Bellingham Alive November/December 2021

12Turkey

Leftovers

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 DISPLAY UNTIL DECEMBER 31 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

Fall-to-Winter Fashion

Holiday Gift Guide

Faces of the North Sound

A feeling first.

A power source second.

Introducing the newest all-electric Taycan. A performance battery that lets you drive the way a Porsche should be driven. Iconic Porsche design DNA apparent in every detail. An interior that is timeless yet light years ahead. Once you feel it, you won’t want to let go.

Experience the Porsche Taycan.

Starting at $82,700.*

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. *Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price. Excludes tax; title; registration; delivery, processing and handling fee; dealer charges. Dealer sets actual selling price. Pricing does not include $7,500 US federal tax credit. Model shown contains options not included in MSRP including Frozen Berry Metallic, Exterior Mirror Lower Trim in Exterior Color and Base in High Gloss Black Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, 21” Taycan Exclusive Design Wheels Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, Wheels Painted in Jet Black Metallic Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, Fixed Panoramic Roof in Glass, Night Vision Assist, Surround View, Air Suspension and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).

SLOT TICKETS • GIFT CARDS • CASH

$40,000 SATURDAYS, November 13, 20 & 27

Drawings

4PM - 9PM

theskagit.com • On I-5 at Exit 236 • 877-275-2448 Details at Rewards be awith Rewards Member. all rights.

Must Club. be 21 Must or older validCard ID. Details at Management Rewards Club.reserves Management reserves all rights.

CASINO•RESORT

©2021 Upper Skagit Indian Tribe dba Skagit Valley Casino Resort.

Contents

58

Leftover Turkey Creations A fridge full of post-holiday leftovers can be a blessing or a curse depending on your perspective. If the thought of a week’s worth of turkey sandwiches ruins your appetite, worry not — there’s more than one way to give life to your leftovers. We’ve dreamed up a list of turkey recipes that’s sure to keep your palate entertained into the new year and beyond.

As for the rest of the holiday meal, we also have a few thoughts on how to keep things such as sauces and sweet potatoes from ending up shoved to the back of the fridge (again).

Cranberry sauce cosmopolitans, anyone?

2

BellinghamAlive.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 STYLE

16

Heard Around the Sound

Creative Hope Studios

TASTE 94

40

Review Cob + Cork

Styled Shoot Fall-to-Winter Fashion

Toys for Tots Hotel Bellwether Rick Steves Visits

Whatcom County Christmas Gift Q&A Monthly Giveaway

96

Courtesy of Hannah Wong

Community Phoebe Wahl & Co.

19

Book Notes Reviews and Events

19 This Month in Bellinghistory 20

Your Winter Wonderland Bucket List

24 Game Changer

Distinctive Voice Consulting 26

Spotlight Rebecca Meloy

27

Apps We Love

30

5 Faves Gluten-Free Goodies

32

Community MMIW Washington

36

Top Picks

Community Fidalgo Fudge Co.

Photo by Cocoa Laney

18

44

Local Find Cute but Crazy Socks

46

Fashion Q&A Tides of Anacortes

48

Local Find Red Barn Holiday Market

Dining Guide

98

Local Find Yeah Baby Boards

99

Drink Drops

100 Sip Spirit Infusions 100 Sip Holiday Cocktails 101 Recipe Pumpkin Tea Cake 102 Sip Holiday Wines 105 8 Great Tastes

SPECIAL ADVERTISING 51

97

Photo by Katheryn Moran Photography

LIFE

106 Local Find

Acme Farms + Kitchen

Holiday Shopping Guide

109 Local Find

Spring Creek

Heritage Farms 110 Mixing Tin Miss Me Yet

HOME

NOTES

74

Featured Home Holiday Inspiration for Your Home

78

Local Find The Orderly Space

82

Remodel Tac Tile Company

84

Necessities Elegant Ornament Ideas

88

Inspiration Key Spots for Holiday Decorating

4

Online Exclusive Fireside Martini & Wine Bar

6

Editor’s Letter

8

Contributors

11

Letters to the Editor

12

Meet the Team Cocoa Laney

112

Lasting Image

November/December 2021 3

Notes What’s Online

Online Exclusive

Photo by Pat McDonnell

INSTAGRAM

FIRESIDE MARTINI & WINE BAR Fireside Martini & Wine Bar is everything a martini bar should be. With a small staff and loyal customer base, owners JD and Becky Merris continue the Fireside tradition of making their bar a community hub. The menu includes a large variety of classic cocktails and martinis as well as dips, soups, salads, and house-made naan flatbreads. Many menu items are made from scratch, and the Merrises recently started a rooftop garden for a supply of fresh ingredients. Located on Bakerview Road, Fireside is a great place to get comfy, sip a martini, and listen to live music.

See more at BellinghamAlive.com.

Bars were hit hard during the pandemic, so we’re here to celebrate a whole year’s worth of local cocktails and their creators.

There’s a drink for every month, every season, and every occasion. All you have to do is step out, order up, and drink down. Cheers!

Read more about our featured local drinks and bartenders in the full article; written by @beckymandelbaum, @anelysem, @ jayaflanary, and @toastybeverage, Feature Photo by @ways_of_tonino.

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.

“I set out to design linens that were luxurious, but that could also perform, didn’t need ironing, could get through the rigors of industrial laundry,” says Richardson.

Read more about @comphyco in the full article, written by @toastybeverage, Photos Courtesy of Comphy Sheets.

BE IN THE KNOW Sign up for our free entertainment e-newsletter to get the latest on upcoming events and more! bellinghamalive.com 4

BellinghamAlive.com

Follow Us

Thanksgiving Day is On The Way

It will be time to cook a feast for family and friends before you know it. Are your appliances ready for it? Quality products, excellent customer service, and convenience are the main ingredients in our recipe for your Judd & Black experience. Let us help you prepare for the holidays.

Notes Editor’s Letter

Allergies, Holidays, and (Not-SoTasteless) Turkey

M

Y FAMILY IS NOT EXACTLY

renowned for their culinary expertise. The idea of holidays in Alabama might conjure up thoughts of old-fashioned Southern cooking, but for us, special meals consisted of preroasted turkey and frozen dinner rolls.

For added pizzazz, we had canned corn or green beans stewed over the tiny range in my grandmother’s condo. It was every bit as depressing as it sounds.

Combine this menu with my list of bizarre (and life-threatening) food allergies and you have a recipe for a very depressing holiday dinner. Allergies were uncommon when I was growing up, and as a result, it never occurred to any of us that it was possible to cook around them. For example, baking without eggs may be a cinch in 2021, but in the ‘90s it was an unthinkable

6

BellinghamAlive.com

task. All of the fun menu items were off-limits for me: Pecan pie, mashed potatoes, casseroles, Christmas cookies, even gravy.

My allergy-safe Thanksgiving plate usually involved floppy canned veggies, a smattering of Ocean Spray cranberry sauce, dry turkey, and Mom’s chocolate pie. This “pie” was essentially just melted Hershey bars poured into a graham cracker crust, so like any child with a voracious sweet tooth, I ate it with gusto. The turkey, however, was flavorless and unappetizing. To make matters worse, I was given an overly generous helping of it as a (misguided) consolation prize. Cleaning my plate felt like a punishment, and Thanksgiving dinner would be a dreaded occasion for years to come.

I did eventually learn to cook for myself, mostly out of necessity — and, if we’re being honest, also out of spite.

Now I can work around my allergies for most any dish, so experimentation is encouraged and frequently rewarded.

Cooking is approached as a challenge rather than a punishment. As a result, I’m happy to report that current holiday meals are the polar opposite of the tasteless fare of my childhood.

Another lesson I’ve learned from years of ho-hum dinners is that food is so much more than fuel. My parents’ busy schedules (and cooking aversions) meant that we never once had sit-down family dinners at home, but countless wonderful memories have taken place over meals since then. Easter lunches that carried on into the night, sunset picnics in the Chuckanuts, pancakes from scratch on sleepy Saturday mornings… the list goes on. Food can represent so many things: Togetherness, culture, hospitality, even love.

My current philosophy is that finishing a meal should never be a chore — especially during the holidays — and even the saddest of leftovers can be jazzed up into something special. I’ve eaten enough depressing meals in my lifetime. Why settle for anything less than mouthwatering? During November, December, and beyond, any old dinner can be an excuse to eat well and savor good company.

Our holiday feature this year is all about ways to give leftovers a new life.

These are the kinds of recipes I wish I’d had growing up; with a little extra love, even my family’s barely-edible turkey could have been transformed.

Whether you follow one of our recipes to the letter or use it as a starting point for your own experimentation, we hope you’ll find some inspiration in our offerings.

Turkey may take center stage in this issue, but feel free to substitute the bird with any protein you have on hand. Even vegan substitutes will do! After all, the point is to choose your own adventure and create a meal worth looking forward to. Happy holidays and bon appetit from me and the entire staff here at Bellingham Alive… as always, we’re thankful for each and every one of you.

Warmly,

COCOA LANEY Editor In Chief

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

MEDICAL AESTHETICS

RejuvenationMD® Dr. Tianna Tsitsis Dr. Kerry Day-Krusniak Dr. Monira Vakil 360.982.2620, Burlington 360.685.8408, Bellingham rejuvenationmdmedspa.com

“The face (and body) we care about most is yours.” — Dr. T. Board-certified Dr. Tianna Tsitsis, founder of RejuvenationMD, envisioned a medical aesthetics practice that was dedicated to delivering a superior, patient-first experience. Since 2014, she has built a team of three accomplished physicians, as well as nurse practitioners, nurse injectors, and master estheticians who specialize in over 50 non-surgical, aesthetic solutions centered around facial rejuvenation, body contouring and sexual wellness. RejuvenationMD was an early adopter of Platlet-Rich Plasma Therapy, the first to bring diVa® Laser Vaginal Therapy to Washington State, and has earned a spot in Allergan’s top 1% of providers in the U.S. There’s a reason RejuvenationMD has been voted Best of the Northwest 7 years in a row!

Notes Contributors Pacific Northwest Opera

Arlené Mantha Third-generation baker, and professionally trained pastry chef from Los Angeles, Arlené has taught classes for Bellingham Alive’s “Meet The Chef” series as well as the Bellingham Gluten Information Group. She is the owner of West Coast Nest, a cleaning and lifestyle company located in Bellingham.  p. 101

October 29 & 31 November 5 & 7

Kolby LaBree

Four Guitars I November 19

Kolby LaBree is owner/operator of Bellinghistory Tours with the Good Time Girls, purveyors of guided walking tours and other historical edutainment in Bellingham since 2011. The Good Time Girls are available year-round for private tours and virtual events. See Bellinghistory.com for current offerings!  p. 19

Dan Radil

Golden Dragon Acrobats I January 22

Dan is a lifetime resident of Washington who took an interest in the state’s wine industry in the mid-1980s. A freelance wine writer and educator for the past 20 years, he and his spouse, Zacchoreli, make a habit of enjoying great food and Northwest wines both at home and on the road. His free time often centers around the yard and garden, volunteer work for the Whatcom Beer & Wine Foundation, and following his beloved Washington State University Cougars.  p. 102

Mariachi Herencia de Mexico I February 6

Mary Kinser

KUINKA I April 1

mcintyrehall.org 360.416.7727

On the Mount Vernon Campus of Skagit Valley College 2 5 0 1 E C o l l e g e Wa y, M o u n t Ve r n o n

8

BellinghamAlive.com

Growing up in Washington state, Mary learned early on that rainy days provided the perfect excuse to curl up with a good story. Mary is now a collection development librarian for Whatcom County Library System, where she gets to spend her days spreading the joy of reading. In her free time, she enjoys travel, board games, long walks, and baking delicious treats. She and her husband share their home with one son, one cat, and far too many books.  p. 19

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

HOTELS

The Inn at Lynden 100 5th St., Lynden 360.746.8597 innatlynden.com

What makes a good team member? They understand their role. They hold themselves accountable. They embrace collaboration. They are flexible. They are committed to their team. They are optimistic and future focused. They are action oriented. They are kind.

Our team members at the Inn at Lynden have all of these qualities. We are blessed with this group of unique individuals and everything they bring to our organization. We salute them, we thank them and we applaud them! If you haven’t already, make plans soon for an overnight stay to meet these fabulous folks in person and experience our Historic Hospitality.

Pictured: Ashley, David, Jerri, Jhai, Kath, Maricel, and Maria.

Not pictured: Kristina, Michelle, Steve, and Tomas.

PUBLICATIONS Bellingham Alive NSL Guestbook Welcome Newcomers Guide

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Lisa Karlberg

EDITOR IN CHIEF Cocoa Laney

ART DIRECTOR Dean Davidson

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Devan Ballard | Kristy Gessner Mia Sperandeo

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Mariah Currey

EDITORIAL/MARKETING COORDINATORS Baylee Fike | Anelyse Morris

CONTRIBUTORS Mary Kinser | Usanee Klimo Kolby LaBree | Arlené Mantha Spencer Moore | Amy Popelka | Dan Radil Ikaika Thomas

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Ian Ferguson | Jaya Flanary

PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT Tony Mueantonthian

OFFICE MANAGEMENT Jenn Miranda

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

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

10

BellinghamAlive.com

Letters to the Editor Notes

I enjoy saving old magazines and recipes and while going through my pile I realized almost all of them were Bellingham Alives! Love your beautiful magazine. Thank you!

357

— Barb C., Bellingham

READER’S CHOICE AWARDS

Just dropping in to say the BONW issue is beautiful!!! I love the design, and there are so many clever editor’s picks. Congrats everyone!!! And yay, Cocoa, on your first BONW!

WINNERS

Best of the Northwest

OCTOBER 2021 DISPLAY UNTIL OCTOBER 31 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

2021

We just received your October issue.

Beautiful!

— Tanna E., Yakima October is always my favorite issue.

I love how your readers vote for the businesses throughout the area. I always find new treasures that I had no clue about. I really like that you started adding the editor picks, they are fun and different. Keep up the great work, I’ve been a subscriber for 8 years and haven’t missed an issue!!

— Becky M., Bellingham — Jennifer K., Bellingham

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.

Correction: Our October edition incorrectly swapped two photo credits for images representing Pozie by Natalie in Best of the Northwest. The image on page 71 should be credited to Blue Umbrella Photography, while the image on page 96 should be credited to Pearl Photography by Elena. We apologize for this error.

November/December 2021 11

Notes Meet the Team

Photo by Lina Bell

OVER 25 YEARS OF REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE

RESULTS MATTER. EXPERIENCE COUNTS.

NATE KENOYER

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

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

I am the editor in chief at Bellingham Alive, and I’ve been with K&L Media since July of 2021.

What is your background?

Have us Home for the Holidays!

Thanksgiving Hanukkah Christmas Private Celebrations and more...

I got my professional start as a freelance portrait photographer, and I have an MFA in photography as well as an MA in photojournalism.

Photography and writing go hand in hand for me, so several of my personal projects have ended up as photo books. I grew up in Alabama and lived in Florida, Italy, and the U.K. before life brought me to Bellingham. Most recently, I was on a short-term contract as a digital editor with the World Health Organization’s emergency communications team in early 2021 before starting at K&L Media.

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

The magazine gives people an opportunity to share their story, and I’m honored to be a part of making that happen. It’s extremely rewarding to connect with so many interesting individuals and learn more about what makes this community special.

I also get to wear a lot of hats! On a given day, I might be researching stories to assign, writing or editing articles, conducting interviews, or even helping with photography. The job is a great combination of my various skill sets.

What are some of your hobbies?

I was constantly traveling in pre-COVID times; now, I spend a lot of time hiking locally or hanging out in nature. I love to read, and the book that I always come back to is “A Field Guide to Getting Lost”

by Rebecca Solnit. I also speak fluent Italian and try to maintain it through books, music, and Zoom calls. Honestly, I’m probably at my happiest cooking a good meal with my boyfriend (preferably tacos with homemade tortillas) or snuggling Micia, my chubby rescue cat. 

www.cravecatering.net (360) 223-4900 12

BellinghamAlive.com

Give a Gift!

Subscribe - Bellingham Alive FOR YOU

AS A GIFT

Name

Name

Address

Address

City

Buy one subscription,

GET ONE FREE!

ST

ZIP

City

Email

Email

Phone

Phone

1 YEAR $25 (10 issues)

ST

ZIP

2 YEAR $48 (20 issues)

Opt in to weekly MENU TALK and promotional e-blast

Subscribe - Bellingham Alive

International Eats

FOR YOU

AS A GIFT

Name

Name

Address

Address

MENUS FEBRUARY 2020

VALENTINE’S DAY, AM TO PM

DISPLAY UNTIL FEBRUARY 29 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

DREAM EN SUITE BELLINGHAM COCKTAIL WEEK

2002_BA_1_Cover.indd 1

1/14/20 2:13 PM

City 357

ST

ZIP

City

Email

Email

Phone

Phone

ST

ZIP

WINNERS READER’S CHOICE AWARDS

Best of the Northwest

1 YEAR $25 (10 issues)

2021

OCTOBER 2021 DISPLAY UNTIL OCTOBER 31 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

2110_BA_1_Cover.indd 1

2 YEAR $48 (20 issues)

Opt in to weekly MENU TALK and promotional e-blast

9/14/2021 2:44:07 PM

Subscribe - Bellingham Alive Interior Design Trends AUGUST 2021 DISPLAY UNTIL AUGUST 31 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

2108_BA_1_Cover.indd 1

Meet Our Pros To Know

Get Inspired with Jojotastic

FOR YOU

AS A GIFT

Name

Name

Address

Address

Salted Grape Bistro

7/13/2021 12:53:38 PM

*Canadian Addresses Exempt

Mail in one of the cards to the right, call us at 360.483.4576 x4, or go to bellinghamalive.com

City

ST

ZIP

City

Email

Email

Phone

Phone

1 YEAR $25 (10 issues)

ST

ZIP

2 YEAR $48 (20 issues)

Opt in to weekly MENU TALK and promotional e-blast

Give a Gift!

BELLINGHAM ALIVE 432 W. BAKERVIEW RD. STE 101 BELLINGHAM, WA 98226

Buy one subscription,

GET ONE FREE!

Home & Remodel

MARCH 2020 DISPLAY UNTIL MARCH 31 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

FEATURED HOMES CREATING SPACES NATURE’S INSPIRATION

2003_BA_1_Cover3.indd 1

2/11/20 3:37 PM

BELLINGHAM ALIVE 432 W. BAKERVIEW RD. STE 101 BELLINGHAM, WA 98226

International Eats MENUS FEBRUARY 2020 DISPLAY UNTIL FEBRUARY 29 $3.99 US • $4.99 CAN

VALENTINE’S DAY, AM TO PM DREAM EN SUITE BELLINGHAM COCKTAIL WEEK

2002_BA_1_Cover.indd 1

1/14/20 2:13 PM

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

BELLINGHAM ALIVE 432 W. BAKERVIEW RD. STE 101 BELLINGHAM, WA 98226

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

2009_BA_1_Cover.indd 1

8/11/20 2:43 PM

*Canadian Addresses Exempt

Mail in one of the cards to the left, call us at 360.483.4576 x4, or go to bellinghamalive.com

Community: Phoebe Wahl & Co. 18 Spotlight: Rebecca Meloy 26

Courtesy of Nutcracker Holiday Gift Show

Five Faves: Gluten-Free Goodies 30

Life

Winter Wonderland Bucket List

20

November/December 2021 15

Life Heard Around the Sound

Bringing Christmas Cheer to Every Child

Art for All at Creative Hope Studios

I

F YOU’VE EVER DRIVEN

through the York neighborhood, perhaps you’ve spotted an old purple church and wondered what’s inside. The answer is just as whimsical as you might expect: It’s home to Creative Hope, a community art studio. Instead of pews and pulpits, the sanctuary now houses canvases and painting supplies, but old stained glass windows still flood the space with a natural glow.

Owner Nicole Mann has a background as an art teacher and is working on a masters degree in counseling and art therapy. Her goal is to make the studio space inclusive to all identities, and she believes everyone has the ability to be creative. The magic is in the process, not the outcome, so playfulness and self-expression are encouraged.

What’s the best Christmas gift you’ve ever received?

16

BellinghamAlive.com

“It’s the perfect place to try something new because it’s a judgement-free space and a beginner-friendly space,” says Mann. “There are so many mediums to choose from and it’s really accessible.”

In addition to hosting children’s classes, Mann also holds private sessions for individuals and groups.

Visitors to the studio are welcome to explore mediums such drawing, paint, clay, fiber arts, mixed media, sculpture, poetry, and movement.

The studio also hosts monthly workshops — or “play shops’’ — with artists in the community, and information about upcoming events can be found online at creativehope. studio. Regardless of age or experience, Creative Hope offers something for everyone.

COCOA LANEY

Photo by Cocoa Laney

A

into full swing, it’s time to consider making a donation to the Bellingham and Whatcom County Toys for Tots program.

The charity makes Christmas morning magical by providing toys to thousands of families in need.

More than 100 local businesses will be volunteering as collection sites during the 2021 campaign. Community members hoping to get involved can bring new, unwrapped toys to locations such as Yeager’s Sporting Goods, Fred Meyer, and Haggen.

According to Wes Weston, coordinator of Bellingham and Whatcom County Toys for Tots, COVID-19 necessitated a change in procedure for 2020 and 2021. Prior to the pandemic, toys were distributed through a public-facing site, and participating families could pre-register to visit it in person.

“With COVID, we now work exclusively through public and private support organizations to identify the families in need and then provide them with the toys for their distribution to the families they support,” explains Weston.

Despite a complicated year, Bellingham and Whatcom County Toys for Tots collected 8,983 toys for 3,911 children in 2020. Nationally, the Marine Toys for Tots Program is the most successful non-profit toy donation program in the U.S., having distributed 604 million toys since its inception in 1947.

“We understand that when families are in financial stress, a toy may become a discretionary item after the bills for sheltering, food, medical and fuel,” Weston says. “We genuinely hope to relieve that stress by providing the family in need with quality toys.”

Toy collection runs through Dec. 15.

For more information and a complete list of partner agencies, visit bellingham-wa. toysfortots.org. COCOA LANEY

A guitar from my grandpa, who was a musician and passed away in 2011. It was more than a material gift. I learned how to connect with an instrument and channel my emotions into songwriting.

EVE C., BELLINGHAM

S CHRISTMAS SHOPPING kicks

In my early twenties, the person who first taught me to cook gave me a wooden cutting board. He made it himself and even engraved it with my name. COCOA L., BELLINGHAM

ENTER-TO-WIN Monthly Giveaway

E

ACH MONTH, we give you the opportunity to win a

The Black Cat

A

S CHRISTMAS DRAWS CLOSER, Hotel Bellwether is busy preparing its 10th annual Holiday Tree Lighting Event. Its halls will once again become a festive forest of glimmering trees, and community members of all ages are welcome to stop by for an extra dose of holiday cheer.

Of course, the Holiday Tree Lighting Event is far more than a fun way to celebrate the season. It’s also a fundraiser benefiting Skookum Kids, a facility for children entering into the foster care system. Skookum Kids is entirely volunteerstaffed, and their efforts provide caseworkers with time needed to match kids with ideal long-term placements. “​​Every year this event brings important funds and attention to the work of foster care,” says Gina Russell, operations manager at Skookum Kids. “So many kids need a safe place to spend the holidays, and support from events like this make certain their time with us is safe and fun!”

Every tree will be expertly decorated by a different local business, and visitors can even vote for their favorite display by making a donation of clothing or money.

Brigadoon Service Dogs took home first place in last year’s event. In addition, $7,584.50 was raised thanks to community participation.

Casting your vote will automatically enter you to win a night in Hotel Bellwether’s Lighthouse Suite. If you’d like to join in on the festivities, remember that voting ends on Dec. 31! COCOA LANEY

$50

7 Spice Cafe

December

A Decade of Festivities at Hotel Bellwether

$50

November

Courtesy of Hotel Bellwether

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 are the Enter-To-Win prizes for November and December.

Travel Writer Rick Steves Visits Whatcom County

F

OR MORE THAN 20 YEARS, Rick Steves has been

travelling to Europe to explore the wonder of its architecture, food, and people. This year, he elected to discover a place a bit closer to his home here in Washington state. Join along for a three-part video series with Steves as he tours the best of Bellingham and Whatcom County.

In episode one, Steves takes a deep dive into the rich farm-to-bottle culture of our breweries, cider houses, and distilleries. Then, he heads north to visit the Peace Arch Park and the city of Blaine, where he tastes some of the freshest oysters one can ask for. Finally, watch him learn about the roots of arts and culture in Whatcom County in episode three. To see all episodes with Steves, visit bellingham.org/RickSteves. IAN FERGUSON

Puppies! My grandparents went on a walk Christmas morning and found a litter of puppies at the park that followed them back home. We got to play with them all morning before bringing them to a shelter! BRIANA D.,

After moving from Ohio to Washington right before the holidays, I was missing my parents more than expected. They wrote me handwritten letters expressing how proud they were that I was chasing my dreams.

BELLINGHAM

BAYLEE F., BELLINGHAM

My favorite Christmas gift was a 1918 Griswold cast iron skillet because I use it every day and one day it will become a gift for someone else. ALEX P., BELLINGHAM

November/December 2021 17

Life Community

A Whimsical Addition to the Arts District Phoebe Wahl & Co. WRITTEN BY BAYLEE FIKE PHOTOS COURTESY OF HANNAH WONG

B

ELOVED ILLUSTRATOR Phoebe Wahl has opened a new brick-and-mortar retail shop in the heart of the Bellingham Arts District. Now residing within Bison Bookbinding & Letterpress, the gift shop is home to her collections of prints, home decor, and her own illustrated children’s books.

Wahl’s first location, Phoebe Bird, closed in March of 2020 due to the pandemic. This new location is unique because its roommate company, Bison, now prints her designs in-house.

When you enter the store, you’re greeted with a bloom of color and whimsy. You feel as though you stepped right into one of Wahl’s illustrations.

“Having a storefront has been such a fun way to bring people into the world of my illustrations and see my products, and those from other makers and brands that feel complimentary to my own, interact in a physical space,” Wahl says. “Witnessing people’s joy upon finding a card or object they feel seen, excited, or inspired by will never get old.”

On top of the new store, Wahl has a new book titled “Little Witch Hazel” that launched in September. Along with its release, the store will be exclusively selling “Little Witch Hazel” merchandise, and all copies purchased from the store are signed by Wahl.

To make your visit a little more special, Wahl is usually in store on Fridays between noon and 2 p.m. 112 Grand Ave., Ste. 101, Bellingham, 360.525.3627, phoebewahl.shop  18

BellinghamAlive.com

Book Notes Life

Literary Events

Book Reviews WRITTEN BY MARY KINSER

November 4, 10 a.m.

Becoming a Published Author

IT’S 2019 IN MINNEAPOLIS, and Tookie is

The Sentence

by Louise Erdrich

These Precious Days: Essays

by Ann Patchett

haunted — by her past (prison tends to stay with you), but also by the spirit of an annoying customer.

A hanger-on in life, grasping at a tenuous connection to the indigenous community, Flora has lodged herself in the bookstore and refuses to be ignored.

Tookie attempts to help Flora move on, or at least understand why she’s staying, but resolution proves elusive. Eventually the problem bleeds over into Tookie’s home life, even as the pandemic and protests in the wake of George Floyd’s murder grip the city.

Fresh from her Pulitzer Prize win for “The Night Watchman,” Louise Erdrich once again proves her skill as she delivers a timely story of hauntings that is by turns hilarious and searing. Longtime fans will appreciate the autobiographical nods, especially the setting (Erdrich’s indie bookstore Birchbark Books).

Clear your calendars for this unique and revelatory book, sure to be one of fall’s best.

DEATH IS COMING for Ann Patchett. Well, it’s coming for all of us. But as Patchett describes in “Essays Don’t Die,” for her, mortality looms largest as she’s writing a novel, when an untimely death means an unfinished story. Consequently, in 2020 she focused on writing essays, and readers are all the richer for it. Peppered with pieces about Paris, a no-shopping year, and the literary influence of Snoopy, the book offers plenty of light moments.

It also gets intensely personal, as when Patchett discusses her decision not to have children, or the way Tom Hanks’ book led to one of her most meaningful friendships. In “My Three Fathers,” the author pulls back the curtain even further, revealing the pivotal role of these three men in her development as a writer. Like all the best collections, “These Precious Days” reveals itself slowly, offering gems to both savor now and return to again and again.

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

Join Village Books’ former director Rachel Johnson and current director Chelanne Evans for a crash course in how to publish a completed manuscript. The class is part of Chuckanut Writers, a writing instruction collaboration

by Village Books and WCC Community and Continuing Education.

November 20, 2 p.m.

How Raven Stole the Sun

Virtual — Whatcom County Library wcls.org

Join Joshua Olsen, a Nooksack tribal member who works at the Deming Library, for an interactive reading of Tlingit author Maria William’s book, “How Raven Stole the Sun.” Children are also invited to stay after the reading to create paper boxes and characters from the story. All that’s required are scissors, tape, art supplies such as crayons or colored pencils, and a few printouts (either printed at home or picked up at the library).

November – December

Annual Giving Tree

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

Over the past 20 years, Village Books has collaborated with local organizations to donate books to thousands of local children and families.

This year they are at it again with their Giving Tree program. Help continue the tradition of giving the gift of reading to kids around the community by picking a book to purchase for donation.

This Month in Bellinghistory Kolby LaBree of Bellinghistory Tours with the Good Time Girls Nov. 11, 1918

Nov. 24, 1914

Nov. 30, 1938

Dec. 28, 1903

At 1:10 a.m. the deeptoned whistle of the Bloedel Donovan Lumber Mill, Big Ole, announced to the sleeping people of Bellingham that the war was over.

BFD mascot, “Pete the Ant Bear” (an anteater), escaped and caused mayhem when he ran down Prospect Street.

Other Fire Department mascots included two actual bears and a coyote.

The city said goodbye to its streetcars, which were officially retired and replaced by motor coaches (buses).

A requiem was given to the cities of Fairhaven and Whatcom as the bell in the top of the city hall “slowly tolled the knell.” Bells all over town joined in to celebrate the birth of a new town: Bellingham.

November/December 2021 19

Life Seasonal Fun

Your Winter Wonderland Bucket List WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY

I

F YOUR WINTER AGENDA could use some inspiration,

you’re in luck — there’s plenty of festive fun to be had in Bellingham and beyond. As the holidays draw closer, here’s a peek at our 2021 to-do list.

Chop Your Own Christmas Tree The scent of a fresh Christmas tree can make any room feel cozier. Luckily there’s no shortage of Christmas tree farms in the area — and, if you’re feeling up to it, you can even chop the tree yourself.

In Whatcom County, Fullner Christmas Tree Farm has been around since 1958 and is owned and operated by the Fullner family to this day. Alpine Meadows Christmas Tree Farm offers a large variety of trees ranging from firs to cedars and even “Charlie Brown’’ trees (priced at just $10 with the purchase of a full-sized tree).

In Skagit, McLean Christmas Tree Farm has 12 acres of trees plus farm animals such as geese, chicken, and donkeys that visitors can hang out with. Laue’s Christmas Tree Farm doubles as an event venue, and its sprawling grounds make a stunning backdrop for weddings and other special occasions.

Celebrate a Snow Day

Padden Polar Bear Dip

20

BellinghamAlive.com

Photo by Jim Williams

Snow days in Bellingham are a rare form of winter magic, so when they do occur, it’s practically required to get outside and play. Your first order of business: Break out last summer’s inner tube or buy a sled from Yeager’s Sporting Goods.

Squalicum Creek Park is a classic snow day spot, with plenty of space for snowball fights and abundant hills to sled down. Alternatively, Fairhaven Park is a great destination for small but mighty sledding hills. Even if it’s a snow day, don’t rule out going to school! There are great hills to be found around Lynden Middle School and Western Washington University.

If it’s not snowing in town, head to the alpine instead.

On Highway 542, just before the Mount Baker ski area,

Chop Your Own Christmas Tree

Picture Lake and Highwood Lake create natural snowy bowls that look as though they were made just for sledding.

Get Your Adrenaline Fix Outdoors Some prefer to stay warm with a roaring fire and a cup of eggnog, but others prefer to face the winter chills head-on.

If you’re one of the brave souls in the latter category, the Padden Polar Dip might be up your alley. Jump into the (most likely frigid) waters of Lake Padden and be rewarded with snacks, good company, and a hot shower. Birch Bay folks can also get in on the action at the 39th annual Birch Bay Polar Bear Plunge.

If you’re looking for a slightly less extreme way to get moving outside when the temperature drops, the Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Run, taking place this year on Dec. 11, should be on your agenda. You can sign up for a 5K run/ walk, a one-mile run, or even a dog trot. You’ll still get the adrenaline — just without the frostbite.

If one fun run isn’t enough, there’s also the Santa 5K at Cordata on Dec.19. Each participant will receive a Santa hat, and all ages are welcome to join in.

There are always fun hikes to be had in the winter, especially in the Chuckanut Mountains. Raptor Ridge,

Courtesy of Allied Arts of Whatcom County

Holiday Festival of the Arts

Valley Made Market photo by Emma Fox, SIG Photography

Lost Lake, and Oyster Dome are classics for a reason, and the views are just as spectacular in November as they are in July.

For something less strenuous, Padilla Bay in Skagit is a personal favorite for both walking and running, and it’s family friendly, too. Mount Baker might be covered up with snow, but you can still take in breathtaking views of the mountain by hiking to Lummi Peak at Mount Baker Preserve.

Local Gifts to Love

Valley Made Market

Nutcracker Holiday Gift Show: Isola Handmade Originals

Courtesy of Nutcracker Holiday Gift Show

Allied Arts of Whatcom County is bringing back its annual Holiday Festival of the Arts from Nov. 19–Dec. 24. You can expect live music, workshops for children, demonstrations, and of course more than 100 local artisans.

At the Assistance League’s annual Yule Boutique, taking place on Nov. 6, visitors can expect a large assortment of handcrafted gifts and baked goods (including a 15-foot-long table piled high with cookies, candies, and cakes). Better yet, the proceeds help fund community programs that positively benefit the lives of children and adults in Whatcom County.

Skagit locals can shop for handmade goods at the holiday edition of Mount Vernon’s monthly Valley Made Market, occurring Dec. 11–12 at Christianson’s Vinery. In Anacortes, the Nutcracker Holiday Gift Show takes place from Nov. 11–14 at the Depot Arts Center. It’s the place to go for holiday decor, jewelry, accessories, knitwear, and more. You’re sure to find something for everyone on your shopping list.

To support local businesses, consider purchasing a Think Local First eGift card for your loved ones this year. It’s valid at a wide array of Whatcom County shops, restaurants, bars, and more. To find out more, head to sustainableconnections. org for a list of participating vendors.

Lastly, have you ever opened a Christmas cracker? These quintessentially British novelties pop open to reveal a festive surprise, and you can buy them locally from Olde English Crackers. In addition to making excellent stocking stuffers or table favors, Christmas crackers can be purchased in bulk for weddings and events.

November/December 2021 21

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Life Seasonal Fun

Mayan Hot Chocolate from Caffe Adagio

Enjoy a Cup of Cheer If you like your sugar with a bit of spice, the Mayan Hot Chocolate from Caffe Adagio just might be your new go-to winter treat. It combines rich cocoa with warming spices plus a pinch of heat thanks to the addition of chili.

For something truly decadent, Chocolate Necessities offers Italianstyle sipping chocolate, and it’s an experience akin to drinking a candy bar. Try it once and you’ll never settle for a watery cocoa mix again.

Mulled wine might be a holiday standby, but hot spiced mead is an equally effective remedy for the winter chills. Try some for yourself at Honey Moon in Bellingham. Their version is made with cinnamon, cardamom, star anise, pepper, and other goodies for a unique spin on a Christmastime classic.

In Skagit, Garden Path Fermentation is known for offering libations that are truly special. Start with a cup of their warm spiced cider, and if you’re still thirsty after, we suggest following it up with a sip of Frederiksdal Cherry Wine. The menu purports that this rich, world-class Danish fruit wine will change your life, so you should put that claim to the test.

22

BellinghamAlive.com

If you’d prefer to imbibe in the warmth of your own home, pick up a bottle of Krampus, a spiced herbal liqueur released seasonally

by Chuckanut Distillery. Named after the European “anti-Santa,” this spirit is bottled at 110 proof and is slightly more naughty than nice.

For a drink the whole family can enjoy, Twin Brooks Creamery in Lynden offers seasonal eggnog. We have a hunch that it’s best enjoyed while huddled around the glow of a roaring fireplace.

Look at the Lights Does anywhere do Christmas cheer better than Fairhaven? The annual Fairhaven Winterfest is back, and you’ll find that everywhere in town is twinkling during the Christmas season.

We especially recommend taking in the scenery while nestled in the back of a horse-drawn carriage, departing every Saturday afternoon, or catching the Lighted Bike Parade on Dec. 11.

Presented by Edaleen Dairy, the Lynden Lighted Christmas Parade is a proper Whatcom County tradition.

Cars, trucks, floats, and even tractors will be decked out in their glitzy holiday best for the 31st year in a row (and counting).

Fairhaven Lighted Bike Parade

On Dec. 3 and 4, Ferndale’s historic Pioneer Park will come to life for the 28th annual Olde Fashioned Christmas. In addition to admiring historic cabins in their holiday splendor, children can enjoy Christmas-themed crafts, write a letter to Santa, and even visit the jolly old man himself.

In Anacortes, the Winter Wonderland Walk in Washington Park is about as Pacific Northwestern as it gets. Have you ever seen a campsite decked out in Christmas lights before? On Dec. 10–11 from 5–8 p.m., go for the lights and stay for live music, food, entertainment, and more.

Give Back to Your Community In addition to festivities, the holidays are a time to show support for community members in need.

Operation Warm is an annual initiative headed by the firefighters of Bellingham and Whatcom County.

The organization helps provide brand new winter coats to local children who need them most, and donations can be made at operationwarm.com.

In Blaine and Birch Bay, the Community Toy Store is a gift assistance program that accepts donations of new, unwrapped toys.

Courtesy of Fairhaven Winterfest

From Dec. 9–11, families facing financial hardships are invited to shop for Christmas presents at a discount of 75%, and all proceeds are donated to nonprofits serving local families.

Help bring a sense of wonder and excitement to Lydia Place families this holiday season by signing up to participate in their 24th annual Adopt A Family Program. This is a difficult time of year for parents who are already struggling to make ends meet, but with the support of individuals and businesses, we can make it a time to remember. Each family receives approximately $100 in gifts per child as well as a family enrichment activity and wrapping supplies.

For more than 70 years, the Skagit Valley Herald Christmas Fund has provided children and families with toys, books, and a holiday meal.

Donations can be made online at goskagit.com/xmasfund.

Last but not least, consider donating to the Bellingham Food Bank to help ensure that every family has food on the table this holiday season. Those looking to donate can do so online at bellinghamfoodbank.org. If you have time to spare, the food bank is also always on the lookout for volunteers. 

GLP Covers

the Northwest Justice for all types of personal injury cases including: Wrongful Death, On-the-Job Injuries, Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect, Maritime, Trip & Fall Injuries, and Automobile Collisions.

9 Locations 30 Attorneys 35 Years of Practice

Bellingham • Burlington • Seattle Tacoma • Port Orchard • Vancouver Spokane • Wenatchee • Tri-Cities

360.424.1111 | GLPattorneys.com

November/December 2021 23

Life Game Changer

Bridging the Gap, Impacting Systemic Change Distinctive Voice Consulting WRITTEN BY ANELYSE MORRIS PHOTO BY RUSSELL L. HARRIS JR.

A

FTER THE TUMULTUOUS YEAR OF 2020, it is

more important than ever to increase cultural competence. From small businesses to large organizations, Kimberly Harris of Distinctive Voice Consulting is here to help.

Harris got inspired to start Distinctive Voice Consulting while at a former job at an educational institute back in 2014. She had noticed a substantial disconnect between the “highly minority” student population and the representation of the student population in her employer’s advertisements — predominately white.

“I made that comment and no one knew what I was talking about,” she says. “I got the idea to put together diversity training for our staff.”

With some encouragement from her former boss, Harris took the idea and ran with it — providing diversity training to her local church, with many larger institutions following.

“I just really wanted to bridge the cultural gap between what folks of the dominant culture see and everybody else,” she says.

Since 2014, Distinctive Voice Consulting has grown exponentially, with Harris providing equity, inclusion, bias-awareness, and diversity training to more and more individuals and institutions. Some of her previous clients include Whatcom Community College, Western Washington University, Skagit Valley College, American Alpine Institute, the City of Lynden, Whatcom Transportation Authority, and the Whatcom County Library System.

The biggest change, however, has been the attitude surrounding the business.

“When I started it, people were always asking why I was doing my business. It has flipped 180 [degrees] to me not being able to keep up with the demand of people who want my various services.”

Harris credits much of this boom in business to the murder of George Floyd in 2020, saying it really opened people’s eyes to police brutality and the disproportionate treatment of Black people in America.

“People were stuck at home watching it all happen and couldn’t deny it anymore. When people were busy with their lives it was easier to ignore. Now it’s undeniable.”

24

BellinghamAlive.com

Services and Education The primary service of Distinctive Voice Consulting is equity, inclusion, bias-awareness, and diversity training. However, Harris says training varies depending on the client’s needs.

“Most of the time when people come to me, they don’t know what they want. They may know what they need but not know how to achieve it,” she says. “ A large part of what I do is determine what exactly they need and draft a proposal to help get them there.”

Individuals interested in training can find workshops taught by Harris through Whatcom Community College and sign up for the newsletter to see when workshops are being offered.

For organizations, Harris offers assessments and policy reviews. They entail an examination of company demographics, staff experiences, and policies. She then drafts a report, helping the company gear their policies and operations toward equity and inclusion.

“It is imperative for businesses to look at themselves through that lens in order to stay viable in the 21st century,” Harris says. “The systemic structures are where real change happens. Every individual can work on themselves but systemic change is required for us to reach a point of equity in our society.”

Distinctive Voice Consulting also helps with job recruiting.

For employers looking to recruit applicants from diverse backgrounds, Harris offers a job board with free 30-day position posting. Perspective candidates can view postings there, with Harris also helping facilitate connections with graduating college students and local people of color. P.O. Box 31822, Bellingham, distinctivoiceconsulting.com 

You’re a man of few words.

Copyright 2021

1730 LaBounty Drive in Ferndale (360) 384-2803 borthwickjewelry.com Exit 262 on I-5, in the Grocery Plaza outlet

*

* Proof of vaccination or negative covid test required for entry.

November/December 2021 25

Life Spotlight

A Life Lived Through Art Rebecca Meloy WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY | PHOTOS COURTESY OF REBECCA MELOY

B

EING A RENAISSANCE WOMAN comes naturally to

Rebecca Meloy. Art and creation are woven into the fabric of her day-to-day life, and after more than 40 years of calling Bellingham home, she has plenty to show for her efforts.

“It dovetails with life, you know,” says Meloy. “I’m not a starving artist and I’m not on the cutting edge. It’s just that I keep making art, and I keep finding venues and sharing my art.”

Creative history Artistically, Meloy is perhaps best known for her paintings, which evoke the rich nature of the Pacific Northwest as well as her Scandinavian ancestry. In 2004, she held a one-woman show at Seattle’s Nordic Heritage Museum. The work shown was created during an art 26

BellinghamAlive.com

residency at the Nelimarkka Museum in Alajarvi, Finland.

Meloy continues to attend residencies and participate in shows to this day, most recently having exhibited her rural-inspired paintings locally at Old Town Cafe.

Bellingham residents might also be familiar with her work via Meloy & Company Gallery, which she owned and operated for eight years. She produced more than 100 art shows during this time, and several shows featured international artists from countries such as Peru and Finland.

For 17 years, Meloy also nurtured up-and-coming artists through summertime art camps in her personal garden.

“I mean, these folks are now adults and have kids,” she recalls. “They still keep in touch with me, and they really

appreciate what we did. We had a lot of fun back then.”

Beyond the canvas Hailing from rural Oregon, Meloy’s world was colored by the bountiful nature of the Pacific Northwest from a young age. She grew up working with plants and harvesting crops on a small farm in the Willamette Valley.

Tree motifs frequently appear in her work; her father planted thousands of them during his lifetime, and she notes with a laugh that they are both “tree people.” From linocuts to soft pastels to oils, dreamlike tree imagery is a mainstay in Meloy’s art. However, an appreciation for nature wasn’t the only thing she gained from her father.

In addition to being an artist, Meloy is a licensed and bonded carpenter, sole

APPS WE L VE FlightAware Flight Tracker FlightAware Have a lot of family coming in for the holidays? Keep track of everyone’s arrival with this flight tracking app. FlightAware includes full-screen tracking maps, information on gate and/or terminal changes, delays, cancellations, weather alerts, and more.

Kitchen Stories Kitchen Stories

Photo by John Meloy

For cooking novices and professional chefs alike, Kitchen Stories provides comprehensive, userfriendly recipes with step-by-step photo instructions and videos, so you can sail through your holiday meals with ease. This app also makes grocery shopping easier with a practical shopping list generator.

proprietor, and handywoman. She studied building construction at Bellingham Technical College and enjoys working on projects, designing fences, and helping others troubleshoot home improvement projects.

“My dad was a master carpenter,” Meloy explains. “I watched him from a very young age and it was just natural for me to just, you know, start fixing things up.”

She is also a talented gardener, having attended a garden design course at the University of British Columbia. In addition to carpentry, Meloy helps clients create and maintain their gardens.

Being a sole proprietor gives her a great deal of professional independence, and she says there’s joy to be found in both the creativity and the solitude that her trades require.

Nowadays Speaking with Meloy, I got the sense that it’s rare for her not to have a project or two in the wings. Beyond client work, she’s currently laying down the

groundwork to build a bathhouse in the middle of her garden. She also runs a bed and breakfast out of the upstairs of her home.

Meloy’s son is a talented photographer and musician, so creativity clearly runs in the family. During COVID-19, the two took on perhaps the most daunting task of all: Sorting and photographing her prolific archives in order to update her website. The resulting photographs were used to create greeting cards, which can now be purchased at local shops such as the Lucky Dumpster in Edison and A Lot of Flowers in Fairhaven.

Meloy’s talent is undeniable, and curious readers can view her work at rebeccameloy.com. From paintings to prints and even photographs, the site is an open invitation to become fully immersed in her world.

“I’m kind of a private person.

I’m not very social, but I read a lot, and I seem to have a good hand for making art,” says Meloy. “That’s just how it is.” 

Pandora Pandora Listen to all of your favorite holiday music from your phone, computer, or vehicle. As one of the largest streaming music providers in the U.S., Pandora is sure to have the hits to have you rockin’ around the Christmas tree all season long. Download for free and take your music on the go!

TeuxDeux TeuxDeux, LLC Getting organized no longer requires a fancy planner. With TeuxDeux, you can track your to-do list in a clear-cut, minimalistic way. Start with a blank “scrap of paper,” then add to your to-do list. From there, customize by color, importance, or date. ANELYSE MORRIS

November/December 2021 27

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

DENTAL CARE Ferndale Family Dental 360.384.3440 ferndalefamilydental.com

Working together and serving others is our passion. We just so happen to do it through dentistry. At the heart of Ferndale Family Dental is the mission to deliver total health dentistry: care based on prevention and whole-body health and wellness. We believe that optimal health is best achieved by partnering with our patients to determine the best preventive, therapeutic, and esthetic treatment options available. Our approach to dentistry is not a “one size fits all.” A smile is as unique as the person who wears it. It’s not just about a smile; it’s about your smile…for life! Come join our family and let us be your dental home today!

Doctor: Michael Sacro Front Office Team: Allison Bushman, Cynthia Fryer, Melissa Richardson Clinical Team: Ashley Albertson, Melissa Garding, Kimberly Haven, Emily Vanrooyen, Yumin Buckley

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

BEAUTY SALONS Salon Bellissima Nicci Troupe | Owner 1215 Old Fairhaven Parkway Ste B Bellingham, 360.715.1052 Salonbellissimabellingham.com

Style, comfort, professional, widely educated, and a friendly face behind the chair are a few ways we like to describe ourselves. Our state-of-the-art hair salon has been serving the Bellingham community since 2011 with natural sustainability and keeping our planet green always in the forefront. We pride ourselves in keeping current on trends and techniques while using natural based products like Davines and Olaplex you’ll love. Each guest is important to us and we actually take the time to talk to you and find out what you’re looking for and how to achieve it and recreate it at home, whether that’s on a daily basis or for a special occasion. Nicci, the owner, brings with her 17 years of experience in the beauty industry and her staff has been hand-picked by her, and proven to be some of the best in the Northwest, time and time again. Being able to help our guests feel and look their best, is the exact reason why we love our job.

Life 5 Faves

1

Wild Oat Bakery & Cafe Check out Wild Oat Bakery & Cafe for a 100% vegan menu that also incorporates plenty of gluten-free options. In addition to baked goods and desserts, this downtown gem also has burgers and sandwiches on gluten-free buns. 1305 Cornwall Ave.,

Bellingham, 360.647.1344, wildoatcafe.com

Gluten-Free FIVE Goodies FAVES WRITTEN BY JAYA FLANARY | PHOTOGRAPHED BY EMILY PORTER

30

BellinghamAlive.com

2

Pure Bliss Desserts Pure Bliss Desserts is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. The carrot cake is delicious and even has a vegan option topped with plant-based vanilla buttercream frosting. Pre-order desserts for holiday gatherings or just stop by this shop for a sweet snack and a coffee. 1424 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.739.1612, pureblissdesserts.com

3

Shambala Ancient Grain Bakery & Bistro This Mount Vernon locale is a dedicated gluten-free eatery that also offers a wealth of vegan and allergy-friendly options. Beyond their ancient grain bread, you can expect a selection of sweet treats including cookies, cupcakes, and even cinnamon buns. 614 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon, 360.588.6600, shambalabakery.com

4

AB Crepes Whether you prefer sweet or savory, AB Crepes has you covered. Any of their crepes can be made with gluten-free and vegan batter, plus they offer many substitution options. For brunch, order the Last Wednesday — egg, bacon, cheese, mushrooms, spinach — with a lot of sour cream on the side. 1311 Railroad

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Enjoy our November through New Years Sales: Thanksgiving: 25% off Black Friday: 30% off and Doorbusters Nov 27th & 28th: 25% off

Dec 23rd: 25% off Christmas Eve & Day: 30% off and Doorbusters Dec 26th: 25% off Dec 30th & New Years Eve: 25% off New Years Day: 30% off Jan 2nd: 25% off (Some items excluded, $20 minimum purchase)

This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming; Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children.

ALLEN LAW FIRM The Injury Experts

Ave., Bellingham, 360.325.1311, abcrepes.com

5

Avellino Gluten Free Bakery Avellino is the perfect place to get everything from biscuits to donuts sans gluten.

Occasionally, they even offer gluten-free gourmet deli sandwiches. Don’t forget to pre-order your pumpkin pie for the holidays! 2500 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.656.5816, facebook.com/ avellinoglutenfreebakery November/December 2021 31

Life Community

Fighting To Be Found Missing and Murdered Indingenous Women Washington WRITTEN BY IAN FERGUSON

M

ISSING AND MURDERED INDIGENOUS WOMEN WASHINGTON (MMIWW)

is a charitable nonprofit that aims to create change and healing for victims, their families, and their communities.

They work with government agencies, schools, and law enforcement to ensure that these organizations have the resources to educate and prevent crimes against Indigenous people.

They also work to provide support services and resources to help victims and families heal.

Their efforts are of grave importance given that Native American women are more than twice as likely to experience violence than any other demographic in the United States. In addition, violence towards Indigenous women is often underreported.

In 2018, Earth-Feather Sovereign came together with a small group of women to found MMIWW. Sovereign, a member of the Colville Confederacy of Tribes, said she was moved to start the organization in response to the work of Missing and Murdered Indegenous Women and Girls, an organization advocating for First Nations women and girls in Canada.

Over the past several years, MMIWW has worked with government agencies to push forward various legislation. In 2018, Sovereign and House Rep. Gina Mosbrucker put forth House Bill 2951. It aimed to conduct

a study to determine how to better report and track missing and murdered Indigenous people in the state.

In 2019, H.B. 1713 was passed.

The bill aimed to improve law enforcement response, communication, and relationships between government and tribal communities.

This year, Sovereign and MMIWW helped develop Washington state H.B. 1571. Sovereign says this bill has multiple facets, but in part, it will ensure that family members of a missing person will be contacted if they are found murdered.

“It would give the family the right to pray over their loved one’s body,” Sovereign says.

In addition to this, the bill would create a public alert system — similar to Amber or Silver Alerts — called the Red Thunder Alert, which would broadcast if someone goes missing.

Lastly, the bill would create funding to increase messaging such as billboards and pamphlets for women who may be trafficked, and would set up a healing center for those who have been trafficked.

Sovereign wants to encourage all those who support the work of MMIWW to contact their local legislatures to show support for the bill, which will be voted on in the next legislative session.

Aside from their efforts to make change through policy,

Sovereign says when members of indingenous communities go missing, they’re not just missing once, they’re missing three times — physically, in the media, and in the data.

32

BellinghamAlive.com

“If other people can encourage the media to look more into our cases and to help us get that news and energy out there, that would be awesome.”

Earth-Feather Sovereign

MMIWW is constantly attempting to locate currently missing people.

Descriptions of missing individuals can be found on MMIW’s website, with unsolved cases dating as far back as 1973.

MMIWW’s current efforts are heavily focused on social media — but these platforms can only reach so far.

Sovereign says when members of indingenous communities go missing, they’re not just missing once, they’re missing three times — physically, in the media, and in the data.

Sovereign commented on the recent murder of Gabby Petito, whose story garnered national media attention.

“Our hearts go out to the Petito family, but it just reminds us how invisible our people feel, because there’s not a lot of media or publicity surrounding our people,” says Sovereign. “If other people can encourage the media to look more into our cases and to help us get that news and energy out there, that would be awesome.”

For more information about MMIWW, and how to give support, visit missingandmurderedindigenouswomen. org. P.O. 257 PMB 4781, Olympia 

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

TREE CARE

Wonder Tree Care 2717 Kulshan St., Bellingham 360.319.2125 wondertreecare@gmail.com wondertreecarebellingham.com

Wonder Tree Care was born from a love of trees and people. Owners/Operators Ash & Geoff came to Bellingham from Portland, Oregon and saw a need for a tree service that had a deep focus on tree care. From removing large hazard trees for Larrabee State Park to offering shrub pruning instruction to Bellingham homeowners, no job is too big or small, and each job matters. We employ fun, vibrant individuals who leave the ego at the door, and you can trust you will always get a knowledgable and approachable arborist who truly cares about you and your space. At Wonder we wake up every day grateful to be caring for the trees and people of Bellingham.

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

MASSAGE

Massage Envy 330 36th St., Bellingham 360.756.1100 massageenvy.com

Here at Massage Envy Bellingham, we believe that a supportive and collaborative environment fuels inspiration, passion, and growth. We’re excited to expand our team of licensed massage therapists and estheticians in order to meet client demand. We offer a variety of customizable and affordable services such as massage, assisted stretch, and advanced skin care treatments. As a member of our team, you’d have access to a wealth of knowledge, resources, and opportunities, allowing you to excel in doing what you love while promoting health and wellness in your community.

In addition to flexible hours, we have guaranteed service rates included in our outstanding compensation package. If you’re ready to invest in your personal and professional growth, call us today!

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

CARDIOLOGY

PeaceHealth Cardiovascular Center 2901 Squalicum Pkwy., Bellingham 360.788.7718 peacehealth.org/hearthealth

The Cardiovascular Center at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center, under the direction of Dr. Eric King, is introducing the latest advances in cardiac care to patients in our region. Last July, Dr. King and his team began offering a minimally invasive procedure called MitraClip™ to fix leaky heart valves. Left untreated, up to 57% of people may not survive a leaky heart valve (called mitral regurgitation) within one year of diagnosis. Prior to MitraClip, open-heart surgery was the only option available to fix leaky mitral valves.

Mitraclip is just one example of the innovations employed by Dr. King and his team to diagnose and treat the full spectrum of heart disease: hereditary defects, coronary artery disease, heart failure, valvular heart disease and irregular heart rhythms.

Life Top Picks

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER DIVERSITY IN THE OUTDOORS: A CONVERSATION WITH CHEVON POWELL NOVEMBER 3, 5:30 P.M.

Courtesy of Bellewood Farms

Join the North Cascades Institute and Chevon Powell, an experienced event professional and community advocate, for a conversation about how to build diversity in outdoor recreation.

Powell will be sharing her own story of exploring landscapes both social and natural, and the program also offers the opportunity to participate in small group discussions. Admission is $5, and registrations can be made online.

Virtual, ncascades.org

CIDERFEST NOVEMBER 13, 1–5 P.M. Savor the tastes of local ciders on the scenic grounds of Bellewood Farms for this year’s Ciderfest. There will be live music, competitions for homebrews and best fall sweaters, food, prizes, and much more! Tickets available now on Eventbrite. Bellewood Farms, 6140 Guide Meridian Rd., Lynden, 360.318.7720, bellewoodfarms.com

DENDRITIC SIGNALS NOVEMBER 5–27, 4 P.M. Allied Arts of Whatcom County is presenting their November exhibit, Dendritic Signals. Step into a “dreamlike’’ world with abstract art that will leave you in awe, and bring out your inner art critic as you attempt to discover the meaning behind each of their pieces. Whatever you determine, you’ll be sure to find the beauty and originality of their works. Allied Arts, 1418 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.676.8548, alliedarts.org

Courtesy of the Metropolitan Opera

MOUNT BAKER THEATRE LOOKOUT SESSIONS: KARLA BONOFF WITH NINA GERBER NOVEMBER 4, 7 P.M.

FIRE SHUT UP IN MY BONES DECEMBER 18, 1 P.M. The Metropolitan Opera is opening the 2021–22 season with its firstever performance of an opera by a Black composer. Featuring a libretto by filmmaker Kasi Lemmons, Terence Blanchard’s adaptation of Charles M. Blow’s memoir recounts the story of a young man as he works to overcome a traumatic youth. You won’t want to miss this history-making production, streamed live from New York by San Juan Community Theatre. San Juan Community Theatre, 100 2nd St., Friday Harbor, 360.378.3210, sjctheatre.org

36

BellinghamAlive.com

Hearing Karla Bonoff’s vocals has been described as an experience akin to “standing beneath a sparkling waterfall – refreshing, exhilarating, restorative.” Over her decadesspanning career, she has released her own albums in addition to writing hits for artists such as Bonnie Raitt, Wynonna Judd, and Linda Ronstadt.

Join her and special guest Nina Gerber as they take the stage at Mount Baker Theatre this November. Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

THE PRICE IS RIGHT LIVE! NOVEMBER 14, 8 P.M. That’s right, the beloved game show will be live right here in Bellingham.

Enjoy an evening watching contestants attempt to win big, or enter for your own chance to get on stage. This

famous game show has been running for 14 years and has given out 12 million dollars in cash and prizes. So, as they say, “Come on down!” Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

O CHRISTMAS TEA DECEMBER 1, 7:30 P.M. Beloved Off-Broadway comedians James & Jamesy return for a hilarious Christmas event sure to please fans of Monty Python, Mr. Bean, and Dr. Seuss.

When the world floods with tea at a Christmas party gone wrong, the pair must rely on their own creativity to stay afloat. Kids and adults alike will delight in this festive celebration of friendship.

Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

HOLIDAY TEA AT WILLOWBROOK MANOR DECEMBER 3, 4, 10, 11 This Christmas, take a step back in time at Willowbrook Manor, an English tea house and chamomile farm. Guests will be served tea sandwiches, soup, sweet cream scones, and homemade sweets in addition to their pot of tea. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the manor’s festive atmosphere by taking a stroll through the lit-up gardens. Willowbrook Manor, 27420 Minkler Rd., Sedro Woolley, 360.218.4585, teaandtour.com

NOEL ENSEMBLE DECEMBER 11, 3 P.M. An ensemble of harps, Celtic harps, percussion, and flute will culminate in a night of music from around the world in the celebration of winter and Yuletide.

Intertwined with enchanting readings, colorful costumes, beautiful instruments, this performance will be a “feast for the eyes and ears” for all ages to appreciate.

Jansen Art Center, 321 Front St., Lynden, 360. 354.3600, jansenartcenter.org

A VIENNESE HOLIDAY DECEMBER 18, 7:30 P.M. Celebrate the holidays with the Skagit Symphony as they embark on the Orient Express to Vienna, the “city of musicians.” The symphony will include works by classic composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Johann Strauss II. Tickets go on sale Nov. 9. McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon, 360.416.7727, mcintyrehall.org

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

LIVE THEATRE

Mount Baker Theatre 104 N. Commercial St. Bellingham, 360.734.6080 mountbakertheatre.com

The faces of Mount Baker Theatre are diverse and dynamic. Our small full time staff has the generous help of hundreds of annual community volunteers to keep it all moving. We showcase local artists on our walls as well as worldrenown artists gracing our stages. There’s something for everyone at Mount Baker Theatre: National tours like Pink Martini, fun movies like Elf, Bellingham Symphony Orchestra, dance troupes, kids shows, and more! For tickets and inspiration visit us at www.mountbakertheatre.com

35 LUXURY ROOMS

MEETING ROOM

SHOPPING AND DINING

COMFORT & JOY H

O

L

I

D

A

Y

S

P

E

C

I

A

L

This Holiday Season, Give an Experience!

Call to purchase a $200 gift card and receive $50 to spend in any of the five unique shops that share our historic building.

www.innatlynden.com

100 5th Street, Lynden, Washington

360/746-8597

Map Data © Google 2019

Cute but Crazy Socks 44 Fashion Q&A: Tides of Anacortes 46 Red Barn Holiday Market 48

Style

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Fashion

Cozy Up With Coats

40

November/December 2021 39

Style Styled Shoot

Fall-to-Winter Fashion

A

S WE BEGIN the transition

from autumn to winter, the days might be dreary, but your wardrobe doesn’t have to be!

With the help of local boutiques, we’ve picked out some pieces that will help you step into the new season with style. These selections include lighter outerwear for late fall, luxurious faux fur for those cold December days, and — of course — a functional yet sleek raincoat.  Photographer: Cocoa Laney Hair and makeup: Salon Bellissima Model: Lauren Dake

Cheeks Jeans 420 Front St., Lynden, 360.778.1849, cheeksjeans.com

Z-Supply Checkered Jacket, $149 Dolce Vita Moana Boots, $120

40

BellinghamAlive.com

Quinn + Foster 128 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.671.2000, quinnandfoster.com

Anorak Raincoat, $145

November/December 2021 41

Style Styled Shoot

Sojourn 1317 Railroad Ave., Bellingham, 360.671.5704, sojournbellingham.com

Free People Shirt, $40 Nikibiki Bra, $22

Three French Hens 1100 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.756.1047, threefrenchens.com

Joseph Ribkoff Fur Coat, $320 Kinross Cashmere Scarf, $218 Julie Vos Gold Bracelet, $245

42

BellinghamAlive.com

Tides of Anacortes 719 Commercial Ave., Anacortes, 360.873.8785, tidesofanacortes.com

Esqualo Coat, $126 Hobo Delilah Shoulder Bag, $268 Bird of Flight Boots, $178

November/December 2021 43

Style Local Find

Socks that Spark Conversation Cute but Crazy Socks WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY | PHOTOS COURTESY OF CUTE BUT CRAZY SOCKS

I

F YOU’VE STROLLED through downtown Bellingham

lately, you may have noticed a new sign resting above a familiar shop. Although its vibrant window display featuring hundreds of socks is still intact, the store itself recently underwent a rebranding. Modsock, Bellingham’s beloved purveyor of novelty socks, is now Cute but Crazy.

Urania and Ben Shaklee are the masterminds behind both Cute but Crazy (the retail store local to Bellingham) and ModSocks (the sock design line sold worldwide).

ModSocks is a separate sister business and carries forth the legacy of the shop’s original name.

The socks from Cute but Crazy are far from ordinary, and wearing them is an act of self-expression. They could be described as funky, artful, or unique; however, Urania notes that the word customers most commonly use is “crazy.” Rather than fight against the usage of this term, the staff realized they could be more productive as mental health advocates.

“Mental illness is something that impacts our entire community and has certainly impacted our staff and our customers,” says Urania. “And we just decided that, as a business, we want to be of help.”

Urania hopes that the rebrand will be a catalyst for conversation. Beyond its name, Cute but Crazy walks the walk: 1% of sales benefits the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). They also work with NAMI as a stigma-free brand partner.

Cute but Crazy has been in business for nearly a decade, providing the community with color and muchneeded coziness during the winter months. When asked 44

BellinghamAlive.com

about the evolution of the store, Urania told me an anecdote about her first-ever sale. It didn’t go as planned: Their credit card processor caught fire internally, began smoking, and had to be taken outside.

“Every business starts somewhere, right? Well, that’s where we started,” she says with a laugh. “We had a much smaller inventory than we do now. We didn’t have a website at that time, but now we have quite a robust online business.”

The sock shop has grown substantially since those early days, expanding into a sister design company in addition to a brick-and-mortar retail store. ModSocks can now be found all over the United States as well as Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

The Shaklees started their business with the goal of providing the most beautiful and artistic socks on the market. As a result, the company has succeeded in raising the bar for what’s possible with sock designs. Spotting ModSocks “in the wild” is a common experience, but despite this success, Ben and Urania agree that it’s always satisfying to see their creations being worn around town.

Many original ModSocks designs, such as last spring’s lineup featuring cherry blossoms, are inspired by their customers and life in the Pacific Northwest. They note that this community truly cares for its local businesses, and fun and colorful socks are an excellent compliment to Bellingham’s adventurous spirit. Even in the dreariest of seasons, a visit to Cute but Crazy is sure to make your day feel brighter. 1323 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.746.6255, crazysocks.com 

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

TRADITIONAL BARBER SHOP Wally’s Barber Shop 314 E. Holly St. #100 Bellingham, 360.647.0807

Wally’s is an old school Barber Shop that has been around for over 23 years. We take pride in caring for our clients and making sure that they get the haircut they want.

We do everything from straight razor shaves to children’s haircuts and everything in between. We have an excellent team that has many years of experience and cares about the way you look.

We are a local, family-owned business where you will always get friendly, personal service. Renate, Deanna and their team, always do their best to make sure that you leave happy and have a smile on your face! Stop by and see us soon!

Style Fashion Q&A

Style Q&A with Jennifer Mann of Tides of Anacortes WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY | PHOTO COURTESY OF TIDES OF ANACORTES

As temperatures start to drop, what are the staple items in your wardrobe this winter?

As the season changes it is important to work with your wardrobe to make it last longer and easily transition from one season to another. Staple items should include a good pair of jeans, a fit that is comfortable and looks great!

Next up, sweaters! Whether you like them short, long, boxy, or fitted, having a couple of go-to sweaters is perfect.

Boots are in for the season. Cowboy, dressy, or even something more dual purpose is a must. Finally, everyone needs a good coat. In our climate, a good raincoat is a requirement. Make it fun with great colors, styles, and lengths to choose from.

Do you have any gift suggestions for the stylish friend who already seems to have everything?

We get this question a lot in the shop. We have suggested things as fun as our Nordic Wraps, which are delightful for anyone and a splurge. If you know the person well, lotions and candles are always fun, but you need to know what scents they like.

One of our favorite suggestions is the Baby Foot Exfoliation kit paired with a great pair of socks. This is the season for making our feet feel and look great. This gift is pure indulgence and liked by all.

When it comes to holiday party looks, what’s your preferred way to jazz up a simple dress?

Jewelry and shoes are the easy way to dress up something simple. Whether you go for bling with silver or gold or go chunky and colorful, it is always fun to make a dress pop with jewelry. The same applies for shoes. Think style and color!

shackets) are a favorite, as well as bags. Whether you want an amazing leather bag by Hobo or a vegan tote by Joy Susan or Ilse Jacobsen, bags are trending and are a great accessory to play with.

What are some of the best brands for comfortable yet stylish winter clothing?

What can shoppers expect to find at Tides of Anacortes during the holidays?

We have amazing lines at Tides and all work wonderfully for the winter season. If I had to choose, I would say Dylan, Avalin, and Tribal have some nice choices. I also always love the knitwear by Masai of Copenhagen as well as Kinross Cashmere.

We are looking forward to the continued expansion of our men’s clothing. We have sweaters and tops by Liverpool, Tommy Bahama, Pendleton, and True Grit for our men along with shoes, slippers, and socks.

For women and home, in addition to our core lines, we have wonderful selections of Barefoot Dreams and PJ Salvage which make great gifts. Our goal is to have Tides be a place where you can enjoy the shopping experience and check many items off your list while hopefully finding something for yourself. 719 Commercial Ave., Anacortes, 360.873.8785, tidesofanacortes.com 

Are you noticing any new trends when it comes to accessories this season?

We are seeing a lot of cozy for this season. Shearling in tops, shoes, and even bags! Other items trending are definitely boots like Blundstone. Shirt jackets (also called

46

BellinghamAlive.com

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

GIFTS

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

Want to take a walk on the wild side without leaving town? Come to award winning My Garden Nursery for some exotic gift selections from around the world. Here are a couple of soap ideas that we particularly love. The fragrance of rich, dark tobacco leaf, black cocoa with hints of coffee and vanilla describes Havana soap from Australia. Or moving to the Mediterranean region, Mercato soap from Italy offers exotic notes of fig, sweet orange blossom, and cedar wood. Both make great gifts for people on your list. If you are in a whimsical frame of mind, My Garden Nursery has lots and lots of colorful puzzles, special mugs and silly socks that feature corgis, dinosaurs and otters. Check out the selection of gourmet foods guaranteed to delight an international palette. Scandinavian Black Currant jam, Thai Peanut sauce, or the yummiest candy like sea salt almond dark chocolate Alligators. Bring your list and we can help make your holidays easy!

Style Local Find

A Holiday Haven Red Barn Holiday Market WRITTEN BY ANELYSE MORRIS | PHOTOS BY MCKENNA ROSS, MMRDESIGN AND PHOTOGRAPHY

T

What began as a small craft show in Everson nearly 10 years ago has since grown from 20 vendors to more than 70.

HE HOLIDAY SEASON brings a lot of joy, from cuddly sweaters to festive decorations and one-of-a-kind gifts for your loved ones.

Luckily you can find all of this merriment in one place: The Red Barn Holiday Market.

What began as a small craft show in Everson nearly 10 years ago has since grown from 20 vendors to more than 70. In 2016, the market moved to the Northwest Washington Fairgrounds, with both spring and fall shows hosted annually.

“I created this market to bring together the amazing local talent we have in our community,” says owner and event planner Kelsey Tolsma. “It has been amazing to watch it grow into what it is today. I have an awesome crew behind me.”

This year’s holiday market is long-awaited after the 2020 market was cancelled due to COVID-19. While Tolsma says the cancellation was necessary, she still wanted to find a way to support the vendors.

“I hated the thought of these small businesses who rely on these types of events to sell their items not being able to do business, so the idea of the Red Barn Market in a box was created,” she says.

This “Market in a Box” allows customers to choose from different gift box options that feature items from Red Barn Market’s vendors. For those who won’t be able to attend in person, gift boxes can be purchased at redbarnmarketinabox.com at the start of November.

This year, visitors can expect the inclusion of even more vendors. Available products range from home decor to vintage finds and more. Some featured businesses include Petals and Blooms, Fresh Space Redesign, Alsum Trading Company, Picnic Party Bellingham, GraceUnfaded, Evergreen Roots NW Candles, and many, many more.

“I love everything about the Holiday Market,” Tolsma says. “The vendor displays, the shoppers, the music, the theme, and decor — my favorite part is seeing how it all comes together.”

This year’s Red Barn Holiday Market will be hosted at the Northwest Washington Fairgrounds on Nov. 19 from 4–9 p.m. and Nov. 20 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Nov. 19 is VIP night, so visit the Red Barn Market Facebook page to purchase tickets now. Northwest Washington Fairgrounds, 1775 Front St., Lynden, facebook.com/redbarnmarketevents 

48

BellinghamAlive.com

Special Advertising Section

Holiday Shopping Guide 2021

50

BellinghamAlive.com

Special Advertising Section

Adored Boutique Visit Adored Boutique in Fairhaven this holiday season to find the perfect gifts for your loved ones - and yourself while you’re at it! Discover unique gifts, home decor, locally made jewelry and handbags, bath and body products and beautiful clothing. You will find something special for everyone on your list!

913 Harris Ave., Bellingham shopadoredboutique.com

Fairhaven Runners & Walkers

Whatcom Art Market

Fairhaven Runners is a super friendly store for walkers, runners, travelers and people who just want their feet to feel happier. We carry shoes, socks, watches, clothing, packs, sport nutrition, sunglasses, headlamps and more!

1209 11th St., Bellingham 360.676.4955 fairhavenrunners.com/shop-shoes

1103 11th St. Bellingham 360.738.8564 | WhatcomArtMarket.org Facebook.com/WhatcomArtMarket

Reference Media

Bella Rose

Sony Glass Speaker LSPX-S2. Elegant portable glass light speaker with exceptional sound and candlelight mode, 8 hour battery, Bluetooth, and WiFi enabled for Spotify Connect.

Treat yourself or give a “care” package.

Bella Rose Bath & Beauty Boutique offers a wide-array of bath fizzies, shower steamers, scrubs, salts, soaps, lotions, candles, and beauty accessories.

Carefully curated to offer paraben-, phthalate-, and cruelty-free as well as locally-sourced and cause-related products, Bella Rose also offers men’s products, gift baskets, online shopping, and shipping. Visit us today.

360.714.8860 | reference-media.net

Located in the charming Historic Fairhaven District, unique creations of 45 local artists, offering a lively array of both functional & fine art collectibles and gifts from jewelry, art glass, wood, soft sculpture, painting, photography, wearable art and much more. Gift cards available too. Visit and be delighted!

Open everyday 11am – 6pm.

Cute But Crazy Socks With over 1,600 novelty sock styles to choose from, you’ll find the perfect gift at our incredible Bellingham sock store. Shop CrazySocks.com for in-store pickup, or send fun socks to everyone on your list with fast shipping throughout the U.S. and Canada.

1323 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.746.6255 | CrazySocks.com

1134 - 10th St., Bellingham 360.746.8163 | luvbellarose.com November/December 2021 51

Special Advertising Section

GIFTS & CLOTHING FOR WOMEN & MEN

TIDES OF ANACORTES

Still Life Massage and Float Give your loved ones the ultimate gift of stillness. Float Therapy is deeply relaxing, pain relieving, and truly restful. The nothingness of Floating is everything and more.

19 Bellwether Way #101 Bellingham 360.647.2805 | stilllifemassage.com

Unknown Board Shop Skateboards, longboards, helmets, pads, shoes, clothing, backpacks, hats, beanies, jackets, and accessories for all ages. We sell fun!

Unknown Board Shop 105 Grand Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225 Unknownboardshop.com

Tides of Anacortes

Good Earth Pottery

Come and visit our new larger location in Anacortes. Let us help you find that perfect outfit for yourself or a gift for someone on your list, for this holiday season!

Shop Good Earth Pottery for locally handmade festive serving ware and holiday gift ideas! A fixture in the Fairhaven village since 1969, the gallery itself is always changing, offering unique functional and decorative ceramics.

719 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.873.8785 | tidesofanacortes.com

360.671.3998 | goodearthpots.com

MW Soapworks

WaterWorks Gallery

MW Soapworks has been creating handcrafted soap and self-care products for over 8 years. Visit our new retail location in downtown Bellingham for sustainable living and artisan gifts for everyone on your list!

Brave New World Rebecca Woodhouse linocut painting 36 x 36 $1900

1310 Commercial St., Bellingham 360.545.3443 | mwsoapworks.com Instagram and Facebook @mwsoapworks

WaterWorks Gallery is a contemporary gallery dedicated to showing artists and jewelers from the San Juan Islands, Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia. Join our email list!

360.378.3060 | waterworksgallery.com

52

BellinghamAlive.com

Special Advertising Section

The Apothecary Spa Relax and say yes to Me Time at the award-winning Apothecary spa.

Treating your loved ones to a spa day has never been easier, with two locations to serve you. Gift certificates are available online.

320 E Fairhaven Ave. #101, Burlington 419 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.299.2112 | theapothecaryspa.com

Sunset Beauty Supply Let us help you find the perfect “Christmas Gift” this season! Our locally owned and professionally staffed shop will assist you in finding the highest quality haircare products, the cutest hat, that unique gift or even a Raquel wig for everyone on your list... including yourself!

360.738.0359 | sunsetbeautysupply.com

Chuckanut Bay Distillery

Oh Snap!

Looking for a gift that’s truly local and unique? Chuckanut Bay Distillery creates award-winning spirits from locally sourced ingredients, including our Krampus Herbal Liqueur. Bottles, tours, tastings, and excellent gift ideas await you, come on by!

Are you looking to add something unique to your upcoming event? Let Oh Snap! bring the fun! Offering our newest booth that allows guests to take pictures, boomerangs, and gifs and send them directly to their phone/social media! ohsnapeventphotobooths.com

1311 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham chuckanutbaydistillery.com 360.738.7179

West Coast Wellness

Bow Wow & Woofs

From the sophisticated stoner to relieving grandma’s achy joints, WCW Cannabis has got you covered! Readyto-give packages available all holiday season. Friendly and knowledgeable budtenders are here to answer any questions you may have about cannabis — recreational or medical.

Check Out Bow Wow & Woofs for Fluff & Tuff Dog Toys! Love at First Bite, Toss or Snuggle! Perfect Gift for all your Favorite Pups this Holiday Season!

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

360.393.3154 | wcwcannabis.com This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgement. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children. Marijuana products may be purchased or possessed only by persons twenty-one years of age or older.

November/December 2021 53

Special Advertising Section

Ben Mann Studio Gallery Book your private visit to shop Ben’s colorful inventory of gifts, cards, books and originals. His historic Fairhaven building is mask and vaccine compliant.

360.920.4022 ben-mann.com/scheduling

The Pot Shop Bellingham’s safest and most convenient marijuana store! No lines or waiting outside, you never have to leave the comfort of your vehicle with our driveup windows. Browse our menu and order online for fastest service! Open Mon-Sat 8am-10:30pm, Sun 9am-9pm.

1321 W Bakerview Road, Bellingham 360.410.3140, thepotshopbellingham.com This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgement. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children. Marijuana products may be purchased or possessed only by persons twenty-one years of age or older.

54

BellinghamAlive.com

Lombardi’s Italian

Flow Motion

Founded in 1987, a family owned restaurant added the Bellingham waterfront location in 2019. Voted best Italian in 2021, featuring unique dishes alongside Italian staples.

Lunch – Dinner – Happy Hour

Give peace of mind this season with a gift certificate to the area’s only healing spa featuring rooms decked out in Himalayan salt and crystals along with a yoga sanctuary offering aerial, infrared heated, and non-heated classes.

Our hand-curated boutique is filled to the brim with local and worldly gifts.

360.714.8412 | lombardisitalian.com

360.393.8829 | moveinflowmotion.com

Northwest Corner Goods

Flax4Life

Catering & Private Dining Available

One-of-a-kind Bellingham and Pacific Northwest themed gifts await you at Northwest Corner Goods. Our apparel, stickers, hats and more are all designed in-house by our artist and produced locally here in Bellingham.

1230 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.878.1688 | NWCornerGoods.com

Give the Gift of delicious and nutritious Flax4Life muffins, brownies, and other baked goods! Who doesn’t love yummy treats? Discount code: 2021Gift for 30% off any gift basket order.

Flax4Life.net | 360.715.1944

Special Advertising Section

Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery

Barb’s Pies and Pastries

Leader Block Wine Co. & Eatery is an award-winning, fine dining establishment with an expansive wine list, craft cocktails and world class service.

Barb’s Pies and Pastries has been making quality baked goods for 20 years. We specialize in handmade scratch recipes like grandma used to make. Perfect for any occasion, give us a call or come see us today!

2026 Main St., Ferndale 360.306.8998 | leaderblock.com

The Greenhouse

5679 3rd Ave., Ferndale 360.393.3780 | barbspiesandpastries.com

Family-owned home décor, houseware, and furniture store; Greenhouse has everything for your home and even more for your life.

You can find something for everyone on your list here — including the stocking stuffers! Don’t miss out on the kick off to the holiday the weekend of Nov. 12th – 14th.

360.676.1167 | greenhousehome.com

Seasons Boutique

Statement Apparel

A Lot of Flowers

Casual, Dressy, Travel. Apparel and accessories for the gift-giving season.

Jewelry, scarves, bags, candles and more. Cozy sweaters, leisure/lounge wear, and sleepwear too.

The softest beanie you’ll find with removable fur pom! Perfect gift for the holiday season for $49 and comes in 4 colors. Located in Barkley Village.

Open Monday – Saturday 11am – 5pm.

Closed on Sundays. Check our Facebook page for updated holiday hours: statementapparelbarkleyvillage.

Your holiday destination for over 30 years. Choose from our unique selection of gifts for the home and garden including candles, soaps, houseplants, statuary, seasonal wreaths, floral arrangements and more. Shop in person or give us a call, we deliver!

360.734.9595 statementapparelllc@gmail.com

1011 Harris Ave, Bellingham 360.647.0728, alotofflowersfairhaven.com

1201 11th St, #100, Fairhaven 360.671.1744

November/December 2021 55

Special Advertising Section

Skagit’s Own Fish Market We are a full service fish market striving to bring the freshest seafood to your table. We also have a large selection of artisan grocery items for the “foodie” on your Christmas list. Skagit’s Own Fish Market has a great lunch menu served daily with all fresh ingredients.

Northwest Yarns Located in beautiful downtown Bellingham’s Arts District, Northwest Yarns is the place to find all your fiber arts supplies and gifts. Locally handdyed yarns, kits, looms, classes and more await. Shop in the shop or online!

360.738.0167 | nwyarns.com

18042 Hwy. 20, Burlington 360.707.2722 | skagitfish.com

Chocolate Necessities Chocolate Necessities has been a trusted tradition for 34 years. Giving Quality artisan chocolate is always appreciated and sometimes required!

Explore the possibilities at our two Bellingham locations or check out the new website.

4600 Guide Meridian, Bellingham 1408 Commercial St., Bellingham chocolatenecessities.com

Trove Cannabis

We Bee Kind

Spero Salon and Spa

Let’s be real, the only gifts that people want right now are a little bit of sanity and relief. Give the gift of weed and enjoy these last moments of 2021! Order online and pick up safely in-store. Open everyday 8am – 11:45pm.

Our organic, high-quality, Bellinghammade CBD products make the perfect gifts! Luxurious CBD bath bombs, tinctures, salves, and even a special line of CBD products for your furry friends, we carry something to benefit all the most important people and animals in your life. Give the gift of health and wellness this holiday season.

This holiday season give the gift of a spa gift certificate. Let the one you love get pampered with a massage, facial and so much more! Let one of our experienced staff help you choose a specialized service today! Winners of 6 categories for Best of Skagit.

218 N. Samish Way, Bellingham trovecannabis.com This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration,coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children. Marijuana products may be purchased or possessed only by persons twenty-one years of age or older.

56

BellinghamAlive.com

webeekind.com

1400 Riverside Dr. A., Mount Vernon 360.899.5105 | speroskin.com

Happy Holidays to Everyone!

LYNDA HINTON

It has been another challenging year, on many levels, and the housing market is just one of them!

I am wishing all of you a safe and joy-filled season with family and friends.

May 2022 be filled with all good things, and more normalcy!

Lynda Hinton CRS, GRI Managing Broker Windermere Real Estate lyndahinton.com Lynda@LyndaHinton.com Cell: (360) 303-1023

Your Real Estate expert of Whatcom and Skagit counties for nearly 20 years

58

BellinghamAlive.com

12

Turkey Leftovers

Get Your Juices Flowing IF TURKEY IS ON THE MENU this holiday season, you might find yourself saddled with more leftovers than you know what to do with.

In fact, I’m convinced it’s impossible not to end up with (at least) a day’s worth of extra meat.

So what’s the best way to use up your bird in the days following Thanksgiving or Christmas?

Simple turkey sandwiches are always yummy, but if you’re looking to expand your leftover repertoire, we hope our recipes will come in handy. Some are annual traditions for staff members at Bellingham Alive, others are fresh ideas, and each and every one is delicious.

If you don’t have turkey on your holiday table this year, feel free to substitute it with whatever protein is available (including plant-based alternatives).

November/December 2021 59

Phanaeng Turkey Curry Recipe courtesy of Chef Usanee Klimo at Maikham in Fairhaven.

LEFTOVERS: 1 ½ pounds turkey

FRESH INGREDIENTS: 3 cups coconut cream ½ cup Phanaeng curry paste 4 tablespoons fish sauce 1 teaspoon curry powder 2 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar 1 ½ tablespoons chili oil ½ cup of Thai basil 2 tablespoons finely shredded kaffir lime leaves Salt to taste

Turkey Apple Salad with Cashews and Cranberries

METHOD:

LEFTOVERS:

METHOD:

2 ½ cups turkey

1. To make the dressing, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and mayonnaise in a small bowl and stir.

2. Add remaining ingredients in a separate bowl and top with dressing. Mix well, then serve.

FRESH INGREDIENTS: 3 stalks of celery, chopped ¼ cup dried cranberries 1 cup chopped apple ¼ cups cashews (substitute with almonds or walnuts) ½ cups Greek nonfat yogurt 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 2 teaspoons lemon juice 2 teaspoons chopped parsley Salt and pepper to taste

1. Heat 2 cups of coconut cream to a boil in a pot at medium heat, stirring for 5 – 6 minutes.

2. Add Phanaeng curry paste. Stir until the mixture is almost dry and fragrant.

3. Add turkey and stir for 2 minutes.

Add fish sauce and coconut sugar, then stir to coat the turkey.

4. Add the remaining coconut cream, reduce heat, and simmer until the sauce is thickened. Gently stir to prevent burning the bottom of the pot.

5. Add chili oil, curry powder, kaffir lime leaves, and Thai basil. Stir again and turn the heat off.

Cranberry Sauce Cosmopolitan Makes 2 cocktails

C

RANBERRY SAUCE is arguably one of the most divisive ingredients at the holiday dinner table, but it’s also more versatile than its reputation suggests.

Even the staunchest of cranberry haters might find a way to love it when paired with… well, just about anything but turkey. If you find yourself with an (over) abundance of this signature Thanksgiving condiment, a creative solution can be found where you’d least expect it: Cocktail hour.

60

BellinghamAlive.com

LEFTOVERS: 2 tablespoons cranberry sauce (whole, not jellied)

FRESH INGREDIENTS: 3 ½ ounces vodka 2 ounces triple sec or Cointreau 1 ounce lime juice

METHOD: 1. Add ingredients and ice into a cocktail shaker.

Mix well and strain.

2. Pour drinks into cold martini glass and garnish with lime peel.

Photo by Usanee Klimo

Phanaeng Turkey Curry November/December 2021 61

Turkey Enchiladas 62

BellinghamAlive.com

Turkey Enchiladas Recipe courtesy of Jenn Miranda.

LEFTOVERS: 3 cups turkey, shredded

FRESH INGREDIENTS: 6 corn tortillas 14.5 ounce can diced fire roasted tomatoes 4 ounce can diced green chilis, mild 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed ½ cup chopped mushrooms, fresh or canned 2 cups shredded Mexican-style cheese 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons black pepper 3 teaspoons granulated garlic 1 teaspoon chili powder

OPTIONAL TOPPINGS: Cojita cheese Shredded Mexican-style cheese Sliced black olives Cilantro

SAUCE: 19 ounce can green enchilada sauce 19 ounce jar garlic alfredo sauce

METHOD: 1. In a large bowl, mix turkey, tomatoes, chilis, beans, mushrooms, spices, and 2 cups of cheese.

2. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, simmer sauce ingredients on low heat while stirring for 5 minutes. Turn off heat and set aside.

3. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a 9-by-11inch baking dish, start by pouring a thin layer of sauce to coat the bottom, 4. Steam 6 large corn tortillas in a tortilla steamer or between two paper plates for 25 seconds on high in the microwave. This helps them to not crack when rolling.

5. Generously fill each tortilla with filling.

Roll one end closed, burrito-style.

6. Place snugly in the pan, flaps down.

Pour all remaining sauce over enchiladas.

Use a spoon to push the closed end under the sauce.

7. Garnish with a generous layer of cheese and your choice of toppings.

8. Bake covered for 35 minutes at 375 degrees. Remove cover and broil on high for 10 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Turkey Biscuit Bake LEFTOVERS:

METHOD:

2 cups turkey, chopped 2 cups veggies (substitute with 2 cups cooked carrots, corn, and peas)

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

2. Melt butter in a 10 inch skillet and saute leek until tender.

3. Stir in flour, salt, and pepper. Once blended, gently add in milk and broth, stirring as you pour.

4. When the sauce thickens, add turkey, thyme, and vegetables.

Cook until warmed.

5. Top with biscuits and bake until golden brown and bubbly.

FRESH INGREDIENTS: 1 container refrigerated buttermilk biscuits 2 tablespoons butter ¹/3 cup flour 1 small leek, chopped 1 ½ cups chicken broth ¾ cups milk 2 teaspoons fresh chopped thyme Salt and pepper to taste

November/December 2021 63

Thanksgiving Gumbo Recipe courtesy of Spencer Moore.

LEFTOVERS: 2 cups turkey, shredded

FRESH INGREDIENTS: ½ pound sausage (andouille, kielbasa, or Italian all work well) 1 ¼ cups flour 1 cup canola or grapeseed oil 1 onion 1 bell pepper, diced 2 celery ribs, diced ½ pound okra (fresh or frozen) 3 cloves garlic, minced 6 cups chicken broth Cayenne pepper Tabasco sauce Salt and pepper to taste

METHOD:

Red Pepper Redo Recipe courtesy of Jenn Miranda.

LEFTOVERS:

FRESH INGREDIENTS:

¼ cup stuffing ¼ cup turkey or ham ¼ cup veggies 4 tablespoons gravy

4 large red bell peppers 2 tablespoons cilantro 2 tablespoons red onion ¹/8 cup crumbled feta cheese ¼ cup shredded mozzarella Salt and pepper to taste Parsley for garnish

METHOD: 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

2. Mix 2 tablespoons gravy and 2 tablespoons water. Spread across the bottom of a glass baking dish to prevent sticking.

3. Finely chop cold leftover ingredients and place in a dish.

Mix in remaining gravy.

4. Add chopped onion, feta, and cilantro. Mix well, then warm in microwave for 1 minute, covered.

5. Slice bell peppers across the top, creating a lid. Remove ribs and seeds and rinse well.

64

BellinghamAlive.com

6. Place wet peppers snugly in a glass baking dish and salt and pepper the insides. Fill each pepper to the top with stuffing and sprinkle mozzarella.

7. Bake without the tops for 15 minutes, then add lids to each pepper and bake an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden bubbly.

8. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

1. Saute onion, bell pepper, and celery until softened.

2. Add okra and minced garlic.

Stir until fragrant.

3. To make your roux, heat canola oil in a heavy bottomed pot and whisk in flour when hot. Over medium heat, stir constantly until roux is thick and dark walnut in color. This will take time. Adjust heat as needed and, if you notice burnt black specks, start over.

4. Once roux is finished, mix in vegetables.

5. In a large pot, bring broth to a slight boil. Add roux and vegetables to broth about 1 cup at a time, stirring constantly.

Once roux dissolves, add another cup. Repeat until fully combined.

6. Continue stirring and add meat, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 2 bay leaves.

7. Simmer for at least two hours.

8. Once finished, remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning, and add Tabasco sauce for an additional kick if desired.

Thanksgiving Gumbo

November/December 2021 65

Pesto Pizza with Turkey 66

BellinghamAlive.com

Turkey Risotto with Mushrooms and Goat Cheese Pesto Pizza with Turkey LEFTOVERS: 1 cup turkey, shredded Leftover veggies (substitute with sun-dried tomatoes)

FRESH INGREDIENTS: 12-inch pizza crust, premade ¹/3 to ½ cup pesto 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced (not pre-shredded) 2 handfuls fresh arugula Fresh basil, torn

METHOD: 1. Preheat the oven according to pizza crust directions.

2. Layer pesto, cheese, turkey, and vegetables. Chopped green beans work especially well here.

If no leftover veggies are available, sub with sun-dried tomatoes.

3. Bake until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

4. Once cool, top with fresh arugula and basil if desired.

LEFTOVERS: 1 + ¼ cups shredded and warmed turkey, divided 8 cups well-seasoned turkey stock (sub with chicken stock)

FRESH INGREDIENTS: 2 cups arborio or carnaroli rice 2 tablespoons butter + more to taste

3 cloves garlic, minced 1 small onion, chopped 2 cups mushrooms, sliced ½ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated 4 ounce log goat cheese 1 tablespoon lemon juice 3 tablespoons torn parsley Salt and pepper to taste

METHOD: 1. In a large pot, begin by heating the stock until it simmers.

2. Meanwhile, melt butter in a heavy saucepan and cook onion until tender and translucent.

3. Add mushrooms to pan along with a small amount of salt and pepper.

Once the veggies are sweated down, add minced garlic and cook until just fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

4. Add rice to saucepan and toast for roughly 2 minutes. The rice will begin to pop and whistle. Add wine and cook until absorbed, making sure to stir well.

5. Begin adding ladlefuls of broth until the rice is just covered. Continue adding more broth as the rice absorbs liquid, stirring constantly.

6. After approximately 15 minutes of cooking, when the rice is plumped but not yet done, add 1 cup turkey to the saucepan.

7. When rice is tender but still retains some bite (usually after about 20 minutes), remove it from heat.

8. Adjust seasoning if needed and add cheese, lemon juice, and extra butter (if desired).

9. Serve immediately and top with additional turkey, parsley, and freshly cracked pepper.

November/December 2021 67

Turkey Spring Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce Makes 8 spring rolls.

LEFTOVERS:

SAUCE:

2 cups turkey, shredded

¼ cup natural creamy peanut butter 1 large clove garlic, grated 1 to 2 inches ginger, grated 2 teaspoons sriracha (or more to taste) 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 3 tablespoons soy sauce

FRESH INGREDIENTS:

Turkey Bánh Mì Makes 2 sandwiches.

LEFTOVERS: 6 ounces turkey, shredded 2 large dinner rolls (sub with baguette)

FRESH INGREDIENTS: 1 jalapeno, thinly sliced with seeds removed ½ of a large cucumber, halved and thinly sliced

½ cup shredded carrot 1 cup thinly sliced radishes 1 cup rice vinegar 2 tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon salt Sriracha to taste ¼ cup mayonnaise Juice and zest of 1 lime ¼ cup cilantro, torn 1 green onion, thinly sliced

METHOD: 1. Add jalapeno, cucumber, shredded carrot, radishes, salt, and sugar to a bowl. Cover with roughly 1 cup of vinegar, let sit for 30 minutes, then drain.

2. Combine mayonnaise, sriracha, lime zest, and juice of half a lime. Mix well and add more lime juice if desired.

3. Add the turkey to mayo mixture and stir to combine.

4. Assemble by spreading turkey onto one half of each roll, setting the other halves aside.

5. Top with pickled veggies, green onion, and cilantro.

Cover with the other half of the bread and serve.

1 carrot, julienned 1 cucumber, julienned 1 avocado, sliced 3 green onions, sliced 1 cup greens, torn (lettuce, spinach, and arugula all work well) ¼ cup roughly chopped cilantro 8 spring roll wrappers

METHOD: 1. To make the sauce, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sriracha, honey, and vinegar in a small bowl. Mix well and thin with warm water to taste.

2. To assemble spring rolls, dip wrappers into a large bowl filled with warm water. Once the wrapper becomes soft but not floppy, remove and place onto a towel.

3. Add a small amount of turkey, veggies, herbs, green onion, and avocado to the center of the wrapper, leaving space at the edges and the lower third. Roll and fold over like a burrito.

4. Serve with peanut sauce on the side.

Fast Freezer Facts

I

F YOU CAN’T STOMACH THE THOUGHT of another

bite of turkey until 2022, we don’t blame you. It’s also understandable if your post-holiday agenda involves avoiding the stove at all costs. In both cases, the easiest solution is to freeze your leftovers — the sooner the better. As a rule of thumb, leftover foods should be frozen within three days maximum.

Luckily most holiday dishes hold up well in the freezer, but foods with a higher water content (think salads) should be eaten immediately or tossed. Also, though fruit pies are technically freezer safe, their crusts tend to be mushy when thawed. All the more reason to eat leftover pie for breakfast!

It’s also important to portion out your food before storing it because, once thawed, meals cannot be refrozen.

For example, gravy can be portioned into ice cube trays and used as needed.

68

BellinghamAlive.com

GOOD TO FREEZE:

Cooked meats (up to two months) Baked squash or sweet potatoes (up to three months) Pumpkin pie (up to four months) Mashed potatoes with cream (up to one year; note that mashed potatoes made with broth will not hold up as well) Cranberry sauce (up to two months) Bread and rolls (up to three months) Stuffing (up to three months)

NOT SO GOOD:

Green bean casserole and other water-heavy veggie dishes Delicate pies such as custard or meringue Frosted baked goods Whole baked potatoes Soft cheeses such as brie

Turkey Spring Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce

November/December 2021 69

Next Day Instant Pot Chowder 70

BellinghamAlive.com

Next Day Instant Pot Chowder Recipe courtesy of Jenn Miranda.

LEFTOVERS:

METHOD:

1 cup mashed potatoes ½ cup gravy 1 cup veggies, chopped (sub with carrots and celery) ½ cup turkey, optional Dinner rolls (for serving)

1. Start your Instant Pot on saute and toss in your protein (if using), leftover veggies, onion, and garlic.

2. Saute about 5 minutes until well blended.

3. Add broth, coconut milk, water, tomatoes, mashed potatoes, gravy, and cornstarch. Stir well and add a little salt and pepper.

4. Use the soup button or pressure cook for 25 minutes.

5. Garnish with finely chopped green onion and serve with dinner rolls on the side.

FRESH INGREDIENTS: 1 diced yellow onion 1 can fire roasted diced tomatoes 1 ½ cups corn (creamed, canned, or fresh) 3 cloves crushed garlic 1 cup broth 1 can coconut milk 1 cup water 1 tablespoon cornstarch Green onion for garnish Salt and pepper to taste

I

Bone Broth How-To

T MIGHT SOUND INTIMIDATING, but if you can boil water, you can make bone broth. It’s an excellent and easy way to use every bit of your bird, and the main ingredients are pretty self-explanatory: Bones, water, and a touch of patience.

1. Bone broth is different from regular broth and stock because of its viscosity and its cooking time. Prolonged simmering allows the collagen in bones to break down into a gelatin, thus thickening the broth when it cools.

2. To begin, strip the meat from the bones and place your turkey carcass in a large pot along with desired veggies (if using). Add water until bones are covered by no more than two inches of liquid. Now it’s time to wait — for about 12 hours, to be exact. There’s no hard and fast rule about time, but the longer you cook your broth, the more collagen will be extracted. Eventually your broth should be reduced by nearly half. Because it concentrates as it cooks, we recommend going easy on the salt in the early stages.

3. Onion, garlic, and bay leaves are good flavor boosters, as are torn herbs such as rosemary, sage, parsley, and thyme. You can throw in veggies such as carrots and celery if desired, but be sparing — too much makes the broth taste sweet. For a hint of acidity, try a few tablespoons of apple cider vinegar or a splash of white wine.

4. Once your broth is good to go, strain and use it in any recipe that calls for stock. Cooked broth lasts for up to five days in the refrigerator or six months if frozen.

Crostini with Turkey, Camembert, and Cranberry LEFTOVERS: 1 cup turkey, shredded Cranberry sauce for topping

FRESH INGREDIENTS: 1 baguette, sliced Olive oil for brushing 1 wheel camembert cheese Finely chopped herbs (thyme and sage both work well) Balsamic reduction

METHOD: 1. Brush baguette slices with a generous amount of olive oil and bake at 375 degrees until golden, about 10 minutes.

2. Layer baguette slices with camembert cheese (sliced thick), a small amount of shredded turkey, and dollop of cranberry sauce.

3. To finish, drizzle with balsamic reduction and top with freshly chopped herbs.

November/December 2021 71

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

LOCAL BANKING Peoples Bank

3110 Woburn St., Bellingham, 360.715.4200 peoplesbank-wa.com Pictured from left to right is: Tiffany Blair, Tony Erickson, Jessica Lembo, Ria Van Weerdhuizen, Kenji Maeda, Marissa Unick, and Krista Jones.

Peoples Bank is a fourth-generation, family-managed community bank. For 100 years, we have been committed to supporting local businesses, hiring locally, and reinvesting in the community. Peoples Bank has $2.6 billion in assets and operates 23 branches across the state, including nine locations in Whatcom County that employ more than 300 people. We offer personal checking and savings accounts, home loans, commercial loans and business credit cards, wealth management, and much more. We hope you will consider becoming a Peoples Bank customer. Visit peoplesbank-wa.com to find a branch near you and learn how we can help you achieve your financial goals.

Local Find: The Orderly Space 78 Remodel: Tac Tile Company 82 Elegant Ornament Ideas 84

Home

Holiday Decorating Hot Spots

88

November/December 2021 73

Home Featured Home

Holiday Inspiration For Your Home WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY

Rustic Bedroom

W

HAT’S THE FIRST THING

that jumps to mind when you think of holiday decor?

For many of us, the visuals are similar: A red and green color palette, string lights (either multicolored or white), stockings, and of course the classic tree.

Though timeless, this formula doesn’t leave much room for personal flair.

We believe that Christmas decorations should never be one-sizefits-all. Elegant or rustic, understated or lavish, classic or contemporary, and everything in between — there’s fun to be had in tailoring seasonal displays to fit your personal style. Don’t be afraid of straying from traditional props and color schemes to make the final look unique to your home.

If you’re looking to get creative when decking the halls, the key is to use your existing aesthetic as a starting point. And why stop at the halls? This Christmas, we’re here to provide inspiration on how to make every room feel merry and bright. 

74

BellinghamAlive.com

All Lit Up

Simple and Modern

Contemporary Kitchen

Glam Gold

Dining Decor

November/December 2021 75

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

WINDOW COVERINGS Russell’s Window Coverings Dave Hamstra | Owner 873 Hinotes Court, A-2, Lynden 360.656.6579 RussellsWindowCoverings@gmail.com WindowShadesAndShutters.com

Beauty, energy efficiency and style are all reflected in your home’s window coverings. If you’re ready to update your window treatments, Russell’s offers you a wide array of options with a huge range of color, design and textiles that will meet your individual needs. From timeless plantation shutters, to classic horizontal blinds and motorized shades, you are sure to find the look and design you desire. Specializing in Hunter Douglas, we are known for quality, customization and top notch service.

David Hamstra has over 40 years of experience in the construction industry.

His expertise will ensure that you will receive the window treatments and service you and your home deserve. Call today to schedule a complimentary consultation and to view our product line in our showroom.

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

INTERIOR DESIGN Jennifer Ryan Design 360.319.7092 jenniferryandesign.com

Jennifer is a multi-talented authority on all things beautiful, fashionable, and functional, with a passion for bringing style and personality to your home’s most important spaces. Jennifer Ryan Design offers it all — design, planning, production, and contractor services. A chameleon of sorts…starting in her “designer” heels and then transforming into her contractor wear. From start to finish, Jennifer will help you create the surroundings you’ll enjoy for a lifetime.

“Creating beautiful rooms that are well designed, comfortable, and reflective of the people who live there is my goal as a designer.”

“Creating rooms that are well built, with quality materials, attention to detail, while making sure my clients are well taken care of during the process is my goal as a contractor.”

Home Local Find

Get Organized, Stress-Free The Orderly Space WRITTEN BY ANELYSE MORRIS PHOTOGRAPHED BY KELSEY KURTIS

T

HIS HOLIDAY SEASON, you can treat yourself to the

gift of organization. Whether you have a particularly cluttered room or are looking for a new house-wide system, The Orderly Space is here to help.

Owner Jennifer Johnson founded The Orderly Space in 2017 as a hobby while her son was at pre-school. The business grew from a one-woman operation to a full-time job with eight employees and more than 30 client projects at a time.

“It’s been four years of growing and adapting,” she says.

“The business has just taken off and it’s incredible.”

While Johnson has always considered herself an organized person, the idea to turn it into a career didn’t occur until after college. She had a degree in psychology and was thinking about going for her master’s degree when a friend suggested life coaching.

“That specialization was a no brainer. When your house is in order, your brain feels in order,” Johnson says. “We can be our happiest selves when our environment is organized and tidy.”

Starting a big project can be daunting. Luckily, all clients have to do to start the process is schedule a complimentary consultation. During the consultation, Johnson will spend an hour walking around the home to get a sense of the client’s needs.

During the consultation, the client receives an organizational plan and can pick between having two or four organizers for 12, 24, or 36 hours. All packages include time spent shopping for supplies, layouts, appointments for other services, hauling donation items, and custom-made labels.

78

BellinghamAlive.com

“When your house is in order, your brain feels in order. We can be our happiest selves when our environment is organized and tidy.”

Jennifer Johnson

“We are like a personal trainer for your home. You can probably do a good job on your own, but we will take it from adequate to excellent,” she says. “The accountability and follow-through experienced when working with a professional organizer is invaluable.”

The Orderly Space caters to every client’s needs and comfort levels. Whether they’re decluttering or helping families move to new households, people can be as involved with the process as they’d like.

“We primarily do homes for busy professionals who appreciate organization but just don’t have the time to get there,” Johnson says.

There’s also no need to fret about materials. The organizational crew shows up at every job with a mobile inventory equipped with a whole van-load of products, including custom labels, bins, and more.

For Johnson, the best part of the job is seeing the burden lifted off her client’s shoulders — a moment she’s able to pinpoint in each project she tackles.

“It feels so freeing, getting to see that through the client’s eyes,” she says. “As organizers, we get to experience that every day and it’s such a satisfying way to end your day, to feel so appreciated and valued.”

To enlist The Orderly Space’s services, book a complimentary consultation online. theorderlyspace.com  November/December 2021 79

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

HOME IMPROVEMENT Windsor Plywood Ken Asp | General Manager 1208 Iowa St., Bellingham 360.676.1025, windsorplywood.com

Windsor Plywood has been around for 51 years in Whatcom County. We have evolved into a local, favorite go to. From tried-and-true industry standards to some of the latest trends, our team is here to help you with all of your home improvement needs. We don’t just sell plywood, we are an all in one solutions provider for wood and construction supplies.

Most homeowners understand the challenges, especially in today’s world, that arise when taking on a project. With almost 200 years of combined experience, chances are pretty good that one of us has seen it or done it.

Stop by and see what we are all about.

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

GARDEN SUPPLY/NURSERY Garden Spot Nursery 900 Alabama St.,Bellingham 360.676.5480 garden-spot.com

Garden Spot Nursery is a neighborhood nursery and boutique, open year-round, where you can find indoor and outdoor plants, gifts, and supplies for all your garden projects. The people at the nursery are what make it so special. Garden Spot’s staff is a group of knowledgeable gardeners, each with a different specialty to help you realize your gardening dreams.

The holiday season is a magical time at the nursery. Everywhere you look, lights glitter and illuminate unique, local, and handmade decorations and gifts. You can find greens, wreaths, cut and live trees of all shapes and sizes to bring you cheer during the cold months. If you just need a peaceful place to escape for a bit, come visit anytime.

Home Remodel

Remodel on Deception Pass Tac Tile Company WRITTEN BY AMY POPELKA PHOTOS BY MADISON BAY PHOTOGRAPHY

T

AC TILE COMPANY was started in 2015 as a way

to make a mark on my community through art and tile. I create unique handmade tiles that are intended to inspire and reflect the beauty of the nature that surrounds us. With each custom project, I meld the client’s ideas with my own personal style, thus creating something original that can be enjoyed for ages.

When I was contacted to envision a fireplace for a cabin being remodeled overlooking Deception Pass, I took the client’s idea of having the inside be a continuation of the outside and ran with it. It was meant to be subtle, yet stunning.

I was able to spend time at the cabin observing the surroundings to get a good feel for the project. The color combinations were carefully selected and laid out. Then, the decorative tile was chosen for how it represents this area. Each decorative tile was hand-carved over several days. Next, a plaster mold was created to be able to replicate it as much as necessary for the project.

After months of creating, firing, and glazing, the end result is a one-of-a-kind, remarkable fireplace that will warm the space for many generations to enjoy. 

82

BellinghamAlive.com

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

ARCHITECTURE Haven Design Workshop Sean Hegstad | Architect 5828 Second Ave., Ste. 101, Ferndale 360.527.2840, haven-dw.com

Architecture isn’t just about designing buildings. According to Sean Hegstad, architect at Haven Design Workshop, it goes much deeper than that.

“Before we start talking about a style of building, we ask what their style of living is. If it will be a residence, how do they like to interact with family and friends? If it is a business, what is the flow, how do their employees work with one another? The most important part of architecture is being a good listener.”

Apparently, their clients agree: C. G. — “Sean’s experience and calm demeanor helped to steer the design/revision process emerging with plans that perfectly reflected our style AND lifestyle.”

S. C. — “Sean and his team were a pleasure to work with, they always listened to what I wanted to achieve.”

Home Necessities

1

2

4 84

BellinghamAlive.com

3

5

YOUR COMMUNITY REAL ESTATE RESOURCE

Elegant Ornament Ideas

LILAC LISTINGS

b y

T

season is finally upon us.

Soon we will be baking turkeys and pies, hanging lights and decorations, and gathering with our families in celebration.

As with all traditions, sometimes new additions are needed. If you’re looking spruce up your ornament collection this year, we have some ideas for you. Gather the kiddos and grandparents around your tree and start decorating! 

1

Glittering Candy Sticks Christmas Crackers

&

l a u r a

RACHAEL WILSON MANAGING BROKER (360)319.2234

LAURA REHBERGER

WRITTEN BY IAN FERGUSON

HE MAGIC of the holiday

r a c h a e l

LILAC-LISTINGS.COM

BROKER (360)224.7496 RE/MAX WHATCOM COUNTY 913 LAKEWAY DRIVE BELLINGHAM, WA 98229

GENUINE RELATIONSHIPS

CUSTOM STRATEGIES WINNING RESULTS

absolutelycleanbham.com 360.303.3910

Thank You for Voting Us the Best in the Northwest! Give Us a Call Today.

Old English Crackers, oldenglishcrackers.com, $23.50

2 3

Mirrored Gold Star Topper Pottery Barn, potterybarn.com, $79

Northlight 4 Count Floral Christmas Ball Ornaments

4 5

Macy’s, macys.com, $76

Tree Garland Petals & Blooms, petalsandbloomsdecor.com, $18

Holiday Utensil Ornament Greenhouse Home + Life, greenhousehome.com, $12.95

November/December 2021 85

THE FACE OF

REAL ESTATE Christine Cicchitti Windermere Real Estate 360.296.3814 cicchitti@windermere.com

THANK YOU to the community for the support of my business over the last 16 years and counting. I started my real estate business with the thought that I could help people in the most ethical way possible. I had heard all the rumors about realtors, and they were not good. It made me sad to think that I was going into a business that had a bad reputation, so I decided that I was going to do my best to change that. I believe in doing the right thing every time, no matter what. Over the years, my goals have evolved to include giving back to the community in as many ways as I can. I believe that our community has some of the kindest and most giving people living within it. Sometimes, all someone needs is a hand up in life to the next step on their journey.

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

I have great team members who believe in my philosophy and give 100% to all of our clients. Join me in recognizing my team. A huge thank you to the Windermere family for being the BEST real estate company that I have ever worked for.

Terri Gunderson: Preferred Lender PRIMARY RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE, INC. Kitty French: Transaction coordinator (not in Photo) Crystal O’neil: Windermere Agent, and buyer’s agent Jim Westford: Windermere Agent, and Land use consultant Jennifer Dodge: Office Manager Tinsel: Front desk at Windermere Ferndale office

Home Inspiration

Holiday Decorating Hot Spots WRITTEN BY LISA KARLBERG

I

T’S TIME TO DUST OFF YOUR HOLIDAY BOXES and pull out

all the stops to make this season your best. Every year we take inventory of what we have, check those lights, and dream of new and inventive ways to freshen up the holiday decor. When taking this inventory, there are several key spots you don’t want to miss. They create a festive atmosphere the minute you walk in the door and give your guests a warm welcoming feeling throughout the holiday season.

Whatever you do, pick a theme you can carry throughout your home.

Below are some key spots in and around your home that are not to be missed.

Front Door This can be as simple as a simple cedar winter wreath, or as elaborate as surrounding the entire door perimeter with cedar boughs and decorating them to the nines. Tip: Choose decoration that goes from fall into winter.

Think about a grapevine wreath that allows you to switch its adornments from fall leaves and pumpkins to cedar boughs and berry twigs.

Mailbox Passersby and visitors alike will enjoy some holiday cheer just by adding a decorated wreath, greenery, and/or a bow to your mailbox.

It just may bring a smile to a stranger’s face during the season. Tip: Leave a “surprise” for your mail delivery person. It will brighten their day and let them know you appreciate them delivering your mail through sun, rain, sleet, and snow.

88

BellinghamAlive.com

Front Porch Nothing says “welcome to our home for Christmas” more than a well-decorated front porch. It sets the stage for the perfect moments to be celebrated and cherished inside. First think of your space, then add elements. These can be minimalist items (think holiday signs, garland, and poinsettias) or more elaborate (such as decorated trees, a bench with blankets and pillows, candle holders, and firewood). Tip: Add a wood sign, painted antique sled, or any other unique items for interest.

Stair Rails A stair rail lined with garland adds depth and warmth to your home. Keep it simple and just add ribbon and lights, or keep the theme of your decor running up the stairs by incorporating some of those elements. Tip: Use clear zip ties to connect your garland to the stair rails.

Mantle This is perhaps the second most decorated space after your tree. The mantle is the heart of the home and can be the focal point for your decor — think mirrors, holiday signs, garland, lights, candles, and of course stockings. Tip: Layer some elements over each other and really strive for that holiday cheer.

November/December 2021 89

Photo courtesy of sarahjanechristy.com

Home Inspiration

Dining Table This is where you can shine by creating a centerpiece that serves as the focal point of the room. Incorporate fresh greenery and use it to create a table runner, then add candles, berry garland, pinecones, and twigs. Tip: Create interest by using those old candle holders to add different heights.

Powder Room Keep the festive lights aglow as guests head to your powder room. It can be as simple as a holiday candle and a cedar bough or as elaborate as garland, lights, candles, and holiday decor pieces. Tip: Holiday scented hand wash and lotion offers up a delightful end to the powder room visit. 90

BellinghamAlive.com

Follow us on Instagram

HELPING YOU FIND CLARITY AND CONFIDENCE WITH YOUR MONEY Nicole Burdick, AAMS® LPL Financial Advisor

@BellinghamAlive Award winners determined by public votes via reader’s choice poll

I help women work towards becoming financially independent, especially through transitions such as death and divorce.

909 Squalicum Way Ste 110 Bellingham, WA | 360-734-4728 | consilium-financial.com Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC

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

L E A D E R S IN LUXURY

• • • •

ESH SHOP FR L & LO C A

Voted Best Take-Out

Order Now

SATURDAYS DEPOT MARKET SQUARE 1100 RAILROAD AVE, BELLINGHAM, WA

10:00am to 2:00pm WWW.BELLINGHAMFARMERS.ORG

www.undergroundburgers.com

Review: Cob + Cork 94 Local Find: Yeah Baby Boards 98 Recipe: Pumpkin Tea Cake 101

Taste

Photo by Trista Sakuma

Community

Fidalgo Fudge Co.

96

November/December 2021 93

Taste Review

Food and Wine from the Land and Sea Cob + Cork WRITTEN BY IAN FERGUSON PHOTOGRAPHED BY TONY MUEANTONTHIAN

L

OCATED AT THE CROSSROADS

of Chuckanut Drive and Bow Hill Road stands Cob + Cork, a quaint, small-town restaurant “inspired by the harvest of local soil and water.”

After opening its doors in August of this year, Cob + Cork has quickly become a community gem thanks to the work of owners Lisa and Terry Thomson.

From a young age, Lisa knew she wanted to be a chef, so she worked throughout high school and moved to Paris to study French cuisine after graduating. She worked as a nanny while learning at the original Le Cordon Bleu Ecole de Cuisine and studying language at La Sorbonne.

From then on, she dedicated her life to the hospitality and food industry. She

94

BellinghamAlive.com

has worked in kitchens in California, France, Germany, and Canada, all the while learning from chefs who are experts in cuisines from around the world — but she learned the most from being immersed in food cultures and eating.

Upon first entrance, you’ll be welcomed into a warm and inviting atmosphere. Hanging on the walls are family photos and vintage wooden corks gifted to the owners by family friends. These are not wine corks; rather, they are vintage corks originally used in a commercial fishing business and gifted to the Thomsons by family friends. The word “cork” speaks to both uses, as does the cuisine on offer. As a whole, “Cob + Cork” represents food and wine as well as land and sea.

Begin your meal with some starters.

If you’re someone who usually skips your greens, then you are required to try the Arugula Salad. The pomegranate dressing, dried cherries, walnuts, and Samish Bay Vache will make you second-guess your convictions on what a salad can be — utterly delicious.

For seafood lovers, there’s the PNW Steamer Bowl. A bowl of clams and mussels is cooked in a soul-warming

broth of white wine, herbs, and garlic and plated with baguette.

For dinner, a customer favorite is the Schnitzel, a Bavarian dish Lisa learned to make while living in the Alps. It consists of pork pounded thin and breaded. I went with the Crab Mac + Cheese, which was exactly as it should be — warm, cheesy, and comforting, with a subtle twist of Dungeness crab.

“I think mastery is when you can create really good food with really simple ingredients and let the ingredients speak,” Lisa says. “That’s basically what Cob + Cork is. It’s very approachable food that people will recognize, but with our fresh, handcrafted spin on it.”

Cob + Cork also hosts monthly events as part of their Bite Club. Each month they feature a new region of cuisine with small tasting plates and a paired wine. Attendees can also stay for a prepared dinner based on the theme of the night. On Nov. 18 they will be hosting “A Night in Napa,” and on Dec. 16, “Home for the Holidays.”

Reservations can be made on the Cob + Cork website. Make sure to reserve sooner than later because tickets sell out quickly! 5545 Chuckanut Dr., Bow, 360.421.1918, cobandcork.com  November/December 2021 95

Photo by Katheryn Moran Photography

Photo by Katheryn Moran Photography

Photo by Katheryn Moran Photography

Photo by Trista Sakuma

Taste Community

Baking Your Dreams Come True Fidalgo Fudge Co. Gets A New Storefront WRITTEN BY ANELYSE MORRIS

I

F YOU HAVE EVER visited downtown Anacortes, you may have sampled one of the 50+ delicious varieties of Fidalgo Fudge Co. From creamy classics like the chocolate walnut to unique creations such as the dark chocolate ginger or habanero, there’s something for every sweet tooth.

While owner Trista Sakuma was a longtime baker prior to purchasing the business in 2014, she had actually never made fudge before. It wasn’t until she met the previous owners that she even considered a career in fudge-making.

“The day I quit my job without a back-up, I met this couple who had a fudge business and were looking to retire,” Sakuma says. “It was a real leap of faith.”

Motivated to start her own business and intrigued by fudge’s long shelf life, Sakuma charged ahead. She spent a year purchasing Fidalgo Fudge Co. while also running a coffee business, Farmer’s Cup, alongside her husband at the Anacortes Farmers Market.

“I knew they needed a coffee vendor and I used to be a barista,” she says. “Plus I know how to make a lot of things from scratch.”

Since Sakuma took ownership nearly eight years ago, Fidalgo Fudge Co. has changed drastically, from a boom in flavors to increased e-commerce.

“I bought a good structure with a lot of room to grow,” she says. “They already had a great following, but adding the cutting-edge flavors and updating the displays really expanded the customer base.”

Sakuma also made the business more accessible online, changing the web name from “Sound Ideas Fudge Kitchen” 96

BellinghamAlive.com

to “Fidalgo Fudge Kitchen.” Once COVID-19 hit, she quickly moved to update the online platform.

After making 3,000 pounds of fudge for the 2020 Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, she had to scramble to sell it all when the event was cancelled. With some help from local photographer Katheryn Moran, Sakuma was able to dramatically increase sales online, through social media, and through virtual shows.

The biggest change is the recent opening of a new storefront in downtown Anacortes. Sakuma purchased the location — a former post office — in 2019, only for construction to be shut down shortly after.

She used the hiatus to her advantage, installing a 30panel solar system on the roof, a new heating system, new windows and doors, as well as inputting an espresso counter repurposed from a slab of a bowling lane of the recently closed San Juan Lanes.

The 1,200 square-foot shop functions as both a kitchen and retail space, featuring not only Fidalgo Fudge but also Farmer’s Cup coffee, local chocolate, and Lopez Island Creamery ice cream.

Much like the business, Sakuma says the community of Anacortes has grown immensely in some ways while staying the same in others. As a fifth-generation Anacortes resident, she hopes to integrate the community into her business when her doors open.

“It’s home,” she says. “It’s the most beautiful place in the world.” Fidalgo Fudge Co., 715 Commercial Ave, Anacortes, fidalgofudge.com 

Dining Guide Taste

DINING KEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to $9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $10–19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $20–29 . . . . . . . $30 or greater . . . . . . . . . . . . . Breakfast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dinner . . . . . . . . . .Family-Friendly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Takeout . . . . . . . . Outdoor Seating . . . . . . . . . . Reservations . . . . . . . . . . . Happy Hour . . . . . . . . . . . New Review Menu items and prices are subject to change, so check before you go. See all our restaurant reviews on our Eat and Drink tab at bellinghamalive.com * Local restaurants need you now more than ever! However, due to COVID-19, some restaurants may be temporarily closed. Remember to call ahead or check online for delivery and pick-up options.

WHATCOM ANTHONY’S HEARTHFIRE GRILL Steak, Seafood

7 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360.527.3473, anthonys.com The Hearthfire menu speaks to the everyday eater, not just the special occasion treat of Anthony’s. Seasonal items, such as peaches or huckleberries in the summer, complement salads, entrees, and drinks. Steaks, seafood, and items on the Woodfire rotisserie round out the selections.

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 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.

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

BLACK PEARL ASIAN FUSION Asian Fusion 1317 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.746.2030, blackpearlasianfusion.com 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.

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.

CHIHUAHUA MEXICAN RESTAURANT Mexican

5694 Third Ave., Ferndale 360.384.5820 chihuahuamexicanrestaurant.com Dine in at one of the largest Mexican restaurants in Washington and experience the authentic cuisine derived from decades of dedication to excellent food. Using family recipes passed down for generations, Chihuahua Mexican Restaurant will not only leave you full, but also deeply satisfied.

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.

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

BLUE FIN SUSHI Japanese 102 S. Samish Way, Ste. 105, Bellingham 360.752.2583, bluefinbellingham.com Delicious fresh sushi is a given, but Blue Fin also offers a full menu of non-sushi food items, from classic bento boxes to fish and chips.

Peruse their vast menu with help from their friendly waitstaff, then enjoy a mouthwatering close-up as chefs prepare your food behind the bar.

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.

THE FILLING STATION American

CHAIR 9 WOODSTONE PIZZA & BAR 10459 Mount Baker Hwy., Glacier 360.599.2511, chair9.com

1138 Finnegan Way, Bellingham 360.715.1839 716 Alabama St., Bellingham 360.746.2079, fillingstationnw.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

The 1950s vibe resonates within the walls of this all-American burger joint. From the antique gas pump to the car memorabilia lining the restaurant, The Filling Station is Fairhaven’s newest go-to spot to satisfy your hunger. With names like Chevy Pickup, Mustang, and Thunderbird, the menu provides

American

November/December 2021 97

Taste Local Find

Art You Can Eat Yeah Baby Boards WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY | PHOTOS COURTESY OF YEAH BABY BOARDS

O

BSERVING A CHARCUTERIE CREATION from Yeah Baby

Boards is almost like studying a painting. The eye is guided along by artfully sliced cheese and flowers of salami, while dips and snacks punctuate the composition. Fresh produce such as berries or peppers give the arrangement a pop of color. Overall, it’s evident that every element is intentional and considered.

“I have a process,” explains Crystal Stewart, owner and creative force behind Yeah Baby Boards. “First I put dishes, then I put cheese, then I build everything around that. When I do larger [spreads], I draw them out.

I would say that this all took time, though. In the beginning I was cutting cheese so ugly!”

Stewart has had ample opportunity to refine her cheese-cutting technique since these early days. Since opening her business, she estimates to have assembled thousands of custom charcuterie boards for weddings and events. Now clients can also stop in for a board and a glass of wine at Yeah Baby’s Ferndale storefront, open as of fall 2021.

After relocating with her family from California to Ferndale, finding work amid the COVID19 pandemic proved challenging for Stewart. However, she found motivation in her passion for food and long-standing dream of business ownership. Taking her charcuterie board hobby to a professional level felt like a natural leap.

Stewart opened her business in late 2020, naming it “Yeah Baby” in homage to her father’s favorite catchphrase. The endeavor paid off quickly — reception for Yeah Baby Boards has been overwhelmingly positive.

“Moving here has been honestly the biggest blessing my family’s ever received,” says Stewart. “This is not

98

BellinghamAlive.com

normal, this area. It’s amazing for what I do. All the cheese farms, all the berry farms, all the honeycomb, just everything!”

Most ingredients on the boards are locally sourced, and vendors include Acme Cheese Farms and Ferndale Farmstead. Curated products from collaborating vendors are also available at Yeah Baby’s brickand-mortar storefront.

When sourcing ingredients at farmers markets, Stewart doesn’t shy away from incorporating unusual produce into her boards. At Yeah Baby Boards, nontraditional charcuterie arrangements are a mainstay, and even the boards’ names are whimsical (Cheese Will Give You Wings, Loaf Me, and Easy Briezzy Baby are just a few examples). Stewart is also careful to work around clients’ allergies and intolerances.

“I learned that [non-dairy] cheese is so good,” she says. “And I like when people include sweet treats.

I work with Anna’s Bread in Blaine when I do bread, and I work with Sweet Indulgence when [clients] ask for macarons or scones or anything to make their day special.”

Of course, sweets are only a small part of what makes the Yeah Baby Boards experience so memorable.

Speaking with Stewart, it’s clear that she brings passion, positivity, and energy to every order she undertakes.

Opening a business inevitably comes with a learning curve; however, these logistics and late nights are handled with tenacity. As a veteran and woman of color, Stewart is proud to set an example of “fierce womanhood” for her two daughters.

“It’s been good to be able to do this and have my girls watch and have such a supportive husband,” says Stewart. “I just want to thank my family.” 2015 Main St., Ferndale, 360.220.7345, yeahbabyboards.com 

Dining Guide Taste different burger selections along with appetizers like Dip Sticks (deep-fried zucchini strips), Hot Rod (footlong hot dog), or the Junkyard (classic, onion, and tire fries).

DRINK DROPS

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.

THE FORK AT AGATE BAY American, Seafood 2530 Northshore Rd., Bellingham 360.733.1126, theforkatagatebay.com Nestled at the fork between Y and Northshore roads near Lake Whatcom sits The Fork at Agate Bay. This relaxed and boat-house-chic restaurant offers a seasonal menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all featuring fresh, local ingredients. The bar boasts an impressive drink menu, with a drink selection based on fresh and local ingredients and tastes.

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 old-timey 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.

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 tempura-fried 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.

Aslan Brewing Company For those heading up to Mount Baker for some winter skiing, don’t forget to warm up afterwards with Aslan’s famous pale ale, Hook’s Stash. You can also keep your eyes peeled for a new Dunkel (German lager) in partnership with Washington Wild, a Holiday IPA with artwork by Kaisa Lemley, and a Schwarzbier honoring the womxn of Alsan, with artwork by Maddi Studder.

1330 N. Forest St., Bellingham aslanbrewing.com

Stones Throw Brewery Celebrate the season at Stones Throw Brewery with new releases and returning favorites.

Regular customers can anticipate the return of the Happy Valley Hazy IPA to the taps.

This IPA is floral and aromatic, with minimal bitterness. You can also expect to find the Midnight Rider Dark Lager, a traditional schwarzbier that’s light in body and taste, with low bitterness and a smooth, roasted malt.

1009 Larrabee Ave., Bellingham stonesthrowbrewco.com

LEADER BLOCK WINE CO. & EATERY Italian 2026 Main St., Ferndale 360.306.8998, leaderblock.com

Stemma Brewing

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.

For those looking to stay warm this winter, head to Stemma Brewing for two new drinks that will have you feeling warm and cozy in no time.

The Skybright Winter Ale offers both sweet and herbal flavors, with strong malt character of raisin, cherry, and toffee — this coupled with it’s dark amber coloration makes it the perfect cold weather beverage. While not official yet, Stemma also plans to release a November staff series beer with head brewer Nigel.

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

2039 Moore St., Bellingham stemmabrewing.com November/December 2021 99

Taste Sip

The Gift of Good Spirits WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY

I

NFUSED SPIRITS are the best kind of holiday gift: Simple, homemade, and delicious. You can whip them up in batches for everyone on your Christmas list, but we wouldn’t blame you if you kept a jar (or two) as a present to yourself as well. Best of all, they couldn’t be easier to put together. All you need are Mason jars, ingredients of choice, and a little bit of patience.

Step One: Choose your Spirit For a neutral base, 80-proof vodka is our go-to. Other common, middle-shelf liquors such as tequila and gin are also great candidates. Whiskey and rum have more specific flavor profiles, but they’ll work well as a base for warmer, holiday-inspired infusions.

Step Two: Choose your Infusion Fresh fruit is a classic (and tasty) choice for giving your spirits flavor. Any fruit will do, but if you’re out to bottle the essence of the holidays, look for organic produce that’s in season in November and December. Apples, pears, cranberries, and even figs are all excellent options.

Wash your ingredients well, but don’t worry about spoilage. The alcohol will keep the fruit from going bad.

When you chop your fruit, remember that smaller ingredients result in a faster infusion time.

No fresh fruit on hand? No worries! Dried fruit works just as well. It will also flavor your alcohol even faster, and the resulting booze-soaked sweets make great garnishes for cocktails.

Of course, fruit is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to infusion possibilities. Spices, teas, and hearty herbs such as rosemary are also delicious and easy to work with.

To keep things festive, experiment with spice blends you’d

normally use to make seasonal treats such as cookies, chai, or mulled wine.

Step Three: Know your Ratios A good rule of thumb is to use a 1:1 ratio when measuring cups of alcohol and fruit. If you’re using a Mason jar to infuse your booze, eyeball it by filling the jar halfway with chopped fruit. Jalapeno-infused tequila makes for a mean margarita, but be careful! To avoid ending up with a cocktail that’s more painful than enjoyable, you’ll want to use a 1:2 ratio of spirits to peppers.

There’s also no need to be heavy-handed when adding spices. You’ll only need anywhere from 1 tablespoon to ¼ cup of whole — never ground! — spices for a standard Mason jar.

Step Four: Wait it Out Infusions using fresh ingredients are ready after (at least) 5 days, while spices, dried fruits, and peppers may take less time. The best rule of thumb is to taste every few days and add more or less flavoring depending on your liking. If you’ve gone a bit overboard, there’s always the option to tone things down by diluting your Mason jar with unflavored spirits.

Once your infusions pass the taste test, all that’s left to do is strain, sip, and enjoy. 

Holiday Cocktails When I think of holiday punches, there is a lot to choose from. Traditional Moscow mules are simple and fun, while fruitbased rum and gin punches are also popular. Other options for Thanksgiving and the holiday season include hot ciders (rum, cinnamon schnapps, cider with your choice of spices) as well as mulled wines.

One recipe I enjoy for New Year’s is the Sweet Eve made with vodka, St.

100 BellinghamAlive.com

Germaine Elderflower Liqueur, pineapple juice, strawberry puree, and Champagne served in a flute glass with a chocolate coated strawberry garnish.

For people at home, adding Snowy River cocktail glitter can add loads of color and sparkle to any drink while our sugar and salt rimmers add flamboyance.

Customers regularly lick their glasses clean here at the bar, particularly when we use our chocolate-coconut rimmer blends. STUART CUTLER OF SNOWY RIVER COCKTAIL CO

Recipe Taste

Pumpkin Tea Cake WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY ARLENÉ MANTHA

Ingredients (Adapted from the Tartine cookbook) 1 ¹/3 cups (6 ½ ounces/180 grams) AP Flour ¹/3 cup (1 ½ ounces/45 grams) spelt or AP Flour 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda 4 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon 2 teaspoons freshly ground nutmeg ¼ teaspoon ground cloves 9 ¼ ounces canned pumpkin puree 1 cup (8 ounces/200 grams) vegetable oil 1 teaspoon kosher salt 3 large eggs, room temperature 1 tablespoon granulated sugar for topping

to fit the bottom and place that inside. Set the pan aside.

thick), smooth the surface, then sprinkle 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar evenly over the top.

• Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves then sift the mixture.

• Place in the oven and set one timer for 30 minutes and a second timer for 60 minutes.

Rotate the pan 180 degrees for 30 minutes.

• In a mixing bowl, add the oil, pumpkin puree, sugar, and salt.

Whisk thoroughly then set aside for a few minutes. Whisk again.

The texture should be cohesive and will plop rather than drizzle.

• Bake for about an hour (my oven takes 65 minutes) until the internal temperature measured in the center is around 205 degrees.

• Add in eggs.

• Add half of the flour and whisk until 75% combined.

• Move oven rack to the middle position and preheat to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Add the second half of the flour and whisk until just about combined. Switch to a rubber spatula, scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl, then fold the mixture until fully combined.

• Lightly butter a 9 by 5 inch loaf pan. Cut a piece of parchment

• Scrape the batter into your prepared pan (it should be

Instructions

• Remove the pan from the oven, gently run a paring knife between the tea cake and pan to ensure nothing sticks. Set the pan on a wire rack to cool for 20 minutes.

• After 20 minutes, carefully invert the pan (taking care not to destroy your crust) and peel off the parchment. Place the pumpkin bread on a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing. 

November/December 2021 101

Taste Sip

Wines to Make Your Holiday Season Even More Memorable WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY DAN RADIL

D

O WE OVERSPEND, OVEREAT, AND OVER-IMBIBE during the

holidays? Almost certainly!

The holiday season means it’s time for special gatherings with family and friends, so why not celebrate with an extra-special bottle (or two) of wine?

Variety is the key, and Washington and Oregon wineries have you covered with an incredible range of reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling wines that are perfect for the holidays.

Here are a few special wines from the Pacific Northwest to get you started: King Estate Winery 2016 Brut Cuvée (about $40) — Based near Eugene, Oregon, King Estate currently offers this gorgeous blend of 83-percent pinot noir and 17-percent chardonnay that brings to mind similar wines from France’s storied Champagne houses.

It opens with lovely brioche and citrus aromatics followed by lemon chiffon, apple, and juicy Bartlett pear flavors. The finish is both crisp and lengthy, with vibrant acidity nicely balanced by a suggested whisper of sweetness.

Goose Ridge Vineyards Cellar Select Artist Series ($36 to $52 each) — This four-wine series of eyecatching labels by artist Katie Small is matched by the equally impressive wines inside the bottle, crafted by winemaker Andrew Wilson.

White wines include the 2019 Reserve Roussanne “Camellia,” with flavors and aromas of stone fruits and toasted walnuts and a finish of lemon crème; and a 2019 Reserve Chardonnay “Magnolia,” which strikes the perfect balance between freshness and richness, with baked apple and pear flavors accentuated with a hint of citrus and spice.

The Artist Series red wines feature a 2018 Reserve Syrah “Dahlia,” with stunning aromatics of violets and wild 102 BellinghamAlive.com

berries backed by intense, dark fruit and fig flavors on a textured finish; and the 2018 Reserve Red Blend “Violette,” a blend of five Bordeaux varietals packed with black plum and black currant fruit wrapped in a finish of toasted oak.

These wines are available at Goose Ridge’s four tasting rooms located throughout Washington and can also be ordered online at gooseridge.com.

Tsillan Cellars 2018 Estate Barbera (about $36) and Siren Song Wines 2017 Reserve Beijo (about $48) — The Lake Chelan area is fast becoming one of Washington’s premiere wine grape growing regions and these two selections are indicative of the quality of wines being produced here.

The food-friendly Tsillan Cellars Barbera opens with fresh berry and

vanilla wafer aromatics, followed by brambly blackberry flavors, sweet tobacco and spicy nuances, and a splash of acidity on the finish.

A gorgeous 50/50 combination of merlot and syrah, the Siren Song Beijo carries a mouthful of luscious black cherry fruit topped with a slice of blueberry pie and a soft, butterscotch-like finish. Gold medalist at the 2021 Bellingham Northwest Wine Competition.

Both wines are recommended as serving partners for a lamb or red meat entree and can be purchased at the winery’s tasting rooms or online stores.

For more holiday wine recommendations from the Chelan area and other Pacific Northwest wineries visit danthewineguy.com. 

FACES

OF THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF

DISTILLERIES Chuckanut Bay Distillery 1311 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.738.7179 chuckanutbaydistillery.com

Located in the heart of downtown Bellingham in a beautifully restored historic building, Chuckanut Bay Distillery is quietly creating some of the Pacific Northwest’s most delicious — and highly awarded — spirits. Using locally grown agricultural products, their portfolio includes whiskey, gin, vodka, coffee liqueur, and Krampus Herbal Liqueur which is quickly becoming a northwest holiday tradition. Founded

by Matt Howell and Kelly Andrews in 2011, Chuckanut Bay Distillery will soon be opening an on-site restaurant/cocktail bar and 6,000 square foot event space, as well as a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the San Juan Islands. In the meantime, you’re invited to experience the distillery today through a guided tour, tasting flight, craft cocktail, or pick up a bottle to go. Cheers!

Taste Dining Guide

omnivore — and if you are craving eggs benedict, Little Cheerful is definitely for you. Side note: Cash only.

LORIKEET Tapas Bar 215 W. Holly St., Ste. 101, Bellingham lorikeetbar.com Designed to feel like a seaside resort bar, the atmosphere at Lorikeet is beachy, relaxing, and transporting. Food offerings rotate daily, but staples include small plates like ceviche and skewers. The extensive cocktail menu features numerous rum- and tequilabased creations.

MAGDALENA’S CREPERIE European 1200 10th St., Ste. 103, Bellingham 360.483.8569, magdalenascreperie.com Paris, London, New York, Vancouver, and Bellingham all have them: little shops where the aromas of sweet and savory crêpes, custom sandwiches, and hot soup du jour fill the air.

With an astounding selection of crêpes, it’ll take more than one trip to decide which is better, sweet or savory. But at this eatery, it is criminal to pass up the sweet little numbers filled with velvety smooth vanilla-flavored cream cheese, white chocolate, and your choice of fresh fruit. A crêpe option for every crêpe craving.

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.

MUTO RAMEN & SUSHI Japanese, Sushi 105 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham, 360.647.3530 Muto Ramen does not disappoint for those looking for both atmosphere and flavor at a reasonable price. From udon noodles and yakitori to long lists of different ramen, sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri, guests can look forward to many visits of exploring the wide selection of Japanese dishes.

MYKONOS Greek 1650 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.715.3071, mykonosbellingham.com Pita bread is pita bread, right? Not at Mykonos. If you order a starter of hummus, prepare your tastebuds for slices of heaven.

If you consider yourself a connoisseur of Greek cuisine, you won’t be disappointed.

Mykonos offers excellent value for the price — Pheidippides would be proud.

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

THE NORTH FORK BREWERY Eclectic, Bar 6186 Mount Baker Hwy., Deming 360.599.2337 Pizza and beer is a pairing that truly stands the test of time. At Deming’s long-running North Fork Brewery, which opened in December of 1997, the two remain as strong as ever. The North Fork’s brews are made in small batches by their longtime brewer and his custom draft system. The old-style pub feels homey and familiar, with quirky decorations like a glass wall encasing rows and rows of beer bottles. It’s a warm, inviting place to escape the biting temperatures outside.

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.

PEL’MENI RESTAURANT Russian 1211 N. State St., Bellingham 360.715.8324, restaurantwebx.com/PelMeni Step off busy State Street after your late night festivities for an inexpensive and satisfying fill of plump dumplings. Stuffed with either meat or potatoes, these dumplings are piping hot and sprinkled with cumin, paprika, and cilantro. Because they pair so well with tasty libations, Pel’meni manages to consistently have a line out the door as soon as the sun goes down. Smother them with vinegar, sour cream, and hot sauce for the full effect.

PEPPER SISTERS Mexican, Pacific Northwest 1055 N. State St., Bellingham 360.671.3414, peppersisters.com Customers have been diving into their plentiful plates of comforting burritos, quesadillas, and other specialties since 1988. The spunky atmosphere only elevates the already upbeat mood of the place. With bright booths, samplings of art, and lively music, it’s nearly impossible to feel sour. Regular patrons groove to Stevie Wonder as they plunge their forks into massive burritos filled with red chili pesto, sautéed mushrooms, grilled onions, potatoes, green chilies, and cheese.

RIFUGIO’S COUNTRY ITALIAN CUISINE Italian

5415 Mount Baker Hwy., Deming 360.592.2888, ilcafferifugio.com 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 RUSTIC FORK Italian 442 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine 360.332.4346, therusticforkeatery.com On the menu at The Rustic Fork, you’ll find a variety of authentic Italian dishes, from pizzas and paninis to cannoli and lasagna. All pizzas are 12” and feature a fire-baked thin crust, differentiating the Rustic Fork from other pizzerias in Blaine. Stop by during lunch to choose from sandwiches, paninis, salads, and pasta dishes, or grab some pizza by the slice.

104 BellinghamAlive.com

SALTINE New American

8

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.

GREAT TASTES

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.

1

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.

2

STORIA CUCINA Italian, Pizza 109 Grand Ave., Ste. 102, Bellingham, 360.734.1929, storiacucina.com Storia Cucina offers a simple, no-fuss menu meant to reduce decision-fatigue and prioritize quality over quantity. All pasta is made in-house on an imported Italian pasta extruder, and ingredients are as local as possible. The restaurant itself is bright, cheerful, and tastefully decorated, certain to lift your spirits even on a drizzly autumn night.

3

UNDERGROUND BURGER American 8114 Guide Meridian Rd., Lynden undergroundburgers.com If you’re craving a classic burger experience, Underground Burger offers delicious, affordable burgers made from locally raised, certified Angus beef. The restaurant began as a virtual kitchen based out of Jake’s BBQ, but quickly expanded into a permanent spot where you can order dine-in or to-go. Round out your meal with waffle fries and a chocolate shake.

4

Fried chicken is big right now, but have you tried K-Pop Chicken and Beer?

Their Spicy Gochujang Drumsticks will give you the spice and crunch you’ve been looking for.

Order this with a side of fries and a variety of homemade sauces.

The Poutine at Twin Sisters Brewing Company is the perfect dish to keep you warm this winter. Mushroom gravy, cheese curds, and herbs are piled high on a bed of crispy French fries for an appetizer that’s truly indulgent.

We recommend the Chicken Adobo from Bry’s Filipino Cuisine food truck as an excellent and authentic introduction to Filipino food. Juicy chicken thighs are simmered in sauce until tender, creating a meal that strikes the perfect balance between spicy and sweet.

If you’re feeling tropical, pair a tiki drink from Redrum with some Coconut Prawns. They’re delicious in their own right, but the side of honey-habanero sauce is what makes the dish absolutely addictive.

5 6 7 8

When you think of Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill, you think seafood, and they don’t let you down with their Fresh Wild Troll Caught Silver Salmon. The freshly caught fish is chargrilled with a tomato basil butter and will practically melt in your mouth.

The Falafel Pita at Seven Spice Cafe is sure to make any lunch break memorable.

Their house-made pita bread is divine, and sauce selections range from traditional tzatziki to more adventurous options such as curry fry sauce or schug.

Dirty Dan Harris Steakhouse is a place for everybody. Whether you want steak, pasta, or seafood, they have you covered, and you can start your meal off right with the Gorgonzola Garlic Bread. It comes topped with a gravy made with gorgonzola and Jack Daniel’s.

Guacamole Fresco from Lilia’s Mexican Cuisine is some of the best we’ve found outside of the Southwest.

Better yet, their servings are generous enough to share with a crowd (although you still might not want to).

November/December 2021 105

Taste Local Find

Bringing the Farmers Market to Your Doorstep Acme Farms + Kitchen WRITTEN BY IAN FERGUSON | PHOTOS COURTESY OF ACME FARMS + KITCHEN

W

ITH OUR LIVES becoming

busier every day, the relentless question of “what’s for dinner” is, for many of us, a headache. If you’re like me, that question is answered by a trip to the grocery store in search of something quick and easy. But quick and easy isn’t always what’s best for our health, or the health of the planet.

In 2011, Joy Rubey observed this problem and started contemplating how to solve it. She thought about her daughter and how she wanted to provide her with healthy and nutritious foods. However, she also struggled with the constant task of meal planning and shopping for the best local food.

“Shopping locally and primarily at the farmers market wasn’t easy with a toddler in tow,” Rubey says. “So I came up with this idea to bring the farmers market to your doorstep.”

That idea soon blossomed into Acme Farms + Kitchen, a company that provides organic, locally sourced foods directly to your home.

In its early years, Acme Farms + Kitchen had just a handful of producers and customers. Now, they work with about 150 different producers in an average year. They also provide produce and meal kits to customers in Whatcom and Skagit counties as well as the greater Seattle and Portland areas.

In addition to standard meal kits, Acme Farms + Kitchen also offers Kids Boxes that include breakfast, lunch and dinner meals that are simple enough for children to assemble themselves.

In addition to helping parents save time, the Kids Boxes also help teach valuable life skills about nutrition and food preparation.

106 BellinghamAlive.com

When it comes to meal kit delivery options, some might think of larger distributors such as HelloFresh or Blue Apron. While there are some similarities between Acme Farms + Kitchen and other food delivery services, such as their online ordering process and weekly deliveries, Rubey said the biggest difference is their minimal packaging and local delivery.

In addition, they work with multiple non-profits to address food insecurity.

She said all of their foods meet or exceed organic standards, and that they never ship food — all of their meal kits are dropped off at your door within hours of preparation. Because of this, there is no need for excessive packaging.

Moving forward, they plan to grow into more communities across the country, and in doing so they hope to fundamentally change the food system as we know it — a system that she believes is broken.

Rubey commented on how if we continue wide-scale, unsustainable farming practices to produce cheap commodity foods, our soil, air, and water will eventually pay the price.

“When the food we eat is damaging our bodies and the planet, the system is broken.” she said. “We are on a mission to change that by putting people and the planet above profits” Every step of the way Acme Farms + Kitchen has been taking steps to address these issues, simply by providing more local and organic food options to more people. And of course, we finally have a response to “what’s for dinner?”: A delicious and home cooked meal you can be proud of, in more ways than one.

909 Squalicum Way, Ste. 104, Bellingham, theacmebox.com 

Dining Guide Taste

SKAGIT A’TOWN BISTRO Regional NW 418 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.899.4001, atownbistro.com A’Town Bistro’s careful sourcing of ingredients, creative approach to food and drinks, and comfortable atmosphere are why it’s about to become your new go-to restaurant. Pair your meal with something off the ever-changing cocktail menu. Bitters, shrubs, and syrup are made in-house and the creative cocktails are composed by staff or sourced from a collection of vintage bartending books.

–

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR OUR MENU, TAKE-OUT, AND DELIVERY! HOURS: MON - FRI 11AM - 5PM THESANDWICHODYSSEY.COM (360) 738-6919

BOB’S CHOWDER BAR & BBQ SALMON Seafood, American

3320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.299.8000, bobschowderbarandbbqsalmon.com Treasured for its fresh and local seafood, Bob’s Chowder Bar & BBQ Salmon has long been a favorite dining destination in Anacortes. The restaurant specializes in all-things seafood, from fried calamari to oyster burgers and grilled wild prawns. Pair your meal with a huckleberry or sarsaparilla soda, wine by the glass, hard cider, bottled beer, or a featured beer on tap.

CHUCKANUT MANOR Pacific Northwest 3056 Chuckanut Dr., Bow 360.766.6191, chuckanutmanor.com Tucked along Samish Bay, Chuckanut Manor has been serving flavorful Pacific Northwest fare for more than 50 years. Open for lunch and dinner, including a daily happy hour from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., the restaurant is known for its mouthwatering seafood dishes, burgers, steaks, stellar service, and breathtaking views of Samish Bay. The dining room and bar are expansive and feature white tablecloths, nautical decor, and rows of windows that show off the magnificent views. In the summer, guests may also dine on the outdoor patio.

While the tablecloths might allude to fancy attire, the vibe is casual and everyone is welcome just as they are.

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

COA MEXICAN EATERY Mexican 102 S. 10th St., Mount Vernon, 360.840.1938 214 Maple Ave., La Conner, 360.466.0267 coaeatery.com

BEST of the

2017

One bite of a taco or one sip of a margarita and you’re hooked. This eatery offers frequent customer appreciation days, offering 50 percent off food if you pay in cash. Deals and good food — what more could you want? Even on a different night, with the choice of fajitas, burritos, chimichangas, or flan, you won’t be disappointed.

NORTH

WEST

GOLD

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

VOTED BEST FISH & CHIPS

November/December 2021 107

Taste Dining Guide 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.

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.

SAKURA JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR Japanese

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.

1830 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington 360.588.4281, sakuraburlington.com Professional Teppanyaki chefs take you on a journey of delicious and interactive dining at Burlington’s Sakura Japanese Steakhouse.

Using the freshest ingredients and perfect seasonings, they stir-fry your meal right before your eyes, creating a fabulous feast. Choose from steak and chicken to salmon and shrimp; each meal is served with soup, salad, rice, and vegetables. If it’s sushi you crave, they also offer a full sushi bar.

IL GRANAIO Italian 100 W. Montgomery St., Ste. 110 Mount Vernon 360.419.0674, granaio.com Owner Alberto Candivi gets up every morning to make some of the day’s pastas by hand, sculpting basic ingredients into the building blocks for lavish, rich Italian dishes served throughout the day. When the ingredients call for a lighter hand, his restaurant also turns out reserved, delicate dishes. Il Granaio is a practice in the intricacies of cuisine, displaying the best flavors Italian food has to offer. With more than 30 items on the entree menu, the list can be quite daunting — and the dessert menu is also impressive. The wine menu is also expansive, and the beer menu features several local craft brews. Their grappa selection does the Italian cordial the justice it deserves.

THE OYSTER & THISTLE RESTAURANT & PUB Seafood, Steak 205 E. Washington St., La Conner 360.766.6179, theoysterandthistle.com The Oyster & Thistle Restaurant and Pub takes the time to prepare food with care. Their pastas are handmade and hand-cranked using semolina flour and an egg-rich dough. You’ll also find plenty of fresh, expertly shucked oysters and perfectly seared sea scallops.

THE OYSTER BAR Seafood 2578 Chuckanut Dr., Bow 360.766.6185, theoysterbar.net The Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Drive is perched among towering conifers above

108 BellinghamAlive.com

THE SALTED GRAPE Bistro, American 110 N. 1st St. Unit A, La Conner 360.399.1166, thesaltedgrape.com If you’re looking for your new favorite restaurant, head to La Conner and check out Salted Grape Bistro. Before shifting to a career in food, Chef Nathan Salter went to school for art and sculpture. You’ll find traces of his artist talent in his dishes, which are all beautifully plated, with eye-catching shapes, colors, and designs. Pair this with owner and Sommelier Leslie Grover’s wine expertise, and you’re in for a treat.

SHAMBALA BAKERY & BISTRO American 614 S. 1st Ave., Mount Vernon 360.588.6600, shambalabakery.com Crack open Shambala Bakery and Bistro’s menu to find all-day breakfast options and an array of sandwiches, salads, pizzas, and lighter fare items such as quiche and soup. Their daily specials take advantage of what’s in season.

SWINOMISH SPORTS BAR & GRILL American

12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes, 888.288.8883, swinomishcasinoandlodge.com Located along the waterfront of Anacortes, this is not your run-of-the-mill sports bar.

While you can go the more classic bar-food route, this restaurant offers Italian, barbeque, seafood, Southern, among many other cuisine styles. Find the latest lines, watch the race, or grab a beer and grub as you watch every play, pass, and score.

TRUMPETER PUBLIC HOUSE Gastropub 416 Myrtle St., Mount Vernon 360.588.4515, trumpeterpublichouse.com Trumpeter is an ideal combination of high-end, fine dining, and English pub fare. Try traditional pub selections or more unique seafood choices. Additionally, Trumpeter looks to accommodate all tastes with gluten-free dishes and the option to make any dish 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.

VAGABOND STATION Southern 2120 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.421.4227, vagabondtrailerfood.com Vagabond Station is known for its mostly Southern-style menu with a few curveballs.

Dig into a prime rib sandwich, a meat-lover’s dream that is difficult to find in this day of well-done meat. Try a bowl of Vagabond Chili, the Santa Fe cornbread, or a wiscuit — biscuit dough cooked in a waffle maker. Of course, there’s crispy fried chicken and waffles, and their signature sandwich, the Yard Bird: chicken, cheddar cheese, and gravy piled onto a fresh, fluffy biscuit.

ISLAND COUNTIES CAPTAIN WHIDBEY INN American 2072 Captain Whidbey Inn Rd., Coupeville 360.678.4097, captainwhidbey.com The entire menu features down-to-earth items that are reasonably priced, locally sourced, and well-balanced. While the inn does serve as a special-occasion spot, folks dressed in shorts and a T-shirt are also welcomed. Built in 1907, Captain Whidbey Inn is a historical gem.

CATKIN CAFÉ American 11 Point Lawrence Rd., Olga, 360.376.3242, catkincafe.com The menu of this Orcas Island eatery may be small, but it is mighty. Breakfast and lunch are served late and their menu features meat and produce grown on the island. Don’t forget about their bakery before heading out — all sweets and baked goods are made in-house.

CYNTHIA’S BISTRO American 65 Nichols St., Friday Harbor, 360.298.8130, cynthiasofcourse.com Located in a renovated 1920s home, this local San Juan Island staple is known for their innovative menu selections. You can enjoy lunch, or even an extended breakfast, daily in spring and summer. They are famous for their brunch, but you might try stopping by later in

Local Find Taste

Chickens Raised With Knowledge, Care, and Fresh Air Spring Creek Heritage Farms WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY PHOTOS COURTESY OF SPRING CREEK HERITAGE FARMS

Bellingham was roasted chicken. I cooked it with a dear friend, and since our activities often center around food, he bought a bird from a specialty farm in honor of the occasion. We spent hours preparing the meal, snacking on locally baked bread and sipping wine before finally sitting down for dinner at nearly 10 p.m. Luckily our efforts were well rewarded — it turned out to be the most naturally flavorful chicken I’d ever eaten.

I later learned that the bird in question was purchased from Spring Creek Heritage Farms. Spring Creek is a small, family-run farm local to Bellingham, and they specialize in sustainability and chicken preservation. Every bird is treated with the utmost kindness, respect, and care. Through careful breeding and extensive knowledge of poultry genetics, the lineage of some of their purebreds can be traced back for centuries.

Spring Creek is also a “no-kill chick farm,” meaning that every hen and rooster roams the pasture until adulthood, and no chicken is ever exposed to pesticides. This policy also allows the farm to select the best roosters for breeding, thus continuing the lineage of high-quality birds.

The operation is headed by Matthew Nelson, who is carrying on a tradition of farming with his own family.

To maintain an environment that’s bio-secure and free of contaminants, the farm itself is closed to the public. Still, Nelson takes care to build relationships with his diverse client base, and his passion and knowledge is immediately evident.

“If [customers] are out shopping and they say, ‘Hey, I’m going to be in town,’ we’ll just go meet them,” says Nelson.

“We get the one-on-one, spend some time, and they can learn a little bit more about us.”

In addition to their menagerie of rare and heritage chickens, Spring Creek Heritage Farms grows produce and specializes in plant genetics. When I spoke with Nelson, the farm was in the process of harvesting sweet corn. It’s a labor intensive process; for maximum quality, sweet corn must be hand-picked at night and distributed the very next morning.

Some of these fruits and vegetables are fed to the chickens, adding another layer of complexity to their taste. Customers can reserve birds “finished” with produce such as pumpkin, apples, or blackberries, and offerings change with the seasons.

Like steak, each breed of chicken has a unique flavor and texture. Spring Creek also offers artisan chickens that aren’t available anywhere else in the United States.

Matthew Nelson

Photo by Cocoa Laney

T

HE FIRST REAL MEAL I ate after moving to

“I think we’re probably the only place that offers a poularde, which is a fattened hen, kind of that French model,” says Nelson. “We’re one of the few that do that because it just takes some time, and it’s the premium.”

Though Spring Creek ships birds across the country, some customers will even drive from Seattle to meet with Nelson in person. He also does occasional consulting with new farmers who are learning about how to raise poultry.

Given their quality, it’s important to cook these chickens with care. Not sure how to prepare your bird? The farm offers a how-to guide as well as additional recipes on their website. As for Nelson, he loves his mother’s chicken dumplings as well as a whiskey chicken dish invented by a friend (the recipe for which is available online).

Thanks to the generosity of Nelson and his family, I had the privilege of touring the farm and trying the whiskey chicken alongside vegetables such as carrots and sweet corn.

With Nelson’s guidance, we picked vegetables as the chicken cooked, and the freshness and quality of these ingredients made all the difference.

Knowing that our food was raised in such a caring and sustainable manner made our dinner even more satisfying.

Even the white meat of the chicken tasted rich and flavorful, and the sweet corn practically melts in your mouth without butter or salt. At the end of the night, my partner and I agreed that it was the most delicious meal we’ve eaten in a while.

Spring Creek Heritage Farms sells birds directly to consumers and offers free delivery within five miles of the Bellingham airport. Visit their website to reserve your bird and learn more. Bellingham, springcreekheritagefarms.com  November/December 2021 109

Taste Dining Guide the evening for their dinner menu — a special treat.

Revival Lounge Miss Me Yet

Ingredients: Jalapeno infused vodka, Pelotón de la Muerte mezcal, lime juice, hibiscus syrup, orgeat syrup (almond), rimmed with chili salt, garnished with dehydrated blood orange, $11

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

Photo by Tony Mueantonthian

400 First St., Langley, 360.221.3033, innatlangley.com

T

If beauty were a taste, this would be it. As a guest, you’re taken on a mouth-watering culinary journey through a multi-course tasting menu. Not only is the meal a delight for the taste buds, but there are also surprises at each turn, whether it’s the presentation or the accoutrements. Each guest is served as if they are the only one in the dining room. The menu is prix fixe, with an additional charge for wine pairing. Dinner here is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. $ $ $ $ ISLAND SKILLET Homestyle 325 Prune Alley, Eastsound, 360.376.3984

HIS BUBBLEGUM-PINK DRINK may look sweet,

but that’s only half the story. Revival bartender Brian Kettering named this cocktail because of a feeling he got while drinking it. “It reminded me of jealousy… hot, passionate jealousy,” he explains. “You’re going through a breakup and now you’re dating someone hotter, and you want your ex to see you. That’s what it tastes like.” I have to admit, when I tasted the drink, I knew exactly what he meant. There’s something spiteful and heartachey about the flavor, with a little bit of love and sweetness buried at the center. The hint of sweet comes from the hibiscus syrup, but it’s just the perfect amount, and is made richer by the orgeat’s subtle almond flavor. More prominent is the spiciness from the chili salt and the zippy bite from the jalapeno vodka, mezcal, and lime juice. Can’t imagine it?

Try one for yourself and see. BECKY MANDELBAUM

110 BellinghamAlive.com

Beloved by loyal patrons for its large portions and casual, customizable meals, Island Skillet is a must-stop for anyone visiting Orcas Island.

A rustic metal rooster outside the entrance sets the tone. Start the day with a skillet breakfast complete with a bottomless cup of coffee.

Sandwiches rule the lunch menu, and you can choose from a lengthy list of sides and customizations for most items, so you can totally have it your way.

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

Local Find Taste 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.

SALTY FOX COFFEE American 85 Front St., Friday Harbor 360.622.2486, saltyfoxcoffee.com When owner Andrea Hampton put together her coffee shop’s food menu, she worked hard to create items that were easy to make, but still healthy and satisfying. She wanted to be able to serve ferry riders on a time schedule, along with locals who come in for breakfast or lunch.

Guests can take anything to go, including sealed wine and beer, much of which is locally made on the island.

SAN JUAN ISLAND BREWING CO. American

410 A St., Friday Harbor, 360.378.2017, sanjuanbrew.com At San Juan Island Brewing Company all the brews are named after San Juan-inspired concepts, and if you can’t decide what brew to try, order a sampler. If they weren’t in the business of brewing, San Juan Island Brewery would be in the business of pizza. Order one of their wood stone pizzas and you won’t be disappointed. The thin crust is crispy on the bottom, but still soft and chewy.

Saigon Cafe

TOBY’S TAVERN Seafood

Bellingham’s Origin Northwest Influenced Vietnamese Experience.

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.

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.

U

SING FINER INGREDIENTS sourced locally when possible, Saigon Cafe blends traditional Vietnamese cuisine with Pacific Northwest innovation for food with fine-dining flair.

Gourmet meets street food at Saigon Cafe, where Asian comfort food is crafted using the bounty of the North Sound. All signature items are made by hand with inspiration from both Vietnam and the Pacific Northwest. For Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist, try the Pho with Wagyu beef and a true bone broth. The Grilled Chicken Banh Mi, made with Jadori chicken thigh, cucumber, and Viet aioli, will satisfy any appetite. For dessert, finish your meal with Banana Spring Rolls served with a chocolate ganache sauce.

Every menu item melds Vietnamese tradition with modern innovation, and the ingredients are always fresh and local.

Saigon Cafe is about marrying Vietnamese tradition to modern innovation using fresh, local ingredients from the Pacific Northwest. The recipes are Saigon, but they are elevated and inspired by the bounty of our region. There is nothing like it in the Pacific Northwest. The recipes are from family, from Saigon. But they are elevated and inspired by the bounty of our region. Open Tues.-Thurs. 11:30am-7pm, Fri.-Sat. 11:30am-8pm, Sun. 11:30am-6pm, Mon.Closed. 1046 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham, 360.778.2794, saigoncaferestaurant.com  November/December 2021 111

Photo by Ikaika Thomas

Notes Lasting Image

Shot at twilight over Birch Bay coastline with a DJI Mini 2 Drone at 400 feet of elevation.

IKAIKA THOMAS

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.

112 BellinghamAlive.com

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

From the staff at

First

Kitche with s n island e at i n g

owling b e m i t t Firs s od floor o w w e n on

Refinance and refresh your home!

Fund your first remodel with a refinance.

No administration fees through December 31, 2021.

Offer applies to all refinances of all dwellings including primary residences, secondary homes, or investment properties. Normal third party fees and escrow payments will apply. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

ourfirstfed.com | 800.800.1577

Scan code to view current rates