Bellingham Alive | March 2021 by K & L Media

Imagining Spaces Q&A with Ciscoe Morris MARCH 2021 DISPLAY UNTIL MARCH 31 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

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“Kristal has assisted our family with both our residential and commercial real estate “Kristal has the assisted with so both ourthe residential andand commercial real estate needs over yearsour andfamily has done with utmost care professionalism. needs over the years and has done so with the utmost care and professionalism. She never ceases to impress us with her market knowledge and goes above and She never to our impress us needs. with herShe market knowledge and goes above and beyond to ceases adapt to unique represents us exceptionally well in every beyond to adapt to our unique needs. She represents us exceptionally well in every negotiation and transaction. We couldn’t recommend her more!” negotiation and transaction. We couldn’t recommend her more!” -Nick and Andi Vann -Nick and VannDesserts Owners of Andi Pure Bliss Owners of Pure Bliss Desserts

“Kristal is one of the most knowledgeable and professional real estate agents we “Kristal is one of the most professional real estate agents we have ever worked with. Sheknowledgeable skillfully guidedand us through the process of downsizing, have ever worked with. She skillfully guided us through the process of downsizing, resulting in smooth transactions with our terms being met. We trust Kristal with our resulting inneeds, smoothand transactions withtoour met. We trust Kristal with our real estate will refer her ourterms familybeing and friends.” real estate needs, and will refer her to our family and friends.” -Steve and Julie Clarke -Steve and Julie Clarke Fmr. Assistant Superintendent, Bellingham Public Schools Fmr. Assistant Superintendent, Bellingham Public Schools Fmr. Owner of Organized at Last Fmr. Owner of Organized at Last

“Kristal is one of the most genuine, honest, and hard-working people whom we have “Kristal is onewith. of the genuine, honest, and people skills, whomwhich we have ever worked Shemost is a strong negotiator withhard-working excellent marketing ever worked with. She is a strong negotiator with excellent marketing skills, which resulted in a quick sale with our terms being met. We highly recommend Kristal and resulted in a quick saleour with our terms being met. We highly recommend Kristal and have already referred friends to her. The BEST!” have already referred our friends to her. The BEST!” -Dr. John Pettit and Andrea Pettit -Dr. John Pettit andGroup Andrea Pettit Bellingham Urology Bellingham Urology Group

Your Trusted Guide to Buying or Selling Your Trusted Guide to Buying or Selling Life moves quickly. Families grow. Jobs change. New Life moves quickly. Families grow. Jobs change. New journeys unfold. Homes are bought and sold. When journeys unfold. Homes are bought and sold. When life happens, my job is to guide my clients to their life happens, my job is to guide my clients to their best outcome possible. I am honored to serve my best outcome possible. I am honored to serve my clients and be a part of their story, and I would love to clients and be a part of their story, and I would love to become part of yours. become part of yours.

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Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

Contents 44 Imagining Home has taken on a new meaning in the pandemic. Bedrooms have become offices, living rooms have become movie theaters, and kitchens have become makeshift restaurants. We’ve learned a new way of life, and for many of us, that life takes place mostly in the house. With no better time to remodel or revamp a room—or a whole home— we bring you a feature dedicated entirely to beautiful, functional living spaces. Take an inside peek at some of our favorite local homes and remodels, from dream-worthy kitchens and bathrooms to eyepopping fireplaces and entryways. Get inspired, and then get started on your next project.

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Photo by Damian Vines.

Spaces

Photos: Top left courtesy of Gallery Syre. Bottom left by Emily Porter. Middle top courtesy of Plants For All People. Middle center courtesy of 12th Street Shoes. Middle bottom by Claudia Cooper. Top right by Thomas Hughes.

MARCH 2021 LIFE

Garden Q&A with Ciscoe Morris

Spotlight Clyde W. Ford

Book Notes Reviews and Literary Events

SPECIAL ADVERTISING

Game Changer Interfaith Coalition

Pros To Know

TASTE

Local Find Plants For All People

Community Gallery Syre 23

Out and About Waypoint Park

Heard Around the Sound

Apps We Love

Nutrition The Importance of Iodine

Five Faves Bookstores

Review 7 Spice Cafe

STYLE

New Studio for Creatives Upgrades at Bay Breeze Restaurant

Five Faves Nail Salons

Outdoor Events this Month New Food Truck at K2 Monthly Giveaway

Fairhaven Tower

Fashion Q&A Spring Shoes 40

Necessities Contemporary Trends

Recipe Salmon with Couscous

Dining Guide

Local Find Buck Bay Shellfish Farm

Game Changer Living Pantry Refillery

Sip Temperate Habits Brewing

8 Great Tastes

Five Faves Delis

Mixing Tin Lavender Fields

NOTES

42 26

Spotlight Allegro Strings

Local Find Attack Cat Bags 43

Special Advertising Shop Local

Online Exclusive Full Q&A with Ciscoe Morris

Editor’s Letter

Contributors

Letters to the Editor

Meet the Team Elizabeth Hall

Lasting Image

March 2021 5

Notes What’s Online

Online Exclusive

INSTAGRAM

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

In this month’s issue, we bring you a Q&A with Seattle-based gardening extraordinaire and illustrious media personality, Ciscoe Morris (see p.18). He covers what to plant in March, how to dog-proof your garden, and speaks about his newest book, “Oh, La La!: Homegrown Stories, Helpful Tips, and Garden Wisdom.” For even more insights about attracting hummingbirds, battling weeds, and how gardening has helped Morris through the pandemic, read the unabridged interview online 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.

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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“We love going to the creamery every day, and what we have created together as a family over the past five years. We are very proud to be Washington state cheesemakers.” ... Ferndale’s own Twin Sisters Creamery has been named the best cheese shop in Washington by Taste of Home magazine. Read more about it in the full article by Alina Simone, photo by Kristi Coulter. Link in bio!

Photos: Top left by Ciscoe Morris. Top right by Blake Vanfield. Bottom right by Kristi Coulter.

FULL INTERVIEW WITH GARDENING EXPERT CISCOE MORRIS

For 46 years, Fairhaven Mill has brought 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. Read more about it in the full article by Anelyse Morris, photos courtesy of Fairhaven Mill. Link in bio!

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Joanne S. Rating: Five Stars After being injured in a car accident that wasn’t my fault, I was quickly overwhelmed and very stressed and as a wife and mom of 5, I didn’t have the time or energy to deal with the repercussions. After our first appointment with Craig and Sheila, I was able to take a sigh of relief knowing that we had support in this confusing process. I’ve been working with them for a little over a year now and every time I call and have a question or just need to chat about what’s been going on Kendra and Sheila are so helpful and always are quick to know the details of my case right away. I love how organized and up to speed they are. It is SO comforting to know that I am not alone in this process. HIGHLY RECOMMEND 1000%.

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Notes Editor’s Letter

The Orchid Lesson AST SUMMER, when it became

clear nobody was going back to their workplace any time soon, my roommate was gifted a series of orchids that normally lived at his office. The orchids arrived to our house sans flowers, just little root balls with stalks that twisted up toward the window in search of light. At the time, everything I knew about orchids came from the movie “Adaptation,” an extremely meta film based on the book “The Orchid Thief.” What I gleaned from this movie was that orchids were difficult to grow and that some people were weirdly obsessed with them. When I saw my roommates’ new orchids lined up on our kitchen windowsill, I felt oddly intimidated by them. I worried if I breathed wrong, they might shrivel and die on the spot. Wanting them to live, I left them alone. Months passed. Suddenly it was December, and my roommate was planning a trip to Montana. He asked, nonchalantly, if I could watch the orchids while he was away. I remember staring at him blankly. He may as well have asked, “In my absence, would you like to slowly and systematically destroy my most precious belongings?” I have house-sat for many people in my day, and while I am capable of caring for all kinds of animals — horses, sheep, 150pound dogs — I have killed, or at least severely compromised, nearly every plant in my charge. “Okay,” I told him, “but you have to show me exactly what to do or else they’ll probably die.” As I said it, I was thinking how the plants might be better off if he just threw them into a dumpster and reclaimed them when he returned in January, but for some reason he agreed. While he was gone, I did exactly as he instructed. Once a week, on Sunday mornings, I would delicately carry each little pot to the sink and let water run through it for twenty seconds, making sure to soak the roots and the weird bamboo chips beneath. It wasn’t hard at all, which made me feel I was doing something deeply incorrect. I figured there would be

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some kind of complicated magic-adjacent ceremony, or a special liquid orchid food I would need to administer through a tiny orchid-sized IV. But it was just water, for twenty seconds, followed by seven days of waiting. Something occurred to me during my time with the orchids. I realized that, my entire life, the plants in my care hadn’t died because I’d neglected them, but because I’d overwatered them. When their leaves began to brown, I’d poke and prod them, removing their dead leaves, turning them in different directions to get more or less sun. To quote Jeff Goldbloom in “Jurassic Park” (because who is wiser?), “Life finds a way.” It’s when we meddle too much that we cause issues. What I learned during my month caring for the orchids was that plants, like anything else in the world, have something to teach us, if only we are willing to pay attention. I learned that beautiful things require patience, and that it’s rarely productive to believe we’re incapable of doing something, end stop. When given a challenge — a fussy plant to keep alive, a pandemic to weather, a schmaltzy editor’s letter to pen — we are often capable of rising to the moment, if only we are willing to try. A few days before my roommate returned from Montana, something incredible happened: a bright green bud appeared on one of the orchids, a little balled fist of potential. A few days later, just in time for my roommate to see it, the bud opened into a silky white petal dappled with purple, the color of joy itself. For those green thumbs among you, or even those whose thumbs are as un-green as mine, I encourage you to look at our Q&A with Seattle gardening expert Ciscoe Morris. He brings a unique charm and humor to his answers, which are filled with wisdom, both botanical and human. Sincerely,

BECKY MANDELBAUM Editor In Chief

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Notes Contributors Samantha Ferraro Samantha Ferraro is the creator of the popular food blog, The Little Ferraro Kitchen, and author of the cookbook, “The Weeknight Mediterranean Kitchen.” Samantha’s recipes have been featured in Women’s Health, Cosmopolitan, and the L.A. Times. She is a regular on-air contributor to King 5 Seattle, where she demonstrates easy Mediterranean recipes that are full of bold flavors. Locally, you’ll find Samantha teaching cooking classes and sharing recipes on social media.  p. 82

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Cheryl Stritzel McCarthy Cheryl Stritzel McCarthy is the author of “Many Hands Make Light Work: A Memoir,” the true story of a family of nine children growing up in a Midwest college town in the ‘60s and ‘70s. Today Cheryl is a freelance journalist for The Wall Street Journal, the Los Angeles Times, and the Chicago Tribune. She holds degrees from City University in London and Iowa State University. She lives with her husband in Bellingham.  p. 28

HOURS: TUES-SUN. 10AM TO 6PM

Lorraine Wilde Lorraine Wilde owns the public relations and content creation company, Wilde World Communications. She has published more than 250 articles and blogs on a range of subjects over the past two decades while living in beautiful Bellingham. When she isn’t writing, you’ll find her outside with her twin sons, gardening or walking her dogs, hiking and paddling in the amazing Pacific Northwest.  p. 22

Selva Wohlgemuth

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

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

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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. 33

HELP THEM TAKE THEIR FIRST STEP • Teach them how to bank • Visibility into their spending habits • Reward them for learning • Send them money instantly* • Get them a great rate — 2.5% APY**

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Letters to the Editor Notes

Cafe Crawl Milano’s Comes to Fairhaven The Year of Unusual: Homeschooling in Whatcom

Thank you for continually producing a local magazine that is informative and visually pleasing, I have been to many cities across the U.S. and it is better than most I find in the hotel rooms. Your staff does an amazing job. Congratulations.

I enjoyed your guide to local gyms this month. It has been sad to not have them as available right now. One thing that I would love to see featured are the dance studios — which have also been hard hit by the pandemic... Thank you for continuing to promote our local businesses.

Men Like to Be Pampered Too

— Terri G., via LinkedIn — Rachel C., Bellingham FEBRUARY 2021 DISPLAY UNTIL FEBRUARY 28 $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.

Ben and I wanted to send you and your team a very big *thank you* for the wonderful article that came out in the latest issue of Bellingham Alive. The story and the photos were very true to representing our little project and we are extremely grateful that you’ve shared our story with your readers.

What a great tool for Whatcom County to connect with businesses! Thanks Bellingham Alive. — Bellingham Bay Gymnastics and Preschool

— Karolina L., Bellingham, co-owner of Otherlands Beer

Quality Furniture at Affordable Prices That’s really what we’re all about. All the newest looks and styles. Cozy, comfortable furniture and mattresses built to last and provide long, durable wear and the ultimate in comfort and satisfaction. 1904 MAIN ST. FERNDALE, WA 98248 • 360.384.3388 SAMUELSFURNITURE.COM

March 2021 13

Notes Meet the Team

Elizabeth Hall What is your role at the magazine and how long have you been with K & L Media? Hi! My name is Elizabeth Hall, and I am a public relations intern at K&L Media. I started working for Bellingham Alive at the beginning of January 2021, and have been fact-checking stories and writing the MENU Talk blogs you see online! I mainly assist our editorial and marketing coordinator, Anelyse Morris, with whatever tasks she gives me, and write additional features from time to time.

2034 James St Bellingham 360.734.6140 Hardwaresales.net

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What is your background? I am currently a senior at Western Washington University, and I plan to graduate this coming March! As such, I’ve fulfilled most of my college education and am excited to start a career in PR soon. I was born and raised in the Seattle area, moving from island, to countryside, to suburb. Aside from journalism, I have grown up loving to read, play music, and travel! I truly believe some of life’s best experiences come from exploring and travelling the world.

What is your favorite part of working for a regional lifestyle magazine? My favorite part of working for a regional lifestyle magazine is getting to know my community better! It’s so fun to be a part of curating stories and posts that share and support businesses, restaurants, and interesting people within the Whatcom area. Despite living in Bellingham for a few years, there are many treasures yet to find. I also enjoy working with everyone at the magazine. The space is welcoming, friendly, and nurturing for interns.

What are some of your hobbies? Outside of studying writing and PR, one of my hobbies includes playing the Scottish snare drum in a bagpipe band. I have been doing so for around eight years now, and have travelled to Scotland, across the West Coast, and Canada to play and compete. My band is actually located in British Columbia, so you can imagine there’s no playing together for a while! I am hoping things improve so I can get back to doing what I love. 

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Ask a Garden Master 18 Spotlight: Clyde W. Ford 20 Interfaith Coalition 28

Life

Photo by Emily Porter

Spotlight

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March 2021 17

Life Garden

Ask a Garden Master Q&A with Ciscoe Morris

OR THOSE WHO HAVEN’T HEARD OF HIM, Ciscoe

Morris is a Seattle-based gardening expert and celebrated media personality. In addition to sharing his botanical knowledge on radio shows and podcasts, he also regularly appears on KING 5 news. He’s written articles for the Seattle-Post Intelligencer, the Seattle Times, and a few years ago appeared in a segment on “Last Week Tonight with John Oliver.” With spring at our doorstep, I asked him a few questions about gardening, dogs, and his latest book. For the full interview, check out our online exclusive at bellinghamalive.com. BECKY MANDELBAUM

What vegetables should people plant in March? March is the time to plant vegetables that thrive in cooler temperatures. Salad greens such as cilantro, chervil, Chinese cabbage, spinach, Swiss chard, chicory, endive, escarole, Asian mustards, and lettuce can be sown directly into the garden in March and April as long as soil temperatures are above 45 degrees.

BellinghamAlive.com

If you don’t have a vegetable plot, grow your salad greens in a large planting container. These leafy greens prefer a sunny location in well-drained soil. They grow and taste best when air temperatures remain under 75 degrees. Before sowing, work in one cup of an organic fertilizer (equal parts nitrogen, potassium, and phosphate) for every 10-foot row, or into a whiskey-barrel-sized container. Keep the soil moderately moist at all times. Hand-pick individual leaves as needed on a daily basis and you’ll be enjoying delicious salads right out of the garden from spring to mid-summer. March is also the ideal time to sow peas directly into your garden. Plant the seeds an inch deep and one inch apart in a sunny location. Thinning is not necessary. Before you plant, work in a cup of organic vegetable food per every five-foot row. Climbing varieties must be trellised, but bush peas require only a few two-foot stakes here and there to provide a little extra support. Keep the soil evenly moist but avoid wetting the foliage. Harvest while the peas are young and tender, and harvest often. Try to resist gobbling them all up before the rest of the family gets to enjoy a few with dinner.

What else should be direct seeded rather than started in a pot? All of the early season salad greens and peas mentioned above do best sowed directly in the garden, as do beets and carrots. Pumpkin, squash, and cucumber can be tricky to transplant and generally thrive when direct-sown after all danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures are in the 60s. Vegetables in the cabbage family such as broccoli, kohlrabi, cabbage, brussels sprouts, and kale can be directly sowed in April, but you’re better off getting a head start by sowing the seed indoors in early March in order to transplant sizable starts into the garden in earlyto-mid April. They are also readily available as starts in your local nursery. Heat-loving vegetables such as tomato, pepper, or eggplant are best sown indoors in early March for transplanting into the garden in earlyto-mid-May. The key to success is bottom heat, bright light, and cool air temperatures, (55 to 60 degrees). You can also buy starts in mid-May at your local nursery. Whether you grow the seed or buy the plant from the nursery, harden the plants by leaving them out for increasing periods of time every night for a week before transplanting into the garden. Growing the big tomato varieties in the Pacific

Northwest can be a bit of a challenge. Stick to the smaller cherry tomatoes and find a hot, sunny location. That way you won’t find yourself searching for fried green tomato recipes at the end of the season. Tip: ‘Sungold’ cherry tomatoes win every blind taste test I enter.

Photos by Ciscoe Morris

What do you recommend for attracting pollinators? In these days of declining bee populations, it’s important to plant flowers brimming with pollen to provide much needed nutrition for pollinating insects. At the same time, planting perennials and annuals that produce pollen-laden flowers in and around your vegetable garden will attract the bees needed for pollination. If the fruit on your squash rots when small, it’s a sure sign they aren’t getting pollinated. Squash, pumpkins, and cucumbers have male and female flowers, and if there aren’t enough bees to transfer the pollen from the male to the females, they won’t produce. Flower colors that particularly attract bees (in order of preference) are blue, purple, violet, white, and yellow. Single flowers typically produce the most pollen and are therefore preferred by bees. Plant some Gaillardia, lavender, Echinacea, Cosmos, and

Eryngium in your vegetable garden to bring in tons of pollinating insects.

Many people adopted dogs during the pandemic. What do you suggest for dog-proofing your garden? Before you bring a puppy home, determine where little Fido will be allowed to romp and play, and which areas are off limits. Then construct an attractive fence to keep the pooch out of the vegetable patch and other gardens with delicate or special plants. The fence in my garden is constructed of generously spaced horizontal rails. It allows for an unimpeded view of the plants, while adding an elegant touch to the garden. Although the fence is just over two feet tall, it was easy to train my pups not to jump it. Don’t fence your dogs out of every garden area. Instead give them a few planted areas where they can play hide and seek. Plants such as Caryopteris, lavender, Cistus, Rudbeckia, Nepeta, and ornamental grasses are ideal for pet-friendly plantings because they are flexible yet strong enough to bounce back after being trampled. Do, however, attain a list of plants known to be poisonous to pets from your vet and remove any from areas the pups are allowed to play. At the same time, remove plants with thorns.

Lastly, if Fido gets into a bit of mischief, just look into those loving brown eyes and you’ll forgive him for ripping out the super rare, irreplaceable Sinopanax formosanus you just spent $100 on. Hey, it’s only a plant.

You had a book come out in 2020: “Oh, La La! Homegrown Stories, Helpful Tips, and Garden Wisdom.” Can you tell us what’s inside and what it was like to write it? I’ve always been a storyteller, so maybe that’s why this book was so fun to write. “Oh, La La” is a collection of short (hopefully funny) and informative stories about experiences I’ve had throughout my gardening career. The stories are about everything gardening and then some. It includes encounters I’ve had with wildlife and insects, challenges in gardening with dogs (and spouses), adventures while leading garden tours all over the world, and my sometimes successful, and sometimes not-sosuccessful experiments during my 24 years as head gardener at Seattle University. I’m hoping the stories will entertain you and, at the same time, provide practical, helpful tips that you’ll be able to put to good use in your own garden. You’ll even learn why I say ‘Oh la la!’ 

March 2021 19

Life Spotlight

BY ALINA SIMONE

OR MOST PEOPLE, the 2020 quarantine put a damper on both work and pleasure. For author Clyde W. Ford, however, it presented some much needed downtime to work on his next book. A Bellingham local, Ford has been writing books and managing his own software company for the past 30 years. He released his first book in 1989, but before that ran a successful private practice for 18 years as a chiropractor and psychotherapist. It was Ford’s friend and colleague, David Manning White, who first encouraged him to write books. “He would come into my practice on a regular basis and say ‘you’ve got a book inside of you,’” said Ford. “So at one point, I said, ‘Okay David, you have to stop saying this, I’ll write,’ and that’s how it started.” With a collection of eleven books and the twelfth on the way, Ford has

“Think Black” is the story of Clyde W. Ford’s father, John Stanley Ford, who was the first black software engineer in America. The memoir reveals how racism affected his father as well as their relationship. written both fiction and nonfiction works. His latest book, “Think Black,” is another addition to the nonfiction category and is Ford’s first memoir. “Think Black” is the story of Clyde W. Ford’s father, John Stanley Ford, who was the first black software engineer in America. The memoir reveals how racism affected his father as well as their relationship. The book started out as a feel good story about the first software engineer in America, but shifted into a cautionary tale about technology’s role in racism and human rights. The book came out in 2019, garnering multiple starred reviews and praise from readers and reviewers alike. Actor Morgan Freeman even

called it “An inspiring account of a father and son struggling to break down racial barriers inside corporate America, and beyond. A must read.” The paperback version was released this past December. With the debut of “Think Black” behind him, Ford spent the greater part of 2020 writing his next book, “Freedom Dues,” expected to hit shelves near the end of 2021. In addition to writing time, the pandemic has also meant more time for virtual events and readings for Ford. Like many authors during this time, he’s been able to reach a wider audience through Zoom. Ford has spoken and consulted with leaders of companies such as Microsoft, Amazon, IBM, and various other influential groups. Media events are not new to Ford, who’s a renowned and highly sought after public speaker. He’s even appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show. Ford has collected an impressive number of awards over the years, including an Arts Award in Literature from the mayor of Bellingham in 2007. He’s been voted “Best Writer in Bellingham, Washington” and received the Zora Neale Hurston/ Richard Wright Award in African American Fiction in 2006. Village Books often hosts readings and events with Ford. Last month, they hosted a conversation between Ford and his friend and colleague, George Dyson, to celebrate the paperback release of “Think Black.” For information on Ford’s upcoming events, readings, and publications, visit clydeford.com. 

BellinghamAlive.com

Photo courtesy of Clyde W. Ford

Clyde W. Ford

Book Notes Life

Virtual Literary Events

Book Reviews BY MARY KINSER

March 18, 6:00 P.M. LIFE IS RARELY LIVED AS A STRAIGHT LINE, but

What’s Mine and Yours by Naima Coster

The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner

instead a series of unanticipated detours. That’s the idea at the core of this complex novel of family and community. Gee was very young when his father was killed, upending everything in his life. His mother is determined to seize opportunity for Gee’s future. Noelle’s childhood was shaped by her father’s addiction. Her mother made a desperate choice for a better life for Noelle and her sisters, and is holding on to that at all cost. When the two families clash over the integration of their North Carolina school, they become inextricably linked. The story moves forward and backward through time, with the legacy of tragedy looming large in different ways for each character — and for some, proving more than they can overcome. Readers who enjoyed “Such a Fun Age” by Kiley Reid or “An American Marriage” by Tayari Jones will find echoes here, in a story tailor-made for book clubs.

Emily St. John Mandel, “The Glass Hotel”

Hosted by Village Books 1200 11th St., Bellingham 360.671.2626, villagebooks.com

Mark your calendar for this virtual event with acclaimed author Emily St. John Mandel, author of the bestselling “Station Eleven.” Her newest novel, “The Glass Hotel,” follows two seemingly separate storylines: the collapse of a Ponzi scheme and a woman who goes missing at sea. Named a best book of the year by The New Yorker, TIME, NPR, and more, this event is sure to draw a large digital crowd.

March 30, 7:00 P.M.

“MUDLARKING” MAY NOT BE FAMILIAR to most of us,

Jacqueline Winspear, “The Consequences of Fear: A Maisie Dobbs Novel”

but this fascinating pastime sparked the idea for “The Lost Apothecary.” Debut novelist Sarah Penner was inspired after her experience mudlarking, or searching for lost artifacts, along the shores of the River Thames. The result is a novel that will enchant readers of historical and contemporary fiction alike. In 1791 London, we meet Nella, an apothecary who creates poisons for an exclusive clientele: women seeking to free themselves from terrible men. In present day, Caroline finds a mysterious vial while mudlarking, and decides to investigate the story behind the treasure. Tension mounts as the two plots weave together, with both Nella and Caroline finding themselves on the wrong side of suspicion. Learning the real history behind this atmospheric and suspenseful tale is every bit as fun as watching the puzzle unfold. This is the perfect cozy read for a blustery spring day.

Celebrate the 16th book in Winspear’s bestselling Maisie Dobbs series, which, according to Tom Nolan of The Wall Street Journal, “seems to get better with every entry.” The newest installment follows gumshoe Maisie Dobbs as she investigates a murder in 1940s wartime London. The only witness is a messenger whose account of the crime is “destined to send shock waves through the secret war plans of British and Free French agents.”

Hosted by Village Books 1200 11th St., Bellingham 360.671.2626, villagebooks.com

March Outdoor Events

N March 19 you can visit

any state park for free, in celebration of our state parks’ 108th birthday. Check out nearby destinations like Birch Bay, Deception Pass, Larrabee, Moran, Rasar, or Rockport State Park.

Visit Bellewood Farms & Distillery on March 19 for their annual Wines of Whatcom County tasting. Sample local wines, munch on hors d’oeuvres, and enjoy live music and a silent auction. Proceeds support DVSAS (Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services). Entry is $35 for singles, $60 for couples.

On March 25, head to Commercial Street Plaza in downtown Bellingham to celebrate Waffle Day, also known in Sweden as Våffeldagen. Hosted by Rebel Artists of Whatcom Market, Waffles in Paradise is your chance to enjoy music, dancings, and delicious heart-shaped waffles. 

March 2021 21

Life Community

Five Generations of Art in Gallery Syre’s Origins and Evolutions Exhibition BY LORRAINE WILDE

The Flock by Amy Healy

Untitled by Grandma Joe (Clara Anderson)

BellinghamAlive.com

Are your children short on exposure to the arts? Consider taking the whole family to Gallery Syre. Near Whatcom Community College, the airy 10,000-square-foot gallery presents a new multi-generational exhibition, Origins and Evolutions: Five Generations, set to run through May 22 or later. The exhibit showcases more than 110 paintings, drawings, and three-dimensional collages from multiple generations of artists in the Anderson/Syre family. The path of art for this family began in 1888 with the birth of Clara “Grandma Joe” Anderson, who began painting in the early 1960s at the age of 72. You will see hints of Nordic art in her landscape paintings that reflect the Scandinavian roots of the Anderson and Syre families. Grandma Joe was close with her grandson, David Syre, a talented multimedia artist, philanthropist, and Whatcom County native. David’s creative world — one that encompasses hundreds of drawings, paintings, and sculptures — began when his twin daughters, Mia and Amy, gifted him art supplies one Christmas. Like his grandmother, David also waited until he was 72 to dedicate himself fully to his art. The work of David’s daughter and Clara’s great-granddaughter, Amy Healy, rounds out the exhibition by Argentine curator Ana Palacio, a formally trained Seattle-based multimedia artist who studied art at Scripps College in Chicago. Healy takes everyday items — feathers, spools empty of thread, Christmas ornaments, and scraps of paper — to produce whimsical works. In Origins and Evolutions, the art of the Anderson and Syre families will live on to inspire future generations of artists, both within the family and beyond. Whether you’re looking to get your family out of the house, expand your arts enrichment and education, or just want to feel inspired, a visit to Gallery Syre will not disappoint. Check their website for hours, or schedule an appointment by phone or by email at info@davidsyreart. com. 456 W. Stuart Rd., Bellingham, 360.746.8745, davidsyreart.com 

Photos courtesy of Gallery Syre

AVE YOU BEEN MISSING ART WALKS, museums, and galleries?

Out and About Life

Waypoint Park BY ALINA SIMONE

Photos by Alina Simone

N THE BEACHES OF THE WHATCOM WATERWAY,

and just a short walk from Bellingham’s downtown core, Waypoint Park is the perfect start to your Bellingham waterfront exploration. From the park, guests are treated to a stunning view of both the Bellingham cityscape and nearby Lummi Island. The overwater pier is a great place to catch the sunset on a clear night. The 1.5-acre park is home to attractions for the whole family. Kids will enjoy a unique play structure featuring blue play mats, a slide, and climbable wooden logs. Finished walking and biking trails wrap around the park, and the smooth pavement around the area is great for roller skating. Just across the parking lot is an expansive pump track fit for all skill levels. The park’s iconic structure, known popularly as the Acid Ball, is the pride, symbol, and focal point of Waypoint Park. Originally used for wood pulp processing, the 30-foot diameter steel sphere sculpture is coated with a reflective material. Guests can cause the exterior to glow by shining a light at the sculpture (like a phone flashlight, for example) and watching the Acid Ball illuminate the park. On the edge of the park stands the newly redone historic Granary building. Guests can support local businesses by finding refreshments and amenities inside. With a myriad of plant life, multiple picnic tables and benches, and a quaint pebble beach, Waypoint Park is a pleasant location for your next afternoon outing. The park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. 1145 Granary Ave., Bellingham  March 2021 23

Life Heard Around the Sound

Picture Perfect

New Upgrades at Bay Breeze Restaurant & Bar

A New Studio Offers Opportunities for Bellingham Creatives

N A SPACIOUS, renovated schoolhouse near downtown Bellingham, you’ll find a new destination for local creatives: the Bellingham Studio. Kelsey Chance, owner of the digital marketing agency Good Chance Creative, saw firsthand the demand for photo and productionshoot spaces while doing marketing in Portland, Oregon, where she was born and raised. Seeing how this kind of space didn’t exist in Bellingham, she decided to create her own. The Bellingham Studio was born. “I’m just so excited about the community that this is building,” Chance says. “There are so many talented people here, and I’m just baffled that we’ve gone this long without a space for people to use as their go-to photography space.” Chance describes the studio as a blank slate for people to use however fits their needs. Ample natural light and high ceilings create a bright, airy atmosphere perfect for product shots, engagement photos, fashion shoots, or more. “The space itself is super inspiring to be in because there’s three walls of windows,” Chance says of the 1,350-square-foot minimalist studio, which launched in December. “It feels like this really bright, sunny, energized but meditative space.” Guests have access to a staged kitchen for food styling, two staged bedrooms, a bathroom with a shower, and an expansive empty room. Props,

What farmers markets and produce stands are open this month? BY CLAUDIA COOPER

BellinghamAlive.com

photography gear, backgrounds, and more are included. Bookings cost $100 per hour. Due to COVID-19 regulations, Chance asks that people come in groups of five or fewer. The studio offers sanitation, masks, and an aerated space that allows for adequate distancing. “I’m hopeful that as many people as possible can enjoy it,” Chance says. 1303 Astor St., Ste. 102, Bellingham, 360.224.0625, thebellinghamstudio.com ELIZABETH HALL

AY BREEZE Restaurant & Bar is Birch Bay’s one and only waterfront restaurant, boasting unparalleled views of the bay and rooftop patio seating for epic sunset dining. Recently, the restaurant underwent some major renovations, with a new interior, deck, and menu. Perhaps the most exciting addition is the walk-up latte window. Created by new general manager Justin Myers in November, the walk-up bar was previously an office window until Myers decided to transform it. The latte window is open on weekend mornings, with a plan to expand hours as the weather gets nicer in March. The window currently offers lattes, americanos, drip coffee, iced coffee, and Italian sodas. You can also find the occasional homemade pastry, such as scones and cinnamon rolls. Every once in a while there’s heartier fare, like biscuits and gravy, breakfast burritos, or breakfast sandwiches, says Myers. Along with the new latte window, Bay Breeze will also roll out an expanded food menu, featuring locally sourced, Americanstyle food. Expect sandwiches, salads, and seafood options, like the popular Salmon & Chips. On the drink menu you’ll find Seattle and Bellingham beers on tap, like Elysian Space Dust IPA and Kulshan Local Amber. 7829 Birch Bay Dr., Blaine,

360.922.7902, baybreezerestaurant. com NOAH HARPER

Bellingham Farmers Market

Anacortes Farmers Market

The Bellingham Farmers Market opens on Saturday March 20 with fewer vendors and reduced hours to ensure safe shopping. Meet local vendors or order ahead to skip the lines! 1100 Railroad Ave., Bellingham

The Anacortes Winter Farmers Market is open Saturday March 13. Find apples, hearty greens, mushrooms, and pears. If possible, limit one shopper per family to keep the market safe for all. 611 R Ave., Anacortes

Photo by Dan DeWaard of Hatch Photography

E Keeping It Casual Bellingham Local Opens Rotisserie Food Truck at K2

Photo by Shelly Larsen

ENTER-TO-WIN Monthly Giveaway

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 this month.

$50

NEW FOOD TRUCK, CARVE CASUAL, is set to open

mid-March at K2, Kulshan’s Roosevelt location. The menu will feature meats and vegetables cooked on-site in an eye-catching Wood Stone rotisserie; a glass door even lets you see the flames at work. Carve Casual is owner Karl Shilhanek’s second food truck. His first, Kebab Casual, has brought affordable Mediterranean fare to the Fountain District since it opened in 2018. Although Shilhanek originally viewed his truck as a stepping stone to a brick-and-mortar restaurant, the pandemic revealed the benefits of owning a mobile business. “I got extremely lucky,” Shilhanek says. While other restaurants closed, either temporarily or for good, Kebab Casual saw business boom. The idea for the new truck began with a friendship between Shilhanek and K2’s head brewer, Wesley Finger. The brewery was having trouble keeping a reliable food truck schedule, so Shilhanek proposed filling the need full-time. The rotisserie idea followed. Shilhanek wanted to focus on fire-roasted meats that could be served alone or made into a sandwich, thereby satisfying K2 patrons while also creating an easy lunch option for those who work in the area. Carve Casual will serve preservative-free rotisserie chicken and ribs, paninis, poutine, soups, and more. Expect familiar items, like French dip and Cuban sandwiches, and less familiar ones, like rotisserie rabbit. Side dishes will rotate, featuring flavorful vegan and gluten-free options along with staples like mac and cheese. All recipes are courtesy of head chef Audrey Powell, formerly of Anthony’s. To keep customers safe, the truck will offer online ordering, curb-side pick-up, and contact-free check-out. carvecasual.com BECKY MANDELBAUM

Chuckanut Manor New Fairhaven Tower is Ready for Business

HE NEWLY COMPLETED FAIRHAVEN TOWER BUILDING, located in downtown Fairhaven,

embraces the town’s past while welcoming its future. The new mixed-use structure is built upon the lot where the famed Fairhaven Hotel once stood from 1890 to 1956 (famous guests include Mark Twain), and features an eye-catching clock tower that pays homage to the original building. While the new building isn’t a hotel like its predecessor, it is home to 35 high-end apartment units and over 5,000 square feet of retail/commercial space for new businesses. Stop by today and see for yourself. 1215 12th St., Bellingham BEN LESCHENSKY

San Juan Farmers Market

Snow Goose Produce

Goods Nursery and Produce

The San Juan Farmers Market is featured twice a month, Saturday March 6 and 20 in Friday Harbor. Enjoy island produce, fine crafts, and even a massage from a local spa.

Starting in March, drop by Snow Goose for locally sourced veggies, flowers, wine, seafood, baked goods, gifts, and more. No visit is complete without a scoop of ice cream from Lopez Island Creamery.

Goods Nursery and Produce will be opening its doors daily starting in March. Pick up locally grown produce and colorful floral arrangements any day of the week. 2620 Northwest Ave.,

150 Nichols St., Friday Harbor

15170 Fir Island Rd., Mount Vernon

Bellingham

March 2021 25

Life Spotlight

The Story Behind the Strings Dorothy Smith and Allegro Strings BY NOAH HARPER

violin repair business on January 2, 2021. Starting her journey in 1980, after the passing of her grandmother left her a lump some of money, Smith decided to follow her dreams and travel to the birthplace of the violin: Italy. There, she spent a few years in Cremona. In 1988, she saw an opportunity to move to Whatcom and she took it. Smith had always loved musical instruments, but when it came to the violin, she grew more interested in its craft than actually playing it. “My hands started developing the muscles for violin work rather than violin notes,” Smith says. Living in Gooseberry Point, Smith began a repair service for Ray’s Violin Shop, now Quist Violins, where she worked for a few years. In 1990, she decided to move from Gooseberry to Bellingham proper. By late winter of 1991, she had opened her own violin shop on Cornwall Avenue, where it remains today. At Allegro Strings, you can find a curated collection of unique, fretless string instruments including violins, cellos, and violas, as well as standard instrument accessories. What you can’t find anywhere else, however, are the violins Smith builds from scratch. The creation of a violin is a long, tedious, and delicate process, but one that Smith loves nonetheless. Most violins start from pieces of special wood Smith brought back from her studies in Italy. First, Smith delicately saws the shape of the violin

BellinghamAlive.com

Photos by Emily Porter

OROTHY SMITH CELEBRATED 41 YEARS in the

from the wood, cutting out the shape of the ribs. She then uses heat and moisture to shape C-bout ribs. Next, she joins the neck to the body and continues the process of shaping and sawing until she can combine the pieces to create the violin. “I’ve got one instrument that I’m varnishing now, and one that I’ve almost finished creating the mold for,” Smith says. “It’s a really slow process, it’s just a whole different set of skills, sort of like the difference between being able to play a violin and make a violin.” Working with Smith at Allegro Strings is her apprentice, Lori Marshall, who joined the team in 2017 and became a full-time repairer in 2018. Marshall first met Smith through her husband, who is a professional violinist. He had been going to Smith for many years. Marshall began on the accounting side of Allegro Strings, keeping the books. It wasn’t long, however, until Marshall began apprenticing under Smith, learning to repair violins just as Smith had once learned in Italy. “To me it was an honor to learn from Dorothy, who’s learned from some of the best in Italy. I feel very grateful and honored,” Marshall says. Allegro Strings is currently open. With current COVID-19 restrictions, you can call ahead to set up an appointment. “[Allegro Strings] just has that old-world feel of fine instruments,” Marshall says. “I feel like I stepped into Italy, or I stepped back in time.” 1208 Cornwall Ave., 360.671.8059,

“My hands started developing the muscles for violin work rather than violin notes.” Dorothy Smith

allegrostrings.squarespace.com 

March 2021 27

Life Game Changer

Interfaith Coalition: Helping the Community for 40 years

“

TRIED NOT TO CRY IN FRONT OF MY KIDS.”

These are the words of a Whatcom County mother whose family became homeless one summer, after a series of unforeseeable events — their longtime rental home was deemed unfit due to mold, the woman’s mother died, and her husband got pneumonia and spent a week in the hospital. With no other options, she, her husband, and their four children began sleeping in their car. Daytimes, if they had gas, they’d take the kids to parks. “I tried to make it seem like we were having fun,” she says. “But I was freaking out because we had no place to live.” Interfaith Coalition of Whatcom County, a group of more than 40 churches, a synagogue, and other local partners, was able to provide several weeks of emergency housing for the family while the parents worked toward a long-term solution. The family is now in an apartment. “The kids were so excited,” their mother says. “My husband is looking 28

BellinghamAlive.com

for work. I’m going to school. I want to work in human services. I could help others, because I’ve been there. I’m grateful.” Since its founding in 1981, Interfaith has been a game-changer in the lives of local families like this one. Now in its 40th year, Interfaith has nine employees, 1,500 volunteers, 13 emergency and transitional housing units, and several programs, all of which work to empower families out of poverty and into homes. In 2020, Interfaith housed 23 families, including 49 children, in its emergency and transitional housing. Interfaith is also able to shelter additional families (13 families, including 26 children, in 2020) via its Family Promise program, which houses families in Covid-safe, static locations as they work toward self-sufficiency. Interfaith, funded almost entirely by local donations, brings together people in need with people who have abundant resources. As former executive director and current volunteer Laura Harker says, “We connect folks who want to

donate or volunteer with folks needing help. Interfaith is truly neighbor helping neighbor.” Interfaith volunteers and staff know they represent the whole. Shannon Laws, Interfaith’s family housing coordinator, speaks of the joy of working with families. “When a family thanks me for the home, for our Family Housing program, they’re really thanking thousands of donors and volunteers,” Laws says. “When I get a hug, it’s a hug for [everyone].” According to current volunteer and former Interfaith board member Barbara Mathers-Schmidt, the goal is for everyone to have a home, food, and the dignity that comes from experiencing self-reliance while being a part of a community. “Those able to donate are luckier than they know,” says the Whatcom County mother whose family found housing through Interfaith. “It would be awesome to be able to help.” Find out how you can help by visiting interfaith-coalition.org. 

Photos: Left courtesy of Family Promise National Program. Right top and right bottom courtesy of Interfaith Coalition.

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Life Local Find

Two Fronds, One Dream Plants For All People BY ANELYSE MORRIS

back in December of 2019, they had no idea how quickly their sapling of an idea would grow into a fully fledged plant shop. Plants For All People was originally intended to be a side business, mainly operating through pop-up events, according to Boevers. The pair went on to rent a booth at the Red Barn Market in February of 2020, but the spread of COVID-19 meant that it was the first and only event. Torn over what to do next, the two turned toward e-commerce, launching an online retail platform by April. The business began to flourish. “There’s a passion for supporting local business in this town that I think is really special,” Boevers says. “I don’t know that we would have had success in the way we do now, if we hadn’t done it here.”

BellinghamAlive.com

Photos courtesy of Plants For All People

HEN BEST FRIENDS TAY GRIFFIN AND EMILY BOEVERS launched their business

APPS WE L VE Journey Two App Studio Pte. Ltd. The start of the new year has many focused on their physical health, but mental health is just as important. With the Journey app, you can practice self-care through digital journaling. Awarded Google Editor’s choice four years running, this app works as a motivational coach and happiness trainor.

Peak Brainbow Limited Give your brain a daily workout with this brain training app. With short and fun challenges designed to test your focus, memory, and mental agility, Peak will push you while entertaining you at the same time. Target specific goals with personalized “workouts” and receive updates on your progress from a personal trainer and coach.

What You’ll Find The online shop offers dozens of houseplants, from common favorites like the Peperomia “Hope” ($20) to exotic beauties like the “Silver Dragon” ($80). Browse the selection by maintenance, level of required light, pet safety, and rarity. Can’t find the perfect plant? The options are rotated and re-stocked weekly, with most plants coming from local wholesalers, and some from the owners’ personal collections. Purchase your new plant online and enjoy free contactless delivery within Bellingham city limits, or pay a small shipping fee. You can also find accessories like watering cans and misters, macrame hangers, pots, and even plant-themed gifts like stickers, jewelry, and wrapping paper.

Growing Together It’s all in the name. Plants For All People aims to make house plants

accessible to everybody, regardless of their finances or experience. The idea came to Griffin shortly after they moved to Bellingham, with their background in social justice driving the business model. “I’m really passionate about accessibility in all things,” Griffin says. Along with income inequality, the pair also noticed a lack of access to plant education. “There’s just a lot of ‘take this home, and good luck,’” Griffin says. “You take it home and it dies. You assume ‘I’m just bad at this,’ and that’s just not the case.” You can find plant care information on the shop’s website or on Instagram @plantsforallpeople, along with information on new arrivals and tips from the team. Have some money to spare? Plants For All People offers a “Plant it Forward” program, which reallocates gift cards to other customers who may need them. plantsforallpeople.com 

TSign Language ASL MobiReactor If your New Year’s resolution was to learn a new language, consider sign language. With the Sign Language ASL app, you can view hundreds of interactive lessons, including videos and a built-in dictionary. Start off with the basics and work your way up. Before you know it, you’ll be teaching others.

Timecap Tip Tap Apps For those looking to get organized, check out Timecap. The tracker accounts for all your activities, from daily habits like flossing to weekly workouts or yoga sessions. Whether you’re looking to quit smoking or drink more water, the customizable platform and statistics tracker will help you get there.

March 2021 31

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.

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

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Nutrition Life

The Importance of Iodine… and Why You Might Be Deficient BY SELVA WOHLGEMUTH, MS, RDN, CD

Photo by Selva Wohlgemuth

ODINE IS AN ESSENTIAL TRACE MINERAL

needed for optimal thyroid function. It is required to make thyroid hormones, T3 and T4, which regulate growth, neurological development, metabolism, and digestive function. Insufficient iodine intake can lead to a condition called hypothyroidism, as well as weight gain, poor cognition, and constipation. Iodine also plays a role in estrogen metabolism, and has been found to have protective effects against breast cancer. It may also reduce cyst formation and breast tenderness. Unfortunately, mild iodine deficiency is common among women and individuals with dietary restrictions. Data from the 2007–2010 U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey indicates that 37% of women during childbearing years have insufficient iodine intake. The World Health Organization estimates that over 30% of the world’s population is iodine deficient. Iodine is typically found in soil and seawater, and in animals who are fed iodine-containing foods. However, there are many regions of the U.S. that have poor iodine content, including the Pacific Northwest. As a result, produce grown in the PNW, as well as grazing animals and their milks, have lower iodine content than those grown elsewhere in the nation. Iodized salt is meant to address this concern. However, iodine is very unstable and diminishes over time, with losses of 10–100% over the span of a year depending on the packaging, temperature, and humidity of the stored salt. Therefore, iodized salt is not the most reliable source of iodine. Another problem is processed food, which often does not contain iodized salt. Dietary restrictions can further contribute to poor iodine intake. Foods rich in iodine include seafood, seaweed, as well as meat and dairy products from animals grazed on iodine rich soils. Vegans and vegetarians — as well as anyone avoiding dairy, seafood, or seaweed — are therefore at an increased risk of iodine deficiency. Moreover, cruciferous vegetables and soy can interfere with iodine. High intakes of these foods, along with a diet low in iodine, can exacerbate insufficiency. Iodine needs fluctuate throughout the human lifecycle, and most adults need 150mcg per day. However, needs greatly increase for pregnant or nursing mothers, who require 220–290mcg of iodine per day. This is of great concern because the fetus and infant are entirely reliant on their mother’s intake to produce thyroid hormones. Inadequate iodine intake can lead to neurological problems

and lower intelligence in children. However, too much iodine can lead to iodine induced hyperthyroidism. It is important to work with your dietitian for individual guidance.

Here are some great ways for Pacific Northwesterners to increase iodine intake: • Use Redmond’s Real Sea Salt for a natural source

of iodine. Snack on organic seaweed snacks. Make a wrap with a nori sheet. Sprinkle dulse granules on meals for a smoky flavor. Enjoy quality wild caught seafood 2–3 times per week. Add a kelp frond to soup stocks or bone broth while cooking. • Enjoy a poke bowl that includes seaweed and quality seafood. • If using iodized sea salt, buy a new container every season, for optimal freshness.  • • • • •

March 2021 33

Life 5 Faves

Griffin Bay Bookstore This beloved San Juan Island bookstore has served its community for more than 40 years. Drop in to find bestselling titles, classic favorites, and works by local writers. You’ll also find gifts, cards, and a coffee shop. 155 Spring St., Friday

FIVE Bookstores FAVES BY BECKY MANDELBAUM

BellinghamAlive.com

Photo by Barbara Marrett

Harbor, 360.378.5511, griffinbaybook.com

Village Books With locations in Fairhaven and Lynden, Village Books is a staple in the local literary community. Not only do they offer thousands of books — from novels, to nonfiction, to cooking books, to travel guides — but they also host weekly events for avid readers, such as book clubs and visiting authors. Multiple locations, villagebooks.com

Darvill’s Bookstore Pair a wide selection of books with what customers claim is the best coffee on Orcas Island, and you’ve got Darvill’s. Open seven days a week and located on Eastsound’s Main Street, Darvill’s has everything from the season’s biggest books to works by local authors. 296

Thank you for five awesome years! We're celebrating from now until the end of arch with special pricing and gifts! Call, email or visit our website for more information.

100 5th Street, Lynden, Washington

360/746-8597

www.innatlynden.com

Main St., Eastsound, 360.376.2135, darvillsbookstore.indielite.org

Easton’s Books Whether you’re searching for used, collectible, or out of print books, you’re bound to find something special at Easton’s. Their extensive collection ranges from signed copies to popular paperbacks, and the friendly staff is always eager to help. 701 S. 1st St.,

Origins and Evolutions: Five Generations

Mount Vernon, 360.336.2066, eastonsbooks.com

Katz! Coffee and Used Books Katz pairs two things that go hand-in-hand: good reads and great coffee. Their cozy store off Lynden’s main drag welcomes you in right away. You can snag a latte while you peruse used books, or wander into the sale room to find extra deals. 513 Front St., Lynden, 360.354.2471

Clara "Grandma Joe" Anderson

David Syre

Amy Healy

Gallery Syre is proud to announce "Origins and Evolutions: Five Generations" featuring the works of the Anderson/Syre family members. Tues-Thurs, 11 to 4pm and by appointment. 465 W. Stuart Rd. Bellingham, WA 98226 | 360-746-8745 | www.davidsyreart.com

March 2021 35

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Fashion Q&A 39 Contemporary Trends 40

Photo by Claudia Cooper.

Shop Local 43

Style

Local Find

Attack Cat Bags

March 2021 37

Style 5 Faves

Jimmy’s Personal Care This nail salon and spa in downtown Fairhaven is consistently recognized in our annual Best of the Northwest contest, and for good reason. They offer high-quality, eco-friendly services in a clean, relaxing setting. Feel pampered and pretty with a pedicure, gel manicure, hot stone foot massage, and more, all while enjoying a beverage. 1327 11th St.,

FIVE FAVES

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Nail Salons BY JULIA FURUKAWA

Photo by Dean Davidson.

Bellingham, 360.933.4268, jimmyspersonalcare.com

Fashion Q&A Style

Nina’s Nails & Spa This salon in Barkley Village goes above and beyond to pamper their customers, using natural and vegan products. Not only do they have all the expected mani and pedi services, but they also offer fruit and bubbly water to customers. It doesn’t hurt that every manicure comes with a hand massage, too! 2915 Newmarket St., Ste. 104, Bellingham, 360.922.7243

K Nails For those in north Bellingham, K’s is the place to go. They have comfy massage chairs, talented nail techs, and customers who rave about their acrylic nails. If you’re a mom looking for a day off, K’s also has beer and wine for those who need a little extra relaxation. 105 E. Stuart Rd., Bellingham, 360.676.7370, facebook.com/ knailsspabellingham

Diamond Nails & Spa Diamond does more than the basics to make sure their customers are satisfied. As one reviewer put it: “Most places I’ve gone to just spend about 20 minutes and that’s it, but this was a real spa experience!” They offer traditional nail services, but also do waxings, so you can get all your spa needs done in one place. 1317 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham, 360.671.0977

Photo courtesy of 12th Street Shoes.

Fancy Nails This nail salon is the go-to for anyone looking to get glam in Mount Vernon. Along with all the other services, this clean establishment offers a classic pedicure for $20, or a “Deluxe” for $30, which includes extra massaging and treatment to calm your tired feet. 1600 E. College Way, Mount Vernon, 360.428.6789

Fashion Q&A with Jody Proctor at 12th Street Shoes Put Some Spring in Your Step What kind of shoe styles are you seeing for spring? Anything you’re especially excited for? It’s an interesting time — the pandemic has definitely had an impact on fashion. Many of our vendors have changed from dressy to very casual styles. One of my vendors used the term “Zoom dressy” as it pertained to a pair of super casual snuggly lined clogs. But that aside, I’m seeing lots of animal prints and metallics. The colors are definitely toned down, and of course the athleisure category is really big. Personally, I am dreaming of this pair of four-inch-high wedge floral print sandals that wrap around your ankles from Born. They remind me of getting out, traveling, being with friends, and going out on the town. I must have them!

What do you recommend for a waterproof boot that’s both stylish and comfortable? Dansko has a lot of waterproof boots, and you can’t go wrong with the comfort of a Dansko shoe. Plus, they have come a long way from the original clog. Otherwise, Blundstone boots are pretty much the hottest boot out there, and they are made with water-resistant leathers. They last forever and get better with age! In the Pacific NW, we should be able to wear boots all year round. Blundstone is a great option.

If you had to pack one pair of shoes for a weekend getaway, what would you bring? That depends on what you are doing! I love my Oofos slip-ons for walking miles, shopping, and seeing the sites! I also have this great pair of black-and-brown wedge sandals from Josef Seibel. They are dressy yet comfortable, great for a weekend of wine tasting! I also have the perfect pair of Simple black boots that go with everything.  March 2021 39

Style Necessities

3 4

5 40

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Penny Pinchers

Contemporary Trends

ESTATE CLEARANCE

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OLD AND SILVER are trending

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for 2021. Incorporate these pieces into your home and watch how your space transforms into a current and captivating piece of art you’ll love for years to come. Browse these local retailers in Whatcom and Skagit to find just the right piece. 

WITH OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE, I WORK TO ENSURE MY CLIENTS SUCCESS.

16 Light Pendant by Masim Chuckanut Lighting, Burlington, 360.757.2195, chuckanutlighting.com

WWW.KARENTIMMER.COM

2 3 4 5

KAREN@KARENTIMMER.COM | 360.410.0848

Atticus Chair by Palliser Colony House Furniture, Lynden, 360.354.5554, colonyhousefurniturelynden.com

Barcelona Sofa by American Leather Samuel’s Furniture, Ferndale, 360.384.3388, samuelsfurniture.com

Alpha Flower Mirror by LH Imports Greenhouse, Bellingham, 360.676.1161, greenhousehome.com

N ew

719 Commercial Ave, Anacortes 360-873-8785 | tidesofanacortes.com

a Boutique For women

Gold & Metal White Side Table by Leick Northwest Fine Furnishings, Mount Vernon, 360.424.8455, nwff.com

March 2021 41

Style Local Find

Skating in Style Attack Cat Bags BY ANELYSE MORRIS

The Pack Behind the Packs Despite the name, Attack Cat Bags has little to do with ferocious felines. Founded in summer 2020, this online retailer offers playful bags and accessories for novice and professional skaters, as well non-skaters who just love a good fanny pack. They’re also great for biking or going out for a short hike. Longtime rollerskaters and Bellingham residents Laura McWilliams and Chipp Allard came up with the idea for the business after the two found themselves jobless when COVID-19 hit. McWilliams had a hard time finding skating bags that were functional and stylish; Allard used his art background to help. One bag became dozens, and Attack Cat Bags was born. As for the name, Attack Cat Bags was inspired by a dream McWilliams had about being attacked by flying cats, something that became a recurring joke around the house, leading to a game they called “attack catting.” “[The name] is very us, and also embodies some of the retro comic book aesthetic that has become our signature look for branding,” says McWilliams.

The colorful fanny packs come in three varieties: sport bags, glam bags, and snack packs, ranging from $35–$49. Some bestsellers include the Twilight Leopard Hip Bag, The Bronze Denim Hip Bag, and the Waxed Canvas Sling Bag. “One thing that we are really passionate about is inclusivity in our bags. Belt bags can be a ‘one-size-fits-all’ situation, and we never want that to be how we are seen,” McWilliams says. “We will happily make a belt any size for any person, no extra charge!” You can also find groovy accessories like the Disco Ball Earrings ($10), Faux Fur Pom Poms ($5), Skate Leashes ($8.99), and more. The products are as functional as they are fashionable. All bags are equipped with water-resistant poly-canvas liners and strong hardware. While they’re made to last, the environmental footprint is not. Attack Cat Bags recycles, upcycles, and uses only compostable eco-plastic shipping materials. Check out Attack Cat Bags on their website or through Instagram, where a giveaway takes place on the 15th of every month. You can also find gift cards and skate tutorials for learning basics or new tricks. attackcatbags.com 

BellinghamAlive.com

Photos by Claudia Cooper.

Bags for All Bodies, Built to Last

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Bow Wow & Woofs

8115 Birch Bay Square St., Ste. 111, Blaine, 360.332.3647, bowwowandwoofs.com

3. Cock-a-Doodle Brew $8–$32 Barnyard Coffee Roasters Order Online For Local Delivery 360.393.0475, barnyardcoffee.com

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5. The Little Squatty | $14.99 Marie’s Bees mariesbees.com, Free Delivery in Whatcom + Skagit County

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March 2021 43

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Imagining Spaces

ome is a sanctuary — never has this been more apparent. Spending more time at home means many of us have had to reimagine how our spaces work for us. Whether it’s finding room for a home office, classroom, or workout studio, many of us have already transformed our homes to meet our needs, while others may still have plans to make big changes in the months ahead. If you’re looking to revamp or totally reimagine a space — or maybe your entire house — let these pages offer insight, inspiration, and direction. Plus, discover local architects, builders, and designers who can help make your dream home into a reality.

FEATURE CONTRIBUTORS GREG ROBINSON ARCHITECT 103 E. HOLLY ST., BELLINGHAM, 360.778.1385, GREGROBINSONARCHITECT.COM

Photo by Sheila Say Photography

HIGHLINE CONSTRUCTION 1420 MEADOR AVE., STE. K105, BELLINGHAM, 360.746.5455, HIGHLINEWA.COM TANNA BY DESIGN 2003 E. VIOLA AVE., YAKIMA, 425.737.1193, TANNABYDESIGN.COM KREIDER CONSTRUCTION 1010 22ND ST., ANACORTES, 360.707.5588, KREIDERCONSTRUCTION.COM RAVENHILL CONSTRUCTION 689 AIRPORT CENTER RD., FRIDAY HARBOR, 360.378.5404, RAVENHILLCONSTRUCTION.COM POSITIVE SPACE STAGING + DESIGN 569 BIRCH BAY LYNDEN RD., LYNDEN, 360.410.4030, POSITIVESPACEINC.COM

March 2021 45

IMAGINING SPACES \ LIGHTING

POSITIVE SPACE INC. “The focal point of this clean, modern, and open-concept kitchen is the contemporary white LED suspended chandelier.” BUILDER KELLY ZENDER, WELCOME CONSTRUCTION INC. INTERIOR STYLING SANDRA HURTLEY, POSITIVE SPACE INC. PHOTOGRAPHER SHEILA SAY PHOTOGRAPHY

KREIDER CONSTRUCTION “The billiards room features an industrial stone brick wall and a Vix 82 LED Linear light fixture from Lumens.” ARCHITECT UNDERWOOD AND ASSOCIATES BUILDER KREIDER CONSTRUCTION INTERIOR DESIGNER KAREN STEWART, HOMEOWNER LANDSCAPER DAN CONFORTI PHOTOGRAPHER DAMIAN VINES

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GREG ROBINSON ARCHITECT The island chandelier provides ample light for dining while the black oval base and long suspension chain make use of the high ceiling. ARCHITECT GREG ROBINSON ARCHITECT CABINETS AND KITCHEN DESIGN WES SMITH, SMITH & VALLEE BUILDER GUS GUSTAFSON, HOMEOWNER LIGHTING DESIGNER GENA GUSTAFSON, HOMEOWNER PHOTOGRAPHER C9 PHOTOGRAPHY

TANNA EDLER, TANNA BY DESIGN “Our goal, when designing this ranch home remodel, was to incorporate a rustic-traditional vibe with a hint of glam.” CHANDELIER & PENDANTS SHADES OF LIGHT, CLASSIC ORB CABINETS VALLEY CABINET SHOP QUARTZ COUNTERTOP CAESARSTONE, COASTAL GREY INTERIOR DESIGNER TANNA EDLER, TANNA BY DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHER NIC ASTON

March 2021 47

IMAGINING SPACES \ BATHTUBS

KREIDER CONSTRUCTION “While the window near this luxurious tub from Keller Supply only looks into the master bedroom, it takes advantage of views from beyond.” ARCHITECT UNDERWOOD AND ASSOCIATES BUILDER KREIDER CONSTRUCTION INTERIOR DESIGNER KAREN STEWART, HOMEOWNER LANDSCAPER DAN CONFORTI PHOTOGRAPHER DAMIAN VINES

RAVENHILL CONSTRUCTION “This luxurious bathroom marries the client’s desire for classic and elegant materials with a contemporary aesthetic in keeping with the home’s architecture.” INTERIOR DESIGNER ELIZABETH CORLESS DAVIS, IIDA ECD DESIGN, LLC TUB BAINULTRA, AMMA OVAL SINKS KOHLER, VINTAGE STONE MOSAIC FLOORING NEW RAVENNA FAUCETS WATERWORKS, ISLA IN BURNISHED BRASS PERSONAL INFRARED SAUNA SUNLIGHTEN PHOTOGRAPHER JENNIFER BECK FURBER

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OVER 25 YEARS OF REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE

PREMIUM COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL ROOFING SERVICE IN WHATCOM COUNTY Esary Roofing & Siding has been helping homeowners and contractors with their roofing and siding investments for over 51 years. esary.com • 360.318.0604 License # ESARYRS175KE Whatcom • San Juan Skagit • King County

RESULTS MATTER. EXPERIENCE COUNTS.

NATE KENOYER

360-319-3280 nkenoyer@windermere.com natekenoyer.com

IMAGINING SPACES \ CABINETS

TANNA EDLER, TANNA BY DESIGN “The Modern Farmhouse aesthetic in this whole home design included a white, gray, and black palette throughout. A fresh and clean look, enabling the client to easily layer with accents and accessories, was the goal.” BUILDER MARK AND RICK SHOLTYS CABINETRY SIMPLY WHITE CABINETS, DOVE TAIL SHIPLAP ISLAND QUARTZ COUNTERTOP PENTAL AVENZA INTERIOR DESIGNER TANNA EDLER, TANNA BY DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHER NIC ASTON

HIGHLINE CONSTRUCTION “This kitchen received a storage overhaul, with a custom wine rack installed into the sides of the cabinet to utilize unused space and maximize storage. The backsplash tile lends a hint of modernity, while the classic white subway tile backsplash lets the beautiful custom cabinetry shine in a way that brightens the kitchen.” ARCHITECT LIGHT SOURCE RESIDENTIAL DESIGN & DRAFTING BUILDER HIGHLINE CONSTRUCTION INTERIOR DESIGNER HIGHLINE INTERIORS PHOTOGRAPHER NICK GRAVES

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LAUNDRY ROOMS / IMAGINING SPACES

TANNA EDLER, TANNA BY DESIGN “Keeping the washer and dryer location in the original footprint allowed us to create floor-toceiling cabinetry and a folding area, all in one. CABINETRY THE VALLEY CABINET SHOP, CUSTOM STAINED WHITE OAK PAINT BENJAMIN MOORE, CHINA WHITE QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS CAESARSTONE, COASTAL GREY INTERIOR DESIGNER TANNA EDLER, TANNA BY DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHER NIC ASTON

HIGHLINE CONSTRUCITON “For even more storage, we expanded the pantry into the laundry room, saving space by installing a stacking washer/ dryer set.” ARCHITECT LIGHT SOURCE RESIDENTIAL DESIGN & DRAFTING BUILDER HIGHLINE CONSTRUCTION INTERIOR DESIGNER HIGHLINE INTERIORS PHOTOGRAPHER NICK GRAVES

March 2021 51

IMAGINING SPACES \ COUNTERS

KREIDER CONSTRUCTION “Bellingham’s Devine Countertops installed this breathtaking Cambria quartz island slab.” ARCHITECT UNDERWOOD AND ASSOCIATES BUILDER KREIDER CONSTRUCTION INTERIOR DESIGNER KAREN STEWART, HOMEOWNER LANDSCAPER DAN CONFORTI PHOTOGRAPHER DAMIAN VINES

HIGHLINE CONSTRUCTION “A large island wraps around the curve of the kitchen, creating more prep and storage space. A raised bar makes for a perfect entertaining and eating space, with overhead lights illuminating the whole room.” ARCHITECT HAVEN DESIGN WORKSHOP BUILDER HIGHLINE CONSTRUCTION INTERIOR DESIGNER HIGHLINE INTERIORS PHOTOGRAPHER NICK GRAVES

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SINKS / IMAGINING SPACES

TANNA EDLER, TANNA BY DESIGN “This stunning farmhouse sink was the focal point for the space. We literally designed everything around it, to make it pop.” CABINETRY THE VALLEY CABINET SHOP, WHITE DOVE FARMHOUSE SINK KOHLER MATTE BACK FAUCET MOEN BACKSPLASH TILE UNITED TILE, SHADE BRIGHT LIGHT PULLS TOP KNOBS TILE FLOOR STATEMENTS TILE, ALPS, NERO PHOTOGRAPHER NIC ASTON

HIGHLINE CONSTRUCTION “This master bathroom features one-of-a-kind granite vessel sinks: raw on the outside and polished on the inside.” ARCHITECT GREG ROBINSON BUILDER HIGHLINE CONSTRUCTION INTERIOR DESIGNER HIGHLINE INTERIORS PHOTOGRAPHER NICK GRAVES

March 2021 53

IMAGINING SPACES \ WINDOW VIEWS

POSITIVE SPACE INC. “This peaceful sitting area, located in the upstairs master bedroom, affords a stunning view of the bay, looking out toward White Rock.” ARCHITECT JWR DESIGN INTERIOR DESIGN MARKIE NELSON INTERIOR DESIGN INC. INTERIOR STYLING SANDRA HURTLEY, POSITIVE SPACE INC PHOTOGRAPHER SHEILA SAY PHOTOGRAPHY

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Kitchen & Bath Design Furniture & Interior Design Home Design | New & Remodel

WINNER 7 consecutive years!

Award-winning Residential Design Thea Stephens, CAPS, CGP

KREIDER CONSTRUCTION “These sweeping windows from Sierra Pacific offer generous views looking south toward Whidbey Island.” ARCHITECT UNDERWOOD AND ASSOCIATES BUILDER KREIDER CONSTRUCTION INTERIOR DESIGNER KAREN STEWART, HOMEOWNER LANDSCAPER DAN CONFORTI PHOTOGRAPHER DAMIAN VINES

March 2021 55

IMAGINING SPACES \ BEDROOMS

KREIDER CONSTRUCTION “These bunk beds were custommade by Kreider Construction, creating a fun place for the homeowners and their kids to hang out.” ARCHITECT UNDERWOOD AND ASSOCIATES BUILDER KREIDER CONSTRUCTION INTERIOR DESIGNER KAREN STEWART, HOMEOWNER LANDSCAPER DAN CONFORTI PHOTOGRAPHER DAMIAN VINES

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POSITIVE SPACE INC. “Texture and elegance combine in this velvet tufted bed frame with chrome trim, sourced from Emerald Home Furnishings.” BUILDER KELLY ZENDER, WELCOME CONSTRUCTION INC. INTERIOR STYLING SANDRA HURTLEY, POSITIVE SPACE INC. PHOTOGRAPHER SHEILA SAY PHOTOGRAPHY

KREIDER CONSTRUCTION “This bottom-level bedroom still takes advantage of waterfront views. The window seat, perfect for nature-gazing, was built by Kreider Constriction.” ARCHITECT UNDERWOOD AND ASSOCIATES BUILDER KREIDER CONSTRUCTION INTERIOR DESIGNER KAREN STEWART, HOMEOWNER LANDSCAPER DAN CONFORTI PHOTOGRAPHER DAMIAN VINES

March 2021 57

KITCHEN DESIGN STUDIO NET “Bespoke Design with Lifestyle and Budget in Mind”

Service to Discerning Clients in the Great NW Since 2004. Call Marshall at (360) 966-3929 to Discuss Your Needs And Schedule a Complimentary Initial Consultation.

We m e a s ur e s uc c e s s diffe r e ntly .

KREIDER CONSTRUCTION

We believe in democratic

decision making and a fair distribution of profits.

We recognize and appreciate

the good will of our clients, the beauty and abundance of our Pacific Northwest home, the camaraderie and friendship of our coworkers, and the

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opportunity to express ourselves creatively through our craft.

We strive to reduce our

environmental impact through conscientious business practices, thoughtful design, and building with respect for our limited resources.

We pursue our work because it brings us joy and satisfaction.

For a complete list of our

Guiding Principles visit our website.

“This custom-built staircase from Kreider Construction is made from Glulam beams. Hidden fasteners create a clean, seamless look.” ARCHITECT UNDERWOOD AND ASSOCIATES BUILDER KREIDER CONSTRUCTION INTERIOR DESIGNER KAREN STEWART, HOMEOWNER LANDSCAPER DAN CONFORTI PHOTOGRAPHER DAMIAN VINES

STAIRCASES / IMAGINING SPACES

RAVENHILL CONSTRUCTION “The treads are illuminated by LED lighting for safety and to provide an inviting evening glow.” BUILDER RAVENHILL CONSTRUCTION TILE PENTAL TILE, STONE PROJECT, BLACK FALDA INTERIOR DESIGNER ELIZABETH CORLESS DAVIS, IIDA ECD DESIGN, LLC PHOTOGRAPHER JENNIFER BECK FURBER

HIGHLINE CONSTRUCTION “Specialty pendants and sconces in the kitchen and stairway were custom designed by local lighting designer Mary David of La Conner.” ARCHITECT GREG ROBINSON BUILDER HIGHLINE CONSTRUCTION INTERIOR DESIGNER HIGHLINE INTERIORS PHOTOGRAPHER NICK GRAVES

March 2021 59

IMAGINING SPACES \ FIREPLACES

POSITIVE SPACE INC. “This Napoleon 96" Linear Electric Fireplace is set within MSI Whiteoak splitface stone. Wall art from Urban Barn and modern coastal decor from Positive Space Inc. balance the room perfectly.” BUILDER JASON RAGSDALE, TERCEL CORPORATION INTERIOR DESIGN TERI MACPHEE DESIGNS INTERIOR STYLING SANDRA HURTLEY, POSITIVE SPACE INC. PHOTOGRAPHER SHEILA SAY PHOTOGRAPHY

KREIDER CONSTRUCTION “Positioned between the billiards room and living room, this fireplace features real Montana stone sourced from Cascade Stone Supply, installed by Del Nagro Masonry.” ARCHITECT UNDERWOOD AND ASSOCIATES BUILDER KREIDER CONSTRUCTION INTERIOR DESIGNER KAREN STEWART, HOMEOWNER LANDSCAPER DAN CONFORTI PHOTOGRAPHER DAMIAN VINES

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RAVENHILL CONSTRUCTION “The fireplace is made of stone indigenous to San Juan Island; originally, it held the kitchen range. During renovations it was reworked to become the centerpiece for the kitchen/ bar area.” BUILDER RAVENHILL CONSTRUCTION GAS FIREPLACE NAPOLEON VECTOR 62, LHD62 CABINETRY JOE COOPER AND ARVID LINDSTRUM OF THE RAVENHILL CONSTRUCTION CABINET SHOP INTERIOR DESIGNER ELIZABETH CORLESS DAVIS, IIDA ECD DESIGN, LLC PHOTOGRAPHER JENNIFER BECK FURBER

GREG ROBINSON ARCHITECT The corner two-sided fireplace adds visual appeal and function to an otherwise unused space. ARCHITECT GREG ROBINSON ARCHITECT BUILDER GUS GUSTAFSON, HOMEOWNER LIGHTING DESIGNER GENA GUSTAFSON, HOMEOWNER PHOTOGRAPHER C9 PHOTOGRAPHY

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IMAGINING SPACES \ ENTRYWAY

KREIDER CONSTRUCTION “The front door and windows (from Sierra Pacific and featuring Rocky Mountain Hardware) are lined with Smart Tint technology. The transitional film can go from clear to opaque at the touch of a button.” ARCHITECT UNDERWOOD AND ASSOCIATES BUILDER KREIDER CONSTRUCTION INTERIOR DESIGNER KAREN STEWART, HOMEOWNER LANDSCAPER DAN CONFORTI PHOTOGRAPHER DAMIAN VINES

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SHOWERS / IMAGINING SPACES

POSITIVE SPACE INC. “This bathroom features Emser tiles, European-style custom floating cabinets with textured laminate finish, Pental Quartz countertops, and a shower window looking out toward the Canadian Coastal Range.” BUILDER JASON RAGSDALE, TERCEL CORPORATION INTERIOR DESIGN TERI MACPHEE DESIGNS INTERIOR STYLING SANDRA HURTLEY, POSITIVE SPACE INC. PHOTOGRAPHER SHEILA SAY PHOTOGRAPHY

TANNA EDLER, TANNA BY DESIGN “Our clients wanted a warm, inviting master bathroom remodel, with a walk-in shower made up of neutral tones and mixed metals. We used naturallooking porcelain tile, tinted shower glass, creative lighting, and a mix of bronze and brass fixtures to pull off this vibe.” PLUMBING FIXTURES MOEN WALL AND FLOOR TILE ELYSIUM TILES, NOCE INTERIOR DESIGNER TANNA EDLER, TANNA BY DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHER NIC ASTON

March 2021 63

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Pros To Know We are pleased to share with you these select building professionals who can assist on your projects, whether you’re planning a small update or a major home construction project. Start your project on a firm foundation.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

March 2021 65

PROS TO KNOW \ ELECTRICIAN

CORWIN ELECTRICAL SERVICES

CORWIN ELECTRICAL

Corwin Electrical Services is a family owned and operated company started in May of 2016. Our focus is to provide quality, reliable service at a fair price for the long run. When the economy is on an upswing and prices are climbing we maintain our same fair price and great customer service so our customers keep calling us back in the future! We offer many different types of electrical services from Industrial, Commercial, Residential, Generator installations, Private utility locating, Load study monitoring, Parking lot light servicing, and more! Corwin Electrical Services strives to provide high quality, reliable work with great customer service. Our trained and certified electricians go above and beyond to make sure every customer is satisfied.

Steve Corwin 360.920.1893 Corwinelectrical.com

PROS TO KNOW \ FURNITURE STORE

NORTHWEST FINE FURNISHINGS For more than 43 years, Northwest Fine Furnishings has been dedicated to helping its customers turn their house into a home. Let our expertise and large selection of furniture from trusted brands like Intercon, Lyndon Furniture, Stylus, Whittier, Oakcraft, and Sunny Design, along with our extensive selection of lighting companies, give you the ability to create the look you have always envisioned for your home. From oak and cherry, to maple and pine, we have a wide variety of finishes for all your wood furniture needs and our wide selection of sofas, both contemporary and traditional, offer over 400 fabric options for you to choose from. Add a touch of class and sophistication to your home with our wide selection for all rooms — bedroom, living room, dining, office, and more! Visit our impressive showroom today and let’s find the right choices for you!

919 Riverside Dr., Mount Vernon 360.424.8455 nwff.com

BellinghamAlive.com

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REAL ESTATE / PROS TO KNOW

CHRISTINE CICCHITTI As a Realtor from Whatcom County, and a part of the Windermere Real Estate Whatcom team, Christine Cicchitti has extensive knowledge of our beautiful community and the real estate market. Growing up in Ferndale, where she and her family call home, Christine continues to be an active member of her community through her support of local schools and organizations. With her real estate career beginning in 2005, Christine works with buyers and sellers creating a stress-free experience through her attention to detail and working real estate knowledge, research on properties and selling prices, and keeping her clients well-informed throughout the entire process. Looking to build your dream home or want new construction? Working with local reputable and highquality builders, Christine takes buyers from the start through the finish of their new home project from choosing the lot to choosing the colors creating that dream home. Christine Cicchitti Windermere Real Estate 360.296.3814 cicchitti@windermere.com cicchittirealestate.com

CLEANING AND RESTORATION / PROS TO KNOW

NORTHWEST PROFESSIONAL SERVICES NPS has been serving the Pacific Northwest for over 45 years. Our goal is to clean, maintain, and restore your home or business. Clean: Cleaning is something that we take joy in and our goal is to leave you delighted with the work we’ve done. Maintain: Going hand in hand with cleaning, is the regular maintenance of your structures which helps to preserve the overall health of your property. Restore: Doug Broersma has made it his life’s work to understand the best way to clean and restore your prized possession. We also have a retail store here in Lynden, we carry cleaning supplies for both residential and commercial customers. Stop in sometime and see what we have to offer! If you have an emergency we pull all of these services together to care for you and your home. Our Emergency Services department is available to you 24/7.

191 Birch Bay Lynden 360.354.4145 NPSclean.com

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PROS TO KNOW \ LANDSCAPE DESIGN

PROSCAPES Whatcom, Skagit, & Island Counties 360.724.3220 usproscapes.com

BellinghamAlive.com

Knowing he wanted to build something he could be proud of, Jerod Barth set out to start growing ProScapes almost 20 years ago. Off he went with a truck purchased for $500 loaded with what it could carry in mulch to start knocking on doors. Seeing so many “fly by night” companies take advantage of customers or worse do hazardous work, Jerod vowed to always stick to his Christian values of honesty, integrity, and hard work to be the foundation of growth for his company. Through the storms that come with business ownership, Jerod has always stuck to the same values

using them to continue to push and strive for better. Now married for almost 17 years and a father of two Jerod has built a team that continues to grow and reach for those same values. He calls his crews “his guys” and genuinely cares for them and their families. This past season during Covid-19, Jerod pushed extra hard to protect and look out for his Team, knowing those families were relying on him. Blessed to see that hard work yields good results ProScapes is poised and excited for the future and continued growth. SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CABINETRY & FLOORING / PROS TO KNOW

HOMEPORT INTERIORS OPTIONS CABINETRY 4071 Hannegan Rd., Ste. K Bellingham, WA 98226 Homeport: 360.392.8754 Options: 360.746.8759 homeportinteriors.com optionsci.com

You’ll find everything you need at Bellingham’s one-stop Interior Design Center - Homeport Interiors and Options Cabinetry. We are locally owned and operated with our in-house design team offering a combined experience of over 65 years to assist you. Interior Design, Kitchen and Bath Design, Space Planning, selecting finishes and creating a plan to produce a highly utilized, livable space. We know how difficult it can be to shop around at various locations. To make it easier, we carry everything you need, in one design center. Imagine selecting your flooring, counter tops, cabinets, even furniture and decor, as well as getting personalized attention from our design team without visiting more than one place! Options Cabinetry is focused on creating beautiful, functional cabinetry

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for every lifestyle, budget and dream. We provide original custom designs that allow our clients to set themselves apart. Whether it’s your home or business, custom design is our specialty and we can’t wait to help your dream become a reality. Let our designers at HomePort Interiors and Options Cabinetry help you get started today. No project is ever too big or too small; too long or too short. “We put the life back into the heart of your home.” KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN. INTERIOR DESIGN. SPACE PLANNING. FURNITURE DESIGN. CABINETS. CARPET. FURNITURE. KNOBS AND PULLS. HARDWOOD. LUXURY VINYL PLANK. TILE. LAMINATE COUNTER TOPS AND MORE

March 2021 69

PROS TO KNOW \ LAWN AND LANDSCAPE

WHATCOM LAWNS INC. Do you have a Whatcom Lawn? Our goal at Whatcom Lawns is none other than to set the standard for lawn care and landscapes in Whatcom county. Whatcom Lawns has been providing services in lawn and landscape maintenance to residential and commercial property owners in Whatcom county for over 20 years. Whatcom Lawns provides full service annual maintenance packages along with personalized projects such as bed creation, plantings, irrigation and overseeding. We pride ourselves on constantly researching the latest trends in products and equipment used to keep your lawn and landscape looking fresh and vibrant. Our crews love transforming properties to the best on the block! We were most recently voted Best of Northwest by the residents of Whatcom county and we would love to show you why they love us. We are excited to visit you on your property to customize a plan for you!

Whatcom Lawns INC. 530 E Wiser Lake Rd., Lynden 360.354.5124, ext. 1 whatcomlawns.com

PROS TO KNOW \ INTERIOR DESIGN

JENNIFER RYAN DESIGN Jennifer Ryan Design is a Bellingham based interior design and remodeling company bringing sophisticated whimsy to your most treasured space. Jennifer has an uncanny ability to combine unexpected patterns, colors and textures making your home reflect your distinct personality. From concept and design to production, Jennifer Ryan Design projects run smoothly and professionally, with a high level of collaboration between clients, and subcontractors. Committed to exceeding expectations, Jennifer understands each clients hopes and dreams. In the wake of Covid-19, Jennifer is taking the utmost care to keep both clients and team members safe. Whether it be a kitchen, bathroom, home gym or office, even your entire home, Jennifer will realize your vision in ways you never imagined. Her hands-on approach assures that all elements are seamlessly executed, and your wishes and goals are met. See for yourself why clients and design professionals alike rave about Jennifer Ryan Design. Jennifer’s impeccable design, attention to detail and easy work style will Design Your Way Home. Jennifer Ryan Design 360.319.7092 jennifer@jenniferryandesign.com JenniferRyanDesign.com

BellinghamAlive.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

GARDEN SUPPLY / PROS TO KNOW

MY GARDEN NURSERY My Garden Nursery, the colorful and fun garden center! My Garden Nursery can help you create the garden of your dreams! Antoni and Lynn are just a couple of the experts to help your seeds grow healthier, fruit trees bear more fruit, shrubs grow greener, tropical plants grow more lush, berries grow bigger, and your flowers more flowerier! BULK organic soils and compost now available by the yard! From seeds and seed starting supplies to specimen maple trees and wrought iron garden arbors and trellises. Say hello to Mr. Dilly Pickles while you are there. See the Jungle, Cactus room, walk down Flamingo Way and pop into the Big Purple Barn! Tons of gift items are available like Australian soap, cashmere scarves, local socks, stickers and macrame and all kinds of planters including fun shapes like dinosaurs, tigers, and pigs.

My Garden Nursery 929 E. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.366.8406 mygardennursery.com mygardennursery@gmail.com

LUMBER SUPPLY / PROS TO KNOW

WINDSOR PLYWOOD When plywood is in the name, it’s easy to assume that Windsor sells plywood. Well they do, and a lot of it for that matter, but you’ll find so much more than plywood when you walk through their doors. In fact, Windsor Plywood has been in Bellingham for over 50 years and in that time, they have evolved in to one of the Pacific Northwest’s premium building materials suppliers. Whether you are a professional builder or a true weekend warrior, Windsor will have the expert advice and quality finishing products you expect and deserve. You will find some of the latest trends like live edge lumber and shiplap as well traditional building materials from decking and fencing to lumber and mouldings, as well as the largest selection of domestic and exotic hardwoods in the area. Windsor also has the area’s longest running door shop where they pre-hang interior and exterior doors to your exact needs and offer custom milling and cutting of their products as well as prefinishing in their spray facility. 1208 Iowa St. Bellingham 360.676.1025 windsorplywood.com

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PROS TO KNOW \ HOME REMODEL

CHUCKANUT BUILDERS 1000 N. State St. Bellingham 360.734.3201 chuckanutbuilders.com

BellinghamAlive.com

At Chuckanut Builders, we love remodeling homes in Bellingham’s core neighborhoods because of their historic design details, their timeless craftsmanship and the stories they tell. Our clients love these features of their homes too…but they may not feel quite as fondly about their tiny, awkward kitchens! Remodeling is the perfect way to write a new chapter for your home by reimagining it to fit your 21st century lifestyle. As building-science nerds, we target energy efficiency on every project, which means our clients save on their energy bills, but even more importantly, they gain a quiet, comfortable living space where they won’t think twice about walking around barefoot, even in the winter. We believe that companies can, and should be, a force for good. We harness

the power of our business to make a positive impact for our employees, our community, and the environment by prioritizing wages and benefits; creating a fun, meaningful work environment; and by directly contributing 3% of profits to organizations working to preserve wild places and make the world more just. A remodeling project with Chuckanut Builders can turn your house into a forever home, which means that in the long run, you’ll have more time to spend with your family, skiing Mt. Baker or riding Galbraith, rather than fretting over home repairs or trying to figure out how to fit your coffee pot under your too-low kitchen cabinets.

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GARAGE DOORS / PROS TO KNOW

BERRY GARAGE DOOR COMPANY 2205 Valencia St., Bellingham 360.671.5121 berrydoorco.com

BERRY GARAGE DOOR CO

Come Visit Our Newly Updated Residential Garage Door Showroom!! We have an extensive collection of garage doors available to view in our showroom. We have modern & contemporary looks to traditional styles and everything in between. With so many choices available, we do what we can to help you make the right decision when choosing the right door for your project. We also understand that the best form of advertising is a satisfied customer. We make sure that you are happy with our work long after your project is complete.

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We are fully licensed & insured and we proudly stand behind each and every door we install. Our Showroom is open Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm. We do accept walk-ins but appointments are encouraged. Please stop in and say Hi! We are right in Bellingham off Valencia Street. Call us to set up an appointment and get your project right the first time. You can also visit our website www. berrydoorco.com.

March 2021 73

PROS TO KNOW \ HEATING & A/C

BARRON HEATING AC ELECTRICAL & PLUMBING From heating and cooling services to electrical, solar, plumbing, and fireplaces, our team is dedicated to finding the most effective ways to optimize comfort, improve indoor air quality, and increase energy efficiency in your home or business. That’s why Barron is Northwest Washington’s largest and most respected team of Home Performance Experts. With convenient showroom and office locations in Ferndale, Burlington, and Marysville, we’ll make it easy to chat with a whole-home expert and explore your options. And at our Firelight by Barron showrooms in Ferndale and Burlington, you’ll discover working displays of beautiful stoves and fireplaces from America’s bestknown brands. As your Home and Building Performance Experts since 1972, 150 employees serve both residential and commercial customers in Whatcom, Skagit, Island, Snohomish, and San Juan counties. Barron Heating, AC, Electrical & Plumbing, Our Mission: Improving Lives™. 5100 Pacific Hwy, Ferndale 360.685.5182 barronheating.com

PROS TO KNOW \ INSURANCE AGENT

TALIA MOBERLYCOUNTRY FINANCIAL Talia Moberly is your local insurance Pro. Talia’s primary goal is to provide her clients with the best options to protect what matters most to them. As an insurance agent with Country Financial, Talia offers Auto, Home, Life, and Business insurance. Country Financial is rated number one in customer satisfaction for home insurance by J.D. Power and Associates. As your personal agent, Talia will give you the knowledge to help you understand your insurance policies, and work with you to create a customized plan that will best suit your needs. She will be focused on what’s important to you now while helping you build a vision for your future and making sure your plans stay on track. Talia strives to be there for her clients during major life events and tough times to provide encouragement, perspective, and clarity. Talia has the knowledge, care, and expertise to help you protect what matters most. 1200 Old Fairhaven Pkwy. Bellingham Office: 360.392.3464 Direct: 360.251.9905 Fax: 360.392.3465

BellinghamAlive.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

WINDOW COVERINGS / PROS TO KNOW

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

873 Hinotes Ct. A2, Lynden, WA 360.656.6579 or 360.961.4918 RussellsWindowCoverings@gmail.com

PLUMBING / PROS TO KNOW

SPECTRUM PLUMBING AND HEATING Spectrum Plumbing began a little over 8 years ago with one van and a dream - Our intention of bringing quality, craftsmanship, and new ideas to the world of plumbing. To say plumbing is our passion is an understatement. We are a small family run company owned by Ben and Nikki Fuller and located here in Bellingham but provide service to all surrounding areas. We offer residential services, from unclogging a toilet to plumbing new homes, exciting green built, sustainable ideas, commercial services ranging from small tenant improvements to massive waste water treatment plants and restaurants. It has been an honor to serve our community and to be trusted with your homes and businesses allowing us to grow and to be able to support all of the families that work with us.

753 E Smith Rd, Bellingham 360.739.9207 spectrumpandh.com

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PROS TO KNOW \ CONSTRUCTION

HIGHLINE CONSTRUCTION 1420 Meador Ave. Suite K105 Bellingham, WA 360.746.5455 highlinewa.com

BellinghamAlive.com

We’re more than a builder and that means more value for YOU! We’re excited to announce that Highline Construction is now a full Design + Build solution for your projects. To offer the best design to our clients, Allison Ross has joined our team, bringing a breadth of project designer experience. This is important news for several reasons, the biggest being simplicity. We’ve simplified the complexities of construction. Planning, design and building are managed by the same team. In short, this means less stress for you, clearer communication and a spectacular finished project. Our mission is to enrich the lives of our employees, our clients, and

our community. By focusing on our employees, we have attracted and built a dynamic team of individuals that share the same core values. For our clients, we strive to exceed customer expectations by fostering a culture of continual improvement and delivered promises. We also take great pride in giving back to our community. Each month we highlight a local non-profit and donate our time and resources. If you are looking for a committed team that cares deeply about the community and everyone we work with give us a call. We can’t wait to start your project.

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WINDOW COVERINGS | INTERIOR DESIGN | HOME DECOR

YOUR STYLE CAN

Stand Out or Blend In

THE CHOICE IS YOURS

www.FreshSpaceRedesign.com

360-733-0191

INC.

www.mtbakerroofing.com #MTBAKR1055ML

Home by Strandberg Construction

Composition, Metal, Shakes and Gutters Over 40 years of superior service

Thanks for voting us Best Roofing Company

March 2021 77

Recipe: Salmon with Couscous 82 Buck Bay Shellfish 84

Photo by Thomas Hughes

Temperate Habits Brewing 88

Taste

Review

7 Spice Cafe

80 March 2021 79

Taste Review

7 Spice Cafe Mediterranean cafe delivers big flavor at affordable prices BY BECKY MANDELBAUM

BellinghamAlive.com

Photos by Thomas Hughes

OWNTOWN BELLINGHAM has a new Mediterranean restaurant, 7 Spice Cafe. Named for the unique blend of Mediterranean flavors — coriander, cumin, allspice, chili powder, mustard powder, cinnamon, and cardamom — the new cafe serves delicious fare that’s fast, affordable, and no-fuss. Owner Helen Neville dreamed up the idea for 7 Spice after falling in love with late-night shawarma shops in Europe. The food was great, but she also liked the kind of fun-loving crowd that collected after a certain hour. 7 Spice is meant to bring a similar scene to downtown Bellingham, particularly once COVID-19 restrictions lift and the restaurant can remain open past midnight. “Think of being on vacation….at three in the morning, there’s a line around the block. We want it to be fun,” Neville says. The menu is straight-forward, simple, and affordable enough to become your new weekday lunch destination. Everything on it has gone through multiple rounds of recipe refining, meaning every bite has been maximized for taste. Choose from street-food style items like Chicken Shawarma ($10) or Lamb Shawarma ($12), both served on fresh, house-made pita. Choose your sauces — tzatziki, schug, and curry fry sauce to name a few — and then top it all off with goodies like pickled onion, diced tomato, and pepperoncini. All the restaurant’s pita is baked fresh on-site, with a rotating pita oven behind the counter. The chicken and lamb are cooked on a rotating spit, meaning you can watch your entire meal come together right before your eyes. If you’re gluten-free, simply make your meal a bowl. Your choice

of protein is mixed with rice and topped with the usual suspects: tahini, feta, and parsley. Add roasted chickpeas for extra crunch. Like any Mediterranean restaurant worth its salt, 7 Spice offers sides like Tabbouleh ($4), Hummus ($4), and Baba Ganoush ($4). As someone who’s picky about hummus and baba ganoush, I loved both of 7 Spice’s renditions. The hummus is creamy and mild, with the chickpeas and tahini outshining the lemon and garlic. The baba ganoush is also creamy and rich, without the sour tang or chunky quality of some baba ganoush. The eggplant is fire-roasted, creating a delicious smoky, charred flavor. If you’ve never had baba ganoush, this is a great version to start with. Vegetarians and meat-eaters alike will love the falafel, which is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, without being oily or crumbly. Rather than go the easy route and use a dried mix, 7 Spice makes their falafel from chickpeas soaked overnight. The chickpeas are then milled into a paste, mixed with spices, and fried. Speaking of fries, 7 Spice’s are also insanely good, and for just two bucks more, you can (and should) get them loaded with garlic, parsley, and crumbled feta. For dessert, grab some Baklava ($4), a confection that’s sticky, chewy, and subtly sweet in all the best ways. This might sound strange, but my favorite thing on the menu, by far, was the Fried Cauliflower ($4). The vegetable is served brown, coated in a heavy layer of the restaurant’s signature seven-spice blend, with a side of fry sauce for

dipping. This side is so good that, on the few occasions the restaurant has run out, one loyal customer has brought in his own cauliflower to get his fix. Once restaurant curfews lift, along with other COVID-19 restrictions, Neville envisions the cafe becoming a nighttime destination like the ones she encountered in her travels. To prepare, bar manager Chloe Howard has been mixing up some new concoctions. The drink menu is a work-in-progress, but will feature creative cocktails like the Kuma Mule ($7), a twist on a classic mule that features local Kuma Turmeric Liqueur. It may not sound like it works, but it does — the turmeric’s earthiness pairs well with the ginger and balances out the lime. Even better, in my opinion, is the Rose of Sharon ($7), featuring house-made vanilla-infused vodka, Grand Marnier, lemon juice, and soda, flavored with Calypso Kitchen’s hibiscus sorrel. The hibiscus and vanilla create a showstopping flavor that’s floral, bright, and slightly sweet. If hard liquor isn’t your thing, wine and beer are also available. While indoor seating is limited, the covered patio offers plenty of protected seating, along with a charcoal fire pit to keep you toasty. “People are just delighted, and that’s what you want,” Neville says. “It’s been the most exciting thing I’ve done in my career so far.” 122 E. Magnolia St., Bellingham, 360.393.3554, sevenspicecafe.com  March 2021 81

Taste Recipe

Charred Salmon with Lemon Herb Israeli Couscous and Fava Beans BY SAMANTHA FERRARO

PRING IS THE PERFECT TIME to welcome a bright

Mediterranean dinner. This healthy, flavor-packed meal features charred wild salmon served over Israeli couscous with fava beans and sweet corn, all tossed with a bright lemon vinaigrette. For more Mediterranean recipes like this one, visit littleferrarokitchen.com.

Lemon Vinaigrette 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard Zest and juice of 1 lemon ½ cup olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Few sprigs of fresh basil and mint, chopped finely

Israeli Couscous 2 cups low-sodium vegetable stock or water 1 cup Israeli couscous (also known as pearl couscous) 1 ear of corn kernels removed (or 1 cup frozen and thawed corn kernels) 1 cup cooked and shelled fava beans 1 lemon cut in quarters Fresh mint and basil leaves for garnish

Salmon 2 6-ounce wild salmon filets Salt and pepper Olive oil or avocado oil for drizzling

BellinghamAlive.com

Instructions • Whisk the vinaigrette ingredients together until emulsified. Set aside. • For the pearl couscous, add stock or water to a pot and bring to a boil. Pour in Israeli couscous, give a good stir, and cover with a lid. Cook couscous until most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes. • Once couscous is cooked, drain any excess liquid and combine couscous with fava beans, corn, and half of the vinaigrette. Toss to combine. • For the salmon, heat a cast iron skillet over mediumhigh heat and drizzle with olive oil. Season salmon with salt and pepper and cook flesh-side-down first for 3–4 minutes, until charred, then turn over and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until just cooked through. • In the same skillet, char the cut lemons for about 1 minute and then set aside. • Plate Israeli couscous onto a platter and top with salmon filets. Spoon leftover vinaigrette on top of salmon. Serve with charred lemon, and garnish with fresh herbs. 

Photo by Samantha Ferraro

Ingredients

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

B-TOWN KITCHEN AND RAW BAR

BLACK PEARL ASIAN FUSION Asian Fusion

Seafood, American

1317 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.746.2030, blackpearlasianfusion.com

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.

BANTAM 46 American, Southern

CHAIR 9 WOODSTONE PIZZA & BAR American

1327 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.788.4507, bantambellingham.com A bantam is a type of small chicken. At Bellingham’s newest southern-inspired chicken rotisserie, you get what the name promises. The Buttermilk Fried Chicken has breading that’s thick, crispy, and — somehow — not greasy at all. While the downstairs is family-friendly, the upstairs is reserved for those 21 and older.

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 7 SPICE CAFE Mediterranean 122 E. Magnolia St., Bellingham 360.393.3554, sevenspicecafe.com 7 Spice Cafe Owner Helen Neville dreamed up the idea for 7 Spice Cafe after falling in love with late-night shawarma shops in Europe. The cafe’s menu is straight-forward, simple, and affordable enough to become your new weekday lunch destination. Choose from street-food style items like Chicken Shawarma, Lamb Shawarma, or Falafel, all served on fresh pita baked-to-order behind the counter. AVENUE BREAD & DELI Deli

BAYOU ON BAY Cajun, Creole 1300 Bay St., Bellingham 360.752.2968, bayouonbay.com Bayou On Bay serves a wide variety of classic Cajun/Creole dishes, such as gumbo, jambalaya, po’ boy sandwiches, and hush puppies, to name a few. A house-made remoulade, which accompanies many of the dishes, is worth the trip alone. The bar offers an extensive list of drink options. Bayou on Bay is a must for foodies as well as people just looking for a satisfying meal. BIG LOVE JUICE American

10459 Mount Baker Hwy., Glacier 360.599.2511, chair9.com After a long day skiing or snowboarding from Mount Baker Ski Area’s eight chairlifts, Chair 9 is tailor-made for those seeking a place to grab a bite before heading back down the highway. The building is spacious, with two stories of seating and a colorful variety of snowboards decorating the wall. Their pizza is crafted on house-made artisan dough and cooked classically in a wood stone oven. The restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere and delicious menu make it a destination to try on your next trip to the slopes. CHINUK RESTAURANT Steak, Seafood 714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360,392.6520, chinukbellingham.com Chinuk’s menu contains many specialties, but its biggest attribute is its versatility. The menu features delicious Northwest-inspired cuisine made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Located inside the Four Points by Sheraton Bellingham, it’s perfect for a family on the road, a business lunch, or an intimate dinner out.

1149 N. State St. & 1144 10th St., Bellingham 360.383.5336, biglovejuice.com Cold press juices make up the bulk of the menu at Big Love Juice. However, these aren’t your average juices. Big Love Juice uses a hydraulic press, rather than the traditional high-heat methods that eliminate much of the vitamins and nutrients found in fruits and vegetables. Customers looking for something a little heartier can also pick from a multitude of smoothies, soups, salads, bowls, and loaded toasts.

1313 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 1135 11th St., Bellingham 2301 James St., Bellingham 444 Front St., Lynden 360.715.3354, avenuebread.com

BLACK SHEEP Mexican

With several convenient locations in Bellingham and a location in Lynden, Avenue Bread is a favorite lunch spot for many. Fresh ingredients make these sandwiches unusually good — the bread is made by their bakers, and the vegetables and meat are all of the highest quality. Avenue Bread also offers some of the freshest, tastiest breakfast sandwiches around.

Co-owners Charlie Pasquier and Chas Kubis opened Black Sheep with the same approach they took to Goat Mountain Pizza years earlier, with a devotion to scratch-made, fresh ingredients. With homemade tortillas, fresh garnishes, and slow-braised meats, each taco tastes and looks like a small masterpiece just waiting to be demolished.

Bellingham has an abundance of Asianinspired restaurants; the trick is to find one that stands out — like the Black Pearl. With all the available extras, it is almost impossible to get the same flavor twice. The pho is clean and refreshing with a variety of different meats to try and sauces to add as extra seasoning.

1151 N. State St., Bellingham 360.255.0244, bellinghamcosmosbistro.com The comfort food at Cosmos is always made in-house from scratch at their historic Herald Building location. With award-winning service, plates brimming with creativity for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and many vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, Cosmos Bistro offers something for everyone.

215 W. Holly St., Ste. 101, Bellingham 360.526.2109, blacksheepbellingham.com

COSMOS BISTRO American Bistro,

Comfort Food

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

March 2021 83

Taste Local Find

Buck Bay Shellfish Farm BY NOAH HARPER

Shellfish Farm has been the go-to spot for shellfish on Orcas Island. Passed down through the Sawyer family for generations, Buck Bay is currently owned and operated by Mark Sawyer and Toni Knudson, who took over in 2008. Over the years, Buck Bay has grown from a small shellfish farm to an expansive seafood destination and weekend getaway. Originally, Buck Bay started selling clams and oysters that were farmed on the property. From there, Buck Bay started selling locally sourced crab and fish from local fishermen. Last year, Buck Bay added their own bistro where you can grab a bite to eat on their waterfront property. The bistro offers everything from Halibut Fish and Chips to Dungeness Crab and, of course, oysters. Although temporarily closed, the bistro plans to reopen in April. You can also buy locally sourced fish at their fish market. Buck Bay is not just a shellfish farm, it is also a traditional farm. The property has four acres of organic gardens, used to grow ingredients for the bistro. The farm is also home to various animals — if you’re lucky, you might get a visit from one of the resident free-range chickens. “While you’re eating oysters or food from the bistro, you often have a flock of chickens around your table, looking for goodies,” Knudson says. Whenever possible, Buck Bay Shellfish Farm sources their food locally, prioritizing island-based farmers and growers. “When we make bread, we make our own bread from local sources of flour. Anything that we don’t have, we source locally from local farmers, like lettuce,” Knudson says. If while visiting Buck Bay Shellfish Farm you get entranced by the beautiful views, you’re in luck. The property also hosts an Airbnb dubbed The Buck Bay Getaway. Located just 100 feet from the shoreline, the one-bedroom Getaway offers amazing views of the San Juan Islands along with a fully stocked kitchen and a deck right on the shore. Bookings fill fast, so be sure to reserve your stay far in advance. 117 E. J. Young

Rd., Olga, 360.376.5280, buckbayshellfishfarm.com 

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Photos: Top by Dana Halferty. Middle and bottom by Billy Debaste

INCE THE EARLY 1940S, Buck Bay

Dining Guide Taste At the bar you’ll find eight taps, two of which rotate seasonally. If you’re really there for the BBQ, cut through the noise and go straight for the BBQ plates. –

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 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. GRAHAM’S RESTAURANT American 9989 Mount Baker Hwy., Glacier 360.599.9883 Graham’s Restaurant is the classic, rustic stop for a good burger and brew in Glacier, especially for hungry travelers. Built in 1904, the building represents a long-gone era in the Mount Baker wilderness. Connected to an oldtimey grocery store, the cabin-like restaurant is made complete by black-and-white photos of the cast from the 1935 film “Call of the Wild,” starring Clark Gable and Loretta Young, warming their hands over the little stove oven which still sits there today. HILLTOP RESTAURANT American 5645 Guide Meridian, Bellingham 360.398.2462, hilltopcooking.com Three years after Hilltop Restaurant opened, the small cafe turned into a classic diner open 14 hours a day, seven days a week, with delicious takes on all the classic diner eats. It’s the type of place where you’ll hear Ariana Grande’s music softly playing in the background while a waitress in a white apron asks if she can top off your still half-full coffee.

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. 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. LATITUDE KITCHEN & BAR American,

Seafood

1065 E. Sunset Dr., Bellingham 360.707.7400, latituderestaurants.com With gourmet burgers and an assortment of seafood-style entrees, Latitude Kitchen & Bar establishes itself as one of the first highend, modern restaurants on Sunset Drive in Bellingham, just off I-5. Latitude serves up the rich flavors of the Pacific Northwest with locally sourced ingredients that are all prepared in a “scratch” kitchen where nothing is microwaved, and all savory sauces are made in-house. 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. 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 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. LOCUS American, Eclectic 120 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.306.8556, locusofbellingham.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. THE LOFT Northwest, American & Seafood 1801 Roeder Ave., Bellingham 360.306.5668, theloftbellingham.com In a world of freeze-dried and processed pre-packaged foods, The Loft strives to be an exception. From the fresh, locally caught salmon and halibut, to the cage-free organic eggs, they believe the ingredients make the dish. Their dressings, sauces, and seasoning are all from scratch, with original recipes using fresh, local, organic products as often as the seasons allow. 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. 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

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Taste Game Changer

Living Pantry Refillery Marketplace Living Sustainably

HETHER YOU LOVE SHOPPING IN BULK OR WANT TO REDUCE YOUR WASTE IN 2021,

Living Pantry Refillery Marketplace in Blaine is about to become your favorite store. The new refillery on Peace Portal Drive offers ethically sourced products for your pantry, home, and body, without the disposable packaging of traditional stores. “Whether you need something for a quick snack, or you are looking to fill the coffers, we offer a great selection of organic, sustainably grown bulk foods for your pleasure,” says the team at Living Pantry. Shop owners Shawna and Seppi Morris have been working on their vision for the Refillery for years. Their sustainable operation helps customers access ethically sourced products that are good for people and the planet. Shawna and Seppi have always been passionate about ethically sourced food. The two have over 30 years of experience in menu development, recipe development, and healthy eating education, and are excited to share their knowledge with customers. All of the products at Living Pantry are exclusively from local farms, including Sumas River Farm, Spotted Owl Farm, The Crows Farm, Hedlin Farms, Osprey Hill Farm, Cabrera Farms, Spring Time Farm, Ralph’s Greenhouse, and more. As the seasons change, so does the stock and produce at the shop. Shoppers can call ahead to inquire about specific 86

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offerings, but are encouraged to come in and check out the shop themselves. Shoppers can help themselves to bulk foods such as dried fruit, sugars, beans, nuts, seeds, granola, and even locally roasted coffee. Vinegars, wines, balsamics, olive oils, honey, maple syrup, tamari, molasses, and vanilla extract are also offered in bulk. Suggestions for other products to add to their shelves are always welcome. Beyond providing the essentials you’ll need for your kitchen, such as spices, herbs, and teas, Living Pantry also has you covered in the bathroom and laundry room. Take your empty containers to their shop and fill them with shampoo, body wash, conditioner, shaving gels, toothpaste, and lotion. If you don’t have your own containers, Living Pantry sells reusable containers to get you started. The store also has products to keep your home clean and fresh, from laundry detergent and cleaning supplies to utensils made from wood, metal, and bamboo. Some of the brands offered include NO TOX LIFE, Nellie’s, Sea Witch Botanicals, and Dr. Bronner’s. Living Pantry provides an easy way to find sustainable and ethically sourced alternatives for your home and kitchen. Stop by and see for yourself. The store is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and from 12–5 p.m. on Sunday. It is closed on Tuesday. 684 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine, 360.393.4362, livingpantry.com 

Photos by Thomas Hughes

BY ALINA SIMONE

Dining Guide Taste cream cheese, white chocolate, and your choice of fresh fruit. A crêpe option for every crêpe craving. MI MEXICO Mexican 241 Telegraph Rd., Bellingham 360.647.0073, mimexicobellingham.com Mi Mexico’s reputation as one of the local favorites among Mexican food lovers is well deserved. The experience starts with a warm, friendly, professional waitstaff in an enjoyable, upbeat atmosphere. From there, Mi Mexico separates itself from the competition with a choice of traditional and non-traditional Mexican dishes, all made with the freshest of ingredients available. From your first bite of Mi Mexico’s homemade salsa to the last bite of your main entree or dessert, you will already be planning your next visit.

food truck, Sage Against the Machine has the power to convince the meatiest of meateaters that eating plant-based food can actually be enjoyable.

OTHERLANDS BEER Brewery, European 2121 Humboldt St., Bellingham 360.746.8118, otherlandsbeer.com Keeping in the theme of small European breweries, the menu features only six beers — half ales and half lagers — some of which you’re unlikely to find anywhere else. The café’s menu captures the spirit of European street fare, with dishes like pierogis and falafel. It’s food that allows you to have a couple beers with your friends and feel great. ÖVN WOOD-FIRED PIZZA Pizza 1148 10th St., Bellingham 360.393.4327, ovnwoodfiredpizza.com 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.

MYKONOS Greek 1650 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.715.3071, mykonosbellingham.com

RIFUGIO’S COUNTRY ITALIAN CUISINE

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.

5415 Mount Baker Hwy., Deming 360.592.2888, ilcafferifugio.com

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. NORTHWATER Regional NW 4260 Mitchell Way, Bellingham 360.398.6191, northh2o.com From breakfast to late night dinner, northwater’s 185-seat restaurant features a diverse menu of Pacific Northwest dishes made from locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. The restaurant’s waitstaff is personable and enthusiastic — eager to answer our questions about ingredient sources and what desserts they’d recommend.

Italian

Rifugio’s brings fine dining to the “wilderness.” Fifteen miles out on Mount Baker Highway, just past Deming, sits a funky old cafe that has been transformed into an oasis for foodies and coffee-lovers alike. Menu items befit their Italian name and the dinner menu changes weekly, begging for a second trip. A small covered deck with colorful lanterns sits adjacent to the dining room for your al fresco pleasure. Just beyond, in a meadow, sits a red deck used as a stage and centerpiece for special dinners under the stars. THE RUSTY WAGON OLD TYME FOOD CO. American

6937 Hannegan Rd., Lynden 360.354.5236, rustywagongoodeats.com The menu at The Rusty Wagon overflows with options. Breakfast is served late and has all the diner favorites, but the burgers are clearly their specialty with a large selection on both the lunch and dinner menus. Don’t miss the full bar with sports screens, top-shelf liquors, beer, and more. Beyond the catch phrases and cowboy hats, The Rusty Wagon is a familyfriendly place to grab a burger. SAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE Food truck See satm360.com for schedule and location, 360.988.1800 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

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. SCAMPI OSTERIA Italian 4832 Alderson Rd., Blaine 360.393.4415 This Italian restaurant in Birch Bay is adjacent to The C Shop, just a short stroll from the beach. Scampi’s interior is dimly lit, with soft light entering through large windows at the front and from turned-down overhead lighting. The atmosphere has a romantic and upscale feel, with wall art adding a homier touch. The food can be described in one word: incredible. The menu is wide, and includes traditional Italian meals as well as unique seafood dishes. SCOTTY BROWNS American Cuisine 3101 Newmarket St., Bellingham 360.306.8823 scottybrownsrestaurant.com Scotty Browns offers an edgy, energetic ambiance, a varied menu of mainstream and upscale creations, and excellent drink options for all ages. Outdoor dining is a popular option during warmer weather. Some items on the menu, like appetizers, change seasonally, so you know you’ll never get bored. Casual to upscale dining options range from hamburgers, rice bowls, and pastas to higher-end seafood and steaks. Just flying through? Grab a bite at their second location inside Bellingham International Airport. SKYLARK’S HIDDEN CAFE Eclectic 1308 11th St., Bellingham 360.715.3642, skylarkshiddencafe.com Skylark’s Hidden Cafe in Fairhaven is worth seeking out. From decadent breakfast items and house specialties to hearty dinner entrees, the menu at Skylark’s is varied and every bite delicious. Come for the food and stay for the jazz on select evenings.

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Taste Sip

Temperate Habits Brewing Former pharmacist opens brewery in Mount Vernon

NEW BREWERY ON THE BLOCK offers a

beautifully renovated location with expertly brewed beer to match. At the start of 2020, after spending 10 years as a pharmacist, Katie King decided to leave the profession and pursue a wildly different path. Along with her cousin, who also worked as a pharmacist, she decided to start brewing and experimenting with beer. Her passion for beer was first inspired by trips to Germany for Oktoberfest. In March of last year, King found an open property in the heart of downtown Mount Vernon that was perfect for a brewery. Despite setbacks from COVID-19, she was able to secure the building and begin construction and renovations. Temperate Habits opened with outside seating in July of 2020. The brewery is located on the corner of South 1st Street and West Gates Street in downtown Mount Vernon, close to abundant parking. The spacious building makes a great setting for a microbrewery, featuring a big bar, high ceilings, and plenty of room for indoor and outdoor seating. Charcoal paintings by King herself decorate the brewery, and a large fireplace in the middle of the indoor dining area creates a warm, homey atmosphere. On the Temperate Habits Brewery website, King says her background in chemistry plays a big part in her brewing process, as well as the brewery’s day-to-day operations. 88

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“As pharmacists, we are expected to be of ‘good moral character and temperate habits’,” she says, which is where the brewery’s name comes from. Temperate Habits offers seasonal brews and several takes on IPAs, pale ales, and more. According to King, their most popular beer has been the Oktoberfest-style Marzen, which was on the menu during the fall. The brewery switches up their offerings every month, always keeping their lineups fresh. Their IPAs are a standout among new breweries. The unnamed “number 11” is hoppy with less bitterness than most IPAs. It also happens to be King’s favorite brew. “I like West Coast style...the number 11 is my absolute favorite of our triple IPAs,” King says. Temperate Habits also offers an exciting menu featuring both classic pub fare and more eclectic dishes. Options range from chicken wings (or cauliflower wings for the veggielovers out there) to generously portioned salads. Poutine, cheeseburgers, and a curiously good PB&J burger round out the pub offerings. Temperate Habits is open every day during Phase 2 of Covid-19, with comfy outdoor seating to accommodate safe dining. They offer 16 and 12oz. pours and also have growlers and crowlers available “if you prefer to drink your beer at home in your underwear,” as King puts it. 500 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon, 360.399.7740, temperatehabitsbrewing.com 

Photo by Thomas Hughes

BY THOMAS HUGHES

Dining Guide Taste

SLO-PITCH SPORTS GRILL AND CASINO 3720 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.733.2255, slopitchcasino.com Conveniently located right on Meridian, Slo-Pitch serves up a great burger and fries. With excellent happy hour specials in a casual, sports atmosphere, Slo-Pitch is a great place to watch the game or take a midday break. SUPER MARIO’S Salvadorian 3008 Northwest Ave., Bellingham 360.393.4637, super-marios.com Serving fresh, healthy meals with the customer in mind is what Super Mario’s is all about, and it’s the consistent flavor and quality of the food that keeps bringing people back. The veggies are chopped fresh daily, nothing is frozen, nothing is cooked until it’s ordered, and nothing is deep-fried. 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. TEMPLE BAR Bistro, Bar 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.

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Taste Dining Guide

THE VAULT WINE BAR Bistro 277 G St., Blaine 360.392.0955, thevaultwine.com Incredibly fresh ingredients make this winecentric restaurant, located in a former bank building, a treat for the senses. Teller cages and desks have been replaced with a sleek marble bar top and custom-made tables. Among many other delicious menu items, the talented kitchen produces flatbread-style pizza served on thick wooden trays, which helps keep the pie hot. WAKE ‘N BAKERY American 6903 Bourne St., Glacier 360.599.1658, getsconed.com Wake ‘N Bakery is a staple rest stop along Mount Baker Highway. If you’re in need of a sweet treat and hot coffee to bring the feeling back to your numb fingers, this will fit the bill. Whether you’re traveling to or from the mountain, watch for its signs as you pass through Glacier — the cafe is about a block off the highway.

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, organically-grown, 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. CHUCKANUT MANOR Pacific Northwest

3056 Chuckanut Dr., Bow 360.766.6191, chuckanutmanor.com

SKAGIT 13MOONS AT SWINOMISH CASINO & LODGE Seafood, Steak 12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes, 360.588.3525, swinomishcasinoandlodge.com Located on the waterfront within the casino, 13moons is sure to catch your attention. The menu offers a wide variety including first plates, entree salads, seafood, and steaks. Give this go-to place for locals a try and you will be walking away satisfied. 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

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.

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

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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. 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 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 freshpicked 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.

GREAT

SALT & VINE French 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 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.

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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 glutenfree dishes and the option to make any dish gluten-free. Of course, a pub isn’t complete without beer and Trumpeter completes the dining experience with 18 taps of local and European brews.

ISLAND COUNTIES

Photo by Beau Gaughran, Big Juice Love

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.

For satisfying takeout breakfast, try Horseshoe Cafe. The Chicken Fried Chicken is a savory combo of fried chicken, hash browns, sausage gravy, eggs, and toast.

For a generously portioned salad packed with goodies, drop by Redlight Kitchen & Bar and order the Soba Salad. A mound of greens is topped with soba noodles, pickled veggies, edamame, and a perfect soft-boiled egg.

For a dash of Mexican flavor, try the Queso Nachos from Black Sheep, featuring spicy queso and a hint of sweetness from corn salsa. Enjoy this sharable plate while keeping warm by a table-top fireplace.

The Black Cat’s Signature Burger is made from a chuck and brisket mix, served on a brioche bun. Opt for the side of tempura fried green beans instead of traditional fries. The dipping sauce is pure magic.

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TASTES

Breakfast will never be the same after a meal from Homeskillet. If you’ve already tried one of their famous meat or veggie skillets, go for the Salmon Hash and Eggs.

Trying to maintain a healthy New Year’s resolution? Big Love Juice has raw organic juice that will help you get those fruits and veggies in and keep you energized all day long! The Big Love juice blend and Sundog smoothie are especially tasty.

If you’re looking for a sushi place with fresh, high-quality takeout, head straight to Fujisan Sushi. Try their Rainbow Roll, a signature spin on the classic California roll, topped with extra fish and shrimp.

For a sweet fix, grab a dozen mouthwatering Glazed Donut Holes from Lafeens Donuts near Whatcom Falls Park. Pro tip: Drop by close to closing time, when they put out fresh, warm batches for the morning.

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Taste 5 Faves

Avenue Bread With several locations around Bellingham and one in Lynden, Avenue Bread is serving up deli-cious goodness all over Whatcom County. Their celebrated sandwiches, served on their famous housemade bread, range from classics like a Reuben to unique creations like their Thanksgiving-inspired cranberry turkey sandwich.

FIVE FAVES

BellinghamAlive.com

Delis BY JULIA FURUKAWA

Photo by Dean Davidson.

Multiple locations, avenuebread.com

New Heights North

Old World Deli Old World Deli takes sandwiches and snacks to the next level. Try their Muffaletta, or a Reuben with house-made corned beef — they do the classics justice. They also boast a grocery where you can find meats, wines, and cheeses imported from Italy.

D e s i g n . Tr a n s f o r m . E n j o y. • Patios

1228 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.738.2090, oldworldbellingham.com

• Water features • Natural Stone

Gandolofo’s New York Deli

• Outdoor Kitchens

Gandolfo’s brings the Big Apple to Bellingham with specialty sandwiches like the Mama Leone, featuring ham, salami, pepperoni, provolone, and more, all served on house-made bread. Try their “World Famous” pastrami, guaranteed to transport you to the streets of NYC.

• Irrigation • Plantings • Retaining Walls • Site Work

3 6 0 . 3 0 5 . 0 6 5 5 · F O L LOW U S O N L I N E !

107 E. Stuart Rd., Bellingham, 360.922.0431, gandolfosdeli.com

The Sandwich Odyssey The Sandwich Odyssey keeps it simple and classic, and they do it well. This family-owned joint right across from Bellingham High School has been serving up hot, fresh deli sandwiches for years. Hot options, like their meatloaf sandwich, are sure to fill you up. 2001 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.738.6919, thesandwichodyssey.com

Da Vinci’s Classic Subs Da Vinci’s is known for its delicious, no-fuss subs. Customize a Philly cheesesteak or grab a meatball sub for less than $8. The deli is located inside Da Vinci’s Market, so any other snacks you want — plus wine and brews — are conveniently within reach. 1480 Electric Ave.,

• • • •

Bellingham, 360.671.7200, davincismkt.com

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Galloway’s Cocktail Bar Lavender Fields Forever Ingredients: Empress gin, Giffard Creme de Mure, housemade lavender syrup, organic lemon, egg white, butterfly pea blossom garnish $13

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. DOE BAY CAFÉ American 107 Doe Bay Rd., Olga 360.376.8059, doebay.com Whether you’re heading toward the San Juan Islands or don’t mind taking a trip for an unbelievable meal, be sure to make reservations at the ever-popular Doe Bay Café. Owners Joe and Maureen Brotherton have stuck to their mission of providing world-class seafood and vegetarian dishes. 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 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

360.756,2795, gallowayscocktail.bar THOMAS HUGHES 94

BellinghamAlive.com

$ $ $ $ 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

Photo by Thomas Hughes

ITH SPRING ON THE HORIZON, Galloway’s cocktail menu offers a fresh array of seasonal delights. The warm, floral notes of this gin cocktail are perfect for a late winter night or early spring evening. Beautifully topped with a single butterfly pea blossom, the main flavors in this botanical drink come from a mixture of blackberry liqueur, lavender syrup, and smooth Empress gin. Aside from the citrus flair of lemon and the rich texture of egg white, the prevailing taste is of the sweet and herbal lavender syrup that Allison Sutherland, the bar’s manager, actually grows herself. “We make many of our cocktail ingredients in-house: simple syrups, infused liquors, our own delicious lime cordial,” Sutherland says. Pair this bright floral cocktail with Galloway’s Charcuterie Platter, featuring a spread of delectable cheeses and savory meats. 200 10th St., Ste. 102, Bellingham,

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.

Dining Guide Taste

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. PRIMA BISTRO French 201 1/2 First St., Langley 360.221.4060, primabistro.com A quintessential South Whidbey dining experience in the heart of Langley, Prima Bistro marries gourmet French cuisine and classic Northwest ingredients. The selection of red and white wines offers options for connoisseurs of every stripe, along with a full bar. For fabulous food, elegant ambience, and world-class views, be sure to visit Prima on your next visit to Whidbey Island.

TALK

CULINARY NEWS & SPECIALS YOU NEED TO KNOW

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 Juaninspired 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.

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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.

Local. Current. RESTAURANT HAPPENINGS • RECIPES • REVIEWS • CONTESTS AND SO MUCH MORE!

VINNY’S RISTORANTE Seafood 165 West St., Friday Harbor 360.378.1934, vinnysfridayharbor.com Ciao! Vinny’s welcomes diners to their Friday Harbor Ristorante, mirroring the feel of this warm Italian restaurant. Dishes change monthly and reflect the desire to serve simple, gourmet Pacific Northwest seafood and modern comfort Italian. As well as a good selection of pastas, Vinny’s has seafood and meat entrees, many of them traditional favorites. The cocktail list includes the classics, along with some fun offerings.

Our local restaurants need your support more than ever. Lets all do our part by ordering take out and dining in when available. It’s up to us to make sure these valuable community members are here to serve us for years to come.

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Notes Lasting Image

“There are always flowers for those who want to see them.” HENRI MATISSE

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.

BellinghamAlive.com

An analog soul in a digital body. Electricity gets a dose of pure sports car soul. Introducing the all-electric Taycan. An 800-volt system architecture that delivers 522 hp. Packed with technology that connects car and driver like never before. Iconic Porsche design DNA in every detail. It’s how a sports car should feel.

Experience true electrified performance. The Taycan 4S.

Porsche Bellingham 2200 Iowa Street Bellingham, WA 98229 Tel: (360) 734-5230 www.porschebellingham.com ©2021 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.

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