Best Of The Northwest 2016 | Winners Announced

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2016

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WINNERS THE RESULTS ARE IN! Our readers have voted on their favorite businesses, services, restaurants, stores, and spas from Blaine to Anacortes. Looking for the go-to places to get the perfect haircut or find the best dentist? Look no further.

ARTS

& ENTERTAINMENT

Best Art Gallery The Lightcatcher 250 Flora St., Bellingham 360.778.8930 whatcommuseum.org The Lightcatcher displays national, regional, and local artists of distinction for all of us to enjoy. The Family Interactive Gallery is a creative and thoughtful playspace for kids. We will feature their recent exhibit ColorFast in our December issue. Watch for it!

Silver Courtyard Gallery La Conner | 360.466.1200

Bronze Jansen Art Center Lynden | 360.354.3600

Best Museum Whatcom Museum 121 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.778.8930 whatcommuseum.org

Best Live Theater Mount Baker Theatre

Stately as an eighteenth century oil painting, the Whatcom Museum graces Bellingham’s downtown skyline with its beautiful red brick spire. The Museum itself often has excellent work on display, from landscape paintings to the works of great locals like Susan Bennerstrom and Tom Wood. The Syre Annex also houses historical items from our county’s past.

104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham 360.734.6080 mountbakertheatre.com The lovingly restored and beautifully maintained Mount Baker Theatre is an iconic part of Bellingham’s skyline. A great venue for live music, from the WSO to mainstage musicals to great rock shows, the MBT is an important and beloved part of culture and arts in our community. And for good reason.

Silver SPARK Museum of Electricity

Best Casino Silver Reef Hotel Casino Spa 4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale 360.383.0777 silverreefcasino.com An evening of gaming, fine dining, great drinks, relaxing in the Cigar Lounge, taking in the excellent spa, or attending incredible events, Silver Reef Hotel Casino Spa has everything our readers enjoy for a great weekend or after work relaxation.

Silver Tulalip Resort Casino

Silver iDiOM Theater

Bellingham | 360.738.3886

Tulalip | 360.716.6000

Bellingham | 360.305.3524

Bronze Lynden Pioneer Museum

Bronze Swinomish Casino & Lodge

Lynden | 360.354.3675

Anacortes | 888.288.8883

Bronze Bellingham Theatre Guild Bellingham | 360.733.1811

© Damian Vines

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

2016

Best Live Music Venue Wild Buffalo House Of Music

2016

The Bad Tenants thebadtenants.com

Whether booking Devotchka, Snoop Dogg, Macklemore, or a great local act, Wild Buffalo keeps the tunes going. One of the best places to grab a drink and get your dance on—or just enjoy the best of live music in Bellingham.

Wild Buffalo never disappoints.

Known for their rap and hip-hop with a cool low-fi soul vibe, The Bad Tenants have been getting audiences dancing from Bellingham to Seattle and beyond.

Their website describes it pretty well: “The live show is memorable. See it for yourself and you’ll understand.”

Silver Mount Baker Theatre

Silver Baby Cakes

Bellingham | 360.734.6080

Bellingham | 206.818.0588

Bronze The Green Frog

Bronze The Replayzmentz

Bellingham | 360.306.8273

Birch Bay | 360.371.5436

Best Festival Ski To Sea 2227 Queen St., Bellingham 360.746.8861 skitosea.com Teams from all over the place compete to win, place, or just plain finish this wild ride through Whatcom County. Events include downhill and cross-country skiing, canoeing, road biking, mountain biking, running, and kayaking. And, of course, there is the important sport of drinking beer at the Historic Fairhaven Festival, the family-friendly post-race celebration.

Silver Bellstock Bellingham | 360.676.2500

Bronze Northwest Raspberry Festival Lynden | 360.354.5995

Best Local Artist Logan McQuaig - Novato Shop & Studio 115 W. Chestnut St., Bellingham 360.306.3725 novatoshop.com Logan McQuaig is the mastermind behind Novato Shop & Studio on Chestnut Avenue in Bellingham. McQuaid creates intricate custom artwork for canvas shoes like Vans and Tom’s, baseball caps, and other clothing items. He also keeps cool items in his shop, and displays and sells work by other great local artists like Michelle Schutte and Bradley Lockhart.

Silver Ben Mann Bellingham | 360.920.4022

Bronze Whimsy Fused Glass Art Studio Custer | 360.510.3256

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

208 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.746.8733 wildbuffalo.net

Best Local Band/ Performer

FASHION & RETAIL

2016

Best Men’s Clothing Garys’ Men’s & Women’s Wear 128 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.733.2180 garysbellingham.com

Garys’ never disappoints. Not only do they offer excellent brands and the latest fashions, the service at Gary’s is impeccable, making the sometimes awkward process of buying men’s clothing much easier. Pressed for time? They can tailor an item for you with same-day service. And if that’s not enough, they’ll get an item rushed if you have a special occasion. Approachable, friendly, and professional, the staff at Garys’ are more than just salespeople‚ they are there to ensure you are happy with your purchase.

Silver Macy’s Bellingham | 360.715.6000

Bronze Men’s Wearhouse

FASHION & Bellingham | 360.734.8008

RETAIL Best Boutique Betty Be Good Boutique 8125 Birch Bay Square St., Blaine 360.441.7691 shopbettybegood.com Betty Be Good features easygoing, flowing style with beautiful accessories and a great mission‚ to help victims of human trafficking. Every piece in Betty Be Good is priced at under $60, making it one of the most affordable stores in the area for chic, upscale fashion.

Friendly service, great style, and a generous heart‚ Betty Be Good has it all.

Silver Pretty Simple Mount Vernon | 360.588.4318

Bronze Fringe Bellingham | 360.312.4067

Best Jewelry Shop

Best Consignment Shop

Ben Bridge Jewelers

Labels Women’s Consignment

Bellis Fair Mall, Bellingham 360.671.6070 benbridge.com

3927 Northwest Ave., Bellingham, 360.676.1210 2332 James St., Bellingham, 360.738.0333 labelsconsignment.com

When it comes to selecting a fine piece of jewelry, our readers trust Ben Bridge to bring them the kind of quality and personal service they expect. From gemstones to engagement rings, from diamonds to pearls, Ben Bridge has an excellent selection and great customer service to help you get exactly what you want.

When it comes to finding great consignment items in good condition and a range of sizes, our readers honor Labels with the gold. Not only does Labels have excellent choices in clothing, there’s a great selection of housewares, home decor, accessories, and shoes. You can put an entire outfit together for less than the cost of a single t-shirt at most places. They also carry excellent evening wear and accessories that are perfect for putting a great evening look together.

Silver Jewelry Affair

Ferndale | 360.366.8047

Bellingham | 360-738-7676

Bronze Wee Ones Reruns

Bronze Bayside Coin & Jewelry

Bellingham | 360.733.6794

2016

Bellingham | 360.671.7131

Best Shoe Store Mi Shoes 1315 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.715.2046 mymishoes.com Mi Shoes is where Bellingham goes to find unique shoes for great prices.

Carrying brands like Seychelles and Frye, Mi Shoes is a favorite among our readers. Sandals, flats, heels, and boots‚ they have it all. The service is great, the selection fantastic, and the accessories are must-haves.

Silver 12th Street Shoes Bellingham | 360.733.2066

Bronze Hilton’s Shoes Bellingham | 360.734.3090 © Lydia Love

October | November 2016 5

FASHION & RETAIL

Silver Find Your Fashion Again

Best Bookstore

2016

Village Books

FASHION & RETAIL

1200 11th St., Bellingham, 360.671.2626 430 Front St., Lynden, 360.526.2133 villagebooks.com Bucking the trend of most independent bookstores, Village Books prevails where others have perished; a good ol’ brickn-mortar bookstore. The secret? Village Books is more than just a place to buy books, it’s a community center for writers and readers with live readings, book clubs, and other events throughout the year. And with their new location, Village Books is bringing the good word of great reading to Lynden now, too.

Silver Barnes & Noble Bellingham | 360.647.7018

Bronze Henderson Books Bellingham | 360.734.6855

Best Craft Store Michaels 4383 Meridian St., Bellingham, 360.738.7932, michaels.com Copying that Pinterest post? Getting geared up for the holiday table?

Have a great piece of artwork to frame? Michaels is our readers’ choice for the vast array of craft supplies that are available. From wedding decor to papercraft, our readers chose Michaels for the best in getting a project from concept to reality.

Silver Jo-Ann Fabrics & Crafts Bellingham | 360.734.8922

Bronze Dakota Art Store Bellingham | 360.676.8918

Best Antique Store Penny Lane Antique Mall 427 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.671.3301 pennylaneantiquemall.com The slogan for Penny Lane is “Come experience Penny Lane.” It’s pretty apt, because Penny Lane isn’t just an antique mall, it’s a museum, a wild curio cabinet, a furniture store, a dream attic. For our readers, it’s also the best place in town to get one-of-a-kind antiques and midcentury modern beauties. Collecting is an adventure at Penny Lane.

Silver Irongate Estate Bellingham | 360.392.8524

Bronze Aladdin’s Antiques and Records Bellingham | 360.647.0066

6 NorthSoundLife.com

2016 Best Grocery Store

Christopher & Banks

315 Westerly Rd., Bellingham, 360.734.8158 1220 North Forest St., Bellingham, 360.734.8158 405 E. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.734.8158 communityfood.coop

Bellis Fair Mall, Bellingham 360.647.6080 christopherandbanks.com With their excellent range of sizes and styles, friendly staff, and convenient location, Christopher & Banks offers a lot to shoppers.

They carry casual wear, business casual, and accessories to fit any budget. If you’re looking for simple staples like shirts and trousers, there’s a lot in store.

They also carry business wear and accessories. It’s a great place for all your fashion needs.

Best Sporting Goods Store

Community Food Co-op

Yeager’s Sporting Goods 3101 Northwest Ave., Bellingham 360.733.1080 yeagerssportinggoods.com

When it comes to fresh produce, high quality bulk items, supplements, hormone-free beef, wild caught salmon, great cheese, an excellent wine selection and other quality food items, the Community Food Co-op has it all. When looking for the highest quality, our nutrition-conscious readers choose the Co-op.

Yeager’s carries everything from boats to Barbies. It’s the perfect one-stop shop for the outdoor barbecue, weekend camping trip, or that big fishing adventure you’ve been planning since high school. The service and selection set this store apart. The annual sale is practically a community festival. So next time you need a flashlight or a fishing rod, stop by.

Our readers recommend it.

Bellingham | 360.483.9265

Silver Haggen

Silver REI Co-op

Bronze Labels Women’s Consignment

Bellingham | 360.647.4300

Bellingham | 360.647.8955

Bronze Fred Meyer

Bronze Big 5 Sporting Goods

Bellingham | 360.676.1210

Bellingham | 360.788.2900

Bellingham | 360.671.0568

Silver Heroine Clothing

Best Produce Joe’s Gardens 3110 Taylor Ave., Bellingham 360.671.7639 joesgarden.com Nestled in Happy Valley in Bellingham, Joe’s Gardens supplies restaurants, stores, and locals with fresh produce from their ample gardens and greenhouses. The Joe’s season begins in March with bedding plants, vegetable starts, and compost. As the weather warms, Joe’s veggies and fruits come in, and the fresh flowers bloom. Every day is a new day at Joe’s as produce comes into ripeness.

There’s a reason our readers love Joe’s; the service, quality, and variety of produce make it a standout.

Silver Youngstocks Bellingham | 360.733.1866

Bronze Haggen Bellingham | 360.733.4370

October | November 2016 7

FASHION & RETAIL

Best Women’s Clothing

HEALTH & BEAUTY

2016

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Best Health Food Shop Community Food Co-op 315 Westerly Rd., Bellingham, 360.734.8158 1220 North Forest St., Bellingham, 360.734.8158 406 E. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.734.8158 communityfood.coop The engaged and knowledgeable staff sets the Community Food Co-op apart from other health food stores. Questions about anything from cheese and wine pairings to herbal cold remedies can be answered by the friendly employees.

Both locations are welcoming, clean, and well stocked with great produce, natural supplements, and plenty of gluten-free and vegan options. Whether you’re just grabbing a salad for lunch at the deli counter or making your weekly grocery run, the co-op provides guilt-free, natural choices.

Silver Terra Organic & Natural Foods Bellingham | 360.715.8020

Bronze Whole Foods Market Bellingham | 360.714.6820

Best Cannabis Shop 2020 Solutions 2018 Iron St., Bellingham 5655 Guide Meridian, Bellingham 360.734.2020 2020-solutions.com 2020 Solutions brings cannabis into the 21st century. The store is managed by professional staff. Customers can choose from purchasing edible treats, concentrates, or cannabis flower all at various price points. Staff members are available to answer any questions so whether you are a cannabis enthusiast or a first-timer, you’ll learn something new at every visit.

Silver Trove Cannabis Bellingham | 360.393.3459

Bronze Herbal Legends Cannabis Bellingham | 360.778.3904

8 NorthSoundLife.com

Best Pharmacy Hoagland Pharmacy 2330 Yew St., Bellingham 360.734.5413 hoaglandpharmacy.com Locally owned and serving the Bellingham community for over 35 years, Hoagland Pharmacy has exceptional customer service. Not only is the shop a well stocked retail pharmacy, but it also provides medication compounding, medical equipment, and diabetic equipment. Our readers appreciate the range of products and excellent service at Hoagland.

Silver Haggen Food & Pharmacy Bellingham | 360.671.3300

Bronze Walgreens Bellingham | 360.647.2713

Best Yoga/Pilates Studio

2016

barre3

HEALTH & BEAUTY

2210 Rimland Dr. Suite 105, Bellingham 360.922.7398 barre3.com Barre3 classes bring yoga, ballet, and pilates techniques together for a unique and effective workout. The company was started by Sadie and Chris Lincoln who wanted to create a studio workout that promotes whole-body health. Each studio workout packs a punch and will leave you sore for more than just an afternoon.

Silver 3 Oms Yoga Bellingham | 360.671.3510

Bronze Joy Of Pilates Bellingham | 360.224.1433

Best Personal Trainer

Best Physical Therapist

Lenny Olson - Bellingham Fitness

FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Center

1730 N. State St., Bellingham 360.733.1600 bellinghamfitness.com

2075 Barkley Blvd. Suite 200, Bellingham 360.733.4008 fyzical.com

Canadian professional wrestler Lenny Olson, also known as “Dr. Luther” is the head personal trainer at Bellingham Fitness. Our readers pledge that whatever your fitness goals, he’ll get you there.

FYZICAL approaches physical therapy differently than any other clinic. The goal at FYZICAL is to achieve overall health and wellness in order to promote the best lifestyle possible for patients. Therapists at FYZICAL are qualified, caring, and professional. Each session will leave you feeling stronger and more prepared to take advantage of an active lifestyle.

Silver Hunter Clagett - Mixed Martial Arts Bellingham | 425.418.1824

Bronze Shasonta Delmage - Live Fit Bellingham | 360.927.6942

Silver CorePhysio Bellingham | 360.752.2673

Bronze Peeples Physical Therapy Bellingham | 360.733.5155

Best Fitness Center Bellingham Fitness

Best Chiropractor

1730 N. State St., Bellingham 360.733.1600 bellinghamfitness.com

Natural Way Chiropractic

Bellingham Fitness is more than a gym. It is truly a full-service fitness and health center. Members have access to personal training, group fitness classes, nutrition counseling, tanning, and even childcare to make getting to the gym a bit easier. The facility is equipped with a large selection of modern machines, aerobic and spin rooms, spotless locker rooms, and a dry cedar sauna. Bellingham Fitness is committed to creating a positive and motivating environment for every guest.

Silver Fitness Evolution Bellingham | 360.671.4653

Bronze CrossFit X Bellingham | 360.223.2051

2000 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.671.1710 1943 Main St., Ferndale, 360.384.1396 102 Grover St. Suite 100, Lynden, 360.354.9900 1845 Riverside Dr. Suite A, Mount Vernon, 360.424.9600 1015 14th St. Suite A, Anacortes, 360.293.3223 5201 Evergreen Way Suite A, 425.257.1000 naturalwaychiro.org Nothing ruins a week like a pinched back or neck.

Don’t let aches and pains slow you down. Natural Way Chiropractic has locations all the way from Everett to Bellingham and everywhere in between that make it easy to cure those pesky pains.

Silver Brad & Dana Chiropractic Bellingham | 360.733.4222

Bronze Back In Motion Chiropractic & Wellness Bellingaham | 360.647.1970

October | November 2016 9

HEALTH & BEAUTY

2016

Best Mani-Pedi Jimmy’s Personal Care 1327 11th St., Bellingham 360.933.4268 jimmyspersonalcare.com

Located in historic Fairhaven, Jimmy’s Personal Care is not only clean and professional, it has a sleek and chic atmosphere.

Best of all, the salon serves beer, champagne, and wine. Skip the ladies’ night out and have a relaxing girl’s day still complete with a cocktail at Jimmy’s.

Silver Happy Nails Bellingham | 360.671.7836

Bronze Le Nails Bellingham | 360.738.3854

Best Spa

Best Medi-Spa

The Chrysalis Inn & Spa

RejuvenationMD

804 10th St., Bellingham 360.756.1005 thechrysalisinn.com

325 E. George Hopper Rd. Suite 105, Burlington 360.982.2620 rejuvenationmdmedspa.com

With sweeping views of Bellingham Bay and the San Juan islands throughout the inn, it is hard not to relax at The Chrysalis Inn & Spa. Luxurious guest rooms, delicious meals, and a full-service spa are all under one roof. After a day of massages, facials, and wraps grab a drink at the in-house Keenan’s at the Pier and you’ll never feel more relaxed.

Silver Bella Body & Sol

Started by Dr. Tianna Tsitsis, RejuvenationMD uses modern techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to give patients the best results. The office is conveniently located right off of I-5 in Burlington.

Services include laser treatment, injectables, body contouring procedures, and skin treatments.

A second location is now open in Bellingham located at Barkley Village.

Bellingham | 360.383.7070

Silver Kucumber Skin Lounge

Bronze Zazen Salon Spa

Bellingham | 360.738.7197

Bellingham | 360.715.1050

Bronze LIFE Aesthetic Center Bellingaham | 360.738.3223

Best Men’s Haircut V’s Barbershop 414 W. Bakerview Suite 107, Bellingham 360.656.6911 vbarbershop.com V’s Barbershop takes its patrons back in time. The shop is furnished with comfortable leather chairs, classic black and white tile floors, and plenty of screens to watch the big game. Service is fast, friendly, and professional. Customers can come in for a shave, beard or moustache trim, facial, and even a shoeshine.

Most of all, a clean cut comes at the affordable price of just $21.

Silver Wally’s Barber Shop

Best Massage The Chrysalis Inn & Spa 804 10th St., Bellingham 360.756.1005 thechrysalisinn.com As if the soothing atmosphere of The Chrysalis Inn & Spa isn’t enough to relax you, a massage certainly will. The spa offers a wide variety of massage options including swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, lomi lomi, craniosacral, and even a Japanese ashiatsu barefoot massage. Each option is offered as a 60- or 90- minute session. Want an even more luxurious experience? Indulge in a massage enhancement like a back scrub.

Best Salon Kaur Lounge 2124 James St., Bellingham 360.306.5317 kaurlounge.com Conveniently located in the Sunnyland neighborhood of Bellingham, Kaur Lounge is a favorite among our readers. The full-service salon offers cuts, colors, waxing, facials, eyelash extension, and much more. The salon has a trendy and fun atmosphere and delivers professional customer service.

Bellingham | 360.647.0807

Silver Massage Envy

Silver Salon Bellissima

Bronze Yondersea Men’s Grooming Lounge

Bellingham | 360.756.1100

Bellingham | 360.715.1052

Bronze Still Life Massage & Float

Bronze Shearer’s Hair Design

Bellingham | 360.312.4360

Bellingham | 360.647.2805

Bellingham | 360.733.3040

10 NorthSoundLife.com

Best Family Practitioner

Dr. Shoff Orthodontics

Karen O’Keefe MD - Bellingham Bay Family Medicine

3628 Meridian St. Suite 2B, Bellingham 7000 Guide Meridian, Lynden 6004-A Portal Way, Ferndale 360.676.1401 bellinghambraces.com Dr. Shoff Orthodontics has been trusted by residents of Bellingham, Lynden, and Ferndale for more than 25 years. The office is passionate about working together with families to address treatment plans together. With three locations and free consultations Shoff Orthodontics will put a smile on each patient’s face.

Silver Cummins Orthodontics Bellingham | 360.676.1900

2016

722 North State St., Bellingham 360.752.2865 familycarenetwork.com Dr. O’Keefe is one of the many trusted staff at Bellingham Bay Family Medicine. Although she is a family care physician, she also specializes in sports medicine. As part of the Family Care Network, Bellingham Bay Family Medicine is physician-owned and committed to the community’s well-being.

Silver Milan Banjanin MD - Associates in Family Medicine Bellingham | 360.734.4404

Bronze Darla Woolman PA-C - Northwest Gastroenterology Bellingham | 360.752.2865

Bronze Yeh Orthodontics Bellingham | 360.676.9222

Best Dentist Best OB/GYN

Dr Catherine A Smith DDS - Bellingham Bay Dental

Diane M Arvin MD

1118 Finnegan Way Suite 101, Bellingham 360.676.0760 bellinghambaydental.com

1202 Washington St., Bellingham 360.676.8212 peacehealth.org Our readers love Dr. Arvin’s friendly and professional service. Her office is conveniently located in St. Joseph PeaceHealth Medical Center among many other qualified physicians. PeaceHealth is a nonprofit Catholic health system that has been dedicated to providing affordable care to communities since its founding in 1890.

Silver Lisa A Kaepernick MD

Dr. Smith is committed to more than just delivering excellent care to her patients. She strives to develop lifelong relationships with each patient and create an office that feels comfortable rather than clinical. Dr. Smith has continued to educate herself since graduating at the top of her class at the University of Washington.

She has completed advanced training for conscious sedation, cosmetic dentistry, and dental sleep medicine. Like many of us Bellinghamsters, she enjoys hiking, biking, and skiing with her family when she isn’t in the office.

Silver Scott Clough DDS Bellingham | 360.671.5800

Bellingham | 360.671.4944

Bronze Galbraith Mountain Pediatric Dentistry

Bronze Julianne H Snell ARNP

Bellingham | 360.733.7708

Bellingham | 360.671.5700

STATS & NUMBERS

107

114,647

Number of Categories

Total Number of Votes

Village Books with

2154

Single Highest Vote-Getter October | November 2016 11

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Best Orthodontist

HEALTH & BEAUTY

2016

Best Retirement Facility

Best Naturopath

The Willows

Dr. Emily Sharpe ND

3115 Squalicum Pkwy., Bellingham 360.671.7077 thewillowsbellingham.com Beautifully furnished apartments, convenient location, and dependable staff; The Willows is much more than a retirement facility. Residents have a number of assistance options depending on their needs. The facility is complete with event rooms, salon, concierge service, and a fully equipped security system. Whatever your needs, The Willows offers plentiful options.

Silver The Leopold Retirement Residence Bellingham | 360.733.3500

Bronze Parkway Chateau Bellingham | 360.639.4829

Best Eye Care Northwest Eye Clinic 3015 Squalicum Pkwy. Suite 260, Bellingham 360.733.4800 northwesteyeclinic.com Trusted since 1952, Northwest Eye Clinic is a full-service office complete with an on-site optical shop with many styles to choose from. The clinic is equipped for treatment of cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, and age-related macular degeneration. It conveniently accepts a long list of insurance providers including Medicaid and Medicare.

Whether you’re seeking treatment, in need of surgery, or just looking to freshen up your specs, Northwest Eye Clinic will point you in the right direction.

Silver Fairhaven Vision Clinic Bellingham | 360.733.1190

Bronze Mt. Baker Vision Clinic Bellingham | 360.733.1720 12 NorthSoundLife.com

1707 F St., Bellingham 360.734.1560 doctorsharpe.com Dr. Sharpe finds the most success in preventative care. Rather than focusing solely on the effects of a condition, she looks at the causes to create an effective treatment plan. Although she sees patients for all sorts of issues, Dr. Sharpe specializes in fatigue, weight loss, thyroid, gastrointestinal, allergies, hormonal, and menopausal issues. Through diet, nutrition, and herbal supplements Dr. Sharpe approaches disease holistically.

Silver Joseph Wessels Jr. ND Bellingham | 360.734.9500

Bronze Dr. Sarah F Garrett ND Bellingham | 360.676.1285

2016

Best Landscaper 1336 E. Hemmi Rd., Everson 360.927.4469 borrowedground.com

Experienced mason Russ Beardsley and his team work with stone to create beautiful stairways, garden walls, patios, planters, sculptural landscape focal points, and more. Beardsley specializes in dry masonry, in which stones are stacked without mortar. Although primarily based in Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan, Island, and Snohomish Counties, the team is willing to travel further for projects.

Silver Whatcom Lawns Inc Bellingham | 360.354.5124

Bronze Whatcom Landscapes Lynden | 360.398.9461

Best Landscape Design The Philbin Group Landscape Architecture P.O. Box 30767, Bellingham 360.766.4333 thephilbingroup.com The talented designers at The Philbin Group artfully craft spaces tailored to each client’s taste and style. No matter the size and scope of your project, the team is more than equipped to make the most out of your space. The group creates designs for residences, businesses, historical renovations, environmental conservation, and more.

Silver Erin Landscaping & Masonry Bellingham | 360.312.4509

Bronze Moceri Construction Inc Bellingham | 360.671.3381

HOME &

GARDEN

October | November 2016 13

HOME & GARDEN

Borrowed Ground

Best Interior Design

HOME & GARDEN

2016

Jennifer Ryan Design 2100 G St., Bellingham 360.733.9519 jenniferryandesign.com

Jennifer Ryan has been in the interior design business since 1984, after earning her degree in graphic design and fashion illustration. Her work has been widely showcased in publications and on HGTV. From simple backsplashes to major bathroom overhauls, Ryan is known for finding imaginative solutions for common design problems.

Silver Domistyle Design Bellingham | 360.756.0296

Bronze Spiral Studios

Best Builder

Best Architect

Chuckanut Builders LLC

Zervas Architects

1326 N. State St., Bellingham 360.734.3201 chuckanutbuilders.com

209 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.734.4744 zervasgroup.com

Chuckanut Builders is about much more than creating quality finished products.

The company prides itself on sourcing products and resources locally, treating their employees exceptionally well, and using green designs. As a green builder, Chuckanut is selective about the materials and techniques they use for each and every project. Projects include both residential and commercial spaces, exterior or interior.

Serving Washington since 1961, Zervas has been a leader or design in the Pacific Northwest for decades.

Notable projects include the Pickford Film Center, Whatcom Transportation Authority’s downtown Bellingham station, and Wade King Elementary.

Zervas’ projects range from public and business buildings to single and multi-family dwellings.

Silver DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen

Silver Haven Design Workshop

Bellingham | 360.558.3171

Ferndale | 360.527.2840

Bronze Cribbs Construction Inc

Bronze Tim Faber Architect LLC

Bellingham | 360.671.0584

Lynden | 360.810.5545

Bellingham | 360.202.0635

© Lydia Love

Best Home Decor Greenhouse 1235 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham 360.676.1161 greenhousehome.com Conveniently located in downtown Bellingham, Greenhouse always has something new and fun to brighten up the home. Whether they’re shopping for large furniture pieces or just the right decorative touch, Greenhouse is the favorite among our readers for fine home furnishings, gifts, and more.

Silver Grandiflora Home & Garden

Best Place to Buy Furniture Samuel’s Furniture 1904 Main St., Ferndale 360.384.3388 samuelsfurniture.com Samuel’s is more than just a furniture store. In addition to a beautifullystocked showroom, Samuel’s offers free interior design and delivery service.

Since 1991, the store has been serving Whatcom, Skagit, and Snohomish counties, as well as parts of Western Canada. Their selection offers options for customers with all sorts of budgets.

Lynden | 360.318.8854

Silver Wilson’s Furniture

Bronze Re-Feather Your Nest

Ferndale | 360.384.8900

Mount Vernon | 360.755.3126

Bronze Griffith Furniture Inc Bellingham | 360.734.3730

Best Hardware Store Hardware Sales 2034 James St., Bellingham 360.734.6140 hardwaresales.net Hardware Sales is practically a household name for Bellingham residents. Family owned since 1962, the store is truly a cornerstone of Bellingham. The staff are known for their expansive knowledge on all things home improvement. Beyond friendly customer service, the store is extremely well-stocked and employees always offer to order a product if for some reason they don’t carry it.

Silver Ace Hardware Bellingham | 360.933.4686

Bronze Builders Alliance Bellingham | 360.738.9000

14 NorthSoundLife.com

Best Real Estate Agent

Judd & Black Appliance

Chet, Gina, & Jess Kenoyer

2001 James St., Bellingham, 360.733.7722 2520 Cedardale Rd., Mt. Vernon, 360.336.6515 1315 State Ave., Marysville, 360.659.0822 3001 Hewitt Ave., Everett, 425.258.2591 16521 Highway 99, Lynnwood, 425.742.2233 juddblack.com

515 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.676.9229 kenoyers.com

Judd and Black Appliance combines big chain store convenience with family-owned customer service. The locally owned company has six locations throughout Snohomish, Skagit, and Whatcom counties all with large showrooms, helpful staff, and affordable prices. Additionally, each store offers delivery and professional installation of all products, taking the stress out of purchasing new appliances.

Silver DeWaard & Bode Bellingham | 360.733.5900

Bronze Lowe’s Home Improvement Bellingham | 360.734.2659

2016

As a Bellingham native with over 40 years of real estate experience under his belt, it’s no wonder Chet Kenoyer is a favorite among our readers. Along with his daughter and son, Gina and Jess, the Kenoyers have hit the top one percent in sales in Whatcom County year after year. Passion for negotiation combined with excellent knowledge of the region makes the Kenoyers unique among Whatcom County real estate agents.

Silver Kathy Stauffer Bellingham | 360.815.4718

Bronze Danne Neill Bellingham | 360.303.4428

Best Kitchen & Bath Designer DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen 3311 Northwest Ave., Bellingham 360.738.8525 lyndenhomeremodeling.com From small touch-ups to major renovations, the team at DreamMaker Bath and Kitchen knows exactly how to create a new kitchen with you that is ontime and under budget. Our readers appreciate the customer service and personal touch that goes into each project. In addition to kitchen and bath remodeling, DreamMaker also offers cabinet refacing, commercial remodels, and general contracting.

Silver Legacy Kitchen & Bath Lynden | 360.354.1985

Bronze Domistyle Design Bellingham | 360.756.0296

Best Garden/Nursery Garden Spot Nursery 900 Alabama St., Bellingham 360.676.5480 garden-spot.com Whether you’re an experienced gardening pro or you find yourself lacking that green thumb, the friendly staff at Garden Spot Nursery can help. The nursery offers classes on a variety of topics a couple times each month and has been a favorite among our readers for a number of years.

Giving back to the community is a cornerstone at Garden Spot. Owner Marcy Plattner gives her time to talk to local organizations about green practices, during the holiday season the nursery partners with the Bellingham Boys and Girls Club for a Christmas tree sale, and customers are encouraged to drop off old garden pots to be recycled at Garden Spot.

Silver My Garden Nursery Bellingham | 360.366.8406

Bronze Joe’s Gardens Bellingham | 360.671.7639

October | November 2016 15

HOME & GARDEN

Best Appliance Store

FOOD & DRINK

2016

FOOD

& DRINK Best Pizza La Fiamma Wood Fire Pizza 200 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham 360.647.0060 lafiamma.com La Fiamma is named for the flame in the wood fire oven that bakes the dough to crisp perfection. The ingredients are sourced as locally as possible. The pizzas are as delicious as they are inventive. Not only does La Fiamma have great pizza, they also serve fresh salads and great soups. They’ve created a great cocktail menu, their sandwiches are excellent, and the desserts are heavenly.

Have a seat on the deck, watch the sun set, and enjoy a great evening of pizza, drinks, and fun.

Silver Cicchitti’s East Coast Pizza Bellingham | 360.820.5333

Bronze FatPie Pizza Bellingham | 360.366.8090

Best Chef Justin Hawkinson Crave Catering 360.223.4900 crave.softwireweb.net Known for their excellent customer service and high customer satisfaction, Crave also delivers on something else that is really important in catering — great food! Owners Pamela Felke, Thomas Sandblom, and chef Justin Hawkinson source the freshest, best ingredients for their delicious meals.

Whether you’re hosting the family reunion or throwing a wedding for 350, needing a table of appetizers or a buffet, Crave can take care of all of your needs.

Best Fish & Chips Fairhaven Fish & Chips 1020 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.733.5021 The cheerful red double-decker bus in Fairhaven is more than just a cute piece of atmosphere — it’s also home of our readers’ favorite fish and chips.

Served with slaw and traditional malt, the golden delicious pieces of halibut or cod (your choice) are amazing, and the “chips” are perfect. They also serve fried chicken for the fish-shy.

The patio is a great place to eat and watch Fairhaven stroll by.

Silver Mataio Gillis - Ciao Thyme

Silver Nicki’s Bella Marina

Bellingham | 360.733.1267

Bellingham | 360.332.2505

Bronze Dan Van Norman - 13Moons

Bronze JoFish Seafood & Grill

Anacortes | 360.588.3800

Lynden | 360.922.0187

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2016 FOOD & DRINK

Best Food Truck StrEAT Food 355 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.770.9052 streatfood.com The crispy burger, meatloaf tacos, and pitas are all excellent. You can’t go wrong with StrEAT Food, which not only operates a food truck (check their website for locations for the week), but also a café in the Fairhaven Ferry Terminal. For fresh, fast, and delicious, go for StrEAT. They also cater, so book them for your events and invite us and all of our readers who love them, okay?

Silver Hot Mess Bellingham | 360.599.8852

Bronze Deli’cious Mischief Bellingham | 360.220.3662

Best Italian D’Anna’s Cafe Italiano 1317 N. State St., Bellingham 360.714.0188 dannascafeitaliano.com Fresh pasta is hard to come by in our area, but luckily, D’Anna’s is creating some of the best fresh pasta around. Not only do they have the Italian classics, they also serve meat and fish dishes that are excellent. The Fellini-themed dining room is spacious and charming, and the staff is gracious and professional. A great place for a quiet night out, or a big night alla familia.

Silver Mambo Italiano Cafe Bellingham | 360.734.7677

Bronze Giuseppe’s Al Porte Ristorante Italiano Bellingham | 360.714.8412

Best Sushi Kuru Kuru Sushi 11 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360.392.8224 kurukurubellingham.com Kuru Kuru is Japanese for round-and-round, which makes sense at this conveyor belt sushi spot. The dishes are color-coded, so you pull off whatever you like and the server will tally your plates at the end.

Sound simple? Exactly. It is. Conveyor belt sushi is designed for busy business lunches in which you have to be in, full, and out quickly. No waiting for a server to bring you another glass of water, or long wait for the check. But all that convenience doesn’t mean a dip in quality.

Our readers deem Kuru Kuru the best, and they know things.

Silver Wasabee Sushi Bellingham | 360.223.9165

Bronze Blue Fin Sushi Bellingham | 360.752.2583

October | November 2016 17

Best New Restaurant EAT Restaurant 1200 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.306.3971 4u2eat.com Though Chef Truglas and his partner Amberleigh Brownson aren’t new to the area food scene, EAT is a new venture that made waves this year by opening in a prime location (the old Shrimp Shack) and bringing farmfresh ingredients to the table. French with a local twist, EAT has become an instant classic, one of those new places you though had been here all along.

Silver The Filling Station Bellingham | 360.715.1839

Bronze Cosmos Bistro Bellingham | 360.255.0244

Best Sandwich Avenue Bread HQ & Bakery, 2020 Humboldt St., Bellingham Downtown Café, 1313 Railroad Ave., Bellingham James Street Café, 2301 James St., Bellingham Fairhaven 1135 11th Ave., Fairhaven Lynden Café, 444 Front St., Lynden 360.715.3354 avenuebread.com The best sandwiches begin with great bread, and this is where Avenue shines. Their bread’s perfection lends their sandwiches a kind of quality you can’t find anywhere else. Add to that great bread some fresh ingredients, and you’re there — a great sandwich. In addition, Avenue also serves excellent scones, muffins, cookies, and other baked goods. For a morning treat, try their signature egganue, an English muffin-egg sandwich that is so good. Our readers agree.

Silver Cafe Rumba Bellingham | 360.746.8280

Bronze Old World Deli

18 NorthSoundLife.com

© Diane Padys

FOOD & DRINK

2016

Bellingham | 360.738.2090

2016

Best Cocktail

FOOD & DRINK

Redlight 1017 N. State St., Bellingham redlightbellingham.com One step in the door, and you can tell that Redlight has an artist’s touch. The space was an old butcher shop, and the original meat hooks are on the walls.

The exposed brick and dark tones of the wood make it a great place to gather a few friends and enjoy the excellent drinks. The cocktails are particularly creative, fresh, and balanced, and the large windows give you a street view of the antics of North State. Live music, good food, and stellar service are also big features in this cool spot.

Silver The Temple Bar Bellingham | 360.676.8660

Bronze Scotty Browns Bellingham | 360.306.8823

Best Happy Hour Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill 7 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360.527.3473 anthonys.com The view, the excellent happy hour specials, the fresh cocktails, excellent wine selection, great beers — Hearthfire is the go-to for a great happy hour. The service is friendly, the patio has a fantastic view, and the food is top-notch. The ribs are particularly tender.

Happy hour here is lively — you can feel the work day’s stress melting off of everyone.

The service is always courteous and professional. For a good view and great deal, our readers choose Anthony’s Hearthfire.

Silver Culture Cafe At Kombucha Town Bellingham | 360.746.6558

Bronze The Loft At Latitude Forty Eight Five Bellingham | 360.306.5668 © Lydia Love

October | November 2016 19

FOOD & DRINK

2016

Best Steak The Steakhouse At The Silver Reef 4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale 866.383.0777 silverreefcasino.com

The chefs at The Steakhouse have made a career of perfecting the art of selecting, preparing, and serving the best steaks in the area. Not only are the steaks at Silver Reef incredible, the appetizers, drinks, and sides are excellent, too. The service is perfection, the atmosphere elegant, and the food unbeatable.

Silver Dirty Dan Harris Steakhouse Bellingham | 360.384.7070

Bronze Herb Niemann’s Steakhouse Everson | 360.966.2855

Best Brewery Kulshan Brewing Company 2238 James St., Bellingham, 360.389.5348 K2 1538 Kentucky St., Bellingham, 360.389.5348 kulshanbrewery.com Beer culture is a big deal in our area, and new breweries are opening on a regular basis, barely keeping up with our thirst.

Nothing says Bellingham like an afternoon wiled away in the front courtyard of Kulshan after a long bike ride. Our readers set Kulshan apart for the complexity and craft of their great ales and lagers. With complex, forward flavors and a great selection, Kulshan never disappoints. Whether you’re chillin’ on James or tucked away at K2 on Kentucky, the beer in your glass is sure to be some of the best of its kind.

Silver Boundary Bay Brewery Bellingham | 360.647.5593

Bronze Aslan Brewing Company Bellingham | 360.393.4106

Best Distillery BelleWood Distilling 6140 Guide Meridian, Lynden 360.318.7720 bellewooddistilling.com To understand how each magnificent bottle of BelleWood is created, they offer a farm-to-glass distillery tour. If that’s too much education interrupting your drinking, then just grab a bottle. They offer fine brandy, gin, and vodka, much of which is distilled from their own fruit on the farm.

BelleWood is more than a farm, it’s a community gathering place and farm center. A great place to have a great lunch, taste some great spirits, and relax among the orchards.

Silver Chuckanut Bay Distillery Bellingham | 360.738.7179

Bronze Mount Baker Distillery Bellingham | 360.734.3301 20 NorthSoundLife.com

Best Bar & Lounge

Best Winery

Poppe’s 360

Samson Estates Winery

714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360.392.6520 thelakewayinn.com

1861 Van Dyk Rd., Everson 360.966.7787 samsonestates.com

Great food and perfectly crafted cocktails make Poppe’s a favorite in town. The atmosphere is intimate without being stuffy, and the patio is a great place to relax and enjoy a cocktail with friends. The bartenders at Poppe’s are well trained and offer great service. All the juices and syrups for their craft cocktails are made in-house, which means your drink is fresh and delicious every time.

Family owned Samson produces fine reds and whites in both varietals and dessert styles. The Oro hazelnut dessert wine is spectacular, as is the framboise raspberry. Their cassis is perfect for an artisan kir, and the Blu is great for dressing up any dessert. Their varietal wines are Samson, their dessert wines are Delilah. Delilah comes in blueberry, blackberry, and raspberry. Nestled in the foothills in Everson, Samson is a beautiful estate with a friendly tasting room. A great place to visit on a lazy afternoon.

Silver Redlight

Bronze Vartanyan Estate Winery

Bellingham

Bellingham | 360.756.6770

2016

Bellingham | 360.758.2958

Bronze Scotty Browns Bellingham | 360.306.8823

Best Wine Shop Seifert & Jones 19 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.393.3271 sjwinemerchants.com Ted Seifert and Diane Jones have been in the wine business a long time, and boy do they know their stuff. Looking for the perfect wine to serve with a mixed grill? Halibut? A good ceviche? They can tell you. The prices are excellent, and the location is so convenient and they have wines you can’t find at a typical grocery store. Seifert and Jones are approachable folks, always professional and friendly, and they really take the intimidation out of purchasing a good bottle (or two, or a dozen) of wine. They can help with anything from a hostess gift to a big event, and all with a smile. They also host tastings and wine events throughout the year, so watch for those.

Silver Artifacts Cafe & Wine Bar Bellingham | 360.778.2101

Bronze Vinostrology Wine Lounge & Merchants Bellingham | 360.656.6817

October | November 2016 21

FOOD & DRINK

Silver Dynasty Cellars

Best Coffee Shop

2016

Woods Coffee

FOOD & DRINK

HQ: 191 18th St., Lynden 360.933.1855 woodscoffee.com Woods Coffee is one of the most successful locally owned businesses in the area, as our passion for coffee is never outpaced by new coffee shops.

Woods has its own roastery and bakery, ensuring the freshness of their products.

With 19 convenient locations (and growing) Woods seems to be gaining steam. The service is friendly, the Northwestinspired décor is cozy, and the coffee is stellar.

Silver Caffe Adagio Bellingham | 360.671.1198

Bronze The Black Drop Coffee House Bellingham | 360.738.3767 Latte Art © Erin of Sehome Woods

Best Tea/Herb Shop The Spice Hut 131 W. Kellogg Rd., Bellingham 360.671.2800 thespicehut.com

Best Bakery/Dessert Shop Pure Bliss 1424 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.739.1612 pureblissdesserts.com Cakes, cupcakes, cookies, tortes, muffins — Pure Bliss is pure heaven for dessert fans. The cakes are moist without being greasy, the cookies are crisp-fresh, and everything is fresh from the oven. Pure Bliss also does wonderful cakes for special occasions like birthdays, graduations, and oh yes, weddings. Our readers love Pure Bliss, and we’re sure you will, too.

Take a step inside and inhale — the scent of cardamom, garam masala, curries, and teas is intoxicating. You’ve entered one of the finest spice shops this side of Seattle. Whether you’re seeking out a spice rub or a perfect tea blend for a winter’s night, they have everything you need. They also carry a wide array of tea and cooking accoutrements. The owners and staff are so friendly and helpful, with loads of good information about all of their products. Their products are Non-GMO certified, organic, and always top quality.

Silver Mount Bakery

Silver Wonderland Tea & Spices

Bellingham | 360.715.2195

Bellingham | 360.733.0517

Bronze Avenue Bread

Bronze Living Earth Herbs

Bellingham | 360.739.3200

Bellingham | 360.734.3207

22 NorthSoundLife.com

Best International Cuisine

2016

Mykonos Greek Restaurant

FOOD & DRINK

1650 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.715.3071 mykonosrestaurantbellingham.com With a varied menu full of Greek specialties, Mykonos has been a local favorite for years. This year, it’s our readers’ favorite. The Kota Psiti is a standout — tender chicken perfectly spiced and roasted. Other favorites include the Moussaka, rack of lamb, and steaks.

Silver Busara Thai Cuisine Bellingham | 360.734.8088

Bronze Soy House Bellingham | 360.393.3585

Best Mexican Restaurant Jalapeños Family Mexican Restaurant & Lounge 2945 Newmarket Place, Bellingham, 360.778.2041 501 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.671.3099 1007 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.656.6600 jalapenos-wa.com With three very convenient locations, great service, and excellent food, it’s no surprise that Jalapeños makes our list on a regular basis. Ample portions, great dishes, and fresh ingredients make Jalapeños a favorite. From the simple chips and salsa to the excellent enchiladas, the food is always well prepared and reasonably priced. And don’t forget the margaritas — the Big Mama and Big Papa will definitely meet your need for serious tequila.

Silver El Agave Mexican Restaurant Bellingham | 360.676.0340

Bronze El Gitano Mexican Restaurant Bellingham | 360.714.1065

Best Burger Boomer’s Drive-In 310 N. Samish Way, Bellingham 360.647.2666 boomersdrivein.com In the days before chains, there was Boomer’s. Serving up honest-to-goodness great burgers, fries, and shakes, Boomer’s is our readers’ favorite for a reason. The prices are excellent, the food is fresh and satisfying, and the service fast and friendly. And yes, it’s a drive-in, so you can pull up on a rainy day and dine in your car with your tunes blaring. And that’s burger heaven.

Silver Bob’s Burgers & Brew Birch Bay | 360.366.3199

Bronze Fiamma Burger Bellingham | 360.733.7374

October | November 2016 23

KIDS

2016

KIDS

Best Toy Store Fairhaven Toy Garden 909 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.714.8552 fairhaventoygarden.com This charming store sells specialty toys and games suitable for all ages. Most of their inventory is made with eco-friendly natural materials. You’ll find plush animals, dress-up clothes, and brain teasers that can even stump adults. If you can’t make it to their downtown Bellingham retail store, shop online on their website.

Silver Yeager’s Sporting Goods

Best Childcare/After-School Program

Bellingham | 360.733.1080

Bronze Launching Success Learning Store

Generations Early Learning & Family Center

Bellingham | 360.527.2641

2901 Connelly Ave., B101, Bellingham 360.752.6336 intergenchildcare.com Winner for Best Childcare and After-School Program goes to Generations Early Learning & Family Center. The program utilizes The Creative Curriculum, an award winning program based on 38 learning and development objectives. Their innovative program pairs children with seniors living in the Mt. Baker Care Center and the Summit Place Assisted Living residential homes. The interactions provide mutual support, increased self-worth, and valuable emotional and mental stimulation for all parties.

Silver Treehouse Gang Childcare Bellingham | 360.384.5733

Bronze Boys & Girls Clubs Of Whatcom County Bellingham | 360.738.3808

Best Summer/Outdoor Camp Camp Firwood 1740 Lake Whatcom Blvd., Bellingham 360.758.2741 campfirwood.org Situated on the deep blue waters of Lake Whatcom is Camp Firwood, a great place for kids to explore their love of the outdoors. The camp specializes in Christian teaching that emphasizes mentoring, group-building activities, and camper relationships. Elementary school through high school children can attend with age-specific programs that run about a week long throughout the summer. There’s even a photo portal, where parents can view their kids in action.

Silver The Neighborhood Playhouse Bellingham | 360.961.2213

Bronze YMCA Bellingham | 360.733.8630

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2016 KIDS

© Lydia Love

Best Store for Baby Along Comes a Baby 436 W. Bakerview #104, Bellingham 360.671.5523 alongcomesababy.com The one-stop-shop for babies and toddlers is the go-to for gifts and equipment for new parents. From booties and blankets to cribs and rockers, you’ll find everything you need to make the first two years a smooth journey. They carry many specialty brands, including BOB, TEA, and JellyCat. There’s even a baby registry and online purchasing for easy ordering, if only raising kids were as easy.

Silver Bellingham Baby Company Lynden | 360.778.3249

Bronze Wild Blueberries Bellingham | 360.756.5100

© Lydia Love

Best Family-Friendly Activity Trampoline Zone 4201 Meridian St. Suite 107, Bellingham 360.255.0722 trampolinezone.net The Trampoline Zone is just what kids and adults needed—an indoor playground. The 18,000-square-foot venue includes a Ninja course perfect for fitness-crazed adults and a specialized kids’ zone. There are also areas for catching air while dunking basketballs and playing dodgeball. Throw a birthday party or just stop by for an afternoon of jumping fun.

Keep this place in mind when the weather turns gray and your family has pent up energy.

Silver All Comer Track Meets Bellingham | 360.778.7000

Bronze BelleWood Acres Farm Lynden | 360.318.7720

Best Pre-School

KIDS

2016

Generations Early Learning & Family Center

Best Private School Cedar Tree Montessori

Best Place for a Kid’s Birthday Party Perch And Play 1707 N. State St., Bellingham 360.393.4925 perchandplay.com Looking for a place to host your child’s next birthday party? Look no further than this year’s gold winner, Perch and Play. This safe, clean, and hours-of-fun play area features different spaces geared towards various ages. They didn’t forget about adults! Comfy chairs overlook the play areas so parents can chat while keeping an eye on the little ones and free wi-fi lets you immediately send pictures to family and friends who couldn’t join in the fun.

Silver Trampoline Zone Bellingham | 360.255.0722

Bronze Bellingham Sportsplex Bellingham | 360.676.1919

2114 Broadway, Bellingham 360.714.1762 cedar-tree.org Cedar Tree Montessori adheres to six core values to accomplish their mission on educating and instilling confidence within children. They are: academic excellence, independence, community, diversity, cooperation, and a global perspective. As a result, the school boasts high academic performance and excellent outcomes. The Montessori model emphasizes individual achievement and hands-on learning.

Silver Whatcom Hills Waldorf School Bellingham | 360.733.3164

Bronze Assumption Catholic School Bellingham | 360.733.6133

2901 Connelly Ave., B101, Bellingham 360.752.6336 intergenchildcare.com Generations Early Learning & Family Center specializes in intergenerational childcare from infancy through preschool. Children engage in activities and form relationships with the residents of the eldercare facilities Mount Baker and Summit—a program that is unique in Bellingham. The non-profit school maintains an excellent teacher-to-child ratio, so children have strong bonds with their teachers. Generations uses The Creative Curriculum, giving kids a great start for kindergarten.

Silver Montessori at Samish Woods Bellingham | 360.650.9465

Bronze Bellingham Childcare and Learning Center Bellingham | 360.676.0950

2016 PETS

PETS Best Pet Store Mud Bay 1022 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360.922.3900 mudbay.com Employee-owned Mud Bay has been serving the Pacific Northwest since 1988. Pet owners will find everything they need for their dogs and cats in this pet emporium. Mud Bay specializes in healthy food and supplements, taking care to choose products with the best ingredients. The many Mud Bay locations also host numerous adoption events, so if you’re looking for a new furry friend, check out their events page.

Silver Clark Feed & Seed Bellingham | 360.733.8330

Bronze PetStop Bellingham | 360.738.3663

Best Dog Trainer Laura Berger - The Thinking Dog 873 Hinotes Ct., Unit 2, Lynden 360.312.0663 thinkingdog-lauraberger.com Laura Berger has been training dogs since the late 1980s and has earned a reputation for her successful use of positive training methods. Dogs can attend classes like Puppy Kindergarten, Beyond the Basics, and Rally Obedience. Berger also offers specialized in-home lessons. Happy dog owners commend Berger’s small class sizes and individualized attention to each dog’s needs.

Silver Michael Nichols - The Dog Guy Bellingham | 360.255.9832

Bronze Cedarwoods Canine School Ferndale | 360.384.6955

October | November 2016 27

Best Boarding Kennel

2016

Northwest Kennels

PETS

4796 Northwest Dr., Bellingham 360.384.6578 nwkennels.com The staff at Northwest Kennels has over 30 years of experiencing grooming, raising, training, and caring for dogs and cats. Putting your pet up for boarding in this year’s pick for Best Boarding Kennel will make your furry friend wish you went away more often. Special activity packages ensure each pet gets individualized daily exercise or attention with a kennel attendant, so they won’t miss out on exercise and affection routines.

Silver Hyline Hotel For Dogs Everson | 360.398.0174

Bronze Cedarwoods Canine School

Best Veterinarian Fountain Veterinary Hospital 2430 Meridian St. #2, Bellingham 360.733.2660 Fountain Veterinary Hospital’s compassionate veterinarians are known for the high level of care they give even their tiniest patients. The staff knows how to make animals feel comfortable, which puts owners at ease. The vets are available for general concerns via email day or night, while Saturday hours help out busy owners who work during the week. Owners also enjoy the competitive prices for their services.

Silver Maplewood Animal Hospital Bellingham | 360.715.1430

Bronze Northshore Veterinary Hospital Bellingham | 360.738.6916

Ferndale | 360.384.6955

Best Doggie Daycare Hyline Hotel For Dogs 1014 E. Hemmi Rd., Everson 360.398.0174 hylinehotel.com Located on a 12-acre farm, the Hyline Hotel for Dogs features 25 exercise yards for dogs to run, play, and socialize. They’re open seven days a week, making they daycare and overnight options convenient for busy pet owners. A new service, the Hyline Express Pet Shuttle, stops in three Bellingham locations to pick up doggie customers, making it extra easy for dogs to attend daycare, be boarded, or get groomed.

Silver Tails-A-Wagging Bellingham | 360.733.7387

Bronze 3 Schips And A Girl Bellingham | 360.927.6033

Best Groomer City Dogs 711 E. Holly St., Bellingham 360.756.9515 citydogsgrooming.com At City Dogs, groomers take the time to get to know each furry client, and use special techniques to calm nervous animals. Dogs are well cared for and groomed one-at-atime. They even offer a self-wash service on Sundays where owners can wash their dogs using City Dogs’ tubs and shampoo.

It’s perfect for in-between grooming appointments for adventurous dogs.

Silver Clean & Clip Anacortes | 360.293.8288

Bronze Dirty Dog Wash/Grooming With Love Blaine | 360.371.8874

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2016

Best Place To Meet Singles Rumors Cabaret 1119 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.671.1849 rumorscabaret.com Gay-friendly and always fun, Rumors is the go-to for singles wanting to have a good time. Sing your heart out at Karaoke Mondays, have a great time at the regular drag shows, enjoy 80s and 90s hits on Throwback Thursdays, and keep an eye on their incredible happy hour specials like $2.00 domestic pints. It’s a great play to relax, hang out with friends, and maybe meet someone special. Like Betty Desire.

Silver State Street Bar Bellingham | 360.733.1619

Bronze Uisce Irish Pub Bellingham | 360.389.6370

Best Hike Oyster Dome Trail Chuckanut Drive, Bow 360.733.2900 wta.org In an area steeped in natural beauty, it’s hard to narrow down just one winner for Best Hike. The voters have spoken though: it’s a tough 6.25 mile hike, but you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of Samish Bay on the Oyster Dome Trail. The hike ascends Blanchard Mountain, a once logging hub at the turn of the twentieth century. Enjoy a picnic at the top, you won’t want to leave.

Silver Fragrance Lake Bellingham

Favorite Northwest Destination Mount Baker Mount Baker Highway Welcome to our own friendly hometown volcano. No worries, you aren’t likely to get dusted in ash, but you might see a little steam while you’re up there.

Known for a thick pack and great skiing, Baker is our area’s favorite winter playground. The winter skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing are ideal on the minimally crowded slopes.

In summer, mountain biking, fishing, hiking, and camping reign supreme. There’s an activity for everyone at any time of the year on Mount Baker. Get out and experience it for yourself.

Bronze Skyline Divide

Silver Peace Arch Park

Glacier

Blaine | 360.332.8221

Bronze San Juan Island San Juan Islands | 360.378.5240

ROMANCE

ROMANCE

ROMANCE

2016

Best Wedding Venue

Best Golf Course

Bellingham Cruise Terminal

Sudden Valley Golf Course

355 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.676.2500 portofbellingham.com

4 Clubhouse Circle, Bellingham 360.734.6435 suddenvalleygolfcourse.com

The Bellingham Cruise Terminal is a beautiful venue and can accommodate large weddings as well as intimate gatherings. The venue’s highlight, the Dome Room, features curved floor to ceiling windows overlooking the Bellingham Bay. Imagine watching the sunset alongside your new spouse, then dancing the night away courtesy of the complete in-room sound system.

Adjacent to the shores of Lake Whatcom, Sudden Valley Golf Course is a golfer’s paradise. The 18-hole course varies in difficulty and challenges, making it ideal for golfers of all levels. In front, nine holes a spread on an open, flat, and relatively generous fairway. The back nine holes, however, climb up a ridge with narrow fairways and smaller greens, perfect for the golfer looking for a challenge.

Silver Lairmont Manor

Silver Shuksan Golf Club

Bellingham | 360.647.1444

Bellingham | 360.398.8888

Bronze Evergreen Gardens

Bronze Raspberry Ridge Golf Course

Ferndale | 360.384.0739

Everson | 360.354.3029

Best Date Night The Upfront Theatre 1208 Bay St., Bellingham 360.733.8855 theupfront.com Looking for a fun-ny night with your sweetheart? Look no further than this year’s winner for best date night, The Upfront Theatre. Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday the Theatre’s professional improv artists put on a live comedy show that leaves guests in stitches. They also host improv classes for those than want to be part of the action, and private events suitable for all ages.

Silver Cliff House Restaurant Bellingham | 253.734.8660

Bronze The Fork At Agate Bay Bellingham | 360.733.1126

30 NorthSoundLife.com

2016 SERVICES

SERVICES

Best Lodging The Chrysalis Inn & Spa 804 10th St., Bellingham 360.756.1005 thechrysalisinn.com For a weekend staycation, book The Chrysalis Inn & Spa, our Best Lodging winner. You’ll have sweeping views of Bellingham Bay and the San Juan islands while relaxing in a sophisticated Pacific Northwest-styled room.

Any of the spa’s many services will rejuvenate you. On-site dining at Keenan’s at the Pier features all the fresh, local ingredients characteristic of Washington dining. They even have dog friendly rooms!

Silver Home2 Suites By Hilton Bellingham | 360.734.3111

Bronze Hotel Bellwether Bellingham | 360.392.3100

Best Financial Advisor

Best Bank

J D Phillips & Associates

Whatcom Educational Credit Union WECU

1292 E. Axton Rd., Bellingham 360.398.9224

600 E. Holly St., Bellingham 360.676.1168 wecu.com

Our Best Financial Advisor, JD Phillips & Associates, have been in the insurance and brokering business since 1987. JD Phillips is a member of FINRA & SIPC. The small firm offers friendly customer service tailored to each client. It’s the kind of place where the advisors are just as invested in your financial future as you are.

This year’s Best Bank has been serving Whatcom County residents for 80 years. The Whatcom Educational Credit Union can help with all your banking needs to include loans, checking, and savings accounts. WECU recognizes banking is very personal, so they’ve introduced a Visa rewards card that allows you to personalize your rewards in to form of cash back, charitable donations, gift certificates, or travel rewards.

Silver Sound Financial Group

Silver Peoples Bank

Mill Creek | 425.354.2900

Bellingham | 360.734.9811

Bronze Nicole Burdick - Waddell & Reed

Bronze First Federal

Bellingham | 360.734.4728

Bellingham | 800.800.1577

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2016

Best Creative Company

Best Tailor/ Seamstress

FizzPop Media 4071 Hannegan Rd. Ste. R, Bellingham 888.529.9790 fizzpopmedia.com With an office in Bellingham and one in Vancouver, B.C., FizzPop Media specializes in innovative marketing for forward-thinking companies. Services include traditional advertising, PR and content creation, planning and strategy, and internet marketing.

With a proven record in increasing search engine rankings, FizzPop can turn your clicks into customers.

Satisfied customers speak highly of their knowledge and product delivery speed.

Silver ClickMonster Bellingham | 360.389.3093

Bronze Ketchup+Mustard Bellingham | 360.306.0347

Sew & Sew 1324 Commercial St., Bellingham 360.733.5913 sewandsewbellingham.com

Best Florist Pozie By Natalie 360.927.1286 poziebynatalie.com Our Best Florist, Natalie, calls her arrangements, “Charming one-ofa-kind flowers for any occasion.”

Browse through her gallery and you’ll see why. Natalie’s use of color and tone is on point for every occasion and her innovations include magnets instead of pins to affix boutonnieres.

She specializes in weddings, but offers arrangements for all occasions.

Consider calling Natalie to outfit your next event in flowers.

Silver Belle Flora & Home Interiors Bellingham | 360.734.8454

Bronze Rebecca’s Flower Shoppe

From hemming to full tailoring, Sew & Sew is our readers’ favorite for their alterations. No project is too big or small for their experienced staff: restyled wedding dresses, tailoring shirts, even adjusting jeans. They’ll also help you out with special repair jobs like rips, fallen buttons, and damaged zippers. Grab all that clothing that you’ve been putting off getting repaired or tailored and give them a visit.

Silver Amy’s Alterations Bellingham | 360.756.6515

Bronze The Tommy Tailor Bellingham | 360.650.9168

Bellingham | 360.715.3066

BESTof SOMETHING Our readers are hilarious. For your reading pleasure, our favorite funny responses.

Best Date Night “I dunno, you tell me.”

2/14/82 Thursday, Friday, and Saturday

Best Women’s Clothing Underwear

Best Happy Hour 2020 Solutions

Best Builder Bob the Builder (5 votes)

Erin Cox Photography

2016

360.708.2850 erincoxphoto.com

Four Points By Sheraton Bellingham

For Best Photographer, you voted for Erin Cox Photography. A photographer since 2007, Erin specializes in on-site family photos and portraits using natural light. She works well with babies and children, capturing their blissful innocence. Her expertise extends before and after the sessions with helpful tips on what to wear and clever arrangements for your new photographs. Her satisfied customers come back year after year to record family milestones.

714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360.671.1011 fourpointsbellingham.com The business-savvy voters have spoken, they chose Four Points

By Sheraton Bellingham for this year’s Best Corporate Meeting Space. Choose from six rooms sized for small group meetings, large conferences, or anywhere in between.

An on-site event team ensures your team has the right equipment and enough food. Wi-fi throughout all the meeting rooms allows access to online resources. It’s an all inclusive business meeting center!

Silver Katheryn Moran Photography Bellingham | 425.766.3755

Bronze Diane Padys Photography

Silver Swinomish Casino & Lodge

Bellingham | 360.201.4370

Anacortes | 888.288.8883

Bronze The Squalicum Boathouse at Zuanich Point Park Bellingham | 360.767.2500

Best Mechanic Harmony Motorworks

Best Place To Work Swinomish Casino & Lodge 12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes 888.288.8883 swinomishcasinoandlodge.com With a benefits package for full-time employees that includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement planning, and paid time off, it’s no wonder the Swinomish Casino & Lodge was voted the Best Place To Work. The job page is kept current with numerous positions suited for various skill sets to include waiting tables, valet attendants, marketing positions, and security positions.

1922 Grant St., Bellingham 360.671.2420 harmonymotorworks.com

Best Auto Dealer Wilson Motors

What makes Harmony Motorworks this year’s Best Mechanic? More than 30 years of experience servicing European and Japanese automobiles. The staff is straightforward, helpful, and offers expert service at competitive rates. Satisfied customers praise Harmony Motorworks for their professionalism and trustworthiness. If your European or Japanese car needs servicing, check them out.

Silver Sterling Automotive Bellingham | 360.933.4503

Silver Herbal Legends Cannabis

Bronze Bellingham Automotive

Bellingham | 360.778.3904

Bellingham | 360.676.5200

Bronze Generations Early Learning & Family Center

Nissan 1516 Iowa St., Bellingham, 888.865.6614 Mercedes-Benz and Toyota 1100 Iowa St., Bellingham, 360.676.0600 Toyota Scion 888.596.0052 wilsonmotors.com Wilson Motors specializes in putting customers in the best car for them, be that new or used. They specialize in Toyota, Nissan, and MercedesBenz models and understand all the maintenance and service requirements that go along with owning a car.

Satisfied customers who bought cars from Wilson Motors praise the staff for their knowledge and patience, as well as the reasonable prices and interest rates.

Silver Dewey Griffin Suburu

Bellingham | 360.752.6336

Bellingham | 360.734.8700

Bronze Northwest Honda Bellingham | 360.676.2277

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SERVICES

Best Corporate Meeting Space

Best Photographer