in Bellingham that sells Bramble Berry supplies and fragrances, offers live classes and hosts soap-making parties. Bramble Berry 2138 Humboldt St., Bellingham brambleberry.com 360.734.8278

February | March 2013 55

34th Annual

Garden &

Show

Visit over 150 Booths!

™

Charity Playhouse Competition Ciscoe Morris * 2pm Sunday

Kid’s Activities

MARCH 21, 22 & 23 • 2014 Presented by:

Skagit / Island Counties Builders Association

& Major Sponsor:

www.sicba.org

HOME remodel &

Four Spectacular Homes in the North Sound

A Delight-ful Remodel

Brightening Your Bedroom

H OME & re m odel

76 CONTENTS Features

A Delight-ful Remodel

Container Herb Gardens

Fabulous Faux

Necessities

Earth Elements

Spectacular Homes

64 58 NorthSoundLife.com

Brightening Your Bedroom

Mount Vernon House

Tsunami House

Deception Pass House

Nooksack House

Come Experience The

Difference

Visit us at the Upcoming Home Shows: Whatcom County Home & Garden Show February 28th–March 2nd, Booths 221 & 237–242 SICBA Home & Garden Show March 21st–23rd, Booths D43–48 SA SA LSES LAES L ES • • SERV •SERV SERVICE I CE ICE • • PARTS •PARTS PARTS • • DELIVERY •D ELIVERY D ELIVERY • • INSTALLATION •INSTALLATION INSTALLATION • • WE •WE WE DO DO DO ITITALL! IT ALL! ALL!

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H OME & re m odel

Brightening Your Bedroom BY FRANCES BADGETT

We spend more time in our bedrooms than we do in any other room in the house, so getting your bedroom comfortable and feeling fresh is essential to a healthy, balanced life. We have some tips and tricks to make your bedroom a sanctuary.

Clutter Control

Scandinavian designers are locked away in pale wooden towers fed only rotting raw fish to force them to come up with new ways to store clutter. Kidding. Almost. But if you like the modern look for your bedroom, there are many clever Scandinavian-inspired ways to store everything from books to bedding. Large, flat storage containers on wheels can be rolled under your bed. Shelves can be built into the headboard of your bed. Something as simple as drawer dividers can organize and simplify your clutter. If you have an organizational challenge, there is almost always a solution from some clever Scandinavian.

The Light Touch

With incandescent bulbs disappearing in favor of more long-lasting light bulbs, finding light that has the right color temperature can be a challenge. Florescent light—as from compact florescent lamps—can look yellow and sickly, and LEDs can look too blue. Be sure to research the right temperatures for your taste. The packaging for alternative light bulbs should list the CCT, or Correlated Color Temperature. Bedroom light generally tends to be warmer than other rooms, which would give it a lower CCT rating. Brightness is measured in lumens, which you should also keep similar to the bulbs you are replacing. The more watts an incandescent bulb has, the more lumens your replacement bulb should have. Bulb base dimensions also change with the size of the bulbs, so double-check the base diameter when changing chandelier or sconce bulbs.

Brushstrokes

Understated earth tones dominate bedroom trends this year, with layers of beiges and grays taking over where saturated oranges and pinks dominated in past years. Subtly textured and patterned wallpaper is part of this earthy trend. White-onwhite is also in vogue. Bright accents like orchid and lime cut the starkness of all that white with little brushes of color. The Pantone color of the year is Radiant Orchid, and it is a great accent color for your white retreat. Throwing a few accent pillows or a blanket on your white-onwhite bed can draw your room together.

Breathing Easy

Air quality can be a challenge in a bedroom. Bedding, carpeting, curtains and clothes add up to a lot of dust. Breathing well means sleeping well, and air quality can have an effect on your health. A good, leafy houseplant like a lily or fern cleans and freshens the air. If air flow is a problem (as in an attic room) there are good, quiet, compact air purifiers on the market. If dry air makes you hack the winter away, a small humidifier can make all the difference — just make sure you don’t leave it running so much that mold builds up, compounding your problems. Cleaning it on a regular basis will also be necessary (see p. 19 for cleaning details).

Big Changes

Sleeping in a great bed — whether memory foam or a mattress with adjustable firmness — can really enhance the quality of your sleep. A great bed is a big investment, but the uptick in quality can make all the difference in the kind of sleep you get. Add new pillows that fit your sleeping posture (there are options for side-sleepers, tummy-sleepers and back-sleepers on the market). Ripping out old carpet and installing hardwood flooring or laminate can control dust and give your room a cleaner, clearer space. Installing shelves and cabinets can get those clothes off the treadmill and into drawers and on hangers. Whether you’re just adding a few pillow cases or going in for a big change, a refreshed bedroom will help you feel refreshed, renewed and recharged.  February | March 2014 61

H OME & re m odel

A Delight-ful Remodel BY DAKOTA MACKEY

omeowners Delight Green and Michael Newlight hired Craig Burling, owner and general contractor of CB Premier Construction, to build an addition onto the master suite of their creative Chuckanut Drive house. The 850 square foot addition included a bedroom, bathroom and closets, all with electric radiant heat. “The house is 41 years old and we thought the master bath was dated, Delight said. “Also, we wanted more closet space to make the house fit with contemporary expectations for a house of this quality and size.” Aside from these details, it was important to Green and Newlight that the master bedroom become soundproof, so one of Burling’s first orders of business was to work with a sound engineer. The bedroom of their house is only 350 feet from the train crossing, and every

62 NorthSoundLife.com

time the train blew its horn, the sound permeated the walls of the entire house. The sound engineer recommended using high rate sound transmission class noise frequency glass in the windows of the bedroom in order to keep the train noise out. The sound engineer stayed at the house for a night to measure the sound frequency of the trains. Burling put rubber on top of the foundation to keep the train’s vibrations from shaking the bedroom. All of the windows were custom made and finished for the house. “The room is much quieter, and I think we sleep better with the quieter environment,” Green said. The bedroom also features a custom-made bed and a 3D stone tile fireplace. Each carved limestone tile was imported from Italy and took 3 months to travel by boat to the U.S. The mantel is made of steel and was power coated so it looks like stone, but it’s more durable. “We love the large closets and built in dressers and having a fireplace in the bedroom,” Green said. “However, the most pleasing aesthetically is the large bathroom with walls of beautiful aqua blue tiles, a sunken Japanese soaking tub and a large shower with a Hansgrohe shower head that sprays and has a waterfall.” The bathroom is modern and covered in the aqua blue Green described. Burling and his team © Photography by Fleming Photo Studio

built a 12-foot-wall glass shower as well as a long countertop with LED lights underneath the glass layer. The lights give off a blue hue, illuminating the entire bathroom at night. The countertop itself is made of recycled glass that was melted down and fitted with two glass sink bowls. Burling worked every day with his crew to make sure Green’s addition would live up to expectations. This is not uncommon for Burling, however; he believes one of the special things about CB Premier Construction is all of the custom work and care for the project. Burling designed a one-of-a-kind bathtub for the addition’s bathroom. It’s a square tub, positioned low into the ground with a steel ring around it. Delight said she was very pleased with the work of Burling and his crew at CB Premier Construction, particularly in terms of attention to detail. For example, Delight said there was a tiledwall that didn’t meet at a right angle. Rather than have the edges of the tile showing, Craig mitered the glass tile so it fit tightly. “You can imagine how hard it was to cut the glass tile and leave a smooth edge, Green said. “That is just one example of his skill and creativity.” The project took a year and was finally finished in July 2013. 

February | March 2014 63

H OME & re m odel

Moss Terrarium This charming terrarium made from a repurposed wine bottle is perfect for ‘greening’ small spaces. $38, chucklefarm.com

2 Cambria Cabinet A hand-crafted cabinet masterfully detailed with a cerused wood finish and a gold leaf inlay. 8" x 20" x 65" $9,960, shinebysho.com

6 EART H Elements

Mila Chandelier Handsome and clean, the exposed light bulbs and natural Walnut cage adds a higher power to your ceiling’s low points. $4,800, shinebysho.com

Walnut and moss; olive and oak — bring the color palette of the earth indoors with these modern takes on a rustic interior.

The Lucy Chair A reincarnation of 1950s furnishings, this plush olive chair is a one-of-a-kind design fashioned from sculpted iron and plush fabric. $5,085, beapila.com

5 4

Chatham Wall Clock Manufactured in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, hang this for a bark-inspired beauty boost. $286, wayfair.com

64 NorthSoundLife.com

Vintage Turkish Kilim Pillow Handcrafted from vintage Anatolia and Middle-East Kilim fragments the fine wool materials are aged 20–70 years and colored with vegetable dyes. $67, TurkishCraftArts, Etsy.com

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H OME & re m odel

Container Herb Gardens Starting Small BY JESSICA PAIN

66 NorthSoundLife.com

erb gardens are perfect for small spaces. They thrive on patios, balconies and even on your kitchen counter. Thyme, parsley, chives, oregano, cilantro and basil are common and satisfying herbs to grow. Herbs are among the easiest plants to nurture — all you need are containers to plant them in, potting soil and a green thumb. Many herbs, including basil, can be propagated in water from a stem and transplanted into soil when the roots srpout, so set aside a sprig of your favorite herb in a glass of water and watch it grow. Transplant your cuttings to a clay pot with light, quick-draining soil in a south-facing window, or a plastic pot in an east- or west-facing window. Keep your herbs moist, but not too wet. If you’re looking to start small, consider making a one-pot herb garden. Basil, thyme and sage work well together as a single pot, as long as you make sure to trim them back when the basil gets leggy. Thyme is a creeper, and will take over if given a chance, so trim it back regularly. A number of hanging solutions can save valuable space on a balcony. Experiment with canning jars mounted to a wall, a vertical pallet garden or tin cans hung from twine. If you’d like to re-use items, then old yogurt containers, coffee mugs or wine boxes can serve as planters. Movable herb gardens can help maximize sun exposure. If you plant herbs in a wagon, you can pull it to a different spot to get more sun in the afternoon. Certain moveable options can also be brought indoors. When you see pictures of expansive gardens it’s easy to forget growing fresh herbs and produce is possible even in small spaces. Creating a patio or balcony herb garden requires more creativity than square footage. Herb gardens are perfect for aspiring gardeners who want to start small. 

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H OME & re m odel

Fabulous Faux BY FRANCES BADGETT

he effect of faux tile finishes once depended on how light fell, how the sun or kitchen lights caught the pattern in the floor, how the tile felt underfoot or how it looked behind the sink. Decades ago, faux was just another word for fake, ersatz, as something that was meant to reach for an effect, but failed in the process. In the ’60s and ’70s, decorators played up the shortcomings in realism, and preferred tile that was more fake than faux. Since the ’90s, the trend has been toward natural surfaces and genuine materials. Never fear, though — vintage-style tiles are also available. With improvements in the fabrication and printing of tile, faux surfaces and styles have achieved their intent — of looking and feeling close, if not identical to, the original surface. Compressed wooden tiles, concrete tiles made to look like hardwood flooring, polystyrene tiles made to look like pressed tin, leather tiles and

Current faux wood paneling for walls has come a long way from the orange-toned rec room wood paneling of the ’70s.

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other types of finishes are now used on virtually any surface, and can fool most of us, even upon close inspection. Current faux wood paneling for walls has come a long way from the orangetoned rec room wood paneling of the ’70s. Today’s wood paneling looks so much like slats and planks, you’d swear you could feel a draft between the boards. Glass mosaic tiles take away the laborintensive act of setting individual pieces of glass into grout, and make achieving a mosaic effect a snap. Rough textures, delicate inlaid designs and

…

“When it comes to home decorating, faux tiles and finishes can be a gateway into a more affordable upgrade for any room of your home.”

…

other effects are much easier to find in these newly engineered tiles, as are bigger sizes. These faux tiles have some distinct advantages over their natural counterparts — they are less expensive than the material they are mimicking, and they are lighter, making them more suitable for wall and ceiling use. These tiles have another distinct advantage — they are well suited for use with adhesive sprays in the place of thinset, and the dry time is only one hour as opposed to four for thinset. You still have to grout, but with much less mess and fewer fumes. Use of adhesive makes ceilings, walls and backsplashes much easier to tile, with less mess and less chemical exposure. Of the recent trends, faux wood tiles have become the chic alternative to laminate. They are harder than wood or laminate, they resist moisture better, making them suitable for kitchens and bathrooms, and they can create a wide-plank look without the headaches of having to cut and fit actual wide planks. Tiles are also better suited for radiant heating and they stay cool over the summer months. The drawbacks of faux wood tiles are that they don’t insulate against noise as readily, they aren’t as comfortable for standing for long periods of time (source: roomology.com). Glass tile used to be too expensive and laborintensive for widespread use, relegating glass to backsplashes and shower stalls. But with lighter compressed tiles, called “smart tiles,” glass can cover a bathroom floor-to-ceiling on even a modest budget, creating beautiful light and color effects that were once only for big spenders. They 70 NorthSoundLife.com

are on long, adhesive sheets that can be cut to whatever space or shape you desire. The tiles are also interlocking. A backsplash project that could take weeks is shortened to a couple of hours. These glass tiles have a hidden advantage: they are easy to remove (simply hold a hairdryer on them for a few minutes), making them almost like seasonal slipcovers for your walls. Bear in mind that if you are removing tile that was installed before the mid ’80s, it is likely the tile you are replacing contains asbestos. A carcinogenic fiber, asbestos made flooring fire-resistant and helped with sound-proofing. You won’t get lung cancer by having asbestos tiles in your house, but if you are ripping out old tile, you could send the particles airborne. If you are removing the tiles yourself, be sure to soak them in plenty of water. Do not sand or break the tiles, and use a soaking wet mop for cleanup, not a vacuum. It’s best to hire a pro for this kind of demolition. Whatever tile or finish you use, know that there are so many options and styles that you may have trouble choosing just one. Luckily, they are budget-friendly, so you won’t have to. While faux may be a dirty word in fashion circles, when it comes to home decorating, faux tiles and finishes can be a gateway into a more affordable upgrade for any room of your home. With spray adhesives and lighter materials, any surface has potential for a bit more color or texture. Whether a pressed tin ceiling in the kitchen or a bright bathroom of colored glass, you can update and brighten your dark corners on a budget and with ease. 

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H OME & re m odel

Mount Vernon House PHOTOGRPAHY BY DIANE PADYS STORY BY FRANCES BADGETT

72 NorthSoundLife.com

The spacious, bright kitchen has ample work space, designed for every day use as well as entertaining.

ď ´

Air. Light. Balance. The team at HKP created this open, flowing and elegant space. The design draws on natural elements like hardwood floors and wooden vaulted ceilings, but escapes monotony with white-front cabinets that harmonize with the stainless steel, black granite countertops and warm wood tones. The house was built by one of the founding partners of HKP in the 1950s. When the current owners chose an architect for the renovation, they chose HKP.



The wooden ceiling gives warmth to the cool gray tile. An inviting soaking tub is bathed in plenty of natural light from the large windows.

February | March 2014 73

74 NorthSoundLife.com



The man cave is redefined. A cozy fireplace, warm leather and elegant storage combine to create a refined retreat.



The living room seating area is both an inviting entertainment space and an elegant gathering place for the home. The marble fireplace is the signature element, drawing the room together.

February | March 2014 75

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Tsunami House PHOTOGRPAHY BY LUCAS HENNING STORY BY FRANCES BADGETT

Designs Northwest Architect Dan Nelson dared the elements with this fascinating house. Located on the shore at Camano Island, this house is sited in a flood-prone area, which is also subject to earthquakes, severe storms and other tests from nature. Nelson and his team created a beautiful house that is ready for anything. They started the project in 2006, and completed it in the summer of 2013.

 FEMA regulations require that the main living area in a flood zone be above the first floor level. The living space upstairs draws in the inspiration of the ocean view with elegant touches like smoked glass sliding doors and a versatile loft area.

78 NorthSoundLife.com

ď ´

Located in a FEMAdesignated flood zone, the first order ofÂ business for Designs Northwest was to create breakaway walls that would fall away when hit by a storm. All of the fixutres and furnishings on the first level are waterproof.

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ď ´

80 NorthSoundLife.com

GrinstadÂ & Wagner maximized the verticality of the bluff, the ocean views and the forested surroundings.

Deception Pass House PHOTOGRPAHY BY DOUG SCOTT STORY BY FRANCES BADGETT

Deception Pass is noted for its beautiful views, rocky shoreline and dramatic bluffs. To capture the essence of the surroundings, Grinstad & Wagner Architects designed a house that offers great views and warm living space. The site presented the architects with a challenge: the steep, rocky cliff presented design and stability issues. But Grinstad & Wagner were up to the challenge.

82 NorthSoundLife.com

The entry is scaled to be discreet and blends with the forested cliff. A steel walkway welcomes visitors.



Dramatic windows bring the outdoors in with sumptuous views of Deception Pass, including the famous bridge.

February | March 2014 83

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Nooksack House PHOTOGRPAHY BY JIM WRIGHT SMITH STORY BY FRANCES BADGETT

Great renovations begin with challenging raw materials, and Nooksack House was no exception. Architect Sean Hegstad of Haven Design Workshop created a beautiful foothills sanctuary from a house in serious need of an update. Using the quintessential Northwest combination of stone and wood, Sean gave the home a graceful, yet solid presence in its woodland setting. Drawing on Asian influences, the house has a spare, zen quality and clean lines. An impressive stone staircase leads to the dojo-inspired front door.

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February | March 2014 85

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The open, soaring quality of the dining space is enhanced with large windows. Earth tones link the indoors with the outdoor surroundings.



February | March 2014 87

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ELEGANT LIVING CONNECTED WITH NATURE. Top of the hill, designed by International Architect, the Fidalgo is currently under construction. Dramatic entry and foyer beckons you to enjoy the gracious Great Room plan with stainless & granite island kitchen and floor to ceiling fireplace. 2252 s.f, 4 BR 2.5 BA. Gorgeous mountain, bay and territorial views, park, trails, ponds and forest. Fantastic Ferndale Schools. Offered at only $425,000. View more of our homes like the San Juan, the Patos, and the Fidalgo at MyHeronCrest.com. Special presale financing is available, and building lots are available from $107,900. MLS# 585864 Lyle Sorenson 360.927.8685 lylesorenson@windermere.com Visit us online: www.MYHERONCREST.com

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SOUTH HILL AMBIANCE DEFINED. Warmed by a natural sun lit setting with Bellingham Bay views, this meticulously cared for home features a flawless combination of character, charm, and impressive design elements. The nostalgic interior has window seats, curved door ways, formal spaces, french doors, built-ins, cozy sun room, remodeled kitchen and baths. 3 bedrooms, office, 2.5 baths, workshop + garage. This captivating home is highlighted by an incredible backyard setting and ideal location on the Hill. $635,000

SPECTACULAR BAY/ISLAND VIEWS & GORGEOUS SUNSETS from this 2004 JWR/Moceri Custom on private 1 ac lot in Samish Highlands. 3938 sf, 4 bdrm/3.5 ba, main floor master w/his & hers baths & closets. Spacious highend kitchen w/walk-in pantry & bistro office. Vaulted ceilings, 7 walk-in closets, 3 custom tile fireplaces, central vac, AC, generator, 2 decks. Near golf & Lk Padden, 10 mins to downtown Bellingham.

Debbie Biery, Broker 360.223.2341 debbiebiery@windermere.com www.debbiebiery.com

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Dawn Durand, Windermere Real Estate 360.739.3380 Dawn@DawnDurand.com www.dawndurand.com

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8804 OSPREY RD. Imagine the 10th fairway at Semiahmoo as your very own backyard! Elevated deck captures all the action of this green fronting premium cul-de-sac location. Well built and well loved, this memory filled craftsman home will delight the most discriminating buyer that values “good bones”! Location is everything — with circular drive and curb appeal this home sparkles like the diamond it is! Light shines through this comfortable home with its vaulted ceilings and well placed windows! $425,000

8975 SNOWY OWL LANE. Corner lot with lush landscaping is welcoming and inviting to this Traditional style home with brick exterior. An excellent floor plan with main floor master that features fireplace, French doors that open to private deck and spa bath. Great room with vaulted ceiling and fireplace, private dining with French doors and deck access and a brand new kitchen make this home a must see on your discovery tour of truly affordable properties. Upstairs loft with private guest suite is an added bonus! $424,500

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February | March 2013 91

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February | March 2013 93

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DINE

7 Good Things · Dining Guide · Drink of the Month

Pepper Sisters BY DAKOTA MACKEY

hat better way to escape the Pacific Northwest rain than to visit an eatery with Southwest flair? Situated on North State Street is Susan Albert’s restaurant, Pepper Sisters. Customers have been diving into their plentiful plates of comforting burritos, quesadillas and other specialties since 1988. The spunky atmosphere only elevates the already upbeat mood of the place. With bright booths, samplings of art and lively music, it’s nearly impossible to feel sour. Albert didn’t always know she wanted to own a restaurant. After graduating with a degree in Art History, she ended up working at Rhododendron Café in Bow. “I learned so much there from then-owner and chef de cuisine, Don Shank — how to line cook, prep cook, prepare specials, butcher fish and meats, organize a commercial kitchen and work with purveyors,” she said. “At some point during my third year at Rhody I began to wonder, with all the work I put into the job, might it pay off to work for myself?” Soon after, Albert made an offer on Pepper Sisters’ original location on Garden Street. She said with the seemingly popularity of Mexican food in Bellingham, she thought perhaps New Mexican or Southwest cuisine would work. Well, it did. Regular patrons groove to Stevie Wonder as they plunge their forks into massive burritos filled continued on page 100 …

Meet

the

Chef

Chef Dan Van Norman from 13moons at Swinomish Casino & Lodge

Wine Pairing: Tulip Valley Winery Presented in association with: Judd & Black Appliance, Mount Vernon White Truffle Weathervane Sea Scallops with Marsala-Glazed Forest Mushrooms, Roasted Butternut Squash Puree and Micro Cilantro | 2011 Skagit Cellars Voignet: notes of apricot, honeysuckle and jasmine Champagne Citrus Sorbet Wild Chinook Salmon with Truffle Dungeness Crab Roasted Potatoes, Wilted Gem Lettuce and Citrus Beurre Blanc | 2012 Tulip Valley Pinot Noir: notes of currant, fig and cranberry White Chocolate Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Cranberry Grand Marnier Reduction | Exclusive offering of raspberry chocolate port, which is in limited production.

On Jan. 16th, K&L Media teamed up with Judd&Black Appliance to host Chef Dan Van Norman of 13moons at Swinomish Casino & Lodge for a night of great food. Van Norman brought his sous-chef, Andrew Bighouse, who assisted in the preparation of courses. Loaded with cooking tips and tricks (see northsoundlife.com for a complete list) Van Norman had a lot of information to share with our audience. Using only the freshest ingredients, Van Norman began with an appetizer of Alaska Weathervane Scallops cooked to perfection with Marsala-glazed wild mushrooms and served on a puree of roasted butternut squash. Following 96 NorthSoundLife.com

that delicious treat was an amusebouche of champagne citrus sorbet. The main course was a glittering, fresh Chinook salmon from the Swinomish Fish Company, which catches seafood daily for 13moons. The salmon was seared and oven-finished and served with mashed crabmeat potatoes and beurre blanc. For dessert, Dan created a white chocolate panna cotta that looked as fun to make as it was good to eat. He served it with a cranberry and Grand Marnier reduction. The food was paired with wine from Tulip Valley Winery in Skagit. The event was well attended, with more than 20 guests joining us. Stay tuned for our next dining adventure. ÂŠ Photography by Kaity Teer

Sea Scallops with Marsala-Glazed Forest Mushrooms Sea scallops, dry ½ butternut squash 1 cup chicken stock 1 Tbsp Parmesan cheese 4 sage leaves 2 oz wild mushrooms 1 garlic clove, minced 1 oz leeks, diced 1 oz capers 4 tsp butter ¼ cup Marsala wine 1 sprig of cilantro olive oil Kosher salt black pepper micro cilantro

Butternut Squash Puree ■■ Peel and remove seeds from butternut squash. Cut squash into 1" pieces and toss squash with 1 tsp melted butter. Season with salt and pepper. Place in a 350 ˚F oven for approximately 20–25 min. (depending on thickness). Once squash is tender, place in a pot with chicken stock and sage. Simmer for 10 min. Remove from heat and add Parmesan cheese. Puree. Season with salt and pepper. Sea Scallops ■■ Season scallops with olive, salt and pepper. Add 2 Tbsp

olive oil to a pan, place pan over high heat. Once the oil starts to smoke, add scallops and sear on each side for 2–3 min. Remove scallops from the pan and bake in a 350 ˚F oven for 4-5 min. In a separate pan, add 2 Tbsp olive oil, place pan over high heat. When the oil starts to smoke, add the mushrooms. Cook for 3 min. Add the garlic, leeks and capers and sauté for 2 min.. Deglaze the pan with the Marsala wine and reduce until liquid has evaporated. Add 1 tsp butter at the end. Season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with micro cilantro.

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Citrus Champagne Sorbet 750 ml champagne (1 bottle) 1 cup granulated sugar 1 cup water zest of 2 lemons ■■ Add water and lemon zest to

a pot. Simmer on low heat and whisk in sugar until dissolved. Add the champagne and bring to a simmer. Cool. Once mixture has cooled add to gelato machine.

Wild Chinook Salmon with Truffle Dungeness Crab Roasted Potatoes 7 oz salmon filet, skin-on (scales removed, scored) 1 Tbsp olive oil ½ tsp fresh thyme leaves Kosher salt black pepper 1 shallot 1 cup white wine 1 lb butter juice from 1 Meyer lemon 2 Tbsp heavy cream 1 lb Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled 4 oz Dungeness crab meat 1 green onion, chopped 2 Tbsp butter, melted 1 Tbsp truffle oil 1 small bunch micro greens Sauce ■■ Add white wine and shallots to a pot, reduce to ½. Slowly whisk in pieces of butter. Add heavy cream, add the juice of the Meyer lemon.

Salmon ■■ Remove any excess water from the salmon filet. Season with olive oil, salt, pepper and thyme leaves. Add 2 Tbsp olive oil to a pan, place pan over high heat, when the oil starts to smoke, add the salmon, skin side down. Cook for 3–4 min. Turn salmon over and repeat the process. Place salmon in a 350 ˚F oven for 7–8 min. (depending on thickness). Potatoes ■■ Add olive oil to the potatoes, season with salt pepper and thyme. Bake at 350 ˚F for 40–45 min., depending on thickness. Once potatoes are tender, add to a bowl and gently mash with a fork. Add the crab, truffle oil, green onion and butter. Fold ingredients together. Season with salt and pepper.

White Chocolate Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Cranberry Grand Marnier Reduction 2 cups heavy cream 5 ½ oz white chocolate 3 gelatin sheets 1 oz granulated sugar 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped

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Panna Cotta ■■ Soak gelatin sheets in cold water to soften, drain off water. Add cream, vanilla bean, sugar and gelatin to a pot. Simmer until sheets have dissolved. Pour liquid over chocolate, whisk until dissolved. Strain and pour into serving dishes.

Cranberry Grand Marnier Reduction 12 1 1 2

oz cranberries cup sugar cup water oz Grand Marnier

■■ Add all ingredients to a

pot. Simmer on low heat until desired consistency.

D i ni ng G u i d e

DINE

DINING KEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to $9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . $10–19 . . . . . . . . . . . . $20–29 . . . . . . . . $30 or greater . . . . . . . . . . . . Breakfast . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dinner . . . . . . . . . Family-Friendly . . . . . . . . . . . . . Takeout . . . . . . . . Outdoor Seating . . . . . . . . . . Reservations . . . . . . . . . . Happy Hour . . . . . . . . . New Review See all our restaurant reviews on our Eat and Drink tab at northsoundlife.com

ISLANDS DOE BAY CAFE American 107 Doe Bay Rd., Orcas Island 360.376.8059, doebay.com/cafe/cafe.html Whether you’re heading toward the San Juan Islands or don’t mind taking a trip for an unbelievable meal, be sure to make reservations at the ever-popular Doe Bay Cafe. The cafe is set in the Doe Bay garden, providing a beautiful view and the majority of the cafe’s organic ingredients. Owners Joe and Maureen Brotherton have stuck to their philosophy of taking good care of their visitors by providing world-class dishes made by Executive Chef Abigael Birrell. Choose from a selection of delicious dishes such as Huevos Rancheros with free range, organic over-easy eggs with black beans on griddled corn tortillas or the Pan Roasted Point King Salmon served with a carrot ginger sauce and smoky fried chickpeas and charmoula. PRIMA BISTRO French 201 1/2 First St., Langley 360.221.4060, primabistro.com A quintessential South Whidbey dining experience in the heart of Langley, Prima Bistro marries gourmet French cuisine and classic Northwest ingredients. Fried Spanish Marcona Almonds arrive steaming hot, glisteningly crisp and in a glory of flavor — and just in time a glass of Pinot Grigio. The selection of reds and whites offers options for connoisseurs of every stripe, along with a full bar. The Burgundy

Snails in Herb Butter taste delightfully creamy, with an uncharacteristically soft, yet enjoyable texture. The Bistro Burger is a juicily grilled patty of Oregon beef, topped with a deliciously thick slice of melted white Cheddar; a burger made in heaven! For fabulous food, elegant ambience and world-class views, be sure to visit the Prima on your next visit to Whidbey Island.

your eyes, creating a fabulous feast. Choose from steak and chicken to salmon and shrimp; each meal is served with soup, salad, rice and vegetables. If it’s sushi you crave, they also offer a full sushi bar for even the most discriminating taste buds.

SEED’S BISTRO Regional NW 623 Morris St., La Conner 360.466.3280, seedsbistro.com

SKAGIT A’TOWN BISTRO Regional NW 418 Commercial Ave., Anacortes, 360.899.4001 Colorful photographs of farm scenes dot the walls of A’Town Bistro, summing up all this restaurant stands for: Fresh, local, seasonal food. Even the inside of this Anacortes restaurant feels farm-like, with simple wooden tables and flooring and no unnecessary flourishes. The kitchen is open, and sends out entrees such as Smoked Salmon Cakes (which contain nothing but king salmon and breadcrumbs and come with a tomato-caper coulis and garlic aioli), Pork New York (pan seared with an apple cider gastrique), a Wild Boar Burger, and Ancho Chili & Chicken Stew. Appetizers include the restaurant’s signature fries, which are twice fried and tossed in truffle-parmesan salt. Both beer and wine are on tap here. Both taps and bottles offer some great representatives from local and international producers. Settle in, and enjoy food, drink, and a fire that roars away between the entrance and the dining room, keeping diners warm in both body and spirit. –

NELL THORN Seafood 205 Washington St., La Conner 360.466.4261, nellthorn.com This small-town gem located in the heart of La Conner brings in tourists and locals alike. They boast well-prepared and locally sourced fresh seafood as well as an extensive wine and beer list. The charming and cozy pub atmosphere, homemade soups and generous portions make for a great special occasion or romantic evening. Try the polenta cakes with cured black olive and roasted garlic tomato sauce — you won’t be disappointed. SAKURA JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE Japanese 1830 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington 360.588.4281, sakurasteakhouse.com Professional Teppan Yaki chefs take you on a journey of delicious and interactive dining at Burlington’s Sakura Japanese Steakhouse. Using the freshest ingredients and perfect seasonings, they stir-fry your meal right before

Seeds Bistro in La Conner is a celebration of the fresh bounty of food offered in Skagit County. It offers simple dishes that highlight the fresh, exciting ingredients found throughout the Pacific Northwest. The menu features local selections rotated with the seasons. The macaroni and cheese features Northwestfavorite Cougar Gold cheese with a buttercrumb crust. Burgers are juicy, cooked perfectly, and served on homemade potato buns with the smallest bit of crunch and a fluffy interior. The whole family can enjoy Seeds’ offerings — comfort foods satisfy children’s desires while more intricate food items appease fastidious palates.

WHATCOM BAYOU ON BAY Cajun/Creole 1300 Bay St., Bellingham 360.752.2968, bayouonbay.com Bayou On Bay serves a wide variety of classic Cajun/Creole dishes, such as gumbo, jambalaya, po’ boy sandwiches and hush puppies, to name a few. A house-made remoulade, which accompanies many of the dishes, is worth the trip alone. The bar offers an extensive list of drink options. Bayou on Bay is a must for foodies as well as people just looking for a satisfying meal. BRANDYWINE KITCHEN Regional NW 1317 Commercial St., Bellingham 360.734.1071, brandywinekitchen.com Named for the decadent heirloom tomatoes grown on their farm, the owners source much of their ingredients locally and hold the “from seed to plate” philosophy. The menu offers vegetarian and gluten-free options (like ricePanko Fish and Chips), and includes beer from both Boundary Bay and Chuckanut breweries. Try the Quinoa-Salmon Cakes with red pepper aioli or a BLT with Hempler’s bacon and maple-tomato relish. Don’t miss the Hibiscus Iced Tea for a refreshing sip or treat yourself to a Raspberry Champagne Cocktail.

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DASHI NOODLE BAR Japanese 1311 N. State St., Bellingham 360.305.1500, dashinoodlebar.com The name “Dashi” refers to the delicious savory Japanese broth in which the noodles are served. Pan Asian influences are combined with fresh local ingredients and serving large comforting bowls of steaming noodles. Everything is made from scratch. The broth is simmered with either beef or mushrooms with Asian spices to create a complex, rich broth. The menu allows diners to customize their “bowl” — the choices being three types of noodles, three types of dashi, tofu, vegetables and meats. For a treat, try a steam bun, a soft pillowy bun folded around a savory filling, topped with Napa cabbage and a coconut curry or hoisin sauce. The menu also includes seasonal chilled rice noodle bowls and appetizers. DIRTY DAN HARRIS Steakhouse 1211 11th St., Bellingham 360.676.1087, dirtydanharris.com

…

with red chili pesto, sautéed mushrooms, grilled onions, potatoes, green chilies and cheese. To mellow the burn, they would, naturally, wash it down with bites of crisp cabbage salad dolloped with a cool, creamy dressing. The finale of every meal at Pepper Sisters is the basket of sopaipilla, served with a dish of honey butter. Some might not want to bring a date on this culinary excursion — no one wants to have to share that delicious honey butter. Who wouldn’t want it for themselves as it melts on the piping hot, fried dough, engulfing their taste buds in nothing short of ecstasy? Though Albert had no real intention of ever owning a restaurant, she said there has always been a mysterious desire within her — a curiosity. After opening Pepper Sisters, she later found out from her uncle that her grandmother and great aunt had owned a vegetarian restaurant. Albert enjoys how grounded the work is with hard, hands-on duties and immediate rewards. “I am a very tactile person and work better on instinct and intuition, which are qualities really suited to restaurant work,” she said.

The “dirt” on Dirty Dan Harris? In a word: excellent. The steakhouse provides warm, friendly waitstaff, quaint historic surroundings and superb food. Perhaps the best reflection on the restaurant is owner Kathy Papadakis’ waitstaff. Most have worked here for years — and it shows in their enthusiasm for your dining experience. The filet mignon is Dirty Dan’s signature entree. You won’t be disappointed. Leave room for dessert, however, because the selections are dangerously good.

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THE FORK AT AGATE BAY Eclectic 2530 N. Shore Rd., Bellingham 360.733.1126, theforkatagatebay.com

Albert thinks the reason she probably ended up in the food industry is the need to activate all of the senses while working. “I was attracted to this work by some means,” Albert said. “Let’s face it, food — it’s good!” And Albert’s is especially so. Slide into a booth next time the rain sets in, and soak up a little of the warm Southwest.  Pepper Sisters 1055 N State St., Bellingham 360.671.3414 peppersisters.com

As unassuming as they come, The Fork at Agate Bay is a quiet retreat of fine food and wine only a short drive down the east side of Lake Whatcom. Be careful not to be fooled by its quaint exterior; inside you’ll discover a surprisingly upscale atmosphere warmed by a welcoming and rustic charm. Opened in June 2009, it has gained recognition as one of Bellingham’s best restaurants, emerging as a favorite for food connoisseurs. From a simple yet elegant egg breakfast to wild-mushroomstuffed chicken, the menu is a delightful and modern take on the classics. With a full wine bar, an in-house baker and fresh, local ingredients, The Fork at Agate Bay provides a sophisticated twist on Northwest dining. THE FOUNTAIN BISTRO Eclectic 1910 Broadway, Bellingham 360.778.3671, thefountainbistro.com The Fountain adds a new spice to its location at the junction of three historic Bellingham neighborhoods. The Fountain features fresh takes on salads, hot and cold sandwiches, “crepe stacks” and quiche. The quiche is light and fluffy, and comes in a bacon and cheese variety or veggie. Baked in a crepe-like pastry shell, set inside its

own personal ramekin, it’s the perfect size and consistency for a nice lunch, especially served with a side salad with a white balsamic vinaigrette. There are two varieties of crepe stacks, featuring chicken and salmon, but get them fast, because it is not uncommon for them to sell out early on in the day.

Northwest Fresh Cuisine

HOMESKILLET American 521 Kentucky St., Bellingham 360.676.6218, homeskilletsunnyland.com Owners Tina and Kirby named their restaurant after one of their favorite lines in the movie “Juno,” when the main character calls a store clerk “homeskillet.” The skillets on their menu came afterward, but are now one of the eatery’s most popular items. A small skillet is filled with perfectly-fried potatoes, eggs and toppings you choose. Try Tina and Kirby’s personal favorite: the poutine, home fries smothered in traditional gravy, topped with fried eggs and cheese. Homeskillet can’t be beat with its friendly service, colorful atmosphere and ultimate comfort food. IL CAFFE RIFUGIO Italian 5415 Mount Baker Hwy., Deming 360.592.2888, ilcafferifugio.com Richard Balogh has brought fine dining to the “wilderness.” Fifteen miles out on Mount Baker Highway, just past Deming, is a funky old café that has been transformed into an oasis for people who enjoy good food and coffee. Menu items befit their Italian name with panninis and frittatas for Saturday/ Sunday brunches; Cioppino is a summer dinner menu highlight. Dinner menu changes weekly, begging for a second trip. A small covered deck with colorful lanterns sits adjacent to the dining room for your al fresco pleasure. Just beyond, in a meadow, sits a red deck used as a stage, and is the centerpiece for special dinners under the stars.

A local favorite since 1973 found in historic Fairhaven district

Enjoy homecooked Mexican food and full service bar served in a relaxed atmosphere.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Join us for Happy Hour

Monthly Wine, Beer and Specialty Dinners

7 days a week 3-6pm Appetizer Specials & Drinks

Business Lunch Hot Spot Group Seating

360-733-9900 1111 Harris Ave. Bellingham, WA 98225 HOURS: Sunday - Thursday: 11:30 am - 9:00 Friday & Saturday: 11:30 am - 9:30 pm Cantina - Open Late dospadres.net

714 Lakeway Drive, Bellingham 360.671.1011 | thelakewayinn.com/dining

EXPERIENCE

DINING The perfect pla

yourin weddi Enjoy relaxed finefor dining an intimate atmosphere at the newly renovated, multiple award-winning Steak House and Wine Room.

JALAPENOS MEXICAN GRILL Mexican 1007 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.656.6600 501 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.671.3099 2945 Newmarket Pl., Bellingham, 360.778.2041 jalapenos-wa.com Jalepenos Mexican Grill lures you in with promises of a cheap lunch special. But after looking at the menu, you’ll want so much more. You’ll find a masterpiece starting with the complimentary chips and salsa. Ask to see if they are featuring any types other than the normal red that day. The salsas exude freshness. A house favorite is the authentic “puffy tacos”. They’re messy, filled with shredded chicken, cheese and topped with guacamole, but worth the added effort of using a knife and fork. Of course, there’s a variety of flavored mojitos and margaritas, and Jalepenos doesn’t play around with their drinks. The glasses are huge, and the drink is good to the last drop.

Open 5pm daily. Reservations are not required, but highly recommended.

EXPERIENCEEVERYTHING 24/7 ACTION S i l v e r R e e f C a s i n o. c o m • ( 8 6 6 ) 3 8 3 - 0 7 7 7 I-5 Exit 260 • 4 Min. West • Haxton Way at Slater Road Management reserves all rights. ©2014 Silver Reef Casino

February | March 2014 101

DRINK MONTH OF THE

KEENAN’S AT THE PIER American/Seafood 804 10th St., Bellingham 360.392.5510, thechrysalisinn.com Keenan’s at the Pier is the new restaurant in Fairhaven’s Chrysalis Inn & Spa. With the same stunning panoramic views of Bellingham Bay as its predecessor, any seat in the restaurant is an excellent choice. Executive Chef Robert Holmes uses fresh ingredients that are regionally sourced, and the menu changes frequently. Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 p.m., and a number of tasty options are available for under $10, including truffle fries, chickpea cakes and spicy lamb sliders. Breakfast, lunch and dinner entrees range from seafood to American favorites. Try the garlic roasted chicken, halibut special or beef-battered fish and chips, made with Alaskan cod, hand cut fries and housemade coleslaw. The menu items are imaginative, tasty and beautifully presented. The wine list offers a mix of imports and domestic wines that pair well with your meal. Reservations at this popular restaurant are not required, though highly recommended. MI MEXICO Mexican

Place: Kulshan Brewery Cost: $4.25

DUDE MAN WHEAT ALE

241 Telegraph Rd., Bellingham 360.647.0073 Mi Mexico’s reputation as one of the local favorites among Mexican food lovers is well deserved. The experience starts with a warm, friendly, professional waitstaff in an enjoyable, upbeat atmosphere. And from there, Mi Mexico separates itself from the competition with a choice of traditional and non-traditional Mexican dishes that few Mexican restaurants in the Pacific Northwest offer, all made with the freshest of ingredients available. From your first bite of Mi Mexico’s homemade salsa to the last bite of your main entree or dessert, you will already be planning your next visit.

ou may have spent many days last summer sitting on Kulshan’s patio, sharing a pitcher among friends and eating from the rotating food trucks, but Kulshan is not just warm weather fare. Kulshan has been one of Bellingham’s favorite places to grab a drink since it opened. The 15-barrel brewery is located on James Street and offers a wide selection of beers, along with helpful tasting and education. Grab a seat inside at a long, wooden table and sip on great brews like the “Dude Man Wheat Ale,” a smooth, light beer that’s enjoyable rain or shine. It’s made with a high percentage of malted wheat combined with Pilsner malt and a touch of hopping. It carries

NEW YORK PIZZA & BAR Italian/Gourmet Pizza

a delicate flavor that Kulshan describes as being a “sweet-tart peachy finish from the use of acidulated malt.” The “Dude Man Wheat Ale” is approachable with its mild hoppiness and is a good option for beer newbies and connoisseurs alike. So share a pitcher among friends, or simply escape the rainy day with a pint of this sunny beer to yourself.  Kulshan Brewery 2238 James St., Bellingham Sun.–Thu. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m. kulshanbrewery.com

902 State St., Bellingham 360.733.3171 8874 Bender Rd. #101, Lynden 360.318.0580, newyorkpizzaandbar.com If you love pizza, then you’re going to love New York Pizza and Bar. Not just because of the crispy, handmade dough (made fresh daily) or because of the fresh, high-quality ingredients or the amount of them that top each slice. But because New York Pizza is the master of pizza diversity. Anything you want on a pizza you’re likely to find here. Regardless of what you order, expect to be more than satisfied. There’s also a full bar and great happy hour selections. ON RICE Thai 209 N. Samish Way, Bellingham 2200 Rimland Dr., Bellingham 1224 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.714.9995 Ask any college student: On Rice is the place to go in Bellingham. With its affordable lunch specials and three locations around town, it’s

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Si p

DINE

The Beauty of Bergevin BY ZACCHORELI FRESCOBALDI-GRIMALDI

iddled with many wonderful wineries, Walla Walla is one of those places where one couldn’t swing a cat without hitting an award-winning wine maker. Annette Bergevin, co-owner of Bergevin Lane Vineyards, is one of those winemakers. Bergevin’s focused attention and nose-to-the-grindstone management of the winery and estate vineyard — and her relationship with vineyard growers — assures oenophiles an exceptional assortment of grapecentric libations. The grounds include a tasting room, an on-site laboratory, 22 stainless steel tanks, three temperaturecontrolled and humidified barrel rooms which produce 11,000 cases of wine a year. In 2012, Bergevin was honored at Washington State University during the Feast of the Arts dinner with a distinguished alumnus award. The 2010 “Wild Child” is a mouthwatering Merlot, beautifully balanced with stone fruit, chocolate and tobacco notes. This is a wonderful wine by itself, or paired with grilled hamburger, sun-dried tomato tapenade, or a nice Reblochon cheese gratin with crusty bread. Hints of allspice and tarragon give way to subtle cinnamon notes. Merlot from Stone Tree Vineyard in Wahluke Slope spent 18 months in oak barrels where it took full advantage of its accommodations. Only 500 cases of this gem

were produced, and at about $28 a bottle, inventory will be depleted in no time. The 2011 She-Devil Syrah is one of those wines that refuses to be ignored. One lingers over each flavorful sip, absorbed in the deep rich berry and chocolate flavors. Accustomed to being the center of attention, She-Devil would rather not share the spotlight; but if she must, she will tolerate a light salad dressed in olive oil and Asiago cheese. Try it and discover how delicate flavors reminiscent of deep rich espresso and ripe juicy currants emerge. This 100% Syrah is a bargain at $24 a bottle, and — be warned — it won’t last long. The 2012 Love Struck Viognier is one of the year’s white wine best buys at $22 a bottle. The combination of tropical and stone fruits pairs well with a creamy clam chowder or mussels in a light curry cream sauce. Love Struck accentuates the nut, pineapple, peach and pear flavors. Of course, this wine is a terrific sipping wine, but oh, how it comes alive with just a little snack. Fermented in small oak barrels, the 2012 Dreamweaver Rousanne is like sucking on a fruity butterscotch candy without the sweetness! The delicate soft and stone fruit notes come together with the vanilla of the oak to create an explosion of flavors. Preserve the delicate features of this remarkable wine,

sip it in a sunny garden and leave the cheese plate alone. Annette made only 112 cases of this wine, and at $24 they will not last long! The 2010 Calico Red, on the other hand, was produced in much larger quantities and it harbors rich raspberry and bing cherry aromas. At $13.99 a bottle, it is an unassuming little wine packed with rich smoky flavors reminiscent of decadently dark chocolate and vanilla bean pods. Sip a glass as your “everyday” red wine, or pair it with a marinara dressed pasta dish, spaghetti, ravioli — doesn’t matter — it’s all good. Bergevin Lane Vineyards is definitely one of Washington’s wineries to watch: one may confidently anticipate a colorful and tasty future for Annette. rich smoky flavors reminiscent of decadently dark chocolate and vanilla bean pods. Sip a glass as your “everyday” red wine, or pair it with a marinara dressed pasta dish, spaghetti, ravioli — doesn’t matter — it’s all good.  1215 W. Poplar St., Walla Walla 509.526.4300, bergevinlane.com February | March 2014 103

Ciao Thyme BY DAKOTA MACKEY

arm interior. Friendly staff. Wholesome food. Ciao Thyme. After catering in the community for years, Jessica and Mataio Gillis opened their café, Ciao Thyme, in September of 2012. “Our mission has always been to bring people together through shared meals,” Jessica said. “Ciao Thyme is special because the food is cared for from farm to table and guests are encouraged to enjoy it with friends, neighbors and whoever they find sitting near them at our family style tables that day.” One of the great beauties of Ciao Thyme is in the simplicity of the menus. There are two menu options, each with three coordinating dishes. Patrons can either order a dish individually or choose an entire menu for $20. For those with lighter appetites, a menu is even enough for two people to share. Jessica said the staff works as a team to create the menu each month, using inspiration from seasonal ingredients, cookbooks, magazines and old favorite recipes. They try to source as many of the ingredients locally as possible. Collectively, most of what the kitchen uses is organic and free-range. Jessica and Mataio’s fiscal goal is to leave as much of the revenue in the community as possible. Once my eating cohort and I ordered, we took a seat at one of

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the long communal tables. The open kitchen was bustling and chatter of the lunch rush filled the room. Soon after diving into conversation of our own, our tray of dishes arrived. Not only is the presentation intricately stunning, the food is a wonderful combination of complex and simple. The salad had pieces of pulled chicken, swimming in its own juices at the bottom of a wide bowl and flourishing with a heaping portion of kale. It was topped with bright citrus, crunchy-sweet pieces of seed candy and large cubes of paneer, a mellow cheese typically found in South Asian cuisine. Though seemingly simple, the layered flavors developed, offering promise with each bite. Without a doubt the highlight of the meal was the warm flatbread and roasted vegetable hummus. It was packed with a surprising amount of flavor from the golden beet-carrot and citrus marmalade and creaminess from the goat labneh, a fresh cheese made of goat’s milk. Sweet. Earthy. Velvety. Visit Ciao Thyme for a weekday lunch and revel in food inspired by the Northwest.  Ciao Thyme 207 Unity St., Bellingham 360.733.1267 ciaothyme.com

easy to enjoy one of On Rice’s many flavorful Thai dishes. A classic Thai favorite, Pad Thai, is interpreted well here. It’s sweet, without being overpowering, and has just enough spice to balance the dish out. All dishes are available with chicken, pork, beef, seafood or tofu and can be made as spicy as you want them to be, between one and four stars.

SEVEN GOOD THINGS

PEL’ MENI Russian 1211 N. State St., Bellingham 360.715.8324 Step off busy State Street after your late night festivities for an inexpensive and satisfying fill of plump dumplings. Stuffed with either meat or potatoes, these dumplings are piping hot and sprinkled with cumin, paprika and cilantro. Because they pair so well with tasty libations, Pel’ Meni manages to consistently have a line out the door as soon as the sun goes down. For $7, you’ll get a plastic, clam-shell container full of savory dumplings. Smother them with vinegar, sour cream and hot sauce for the full effect.

The following selections have made it past our taste bud test and into our top seven this issue. Step out and give them a try, you won’t be disappointed.

ROCKET DONUTS Bakery 11th and Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.672.6111, rocketdonuts.com With two locations, Rocket Donuts is an icon in Bellingham for its delectable donuts and sci-fi themed storefronts. The donuts are made fresh daily, giving them their fluffy, soft texture. Try the classic glazed or spice up your morning with maple-bacon bar. Rocket donuts is unique by offering vegan and gluten free options. Lift off your morning Rocket style.

The veggie homeskillet at its namesake Homeskillet is a delicious combination of potatoes, perfectly sautéed veggies and eggs. So delicious. 360.676.6218, homeskilletinsunnyland.com

SKYLARK’S HIDDEN CAFE Eclectic 1308 11th St., Fairhaven 360.715.3642, skylarkshiddencafe.com Syklark’s Hidden Cafe in Fairhaven is worth seeking out. From decadent breakfast items such as Eggs Benedict and house specialty Banana Bread French Toast with Maple Walnut Topping to hearty dinner entrees such Halibut & Lobster Thermidor and New York Steak with Jack Daniels Herb Butter, the menu at Skylark’s is varied and every bite delicious. Come for the food and stay for the jazz on select evenings. SLO-PITCH SPORTS GRILL AND CASINO

2 3

The jalapeno-bacon maple bar at Rocket Donuts is out of this world. Take your tastebuds into outer space. 360.366.8135, rocketdonuts.com

4 5 6

The breakfast chimichanga at The Harris Avenue Café is a welcome newcomer to the menu. Crispy, tangy and delicious! 306.738.0802, harrisavecafe.com

3720 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.733.2255, slopitchcasino.com Conveniently located right on Meridian, SloPitch serves up a great burger and fries. With excellent Happy Hour specials in a casual, sports atmosphere, Slo-Pitch is a great place to watch the game or take a mid-day break.

Sip on a French 75 at Temple Bar — crisp, sparkling, refreshing. 360.676.8660, templebarbellingham.com

Grilled cheese sandwiches at The Green Frog? Yes please. Try one with Gorgonzola, mozzarella, green apple and bacon. acoustictavern.com

Brandywine Kitchen is on a roll with their Rocket BLT. Savor the sandwich of bacon, maple-tomato relish, greens, avocado and garlic aioli. 360.734.1071, brandywinekitchen.com

Have you tried the sweet potato fries at Bayou on Bay? It’s time. 360.752.2968, bayouonbay.com

February | March 2014 105

THE STEAK HOUSE AT SILVER REEF HOTEL C ASINO SPA Steak/Seafood Vo t e d Bellinghamʼs Vo t esatpCoycktaou msʼstBH e d BellinghB ae il r!

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Craft Beers • Small Plates • Dancing • Live DJs • Live Entertainment Craft Beers • Small Plates • Dancing • Live DJs • Live Entertainment

•Open for breakfast and lunch •Outdoor dining patio with views of the marina. •Burgers, Fish and Chips and more!

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Craft Beers • Small Plates • Dancing • Live DJs • Live Entertainment

4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale 360.384.7070, silverreefcasino.com This award-winning restaurant offers elegant dining and an intimate atmosphere. Primegrade steaks are broiled at 1,800 degrees to lock in the natural juices and finished with a special steak butter. The wine list is ample and recognized for its quality by Wine Spectator. This dining experiences rivals any of the bigtown steak houses in quality and service without the big-city price tag.

Introducing poppes360 poppes 360

TEMPLE BAR Bistro

The best place for evening entertainment in Bellingham

Weʼve made a 360-degree in our offerings! In addition to our fabulous The best placechange for evening entertainment in Bellingham martinis and menu of Northwest Local Fare, we have an updated small plates menu Weʼve made a 360-degree change in our offerings! addition to our fabulous that and a new selection of 12 Washington regional CraftInBeers. Enjoy entertainment martinis and Top menu ofto Northwest Fare, have Giveaways. an updated small plates menu ranges from DJs Open MicLocal Night andwe Exciting Live entertainment andweekends a new selection of 12local Washington regional Beers. Enjoy that on showcases musicians. Home toCraft Bellingham’s largestentertainment outdoor Covered patio! ranges from Top DJs to Open Mic Night and Exciting Giveaways. Live entertainment on weekends showcases local musicians. Home to Bellingham’s largest outdoor Covered patio!

Featuring fabulous martinis and menu of Northwest Local Fare, we have an updated and Happy Locatedainside small plates menu and newtheselection of Menu Hour Information Best Western Plus Lakeway Inn 12 Washington regional Craft Located inside 714 Lakeway Dr the Beers. EnjoyMenu and Happy BEST Hour Information Best Western Lakeway Inn WAPlus 98225 entertainment thatBellingham, ranges from Top DJs to NORTH www.thelakewayinn.com/events 714 Lakeway Dr BEST Bellingham, WA 98225 Open Mic Night and Exciting Giveaways. WEST The best place for evening entertainment in Bellingham NORTH www.thelakewayinn.com/events www.facebook.com/poppes.bistro 360.671.1011 Live entertaiment on weekends showcasesWINNER WEST Weʼve made a 360-degree change in our offerings! In addition to our fabulous www.facebook.com/poppes.bistro local Bellingham’s largest WINNER martinis and musicians. menu of NorthwestHome Local Fare, to we have an updated small plates menu and a new selection of 12 Washington regional Craft Beers. Enjoy entertainment that outdoor covered patio! ranges from Top DJs to Open Mic Night and Exciting Giveaways. Live entertainment Mon.–Wed. 4 p.m.–11 p.m. (last call) Thursday 4 p.m.–12 a.am. (last call) Fri. & Sat. 4 p.m–1 a.m.p.m. (last(last call)call) Mon.–Wed. 4 p.m.–11 Sunday 4 4p.m.–10 (last call) Thursday p.m.–12p.m. a.am. (last call) Fri. & Sat. 4 p.m–1 a.m. (last call) 360.671.1011 Sunday 4 p.m.–10 p.m. (last call)

Introducing poppes360

on weekends showcases local musicians. Home to Bellingham’s largest outdoor Covered patio! Mon.–Wed. 4 p.m.–11 p.m. (last call) Thursday 4 p.m.–12 am. (last call) Fri. & Sat. 4 p.m–1 a.m. (last call) Sunday 4 p.m.–10 p.m. (last call)

360.671.1011

734 Coho Way, Bellingham

Located inside the Best Western Plus Lakeway Inn 714 Lakeway Dr Bellingham, WA 98225 www.thelakewayinn.com/events

www.facebook.com/poppes.bistro

360.676.0512

Menu and Happy Hour Information

Continually recognized for their craft cocktails and small plates, Temple Bar aims to please. Begin with the classic Temple Bar cheese plate, a collection of three rotating cheeses varying in texture and flavor. They are often paired with fruit, honey, toasted nuts and bread. Next, dive into a piping hot gratin, which varies based on what is in season. In between bites of a salad made with locally sourced ingredients, sip on a unique cocktail with house made infusions and bitters. Finally nibble on the chocolate chili muffins: the perfect end to a charming experience.

BEST

NORTH WEST BESTWINNER NORTH WEST WINNER

Bellingham’s Luxury Destination

360.392.5510

TWOFIFTY FLORA American 250 Flora St., Bellingham 360.778.8930, whatcommuseum.org Each week, be swept away by a different choice of tartine and soup from Bellingham’s own soup and toast bar. Located in the Lightcatcher Building of Whatcom Museum, Twofifty Flora’s ever-changing menu offers options labeled as omnivore, vegan and paleo, so customers know exactly what is in each item. You don’t need to have a dietary restriction to eat here; there is something for everyone. Sit on the patio and enjoy a tartine, such as one with smoked salmon spread, capers, pickled shallots and microgreens. Nibble on the arugula salad with exceptionally tangy apple-cider vinaigrette, and savor spoonfuls of creamy sweet potato soup with Italian sausage. Both the food and service is elegant, humble and completely satisfying. WASABEE SUSHI Japanese/Sushi 105 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham 360.223.9165, wasabeesushi.com

www.TheChrysalisInn.com Keenan’s at The Chrysalis Inn & Spa 804 10th St., Bellingham WA

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WasaBee Sushi is a dining experience not soon to be forgotten. Deliciously fresh and succulent slices of fish resting atop carefully handsculpted pillows of rice are a sushi lover’s dream come true. Delicately sweet Hamachi, beautifully barbecued Unagi, and bright and glistening Ikura arrive on little porcelain plates garnished with freshly made wasabi and paperthin slices of white pickled ginger. It’s a refreshing break from the pink-dyed variety so often found in many sushi bars. Ambiance, incomparable quality and prices that cannot be beat make WasaBee Sushi a darn fine place to eat.

Around Town

E ve nt s

T H E TOWN

LIGHTWIRE THEATER MAR. 23, 3 P.M.

CLASSICAL DIE FLEDERMAUS MAR. 2, 3 P.M.; MAR. 7, 7:30 P.M.; MARCH 9, 3 P.M.

The Skagit Opera is ending their season on a high note — Johann Strauss’s Die Fledermaus. A lighthearted opera that premiered in 1874, Die Fledermaus is the story of romance and revenge, of jilted lovers and mistaken identity. The production features the critically acclaimed star sopranos of the Skagit Opera, Christina Kowalski and Megan Chenovic. McIntyre Hall 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon 360.416.7727, skagitsymphony.com 2014 MASTERPIECE CONCERT MAR. 15, 7:30 P.M.

Violinist Matthew Olson has been performing since the age of three. For two years, he has been the Musician-inResidence at the Orcas Island Chamber

CONCERTS

Music Festival. He will perform Beethoven, Brahms, Dvorak, Mozart and Rimsky-Korsakov with the Skagit Symphony Orchestra.

THE PINK FLOYD EXPERIENCE MAR. 28, 8 P.M.

McIntyre Hall 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon 360.416.7727, skagitsymphony.com

Mount Baker Theatre is bringing Bellingham a celebration of one of the most influential rock bands of all time. With a full light shop, quadraphonic sound and six great musicians, this is a concert worth seeing. This show is a must-see for any Pink Floyd enthusiast.

WHATCOM SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: DAN AND VICTORIA SABO MAR. 30, 3 P.M.

For the first time ever, Mount Baker Theatre will host two grand pianos plus a full symphony orchestra. The special guests are local artists Dan and Victoria Sabo. They will play Concerto for Two Pianos by Poulenc, and the Carnival of the Animals by Camille Saint-Saëns. To complete this all-French program, Maestro Attar and the Orchestra will perform a Berlioz overture, plus Debussy’s La Mer. Mount Baker Theatre 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham 360.733.5793, mountbakertheatre.com

Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham 360.733.5793, mountbakertheatre.com

Have an event you’d like to see listed here? Write us at info@klmediacorp.com.

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COLLIN RAYE MAR. 15, 8 P.M.

COLLIN RAYE

FAMILY FRIENDLY

See country star Collin Raye on stage at Silver Reef Casino Hotel Spa. He has had 16 #1 country hits including “Love Me,” “One Boy, One Girl,” “Little Rock” and “The Gift.” Don’t miss this upbeat country concert. Silver Reef Casino Hotel Spa 4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale 866.383.0777, silverreefcasino.com

MASSY FERGUSON MAR. 7, 9:30 P.M.

Massy Ferguson, an American rock band, will take the stage at The Green Frog Tavern for a one-night-only concert. Grab a beer and listen to the tunes of this bar band. With an American sound, this band is more rock than country and aims to please. The Green Frog Tavern 1015 N. State St., Bellingham acoustictavern.com 108 NorthSoundLife.com

ROBOTICS WORKSHOP MAR. 7, 3:30 P.M.

MAR. 15, 8 P.M.

YOGOMAN BURNING BAND FAMILY FUN TIME MAR. 1, 5:30 P.M.

As part of The Green Frog’s children’s series, Yogoman Burning Band will play rockin’ music for kiddos to dance. Yogoman aims to enrich audiences and lift spirits with dancing to awesome music.

This four-week program is designed for kids ages 8–14 to work in pairs and construct and program a robot. This workshop is meant to spark curiosity in kids and get their brains turning in a fun environment. No experience is necessary; the kids get to learn as they go. Spark Museum of Electrical Invention 1312 Bay Street, Bellingham 360.738.3886, sparkmuseum.org

The Green Frog Tavern 1015 N. State St., Bellingham acoustictavern.com

MUSEUM

TODDLER ART

POETIC “FACTS” POETRY WORKSHOP

MAR. 5, 10 A.M.

MAR. 1, 1 P.M.

Head to Whatcom Museum for a wonderful way to interact with your little one. Both the kids and adults will work on art projects that inspire creativity and work on using motor skills.

Writer Priscilla Long will hold a workshop based on examining facts of our world and then writing about them through poetry. This workshop will be held at Egress Studio, surrounded by art, forest and pastureland for inspiration.

Whatcom Art Museum 250 Flora St., Bellingham 360.788.8930, whatcommuseum.org

Egress Studio 5581 Noon Rd., Bellingham 360.398.7870, whatcommuseum.org

AUDUBON SOCIETY: THE SEABIRDS OF COASST MAR. 25, 7 P.M.

Julia Parish, Director of COASST, will speak about the team’s scientific work studying physical, biological and anthropogenic factors affecting coastal seabirds. COASST, Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team, is an organization that studies local seabirds. Old City Hall 121 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.788.8930, whatcommuseum.org

DANCE LIGHTWIRE THEATER MAR. 23, 3 P.M.

Watch as ballet and Broadway-trained dancers combine dance, optical illusions and special effects to transform Mount Baker Theatre’s stage into a glow-in-thedark spectacle. Dressed entirely in black bodysuits lined in electroluminescent wire, the dancers morph into different objects such as flowers and move around the stage creating a unique theatrical experience. Mount Baker Theatre 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham 360.733.5793, mountbakertheatre.com FACULTY DANCE CONCERT MAR. 13 & 14, 7:30 P.M.; MAR. 15, 2 P.M.

These visually stunning performances will feature student performers in collaboration with faculty members. The concert is original choreography by WWU faculty that explores the students’ current dance interests. Special guest choreographers Amma and Kofi Annanng of Ocheami, an African cultural arts organization, will also be on-hand. PAC Mainstage 516 High St., Bellingham 360.650.3876, wwu.edu/theatredance TANGO BY THE BAY MAR. 8, 10 P.M.

Join the USA Dance Club for a night of tango down by the bay. The relaxed environment allows for beginning and experienced dancers to get together in a beautiful area and show off their Argentine tango skills. Whatcom County’s Tocato Tango will be performing the music. Singles are welcome. Squalicum Yacht Club 2633 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham 360.734.5676

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February | March 2014 109

SPECIAL EVENTS TAO: PHOENIX RISING MAR. 1, 8 P.M.

Coming from the mountains of Japan and new to North America, the diverse stars of TAO put on a nontraditional and dynamic performance that has sold out hundred of shows. A mix of Taiko drumming and contemporary choreography comes together to create an entirely new type of art. Many of the TAO group members come from unique backgrounds, one being a hard rock musician, one a gymnast and one even a composer, coming together to create an explosive and high energy performance. Mount Baker Theatre 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham 360.733.5793, mountbakertheatre.com BELLINGHAM CO-OP’S ANNUAL MEETING AND PARTY MARCH 5, 5–10 P.M.

Join Bellingham’s Community Food Co-op for their annual meeting and party. Beginning at 5:30 p.m. there will be a buffet lasting until the goods run out. Eat, chat and learn about new things happening at your community co-op. Later, dance the night away to Br’er Rabbit. Bellingham Cruise Terminal 1801 Roeder Ave., Bellingham 360.734.8158, communityfood.coop MONA STYLE EVENT MAR. 14 & 15

BRIAN REGAN Known as one of the premier comedians in the country, Brian Regan brings his national tour to Mount Baker Theatre for an evening full of hilarious, yet sophisticated, comedy. Staying incredibly active in the world of comedy, Regan has performed in more than 80 cities a year since 2005 and has participated on David Letterman’s The Late Show more than any other comedian with 25 performances. Starting with his first performance in 1995, Regan’s comedy continues to draw a crowd of many ages who just can’t get enough of his high-quality writing and performance. Influenced by comedians Steve Martin and Johnny Carson, Regan’s humor remains relatively clean from profanity and covers everyday events that the audience can relate to.

The Museum of Northwest Art and the La Conner Channel Lodge and Country Inn are teaming up to bring you the MoNA Style event, a weekend of wearable art, decor and style from 35 Northwest Artists. Stay and enjoy the 2-day event. La Conner Channel Lodge and Country Inn 205 N. First St., La Conner 360.466.1300, laconnerlodging.com

THEATER WAR HORSE

March 16, 7 P.M. Mount Baker Theatre 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham 360.733.5793, mountbakertheatre.com

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MARCH 22, 7 P.M.

The San Juan Community Theatre will join 1,900 other theatres in streaming a performance of “War Horse” from the best of British theater. National Theatre presents “War Horse,” a performance

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WERTHER MAR. 31, 7 P.M.

based on Michael Morpurgo’s novel and adapted for the stage by Nick Stafford. Thanks to South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company, horses will come to life, galloping onstage. San Juan Community Theatre 100 2nd St., Friday Harbor 360.378.3210, sjctheatre.org

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THE ADDAMS FAMILY MAR. 27, 7:30 P.M.

Join the quirky and ever-so-charming Addams Family for an extraordinary evening at Mount Baker Theatre. Created by the authors of Jersey Boys, Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice, and put together by an award-winning crew, the musical comedy has been a hit on its national tour. This original Addams Family story is packed with secrets, love, and angst as Wednesday Addams, daughter of Gomez and Morticia, falls in love for the first time and an Addams Family hosted dinner for Wednesday’s new “normal” boyfriend turns one dinner into an unforgettable evening. Mount Baker Theatre 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham 360.733.5793, mountbakertheatre.com WERTHER MARCH 31, 7 P.M.

The Metropolitan Opera presents Massenet’s “Werther” via live streaming. Don’t miss the opportunity to see two of opera’s greatest artists, Jonas Kaufmann and Elîna Garanèa, perform together for the first time in this dramatic romance. San Juan Community Theatre 100 2nd St., Friday Harbor 360.378.3210, sjctheatre.org

February | March 2014 111

TH E TOWN E vent s

Out of Town SEATTLE ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE MARCH 15, 12:30 P.M.

Celebrate this St. Patrick’s Day on 4th Avenue. Dress in your green attire, grab a spot and watch the floats go by. The parade ends at the Seattle Center for an ending ceremony at 2 p.m. Afterward, head over to the 2014 Irish Festival at the Seattle Center. Downtown Seattle irishclub.org RELAY FOR LIFE JUANITA MARCH 17, NOON

Kirkland will unite as a community to celebrate cancer survivors and bring awareness to cancer prevention. The money raised will benefit The American Cancer Society, a cause that fights the disease everyday. Join them to raise money and relay. Juanita High School Football Field Kirkland juanitarelay.org

VANCOUVER CELTICFEST VANCOUVER MARCH 8–16

THE MOUNTIES Canadian indie rocker supergroup The Mounties are taking the music world by storm on both sides of the 49th Parallel. Ryan Dahle, Hawksley Workman and Steve Bays (Hot Hot Heat) formed their merry band in 2013. With energetic, fun hooks and ’80s inspired beats, The Mounties are sure to put on a great show. Commodore Ballroom 868 Granville St., Vancouver, B.C. 604.739.4550, commodoreballroom.ca

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CelticFest is celebrating their 10th year of bringing Celtic culture to concert halls, pubs and other Vancouver gathering sites. For this year’s CelticFest, they will pack the nine days with music, dancing, entertainment and special events. Various locations, Vancouver B.C. celticfestvancouver.com

The Sce ne

T H E TOWN

On Jan. 10, the Whatcom County Association of Realtors® held their GREAT GATSBY GALA. Gala-goers donned their flapper dresses and striped suits and enjoyed an inspirational program, great food and a silent auction that benefitted Habitat for Humanity. Incoming President Mimi Osterdahl was installed. Seth Fleetwood, Mike Kent, Josh Zandstra, Van Ellingson, Tammy Walker, Kurt Swanson, Michelle Clark and Frank Muljat Jr. won awards.

February | March 2014 113

N OT ES

F i nal Wo rd

Husbandcare.gov Ken’s Valentine’s Day gift for the woman who has everything BY KEN KARLBERG

am a social scientist at heart. As with most males, I am genetically engineered to offer solutions to life’s challenges, even gender-related relationship problems — and even if the answer may come at my expense. I can’t help myself. I am stupid smart. My social laboratory of late has been the “women behind the magazine” at Bellingham Alive. I am typically outnumbered — a veritable male think tank of one. Of course, I don’t claim to understand every conversation at Friday happy hours because they speak a foreign language similar to the Navajo code talkers from WWII. But near as I can decipher, women have rules, incredibly complicated rules, secret rules that we men are somehow supposed to know without being told. And most of them are wholly unreasonable, like insisting on semi-polite manners and being semithoughtful on a semi-regular basis. Don’t hold your breath, ladies. It is not going to happen. Why? Testosterone. No male can be a decent human being with that stuff running through his veins. And don’t give me the “hormonal” rebuttal. Testosterone, not hormones, gets you sent to Afghanistan or Iraq, although, frankly, the results may have been better if the gender tables were turned. If Al-Qaida and the Taliban were stupid smart, like me, they would run for their man caves in the mountains for at least one week of every month. I know that I would. However, this is not to say that I am unsympathetic. As I listened to their good-natured “grass is greener” grousing, I had an epiphany. Women deserve a tool that forces men to step up their game. The answer: Husbandcare.gov. The worst social ills of our day are dead-beat dads, the breakdown of the family unit, and high divorce rate. I say federally-mandated husbands for all heterosexual women over the age of 21. Yes, mandatory husbands may be counterintuitive. But don’t fret, you lucky few wives. If you like your husband, preexisting conditions and all, you can keep him. If you don’t, however, you can contribute him to the federal exchange and go to Husbandcare.gov to shop, where the options would include the following “husband plans” for the disenchanted: 114 NorthSoundLife.com

Platinum (a.k.a. “Cougar Plan” available exclusively to women over 40): Younger husband looks good on your arm, has a body fat percentage below 10%, is at your beck and call, and refers to you as “the teacher.” Gold: Husband does laundry, cooks family meals, cleans, showers daily, doesn’t ask for sex more than once a month, and writes the humor column for a local lifestyle magazine. Silver: Husband cooks Kraft Mac-and-Cheese for himself, mows the lawn, gets off the couch for snacks during football, showers occasionally, doesn’t ask for sex more than once a week and piles his dirty clothes in the closet for you to pick up later. Copper has been discontinued: Husband doesn’t cook, clean, or bathe, but insists on sex once a day, and snaps his fingers from the couch when he wants food. Worried about quality control? Fear not. All husbands will be pre-vetted by the IRS for income verification and come with a 50-point “body part” quality report courtesy of Husbandfax.com. Move over, Match.com and eHarmony. We can officially cancel Valentine’s Day. If Husbandcare.gov doesn’t cause us to be on best behavior, nothing will. Keep dreaming, right? I suppose this is the real point of any meaningful relationship — wishing don’t make it so. We are who we are at any point in time, imperfect in ourselves and our life partnerships. But if we work to become more self-aware and hold ourselves accountable, and if we expect more of ourselves than our partners, we grow — individually, and as couples. I know that I work every day to be worthy of my wife’s love. Most days, I fail. To paraphrase the playwright Samuel Beckett, however, I do my best to “fail better” each day and somewhere in this life-long process, I hope to become a better husband. Fortunately, we all have time to “get it right” as we grow older together because love, respect and humor don’t wrinkle. Take that, gravity. Lisa, I want my last dying breath to be the one that I can’t take because I am laughing too hard — with you. BTW, I left your membership letter from AARP on your desk next to my mock-up of Husbandcare.gov. Choose wisely. 

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