Bellingham Alive | October | 2020

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WHO ARE WE? Phillips 66 Ferndale Refinery

We are the operators, boilermakers, pipefitters, instrument & analyzer technicians, crane operators, engineers, planners, schedulers, safety leaders, and supervisors that work together to make products people use every day - gasoline for people to get to work, aviation fuel to carry travelers, lubricants to keep equipment running smoothly, and plastics for products used in homes, hospitals and businesses.

Every day, over 275 employees at Ferndale Refinery work safely, responsibly and with environmental care to process, transport and market fuels and energy products. Our fuels and products are an essential part of connecting, feeding, clothing and caring for the world's growing population.

As a global energy provider, our employees and facilities are fundamentally connected to the communities we share. We have been part of Whatcom County for 66 years and have lived our deeply held values of safety, honor and commitment. We aim to be trusted partners and assume responsibility for the strength and sustainability of the communities where we operate. Phillips 66 provides high-quality jobs, social impact investments and the compassion, knowledge and hard work of our employee volunteers.

Advanced technology and rapidly changing energy needs are accelerating our efforts to deliver innovative energy solutions. Through operational efficiency and industry-leading research, we challenge ourselves to improve access to energy, sustain communities and honor the ongoing need to protect nature and our environment.

We believe our economic strength and environmental stewardship serve as a road map for our company's future and provide long-term value for all our stakeholders. We operate with an enduring purpose to provide energy and improve lives.

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THANK YOU FOR VOTING US “BEST CASINO” TWO YEARS IN A ROW!

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Contents

We can all agree that 2020 has been a wild ride. However, in these challenging times, our community has come together like never before. The local love was extra apparent in this year’s Best of the Northwest competition, which saw more than 850,000 individual votes. Compare that to 617,000 votes last year, and you can see that you, our readers, showed up like never before.

For the past 10 years we’ve delivered our Best of the Northwest winners in the same way — a straightforward list, with a small write-up about each gold winner.

This year, to spice things up, we’ve included a slew of editor’s picks alongside our usual readers’ choice awards. These write-ups shine a light on attractions that don’t easily fall into a vote-worthy category but nevertheless make our area unique — like “Creepiest Restaurant Bathroom” and “Best Walks to Get Your 10,000 Steps.” Our hope is that, in addition to celebrating this year’s winners, you’ll also discover something new and exciting to love about the North Sound.

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52

Pacific Rim Orthopaedic Surgeons We are the Better, Quicker, Cheaper orthopaedic option in Bellingham.

Quicker: did you know that we are scheduling most patients within 7–10 days?

We pride ourselves on being available to our patients. We can often schedule new and returning patients within 7–10 days. Sooner, if the need is more urgent.

Dr. Paul Haeder Joining September 2020 • Fellowship in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine – aims to get his patients back to pre-injury performance levels.

• Specializes in advanced arthroscopic techniques of the knee, hip and shoulder.

• Joint replacements: performs shoulder, knee and anterior approach hip replacements.

• General Orthopaedics – treats nearly all other orthopaedic conditions.

• Inpatient and outpatient surgery privileges.

Dr. Jason Dahl • Fellowship in Hand Surgery • Upper extremity specialist – all “fingertip to elbow” concerns, elbow joint replacements, etc.

• Inpatient and outpatient surgery privileges.

Cheaper? We are independent and locally owned.

As your locally owned, independent orthopaedic practice in town, we have more direct control over our costs and expenses. That translates into more control over the costs that are allocated down the line to our patients.

Dr. Michael Thorpe Retiring December 2020

Better! More options and more 5-Star reviews.

• General Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine specialist: treats nearly all orthopaedic conditions.

One example of how we are better is that we offer more options — like outpatient joint replacement.

This is a great joint replacement alternative for some patients: they receive personalized one-on-one care at the surgery center (including your own room and personal nurse); and depending on your insurance, it can be much less expensive than having inpatient joint replacement surgery.

And check out our Google reviews! We have over 350 total reviews with an average rating of 4.9 stars!

• Joint Replacements – specializes in Outpatient Totals and Partials

• WWU Team Physician.

• Outpatient surgery specialist and privileges.

Dr. Michael Gannon • General Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine specialist: treats nearly all orthopaedic conditions.

• Joint Replacements: Knees and Hips.

• Inpatient and outpatient surgery privileges.

Dr. Christopher Van Hofwegen • Fellowship in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine • Sports Medicine specialist, Shoulder specialist, Hip Labrum repair specialist.

Pacific Rim Orthopaedic Surgeons Located in the Northwest Medical Center building 2979 Squalicum Parkway #203, Bellingham 360.733.7670 | pacificrimorthopedic.com Facebook @pacificrimorthopedic

• General Orthopaedics – also treats nearly all orthopaedic conditions, including Joint Replacements.

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections • Bellingham Bells, Bellingham Blazers, Bellingham United Team Physician.

• Inpatient and outpatient surgery privileges.

Physician Assistants: Frazier Coe, PA-C, and Alex Tabayoyon, PA-C

OCTOBER 2020 LIFE 22

Out and About Fall Farm Fun

24

Out and About The Bigfoot Adventures

25

Book Notes Reviews & Podcasts

44

Local Find BRAY

45

Special Advertising Shop Local

129 Local Find

Aqui Esta Tile and Stone 130 Five Faves Antique Stores 132 Necessities Candles

TASTE

28

Spotlight Gretchen Leggitt

Photos: Spotlight courtesy of Gretchen Leggitt, Savvy Shopper by Wild Grass Photography, Featured Home by Nelson Treehouse

and Supply, Review by Emily Porter

46

Savvy Shopper Adored Boutique 48

Necessities Sweaters

FEATURE 29

Apps We Love

30 Heard Around the Sound

Bellingham Alive Goes International Trick or Treat…From Six Feet Lighthouse Mission

Temporary Home Monthly Giveaway Islands Receive Electric Buses 34

Out and About Cool Weather Hikes

36

Game Changer Western Solar

STYLE 42

Local Find Pac Nor Westy

43

Makeup Q & A

52

Best of the Northwest

HOME

136

Review Locus 138 Local Find

Barnyard Coffee Roasters 140 Recipe Chocolate Hazelnut Porridge 141

Dining Guide

142 Community Fairhaven Mill 118

Featured Home Farmhouse with a Twist

122 Remodel

Anything Is Possible 124 Home Decorating

White Pumpkins

145 Local Cookbooks 146 8 Great Tastes 150 Sip Dessert Wines

NOTES 10 Online Exclusive

Homemade Oktoberfest Pretzels

126

Featured Home Treehouse Getaway

12

Publisher’s Letter

14

Contributors

17

Letters to the Editor

18

Meet the Team

152 Lasting Image

October 2020 9

Notes What’s Online

Online Exclusive

Photo by Katheryn Moran Photography

INSTAGRAM

TIPS & TRICKS FOR PERFECT AT-HOME PRETZELS

“Winning a gift card to a favorite local business, or to a business you haven’t been to before is exciting and helps people remember that our community is full of amazing locally owned businesses.” ...

Sustainable Connections is hosting their second annual July rock hunt.

Read more about it in the full article

by Anelyse Morris, photos courtesy of Sustainable Connections. Click the link in our bio! @anelysem @sustainableconnections

Oktoberfest festivities may have been cancelled this year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate at home. For this month’s web exclusive, local baker Stephanie Hoogestraat offers some tips and tricks for making the tastiest homemade pretzels, along with links to recipes for Kerrygold’s Best-Ever Beer Cheese Sauce and pretzels from King Arthur Flour. Grab a pint, put on your lederhosen, and celebrate Bavarian-style from your own kitchen. Learn more at bellinghamalive.com.

EVENTS CALENDAR Be sure to check out our events calendar. If 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.

Imagine living next to a dinosaur.

Local driftwood artist Joe Treat gets to live this reality every day. After moving to Bow around five years ago, Treat picked up woodworking as a way to keep busy after retirement.

In-Cider’s Guide Yeshe Long Temple Local Menus Guud Bowls

BE IN THE KNOW Sign up for our free entertainment e-newsletter to get the latest on upcoming events and more! bellinghamalive.com

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SEPTEMBER 2020 DISPLAY UNTIL SEPTEMBER 30 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

...

“Since that time, I have made 52 sculptures,” Treat says. Among them are an elephant, a horse, an alligator, and other dinosaurs. Read more about his creations, in the full article by Jack Taylor, photos by Emily Porter. Click the link in our bio. @jackthebookslasher

Viking Food

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vikingfood.delivery 360.922.0819 Mon–Thurs: 8am to 11pm Friday: 8am to 11:55pm Saturday 10am to 11:55pm Sunday 10am to 11pm

Notes Publisher’s Letter

Fall Is in the Air

I

T’S HARD TO BELIEVE WE ARE ALREADY INTO FALL.

Leaves are falling, and I can feel the brisk air in the morning as I walk our 14-year-old black lab, Sadie. Is it just me, or doesn’t it feel like summer just started? I hope this is not a glimpse of years to come — my vitamin B bottle is already empty.

As we wrap up this issue, I am looking through the Best of the Northwest winners. In our 11th year of the contest, we again broke the previous year’s record for community participation — this year by more than 20,000 voters! During this pandemic, it has been so heartening to see the community coming together to support our local businesses; this year’s contest turnout is another great example of that.

This year, 67,555 of you came out and voted for a total of 864,231 individual votes in 119 categories! This warms my heart so much, as businesses need our support — both in spirit and in actual expenditures — more than ever. Please don’t forget to visit your local restaurants and retailers. It’s vital if we want to maintain our options and ensure that our cities thrive as we come out of the pandemic.

You will find the results of this year’s Reader’s Choice Awards starting on p.52. We’ve also added a new dimension this year: “Editor’s Picks.” These are fun choices that don’t otherwise fit into an actual voting category. We hope you enjoy them as much as we enjoyed putting them together.

As we here at Bellingham Alive continue to find creative ways to help our community, we are taking a new twist on our necessities page in Style. Going forward, each necessities page will focus on a different area or city. In this issue, all the fashions found on p.48 and 50 are sourced from downtown Bellingham. Our next issue will highlight a new area and its retailers. Make sure to support these areas, as well as the many businesses that advertise within our pages. They all need our support as we move into the holiday season.

Yes, I said it. The holiday season is right around the corner. The next issue of Bellingham Alive will be a dual “Holiday” issue for November and December. We’ll offer a local guide to holiday shopping as well as a dessert cookbook featuring recipes from local chefs and bakers.

Trust me, just looking at the photos will make you salivate.

Get ready to bring out the KitchenAid and whip up some amazing treats for friends and family.

Thank you again for your ongoing support of Bellingham Alive and its advertisers. We could not do this without you.

Smiles,

Lisa Karlberg President | Publisher

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Fall’s Best Skin Transformation Powerhouses Get the inside scoop on Halo™ Pro, Forever Young BBL™ and Plasma Pen

An interview with Dr. Tianna Tsitsis, MD Noted skin rejuvenation expert and founder of RejuvenationMD, the premier aesthetic and wellness center in the North Sound.

We sat down with Dr. Tsitsis to learn about some of the most advanced tools health to prevent, correct and sustain healthy, glowing skin on the face and body for both women and men. Dr. Tsitsis says “My best advice is to start early to prevent future problems but if you’re at the point of needing correction, I have great news for you too. With today’s technology, we have tools to correct almost any skin problem.”

BBL for 3 months on people over 50.

At the end, tests showed they had the skin of a college student.** Q: I’ve heard a lot about Plasma Pen. What’s this treatment for?

Dr. T: This is a remarkable device that renews, lifts and tightens areas of the face and body. I’ve had it done myself for the scar caused by my C-section. It does wonders for the face, neck and eyelids (we can even do a non-surgical facelift with it) but it’s also for elbows, knees, neck, chest, hands and arms.

Q: When is Halo Pro the right option?

Dr. T: I recommend Halo once to twice a year to, in essence, give the patient brand new skin – like it looked years ago. Halo addresses discoloration, sun damage, uneven skin tone & texture, enlarged pores, fine lines & scars, and to get rid of crepey skin. Amazingly, a new study indicates it can also get rid of early skin cancers.*

Ready for your Fall Skin Rejuvenation?

Call us for your complimentary consultation. *Arisa Ortiz, Hybrid Fractional Ablative

Q: Forever Young BBL makes a big promise with its name. Do the results live up to it?

Dr. T: Absolutely. BBL treats age spots, rosacea, acne and more. Simply stated, BBL makes skin healthier so it’s great for prevention as well as for correction. Here’s something fascinating. BBL can actually change your DNA. A Stanford study used

and Nonablative Laser Resurfacing of Actinic Keratoses (Dermatologic Surgery, 2018; 0: 1–4) **Anne Lynn S. Chang et al, Rejuvenation of Gene Expression Pattern of Aged Human Skin by Broadband Light Treatment: A Pilot Study (Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2013; 133: 395-402)

THANK YOU

for voting us e Best of the Northwest for the 6th year in a row!

®

Call RejuvenationMD, the #1 practice in the North Sound, for your complimentary consultation.

www.rejuvenationmdmedspa.com

(360) 982-2620 Burlington • (360) 685-8408 Bellingham

Notes Contributors Kenna Balvanz I’m Kenna, the face behind Enhancing You By Kenna. I have loved all things hair and makeup for as long as I can remember. I was always doing photoshoots and asking everyone to let me practice on them...not much has changed!

I still have to pinch myself some days that this is actually what I get to do for work! I love all things bridal and specialize in bridal hair and airbrush makeup. I am located at Symmetrie studio in Lynden.  p. 43

Lizz Roberts A librarian since birth, Lizz loves books, stories, reading, learning, and helping others do the same.

Born and raised just across the Mississippi River from New Orleans, she also loves to talk about (and eat) great food. In 1997, Lizz decided to move “home” and transplanted herself to the Pacific Northwest, where the trees and mountains are tall and the mushrooms tasty. Most days, you’ll find Lizz working at Whatcom County Library System’s South Whatcom Library.  p. 25

Thank you for your vote in “BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING & BEST BOUTIQUE” NEW! ONLINE STORE

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Jennifer is a multi-talented authority on all things beautiful, fashionable, and functional.

This whirlwind of a woman has a passion for bringing style and personality to life’s most important spaces. Jennifer Ryan Design offers it all — design, planning, production, and contractor services. From start to finish, Jennifer can help you create the surroundings you’ll enjoy for a lifetime. She was twice voted Best of the Northwest winner, taking gold in 2016 and 2017. jenniferryandesign.com.  p. 122

irresistibly

fresh flowers

Thanks for voting us Best Florist!

Selva Wohlgemuth

Shop local and call Belle Flora 360-734-8454 or online at bellinghamflowershop.com

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Since 2015, Selva Wohlgemuth, MS, RD has helped many patients regain health and vitality using integrative and functional medicine principles in her private practice Happy Belly Nutrition. Selva specializes in both gut and women’s health, helping patients find relief from chronic digestive issues, and providing essential nutrition guidance for women trying to conceive and during the perinatal period. Follow her on Instagram @happybellynutrition for tasty recipe ideas and nutrition know-how.  p. 140

K N A TH x 6 U O Y WE THANK YOU WECU is honored to be voted “Gold� six years in a row for Best of the Northwest. Many thanks to our local community for its continuing partnership.

Steak • Seafood • Wine

Now Open!

PUBLICATIONS Bellingham Alive NSL Guestbook Couture Weddings MENU Seattle

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Lisa Karlberg EDITOR IN CHIEF Becky Mandelbaum ART DIRECTOR Dean Davidson ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Devan Ballard | Kristy Gessner Mia Sperandeo

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Mariah Currey

EDITORIAL/MARKETING COORDINATOR Anelyse Morris

CONTRIBUTORS Kenna Balvanz | Dan Radil | Lizz Roberts Jennifer Ryan | Blake Vanfield Selva Wohlgemuth

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Julia Berkman | Esther Chong Chelsea Consolacion | Julia Furukawa Jack Taylor | Mysti Willmon

PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANTS Emily Porter

OFFICE MANAGEMENT Jenn Miranda

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

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INQUIRIES & SUBSCRIPTIONS info@bellinghamalive.com bellinghamalive.com 360.483.4576 x4

Letters to the Editor Notes

In-Cider’s Guide Yeshe Long Temple Local Menus Guud Bowls

SEPTEMBER 2020 DISPLAY UNTIL SEPTEMBER 30 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

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 our editor at editor@bellinghamalive.com.

Thank you so much for the write-up!

The story is written great and you got all the little details correct. I really appreciate it.

— Jonathan S., Storia Cucina in Bellingham A new client came in based on your article and she spent 10 minutes just talking about how much she loves your magazine and how well done that article is! You should know how much your talents are appreciated.

Becky, read the issue. Great job!!! You emanated Renaissance Orchards info perfectly, thank you for your great attention to detail!

Chris R., Renaissance Orchards in Ferndale I got my copy of the magazine yesterday. Great job on the article.

Thanks again for helping share the club.

— Justin K., Whatcom Association of Celestial Observers

— Roxanne L., Ideal Wellness in Bellingham

Quality Furniture at Affordable Prices

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October 2020 17

Notes Meet the Team

Esther Chong, Chelsea Consolacion, & Jack Taylor TOP QUALITY TOP SERVICE TOP WORKMANSHIP

VOTED BEST IN THE NORTHWST THREE YEARS IN A ROW!

Whatcom County’s only factory-certified GAF Master Elite roofing contractor!

What is your role at the magazine and how long have you been with K & L Media?

ESTHER: I’m an editorial intern

for Bellingham Alive and I’ve been with K & L Media since the midst of quarantine in April 2020. I write profiles, reviews, and features as well as fact check stories before they go to design and print.

CHELSEA: I’ve been an intern for

K & L Media since June. My role at the magazine is to highlight members of the North Sound community through storytelling. I piece together information I gathered through research and interviews to create pieces to showcase ordinary people who make our community one-of-a-kind.

JACK: I am an editorial intern

with Bellingham Alive. I have been a part of K & L Media since midMarch, right around the time that quarantine happened.

OUR SERVICES • Roof Installation • Siding Installation • Roof Repair • Residential Windows • Gutter Installation

What is your background?

161 E. Horton Road Bellingham, WA topsideroofing.com 18

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and grew up in Auburn, between Tacoma and Seattle. I moved to Bellingham to study journalism at Western in 2016, and I graduated this past March. Outside of working for Western publications like The Western Front and Klipsun, I have also interned with the media company Sip Publishing in Seattle. I wrote for their magazines Cidercraft and Sip Northwest in the summer of 2019.

What is your favorite part of working for a regional lifestyle magazine?

ESTHER: It’s an incredible opportunity

and experience to write about local favorites throughout the area that I grew up visiting. It’s wonderful to learn about new finds and share them with the rest of the community and beyond.

I love getting to know business owners, staff, and community members by highlighting their unique qualities and characteristics in a creative form of writing.

ESTHER: I was born in Bellingham

CHELSEA: Writing for a magazine

and raised in the Skagit Valley. I went to Western to study journalism and design in 2015 and worked as an editor and contributor for publications like Klipsun Magazine and The Western Front. I’m also a member of the Asian American Journalists Association and Investigative Reporters and Editors organization.

during a global pandemic gave me a special perspective on history, as we are the ones documenting it as it unfolds. Even in this time of solitude and social distancing, writing for this magazine made me feel more connected to people and the community. It gave me the opportunity to hear stories from interesting people who I wouldn’t have met otherwise. We’ve all hit uncharted territory and felt uncertainty during this pandemic, and I hope I’m doing my part in helping people feel less alone.

CHELSEA: As a first generation

360.752.2220

JACK: I am a child of the suburbs

college student from Kent, I graduated from Western Washington University in August with a degree in journalism on the public relations track with a minor in education and social justice.

Although I specialize in public relations writing and campaigns, I have editorial experience through working for the university’s student publications as a reporter for The Western Front newspaper and a writer for Klipsun Magazine.

JACK: I love the variety of what I get

to write about. Instead of being bogged down into one singular beat, I get to write about anything from killer hornets to local business owners. Nothing ever feels repetitive, and it’s always fascinating to find cool and unique community members and chat with them. 

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Fall Farm Fun 22 The Bigfoot Adventures 24

Photo courtesy of Gretchen Leggitt

Cool-Weather Hikes 34

Life

Spotlight

Gretchen Leggitt

28

October 2020 21

Life Out and About

Pumpkins at Bellewood

Fall Farm Fun

BY BECKY MANDELBAUM AND ANELYSE MORRIS

ahead, and nothing says autumn like a visit to a farm.

From intricate corn mazes to pumpkin patches and tractor rides, there’s plenty of COVID-safe activities for the whole family. Stop by these local farms to sample fresh seasonal harvests, take in the comforting colors of October, and partake in entertaining activities you can only experience this time of year.

BELLEWOOD FARMS & DISTILLERY Last year, Bellewood Farms produced their largest apple harvest ever. This year, they’re expecting even more. With over 21 varieties of apples, from honeycrisps, to gravensteins and sansens, the annual U-Pick offers a fun way to experience the orchard while social distancing.

“It’s a really fun experience,” says owner Eric Abel. “It’s a really safe, fun, and clean environment, but with fresh air, and Mount Baker views.”

Apples aren’t the only thing growing this fall. October also means pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and tractor rides.

Pumpkins and apples are available for U-Pick, or for purchase at the farm’s shop.

During your visit, be sure to stop by Bellewood’s distillery for breakfast and lunch items, plus plenty of cider, beers, and 22

BellinghamAlive.com

liquors on tap. Enjoy them inside or at one of the farm’s 30 outdoor picnic tables, and don’t forget your free samples.

To accomodate more people at the farm and keep social distancing attainable, Bellewood has expanded their hours, now open 10 a.m.–5 p.m, Wednesday–Sunday. They’re also offering tractor rides out to the orchard, completely free of charge. 6140 Guide Meridian Rd., Lynden, bellewoodfarms.com

GORDON SKAGIT FARMS This year, the name of the pumpkin game at Gordon Skagit Farms is space, space, space. Instead of a corn maze, the corn field boasts six wide boulevards that lead to the pumpkin fields, creating plenty of room for social distancing. The same goes for the pumpkin fields themselves, where paths have been widened, allowing visitors to browse while maintaining six feet.

“We’re trying to think of how people can spread out and feel comfortable,” says Eddie Gordon, who owns the farm along with his brother, Todd. “You might have to do a little more walking this year…[but] even on a crowded day, no one’s going to feel up against one another.”

The farm has also amped up its displays, creating more photo opportunities. These, too, will be spaced farther apart for social distancing, as will picnic tables where people can enjoy a slice of pizza (available for purchase on weekends).

Photo courtesy of Bellewood Farms

T

HE PANDEMIC MAY HAVE PUT A DAMPER ON SUMMER PLANS, but there’s still plenty of fall fun

Corn Eating at Home Farm Pumpkin Picking at Home Farm

The check-out process is also more streamlined this year.

Another option is ordering online and then picking up at the farm, or giving the farm a list and returning later to pick up your goods.

“Like old-time grocery store shopping,” Eddie explains.

The fun continues with a mask competition, to go along with the Halloween spirit. “We thought we’d take something that’s been stressful...and have a little fun with it,” Eddie says.

15598 McLean Rd., Mount Vernon, gordonskagitfarms.com

Home Farm images courtesy of Home Farm Upick & Event

HOME FARM UPICK & EVENTS Since 2017, Bridgette DiMonda, Daniel Burdick, and their daughter Chloe have been the heart of Home Farm U-Pick and Events in Birch Bay. Starting October 2 and going through the last weekend of the month, visit the farm to pick a pumpkin — or 10 — from the pumpkin patch.

When you’re done picking the perfect future jack-o’lantern, take a photo with the tractor or enjoy a tractor ride around the farm. Depending on COVID-19 restrictions, the farm may also offer a tractor train ride.

If you’re in quick need of a pumpkin, you can also grab one at the farm’s self-serve farm stand, open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. The stand remains open yearround, and operates on the honor system. This fall, you’ll find other seasonal goodies like sweet corn, greens, sunflowers, and corn stalks for decorating. The stand also offers items sourced from around Whatcom County, like Barnyard Coffee, Trilby’s seasonings, and handmade soaps from In Bloom Homestead. 8020 Kickerville Rd., Blaine, homefarm.farm  October 2020 23

Life Out and About

Become a Believer with The Bigfoot Adventures

BY JACK TAYLOR

L

IVING IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST means living in Bigfoot territory. While most people consider Sasquatch the stuff of folklore, others take the search to the next level, like Joey Sternhagen and Ray Kolean, co-owners of The Bigfoot Adventures.

The two started the adventure company in 2017, but their relationship with Bigfoot goes much farther back. Kolean grew up in Western Washington and spent his childhood exploring the forests in search of the elusive creature.

“We both have had a lifetime of Bigfoot experiences, including finding fresh tracks, hearing howls, rocks thrown, calling one in repeatedly, as well as a face-to-face encounter,” Sternhagen says.

The idea to take others out on Bigfoot trips arrived to the pair naturally, during a conversation.

“We were riding our motorcycles through the forests and exploring caves while talking about Bigfoot and decided instantly that we wanted to be able to take families out to these special places, to share the excitement of looking for this legendary creature,” Sternhagen says.

A typical trip starts with clients loading into the Bigfoot Research Van — a large white vehicle with a Bigfoot decal on the side. From there, the van travels to the best Bigfoot hot spots, where the creature has been previously sighted or heard. Once at a location, clients learn the ins and outs of how to “call in” Bigfoot from the forest or cast their own Bigfoot tracks.

Clients can choose from multiple trip options, including a day trip, half-day trip, or even a multi-day trip. The truly intrepid can opt for a night trip that begins at dusk. Under the glow of moonlight, you can try out night-vision and thermal imaging, enjoy a bonfire, and hear firsthand accounts of sightings from local Bigfoot believers. Regardless of whether you actually encounter the mythical beast, you and your crew will have an unforgettable experience marked by beautiful scenery and quality time outdoors.

“Every trip is different,” Sternhagen says. “We found structures built by something much larger and stronger than a man, we have found broken carcasses that were not killed by a cougar or other known predator, we found bone piles in obscure spots in the woods.”

Like most businesses, since COVID-19, operations have shifted.

“Obviously we had to pump the brakes with a lot of our business, but we have been able to do private trips recently involving only family members,” Sternhagen says.

As for the future, with so much land in Bigfoot country, the pair has plans to expand their scope beyond Washington, reaching south to California and north to the Canadian border.

“This is what we do,” Sternhagen says. “It’s what we love.” 360.319.4979, bigfootisalive.com 

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Book Notes Life

Notes from an Apocalypse: A Personal Journey to the End of the World and Back

Book Reviews

Pods We Love

BY LIZZ ROBERTS

BY MARIAH CURREY

WHEN I PICKED UP THIS BOOK AT THE LIBRARY, the first

The Nod

question I asked myself was, “Is this a good time to be reading this particular title?” Turns out, it is! O’Connell, author of “To Be a Machine,” has written an interesting exploration of the ‘end of the world’ by visiting bunkers and bolt-holes around the world and interviewing the folks who built them. These ‘preppers’ run the gambit from billionaires in New Zealand to people planning for a mission to Mars. Along the way, he asks himself questions about his own contributions to climate change and checks in with his therapist about his interest in end-of-the-world scenarios without being sentimental or standing on any particular pulpit. By the end of the book, O’Connell comes to a resolution that is both satisfying and unselfconsciously hopeful — and hope is something we could all use more of right now.

This podcast is a celebratory exploration of Black history and culture, both in the United States and around the world. Each episode focuses on the untold stories of Black genius, resilience, and innovation.

by Mark O’Connell

THE ALL-CAPS TAGLINE ON THE COVER of this book caught

Goldilocks

by Laura Lam

my attention: EARTH IS NO LONGER IN THE HABITABLE ZONE. This refers to the orbital zone around a star which is ‘not too hot, not too cold, but just right’ for water and life to exist on a planet. “Goldilocks” is set on a near-future Earth where climate change is making the planet uninhabitable, faster-than-light travel is possible, Mars is being terraformed so humanity can move there, and scientists have discovered an Earth-like planet close enough to explore with a new multi-trillion-dollar spaceship. But with the ultra-conservative U.S. government pushing women out of positions of power, including the astronaut corps, what’s a woman to do? How about gather an all-female crew, steal the ship, and go explore the new planet first?! There are more twists and turns in Lam’s entertaining space opera than in a wormhole. Hold on tight, because you’ll never see them coming.

Oh No! Ross and Carrie Ever been curious about aliens, juice cleanses, or Scientology? Hosts Ross and Carrie have tried it all, so you don’t have to. Follow them as they join religions, undergo alternative treatments, and seek out the paranormal in this podcast all about fringe science and spirituality.

Nothing Much Happens Some podcasts are for listening to and some are for helping you fall asleep.

Join yoga and meditation teacher Kathryn Nicolai for bedtime stories where nothing much happens.

Take a moment to slow down, relax, and drift off into peaceful sleep.

Who Knew? Awards Why the statue is named Oscar The nickname came from Margaret Herrick, the Academy Award librarian and eventual Director of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. She reportedly said the statue looked like her Uncle Oscar.

The first Emmy Awards ceremony Held on January 25, 1949, the first ceremony cost only $5 to attend; today it costs around $50. The ceremony gave out six awards total, including one for Most Outstanding Television Personality, which was given to 20-year-old Shirley Dinsdale, a ventriloquist.

EGOT Only 10 people have achieved the coveted EGOT: an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony. The first person was Richard Rogers in 1962, when he earned an Emmy for music he composed for “Winston Churchill: The Valiant Years.”

The sale of a Nobel Prize In order to pay for his medical bills, Leon Lederman’s wife sold his 1988 Nobel Prize in physics. The award sold for more than $765,000.

This is one of only 10 Nobel Prizes that have ever been sold.

MYSTI WILLMON

October 2020 25

Life Special Advertising

ALLEN LAW FIRM The Injury Experts

We Are Still Here For You

B

ACK IN MARCH WE CLOSED OUR PHYSICAL OFFICE TO THE PUBLIC, FOLLOWING THE ERUPTION OF THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK. Like many

offices, we were forced to working in a 100% remote format.

The early days of quarantine were filled with longing for work family and client family, as well as a special kind of crazy, we can all relate to by now. Those surreal moments have continued, as have we.

Maintaining the injury care of our clients during a pandemic, has certainly posed its obstacles. There have been bumps and learning curves along the way, but our determination to provide quality representation has remained unchanged. The past 150 days (and counting) have been a roller coaster for us all. Here, we are still finding ways to achieve and celebrate client successes, and we refuse to stop.

In addition to the number of ways we normally assist with our clients, we were recently fortunate enough to experience first-hand and be a part of one client’s exciting life events.

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A little back story - On August 8th, 2016, John McKinstry injured his low back while on the job. After two years of treatment and a grueling battle with the Department of Labor and Industries, John was forced to hire legal representation.

With the help of Craig Allen, attorney, Shawna Frolich, paralegal, John was deemed unable to return to the work force and granted pension for life.

The early days of quarantine were filled with longing for work family and client family, as well as a special kind of crazy, we can all relate to by now. Those surreal moments have continued, as have we.

A fun twist on this story - John and his partner of 25 years, Debbie, were not married. In the state of Washington, if something should happen to John, Debbie would not be eligible to obtain survivorship benefits and protect her future, unless they were married. So, on June 4th, 2020, amid a pandemic and global upheaval, John and Debbie were able to get married. The couple and their guests, (including the entire staff at Allen Law Firm) donned their masks and witnessed the couple exchange their vows. Shawna was, luckily, able to locate an officiant in due time. Shawna’s mother, Sandie, is ordained in the state of Washington and was present to officiate the wedding.

John and Debbie exhibit the injury story success that we strive toward at Allen Law Firm, pandemic or no. We are so thrilled to have been a part of their momentous union and, thus, a part of their family. We look forward to hearing their continued stories of camping and gardening together, now secure in the future ahead of them.

We are in awe of your strength and understanding during these times. You have persevered, when all odds went tenfold on you.

It’s the unique successes of individuals like John, that inspire us to keep on. The people are real, the injuries are personal, and we intend to handle them as such.

The staff at Allen Law Firm would like to earnestly extend our appreciation to our clients. We are in awe of your strength and understanding during these times. You have persevered, when all odds went tenfold on you. We look forward to the day we can resume our Annual Customer Appreciation event, happy and healthy. Until then, we are still here for you. 

October 2020 27

Life Spotlight

Wall-to-Wall Community Charm Gretchen Leggitt’s murals capture the heart of Bellingham

BY ESTHER CHONG

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Photos courtesy of Gretchen Leggitt

L

OOK AROUND, and you’ll find vibrant colors and bold line work climbing the walls of buildings, alleys, and businesses around town, like at Ciao Thyme, Horseshoe Cafe, and Pure Bliss Desserts. The creative mind behind many of Bellingham’s public masterpieces is visual artist Gretchen Leggitt.

Originally from Colorado, Leggitt frequented Lopez Island with her family as a child. After earning a fine arts degree from Colorado State University, she relocated to the Pacific Northwest assuming she’d return to Colorado after her six months of student teaching.

“My mom has always had a huge crush on the Pacific Northwest,” Leggitt says. “It was just such a mystical environment coming from high plains desert to this completely majestic land of ferns and gigantic banana slugs.”

After 16 years, she’s here to stay in the place that is now home to much of her portfolio. Fascinated by towering mountains, energetic shores, and diverse wildlife, Leggitt’s work reflects her passion for the outdoors.

“I find my utmost amount of peace while I’m outside…

It’s really where I’m at my finest,” Leggitt says. “The fluidity of a lot of the curved lines I use are emulating the movements that I experience while mountain biking and snowboarding.”

Leggitt’s mural outside the Kona Bike Shop, called Astro Whip, depicts her signature line work and gives her special joy. The idea was one she’d long dreamed of: An intricate mountainscape featuring an astronaut whipping a bicycle down a winding path.

“That was definitely my passion mural…had zero influence [from] the clients,” Leggitt says.

APPS WE L VE Yummly Recipes + Shopping List Yummly Whether you’re looking to flex your culinary prowess or can’t be trusted near a stove, Yummly will have you dishing out delectable dinners in no time. With millions of recipes, Yummly offers meal ideas to fit your taste and dietary restrictions. Follow step-bystep recipes and helpful videos. Don’t know where to start? Tell the app what’s in your fridge, and it’ll suggest a meal.

Food Network Kitchen Discovery Digital Ventures, LLC Want to learn to cook with Rachael Ray? With this app, you can stream cooking classes with culinary masters and ask questions in real time. Master new dishes with step-by-step recipes and videos or watch other people cook with on-demand, ad-free episodes from the network. Start a 30-day trial today. If you love it, it’s less than a dollar per week for an annual subscription.

The fluidity of a lot of the curved lines I use are emulating the movements that I experience while mountain biking and snowboarding.

Gretchen Leggitt In 2018, she was asked to create Washington state’s largest mural in partnership with Puget Sound Energy’s ARTility initiative. The project transformed ordinary infrastructures and utility boxes into community art that reflect the company’s renewable energy mission.

“I was wildly intimidated by that project and wanted nothing to do with it,” she admits, having done only two smaller murals by that point.

Leggitt reached out to Max McNett, an experienced muralist from Skagit Valley, who encouraged her to take on the challenge and guided her throughout the journey. The pair jumped in and completed the 21,800 square foot rendition of the North Cascades mountain range in just 30 days.

“I learned anything and everything there is to know about putting up a mural,” Leggitt says. “It was truly a gift to work with [McNett] and for him to really be a mentor on my own project.”

Between long paint sessions, Leggitt created Hydrascape Infinity Stickers with local Sunnyland business, Stickers for Days. Her unique product design was launched later that year and is now available in REI stores across the U.S. and shipping worldwide.

For Leggitt, stepping back and taking in a completed piece never ceases to surprise her. But one of her greatest joys is receiving feedback from community members who interact with her work on a daily basis.

“I have people who write to me often on social media just thanking me,” Leggitt says. “That’s an experience that I have never received in my art career, just this appreciation for creating positive transformation in the world — I can’t think of anything better on this earth to do.”

Leggitt’s art prints, gear, and Hydrascape Infinity Stickers are available for purchase via her website, gretchenleggitt.com. 

Cocktail Flow — Drink Recipes Cocktail Flow Ltd. Did the summer bar closures leave you feeling dark ‘n’ stormy? Whether you’re craving an old fashioned or want to kick back with a margarita, this handy drink app will help you craft your favorite cocktails at home. Find cocktail recipes as well as instructions on how to mix the perfect drink. Enter the ingredients you have or the occasion you’re celebrating for spot-on drink recommendations.

Perfect Bake Perfect Company Perfect Bake helps you fake it till you bake it with tons of interactive features. Use the smart scale, built-in timer, and virtual bowl to keep your measurements precise. Need to alter a recipe? Let the app do the math so you can prepare the perfect feast. New recipes are constantly being added, so you can turn your pantry goods into pastries with ease.

ANELYSE MORRIS

October 2020 29

Life Heard Around the Sound

Trick or Treat… From Six Feet Halloween Egg Hunt

OU MIGHT BE SURPRISED

to learn that Bellingham Alive has been read in places like Hong Kong and Vietnam.

Despite catering to those who live in the North Sound, our humble local magazine has found an international audience thanks to Whatcom Community College (WCC).

Having worked at WCC for more than 18 years, Kelly Kester, the director of the college’s international program, has brought copies of Bellingham Alive to trade shows and recruiters as a way to showcase the Bellingham community to prospective students and parents.

“The majority of our work is bringing students from around the world to come to study,” Kester says.

At its peak, the program has hosted 350 students in a year, with students coming from 30 different countries, Kelly says. The pages of Bellingham Alive offered these students an early glimpse into the

Bellingham community and what makes life in our area unique.

“That’s the thing that differentiates us from so many colleges, is community,” Kester says. “Bellingham is great, but to capture that for an audience abroad is pretty hard to do, so [Bellingham Alive] really helps out with that.”

Despite COVID-19, enrollment actually went up for the summer quarter at WCC. “We’ve had the biggest summer intake we’ve ever had,” Kester says.

Because students can take classes remotely, roughly half went home before restrictions were put in place.

Regardless of how things are now, Kester admits that using Bellingham Alive has been an asset to the international program.

“Bellingham Alive is handy because it sort of whets your appetite for students and parents to kinda get an idea of what the community is like before they come here,” Kester says.

JACK TAYLOR

What’s your go-to DIY Halloween costume?

BY ESTHER CHONG

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Raji G., Bellingham A mime! I received a beret as a gift from a friend who had traveled to Paris.

I wore it with a striped top and used heavy blush and eyeliner to recreate the theater makeup look.

Spooky Search Similar to an egg hunt but with an extra layer of effort, this idea involves some creativity. Create a scavenger hunt around your house or yard using a series of riddles, a check-list, or a treasure map — anything that gets kids excited to look around. For example, make a list of different Halloween sights around the neighborhood — a ghost decoration, a jack-o-lantern, a fake bat, etc. For every one your kid spots, place a different piece of candy in their basket.

Haunted School Bus Remember at the beginning of the pandemic when schools delivered sack lunches at bus routes? This idea follows the same logic. Instead of going door-to-door with candies, small communities can hand out sack lunches filled with an assortment of individually wrapped candies.

Volunteers in masks and gloves can drive a bus along normal school routes. Anyone in costume can collect a bag of candy! BECKY MANDELBAUM AND JENN MIRANDA

Ellie B., Bellingham I dressed up as a deer using twigs I found outside for the antlers. I wore earth tone pieces that I already owned and used makeup to create the nose and white camouflage spots.

Photo courtesy of Whatcom Community College

Y

Bellingham Alive Goes International

Who says egg hunts are just for Easter?

Instead of trick-or-treating, create an egg hunt around your house, yard, or a nearby park. Conduct the hunt during the day, so eggs are visible, or purchase glow-in-the-dark Easter eggs online for a spooky night-time hunt. Another option is to buy mini glow sticks, crack them, and place one inside each egg along with a piece of candy.

ENTER-TO-WIN Monthly Giveaway

E Lighthouse Mission Finds a New Temporary Home

Top left photo courtesy of Lighthouse Mission Ministries

S

INCE OCTOBER 2016, the Lighthouse Mission

Ministries has offered shelter, meals, and support to those experiencing homelessness in Bellingham at their Base Camp (formerly known as the drop-in center) on Holly Street.

However, the onset of COVID-19 made social distancing difficult at this location, resulting in a temporary relocation to Bellingham High School in March. The Base Camp operated at this location for four months.

In anticipation of the school reopening, the Lighthouse Mission Ministries decided they needed a new semipermanent solution to accommodate the increasing number of people in need of shelter.

Now located in the Bellingham Public Market on Cornwall Avenue, the new 25,000+ square foot Base Camp will continue to provide free food, restrooms, laundry, showers, and more for up to four years at this location.

“I’m so thankful to the Bellingham community for making this possible and supporting the relocation — it’s keeping hundreds of vulnerable people safe and cared for during COVID-19,” says Jessica Hess, marketing and communications coordinator. “The creation of this space says to our neighbors who are homeless that you are seen, you are valued, and we care about you.”

The new space is open 24/7, and can accommodate up to 200 adults at a time, with dedicated sleeping spaces, a community room, and a courtyard for safe outdoor time.

“We are very grateful for this new location and are settling in well,” Hess says.“Guests of the Lighthouse Mission’s Base Camp especially appreciate the privacy and feeling of safety that the outdoor courtyard provides…

Most of all, they are grateful to once again have a space that is truly theirs.” ANELYSE MORRIS

Jasira A., Bellingham Kiki the witch from Kiki’s Delivery Service! I carried around a black cat plushie and wore a blue dress with a big red bow in my hair.

ACH MONTH, we give you the opportunity to win a prize from local merchants. You can enter once per day on bellinghamalive.com. A winner will be chosen by random draw, and notified via email and/or phone. It’s our way of saying thank you for your support and for continuing to help encourage shopping and dining local. Below is the Enter-To-Win prize for October.

$100 Gift Certificate to

BRAY is a woman owned and operated business founded by a mother daughter duo with a passion for on trend quality clothing. BRAY is also focused on giving back, donating a percentage of all sales to charities that benefit women.

Islands Receive Electric School Buses

O

RCAS AND LOPEZ ISLAND school districts

are each being awarded one zero-emission electric school bus in an effort to push for cleaner air and healthier transportation for students.

Thanks to funding from Washington Department of Ecology grants, 40 zero-emission electric school buses will be distributed among 22 districts across the state later this year. As a result, Orcas and Lopez Islands will reduce their output of diesel exhaust, which contains toxic air pollutants.

As one of the largest investments in zero-emission school buses in the country, the electric buses are estimated to have a lifetime reduction of 19,200 tons in carbon dioxide emissions. CHELSEA CONSOLACION

Karissa S., Bellingham I was Woody the cowboy from the Toy Story series. I wore boots, jeans, and painted a plain white vest on my yellow flannel so it was cow print.

Max S., Bellingham My girlfriend and I dressed up as the cartoon duo, Rick and Morty.

I borrowed her lab coat and used hair gel to spike my hair up to get that mad scientist look.

October 2020 31

B

ELLINGHAM UROLOGY GROUP provides a full range of urologic services for adults and children. We treat and manage all aspects of urologic health, including prostate cancer, bladder cancer, kidney cancer, and testicular cancer.

Our specialties include performing vasectomies and vasectomy reversals, treating vaginal dryness, circumcisions, as well as the management and treatment of kidney stones and much more.

Bellingham Urology Group’s out-patient surgery center is available for many procedures which means no hospital stay for you. And that means significantly lower cost and inconvenience.

You will experience seamless care coordination for your visits; insurance pre-authorization, billing and clinical care all with the same integrated team of healthcare professionals. Stay close to home and avoid Seattle traffic by getting your care at our offices in Whatcom and Skagit Counties.

It is the policy—and pledge—of Bellingham Urology Group that every patient be treated with courtesy and compassion, efficiency and punctuality. Our goal is to provide the highest quality treatment and to have patients and loved ones understand and feel comfortable with that treatment.

DR. JOHN PETTIT is a graduate of Columbia University, he went on to study medicine at St. George’s University and completed his urology residency at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital. He has practiced in Bellingham for over 30 years treating patients from both Whatcom and Skagit Counties. As a founding partner of Cascade Urology Lithotripsy, Dr. Pettit was instrumental in bringing advanced urology treatments to the Northwest.

DR. VERNON ORTON completed his fellowship in robotic surgery at the City of Hope National Medical Center. He has extensive daVinci robot surgical experience in advanced surgery and treatment of urologic cancer of the bladder, kidney, and prostate. Dr. Orton served as Medical Director of Urology at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, where he was uniquely trained for his role at Bellingham Urology Group.

DR. CAMPBELL BRYSON attended Cornell University Medical School and subsequently completed his residency at Yale University, where he received the Richard Dean Award for Compassionate Care. He has clinical interests in men’s health, minimally invasive procedures, and robotic surgery. Dr. Bryson is dedicated and compassionate and we are proud to have him as part of our team.

MACKENZIE EPLER, PA-C, completed her undergraduate studies in Community Health at the University of Illinois, and her Master of Clinical Medical Science in Physician Assistant at Barry University.

Ms. Epler has a keen interest in women’s health issues and a passion for quality patient oriented care. Bellingham Urology Group is proud to have Mackenzie as part of our team.

340 Birchwood Ave., Bellingham 360-714-3400 BellinghamUrologyGroup.com

ELENI ZOBOLAS, ARNP, joined Bellingham Urology Group from Weill Cornell Medicine and has developed a love for Urology and an interest in Women’s Health. Eleni is a dedicated Nurse Practitioner and an amazing patient advocate.

She takes time to educate and include her patients in developing a plan of care that is best suited for them. Bellingham Urology is pleased to offer her services to those preferring a female provider.

Start

Finish

Life Out and About

Paths Less Travelled Favorite Cool-Weather Hikes

BY BECKY MANDELBAUM

I

TCHING TO GET OUT OF THE HOUSE? These outdoor destinations offer a much-needed dose of nature, without serious elevation gain or difficult terrain.

Perfect for a quick outing without the crowds.

Squires Lake Trail Located off Highway 99, only a short drive from central Bellingham, Squires Lake gets you out into nature with little time in the car. The quick, two-mile trail starts with a few moderately-graded switchbacks, gaining around 300 feet.

Once you’re on level ground, you can take the loop clockwise or counterclockwise around the charming lake. With plenty of offshoot trails leading up to a ridge that connects to the Pacific Northwest Trail — which will ultimately lead you to Glacier National Park — you can make your outing as short or long as you’d like. The trail is also perfect for pooches.

Kiket Trail at Kukutali Preserve This flat, 2.2-mile loop near La Conner is perfect for a quick afternoon outing before the sun goes down. After walking 34

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along the main Kiket Trail, choose from three different paths.

The North Trail requires a slight gain in elevation, but a view of Deception Pass Bridge makes it worthwhile. The other trails — the Kiket Trail and South Trail — are both relatively flat.

All paths lead to a grassy area perfect for picnics, and then to a small point where you can walk by the water, dig around in the rocks, or read interpretive signs about the area’s history. Enjoy views of nearby Hope, Fidalgo, and Skagit Islands before taking a different path back to the parking lot. Dogs are not allowed.

Rockport State Park Choose your own adventure at this park located directly off Highway 20, just a few miles beyond the town of Concrete.

Multiple trail options plus low shoulder-season traffic mean you’re likely to have the trail to yourself. Stay on the north side of the highway for views of giant old-growth trees, some more than 250 feet tall, or meander across the highway to the Skagit View Trail, which offers peek-a-boo views of the Skagit River and surrounding mountains. There’s also a mile of ADA-accessible trail, with interpretive signs along the way. 

Life Game Changer

Western Solar and Puget Sound Energy Team up to Support LowIncome Organizations

BY BECKY MANDELBAUM

T

HIS SUMMER, Western Solar installed solar energy systems at five low-income organizations in Whatcom and Skagit County. Through grant money and donated labor, the organizations paid nothing for top-ofthe-line solar systems.

The projects were made possible by Puget Sound Energy’s Green Power Community Support Grant, funded through their Green Power Program. The opt-in program allows Puget Sound Energy (PSE) customers to support clean energy initiatives through a small monthly donation on top of their electric bill.

This year, the grant focused on low-income communities.

Seeing an opportunity to expand their own philanthropic efforts, Western Solar contacted five low-income organizations in Skagit and Whatcom County and asked them to apply for PSE’s grant in conjunction with Western Solar. While each agency had to seek out competitive bids, they all ultimately went with Western Solar, who donated part of the cost of labor to keep their rate low.

“It’s part of our Western Solar initiative,” explains Markus Virta, director of business development. “Every year, we try to identify a local nonprofit that has a need for solar energy, and we rally support around that nonprofit to donate solar to them.”

In the past, Western Solar has donated systems to the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association, Bellingham Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, and Interfaith Coalition.

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This year is special because, thanks to PSE’s grant, they were able to provide solar to five organizations instead of one.

The five organizations include the Lummi Housing Authority, Lydia Place, Anacortes Housing Authority, Kulshan Community Land Trust, and Opportunity Council.

To ensure each agency received the highest quality system possible, Western Solar installed Panasonic 330-watt AC modules, which come with a 25-year warranty. The warranty ensures that, in 25 years’ time, the panels must still produce roughly 90% of their capacity. All replacement parts, as well as the cost of labor, are included in the warranty.

“There really is no ownership or maintenance or operational cost for these systems for these organizations,” Virta says.

The upkeep-free system is especially important, as it allows these organizations to permanently reallocate their energy costs to other areas of their budget.

“For nonprofits, it’s really difficult to find grant funding that pays for overhead costs like electric bills...that’s something they’re constantly having to reach out to their grassroots and membership base to try to cover,” Virta says.

“Especially with COVID right now, everyone’s stretched thin.”

For a glimpse into the long-term benefits of this year’s initiative, here’s a breakdown of each agency’s new solar system and the estimated savings they’ll see over the warranty’s 25-year lifespan:

Lummi Housing Authority 31.68 kW capacity; 96 panels; $131,042 in savings

Lydia Place 15.84 kW capacity; 48 panels; $71,039 in savings

Anacortes Housing Authority 15.84 kW capacity; 48 panels; $68,598 in savings

Kulshan Community Land Trust 31.02 kW capacity; 94 panels; $117,955 in savings

Opportunity Council 14.85 kW capacity; 45 panels; $64,751 in savings 

Photo courtesy of Western Solar

Giving the Gift of Sustainable Energy

At the heart of our region’s progress on clean energy is reliable, affordable natural gas, and renewable natural gas. It’s here for you when you need it most—helping you cook for your family, heat your home, reduce emissions, and provide the foundation to expand wind, solar, and tomorrow’s new solutions.

Farmers, workers, and businesses—across the Pacific Northwest—are working together to support you and your family.

Life Special Advertising

Be Proactive and Informed About Breast Cancer

O

F ALL THE DISEASES WE FACE AS WOMEN, few

may concern us more than breast cancer. However, the picture is brighter today for women with this diagnosis. Thanks to recent advances in screening, breast cancers are being diagnosed earlier thus increasing successful outcomes for patients.

“Through research we are also constantly learning about the nature and behavior of breast cancers and are now able to tailor treatments to each individual patient and potentially offer targeted options,” says Chanudi Weerasinghe, MD, PeaceHealth St. Joseph Cancer Center. “Given the progress in the field of breast cancer and its treatment, we look forward to using all available tools for the success of our patients.”

Despite these optimistic developments, misconceptions about breast cancer that potentially cause undue anxiety still exist, according to the American Cancer Society. Here are a few facts about common misconceptions:

Breast cancer is not the leading health threat to women.

Heart disease is actually far deadlier for women. Nationwide, breast cancer causes 1 in 31 female deaths every year. But coronary heart disease causes 1 in 8 female deaths. And looking only at cancer deaths, lung cancer kills more women in the U.S. than breast cancer.

Most breast cancer is not inherited.

Only about 5 to 10 percent of all breast cancers appear to develop directly from gene defects — such as those in 38

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the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene — passed on from a parent.

What’s more, even a family history of breast cancer is not as concerning as many women might fear. While having a close relative with breast cancer does raise your risk, less than 15 percent of women who get breast cancer have a family history of the disease.

The effects of a fatty diet aren’t clear.

Many studies indicate that breast cancer is less common in countries where the typical diet is low in fat. But so far studies haven’t found a definitive link between higher fat diets, like those eaten in the U.S., and breast cancer. Dr. Weerasinghe notes that “there is emerging data that maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and eating a well-balanced healthy diet decreases the risk of cancer.” Staying in touch with your doctor is the best thing you can do for your breast health. That way you can understand your personal risk and get screened at the right time.

Dr. Weerasinghe recommends not delaying care if you have any warning signs of breast cancer or notice any changes in your breast or underarm area. “We are not postponing follow-up tests if you have signs or symptoms of breast cancer or are due for a routinely scheduled mammogram,” says Dr. Weerasinghe. “These tests are considered essential and require your prompt attention. You can still get breast cancer treatment during stay at home and shelter in place orders.”

Rest assured, when you visit, that PeaceHealth’s hospitals and doctor offices are taking many precautions to ensure patients are safe; visit peacehealth.org/coronavirus for details. 

Primary Care for Chronic Conditions that Flare CHRONIC HEALTH CONDITIONS ARE A FACT OF LIFE FOR MANY ADULTS. If you’re among them — or not, but simply seeking expert primary care — consider choosing an internal medicine doctor, or internist, to guide your wellness journey.

Internists are trained to care for adults and receive additional training to diagnose and treat a variety of difficult-to-manage chronic conditions.

Our internists are ready to welcome you as a new patient, to listen and learn about your medical history — and you!

Areas of expertise: Diabetes Control Depression/Anxiety ■ Cardiovascular Health ■ Other Chronic Conditions ■ ■

For more information, call 360-526-0298 to schedule an appointment. In addition to scheduling in-person appointments, we are now offering the option of scheduling video visits — a new service available at this clinic.

All of it is its sweet spot.

More power. More technology. More thrills. In the Macan Turbo, you’ll find even more dynamic sports car performance, iconic design and everyday utility – meaning more driving thrills no matter what the day brings. The only thing you won’t find: compromises.

Experience the Macan Turbo.

Porsche Bellingham 2200 Iowa Street Bellingham, WA 98229 Tel: (360) 734-5230 www.porschebellingham.com ©2020 Porsche Cars North America, Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of traffic laws at all times.

European model shown. Some options may not be available in the U.S.

BRAY 44 Adored Boutique 46

Photos courtesy of Pac Nor Westy

Necessities: Sweater Love 48 & 50

Pac Nor Westy

Style

42 October 2020 41

Style Local Find

Get Cozy with Pac Nor Westy

BY JACK TAYLOR

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Photos courtesy of Pac Nor Westy

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AC NOR WESTY, an apparel and home goods store in downtown La Conner, is holding strong despite the setbacks of COVID-19. The store has an appealing, user-friendly online store, making it easy to shop from home as well as in person.

Owner Richard Murphy works in IT consulting by day, but uses Pac Nor Westy as a way to express his creative interests. He designs all the store’s T-shirts and hoodies.

“We started Pac Nor Westy in 2017 mainly as a creative outlet, and I just couldn’t find specific northwest T-shirts that resonated with me,” Murphy says.

Describing his designs as minimalist, he initially designed products for himself; soon after, his friends wanted designs, too. From there, he created an e-commerce store in late

Beauty Style

Makeup Q & A with Kenna Balvanz We started Pac Nor Westy in 2017 mainly as a creative outlet, and I just couldn’t find specific northwest T-shirts that resonated with me.

Richard Murphy

You’re all about using makeup to enhance natural beauty. What does that mean to you?

Enhancing natural beauty means taking the features you already have and not trying to make them look like someone else’s by concealing them with makeup.

It means letting the features of your face shine through by using makeup that fits your face and unique features.

Top right photo by Wild Grass Photography

What are some ways to avoid unnatural looking makeup? Any tricks or tips?

2017. In June of last year, he officially opened up shop in a 400-square-foot cabin in La Conner.

The T-shirts and hoodies are designed with clever puns and sayings that pay homage to the Pacific Northwest. Everything is made in the United States and 90% of the apparel is ecofriendly. In addition to comfortable loungewear, you’ll also find beanies, tote bags, stickers, and notebooks, all inspired by the Pacific Northwest.

While the business did move into a larger space right before the pandemic, Murphy only recently opened the new store to the public. Murphy says the temporary shutdown was easy for his business.

“For us it was [easy] because we had our e-commerce channel, so that provided us with an opportunity to think creatively,” he says.

To increase the store’s scope, Murphy partnered with local artisans to carry items like pillows, candles, and greeting cards. Everything is still rooted in the concept of the Pacific Northwest, a theme also reflected in the storefront’s vibe.

“It’s almost like walking into a cabin, and you really get that feel and sense of what it is like to live that outdoorsy Pacific Northwest life,” Murphy says.

As for his favorite design, it’s a T-shirt that says “Fir Real”, but with a fir tree graphic in place of the i.

Murphy’s vision doesn’t stop in La Conner. Once the pandemic is over, Murphy plans on opening another store somewhere in the Pacific Northwest. 105 South 1st St., La Conner, pacnorwesty.com 

Always make sure your face makeup matches your neck!

You can do a simple patch test on your neck to make sure.

I also recommend blending and then blending some more.

You want to avoid any harsh lines.

What’s an easy-to-fix mistake you see a lot of people make in their beauty routine?

The first thing that pops in my head is neglect of skincare, specifically when it comes to exfoliating. The more work you put into your skincare, the less makeup you’ll need to wear. You have to start with a good base, and exfoliating one or two times a week will make all the difference in the texture and look of your skin. I recommend the Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment.

What makeup trends and colors are you excited about this fall?

I’m excited to play around with fun and bold eyeliner! If you are looking for a great bold eyeliner, the NYX Matte Liquid Eyeliners are perfect and come in a wide selection.

Really glossy lips for fall are also in, and who doesn’t love some good gloss?

Any new products you’re excited about?

I’m always trying new products — it’s one of my favorite things to do! I have been loving the Elta MD Tinted Sunscreen. It’s so important to wear sunscreen everyday — yes, even here in Washington! This sunscreen is nice and light but still adds coverage.  October 2020 43

Style Local Find

Fashion for the Whole Family BRAY

BY ANELYSE MORRIS

and Kennedy Bray have always been close, sharing everything from their genes to their jeans. Armed with a lifelong love of fashion and an eye for classic designs, the duo set out to create an online retail platform for clothing that transcends the generations.

Bray-ving the Storm Kennedy originally pitched the idea for BRAY to Deb in January 2020, with the website slated to launch mid-March.

When COVID-19 hit, things got a bit more complicated.

“Initially it was really difficult,” Kennedy says. “ A lot of our suppliers weren’t open… A couple of our reps lost their jobs, it was really difficult to hold inventory.”

These issues, coupled with the fact that the pair had purchased summer clothing at a time when loungewear was in higher demand, meant the launch had to be postponed until mid-April.

Despite the rocky start, BRAY persevered, creating a web platform at the height of online shopping, with a focus on customer support.

“We want there to be a personality and ‘us’ affiliated with the store,” Kennedy says. “We want to engage with our shoppers as best as we can, especially online in this climate.”

The Team Behind the Page Deb and Kennedy conduct virtually all operations alone, in-house. After converting the space above Deb’s garage into a workspace, the two began selecting, acquiring, and shipping products out themselves.

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According to Deb, their mother-daughter relationship has blossomed into a great working relationship, allowing them to spend time together while simultaneously cutting costs.

“Before we started this together, we were absolutely inseparable. She’s my best friend,” Kennedy says. “So we thought, why not just hang out and work together at the same time?”

Classic. Multigenerational. Inclusive.

Deb and Kennedy set out to sell clothing that’s minimalist and inclusive of all ages and body types. On the site, you can find a variety of items, from dresses and jumpsuits to graphic T-shirts. Everything is offered in sizes 0–18.

All items are hand-curated by the Brays, with new pieces dropping weekly on their website and Instagram.

“We are so picky, and we love engaging with our shoppers when it comes to hand-measuring all clothing and providing accurate product descriptions,” Kennedy says. “We really want them to feel like we’re here.”

Kennedy and Deb look forward to growing their company, exploring possibilities of pop-up shops or even a brick and mortar store. While they currently offer more feminine items, the team hopes to incorporate more men’s wear, athleisure, and accessories into their collection.

“We love that right now the world is our oyster,” Kennedy says. “We’re just seeing where it takes us, and I think that’s been our best success… just keeping calm and doing what we know how to do best.”

Visit the online boutique at shopbray.com, or view items on Instagram @shop.bray. 

Photos by Emily Porter

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OTHER-AND-DAUGHTER TEAM Debra “Deb”

PROMOTION

SHOP LOCAL 1. Nordic Beach Wraps | $85 Tides of Anacortes 804 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.873.8785, tidesofanacortes.com

2. Bees Wax Candles by Whidbey Wax Candles $12–$30 A Lot of Flowers 1212 11th Street, Bellingham 360.647.0728 alotofflowersfairhaven.com

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2 3. Birch Bark Clocks, made in the USA | $55 each Current and Furbish 1115 Harris Ave, Bellingham 360.733.3224, currentandfurbish.com

4. The Original Calming Shag Donut Cuddler Pet Bed, Color: Frosty Taupe $49.99–$180.99 Bow Wow and Woofs

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8115 Birch Bay Square St., Blaine 360.332.3647 bowwowwoofs.com

5. Cauldron by Seth Green $200 Good Earth Pottery 1000 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.671.3998, goodearthpots.com

6. Rufous Hummingbird with Tigerlillies Amanda Richarson 34×29 | $5900 WaterWorks Gallery

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315 Argyle Ave., Friday Harbor 360.378.3060, waterworksgallery.com

7. Garrett Leight “Kinney” Matte Blond Tortoise | $290 Binyon Vision 411 E. Magnolia St., Bellingham 360.647.2020, binyonvision.com

8. Corduroy Jacket | $39.90 Turtle Neck Top | $24.90 Betty Be Good

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Fairway Center, Lynden Birch Bay Square, Blaine 360.441.7691, shopbettybegood.com

October 2020 45

Style Savvy Shopper

Feel Adored Adored Boutique opens its doors in downtown Fairhaven

BY CHELSEA CONSOLACION

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Photos by Wild Grass Photography

F

OR THE LAST 30 YEARS, Bridget Knutson dreamt of opening her own boutique.

Things felt like they were finally falling into place when Knutson and her husband signed a lease for a space in downtown Fairhaven. Little did they know COVID-19 was going to hit the U.S., pushing them into the uncharted territory of opening a business during a pandemic.

“There were days where I was like, ‘What in the world are we even doing? What was I thinking?’”

Knutson says. “My husband, my family, and my friends have been so supportive by believing in it, and that’s been giving me a lot of strength.”

In normal times, Knutson says she would visit markets to establish relationships with vendors and see, touch, and test merchandise firsthand. However, because of the pandemic, she has been forced to interact with people and products exclusively online, an experience she’s found challenging.

Despite the pandemic, after three months of renovations, her dream became a reality when she opened the doors to Adored Boutique along with her assistant manager, Melissa Thatcher.

The store had its grand opening in August.

“The whole thing behind Adored is we want to make people recognize their beauty,” Knutson says.

“Everyone has innate beauty. We are passionate about helping customers recognize that in other people as well.”

The whole thing behind Adored is we want to make people recognize their beauty.

Bridget Knutson Adored Boutique offers clothing, accessories, and gifts meant to enhance your own beauty, inside and out. The store sells tees, sweaters, cardigans, jeans, and dresses, primarily in soft, neutral tones. You can also find bath and body products, handmade jewelry, and gifts with heartfelt notes and inspirational messages.

“A passion of mine is to make people feel valued, cared for, and loved,” Knutson says. “I want my shop to feel comfortable, welcoming, and all-inclusive.”

Knutson says she wants the space to have a calm atmosphere where customers can socialize and shop while enjoying refreshments. She hopes she can create an environment that fosters community and relationship building.

In the future, Knutson hopes to host events that will feature local artists, vendors, and organizations. These events will appear on Adored Boutique’s website and social media channels. 913 Harris Ave, Bellingham, shopadoredboutique.com  October 2020 47

Style Necessities

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3 Sweater Love Find these fashions in downtown Bellingham 48

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$70, Sojourn, Bellingham

Metro Muse Vegan Leather Backpack $62, Fringe, Bellingham

Edmonise Gold Skirt by French $68, Sojourn, Bellingham

Photo and styling by Lisa Karlberg

2

Cream Sweater by French

Thanks for voting us Best Antique Store!

Penny Pinchers ESTATE CLEARANCE

8500 sq ft shopping destination.

Antiques, collectibles, jewelry, tools and home furnishings. Look for us on Facebook for New Inventory & Weekly Sales!

Thank You for Voting Us

Best Yoga!

Celebrating 40 Years of Bringing Iyengar Yoga to our Wonderful Community.

360.927.7570, 4894 Guide Meridian Bellingham, WA

Thank you to our loyal customers!

113 W Magnolia St. Bellingham, WA 98225 369.734.3090 hiltonsshoes.com

Commited to helping you experience yoga with the highest quality instruction in the Northwest.

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

B E S T A RT I S A N S

1001 HARRIS AVE BELLINGHAM | SHOPWHIMSEY.COM

www.yoganorthwest.com 1440 10th St. Bellingham, WA 360.647.0712.

Bellingham Alive Ad.indd 1 9/7/2020 3:15:22 PM October 2020 49

Style Necessities

$198, Quinn & Foster, Bellingham

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4

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Kinross Cashmere Blue Sweater $340, Quinn & Foster, Bellingham

Metro Muse Vegan Black Leather Sling $42, Fringe, Bellingham

DL1961 Grey Jeans, Florence Crop $188, Quinn & Foster, Bellingham Photo and styling by Lisa Karlberg

1

Kinross Cashmere Scarf

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October 2020 53

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hat has nine heads, six instruments, and more than 70 years of combined musical experience? Your favorite local band, Baby Cakes, of course. This beloved performing group from Bellingham specializes in funk, soul, and R&B, bringing all your favorite danceable hits to life. Whether performing at a festival, corporate gathering, or wedding, when it comes to creating a party, Baby Cakes takes the cake.

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Photo courtesy of Baby Cakes

ARTS&EN BEST LOCAL BAND | PERFORMER Baby Cakes

Reader’s Choice BEST CASINO

The Skagit Casino Resort Silver: Angel of the Winds Casino Resort Bronze: Swinomish Casino & Lodge

BEST GOLF COURSE North Bellingham Golf Course

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njoy 18 holes of “real Scottish style links course” at North Bellingham Golf Course. Epic views of Mount Baker, plus challenging winds that sweep across the rolling fields, create an experience that’s at once relaxing, engaging, and dynamic. Designed by course architect Ted Locke, this course — plus delicious fare at 9 Restaurant — will keep you coming back for more.

Silver: Raspberry Ridge Golf Course Bronze: Bellingham Golf & Country Club

Editor’s Pick

Photo courtesy of North Bellingham Golf Course

NERDIEST NIGHT OUT

Kick off the night at 1-UP Lounge, a video game cocktail bar with dozens of video game consoles, many of them vintage. So long as you’re ordering drinks, gaming is free. (Heads up: until phase 4, 1-UP Lounge is putting games on hold and operating as Uncle Hugh’s BBQ.) Next, head downtown to Heady Virtual Reality Arcade, where you can lose yourself in a fantasy world. Until restrictions lift, you can also rent a mobile VR station for at-home gaming. End the night at Endgame Bellingham, where there’s board games, trivia, and role playing, along with a menu of game-themed food and drinks.

MOST INESCAPABLE ESCAPE ROOMS

Bored at home and looking to try something new? The Eureka Room in downtown Bellingham will have you and your team scratching your heads for weeks to come. Participants have one hour to solve puzzles and find clues to escape from a tricky scenario — a rock band stuck in a dressing room, a space explorer on a challenging ship. Be sure to do some brain teasers to warm up before you go in — not everyone successfully escapes! This activity is suitable for people of all ages, but anyone under 16 needs to be with an adult. Consider booking a COVID-friendly session and stretching your brain.

MOST MAGICAL MURALIST

You’ve probably seen Gretchen Leggitt’s artwork a hundred times before — her Hydrascape Stickers appear on cars, water bottles, skis, and coolers across the North Sound — but her big works are even harder to miss.

Leggitt’s murals are all over town, and reflect the heart and soul of Bellingham.

Her iconic, craggy mountains capture the spirit of the Cascades, while her bold colors and playful shapes depict our area’s whimsical, funky side. She’s even responsible for Washington’s largest mural, the 540-foot-long Encogen mural on Cornwall Avenue.

Find more of her work on the outside of Ciao Thyme, the Culture Cafe, and inside Vital Climbing Gym. To learn more, see our story on p. 28.

October 2020 55

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE

Reader’s Choice

Wild Buffalo House of Music

O

ver the years,Wild Buffalo House of Music has become synonymous with the Bellingham music scene. Once again, this beloved music venue has won the hearts of our readers, and for good reason. From up-and-coming local bands to national headliners, the Wild Buff delivers must-see shows all year long.

Silver: Silver Reef Casino Resort Bronze: Boundary Bay Brewery & Bistro

BEST LIVE THEATRE Mount Baker Theatre

Silver: The Upfront Theatre Bronze: Bellingham Theatre Guild

BEST LOCAL BAND | PERFORMER Baby Cakes

Silver: The Replayzmentz Bronze: SpaceBand

Editor’s Pick

Want to learn more about business owners around Bellingham? Tune into the Building Bellingham Podcast on Facebook with founder Leo Cohen. Unlike most podcasts, Building Bellingham provides a live stream during the interview, enabling viewers to watch and listen live. Get to know the local restaurateurs, nonprofit leaders, creators, and general movers and shakers who make Bellingham thrive. Cohen digs deep to find out the inspiration, challenges, and achievements behind your favorite businesses in Whatcom County.

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Photos: Top by Connor Jalbert. Bottom by Cooper Hansley

LOCAL PODCAST TO LOVE

Thank you for voting us

Best Golf Course!

205 W Smith Road, Bellingham 360.398.8300 northbellinghamgolf.com

We are proud to be your choice for Best Live Theatre and we are looking forward to reopening safely. Learn more about MBT’s Countdown to Curtain and how you can support at MountBakerTheatre.com

360.734.6080 • MountBakerTheatre.com • Mount Baker Theatre is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the performing arts.

Reader’s Choice BEST LOCAL ARTIST Ben Mann

L

ook around Bellingham long enough and you’re likely to find the work of local artist Ben Mann.

His signature, colorful paintings enliven any space, whether hanging from the wall of your favorite local business or brightening the pages of a children’s book. Pair his talent with a commitment to community service and collaboration, and it’s easy to see why he won your votes.

Silver: Jennifer Parker Bronze: Jody Bergsma

BEST MUSEUM

Family Interactive Gallery Whatcom Museum Silver: Mindport Exhibits Bronze: SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention

BEST FESTIVAL Bellingham Pride

Silver: Northwest Raspberry Festival Bronze: Bellingham Human Rights Film Festival

How Does The Contest Work?

When voting opens, our website lists each category — nearly 120 — along with a blank entry box. Voters can write in whatever business they want to vote for. Each person can only vote once, and must vote in at least 10 categories in order for their votes to count. Eligible businesses must be located in Whatcom, Skagit, or San Juan County.

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Do You Know If Someone Votes More Than Once?

Yes! It’s actually easy to catch cheaters.

We export all voting data and check IP addresses for repeat voters. We also sort by submission time and can see if anyone logged on to multiple devices and entered identical information. We can ping each submission IP address on a map to further investigate, and we do! We have full confidence in the accuracy of our results.

Are Winners Just Advertisers With Your Company?

No way! Many of our advertisers began placing ads after winning Best of the Northwest in previous years and discovering our readership numbers. Many were already advertising, and many don’t advertise with us at all. Contest winners are completely based on your voting results.

Photo by Kate Galambos

FAQs

Reader’s Choice BEST ART GALLERY Chuckanut Bay Gallery and Sculpture Garden

F

rom gorgeous garden art to musthave home decor, it’s no wonder Chuckanut Bay Gallery & Sculpture Garden earned your votes. Featuring works from more than 400 artisans, this gallery offers unique pieces from talented artists from all around the Sound. If you’re looking for a new addition to your home or just want to see their one-of-a-kind sculpture garden, head down Chuckanut Drive.

Silver: Whatcom Art Market Bronze: Allied Arts of Whatcom County

Photos: Top courtesy of Chuckanut Bay Gallery & Sculpture Garden. Bottom by Esther Chong

Editor’s Pick CLAY ALL DAY

CreativiTea in Fairhaven is the

perfect destination for creative kids and adults alike. Gather the family for a day of pottery painting at this unique shop and tea bar. During COVID, their studio, mezzanine, and loft are open with limited seating capacity for groups of five or fewer, but reservations aren’t required. Stop by to get your hands on some paint and personalize your own ceramic piece. Perfect for a fall weekend activity, this all-inclusive studio is a welcoming place where you can express yourself while enjoying a hot, comforting cup of tea.

MOST OUTLANDISH OUTDOOR SCULPTURE

What’s 400,000 pounds, looks like a spaceship, and was once filled with acid? Bellingham’s giant Acid Ball, of course. The now iconic sculpture, located in Bellingham’s newest waterfront recreation area, Waypoint Park, came to life under the vision of Mutuus Studio, a design firm in Seattle. Before becoming an art piece, the giant steel ball was used to break down wood at the Georgia Pacific paper mill on Bellingham’s waterfront. Today, the structure serves as a symbol of Bellingham’s industrial past while reflecting the town’s unique present. The ball is coated in glass, causing it to glow and reflect back light, making it a truly spectacular sight.

October 2020 59

Thank You For Voting Us

Best

Sporting Goods!

Spacious Suites

Yeager’s

Bus trips to appointments

3101 Northwest Ave., Bellingham 360.733.1080, yeagerssportinggoods.com

Complimentary lunch & tour

24 Hour stafďŹ ng Great food

is becoming

Text POMCAN to 411-669 or scan the QR code to be first in line on opening day!

Voted Best Retirement Facility

Thanks for voting us the Best Cannabis Shop in the Pacific Northwest!

SIGN UP

844 W. Orchard Drive Bellingham, WA 360-647-3708

POMCANNABIS.COM MON-SAT 9AM-11PM | SUN 9AM-10PM 100 E MAPLE ST. BELLINGHAM WA 98225 Warning: This product has intoxicating effects & may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, & judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults 21 years or older. Keep out of reach of children.

RETAIL

Photo by Lindsey Major

BEST BOUTIQUE Betty Be Good

L

ooking for a clothing store with a conscience? Your gold winner, Betty Be Good, donates 2% of their gross sales to buy clothes for victims of human trafficking. Everything in the store is also under $60, so you can shop for trendy, boutique clothing at prices that won’t break your bank. Visit them in Birch Bay Square and on Front Street in Lynden.

October 2020 61

Reader’s Choice BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING Statement Apparel

Silver: Quinn & Foster Bronze: Tides of Anacortes

BEST CONSIGNMENT SHOP Labels Women’s Consignment Shop

Silver: The Clothes Rack Bronze: Wee Ones Reruns

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING Quinn + Foster

W

hen it comes to men’s clothing, Quinn & Foster in downtown Bellingham offers the latest styles from high-end brands you can trust. Find suede dress shoes and a sport coat for your next formal event, or keep it cozy with comfy T-shirts and plaid buttonups. Whatever you need, they’ll make sure you look good in it.

Silver: Bay to Baker Trading Company Bronze: Maple + Moss Boutique

Editor’s Pick Who doesn’t love an accessory that transforms? At Moss Bags, a leather handbag company based right here in Bellingham, several items in the online store do double work. The Crossback goes from a crossbody bag to a backpack and back again, with only a quick adjustment of the strap. There’s also the Hipster Bag, which doubles as a fanny pack and clutch. The Small Convertible Crossbody easily transforms into a tote bag with a simple swivel trigger snap. Everything is created from a continuous piece of leather, meaning these multi-talented bags will also last a lifetime.

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MOST INCLUSIVE SEX SHOP

Have you ever walked into a sex shop and been overwhelmed or uncomfortable? At WinkWink Boutique, an all-inclusive, women-owned sex shop in downtown Bellingham, you may never feel that way again. WinkWink’s employees are approachable and kind, meaning you’ll feel at ease whether you’re browsing for lengerie, sex toys, books, or more. They also offer a variety of classes — including online classes — to keep you adventurous and educated. The goal is to eradicate shame, celebrate pleasure, and help everyone find a way to love themself and others.

Photo by Tyler Kendig

MOST VERSATILE STYLE

South Bellingham Bellingham Buds South Buds 1215 N Lake Samish Dr. #1 Exit 246 South

Open 11-9 every day

Have a Tokerrific Day

360-778-3358 Follow us on Instagram @south_bellingham_buds

360-778-3358

Thank you for voting us Best Art Gallery!

1103 11th St. Bellingham, WA (Fairhaven) 45 Local Artists

The Pacific Northwest’s premier event venue

360-647-1444

info@lairmontmanor.com

360 738 8564

Wednesday - Sunday 11 am - 5 pm WhatcomArtMarket.org

Reader’s Choice

BEST APPLIANCE STORE

BEST SPORTING GOODS STORE

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Silver: Yeager’s Sporting Goods Bronze: Second Shot Sports

hether you’re looking for a new washer and dryer, refrigerator, or barbecue, Judd & Black Appliance will deliver, install, and service your purchase. This local, family-owned-and-operated store has earned your trust for decades, and earned your votes for the seventh year in a row.

Visit one of their six area showrooms to see for yourself.

Silver: DeWaard & Bode Bronze: Habitat for Humanity in Whatcom County

Editor’s Pick MUST-VISIT DIGITAL BOUTIQUES

Online shopping has certainly boomed this year, as brick-andmortar stores worked to switch up their services. However, there are still plenty of online-only businesses striving for success. Texture Clothing offers a variety of long-lasting sustainable clothing for all body types. You can order their ethically-made items online, or find select products at Bay to Baker Trading Company and 3 Oms Yoga. New to the Bellingham fashion scene, mother-and-daughter run BRAY also provides stylish, modern options for teenagers and older adults alike, all through their digital storefront. To learn more, see our full story on p. 44.

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Dave’s Sports Shop

BEST ELECTRONICS STORE Reference Media

Silver: Audio Video Excellence Bronze: Clicktek

Photos: Top courtesy of Judd & Black Appliance. Bottom by Sig Photography

Judd & Black Appliance

SPOOKIEST HALLOWEEN SHOP

Calling all goblins, witches, and ghouls!

Halloween may look a little different this year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t creep it real with your costume.

For more than 20 years, SpookShop of Bellingham has offered high-end, one-of-a-kind costumes, accessories, and decorations to help create fa-boolous Halloween experiences. While the storefront is only open for a few months in the fall, the online platform offers year-round fun, including apparel for Mardi Gras, Saint Patrick’s Day, and more. Whether you’re looking for an adorable couple’s costume, classic cobweb decorations, or a truly terrifying mask, SpookShop offers some defrightful finds.

BEST WAY TO MEET YOUR MAKERS

The North Sound is filled with talented, creative people with plenty of goods to share. If you’re looking for a place to connect with local artists and craftspeople, look no further than Valley Made Market. Whether it’s potters, jewelry-makers, photographers, weavers, toy-makers, leather artists, designers, soap-makers, or painters, you’ll find something you love and meet a local creator along the way. Normally, the market in downtown Mount Vernon blends art vendors with beer, live music, and food. Because of COVID-19, it now boasts an online platform, making it easy to shop from home.

804 Commercial Ave. Anacortes, WA 98221 360.873.8785 tidesof anacortes.com

$5

OFF

any $25 purchase!

THANK YOU for voting us Gold

One coupon per purchase. Excludes Fish/Hunt Licenses and Gift Certificates*

Exp. November 30, 2020

1738 Front St., Lynden

MOBILE MOOD IMPROVER

If you spot a big green truck cruising around Lynden, look twice, because it might be the Petal Pushers Flower Truck. This mobile flowerselling company creates beautiful arrangements and then pedals them truck-side. You can also call and get bouquets delivered. They have beautiful, fragrant creations for every occasion, whether it’s Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, a wedding, a funeral, or just to brighten someone’s day. With Thanksgiving around the corner, they also create beautiful table centerpieces designed for the season.

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Reader’s Choice BEST BOOKSTORE Village Books

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or 40 years, Village Books and Paper Dreams has served as a literary institution in Whatcom County. With locations in Fairhaven and Lynden, bibliophiles and writers can enjoy live events, book clubs, and writing workshops, while building community along the way. Visitors can also browse for gifts at Paper Dreams or grab a treat at Evolve Chocolate & Cafe.

Silver: Henderson Books Bronze: Pelican Bay Books & Coffeehouse

BEST SHOE STORE

Fairhaven Runners & Walkers Silver: 12th Street Shoes Bronze: Hilton’s Shoes

BEST BOUTIQUE Betty Be Good

Silver: Fringe Boutique Bronze: Cheeks Jeans

BEST LOCAL ARTISAN Whimsey

Silver: Chris Moench Bronze: Good Earth Pottery

Editor’s Pick ONE-OF-A-KIND JEWELRY

Located in Fairhaven, Whimsey offers a unique collection of handmade jewelry. In addition to showcasing the work of local and regional artists, the shop also features international artists from places like Paris, Brazil, and Venezuela. Some pieces you won’t find anywhere else in the country. From simple stones to extravagant pearls and metalwork, their wide variety guarantees you’ll find something you’ll never want to take off. If jewelry isn’t your style but you still want to support local artists, Whimsey’s gallery also sells paintings, prints, and mixed media that are just as one-of-a-kind.

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CARDS THAT SAY “I LOVE YOU”

Bison Bookbinding & Letterpress in downtown Bellingham

stocks work from artists across the Pacific Northwest and around the world. Their stationary selection boasts oneof-a-kind cards sure to make your significant other feel special. One of their collaborative artists is Bellingham-based illustrator Phoebe Wahl, who also offers an assortment of adorable, heartwarming cards on her website, phoebewahl. shop. Whether you’re trying to express your love to a partner, a friend, or just want to make someone smile, Wahl has a card for every occasion.

2034 James St

360.734.6140 Mon-Fri 7am-6pm Sat 7am-5:30pm HardwareSales.net BEST JEWELRY SHOP Apse

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pse, which stands for All People’s Shackles Exchanged, produces hand-crafted jewelry with a strong intention. They donate 10% of every purchase to organizations working to end slavery, abuse, and exploitation, while using locally sourced or recycled materials to reduce waste. Browse their collection for simple, elegant designs created to last.

Silver: Borthwick Jewelry, Inc. Bronze: Jewelry Affair

BEST ANTIQUE STORE Aladdin’s Antiques and Records

Silver: Penny Pinchers Bronze: Bellingham Bay Collectibles

BEST FURNITURE STORE Samuel’s Furniture

Silver: Greenhouse Bronze: Griffith Furniture & Mattresses

THANK YOU FOR VOTING FOR US!

We are proud to be Your LOCAL Hardware Store ...

Photo courtesy of Apse

STICK A WICK IN IT

In beautiful La Conner, there is a candle shop that prides itself on recycling and reclaiming old glass to create new candles that look like ‘art in a glass’.

Reclamation Candle Company and Coffee Bar also doubles as a cafe, providing delicious coffee drinks for customers to sip on while they browse — and sniff — the wide variety of candles. Their candles are 100% soy and made with cotton, lead-free wicks and high-quality fragrance oils. The coolest part is that you can bring in any candle-friendly glass object — think flat bottom and vertical sides — and Reclamation will turn it into a candle.

58 Years & Counting!

Congratulations to ALL of the great winners this year!

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fter a year like 2020, who doesn’t need some extra pampering? The experts at Still Life Massage & Float will help you relax, recharge, and heal. With multiple trained massage therapists on staff, you’ll be in good hands whether you’re seeking relief from chronic pain, injury, or pregnancy discomfort. For something different, try a session in one of their float tanks.

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Photo courtesy of Still Life Massage and Float

H E A LT H BEST MASSAGE Still Life Massage and Float

Reader’s Choice BEST HEALTH FOOD SHOP

Community Food Co-op

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ho doesn’t love the Community Food Co-op? They have everything you need to maintain a nutritious diet and health-forward lifestyle. From fresh, organic vegetables to vitamins, supplements, and tinctures, there’s nothing you can’t find in their bountiful aisles. They also offer classes on cooking, nutrition, and health to keep you educated and empowered.

Silver: ANMLY Cafe Bronze: Electric Beet Juice Co.

Editor’s Pick

BEST SPA

The Chrysalis Inn & Spa Bellingham, Curio Collection by Hilton

MOST PAMPERING PACKAGES

Clear your afternoon, because these extravagant spa packages can last up to five hours. At The Chrysalis Inn & Spa Bellingham, Curio Collection by Hilton, The Chrysalis Signature Trio boasts three of the spa’s most popular treatments: an hour-long Swedish massage, an hour-long organic facial, and an hour-long hydrating pedicure. At Zazen Salon Spa, the Message in a Bottle offers a similar deal — a facial, Swedish massage, and mani/pedi — plus a spa lunch. Finally, at The Apothecary Spa in Anacortes, the Nirvana Package includes a 300-minute lineup of a massage, an ageless beauty facial, and a revitalizing body polish, plus lunch.

ADD SOME CBD TO YOUR MASSAGE

Suffering from pain or inflammation? The Vital Body Massage at The Spa at Semiahmoo relies on CBD massage cream to help relieve tension, ease pain, and even reduce anxiety, so you get all the benefits of a traditional massage plus a calming boost of CBD. Vital Body Therapeutics’ herbal CBD massage cream is organic and derived from hemp, so you know your skin is nourished with the highest quality product. It’s also blended with beneficial herbs, essential oils, and shea butter, so your skin will be smooth and blissfully scented.

Photo by Esther Chong

SUGAR-CHARGED CHAKRA SCRUB

Silver: Zazen Salon Spa Bronze: Kara’s Beauty Barn

BEST MASSAGE

Still Life Massage and Float Silver: New Life Chiropractic and Wellness Bronze: Advanced Medical Massage

BEST FITNESS CENTER Bellingham Fitness

Silver: Bellingham Athletic Club Bronze: Fitness Evolution Bellingham

Founded by Frida Emalange in 2007, Zorganics Cosmetics is a line of locally sourced, natural, and organic hair, skin, and cosmetic products. Inspired by the seven chakras of ancient meditation — security, pure love, power center, intuition, inspiration, creativity, and clarity — their NaÉtae Chakras Sugar Scrubs are formulated with essential oils that will help you awaken your desired chi. Made with shea butter and vitamin E, these scrubs will leave your skin feeling as soft and balanced as your spirit. Order on their website or in-person at their retail store.

BEST FAMILY PRACTITIONER PeaceHealth Family Medicine

Silver: Lynden Family Medicine, Family Care Network Bronze: North Sound Family Medicine, Family Care Network

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BEST MEN’S HAIRCUT Wally’s Barber Shop

Silver: V’s Barbershop, Bellingham Bakerview Square Bronze: Old 99 Barber Shop

BEST PHARMACY Hoagland Pharmacy Silver: Fairway Drug Bronze: Hilltop Pharmacy

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPIST

Capstone Physical Therapy Silver: Performance Physical Therapy Bronze: CorePhysio

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER

Gene Kelly (Adventure Fit Academy) Silver: Jacob Stevenson (JD Elite Fitness) Bronze: Shasonta Delmage (CrossFit X)

Thank You for voting us Best Audiology Clinic

Pamela H. Spencer, M.A., CCC-A, FAAA

BEST NATUROPATH Dr. Sarah Garrett

Silver: Dr. Emily Sharpe Bronze: Bellingham Natural Family Medicine

BEST ORTHODONTIST Yeh Orthodontics

Silver: Dr. Michael Shoff (Shoff Orthodontics) Bronze: Cummins Orthodontics

BEST EYE CARE

Northwest Eye Clinic Silver: Bellingham Bay Ophthalmology Bronze: Binyon Vision Center

CALL FOR YOUR FREE HEARING SCREENING TODAY!

360.312.7272

BELLINGHAM • 2114 James St

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BEST DENTIST Bellingham and Lynden Smiles

Silver: Love Dentistry Bronze: Bellingham Family Dentistry

Reader’s Choice BEST SALON Envy

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hen it comes to getting that perfect new hairdo, Envy is certainly a cut above. At this boutique salon in downtown Bellingham, hair is their passion — and it shows. Whether you’re looking for a simple cut or a complicated color treatment, their high-end products, tools, and customer service are sure to leave you smiling in the mirror.

Silver: Honey Salon & The Hive Bronze: Plum Hair Studio

BEST AUDIOLOGIST | HEARING CENTER

Editor’s Pick

Silver: Hearing Health Clinic Bronze: All About Hearing

SWEATIEST WORKOUT

Spencer Audiology Clinic

STATS TOTAL ENTRIES: 67,555 TOTAL INDIVIDUAL VOTES: 864,231 MOST VOTES IN A SINGLE CATEGORY: BEST CANNABIS, 26,442

Photo courtesy of Envy

MOST VOTES FOR A SINGLE BUSINESS: BEST CANNABIS, 12,308 AVERAGE NUMBER OF CATEGORIES EACH VOTER VOTED IN: 15 TOTAL CATEGORIES: 119

If you want to leave a workout feeling like you’ve just jumped in a lake, head to FLUX Power Yoga in Fairhaven. Their 55-minute power yoga class gets your heart rate going and your body moving — in a room that’s heated up to 95 degrees. Make sure to bring a towel, because things will get slippery. The good news? You’ll stretch deeper and wring out all the stress, tension, and stiffness you’ve built up while sitting at a desk or worrying about the world. Enjoy a great view of Bellingham Bay during a practice that will have you feeling strong, energized, and ready for a cleansing shower.

BEST WALKS TO GET YOUR 10,000 STEPS

For most people, it takes about five miles to reach 10,000 steps. The South Bay Trail spans 2.5 miles, making it the perfect option for reaching your step goals. Beginning on Mill Avenue in Fairhaven and ending downtown, the trail offers epic water views and pit stops at Woods Coffee, Boulevard Park, and plenty of rest areas along the way. For something new, try the Cascade Trail, which connects the towns of Sedro-Woolley and Concrete. The trail — built on a former railway line — runs for more than 20 miles, so you can turn back whenever you’ve reached your halfway mark. Enjoy views of the Skagit River along the way.

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Bham Alive Mag-1-3_2020.indd 2

9/7/20 11:12 AM

of the

2015

BEST

NORTH

WEST

GOLD

of the

2017

BEST

NORTH

WEST

GOLD

ARE YOU IN PAIN? we can help, the Natural Way

Thank you to all our loyal clients for their continued support over the years, we are thrilled to be recognized year after year and could not do it without you!

• Body aches & Pain • Motor vehicle accidents • Old injuries • Work, sport and play • Headaches injuries

Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden, Mt Vernon, Anacortes, Everett, and Vancouver

360.671.1710 | Naturalwaychiro.org

Reader’s Choice

BEST YOGA | PILATES STUDIO Yoga Northwest

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oga Northwest isn’t new to the winner’s circle. You’ve voted them Best of the Northwest multiple times, and for good reason. Their expert instructors are passionate about sharing their love for yoga so you can feel healthy and balanced. They offer a wide variety of classes that focus on everything from spine health to good sleep. During COVID-19, you can practice with them online.

Silver: 3 OMS Yoga Bronze: Flow Motion

BEST CANNABIS SHOP

BEST OB|GYN

BEST MANI | PEDI

Silver: Trove Cannabis Bronze: Satori

Silver: Barkley Women’s Healthcare Bronze: PeaceHealth Women’s Health Clinic, OB-GYN

Silver: Happy Nails and Spa Bronze: Le Nails

2020 Solutions

Bellingham OB/GYN

Jimmy’s Personal Care Spa

Editor’s Pick

Photos: Top courtesy of Yoga Northwest. Bottom by Annika Sampson

GREENEST HAIR SALON

The good people at Honey Salon & The Hive won’t dye your hair green...unless you ask them to...but they will make sure the foil, color tubes, and liquid chemical waste don’t find their way into our water supply or landfills. Honey Salon is the first in Bellingham to become a member of Green Circle Salons, a program that prioritizes recycling and reuse of salon products.

They’re committed to a more sustainable beauty practice, whether it’s by disposing of waste in an environmentally conscious manner or using products that source locally and use minimal packaging.

NATURAL BALMS FOR ACHES AND PAINS

Products from Innate Organic Body offer a natural alternative for anyone who has aches and pains from injuries, arthritis, fibromyalgia, or tendinitis. Started in 2014, Innate offers a wide array of small-batch apothecary products, including an arnica and turmeric muscle and joint balm, CBD headache relief oil, and a sports recovery balm. All of their products are made in Bellingham with 100% essential oils and are certified vegan, natural, and cruelty-free. With both CBD and non-CBD options, this shop is great for anyone seeking a natural, alternative method to pain relief.

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Reader’s Choice

BEST RETIREMENT FACILITY The Willows

Editor’s Pick

he Willows, a pet-friendly apartment and retirement community located in the heart of Bellingham, offers a friendly, inclusive, and engaging environment for seniors.

They’ll help your loved ones feel right at home with amenities like relocation assistance, complimentary transportation, spa services, restaurantstyle dining, fitness classes, and learning opportunities, just to name a few.

Silver: Orchard Park Bronze: Parkway Chateau

BEST CHIROPRACTOR Natural Way Chiropractic & Massage

Silver: Olson Family Chiropractic Bronze: Salish Chiropractic

BEST MEDI-SPA RejuvenationMD

Silver: Kucumber Skin Lounge Bronze: Limitless Beauty 74

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WISEST WELLNESS COACH

All of the dieticians at Sensibly Sprouted are trained in motivational coaching, meaning their advice, support, and guidance extend beyond the bounds of pure nutrition. The goal is to help clients feel better, whether that’s by achieving a healthy weight, modifying your diet to reduce symptoms of chronic illness, or just figuring out a daily menu that maximizes energy and makes you feel your best. Another goal is to identify root causes, both behavioral or diet-based, so that clients can make meaningful changes that last a lifetime. They also work with clients to make sure insurance covers as much of the cost as possible.

Photos: Top courtesy of The Willows. Bottom courtesy of Sensibly Sprouted

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HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

ENJOY 25% OFF ON MOST ITEMS IN THE STORE OCTOBER 31ST! ($20 MINIMUM PURCHASE)

BREAST CANCER SCREENING

www.westernbud.com

Thanks for voting for us Best Massage!

So you can be there to share your family traditions.

Stay in the clear.

Screen once a year.

Schedule your 3D mammogram today.

360-424-6161 MOUNT VERNON

360-814-2168 ARLINGTON

SkagitRegionalHealth.org/ CancerScreenings

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

HOME

A

t My Garden Nursery in Bellingham, it’s all about the fun, whether you’re in the market for a colorful, locally grown plant pal or an adorable purple flamingo statuette whose proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.

You can find everything to start, maintain, or grow your garden, including seminars for novices and seasoned green thumbs alike.

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Photo by Alicia Prozinksi

BEST GARDEN | NURSERY My Garden Nursery

Reader’s Choice BEST HOME DECOR Greenhouse

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hat began as a plant store in the 70s has evolved into one of Bellingham’s most beloved destinations for home goods, furniture, and decor. Greenhouse has everything you need to make your house a home, from throw pillows and planters to rugs, furniture, and lighting. Visit their store in downtown Bellingham or shop online.

Silver: Petals & Blooms Bronze: Surroundings Home, Gifts, & Garden

BEST LANDSCAPE DESIGN Molly Maguire

Silver: Erin Landscapes Bronze: Borrowed Ground

BEST YARD MAINTENANCE Whatcom Lawns

Silver: ABC Landscaping Bronze: Augusta Lawn Care Services

Editor’s Pick

Photo by Zoe Deal

FUNKIEST FURNITURE FINDS

If you’re looking for distinctive mid-1900s decor and furniture, The Atomic Kitten in downtown Bellingham is at your service. They bring you unique, high-quality vintage furniture from the 1950s through the 1970s — focusing on American, European, Danish, and Asian designs — so you can add a retro vibe to your home, no matter how contemporary it may be. From funky sofas to teak credenzas, there’s nothing workaday about their showroom. They also offer furniture staining, repair, refinishing, and restoration, so you can upgrade your own vintage finds.

GARDEN CLUBS TO LOVE

Northwest Washington is a gardener’s paradise, with plenty of passionate plant-lovers eager to connect and play in the dirt. The San Juan Island Garden Club brings together gardeners on the island to care for local green spaces, host garden tours, and teach area students about plants. In Bellingham, the Birchwood Garden Club boasts more than 100 members from Whatcom and Skagit who meet monthly to talk about all things gardening. They also host an annual plant sale, potluck, and garden tour.

Host of the Annual Tour of Private Gardens, the Whatcom Horticultural Society also offers lectures, classes, and volunteer opportunities.

HONEY IT UP WITH OUR FAVORITE BEES

BeeWorks Farm is a local, familyowned beekeeping business right here in Whatcom County. Owner and beekeeper Rob Rienstra makes delicious, raw, unfiltered honey by working with bees and their natural rhythms. The result is honey so good you can eat it by the spoonful. You can find BeeWorks honey at the Community Food Co-op, the Skagit Valley Food Co-op, and in Seattle’s PCC Community Markets. They also appear at the Bellingham Farmers Market.

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Editor’s Pick MOST INSTAGRAMWORTHY PLANT SHOP

With dozens of potted plants, glowing natural light, and cute lattes, you can’t help but snap a photo when you visit Babygreens Plant Shop and Cafe. Whether you’re looking to parent a leafy tropical plant, adopt a low-maintenance succulent, or give in to the air plant craze, Babygreens’ employees will help you find the perfect indoor greens to brighten your home.

Partnered with local businesses Aslan Brewing Company, Anchorhead Coffee, Structures Brewing, and Chuckanut Brewery, their cafe also sells coffee, wine, beer, and weekend mimosas, so you can sit back and enjoy a drink among the greenery.

Reader’s Choice BEST ARCHITECT Falconworks

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Silver: JWR Design Bronze: Haven Design Workshop

BEST GARDEN | NURSERY My Garden Nursery

Silver: Kent’s Garden & Nursery Bronze: Garden Spot Nursery

BEST BUILDER

Highline Construction Silver: Moceri Construction Bronze: Chuckanut Builders

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Photos: Top by Esther Chong. Bottom courtesy of Falconworks

lways unique, never ordinary, Falconworks specializes in one-of-a-kind designs for both residential and commercial buildings. The Bellingham-based studio works closely with clients to create spaces that are functional, beautiful, and exceed expectations. Whether designing your dream home from the ground-up or remodeling an existing space, they’ll help bring your vision to life.

INC.

Thanks for voting us Best Roofing Company

Composition, Metal, Shakes and Gutters Over 40 years of superior service 2124 Grant Street Bellingham, Wa. 360.734.7374 • aquiestatile.com • aquiestatile@msn.com

360-733-0191 www.mtbakerroofing.com #MTBAKR1055ML

Thanks for voting me Best Interior Design

Jennifer Ryan • JenniferRyanDesign.com • houzz.com/pro/jenniferryandesign jennifer@jenniferryandesign.com • 360.319.7092 • License #JENNIRD885RM

Family owned and operated since 1979!

OUR MISSION: TO PLAN AND BUILD ENDURING ST RUCT URES IN CONCERT RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

WITH OUR COMMUNITY AND

SALES & SERVICE

Toll Free

SHARED ENVIRONMENT

1-800-468-5330 www.mtbakerdoorsinc.com Servicing Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan and Island Counties

We measure

success differently.

We

believe that a vibrant business supports the personal development of the workers.

We

believe in democratic decisionmaking and a fair distribution of profits.

For

a complete list of our guiding principles please visit our website.

We support and admire the courage it takes to question assumptions.

We believe in working with community

members to create a shared prosperity, a healthy local environment, and strong community orginizations.

BELLINGHAM BAY BUILDERS A Workers Cooperative

Please consider voting for Bellingham Bay Builders online at Best of the Northwest at northsoundlife.com

BEST HARDWARE | LUMBER STORE

Reader’s Choice

Hardware Sales

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hat began in 1962 as Powder Sales, a store that sold, among other things, dynamite, is now Bellingham’s most trusted local hardware store. Hardware Sales has everything you need for your home or commercial project, from hardware, tools, and lumber to equipment rentals. Their employees are respectful, knowledgeable, and eager to help you find what you need.

Silver: Builders Alliance Bronze: Westside Building Supply

BEST KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN

DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen Silver: Legacy Kitchen & Bath Bronze: Lynden Interiors

Editor’s Pick FAVORITE PUBLIC GARDEN

Photos: Top by Becky Linton. Bottom by Kelly Pearce

Way more than just a peaceful area with flowers and foliage, the Big Rock Garden Park boasts dozens of permanent sculptures, a gazebo, and well-groomed walking trails. Enjoy strolling through the botanical garden, home to a variety of native plants meant to encourage wildlife visitation and habitation. Birds, butterflies, hummingbirds, and foxes all find sustenance and shelter among the garden’s 2.5 acres. While you’re there, admire artwork from both international and local sculptors. Whether it’s azaleas and rhododendrons in the spring or colorful maples in the fall, there’s something worth seeing year-round.

BEST PLACE FOR UPCYCLED GOODS

Looking for a velvet armchair? A wool rug? A retro typewriter? If you want to add some serious funk and style to your house without breaking the bank, head to Again Thrift Shop in Mount Vernon. You’ll find highly curated home items including furniture, dishware, art, plants, and wall hangings. The store also has a great selection of women’s and men’s clothing (think kindly priced Pendleton jackets and name-brand jeans), as well as an entire back room for slightly used sports and recreation equipment. Whatever you’re looking for, this store will make you excited to find it.

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Reader’s Choice BEST INTERIOR DESIGN Jennifer Ryan

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fter being named one of the 25 best interior designers in the state and placing in our Best of the Northwest competition multiple years in a row, it’s no wonder Jennifer Ryan Design won your votes yet again this year. Ryan offers design, planning, production, and contractor services, so no matter how you want to improve your home, she’s got you covered.

Silver: Jon Falcon Bronze: Anne Tanner

BEST ROOFING COMPANY Mt. Baker Roofing

Silver: Topside Roofing & Siding Bronze: Esary Roofing & Siding

BEST FLOORING COMPANY HomePort Interiors

Silver: Great Floors Bronze: Morris Floors & Interiors

Editor’s Pick If you’re looking for an antique shop that specializes in furniture from India, Africa, and Europe, then look no further than Stonehouse Artifacts in Bellingham. Owners Kurt and Lydia Scherer have made their house and 10-acre estate into an antique shop that honors their global travels, showcasing everything from folk art and pashminas to furniture from the colonial and Mughal eras of India. It’s an adventurous shopping experience perfect for anyone who wants to break the mold on typical house furnishings.

During COVID, the estate is open by appointment only.

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A NURSERY WITH DEEP ROOTS

If you’re eyeing to build an outdoor getaway in your own backyard, head to Wells Nursery in Mount Vernon.

Established in 1937, this third-generation nursery is familyrun and known for sprucing up the northwest and beyond with their unique selection of ornamental trees and stunning plant species. They propagate, grow, and supply a variety of deciduous shrubs, woodsy conifers, Japanese maples, blooming dogwoods, and fruit saplings on their 150-acre growing grounds. Their knowledgeable staff will help bring to life all your landscaping dreams.

Photo by Katheryn Moran Photography

MOST UNIQUE ANTIQUES

COMMERCIAL  RESIDENTIAL  SERVICE spectrumpandh.com | info@spectrumpandh.com | 360.739.9207

THANKS FOR VOTING US

BEST PLUMBER We look forward to continuing to serve our community for many years to come.

KIDDOS

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he people at Fairhaven Toy Garden take play seriously.

Their selection of toys is carefully curated to encourage cognitive, social, and emotional development. With a focus on natural materials and toys for younger ages, you’re sure to find something for your little ones to love. Shop online or visit the store in Fairhaven for interactive displays and hands-on fun.

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Photos by Dean Davidson

BEST TOY STORE Fairhaven Toy Garden

Reader’s Choice BEST PLACE FOR A KID’S BIRTHDAY PARTY Trampoline Zone

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ump for joy at Trampoline Zone, where both kids and adults can enjoy 18,000 square feet of bouncy fun. With foam pits, a ninja course, and space for dodgeball, there’s no place better for group play. Different party packages come with extras like pizza, balloons, and grip socks, along with themed decorations — think Minecraft, emoji, and neon glow party.

Silver: Summit Adventure Park Bronze: Bellingham Sportsplex

BEST TOY STORE

Fairhaven Toy Garden Silver: Launching Success Bronze: Kids Stuff

BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITY

BEST SUMMER | OUTDOOR CAMP

Silver: Marine Life Center Bronze: Birch Bay Water Slides

Silver: Wild Whatcom Bronze: Camp Kirby

Arne Hanna Aquatic Center

The Firs Camps & Retreats

Editor’s Pick TINIEST COOKING SCHOOL

If your little ones are already showing an interest in the kitchen, consider enrolling them in a class with Tiny Onion Cooking School.

Owner Annalee Dunn teaches basic cooking skills and techniques that focus on wholeness, local ingredients, and flavor. There’s also an emphasis on nutrition. The school offers a variety of interactive classes aimed at different age ranges, so nobody’s left out — even parents can join in on the fun if they want to. Check Tiny Onion’s website for virtual classes and camps to keep your kids cooking through the pandemic.

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Reader’s Choice BEST STORE FOR BABY Bellingham Baby Company

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or five years in a row, you’ve given the gold to Bellingham Baby Company. You can find anything you need for your little one in their online store or at their brick-and-mortar location in Lynden. From adorable crocheted animal hats to custom onesies and blankets, their selection will have you saying, “That’s adorable” over and over again.

Silver: Bunnies by the Bay Bronze: Wee Ones Reruns

BEST PRE-SCHOOL

Generations Early Learning and Family Center

BEST CHILDCARE | AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM

Generations Early Learning and Family Center Silver: After School Adventure at The Firs Bronze: Bellingham Childcare and Learning Center

BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL Assumption Catholic School Silver: Lynden Christian Schools Bronze: The Franklin Academy

Editor’s Pick MOST FUN PLAYGROUND City Park & Million Smiles Playground

in Lynden delivers just what it promises — more smiles than you can keep track of. The playground is a kid’s dream come true, with intricate, dynamic play structures boasting rope bridges, lookouts, monkey bars, catwalks, slides, and a treehouse. The adjacent tot lot, meant for littler ones, features adorable mini play shops based on real Lynden businesses — there’s Edaleen Dairy, Lynden Family Physical Therapy, and The Print Shop. Adults will enjoy nearby walking trails, a picnic area, and a small creek to cool off in.

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Photos: Top by Lindsey Major. Bottom by Esther Chong

Silver: Loving Space School Bronze: The Franklin Academy Preschool

CHILDREN’S CHARITIES TO CHEER ON

When it comes to making life better for kids, let’s give three cheers each to Blue Skies for Children, Skookum Kids, and Children of the Valley. Blue Skies

for Children supports homeless, foster, and low-income children, whether it’s donating shoes and backpacks or helping kids take part in extracurricular activities like gymnastics and music lessons. Skookum Kids is all about repairing the foster care system, while Children of the Valley provides afterschool enrichment for children in Skagit Valley. All three organizations work hard to keep our community’s children safe, supported, and empowered.

NINJA SKILLS FOR KIDS

At Life Force Ninja, kids can learn to swing, climb, balance, and jump across the gym’s various obstacles.

Classes focus on building mental fortitude, endurance, body awareness, and confidence — all skills that translate well to other sports and life in general.

Designed for kids ages 6-12, the courses are taught by trained coaches and cater to beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. Not only will kids learn to trust themselves as they work through the obstacles, but they’ll also have a blast while doing it.

SALISH CHIROPRACTIC Thank you for voting us Best Chiropractor —Dr. Jeremy and Dina Garcia 1919 Cornwall Ave. Bellingham 360.200.1650

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CUISINE

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slan Brewing Company is dedicated to bringing you beer with “organic ingredients, locally sourced goods, and lowimpact practices.” Since opening their doors in 2013, they’ve steadily collected dozens of awards for their beer. Taste the magic yourself at their Brewpub in downtown Bellingham, or grab a pint and relax at The Depot, only a couple blocks away.

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Photo by Madison Studer

BEST BREWERY Aslan Brewing Company

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

Reader’s Choice

Storia Cucina

O

pening a restaurant during a pandemic is no easy feat, but Storia Cucina did it with grace... and a menu brimming with delicious, just-like-grandma-makes-them Italian dishes. Cozy up with a hearty pasta entree or drop in for a refreshing aperol spritz. They now serve brunch, featuring zeppoles (Italian donuts with Nutella dip), huckleberry waffles, and butter beans with farm eggs.

Silver: Lombardi’s Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar Bronze: District Brewing Company

BEST INTERNATIONAL CUISINE Asian 1

Silver: Wanida Thai Cuisine Bronze: Goji Bistro

BEST FISH & CHIPS

BEST TAKE-OUT

BEST BAR & LOUNGE

Silver: Alaska Wild Fish & Chip Co. Bronze: Anthony’s at Squalicum Harbor

Silver: Mambo Italiano Cafe Bronze: Wanida Thai Cuisine

Silver: Bellingham Bar & Grill Bronze: DownTime Taps

Nicki’s Bella Marina

VikingFood

B-Town Kitchen & Raw Bar

Editor’s Pick

Photos by Emily Porter

MOST MONDO BURRITO If you’re feeling hungry — really hungry — the Jumbo Potato Burrito at Casa Que Pasa is certain to fill you up, plus some. Similar in size to a small house pet, this hefty tortilla-wrapped creation features charred, deep-fried potatoes, loads of cheese, pinto beans, and creamy, mouth-watering potato sauce. Just make sure to loosen your belt a notch, because this burrito weighs in at around two pounds.

According to food celebrity Alton Brown, who tried one back in 2017: “It doesn’t sound very good... but it is.”

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Reader’s Choice BEST FRESH PRODUCE Joe’s Gardens

T

here has never been a better time to embrace your green thumb. Get your garden on with the help of Joe’s Gardens in Bellingham. Enjoy local fruits, vegetables, eggs, jams, and baked goods from Joe’s retail stand. Sharpen your own skills with tips from the maestro himself; Joe’s website has plenty of helpful tips and practices to help your garden grow.

Silver: Bellingham Farmers Market Bronze: Youngstock’s Nursery & Produce

BEST FRESH MEAT | SEAFOOD Skagit’s Own Fish Market Silver: Carne Bronze: Addies Angus Ranch

BEST CATERER Ciao Thyme

Silver: Crave Catering Bronze: Cosmos Bistro

BEST BURGER

The Filling Station Silver: Fat Shack Bronze: Rusty Wagon Old Tyme Food Company

Editor’s Pick Some mornings are for yogurt parfaits or oatmeal. Other mornings demand something a little more decadent, and what’s more decadent than French toast? At Skylark’s Hidden Cafe in Fairhaven, they kick the indulgence up a notch with their Banana Bread French Toast. Three slices of fresh, house-made banana bread are grilled to perfection after soaking in an egg glaze. The whole thing is topped with powdered sugar, walnuts, brown sugar, and a caramelized glaze made from maple syrup. Yes, it’s totally okay to go back to bed after this one.

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Photos: Top by Alicia Prozinski. Bottom by Emily Porter

MOST DECADENT BREAKFAST

Editor’s Pick

THANK YOU for voting for us

4 Years in a row!

Fresh local seaFood craFted house cocktails patio seating available

open For dinner tue - sun 1145 n. state st. bellingham, wa Follow us on Facebook and instagram! www.rockrye.com

TH

AN K VOT YOU , ER S!

Photo by Emily Porter

FONDUE WITH A VIEW

What’s better than dipping delicious bite-sized snacks into gooey melted cheese? Doing it while looking out over historic downtown Fairhaven and Bellingham Bay, of course.

The Petite Fondue at The Black Cat comes with dippable chunks of apple, broccoli, and French baguette. Order it at a discount during the bistro’s happy hour, along with any bottle of wine for 20% off. Grab a table by the window with friends and enjoy the scenery from the top of the historic Sycamore Building.

A waterfront jewel on Bellingham Bay

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October 2020 91

Reader’s Choice

Trove Coffee

A

t Trove Coffee, the name of the game is local, sustainable, and delicious.

Their coffee is roasted in Bellingham, their beer is from local breweries, their wine is from Washington vineyards, and their baked goods are from nearby bakeries. Pair this with a dedication to customer service and environmentally friendly practices, and it’s easy to see why they took home the gold.

Silver: Avellino Coffeehouse Bronze: Black Drop Coffeehouse

BEST BAKERY | DESSERT SHOP

Mount Bakery Cafe Silver: Pure Bliss Desserts Bronze: Barb’s Pies and Pastries

BEST STEAK | FINE DINING

13moons Restaurant at Swinomish Casino & Lodge Silver: The Fork at Agate Bay Bronze: The Steak House at Silver Reef 92

BellinghamAlive.com

Editor’s Pick FAVORITE FARMERS MARKET FINDS

The Bellingham Farmers Market is a smorgasbord of edible offerings, and sometimes it’s downright hard to choose. That’s why we’re here to help. When it comes down to the wire, try the Chicken Pot Pie Pasty from Good to Go Meat Pies. At Calypso Kitchen, order whatever you want but make sure to get some of their blueberry tamarind sauce.

Your life will change forever. Indian Grill serves up a mean samosa, in either veggie or lamb. Finally, we can’t forget the New Mexico Tamale Company. They were ranked among Yelp’s top 100 places to eat in the country, so you have to try one of their made-from-scratch tamales.

Photos: Top courtesy of Trove Coffee. Bottom by Emily Porter

BEST COFFEE | TEA SHOP

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST INTERNATIONAL CUISINE FOR 2019 & 2020

We’re working hard everyday to serve you better. Your VOTE & your SUPPORT motivate us working even harder. Thank you and see you at Asian 1.

Asian1.net

We offer Online Order & Delivery.

Visit Asian1.net for details.

DYNASTY CELLARS Thank you for voting us

BEST WINERY!

2169 E Bakerview Rd, Bellingham 360.758.2958 | dynastycellars.com

BEST SUSHI

Kuru Kuru Sushi Silver: Nami Asian Bistro Bronze: Zen Sushi & Bar

BEST ITALIAN

D’Anna’s Cafe Italiano

a unique relaxing retreat offering esthetics & permanent cosmetics By appointment only, book online

Silver: Mambo Italiano Cafe Bronze: Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery

www.karasbeautybarn.com

BEST WINERY Dynasty Cellars

Cerise Noah

Realtor® | Windermere-Whatcom 360.393.5826 cerisenoah@windermere.com

Your Relocation Sp ecialist Realtor of the Year 2016 Whatcom County Association of Realtors – 2015 President

Silver: Coach House Cellars Bronze: Mount Baker Vineyards & Winery

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT Jalapeños

Silver: Chihuahua Mexican Restaurant Bronze: Mi Mexico

BEST HAPPY HOUR

Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill Silver: Jalapeños Bronze: Scotty Browns

BEST COCKTAIL

Galloway’s Cocktail Bar Silver: Swim Club Wet Bar Bronze: Dirty Dan Harris Steakhouse

BEST FOOD TRUCK StrEAT Food

Silver: Big Stick Barbecue Bronze: Sage Against the Machine

BEST SEAFOOD

JoFish Seafood & Grill

Historic Hospitality

Silver: Chuckanut Manor Seafood & Grill Bronze: Rock and Rye Oyster House

BEST DISTILLERY | SPIRITS

Bellewood Farms & Distillery Silver: Chuckanut Bay Distillery Bronze: Probably Shouldn’t Distillery 94

BellinghamAlive.com

Reader’s Choice BEST CHEF

Cinnamon Berg, Cosmos Bistro

C

hef Cinnamon Berg is the heart of Cosmos Bistro in downtown Bellingham, where she’s committed to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to feed your heart as well as your stomach. Everything on her menu is delicious, and with a motto like hers — “Food should be prepared with butter, love, and wine!” — you can’t go wrong.

Silver: Sarah Chan, Calypso Kitchen Bronze: Justin Oberg, Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery

BEST BREAKFAST The Birch Door Cafe Silver: Arlis’s Restaurant Bronze: Homeskillet

BEST GROCERY STORE Haggen Food & Pharmacy Silver: Community Food Co-op Bronze: Whole Foods Market

Editor’s Pick Photos: Top by Dean Davidson. Bottom by Emily Porter

FANCIEST HAM IN BHAM When it comes to high-end dining, Milano’s Italian Seafood knows what they’re doing. At their new restaurant in Fairhaven, you can order one of more than 200 fine wines, devour a Maine lobster tail, or taste a cut of the finest ham in the world. That’s because on the menu at Milano’s you’ll find jamon Iberico puro de bellota, a cured ham originating in Spain and Portugal. The certified organic pork — whose price tag ranges around $1,200 for a leg — comes from free-range pigs raised on a diet of acorns, and Milano’s buys only the highest grade of it.

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Reader’s Choice BEST WINE SHOP Seifert & Jones Wine Merchants

W

ith over 50 years of combined experience, the owners of Seifert & Jones Wine Merchants know a thing or two about wine. From local Northwest wines to international favorites, everything on the shelves is hand-picked for your satisfaction and curiosity. With competitive pricing and a knowledgeable, helpful staff, it’s no wonder this wine merchant won your votes.

Silver: Elizabeth Station Bronze: Gainsbarre

BEST SANDWICH Avenue Bread

Silver: Gandolfo’s New York Deli Bronze: The Sandwich Odyssey

BEST PIZZA

Westside Pizza Silver: Coconut Kenny’s Bronze: Övn Wood Fired Pizza

BEST BREWERY

Aslan Brewing Company Silver: Boundary Bay Brewery & Bistro Bronze: Kulshan Brewing Company

CREEPIEST RESTAURANT BATHROOM

One minute you’re enjoying a delicious, gooey breakfast skillet, and the next you’re in a waking nightmare straight from the pages of Stephen King’s “It”. If you’re afraid of clowns, beware of the bathroom at Homeskillet. This breakfast/lunch destination in Sunnyland serves up ultra-satisfying American comfort food, but when you enter the bathroom it’s a full-on circus horror story. Clown masks, clown dolls, clown paintings. While some are more menacing than others, the overall effect will still give you the heebie jeebies. If you’re coulrophobic, you might want to hold it until you’re home.

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Photos: Top by Becky Linton. Bottom by Emily Porter

Editor’s Pick

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THANK YOU for the honor of your vote

"Best New Restaurant"

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WATERFRONT DINING lunch - dinner - happy hour 360 714 8412

Thanks for voting us Best Seafood 21 Bellwether Way, Bellingham WA

ANGUS

addies RANCH

NEW BULK PACKS! INDIVIDUAL CUTS AVAILABLE! HOLIDAY ROAST! FREE DELIVERY WEDNESDAY.

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST FRESH MEAT

USDA INSPECTED NO ANTIBIOTICS

NO ADDED HORMONES ADDIESANGUS.COM 360-399-9213

ANIMAL W

hen it comes to food and toys, your pets deserve the best. At Mud Bay, you can help your pets live their best life with high-end healthy and natural products for cats and dogs. While not a veterinary facility, Mud Bay does offer a lot of information on pet care. So when you make a choice about your pet’s food, you know the science behind it.

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Photo by Becky Linton

BEST PET STORE Mud Bay

Reader’s Choice BEST DOG TRAINER Bossdogs Training

S

ometimes it’s hard getting your furry friends to behave.

Luckily, Bossdogs Training in Ferndale is there to help with all your dog training needs. Help your pet put their best paw forward with behavioral modification, socialization, environmental exposure, and basic training. You can also leave your pup in their hands for Day Play and Learn.

Silver: Cedarwoods Canine School Bronze: Adam Schuller

BEST DOGGIE DAYCARE Rover Stay Over

Silver: Pooch Palace & Kitty Kastle Bronze: R & R Kennels

Editor’s Pick Photos: Top courtesy of Bossdogs Training. Bottom by Stevie Lyn Chandler

TURN YOUR PET INTO A PAINTING

Local illustrator and designer Stevie Lyn Chandler has a talent for painting animals. Visit her Etsy store and you’ll find playful prints of elephants, foxes, walruses, giraffes — the list goes on and on. If you like her style, she also does custom pet portraits that perfectly capture the spirit of her subjects. With her help, you can turn your beloved pup or cat into a handsome, colorful wall hanging that you can treasure for years to come. Find her work online and at Valley Made Market, or contact her for a custom piece.

COOLEST CAT CAFE

Cat lovers, listen up. NEKO: A Cat Cafe in downtown Bellingham partners with the Whatcom Humane Society to house dozens of adoptable cats ready to find their forever home. The cafe’s menu features a generous selection of beer and cider, but also coffee, tea, fizzy drinks, juices, and Japanese snack items, so you can pair any occasion with the company of friendly, free-roaming felines.

Kick back with a Japanese Royal Milk Tea, munch on some Hello Panda Mini Cookies, and fall in love with your next cat...or three.

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Reader’s Choice BEST GROOMER

City Dogs Grooming

L

ooking for a place to pamper your pooch?

City Dogs Grooming offers extensive services in a safe and comfortable environment. Leave your dog in the capable hands of City Dogs’ skilled groomers for bathing, clipping, and more. If your pup is nervous around strangers, you can also take advantage of the self-wash station, and get them clean without worrying about the clean-up.

Silver: Northwest K-9 Inn & Spa Bronze: Pooch Palace & Kitty Kastle

BEST BOARDING KENNEL Hyline Hotel for Dogs

Silver: Rover Stay Over Bronze: Northwest Kennels

BEST PET STORE Mud Bay

Silver: Bow Wow & Woofs Bronze: petStop

BEST VETERINARIAN

Kulshan Veterinary Hospital Silver: Northshore Veterinary Hospital Bronze: Fountain Veterinary Hospital

WHERE TO STRUT THE CATWALK

If you live in Bellingham, you’ve likely seen one or two cat-walkers in your time. The little furry friends love being outside, even when on a leash. If you own a cat but are afraid of taking them outside, Bellingham has a few especially cat-friendly locations. Lake Padden is a great spot for you and your cat to either walk or relax because the field is wide open and easy to spot any incoming dogs. Another great destination for cats is Boulevard Park — your cat will love the grass and exploring the sandy shore. Finally, Zuanich Point Park is a great place for your cat to be amazed by all of the kite flying and boat driving.

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Photos: Top by Alicia Prozinski Training. Bottom by Emily Porter

Editor’s Pick

YOUR FUNNIEST ANSWERS Best Antique Store: Grandma’s house

Best Breakfast:

Women’s clothing and accessories for your Northwest Life

Cereal and grapefruit

Best Private School: My house, this year!

Thank you for voting us

BEST DOG GROOMER 7 years in a row

Best Store for Babies: Do babies shop?

Best Corporate Meeting Space: Zoom

Best Place to Work: Retirement

711 E Holly Street, Bellingham P. 360.756.9515 citydogsgrooming.com

Thanks for your vote!

2945 Newmarket Ste. 107 | 360.734.9595

Open 6 days a week 10am–6pm

Where every dog is special!

8115 Birch Bay Square St., Suite 111, Blaine 360-332-3647 | bowwowandwoofs.com

Best Place to Meet Singles: Your mom’s house

Best Family Friendly Activity:

Watching boaters bring their boats in after hours of sun

Best Builder:

Bob the Builder

Thank you for voting us Best Pet Store October 2020 101

Belle Flora

T

reat yourself or someone you care about to “irresistibly fresh flowers” from Belle Flora in Bellingham. For that perfect pop of color in your living space, order arrangements like “bowl of beauty” or “nature’s glory.” For more understated yet still elegant pieces, try the “succulent garden” or “pure pleasures.” Don’t forget to check out their seasonal options too.

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Photo by Esther Chong

ROMANC

BEST FLORIST

Reader’s Choice BEST WEDDING VENUE Lairmont Manor

L

airmont Manor has been a Bellingham landmark since its construction over a century ago, when it was the home of Fairhaven’s co-founder, Charles Larrabee.

Today, the stunning, renaissance-style home and grounds serve as a romantic venue.

With lush gardens, grand architecture, and all the services you need to make your big day go smoothly, it’s easy to say “I do.”

Silver: Squalicum Boathouse Bronze: Semiahmoo Resort, Golf, and Spa

BEST DATE NIGHT The Temple Bar

Silver: Elizabeth Station Bronze: Bellingham Cider Company

BEST PLACE TO MEET SINGLES

Silver Reef Casino Resort Silver: Rumors Cabaret Bronze: State Street Bar

Editor’s Pick

Photo by Michèle M. Waite

BEST SUFFER-TOGETHER HIKE

The mountains in North Cascades National Park are some of the steepest in the lower-48, and none are more treacherous than the trail up Sourdough Mountain.

This knee-busting trail gains nearly 5,000 feet in a little over five miles — and the first 3,000 are gained in the first two — meaning every step feels like a StairMaster.

At the top, you and your partner will be rewarded with a restored fire lookout that once served as home to beatnik poet Gary Snyder. Other reasons to celebrate include views of Diablo Lake, the Picket Range, and plenty of other jaw-dropping peaks.

BRIDGES TO KISS ON

For beautiful, smooch-worthy views with your sweetie, head to Deception Pass Bridge, connector of Fidalgo Island and Whidbey Island and gateway to Deception Pass State Park. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corp in the 1930s, it’s the perfect place to watch waves crash against the rocky cliffs below. Short but stunning, the Rainbow Bridge in La Conner offers a beautiful, if dizzying, view of the Swinomish Channel and nearby downtown boardwalk.

If you’re looking for a footbridge, mosey down the Diablo Lake Trail in North Cascades National Park and trek across the Diablo Lake Trail suspension bridge.

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Reader’s Choice BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

Katheryn Moran Photography

A

picture is worth 1,000 words, so whether you’re celebrating an engagement, wedding, or anniversary, Katheryn Moran Photography is there to capture your big moments in style. Her mission is to “make sure your favorite moments — the planned and the spontaneous — are captured creatively, uniquely and timelessly.”

With personalized service and attention to detail, she’ll be right there with you from the altar to the dance floor.

Silver: Erin Cox Photography Bronze: Angie Dixon Photography

BEST FLORIST Belle Flora

Silver: A Lot of Flowers Bronze: Pozie By Natalie

Editor’s Pick BEST COUPLE SELFIE BACKDROP

Every spring, the tulip fields in Skagit Valley attract flower-lovers from all over the world.

Who knows how many selfies have been snapped in these stunning, rainbow-colored fields? For a perfect photo op, visit Roozengaarde and Tulip Town. Stand with your sweetie among millions of vibrant tulip buds and capture a moment you can hold on to forever. Just remember to stop, smell, and take a stroll through the flowers — and maybe buy a bundle to take home, too.

The delicious fare at Mambo Italiano Cafe in Fairhaven pairs perfectly with a glass of red wine and their twinkling patio lights. Bring someone special and share an appetizer, like the crisp, juicy bruschetta, and then dive into a creamy, rich bowl of pasta. Mambo’s even giving out their delicious handmade loafs of bread for free with your meal.

For a change of scenery, consider bringing your meal to Boulevard Park, lay out a tablecloth on one of the picnic tables, and enjoy the sunset with your meal.

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Photo by Katheryn Moran Photography

BEST DATE-WORTHY TAKEOUT

Thank you to everyone who voted us one of the Best Golf Courses in the Northwest in 2020. We appreciate your continued support during these challenging times for everyone.

6827 Hannegan Rd., Everson 360.354.3029, raspberryridgegc.com

SERVICES

BEST LODGING Hotel Bellwether

T

he epitome of luxury, Hotel Bellwether combines top-of-the-line customer service with elegant accommodations and a location that’s hard to beat. Nearby Bellingham Bay means stunning water views, epic sunsets, and plenty of aquatic fun. Fine dining, spa options, and wellness services are all in easy reach. Perfect for out-of-town guests or your next romantic escape.

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Reader’s Choice BEST CLEAN ENERGY COMPANY Western Solar

F

rom solar electric systems to charging stations for electric cars, Western Solar is the Pacific Northwest’s leading supplier of renewable energy systems. For nearly two decades, they’ve installed both residential and commercial energy systems, helping people and businesses alike reduce their carbon footprint. With one of the longest warranty offers out there, it’s easy to see why they won your votes.

Silver: Barron Heating & Air Conditioning Bronze: Ecotech Solar

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

Rick Moore, Keller Williams Realty Silver: Karen Timmer, Windemere Real Estate Bronze: Allison Trimble, Coastal Realty

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR Shannon Day, Edward Jones

Silver: Nicole Burdick, Waddell & Reed Bronze: Brian Smith, Bellingham Capital Management

Editor’s Pick

Photo courtesy of Western Solar

PROFESSIONAL PIZZA AT HOME

Want to seriously transform at-home pizza night? Although Bellinghambased Wood Stone Corporation specializes in commercial wood fired and gas pizza ovens — they’ve installed more than 17,000 ovens across 80 countries — they also offer a line of residential luxury ovens. Their stone hearth ovens come in two styles, bistro and mountain, and are available for outdoor or indoor installation. With rave reviews from cooking stars like Wolfgang Puck, an oven from Wood Stone guarantees years of perfectly cooked pizzas from the comfort of your own abode.

GOT JUNK?

Whether you’re cleaning out the attic, garage, or yard, JDog Junk Removal and Hauling will haul away your clutter. Better yet, they’ll also reuse, recycle, repurpose, or sell anything they can — in total, they manage to divert 60-80% of junk from the landfill. The team is made up of veterans and military family members who strive to serve Whatcom and Skagit with the same values — respect, dignity, and trust — that they learned during their service. Next time you need to get rid of a refrigerator, office furniture, or that heap of old electronics, let the good people at JDog take it away.

BEST SUPPORT FOR CAREGIVERS

The Skagit Adult Day Program gives caregivers a break from the admirable but difficult work of caring for a loved one. The program offers daily programming for adults with special needs, such as dementia, with a focus on enriching activities like singing, cooking, woodcrafting, and intergenerational programs. It even offers structured reminiscing. Those enrolled in the program get to spend the day among friends, with nutritious meals included. Caregivers can access additional support through twicemonthly support groups, lunch & learn meetings, and an educational series called Powerful Tools for Caregivers.

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Helping you protect what matters most

1200 Old Fairhaven PKWY, suite 204 Bellingham, WA 98225 (360)251-9905 talia.moberly@countryfinancial.com 0217-556HO

THANK YOU! for your support in voting us

BEST

Automotive Repair Shop

4116 Hannegan Rd Bellingham, WA 98226

360.676.5200

BellinghamAutomotive.com

Reader’s Choice BEST AUTO REPAIR SHOP Bellingham Automotive Silver: Master Auto Tech Bronze: Davis Automotive

BEST BANK WECU

W

Silver: The Inn at Lynden Bronze: Rosario Resort & Spa

ECU has served Whatcom County since 1936, offering honest service, low rates, and a commitment to core values. Whether you want to open a savings account, get an auto loan, or start a business, WECU’s local, knowledgeable staff are there to help every step of the way. Plus, with numerous locations and ATMs throughout the county, you’re never far from great service.

BEST CREATIVE COMPANY

Silver: First Federal Bronze: Bank of the Pacific

BEST LODGING Hotel Bellwether

Sole Graphics

Photos: Top courtesy of WECU. Bottom courtesy of The Whatcom Literacy Council

Silver: ClickMonster Bronze: FizzPOP Media

Editor’s Pick A DEDICATION TO LITERACY

Since 1983, The Whatcom Literacy Council has strived to increase literacy in Whatcom County through free small group classes and one-on-one tutoring. The nonprofit organization focuses on adult English language learning and literacy, helping people find employment, further their education, or gain U.S. citizenship. They also help with computer skills and GED preparation. In one-onone tutoring sessions, dedicated volunteers meet with students twice a week to help students reach their reading, writing, speaking, and listening goals. Last year, the council served more than 1,000 learners with the help of 100 tutors.

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Reader’s Choice BEST AGRICULTURAL COMPANY Eagle Trees

K

enny Ingebrigtson and Jesse Straight, the brothersister duo behind Eagle Trees farm, are passionate about cannabis. They strive to grow and deliver a quality product that reflects the rich soil of Whatcom County, without pesticides or chemical fertilizers. You can find their products at retailers across the state, from Birch Bay to Walla Walla.

Silver: Boxx Berry Farm Bronze: Elenbaas Company

BEST INSURANCE AGENT Joe Treat, State Farm

Silver: Cassie Robles, Rice Insurance Bronze: Terry Stach, State Farm

BEST PLUMBER Viking Plumbing

Silver: Spectrum Plumbing & Heating Bronze: Gary’s Plumbing & Heating

BEST ATTORNEY Allen Law Firm

Silver: Craig Cammock, Skagit Law Group Bronze: Barron Smith Daugert

BEST LUTHIER

Dorothy Smith comes to her work with decades of dedicated training. She opened Allegro Strings Violin Shop in 1991, after working with famous

luthiers in both Europe and Seattle. Today, visiting her shop on Cornwall Avenue feels like taking a step back in time. When it comes to the custom creation, repair, and restoration of fine stringed instruments, there’s nobody like Dorothy in Whatcom County.

She’s been fixing instruments and helping people get back to their music for nearly 40 years. It’s no wonder she’s beloved by her customers.

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Photos: Top courtesy of Eagle Trees. Bottom by Emily Porter

Editor’s Pick

Are your estate planning documents in order?

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and head out on your next adventure with peace of mind.

Genissa Sygitowicz Richardson, Attorney PO Box 934, Bellingham, WA 98227 360.392.2863, TrueNorthLegalServices.com Genissa@TrueNorthLegalServices.com

Reader’s Choice

MB Motors

I

f you’re on the lookout for a pre-owned vehicle or are just in need of a thorough car detailing, head to MB Motors. From Mercedes and Audis to Volkswagens and Subarus, they offer plenty of brands to choose from. Treat your vehicle to a spa day, with washing, waxing, and allaround pampering.

Editor’s Pick GIVE YOUR CAR A BUBBLE BATH

BEST AUTO DETAIL SHOP

Washington winters may be wet, but that doesn’t mean your car doesn’t deserve a deeper scrubdown every once in a while. The self-serve wash station at Sunset Car Wash boasts 11 vacuums and seven wash bays, all available 24/7.

For a deeper clean, Sunset’s automatic wash will wash, dry, and wax your vehicle — if you’re not satisfied, you can get it washed again for free. For extra pampering, go for the Works Plus, which includes an undercarriage wash, an air freshener, and extreme shine wax. Punch-card holders get their 11th wash for free.

Silver: Master Auto Detailing Bronze: Bellingham Detail & Glass

THE TOW-TAL PACKAGE

Silver: Dewey Griffin Subaru Bronze: Northwest Chevrolet of Bellingham

Tint Lady

BEST JANITORIAL | CLEANING SERVICE Absolutely Clean

Silver: Boppity Boo Cleaning Bronze: Mama Bear Cleaning

BEST NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION Lydia Place

Silver: Sustainable Connections Bronze: Blue Skies for Children

BEST PLACE TO WORK BP Cherry Point Refinery

Silver: Western Washington University Bronze: Barron Heating & Air Conditioning

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Normally, calling a tow truck means your day just got a lot more stressful. ASAP Towing of Bellingham helps reduce that stress. Can’t find your keys? No need to call a locksmith; ASAP will unlock your car for you. Need a jump? They’ll do that for you, too. Flat tire? Out of gas? Need a new battery?

Want a junk car removed from your property? Whatever the issue, ASAP Towing is there to help. Service is quick, friendly, and effective. Call or book online 24/7, and have all your car concerns hauled away.

BEST STAY-NEAR-TOWN ESCAPE

Looking to get away but not too far away? With rentals all across the Mount Baker area, Mt. Baker Lodging offers a wide selection of cottages, cabins, chalets, and condos at various price points, so you can vacation in whatever style suits your needs. Want a quaint log cabin tucked into the forest? Or would you rather gather the extended family and hide out in a private lodge equipped with a hot tub, sauna, and pool table? With more than 80 unique properties, Mt. Baker Lodging has everything you need for your next closeto-home getaway.

Photo by Esther Chong

BEST AUTO DEALER

PERSONAL CARE SPA

1327 - 11th St.

OF THE

2019 2018 2017 2016 2015

2014

BEST of the

NORTH WINNER BEST WEST NORTH WINNER BEST WEST NORTH BEST WEST of the

of the

of the

NORTH

WEST BEST of the

NORTH

WEST

Thank you for voting for us!

All natural products – Vegan & Ozonated Water Systems

Full Mani/Pedi $50 ($60 Value)

Monday & Tuesday Only.

Not Valid With Any Other Offer.

Exp. 11/30/2020

360.933.4268 • JimmysPersonalCare.com

Thank You for voting us

BEST AUTO DETAILER! Thank you to my team for all of your hard work this year!

1204 East Sunset Dr, Bellingham | tintladyusa.com | 360.778.2348

Reader’s Choice BEST CORPORATE MEETING SPACE

Semiahmoo Resort, Golf, and Spa

W

hen it comes to hosting a corporate retreat, who wouldn’t want to gather near the ocean, with an on-site spa and abundant recreation options, plus team-building activities?

Semiahmoo Resort, Golf, and Spa combines beautiful scenery with all the functional amenities you need to make your next meeting a success.

Silver: Four Points by Sheraton Bellingham Hotel & Conference Center Bronze: Gateway Centre Executive Suites

Editor’s Pick If you’re looking to start the ultimate home makeover, Bellingham Professional Finishes can add the perfect finishing touches. While they specialize in wood and traditional craftsmanship preservation, they also assist in new construction and storefronts. Using environmentally conscious stains and products, Bellingham Professional Finishes will have your cabinets, interiors, and exteriors looking good as new for the long haul. Looking for a DIY project? They also offer stains and materials for purchase.

Visit their new showroom to receive in-person consultations.

LAUNDER IN LUXURY

The goal at Brio Laundry is to get your clothes cleaner in less time so you can get on with your day. Their top-of-theline washers and dryers can hold up to five times the normal load, so you can do more laundry at once. If you’re truly in a crunch, drop your clothes off and let the attendants at Brio handle the process while you run errands; you’ll get a text message when your clothes are done. If you want to hang around, Brio offers free wifi, plenty of seating, and the occasional complimentary goody — think donuts, coffee, and juice — to keep you comfortable.

114 BellinghamAlive.com

Photos: Top by Lisa Karlberg. Bottom courtesy of Bellingham Professional Finishes

MOST SUSTAINABLE STAINERS

To learn more about our services, how to get involved, or to donate, go to whatcomcoa.org, or call 360.733.4030

More than just a Meal Meals on Wheels and More provides home delivered “Meals on Wheels” to homebound seniors and senior togo meals throughout Whatcom County.

This ad was sponsored by Dewey Griffin Subaru, Community Driven Since ’87.

Fairhaven Barkley Cordata Lynden Ferndale Blaine Birch Bay

• • • • • • •

Orthopaedics Work Injuries Hand Therapy Sports Injuries Auto Injuries Post Surgical Pelvic Health

Best of the NW Winner 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020

www.capstonept.com

October 2020 115

The Kenoyers sell twice as many homes over $800,000 than their next closest competitor.

MAKE YOUR HOME ENJOYABLE AGAIN!

With over 30 years of experience, we expertly install high quality roofing in projects of all sizes and bring the best service, experience, and quality to your home. We are available 7 days a week.

Give us a call today to schedule your free estimate. We hope to hear from you soon!

360.398.5628 425.582.2152

BELLINGHAM EVERETT

INFO@NORTHSOUNDSERVICES.COM LIC #: NORTHSS855MZ

Anything Is Possible 122 White Pumpkins 124

Photo by Nick Graves

Aqui Esta Tile and Stone 129

Home

Modern Farmhouse

118

October 2020 117

Home Featured Home

Farmhouse with a Modern Twist

BY CHELSEA CONSOLACION

R

EVITALIZING A CLASSIC COUNTRYSIDE look, this modern-day farmhouse combines beautiful details with functional, practical design. Throughout the house, you’ll find a tasteful blend of contemporary shapes, colors, and textures alongside traditional farmhouse elements like the gambrel roof, sliding barn doors, and expansive porch.

The exterior’s simple color scheme makes the unique structure and cedar detailing over the porch stand out.

The barn roof not only ties together the exterior, but also provides ample natural light and an expansive feel to the interior, not to mention the unique shape.

The true heart of this home is the kitchen. The custom island with attached bench seating encourages congregation and conversation during cooking and meal time. Throughout the living spaces, classic, natural materials are complemented by modern tile, fixtures, and playful pops of color. 

Builder Highline Construction Designer JWR Design Interior Designer Highline Interiors Photographer Nick Graves 118 BellinghamAlive.com

October 2020 119

Home  Featured Home

1. The neutral color palette continues through the home to the bathrooms, where sleek matte black fixtures accentuate the natural materials.

2. Simplicity in design allows unique materials, such as the black and white patterned tile, to become the focal point of the room.

120 BellinghamAlive.com

Creating Beautiful Spaces For Every Room In Your Home.

Jacqueline Scott, AKBD 360.927.4436

LegacyKitchen-Bath.com

Certified member of the National Kitchen & Bath Association

LOCALLY OWNED SINCE 1959.

Jack & Michelle Johnson

When it comes to servicing and repairing your garage doors and openers, no one does it better than Overhead Door. No matter what brand or model... from simple tune-ups and repairs to full replacement and upgrades...trust the experts at Overhead Door to get the job done right – right away.

202 Ohio St., Bellingham, WA | (360) 734-5960 | ohdbellingham.com

Home Remodel

Anything Is Possible Updating an OldFashioned Kitchen

BY JENNIFER RYAN

Sometime in the late 1960s, the kitchen in this 1920s Southside Tudor was remodeled and hadn’t been touched since. Soffits had been constructed and wallpapered to accommodate the stock cabinets, and brick was used as a backsplash. Although brick is back, this particular style was very dated and had to come down. The kitchen appliances were also old and dated, and the cabinets needed to be reconfigured to create a better flow. Everything needed to be lightened up.

This is a very small kitchen with four doors, two windows, and limited wall space, so creativity was key to making it a functional space you’d actually want to cook in!

The cabinets are now a bright white in a traditional Shaker style, counters are quartz with some gray veining, and the backsplash is a nod to subway tile, but in an updated shape. Large black honeycomb tile adds a little more texture to the room. The window overlooking the deck is now a slider, bringing in the view and creating a nice flow to the outside, with a full-glass back door adding even more light to the kitchen. With the new configuration of the appliances, we were able to create even more cabinet space. Custom cabinets made it possible to fabricate a shallow pantry and coffee station. We even turned the old drop-down ironing board into a spice cabinet.

A complete transformation of this kitchen not only brought it into the current century, but also kept some of the traditional feel so it blends with the era of the home. It’s now a kitchen that would make any cook happy. As you can see, anything is possible! 

122 BellinghamAlive.com

Photos by Katheryn Moran Photography

W

HEN I FIRST SAW THIS KITCHEN, I THOUGHT TO MYSELF, “OH MY!”

HARDWOOD

WATER PR OOF

HARDWOOD

Trends come and go, but the unique character of hardwood is timeless.

THANKS FOR VOTING ME BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

Trends come and go, but the unique character of hardwood is timeless.

Exquisite | 1058 Champagne Oak

WITH OVER 28 YEARS EXPERIENCE, I WORK TO ENSURE MY CLIENTS SUCCESS. WWW.KARENTIMMER.COM

STOP IN TODAY TO SEE OUR IN-STOCK SELECTION! We offer FREE ESTIMATES for projects we will be installing for you and don’t forget[Dealer to Area] ask us how to get your CUSTOM AREA RUG from any of the Shaw Floors carpet samples in store. Let us help you add style and comfort to your floors!

1210 N State St., Bellingham

Exquisite | 1058 Champagne Oak

360.734.4020

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KAREN@KARENTIMMER.COM 360.410.0848

[Dealer Area]

6407 Portal Way, Ferndale WA, 360.603.8314, pioneerflexspace.com Whether you need to store your largest motorcoach or have an incubator business, a Pioneer Flexspace condo is the perfect solution for every performance enthusiasts’ favorite toys. From cars, trucks and motorcycles to boats, jet skis and RVs, we provide over 2,200 square feet of ideal space.

∙ 50' bay with 700 sq ft timbered loft ∙ In unit bathroom

∙ Prices starting at $240,000

∙ Personal mailbox & parcel boxes on site ∙ R38 Advanced ceiling insulation ∙ R25 wall insulation

∙ Natural gas heat – 75,000 BTU

Home Home Decorating

Falling For White Pumpkins

BY LISA KARLBERG

A

S FALL ARRIVES, we head to the fireplace, cuddle up

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

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

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

Situate the rest of your décor elements between the garland.

Mantle Incorporate pumpkins by using candle pillars of varying heights; top them off with small pumpkins and candles.

Want more? String leaf garland around the candlesticks or add a fall photo or festive sign that pulls the colors together.

Place Setting Use small white pumpkins as a creative way to finish off your place setting. Want to let your guests know where to sit around the table? Create a nametag and use jute to tie around the stem.  124 BellinghamAlive.com

Design / Build Remodeling Service

Thanks for voting us

Best Furniture Store silver winner Best Home Decor gold winner

Thanks for voting us Best of the Northwest for the last 5 years!

360.738.8525

DreamMaker-NW.com

GreenHouseHome.com | 360.676.1161 1235 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham

Home  Featured Home

126 BellinghamAlive.com

A Family Getaway in the Trees

BY BECKY MANDELBAUM

Photos by Nelson Treehouse and Supply

T

UCKED INTO THE WOODS

on an island in the San Juans is a treetop getaway borne of imagination, adventure… and a whole lot of carrying supplies from point A to B. The treehouse is the brainchild of Daryl McDonald, designer and project manager at Nelson Treehouse.

He, along with a team of intrepid and experienced builders, helped make this treetop dream a reality.

The builders at Nelson Treehouse know a thing or two about creating cozy dwellings up high. They’ve built hundreds of treehouses around the world, including a poker treehouse for Shaq, a tasting room for Angry Orchard, and a techie, tree-top workspace for Microsoft. Their work was even documented in a television show, “Treehouse Masters,” which aired on Animal Planet for 11 seasons.

For this project, the homeowners wanted a kid-friendly getaway that the adults could also enjoy. The result is a modern, elegant structure modelled off the clients’ main waterfront home. The treehouse offers an arboreal view of the property; it’s held aloft by two sturdy Douglas firs, surrounded by acres of dense woods.

Playful touches, like a fire pole and a suspension bridge, bring imagination into the picture. More practical features include a kitchenette, sleeping loft, spacious living area, and a bathroom with a composting toilet. A rain screen siding system and single sloped roof protect against mold and rot.

While the building process was less than straightforward — there’s no ferry service to the island, so the team had to barge out every day before hiking large materials deep into the woods — McDonald admits the scenery was more than worth it. 

Wrap Up Your Holiday Decor Now and Save

$100 REBATE on select purchases of Hunter Douglas window fashions 9/12/20 – 12/7/20*

873 Hinotes Court A2 Lynden 360.656.6579 or 360.961.4918 or email RussellsWindowCoverings@gmail.com

RussellsWindowCoverings.com * Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 9/12/20—12/7/20 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. A qualifying purchase is defined as a purchase of any of the product models set forth above in the quantities set forth above. If you purchase less than the specified quantity, you will not be entitled to a rebate. Offer excludes HDOrigins™ and Nantucket™ Window Shadings, a collection of Silhouette® Window Shadings.

Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim receipt. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card balance 6 months after card issuance and each month thereafter. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. ©2020 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners. 17Q4MULTI

October 2020 127

Local Find Home

Thirty Years and Counting Aqui Esta Tile and Stone

BY ESTHER CHONG

Photos by Emily Porter

S

INCE OPENING THEIR DOORS IN 1990, Aqui Esta

Tile and Stone has provided personalized service for every unique home and renovation project. The company has partnered with more than 20 vendors to create fresh, innovative, and functional spaces with quality services in Whatcom County.

Larry and Nena O’Connell opened their business shortly after tying the knot 30 years ago. However, they didn’t always sell tile and stone. The couple got their footing in wholesale distribution, importing furniture, pottery, stone, and tile from Mexico to their former warehouse location near Bellingham High School. The demand for tile was clear, so they switched gears toward retail and became experts in the industry.

“There’s not much tile presence in Bellingham or Whatcom County… even in the Pacific Northwest, tile showrooms are kind of rare,” co-owner Larry O’Connell says. “We’ve really focused and put our time and energy into specializing in the field of tile and stone.”

The O’Connells steadily built their reputation by providing one-on-one professional expertise, attention to detail, and competitive pricing to help meet their customers’ design, deadline, and budget needs. Their niche is in custom homes and remodeling; their most popular projects include kitchens, bathrooms, and exterior tile for decks and patios.

Their showroom on Grant Street features modern household vignettes to help customers visualize the product in action. Professional interior designers, Mickey Middendorf and Kari Panchison, use a vast selection of colors, shapes, textures, and finishes to refine or expand each client’s search for a trendy and reliable surface.

“There’s a lot of people that can’t visualize, so that’s where Mickey and I come in because we can pull together a whole house or space and give a lot of options,” Panchison says.

The interior designers strive to bring dreams to life, especially for people who can’t do it all on their own. The company works with each project step by step and even offers custom installations from licensed contractors that are durable and built to last.

“It’s sometimes hard for people to put everything together … We’re here every day and know all the products that are available,” Panchison says. “We like to be able to put something together that somebody’s like, ‘Wow, this is way better than I thought.’”

There are endless options and considerations when it comes to selecting the perfect materials for your dream home.

Due to COVID-19, Aqui Esta Tile and Stone’s Bellingham showroom is available for individual consultations only. Call to schedule an appointment with professionals who’ll help make those tough choices easier, one tile at a time. 2124 Grant

St., Bellingham, 360.734.7374, aquiestatile.com  October 2020 129

Home 5 Faves

1

The Atomic Kitten Touted as “beautiful vintage homeware with a funky twist,” this shop in downtown Bellingham is sure to have something that will impress and astound you.

Focused on mid-century modern furniture, this shop takes a functional, stylish approach to vintage home goods. 301 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.738.8819,

FIVE FAVES

VINTAGE & ANTIQUE STORES

BY JULIA FURUKAWA AND JULIA BERKMAN

130 BellinghamAlive.com

Photo by Becky Linton

theatomickittenvintage.com

2

More Than Antiques Small town charm combined with years of history make this quaint store in Lynden a great stop on a trip through north Whatcom County. Boasting two floors of antiques and collectibles, More Than Antiques has precious finds for home, kitchen, and closet. Snag a vintage pair of cowboy boots or a set of retro Fiesta Ware. 400

NORTHWEST fine furnishings

919 Riverside Dr. ▪ Mount Vernon 360-424-8455 ▪ www.nwff.com

Northwest Fine Furnishings would like to help you turn your house into a home.

Front St., Lynden, 360.354.7576

3

Bellingham Coin Shop Don’t let the name fool you — this store packs far more than coins into its space on Cornwall Avenue. Loaded with antique furniture, jewelry, magazines, and mementos, the Bellingham Coin Shop has something for every taste.

Venture into the back room for tools, doors, and windows all perfect for restoration projects.

1806 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.392.8524

4

thanks for voting us - best electronic store

www.reference-media.net

Red Door Antique Mall For hundreds of curated items staged and stocked with care, visit this hidden nook located west of I-5 in Mount Vernon. From vintage clothes and furniture to antique collectibles, this store boasts a huge selection. Friendly owners are available to help you find the perfect addition to your home or wardrobe. 111 Freeway Dr., Mount Vernon, 360.419.0811

5

Penny Lane Antique Mall Nestled in the heart of downtown Bellingham is a trip back in time: Penny Lane Antique Mall. With hundreds of vintage clothing items and furnishings to choose from, this store is the perfect place to update your wardrobe or home using inspiration from the past. Affordable prices and highquality, curated products make this place a one-stop-shop for all your vintage needs. 427 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.671.3301, pennylaneantiquemall.com

PREMIUM COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL ROOFING SERVICE IN WHATCOM COUNTY

Thank you for voting us “Best Roofing Company” esary.com • 360.318.0604 License # ESARYRS175KE Whatcom • San Juan Skagit • King County

October 2020 131

Home  Necessities

1 2

3

4 132 BellinghamAlive.com

5

Cozy Candles

BY BECKY MANDELBAUM

F

ALL IS ALL ABOUT HYGGE,

and with everyone spending more time at home, creating a space that feels comfortable and warm is more important than ever.

Fill your home with warm aromas and a soft glow with these fall candles sourced from local stores. Find them in person or order online for safe, easy shopping from home. 

1 2 3 4 5

Apple Harvest Candle $12–$34, northwestsparks.com

My Garden Nursery Scarecrow Contests

Saba Candle $19–$26, ingoodspirit.org

1. Customer Contest Winner receives a $250 My Garden Gift Certificate

Jar Candle – Woodsy $20, handmadelaconner.com

Take a picture of your homemade scarecrow and post on the My Garden Nursery Facebook page anytime from October 3rd to 18th.

Thymes Heirlum Pumpkin 3-Wick Candle $48.95, greenhousehome.com Thanks for voting us Best Garden/Nursery.

2. My Garden Team Contest You get to VOTE at My Garden Nursery for your favorite employees scarecrow.

Mist Soy Candle by Myne Candle Co. $29, elsagedesigns.com

929 E. Bakerview Rd. Bellingham 360-366-8406 mygardennursery.com

Your vote is also an entry into a contest for a $75 Gift Certificate.

October 2020 133

Locations in Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden, & Everson!

Thank you for voting us Best Pizza!

Ferndale: 360.778.1167 | Lynden: 360.354.1555 Everson: 360.922.7395 | Bellingham: 360.756.5055 Hours Vary

THANKS FOR VOTING US BEST SEAFOOD!

Open Wednesday - Sunday 12 - 9pm for • Indoor Dining • Outdoor Dining • Take-Out

360-766-6191 CHUCKANUTMANOR.COM 3056 Chuckanut Dr. Bow, WA 98232

B oxx Thank you for voting us Best Agricultural Company!

Farm B erry

B oxx B erry Farm B ox x

Providing Fresh Berries, Vegetables and Flowers in Whatcom County since 1960.

6211 Northwest Drive, Ferndale 360.380.2699 boxxberryfarm.com

Barnyard Coffee Roasters 138 Fairhaven Mill 142 Dessert Wines 150

Photos by Emily Porter

Wine Pop Slushie from

Locus

Taste

136 October 2020 135

Taste Review

Locus Brings Unique Drinks, Urban Vibe to Downtown Bellingham

BY BECKY MANDELBAUM

E Bioluminescence

VER TRIED A WINE LATTE? Or a stout with cold

brew and Irish cream? How about a smoothie blend of espresso, berries, ice cream, and tahini?

These one-of-a-kind creations are all available at Locus, where you’ll find both classic and curious offerings of coffee, wine, beer, and food.

Co-owners Kaycee Rezvani and Jessica Henderson first met while working together at a drive-up coffee stand. For years, they talked about one day opening their own business. Their dream came true New Year’s day, 2020, when they got the keys to Locus.

“We had a vision to bring something a little different to downtown,” Rezvani says. “Lots of coffee shops are really beautiful, clean, white…we wanted to bring more of an urban street feel.”

Inside Locus you’ll find graffiti on the walls, done in teal, dark blue, orange, yellow, and gray. Glowing Edison bulbs hang above the bar. There’s booth seating along the windows and a pair of comfy armchairs in the back. The overall vibe is urban, cheerful, funky, and fun.

Rezvani describes Locus as somewhere where you can “come in, grab and go, or stay for a while.” It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink after dinner or share a snack with a friend. Because it’s an all-ages establishment, it’s also ideal for the entire family.

Locus officially opened in early March. After temporarily closing because of COVID-19, the restaurant reopened during Phase Two for in-house dining and delivery through GrubHub and Viking Food.

Yellow Brick Road

136 BellinghamAlive.com

Locus has a full espresso bar, eight wines on tap, eight beers on tap, and a wildly inventive drink menu.

Combined, Henderson and Rezvani boast more than 20 years of espresso experience. You can taste it in their drinks. My favorite is The Tonkin Street ($3.60), a Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk and three shots of espresso, all poured over ice. Foam and ground

Photos by Emily Porter

Drinks that shimmer, crackle, and shine

Street Smurf

chocolate-covered espresso beans top it off. Simply put, if you’re a coffee lover, you have to try this drink.

For a healthy, earthy alternative to coffee, follow the Yellow Brick Road ($3.50). Essentially an iced chai golden milk, this creamy drink is both flavorful and refreshing, with an appealing yellow color from turmeric.

As someone who doesn’t do sugary drinks, I was skeptical of the Wine Pop Slushee ($11), but this drink is pure fun and not half as sweet as it looks. Raspberry puree is spiked with a four-ounce pour of rosé, meaning it has slightly less alcohol than your typical glass of wine. Pop Rocks around the rim make each sip literally pop on your tongue. If you think you’re too sophisticated for a wine slushee rimmed with novelty candy, think again. It’s delicious.

Another Instagram-worthy creation is the Bioluminescence ($6.25), featuring watermelon syrup, club soda, a Lotus energy concentrate, and edible shimmer. The snow-cone flavor and sparkles will keep you smiling from first sip to last.

Chorizo Wrap

Simple, satisfying food Breakfast is available all day at Locus, and includes sandwiches, bagels, and wraps. The Chorizo Wrap ($8.95) boasts smoked cheddar, scrambled eggs, and garlic chive cream cheese all tucked into a flour tortilla. A blend of ranch and locally made HOSA hot sauce adds spice on the side.

Lunch sandwiches ($10.95) are served on Avenue Bread with a side of tortilla chips or apple slices. The rich, comforting Tuna Melt is extremely tasty, with smoked cheddar and sriracha mayo. Vegetarians will be pleased with the Veggie Sandwich, which is loaded with crispy peppers, avocado, and cheese, all served on a flaky croissant.

For an unusual choice, go with the Street Smurf ($8), a hearty smoothie bowl featuring white espresso, tahini, bananas, berries, and vanilla Edaleen ice cream all topped with Cinnamon Toast Crunch and house-made whipped cream. The Smurf color comes from blue spirulina, a nutritious supplement high in protein, minerals, and antioxidants. 120 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.306.8556,

Tonkin Street

locusofbellingham.com  October 2020 137

Taste Local Find

Blaine’s Finest Beans and Brews Barnyard Coffee Roasters

R

ESIDING ON A HUMBLE FAMILY FARM IN BLAINE

is Barnyard Coffee Roasters, a specialty roastery known for transforming raw organic coffee beans into tasty artisan brews.

Owners and coffee roasters Debbie and Derek Peris began their journey more than 20 years ago, while experimenting with a home roasting machine.

“It was something that we’ve always been interested in,” Debbie says. “I mean it’s really flying back 20 years, kind of one of those things that was a dream kinda in the back of your mind.”

They became experts, taking requests from friends and family, and refining their process to develop distinct flavor profiles that bring out certain characteristics of taste, body, and aroma.

“Maybe we should just go for it… Maybe we can do this,” Debbie says, reflecting on the couple’s joint decision to turn their dream into an unexpected reality.

They opened their doors in 2017, freshly roasting premium quality 138 BellinghamAlive.com

beans and sourcing from certified organic farms across the globe.

Over the years, they’ve perfected their approach with small batches and specific timing, air flow, and temperatures for each particular coffee variety.

“Fifteen seconds between roasts can really change the tasting notes of coffee,” Debbie says. “All of them are being roasted based on their origin, tasting notes that we’re trying to get out of that particular bean or blend.”

Barnyard Coffee Roasters offers a selection of balanced blends, single origins, teas, and hand-crafted flavored coffees made with a natural corn-based carrier. The flavoring process is timeconsuming but ultimately heightens the quality and depth of flavors.

“Our flavored coffees have become really huge with our customers because they are sugar-free, gluten-free, nut-free.

They’re all natural flavors,” Debbie says. “It’s a great way for people to get that flavor in their coffee without having sugary syrups, heavy sweetener, or even artificial sugar flavors for their coffee.”

Debbie recommends trying their Ethiopian Sidamo, a light single origin coffee known for its subtle floral aroma and bright notes of berries and chocolate. Another top-seller is their rich Farmhouse blend, a mediumdark roast with sweet notes of dark cherries and chocolate.

“Our mocha coconut is really delicious,” Debbie says. “It tastes just like a Mounds bar and makes a really good cold brew, too!”

The roastery ships nationwide, providing free shipping with a minimum purchase of three 12 oz. bags. “We really ship all over the country… there isn’t a state that we don’t ship to,” Debbie says.

Due to COVID-19, the roastery’s Blaine location is open for local pick-up orders by website or phone only. Five varieties of roastery favorites can also be found in Edaleen Dairy stores and the Northwood Market in Lynden.

Check out Barnyard Coffee Roasters on Facebook and Instagram for daily offers, tips, and tastes. 4434 Boblett Rd., Blaine, 360.393.0475, barnyardcoffee.com 

Photo by Emily Porter

BY ESTHER CHONG

2019 & 2020 Best of the Northwest Gold Winner for Best Cocktail

® TM

Burgers • Wings Fat Sandwiches

Thank you for voting us best burger take-out • delivery Order Online 360.366.8752 GALLOWAYSCOCKTAIL.BAR | 360.756.2795 1200 10TH ST SUITE #102, BELLINGHAM, WA

•

Fatshack.com

Sun-Thurs 11am to 1am

Fri-Sat 11am to 3am

THANK YOU for voting B-Town Bellingham’s Best Bar & Lounge!

3pm - 9pm Daily Happy Hour 3pm -6pm and All Day Sunday

714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360.392.6520

Taste Recipe

Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Porridge with Fall Fruit

BY SELVA WOHLGEMUTH

W

HEN IT COMES TO BREAKFAST, it’s easy to get into a rut, eating the same thing day in and day out. Although this is easier than getting creative, it can impact health in the long run. Variety is not only the spice of life, but it’s also the spice of health. Good gut bacteria thrive on different types of plant compounds called polyphenols. Cacao powder and hazelnuts are two polyphenol superstars, ranking as some of the most concentrated plant sources.

This oatmeal recipe combines cacao powder, cacao nibs, and hazelnuts with delicious fall fruit. Aside from a drizzle of maple syrup or honey as a finishing touch, there’s no added sugar. Plus, the protein from the chia seeds and hydrolyzed collagen powder will keep you full and fueled.

Enjoy this porridge hot or cold, bring to work for an easy on-the-go breakfast meal, or enjoy as a healthy dessert. Either way, your taste buds and your microbiome will thank you.

Makes three 1-cup servings INGREDIENTS 1 cup rolled oats 2 cups water ½ teaspoon sea salt (Himalayan or Celtic) 1 medium ripe pear (or apple), grated with peel 2 tablespoons cacao powder 1 tablespoon chia seeds 2 servings hydrolyzed collagen powder 1 ½ cups unsweetened milk (any type) 3 figs, quartered ¼ cup chopped roasted hazelnuts 1 tablespoon cacao nibs Maple syrup or honey

INSTRUCTIONS

• Divide the mixture into three bowls. (I like to make one bowl for immediate use and then store the remaining porridge in two glass containers for an easy breakfast the following days.)

• Top each serving with ½ cup milk, a quartered fig, chopped roasted hazelnuts, cacao nibs, and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey. Enjoy hot or cold.

Nutrition: 350kcal, 50g carbs, 10g fiber, 12g fat, 15g protein.  140 BellinghamAlive.com

Photos by Selva Wohlgemuth

• Place the oats, water, salt, grated pear or apple, cacao powder, and chia seeds into a saucepan. Stir until combined and heat over medium heat. Cover and stir occasionally to prevent from sticking to the bottom.

Add extra water if needed. Cook until oats are tender, about 5–8 minutes. Stir in hydrolyzed collagen powder until dissolved.

Dining Guide Taste

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 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 * Local restaurants need you now more than ever! However, due to COVID-19, some restaurants may be temporarily closed. Remember to call ahead or check online for delivery and pick-up options.

WHATCOM 11TH HOUR TEA & COFFEE BAR Tea, Coffee 833 N. State St., Bellingham 360.788.4229, 11thhourteaandcoffeebar.com 11th Hour Tea & Coffee Bar has an extensive menu of drinks around $3–5, with a variety of teas, golden milks, tea lattes, superfood lattes, and a full line of espresso items. The intimate space is cozy and encourages conversation between friends and strangers alike. The energy, menu, and location attract everyone from college students and families to healthminded folks.

BBQ, cut through the noise and go straight for the BBQ plates.

B-TOWN KITCHEN AND RAW BAR Seafood, American

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714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360.392.6520, btownkitchen.com If fresh shellfish is your gastronomic highlight, you’re in the right place at B-Town Kitchen and Raw Bar. Items from the Small Plates menu make terrific appetizers or adult-beverageworthy snacks. The heated patio provides an urban vibe suited for parties or gatherings.

BELLINGHAM CIDER CO. American 205 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.510.8494, bellinghamcider.com If you’re looking for a true home-cooked meal, look no further. Bellingham Cider Company’s knack for comfort food is reflected in their simplistic yet thoughtful dishes. Each dish has a handful of components and ingredients, all locally or regionally sourced, that shift based on season.

THE BIRCH DOOR CAFE American 4192 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.306.8598, birchdoorcafe.com The Birch Door Cafe does not fall short on charm, variety, or serving size. Brunch enthusiasts will be delighted by the three pages of breakfast options. Dishes include traditional pancake breakfast platters, French-style baked omelets, egg scrambles and Benedicts, and plenty more. Listen for the ringing of the kitchen bell every time one of these massive breakfasts is served.

CAMBER COFFEE Coffeehouse, American 221 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.656.5343, cambercoffee.com Camber is more than just a coffee shop.

Customers can order at the counter for a quicker bite, or enjoy table service for the 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.”

1317 N. State St., Bellingham 360.714.0188, dannascafeitaliano.com If you’re looking for good Italian food without having to resort to a national chain, D’Anna’s may be the place for you. The emphasis here is on the food, not the frills. The restaurant stands out in many ways, but D’Anna’s delicious, homemade pasta is what really makes it special.

DIRTY DAN HARRIS Steakhouse 1211 11th St., Bellingham 360.676.1011, dirtydanharris.com The “dirt” on Dirty Dan Harris? In a word: excellent. The steakhouse provides a warm atmosphere, friendly waitstaff, quaint historic surroundings, and superb food. Perhaps the best reflection on the restaurant is owner Kathy Papadakis’ waitstaff. Most have worked here for years — and it shows in their enthusiasm for your dining experience. Make sure to leave room for dessert, because the selections are dangerously good.

FAT SHACK American 414 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.366.8752, fatshack.com Fat Shack offers a variety of burgers, wings, and their specialty: densely packed sandwiches. The typical “fat” sandwich is some combination of grilled steak and fried chicken, along with cheese and a host of sides, all pressed inside a fresh hoagie roll. It is not for the meek, or for someone looking for a salad bar. Along with its unapologetic embrace of deep-fried food, Fat Shack serves up some surprises. Its hamburgers are hand-pressed, hand-seasoned, and never frozen.

FIRESIDE MARTINI & WINE BAR Eclectic, Bar

416 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.738.1000, firesidemartini.com

Steak, Seafood

CROSSROADS BBQ

7 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360.527.3473, anthonys.com

1255 Barkley Blvd., Ste. 102, Bellingham, 360.306.3624

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

BBQ lovers, get ready to celebrate. CrossRoads in Barkley Village serves up finger-licking food in a family-friendly environment. With live music, pool, shuffleboard, karaoke, Jenga, and flat-screens throughout the bar and dining room, there’s something for the whole family.

At the bar you’ll find eight taps, two of which rotate seasonally. If you’re really there for the

D’ANNA’S CAFE ITALIANO Italian

ANTHONY’S HEARTHFIRE GRILL

Fireside is out to make a name for itself. Their menu changes on an almost daily basis and uses only fresh, local ingredients. Cocktails are based on in-house infusions of spirits, a collection found only at Fireside, and their beer options range from local to obscure to international.

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Taste Community

Not Your Run-of-the-Mill Flour Mill Fairhaven Mill

BY ANELYSE MORRIS

locally-sourced, organic flour to the people of Skagit Valley and beyond. Dedicated to product quality and a sense of community, CEO Andrew Miller and his team are taking flour power to a whole new level.

Crumble Beginnings Fairhaven Mill originally opened in 1974 as a small cooperative out of Bellingham, run by a group of workershareholders until 2007. Under the new ownership of Kevin Christenson and his wife Matsuko, the mill moved to its current space in Burlington. It wasn’t until 2017 that Miller and his team became involved with the mill.

As Christenson neared retirement, Miller helped him prepare to sell. When Christenson suggested Miller be the one to take over, he decided to jump at the opportunity — with his private equity group taking over ownership in 2019.

“I took it back to my partners, we absolutely had to do this,” Miller says. “We need processes that are far more farmer-focused here in Skagit Valley.”

Since this transition, the team has been focused on re-branding Fairhaven Mill, with an emphasis on promoting the mill’s unique history and agricultural contributions.

“If local agriculture is important to you, this is the flour for you,” Miller says. “This is where farmers [have] met the bakers for years.”

Fulfilling Flour Kneads The small five-person production team creates a big impact.

Fairhaven Mill’s flour can be found in 75 different stores nationwide — from the PCC to co-ops, and even some stores on the east coast. You can also purchase hand-sewn 25-pound bags directly from the mill.

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The flour, which comes in 15 premium whole-grain organic varieties (and counting), is made from every part of the grain. The result is more fully-activated starches that promote nutrient absorption and create a more malleable dough.

Despite the mill’s long history, new products and partnerships are on the horizon. After requests from the community, the Mill recently released a new organic pizza flour with the help of Bellingham’s Pizza Geometrics.

Miller is also working with Skagit Valley Malting to create and test-bake with smoked and sprouted grains, including a maple-smoked soft white flour perfect for making sweet waffles without any added sugars.

“It’s really fun that in a 46-year-old company, we’re figuring out innovative solutions to modern problems,” Miller says.

A Growing Partnership The mill continues to flourish, with new flours and mixes going out to stores, with more and more local growers joining the process. According to Miller, the Skagit community plays a large role in this growth, particularly researchers like the Washington State University Bread Lab. “They [The Bread Lab] have research solutions to bring to bear,” he says. “We’re bringing partners together in a way we haven’t done before... We’re focused on solving problems for our neighbors.”

These new partnerships are precisely part of the new brand Miller and his team hope to promote.

“We’ve gone from a price to a value [perspective], and gone directly to farmers and the researchers,” Miller says. “It’s so important… really using commerce to promote a quality of life in Western Washington that is consistent with our values.”

Fairhaven Mill, 808 N. Hill Blvd., Burlington, fairhavenmill.com 

Photos by Blake Vanfield

F

OR 46 YEARS, FAIRHAVEN MILL HAS BROUGHT

Fine Italian Cuisine Craft Cocktails Award-Winning Wine List

Best Italian Best Chef Justin Oberg

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 a store clerk says, “This is one doodle that can’t be undid, 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 your choice of toppings.

Homeskillet can’t be beat with its friendly service, colorful atmosphere, and ultimate comfort food.

2026 Main Street Ferndale, WA 98248 360.306.9889 leaderblock.com

KURUKURU SUSHI Japanese, Sushi 11 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360.392.8224, kurukurubellingham.com KuruKuru Sushi, which translates to “go around Sushi,” offers not only a good meal, but a good experience as well. Along with the more traditional sushi, delicious lightly tempurafried sushi also makes its way around the conveyor belt. If you don’t see something you like, the chefs behind the counter will gladly make something for you.

LEADER BLOCK WINE CO. & EATERY Italian

2026 Main St., Ferndale 360.306.8998, leaderblock.com Leader Block pairs their extensive wine list with an Italian, from-scratch menu that emphasizes flavors of the region. This upscale menu makes it a perfect spot for a date or special occasion, while the friendly Ferndale atmosphere and kids’ menu keep it appropriate for family dinners as well.

LOCUS American, Eclectic 120 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.306.8556, locusofbellingham.com

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

of the

2017

BEST

NORTH

WEST

GOLD

VOTED BEST FISH & CHIPS

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2615 South Harbor Loop Drive, Bellingham 360.332.2505 | nickisbellamarina.com

Ever tried a wine latte? Or a stout with cold brew and Irish cream? How about a smoothie blend of espresso, berries, ice cream, and tahini? These one-of-a-kind creations are all available at Locus, where you’ll find classic and curious offerings of coffee, wine, beer, and food. Breakfast is available all day, and includes sandwiches, bagels, and wraps.

LITTLE CHEERFUL American 133 E. Holly St., Bellingham 360.738.8824 Little Cheerful is a bustling breakfast spot, ideal for customers looking to enjoy a mouthwatering meal over conversation or a newspaper. The cafe has maintained its popularity through the growth of breakfast cafes in the area. Their menu includes

Dining Guide Taste something for everyone, whether you are gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, or an omnivore — and if you are craving eggs benedict, Little Cheerful is definitely for you. Side note: Cash only.

LORENZO’S Mexican 190 E. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.527.3181 2121 E. College Way, Mount Vernon 360.848.7793 902 Highway 20, Sedro-Woolley 360.856.6810, lorenzosmexicanrestaurant.com Lorenzo and Laura Velasco’s restaurant was established in 2006 and brought an authentic Mexican restaurant to the communities of Bellingham, Mount Vernon, and Sedro-Woolley. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and even owner Lorenzo will occasionally stop by tables to check in with the customers.

LYNDEN DUTCH BAKERY American 421 Front St., Lynden 360.354.3911, lyndendutchbakery.com Guests of Lynden Dutch Bakery will have a hard time picking just one sweet treat.

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

MAGDALENA’S CREPERIE European 1200 10th St., Ste. 103, Bellingham 360.483.8569, magdalenascreperie.com Paris, London, New York, Vancouver, and Bellingham all have them: little shops where the aromas of sweet and savory crêpes, custom sandwiches, and hot soup du jour fill the air. With an astounding selection of crêpes, it’ll take more than one trip to decide which is better, sweet or savory. But at this eatery, it is criminal to pass up the sweet little numbers filled with velvety smooth vanilla-flavored cream cheese, white chocolate, and your choice of fresh fruit. A crêpe option for every crêpe craving.

MYKONOS Greek 1650 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.715.3071, mykonosbellingham.com Pita bread is pita bread, right? Not at Mykonos. If you order a starter of hummus, prepare your tastebuds for slices of heaven. If you consider yourself a connoisseur of Greek cuisine, you won’t be disappointed. Mykonos offers excellent value for the price — Pheidippides would be proud.

NICKI’S BAR AND GRILL/ NICKI’S BELLA MARINA American, Seafood 2615 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham 360.332.2505, nickisbellamarina.com Harborside visitors can grab a bite at Nicki’s Bar and Grill or rent out the floor above, Nicki’s Bella Marina, for private events with spectacular views of Bellingham Bay. Once you’ve had a chance to check out the water, take your first glance at the large menu. The burgers are big, juicy (there are even Wet-Naps on the table), and flavorful.

Local Cookbooks “Ethiopian Feast: The Crown Jewel of African Cuisine” by Mulunesh Belay You might know Mulunesh, or Mulu, as the owner of Ambo Ethiopian Cuisine in Bellingham.

In her cookbook, perfect for beginner and seasoned chefs alike, Mulu shares 78 recipes that detail how to make classic Ethiopian dishes. Paired with stunning photos, this book is an excellent guide to creating authentic, mouth-watering Ethiopian food at home.

“The Weeknight Mediterranean Kitchen” by Samantha Ferraro Samantha Ferraro is a born-and-bred Brooklynite who moved to the Skagit Valley in 2016. Today, she creates videos, podcasts, and a blog focused on Mediterranean, Jewish, and Italian cuisine.

All of it comes together in her cookbook, which features 80 quick, easy, and nutritious recipes.

From Stuffed Tomatoes with Lamb and Feta to One-Pot Paprika Chicken, these pages will add some zest to your weeknights.

“Washington Wine and Food: The Cookbook”

by Julien Perry Washington’s burgeoning wine scene meets foodie heaven in this cookbook by Seattle-based writer Julien Perry. Through interviews and stunning photography, Perry highlights 40 of our state’s most noteworthy winemakers. Combined with 80 recipes from celebrated Seattle chefs, it’s the perfect book for those who obsess over pairing wine and food.

“Lummi: Island Cooking”

by Blaine Wetzel For three years in a row, Opinionated About Dining ranked the Willows Inn on Lummi Island as the best restaurant in North America. The chef behind it all is Blaine Wetzel, winner of a James Beard Award and a familiar name among Washington foodies. His new book includes recipes that focus on hyper-local ingredients and working in harmony with the land. 

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ÖVN WOOD-FIRED PIZZA Pizza 1148 10th St., Bellingham 360.393.4327, ovnwoodfiredpizza.com

GREAT

The clean lines and urban upscale atmosphere of this pizza restaurant promise some very good food — and they deliver on that promise.

They also serve crispy salads and excellent cocktails. Dining here is the perfect way to spend an elegant lunch or intimate dinner.

TASTES

SAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE Food truck See satm360.com for schedule and location 360.988.1800

2 3 4

Start your day with a flavor-packed Breakfast Burrito from ANMLY Cafe. The zesty flavors of soyrizo, tomato jam, and chipotle-lime aioli are balanced perfectly by melty mozzarella cheese and crispy hash browns.

For one of the best falafel deals in Whatcom, head to Kebab Casual in the Fountain District. The Falafel Sandwich comes with lettuce, cucumber, tomato, HOSA hot sauce, tahini, and pickled turnips, all wrapped in house-made flatbread with a side of za’atar fries.

Craving Indian, but tired of butter chicken? Try the Paneer Tikka Masala from Tandoori Bites. The cubed farmer’s cheese simmered in Tandoori Bites’ standout tomato butter cream sauce is an excellent way to expand your flavor horizons.

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Shake up your breakfast routine with a Boulevard Scramble from The Daisy Cafe. Perfect for veggie lovers, this scramble comes with spinach, mushrooms, and diced tomatoes. Toast and potatoes make it a truly filling meal.

If you’re around the Sumas area and are craving delicious mexican food, El Nopal Mexican Restaurant has you covered. Try the Prawn Fajitas for a savory seafood dish that comes with mushrooms and onions.

Split a Korean BBQ dinner on a grill with friends at Mount Vernon’s Pyung Chang Korean Restaurant & BBQ. Try the B-2 BBQ Combo, served with banchan, rice, and selected meats like marbled beef brisket, marinated rib eye, filet mignon, and pork belly.

Looking to have a romantic Italian night in?

D’Anna’s Cafe Italiano has everything you need to create a romantic evening. Try the Shiitake Vodka Cream Linguini for a spicy pasta dish that is bold with flavor.

If you haven’t yet heard of Sage Against the Machine, you will soon enough. Believed to be Bellingham’s first from-scratch, dairy-free, meat-free, and mostly gluten- and soy-free food truck, Sage Against the Machine has the power to convince the meatiest of meat-eaters that eating plant-based food can actually be enjoyable.

SALTINE New American 114 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.392.8051, saltinebellingham.com The short and sweet menu is described by owners as “new American comfort.” Comfort classics are woven in with nods to international flavors and technique. Saltine also offers a long list of European and American wines along with craft cocktails and local beer on tap.

SWIM CLUB WET BAR American, Bar 1147 11th St., Bellingham 360.393.3826, swimclubbar.com “To drink is to swim, and this is the club we do it in.” This wet bar on the edge of Fairhaven boasts a rotating food and drink menu, along with seasonal pop-ups. The owners wanted to evoke the carefree, fun nature of a pool party, with decor and drinks that boost the vacation vibes. Even in a February snow storm, Swim Club still feels like a tropical getaway.

TASTE OF INDIA Indian 3930 Meridian St., Ste. 107, Bellingham 360.647.1589, tasteofindiabellingham.com At Taste of India, all the dishes are rich, delicious, and authentic. Dishes come with your choice of pulao rice or the classic Indian bread naan. Taste of India offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, all with exquisite and well-developed flavors. For those unsure of what to order, or those who want to try multiple dishes at once, try the lunch buffet.

Photo by Emily Porter

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Make a fun day trip to Blaine’s waterfront and pick up some food from Drayton Harbor Oyster Company. Perfect for a picnic with marina views, Drayton’s Po’Boy features deep fried oysters on a grilled hoagie bun.

Dining Guide Taste TEMPLE BAR Bistro, Bar

A Blast From The Past

306 W. Champion St.,Bellingham 360.676.8660, templebarbellingham.com Continually recognized for their craft cocktails and small plates, Temple Bar aims to please.

In between delicious bites made from locally sourced ingredients, sip on a unique cocktail with house-made infusions and bitters.

We Care How You Look

Thank You for Voting Us

Best Men’s Haircut

Wally’s Barber Shop 314 E Holly St #100 Bellingham 360-647-0807

SKAGIT ANELIA’S KITCHEN Polish 513 South 1st St., La Conner 360.399.1805, aneliaskitchenandstage.com A welcoming atmosphere, local food prepared with care, and great music make Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage a must-visit. The assortment of house-infused Polish vodkas and myriad of local beers on tap will make you wonder why you didn’t visit sooner. Na zdrowie!

BOB’S CHOWDER BAR & BBQ SALMON Seafood, American

3320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.299.8000, bobschowderbarandbbqsalmon.com Treasured for its fresh and local seafood, Bob’s Chowder Bar & BBQ Salmon has long been a favorite dining destination in Anacortes. The restaurant specializes in all-things seafood, from fried calamari to oyster burgers and grilled wild prawns. Pair your meal with a huckleberry or sarsaparilla soda, wine by the glass, hard cider, bottled beer, or a featured beer on tap.

CALICO CUPBOARD American 901 Commercial Ave., Anacortes,, 360.293.7315, 720 S. 1st St., La Conner, 360.466.4451, 121-B Freeway Dr., Mount Vernon, 360.336.3107, calicocupboardcafe.com Since 1981, Calico Cupboard has been serving the purest, most heart-healthy, and high-quality ingredients. Using freshly milled, organicallygrown, whole grain and unbleached flour, the cafe aims to promote its local farmers and gratify your body in the process. Sit down for breakfast or lunch, or just order from the bakery and grab an espresso to go. Calico Cupboard will leave you full, but feeling homey, healthy, and happy.

Thank you for voting us Best Grocery Store!

Proudly providing our communities with the best quality, freshest food available from local farmers, fishers and producers since 1933.

CATRINA TACOS & TEQUILA Mexican 517 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon 360.336.5566, catrinastacostequila.com Catrina Tacos & Tequila is known for their take on Street Tacos — with a multitude of meat fillings to choose from, double tortillas,

Haggen Food & Pharmacy • Visit haggen.com to view our weekly flyers, store hours and more.

Barkley Village • Sehome Village • Meridian & Illinois • Fairhaven • Ferndale ©2020 Haggen • 200902-03

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absolutelycleanbham.com 360.303.3910

cilantro, and onions — but that’s certainly not the only mouthwatering option. With plenty of drinks to sample, there’s always another reason to visit again.

�ank You for Voting Us the Best in the Northwest! Give Us a Call Today.

CHUCKANUT MANOR Pacific Northwest 3056 Chuckanut Dr., Bow 360.766.6191, chuckanutmanor.com Tucked along Samish Bay, Chuckanut Manor has been serving flavorful Pacific Northwest fare for more than 50 years. Open for lunch and dinner, including a daily happy hour from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., the restaurant is known for its mouthwatering seafood dishes, burgers, steaks, stellar service, and breathtaking views of Samish Bay. The dining room and bar are expansive and feature white tablecloths, nautical decor, and rows of windows that show off the magnificent views. In the summer, guests may also dine on the outdoor patio.

While the tablecloths might allude to fancy attire, the vibe is casual and everyone is welcome just as they are.

CONWAY PUB & EATERY American 18611 Main St., Conway 360.445.4733 Don’t let tiny Conway fool you — this pub packs big flavor. Though the town is unincorporated, business is never slow in this watering hole. Farmers often come here after a hard day’s work, as well as bikers making a pit stop on a scenic weekend ride. Brimming with beer and Americana spirit, Conway Pub & Eatery is a Skagit Valley icon.

DAD’S DINER A-GO-GO American 906 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.899.5269 Dad’s Diner A-Go-Go in Anacortes is the epitome of creative flavors and fun presentation. Add in the superior customer service in a comfortable, casual atmosphere, and it’s no wonder so many locals eat here weekly. The space is decorated with framed photos of dads, most of whom are local — an appreciation of their loyal fan base. Every edible item is a labor of love, just how Dad would make it at home.

FORTUNE MANDARIN Chinese, Mandarin 1617 Freeway Dr., Mount Vernon 360.428.1819, fortunemandarin.com Tea warmed over a candle, delicious drinks with a slight exotic twist, tender and flavorful meat, and vegetables cooked to perfection are expected at this peaceful bar and restaurant with Chinese decor. The owner and staff remember regular patrons, creating a sense of community alongside mouth-watering food.

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Dining Guide Taste GREEK ISLANDS RESTAURANT Greek 2001 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.293.6911, greekislandsrestaurant.shop Some of the very best Greek food in our area comes from this versatile and excellent menu, with plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and glutenfree options. They serve both authentic food, such as classic gyro plates and spanakopita, while also mixing in American and seafood options, such as pork ribs and fish and chips.

THE OYSTER & THISTLE RESTAURANT & PUB Seafood, Steak 205 E. Washington St., La Conner 360.766.6179, theoysterandthistle.com The Oyster & Thistle Restaurant and Pub takes the time to prepare food with care. Their pastas are handmade and hand-cranked using semolina flour and an egg-rich dough. You’ll also find plenty of fresh, expertly shucked oysters and perfectly seared sea scallops.

THE OYSTER BAR Seafood 2578 Chuckanut Dr., Bow 360.766.6185, theoysterbar.net The Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Drive is perched among towering conifers above the oyster beds. Housed in a structure dating from the 1920s that has survived many incarnations, the restaurant owes its reputation to its remote, quintessentially Pacific Northwest setting. But people don’t dine at The Oyster Bar for its location alone. While oysters are the signature offering, The Oyster Bar offers a variety of other fine-dining choices and is known for its extensive wine cellar.

RAILROAD PUB & PIZZA Pizza, American 122 S. Spruce St., Burlington 360.982.2133, railroadpizza.com Railroad Pub & Pizza in downtown Burlington has all the charm of a rustic pub with quality food and drinks. The menu boasts several artisan pizza options on a 24-hour aged malted dough crust, as well as soups, salads, and sandwiches. The bar offers a multitude of taps for craft beer and ciders. The wide garage-style windows open in the summer, and the central fireplace heats the space in the winter. It’s a great place to watch a game, drink a beer, and eat some pizza.

THE RHODY CAFE American 5521 Chuckanut Dr., Bow 360.766.6667, rhodycafe.com The Rhody Cafe is a spot with a cozy, homestyle feel that places emphasis on fresh, local Washington ingredients. Even the pew-like benches that line the walls were built by a local carpenter. Small glass vases hold fresh-picked

flowers and plants that sit next to small paper dessert menus on pressed wood tables, giving the air of a family dining room. The Rhododendron changes its menu three times a year to follow what is fresh, in season, and available.

SALT & VINE French

THIRD STREET CAFE Pacific Northwest 309 S. 3rd St., Mount Vernon 360.542.5022, csquare.coop Third Street Cafe stands out from the many other restaurants serving locally procured, organic dishes. The menu offers a range of dishes from simple to fancier options. Burgers and fried oysters are listed alongside pork belly lollipops and roasted beet salad.

913 6th St., Anacortes 360.293.2222 An international cheese, wine, and charcuterie shop, Salt & Vine offers the best of both worlds. It’s a boutique artisan grocery where you can sit down and enjoy the offerings, and then, if something tickles your fancy, you can take it home to enjoy later. While some choose to grab-n-go, others decide to stay a while. The cozy, intimate environment works great for a date night or happy hour with friends.

SKAGIT RIVER BREWERY American 404 S. 3rd St., Mount Vernon 360.336.2884, skagitbrew.com

TRUMPETER PUBLIC HOUSE Gastropub 416 Myrtle St., Mount Vernon 360.588.4515, trumpeterpublichouse.com Trumpeter is an ideal combination of highend, fine dining, and English pub fare. Try traditional pub selections or more unique seafood choices. Additionally, Trumpeter looks to accommodate all tastes with gluten-free dishes and the option to make any dish glutenfree. Of course, a pub isn’t complete without beer and Trumpeter completes the dining experience with 18 taps of local and European brews.

Made with Yakima Valley hops and Northwest barley and wheat, Skagit River Brewery produces the finest beers with distinguishable tastes. Seasonal beers also appear on the menu for locals to try something new. To complement the beers and non-alcoholic drinks, the brewery also prides itself on its selection of foods from wood-fired pizza to house-smoked ribs. Beer brings people together. At least it’s proven so at Skagit River Brewery.

SKAGIT VALLEY’S FARMHOUSE American 13724 Laconner Whitney Rd., Mount Vernon 360.466.4411, thefarmhouserestaurant.net Craving home-cooked food but don’t want to make it yourself? Skagit Valley’s Farmhouse may be what you’re looking for. When first entering the building, you walk past a mouthwatering pie showcase and through a gift shop that has the perfect items for Ma and Pa. The decor is reminiscent of country living.

Even though their breakfasts are famous, try their lunch and dinner menus as well — when you eat here, you’re home.

SWINOMISH SPORTS BAR & GRILL

ISLAND COUNTIES CATKIN CAFÉ American 11 Point Lawrence Rd., Olga, 360.376.3242, catkincafe.com The menu of this Orcas Island eatery may be small, but it is mighty. Breakfast and lunch are served late and their menu features meat and produce grown on the island. Don’t forget about their bakery before heading out — all sweets and baked goods are made in-house.

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. You can enjoy lunch, or even an extended breakfast, daily in spring and summer. They are famous for their brunch, but you might try stopping by later in the evening for their dinner menu — a special treat.

American

12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes, 888.288.8883, swinomishcasinoandlodge.com Located along the waterfront of Anacortes, this is not your run-of-the-mill sports bar. While you can go the more classic bar-food route, this restaurant offers Italian, barbeque, seafood, Southern, among many other cuisine styles.

Find the latest lines, watch the race, or grab a beer and grub as you watch every play, pass, and score.

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 provide a sweeping panorama of water and sky. In addition to the delicious food menu, Friday Harbor House is one of the few island

October 2020 149

Serving Wine with Dessert?

Keep It Sweet and Simple.

BY DAN RADIL

W

HEN YOU THINK ABOUT ALL THE FOODS that

fall into the dessert category — cakes, pies, mousses, truffles, custards, tarts — you begin to realize there’s a lot of territory to cover when looking for a wine to serve with these culinary treats.

Luckily, by applying one basic rule of thumb, you can conquer the wineand-dessert-pairing conundrum with ease: simply make sure the wine you serve is sweeter than the dessert.

The reasoning behind this is just as simple; when a food is sweeter than a wine, it overpowers the wine’s sweetness and accentuates its other characteristics, namely acidity and alcohol. This often leaves the wine flavorless or bitter.

Consider serving late-harvest wines, ice wines, Ports, and Port-style wines with your dessert. With their high residual sugar content and somewhat bold yet elegant flavor profile, they can 150 BellinghamAlive.com

stand up to desserts on practically any sweetness level.

Northwest wineries offer plenty of dessert wine options. Sweeter fruit wines, many sourced from locally grown berries, are a great place to start.

Take Whatcom County’s Samson Estates Winery, for one. Their Delilah fruit wines (raspberry, blackberry, and blueberry) are lower in sugar but still pair great with less-sweet desserts like cheesecake or buttery pound cake.

Samson also produces higher sugar/ higher alcohol dessert wines, including cassis black currant, blueberry, Framboise raspberry, and Oro, a rich, delicious fortified wine made from roasted hazelnuts.

Lopez Island Vineyard & Winery offers a pair of dessert wines as well; their raspberry wine is both tart and sweet, and brimming with fresh fruit aromatics and flavors. Their Fireside Port, a combination of malbec and sangiovese topped off with San Juan

Distillery brandy, makes for a jammy, slightly smoky libation that pairs well with anything chocolate.

If you prefer an ice wine style, try the Pacific Rim & Company 2018 Vin De Glaciére. Crafted from 100% riesling, it’s packed with pear, golden raisin, and stone fruit flavors that explode into an ultra-long, honey-like finish.

Finally, be sure to consider a pair of unique dessert wines from Bellingham’s Vartanyan Estate Winery. The two wines, a 2015 Dessert Wine and a 2013 Dessert Wine, consist of fortified riesling aged in oak barrels for three and five years, respectively.

The results are stunning. Each wine carries a lovely, sherry-like quality.

The grape’s natural acidity, along with the perfect level of sweetness, balance out the 20% alcohol content. The flavor profile includes dried apricot, fig, and toasted walnut, with a lengthy, lingering finish.

An added bonus to these wines: because of their high alcohol and sugar contents, they keep well after opening. That means you can serve them now, cork them, and store them for more pairings over the course of several weeks. 

Photo by Dan Radil

Taste Sip

Dining Guide Taste restaurants to offer a full bar at brunch every day of the week.

INN AT LANGLEY American 400 First St., Langley, 360.221.3033, innatlangley.com If beauty were a taste, this would be it. As a guest, you’re taken on a mouth-watering culinary journey through a multi-course tasting menu. Not only is the meal a delight for the taste buds, but there are also surprises at each turn, whether it’s the presentation or the accoutrements. Each guest is served as if they are the only one in the dining room. The menu is prix fixe, with an additional charge for wine pairing. Dinner here is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. $ $ $ $ ISLAND SKILLET Homestyle 325 Prune Alley, Eastsound, 360.376.3984 Beloved by loyal patrons for its large portions and casual, customizable meals, Island Skillet is a must-stop for anyone visiting Orcas Island.

A rustic metal rooster outside the entrance sets the tone. Start the day with a skillet breakfast complete with a bottomless cup of coffee. Sandwiches rule the lunch menu, and you can choose from a lengthy list of sides and customizations for most items, so you can totally have it your way.

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SAN JUAN ISLAND BREWING CO. American

410 A St., Friday Harbor, 360.378.2017, sanjuanbrew.com At San Juan Island Brewing Company all the brews are named after San Juan-inspired concepts, and if you can’t decide what brew to try, order a sampler. If they weren’t in the business of brewing, San Juan Island Brewery would be in the business of pizza. Order one of their wood stone pizzas and you won’t be disappointed. The thin crust is crispy on the bottom, but still soft and chewy.

TOBY’S TAVERN Seafood 8 NW Front St., Coupeville, 360.678.4222, tobysuds.com Overlooking the scenic Penn Cove in the center of old Coupeville, Toby’s Tavern offers diners a dive bar ambience with a delicious menu of seafood favorites. Steamed and soaked in a scrumptious mix of simple seasonings, wine, and juices, Toby’s robust offering of mussels makes for a memorable visit.

October 2020 151

Notes Lasting Image

MARGARETHA MARYK

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 write-up 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.

152 BellinghamAlive.com

Photo by Margaretha Maryk

I photographed the Deception Pass Bridge from Coronet Bay one September evening around Equinox, when it is the most opportune time to see the setting sun under the bridge. Just after the sun set, the sky turned pink and lavender and the beautiful colors were reflected in the water against the silhouetted bridge.

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