Bellingham Alive | March | 2019 by K & L Media

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CONTENTS

Kitchens and Spaces

March is all about home interiors. We’ve compiled a collection of some of the most beautiful designs and work by talented architects, designers, contractors, and more to showcase kitchens and other spaces in the Pacific Northwest. With lots of reclaimed wood, plenty of lighting, natural finishes, and trendy designs, local style shines through. Check out the kitchens, master bedrooms and bathrooms, closets, laundry rooms, and living rooms we’ve chosen for this issue.

90 Zervas Architects © Benjamin Benschneider

Helping the Homeless

BellinghamAlive.com

Two individuals who have risen from homelessness in Whatcom County provide an introduction to Interfaith Coalition and their program, Family Promise. Their stories provide a reminder that it’s not always about donating money. Being kind to a stranger, or doing a simple favor has the power to change someone’s life. While we focus on homes within this issue, it’s important to acknowledge those less fortunate than us who may not have the same luxuries we are thankful for. Read to learn how you can help.

MARCH 2019 SHOP

Hearts to Soles

By The Numbers

Lasting Image

21 In the Spotlight Whatcom Chorale

Mixing Tin Lemon-Rosemary Champagne Cocktail at Brandywine Kitchen

107

Sip Black Beer

31 Greenhouse

106

Necessities

Local Find The Wood Merchant

Savvy Shopper Ashley HomeStore

WELLBEING 39

Essential Oils

Nutrition Pickling

In the Know Inside the Notes

In the Know Dinner Party

Heard Around the Sound

Game Changer Tina Tate

Book Reviews

Kitchens and Spaces

Who Knew Earthquakes

Pros to Know

Community Winter Haven

Helping the Homeless

In the Know Boys and Girls Club

Apps We Love

108 Restaurant Review The Fork at Agate Bay

LIFESTYLE

109

8 Great Tastes

AGENDA 111

FEATURES

Featured Event Runnin’ O’ the Green

DINE

116 Top Picks

Finding Irish Whiskey

Dining Guide

101

Culinary Events

118

Out of Town

119

The Scene Music & Memories

28 Five Faves Garden Centers

NOTES

102 Sips of the Season Galloway’s Cocktail Bar

Editor’s Letter

Contributors

Letters to the Editor

Meet the Staffer Lindsey Major

120

Final Word

March 2019 5

NOTES On the Web

Be sure to check us out at:

BellinghamAlive.com Submit your events on our calendar! Do you have an event that you would like our readers to know about? BellinghamAlive.com offers an events calendar where viewers can search by day, venue, event type, or city. Go to bellinghamalive.com/events and submit your event today. Once your event has been approved by our editorial staff, it is live.

ONLINE EXCLUSIVE Skip the dinner reservations and the fancy cloth napkins. Here in the North Sound, we are blessed to have options when it comes to sourcing our seafood. In this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Web Exclusive, we talk about where to find seafood wholesalers in Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan counties. You can buy fresh seafood at a weekend farmers market or year-round local market, fresh off the boat that motored here from Alaska, or even order it as part of a community-supported fishery (CSF). For information about where to find the freshest seafood from Bornstein to Westcott Bay, check out BellinghamAlive.com.

Join us on

for:

Previous digital editions now available online.

pinterest.com/northsoundlife

]

Weekend

AGENDA Home & Garden

BellinghamAlive.com

Home Decor

Patio and Fireplace Ideas

Tiny Homes

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NOTES Editor’s Letter

On Homes and the Homeless

ust about every day when I drive home from work, he’s there. It’s not always the same guy, standing on the corner of the I-5 off-ramp, panhandling. But someone’s nearly always there no matter the weather or degrees or daylight. Sometimes, when the light’s red, I am stopped mere feet from him, where we both engage in avoiding eye contact. Yes, I’ve occasionally given food and money. I’ve watched others do the same, likely plagued by the same question — am I helping or hurting? This much is certain: It’s an uncomfortable thing, witnessing homelessness on the daily. But it’s sadly a fact of life in Bellingham and the North Sound, and an increasing problem. We live in polarized (and polarizing) times, with a widening income gap and nearly obliterated middle class as evidence. Our annual home and remodel issue might give you cultural whiplash. It highlights this area’s stunning homes and kitchens, but also tells about local efforts to help people who don’t have homes at all. That’s our reality, even here in the socially conscious Pacific Northwest. Recently, we’ve heard from a few readers who say they don’t want political or current events in these pages, that this magazine is a place to escape controversial subjects. My answer: We still have the full menu of stories about our area’s wonderful shops and restaurants, along with health and beauty, people and places. But I think a lifestyle magazine should reflect both style and life, and that includes things that might be unpleasant to ponder. So yes, let’s celebrate the good intentions and good fortune we have that allow us our growing downtowns, a lively arts and food culture, numerous and hard-working nonprofits, and for some, homes so stunning they belong in the pages of a beautiful magazine (p. 45). Let’s also make sure we know about things like the Interfaith Coalition’s new Family Promise program (p. 90) and Bellingham’s Winter Haven, a temporary homeless settlement (p. 26). After all, it’s hard to avoid eye contact with a problem when you’ve got a small tent city right outside city hall. Only by acknowledging those things can we start to fix them and make the place we live a better one. 

MERI-JO BORZILLERI Editor In Chief

BellinghamAlive.com

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NOTES Contributors

IMAGINE YOUR AD HERE!

Arlené Mantha Third generation baker, and professionally trained pastry chef from Los Angeles Ca. Arlené has taught classes for Bellingham Alive’s ‘Meet The Chef’ series as well as the Bellingham Gluten Information Group. Her passion for comfort food and modern aesthetic has manifested itself in her catering company, Twofiftyflora.  p. 41

HOME & REMODEL

PLUS Featured Homes

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Gardeners’ Secret Tips

Cheryl Stritzel McCarthy Cheryl Stritzel McCarthy writes for The Wall Street Journal and Chicago Tribune, which distributes her articles to hundreds of newspapers and websites. Locally, she contributes regularly to Business Pulse magazine. Her book, “Many Hands Make Light Work,” a winsome memoir about growing up in a rollicking family of nine children in a college town in the ‘60s and ‘70s, will be available this August on websites and in bookstores nationally. cherylstritzelmccarthy.com  p. 90

Laurie Mullarky

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After teaching for 27 years, Laurie decided it was time to hang up her pencils and poetry and become a professional reader. She now writes a popular blog at laurieslitpicks.blogspot.com that reviews both fiction and non-fiction as well as the latest hot novels, focusing on giving book clubs ideas for provocative conversations. Her classroom motto was always “The more you read, the smarter you get.” Not a bad sentiment for life!  p. 25

Comfy & Cozy WINTER FASHION

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WINE & CHEESE PARTY SHOPPING GUIDE HOLIDAY PARADES

Neal Tognazzini

Reach over 200,000 visitors & affluent female readers every issue! sales@bellinghamalive.com

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BellinghamAlive.com

Neal splits his life between thinking and drinking: He has a Ph.D in philosophy and is a professor at Western Washington University, but he is also a beer sommelier and a nationally-ranked beer judge. Neal grew up in the Pacific Northwest but spent a decade away after college. By the time he moved back to Bellingham in 2014, he had finally learned to appreciate the beauty of grey skies and the taste of craft beer. When he proposes a toast, it’s usually to his amazing wife of 14 years and his courageous and curious 6-year-old.  p. 107

to where you live.

Spirits

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Cocktail recipes Distillery profiles

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Bartender Q & As

Second Acts

Small Bites

Vibrant Mount Vernon

Fall Hikes

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ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Kristy Gessner | Kelly Travers | Babette Vickers

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Mariah Currey

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Lindsey Major

CONTRIBUTORS Ken Karlberg | Arlené Mantha Cheryl Stritzel McCarthy | Laurie Mullarky Neal Tognazzini

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

Letters to the Editor

NOTES

Good Thinking to Include Brain Health

New Resident Already a Fan

I was just reading the “Keeping Your Mind Sharp” article from January and I am very excited that you wrote this. I work in the field of dementia care and these tips are great for keeping your brain healthy and active, as well as for decreasing your risk for dementia. Double win! It’s important that people remember that brain health is just as important as physical health. Thanks for the article. — Samantha C., Snohomish

Layout is gorgeous! Magazine is invigorating and filled with great articles. Photos are highly professionallooking as well. Best magazine I’ve found in Bellingham, recently moved here. — Matthew S., Bellingham

Lasting Images Linger Interesting and informative. I love the Lasting Images — they’re a great way to showcase the beauty of the area. — Sandy M., Bellingham

Correction: The “How We Met” story in February’s Lifestyle section misstated Mariah and Sezayi Erken’s job titles. Mariah is a manager of Anacortes store Pelican Bay Books. Sezayi Erken is not professionally affiliated with the store, owned by Eli Barrett and Brooklynd Johnson.

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March 2019 13

NOTES Meet the Staffer Every issue we introduce you to a staff member at Bellingham Alive.

What is your role at the magazine and how long have you been with K & L Media? I started with K & L Media in January of this year, and have been loving every moment of it. My title is editorial coordinator, which means I have the privilege to have my hand in nearly every pot. I get to edit and provide a first look at articles submitted by our wonderful writers, I get to write stories, and I get to go out in the community and take photographs. I also team with designers to make sure all photographs submitted will work in our layout. I love all of it!

What is your background?

Lindsey Major

I first fell in love with journalism in middle school during a news-style writing assignment for an English class. In high school, I rose through the ranks, starting as a sports photographer my freshman year, to editor-in-chief my senior year. In college, I wrote for my school’s paper and served as the news editor for one year. When I interviewed for my first job the summer after freshman year of high school — a server at a local restaurant — they asked me what my goals for the future were. I said, “I want to see my name published in a newspaper or magazine.”

What is your favorite part of working for a regional lifestyle magazine? I grew up in the Dallas-Fort Worth area of Texas, and moved to Washington after high school to attend Washington State University. I moved to Bellingham in summer 2018 after I graduated. My favorite part of this job is being exposed to the community in a brand-new way. I lived in Bellingham for a couple of months before starting at K & L Media, and hadn’t yet felt like I truly fit in or knew anything about where I live. Now, I’ve had the privilege to get out of the office and meet so many people and photograph so much of this beautiful city that I finally feel like it’s home.

What are some of your hobbies? Writing and photography have always been two of my biggest hobbies. I also love experiencing the culture and what Bellingham has to offer: going to restaurants, seeing a film at the Pickford, spending an evening at the Upfront, meeting friends at one of our amazing local breweries, or going for a walk on one of our trails or at one of our beautiful parks.  14

BellinghamAlive.com

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LIFESTYLE In The Know · Spotlight Artist · Community · 5 Faves

Hearts to Soles Medical Community, Businesses Provide Boots, Footcare to Homeless WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY HAILEY HOFFMAN

acob Hood, 25, a carpenter from Bellingham who is homeless, laughs when PeaceHealth nurse Carrie Kronberg turns on a rotary hand tool to shave down a callous on his big toe. Hood laughed when he first saw the tool — one similar to what he uses in carving wood. “I never thought to use it on my feet,” Hood says. Hood was one of 564 homeless men, women and children who participated in the 11th annual Our Hearts to Your Soles event held in November in Bellingham. Participants received basic foot care, new winter boots, a flu shot and a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. The event was held at Depot Market Square, where the farmers market is held … continued on page 20

LIFESTYLE By the Numbers

14,000 Japanese-Americans confined to Heart Mountain Relocation Center, p. 21

Years local home décor store Greenhouse has been open, p. 31

Suggested essential oils to use in household cleaning, p. 40

Home. Made possible by WECU.

Must-have tools for the kitchen, p. 70

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EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

Top places to grab a glass of Irish whiskey on Saint Patrick’s Day, p. 97

Grammy Awards won by Asleep at the Wheel, p. 114

Lasting Image

LIFESTYLE

“I photographed Waypoint Park’s acid ball, the city of Bellingham’s newest public art piece, during one of February’s first cold mornings when the wind started whipping up lots of energy against Bellingham Bay. The morning started out very cold but with the sun shining. As the day went on, it grew pretty dark, and soft snow started to accumulate in heavier spots.”

PAT MCDONNELL, BELLINGHAM

North Sound photographers, we want to see what you’ve got. We’re looking for locally generated photographs for our Lasting Image feature. We’re seeking local nature photographs — ones that freeze a moment, tell a story, evoke an emotion. We’ll run your photo, along with your name, where you’re from, where the photo was shot, and a short 40-word writeup about the photo (inspiration for it, how you got it, meaning behind it, etc.). The photo must be high resolution (300 dpi) with no watermarks. Send to dean@bellinghamalive.com. Then sit back and enjoy the view.

March 2019 19

… on Saturdays, and at Agape House, a homeless shelter at Lighthouse Mission. Fifty medical professionals from PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center and Cornerstone Prosthetics & Orthotics volunteered to clip toenails, remove calluses, and search for sores or signs of infection on the feet of homeless people living locally in Bellingham. Twenty fit specialists from Superfeet, the worldwide insole and shoe company based in Ferndale, also volunteered to help the homeless get a correctly fitted pair of new boots. “I can actually feel my feet and not just the pavement,” says Rhashard Dunni, 32, a homeless man who benefited from the fitting. For someone who’s homeless, a pair of correctly fitted boots can make a world of difference. For some, they can open up new opportunities for employment, simply because they are more equipped. For others, the new shoes can provide needed physical support and comfort. Many come to the yearly event wearing the shoes they received the year prior. Our Heart to Your Soles is a national non-profit that partners with local and national organizations in different cities to hold these events to provide relief to the homeless populations. In 2018, they organized 25 events across the country. Bogs Footwear and Red Wing Shoes, two national footwear companies, donated more than 400 pairs of boots to ensure everyone received the right pair. The No. 1 goal of the event was to provide basic health care to help the participants to prevent serious health issues arising from preventable ailments. All the patients received one free follow-up appointment at Cornerstone Prosthetics & Orthotics for further foot attention. “This is truly population health,” said Dr. Warren Taranow, event organizer and an orthopedic surgeon at PeaceHealth. “It’s what is going to get them through the wet season.” With new shoes and clean feet, people like Jacob Hood and Rhashard Dunni found a little solace at the start of the winter season.  heartstosoles.com 20

BellinghamAlive.com

Spotlight

LIFESTYLE

Internment Camp Inspires Music Composition Whatcom Chorale WRITTEN BY BROOKE CARLSON PHOTOS COURTESY OF WHATCOM CHORALE

Kimberly Sogioka

ara Kondo was one of 14,000 Japanese-Americans confined to the Heart Mountain Relocation Center in Northern Wyoming from 1942 to 1945. Through her time at the camp, Kondo kept a detailed journal in which she documented her experiences. These writings will be brought to life through a music performance put on by Whatcom Chorale set for March 17 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Bellingham. “Heart Mountain Suite” is a composition created by Edmonds-based composer, Sarah Mattox, and is the primary performance of Whatcom Chorale’s “Lest We Forget” concert. The chorale has been planning the concert since December 2017. The suite, a condensed, 35-minute version of Mattox’s original “Heart Mountain” opera, pulls content directly from Kondo’s journals, weaving an intimate glimpse at life in an internment camp. Shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor, hundreds of thousands of Japanese-Americans were forced from their homes and businesses and relocated to camps around the U.S. Kondo addresses the tragedy of the situation in a way that is compelling and absorbing, but not overwhelming, Mattox says. “It’s horrifying, and you’re dealing with epic emotions, but she manages to keep it intimate. It’s like she’s holding your hand there, through the journey,” Mattox says. Kimberly Sogioka, the featured mezzo-soprano soloist for the piece, had grandparents who were interned at Heart Mountain. It’s been an emotional project to take part in, Sogioka says. She has few memories of her own grandparents speaking of their time at the internment camp. “Japanese tend to not talk a lot about things like this. They came out saying basically, ‘You move on, you don’t dwell in the past,’” Sogioka says. Sogioka met Mattox in New York when Mattox, an award-winning composer, was in the early stages of writing “Heart Mountain,” and she performed in an early runthrough of the performance. The process of taking part in the opera and suite has brought her grandparents’ experience closer to home, Sogioka says, especially because they passed away not long before the first performance.

Bellingham native and Julliard graduate Lindsey Nakatani will be Sogioka’s understudy. Nakatani’s grandmother was also held in an internment camp, which Lindsey researched when attending Squalicum High School. She discovered, among other things, her grandmother’s identification number. She’s proud to use her passion for music to keep her family’s history within the public eye. “It’s bittersweet realizing you have history like that and to be a part of the legacy that [stops] it from becoming just another mark in history,” Nakatani says. Her grandmother passed away in 2015, and she hopes to invite many family members to the performance in her memory. Now in its 46th season, Whatcom Chorale has a goal of pursuing local composers, says Sherrie Kahn, chorale board director. They’re excited to feature Mattox and Nakatani, who both have Pacific Northwest roots Along with “Heart Mountain Suite,” Kahn is working to arrange an exhibit at the church that can be viewed following performances. The exhibit will include Kondo’s physical writings, voice recordings, educational films, and photos and artifacts from the Heart Mountain Relocation Center.  Whatcom Chorale 360.747.7852 | whatcomchorale.org March 2019 21

Courtesy of Erika Block

IN THE KNOW

INSIDE THE NOTES

Local Prof Hopes Classical Music Podcast Connects Generations

hen Western Washington University clarinet professor Erika Block first chatted with Joseph Robinson, retired principal oboe of the New York Philharmonic, a thought popped into her head: “Somebody has got to record this!” Robinson, a part-time Blaine resident, met Block at the Bellingham Festival of Music, where he and Block met at a festival dinner. From the moment he sat down, epic stories about his life as musician spilled out,

Six People I’d Ask to A Dinner Party Living or dead, famous or not, local or not. Lindsey Major

BellinghamAlive.com

Block says. Robinson would soon become one of the first guests on Block’s classical music podcast, “Inside the Notes.” “I’ve always been really fascinated by the storytelling aspect of classical music because nothing is ever documented. And it’s not part of pop culture anymore, so no one really knows what is happening,” says Block. She created the podcast “Inside the Notes” to share the stories of musicians that might otherwise be lost in a generational shuffle. Block has interviewed international musical talents like pianist Philip Edward Fisher and cellist Clive Greensmith. The experience is like listening to living history, she says. Originally from Maryland, Block grew up learning under the direction of musicians that would often stop a lesson to recount stories from their past. “Everyone thinks Mozart [lived] a million years ago, and so did Stravinsky, but we know people right now on this earth who were colleagues and friends of [Stravinsky]. It’s only one degree away, even though it feels like it’s not applicable anymore,” says Block, who records, produces and edits the podcasts herself, as well as keeping the website (insidethenotes. com) updated. The first season of the podcast has listeners from all over, from Europe to Asia, but Block’s primary hope is that it reaches the ears of young, 20-something musicians who have less of a historical connection to classical music. “I just want to make sure that our thread connects from [older] generations to the one in front of me and make sure that it’s intact.” Brooke Carlson

Ken Griffey Jr. — Retired baseball star The greatest Mariners player in history, I could sit and listen all evening to stories from his 22year career, highlighted by his 2016 Hall of Fame induction.

Bernie Major — My grandfather The kindest man I have ever known, my grandfather loves telling tales about our family’s history.

Chrysalis Inn & Spa Gets Fresh Update

ellingham’s luxury getaway hotel is seeing its own period of renewal with extensive guest room renovations, set for completion in early March. After 18 years, it was time, says Chris Caldwell, Chrysalis director of sales and marketing. New hardwood flooring and carpeting, beds, furnishing, and decor all align with the vision of Chrysalis’ original designer and architect Betty Blount of Seattle’s Zena Design Group. Rich tones, surprising pops of texture, and natural materials highlight this update. “It has a Pacific Northwest feel with some interesting wood and iron, tables and accessories which are rustic and modern at the same time,” says Caldwell. The renovations also feature modernizing the guest rooms with smart televisions, giving guests the option to log into streaming services. In accordance with Chrysalis’ community foundation, more than 95 percent of old furniture was donated to non-profits in the Bellingham area. Zoe Deal

Jennifer Kutcher — CEO Current president and CEO of WECU, Kutcher started as an intern. I imagine she’d have great advice about hard work and perseverance.

Heard Around The Sound

LIFESTYLE

Time to Get Rid of the Time Change? Daylight Saving Time begins at 2 a.m. on the second Sunday of March and doesn’t end until 2 a.m. on the first Sunday of November. ■■

The European Union will stop changing its clocks in 2019 after 84 percent of 4.6 million respondents voted to end the practice. ■■

‘Living Coral’ Makes A Splash

s spring arrives, you might start noticing more pops of pinky-orange color, and there’s a reason why. Similar to Time Magazine’s Person of the Year and Oxford Dictionary’s Word of the Year, Pantone offers a Color of the Year. “Living Coral” is the 2019 Color of the Year, decided by the Pantone Color Institute, a global network of color and design experts. Every year, color institute experts comb the globe for inspiration, examining industries like entertainment, sports, travel, fashion, art, politics, and more to understand underlying themes of humanity and how they might be expressed through color. “Sociable and spirited, ‘Living Coral’ welcomes and encourages lighthearted activity,” says Leatrice Eiseman, Pantone Color Institute executive director. “Symbolizing our innate need for optimism and joyful pursuits, ‘Living Coral’ embodies our desire for playful expression.” The coral shade was also chosen to bring awareness to the crisis in our oceans: the dying and bleaching of coral reefs across the planet. Coral is naturally white, made pink by algae organisms living within its tissue. Coral bleaching results from the elimination of the algae, leaving the coral’s white tissue exposed and unhealthy. Color selection is a closely guarded secret. Twice a year, representatives from countries around the world gather for two-day conferences at a confidential location. After a total of 96 hours of presentations, debate, and research, a color is selected for the next year. Color of the Year announcements are made every December. In 2018, “Ultra Violet,” a rich shade of purple, was chosen to represent the blend of red and blue in the American political arena. “Greenery” was selected for 2017 — a bright green shade representative of spring’s first blooms. See page 34 for our picks of “Living Coral” for your living space. Lindsey Major

Ryan Stiles — Comedian I’d love to hear this “Whose Line Is It Anyway” star’s inspiration for founding the Upfront Theatre in his hometown Bellingham and why he’s so passionate about community theater.

aylight Saving Time was started so that evening daylight lasts longer during summer. But is it worth “losing” an hour of precious sleep? Here are some things to consider when figuring out what side of the argument you’re on:

Daylight saving was believed to be conceived by Benjamin Franklin in 1784 while he was an American delegate in Paris. ■■

Forgetting to turn your clock back or forward is a thing of the past for some. Most new technology updates when the time changes during the night. Tyler Urke ■■

COMMUNITY

Kulshan Land Trust Gets Housing Grants

f you earn between $15,000 and $40,000 per year, buying a house in Whatcom County might now be a reality. Kulshan Community Land Trust was awarded two grants totaling $550,000 from the Washington State Department of Commerce last fall. An existing program of Kulshan’s was awarded $300,000 for seven additional homes.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg — U.S. Supreme Court justice I’d love to thank this former human rights lawyer for her groundbreaking work to end gender discrimination and for what she has done for women worldwide.

The remaining $250,000 is for the first eight units of The Telegraph Townhomes Project, the result of a partnership between Kulshan, Habitat for Humanity of Whatcom County, and the Whatcom Community Foundation. The Telegraph project could mean mortgages as low as $350 per month, says Kulshan. Tyler Urke

Mary Pickford — Actress/Producer Among Hollywood’s first leading ladies, Pickford was outspoken and wild. I’d love to open a bottle of wine and listen to the countless unbridled tales from her career in the Roaring Twenties.

March 2019 23

LIFESTYLE Game Changer

From Hard Knocks to Helping Hand Tina Tate WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY LARA DUNNING

f you’ve never been homeless, it might be hard to imagine the hardships of finding a warm place to sleep on a freezing night and the perpetual hollowness of an empty stomach. Add on addiction or mental illness and the struggles increase. Tina Tate, the executive director of Friendship House in Mount Vernon, knows this challenge well. Addicted to methamphetamines, she spent two years homeless. That changed when Tate arrived at Friendship House and received a warm welcome. She became a resident at this clean and sober shelter and entered their 90-day program, which included establishing a morning routine, participating in daily chores, and a personalized action plan to become self-sufficient. “I think my whole life has prepared me for this. I’ve always wanted to help people and do something for the world, but my life got off track. When I finally got to a sound place, I realized I could really make a difference,” says Tate, 52. “This is my dream job, and the knowledge I have of what it’s like to be on the streets helps me to understand the complexity of this issue and seek out a balance.”

to have them as a team.” Together they manage three shelters (including one in winter) the cafe, transitional housing, and a permanent residence as well as providing clothing, showers, and laundry services.

CREATING SAFE SPACES At the Friendship House Café anyone can come for dinner, no questions asked. Shelter residents may also enroll in Hunger to Hope, a 12-week training program to gain employment in the food service industry. Tate’s first project, Barbara’s House, provides permanent residential housing for former shelter residents on social security and disability. In 2017, she opened the winter shelter with the help of The North Cascade Seventh-day Adventist Church and Skagit County. The low barrier shelter provides a warm and safe place for up to 23 individuals on a first-come basis, including those still struggling with addictions. En Vogue, their annual March fashion show fundraiser that requires designers to use repurposed materials, is set for March 7 at the Swinomish Casino and Lodge (see website below).

ON A MISSION TO HELP The mission of Friendship House is to “reflect the heart of God by feeding, sheltering, clothing and healing those in need.” Residents get three meals a day and support from a caring staff while living in one of two shelter homes: one for women and children, and another for men — the only men’s shelter in Skagit County. Friendship House’s operating budget of more than $500,000 (as of 2017) is funded mostly by donations, government grants, and private foundations. “I am so proud of our staff,” says Tate. “They are passionate, visionary, and dedicated, and I feel really lucky 24

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ON THE HORIZON A growing homeless population has prompted Skagit County commissioners to discuss building a 20,000-square-foot “recovery campus” to provide multiple services for the homeless, with Friendship House a potential partner. It’s early, says Tate, but “to have a huge cutting-edge facility for the homeless has been my dream for the last four years.”  922 S. 3rd St., Mount Vernon 360.336.6138 | skagitfriendshiphouse.org

Book Reviews

WRITTEN BY LAURIE MULLARKY LAURIESLITPICKS.BLOGSPOT.COM

In the Know

LIFESTYLE

March 5, 5 P.M. The Lost Man by Jane Harper 352 pages Flatiron Books

Harper (“The Dry” and “Force of Nature”) sets the scene in “The Lost Man” in the extreme loneliness of the Outback. One can feel the heat, see the long lonely fence lines, sense the isolation. The tale of three brothers begins with the death of one of them, found at a gravesite full of legend. As the story spins out, we learn of Nathan, the oldest, and how a decision as a young man marked him for life. We meet Bub, the baby of the family, the one most impacted by their father’s death. We see Xander, Nathan’s son, as he struggles with his parents’ vicious divorce. Yet in this world of men, we also find strong women: Liz, a mother bound by secrets she cannot divulge; and Ilse, a wife whose love is divided. This book is breathtaking in its beauty, its richness, and its ability to keep one turning pages.

Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive by Stephanie Land 288 pages Hatchette Books

A life lived right in our back yard, a single mother tries to provide for her young daughter in Skagit County. Stephanie has a high-school diploma and some college community credits from Running Start, yet is stuck in a cycle of low-paying jobs. Once her daughter comes along and an abusive relationship spirals out of control, Stephanie must rely on the only safety net she has: herself and the government. Unable to get help from generations of poverty in her own family, she takes the one job she can — cleaning homes. We see the private lives of many of Stephanie’s clients, the results of a low-paying job with no benefits, no sick pay, no vacation, and what life is like living on the edge, one mistake or life accident away from disaster. This provocative, heartfelt memoir is a sure bet to provide lots of conversation at your next book club.

Woolley Writers Group Central Skagit Sedro-Woolley Library 802 Ball St., Sedro-Woolley 360.755.3985 centralskagitlibrary.org If you’re feeling the itch for feedback on your writing, this Sedro-Woolley group may be just the outlet for you. The first Tuesday of each month features a writer’s workshop dedicated to “exercising your inspiration” and banishing writers block. The group also meets every third Wednesday of the month.

March 7, 7 P.M. An Evening with Timothy Egan Mount Baker Theatre 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham 360.734.6080 mountbakertheatre.com Join author and New York Times columnist Timothy Egan as he gives a free presentation for his book, “The Big Burn: Teddy Roosevelt and the Fire That Saved America,” on the main stage. “The Big Burn” is the Whatcom READS book for 2019 and details the story of the nation’s biggest wildfire that torched parts of Washington, Idaho and Montana in 1910, burning an area the size of Connecticut.

Who Knew? Earthquakes The Big One The Pacific Northwest is home to a megathrust fault (a massive fault where older rocks are pushed over younger) that runs 600 miles up the I-5 corridor. The shifting has caused magnitude 9.0 earthquakes, and experts say more are ahead. The most recent along this fault was in October when a trio of earthquakes — ranging from magnitude 4.3 to 6.8 — caused tremors about 275 miles west of Bellingham.

Bend, Don’t Break Wood and steel are the favored materials for houses built in fault zones because they have more give than brick or concrete. Engineers design buildings in earthquake-prone areas to withstand as much sway as possible to minimize damage to the structure and give occupants time to get out safely.

Snooze You Lose A basic disaster kit should have enough food, water, and other supplies to last at least 72 hours. According to Oregon State University research, chances are two out of three that you’ll be at home when the next major earthquake strikes, and one out of three that you’ll be in bed.

The Biggest One The most powerful earthquake recorded on Earth was magnitude 9.5 in Valdivia, Chile, in 1960. The quake and resulting tsunami left 2 million people homeless and caused more than $2 billion in damage (adjusted for inflation). The tsunami reached Pacific Ocean communities as far away as New Zealand, Japan and the Philippines. Tyler Urke

March 2019 25

LIFESTYLE Community

Winter Haven for Homeless Tent City Now, But Where Next? WRITTEN BY TYLER URKE | PHOTOGRAPHED BY ZOE DEAL

ucked behind Bellingham City Hall, built in 1938, is a temporary community established in 2019. At 210 Lottie St., a chain-link fence surrounds a parking lot, where cars have been replaced by tents atop wooden pallets. The tents house the 22 residents of Winter Haven, a new homeless community in operation from January to April. Bellingham nonprofit HomesNOW! received a permit to operate Winter Haven on a trial basis after a 21-month search for other sites proved futile. The site is just a block away from where homeless people and supporters camped out in protest in front of city hall for 18 days in December 2017. Their request? A temporary tent city they could call their own. After the unsuccessful search, Bellingham City Council voted unanimously last November to support the encampment, located steps away from where the council holds its regular meetings and where officials run the city. Rick Sepler, Bellingham Planning and Community Development director, says the council’s actions have shown they’re willing to 26

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put the homeless — and a troubling problem — front and center. Also, if residents break the rules of the encampment, such as those barring drug or alcohol use, the onus is on the city. Sepler says the city is taking a chance by using city property to shelter Winter Haven. “But it’s a good chance,” Sepler says. Sepler says the city’s intention is not to have the encampment here

to conclude this is the least expensive way of addressing the issue,” Sepler says. “If the volunteers are willing to continue putting in the time, the city is thankful. But it’s hard to continue a tent city like this without paid staff.” The mission of the nonprofit is to address basic human needs of homeless individuals and help them in the process of getting back on their feet. Amy Dorsey, 49, has been homeless for

“If the volunteers are willing to continue putting in the time, the city is thankful. But it’s hard to continue a tent city like this without paid staff.” — Rick Sepler, Bellingham Planning and Community Development director

permanently. He says Mayor Kelli Linville and Whatcom Country are researching what to do after the city permit expires in April. HomesNOW! raised $11,000 to help fund Winter Haven, which opened Jan. 3. Last year, Bellingham spent $4.9 million on homeless aid. “It’s premature

three years. She says Winter Haven was the answer to her prayers. Residents like Dorsey had to submit an application, get a free background check by the Bellingham Police Department, and be interviewed by a social worker before being approved. Dorsey says after going through the

application process she checked her phone daily in hopes of good news. “When they told me I was in I started crying and dropped to the floor,” Dorsey says. “That was the only thing I was waiting for.” Residents cook meals, keep the site clean, and do community chores. Winter Haven features portable toilets, access to the HomesNOW! shower truck, a covered kitchen with an abundance of food like bread and fruit, and an outdoor grill. The organization’s president Jim Peterson says he is there to provide the basics and the rest is up to the residents. “I’ve had them ask me what they should be doing and I say, ‘You live here. It’s your house. What do you want to do?’” says Peterson, talking from the site’s common area in January. The once-homeless Peterson is living on site, sleeping and working from a trailer, where each morning he updates the Winter Haven Facebook page detailing wants and needs of residents. Local community members have been eager to help. Every Sunday, Whatcom County’s Sikh community provides a vegetarian meal to Winter Haven residents. County councilmember Satpal Sidhu helped facilitate the arrangement. “We’re very happy to have the opportunity to provide the service,” Sidhu says. “It’s a tradition of the Sikh community to give back. We’re just trying to do our part.” Less than one month into the project, Peterson says it has gone better than expected. But it’s a temporary fix. While he has been in talks with the city about plans beyond April, his ultimate goal is to build tiny-home villages both in the city and the county to help Whatcom County’s homeless population, which currently stands at 815, according to the county’s annual census. “When I said that was my goal two months ago people thought I was crazy and I said, ‘No, not really,’” Peterson says. “We’ve got momentum going. We’ve got the community’s eye now.”  To donate to HomesNOW!, contact Peterson at 360.319.2150 or through Winter Haven Tent Community’s Facebook page.

Boys and Girls Clubs Step Toward Future

APPS WE L VE

Massive Grant Means New Computers, STEM Programs WRITTEN BY BROOKE CARLSON

huge grant from Phillips 66 oil refinery will help the Boys and Girls Clubs of Whatcom County take a big step toward the future. The $265,000 grant means not only will outdated computers and other tech infrastructure and equipment be replaced, but the money will pay for educational programs based in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The grant has generated a buzz of excitement in the Whatcom clubs, which includes organizations in Bellingham, Blaine, Lynden, and Ferndale. The clubs’ chief executive, Heather Powell, says kids were especially eager about new computers — some of the current computers are older than members themselves. “Just that was cause for huge celebration in the clubhouse,” Powell says. With the help of this grant, clubhouse members will have access to programs like “DIY STEM,” a hands-on program that utilizes everyday materials to help kids aged 9–12 make connections between scientific principles and real-world applications. Few young Americans are pursuing an education in STEM. The clubs will also get to create a STEM-specific part-time staff position. Powell says the staff member will learn the ropes and train other clubhouse staff and volunteers.  1616 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.738.3808 | whatcomclubs.org

Paint Tester Luminant Software When you just can’t decide which color to paint your bedroom walls, this app is the ideal tool. Take a picture of a corner of your room and then select a color. Virtually tape off sections of the ceiling or adjacent walls. This app will definitely give you a feel for how your room will go with your own furniture and personality.

Smith: Home Remodel Friend Trusted Inc. The concierges at Smith app can help you find everything you need for your remodel. Answer a few questions about your project and what you need help with. From there, you will receive free estimates from contractors in your area. The contractor will get in touch with you to schedule an appointment.

Talking Budget Talking Budget LLC Home remodels can be intense. And expensive. Use this budget organizer to keep track of all your remodel expenses. You can create projects by listing each room individually and adding expenses. When you’re finished, use the app for other monthly costs and projects.

Prime Trip — Lovely Date Ideas Thomas Kaul If you’ve run out of ideas for new things to do with your partner, or you want to make a first date memorable, look through some ideas in this app. Are you serious or playful or creative? Prime Trip has activities to do at home, on the town, or in nature.

— Lydia McClaran

March 2019 27

LIFESTYLE

Five Faves

My Garden Nursery A full-service nursery in business since 2015, when owners Bill and Jenny Gunderson took over the former Bakerview Nursery property, it offers an extensive list of plants, ranging from greenery for home or office, and outdoor trees. Helpful garden accessories like tools, live ladybugs, and planters help you do all your shopping in one place. 929 E. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.366.8406 | mygardennursery.com

GARDEN FIVE FAVES CENTERS WRITTEN BY BROOKE CARLSON | PHOTOGRAPHED BY ALICIA PROZINSKI

BellinghamAlive.com

Azusa Farm and Gardens Azusa is a sacred bow in Japan made from a special cherry birch tree. Owners hope the spacious property mirrors the “simple elegance and quiet dignity” of Japanese archery with offerings like landscaping plants, planters, flowers, seasonal workshops and themed display gardens. 14904 State Highway 20, Mount Vernon 360.424.1580 | azusafarm.com

Browne’s Garden Center Part of Browne’s Home Center on Friday Harbor, the garden center at Browne’s sells exclusively organic products. Its staff has 17-plus years of experience and are helpful to newbies with burning questions. They carry a selection of greenery, non-chemical fertilizers, and planting options. 860 Mullis St., Friday Harbor 360.378.1041 browneshomecenter.com/gardencenter

Garden Spot Nursery

home away from home!

Featuring newly remodeled guest rooms! 804 10th St Bellingham WA

thechrysalisinn.com

360.756.1005

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The owner of Garden Spot Nursery describes her business as a cross between an English cottage and a rustic horse barn, with tons of plants and plant accessories, of course. Along with their wide range of products, its team is committed to educating customers through various classes and workshops. 900 Alabama St., Bellingham 360.676.5480 | garden-spot.com

We’re your

Joe’s Gardens Joe’s is a well-known Bellingham spot known for seasonal vegetables, stunning hanging baskets, and garlic braids. In March, bedding plants, vegetable starts, and soils will take center stage, along with local culinary products. 3110 Taylor Ave., Bellingham 360.671.7639 | joesgarden.com

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March 2019 29

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For the latest from Bellingham Alive in local events, news, giveways, and more!

Historic UrbanHospitality Renewal

SHOP

Savvy Shopper · Necessities · Local Find

Furnishings Store Has New Owners, New Lease on Life Greenhouse WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY ZOE DEAL

reenhouse is a destination storefront in downtown Bellingham, offering high-end furnishings for every room of the home. Located on the corner of Cornwall Avenue and Holly Street, the shop’s long windowlined walls reveal an interior of gorgeous dining table displays and chic living room collections. Look closer and you’ll see an abundance of cookware, linens, housewares, furniture, and even gifts for kids. Though most Bellingham residents probably recognize Greenhouse as a long-standing downtown business, it’s likely not many recall the store’s origins in 1972 as a tropical houseplant … continued on next page

… retailer. Even fewer might know that in late 2017, Greenhouse was a hairsbreadth from closing its doors forever. Husband-and-wife duo Chris Foss and Foster Rose had spent months trying to find new owners for their 44-year-old business, eventually announcing plans to close in November 2017. Closing signs filled the windows, and merchandise dwindled by the day. Learning of the store’s plan to close, BreAnne Green, at the time local grocery store Haggen sales director, emailed her husband, Eric, from a business meeting, intentions clear and certain. “I want to buy it.” Eric suggested they talk about it over lunch, to which BreAnne said, “There’s no time!” Within a month the deal was settled. Chris and Foster celebrated their last day on January 31, 2018. The next morning, BreAnne opened the Greenhouse doors for the first time. It was a seamless transition, BreAnne says. Anyone not privy to the quick purchase didn’t notice a change, says Greenhouse sales and merchandise manager Samantha Stephens. And why would they? BreAnne has built the store to be a continuation of the past, capitalizing on Chris’s years of success through consistent evolution. In their first year, BreAnne and Eric focused on getting products back on the floor and building Greenhouse up to where it was before nearly closing. “We didn’t want to change it super abruptly,” says Stephens, who has worked at Greenhouse for five years. “It’s been a building year, but it’s been a great year.” With a few additions, the store looks and feels the same. Bringing back contemporary bamboo furniture from Kent-based company Greenington and adding new twists to store staples were the first developments. Anticipating the needs of the community, 32

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BreAnne introduced a selection of baby products after babyfocused shops all but disappeared in Bellingham. Greenhouse offerings change seasonally. Plans are for spring to usher in bold new patterns on high-end cushions created for both indoor and outdoor use. Nature will be brought into living spaces with a new line of wicker and white-washed wood patio conversation sets. The furniture floor on the second level of Greenhouse is expected to include fresh pops of color. The store will also see additions in motion upholstery, such as recliners and sofas, along with a new line of cribs and rockers. With a direct community focus, BreAnne says the Greenhouse staff is dedicated to making each customer feel warm and welcome, offering customer service unlike anywhere else. The staff often remembers purchases of regular shoppers and are enthusiastic in helping them create a space gradually based on style and color. BreAnne says Greenhouse has direct ties to each of their vendors and stands by the products offered in-store 100 percent. If anything unforeseen happens to a purchase (such as being delivered damaged), customers can rest assured, BreAnne says. “We can take care of them because the vendor will take care of us.” In the past year, BreAnne has depended on the support of the community and has since devoted herself to giving back, with plans to host pop-ups for vendors that don’t have brickand-mortar stores. It’s been a whirlwind, but quite an exciting ride for BreAnne, Eric, and the Greenhouse staff. When asked how she’s doing, BreAnne says simply: “It feels like home.”  1235 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.676.1161 | greenhousehome.com

A comfortable extra bed for any room! Spare Room Furniture – Wallbeds N More 2420 James St. Bellingham, WA 98225 360.778.3526, WallbedsNMore.com

• All Wood Construction • Made to Order • High Quality & Multi-Purpose

Use every room to its full potential. Wallbeds “n” More are no longer a relic of the past. Allow your guests to sleep in a real bed while maximizing any room’s space efficiently. Come visit the largest multipurpose furniture showroom in the PNW. Located next to Trader Joe’s in Bellingham. Showroom hours: Mon - Sat 10am-3pm, or by Appointment

Where the locals shop OPEN: MONDAY - FRIDAY 10AM-5PM SATURDAY 10AM - 4PM WWW.URBANCOLLECTIVE360.COM

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SHOP Necessities

12-Piece Dinnerware Set Amazon.com, $70

Moroccan Fling Quilt

Pier1.com, $190 (price varies on size)

Home Finds: Living Coral Adds Life to Interiors

Decorative Pom Pom Garland Etsy.com, $12

The color of the year, as decided by the Pantone Institute of Color, is Living Coral (p. 23). The bright, orangy-pink shade was chosen to symbolize the warmth of human interaction, and the fun, playful spirit we all crave. March in the Northwest is a gloomy month; the far-reaching “Seattle freeze” still might hold its grip. When remodeling your home this season, try incorporating pops of Living Coral to liven up your space and your spirits. — Lindsey Major

Vintage-Inspired Sofa Urbanoutfitters.com, $929

Velvet Fringe Throw Pillow Target.com, $30

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Local Find

SHOP

Extraordinary Wood Art for Your Home The Wood Merchant WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY LARA DUNNING

or more than 30 years, The Wood Merchant in downtown La Conner has drawn thousands of admirers to its 3,000 square foot woodworking gallery. In the inviting and warm space, visitors are encouraged to appreciate the craftsmanship and beauty of the wood in two downstairs showrooms and in a smaller room upstairs. “We want visitors to be inspired when they walk in,” says Mark Carrier, owner of The Wood Merchant. “Sometimes they don’t even know why they are drawn to a piece, but it often has to do with the unique patterns and textures in the wood.” Visitors may touch the items on display, feel the grains and character of the different woods, such as maple, burl, and walnut. In return, all they ask is to be aware of sharp jewelry or embellishments on jeans like rhinestones that might scratch or damage the wood.

FROM PATRON TO OWNER “Before I was the store owner, I shopped here for 20 years,” says Carrier. “It was my favorite store in La Conner.” As a lover of art, Carrier wandered the gallery, appreciating the woodworkers’ skill and craftsmanship. Over the years, he brought home special pieces like a display cabinet with maple and Hawaiian koa and a live-edge dining table set with chairs. Carrier continues the shop’s tradition of working with more than 200 American woodworkers with a strong emphasis on artists in the Pacific Northwest. Most prices range from a few hundred dollars to thousands for larger pieces. Walnut side tables, mahogany rocking chairs, and dining room tables tend to sell fast. The gallery also includes a selection of smaller and budget-friendly items like hardwood knife blocks ($125), wood wine tops ($18), and wood coasters ($7.95).

WAYS TO PURCHASE The gallery is a sensory experience, and many items in the store are one-of-a-kind creations best seen in person. For those not able to visit, select items are available for purchase on the website, like gingko design jewelry boxes ($470), Buckeye Burl vases ($225), Chinese checkers ($75), and wooden light switch covers (starting at $14). If you are looking for something in particular, send the store a photo, and they will let you know what they have in stock. And, for custom made pieces, they will put you in touch directly with a woodworker.  709 S. First St., La Conner 360.466.4741 | woodmerchant.com March 2019 35

SHOP Savvy Shopper

New Home in Bellingham Ashley HomeStore WRITTEN BY LARA DUNNING | PHOTOGRAPHED BY ZOE DEAL

24 Bellis Fair Parkway, Bellingham 360.768.2050 | ashleyfurniture.com 36

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THE SHOP

KEY PEOPLE

Need to refresh your living spaces? Or find that perfect accent chair or piece of wall art for your office? Ashley HomeStore, new to Bellingham’s Bellis Fair Mall, is outfitted to furnish just about any living or working space. For more than 70 years, the company has crafted stylish furniture from classic to glam, and its quality and affordability has made Ashley HomeStore a popular stop with more than 600 locations, each locally owned and operated. This includes a store in Burlington and now Bellingham. Along with the store showrooms, their collection is also available online.

Chris Busby, who has worked for Ashley HomeStore for 10 years, admits he has a smooth-running team. Operations manager April Barnes is an interior designer pro and the creative force behind the visually appealing displays. The sales team is energetic and welcoming, and Busby says they are committed to helping each customer find the right items at the right price, along with any financing options they might need.

THE ATMOSPHERE Located along Bellis Fair Parkway off Meridian Drive, the new store features more than 30,000 square feet of open gallery space, with a mix of creative arrangements that showcase their furniture collections. Fashionable accessories such as rugs, table vases, and floor lamps give each bedroom, dining room, and living room set a personalized touch to create a visual of the furniture and how it might look in your own home. There is no high pressure to buy, and guests may leisurely wander from area to area to decide what fits their tastes and budget.

WHAT YOU’LL FIND The store has a little bit of everything, from bed frames and mattresses (including Tempur-Pedic), sofas and leather recliners, dining room tables and chairs, and stylish accents like bedding, coffee tables, mirrors, and decorative throws to complete the look. The store sells mostly Ashley Furniture, which was founded in 1945 in Chicago, Illinois. Their newest line, Mane + Mason, is a modern take on the farmhouse style with natural woods alongside neutral or dark colors. Other favorite lines include the industrial chic Urbanology Lifestyle and the nostalgic and eclectic look of Vintage Casual. If you need decorating advice, head to the Ashley HomeStore blog for tips on home décor, entertaining, and seasonal inspiration. 

March 2019 37

Organic Health and Bodycare

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Visit us at the Home & Garden Show March 2-4 (Booth 313) Certiiied Organic Essential Oils, Teas, Herbs, Salves and Balms Local, Paciiic Northwest grown and sourced herbs.

Orthopaedics Women’s Health Work Injuries Sports Injuries Auto Injuries Post Surgical Hand Therapy

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The #1 Coolsculpting practice in the North Sound has performed over 4500 treatments.

An interview with Dr. Tianna Tsitsis about the secret to their popularity:

Q: Why is CoolSculpting the #1 body sculpting procedure with over 7 million treatments done worldwide? Dr. T: CoolSculpting is an innovative way to contour the body by freezing unwanted fat away with no surgery and little to no downtime. The procedure is FDA-cleared for the treatment of visible fat bulges in the submental area, thighs, abdomen and flank, back, buttocks & arms. Q: Have you received special training – beyond what other providers have completed? Dr. T: I can say proudly that Rebecca Eberharter, our Patient

Care Director and myself are just 2 of 150* CoolSculpting providers in North America that have completed the Elite/Advanced level of training at CoolSculpting University. Q: How did this training take your skills to a new level? Dr. T: We learned the most recent advancements in different CoolSculpting techniques and how to use all the variety of handpieces to their full potential. Now we can provide an even more fun, luxurious and successful result! These are exciting times! *As of November 2018

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WELLBEING Nutrition · Take a Hike · Beauty

The Essentials of Essential Oils Do’s and Don’ts for Trending Product WRITTEN BY ZOE DEAL

ssential oils, a product of growing popularity, remain a mystery to many people. The oils seem harmless enough: They smell great, they’re good for you, and they’re all natural. What could be bad about essential oils? But before you fall head-overheels with this rising trend, you should know the benefits and dangers: … continued on next page

… Do: Try essential oils in aromatherapy. Electronic diffusers heat up water with a few drops of an essential oil and push the thick aroma into the air, creating a long-lasting effect that will fill each corner of your space. Choose essential oils that are known to aid your ailment. If you’re just getting started, try peppermint for nausea, lavender for anxiety, or a eucalyptus blend to clear sinuses.

Don’t: Put essential oils straight onto your skin. When approaching natural skincare, it is essential that you know your skin and practice precaution in using oils. In most cases, essential oils should not touch your skin straight out of the bottle. When concentrated, these oils are powerful and sometimes dangerous. They can cause rashes, skin irritation and even penetrate your bloodstream. But when diluted with a carrier oil (fractionated coconut oil, jojoba oil, argon oil, etc.), essential oils like tea tree or lavender can be very useful for treating rashes, acne, and dry skin. Do: Use essential oils for cleaning. A clean home is a happy home, and it all starts with smell. Cleaning solutions are easily made at home. If you choose to employ an essential oil in your blend, go with a citrus such as lemongrass, orange, or grapefruit. These are the essential oils that have the most antibacterial properties and are known to eliminate most household bacterial strains. 40

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Don’t: Use essential oils on pets. There has recently been an uptick in pet poisoning as a result of owners attempting to use essential oils to treat rashes or fleas holistically. While certain essential oils are known to help prevent fleas and ticks, the oils do more harm than good, absorbing into an animal’s body and causing serious side effects. Do: Be careful when purchasing. A majority of sellers are honest when processing and bottling essential oils, however, when opting for the cheaper choices, watch for the words “fragrance oil” or “perfume oil.” These substances are synthetic and, while suitable for perfumes, don’t work for aromatherapy, cleaning, or natural beauty products. Purchasing essential oils for the first time? Try Bellingham online brand Bramble Berry (brambleberry.com), or Target (target.com) where you can purchase individual oils for low costs. You can’t go wrong with Bramble Berry’s Lavender 40/42, Orange 10X, or Tea Tree essential oils. Another local company, Living Earth Herbs (livingearthherbs.com), sells ethically-made oils at a brick-and-mortar storefront at 1411 Cornwall Ave. in Bellingham. For aromatherapy, my go-to is online company Edens Garden (edensgarden.com), which sells unparalleled blends at around $7.95 for 5 milliliters (about a teaspoon). A good starter kit might include these oils: Good Night, Balance, and Breathe Easier. 

In Spring, Get Radishes for Pickling

Nutrition

WELLBEING

WRITTEN BY ARLENÉ MANTHA | PHOTOGRAPHED BY LUCCIANA MANTHA

pring is coming in Whatcom County. How do I know? Let me count all the ways: Cherry blossoms are blooming, residents are buzzing, the sweetest smell is in the air, the clouds are clearing, birds are chirping, allergies are flaring, and produce is coming in strong! I would like to freeze time when I see the colors of our natural harvest offerings. The best way to do that is to pickle! Italy has it right — there are towns based on pickling.

WATERMELON PICKLED RADISHES Pickle this beauty for the winter. Preserve its freshness, color and flavor. Radishes are one of my favorite things to pickle because they add so much crunch, color and nutrition. I add them to tacos, salads, sandwiches, cheeseboards, crudité, and even eat them alone, throughout the year. You can add a variety of aromatics in to flavor such as bay leaves, jalapeno, peppercorn, thyme, herbs, onions, garlic, salts, cloves or whatever flavor profile suits you. I have used, in the recipe below, rainbow, black and watermelon, which are gorgeous and delicious! There are so many varieties and our local farmers do a good job producing unique varieties for us to enjoy. Try them all! Follow the recipe below, it’s so simple and so good!

PICKLED RADISHES RECIPE INGREDIENTS 3–4 watermelon radishes 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar 3 Tbsp. raw honey 1/2 cup water 1/2 cup brown rice vinegar

DIRECTIONS • Rinse and thoroughly wash the radishes. Slice thin with a mandolin for precision. (I like them paper thin.) In a small saucepan, bring all liquids to a boil. Add radishes, turn off the heat and cover the pot with a lid until contents are completely cool. Pour radishes and liquid into a mason jar. Canning will preserve for months at room temperature. Happy spring! 

March 2019 41

WELLBEING Special Advertising

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ebruary is American Heart Month and a good time to assess your heart’s health. Did you know your heart may be older than you are? If it is, that’s not good. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), three out of four U.S. adults have a predicted heart age that is older than their actual age, indicating they are at a higher risk of heart attacks and stroke. Knowledge is power, and PeaceHealth has made it easy to know the age of your heart with an online Heart Health Risk Assessment or HRA. It’s free, quick and easy to take and the results are immediate.

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You can view your assessment online or print it and bring with you to your next doctor’s appointment. Your provider can help you come up with a plan to improve your heart health and lower your risk. “Some cardiovascular risks are obvious — smoking, poor diet, lack of exercise, but others can be hidden such as high cholesterol and pre-diabetes,” says Paul Connor, MD, medical director, Cardiovascular Services, PeaceHealth St. Joseph medical Center. “Early detection and risk factor modifications are critical in the reduction of cardiovascular events. It is imperative patients understand their risks and seek care for improvement.” When it comes to matters of the heart early detection of heart disease and treatment can give more time for what matters most. Take time to take the heart HRA at www.peacehealth.org. 

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KITCHENS

he kitchen is the heartbeat of a house. It’s where groceries become meals, where dishes are created and sometimes consumed. It’s also

the place of private conversations and informal gettogethers, because that’s what happens when you’re putting together a meal or cleaning up after one. At a party, some of the best conversations happen in the kitchen. As both working space and living area, it

can be the most interesting room in the house. On the following pages, we show you some of the North Sound’s most striking kitchens and what went into designing them, from marble countertops to detailed cabinetry and more. MERI-JO BORZILLERI

Zervas Architects © Benjamin Benschneider

March 2019 45

HOME & REMODEL \ KITCHENS

ARCHITECT

SEAN HEGSTAD, HAVEN DESIGN WORKSHOP

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BUILDER BELLINGHAM BAY BUILDERS

PHOTOGRAPHER RADLEY MULLER PHOTOGRAPHY

Timber and Tile

brand-new build, this home is a culmination of several imaginations. A modern

aesthetic inspired the kitchen, framed

with strong glue-laminated timber beams. The clients for this project were very hands-on, selecting the flooring, paint, and appliances themselves. A limestone tile wall is the focal point of the room, another element the homeowners conceptualized. The cabinetry, a collaboration between Bellingham Bay Builders and Smith and Vallee, accents the timber beams and flooring throughout the home. LINDSEY MAJOR

“The most challenging part of this project was the wet and cold winter when this job was at a stage where maintaining the progress on the project was critical.” — Dave Brogan, Bellingham Bay Builders March 2019 47

HOME & REMODEL \ KITCHENS

INSPIRATION The dark limestone accent wall is contrasted with the light from the nearly floorto-ceiling windows. The natural materials inside were chosen to reflect the elements outside: timber, neutral colors, and native stone. LM

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DREAM HOME

elocating for retirement, the homeowners were referred to designer Jacqueline Scott

in the early stages of building their

dream home. Working primarily on the kitchen, Scott worked closely with the builders and architects to create the perfect kitchen for her clients and carry the design throughout the home. The kitchen centered around one piece: the large, natural quartzite used as a countertop on one of the two islands. The rest of the design came together, including the chevronpatterned glass tile backsplash and the warm cherry cabinets. Most of the appliances — including the fridge, oven, and cooktop — are from brand Sub-Zero and Wolf, which Scott says completes the perfect kitchen for her clients. LM

“It’s not just cooking a meal. It’s sharing an experience with others when you entertain, using beautiful appliances that function beautifully and cook well.” — Jacqueline Scott, Legacy Kitchen and Bath

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KITCHENS / HOME & REMODEL

DESIGNER JACQUELINE SCOTT

BUILDER GLEN CRIBBS CONSTRUCTION

PHOTOGRAPHER JIM W. SMITH

March 2019 51

HOME & REMODEL \ KITCHENS

INSPIRATION An outward-facing island sink allows for easy conversation with those in the kitchen and outer room, while plentiful counter space — even between stove burners — makes work pleasant and convenient. MJB

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HOME & REMODEL \ KITCHENS

CONTRACTOR JENNIFER RYAN

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INTERIOR DESIGNER JENNIFER RYAN

PHOTOGRAPHER KATHERYN MORAN PHOTOGRAPHY

BLUE HEAVEN

ennifer Ryan starts every project with a simple question to her clients: “What’s your favorite

color?” With gray and blue being the starting point; the tile came next. The

dark blue lower cabinets paired with the light gray walls. The upper cabinets are white, making the space appear larger. The clients didn’t want gold fixtures or the traditional brushed nickel. Instead, rose gold accents pop throughout the kitchen, including the faucet, light fixtures, and cabinet hardware. The space is finished with dark bamboo floors and fresh white trim. LM

“There’s so many white kitchens out there; so many gray kitchens. Let’s do something different. I love the blue tile. The whole kitchen kind of revolved around that tile.” — Jennifer Ryan, Jennifer Ryan Design March 2019 55

HOME & REMODEL \ KITCHENS

INSPIRATION White upper cabinets were installed to open up the small kitchen. Once even smaller, a wall used to stand where the peninsula is now. The wall was removed and replaced with an exposed beam for structure and design. LM

BellinghamAlive.com

YOUR DREAM HOME BEGINS HERE

KITCHEN ESCAPE

his project was intended to be only a remodel; but when the inspector found the entire house

was rotted, the whole thing had to come

down. Through this process, the clients were able to build the kitchen of their dreams. The first thing they wanted was enough space to host all their children and grandchildren. The open floor plan allows the homeowners to be in the kitchen but still be involved in the living space when family is visiting. The kitchen also pays tribute to the previous home — a tree from the front yard was cut down and repurposed into several wood elements, such as the wine bar. LM

“In the end, the client really makes the experience. They wanted a haven for the entire family to come to, and to be able to build that for them was the coolest part.” — Tony Moceri, Moceri Construction 58

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KITCHENS / HOME & REMODEL

BUILDER MOCERI CONSTRUCTION

TILE WORK KULSHAN TILE & MARBLE

PHOTOGRAPHER KENNY NICHOL

March 2019 59

HOME & REMODEL \ KITCHENS

INSPIRATION The striking wood floor provides a rich foundation, and a trio of inset custom windows provide natural light and a stylish feature. Pendant lighting and cream-colored cabinets add a comforting glow. MJB

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HOME & REMODEL \ KITCHENS

DESIGNER TANNA EDLER

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CONTRACTOR SENGER CONSTRUCTION AND TIM LOVELASS CONSTRUCTION

PHOTOGRAPHER NIC ASTON

RUSTIC GLAM

anting a seamless, cohesive design, the custom black cabinetry served as the

jumping-off point from which the rest of

the kitchen came together. Inspired by a rustic-glam vibe, the vinyl plank flooring and wooden beams are contrasted with a sparkling quartz countertop and glass backsplash. The large farm sink, the client’s favorite element, gives a nod to the country-influenced design. Finished with simple yet modern fixtures, this kitchen is the perfect blend of contemporary and cabin-cozy. LM

“With various materials and textures, we created a retreat that is ideal for retirement life.” — Tanna Edler, Tanna By Design

March 2019 63

HOME & REMODEL \ KITCHENS

INSPIRATION While this kitchen is small in terms of square footage, the cabinetry provides ample storage and work space. The black cabinets run floor-toceiling to maximize space. With the renovation, the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s size doubled, providing even more storage space and a larger working surface. LM

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HEMLOCK AND MARBLE

he designer of this home focused on the integration of the outside and the inside, using native wood to

create a beautiful canvas. The reclaimed hemlock breathes, creating a calm and grounded feeling that enhances physical well-being. The marble countertops and backsplash are also made of natural materials. Limiting the number of finishes in one space creates an ease of visibility; it’s calm and clean. Multiple sinks encourage participation from the whole family and eases traffic. The homeowners run on coffee, so the designer made sure to include a built-in coffee nook that allows them to keep their mornings on track and their counters clear. The stainless-steel appliances are modern, industriallooking additions that balance out the natural materials. LM

“Natural material has an inherent beauty that you can almost feel, and has an unbelievable, unique beauty. You can’t go wrong with Mother Nature.” — Designer Brenda Elliott

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KITCHENS / HOME & REMODEL

DESIGNER BRENDA ELLIOTT

CONTRACTOR ZERVAS ARCHITECTS

PHOTOGRAPHER BENJAMIN BENSCHNEIDER

March 2019 67

HOME & REMODEL \ KITCHENS

INSPIRATION A wall that opens to the outdoors, and otherworldly artwork floating above the main dining table provide delightful surprises to this lively space. With an open floor plan that connects kitchen to living room, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to breathe deeply here. MJB

BellinghamAlive.com

PREMIER HOME Lynden $538,000 | MLS# 1398383

Exquisite 4bd home located in premier Homestead neighborhood overlooking pond & golf course. Spacious gourmet kitchen with granite & tile, beautiful cabinetry, open to living room, fireplace, luxurious master suite with private balcony, 2 glass sliding doors leading to outdoor kitchen & hot tub, perfect for entertaining & outdoor living! Log onto www.KarenTimmer.com for full photo gallery.

Karen Timmer Windermere Real Estate 360.410.0848 karen@karentimmer.com KarenTimmer.com

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March 2019 69

EXPERT KITCHEN TECH LOCAL CHEFS AND CULINARY PERSONALITIES SHARE THEIR FAVORITE KITCHEN GADGETS. Written by Lindsey Major and Lara Dunning

ICEL Maître 12-inch Chef’s Knife FRANK MICHAUD, OWNER, THE STORE GROCERY, ANACORTES

When your business includes a bakery, coffee roaster, and a deli, a knife comes in handy in all departments. “I use my ICEL 12-inch Chef’s Knife many times throughout the day. It is indispensable.” $112, www.icel.pt

KitchenAid 30-inch Double Electric Wall Oven SANDY MAJOR, HOME COOK

“I would love to have a double oven. It would make holiday cooking and baking so much easier and more efficient.” $3,048, Home Depot

BellinghamAlive.com

Breville Smoking Gun Food Smoker EZKIT Wine Opener

RAYMOND SOUTHERN, ROSARIO RESORT & SPA EXECUTIVE CHEF, ORCAS ISLAND

NORA KAS, THE FORK AT AGATE BAY HEAD CHEF

“A wine key is something that no chef can work without!” A wine key is a 3-in-1 tool that features a knife to cut through the seal on a bottle of wine, a corkscrew, and a bottle opener.

“We smoke everything from fruits and vegetables to sauces with the Breville Smoking Gun Food Smoker. You can purchase different wood chips to create different smoke flavors, and a great feature is that you can control how much smoke to use.”

$9.99, amazon.com

$69, amazon.com

Dexter Russell Sani-Safe 14-inch Cheese Knife NATALIE WILSON AND MARJOE DAVIDSON, OWNERS, JUST HEAVENLY FUDGE FACTORY, LOPEZ ISLAND

“Our favorite gadget is the Dexter Russell Sani-Safe 14-inch doublehandled cheese knife. Normally used for slicing cheese, it is perfect for cutting our large blocks of homemade fudge.”

Waring Commercial Double Classic Waffle Maker MIKE AND LORI HAYES, OWNERS, VAGABOND STATION, ANACORTES

“Our Waring Commercial Double Classic Waffle Maker is an essential part of the restaurant, and we use it daily to cook waffles and signature wiscuits, which is biscuit dough cooked in the waffle maker.” $450, dicksrestaurantsupply.com

$103.50, dexterrussellcutlery.com

March 2019 71

SPACES

ur spaces are where we live. Our rooms, from living rooms to bedrooms to bathrooms to closets, reflect our

personalities. In many cases, they reflect the Pacific

Northwest’s best qualities — its natural beauty and a culture of innovation and creativity. In a place where sunshine is at a premium, we covet whatever natural light the daytime gives us. The spaces here reflect that with striking views, high ceilings, and open floor plans. Bringing the outside in, via windows and skylights, is a common theme. That’s understandable. With all the beauty that surrounds us, why wouldn’t we? Take a look at these spaces we’ve selected for the style, originality, and inspiration they give us. MERI-JO BORZILLERI 72

BellinghamAlive.com

Moceri Construction © Kenny Nichol

SPACES / HOME & REMODEL

DESIGNS NORTHWEST ARCHITECTS

LIVING ROOM

This living room’s ceiling slopes up to the house’s view side, where a 14-foot-high window wall of glass frames a spectacular sight — Saratoga Passage and Whidbey Island. Photo: Steve Brousseau

ZERVAS ARCHITECTS A “view-through” fireplace provides a window — and equal heat — to the home office on the opposite side. Photo: Benjamin Benschneider

March 2019 73

HOME & REMODEL \ SPACES

TANNA BY DESIGN

MASTER BEDROOM

This home near Yakima was inspired by the farmhouse-chic trend. With a ruffle bedspread and the rusticwood accent wall, this is the perfect space to get a full nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sleep. Photo: Nic Aston

BELLINGHAM BAY BUILDERS Part of an addition to an older Bellingham home, this room has extra height, classic windows, and French doors. Photo: C9 Photography & Design

BellinghamAlive.com

SPACES / HOME & REMODEL

ZERVAS ARCHITECTS Large, multiple windows flood this master bedroom with natural light and a lake view. Pull the floor-toceiling curtain shut for shade and privacy. Photo: Benjamin Benschneider

DESIGNS NORTHWEST ARCHITECTS Separated from the living area only by the stone fireplace, this sleeping area is highlighted by custom-built night tables and a sliding barn door. Photo: Lucas Henning

March 2019 75

MASTER BATHROOM

HOME & REMODEL \ SPACES

DISTINCTIVE INTERIOR DESIGNS Tile plank flooring and custom shower barn door bring some “rustic” to this master bath. Beautiful tub and chandelier make it dreamy. Photo: Jeff Krewson

BellinghamAlive.com

SPACES / HOME & REMODEL

BELLINGHAM BAY BUILDERS A hand-polished cast iron tub and marble tile floor with mosaic inset gives this bathroom an elegant appeal. Photo: C9 Photography & Design

ZERVAS ARCHITECTS This sleek lakeside bathroom was designed to showcase the incredible view. With a standalone tub and seating facing the lake, this room is the perfect relaxation retreat. Photo: Benjamin Benschneider

March 2019 77

HOME & REMODEL \ SPACES

GREG ROBINSON ARCHITECT

LAUNDRY & CLOSET

A lake house thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home to four kids needs a large laundry room. This one has outdoor access, meaning wet clothes can be dropped right into the washer. Photo: C9 Photography & Design

ZERVAS ARCHITECTS Mirrors, chandelier lighting, and natural wood provide a rich, light touch to this custom walk-in closet. Photo: Benjamin Benschneider

BellinghamAlive.com

SPACES / HOME & REMODEL

DISTINCTIVE INTERIOR DESIGNS

Photo: Jeff Krewson

MOCERI CONSTRUCTION Wood from a large cedar tree with sentimental value to homeowners was used to create a stunning bathroom countertop. Photo: Kenny Nichol

LEGACY KITCHEN AND BATH A level-entry shower has agingin-place features like a fold-down seat and hidden niche for toiletries or a shaving shelf. Photo: Jim W. Smith

March 2019 79

BATHROOM

Small space, big impact. This striking accent wall of marble cutout tile flows seamlessly into the shower. Pendant lighting adds glamor.

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Pros To Know

We are pleased to share with you these select building professionals who can assist on your projects, whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re planning a small update or a major home construction project. Start your project on a firm foundation.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

March 2019 81

PROS TO KNOW \ APPLIANCE

JUDD & BLACK APPLIANCE Judd & Black Appliance Bellingham 360.733.7722 Mount Vernon 360.336.6515 JuddBlack.com

BellinghamAlive.com

Judd & Black is a local, family owned and operated appliance retailer who takes pride in their communities. They have been serving Northwest Washington customers for nearly 80 years with over 700 years of combined experience. Their singular focus on home appliances and everything associated with them — sales, delivery, installation, parts, and service — makes them true experts. And they have the awards to prove it. Judd & Black has been voted Best Appliance Store by the public more than a dozen times. As a company rooted in this region, Judd & Black Appliance values what you value; community, and they are committed to being a good neighbor. They look for ways

to give back to the communities they live in and serve by donating to local nonprofits and sponsoring family events. Offering over 25 of the top brand names, Judd & Black Appliance’s professional sales associates keep their customers’ interest first by helping them find the right appliances for their specific needs all within their budget. Judd & Black Appliance’s team also includes in-house service technicians who are licensed and continually trained on the brands they sell. You don’t need to waste your time at the box stores when you have an appliance pro in your neighborhood. Choose Judd & Black Appliance and give them a chance to earn your business.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CARPET CLEANER / PROS TO KNOW

TRUE NORTH CLEANING PROFESSIONALS True North Cleaning boasts “The Most Thorough Cleaning You’ve Ever Seen, Or It’s Free” and here are some reasons why. They offer the #1 recommended most powerful, truck mounted and deepest carpet & upholstery cleaning available. Their cleaning removes all soils, bacteria, pollens, dust mite waste material & soap residue. No residues are left behind so your carpet & upholstery stay clean like when new, and dry extremely fast. True North’s owner Henry Klos uses only safe non-toxic “Green” cleaning solutions and keeps his firm IICRC Certified. They also offer duct cleaning. We asked Henry what other reasons people are so thrilled with his services: “We show up on time, are extremely careful, detail oriented, do as we say, charge fair pricing, and guarantee all work 100% money back.” True North services all Whatcom & Skagit Counties. We feel Henry is definitely a pro to know!

True North Cleaning Professionals Whatcom County 360.223.0330 TrueNorthClean.com

HARDWOOD REFINISHING / PROS TO KNOW

FAIRHAVEN FLOORS With over 30 years of experience, this local, family-run business has built a reputation in Whatcom County for exceptional service and master craftsmanship. Whether you’re looking to have your floors installed, refinished, or repaired, the crew at Fairhaven Floors have the skills and expertise to turn your vision into reality. Large or small, home or business, hardwood or laminate — there’s no job they can’t handle. Every team member is full-time with a minimum of 10 years of experience. When you hire Fairhaven Floors, you get the unsurpassed standard of quality and care that comes with it. Maybe that’s the reason they’ve been voted Best Flooring Company in the Northwest every year since it became a category! Whatever your project is, give the pros at Fairhaven Floors a call and let the best in the business give you the floors of your dreams!

2001 Masonry Way #106 Bellingham 360.820.1678 FairhavenFloors.com info@fairhavenfloors.com

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PROS TO KNOW \ FLOORING

THE COLOR POT Looking for help with your flooring needs? Look no further! We are flooring experts with years of experience, who are ready to help you! We carry luxury vinyl plank and tile, porcelain and ceramic tiles and mosaics, sheet vinyl, hardwood, laminate flooring, and carpet. We also have a very large selection of in-stock materials such as carpet rolls and remnants, luxury vinyl plank, laminate flooring, and tile Our designers work with you to create a space that expresses your taste and lifestyle. On everything from flooring and cabinet recommendations to window treatments and colors, our goal is to help make your house a uniquely beautiful home. Please contact us to set up a design consultation. Family owned & operated for over 60 years, The Color Pot provides quality floor coverings at fair & honest pricing. Store Hours: Monday–Friday: 8:30 AM–5:30 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM, Sunday: Closed.

1210 N. State St. Bellingham 360.734.4020 thecolorpot.com

PROS TO KNOW \ GARDEN SUPPLY

MY GARDEN NURSERY My Garden Nursery, the fun and colorful garden center filled with acres of beautiful plants! Every corner you turn offers inspiration, garden statues, an enormous selection of pots including sloths and unicorn planters, heartfelt gifts and more. We offer an amazing selection of unique trees, shrubs, dazzling perennials, colorful annuals and lush tropical indoor plants. Not to mention every garden accessory you could imagine! Visit us any day to consult with our team of specialists for one-on-one help with your garden or join us for one our in-depth classes! We are honored to host guest speaker Dee Montepetit, Garden designer and International Garden Tour Guide, March 9th to take us on a journey using pictures, funny stories, and entertaining tales of gardens to inspire your gardening creativity. April 6th Christina Salwitz, author of Fine Foliage and Foliage First, shares techniques on how to create dazzling combinations that pair the beauty of leaves and flowers, bark and berries and so much more! Friend us on Facebook to stay up to date with everything happening at My Garden Nursery! My Garden Nursery 929 E Bakerview Rd. Bellingham 360.366.8406 mygardennursery.com

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HEATING & A/C / PROS TO KNOW

BARRON HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING Looking for a heating and cooling contractor? Barron Heating & Air Conditioning is your premier provider for HVAC services and more. Barron is also a full-service electrical and plumbing contractor and is now installing solar! Solar by Barron, the newest Barron division, is equipped with a team of certified solar designers that combine energy efficient heating and cooling solutions with power from the sun. Innovations in technology are vital at Barron, for clean energy, efficient delivery and peace of mind for our customers. Our mission at Barron Heating and Air Conditioning is to improve lives in the communities we serve. We provide exceptional heating, cooling, air quality and energy solutions centered around a â&#x20AC;&#x153;customer-firstâ&#x20AC;? experience. Our Team is dedicated to finding the most effective ways to increase energy efficiency, optimize comfort and improve the air quality of indoor spaces.

Barron Heating & Air Conditioning 800.328.7774 barronheating.com

INSURANCE / PROS TO KNOW

JOE TREAT STATE FARM AGENCY The Joe Treat State Farm Agency understands that life can be tough, but it is our responsibility to help you make smart decisions when it comes to your insurance and financial service needs. Our business philosophy is to help you feel safe, have an understanding of your insurance coverages, and feel respected in our office. My team and I help people personalize insurance plans that properly protect their autos and homes as well as ensure they are taking advantage of all the discounts available. I also assist individuals in creating personalized life insurance policies that meet their needs. We truly are a one-stop shop when it comes to insurance for your auto, motorcycle, home, condo, renters, boat, small business, and life insurance needs.

Joe Treat State Farm Agency Bellingham 360.733.0870 joetreatagency.com

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PROS TO KNOW \ INTERIOR DESIGN

JENNIFER RYAN DESIGN

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Jennifer Ryan Design is a Bellingham-based, full service interior design company, bringing style and personality to your favorite spaces. Jennifer is a multi-talented authority on all things beautiful and functional. With her uncanny ability to combine unexpected patterns, colors, and textures, your home will reflect your distinct personality. From concept and design to production, Jennifer Ryan Design projects run smoothly and professionally, with a high level of collaboration between clients and herself. She is committed to exceeding clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; expectations while respecting their budgets. Whether a single room or your entire home, Jennifer will realize your vision in ways you never imagined. Her hands-on approach assures that all elements are seamlessly executed and your wishes and goals are met. See for yourself why clients and design professionals alike rave about Jenniferâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impeccable eye for great design, attention to detail and easy work style.

Bellingham 360.733.9519 jenniferryandesign.com

PROS TO KNOW \ KITCHEN DESIGN

LEGACY KITCHEN & BATH With a primary focus on the whole home, Legacy Design Group, Inc. president and CEO Jacqueline Scott, has dedicated over 20 years in the industry in various capacities. Currently the lead designer for Legacy Kitchen & Bath, Jacqueline focuses on whole home space planning including universal design, aging in place applications for home living as well as designing kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms and every room in the home. Jacquie is a member of the National Kitchen & Bath Association, the leading trade association for the kitchen & bath industry, and is certified with both a CAPS (Certified Aging in Place Specialist) and AKBD (Associate Kitchen & Bath Designer) designations. Both ensure that professional competencies have been met in the industry. Locally she is a member of the Building Industry Association of Whatcom County and the recipient of the Remodeling Excellence Award.

1610 Grover Street, B-8 Lynden, WA 98264 Cell: 360.927.4436 Office: 360.354.1985 legacykitchen-bath.com

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LANDSCAPE DESIGN / PROS TO KNOW

WINDWOOD ENTERPRISES Windwood Enterprises is a family-owned and operated company, specializing in residential, commercial, and industrial landscape installation since 1991. When it comes to large or small-scale commercial and industrial projects, we are the team you can trust. We strive to provide the best service to our customers, both before and after the sale. If we design it, install it, and maintain it, we guarantee it! Now is the perfect time to get ready for spring. We have a blower truck that will blow in new bark, top soil, mulch or wood chips; we can do the work for you in less than half the time and with no mess. Visit the Windwood Enterprise booth and be sure to enter your chance to win 10 free yards of blown-in bark!

6318 Woodlyn Rd., Ferndale 360.380.4000 windwoodent.com

LUMBER SUPPLY / PROS TO KNOW

WINDSOR PLYWOOD When you hear the name Windsor Plywood, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fairly simple to assume that they only sell plywood. Although they do sell plywood, they have evolved in to so much more than a plywood store. Windsor Plywood is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and over those 50 years they have been offering expert advice and quality finishing products and services to the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest builders, woodworkers and homeowners. At Windsor you will find some of the latest trends like barn doors and shiplap, as well as most traditional building products from decking and fencing to lumber and mouldings, not to mention the most extensive selection of domestic and exotic hardwoods in the area. Windsor Plywood also has the longest running door shop in Bellingham where they pre-hang interior and exterior doors and customize them to your exact needs. They will also do custom milling and cutting of their products as well as prefinishing in their spray facility.

1208 Iowa St. Bellingham 360.676.1025 windsorplywood.com

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PROS TO KNOW \ PLUMBING

LAVERGNE’S PLUMBING & HEATING Serving Whatcom and Skagit Counties 360.338.6659 lavergneplumbing.com

Have you ever thought about a “ondemand” hot water system? In most cases, you most likely have a conventional water heater in your home. It is important to know the differences between those and tank-less Water Heaters and the pros and cons for each. A traditional water heater ranges in size from 20 to 80 gallons, sometimes larger and they are fueled by electricity, natural gas or propane. The way these work is by transferring heat from a burner or coil to water in an insulated tank. Energy in a conventional water heater is being exerted even when hot water is NOT being used, one con of this type of heater. With an average life of under 10 years, we are sure you have thought about your next hot water system! Enter tank-less water heaters… They do not contain a storage tank like conventional

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water heaters. Built of copper, brass, and stainless steel they are expected to have a life span of 30+ years. Have a gas burner that heats the water only when there is a demand for hot water. Energy savings of up to 36% for the family! “Many of our customers (after installing a tank-less) enjoy a hot bath in their soaker tub for the first time since owning the home!” — Martin LaVergne, owner There are many things to consider when choosing a water-heating system. The number of people in the household, soaker tubs, warm water car washing and the list goes on! Let us help you install a energy efficient on-demand tank-less water heater in your home today. Never again worry about coming home to am major flood from a rusty old water heater. SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

REAL ESTATE / PROS TO KNOW

BLISS & DAN GOLDSTEIN Are you ready to move on with your life? Let the Goldsteins help you! New to town? Bellingham has distinct neighborhoods. We can make a match. Selling? Our last 18 listings sold in under a week at or over list price. Buying? In the last 35 multiple offers, the Goldsteins won the house 91% of the time. We have a strategic process that works again and again. The Goldsteins are efficient with your time, know the market, and are fun! If you smiled at our portrait from a busy staging session, then you are a good match with us. Check out all our happy clients at Bellinghomes.com. You could be one of them.

Bliss & Dan Goldstein bliss@windermere.com 360.729.1685 Bellinghomes.com

WINDOW COVERINGS / PROS TO KNOW

RUSSELL’S WINDOW COVERINGS Locally owned and operated for more than 25 years Russell’s Window Coverings has been bringing you a huge range of options, styles, and designs for your home or office. Russell’s brings to you a vast selection of window treatments perfect for just about any window imaginable. From our classic horizontal blinds to our timeless plantation shutters and motorized shades, we’re sure to have a look and design that meets your specific needs. Specializing in Hunter Douglas products, which are well known for quality and customization options, we offer a variety of products and outstanding service, ensuring you get the personalized look that suits your lifestyle, décor and budget. Call us today to schedule a complimentary consultation to discuss the beautiful options available for your home.

1610 Grover Street Lynden, WA 360.656.6579 or 360.961.4918 RussellsWindowCoverings.com

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Helping the Homeless How Interfaith Coalition Makes A Difference

n Bellingham, sometimes we see the need, on downtown streets or on a cardboard sign held up at an intersection. More often, we can’t see it: the family huddled in a car, the schoolchild without a bed. The need is great, and in Bellingham and throughout Whatcom County, the response is great, too. Ever wonder if all the volunteer hours and donated dollars make a difference? The success stories of those previously in need, who are now headed toward self-sufficiency or able to give back themselves, are many. Here are two.

Written by Cheryl Stritzel McCarthy Photographed by Hailey Hoffman Cheryl Stritzel McCarthy is a freelance journalist on assignment for Interfaith Coalition, and author of “Many Hands Make Light Work: A Memoir,” coming this autumn.

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ALL THE TOOLS YOU NEED Bam! Bam! The cop hammered on the window of the rusty 1989 Mazda, parked in the far corner of an empty parking lot of a discount store south of Tacoma. Bam! The cop struck the window again. “Get out of the car!” Just before dawn on a July morning, the young man in dirty clothes curled up on the front seat slept on. BAM! “Out of the car! Hands up!” The young man stirred, rolled, and stretched one arm down off the seat. “When I say hands up, I mean HANDS UP NOW!” The cop shouted. Louis Tabor jumped awake to a police gun pointed at his face. “I think the only reason he didn’t shoot me was he saw my son in the back seat,” Tabor (whose name has been changed for privacy) says now as he recalls that July morning in 2018.

HELPING THE HOMELESS

A Juggling Act of Faith Family Promise Director Multitasks to Help Homeless

On that morning after the police encounter, Tabor drove with his son to Larrabee State Park off Chuckanut Drive in Whatcom County, turned in, and parked. “The two of us hiked up to Fragrance Lake. I made a bed out of fir leaves, made a little fire. It was cold. I didn’t have a tent or anything. We had some food-bank food.” The campfire triggered the appearance of a park ranger. When she learned Tabor’s battered old Mazda was out of gas, she came back with five gallons for him. Tabor went to the Opportunity Council in downtown Bellingham, a nonprofit that aids those in need. They sent him to Interfaith Coalition’s Family Promise of Whatcom County, and Tabor’s life began its pivot back toward self-sufficiency. “For the first time, I felt people really actually cared about me,” Tabor says of his experience with Interfaith.

SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSROOMS BECOME LIVING SPACES FOR FAMILIES Interfaith Coalition is a group of 50 churches, a synagogue, and other partners in Whatcom County that work together to help families out of homelessness. Founded 38 years ago, this nonprofit now has 1,400 volunteers working in several programs that empower local folks to break the cycle of poverty. In April 2018, Interfaith launched Family Promise of Whatcom County, a local version of a national program, …

Carolyn Roy became director of Interfaith Coalition’s Family Promise of Whatcom County in July 2018. She instantly changed her title to program manager, “because director was terrifying to me.” Roy, who lives in Bellingham, was working then for Interfaith in a different role. Two weeks earlier, she’d heard speaker Willow Weston, local founder of the womenoriented Collide ministry, speak at Cornwall Church about taking risks, about doing what God calls you to do even if you feel you’re not equipped. And shortly after, the call came: Would Roy step up to lead Interfaith’s Family Promise of Whatcom County? “I knew I had to say yes, even though everything within me wanted to say no,” Roy says. Seven months later, she’s increasingly comfortable in the role, one of the few within Interfaith that’s paid and full-time. “It’s always daunting, it challenges me to do my best. It takes so much effort from so many people.” Interfaith’s Family Promise requires a dizzying amount of logistics, communication, and problem-solving among 52 volunteer coordinators, 800 volunteers, 13 sites (mostly houses of worship) that host the families, 18 additional congregations that help the host churches, the constant weekly rotation of several guest families being served, presentations to other agencies, training new volunteers, and conflict resolution, Roy says. She oversees case manager Marikka Matheny, and part-time employees Robert Bell, van driver, and Callaway Holm, assistant. All are working toward Interfaith’s goal: empower local families to lift themselves out of poverty and into stable, long-term housing. Eighty-eight percent of families that come through Interfaith accomplish that goal. Louis Tabor’s little family is one (p. 90). He credits the positive attitude of the volunteers, and Family Promise’s previous and present directors. About Roy he says, “She was shook at first, but the amazing things she’s been doing since then lifts me up.” CSM March 2019 91

“Family Promise is the true definition of its name. It’s the promise I made to my son: We’re going to live like a family again. They make it come true.” — Louis Tabor

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… to house four families at a time, usually in Sunday school classrooms turned into family bedrooms in area church buildings. (Family Promise of Skagit County, not affiliated with Interfaith Coalition, had launched its own local version a few years before.) Congregation members provide beds, healthful meals, homework help, and more. During the days, a van takes the families to the Family Promise Day Center house in north Bellingham, where they shower, leave for work or school, and work with a case manager in the on-site office to develop a long-term stability plan. The families rotate among churches, staying a week at each one. Tabor and his son stayed in churches in Whatcom County for four weeks. “Family Promise is the true definition of its name,” he says. “It’s the promise I made to my son: We’re going to live like a family again. They make it come true.” Tabor availed himself of every resource. He’s grateful for the healthcare and childcare. Three days a week, he went to WorkSource Whatcom, a partnership of employment-service agencies, and applied for jobs on Monster.com. “I’m a concrete finisher,” Tabor says. “I’ve built forms for bridges and tunnels. I finish concrete, do broom work, make it smooth on top.” A call came in from Tradesmen International, a sort of temp agency that supplies craftsmen to contractors for short- or long-term work. The $20 per hour wage was good, but the obstacles were many. Tabor would have to come with his own tools. He owned none. The job interview was in Burlington, and his Mazda had died. Interfaith’s Family Promise folks leapt into action. A call went up on Facebook, and within 24 hours Tabor

HELPING THE HOMELESS

Interfaith Coalition

$650,000 annual budget

50 faith communities 1,400 total volunteers

97 percent of coalition

funded by local donations

Interfaith Coalition’s Family Promise of Whatcom County Program

13 host sites for families (mostly churches)

18 additional congregations that help hosts

800 volunteers 52 volunteer coordinators

owned a tool belt, hammers, rain gear, ear protection, pliers, wire cutters, screwdrivers, wrenches. A volunteer drove him to what was supposed to be a 20-minute interview, which morphed into a job offer and threehour orientation. The volunteer waited for him. Tabor was called to a job the next day. He had thought the jobsite was on a bus line. It wasn’t. Janie Pemble, outreach director of Interfaith, “drove me to work that day and saved my job,” he says. For that job at a Lake Whatcom house — Tabor calls it a mansion — his tasks including digging a 3-foot-wide ditch 25 yards, with pickax and shovel. The job was supposed to take three or four days. Tabor finished in two. Interfaith had rustled up a donated car for Tabor, but he can’t drive because he doesn’t have a license, citing ticket trouble from Georgia, where his son’s mom lives. He’d driven previously without one, but the deal with Family Promise includes abiding by the law. So Tabor is confined to jobs where he can take a bus or catch a ride. Tabor had to suspend work for a while to seek more permanent housing and settle his son, who’s in kindergarten. “I’m used to being the provider, but now I’m nurturer and provider. I signed up for parenting classes. My son had issues with transitions to school. His teacher is 21 years old; it’s her first year. He was in trouble for throwing books, kicking the teacher, running out of the school. I had to go to a meeting with the principal.” But hope thrives. “With this job, I want to make it my career. I want to get my son into after-school programs, elevate his education, help him grow. I want to have a car, a well-paid job, and hopefully … March 2019 93

More than Hope Interfaith Coalition’s March 23 Auction is its Biggest Fundraiser Interfaith Coalition, founded 38 years ago by local people to help the homeless, is 97 percent funded by local donations. The nonprofit’s biggest fundraiser, the annual Hope Auction (5:30 pm Saturday, March 23 at Four Points by Sheraton in Bellingham) is open to all. Tickets ($65, tax-deductible, dinner included) are available at interfaith-coalition.org, at 360.734.3983, or at the office in St. James Presbyterian Church at 910 14th St., Bellingham. This year’s auction goal of $200,000 will comprise nearly a third of Interfaith’s annual budget of $650,000. The money supports Interfaith programs, all of which seek to lift local families out of poverty: Family Promise of Whatcom County, CAST food outreach in downtown Bellingham four evenings per week, emergency and transitional housing, winter coat drive, holiday gifts, Kids Need Books (books are given out at food banks, migrant worker camps, neighborhood events) and Project: Warm Up (where volunteers knit hats and scarves for anyone in need). The Hope Auction began 30 years ago and is traditionally a sold-out benefit with 375 attendees, 30 local sponsors, and more than 300 diverse auction items, including art and vacation getaways. The featured speaker tells a powerful, personal story of experiencing homelessness and finding stability through Interfaith. “Providing homes for our neighbors experiencing homelessness deeply affects those families,” said Tara Gilligan Reimer, auction coordinator. “But this act also changes the hearts of the givers. Come to the auction. Come see what we can accomplish together.” CSM 94

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Karen and Ken Bachenberg

… do something on the side with my artwork.” Tabor’s son is learning to swim at the Y, and Tabor would like to learn himself someday, too. Within six weeks of engaging with Interfaith’s Family Promise, Tabor and his son moved into an apartment, part of a fourplex Interfaith owns. Rent is based upon what he can pay. They now have a home, a job, and a school. “This is all I needed to put me on track,” Tabor says. “Family Promise gave me a second chance to be a dad. I never expected to run into a place where goodhearted people volunteer. “Family Promise and Interfaith are the best opportunity you can have to work on your goals and better yourself. They give you all the tools you need.”

USING HER GIFTS TO GIVE BACK In 2006 Andie Whitewing was an English teacher at a university in Louisiana, close to finishing her PhD, when the bottom fell out. Her marriage had become unsafe, and in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, after the birth of her second child, it reached a crisis point. She fled with her

HELPING THE HOMELESS

3-year-old and 15-month-old, heading toward the home of a long-time friend in Bellingham. Whitewing and her toddlers, rocked by their own hurricane, lived with friends for a time before a local nonprofit directed the family toward Interfaith Coalition and housing. Even now, more than a decade later, Whitewing is grateful for her stay in Interfaith housing. “They said, ‘If you need anything, let us know,’ ” Whitewing says. “The day you move in, you get a $100 gift certificate to the grocery store. I used it that day to feed my kids.” Case management and housing were critical in helping Whitewing identify resources, get daycare, and find work. Within two months, she landed a six-month job at Western Washington University and moved her family into their own market-based (not subsidized) apartment. The Western job ended but Whitewing found other jobs. Today she is a full-time, paid appraiser trainee at Follis Realty in downtown Bellingham. In three years she will become a certified general real estate appraiser and fully enter a well-paid profession. “Interfaith was, in the immediacy of that transition, no less than a lifeline,” Whitewing says now. “It’s a powerful embodiment of love and compassion in our community, a testament to the hearts of the many who reside here and have founded or support the organization… It’s the synergy of many whose beliefs may be disparate, but who have united to realize their greater potential in the service of love.” Interfaith’s and the larger community’s initial helping hand to Whitewing has been re-paid many times over. She is a

speaker for Interfaith and some member congregations, where her story helps raise funds for others. At Interfaith’s March 2008 auction, her presentation resulted in the most funds raised at that event to date. Today, nearly a third of Interfaith’s $650,000 annual budget results from the Hope Auction, on March 23 this year with a fundraising goal of $200,000. Interfaith is 97 percent funded by local donations. “I’m happy to help,” Whitewing says. “I wish I could write a check for $55-grand but I can’t, so I use the gifts that have been given to me: speaking and singing.” Whitewing, a vocalist and emcee, is using her music to help found and sustain a benefit series, “Light the Night.” It’s a three-hour showcase where musicians donate performances to benefit local causes. Launched in 2014 and recently revived with the partnership of musician Bill Sterling, with venue and staff donated by the Wild Buffalo House of Music, “Light the Night” is now a quarterly event. Whitewing credits others in helping her navigate life here, citing the support of “friends who’ve become family” in maintaining stable housing for years despite this region’s affordability problem. “Only a portion of my ‘success’ comes from my labors. I acknowledge the importance of community.” Her purpose is service, Whitewing says, and her greatest gift is her voice, whether used for writing, singing, or speaking. “We all have something to give. It’s not just money.”  March 2019 95

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DINE

8 Great Tastes · Dining Guide · Mixing Tin · Sip

‘Water of Life’ The Best Spots to Find Irish Whiskey on St. Patrick’s Day WRITTEN BY BROOKE CARLSON

B © Zoe Deal

reak out your stash of green clothing, shamrock-decorated socks, and green feather boas. St. Patrick’s Day (Sunday, March 17) is just around the corner, and it’s time to start planning your celebration. If Guinness and green beer don’t sound so appealing, don’t worry. Many businesses will pour a different Irish staple. The Irish call whiskey “Uisce Beatha” (pronounced Ish-Kah Ba-Ha) which translates to “water of life.” In celebration of St. Paddy’s, we’ve compiled a list of the best spots around town to get your annual dose of life water. … continued on next page

… UISCE IRISH PUB For an authentic Irish experience, there’s really no better place to go on St. Patrick’s Day than Uisce (pronounced Ish-Kah). Named after the Gaelic word for water, this downtown spot offers the largest selection of Irish whiskey in downtown Bellingham. Choose from more than 20 different kinds of the Ireland staple, or, if that’s not your bag, grab a Guinness or a glass of Scotch from their extensive list. Uisce is spacious and comfortable, and gives off a classy, clean vibe. They’ll celebrate St. Patrick’s (and 13th year in business) with live music performances. For a $5 cover, cozy up around their fireplace or find a place at the lengthy bar and settle down for a night of Irish celebration. 1319 Commercial St., Bellingham uisceirishpub.com

GLYNN’S SHAMROCK PUB With Shamrock in the name, you know this pub is bound to be a good holiday spot. Glynn’s (pronounced “glinns”) is an Irish pub on Guide Meridian in Bellingham that maintains the holiday spirit all year round with permanent St. Paddy’s decorations and Guinness on tap. Along with their selection of Irish whiskey, they serve casual grub,

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cocktails, beer, and wine. If you hang out here, you might end up taking the karaoke stage or spending your night at the 50-cent pool tables. 5309 Guide Meridian, Bellingham 360.398.1702

THE WHITE HORSE PUB The White Horse Pub on Orcas Island is so ready for St. Patrick’s Day, they’ve had a year-long website countdown. So when the clock hits zero, stop in and imbibe the pub’s selection of Irish whiskey and take in a gorgeous view of Puget Sound, which some claim is the best on the island. On St. Paddy’s, enjoy shepard’s pie or bangers and mash, and entertainment from Crow Valley String Band. 246 Main St., Eastsound 360.376.7827 | islandwhitehorse.com

THE ARCHER ALE HOUSE Although The Archer Ale House is an English-style pub, your St. Patrick’s celebration will be welcome here. The business is located in Bellingham’s Fairhaven district, and gives off super cozy vibes. Located below street level, patrons find themselves in a classiclooking pub. For St. Paddy’s, they’ll have corned beef and cabbage on their menu, and, of course, a long list of whiskeys from Ireland. 1212 10th St., Bellingham 360.647.7002 | thearcheralehouse.com

Other great whiskey spots: UNION TAVERN — LOCAL 902 902 Commercial St., Anacortes 360.873.8245

THE BROWN LANTERN ALE HOUSE Anacortes’ Brown Lantern will be serving up whiskey from their stash of Irish classics, along with corned beef and cabbage from 2 p.m. till close. The ale house will also be having a preliminary celebration on St. Paddy’s eve with live music from a local band. 412 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.293.2544 | brownlantern.com

THE BLACK CAT 1200 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.733.6136 | blackcatbellingham.com

REDLIGHT 1017 N. State St., Bellingham 

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

BELLINGHAM CIDER CO. American 205 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.510.8494, bellinghamcider.com The food reminds me of the type of homecooked meal that, as a youngster, you would look forward to when your parents decided to make a special meal. Comfort food is reflected in the simple, yet thoughtful and well-executed dishes. Each dish has a handful of components and ingredients all locally or regionally sourced. The kitchen is open, and you can sit at the bar and chat. Dinner is Wednesday through Sunday, with lunch added on weekends. The short ribs, slowly braised in beer for hours, are fall-apart tender. With the appetizer of burnt carrots, lightly grilled/charred and fantastic on their own, the meal reminds me of my mother’s pot roast, in the best way. The most popular item on the menu? The chicken and waffles. Some advice: If you order the burnt carrots, ask for them extra dark. CAMBER COFFEE Coffeehouse, American

Menu items and prices are subject to change, so check before you go. See all our restaurant reviews on our Eat and Drink tab at BellinghamAlive.com * Review provided by restaurant.

WHATCOM ANTHONY’S HEARTHFIRE GRILL Steak/Seafood 7 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360.527.3473, anthonys.com Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill serves the same quality food we’ve come to expect and love from Anthony’s other restaurants. The Hearthfire menu speaks to the everyday eater, not just the special occasion treat of Anthony’s. Seasonal items, like peaches or huckleberries in the summer, complement salads, entrees, and drinks. Steaks, seafood, and items on the Woodfire rotisserie round out the selections. AVENUE BREAD Deli Downtown Cafe: 1313 Railroad Ave., Bellingham, 1135 11th St., Bellingham 2301 James St., Bellingham 444 Front St., Lynden 360.715.3354, avenuebread.com With several convenient locations in Bellingham and a location in Lynden, Avenue is one of Bellingham’s favorite lunch spots. Fresh ingredients make these sandwiches unusually good — the bread is made inhouse, and the vegetables and meat are all of the highest quality. Avenue also offers one of the freshest, best breakfast sandwiches around — the Eggenue.

221 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.656.5343, cambercoffee.com Camber is more than a coffee shop. Customers can decide to order at the counter for a quicker bite, or enjoy table service for a more traditional restaurant experience. Throughout the day customers will find a full menu for breakfast (or brunch depending on your wake up time), lunch, and dinner. The food is best described as “new American comfort.” Breakfast items include hearty favorites that are given an upscale facelift, like buttermilk waffles made with whole grains and served with European butter — richer than the American version. The lunch and dinner menu features a half-roasted chicken with summer squash and fennel. CHAIR 9 WOODSTONE PIZZA & BAR American 10459 Mount Baker Hwy., Glacier 360.599.2511, chair9.com After a long day skiing or snowboarding from Mount Baker Ski Area’s eight chairlifts, Chair 9 is tailor-made for those seeking a place to grab a bite before heading back down the highway. The building is spacious, with two stories of seating and a colorful variety of snowboards decorating the wall. Their pizza is crafted on house-made artisan bread dough and cooked classically in a wood stone oven. The Hemispheres pizza is a local crowd favorite, topped with BBQ chicken, crispy bacon, spicy jalapenos, red onion, and sweet pineapple. The restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere and delicious menu make it a destination to try on your next trip to the slopes. CHIHUAHUA MEXICAN RESTAURANT Mexican 5694 Third Ave., Ferndale 360.384.5820 chihuahuamexicanrestaurant.com

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the authentic cuisine that has come from more than 15 years of dedication to excellent food. Using family recipes passed down for generations, Chihuahua Mexican Restaurant will not only leave you full, but deeply satisfied. THE FORK AT AGATE BAY American, Seafood 2530 North Shore Rd., Bellingham 360.733.1126, theforkatagatebay.com Nestled at the fork between Y and North Shore Roads near Lake Whatcom sits The Fork at Agate Bay restaurant. The atmosphere is relaxed and stylish boat-house chic. The menu changes seasonally, featuring fresh, local ingredients. Try the Arancine ($11) as an appetizer, the signature Bouillabaisse ($32) as an entrée, and the Tiramisu ($8) for dessert. The bar also boasts an impressive drink menu. All drinks are priced at $12, allowing selection based on ingredients (again, fresh and local) and tastes. Breakfast and lunch are served on the weekend. Dinner is served nightly. Happy Hour is daily 4–6 p.m. in the bar only. Closed Monday and Tuesday. GIUSEPPE’S AL PORTO Italian 21 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360.714.8412, giuseppesitalian.com Giuseppe’s Al Porto Ristorante provides an enhanced dining experience to its customers, including outside seating that provides diners with the joy of eating by the water and taking in the sights of beautiful Bellingham Bay. The classic Italian dining that earned Giuseppe’s the reputation as the finest Italian restaurant in Bellingham is still going strong. Whether you try the chicken marsala, happy hour specials or three-course, early-dinner specials, your mouth will water. Daily specials and the full menu include meat specialties, fresh seafood, and authentic Italian pastas. HOMESKILLET American 521 Kentucky St., Bellingham homeskilletinsunnyland.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.

Dine in at one of the largest Mexican restaurants in Washington and experience

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Self Care is Healthcare

StillLifeMassage.com • 19 Bellwether Way Suite 101 • (360) 647-2805

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 panini and frittatas for Saturday and Sunday brunches; Cioppino is a summer dinner menu highlight. The dinner menu changes weekly, begging for a second trip. A small covered deck with colorful lanterns sits adjacent to the dining room for your al fresco pleasure. Just beyond, in a meadow, sits a red deck used as a stage, and is the centerpiece for special dinners under the stars. LATITUDE KITCHEN & BAR American 1065 E. Sunset Dr., Bellingham 360.707.7400, latituderestaurants.com

Open 7 days a week with daily drink specials all day

The biggest restaurant in Whatcom County

Happy hour 3–6pm 5694 Third Ave., Ferndale 360-384-5820

WE PUT superhero IN OUR GENETICS! ANGUS

addies RANCH

Prime Grade Beef, Prime Cut Burger Now selling individual prime cuts: Ribeye

& Tenderloin roast, two packs of Steaks, and quarter pound hamburger patties of our grassfed Angus. Free delivery!

usda Inspected no antibiotics

With gourmet burgers on pretzel buns and pesto prawn linguine, Latitude Kitchen and Bar establishes itself as one of the first higherend, modern restaurants on Sunset Drive in Bellingham, just off I-5. This is a sister location to the Loft, a waterfront restaurant at Bellingham’s Squalicum Harbor Marina. Latitude serves up the rich flavors of the Pacific Northwest. The locally sourced ingredients are all prepared in a “scratch” kitchen where nothing is microwaved, and all savory sauces, like those on the Seafood Chimichanga ($23.90) and decadent pastas (try their Crab Ravioli, $24.90) are made in-house. THE LEADER BLOCK WINE CO. AND EATERY Italian

2026 Main St., Ferndale 360.306.8998, leaderblock.com The Leader Block pairs their extensive wine list with an Italian, from-scratch menu that emphasizes flavors of the region. To begin, start with a formaggi e salumi plate which features a selection of international meats and cheese, fruit, nuts and mustard for $18. For dinner try the salmone al forno for a classic Italian dish with a Pacific Northwest twist ($20). The fresh Pacific Northwest salmon is served with pesto, herbs and roasted fingerling potatoes. The Leader Block’s upscale menu make it a perfect spot for a date or special occasion, while the friendly Ferndale atmosphere and kids’ menu keeps it appropriate for family dinners too.

no added hormones NORTHWATER Regional NW 4260 Mitchell Way, Bellingham 360.398.6191, northh2o.com

addiesangus.com 360-399-9213

100 BellinghamAlive.com

From breakfast to late night dinner, Northwater’s 185-seat restaurant features Pacific Northwest dishes made from locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. We found the restaurant’s wait staff to be personable and enthusiastic, and eager to answer our queries

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about ingredient sources and what desserts they’d recommend. There’s a diverse menu of classic dishes with a twist, like the Seafood Sausage Corn Dogs with blueberry mustard — sweet-from-the-citrus cornbread and spicy from the mustard. Try the Fried Chicken and Waffle, featuring savory flavors of garlic and herbs drizzled with a pepper syrup. PEPPER SISTERS Southwest 1055 N. State St., Bellingham 360.671.3414, peppersisters.com 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. Regular patrons groove to Stevie Wonder as they plunge their forks into massive burritos filled 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. THE STEAK HOUSE AT SILVER REEF HOTEL C ASINO SPA Steak/Seafood 4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale 360.384.7070, silverreefcasino.com This award-winning restaurant offers elegant dining and an intimate atmosphere. Prime-grade steaks are broiled at 1,800 degrees to lock in the natural juices and finished with a special steak butter. The wine list is ample and recognized for its quality by Wine Spectator. This dining experiences rivals any of the big-town steak houses in quality and service without the big-city price tag.

SKAGIT 13MOONS AT SWINOMISH CASINO & LODGE Seafood/Steak 12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes 360.588.3525, swinomishcasinoandlodge.com Located within the casino, 13moons is sure to catch your attention. Situated on the waterfront, 13moons has a warm and inviting lodge atmosphere. The menu offers a wide variety including first plates, entree salads, seafood, and steaks. We started our meal with generous pours of wine, then moved on to the filet mignon, which was cooked to perfection and mouth-watering. The same could be said for their Marsala Mushroom Pork Chop. The Kobe Burger, made with Wagyu beef, brioche, Cambozola cheese and double-smoked bacon, is impressive. This is a great choice for an evening out. You will walk away satisfied, and you’ll understand why it is the go-to place for locals and visitors alike. BASTION BREWING COMPANY American 12529 Christianson Rd., Anacortes 360.399.1614, bastionbrewery.com On the Bastion Brewing Company menu you’ll find classic salads like Cobb and Garden, no fuss burgers that can be gussied up with an array of add-ons including roasted jalapeños, onion straws, pineapple, and crispy chicken wings drenched in your choice of sauce. I ordered a fried fish sandwich with a side of onion rings. The food arrived to my table quickly, impressively quickly. Even more impressive was the quality of this fast-made food. Hot, crispy onion rings accompanied the equally

CULINARY EVENTS Woodward Canyon Winemaker’s Dinner March 1, 6 p.m. Embark on an adventure through some of the wines of Walla Walla with Woodward Canyon Winery at Coho Restaurant on San Juan Island. Superb wines will be paired with a five-course meal featuring local producers and seasonal harvests. These evenings sell out quickly, so make sure to reserve your seat. Coho Restaurant 120 Nichols St., Friday Harbor | cohorestaurant.com

Mardi Gras With Jesse Otero March 4, 6:30–9:30 p.m. Local chef Otero comes to the Bellingham Community Food Co-Op to prepare a classic New Orleans spread just in time for Mardi Gras. In this class, you’ll be sampling shrimp remoulade, red beans, dirty rice, and smoked collard greens. Don’t forget to make a reservation for this lively and delicious celebration. Downtown Co-Op Connections Building 405 E. Holly St., Bellingham | communityfood.coop

Incognito: Unconventional Dinner Series March 28, 6 p.m. Pencil in a night of mystery at Ciao Thyme. The evening begins in the restaurant’s dining room with sparkling wine and fun treats, then a six-course meal, kept secret until mealtime. You’ll be seated family-style and encouraged to engage in the friendly atmosphere. Reservations required. Ciao Thyme Commons 207 Unity St., Bellingham | ciaothyme.com

Afternoon Tea with Gale Gand Friday, March 29 demonstration 5–7 p.m. Saturday, March 30 class 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Tea time will never be dull again. Learn from Chef Gale, a pastry chef who, word is, helped make afternoon tea for Queen Elizabeth and countless members of British high society. You’ll learn the ins and outs of tea brewing and afternoon tea essentials like scones, tea sandwiches, and sweets. You may choose to observe, take a hands-on class, or both at the King Arthur Flour baking school at The Bread Lab in Burlington. The Bread Lab 11768 Westar Ln., Burlington | kingarthurflour.com

March 2019 101

DINE Sips of the Season

Sips of the Season Galloway’s Cocktail Bar WRITTEN BY MERI-JO BORZILLERI | PHOTOGRAPHED BY HAILEY HOFFMAN

t Galloway’s Cocktail Bar in Bellingham’s Fairhaven district, patrons who joined us for Bellingham Alive’s Sips of the Season on January 20th were treated to a lesson on making creative winter cocktails. Gone are the days of dark, heavy winter drinks in a lightdeprived den. Hello magical ingredients like citrus and elderflower. Galloway’s general manager Alli Sutherland and mixologists Chris Cheesman, Holly Smith, and Matt McRae showcased four cocktails, each served with small plates featuring local fare. Staff gave step-by-step instructions on how to mix each drink, and provided tips, advice, and answers to questions from a crowd that took up nearly every available seat in the art deco-inspired bar connected to the Fairhaven Village Inn. The first round was the Classic Gin Gimlet, served with Galloway’s Tossed Green Salad, for the perfect start to an afternoon of sipping and nibbling. The gimlet featured gin, lime cordial and simple syrup and danced on the tongue

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with zest and lime tartness. Garnish with a thin slice of lime. For slightly more floral notes, use St. George Botanivore Gin. Bartender’s tip: Add ice late to keep from diluting the finished product. The next round, Rose’s Greyhound, was a delicate pink beauty that surprised with grapefruit overtones, a welcome taste of summer in winter’s midst. Rose Vodka with lemon juice, simple syrup, grapefruit juice and Pamplemousse liqueur combined for a refreshing drink, tangy and not too sweet. Two dashes of tincture of rosewater added a floral element. Served with a small plate of brie, apple, fig jam, and a baguette was just the right, light touch. Bartender tip: Feel like something’s missing? Add a dash or two of bitters to highlight your desired flavor, like lemon or lavender. For the third round, a Toasted Hazelnut Old Fashioned brought a nutty twist to this classic, paired with the petite meat and cheese plate. Muddle a ground sugar cube with black walnut bitters, add hazelnutinfused bourbon, and stir. Garnish with

bourbon-soaked Luxardo maraschino cherries to complement the drink’s sweet, rich tones, says mixologist Holly, a fan of savory concoctions. Bartender tip: Brown liquors, like those in Old Fashioneds and Manhattans, should always be stirred, not shaken. The fourth and final cocktail, the French Royale, came with some magic. Gin, butterfly pea blossom, Gifford elderflower and prosecco produced a drink that changed from indigo to lavender when lemon juice was added, making this sparkling dessert drink even more festive. Served with the richly layered chocolate Nanaimo Bar from Pure Bliss Desserts, it was a fitting finish to a fine afternoon. Bartender tip: Drop a sliver of lemon peel in the glass before pouring — the citrus oil will keep the prosecco from bubbling over. Bellingham Alive would like to thank the staff at Galloway’s Cocktail Bar, along with Roger Jobs Motors and other local businesses who contributed to our swag bags.  gallowayscocktail.bar

Classic Gin Gimlet

Roseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Greyhound

Toasted Hazelnut Old Fashioned

French Royale

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MENUSEATTLE.COM RESTAURANT MENUS • RESERVATIONS CURRENT NEWS • MIXOLOGIST INTERVIEWS CHEF INTERVIEWS • CULINARY EVENTS Follow us

crisp fried fish. A soft bun held the sandwich together. Biting through the Panko-crusted exterior revealed a succulent, flaky fish filet. Sandwich toppings were meant to complement the fish: fresh lettuce, tomato, onion, tangy pickles, and unassuming melted Swiss cheese. Halfway through the soft bun gave way, turning my sandwich into a five-napkin sort of meal in the best way possible. ENCORE* Epicurean Dining 5984 North Darrk Ln., Bow 360.724.0124, theskagit.com/encore Located within The Skagit Casino Resort, the newly remodeled and re-energized Encore restaurant strives itself in creating everything in house from scratch by utilizing fresh and natural ingredients from locally sourced products. Inside the room, featured photographs of personalities from the music industry, recognizing The Skagit Casino Resort’s long history with entertainment; a platform that differentiates them from local competition. Take an epicurean dining adventure and discover one of the best restaurants in the region. FORTUNE MANDARIN Chinese/Mandarin 1617 Freeway Dr., Mount Vernon 360.428.1819, fortunemandarin.com Tea warmed over a candle, delicious drinks with a slight exotic twist, tender and flavorful almond chicken, and warm and mildly spicy Mandarin shrimp with broccoli are expected at this peaceful bar and restaurant with Chinese decor. Try the to-die-for meals such as the Szechwan chicken with varying vegetables cooked to perfection, the orange chicken with real orange pieces accentuating the dish, and the egg rolls with the right amount of crunch. The owner and staff remember regular patrons, creating a sense of community with their hospitality and mouthwatering food. IL GRANAIO Italian 100 W. Montgomery St., Ste. 110, Mount Vernon 360.419.0674, granaio.com Owner Alberto Candivi arrives at Il Granaio in downtown every morning to make the day’s pastas by hand, sculpting basic ingredients into the building blocks for lavish, rich Italian dishes served throughout the day. When the ingredients call for a lighter hand, his restaurant also turns out reserved, delicate dishes. Il Granaio is a practice in the intricacies of cuisine, displaying the best flavors Italian food has to offer. With more than 30 items on the entrée menu, the list can be quite daunting. Il Granaio’s dessert menu is just as lush as the entrée menu. The wine menu is expansive, and the beer menu features several local craft brews. Their grappa selection does the Italian cordial the justice it deserves.

NELL THORN Seafood

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116 First St., La Conner 360.466.4261, nellthorn.com Nell Thorn is seafood-heavy, so trying one of their seafood dishes is a must. Usually their daily specials take into account the freshest catches, but on the menu you’ll usually find some kind of seafood pasta, filet topped salad, and oysters. If you can’t settle on a starter, choose the crispy polenta cakes. The quiche is executed well with fluffy eggs and a flaky, light crust, while the no-fuss Nell Burger has simple toppings that don’t overburden the perfectly cooked, juicy meat patty.

Seeds Bistro and Bar has something for everyone. There’s a carefully curated meat and cheese plate ($21) highlighting cheeses from places like Mt. Townsend Creamery and Acme Farms Cheese. The regularly rotated selections are garnished with candied nuts, crackers, and pickled blueberries from Bow Hill Blueberries. Try one of the seasonal pasta dishes made with fresh pasta, or an order of shucked oysters ($18) topped with a clean, cold horseradish “ice cream.”

OYSTER & THISTLE RESTAURANT AND PUB

SWINOMISH CASINO SPORTS BAR & GRILL

Seafood/Steak

American

205 E. Washington St., La Conner 360.766.6179, theoysterandthistle.com Oyster & Thistle Restaurant and Pub takes the time to prepare food with care. Their pastas are handmade and hand-cranked using semolina flour and an egg-rich dough. The zesty Caesar salad dressing is made with raw egg, the way it’s supposed to be. Their paella also contains a surprising ingredient, escargot. You’ll also find plenty of fresh, expertly shucked oysters, and perfectly seared sea scallops. RHODODENDRON CAFÉ American 5521 Chuckanut Dr., Bow 360.766.6667, rhodycafe.com Owners Lisa Cooney and Jim Kowalski knew they wanted their restaurant to have a focus on fresh, local Washington ingredients when they took over the Rhododendron in 2013. That goal is realized through the place’s cozy, home-style feel. Even the pew-like benches that line the walls were built by a local carpenter. Small glass vases hold fresh-picked zinnias that sit next to small paper dessert menus on pressed wood tables, giving the air of a family dining room. Specializing in Northwest seasonal cuisine, the Rhododendron changes its menu three times a year to follow what is fresh, in season, and available. One of their more popular dishes, a tender bone-in pork chop with applebrandy crème, ($28) brings spinach from nearby Edison, apples from the garden, pork from Bellingham, and spätzle into a warm conglomeration of home-style cooking. It doesn’t skimp on serving size, either. It’s enough food to fill any weary traveler, especially when paired with a wedge salad ($10, also deliciously fresh). Order the chicken saltimbocca with risotto ($21) for a flavorful and hearty entrée, and save room for the coconut cake with pineapple cream frosting ($8.25), good for sharing. SEEDS BISTRO AND BAR American

12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes 888.288.8883, swinomishcasinoandlodge.com It’s not your run-of-the-mill sports-bar food. Patrons can dine on fried Brussel sprouts studded with tangy dried cranberries ($10) and pan-seared airline chicken breast with honey pecan butter ($17). Sample a light, citrusy-ginger ahi tuna salad ($17) or go the more classic bar-food route with zesty buffalo chicken pizza ($11). The bar’s Italian grinder sandwich features layers of pepperoni, ham, pepperoncini and Italian dressing on a toasted sub roll ($11). Try the incredibly tender grilled hanger steak ($25). The steak soaks for 24 hours in a honey Dijon mustard marinade. For barbecue, go for the half or full rack of dry rubbed ribs ($18 for half, $25 for full). Served with honey horseradish coleslaw, cowboy beans, and a cornbread muffin, it’s a meal that’ll make you think you’re in Memphis. THE UNION TAVERN — LOCAL 902 American 902 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.873.8245 Patrons can get the perfect-size dish in a flavor profile to satisfy any craving. Nibble on warm pretzel bites dipped in IPA beer cheese dip. Split a warm Caprese flatbread made with sliced Roma tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and drizzled with sweet balsamic reduction. The Union’s hot dog and sandwich menus fill bigger appetites like the fan-favorite smoked albacore melt sandwich. Don’t forget to try a couple of Union Oyster Shooters! With 18 beers on rotation, there’s the basics — four IPAs, light and dark options, a cider, two nitros — plus a surprise or two, perhaps a sour, cranberry-style Gose. Cocktails are another highlight. You won’t find Red Bull vodkas here or overly sweetened Mai Tais. The staff uses fresh juice, quality spirits, and house-made sours and grenadine. Staffers are also encouraged to create their own cocktails, and the tastiest concoctions get a place on the menu.

623 Morris St., La Conner 360.466.3280, seedsbistro.com From soups to sandwiches, salads or “weeds” as they call them, and bigger entree options,

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SAN JUAN

Brandywine Kitchen

CATKIN CAFÉ American 11 Point Lawrence Rd., Olga 360.376.3242, catkincafe.com

Lemon-Rosemary Champagne Cocktail

The menu of this Orcas Island eatery may be small, but it is mighty. Breakfast and lunch are served until 3 p.m. Their menu features meat and produce grown on the island, incorporated into dishes such as Baked Eggs in Eggplant, Zucchini in Tomato Stew. Don’t forget about their bakery before heading out — all sweets and baked goods are made in-house.

Ingredients: Champagne, lemon juice, house-made rosemary simple syrup, lemon slice. $6.50

CYNTHIA’S BISTRO American 65 Nichols St., Friday Harbor 360.298.8130, cynthiasofcourse.com Located in a renovated 1920s home, this local San Juan Island staple is known for their innovative menu selections, like Seared Ahi Steak with Wasabi Cream and Hanna’s Tofu Scramble. You can enjoy lunch, or even an extended breakfast, until 2 p.m. daily in spring and summer. They are famous for their brunch, but you might try stopping by later in the evening for dinner, served in spring and summer Friday to Monday, for a special treat. DOE BAY CAFÉ American

107 Doe Bay Rd., Orcas Island 360.376.2291, doebay.com

righten your palate with this light, refreshing champagne cocktail served in a small glass with a slice of lemon floating on top. At first sip, the gentle fizz from the bubbly champagne combined with a sharp citrus-tinge from a spritz of lemon juice will flood your mouth, brightening your senses. The soothing rosemary aftertaste offsets the acidic elements of the fresh lemon, making it a perfectlybalanced drink that is neither too sweet nor too sour. This delightful cocktail sits well in the airy atmosphere of 106 BellinghamAlive.com

Whether you’re heading toward the San Juan Islands or don’t mind taking a trip for an unbelievable meal, be sure to make reservations at the ever-popular Doe Bay Café. Owners Joe and Maureen Brotherton have stuck to their philosophy of taking good care of their visitors by providing world-class seafood and vegetarian dishes. Choose from breakfast, lunch, and dinner selections such as Huevos Rancheros with free range, organic over-easy eggs with black beans on griddled corn tortillas, Goat Cheese French Toast, or the Pan Roasted Troller Point King Salmon.

the exposed-brick walls and high ceilings at Brandywine Kitchen in downtown Bellingham. Savor the drink while reading the small, curled notes past patrons have placed between bricks of one wall. Or pair the drink with one of Brandywine’s Caesar and salmon cakes, or a side of their hand-cut fries, to complete the experience. All ingredients are locally and sustainably sourced.  — Hailey Hoffman 1317 Commercial St., Bellingham 360.734.1071 brandywinekitchen.com

FRIDAY HARBOR HOUSE Regional NW 130 West St., Friday Harbor 360.378.8455, fridayharborhouse.com It’s hard to beat the view of the ferry landing, marina and San Juan Channel from Friday Harbor House, the hotel and restaurant elevated over the water to provide a sweeping panorama of water and sky. The restaurant’s new “Brunch on the Bluff” allows you to linger over the view while experiencing island dining at a high level. If you like, you can also have a drink — San Juan Island’s Friday Harbor House is one of the few island restaurants to offer a full bar at brunch every day of the week. New menu offerings include eggs benedict and Belgian waffles, along with pork belly egg fried rice. Tried-and-true favorites include Smashed Avocado Toast and Benton’s Benedict.

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Why the Emerald Isle Makes Black Beer WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY NEAL TOGNAZZINI

he wine world owns the concept of terroir, which refers to the influence that particular climates or soil types have on the grape crop, making the same varietal taste very different depending on where it is grown. But beer is a more complicated beverage, with roughly twice the number of ingredients, and that makes local idiosyncrasies easier to iron out, especially in a modern, technologically advanced brewhouse. Still, something very like the notion of terroir had an enormous influence on the development of beer styles around the world, and this is a good month to tell that story. If you order a pint on St. Patrick’s Day, there’s a decent chance that the beer in your glass will have been dyed green. But there are two very good reasons to fight this trend. For one thing, who wants to drink a beer that looks like it has been inoculated with algae? But more importantly, if you want to raise a pint in honor of Ireland, the more logical beer color is black. It’s surely not news to you that Ireland is known for its stouts — Guinness or Murphy’s, depending on whether you are near Dublin or Cork, respectively — but what is less widely appreciated is why that is. The answer, it turns out, is terroir. Like us, beer is mostly water. But I’m not talking about pure H2O here. The water that serves as the base for every batch of beer is typically more chemically complicated than that, harboring minerals and other compounds that help to promote yeast health and enzymatic activity. These days, breweries can strip their tap water of its naturally occurring minerals and start with a blank slate, but it wasn’t always

so. Hundreds of years ago, breweries had to work with their local water supply as it was au naturel, and adapt the rest of their recipe to make things work out. Historically, the water in Dublin was chock-full of minerals, and for various complicated chemical reasons, the presence of those minerals will ruin a beer if they aren’t balanced out in some way. Also, again for various complicated chemical reasons, it turns out that heavily roasted barley is exactly the sort of thing that will balance out the effect of those minerals. And, of course, it’s the use of heavily roasted barley that makes a stout black. So, to make a boring story short: they started brewing stouts in Dublin because, well, they had to. At the other historical extreme was the city of Plzen, in what is today the Czech Republic. This city is the namesake for the style of beer called “pilsner” — which, as you probably know, is one of the most delicate and lightly-colored styles. Again, this isn’t an accident. The water in Plzen is more or less the opposite, minerally speaking, of the water in Dublin. And the lack of minerals threatens to ruin a dark beer. So the Bohemians brewed lightly-colored beer because, well, they had to. So, this March 17, if you are looking for something to pair with your shepherd’s pie and soda bread, respect the terroir of Irish beer and opt for black instead of green. My favorite local Irish stout is Menace Brewing’s brilliantly-named Muinness Draught. At under 4 percent alcohol content, and served out of a creamy nitro tap, you’ll want more than one. Sláinte!  March 2019 107

DINE Restaurant Review

Fork, Yeah! New Ownership, Menu at The Fork at Agate Bay will float your boat WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY LINDSEY MAJOR

estled at the fork between the Y and North Shore roads near Lake Whatcom sits The Fork at Agate Bay restaurant. New owners David Kas and Paul Lawrence bought the place last June. Built in 1946, the building’s original hardwood floors have been beautifully preserved along with the built-in fridges from when the building served as a grocery store. The atmosphere is a relaxed but stylish boat-house chic. Rowing decor fills the space in a tasteful way. The pièce de resistance hangs from the ceiling: a 62-foot racing shell from the 1960s, donated by perennial national champion Western Washington University’s rowing team. Twinkling lights are strung throughout the dining room and flow into the bar area to create an elegant ambiance. Chef Nora Kas, David’s wife, oversees the menu, which rotates every season (look for the new spring menu at the end of March). The two have an extensive restaurant history — Nora has been a personal chef and David is a 30-year mixologist — and their experience shows. Nora’s work in the kitchen is exquisite. For starters, try my favorite, the Arancine ($11) — a fried sphere of risotto, sausage, and 108 BellinghamAlive.com

Parmesan cheese served with a red pepper remoulade — from the small plates menu. For an entree, go for the Bouillabaisse ($32). It’s Nora’s favorite, and includes fresh, local white finfish; Penn Cove mussels; clams from Taylor Shellfish Farms in Bow; and gulf prawns in a saffron-tomato broth. (David, with a sly grin, said the dish was one of the reasons he married her.) For dessert, indulge in the Tiramisu ($8), served in a decorative jar garnished with mint sprigs and fresh raspberries. Look for David, a master mixologist, behind the bar. All bitters are house-made for each specific drink. Garnishes are fresh and local, from in-house dehydrated orange peels to Washington-grown Bada Bing cherries to fresh Sicilian olives. Try the refreshing Geneva Sour ($12), made with white rum, fresh-pressed lemon, amaretto & Chambord, and house orange bitters. If you’re in the mood for something stronger, order The Fork Old Fashioned ($12), made with Sazerac rye, Manderine Napoleon, house Old Fashioned mix, and house Old Fashioned bitters, garnished with none other than a tiny fork piercing a Bada Bing cherry. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer, an upscale meal, dessert to nibble on, or a classy drink, The Fork at Agate Bay is a must-go. Breakfast and lunch are served on weekends, dinner only on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays beginning at 4 p.m. Happy hour is daily, in the bar only, from 4–6 p.m. The restaurant is closed Mondays and Tuesdays.  2530 North Shore Rd., Bellingham 360.733.1126 | theforkatagatebay.com

INN AT LANGLEY American 401 First St., Langley 360.221.3033, innatlangley.com There’s really no place like the Inn at Langley in our area. As a guest, you’re taken on a mouth-watering culinary journey through a 12-course tasting menu. Not only is it a delight for the taste buds, but there are surprises almost in each course, whether it’s the presentation or the accoutrement. On the night we were there, the menu included some exquisite dishes: whipped eggs, caviar and chips, and salmon rillette, served on a plexiglass surface with an iPad underneath that rotated through pictures of local scenery. The whipped eggs, caviar and chips were a curious combination of satin and crunchy, with flavors of light cream, oil and salt. When the beef rib, mustard and citrus pickle were served, each server blew out what we assumed was just a candle, but was actually warmed cumin oil, and poured the oil over the dish. Buttery, rich meat melted on my tongue, just as the cumin oil had melted over the ribs. At $160 per person (prix fixe, additional charge for wine pairing) you’ll enjoy more than just a dinner. It’s an experience. $ $ $ $ PRIMA BISTRO French

GREAT TASTES

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

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 offer 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. TOBY’S TAVERN Seafood 8 NW Front St., Coupeville 360.678.4222, tobysuds.com Overlooking the scenic Penn Cove in the center of old Coupeville, Toby’s Tavern offers diners a dive bar ambience with a delicious menu of seafood favorites. Their famous bowls of Penn Cove mussels — served by the pound! — come fresh from the adjacent cove, and keep shellfish connoisseurs clamoring for a regular fix. Steamed and soaked in a scrumptious mix of simple seasonings, wine, and juices, Toby’s robust offering of mussels makes for a memorable visit. Fish and chips arrive hot, deliciously flaky, and generous in size, with sides of sweet coleslaw and fries deserving mention for their merit. For those waiting among the weekend crowd of regulars, a giant chocolaty brownie will drive your mind insane, and keep your appetite satisfied before the main course earns its way into the dining room.

2 3 4

At Bellingham’s Mount Bakery Café (downtown and in Fairhaven), nothing beats the eggs Benedict. Served over a fluffy Belgian waffle with the best from-scratch hollandaise that will ever touch your taste buds, any of the restaurant’s six benny variations will have you coming back for more. Don’t miss the biscuits and gravy at downtown Bellingham’s newest addition The Wild Oat Bakery & Cafe. For vegans and veggies who’ve been missing this comfort food, the creamy mushroom gravy might just be better than the original. Add the beer cheese pretzel at Mount Vernon’s 192 Brewing Company to the list of best taproom bites. The fresh pretzel is fluffy and thick and served alongside a vat of gooey, baked beer cheese made from scratch via the brewery’s Sundown Amber Rye. The gooey melted cheddar quesadilla at Lopez Island’s Vortex Juice Bar & Cafe is nestled between crisp two-corn tortillas and completed by a house-made chili vegetable sauce. Try any variation of vegan-friendly addons and don’t miss the raw juices and refreshing smoothies.

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If you’re struggling to find authentic Mexican food this far north, you may have to go off the beaten track. El Tapatio Food Truck is a Ferndale favorite, often found parked on Portal Way or W. Bakerview Road. Try the tender, juicy al pastor tacos that feature hints of pineapple. At the renowned Burnt Ends in Lynden, you can’t go wrong with the burnt ends. The flavorful beef is juicy and tender and worth every penny. Partner it with delicious fresh coleslaw for the full experience. The pan-seared duck at D’Anna’s Cafe Italiano in downtown Bellingham is masterfully crisp with an inside so tender it melts in your mouth. The cherry balsamic glaze is sweet enough to cut through the typically gamey taste. It is served beside a simple linguini, the perfect partner for this vibrant dish. A Bellingham hidden gem is Old Town Cafe’s Funky Special — also known as the best grilled cheese sandwich you’ll ever have. Try the winning combo of avocado, sprouts, tomato and cheddar cheese on sourdough for best results. — Zoe Deal

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AGENDA

Featured Events · Listings · The Scene · Final Word

Runnin’ O’ the Green Put Some Spring in Your Step on Saint Paddy’s Day MARCH 16, 10 A.M.

C © Jon Brunk

elebrate Saint Patrick’s Day with style, pomp, and energy at Bellingham’s 5K (3.1 mile) and 8K (5 mile) run/walk. This growing annual event will begin at Boundary Bay Brewery, continue down secured public roads into Fairhaven and back downtown via the scenic Interurban Trail. The race features 32 divisions and the top three male and female participants in each will receive engraved glass trophies. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 on race day. Tickets for kids 12 and under are $5; kids in strollers can participate for free. Dogs and ear buds are not allowed during the race.  Boundary Bay Brewery 1107 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.778.7000 | cob.org

AGENDA Events

CASINOS SUGAR RAY MARCH 1, 8 P.M.

The pop band known for its song “Fly” journeys to the Northwest from Newport Beach, California for a rockin’ night. Described as “tongue-in-cheek,” Sugar Ray’s most popular album “14:59” was the band’s reply to critics saying it was a one-hit wonder, the title implying that its 15 minutes of fame weren’t over. Silver Reef Casino 4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale 866.383.0777, silverreefcasino.com AMERICA MARCH 8, 8 P.M.

America, a British-American band in the nostalgia concert circuit, will make its way to Tulalip for a night of soft, folk rock. Famous for megahits “A Horse with No Name” in 1971 and “Sister Golden Hair” in 1975, the band continues to tour and record with two original members Gerry Beckley and Dewey Bunnell. Tulalip Resort Casino 10200 Quil Ceda Blvd., Tulalip 888.272.1111, tulalipresortcasino.com RUBEN STUDDARD MARCH 8–9, 8 P.M.

Winner of the second season of “American Idol,” Grammy Awardnominated artist Ruben Studdard will dazzle with his velvety tones. The R&B, pop, and gospel singer has been hailed as the next Luther Vandross and fans can reminisce as Studdard sings Vandross’ hits like “Superstar” and “A House is Not a Home.” The Skagit Casino Resort 5984 Darrk Ln., Bow 877.275.2448, theskagit.com NIGHT RANGER MARCH 22, 8 P.M.

Take a trip down memory lane with 1980s American Rock band Night Ranger, known for “Sister Christian” which peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in June 1984. This 21+ event will be held in Tulalip’s intimate Orca Ballroom. Tulalip Resort Casino 10200 Quil Ceda Blvd., Tulalip 888.272.1111, tulalipresortcasino.com 112

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CLASSICAL CELEBRATING AMERICAN WOMEN MARCH 2, 7:30 P.M.

Bellingham’s own soprano, Sherrie Kahn, is featured in this night of talented women musicians to kick off Women’s History Month. Highlighting the works of 20th and 21st century American women composers for chamber ensemble, some of Bellingham’s best female musicians will perform rarely-heard chamber music. First Congregational Church of Bellingham 2401 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.303.4014 bellinghamchambermusic.org WESTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY ORCHESTRAS MARCH 11, 7:30 P.M.

Western Washington University’s String Sinfonia and Symphony Orchestra team up to present music from four legendary composers. The Sinfonia will kick off the evening with music from Henry Purcell’s 1692 opera “The Fairy Queen,” followed by George Walker’s alluring “Lyric” for strings, before finishing with Judd Greenstein. After intermission, the Orchestra will pay tribute to Igor Stravinsky’s exemplary 1911 ballet “Petrushka.” WWU Performing Arts Center 516 High St., Bellingham 360.650.6146, wwu.edu

ÍMAR MARCH 19, 7 P.M.

Blending the cultures of Ireland, Scotland, and the Isle of Man, fivepiece Ímar harkens back to a time when all three places shared the Gaelic language. In 2016, the band opened for the Cambridge Folk Festival before headlining at Belgium’s Dranouter Festival a week later. Sylvia Center for the Arts 205 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.305.3524, sylviacenterforthearts.org

CONCERTS CHIDDY BANG AT WILD BUFFALO MARCH 1, 9 P.M.

Well-known hip-hop recording artist, Chidera Anamege, recognized by his stage name “Chiddy Bang” will grace the Wild Buffalo stage for one night only. He released his first EP “The Preview” in October of 2010, and has released another EP and a studio-length album since. Anamege is known for creating music that is a synonymous blend of alternative and hip-hop. Wild Buffalo House of Music 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net INTERNATIONAL GUITAR NIGHT MARCH 2, 8 P.M.

For its 19th annual tour, International Guitar Night has assembled a cast of talented artists from around the world.

Oh Shiitake! Splitboard Festival

The night is hosted by Italian showman Luca Stricagnoli, who will perform alongside gypsy jazz prodigy Antoine Boyer, French Flamenco guitarist Samuelito, and Turkish fretless guitarist Cenk Erdogan.

The health-promoting properties of shiitakes, combined with their meaty, smoky flavor make it an easy decision to add more mushrooms to your meals! Get the recipe for Creamy Herbed Polenta with Sautéed Shitakes at nwfresh.haggen.com

Lincoln Theatre 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon 360.336.8955, lincolntheatre.org MARC REBILLET MARCH 8, 9 P.M.

Jack-of-all-trades and YouTube sensation Marc “Loop Daddy” Rebillet will stop by Kombucha Town in downtown Bellingham while on break from a world tour. He’s an artist, an actor, a musician, and comic known for his entrancing performances. His jaw-dropping act will blow you away. Culture Cafe at Kombucha Town 210 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham 360.746.6558, kombuchatown.com

SHIITAKE, CHANTERELLES, ENOKI—CHECK OUT OUR SELECTION OF GOURMET MUSHROOMS

THE MOUNT BAKER SPLITBOARD FESTIVAL MARCH 15–17, ALL DAY

Meet fellow splitboarders on a weekend touring the Mount Baker wilderness for the 10th Annual Baker Splitfest. This event includes free splitboard demos, clinics, avalanche discussions and a raffle. Over the years, this festival has raised more than $28,000 for the Northwest Avalanche Center. Chair 9 Woodstone Pizza & Bar 10459 Mount Baker Hwy., Glacier 360.599.2511, splitfest.com

WANT YOUR EVENT POSTED? Events are posted on a first-come first-serve basis. Submissions must be received four weeks prior to the event with all the necessary information. Please submit event name, dates, times, short 40-word description, cover charge or ticket price, event venue including street address, a phone number, and a website. Any event from Seattle to Vancouver will be considered with priority placed on listings from Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan counties. Bellingham Alive is not responsible for errors in submissions. Please email all submissions to events@bellinghamalive.com.

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AGENDA Events

Spamalot

SHAKEY GRAVES MARCH 19, 9 P.M.

Americana musician Shakey Graves is straight out of Austin, Texas touring his newest album, “Can’t Wake Up.” The actor-turned musician is on his sixth release, which is a smooth blend of blues, folk, and rock-and-roll. Wild Buffalo House of Music 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL MARCH 21, 7:30 P.M.

This Austin-based band founded by Ray Benson 47 years ago returns with a new look and sound in 2019. The relatively unknown country group has received nine Grammy awards and has had 20 singles top the Billboard country charts. Collaborators on its 2015 album release include Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, and George Strait. Now touring as an eight-piece band, its energy will be sure to sweep you off your feet. Lincoln Theatre 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon 360.336.8955, lincolntheatre.org DON FELDER MARCH 22, 7:30 P.M.

Spend the evening with Don Felder, a long time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member and former guitarist of the Eagles. A singer, songwriter,

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and producer, this sensation co-wrote legendary hit “Hotel California” among other well-known songs. Don’t miss the chance to meet this icon in the flesh. Mount Baker Theatre 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com MAÑALAC PIANO DUO MARCH 23, 7:30 P.M.

Two hands can go only so far. Piano duo Gabriel and Rebecca Manalac will bring an extra element of energy and excitement to the keys, performing in tandem on one instrument. They’ll perform a selection of music that showcases the range of expression a piano can convey with an extra set of hands. Jansen Art Center 321 Front St., Lynden 360.354.3600, jansenartcenter.org THE HUNTS MARCH 30, 8 P.M.

This family band comes to Mount Baker Theatre from Chesapeake Virginia. All seven siblings, whose ages range from 17 to 26, will take the stage with dreamy harmony-laced alt-folk tunes. Get ready to experience a blend of vocals, violin, mandolin, piano, ukulele, banjo, and drums at this heartwarming event. Mount Baker Theatre 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

THEATRE DEATH BY DESIGN MARCH 2–3, TIMES VARY

The classic murder mystery gets a fiery twist in the play “Death By Design.” This comedic thriller combines the work of Agatha Christie and Noel Coward in a two-hour display of wit, charm, and mystery. Watch as a gaggle of characters investigate an unexpected murder, set in an English country manor in 1932. Gubelman Theater 100 2nd St., Friday Harbor 360.378.3210, sjctheatre.org THE STORYTELLER’S SEASONAL MARCH 6, 6:30 P.M.

This quarterly event features the work of local filmmakers, students, and whoever dares to create a movie clip that conforms to the theme of the quarter. The Pickford shows up to an hour of three-minute shorts, which compete with an audience-vote to be crowned winner. This quarter’s theme is “crime” and the designated prop is “toenail.” Pickford Film Center 1318 Bay St., Bellingham 360.738.0735, pickfordfilmcenter.org SPAMALOT MARCH 10, 7 P.M.

If you’ve seen and loved the classic film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” this

is the musical for you. “Lovingly ripped off” from the original, the play follows the journey of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table. It involves killer rabbits, flying cows, and plenty of singing and dancing. Mount Baker Theatre 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com SILENT SKY MARCH 29–APRIL 14, TIMES VARY

Set in the early 1990s, “Silent Sky” follows the true story of American astronomer Henrietta Leavitt. Leavitt worked as a “computer,” charting stars for a famous male astronomer who gave little credit to his female employees. The performance will explore trials women scientists faced to earn recognition for their revolutionary work in the late 20th century. Bellingham Theatre Guild 1600 H St., Bellingham 360.733.1811 bellinghamtheatreguild.com

HEALTH AND WELLNESS PINE RIDGE LOOP HIKE FOR SENIORS AND ADULTS

DOE BAY YOGA RETREAT MARCH 22–24, TIMES VARY

Enjoy a weekend retreat of yoga practices like Asana, Pranayama, meditation, Mantra, Nidra, and sound baths, among others. Throughout the retreat, hosted at the Doe Bay Resort and Retreat, singer Cha Wilde will perform her own renditions of well-known chants as well as original music. In addition to structured yoga events, this retreat offers the opportunity to soak in the hot springs, warm yourself in the sauna, receive a massage, or explore the trails nearby and fully embrace what Orcas Island has to offer.

Upcoming Events at MBT

Formerly of The Eagles Sponsor

FRI MAR 22 7:30PM

Doe Bay Resort and Retreat 107 Doe Bay Rd., Olga wholeyogalife.com HYPERTUFA MAKE AND TAKE MARCH 23, 9 A.M.

A century old-pottery item, hypertufa are lightweight concrete planters perfect for holding a variety of greenery because of their porous material. Instructor Kim Swanson will teach students the art of creating these planters in a workshop. Garden Spot Nursery 900 Alabama St., Bellingham 360.676.5480, garden-spot.com

Sponsor

Sun Mar 24 3:00PM

the hunts

MARCH 1, 10 A.M.

This easy 1.25-mile hike along wellgroomed, level trails takes you off the beaten path to a hidden meadow. Make your way through second-growth mixed forests to serene pond views. Host Friends of the Forest is an organization dedicated to education and community building through nature. Senior and adult hikes are offered once per month with the goal of enriching the forest experience through understanding and education.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Base of Mount Erie at Ray Auld Drive 360.293.3725, friendsoftheacfl.org

Bellingham Golf & Country Club 3729 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.733.2080, whatcomhumane.org

BAKER BEACON RALLY MARCH 9, TIME TBA

Don’t forget to bring your shovel to this free educational event. Local avalanche professionals will present on rescue skills, demonstrating basic search techniques at practice stations using beacons, shovels, and probes. This community event is open to anyone, regardless of skill or familiarity with the backcountry. Mount Baker Ski Area Mount Baker Hwy., Deming 360.734.6771, mtbaker.us

WOOF AND WHISKERS AWARD LUNCHEON MARCH 8, NOON

Celebrate individuals and businesses who have done great work for the animal community at this annual community event. While the vegetarian luncheon is free, reservations are required. Honorees include Whatcom Pet Care Network, Healthy Pet, and Mud Bay.

Sponsor

SAT MAR 30 8PM

The Mikado New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players

SUN APR 14 3 PM

GUYS AND GUTS MARCH 9, 9 A.M.

Guys and Guts is a great opportunity for middle school-age boys to get a glance into the world of nursing. The event is a one-day workshop where students can view a real skeleton and draw fake blood from a prosthetic arm, among other learning opportunities. Must register online beforehand.

Sponsor

Lois & Bob Nicholl

Season Sponsor

Health Professions Education Center 475 Stuart Rd., Bellingham 360.383.3000, whatcom.edu

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AGENDA Top Picks

MARCH MARCH

MARCH

Lúnasa, Traditional Irish Music Group Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon lincolntheatre.org

Bellingham St. Patrick’s Day Parade Cornwall Avenue, Bellingham stpatsbham.com

MARCH

Fail Better: Beckett Moves UMO — Physical Theater Performance McIntyre Hall, Mount Vernon mcintyrehall.org

Ladies of Laughter: Funny and Fabulous Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham mountbakertheatre.com

MARCH

14 – 16

Lynden Craft & Antique Show NW Washington Fair & Event Center, Lynden lyndencraftantiqueshow.ocom

MARCH

Wings Over Water NW Birding Festival Blaine Middle School, Blaine wingsoverwaterbirdingfestival.com

15 – 17 MARCH

Paint and Wine: Inspired by Bonnard Jansen Art Center, Lynden jansenartcenter.org

21 MARCH

Offshore Cruising Seminar Marine Technology Center, Anacortes cruiserscollege.org

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23 – 24

SMALL FARM EXPO MARCH 9, 9 A.M.

Bring the whole family to enjoy featured indoor exhibits from local vendors and manufacturers displaying new agriculture technology, products and services. Meet with local experts to get questions answered and stay for soil and compost demonstrations. The weekend will also offer seminars and demonstrations, including keynote speaker Rebecca Thistlethwaite, farmer and author of two books on livestock farming.

Come Flip Flop the night away

Northwest Washington Fair and Event Center 1775 Front St., Lynden 360.526.2381, whatcomcd.org

VISUAL ARTS

Anacortes Port Transit Shed

THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM THROUGH MARCH 31

Whatcom Museum presents “The Elephant in the Room: The Allure of Ivory and its Tragic Legacy,” an exhibit that tells the story of ivory’s historical uses and the consequences of ivory fascination. Elephants take center stage at the exhibit with coverage on elephant communication and the effects of ivory hunting on these gentle giants.

a tribute to Jimmy Buffett

Old City Hall 121 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.778.8930, whatcommuseum.org ARTISTS’ REGISTRY SHOW THROUGH MARCH 25

The 2019 Artists’ Registry Show in Friday Harbor will feature art in a variety of mediums including textiles, photography, sculptures, jewelry and more. The work of more than 70 artists will be available for your viewing pleasure. San Juan Islands Museum of Art 540 Spring St., Friday Harbor 360.370.5050, sjima.org WASHINGTON REMEMBERS WWII: THEIR SACRIFICE. OUR FREEDOM THROUGH APRIL 14

This extensive exhibit will share the personal, emotional stories of the people who fought on the battle and home fronts during the second world war. Along with WWII artifacts, historic documents, and photographs, Whatcom Museum will share first-hand accounts of the war. Old City Hall 121 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.778.8930, whatcommuseum.org March 2019 117

AGENDA Events

Emerald City Comic Con

OUT OF TOWN SEATTLE

VANCOUVER

ST. PATRICK’S DAY DASH

LYNYRD SKYNYRD

MARCH 17, 8 A.M.

MARCH 15, 7:30 P.M.

Thousands of green-clad joggers will take to the streets of downtown Seattle for the 35th annual St. Patrick’s Day Dash. The celebratory 5K welcomes all ages, though kids 10 and under can choose to run the “leprechaun lap,” a 1K route. Start the holiday early with your first green beer of the day at the St. Patrick’s Day beer garden, located near the finish line.

Say goodbye to the Southern rock band most famous for “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Free Bird” as they continue their farewell tour through Canada. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006, Skynyrd has sold 28 million records in the U.S. The Randy Bachman Band is the supporting act.

Mercer St., Downtown Seattle stpatsdash.com

Abbotsford Centre 33800 King Rd., Abbotsford 604.743.5000, abbotsfordcentre.ca

EMERALD CITY COMIC CON

BECOMING: AN INTIMATE CONVERSATION WITH MICHELLE OBAMA

MARCH 14–17, TIMES VARY

MARCH 21, 8 P.M.

Get your geek on at one of the largest comic and pop culture shows in the Pacific Northwest. The event will feature tons of cool panels, screenings, and guests including the “Stranger Things” kids and “Game of Thrones” cast and crew. Patrons can also apply to be in the Cosplay contest and dress up as their favorite pop culture character to compete for more than $5,000 in prizes.

Michelle Obama is touring the world to promote her deeply reflective memoir, “Becoming,” a work that pulls readers into Michelle’s adolescence and the places and experiences that shaped her. Special celebrity guests have popped up along her tour, including Oprah, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Reese Witherspoon, all adding to the celebratory and empowering nature of this book tour.

Washington State Convention Center 705 Pike St., Seattle 203.840.5644, emeraldcitycomiccon.com

Rogers Arena 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver 604.899.7400, becomingmichelleobama.com

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The Scene

AGENDA

MUSIC & MEMORIES DINNER AND AUCTION A fundraiser to help adults with dementia and Alzheimer’s drew 150 attendees at the 7th annual Music and Memories Benefit January 19 at Swinomish Casino & Lodge in Anacortes. The dinner and auction, along with jazz by Velvet Express, resulted in donations totaling $75,000 to maintain programs at The Bradford House and The Gentry House, two affiliates of the Skagit Adult Day Program. The organization is now working hard to raise money for a May 1 opening in Bellingham’s Rutledge House at The Firs off Lakeway Drive, where it will offer similar support to 40 or 50 adults a day. To donate, see skagitadultdayprogram.org. — Zoe Deal Photos © Rebecca Murray

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NOTES Final Word

She Said, ‘She Shed’ Loretta Reveals the Female ‘Deep State’ Conspiracy Behind Man Caves and Man Points WRITTEN BY LORETTA W. CLEESE (AKA KEN KARLBERG)

en — when will they learn? They are such simple creatures. Flash some cleavage, cook a few meals, authorize a round of golf or two, and they are ours. Women, not men, are masters of the universe. If you don’t believe me, men, there’s bar soap in the shower. Knock yourselves out. The battle for gender dominance often starts with the turf war over space in the master bedroom closet. What men don’t realize is the entire closet is ours. All closets, for that matter. It’s a female birthright. You get penises. We get closets. I am not going to apologize for women. We got the better end of the deal, OK? Deal with it! We may grant you a temporary license to use a portion, perhaps a 3' × 3' cubby in the corner. Don’t confuse our grant, however, with philanthropy or ownership. At best, you have a “for the life of the marriage” leasehold interest. And don’t get too comfy with the idea — your cubby is revocable at will when we run out of space for shoes. Be grateful while it lasts and re-read the gender “Bill of Rights” fine print: “What’s ours is ours, what’s yours is ours,” proof yet again that God is female. Negotiations for man caves may appear more promising. Don’t be deceived. I would recommend that you carefully study the gender point system, but you can’t study what isn’t in print. Just capitulate to the higher power, the female “deep state,” and put your “boys” in the hands of the women who stilled the waters. During our secret society meetings, we refer to this specific negotiation as “man-milking.” For maximum leverage, the negotiations start simply enough by removing the bar soap from the shower, and from there we transform into faux NIMBYs. The milking process has officially begun. Men, here’s some unsolicited advice — never want a man cave so badly that you negotiate from your knees. We understand weakness. There’s a reason why there’s no such expression as “Are you happy to see me or is that a closet in your pocket?” Banana equals female power. In fact, women have a term for this phase of negotiations, too, ironically called a man cave, but as in “did your man cave?” Angels, we are not. We play for keeps. We may roll our eyes, grit our teeth, and say a man cave is a blight on the family home. But we are lying, manipulative closet owners. We actually want you to have your 120 BellinghamAlive.com

scratch-and-spit space. Just when you think you have us by the closets, however, be most careful. If we help you decorate and Bullwinkle finds his way onto one of your man cave walls, you need to ask yourself “Why?” The answer — control. You’ve just been out-negotiated; the rest of the house is now ours, forever. If we want a padded toilet seat, we own you. We own the house. Let that be a painful lesson for you men. Penises have consequences. The “tail wagging the dog” analogy comes immediately to mind. And done right, man-milking is worth more than just the house. It is worth thousands of women points for future use, or as the female “deep state” calls it, “man math.” Thankfully, “man math” was poorly understood by men — until now. Let me explain. For example, lease payments for the cubby and man cave are to be paid in “man points” originally awarded, again at our discretion, for doing “man things” around the house, or sometimes simply for our humor and your embarrassment. For example, if we ask you to “bark like a dog, monkey woman,” that’s worth one “man point,” but only if you sell it like Bill Murray in “Caddyshack.” Or if we send you to Haggen for feminine hygiene products, that’s worth three “man points.” (BTW, the six-pack of beer that you buy doesn’t fool anyone. Everyone knows you were sent for feminine hygiene products.) I suggest that you spend them quickly and wisely, men, because unlike woman points, which never expire, man points expire after thirty minutes. And don’t expect one man point to equal one woman point. It doesn’t. “Woman points” are like the U.S. dollar; “man points” are like the Canadian loonie. There’s a conversion rate that floats to our advantage, and you guessed it — at our discretion. And there’s an inflation rate, too, similar to the male predilection for over-stating the size of their manhood. The inflation rate is typically 2 to 1 on Friday evenings, and upon full disclosure, 4 to 1 on weekends. All of which brings me to my Valentine’s Day present from my new man friend. It’s a “she shed” for the backyard, where I can keep my gardening tools. How did that happen, you ask? Because I played the “man card.” “Man caves are sexist and discriminatory,” I said, while breaking all cleavage etiquette protocols. “Why don’t women get women caves?” Ah, the female “deep state” is alive and well. 

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