Bellingham Alive October 2022

We are very thankful for another Best of the N.W. award! Thank you to our community for their everlasting support. We have a mindset of treating others how you want to be treated, and doing what is right. We listen and provide the best solution for our customers. It is more than just a purchase of a vehicle. — Jacob A

There are no words to describe the feelings we are experiencing at Toyota Mercedes-Benz of Bellingham upon hearing the news that we were voted yet again as the GOLD Auto Dealer for 2022. We can’t thank our client base enough for sticking with us through thick and thin. It is because of them that we get to celebrate this prestigious Honor. The most important requirement we have at our Store is to treat people the way we want to be treated, With Respect! It is safe to say that we have managed to live by it. Thank you to everyone who voted, without you we wouldn’t be where we are today. Many thanks to our sta who continue to set the bar high and always deliver a client experience that is unmatched.

Sincerely, Rob Hourani, General Manager

I feel honored to be a part of a dealership that treats all its customers like friends and family. Our sole focus is serving our community to the best of our ability. It doesn’t matter if it’s sales or service, our entire team operates with respect, integrity and kindness all day and every day. — Travis M.

I chose to work for this dealership because they are an example of what a dealership should be. There are no games or trickery, just honesty and a true commitment to their customers. Thank you for voting Toyota Mercedes-Benz Sprinter of Bellingham to receive this award. — Robert H.

on fixed rate

*Based on the amount requested an automated valuation service is used to determine property value; if an appraisal is required, the fee will be paid by the borrower. Offer applies to fixed rate home equity loans on a primary residence. Minimum loan amount is $20,000. Re-writes of existing WECU loans are not eligible for no closing cost loans.

Best of the Northwest

It’s the moment you’ve all been waiting for: The votes are in, so it’s time to announce the winners of our 2022 Best of the Northwest competition! From bars and bistros to boutiques and barbers, this year’s competition honors the North Sound’s most standout businesses. Join us in celebrating 366 of your local favorites across 122 categories—with a whopping total of 977,051 votes, each win is more than well-earned.

Pets Pet

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STYLE

OCTOBER

22 Heard Around the Sound

Waypoint Park Mural Garden Path

Kementari’s Creatures Bellingham Quest Passes Spooky Events at Semiahmoo

Monthly Giveaway

24 Community The Foundation

25 Book Notes

26 Community Doctober

27 Game Changer David Hancock Wildlife Foundation

Out and

Skagit

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Illustrated by Mariah Currey

Courtesy of Swil Kanim

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Photo by Cocoa Laney

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KRISTEN FRAKES OF KICK STEP DESIGN

“Whether it’s a local biking trail in Bellingham, or in the jungle of Costa Rica, I’m constantly in awe of the way nature looks and makes us feel. I find a lot of joy in mountain biking, snowboarding, traveling, or just going for a trail walk outside my door, so it’s not uncommon for me to stop whatever I’m doing and just take it all in.”

To learn more about Kristen Frakes of Kick Step Design, read the online exclusive (written by Gaia Crans) at bellinghamalive.com.

The next time you venture to Bow via Chuckanut Drive, keep your eyes peeled for a wood-paneled farm store flanked by a cow statue. This unassuming shop serves as a storefront for Golden Glen Creamery, a local dairy farmstead offering more than 20 types of fresh cheese plus slow-churned butter.

Read more about Golden Glen Creamery in the full article by Cocoa Laney, photos by Katheryn Moran Photography. @goldenglencreamery @katherynmoranphotography

Dry Dock Goods originally opened out of a small storefront in Anacortes, functioning as a space where Jones could work her remote position and showcase her collection of plants. The small selection of plants soon grew to include more than 50 species of desert plants, her own ceramics, and goods made in both Tucson and the Pacific Northwest.

Read more about Morgan Jones’s story and opportunities you have to acquire her amazing work by reading the full article on our website. Article written by Anelyse Morris-Bohlke and photographed by Sig Photography. @drydockgoods @anelysem_b @letsgosig

Photo by Sig Photography

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Photo by Katheryn Moran Photography

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Photo by Kelsey Chance

THERE’S A CAFE a few blocks down from my house where I often go to sit and write. I started coming here because of two things convenience and coffee, of course but the reason I keep returning is less about beverages and more about atmosphere. This particular cafe is everything Starbucks wishes it could be: It’s cozy, approachable, and functions more or less like my neighborhood’s living room.

The chai lattes are great, but the opportunities for people watching are even better. Over the course of the afternoon, everyone from businessmen

to college students, Bible study groups, and firefighters will trickle through the cafe; some linger like me, others take their java to go. The cafe welcomes all stripes, and as such, it feels like a microcosm of Bellingham as a whole.

The more time I spend in the cafe, the more comfortable I feel chatting with other regulars. From the guitar teacher who stops in to read between lessons to the business owner next door, I’ve come to know the cafe’s cast of characters and even the baristas remember my name.

In other words, sometimes this cafe feels less like a business and more like a community hub. I first moved to the North Sound for the bay and the mountains, but I stayed because of places like this. Every time I write in my cafe, I am heartened to see the diverse individuals that stop in to connect with each other and, above all, support something local.

I should also note that my cafe isn’t necessarily unique. Rather, it’s one of the many local businesses that make up the North Sound’s tapestry of culture and community. The geography of a place is important, but I also believe that place is defined by people and, by extension, the businesses, organiza tions, and art that we create.

Even if you don’t have a homeaway-from-home cafe, you likely have at least a few places that are special to you. Maybe it’s the restaurant you ate

at on the first date with your partner, or the brewery where the bartenders know your taste in beer better than you do. Maybe it’s the realtor who helped you find your dream home. It could even be the hairdresser who gave you your con fidence back, or the boutique where you bought jewelry for your wedding, or the artist whose work most inspires you.

Whatever your people or places may be, our Best of the Northwest competition provides an opportunity to celebrate and advocate for the best of the best within our community. Each and every year, our readers make it clear just how much they care and this year was no exception. Over the course of 31 days, we had 74,856 entries and a grand total of 977,051 individual votes cast.

You’re likely to recognize more than a few of the people and places honored in these pages. Given our voter turnout, it’s unequivocal that each winner has made a positive impact on the community. Plus, between 122 voter categories and a wide variety of editor’s picks, you’re equally as likely to discover a new local favorite.

As always, on behalf of all of us at Bellingham Alive, I’d like to express my gratitude for all of our readers. Thank you for your encouragement, your votes, and for doing your part to make this community as special as it is. Oh and if you find me writing at the cafe, don’t hesitate to say hello. 

COCOA LANEY Editor In Chief

Allen Law Firm

We are honored to have helped so many people over the years, and here is what a few of them have been kind enough to mention:

Lizzy H.

Rating: Five Stars

I was in a terrible car accident and they have been nothing short of amazing since the day we came in contact! Super compassionate and good-hearted people who work here. So blessed to have come across them!

Maryanne J.

Rating: Five Stars

All of the people at Allen Law Firm are competent and proactive for their clients. They kept us informed of what was going on every stop of the way. They explained things to us in an easily understandable manner. They showed they actually DO care about their clients. They got us an excellent settlement and we’d recommend them to anyone and everyone!

Since receiving my pension, my entire outlook on life is brighter. I was in such “Limbo” for so long not knowing if I was to be retrained, forced into a desk job or choose something else that I wanted. I now can plan my life without worry! My monthly pension will allow me to do all the trips and adventures I’ve always dreamed of and more. I’m so happy I was represented by Allen Law Firm! I really don’t think it would have turned out this good if I didn’t make that rst call. The team at Allen Law Firm really work great together and get the job done!

Please

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Personal Injury and Workers’ Compensation Attorney See our many reviews on Google from clients that feel like family Serving the Pacific Northwest Since 1996

Rhonda R.

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Mary Kinser

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. 25

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. 25

Jessamyn Tuttle

Jessamyn Tuttle is a writer, photographer, master gardener, weaver, and musician. She started a food blog (foodonthebrain.net) in 2007 and has been writing ever since, contributing to Edible Seattle, Grow Northwest, the Skagit Valley Herald, Cascadia Weekly, and the Cascadia Daily News. A native Washingtonian, she lives in the Skagit Valley with her husband and a number of cats.  p. 28

Julie Trimingham is a mother, writer, and nontribal member of the Sacred Lands Conservancy (SacredSea.org), a Lhaq’temish-led non-profit dedicated to protecting Native sovereignty, treaty rights, sacred sites, and the life and waters of Xw’ullemy (the Salish Sea bioregion). Her heart is filled by the work to protect and promote ancestral place-based knowledge so that we can all learn to live here, with one another, and with Mother Earth, in a good way.  p. 32

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I have owned my condo here by Lakeway Fred Meyer for over 35 years, and Bellingham Alive has introduced me to so many new places and things I never knew existed, in an area we thought we knew very well. Thank you, thank you, thank you for that.

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Have something to say? We’d love to hear from you! Contact our editor at editor@ bellinghamalive.com.

Congratulations to all our 31 Days of Giveaways winners as well as our grand prize winner, Joanne P. of Ferndale! To view a full list of winners, head online to bellinghamalive.com.

Sarah S., Bellingham

Publisher: Thank you so much Sarah. Our mission statement includes educating our readers whether they are new to the area or a long standing resident on something they didn’t know every single issue. I am happy to hear we are succeeding. Lisa K.

I love [the September feature] so much! This is award winning. What a talented group of ladies.

Babette V., Bellingham

Publisher: Babette, you are so sweet. I am extremely proud of my media

family, both male and female, they go above and beyond every single issue to make sure the editorial and design are spot on; and I agree this issue is award worthy. I will be submitting it for the national annual Maggie Awards. Keep your fingers crossed! Lisa K.

My husband and I look forward to you September issue every year. We are huge foodies and it always inspires us to get out and try new places. This issue we’ve even tried our hand at a bit of mixology at home!

Kerri B., Ferndale

Publisher: Kerri, I too am a foodie and love putting this issue out to our readers. It’s always a fun process deciding on the editorial content and finding new ways to engage and educate our readers. I’m so glad you and your husband look forward to this issue! Thank you for your continued support. Lisa K.

As the largest furniture store in Northwest Washington, we offer the best brands at the best prices. Ask about our in-home design service, complimentary with qualifying purchase. Find out why Samuel’s Furniture has been voted Best Furniture Store 8 Years in a Row!

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Photo by Cocoa Laney

Jen Johnson

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

My role is in business development, so working with businesses who want to advertise in Bellingham Alive. I have been here for three months.

What is your background?

I was born and raised in Washington State and grew up in the Everett/ Mukilteo area. I earned my degree in business administration from Central Washington University and was a basketball and volleyball player. My husband and I moved to Bellingham in 1996 and raised our three kids here. My previous career was in sales in the beverage industry with Pepsi Cola, where I also spent 10 years in the

What’s your favorite part about working in business development for a local magazine?

Bellingham Alive is such a positive publication. We really strive to elevate our local businesses. I love partnering with local people, telling their story, and helping them grow their business.

What are some of your hobbies? I really enjoy living in the Pacific Northwest, and my hobbies center around being outdoors. I hike, ride my bike and paddle board. Now that we are empty nesters, my husband and I spend time adventuring in our camper and exploring new places.

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Photo by Jessamyn Tuttle

Haunted PNW Road Trip 20

David Hancock Wildlife Foundation 27 Lummi Artists on Lummi Island 32

Haunted Halloween Road Trip: Your PNW Itinerary

WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY | ILLUSTRATED BY MARIAH CURREY

OCT. 31 IS drawing nearer, and in anticipation of the spookiest day of the year, why not get up-closeand-personal with some of our area’s most infamous ghosts? If you’re itching for an autumnal getaway, we suggest taking a haunted jaunt down the I-5 corridor starting right here in the North Sound.

You won’t have to venture far to reach the first destination, because Bellingham’s very own Mount Baker Theatre is allegedly home to more than a few resident spooks and Judy might be the most well-known of them all. According to legend, Judy’s home was bulldozed to make way for the iconic theater, and she’s been haunting it since its grand opening in 1927. The balcony is her hangout spot of choice, although this flirty spirit has been sighted all over the theater (and has a particular preference for male employees).

Our next stop is none other than Northern State Recreation Area, located just south in Sedro-Woolley. The park once functioned as a working farm for the Northern State Hospital, a mental asylum colloquially known as “The Bughouse,” from 1911 to 1973. Rather than confining its patients to cramped quarters, the facility aimed to be a selfsustained occupational therapy and treatment facility for the “insane.” (Unfortunately the era’s accepted definition of “insanity” also included conditions like epilepsy and “menopausal depression.”)

But while treatments were cutting-edge at the time, many of them such as electroshock treatment, heavy sedation, and even transorbital lobotomies are now considered to be barbaric. It’s no surprise that the crumbling remains of the campus are now said to be haunted, and the hospital’s

Northern State Recreation Area

Black Diamond Cemetery

graveyard is the final resting place for 1,487 individuals. Many visitor accounts include details of strange apparitions, auras, sensations, and noises.

Once you’ve had your fill of the great outdoors, continue down I-5 to the Oxford Saloon in Snohomish. This legendary watering hole has a history of grisly happenings, including the murder of a policeman named Henry and, to make matters worse, it’s said that Henry’s spirit never quite moved on. The upstairs area (which is now rented out as an office space) is home to three additional ghosts: A man in a bowler hat, an older woman in a purple dress, and a young escort named Amelia.

As you continue to Seattle, you might find yourself wondering: What could possibly be spookier than a haunted saloon? Why, a haunted hotel, of course. If you ascend to the ninth floor of Seattle’s Hotel Andra (originally known as the Claremont Hotel), you might find yourself crashing a Prohibition-era party. During the ‘20s and ‘30s, the establishment was a rowdy hangout for gangsters and socialites alike and, while these characters are longdeceased, the festivities show no signs of dying down.

The building’s ninth floor seems to be the hub for hauntings, and guests have the sound of laughter, shattering glass, and jazz piano (despite the conspicuous lack of a piano anywhere nearby). Objects have been known to levitate or disappear, and several ghosts including a ‘20s-era flapper and the ghost of a female employee who fell to her death have been sighted roaming the premises.

Your next stop is the mining town of Black Diamond, which is just a short drive from Seattle (despite feeling a

world apart). Black Diamond Cemetery is easily one of the spookiest cemeteries in the state, and its grounds are home to upwards of 1,000 graves. It’s also infamous for paranormal activity, with reports of a strange mist that descends around dusk, phantom lanterns, and a ghostly white horse prowling the grounds.

Tacoma’s picturesque Point Defiance Park might not be the most obvious spot for ghost sightings, but Five Mile Drive is allegedly one of the most haunted roads in Washington. If you choose to visit, keep your eyes peeled for a child with a bike, an eerie smile, and a concerningly blank gaze. It just might be the spirit of a young girl who went missing in the park and never made it out alive.

Conclude your fright-filled journey with a visit to Bucoda, located just south of Olympia. Rather than just one site, the whole town (population 600) has a lurid past: For starters, the settlement’s original name, Seatco, was said to be derived from a Coast Salish word meaning “evil” or “demon.” The town was home to Washington’s first penitentiary, and conditions were famously brutal. Moreover, Bucoda’s onceprofitable lumber mill mysteriously burned down not just one time, but twice. And don’t even get us started on the gymnasium that’s used to host the town’s annual haunted house event: It’s the site of numerous alleged paranormal experiences, and none of them are exclusive to Halloween.

If you dare to explore Bucoda, October is the perfect time to do so. The town embraces its grim history with a monthlong celebration of “Boo-Coda,” and it features everything from a hearse procession to a pine box derby race, family day, and even a zombie flash mob. Happy haunting!

Bucoda Pine Box Derby

Waypoint Park Mural Pays Homage to Coast Salish Waterways

VISITORS TO BELLINGHAM’S

Waypoint Park may have noticed a new addition to the water front’s ever-evolving scenery: a new mural created by Lummi artists Jason LaClair, Eagle Borsey, and Raven Borsey. Entitled “Honoring the Salish Sea,” its panels are made in homage to the many tribes that are native to the region.

“The waters of the Salish Sea and of the Pacific Northwest have been my ancestors’ highways from time immemorial and we’re at a time now where we have to start respecting Mother Earth,” LaClair says.

The idea was brought forth through the arts organization Paper Whale, as well as Children of the Setting Sun Productions. It was funded by donors including Children of the Setting Sun and the Port of Bellingham.

The mural’s panels feature iconography representative of Coast Salish culture and tradition, including eagles and thunderbirds

designed by LaClair. It also depicts a killer whale designed by Eagle and a crab designed by Eagle’s twin, Raven.

But while the designs themselves are symbolic, LaClair notes that the mural’s location holds significance as the Bellingham waterfront continues to grow.

“[With] anything having to do with waterfront jobs, or jobs along the coast, we want ultimate representation for our ancestors,” LaClair says.

LaClair’s art can be seen at Third Main Gallery in Ferndale, on Instagram @jason.laclair.946, and on murals across Whatcom County.

“Being able to do such meaningful large installations is an awesome way for me to connect with the community and let people know that this is what I do,” LaClair says. “This is what I love to do, and this is what I’ll always do.”

To learn more about LaClair and the Lummi arts community, visit p. 32. COCOA LANEY

Spooky Events at Semiahmoo

WRITTEN BY ANELYSE

Garden Path’s Homegrown Brews Arrive in Bellingham

WHILE BELLINGHAM’S BEER scene is already nothing to sneeze at, Garden Path Fermentation is adding its specialty Skagitonian beverages to the downtown crawl.

Located in Skagit Valley in Burlington, Garden Path is the brainchild of co-founders Amber Watts and Ron Extract, who moved from Texas to Washington with a desire to work hyperlocal.

“We came to Washington to start a project where we could be closer to our ingredients, where we could work with things that grew immediately around us, and also where we could embrace the natural climate,” says Extract. “So Garden Path is all about really embracing our location, creating things with a true sense of place.”

Impressively, more than 98% of Garden Path’s ingredients come from within just 20 miles of their home base, which includes anything you could need to create beer, wine, mead, and ciders. Having found success with their current location (which is a beautiful, if somewhat remote, brewery/taproom/shop/beer garden combo), Garden Path is now bringing Skagit Valley to Downtown Bellingham.

“As many breweries as there are in Bellingham, there aren’t any that focus entirely on native yeast fermentation; there aren’t any that focus entirely on local sourcing in the way that we do,” Extract says.

With their new location on Commercial Street, once home to Uisce Irish Pub, Garden Path is looking to create a relaxed lounge and expand their retail selection.

“We just feel like Bellingham just has such a vibrant brewing and cider-making scene,” says Extract. “We’re really excited to be a part of the community.” 1319 Commercial St., Bellingham, gardenpathwa.com

KRISTEN BOEHM

Hitchcock Happy Hour

Fans of this influential filmmaker can enjoy weekly “happy hours” at the Discovery Theater, every Wednesday at 7 p.m. throughout October. Enjoy films and themed drinks, free to attend for guests and locals.

Pumpkin Carving

This classic Halloween activity is available to families on Oct. 29–30 from 2–4 p.m. Carve the perfect jack-olantern for $25 per family of four, with free cider and cookies and additional pumpkins available for purchase.

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Bellingham’s New Place for Unusual Pets

Kementari’s Creatures

WHILE DOG AND cat owners have a plethora of pet shops to choose from, lovers of more exotic species have had limited options in Downtown Bellingham until now, that is. Kementari’s Creatures is a locally-owned pet shop specializing in reptiles, arachnids, and amphibians, and Owner Ed Curtis says its newest location is officially open for business.

“I really got into reptiles about eight years ago when I was a school teacher, and I had a menagerie of animals in my classroom,” Curtis says. “I decided to leave teaching, and about three and a half years ago, I opened up a shop in Mount Vernon.”

Despite being a Bellingham resident himself, Curtis chose Mount Vernon to avoid infringing on Clark and Hohl Feed and Seed, both destroyed in 2019 fires. When the owners decided not to rebuild, Curtis realized there was a void in the community and leapt at the opportunity to fill it.

Going forward, Curtis hopes to hold educational events for kids in the new space. He is passionate about proper animal care and specializes in providing animals with enclosures that are as natural and humane as possible.

“These enclosures right here are little ecosystems,” Curtis says. “And that’s kind of, in my opinion, the best care you can give these animals.”

Headed to Downtown Bellingham soon? To visit Curtis and his menagerie of creatures, you won’t have to search hard: The Kementari’s storefront is adorned with a hard-to-miss mural of unusual animals (painted by Shawn Cass). Bellingham, 207 E. Chestnut St., 509.607.6971, kementariscreatures.com

COCOA LANEY

Trick-or-Treating

Take your trick-or-treating up a notch by donning your Halloween costume and hitting the resort, where you’ll find trick-or-treat stations available from 5–8 p.m. Oct. 30–31.

ENTER-TO-WIN Monthly Giveaway

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

The Fork at Agate Bay

A New Quest to Explore Bellingham

WHETHER YOU’RE NEW in town or looking to rediscover local experiences, the new free Quest Passes from Visit Bellingham Whatcom County aim to be your personal, handheld guides. These interactive lists challenge you to explore destinations around Whatcom County, providing you with all the information you need for your visit and allowing you to check in to claim discounts and prizes. Users can choose to sign up for one or all three of the passes, which are separated into the Culture Crawl, the 49th Parallel Ports Pass, and the Farm to Table Trail. The passes are delivered to you as a personal link via text or email. Your next exciting Bellingham adventure awaits at bellingham.org/quest!

KRISTEN BOEHM

Movie Night

‘Tis the season for scary movies! Enjoy Halloween classics at the Discovery Theater on October 30, 7 p.m. Expect classic “witchy” selections, free to guests and only $5 for locals. Don’t forget your costume!

Murder Mystery Weekend

If you’re a fan of intrigue, get ready to step into the role of detective. Semiahmoo is hosting a murder mystery weekend Nov. 4–6, with loads of fun activities available that will have you feeling like Sherlock by the end of the event.

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Downtown Bellingham’s Hub for Culture, Coffee, and Community

The Foundation Lounge

WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY | PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE FOUNDATION LOUNGE

TWO LOCAL BUSINESSES, the Foundation and COF&, have joined forces to bring the city something new: Downtown Bellingham’s first-ever coffee event lounge. The space is the newest addition to Owner Brian Womack’s collective of businesses and it’s just one small piece of his entrepreneurial and philanthropic efforts.

During the day, the Foundation Lounge is family-friendly and has a decisively Colombian flair. Visitors can enjoy a variety of COF& drinks made from sustainably grown, high-quality Colombian espresso beans. In addition, COF& Owner Oscar Quintero says they also plan to designate a space for local artists to sell their creations.

At night, however, the lounge comes alive with regular adult-oriented events like spoken word poetry, comedy nights, jazz performances, and even salsa nights on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It’s also available for weddings, concerts, corporate events, and other rentals.

“[We’re] trying to build awareness in the community, and trying to bring the community together through events,” Womack says. “That’s what that building is for next door as well.”

While the lounge is situated at 1209 Cornwall, the Foundation itself is a wider collective of independentlyowned businesses located next door at 1211 Cornwall. Beyond the event space, it’s home to Headquarters Barber Shop, Rooftop Recordings, and Anastasia Lotus’ tattoo shop.

This collective is the culmination of a dream for Womack, who also owns and operates the aptly-named Headquarters Barber Shop. He says his major goal is to build a creative and accessible space for small business owners, and he plans to keep growing this vision both on Cornwall Avenue and beyond in the months and years to come.

If that wasn’t enough, the Foundation even functions as an art gallery. It was established so that the Foundation could participate in Bellingham’s art walk, and the works on display are predominantly portraits of Black men and women painted by Canadian artist Patricia Anne.

“Seeing as Bellingham has pretty much no African American art out here, it was a no-brainer for me to call it the Afro-Art Gallery,” Womack says.

And all of this is for a good cause: The Foundation Lounge

benefits Fatherhood the Foundation, Womack’s nonprofit for incarcerated and recently released fathers (fatherhoodthefoundation.org). With the help of his own family, he was able to create a seven-point program to help inmates transition back into society.

“[Fatherhood the Foundation is] here for fathers struggling, coming home from prison, fathers going to prison we’re here for them,” Womack says. “We have resources; we’re connected with judges in the community, with lawyers.”

Given that just 1.6% of Bellingham residents are Black, Womack is also passionate about supporting young people of color and keeping them out of the prison system. He works with local schools and acts as a mentor and “godfather” to youth, providing positive representation, encouragement, and support. Womack says he’s worked hard to build community in the face of adversity and the Foundation is the manifestation of his success.

“That’s what this whole program is about: discovering you can do anything you put your mind to.” Bellingham, 1209–1211 Cornwall Ave., 253.999.7426, thefoundationlounge.org, colcofy.com

Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow

by Gabrielle Zevin

Book Reviews

WRITTEN BY MARY KINSER

DROP WHAT YOU’RE doing and prepare yourself to fall hard for this absorbing story of loss, love, and video games. Sam and Sadie connected as kids over a shared love of games like Super Mario and Oregon Trail. The two were virtually inseparable until a falling-out brought an abrupt end to their friendship. Years later, with Sam studying at Harvard and Sadie at MIT, a chance meeting on a subway platform leads to a reconnection. Together with Sam’s roommate Marx, the pair begin designing a video game that will chart an entirely new path for all three. The years that follow are marked by wild successes and crushing failures, the effects of which play out in Sam and Sadie’s lives together and apart. Steeped in pop culture and brimming with both hope and tragedy, “Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow” examines the bonds of friendship in an entirely fresh and unforgettable way.

Literary Events

October 9, 2 p.m.

Motherhood By The Book: Square Up By Lisa Dailey

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

Village Books’ monthly “Motherhood By the Book” meet-up explores the trials, tribulations, and rewards of motherhood through literary selections. This month’s book is “Square Up” by Lisa Dailey, a story about wanderlust, grief, and cultural appreciation.

October 12, 6:30 p.m.

Barely Adulting Book Club

Virtual Event, wcls.org

All That’s Left Unsaid

by Tracey Lien

IT’S 1996, AND Ky Tran has left her tiny hometown of Cabramatta and her Vietnamese immigrant community to scratch out a future as a journalist in Melbourne. Then tragedy strikes: Ky’s brother Denny, a star student with a bright future, is brutally murdered in a popular restaurant. Despite the presence of witnesses, the police have almost no information and no leads on the killer. Ky’s parents sink into mourning and urge their daughter to leave it alone, fearful of what may happen if she asks too many questions. But Ky, consumed with grief and guilt, is compelled to pursue the truth. What she finds leads her into the past, to the pain of growing up as an outsider in a country where her family isn’t welcome. Though debut author Lien explores hard topics like xenophobia and generational trauma, at its heart this is a compelling mystery peopled with an unforgettable cast of characters. This rich, complex novel is a sure-fire pick for great book club discussion.

If you find yourself in a transitional period in your life, the Barely Adulting Book Club might be the perfect fit for you. This club is composed of readers in their 20s looking to expand their taste in books as they transition from young adult titles to other “adult” genres.

October 19, 7 p.m.

Lynden Front Streeters: The Afghanistan Papers

Village Books Lynden, 430 Front St., Lynden, 360.526.2133, villagebooks.com

This month’s Lynden Front Streeters selection is “The Afghanistan Papers: A Secret History of the War,” which details the investigative story of political deception by three presidents and military commanders during the war with Afghanistan.

This Month in Bellinghistory

WRITTEN BY KOLBY LABREE OF BELLINGHISTORY TOURS WITH THE GOOD TIME GIRLS

Oct. 13, 1896

A fight broke out between “prominent and well-to-do citizen” Carmi Dibble and Mayor J.P. Demattos. After the mayor broke his cane over Dibble’s head, Dibble retaliated, grabbing the broken cane and thrashing DeMattos with it.

Oct. 19, 1907

Local high school girls “invaded” the Young Men’s Christian Association build ing in such numbers that the secretary was “either intimi dated or convinced” to let them use the gymnasium (on the condition that the showers were off-limits).

Oct. 28, 1903

The results of the election were in, and the consolidation of the cities on Bellingham Bay passed: New Whatcom and Fairhaven joined to become “Greater Bellingham.”

Oct. 29, 1937

Internationally-known scientist A.J. Green opened a “natural food store” on Magnolia Street, where soybean milk ice cream was to be served daily, along with fresh raw vegetable juices and healthy lunches.

An Annual Treasury of Documentary Film

Doctober at the Pickford Film Center

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY GAIA CRANS

FLICK FANATICS CAN always expect a perfect evening at the Pickford Film Center in one of its intimate theaters (perhaps accompanied by some buttery popcorn for the show), but in October you can find something extra special: the Doctober festival! Brand new featurelength documentary films will be gracing the Pickford’s screens every day, along with filmmaker and expert Q&As, from Sept. 30 to Nov. 3.

“Everything you’re seeing, you’re probably among the first audiences to see it,” says Gray Gordon, the Pickford’s marketing manager. Doctober has a new aesthetic theme every year (this time it’s “Our World Has Gone To The Docs”), but there’s always a diverse range of topics with something for everyone: art, immigrants and the American Dream, animals, racial and social justice, music, inspirational teachers, sports, Pez dispensers, or heists!

“Even though we’re getting a new slate of films every year, what you can rely on is … just how vast and differ ent documentary as a form can actually

be [because they’re not only produced in] the style of archival footage, talking heads and narration it can look dif ferent and is just as varied in its capac ity for expression and storytelling as narrative storytelling is,” Gordon says.

The Doctober film list is specially curated by a dream team of movie masters: “Father of Doctober” Michael Falter, Program Director Melissa Tamminga, and Assistant Programmer Jane Julian. Their goal is to show as many documentaries as they can, generally ranging from 40 to 60 with each played twice.

Falter originally created Doctober in 2006 as a West Coast iteration of the True/False Film Fest, an annual documentary film festival in Columbia, Missouri. Doctober is the biggest documentary film festival in the Northwest, and unlike many other film festivals, the Pickford is dedicated to compensating the filmmakers of all featured documentaries.

“This is not the norm most of the time, a festival is like, ‘Hey, you should be honored to have your film here, and we’re not going to give

you any compensation of any kind,’” Tamminga says.

As a nonprofit, community support is what allows the Pickford to thrive, making Doctober and its expansion to a second building possible. The new location at 105 Grand will be less than a block away from the first, with two large theaters and one small theater which can be utilized for both regular screenings and private events. Three more screens allows for even more unique Doctober films, an extension of their showings year-round, and a boost to Bellingham’s arts district with community enrichment through film.

“There’s nothing quite like seeing a film at a festival for the first time with other people who are seeing the film for the first time and hearing those reactions,” Tamminga says. “It’s just such a communal experience that you cannot get anywhere else.”

To check out the lineup for Doctober and explore ways you can contribute to the Pickford’s expansion, visit pickfordfilmcenter.org. 1318 Bay St., Bellingham, 360.647.1300, pickfordfilmcenter.org

Melissa Tamminga and Gray Gordon

Eagle Conservation, One Nest at a Time

Hancock Wildlife Foundation

WRITTEN BY ANELYSE MORRIS-BOHLKE | PHOTO COURTESY OF HANCOCK WILDLIFE FOUNDATION

Gulf Islands in British Columbia, he noticed a discrepancy that would forever change his life: While there were nearly 100 eagle nests scattered throughout the Canadian side, there was not a single nest to be found in Washington State.

The eagle population in the United States has been dwindling over the last few decades, and Hancock believes the bounty on eagle legs and destruction of eagle habitats to be leading causes. Despite the Pacific Northwest being a haven for eagle food, trees that are appropriate for nesting are disappearing rapidly.

“It became a lifelong passion to save eagles,” Hancock says. “That’s what I’ve done. There’s simply too few trees to hold those huge nests, and so I put up the eagle nests.”

These man-made nests are constructed from large cedar beams, made to last for 50 years at a time. Sometimes, when no trees will support his nests from cedar branches to last 50 or more years, the organization erects a 70-foot pole with an aluminum and cedar nest on top. Each nest takes about 100 branches and 100 stainless steel straps to stay secured.

Pioneering Wildlife Live Streaming

MEET DAVID HANCOCK. At 84 years old, he’s worn a lot of hats from publisher to pilot to wildlife film producer. When he’s not busy taking to the skies, you can find him up in the trees building longlasting eagles’ nest, monitoring wildlife migrations, or doing one of his many other duties as co-founder of the Hancock Wildlife Foundation.

The Hancock Wildlife Foundation is a local organization focused on the conservation and appreciation of wildlife and wildlife habitats through science, education, and stewardship. The mission is largely executed through their programs including live streaming cameras, scientific research projects, public forums, and education.

A Dream Takes Flight

Hancock’s fascination with birds stems back to his childhood. At age 12, he was out trapping pigeons in Victoria, B.C. when he stumbled across one of the world’s most famous falconers who advised him on how to modify his traps for hawks.

Hancock picked up the skill in no time, becoming a “hawk trapping specialist.” By age 14, he was not only trapping eagles but training them.

“This was a key moment. I had been so enamored by birds of prey and their skill of flying that I decided I needed to learn to fly,” Hancock says.

Hancock did just that: After logging his flying hours and passing the written and flight exams at age 15, he got his pilot’s license on his 16th birthday. While flying around the

Want to get a better look at the eagles? Hancock Wildlife Foundation offers live streaming cameras from Delta and Surrey to Boundary Bay and more. Live videos of wildlife may be more commonplace now, but when the foundation set up cameras in 2005, it was a new frontier.

It began when Hancock saw a video of an eagle laying an egg in its nest. $100,000 and 43,000 emails later, Hancock had people across the globe controlling the foundation’s live cameras to monitor eagle activity.

The cameras not only allow for monitoring and live tracking, but allows members of the community to form connections to the eagles and wildlife around them opening eyes and hearts to the foundation’s conservation efforts.

“People have identified with several of these birds; it’s hard not to when you watch them as little chicks break out of an egg,” Hancock says. “I definitely have a favorite eagle… it’s each of them!”

For those looking to get involved with the foundation, community projects can be found on the organization’s website. Projects range from local mitigation to educational projects and scientific projects. You can also donate time and money directly to the Hancock Wildlife Foundation via their website.

“I’m interested in the conservation and long term sustainability of eagles. I’ve been working most of my life trying to preserve their nest trees,” Hancock says. “We don’t find our information about eagles cheaply, it all costs a lot of money and effort.” 4550 Birch Bay-Lynden Rd., Ste.104, Blaine, hancockwildlife.org

Fall Festivities: Pumpkin Picking and More at Gordon Skagit Farms

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JESSAMYN TUTTLE

THERE IS NO lack of places to pick pumpkins in Skagit and Whatcom counties, but the ultimate pumpkin patch experience may be at Gordon Skagit Farms, located on McLean Road outside of Mount Vernon. Open through the month of October, the Gordon farm has something for everyone who wants to celebrate autumn.

“The farm was started in 1932 by my grandparents,” said Eddie Gordon, who owns the farm with his brother Todd. The brothers started growing pumpkins in 1969, beginning with carving pumpkins but getting into specialty pumpkin varieties in the 1990s. Their selection has hugely expanded since then, and the farm is now growing 120 varieties of squash.

Eddie and Todd run the farm with help from various other family members, including a nephew who is expected to take over the farm some day. Todd does much of the farm management, while Eddie creates paintings to adorn the barns, and grows flowers to dry for wreaths. They both take beautiful photos of the farm year round to post on Instagram.

When they first started having a pumpkin farm stand, said Eddie, it was just for a few days before Halloween. “Most people got pumpkins for carving the week before.” As there got to be more interest in decorative varieties, they started moving the date further back.

Now they try to open the last week of September, depending on weather and when the pumpkins ripen. They still sell plenty of carving pumpkins, but also fanciful squash

to decorate homes and yards, as well as pumpkins to cook with. And besides pumpkins, they now offer a full array of fall-themed activities.

The farm is a key stop for the Skagit Festival of Family Farms the first weekend of October, but then continues the festivities every day in October, with U-Pick pumpkins and apples, a corn maze, wonderful displays of pumpkins and gourds of every imaginable color and shape, hot cider, and a wood-fired pizza truck on weekends. The paintings and produce displays make great family photo opportunities, and this year there will be a sunflower field as well. They also carry produce and goods from local farmers and artisans showcasing Skagit Valley products, such as Water Tank Bakery, a nearby business featuring bread and cookies made with Cairnspring Mills flour, which is made from local wheat.

Thanks to their pumpkin selection, skillful design, and beautiful location on the Skagit flats, the farm has been featured in Garden Design, Victoria Bliss, and Martha Stewart Living over the last few years. The displays and artwork are different every year, so it’s worth going every October to experience the new look.

Despite their popularity, Eddie considers their farm to be “a little more low key,” with something for everyone. “We get people from Seattle and Bellingham because they like the vibe a lot.” If you are looking for the perfect way to celebrate autumn, a trip to Gordon’s is just the thing. 15598 McLean Rd., Mount Vernon, 360.424.0363, gordonskagitfarms.com

Painted Peace

WE ALL LOVE Bellingham. And here’s another reason why! Nationally acclaimed Artist Stephanie Burgess and founder of Painted Peace lives right in our own backyard.

You’ll find Painted Peace Studios right outside the Geneva neighborhood where Stephanie is busily creating new art and product lines while running a very busy online store and boutique. When you meet her, it becomes immediately obvious that her own self and personality are clearly and truly evident in the art.

The creation of a simple message, along with an intent of peace, community, family and friendship is at the heart of Burgess’s unique and contemporary style of art. Her work is vivid, colorful, and whimsical. It is playful and simple, yet carries a profound message. Her art, which has been translated into a variety of products for the home and garden, speaks to love, hope, peace and kindness. The canvas for her art is wood, which is then burned and painted.

Stephanie, a former Midwife and Registered Nurse for 20 years, has always been creative. While she considered herself nothing more than a talented crafter in the beginning, she

soon discovered that her art struck a chord with people. As a vendor at our Farmer’s Market, her booth was alway packed and full of smiling people! “They seem to have a visible reaction of happiness when they see my art. It is simple, almost childlike and I think in our complex world today, it soothes the soul.”

The year 2012 was the year that changed everything for this PeaceHealth Nurse. Shortly following a diagnosis of breast cancer, she met Licensing Agent, Alicia Dauber of Licensing Liaison, who also resides in Bellingham. Manning her booth at the Bellingham Farmers Market proved to be difficult for Stephanie as she was actively undergoing chemotherapy. So her friends rallied and set up a display of her art at the Allied Arts Holiday Festival. Dauber saw her work, noticed how fresh it was and thought “this gal is on to something” She immediately wanted to take Burgess’s art and message to a national audience. On Stephanie’s behalf, she met with product manufacturers at America’s Mart in Atlanta the largest manufacturers wholesale show in North America. The response to her art and idea of the Art Pole was over the top! Many were immediately interested in partnering with her, some even flying out to meet her in her Bellingham studio. It was a whirlwind of activity for the budding new business. The success came so fast, it was almost surreal. And with the blink of an eye, this full time RN became a full time Licensed Artist!

Burgess launched her first line of Art Poles the following year. The Art Pole was awarded Best New Product by NY Retail Magazine and Stephanie continues to to enjoy much success as a Licensed Artist and Retailer. Due to her wild popularity, she later partnered with SONY Epic to collaborate on “The Lyric Project”, a line of Art Poles seamlessly blending the brilliant lyrics of Lennon & McCartney with her bold artwork.

Stephanie welcomes visitors to her Bellingham Store anytime by appointment. Open 7 days a week, someone will always be at the studio to help you explore. You can experience the magic of Stephanie’s creative genius and see what she is currently working on. You’ll recognize pieces that can be discovered on various products sold in stores all over the country. Tour the Pole Gardens, enjoy a glass of wine, and shop until you drop!

Or attend her Open Studio Parties. These are invitation only. Contact Stephanie to sign up on her email list to receive on-sale notifications and invitations to events. Chef-prepared food, spirits and good conversation aplenty. So bring some friends and find your ideal gift at Painted Peace.

Upcoming 2022 Studio Parties

October 22

November 5

December 3–4

They seem to have a visible reaction of happiness when they see my art. It is simple, almost childlike and I think in our complex world today, it soothes the soul.

You can also shop online at www.paintedpeace.com which showcases mini documentaries describing her creative process and artist story.

“Turning to your art, now with you and your space in mind, brings comfort, joy and peace. Your art touches in simple and profound ways. You are enormously effective in reaching the whimsical side of us-the longing to smile and feel hopeful and even dance. Yet you also touch on what we hold dear and want to protect… Thank you.”

Stephanie Burgess Painted Peace (Please contact for address) steph@paintedpeace.com, 360.920.3064, 360.922.2522, paintedpeace.com, Instagram and Pinterest: @painted_peace, Facebook: facebook.com/paintedpeacebystephanieburgess

Stephanie Burgess

Stephanie Burgess

Back Home: Lummi Artists on Lummi Island

WRITTEN BY JULIE TRIMINGHAM

BEFORE LUMMI ISLAND was a haven to artists, many of whom open their studios a few times a year for the popular Island Artist Tour, it was home to the Lhaq’temish (Lummi) people. This year, for the first time, Lummi artists came to the island to share their work during the annual Labor Day weekend artist tour.

“Historically, there hasn’t been much connection between Lummi Nation and Lummi Island,” says Rosalee Qweleesia Revey-Jacobs, one of the artists. “Art brings people together. I’m excited for our communities to come together in a good way.”

Lummi Island is home to ancestral Lhaq’temish village and ceremonial sites, as well as hunting and foraging grounds. Reefnet fishing is an ancestral Lhaq’temish technology that is still practiced primarily by non-tribal fishermen at Legoe Bay on Lummi Island. Since the relocation of the Lhaq’temish people from the islands to the mainland, Lummi Island has been home to mostly non-Native people.

The Lummi artists brought work that ranged from traditional to contemporary arts and crafts, encompassing everything from cedar bark hats to wool weavings,

Swil Kanim

Creative Cuzzin

Courtesy of Swil Kanim

Courtesy of Creative Cuzzin

beadwork, car cruisers, T-shirts, prints, and paintings. Revey-Jacobs in particular works with mesh, grapevines, ribbons, and flowers to create wreaths, centerpieces, and wall-decor.

“People often appreciate that I come up with surprising combinations of color, materials, and content,” she says. “I just work from my heart, and I work to bring joy to others.”

Jason LaClair, who offered up prints for sale, comes from a family of Lummi and Nooksack artists. He’s designed logos for local businesses and brings beauty and meaning to large public walls in Whatcom County, including the bright salmon mural on the North Forest Street retaining wall in Bellingham.

Music was also part of the event, featuring Swil Kanim, the widely regarded violinist and storyteller currently collaborating with the Seattle Symphony Orchestra.

“It’s healing when Native and non-Natives share a stage, share any kind of artistic space,” he explains.

Ria Harboe, painter and longtime Lummi Island resident, concurs, “It just feels right having Lummi artists back on the island, sharing their work.”

As the Lummi artists didn’t have a studio on the island to open to the public, the Lummi Island Heritage Trust (LIHT) opened up the Otto Preserve meadow as a place for the artist market. Susan Hutton, the new Executive Director of LIHT, says, “I think there’s growing awareness that not only is the island traditional Lummi territory, but also

that Lummi history and present-day community, culture, spirituality, knowledge, and leadership are vital to the health and future of this place we now all call home.”

In addition to Revey-Jacobs, LaClair, and Kanim, the Lummi artists at the event included Creative Cuzzin, Floyd Warbus, Saalmathlat Ethel Hillaire-Warbus, Aletha Ballew, and Eliza Julius.

“Everything has a message, a story,” says Cyaltsa Finkbonner, also known as Creative Cuzzin, of her work, much of which is about our endangered killer whales and salmon, the ocean, and the power of blessings and prayer. “Art brings forth the teachings of the ancestors through different mediums.”

“Lummi Artists on Lummi Island” took place Saturday, Sept. 3, at the Otto Nature Preserve on Lummi Island. The next Lummi Island Artist Studio Tour is set for mid November 2022.”

Pet Safety on Halloween

LIKE ANY OTHER holiday, no celebration is complete without family (and that includes pets). While you may be eager to include your furry friends in your spooky activities, there are some precautions you can take before you don them in a cute costume and take them out trick-or-treating. After all, no one wants to spend Halloween looking for a lost pet or at the vet’s office.

Keep Human Treats Out of Reach

This one may go without saying but dogs and chocolate do not mix. So whether you’re handing out king sized kit-kats or inspecting your children’s loot make sure the goodies are kept far out of nose and paw reach. It doesn’t hurt to know the closest emergency vet clinic just in case.

Choose Costumes Carefully

While there is arguably nothing cuter than a weiner dog in a hot dog costume, it may be worth inspecting any pet costumes prior to dressing up your fourlegged friend. Some materials can be uncomfortable to pets and even cause allergic reactions or cut off circulation. Read the label and try the outfit on your pet prior to the day-of just to be sure.

Invest in Collars and Microchips

While Independence Day and New Year’s Eve hold the records for missing pets, Halloween is not to be underestimated. Between loud noises, strangers visiting your home, and the front door opening and closing, there are lots of opportunities for your animal to dart away. Keeping a close eye on your pet is the first step, but having proper identification is also a must.

Keep Your Pet Comfortable

Lots of noise and people is enough to make anyone uncomfortable, particularly pets. If you have a socially-anxious animal in your home, do your best to keep them comfortable. Keep them secure in an area of your home with their favorite toys and treats and minimize noise if you can by keeping windows and doors closed.

Jason LaClair

Images courtesy of Jason LaClair

1Bellewood Farms

Bellewood Farms is more than just a pumpkin patch it’s a Whatcom County icon (and a seasonal tradition for many families). In addition to the gourds, you can spend your visit picking apples, braving the corn maze, grabbing lunch at the cafe, and/or sampling spirits at Bellewood Distillery’s tasting room. 6140 Guide Meridian Rd., Lynden, 360.318.7720, bellewoodfarms.com

WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY |

PHOTO COURTESY OF BELLEWOOD FARMS

3

2Schuh Farms

What’s not to love about Schuh Farms? If three fields of U-Pick and We-Pick pumpkins weren’t enough, the whole family can enjoy a variety of fallthemed activities (and pick up a few fresh-baked pastries to take home). 15565 WA-536, Mount Vernon, 360.424.6982, schuhfarmswa.com

Dan Cramer’s Western Town

From the pumpkins to the petting zoo, Dan Cramer’s is a can’t-miss stop for autumnal fun. Western-style decor makes the experience even more memorable, and their covered barn area even doubles as an event venue. 956 Van Dyk Rd., Lynden, 360.510.7466, dancramerswesterntown.com

4

B&Z Farm

For those looking for a more low-key experience at the pumpkin-patch, B&Z Farm is a small farm in SedroWoolley. Beyond the serene countryside atmosphere, they offer fresh produce and all the U-Pick gourds your heart desires. 22735 Rhodes Rd., Sedro-Woolley, 360.661.6184, facebook.com/b.wa.754

Stoney Ridge Farm

Nestled in the heart of the Nooksack River Valley, Stoney Ridge Farm sells Christmas trees in the winter and you guessed it a whole plethora of pumpkins in the fall. Make sure to try some cider and donuts at their coffee shop! 2092 Van Dyk Rd., Everson, 360.966.3919, stoneyridgefarm.com

Jennings

Ian Cox

PeaceHealth Allergy Clinic: Relief Right Around the Corner

FOR SOME, ALLERGIES come around each year like clockwork. Endless sniffles, itchiness and discomfort, scads of medicine bottles aligned in the cabinet to alleviate symptoms all tell-tale signs it’s allergy season. PeaceHealth Allergy and Immunology Clinic at Cordata Main works hard to combat these pesky pitfalls.

“We evaluate patients aged six months or even younger up to any age for patients who have allergic concerns or symptoms,” says Dr. William Anderson. “Some people will self-refer who have pretty clear-cut allergies and would like some information on how to best manage these allergies or confirm their suspicions about having an allergy.” Most often, these patients present with symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, a stuffed-up nose, or other chronic indicators telling them it’s time to visit a specialist.

When patients come to the clinic for more information, the specialists make it a priority to educate them on diagnosis and treatment of their conditions. “We can do allergy testing; we can do scratch skin tests where we prick the skin and wait 15 minutes for an allergic reaction like a hive or welt that comes up on the skin,” Dr. Anderson says. “We test for things like the aeroallergens, dust mites, cat/dog dander, tree pollen, grass and weed pollens, as well as mold spores. Those are the most common aeroallergens.” The testing process is quite thorough,

and allergies are sometimes investigated through more than one avenue.

When a patient presents with chronic infections, immunology and allergy specialists step in. “Part of our specialty is immunology,” says Dr. Anderson. “We see patients with immune dysregulation and disfunction generally in the context of recurrent infection. They have some defect in their ability to mount an immune response to bacteria, most commonly, but sometimes viruses as well.”

Specialists at the clinic also work closely with ear, nose, and throat doctors (ENTs) as well as pulmonologists to determine the best course of action for their shared patients.

Some of the most common allergies patients suffer from originate from grass and tree pollen in the area, an inescapable circumstance. Sometimes the best offense is a good defense, especially when it comes to mitigating allergy symptoms.

“It’s really helpful to know what exactly is causing allergy symptoms because it’s best to start medications about two weeks before pollen start to show,” says Dr. Anderson. “Our grass pollen patients should start their medication on May 1 of every year. That can help prevent or significantly reduce the severity of your symptoms.” Still, not all therapies are created equal. “Antihistamine therapy alone is fine if one has mild allergy; once you pass that mild stage into moderate or more severe, to gain control we rely on intranasal antiinflammatory sprays.”

No matter what your concerns or questions are as a patient, the allergy clinic has a specialist who can provide answers. It’s important to treat allergies, as they can negatively affect everyday life on a significant scale. “A lot of people don’t realize how simple it is to see an allergist,” Dr. Anderson says. “It’s not uncommon to hear a patient say they wished they’d come here years ago.”

Make an appointment with PeaceHealth Allergy and Immunology Clinic or ask your doctor about a referral and start your journey toward relief. Visit PeaceHealth Allergy Clinic for more information.

Authored by and republished with permission from WhatcomTalk

Dr. William Anderson

Garden Spot Nursery

A Sunnyland staple since 1980

Paige Lanham bought Garden Spot Nursery in January 2021 from Marcy Plattner, keeping this local business alive in beautiful Bellingham. Garden Spot has an incredible sta of experts, ready to plan your garden, plant your pots, and problem solve with you. Their focus is healthy plants, unique local gifts, and fun educational classes. In person classes have returned! Every Saturday at 9 am, there will be a class taught by sta members and local experts on a variety of indoor and outdoor gardening topics at the nursery.

This fall, Garden Spot is the place to nd pumpkins, gourds, squash, seasonal decorations, and gifts. Soak up all of the autumn fun at their many events or contact them to set up your own private workshop. There is always something new and exciting happening at the nursery!

Go big on bulbs! They have a bigger selection than ever, so stock up for a stunning spring display of color. Sign up for their famous Lasagna Bulb potting workshop, available Monday through Friday, 10am to 3pm.

At Garden Spot Nursery, their motto is ‘We Grow Better Together’. It is important to pursue your passions, learn something new everyday, and enjoy each other. Come see your Garden Spot friends anytime!

Visit the Garden Spot at 900 Alabama Street seven days a week, 9am - 6pm. Contact them via phone at 360-676-5480 or through their website: www.garden-spot.com

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Meet Bellingham’s Queen of Cosplay and Halloween

WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY | PHOTOS BY COCOA LANEY

WHETHER YOU’RE PERFECTING a Halloween costume, building a cosplay from scratch, or looking for one-of-a-kind gifts, we recommend paying a visit to Mo’s Parlor. The shop is one of the nerdiest spots in Downtown Bellingham, offering everything from cosplay accessories to jewelry and even cosmetics but perhaps the most unique thing about Mo’s Parlor is Mo herself.

Owner Monique Green began working as a foamsmith in 2016, making props for films, music videos, and cosplay. Since then, she’s also ventured into cosmetics, resin-casting, and jewelry-making. Green has now traveled everywhere from Japan to Barbados for cosplay competitions and meet-and-greets, and she even takes commissions for custom cosplays and Halloween costumes.

Mo’s Parlor opened as a brick-and-mortar in December 2021, and the shop features both Green’s own creations as well as other products made by women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people of color (POC). At the end of the day, Green is driven by the belief that all bodies deserve to be in cosplay and, when it comes to creative costumes, the sky is truly the limit.

Mo’s Parlor

Cosplays by Monique Green

Photos courtesy of Mo’s Parlor.

“The ‘imagination creation station’ is my tagline, so I can make anything anyone thinks of,” Green says. “It takes about eight to 10 hours for me to make something. I charge $25 an hour for my time and then a 15% shop tax for the little things like glue.”

To complement her skill set, Green has collaborated with a seamstress on costume commissions since 2018. The two of them create cosplays year-round and usually begin taking Halloween orders in August.

“I love making swords,” Green says. “I also love working with Karianne, my seamstress, combining foam and fabric together. We just did a Xena [Warrior Princess] cosplay order last year, and that was our first time making a leather corset. It turned out great.”

Green also cites Shredder from “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” as one of her personal favorite cosplay creations, noting that a helmet she created for the character is on display in the store. She’s also currently working on a “big armor piece” for a cosplay inspired by the anime “Overlord.”

But beyond props and costumes, Green creates her own beauty products for both cosplay and day-to-day use. From

Mo’s Top Tips for Halloween

• Get creative with storebought costumes. If you want to go the extra mile, don’t be afraid of paint, glitter, or even adding wearand-tear to premade pieces.

• The best part about DIY is that there are no rules!

“There’s no ‘wrong way’ to do something as long as you get the outcome,” Green says.

skincare to hair products, sunscreen, mustache wax, and more, everything is made from all-natural ingredients and with POC in mind.

“I found out that a lot of products that I’ve been using growing up were not made by Black people, but were for Black people,” Green says. “So that’s my whole thing here. Everything I make is for POC first and so it works for everybody.”

This October marks Green’s first Halloween in her brick-and-mortar, and to celebrate spooky season, she’ll be stocking the shop with costume accessories like horns, gloves, and nails. But even if you’re not dressing up, Green invites the community to stop in and hang out for a while. Green herself is a staple on Commercial Street, and Mo’s Parlor functions as both a shop and a social hub.

“It’s just a super safe space for queer people and POC, so it’s been really great having the regulars come in and be able to vibe” Green says. “We’re always gonna be doing cool stuff, and I’m always down for questions and ready to help for Halloween that’s my favorite.” 1305 Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.820.0476, mosparlor.com 

• If your costume requires unusual makeup, chances are high that Green makes the kooky colors you need. “I wanted to create a line of lip colors that just had every color in it possible,” she says. “Everything’s all-natural, so there’s not any crazy chemicals in there.”

• Need guidance? Ask a pro. Green is happy to answer questions, and she offers consultations to those looking to dive into DIY. Consultations cover the materials, the tools, and anything else you might need to bring a fantasy look to life.

Left to Right: Haruko from FLCL, Shredder from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and Canti from FLCL.

A Boho Boutique

Third Planet

WRITTEN BY ANELYSE MORRIS-BOHLKE | PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

The Shop

Since its opening in 2014, Third Planet has been a fixture of Downtown Bellingham, known for its eclectic collection of crystals, jewelry, clothing, and artisan goods. Owner David Jess was inspired by the people and creators he met while traveling in Bali, and opening Third Planet was a way to support Bali and local artisans through a wholesale structure.

As for the location, Jess’s partner is from Canada and this fueled his desire to open a store in the Pacific Northwest, close to her roots. Manager and longtime employee Erika Millage says the store has added a lot to the downtown community since its opening.

“We love being downtown. It is the heart of Bellingham and has really started thriving again,” Millage says. “I think we have become a cornerstone of the downtown area. We are incredibly inclusive and truly have something for everyone.”

The team behind Third Planet is incredibly tight-knit, with only 10 employees. Despite the size of the team, everyone on staff has their own speciality.

“We are a really tight group and many of us have worked together for years,” she says. “We have minimal turnover in

staff, which has allowed us to establish a positive and truly caring working environment. All of us are genuine friends!”

The Atmosphere

While the store values have stayed the same, the aesthetic has shifted since opening according to Millage. What began as a “hippy” store has since transitioned into a boutique and gift shop. While you can still find clothing and decor items, the atmosphere has changed to be more crystal, jewelry, and gift centered.

One thing that hasn’t changed is the focus on inclusivity. Millage says the staff at Third Planet takes pride in not just providing local goods, but a place where everyone feels like they can be 100% themselves.

“As someone who grew up in Bellingham, this community is incredibly important to me. I love that I have the opportunity to give back and create an inclusive space where everyone feels welcome, and for local artists to sell their creations,” she says.

An additional part of the store aesthetic is safety with multiple new safety measures implemented since the

COVID-19 shutdown in 2020. Third Planet adopted strict mask, social distancing, sanitizing, and capacity protocols upon re-opening, even nabbing a 2020 Scepter Award for their commitment to the health and safety of Downtown Bellingham.

What You’ll Find

The selection at Third Planet is a diverse one, with items from more than 500 different artisans and shops. The team sources and searches for new vendors at 10 or more trade shows a year, as well as from wholesale websites like Faire and from local artisans and creators.

At the shop you can find everything from accessories and clothing to bath and body products. You can also purchase local keepsakes, candles, decor, journals, plants, tarot cards, and everything in between.

Favorites

The most popular items available are crystals, stones, and jewelry. The entire Third Planet collection is hand-selected at trade shows in order to assure quality, affordability, and ethical creation and sourcing.

“My personal favorites are the crystals and stones. It’s so much fun to help people find the perfect piece,” Millage says. “I love labradorite, smoky quartz, danburite, and frosted Himalayan quartz.” 200 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.778.3765, thirdplanetbellingham.com

Styling a Shacket

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

WHAT DO YOU get when you combine a shirt and a jacket? A shacket, of course! These versatile fall must-haves were everywhere last year, and they’re poised to stay on trend in 2022 as well. It only makes sense in addition to being fashionable, a shacket is the perfect layering piece to have in your closet when the weather takes a turn for the chilly. There are a million ways to style one, but if you’re needing inspiration, the classic jeans/beanie/boots combo is a surefire place to start.

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Beanie

Wild Material, $18 2500 Elm St., Ste. 10., Bellingham, shopwildmaterial.com

Tullis Jacket in Charcoal

Cheeks Jeans, $70

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

Dear John Jeans

Adored Boutique, $88 913 Harris Ave., Bellingham, shopadoredboutique.com

Blundstone 500 Elastic

Sided Boot

12th Street Shoes, $200 1204 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.733.2066, 12thstreetshoes.com

Omala Earrings

Soul Sisters Unique Boutique, $18 436 W. Bakerview Rd., Ste. 109, 360.746.8056, facebook.com/ soulsistersuniqueboutique

The Power of Sustainable Skincare

To begin, please introduce yourself and give us a brief overview of the products that Sea Witch Botanicals offers!

My name is Alesia Hall, and I’m the primary owner and master crafter of Sea Witch Botanicals. I started this company in hopes of providing the kinds of body- and planet-friendly products I wasn’t seeing readily available in major stores.

What is the significance of the name “Sea Witch”?

The waters of this world are as connected as we are to each other. The oneness of our world is inescapable, and our place in it should be one of symbiosis and stewardship. A witch feels her connection to everything, and seeks to live in harmony with it.

Could you please give us some insight into the process behind creating your cosmetics and self-care products?

All my products are designed with the health of the body and planet before anything else! Using only organic minerals, plant oils, and extracts, I perfect each product by hand before designing a small-batch process for production.

What does “self care” mean to you?

You cannot be a force of good in the world if you are drained of all your power! Good self care means prioritizing your own mental and physical health, setting and maintaining healthy boundaries, and not punishing yourself for it.

What are the benefits of using all-natural ingredients in cosmetics both in regards to health and the environment?

By using all-natural ingredients in home and body products, we empower the consumer with

information. We hide nothing behind the word “fragrance,” so our customers know exactly what they’re getting, and can easily avoid irritants and allergens that affect them. And by sourcing only sustainable natural materials, we set an example in the industry for environmental responsibility.

Tell me more about Sea Witch’s commitment to environmentalism. Beyond individual products, how does the company incorporate sustainable practices in day-to-day operations?

Our company is a certified B corpora tion [a private certification indicating high social and environmental per formance], a member of 1% For The Planet, and Toward Zero Waste. Every single bit of our packaging, includ ing shipping materials, is recyclable or compostable, and at our lab we utilize a recycling service called Ridwell (ridwell. com) to make sure there is as little waste as possible.

Looking at the cosmetics industry as a whole, what kinds of sustainability practices would you like to see become commonplace in the years to come?

We would hope to see more companies emulate our sustainable packaging and shipping practices. The overuse of plastics in cosmetics and home products is absolutely depressing, and completely unnecessary.

Lastly, what are some of your personal favorite Sea Witch self-care products?

Our newest limited edition signature scent collection is a celebration of all things autumnal! The collection is called Mabon, after the celebration of the autumnal equinox, and it smells like tumbling leaves, knit scarves, distant chimney smoke, and everything you’d want to sip from a steamy mug on an overcast day. 2000 Franklin St., Ste. 102, Bellingham, 360.922.0774, seawitchbotanicals.com

Q&A with Alesia Hall of Sea Witch Botanicals

Photos by Cocoa Laney

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SHOP LOCAL

1. Aromatherapy Shower Steamers with a Ring Inside Starting at $16.99

Bella Rose Boutique 1134 10th St., Bellingham luvbellarose.com, 360.746.8163

2. Autumn Spice LED Candle with Leaves and Berries Ring | $68

Surroundings Home, Gifts & Garden 1758 Front St. #104, Lynden surroundingslynden.com, 360.354.3101

3. “Rabbit Over Moon” 16oz Infuser Tea Mug | $19.50

Wonderland Tea and Spice 1305 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.733.0517

4. Dansko Brenna Tan Burnished Suede | $140

Stowes Shoes & Clothing 420 E Fairhaven Ave., Burlington 360.755.0570 stowesshoesandclothing.com

5. Liberty Fabric Hankies and Lavender Sachets from England | Starting at $15.95

Hamann’s Gallery & Gift Barkley Village, Bellingham 360.733.8898

6. Cashmere ruanas by Alashan | $125

Tides of Anacortes

719 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.873.8785, tidesofanacortes.com

7. PopLush Embroidery KitTattoo Sailor | $30 Northwest Yarns & Mercantile 206 W. Magnolia St., Bellingham 360.738.0167, nwyarns.com

8. White and Warren Cashmere Lofty Cardigan Quinn & Foster 1402 11th St., Bellingham 360.671.2000, QuinnandFoster.com

BEST of the NORTHWEST Fashion&Ret a li

It’s the moment you’ve all been waiting for: The votes are in, so it’s time to announce the winners of our 2022 Best of the Northwest readers choice awards! From bars and bistros to boutiques and barbers, this year’s competition honors the North Sound’s most standout businesses. Join us in celebrating 366 of your local favorites across 122 categories with a whopping total of 977,051 votes, each win is more than well-earned.

ea u yt

Arts & Entertain tnem

Reader’s Choice

BEST GOLF COURSE

North Bellingham Golf Course

205 W. Smith Rd., Bellingham, 360.398.8300, northbellinghamgolf.com

Between the rolling meadows, sweeping mountain views, and delicious on-site restaurant, what’s not to love about North Bellingham Golf Course? The 18-hole course is designed in the traditional Scottish links fashion, bringing a slice of the U.K. right here to Whatcom County. Best of all, you don’t have to be Tiger Woods to enjoy a day spent hitting the tees and North Bellingham Golf Course even offers lessons on appointment.

Silver: Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club

Bronze: Raspberry Ridge Golf Course

BEST LOCAL ARTIST

Ben Mann

1000 Harris Ave., Ste. 18, Bellingham, ben-mann.com

You’re probably already familiar with Ben Mann’s work his distinctive, whimsical paintings can be spotted on walls, postcards, logos, and posters across the North Sound, and the mediums he uses are as diverse as his artistic CV. From paintings and portraits to pen and ink drawings, Mann approaches every project with expertise gleaned from 30 years of creative exploration, and his Fairhaven studio is open to visitors by appointment.

Silver: Yvette Neumann

Bronze: Susan Rothschild

Courtesy of North Bellingham Golf Course

Courtesy of Ben Mann

BEST LOCAL PERFORMER Baby Cakes

Bellingham, babycakesband.com

The people of Bellingham have spoken: Nobody brings the groove better than Baby Cakes. This multi-talented supergroup performs all your favorite hits across genres like R&B, funk, and soul, covering artists from Aretha Franklin to Beyonce. If that wasn’t enough, their self-titled debut album includes nine original songs, each of which is guaranteed to get you dancing. To experience Baby Cakes live and in person, catch them at venues around the North Sound or book them to play your next event.

Silver: Polecat

Bronze: SUGAR: A Cabaret

Editor’s Picks

Join the Circus

If you have ever been in awe of an acrobat’s gravity defying stunts, or maybe you taught yourself how to juggle and you want to know more, you’re in luck because the circus is already in town. Bellingham Circus Guild is a community-focused professional and non-professional organization working to share their art with you. The group offers everything from classes to performances, and even a space for anyone who just wants to work on their craft of choice.

Artful Artists

Whatcom has a thriving art scene to say the very least, with too many talented creators to name. One of the best things about art is that it can take many forms even those you wouldn’t immediately expect. Local cartographer Sarah Bell has created eye-catching maps for multiple companies, including Bellingham’s own Western Washington University. Speaking of educational artwork, fisherman and illustrator Tom Crestodina creates beautiful (and sometimes humorous) depictions of life at sea through hand-illustrated boat cutaways.

BEST CASINO

Swinomish Casino and Lodge

12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes, 888.288.8883, swinomishcasinoandlodge.com

Silver: The Skagit Casino Resort

Bronze: Silver Reef Casino Resort

BEST LIVE THEATER

Mount Baker Theatre

104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.733.5793, mountbakertheatre.com

Silver: Bellingham Theatre Guild

Bronze: Lincoln Theatre

BEST MUSEUM

The Whatcom Museum

Multiple locations, Bellingham, 360.778.8930, whatcommuseum.org

Silver: Heritage Flight Museum

Bronze: Museum of Northwest Art

BEST FESTIVAL

Northwest Washington Fair

1775 Front St., Lynden, 360.354.4111, nwwafair.com

Silver: Anacortes Arts Festival

Bronze: Northwest Raspberry Festival

Best Venues for All-Ages Entertainment

Fill your weekends and days off with fun for the whole group! Whether you’re out for a date night or some family time, The Blue Room has something to offer everyone. Located above K-POP Chicken and Beer, this entertainment venue offers concerts, comedy shows, open mic nights, art galleries, movie showings, fashion shows, and more. If you’re looking to get in some exercise, Volli has everything from indoor pickleball to golf simulation, shuffleboard, cornhole, and more.

Photo by Anna Ghinea

The Blue Room

BEST ART GALLERY

Whatcom Art Market

1103 11th St., Bellingham, 360.738.8564, whatcomartmarket.com

The Whatcom Art Market is one of the best places in Bellingham to immerse yourself in local creativity.

As a part of Whatcom Art Guild (WAG), this co-op gallery brings the work of more than 40 artists together under one roof and all of these artists are local to Whatcom, Skagit, or the San Juan Islands. Mediums span everything from painting to photography, jewelry, metalwork, glass etching, and more, so whether you’re looking for a thoughtful gift or one-ofa-kind decor, you’re sure to find something you love.

Silver: Gallery Syre

Bronze: Make.Shift

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE

Wild Buffalo House of Music

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

The Wild Buffalo turns 25 this very month and a gold win gives them yet another reason to celebrate. As any savvy concert-goer will tell you, this beloved venue is more or less a Downtown Bellingham legend. Its stage has been graced by performers of all stripes, from nationally-recognized bands to DJs, local musicians, and even burlesque artists. Given that level of diversity, you never know who you’ll catch performing on a given night but no matter what, you can always expect to be entertained.

Silver: The Shakedown

Bronze: Kulshan Brewing Company

Photo by Connor Jalbert

Courtesy of Whatcom Art Market

Editor’s Picks

Grooviest Music Gurus

If you, too, regret never pursuing guitar lessons as a child, don’t fret (pun intended) hope is not yet lost! Bellingham Music offers classes for both groups and individuals, as well as instrument rentals. Whether your passion lies in rock, classical, or even West African percussion, you’ll find dedicated teachers ready to help you achieve your musical ambitions. In addition, Evergreen Music School has locations in both Bellingham and Mount Vernon and offers private lessons in instruments from classical piano to the banjo.

Favorite Brand-New Festivals

2022 was a great year for those of us needing something new to celebrate. February brought us the Fairhaven Chocolate Walk, a sugar-charged way to honor Valentine’s Day (or Galentine’s Day). Moving on to summer, the NW Tune-Up Fest was jam-packed with music, bikes, and craft beer, whereas Anacortes Pride was a day of joy and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community.

NW Tune-Up Fest

Photo by Eric Mickelson

Reader’s Choice

a

Fashion&Re

BEST BOUTIQUE

Adored Boutique

913 Harris Ave., Bellingham, shopadoredboutique.com

Nestled in the heart of Fairhaven, Adored is a lovely boutique with a simple goal: to make each and every visitor recognize their own beauty, starting from the inside out. Shoppers can expect a well-curated collection of apparel, accessories, decor, and even beauty products. With its inviting atmosphere, warm employees, and stylish inventory, Adored is the perfect place to pick out gifts for the important women in your life or to simply to treat yourself to something beautiful.

(You deserve it!)

Silver: Tides Of Anacortes

Bronze: Betty Be Good Boutique

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING

Quinn + Foster

128 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.671.2000, quinnandfoster.com

When it comes to fashionable yet timeless clothing for all genders, Quinn + Foster just can’t be beat. Owner Chris Hayward brings years of fashion industry experience to the table, and her knowledgeable staff is always eager to help you find the perfect piece for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual-yet-chic pair of sneakers or perfectly-tailored blazer, men in particular will have no problem finding what they need to look their very best.

Silver: Yeager’s Sporting Goods

Bronze: Bay to Baker Trading Company

Photo by Tyler Kendig

Photo by Wild Grass Photography

BEST JEWELRY SHOP Borthwick Jewelry

1730 LaBounty Dr., Ste. 5, Ferndale, 360.384.2803, borthwickjewelry.com

From engagement rings to gemstone jewelry, diamond earrings, and even repairs, Borthwick Jewelry is your one-stop shop for all things shiny. This family-owned business has been serving Whatcom County since 1997, making Founder Tom Borthwick (a.k.a. “The Diamond King”) a veritable legend within the Ferndale community. Borthwick’s entire staff is passionate about providing top-quality service at competitive prices, and with two jewelers working on-site, your repairs will be completed in a timely and professional manner. Looking for a special way to say “I love you”? You’ve come to the right place.

Silver: Bayside Coin & Jewelry

Bronze: Warren Jewelers

Editor’s Picks

Bags of Beauty

Looking for a purse, clutch, or fanny pack that’s built to last? You can find loads of high-quality handmade bags locally. Orcas Island Leather Goods offers customizable leather wallets, bags, keychains, and more. Julie Simon of Moss Bags is the perfect artist for fans of boho bags. For collectors of eclectic items or those in search of the perfect biking/skating bag, Attack Cat Bags is your go-to for items that are retro, sturdy, and inclusive.

Most Thoughtful Gift Shops

If you’re looking for a gift for the art lover in your life, try paying a visit to Hamann’s Gallery and Gift in Barkley Village. Beyond custom framing, they carry prints from a variety of regional and national artists, plus gifts, cards, jewelry, candles, and more. Lynden’s Surroundings Home, Gifts, & Garden is another must-stop shop for thoughtful presents, plus they carry an extensive range of seasonal and holiday decorations. And last but not least, despite its tie to Village Books, you’ll find much more than novels at Paper Dreams. This locally-owned gift shop has been around since the ‘80s and as its name might imply boasts a beautiful range of cards and stationery.

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING Cheeks Jeans

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

Silver: Statement Apparel

Bronze: Quinn + Foster

BEST CONSIGNMENT SHOP

Labels Women’s Consignment

3927 Northwest Ave., Bellingham, 360.676.1210, labelsconsignment.com

2332 James St., Bellingham, 360.738.0333, labelsconsignment.com

Silver: The Clothes Rack

Bronze: Wee Ones Reruns

BEST LOCAL ARTISAN

Jennifer Parker of ReImagined

Bellingham, facebook.com/ReImagined.Art.with.Purpose

Silver: MW Soapworks

Bronze: Brazen Shop + Studio

Attack Cat Bags

Photo by Claudia Cooper

BEST ANTIQUE STORE

Penny Pinchers

Estate Clearance

4894 Guide Meridian, Bellingham, 360.927.7570, pennyestates.com

Silver: Penny Lane Antique Mall

Bronze: Aladdin’s Antiques and Records

BEST FURNITURE STORE

Samuel’s Furniture

1904 Main St., Ferndale, 360.384.3388, samuelsfurniture.com

Silver: Greenhouse Home + Life

Bronze: Northwest Fine Furnishings

BEST APPLIANCE STORE

Judd & Black

2001 James St., Bellingham, 360.733.7722, juddblack.com

Silver: DeWaard & Bode

Bronze: Rent-A-Center

BEST ELECTRONICS STORE Reference Media

1611 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.714.8860, reference-media.net

Silver: Audio Video Excellence

Bronze: HifiHandyman

BEST SHOE STORE 12th Street Shoes

1204 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.733.2066, 12thstreetshoes.com

Fairhaven wouldn’t be Fairhaven without 12th Street Shoes, so it’s no surprise to see them win gold in their category. Originally established in 1999, the shop has doubled in size over the years but still maintains its homey atmosphere, warmth, and an innumerable amount of devoted customers. Available footwear includes everything from boots to flats, sandals, and heels, so whether you’re dressing up for an event or in need of a new pair of everyday sneakers, you’re sure to find shoes that suit your unique style.

Silver: Beck’s Shoes

Bronze: Fairhaven Runners & Walkers

BEST BOOKSTORE

Village Books

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

Silver: Henderson Books

Bronze: Eclipse Bookstore

Courtesy of 12th Street Shoes

Editor’s Picks

Coolest Boards on the Slopes

Hitting the powder this season should be done in style, and Boardworks Tech Shop is a must-go if you are in the market for unique and personal snowboarding gear. In addition to selling everything from boards to boots, poles, and more, their team can build you a custom-made splitboard for a fraction of factory costs. They also hold art shows that celebrate custom graphics painted on retired snowboards, and this year’s Snowboard Art Show had a grand total of 194 unique boards on display!

Best-Smelling Shops

Lavender lovers are sure to go wild for Pelindaba Lavender on San Juan Island. While the farm itself is open to visitors, those short on time can visit their gift shop in Friday Harbor for items like essential oils, lavender-centric spice blends, and even lavender dog treats. On nearby Orcas Island, Island Thyme crafts bath and body products from only the sweetest-smelling botanicals. You can find their aromatherapy products on shelves throughout the West Coast, but we recommend stopping into their Eastsound storefront for the full-value olfactory experience.

Pelindaba Lavender

Photo by Catherine Torres

Editor’s Picks

Looks Made for Lounging

For PJs that are both comfy and cute, Sandmaiden has you covered. Their handmade loungewear comes in a variety of styles and fabrics, ranging from knitwear to bamboo sets, organic cotton robes, and even silk lingerie. Better yet, their leggings, joggers, and sweaters could all double as cozy work-from-home ‘fits because the word “sleepwear” is a suggestion, not an obligation.

Following the Trends

Fashion podcasts help you stay in the know with current trends, styles, and sensitive subjects facing the world today. The Business of Fashion keeps you up to date on the fashion industry while Dressed: The History of Fashion dives into fashion past and present. So... What Do You Do Again takes an in-depth look at what it takes for women of color to make it in the industry, whether it be as a model or celebrity stylist.

BEST

GOODS STORE Yeager’s Sporting Goods

3101 Northwest Ave., Bellingham, 360.733.1080, yeagerssportinggoods.com

After more than a century in business, Yeager’s has become a Bellingham institution and yes, they are still family-owned. This expansive 26,000-square-foot sports shop sells gear for just about any activity you could dream up, whether it’s hunting, fishing, camping, or hitting the slopes. And once you’ve stocked up on everything you need for your next adventure, you can also browse a wide selection of men’s and women’s apparel (all of which is as stylish as it is functional). Outdoor recreation in Bellingham just wouldn’t be the same without Yeager’s, so it’s no wonder our readers have awarded them the top spot.

Bronze: Second Shot Sports

Silver: Dave’s Sports Shop

Fashion podcasts

Photo by Dean Davidson

5 Facts: elSage Designs

elSage is known for apparel and accessories that unite “activism, art, and a sense of place.”

These creations are brought to life by Owners Phoebe and Jonathan Carpenter Eells through a mix of block and screen printing techniques.

Their Mount Vernon storefront offers elSage originals as well as curated artisan goods.

elSage donates 1% of annual earnings to organizations that support climate action.

elSage is the driving force behind Valley Made Market, a beloved pop-up market in the heart of Skagit Valley.

Photo by Sara Welch

Reader’s Choice

Health&Bea u ty

BEST MASSAGE

Still Life Massage and Float

19 Bellwether Way, Bellingham, 360.647.2805, stilllifemassage.com

Silver: Massage Works

Bronze: Advanced Medical Massage

BEST ACUPUNCTURIST

Bellingham

Acupuncture and Wellness

2801 Meridian St., Bellingham, 360.756.5866, changschinesewellness.com

Silver: A Better Way

Massage & Acupuncture

Bronze: Acupuncture Health Center

BEST YOGA/PILATES STUDIO

3 Oms Yoga

1319 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.671.3510, 3omsyoga.com

Silver: FLUX Power Yoga

Bronze: FlowMotion

BEST SPA

The Chrysalis Inn & Spa Bellingham

804 10th St., Bellingham, 360.392.5515, spaatthechrysalisinn.com

In need of some old-fashioned rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation?

Whether or not you’re staying at the inn, the spa at the Chrysalis is open to the public and it’s the perfect place to get pampered. They offer an astoundingly wide variety of treatments, including (but not limited to) facials, manis, pedis, waxing, a range of specialized massages, and even monthly specials. Whatever option you choose, you can expect to leave the Chrysalis feeling like a brand new you.

Silver: The Apothecary Spa Bronze: Zazen Salon

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER

Bellingham Fitness

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

Silver: ProFitness Northwest

Bronze: Fitness Evolution

BEST PHARMACY

Hilltop Pharmacy

1223 E. Division St., Mount Vernon, 360.428.1710, rxhilltop.com

Silver: Hoagland Pharmacy

Bronze: Fairway Drug

BEST NATUROPATH

Halleck Holistic Health

208 Halleck St., Bellingham, 360.325.8976, drputney.com

Silver: Fairhaven Integrative Health

Bronze: Dr. Emily Sharpe

BEST HEALTH FOOD SHOP

V GO’S

1213 Cornwall Ave., Ste. 102, 360.526.6293, vgosbellingham.com

When you think of vegan food, things like mac ‘n’ cheese, pizza, and jerky probably don’t come to mind but V GO’s offers all these things and more, and yes, each and every one is plant-based. This one-stop vegan grocery/ convenience store is owned by the same folks who brought us Sage Against the Machine, so it’s no surprise that the offerings at V GO’S are as delicious as they are environmentally conscious. Not in the mood to go home and cook? V GO’s even features a cafe serving up wholesome meals and snacks from Sage Against the Machine, certifying this little grocery store as Downtown Bellingham’s haven for vegans on the go.

Silver: Community Food Co-op Bronze: Skagit Valley Food Co-op

Photo by Sarah Hardy Photography

Editor’s Picks

Most Gravity-Defying Way to Work Out

Climbing might be an obvious activity choice for those unafraid of heights, but bouldering is just the beginning at VITAL Climbing Gym. Their yoga classes including aerial yoga, of course are some of the best in town. La Connerites can try their hand at aerial feats through classes with Crescent Moon Yoga, whereas non-yogis can learn to fly at the pole fitness classes offered by Unique Technique Dance. Exercise is known to ease feelings of stress and anxiety, so who knew that defying gravity could be so… well, grounding?

BEST MEN’S HAIRCUT

V’s Barber Shop

414 W. Bakerview Rd., Ste. 107, Bellingham, 360.656.6911, vbarbershop.com

As one location among many in the U.S., the “old-fashioned” V’s Barbershop in Bellingham provides its clientele with a mix of vintage nostalgia, warmth, and professionalism. Founder and CEO Jim Valenzuela established the brand in homage to memories of hanging out at the barbershop with his father, and as a result, the employees at V’s provide more than a trim and a shave they provide a full-on experience (one complete with massages at that!).

Silver: Wally’s Barber Shop

Bronze: Midtown Barber

BEST CANNABIS SHOP

2020 Solutions

2018 Iron St., Bellingham, 360.734.2020, 2020-solutions.com

Silver: Cascade Herb Company

Bronze: Trove Cannabis

BEST OB/GYN

PeaceHealth Women’s Health Clinic

Bellingham, peacehealth.org

Silver: Bellingham OB/GYN

Bronze: Family Care Network

BEST DENTIST

Whatcom Dental

1225 E. Sunset Dr., Ste. 140, 360.255.5000, whatcomdental.com

Silver: Bellingham Family Dentistry

Bronze: Clough Dental

BEST ORTHODONTIST Yeh

Orthodontics

3100 Squalicum Pkwy., Ste. 102, 360.676.9222, yehorthodontics.com

Silver: Shoff Orthodontics

Bronze: Veltkamp Orthodontics

VITAL Climbing Gym

Courtesy of V’s Barber Shop

Photo by Celina Meza

BEST EYE CARE

Binyon Vision Center

411 E. Magnolia St., Bellingham, 360.647.2020, binyonvision.com

Here’s a fun fact about Binyon Vision Center: After establishing his first Seattle clinic in 1911, Founder James R. Binyon opened eye care centers across the state, to the point where it once was estimated that one in three Washington families sported their glasses. Just three of those centers remain to this day, and lucky for those of us in the North Sound one of them can be found in Downtown Bellingham. Today, the staff at Binyon Vision Center continue on a centurylong tradition of first-class eye care, uniting cutting-edge techniques with the sense of pride that can only come from years of experience.

Silver: Vision Plus Optometric

Bronze: Whatcom Eye Surgeons

BEST MED-SPA

RejuvenationMD

325 E. George Hopper Rd., Burlington, Ste. 101, 360.982,2620, rejuvenationmdmedspa.com 2219 Rimland Dr., Ste. 105, Bellingham, 360.685.8408, rejuvenationmdmedspa.com

As the North Sound’s premier medical aesthetics office, Dr. Tianna Tsitsis and her team at RejuvenationMD is continually voted No. 1 by our readers. These registered physicians are here to help you find custom-tailored solutions for a variety of aesthetics and wellness concerns, from skin treatments to sexual issues and much more. In addition to delivering natural-looking results, Dr. Tsitsis leads the way in fostering an office culture that’s professional, empathetic, and above all, totally judgment-free.

Silver: evolé Mediclinic Bronze: Blue Room Wellness Spa

Photo by Demri Rayanne Photography

Courtesy of Binyon Vision

SALON

Salon Bellissima

1215 Old Fairhaven Pkwy., Ste. B, 360.715.1052, salonbellissimabellingham.com

The team at Salon Bellissima know how to make you look and feel your very best, whether you’re trying out a new hairstyle, getting glam for a big occasion, or simply in need of a regular trim. Their talented, friendly stylists focus not just on making you look good in the salon, but also giving you the tools and techniques necessary to recreate those results at home. In addition to their devotion to their clients, Salon Bellissima is also devoted to sustainability, and they make a point to recycle, use green power sources, and support other local businesses whenever and however possible.

Silver: Argyle Salon

Bronze: Lucy Be Hair

BEST AUDIOLOGIST/ HEARING CENTER

Spencer Audiology Clinic

2114 James St., Bellingham, 360.527.8525, spenceraudiology.com

Silver: Miracle-Ear Hearing Aid Center

Bronze: Hearing Northwest

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPIST

Capstone

Physical Therapy

Multiple locations, capstonept.com

Silver: Whatcom Physical Therapy

Bronze: FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

Natural Way

Chiropractic

2000 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.671.1710, naturalwaychiro.org

Silver: New Life Chiropractic & Wellness

Bronze: Summit Sports Chiropractic

BEST FAMILY PRACTITIONER

Family Care Network

Multiple locations, familycarenetwork.com

Silver: PeaceHealth Medical Group

Bronze: Bellingham Bay Family Medicine

BEST RETIREMENT FACILITY

Orchard Park

844 W. Orchard Dr., Bellingham, 360.647.3708, orchardparkretirement.net

Silver: Highgate Senior Living

Bronze: Spring Creek by Bonaventure

BEST MANI PEDI

Jimmy’s Personal Care

1327 11th St., Bellingham, 360.933.4268, jimmyspersonalcare.com

Silver: Happy Nails

Bronze: Nina’s Nails & Spa

BEST FITNESS CENTER

Fitness Evolution

1504 Iowa St., Bellingham, 360.671.4653, bellinghamevo.com

More than just a gym, Fitness Evolution could be described as “community within a community,” and they’re inclusive towards members of all ages, body types, and fitness levels. No matter what your fitness goals may be, you’re sure to find the tools you need to achieve them, including free weights, group fitness courses, and a vast selection of machines for cardio and strength training. Fitness Evolution even offers personal training and childcare and we’d be remiss not to mention their post-workout smoothie bar!

Silver: Bellingham Fitness

Bronze: Bellingham Training & Tennis Club

Courtesy of Salon Bellissima

Reader’s Choice

Home&Gard

BEST GARDEN/NURSERY

My Garden Nursery

929 E. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham, 360.366.8406, mygardennursery.com

Silver: Garden Spot Nursery

Bronze: Baby Greens: Plant Shop & Cafe

BEST YARD MAINTENANCE

Augusta Lawn Care Services

5309 Guide Meridian Rd., Bellingham, 360.350.5500, augustalawncareservices.com

Silver: Whatcom Lawns

Bronze: Servando’s Landscaping Services

BEST BUILDER Highline Construction

1420 Meador Ave., Ste. K105, Bellingham, highlinewa.com

Silver: Bellingham Bay Builders

Bronze: Lexar Homes

BEST HOME DECOR Greenhouse Home + Life

1235 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.676.1161, greenhousehome.com

Silver: Re-Feather Your Nest

Bronze: The Garden Room

BEST KITCHEN AND BATH DESIGN

Options Cabinetry & Interiors

4071 Hannegan Rd., Ste. K, 360.746.8759, optionsci.com

Some say home is where the heart is but where exactly is the heart of the home? If you ask Options Cabinetry & Interiors, it all comes down to the kitchen. This Bellinghambased company has a simple goal in mind: to put “the life back in the heart of your home” through gorgeous, original custom cabinetry. Beyond the kitchen, they even offer interior design services so if you have a vision for your dream kitchen (or bath, or any other interior space), you can be rest assured that Options Cabinetry will make it a reality.

Silver: Kitchen Design Studio

Bronze: North Haven Remodeling

Photo by Radley Muller Photography

Editor’s Picks

Most Eclectic Artisan Decor Stumbling into Fairhaven’s Barrett Lizza Design studio and gallery feels like discovering another world one complete with custom woodwork, kooky home decor, artistic oddities, and a gaggle of vintage dolls for good measure. Down south in Mount Vernon, Habibi is a “global portal” that sells (among many other things) unique, small-batch home and kitchen goods. While Habibi’s wares might be sourced from around the world, all items in their inventory have connections to a person or group in the Skagit Valley.

Picturesque Pottery

Looking for that perfect piece to sit on top of your mantel? Why not pick up some local pottery? For diverse artisan collections, head to Good Earth Pottery in Fairhaven, Orcas Island Pottery in Eastsound, or Circa in Downtown Bellingham. It doesn’t end there, because there are also endless talented individuals in the area

Blue Water Pottery, Crowe Potter, and Dry Dock Goods to name a few.

We measure success differently.

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Crowe Potter

Photo by Sig Photography

BEST INTERIOR DESIGN

Jennifer Ryan Design

2100 G St., Bellingham, 360.319.7092, jenniferryandesign.com

Silver: Angela Prater Design

Bronze: HomePort Interiors

BEST ROOFING COMPANY

Topside Roofing & Siding

161 E. Horton Rd., Bellingham, 360.752.2220, topsideroofing.com

Silver: Mount Baker Roofing

Bronze: Fly Guys Construction

BEST WINDOW COVERINGS

Walls and Windows

4131 Hannegan Rd., Ste. 104, Bellingham, 360.746.3689, wallsandwindowsinc.com

Silver: Russell’s Window Coverings

Bronze: Lorraine’s Window Coverings

BEST HARDWARE/ LUMBER STORE

Builders Alliance

3801 Hannegan Rd., Bellingham, 360.919.0921, buildersalliance.com

Since their founding in 1913, Builders Alliance has made a name for themselves by providing top-quality lumber for both home professionals and first-time remodelers. Their business name comes from their philosophy of listening, collaborating, and above all standing in alliance with their clients. From decks and doors to windows, kitchens, and more, they know that a successful project begins and ends with good, longlasting materials.

Silver: Windsor Plywood

Bronze: Hardware Sales

BEST LANDSCAPE DESIGN

Project Landworks

Bellingham, 360.474.3151, projectlandworks.com

Project Landworks is about more than just landscape architecture. Since 2018, their skilled team has been designing and installing outdoor spaces that are founded on more than aesthetics alone. With every project they undertake, their goals include protecting wildlife, sourcing local materials, conserving resources, and of course creating landscapes that are imbued with both beauty and meaning. They even run a native plant nursery with a particular focus on edible and urban-friendly species. From consultation to construction, customers count on Project Landworks to deliver results that are both eye-catching and ecologically sensitive.

Silver: Molly Maguire Landscape Architecture

Bronze: Lux Design

Courtesy of Builders Alliance

THANK YOU for voting My Garden Nursery number one!

My Garden Nursery is the FUN and colorful garden center on E. Bakerview Rd with the giant purple flamingo out front. My Garden is filled to the brim with a huge assortment of trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials, berries, herbs, vegetables and indoor tropical plants! We also have all the items to keep your plants happy including beautiful pottery, and all the solutions to discourage bugs, blights, and pesky deer.

Come see us in October for fall mums, kale, and pansies, plus harvest items including pumpkins, gourds, and lots of funny pots with eyeballs, cauldrons, ghosts and spiders.

Check out our new food truck, The Purple Flamingo Cafe! Coffees, panini sandwiches, fresh salads, truffle fries and our signature slushy, the Flamingo Freeze!

We appreciate you and all your support!

Jenny and the My Garden gang!

360-366-8406

Bakerview

BEST ARCHITECT Morris Originals

3111 Newmarket St., Ste. 105, Bellingham, 360.223.3359, morrisoriginals.com

Whether you’re building a chicken coop or your dream home, Morris Originals has your back. This small residential and interior design firm specializes in projects of all scale, with a few commonalities between them: creativity; authenticity; environmentalism; and consideration of the clients’ wants, needs, and budget. Their team applies this same level of care to every undertaking, from securing building permits to finalizing interiors and even remodels.

Silver: Haven Design Workshop

Bronze: Concept Design

Editor’s Picks

Most Diminutive Dwellings

Good things do come in small packages and this is especially true for Big Freedom Tiny Homes. Despite being just 26 feet in length, these pintsized artisan homes are custom-built and equipped with high-end details like quartz countertops, stone or tile backsplashes, hardwood flooring, stainless kitchen appliances, and a spacious bathroom. They’re also road legal, so you can tow these homes with you wherever you go.

Coolest Cabinets

If your cabinets are in desperate need of a facelift, get in touch with New Whatcom Interiors. They have more than 30 years of experience and are available to both design and manufacture cabinets for your home or business. Custom cabinetry is also a specialty of Creative Cabinets, who can level up your storage and shelving in styles ranging from elegant and traditional to contemporary and trendy.

Big Freedom Tiny Homes

Courtesy of Big Freedom Tiny Homes

Photo by C9 Photography

BEST FLOORING COMPANY

Robinson Hardwood & Homes

2100 Grant St., Bellingham, 360.360.5445, robinsonhardwood.com

With 30 years of experience and hundreds of happy clients, Robinson Hardwood & Homes are undisputed experts when it comes to hardwood flooring. This family-owned company is a second-generation contractor, and they specialize in everything from refinishing to repair, restoration, and even care and maintenance for clients across Whatcom and Skagit counties. To fully embody the ethos that “quality wood flooring never expires,” their projects even come with a lifetime warranty.

Silver: Mount Vernon Carpet One

Bronze: Fairhaven Floors

Editor’s Picks

Magnificent Metalwork

Who do you call to help build the custom gate or railing of your dreams?

A metalworks master, of course. KP Metalworks offers a variety of metal fabrication and welding services, and better yet, she works with commercial and residential clients alike. You may have even noticed her work around town; for example, Owner KP Peirce constructed the railings at The Shakedown and even safety racks on the beaches at Birch Bay.

KP Metalworks

Courtesy of KP Metalworks

Courtesy of Robinson Hardwood & Homes

Reader’s Choice

Kids

BEST CHILDCARE/AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

Bellingham Arts Academy for Youth

1059 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.306.8531, baay.org

Youth arts education has a variety of benefits and any child that’s attended Bellingham Arts Academy for Youth (or BAAY for short) knows this to be true. BAAY has been providing kids with the framework necessary to explore their own creativity since 2006, whether that be visual arts, theater, choir, music, or dance. But in addition to their commitment to the arts, they’re also committed to inclusivity no child is turned away due to financial barriers, and BAAY provides an average of $30,000 in scholarships each year.

Silver: Bellingham Childcare & Learning Center

Bronze: Wild Whatcom

BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITY Family Interactive Gallery

250 Flora St., Bellingham, 360.778.8974, whatcommuseum.org

The Family Interactive Gallery or FIG, as it’s affectionately known features a range of hands-on experiences for a variety of age groups, and each one is as educational as it is fun. From an art studio to 15+ activity stations and a variety of self-led programs, the FIG’s offerings promote creativity, innovation, and cultural literacy. Best of all, after a day of exploration, parents can also get inspired by visiting the Whatcom Museum’s nationallyrecognized Lightcatcher Gallery, located in the very same building.

Silver: Marine Life Center

Bronze: PlayDate BLI

Courtesy of the Whatcom Museum

Photo by Susan Hemingson

BEST SUMMER/OUTDOOR CAMP Majestic Adventures

1059 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.836.0386, questnorthwest.com

What kid doesn’t dream of becoming a wizard, or a knight, or a princess, or the hero of a daring quest? Majestic Adventures helps to bring every kid’s wildest fantasy to life, as their imagination-fueled summer camps place kids at the center of their very own adventure. Their offerings include summer and after-school programs, weekend and holiday camps, and even events for birthdays and special occasions, so you’re sure to find an adventure that fits your family’s schedule.

Silver: The Firs Camps & Retreats

Bronze: Camp Kirby

Editor’s Picks

Classiest Kids’ Menus

In addition to the requisite pasta and pizza, the “Little Italy” menu at Lombardi’s Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar has a host of kid-approved virgin cocktails like daiquiris, Shirley Temples, and the Frutta Mista (an Italian take on the mai tai). Outside of Bellingham, Il Granaio in Mount Vernon also offers a kids’ menu guaranteed to win over even the pickiest of eaters, with offerings ranging from authentic homemade pasta to slightly less traditional (yet still delicious) chicken nuggets. Craving Tex-Mex instead? Pepper Sisters whips up kid-oriented versions of classic favorites, from enchiladas to quesadillas, burritos, and more.

Pepper Sisters

Photo by Harper Stone

Photo by Tiffany Brooks Photography

BEST PRE-SCHOOL

Whatcom Center for Early Learning

2001 H St., Bellingham, 360.671.3660, wcel.net

Whatcom Center for Early Learning (WCEL) isn’t a traditional preschool. Rather, they offer a variety of parentchild classes and play groups to little ones ages 0–3 years old, in addition to therapy and support services for children with developmental delays and disabilities. There are opportunities for all children, both with and without developmental delays, to play together through WCEL’s Sensational Toddlers series, the Ferndale and Bellingham weekly drop-in classes, and summer park playdates. Classes focus on sensory play, singing, circle time, and parent/caregiver engagement. For those receiving early intervention services, the WCEL Friends Group gives children and families a chance to meet, socialize, play, and practice together. Information for all their classes and services can be found on their website.

Silver: Generations Early Learning & Family Center

Bronze: A Child’s Life Learning Center

BEST TOY STORE

Fairhaven Toy Garden

909 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.714.8552, fairhaventoygarden.com

Silver: Yeager’s Sporting Goods

Bronze: KidsStuff

BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL

The Franklin Academy

Multiple locations, Bellingham, thefranklin.academy

Silver: Assumption Catholic School

Bronze: Whatcom Hills Waldorf School

BEST PLACE FOR A KID’S BIRTHDAY PARTY

Life Force Ninja

4201 Meridian St., Ste.107, 360.738.4724, lifeforceninja.fit

Silver: Summit Adventure Park Bellingham

Bronze: PlayDate BLI

BEST STORE FOR BABY Bellingham Baby Company

100 5th St., Ste. A, Lynden, 360.756.2452

Silver: Sprouts Clothing & More

Bronze: Wee Ones Reruns

5 Faves: After-School

Art Classes

Gabriel’s Art Kids

Bellingham Arts Academy for Youth BellinghamART

Pacé Atelier Art Studio

Jansen Art Center

Courtesy of Whatcom Center for Early Learning

Editor’s Picks

Best Camp for Future Rockstars

The Bellingham Girls Rock Camp is about more than just music rather, their inclusive programming aims to empower girls and queer youth through collaboration, self-expression, and creativity. Camps and retreats are aimed at youth ages 8 to 17, and tuition is offered on a sliding scale to ensure that every aspiring musician can attend. Now, who’s ready to rock?!

Tiniest Fashionistas

Treat your tot to clothes they’ll love! Conifer Co. makes versatile clothing for kids in sizes 0–5Y, and each piece is handmade using organic fabrics. For more handmade artisan attire, Salt & Rain offers handmade and colorful clothing designed to last, and their rainbow items are unbearably cute.

Salt & Rain

Photo by Courtney Dodd

“You don’t get lost at The Franklin Academy. You find something for yourself and, most importantly, for your children.”

Father of a 5th Grader

Reader’s Choice

k

Eat&Drin

BEST FISH & CHIPS

Port Fairhaven Fish & Chips

355 Harris Ave., Ste. 104, Bellingham, 360.922.3443, fairhavenfish.com

Whether you’re waiting on a ferry or just in the mood for classic pub fare, you can’t go wrong with Port Fairhaven Fish & Chips. Located inside the Bellingham Cruise terminal, their fish are expertly battered and fried to a crispy, golden perfection. You can pair your basket with the classic side of fries (or chips, as the English would say), close your eyes, and pretend you’re at a pub across the pond because this is some of the best British cuisine you’ll find in town.

Silver: Lighthouse Bar & Grill

Bronze: Nicki’s Bella Marina

BEST NEW RESTAURANT That’s What I Like! Island Grill

3236 Northwest Ave., Bellingham, 360.778.2766, thatswhatilikeislandgrill.com

This family-owned, Filipino-American eatery has evolved from a food truck into a bonafide restaurant, and their gold win proves that our readers don’t just like it they love it. The menu at That’s What I Like! includes American classics like burgers and steaks, but diners can (and should) also sample Filipino classics such as pancit, lumpia, and even halo-halo for dessert. And the food is just the beginning: Diners can also expect a full bar and regular events from concerts to Wednesday night karaoke. Honestly, what’s not to like?

Silver: Accomplice

Bronze: New Mexico Tamale Company

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Courtesy of Port Fairhaven Fish and Chips

Editor’s Picks

Magnificent Meal Kits

Too busy to prep but still want a home-cooked, wellbalanced meal? This conundrum is a problem no more, because with meal kit services available right here in town, you’re guaranteed a delicious (and locally-sourced) meal with the click of a button. Acme Farms + Kitchen offers curated or build-your-own boxes for every age, diet, and palate. If take-and-heat is more your style, check out Guud Bowls for gluten-free goodies like teriyaki bowls or sweet potato mac and “chz.”

Charitable Chow

K’UL Chocolate will do more than just satisfy your sweet tooth: The company has a direct-trade relationship with cacao growers, and their aim is to provide fair compensation to farmworkers and raise awareness of the “human cost of chocolate.” For those who prefer baked goods to chocolate, Our Kitchen is a small cafe that provides homemade treats and employment opportunities to those with IDD (Intellectual and Developmental Disability). If you’re looking to get your drink on for a good cause, the grounds at Eagle Haven Winery are home to both vineyards and an equine therapy nonprofit.

BEST DISTILLERY/SPIRITS

Chuckanut Bay Distillery

1311 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.738.7179, chuckanutbaydistillery.com

Chuckanut Bay Distillery originated as a labor of love by longtime friends Matt Howell and Kelly Andrews, and over the ensuing decade, their taproom has become a fixture in the Downtown Bellingham booze scene. Pick up a bottle to take home or sample these spirits in the form of craft cocktails at Penny Farthing Bar and Restaurant, which opened in summer 2022 within the distillery itself. From whiskeys to vodkas, liqueurs, and more, Chuckanut Bay’s libations have received too many prestigious awards to count including (but absolutely not limited to) the top spot in Best of the Northwest.

Silver: Bellewood Farms & Distillery Bronze: Probably Shouldn’t Distillery

Eagle Haven Winery

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Courtesy of Chuckanut Bay Distillery

BEST TAKE OUT

Toakom

Asian Bistro

1255 Barkley Blvd., Ste. 106, Bellingham, 360.746.8815, toakom.com

Pad thai. Spicy duck. Basil yakisoba. Thai barbecue pork. Is your mouth watering yet? These are just a few of the items available for take-out from Toakom Asian Bistro, a locally-owned eatery that prides itself on healthy Asian dishes made with care. Their menu is expansive enough to satisfy any craving, so if you’re not in the mood to cook tonight, you already know who to call.

Silver: Simmering Tava

Bronze: Goji Bistro

BEST BAR & LOUNGE Fireside Martini & Wine Bar

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

When cocktail hour hits, there’s no better place to be than Fireside Martini & Wine Bar. As the name would imply, Owner De Layne Bell and his staff make a mean martini but libation options extend far beyond martinis alone. The bartenders at Fireside mix up a variety of craft cocktails, from the classic Manhattan to irresistible inventions like the Grapefruit Basil Martini. Not in the mood for a cocktail? There’s beer, wine, soft drinks, and mocktails to be had instead. Fireside offers something for everyone, which is why it’s garnered a reputation for being the place “where good friends meet.”

Silver: Scotty Browns

Bronze: B-Town Kitchen & Raw Bar

BEST INTERNATIONAL CUISINE

Wanida Thai Cuisine

1213 Dupont St., Bellingham, 360.746.8642, wanidathai.com

Silver: Cafe Rumba

Bronze: Seven Spice Cafe

BEST STEAK/FINE DINING

The Steak House at Silver Reef

4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale, 360.384.7070, silverreefcasino.com

Silver: 13moons Restaurant

Bronze: Dirty Dan Harris Steakhouse

BEST BURGER Nicki’s Bella Marina

2615 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham, 360.332.2505, nickisbellamarina.com

Silver: Fat Shack

Bronze: Fiamma Burger

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT Jalapeños

Multiple locations, Bellingham, jalapenos-wa.com

Silver: Mi Mexico

Bronze: El Gitano

BEST SEAFOOD Nell Thorn

116 S. 1st St., La Conner, 360.466.4261, nellthorn.com

Silver: Lighthouse Bar & Grill

Bronze: Chuckanut Manor Seafood & Grill

BEST HAPPY HOUR The Black Cat

1200 Harris Ave., Ste. 310, Bellingham, 360.733.6136, blackcatbellingham.com

Silver: Bantam Kitchen & Bar

Bronze: Bayou on Bay

Photo by Pat McDonnell

Editor’s Picks

Sips with the Sweetest Views

When you dine on the patio at Bellingham Cider Company, you can pair your pint with both delicious food and sweeping vistas of the Bellingham Bay. Side note that cider isn’t all this eatery has to offer they also boast a full cocktail menu! And down in Anacortes, The Majestic Inn and Spa has a rooftop bar complete with cozy fire pits and unbeatable scenery.

Funkiest Fermentations

When it comes to brewing practices, Garden Path Fermentation has one of the most unique approaches in the North Sound. Their beers, ciders, meads, and wines are made with hyperlocal ingredients, including 100% native Skagit yeast. If fermented tea is your jam, give Kine Kombucha (in Everson) and Kombucha Town (in Bellingham) a try. And for something to snack on, Pangea Ferments and Buu Chan Eats are Bellingham Farmers Market faves who offer fermented foods like kimchi.

Buu Chan Eats

Courtesy of Buu Chan Eats

Eat&Drink

BEST BAKERY/DESSERT SHOP Saltadena Bakery

111 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.393.3111, saltadena.com

When it comes to satisfying a sweet tooth, Owner Nancy Stuart is more or less a pro. She crafts everything from macarons to cream puffs, puddings, and stunning custom cakes and yes, the goodies at Saltadena taste exactly as irresistable as they look. We especially love the “Lil’ Scrappies,” which are dessert cups that provide a delicious (and genius) vehicle for repurposing the bits of cake that get leveled off during decoration. Best of all, Stuart’s menu changes on the regular meaning that there’s always a new sweet to sample.

Silver: Iron Rooster Bakery

Bronze: Great Harvest Bread Co.

BEST COCKTAIL Galloway’s Cocktail Bar

1200 10th St., Bellingham, 360.756.2795, gallowayscocktail.bar

Silver: Snowy River Cocktail Co. Bronze: L&L Libations

BEST WINE SHOP

Seifert & Jones Wine Merchants

19 Prospect St., Bellingham, 360.393.3271, sjwinemerchants.com

Silver: Bar Cicotti

Bronze: Community Food Co-op

BEST SANDWICH The Sandwich Odyssey

2001 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.738.6919, thesandwichodyssey.com

Silver: Avenue Bread

Bronze: Cheba Hut Toasted Subs

BEST PIZZA La Fiamma Wood Fire Pizza

200 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham, 360.647.0060, lafiamma.com

Silver: Westside Pizza Bronze: Pizza Time

BEST SUSHI Hokkai Ramen & Sushi

4277 Meridian St., Ste. C-102, Bellingham, 360.733.3121, hokkairamenandsushi.com

Silver: Blue Fin Sushi

Bronze: Kuru Kuru Sushi

BEST ITALIAN Lombardi’s

21 Bellwether Way, Ste. 112, Bellingham, 360.714.8412, lombardisitalian.com

Silver: Mambo Italiano Cafe

Bronze: D’Anna’s Cafe Italiano

BEST WINERY

Bertelsen Winery

20598 Starbird Rd., Mount Vernon, 360.445.2300, bertelsenwinery.com

Bertelsen Winery brings its customers the best of both worlds when it comes to vino, as their bottles are always impressive yet affordable. Co-Owner Steve Bertelsen and his father are highly selective about varietals as well as the growers with whom they collaborate, and all of their grapes are sourced right here in Washington State. Stop into their scenic Skagit Valley tasting room to see what all the fuss is about, or better yet, join their wine club to receive either six or 12 bottles twice a year at a special price. We’ll drink to that!

Silver: Dynasty Cellars

Bronze: Vartanyan Estate Winery

Courtesy of Saltadena Bakery

BEST FOOD TRUCK El Tapatio

Multiple locations, tapationw.com

Silver: Simmering Tava

Bronze: Sage Against the Machine

BEST BREAKFAST

The Birch Door Cafe

4192 Meridian St., Bellingham, 360.306.8598, birchdoorcafe.com

Silver: Little Cheerful Cafe

Bronze: Diamond Jim’s Grill

BEST GROCERY STORE Haggen Food & Pharmacy

Multiple locations, haggen.com

Silver: Community Food Co-op

Bronze: Whole Foods

BEST FRESH PRODUCE

Bellingham Farmers Market

1100 Railroad Ave., Bellingham, 360.733.1298, bellinghamfarmers.org

Silver: The Green Barn

Bronze: Snow Goose Produce

BEST FRESH MEAT/SEAFOOD

Claus Meats Inc.

2300 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.733.4770, clausmeats.com

Silver: Skagit’s Own Fish Market

Bronze: Mi Rancho Meat Market

BEST CATERER

Calypso Kitchen

4073 Hannegan Rd., Bellingham, 347.413.3983, calypso.kitchen

Silver: Cosmos Bistro

Bronze: Crave Catering

BEST BREWERY Kulshan Brewing Company

2238 James St., Bellingham, 360.389.5348, kulshanbrewing.com

Silver: Boundary Bay Brewery & Bistro

Bronze: Gruff Brewing Co.

BEST LOCAL FOOD MANUFACTURER

Erin Baker’s

Bellingham, 360.714.9585, erinbakers.com

Silver: Acme Valley Ice Cream

Bronze: Nature’s Path

BEST CHEF Cinnamon Berg of Cosmos Bistro

1151 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.255.0244, bellinghamcosmosbistro.com

Armed with a vast culinary repertoire and lifetime of passion and experience, Chef Cinnamon Berg can take any ingredient and elevate it into something delicious. Her cooking philosophy hinges on using fresh, locally grown produce whenever possible, whereas she sources inspiration and flavors from cuisines both near and far. Moreover, anyone who’s eaten at Cosmos Bistro knows this to be true: Berg herself is as kind as her food is delicious.

Silver: Jonathan Cicotti, Storia Cucina

Bronze: Dan Van Norman, 13moons

Photo by Dean Davidson

BEST COFFEE/TEA SHOP

Caffe Adagio

1435 Railroad Ave., Bellingham, 360.671.1198

Regulars at Caffe Adagio know that this cozy downtown cafe is more than just a place to enjoy a coffee it’s a community. Between its cozy interior and friendly staff, it’s easy to feel at home at Adagio. Sit back, maybe bring a book, and enjoy a cup of something hot their menu boasts everything from Italian-style espresso to alternatives like the Mayan Mocha and London Fog.

Silver: Banter

Bronze: Camber

Editor’s Picks

Most Impressive (and Inclusive) Sugar Rush

From jumbo cinnamon rolls to rotating doughnut flavors like Chai Latte and Maple Bacon, the treats at JoJo’s Doughnuts are some of the most creative confections in town. They’re also substantial enough to be split between two (or more) people though you probably won’t want to share. Best of all, many of their offerings are vegan and/ or gluten-free, meaning even those with dietary restrictions can enjoy these goodies.

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Reader’s Choice

Pets

BEST BOARDING KENNEL

Hyline Hotel for Dogs

1012 E. Hemmi Rd., Everson, 360.398.0174, hylinehotel.com

Hyline Hotel is the rare kennel that sounds more like a vacation getaway than a doggy daycare. After all, between their 12 acres of land, 25 exercise yards, and staff that are both professional and passionate, your furry friend will be living in the lap of luxury. Hyline offers everything your pooch could possibly need, including boarding, grooming, daycare, and training and our readers have voted them as the best in their category for eight years running.

Silver: Rover Stay Over

Bronze: Puget Hound

Courtesy of Hyline Hotel for Dogs

BEST GROOMER

City Dogs

Grooming

1225 Roeder Ave., Ste. 106, Bellingham, 360.756.9515, citydogsgrooming.com

With 30 years of professional experience under her belt, Lee Ann Kelly of City Dogs Grooming is a master of making pups look their very best, no matter their breed. She and her team of committed groomers provide a stylish, safe, and comfortable experience for both dogs and their owners and considering that Kelly herself is a devoted dog mom, she has a firsthand understanding of the bond between man and man’s best friend. Our readers consistently vote City Dogs as “Best Groomer” year after year, and 2022 is no exception.

Silver: Shake & Shine

Bronze: Bailey’s Neighborhood Pet

BEST PET STORE

Mud Bay

Multiple locations, mudbay.com

Silver: Bow Wow & Woofs

Bronze: Bellingham Pet Supply & Aquatics

BEST DOGGIE DAYCARE

Tails-A-Wagging

3959 Hammer Dr., Bellingham, 360.733.7387, tails-a-wagging.com

Silver: Pooch Palace & Kitty Kastle

Bronze: 3 Schips and a Girl

BEST DOG TRAINER

Cedarwoods Canine School

5602 Guide Meridian Rd., Bellingham, 360.384.6955, cedarwoods-k9.com

Silver: Whispering X K-9

Training Academy

Bronze: The Dog Guy

Where every

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

Exhibit celebrating the launch of our latest publication on the Lost Cities of Skagit County. Places that were someone’s dream and are now just a memory.

501 S 4th St., La Conner RSVP at 360.466.3365

skagitcounty.net/museum

This project received funding from Skagit County. visitskagitvalley.com

Editor’s Picks

Best Places to Let Your Pooch Off-Leash

Given the lake breeze and abundant greenery, the Lake Padden Off-Leash Dog Park and Trails are a superb spot, with more than five miles of trails to explore with your furry friend. Whatcom Falls Park and Arroyo Park also feature off-leash dog trails. Headed to the islands? In Friday Harbor, Lafarge Open Space, a.k.a., “the gravel pit,” is an undeveloped area with a one-mile loop trail that features scenic views of Griffin Bay and Shipyard Cove where your pup can run free.

BEST VETERINARIAN Maplewood Animal Hospital

2869 W. Maplewood Ave., Bellingham, 360.715.1430, maplewood-vet.com

Pets are part of the family, so when it comes to their health, it’s important to find a vet you can trust. Maplewood Animal Hospital is that vet for readers throughout Whatcom County, and they provide top-notch, compassionate care for species ranging from dogs and cats to guinea pigs, hedgehogs, and other exotic species. In addition to the requisite check-ups and emergency visits, Maplewood places an emphasis on educating their clients on how to keep their pets healthy and happy year-round which hopefully translates to less time spent at the vet in the first place.

Silver: Northshore Veterinary Hospital

Bronze: Kulshan Veterinary Hospital

Lake Padden

Courtesy of Maplewood Animal Hospital

sg

Romance&Ou

Reader’s Choice

BEST WEDDING VENUE

Lairmont Manor

405 Fieldston Rd., Bellingham, 360.647.1444, lairmontmanor.com

The picturesque Lairmont Manor is one of Whatcom County’s most swoonworthy venues for weddings big and small. Located just outside of Fairhaven, this historic hidden gem feels a world away, and guests are granted exclusive access to both the estate itself and its lush gardens. Better yet, Lairmont’s caring staff takes care of small details like tables, chairs, and tents according to your specifications, so you can ditch the stress and focus on what really matters: you and your soon-to-be spouse’s special day.

Silver: Semiahmoo Resort

Bronze: Majestic Inn & Spa

BEST FLORIST

Belle Flora

2408 Yew St., Bellingham, 360.734.8454, bellinghamflowershop.com

Belle Flora has been family owned and operated since 1945, so they’re experts when it comes to adding color, life, and beauty to any special occasion. They carry a wide supply of flowers and greenery, and when the season is right, many of them are even locally sourced. But Belle Flora is more than blooms alone: They also offer same-day deliveries and event planning, and their experienced staff will work with you to make sure your event will be one to remember.

Silver: Pozie By Natalie

Bronze: A New Leaf Florist Shoppe

Photo by Kerry Jeanne Photo

Courtesy of Belle Flora

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER Katheryn Moran

Bellingham, katherynmoranphotography.com

From documenting magical wedding memories to making any food look delicious, Katheryn Moran truly does it all. Her bright, clean style is instantly recognizable, and once you’re familiar with it, you’ll notice it everywhere including but not limited to the branding for your favorite foods and restaurants, family Christmas cards, and that stunning wedding photo above your friend’s fireplace. Of course, there’s a good reason why Moran is so in-demand: Her talent is only matched by her friendliness, professionalism, and passion.

Silver: Peter James Photo Gallery & Studio Bronze: Radley Muller Photography

BEST DATE NIGHT

The Upfront Theatre

Bellingham, 360.200.8697, theupfront.com

Silver: DownTime Taps

Bronze: The Racket Bar & Pinball Lounge

BEST PLACE TO MEET SINGLES

Rumors Cabaret

1119 Railroad Ave., Bellingham, 360.671.1849, rumorscabaret.com

Silver: Locus of Bellingham Bronze: The Shakedown

Editor’s Picks

Most Romantic Overlooks

The ever-iconic Chuckanut Drive leads to a multitude of scenic overlooks with stunning views of Bellingham Bay: View Point Bow, View Point Trail, Burnout South Lookout, Dogfish Point, Samish Overlook, and many more! If you’d prefer a view of Skagit Valley, the San Juan Islands, Olympic Mountains, Mount Baker, and the tulip fields, head over to Little Mountain Park. And if you really want to work for your perfect panorama, try the Rock Trail in Larrabee State Park to reach Cyrus Gates Overlook for stunning views, or climb Mount Erie for a view of Fidalgo Bay, Whidbey Island, Glacier Peak, and Mount Rainier.

Mount Erie

Courtesy of Katheryn Moran

Reader’s Choice

Services

BEST LODGING

Hotel Bellwether

1 Bellwether Way, Bellingham, 360.392.3100, hotelbellwether.com

Between the deluxe suites, on-site waterfront restaurant, and unbeatable views, it’s safe to say that the Hotel Bellwether is the definition of luxurious. Each room at the Bellwether has its own charm think marble bathrooms, fireplaces, local art, and even airjetted tubs and staying in the Bellwether’s iconic Lighthouse Suite is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. But while the amenities are unbeatable, it’s the attentiveness and warmth of the Bellwether staff (right down to Bella, the resident “canine concierge”) that will make you want to stay here again and again. If you’re in need of a staycation, the Bellwether should be your first port of call.

Silver: Fairhaven Village Inn Bronze: The Inn at Lynden

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT Chris & Stacy at blu.ink

Bellingham, 360.200.8535, erdmannandpartners.com

Christopher Erdmann and Stacy Graves operate by the notion that “when you truly love where you live, it shows,” and as such, they’ve helped numerous clients across Whatcom and Skagit counties find their dream homes. But residential real estate isn’t all they do: Chris & Stacy are pros when it comes to commercial leasing and development. They approach their work with a dual passion for both their clients and their community, and considering that our readers have elected them as the No. 1 real estate agents in the North Sound, it’s clear that this passion is contagious.

Silver: Allison Trimble, Coastal Realty Bronze: Brandon Nelson Partners

Photo by Ben Bender

Photo by

BEST CLEAN ENERGY COMPANY

Green Power (Puget Sound Energy)

Multiple locations, pse.com

Silver: Ecotech Solar

Bronze: Solar by Barron

BEST BANK First Fed

Multiple locations, ourfirstfed.com

Silver: WECU

Bronze: Banner Bank

BEST PLACE TO WORK

Western Washington University

516 High St., Bellingham, 360.650.3000, wwu.edu

Silver: Phillips 66

Bronze: PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center

BEST JANITORIAL/ CLEANING SERVICE

Absolutely Clean Cleaning Service

3975 Irongate Rd., Bellingham, 360.676.0479, absolutelycleanbham.com

Silver: Merry Maids

Bronze: True North Cleaning Professionals

BEST AUTO REPAIR SHOP

Bellingham Automotive

4116 Hannegan Rd., Bellingham, 360.922.3266, bellinghamautomotive.com

Silver: Birchwood Auto Repair

Bronze: Joe’s Automotive Repair

BEST AUTO DEALER

Toyota of Bellingham

1100 Iowa St., Bellingham, 360.676.0600, toyotaofbellingham.com

Silver: MB Motors LLC

Bronze: Rairdon’s Hyundai of Bellingham

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR Nicole Burdick, Consilium Financial

909 Squalicum Way, Ste. 110, Bellingham, 360.714.3388

Whatever your financial goals may be, you can count on Nicole Burdick to help you achieve them. Burdick has a passion for helping women, small business owners, and those going through major life changes (such as divorce), and she works collaboratively with the team at Consilium Financial to ensure that every client has access to in-depth expertise. From investment management to financial planning, insurance, taxation, retirement, and more, your money is always in good hands with Burdick and Consilium Financial.

Silver: Shannon Day, Edward Jones

Bronze: Taft Barrett Wealth Management Group

Editor’s Picks

Freedom at Your Front Door

If you’re longing to take to the road without losing the comforts of home, here’s your sign to contact Freedom Vans. The owners are off-the-grid enthusiasts who will help you fully (or partially) convert your van into the four-wheeled adventure vehicle of your dreams. Start small with solar power systems or HVAC installs or go big with a design overhaul! With the right touches, your van can become the epitome of style and functionality.

E-Cycling Made Easy

Did you know that the amount of electronic waste produced in 2021 outweighed the Great Wall of China? Most people don’t know how to properly recycle their used gadgets, meaning old computers and devices end up in landfills but 1PC responsibly disposes of electronics for businesses, organizations, and the general public. If you’re looking for a greener way to get rid of your old electronics, pay them a visit at their Bellingham storefront.

Freedom Vans

Courtesy of Freedom Vans

Services

BEST ATTORNEY

Allen Law Firm

1900 D St., Bellingham, 360.714.1900, craigkallen.com

If you’ve suffered from a workplace or personal injury, you deserve compensation and Allen Law Firm will help you fight for it. This locally-owned law firm has been working with clients in Bellingham and surrounding areas since 1996, earning them the nickname “the injury experts” thanks to their years of experience and countless success stories. Navigating the legal system can be difficult in more ways than one, but with Allen Law Firm on your side, you can rest easy knowing that their team will advocate for you at every step of the process.

Silver: GLP Attorneys

Bronze: Limitless Law

BEST CORPORATE MEETING SPACE

Gateway Centre

1313 E. Maple St., Bellingham, 360.685.4200, thegatewaycentre.com

Silver: Fox Hall Events Center

Bronze: Squalicum Boathouse (Port of Bellingham)

BEST PLUMBER LaVergne’s Plumbing & Heating

Multiple locations, 360.552.7182, lavergneplumbing.com

Silver: Gary’s Plumbing & Heating

Bronze: Barkley Plumbing

BEST AUTO DETAIL SHOP

Tint Lady

1204 E. Sunset Dr., Bellingham, 360.778.2348, tintladyusa.com

Silver: Final Touch Auto Spa

Bronze: Cross Auto Detail NW

BEST AGRICULTURAL COMPANY

Boxx Berry Farm

6211 Northwest Dr., Ferndale, 360.380.2699, boxxberryfarm.com

Silver: Darigold

Bronze: Twin Brook Creamery

BEST INSURANCE AGENT

Tim Slesk, State Farm

2200 Rimland Dr., Ste. 104, Bellingham, 360.756.5007, timslesk.com

Silver: Rice Insurance

Bronze: Dennis Kaiser, Allstate

BEST NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION

Whatcom Humane Society

2172 Division St., Bellingham, 360.733.2080, whatcomhumane.org

The Whatcom Humane Society has a heart for animals, and they’ve been helping pets find their fur-ever homes since 1902. Now, the organization has since grown to care for more than 4,500 domestic, farm, and wild animals annually. They offer both surrender and adoption services for domestic pets, but the care doesn’t stop there: Whatcom Humane also offers animal control services, microchipping, low-cost spay and neuter services, and numerous educational programs. They operate on the ethos that all animals are deserving of respect and, thanks to the work of dedicated staff and volunteers, the organization works every day to prevent abuse, neglect, and overpopulation among animals across the county.

Silver: Lydia Place

Bronze: Blue Skies for Children

Photo by Kate Galambos

BEST CREATIVE COMPANY

Swell Media Solutions

Bellingham, swellmediasolutions.com

Amid a constantly evolving media landscape, Swell Media’s marketing mentality goes far beyond what’s traditional. As a boutique marketing agency, they tackle projects with a holistic, multimedia approach, offering clients everything from digital advertising to graphic design, copywriting, social media management, video production, website development, and more. They’re excited to get to know your industry and business, and they’ll provide you with the tools you need to get your dream customers excited, too.

Editor’s Picks

Best Way to Clean Green Bay City Supply puts sustainability at the forefront, and they’re known for their eco-friendly cleaning products and practices. For zero-waste home and self-care supplies on wheels, Pumped delivers using their portable truck shop to Bellingham and surrounding areas. And if you don’t want to do the cleaning yourself, Bellingham’s Best House Cleaning uses eco-friendly janitorial practices with a focus on non-toxic, natural cleaning for a variety of spaces. Their many services aim to keep both you and the environment healthy and happy.

Silver: FizzPOP Media

Bronze: ClickMonster

Pumped

Photo by Nicole Shive

Photo by Demri Rayanne Photography

Photo by Cocoa Laney

The House in a Hollow

TC Legend Homes

THE HOUSE-IN-A-HOLLOW

ISN’T really in a hollow it’s on a knoll, above protected wetlands, just northeast of Bellingham. The hollow is formed by the trees, which were preserved to shield the house from overheating, and to conserve the flora of the native wetlands.

Measuring 1,950 square feet, this Department of Energy-certified, net-zero clerestory design has a central kitchen and a first floor aging-in-place floor plan. Designed for an Alaskan couple whose love of the outdoors demanded a house that fully engaged with the landscape, plenty of daylight is admitted, and access to outdoor living is easy.

Most of the house is downstairs, leaving two bedrooms, a full bathroom and a rec-room upstairs for family visits, grandchildren to play Legos, old friends to take up residence, or perhaps an office if needed…

TC Legend Homes has a passion for doing things differently. We believe in a carbon neutral future. We dream big

WRITTEN BY SENNA SCOTT | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOHN TRAX

and see possibilities beyond the status quo. We’ve spent years refining our net-zero-energy home design approach, and we haven’t waited a moment for the industry or building codes to catch up. We are proud to be pioneers of netzero-energy home building and design in the Pacific Northwest.

Advances in TC’s mechanical systems determined that the radiant tubes embedded in the 4-inch concrete slab will serve as a back-up heating system to handle abrupt cold snaps, with the day-to-day heat and cool being delivered via the Zehnder Comfopost (a heating/cooling coil that sits in the ventilation delivery ducts). The Comfopost coil is driven by the Chilltrix CX34 heat pump, along with a further fan coil heat/ cool unit located in the second floor rec room.

The high-efficiency frame and envelope of the house (also known as the energy shell) is formed using the following system: 6.5-inch structural

...

insulated panel (SIP) walls, and a 10.25-inch SIP roof with 4-inch slabon-grade concrete-mass insulated from below with 4 inches of R20 foam. The openings are plugged with Vinytek triple pane Boreal windows & Thermatrue fiberglass doors.

TC Legend built this net-zero house through the winter of 2020/ 2021. The SIP roof panels swung in on a crane through the blowing snow, and it took Ted (co-owner of TC Legend) six months for the feeling to return to his fingers!

The owners planted more than 1,000 native trees and shrubs in the chilling March rain, and the crew scooped up the mud and maintained the new 700-foot driveway to this remote and beautiful lot a true gem in the Pacific Northwest. 

Design: Jake Evans and Ted Clifton

Photographer: John Trax

FOR THOSE ON the hunt for a comfy couch or a brand new bed frame, look no further than Samuel’s Furniture in Ferndale. Since 1991, Samuel’s has been providing not just high-quality furniture, but delivery options, hands-on design assistance, and superb custom service.

The name “Samuel’s Furniture” dates back to the original owners, father-and-son-team Moe and Elie Samuel. The pair opened the first store in Canada before opening the Ferndale location, where Elie owned and operated it until December 2021.

New owners Bob and Lori Dodge purchased Samuel’s after Bob worked in the store for 17 years, determined to continue the legacy the Samuels established over the last 30 years.

“We (Elie and I) have had a great working relationship all these years,” Bob says. “It’s been a great place to work and now I can continue my vision.”

The team at Samuel’s Furniture is tight-knit, composed of 24 employees that assist with areas such as sales, design, and delivery and some of whom have been with the company for 21 years.

“What sets us apart is our great team and how dedicated they are to making sure all of our customers are taken care of from start to finish,” Bob says. “It makes me proud that we have such a dedicated staff that is proud to work here.”

The employees aren’t the only ones who’ve been with Samuel’s for the long

BY COCOA LANEY

haul. Bob says he takes great joy in knowing they have longtime customers who will travel far and wide to support the store.

As the “largest, most beautifully displayed furniture store in Northwest Washington,” Samuel’s takes pride in its furniture selection which includes everything from bedroom essentials to entertainment centers and office supplies.

While the store certainly has that local and comforting feel, you can also find high-end mainstream product lines like Stressless and Simply Amish, plus the largest La-Z Boy comfort studio in the region.

Don’t know where to start? Samuel’s offers complimentary design services with purchase, with staff assistance before, during, and after the sale. Once you find an item (or items) you love, the red carpet delivery team will bring your furniture to your home and set it up to your liking. The design team will even visit you at home to assess your needs and work out a game plan.

When they’re not selling furniture, Samuel’s pays it forward to the community by donating furniture to places and people in need.

“We are not a chain furniture store, we are a family-operated company with the most awesome staff to guide you through the buying process,” Bob says. “Customer service is our focus and we have been voted the best furniture store in the area for a long time.”

1904 Main St., Ferndale, 360.384.3388, samuelsfurniture.com

Kristal Grimstead

1318 12th St., Bellingham m: 360.441.2202

Creating a One-of-aKind Fireplace

Amy Popelka of Tac Tile Company

WRITTEN BY ANELYSE MORRIS-BOHLKE PHOTOS BY COCOA LANEY

WHEN IT COMES to focal points in your home, there are none more grand or central than a fireplace. Just like any other fixture or piece of furniture in your home, the fireplace can be designed to fit into a particular style or design made to be as eye-catching or seamless as you’d like. For those looking to deck out their hearth, Amy Popelka of Tac Tile Company in Bellingham creates one-of-a-kind pieces out of ceramic tile. Check out her process and learn more about her services below.

“A project begins with a phone call or an email! We discuss initial design thoughts over the phone and then schedule a time for me to come see their space. Seeing people in their homes allows me to get a good feel for the client’s taste and color preferences. I will take measurements while there and take lots of pictures for my own reference to make sketches off of.

Next, I like having people come out to my studio to see all of my color options. I can bring or send color samples, but most people have really enjoyed coming out and seeing

where ‘the magic’ happens. There you can see and touch a vast array of styles of tile.

I have really enjoyed getting to know each of my clients, and delivering something for them that is just as special as they are. If this means a ‘Lord of the Rings’ fireplace for a book lover, or a peaceful mountain scene for a nature lover, I am into it. It’s the relationships between people that fuel my inspiration for each project.

I will usually offer a few different sketch-ups from all the information I have gathered from the client. I give a few options as well to show some price differences. I have so many different styles I enjoy doing and they all vary in technical difficulty and how long they take to make.

Once we have agreed on a price and design, I get to work. On average, a fireplace can take anywhere from two to four months depending on all the variables. The tiles get made and dry for a few weeks. They are then fired for the first time, then coated several times with glaze and fired for the final time. I then hand them off to the tile master, Rob Perham from Rob Rocks Tile and Stone, to do the install.” Bellingham, 360.441.3454, tactilecompany.com

Meal Prep Must-Haves

WRITTEN BY JENN MIRANDA

IT’S SIMPLE! IN addition to saving money and time, meal prepping helps you and your family eat healthier while reducing waste. Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered with our favorite meal prep must-haves.

1

Prepdeck Recipe Prep & Storage Station

Amazon, $129 amazon.com

3

Santoku (Carbon Steel)

Chef’s Knife

Element Fe, $180 Guemes Island, elementfe.com

Cotton Mesh Produce Bags

The Living Pantry, $6 2400 Yew St., Bellingham, 360.778.2973, livingpantry.com

Pyrex 10-Piece Glass Meal Prep Storage Set

Bed Bath & Beyond, $40 4255 Meridian St., Bellingham, 360.756.1900, bedbathandbeyond.com

Opinel Beech Cutting Board

Ideal, $35 1227 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.752.5522, anidealshop.com

YOUR TRUE NORTH TEAM

As Your True North Team, Robin and Traci strive to ensure their clients feel as though they are getting twice the attention, twice the resourcefulness, and twice the creativity in guiding their clients through either the buying or selling process.

They really do want to be Your True North Team in every sense of their logo. Let them guide you on your real estate journey. Listening to you and representing your priorities will always be their “True North” in any transaction.

Your True North Team Robin Kallman 707.318.7190 robinkallman@compass.com

Traci Miles 360.941.6321 traci.miles@compass.com

Who can

trust

journey?

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Left to right: Doug Elliott, Executive Chef; Roberto Trendel, Restaurateur, Managing Partner/G.M.; Robert Pinkley, Owner

Take a Step into Thailand

Maikham Lao and Thai

WRITTEN BY SOPHIA STRUNA PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

STEPPING INTO MAIKHAM Lao and Thai might feel like stepping into another world which is exactly how Chef and Owner Usanee Klimo wants her customers to feel.

The restaurant, which sits on one of Fairhaven’s busiest roads, is a spot where diners are immediately immersed in art and decorations Klimo doesn’t consider to be fancy, but are all representative of her roots and origins of the food she is serving.

While immersing oneself in the space already feels like the start of an exciting experience, it’s the company of Klimo herself and the flavors of her cuisine that will immediately have you thinking about when you can return.

Klimo’s long journey across the world explains just why her food is so delicious. After being born in Northeast Thailand, she grew up learning from and eating her mother’s food. Klimo eventually found herself living all over from working in the United States embassy in Thailand to California, where she taught cooking and catered.

It is fair to say that Klimo is one of those people you consider yourself lucky to cross paths with. This is because of how she effortlessly radiates kindness and passion toward

her restaurant but due to the food she cooks. Of the dishes I was served, each had its own unique palate, flavor, and experience, all bursting with spices and depth.

Starting the meal off strong meant beginning with the Fresh Roll ($9.99). The translucent rice paper was stuffed with fresh, crisp, and colorful vegetables enveloping a nicely spiced tofu. The standout of the dish, however, was the mint and basil tucked within the roll that gave a refreshing bite and complemented the sweet chili dipping sauce.

To follow up the Fresh Roll, was Maikham’s signature dish and one of the many bites I couldn’t stop thinking about after my meal. The Chan Pad Pou ($17.99) was composed of thin, slightly chewy but perfectly-cooked noodles which soaked up all of the flavors of the tamarind sauce. The sweetness of the tamarind in turn paired well with the fresh chunks of crab meat. Mixed within were slightly crunchy vegetables and delicately scrambled eggs, all of which worked together to complete the hearty and satisfying dish.

Of the dishes I was served, each had its own unique palate, flavor, and experience, all bursting with spices and depth.

Next came the showstopper the Duck Curry ($18.99). It was put on the menu because her family insisted that it was their favorite, and that decision was clearly the right one.

The dish consists of vegetables, shreds of tender duck meat, and rice. The combo of crunchy and creamy textures, namely with the veggies and lip-tingling spiced curry sauce, made for a dish that was well-balanced and hit every note.

With every step Klimo has taken throughout her life, each has seemingly been driven by a love for food and her family. Along with her community, her children have inspired her (bonus points for getting the duck curry on the menu!) and driven Klimo to never give up on what she has worked for.

“The energy every day that made me get out of bed and come here is my children,” Klimo says. “I just told myself I have to be an example for my kids, [and] that whatever happens, it cannot affect me. I have to stay strong and work hard.” 1125 Finnegan Way, Ste. 101, Bellingham, 360.746.8098, maikham.com

Let’s Talk About Tempeh

THOROUGH//FARE

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY GAIA CRANS

TEMPEH-LOVING POWER COUPLE Alice Mayeron and Mike Houder are the masterminds behind THOROUGH//FARE the only tempeh retail company in Washington approved by the Department of Agriculture. They combine their whip-smart kitchen skills to create delicious tempeh, tempeh hummus, spice mixes, and recipes to utilize them.

What is Tempeh?

Tempeh is a plant-based, high-protein food originating in Indonesia. It’s traditionally made from fermented soybeans or other legumes.

“This isn’t a product for vegetarians and vegans; this is a product that everybody can enjoy, and we don’t consider it to be a meat substitute in any way,” Houder says. “It’s delicious in its own right.”

To make their tempeh, they begin by cooking the legumes which are then tossed in rice wine vinegar and a little bit of vegan lactic acid to bring the pH down, thus keeping out any kind of harmful bacteria and providing a good environment for the culture to take hold. The fundamental stage is inoculating the peas with a spore called rhizopus oligosporus a fungi that creates a mycelium network to knit the beans together in just 36 to 48 hours. Mayeron calls this step “mother nature’s magic.”

“The process is essentially, on its face, pretty simple,” Houder says. “[But it’s something you have to get a feel for] because it’s a living thing, it has its own personality.”

Recipe Testing

All of their recipes are thoroughly tested in Houder and Mayeron’s personal kitchen, but I decided to try one of them out myself: tempeh tacos. I fired up my iron skillet, crumbled a 12-ounce package of black-eyed pea THOROUGH//FARE tempeh ($8) in, and crisped it up to go along with some fresh veggies and tortillas. The tempeh was rich and earthy and, because of its versatility, easily adopted the flavors from the veggies and the added seasoning 10 out of 10!

While the tempeh itself is soy-free and instead made with either yellow split peas or black eyed peas, all ingredients used for their products are organic, and they’re also vegan and free of gluten, nuts, sodium, and dairy. And I had absolutely no worries about my peanut allergy when working with their products because even the THOROUGH//FARE kitchen space is completely peanut, soy, gluten, and dairy free.

Mike Houder and Alice Mayeron

“We’re really trying to make a product that the most amount of people can have and enjoy and count on,” Mayeron says.

Another priority of theirs is to keep an accessible price point to provide everyone with a source of protein that’s affordable and makes them feel good, both inside and out.

THOROUGH//FARE’s Future Mayeron and Houder would like to add to their product line with a grain version of tempeh, tempeh falafel, and vinaigrettes that can also be used as tempeh marinades. They also hope to expand their reach by providing for more restaurants and stores around town and joining the Puget Sound Food Hub for local deliveries and distribution on the west coast of Washington.

For now, you can find THOROUGH//FARE’s tempeh at the downtown and Cordata Co-op locations, Acme Farms + Kitchen, the Bellingham Farmers Market at Depot Market Square, V GO’S, and on the menu at Old Town Cafe and Quantum Leaf. 1420 Meador Ave., Ste. K104, Bellingham, 360.207.5732, eatthoroughfare.com

THE LEADER BLOCK Trattoria & Bar

THE LEADER BLOCK Trattoria & Bar is excited to announce the relaunching of our beloved restaurant! After taking a short hiatus to refurbish the establishment, which included light construction to the bar, kitchen, and dining room, THE LEADER BLOCK doors are open and ready to entice you with our unparallelled food, wine, ambience, and service.

We are unveiling our upgraded dinner menu emphasizing “Northern Italian rustic dishes” utilizing locally and regionally sourced meats, produce, fish, game poultry and cheeses. Chef Doug Elliott, “Northwest finest chef” is continuing with THE LEADER BLOCK as executive chef.

Based in Vegas, taking the helm as Restaurateur and managing partner/G.M. is Roberto (Restaurateur extraordinaire) Trendel. The creator and owner of “Roberto’s Venetian Trattoria and Bar” in Seattle and managing partner general manager of famed restaurants La Vita e Bella, McCormick and Schmick’s, Guytano’s, Dominicks,

and Si...Italian Restaurant. Roberto brings a vast array of knowledge and experience to THE LEADER BLOCK. He was the original collaborator and consultant of THE LEADER BLOCK wine company and eatery. Besides numerous awards and accolades he has been accredited by “Saparita Toscana cooking school” with a graduate diploma as “Vero Cuoco Toscana” (True Tuscan Chef).

The restaurants ownership remains the same with Robert Pinkley who has owned THE LEADER BLOCK building for over 20 years and continues to oversee THE LEADER BLOCK Trattoria & Bar and his international wine business.

THE LEADER BLOCK Trattoria & Bar welcomes you with open arms and looks forward to showcasing our expansive wine list, upgraded menu, and stellar service standards to provide you with the ultimate dining experience. 2026 Main St., Ferndale. Make reservations by calling 360.306.8998 or online at leaderblock.com

Sliced Tempeh

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Storia Cucina

RECIPE AND PHOTO COURTESY OF JONATHAN CICOTTI

CRAVING ITALIAN IN Downtown Bellingham?

You probably already know that Storia Cucina and Bar Cicotti are two of the city’s most authentic eateries. This is thanks to the vision of Owner and Chef Jonathan Cicotti, whose approach to cooking is heavily inspired by his own Italian roots.

When dining at either restaurant, you can expect fresh and seasonal dishes, big flavors, and pasta just like Nonna used to make (especially if your nonna was a nationally-recognized chef). Italian food varies heavily by region, but high-quality ingredients are always a standby and this is showcased best in simple-yet-delicious dishes like Spaghetti Aglio e Olio (spaghetti with garlic and oil).

“This recipe is one of my favorites that every Italian makes at home, or their mothers cooked for them growing up,” says Cicotti. “Sometimes I do a spin-off of the classic and add marinated white anchovies and capers as well. This really is a beautiful, simple pasta that makes me so happy every time I make it.”

As with all authentically Italian dishes, the key to deliciousness is to use good ingredients. We recommend forgoing the pre-grated parm and opting instead for high-quality oils and cheeses.

Fresh pasta is on the menu at both Storia Cucina and Bar Cicotti, but if you’d like to whip some up at home, Cicotti’s recipe will guide you through the process. Pair yours with a glass of vino, top with all the cheese your heart desires, e buon appetito!

Meet the Chef

Cicotti opened the slow-food restaurant Hillside Supper Club in San Francisco in 2012. He has received national

attention in publications such as Star Chefs, Food & Wine, Zagat, as well as cooking in the famous James Beard House in NYC. Cicotti has recipes from his Italian famiglia and couldn’t be more excited to share them with his home community in the Pacific Northwest.

Pasta Ingredients

1 pound (450 grams) sifted allpurpose flour (farina 00)

5 medium eggs

Extra flour for dusting and adjusting

Pasta Instructions

• Pour flour onto a clean surface and create a “well” in the middle. Add egg to the well, then carefully knead together flour and eggs to form a dough.

• Wrap dough in plastic wrap and rest for 30 minutes to an hour.

• Roll out your pasta on a floured surface, then cut into spaghetti by hand or by using a pasta maker.

Recipe: Spaghetti Aglio

e Oglio

Ingredients

500 grams spaghetti pasta, preferably homemade (see above)

50 milliliters extra virgin olive oil

20 grams parmesan or pecorino cheese

3 garlic cloves (15 grams)

Handful of chopped parsley (10 grams)

1 chopped red chili Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Start by placing a large pan of generously salted water on

the heat. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook about one to two minutes, until pasta floats to top and is al dente.

• Meanwhile, pour the extra virgin olive in a large pan (skillet). Add the finely sliced or chopped garlic and the chopped chili, then place on a gentle heat.

• When the garlic is golden in color, remove from the heat to avoid burning.

• Once the spaghetti is cooked, use tongs to transfer it into the sauce, taking care to add a bit of the cooking water.

• Place back on the heat and stir the pasta for a minute in the sauce. This will emulsify the oil, creating a creamier and thicker sauce.

Remove from the heat and add the chopped parsley.

• If desired, add a little bit of parmesan shavings for more flavor.

DINING KEY

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . up to $9

$10–19 $20–29

. . . . . . . $30 or greater Breakfast

Brunch Lunch

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dinner

. . . . . . . . .

.

Family-Friendly Takeout

Outdoor Seating

Happy Hour

Vegan

.

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. * Review provided by restaurant.

WHATCOM

AMBO ETHIOPIAN CUISINE

Ethiopian 902 N. State St., Bellingham 360.756.1627, amboethiopian.com

If you’ve never had Ethiopian food before, get ready you’re in for a treat. Ambo has something to offer meat eaters and vegans alike, and it’s the best kind of comfort food: Hearty, healthy, and warming on a soul-deep level.

THE BIRCH DOOR CAFE American

4192 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.306.8598, birchdoorcafe.com

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

COSMOS BISTRO American Bistro, Comfort Food

1151 N. State St., Bellingham 360.255.0244, bellinghamcosmosbistro.com

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

DRAYTON HARBOR OYSTER COMPANY

Seafood, Regional NW

685 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine 360.656.5958, draytonharboroysters.com

A board inside Drayton Harbor Oyster Company tracks when the last oyster delivery was made and how long it takes the oysters to get from the ocean to the kitchen. The record? 13 minutes. This level of freshness means oysters so good that people come from all over the globe to taste them. The intimate, casual setting will make you feel like you’re at a friend’s house.

Culinary Events

FIAMMA BURGER American

1309 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.733.7374, fiammaburger.com

One word speaks volumes about Fiamma Burger: variety. With a multitude of patty types and more than 20 menu options, there are endless possibilities for a burger masterpiece. All burgers are served on a fresh-baked bun, with crisp lettuce and all the usual fixings. You can even get a “burger in a bowl,” served without the bread. Spice it up with chipotle ketchup, spicy mustard, or curry mayo, then cool it down with a beer or milkshake.

Bier on the Pier

October 7, 5–8 p.m.

The amount of local breweries in our corner of the state is growing every year, with new and delightful additions hopping into the hops scene. This month, head to the 11th annual Bier on the Pier in Anacortes to sample sips from more than 40 breweries, cideries, and food trucks that will take your palate on a tour of the Pacific Northwest.

Historic Port Transit Shed, 100 Commercial Ave., Anacortes, anacortes.org

Cupcake Quest

October 15, 1–5 p.m. Let them eat cupcakes! The Bread Lab is hosting a “cupcake quest” class where attendees will construct delicious chocolate cupcakes from scratch. Learn several filling and decorating techniques including how to make a cooked meringue, silky ganache, and rich peanut butter frosting. The best part? You get to eat what you create.

The Bread Lab, 11768 Westar Ln., Burlington, 800.652.3334, kingarthurbaking.com

GUUD BOWLS American, Ready-to-Heat Bowls

2625 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham, 360.510.4880, guudbowls.com

Guud Bowls is unlike most food services because they don’t have a storefront. Every weekday, owners Mike Duncan and Meredith Steven cook and chill bowls of food in a com missary kitchen and hand-deliver anywhere in Whatcom County. Choose from a rotating menu of gluten-free bowls filled with colorful, fresh ingredients. Pop the ready-to-heat bowls in the oven, microwave, or saute in a pan.

JACK NEIMANN’S BLACK FOREST STEAKHOUSE German, Steak 638 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine 360.306.8342

Black Forest Steakhouse offers a versatile dining experience. It’s fancy enough for special

Uncorked: Abeja

Winemaker Dinner

October 21, 6:30 p.m.

October’s winemaker dinner (a monthly five-course service equipped with a blind menu and a wine to pair with every course) features the wines of Abeja Winery in Walla Walla. While the food menu is a secret until arrival, fans of Abeja can look forward to one-of-a-kind wines like their Beekeeper series, carbernets, and sauvignons.

Packers Kitchen + Bar, 9565 Semiahmoo Pkwy., 360.318.2090, semiahmoo.com/dining

occasions, anniversaries, and graduation celebrations, but it’s also a place you’ll want to go to any day. Black Forest cooks their steaks different than most other steakhouses: They broil them in a 1,600-degree oven, leaving the meat tender and flavorful.

THE LOFT Northwest, American & Seafood 1801 Roeder Ave., Bellingham 360.306.5668, theloftbellingham.com

In a world of freeze-dried and processed pre-packaged foods, The Loft strives to be an exception. From the fresh, locally caught salmon and halibut, to the cage-free organic eggs, they believe the ingredients make the dish. Their dressings, sauces, and seasoning are all from scratch, with original recipes using fresh, local, organic products as often as the seasons allow.

LYNDEN DUTCH BAKERY American 421 Front St., Lynden 360.354.3911, lyndendutchbakery.com

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

THE MILL French 655 Front St., Lynden 360.778.2760, themilllynden.com

The Mill is the type of place where one could spend a full afternoon grazing on cheeses, sipping cocktails, and enjoying a good book. The bistro-like atmosphere gives the restaurant a European vibe without losing the welcoming small-town service of Lynden. The menu is full of bistro plates like fresh salads, paninis, soups, and, of course, meats and cheeses.

NEW MEXICO TAMALE CO. Tex-Mex 4151 Meridian St., Ste. 106, Bellingham, 360.389.8841, nmtamale.com

From flavor-packed handmade food to a warm and welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder this Southwest-inspired eatery landed on Yelp’s “Top 100 Places to Eat in 2020” list. 95% of the restaurant’s menu is vegan and 100% of items are gluten-free and lard-free.

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.

NOMAD CHARCUTERIE AND WINE

Wine Bar, International

10 Prospect St., Bellingham, 360.922.8804

Whether you’re an amateur sommelier or a total wine novice, we’re willing to bet that the folks at Nomad Charcuterie and Wine will pour you something surprising. This cozy cafe-esque eatery is making a splash in Downtown Bellingham thanks to its well-curated menu, warm ambience, and enviable wine list.

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 longrunning 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.

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.

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

Meet the Queen of Cakes and King of Cookies

Slice of Heaven Cafe & Bakery

WRITTEN BY GAIA CRANS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

WALKING INTO THE bright, open Slice of Heaven Cafe & Bakery you’ll be met with the lovely aroma of baked goods from red velvet crinkle cookies to blood orange hibiscus bars, and strawberry crunch cakes. Colby and Marci Abshire are the masterminds behind these delicacies with Marci as queen of the cakes, cupcakes, and custom orders and Colby as the “Cookie King.” This sibling power-duo have been working together for more than two decades, but the inspiration for Slice of Heaven began with the COVID-19 pandemic, when they decided to cook and donate meals to community members in need.

“When it started out, we were pretty impressed because we were like, ‘We made 20 meals!’ And by the end we were doing hundreds at a time,” Marci says but it was hard for just the two of them to keep up with.

When they had made and donated around 5,000 meals, they gave the leftover money raised for the operation to the food bank and moved on. However, this helped them realize how well they work together, and with Marci’s eight years of experience running an at-home custom cake business to back them up, Colby and Marci created their own Slice of Heaven.

“When we first started talking about opening, I started kind of monkeying with recipes,” Colby says “I think the most time I spent was on my s’mores cookie, which is the super popular one.”

The thick, warm cookie is well-liked for a reason its mix of graham cracker, marshmallow and chocolate is the definition of ooey gooey goodness, and it’s not too sweet!

The siblings have continued to experiment and are proud of their unique variety of treats. Colby’s Mexican hot chocolate cookies, for example, have differing levels of spice using cayenne, tajin, or hot peppers like the Carolina Reaper. The kick of spice is cooled by the chunks of chocolate, and they pair wonderfully with hot coffee or cold brew from the cafe.

Another fun creation is Marci’s Full Nelson cake with two layers of chocolate, a layer of peanut butter cup cheesecake, and two layers of caramel filling. But Marci’s lemon bars, which Colby thinks are hard to get right and are often too sweet, are his personal favorite with their punch of perfectly tart lemon flavor and creamy consistency.

In addition to sweets, Slice of Heaven also offers a range of savory options like baked mac and cheese and lasagna, soups, sliders glazed with a garlic-sesame-mustard butter, and refreshing lavender lemonade to wash them down.

Menu items are always rotating, so if you want to see your own favorite up for grabs, tell them what you think! Marci and Colby love feedback, and multiple menu options are actually directly from requests including the salted caramel pretzel and the white chocolate macadamia nut cookies. So stop by, try some delectable indulgences, and have a chat! 300 N. Samish Way, Bellingham, 360.922.0103, slice-of-heaven.net

Colby and Marci Abshire are the masterminds behind these delicacies with Marci as queen of the cakes, cupcakes, and custom orders and Colby as the “Cookie King.”

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.

SAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE Food truck

See satm360.com for schedule and location 360.988.1800

If you haven’t yet heard of Sage Against the Machine, you will soon enough. Believed to be Bellingham’s first from-scratch, dairy-free, meat-free, and mostly gluten- and soy-free food truck, Sage Against the Machine has the power to convince the meatiest of meat-eaters that eating plant-based food can actually be enjoyable.

SCOTTY BROWNS American Cuisine

3101 Newmarket St., Bellingham 360.306.8823 scottybrownsrestaurant.com

Scotty Browns offers an edgy, energetic ambiance, a varied menu of mainstream and upscale creations, and excellent drink options for all ages. Outdoor dining is a popular option during warmer weather. Some items on the menu, like appetizers, change seasonally, so you know you’ll never get bored. Casual to upscale dining options range from hamburgers, rice bowls, and pastas to higher-end seafood and steaks. Just flying through? Grab a bite at their second location inside Bellingham International Airport.

THE STEAK HOUSE AT SILVER REEF

Steak, Seafood 4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale 360.383.0777, silverreefcasino.com

This award-winning restaurant offers elegant dining and an intimate atmosphere. Prime-grade steaks are broiled at 1,800 degrees to lock in the natural juices and finished with a special steak butter. They also have an extensive wine list. This dining experience rivals any of the big-town

Elegance, Innovation, and Honesty: A Visit to Bellingham’s Newest Bar

Matthew’s Honest Cocktails

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

THE SUITE ON the corner of Railroad and Holly has transformed from a Starbucks into a cocktail bar and with a name like Matthew’s Honest Cocktails, one might be prompted to ask: What, exactly, makes a cocktail honest?

If you ask Owner Matthew Twining, he’ll tell you that an honest cocktail is “something that doesn’t get in the way of the spirit itself, is simply a vehicle for the spirit itself, and allows the spirit to speak without being diluted … by a lot of ingredients that are unnecessary.”

In other words, he’s passionate about cocktails that are elegant in their simplicity. Twining was born in California, raised in Washington, and eventually wound up in New York City, where he landed his first bartending job. While he made the move to New York for different purposes, it was bartending that “inspired a different awakening,” namely a newfound respect for spirits and their possibilities.

Now Twining has returned to Whatcom County to open his own bar as “a little chunk of New York” in Downtown Bellingham. Matthew’s is catered towards working professionals rather than the college crowd, and the decor is complete with rich jewel tones, elegant finishings, and for

added cheekiness mugshots of iconic celebrities like Prince and Elvis adorning the wall. (The philosophy behind the mugshots? “Let’s be civilized but not too civilized.”)

But beyond the decor, it’s the drinks and Twining’s own mixology expertise that make Matthew’s so special. The menu spotlights three rotating featured cocktails each week but classic cocktails these are not. In fact, you’d be hard-pressed to find similar libations anywhere else in town. This is partially thanks to the liquor itself; for example, Twining is a member of a whiskey club and sources one-of-a-kind barrels from places like Kentucky and Tennessee.

The other standout element is Twining’s own creativity. On the day I stopped in, he told me about his latest creation: a stinging nettle martini, made from elderflower liqueur, crisp floral gin, and locally foraged nettles. Twining uses regional ingredients whenever possible, whether that be in regards to local liquor or more unusual elements like house-made thimbleberry and salmonberry reductions.

If that wasn’t enticing enough, other standout mixology experiments include a whiskey-based martini made with lemon and an Earl Gray reduction.

He also used a Napa Valley cabernet reduction to create a sangria-inspired drink with rosemary, lemon, and highquality potato vodka.

All in all, these cocktails are straightforward yet exemplary thanks to Twining’s deep consideration of each ingredient. If you ask Twining, though, the X factor at Matthew’s isn’t the cocktails or the decor it’s the Bellingham community itself.

“I’m more interested in people than I am in cocktails,” Twining says. “The cocktails are going to be extraordinary. And our ingredients are really, really good … But really, the truth is, the people on that side of the bar, they’re going to make this thing work.”

Twining designed Matthew’s with interpersonal connection in mind, and decor elements like a curving bar top make it easy for guests to engage the bartender and mingle with each other. After all, Matthew’s was never designed to be an end-of-the-night kind of joint he wants it to be the catalyst for a memorable evening on the town.

“The number one thing I want is to have people connecting with each other,” Twining says. “I think that cocktails are a great means to that end.” 132 E. Holly St., Bellingham, @matthewsofbham 

steakhouses in quality and service without the big-city price tag.

SKAGIT

13MOONS AT SWINOMISH CASINO & LODGE Seafood, Steak

12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes, 360.588.3525, swinomishcasinoandlodge.com

Located on the waterfront within the casino, 13moons is sure to catch your attention. The menu offers a wide variety including first plates, entree salads, seafood, and steaks. Give this go-to place for locals a try and you will be walking away satisfied.

BASTION BREWING COMPANY American

12529 Christianson Rd., Anacortes 360.399.1614, bastionbrewery.com

On the Bastion Brewing Company menu you’ll find classic salads, an array of interesting burgers, and crispy chicken wings drenched in your choice of sauce. Food arrives impressively quick, and even more impressive is the quality of the food.

CALICO CUPBOARD American

901 Commercial Ave., Anacortes,, 360.293.7315, 720 S. 1st St., La Conner, 360.466.4451, 121-B Freeway Dr., Mount Vernon, 360.336.3107, calicocupboardcafe.com

Since 1981, Calico Cupboard has been serving the purest, most heart-healthy, and high-quality ingredients. Using freshly milled, organically-grown, whole grain and unbleached flour, the cafe aims to promote its local farmers and gratify your body in the process. Sit down for breakfast or lunch, or just order from the bakery and grab an espresso to go. Calico Cupboard will leave you full, but feeling homey, healthy, and happy.

CATRINA TACOS & TEQUILA Mexican

517 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon 360.336.5566, catrinastacostequila.com

Catrina Tacos & Tequila is known for their take on Street Tacos with a multitude of meat fillings to choose from, double tortillas, cilantro, and onions but that’s certainly not the only mouthwatering option. With plenty of drinks to sample, there’s always another reason to visit again.

GREAT

1Time and Materials

Taphouse is more than just a taphouse, as evidenced by their stellar food menu. We love their Smoked Salmon and Gournay Tart with pickled red onions, capers, and a melt-inyour-mouth crust.

2If you’re craving comfort food, the Pollo con Crema at Paso del Norte is sure to hit the spot. Thinsliced strips of chicken breast are smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce. We recommend you ask for it topped with sauteed mushrooms.

What’s better than pork belly on its own? The Pork Belly Trio at Sliced, of course! Served on toasted baguette, it features three different accompaniments: pesto with roasted pepper and baked parmesan, mango salsa with basil, and onion jam with pickled slaw.

Considering that it’s made from scratch with 30+ ingredients (including spices imported from Mexico), the mole sauce at Coa Mexican Eatery & Tequileria is nothing to sneeze at. Order the Pollo en Mole and try it yourself!

The Ritual Mocha from Narrative Coffee is easily one of the best in town. In addition to Narrative’s high-quality espresso, it’s made with Grace Harbor Farms milk and artisan Mid Mountain Blend chocolate from Ritual Chocolate.

Fujisan Sushi reps their hometown pride with a special Bellingham Roll, which is as simple as it is delicious. The roll features imitation crab meat complemented by crunch (from the cucumber and sesame) and creaminess (mayo and avocado).

Pizza for brunch?! It’s possible at Terramar Brewstillery. Come in on a weekend morning and sample the Continental Pizza, featuring all your breakfast faves: cheese, mushrooms, bacon, shallots, and an egg on top for good measure.

The Banh Mi at Brandywine Kitchen is piled high with pickled veg, cucumbers, cilantro, and natural marinated pork. Try it with tofu for a vegan option, and don’t forget to order a side of fries.

Photo by Jack Finley

FRIED CHICKEN AND libraries might not be the most typical of combinations, but the upstairs of Bantam Kitchen & Bar (a.k.a. the Bookhouse Bar) brings these unlikely elements together in a way that just makes sense. And, in addition to the bookshelf-heavy decor, even Bantam’s cocktail menu pays homage to literary greats.

On the Road is an original creation by Bar Manager Colin Cleffie, inspired by both the Kerouac novel and Cleffie’s own cross-country move. It’s complex yet easy to drink, with elements of sweet citrus and an herbal depth from the amaro.

“I wanted to create a cocktail that said ‘Bellingham’ but also spoke

Bantam Kitchen & Bar On the Road

Ingredients: Stinson Bros 115 Proof Bourbon, Appleton Estate 12-Year Rum, Amaro Averna, Select Apertivo, acid-adjusted grapefruit juice, Cara Cara orange

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.

COA MEXICAN EATERY Mexican

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

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.

DAD’S DINER A-GO-GO American 906 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.899.5269

to my recent home in Melbourne, Florida,” says Cleffie. “I love the idea of split bases in cocktails, so I split the primary spirit and citrus.”

Much like books and fried chicken, the idea of combining Select (a Venetian aperitif) and Averna (a Sicilian digestif) might sound unusual. However, since these opposing ingredients are balanced with care, their flavors work together in harmony.

Dad’s Diner A-Go-Go in Anacortes is the epitome of creative flavors and fun presenta tion. 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.

THE FAIRHAVEN Deli

100 N. Burlington Blvd., Burlington, 360.746.3183, fairhaventogo.com

Offerings at The Fairhaven are diverse enough to please every palate, and the flavors of each ingredient are carefully considered. Rotating specials and seasonal dishes make each visit unique and exciting.

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,

COCOA LANEY

The On the Road is stiff without being too heavy, and surprisingly bright-tasting despite appearances. In short, it’s the perfect end-ofsummer sip so pull up a barstool, grab your favorite beatnik novel, and enjoy the journey.

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.

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.

SKAGIT VALLEY’S FARMHOUSE American

13724 Laconner Whitney Rd., Mount Vernon 360.466.4411, thefarmhouserestaurant.net

Craving home-cooked food but don’t want to make it yourself? Skagit Valley’s Farmhouse may be what you’re looking for. When first entering the building, you walk past a mouthwatering pie showcase and through a gift shop that has the perfect items for Ma and Pa. The decor is reminiscent of country living. Even though their breakfasts are famous, try their lunch and dinner menus as well when you eat here, you’re home.

TERRAMAR BREWSTILLERY

Craft Brewery and Pizza

5712 Gilkey Ave., Edison, 360.399.6222 terramarcraft.com

Producing thoughtfully crafted, small-batch beer, cider, spirits, and pizza from farmed and foraged ingredients of Skagit Valley. The brewery taproom is all ages and dogfriendly. The distillery’s “Speakeasy” is 21+ and highlights Terramar’s spirits in creative cocktails. Patio dining surrounded by views of Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains.

ISLAND COUNTIES

CYNTHIA’S BISTRO American

65 Nichols St., Friday Harbor, 360.298.8130, cynthiasofcourse.com

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.

Two Cheers for Democracy

October 7

“From ridiculous

Located in a renovated 1920s home, this local San Juan Island staple is known for their innovative menu selections. You can enjoy lunch, or even an extended breakfast, daily in spring and summer. They are famous for their brunch, but you might try stopping by later in the evening for their dinner menu a special treat.

FRIDAY HARBOR HOUSE Regional NW

130 West St., Friday Harbor 360.378.8455, fridayharborhouse.com

It’s hard to beat the view of the ferry landing, marina, and San Juan Channel from Friday Harbor House the hotel and restaurant provide a sweeping panorama of water and sky. In addition to the delicious food menu, Friday Harbor House is one of the few island restaurants to offer a full bar at brunch every day of the week.

INN AT LANGLEY American

400 First St., Langley, 360.221.3033, innatlangley.com

If beauty were a taste, this would be it. As a guest, you’re taken on a mouth-watering culinary journey through a multi-course tasting menu. Not only is the meal a delight for the taste buds, but there are also surprises at each turn, whether it’s the presentation or the accoutrements. Each guest is served as if they are the only one in the dining room. The menu is prix fixe, with an additional charge for wine pairing. Dinner here is more than just a meal; it’s an experience.

ISLAND SKILLET Homestyle

325 Prune Alley, Eastsound, 360.376.3984

Beloved by loyal patrons for its large portions and casual, customizable meals, Island Skillet is a must-stop for anyone visiting Orcas Island. A rustic metal rooster outside the entrance sets the tone. Start the day with a skillet breakfast complete with a bottomless cup of coffee. Sandwiches rule the lunch menu, and you can choose from a lengthy list of sides and customizations for most items, so you can totally have it your way.

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

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.

TOBY’S TAVERN Seafood

8 NW Front St., Coupeville, 360.678.4222, tobysuds.com

Overlooking the scenic Penn Cove in the center of old Coupeville, Toby’s Tavern offers diners a dive bar ambience with a delicious menu of seafood favorites. Steamed and soaked in a scrumptious mix of simple seasonings, wine, and juices, Toby’s robust offering of mussels makes for a memorable visit.

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.

Courtesy of Blanchard Beast Trail Race

OCTOBER

TRAILS TO TAPS RELAY

October 16

Races are made all the more exciting when there’s a beer (or two) waiting at the finish line so gather your friends, form a team, and get excited for the Trails to Taps Relay! The event includes 10 stops at local breweries and cideries; leg lengths between 1.6 and 5 miles; and 30+ miles of trails, roads, and parks to explore. After all the running, the Boundary Bay Beer Garden will close the day with a family-friendly after party and costume contest. Bellingham, trailstotapsrelay.com

DOCTOBER

October 1–31

Movie lovers mark your calendars: The biggest documentary film festival in the Pacific Northwest is returning for another year! The Pickford Film Center returns with another installment of Doctober, and audiences can be among the first to experience soon-tobe-released documentaries. Attendees can even connect with filmmakers and special guests via Q&As, guided group discussions, and more. Pickford Film Center, 1318 Bay St., Bellingham, 360.738.0735, pickfordfilmcenter.org

ANACORTES BIER ON THE PIER

October 7–8

Brews, food trucks, music, and views of the Guemes Channel I mean, what’s not to love about Bier on the Pier?! The annual event returns for its 11th year, and guests will have the opportunity to sample beers from a variety of PNW breweries. General admission tickets are $45 and include entrance to one event session, a commemorative tasting glass, and eight tickets for 4-ounce pours. Historic Port Transit Shed, 100 Commercial Ave., Anacortes, anacortes.org

UNDERWATER PUMPKIN CARVING CONTEST

October 29, 10 a.m.

What’s more unconventional than underwater basket weaving? Underwater pumpkin carving, of course! Gone Diving’s annual competition will put divers’ carving skills to the test, and prizes are awarded by category. If that wasn’t enough, the event will be followed up with a potluck (which, thankfully, will be held above water). Gone Diving, 1740 Iowa St., Bellingham, 360.738.2042, gonediving.org

BELLINGHAM CELTIC FESTIVAL

October 13–16

Presented by the Celtic Arts Foundation, the Bellingham Celtic Festival is a “community-driven, locally-sourced, artisanal, small-batch weekend” dedicated to celebrating all things related to Celtic culture. Events take place at a variety of locations throughout Downtown Bellingham (check online for info), but you can be sure to expect music, workshops, tea, and much more. Downtown Bellingham, 360.416.4934, bellinghamcelticfestival.com

BELLINGHAM COMIC CON October 15

Comic book lovers, get your costumes ready for the nerdiest event in the North Sound! Bellingham Comic Con presents Northwest Washington’s largest selection of all things geeky: Think comics, toys, collectibles, and more. This year’s guests include professional comic book artists like Randy Emberlin, Chris Warner, and Dustin Weaver. Ferndale Event Center, 5715 Barrett Rd., Ferndale, bellinghamcomiccon.com

FRIDAY HARBOR FILM FESTIVAL

October 21–30

This year’s Friday Harbor Film Festival is presented in a hybrid model, meaning you don’t have to be on San Juan Island to join in on the fun. Attend live screenings and filmmaker Q&As at different venues around Friday Harbor from Oct. 21–23, or stream the films on-demand from Oct. 24–30 but no matter which option you choose, you’ll be treated to cinema that’s impactful, socially conscious, and enlightening.

Friday Harbor, 564.203.8673, fhff.org

LEWIS BLACK: OFF THE RAILS October 23

Actor, author, and comedian Lewis Black is a jack-of-all-trades when it comes to performing, and his in-demand events sell out venues across Europe, New Zealand, Canada and the United States. More of a “pissed-off optimist than a meanspirited curmudgeon,” you can expect his wryly observant commentary to provoke both laughter and a sense of catharsis.

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

Photo by Whatcom Events

Courtesy of Gone Diving

CASINOS

TOMMY JAMES & THE SHONDELLS

October 8, 8 p.m.

Now’s your chance to catch Tommy James & the Shondells at Tulalip Resort Casino! With a decade-spanning career, more than one hundred million records sold worldwide, and hits like “I Think We’re Alone Now” and “Crystal Blue Persuasion,” this nationally beloved rock group has been hyping up crowds since the ‘60s (and they’re still going strong). Tulalip Resort Casino, 10200 Quil Ceda Blvd., Tulalip, 888.272.1111, tulalipresortcasino.com

BILLY OCEAN

October 20, 8 p.m.

Legendary R&B singer Billy Ocean is one of the biggest Black recording artists to hail from Britain, but his success has reached far beyond the bounds of the U.K. Ocean’s hits, including the Grammywinning “Caribbean Queen (No More Love On The Run),” are beloved by audiences worldwide and Oct. 20 is your chance to hear him perform them live and in person. Tulalip Resort Casino, 10200 Quil Ceda Blvd., Tulalip, 888.272.1111, tulalipresortcasino.com

CLASSICAL

ADONIS PUENTES & THE VOICE OF CUBA

October 21, 7:30 p.m.

If you love to lose yourself to the rhythm and exuberance of Cuban music, you can’t miss this performance by Adonis Puentes & the Voice of Cuba. Puentes’s vocals front an acoustic sextet that proudly plays the son genre a riotous mix of Afro-Cuban tradition and American jazz. Arrive 45 minutes early for a pre-concert talk with these internationally-touring soneros! McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon, 360.416.7727, mcintyrehall.org

THE MET LIVE IN HD: MEDEA

October 22, 9:55 a.m.

The Metropolitan Opera’s 2022–23 season of “Live in HD” opera broadcasts combines forces with cinemas everywhere to make this classical art form more accessible. Join fellow arts-appreciators all over the globe on Oct. 22 to view The Met’s live premiere of Medea, a rarelyperformed masterpiece about a sorceress seeking revenge. Lincoln Theatre, 712 S.

1st St., Mount Vernon, 360.336.8955, lincolntheatre.org

SANFORD-HILL PIANO SERIES PRESENTS: ANNA GENIUSHENE

October 12, 7:30 p.m.

After taking home the silver medal in the prestigious Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, Anna Genuishine is bringing her “powerhouse sound, forceful musical personality, and sheer virtuosity” (Musical America) to Western Washington University’s concert hall. Classical music fans would be remiss not to see this buzzed-about pianist perform live and in person! Western Washington University Concert Hall, 516 High St., Bellingham, 360.650.3000, cfpa.wwu.edu

CONCERTS

THE BLUE ROOM PRESENTS: JENNIFER KNAPP WITH RAE DU SOLEIL

October 6, 8 p.m.

Singer-songwriter Jennifer Knapp has a lot going for her: She’s a musician, speaker, author, advocate, and two-time Grammy nominee! Moreover, her first three releases (“Kansas,” “Lay It Down,” and “The Way I Am”) sold over one million albums. Now you can catch her this fall in Bellingham as she takes the stage at The Blue Room, downtown’s premier all-ages music venue. The Blue Room, 202 E. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.742.2381, blueroombham.com

GRIFFIN HOUSE

October 7, 7:30 p.m.

Mount Baker Theatre’s intimate Lookout Sessions series continues with Griffin House, a Nashville-based folk artist whose music melds catchy hooks with Americana flair and insightful, honest lyricism. You might recognize tunes from his breakthrough album “Flying Upside Down,” which was recorded with members of the iconic Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

BABE RAINBOW

October 7, 9 p.m.

If you’re up for a far-out, unique sound, check out Babe Rainbow at the Wild Buffalo this October. Their music is based in French surfer pop and ‘60s psychedelic music, and has grown into something

all its own since the band’s inception in 2014. This show promises to help you groove your way out of any funk at this intimate, dance-able venue. Wild Buffalo House of Music, 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net

THE ROBERT CRAY BAND

October 19, 7 p.m.

A legendary performer is coming to move the Mount Baker Theatre with his soul-shaking blues. Five-time Grammy winner Robert Cray has been inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame and has performed with greats like Muddy Waters and Tina Turner. The Robert Cray Band’s tour celebrates the heroes of the blues and energizes crowds with their original music. Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

DARLINGSIDE

October 21, 7:30 p.m.

Ever since Darlingside crooned their way into the folk-pop scene in 2015, they’ve been offering up poetic lyrics and spellbinding harmonies that enchant their listeners. With instrumentals powered by Americana classics like violin, cello, mandolin, and banjo, their music is rhythmic, soothing and “exquisitely arranged” (NPR). Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

SUECO

October 25, 9 p.m.

Since sky-rocketing to fame with viral hit “Fast” in 2019, Los Angeles-based Sueco has been pumping out genre-bending beats. He raps and sings over tracks that take elements in varying degrees from ‘90s and 2000s pop-punk, modern hip-hop and online trends. Sueco and his touring mates Lil Aaron and Killboy are sure to bring a loud, thumping, and vibrant show to the Wild Buffalo. Wild Buffalo House of Music, 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net

THEATRE

CRIMES OF THE HEART

October 1–9

The Bellingham Theatre Guild brings to the stage this dark comedy soaked in the spirit of the South. The three Magrath sisters reunite under less than auspicious circumstances: Babe, the youngest, has been accused of murdering her senator

Events

husband. Having led extremely different lives and now being thrust back together the sisters struggle to reconcile their past with themselves and each other.

Bellingham Theatre Guild, 1600 H St., 360.733.1811, bellinghamtheatreguild.com

NATIONAL THEATRE IN HD: PRIMA FACIE

October 4, 7 p.m.

Fans of the hit TV show “Killing Eve” won’t want to miss this one! Jodie Comer is set to make her West End debut as a brilliant and cunning young lawyer in “Prima Facie,” a renowned onewoman play by Suzie Miller. You can catch this London production streamed from all the way across the pond at San Juan Community Theatre. San Juan Community Theatre, 100 2nd St., Friday Harbor, 360.378.3210, sjctheatre.org

BODYTRAFFIC

October 28, 7:30 p.m.

Even if you’re not already a dance lover, “BODYTRAFFIC” is sure to entertain. Led by Artistic Director Tina Finkelman Berkett, this production features a worldclass dance troupe performing cuttingedge choreography in styles from hip-hop to ballet. “BODYTRAFFIC” has garnered a reputation for captivating audiences across the U.S. and it’s set to debut at Bellingham’s own Mount Baker Theatre. Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

LITTLE WOMEN

October 28–31

Based on the beloved book by Louisa May Alcott, this musical tells the story of the March sisters Jo, Meg, Amy, and Beth as they come of age in Civil War-era New England. The timeless tale has affected generation after generation of readers since its publication, and its musical adaptation is sure to win over the hearts of theatergoers, too. Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes, 360.293.6829, acttheatre.com

THE ROCKY HORROR

PICTURE SHOW

October 29, 9 p.m.

Get ready to do the Time Warp again, because the “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” is back in all its campy glory at the Mount Baker Theatre! It goes without saying that “Rocky Horror” is one of the most iconic cult films around,

and its annual showing at the Mount Baker Theatre is a can’t-miss experience for longtime fans and “virgins” alike. Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

STIGMA STOMP 2022

October 1, 10 a.m.

October means it’s time once again for Stigma Stomp, an annual benefit for Whatcom County’s branch of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). This 2.2-mile loop begins at Bloedel Donovan Park and is accessible to runners and walkers alike. Bloedel Donovan Park, 2214 Electric Ave., Bellingham, namiwhatcom.org

THE BLANCHARD BEAST TRAIL RACE

October 15, 9 a.m.

Come out to the Blanchard State Forest for an exhilarating trail run this October! The Blanchard Beast Trail Race features a 10-mile run through a gorgeous, wooded course with almost 2000 feet of elevation throughout perfect for runners looking to test their mettle. Various awards will be given out after the race, including best race costume. Blanchard State Forest, blanchardbeast.com

SPECIAL EVENTS

ORCAS ISLAND FILM FESTIVAL

October 6–10

The Orcas Island film festival has been described by Charles Mudede (film/ art critic from The Stranger) as “the creme de la creme of the first-tier festival circuit.” This year’s event will span three venues and more than 40 films,

and audiences will have the unique opportunity to connect with filmmakers and experience world-class cinema ahead of official theatrical releases. Eastsound, oifilmfest.org

WHATCOM FRIGHTMARE

October 21–23, 28–30

Halloween is just around the corner are you feeling scared yet? If not, you should be, because Whatcom County’s legendary haunted house is set for its annual return in Ferndale. If you dare to enter, we can guarantee you won’t get out without getting spooked (no matter how brave you think you might be). 2004 Cherry St., Ferndale, 360.966.6223, facebook.com/ whatcomfrightmare

MOUNT VERNON TRICK-OR-TREAT

October 31, 3:30 p.m.

Don your kookiest costumes and bring the kiddos to Downtown Mount Vernon, where they can collect spooky treats at a variety of local businesses. Presented by the Mount Vernon Downtown Association, this family-friendly event is a fun alternative to neighborhoodbased trick-or-treating and a great way to connect with the Mount Vernon community. Mount Vernon Downtown Association, 325 Pine St., Mount Vernon, downtownmountvernon.org

VISUAL ARTS

UN/NATURAL SELECTIONS: WILDLIFE IN CONTEMPORARY ART

October 1–30

The Whatcom Museum is unveiling its newest exhibit: “Un/Natural Selections: Wildlife in Contemporary Art.” Organized by the National Museum of Wildlife Art, this exhibit is an exploration of contemporary art’s

Courtesy of Whatcom Frightmare

Whatcom Frightmare

Un/Natural Selections: Wildlife in Contemporary Art Passiflora Vitifolia

By Penelope Gottlie; 2011, Acrylic and ink over reproduction Audubon print.

use of animal imagery in works that address the human relationship to the natural world. With about 50 included works from the last 20+ years, this collection tackles themes of tradition, science, politics, and aesthetics. Whatcom Museum Lightcatcher Building, 250 Flora St., Bellingham, 360.778.8930, whatcommuseum.org

NATIVE ARTS COLLECTIVE

October 7–29

Allied Arts of Whatcom County’s 2022 Gallery Series continues with the Native Arts Collective this October, and it will spotlight and celebrate a variety of works from Indigenous artists throughout the Pacific Northwest. Mediums included in the collection will span from jewelry to drums, glass, beadwork, wood and metalwork, and much more. Allied Arts of Whatcom County, 1418 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.676.8548, alliedarts.org

THE ART OF REBELLION: SOCIAL JUSTICE AND CHICANA/CHICANO VISUAL ARTS

October 9, 2 p.m.

Join Chicano artist Jake Prendez as he invites audiences to explore the history of art’s intersection with social justice, and the accessibility of such art to worldwide audiences. Prendez will cover movements ranging from Mexican muralism to the

civil rights era, connecting his own work to this larger and ongoing narrative. The talk is part of the Humanities Washington’s Speakers Bureau program. Museum of Northwest Art, 121 1st St., La Conner, 360.466.4446, monamuseum.org

OUT OF TOWN

SEATTLE

SEATTLE QUEER FILM FESTIVAL

October 13–23

The 27th annual Seattle Queer Film Festival is back to bring you the largest LGBTQ+ film festival in the PNW. This year, the hybrid festival invites you to “witness queer magic” with in-person and online screenings of feature films, documentaries, and shorts that offer genuine and insightful representation. Past years have featured filmmaker talks, educational workshops, and community meetups. Three Dollar Bill Cinema, 1122 E. Pike St., Ste. 1313, Seattle, 306.323.4274, threedollarbillcinema.org

HILLOWEEN

October 29, 1 p.m.

This family-friendly, kid-centric, free event finally returns to Capitol Hill after two years of hiatus. Celebrate the year’s spookiest holiday with friends and neighbors from all over Seattle! Six hours of fun begins with an outdoor carnival promising entertainment, games and activities from 1 p.m.–4 p.m., then closes with trick-or-treating from 4 p.m.–6 p.m. on Broadway. AIDS Memorial Pathway Plaza, Broadway Ave and Denny Way, Seattle, 206.478.2527, hilloween.me

VANCOUVER, B.C.

DTES HEART OF THE CITY FESTIVAL

October 26–November 6

The Downtown Eastside neighborhood of Vancouver is proud to present its 19th annual Heart of the City Festival. This year’s theme is “Community is our Mentor,” and will celebrate the wisdom and lived experience of the historic and culturally rich area.

for 12 days of music, performances, art, workshops, and talks, both online and at over 40 venues in the city. Downtown Eastside, Vancouver, 604.628.5672, heartofthecityfestival.com

Dog Days of Summer

The 2022 edition of the Whatcom Humane Society’s annual fundraiser, Dog Days of Summer, took place on August 28 and suffice to say, it was a tail-waggin’ good time. Between vegetarian food trucks, canine contests, caricatures, and a variety of games, there was no shortage of entertainment for adults, kids, and four-legged friends alike. Best of all, however, was the payoff: The event raised an impressive $26,000 for the Whatcom Humane Society, whose work within the community ensures that animals of all species are protected and cared for.

COCOA LANEY

Courtesy of Whatcom Humane Society

Farm workers have readied the field for winter.

The tree waits patiently along with the raspberry plants for yet another cycle of the seasons.

EVELYN M. TURNER

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.

Photo by Evelyn M. Turner