Skagit Valley Herald Holiday Guide 2020 by Skagit Publishing

2020 HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE

A Supplement to the Skagit Valley Herald

To protect the environment

To find one-of-a-kind gifts

To enjoy delicious food

To boost the local economy

Goods that are grown or produced nearby generate less pollution than merchandise that needs to be transported over a long distance. These products also tend to have less packaging. Plus, you don’t have to travel far to visit local shops, which further reduces your carbon footprint.

If you really want to surprise a loved one on Christmas morning, check out the shops in your area. Small business owners work hard to offer their customers unique products that set them apart from major retailers. Alternatively, you can select handcrafted pieces made by local artisans.

Local farmers and producers provide fresh ingredients that can help you create your holiday meal. Whether you want to serve ready-made dishes or cook every thing from scratch, you can count on the bakeries, butcher shops and gourmet grocers in your region to have a variety of options to offer.

When you buy from local businesses, you help stimulate the region’s economy and create more jobs for the people in your area. And since a thriving market is sure to attract other companies, the result is a dynamic and prosperous community.

continued on pg. 4

gifts, goods, and really great

food!

Find everything you nee d to celebrate the holidays at the Co-op! (360) 336-9777 SKAGITFOODCOOP.COM 2

Skagit Valley Herald Holiday Guide

November 25, 2020

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2020 HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE

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12 reasons to buy local How to make the holidays more affordable Great gifts for someone living in a retirement home 10 gift ideas for the person who’s never without their phone How to help people in need during the holidays Gift ideas for your pets Holiday music: give yourself the gift of a Christmas album 4 tips for serving a sanitary buffet Santa Claus brownies

SKAGIT PUBLISHING

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Downtown Mount Vernon’s Holiday Gift Guide is here! CURIOUS CHEF RESTAURANT is family owned/operated in Burlington since 2007. Our history dates back to 1992 in ELGIN TX, where, for the first time “CHEF RAFAEL” was introduced to “CHEF TIMOTEO”at the historic CITY CAFE, CHEF TIMOTEO became his mentor and teacher and also awakened an enormous passion for American Cuisine, excellent service and Quality. After 15 years of experience and passion CURIOUS CHEF was created in 2007. A special thanks, to all our customers who have left us reviews across all the different platforms whether it be positive or negative. Only with the voice of our customers, will we know if we are doing good or bad.You make us better! We hope to serve Skagit County for many, many years. Happy holidays!!! *Follow the code for our most up to date menu*

Discover unique gifts with a personal touch for your significant other, family, friends, kids in your life, and more!

Find our Holiday Guide Online!

mountvernondowntown.org

SHOP DOWNTOWN Mount Vernon THIs SEASON

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Skagit Valley Herald Holiday Guide

November 25, 2020

To support a vibrant community

To enjoy top-quality service

To discover hidden gems

To alleviate holiday stress

Plenty of local groups and establishments organize activities throughout the year, with many holiday-themed events hosted in December. Whether you attend story hour with your kids or karaoke night with your friends, your support ensures these organizations can continue to make your community a fun place to live.

Customer satisfaction is a priority for small business owners. You can count on the knowledgeable staff at local specialty shops to offer great suggestions and answer all of your questions. Plus, exchanges and returns are easier since you can take care of them in person.

Take time to explore the various shops, restaurants, venues and attractions in your region. Even if you’ve lived there for years, you’ll likely be surprised by what you find. Discover a new craft beer, a temporary outdoor exhibition or a charming coffee shop. Your town has more to offer than you think.

There’s no need to venture into crowded shopping malls when everything you need to buy for a merry holiday season is available right around the corner. What’s more, if you purchase all of your gifts from local boutiques, you won’t have to worry about whether or not they’ll arrive in time for Christmas.

continued on pg. 6

Get your significant other something that will last beyond the holiday season

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Skagit Valley Herald Holiday Guide

Delivery anD curbsiDe pick-up available. Fresh Flowers for all Occasions

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November 25, 2020

615 South 2nd Street Mount Vernon WA 98273

360-399-7258 goskagit.com

Celebrate Skagit History! Come to the ‘top of the hill’ for amazing exhibits and fabulous shopping in the Museum Store.

La Conner

Holiday Events Nov 1 - Dec 15 – Christianson’s Nursery Virtual Online Open House Nov 28 – Small Business Saturday Nov 28 – A Visit w/Father Christmas at Christianson’s Nursery

501 S. 4TH STREET, LA CONNER (AT THE TOP OF THE HILL) 360.466.3365 • WWW.SKAGITCOUNTY.NET/MUSEUM hours: Friday to Sunday 11 AM - 4 PM

2031096

Skagit County HiStoriCal MuSeuM

Dec 4 – 1st on First in La Conner

This project received funding from Skagit County • www.visitskagitvalley.com

Peace on Earth

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Dec 5 - La Conner Virtual Tree Lighting Dec 12 – Lighted Boat Parade For additional events and up-to-date information, visit LoveLaConner.com *Due to Covid restrictions, please follow social distancing measures and wear a facemask. Events are subject to change.

christiansonsnursery.com 15806 Best Road • Mount Vernon • 360-466-3821

Open 9-5 Daily

www.lovelaconner.com | 360.466.4778 1960997

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Skagit Valley Herald Holiday Guide

November 25, 2020

To demonstrate solidarity

To save yourself time and money

The COVID-19 pandemic took a major toll on the economy, and small businesses need your patronage now more than ever. Shopping locally is a simple way to support hard-working members of your community through this difficult time. And since you receive high-quality goods and services in return, it’s a winwin situation.

To enjoy high-quality goods

To strengthen your sense of community

Locally made products might be more expensive than mass-produced items, but they tend to be made better and more durable. This means you’ll spend less in the long run. What’s more, when you opt for goods made in your region, you can be confident that the employees worked in humane conditions for a fair wage.

The holiday season should be about spending time with friends and family, not fighting traffic or navigating winter driving conditions. When you stick to shops, restaurants and venues in the area, you avoid a lot of hassle and save plenty of money on gas.

If you’re a regular at your local shops and restaurants, you’ll be able to routinely chat with the owners, employees and other customers you meet. This connection can foster a sense of belonging in your community. Plus, it’s nice to see familiar faces during the holidays.

Happy Holidays!

Highest Quality • Local Shrimp Locally owned & operated by local fishermen & women. 2036731

of the arts

Gifts For ” “Foodies

Jams • Jellies • Salsas • Honey y • Sauces Flavored Olive Oils • BBQ Sauces • Spices Handcrafted Balsamic Vinegar • Pasta

• Dungeness Crab • Oysters for Every Taste • Fresh Fish • Clams • Mussels • Shrimp • Scallops • Smoked Fish

november 20 through december 24, 2020

new for 2020

Shop Here for LOCAL Gift Items

360.707.2722 | 18042 Hwy 20 | Burlington | www.SkagitFish.com www

EBT Accepted

shop our wired: on-line market or in person at our lite: mini market wired market open November 20 – December 24. Gallery and curbside pick up saturdays visit our Facebook page for live performances and youth art activities allied arts gallery 1418 Cornwall Avenue, in Downtown Bellingham

Men’s Red Wing ComfortPro 8705 Slip-On Shoes • Provides Endless Comfort for your Work Day and Beyond

www.alliedarts.org • 360.676.8584

Red Wing #8705

shop early. shop often. shop local. Presented by

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lite market open December 4 – 24, Tuesday – Saturday, 10AM – 6PM in the gallery

312 S First St., Downtown Mount Vernon 360.336.5598 • Open Mon-Fri 9-6pm, Sat 9-5pm

Skagit Valley Herald Holiday Guide

November 25, 2020

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2020 HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE

How to make the holidays more aﬀordable While it’s almost impossible to avoid spending money around Christmastime, the festivities and gift-giving shouldn’t put you in debt. Here are a few tips for an enjoyable and affordable holiday season. CREATE A BUDGET

metimes contain exclusive offers. LIMIT YOUR EXPENSES

10 gift ideas for the person who’s never without their phone

There are plenty of simple ways to spend less during the holidays without missing out on the magic of the season. Among other things, you can:

Write a list of all your holiday purchases • Gift your loved ones with memorable and including presents, food, drinks, decora- affordable outings rather than pricey toys tions and new outﬁts. Then, determine how or gadgets much you can afford to spend on each category. To ensure you respect your budget, • Make certain presents by hand (persoplace the allocated money in an envelope nalized calendar, gourmet goodie basket, etc.) and use that instead of your credit card. • Wrap your gifts in items you have on STAGGER YOUR PURCHASES hand such as newspaper or reusable Start shopping early and spread out your shopping bags purchases over several weeks. This will help you avoid paying for everything at • Organize a clothing swap with friends once or accumulating interest on a large to refresh your holiday wardrobe outstanding credit card bill. You’ll also have • Host a potluck holiday meal more time to look for deals and stock up on items like gift wrap and non-perishable food when they’re on sale.

If you’re looking for a gift for someone 6. A pair of touchscreen gloves for who loves their phone, here are a few winter texting suggestions that are sure to please. 7. A smartphone car mount for safe, 1. A portable Bluetooth speaker for use hands-free navigation at home and on the go 8. A wallet case to keep all essentials 2. A solar phone charger for the techin one place savvy environmentalist 9. A smartphone lens to capture stun3. A portable power bank for charging ning photos any time or place 10. A set of wireless earbuds or head4. A touchscreen cleaner keychain to phones that block out ambient noise put an end to smudges For these smartphone accessories and 5. A compact smartphone projector for more, visit your nearest electronics an at-home cinema experience store.

BUY LOCAL

Holiday Gifts of Lasting Value

If you purchase as much as you can nearby, you’ll save on gas and time. If you prefer to shop online, you’ll avoid exorbitant shipping fees. Additionally, sign up for newsletters from local stores as these so-

Great gifts for someone living in a retirement home Are you wondering what type of gift to get for a relative who lives in a retirement home? If so, here are a few ideas. • A best seller. If your loved one likes to read, look for a new release they can add to their collection. Be sure to pick a book in a genre they enjoy such as historical fiction or action adventure. • A potted plant. Whether you opt for a lush fern or a flowering species, the greenery is sure to liven up their space. Opt for a modest-size, low-maintenance variety. • A warm accessory. Keep you loved one comfortable this winter with a plush avoid perishable items if their room bathrobe, soft slippers or wool socks. doesn’t have a fridge. Alternatively, choose a quilt or blanket • A decorative item. Visit local shops and for their bed. craft fairs to find unique pieces that will add • A goodie basket. Purchase a gourmet gift character to their home. Consider pairing basket or assemble one yourself with a handmade frame with a new family treats your relative loves. Make sure to photo. goskagit.com

Burton Jewelers has the most amazing selection of excellent jewelry and fine table and giftware in the Puget Sound region! Family owned and operated for over 90 years! • Custom Jewelry Design and Redesign with your gemstones and expert jewelry repair done in house. • Extensive selection of fine jewelry, amazing diamonds and colored gemstones in stock including one-of-a-kind “Sculptured” gemstones from Munsteiner of Germany. • Wonderful collection of fine tableware, giftware and barware including Waterford crystal, Simon Pearce glass, Wedgewood China and fantastic barware choices!

SIMON PEARCE CHRISTMAS TREES

Checkout some of our collection online - burtonjewelers.com. Always complimentary gift wrapping! Worldwide shipping available. We are operating in a very careful way during covid times for your shopping safety! Currently hours are 11-4 Tues-Sat and appointments recommended. Walk-ins accommodated as time, staff and space allows

Skagit Valley Herald Holiday Guide

7th & Commercial in Anacortes • Toll-Free 888-293-6469 • burtonjewelers.com

November 25, 2020

2020 HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE

Gift ideas for your pets

How to help people in need during the holidays The holidays are an ideal time to give back lized gift. to your community. If you have the means GIFT WRAPPING and want to help the less fortunate, here Look for kiosks set up in stores and shopare a few local causes you can support. ping malls where volunteers will expertly TOY DRIVES wrap your gifts in exchange for a donation Numerous local groups and businesses or- to a local cause. This is a great way to give ganize fundraisers to ensure every child in back to your community and check a task the community gets a present at Christmas. off your holiday to-do list. In some cases, you might be matched with FOOD BASKETS a kid so you can use information about their age and interests to buy a persona- Many organizations collect non-perishable items to support low-income families during the holiday season. As a volunteer you ANONYMOUS DONATIONS can help sort donations, pack boxes or deIf you know someone who’s experiencing liver baskets. Alternatively, you can make financial hardship, there are plenty of ways to a donation to your local food bank. offer your support during the holidays without To ﬁnd out how you can help members of making the person feel uncomfortable. Consider your community during the holidays, reach secretly dropping off presents for their children out to charities and organizations in your or mailing them a gift card from a local shop. area.

Whether you have a golden serves a special treat at • Rabbit: a comfortable cushion, scratching pad or retriever or a goldﬁsh, your Christmas. Here are a few treat dispensing toy animal companion de- possibilities. • Cat: a massage station, • Parrot: a woven ball foot toy, climbing net or roller circuit toy or hampuzzle board mock • Dog: a bandana, heated • Fish: a live plant, new hideout or automatic feebed or organic treats der • Ferret: a tunnel system, ball pit or harness for ou- Visit a pet shop or veterinary clinic in your region to tdoor excursions • Hamster: a new wheel, ﬁnd the perfect gift. wood chews, sand bath or hideout

Holiday music: give yourself the gift of a Christmas album Nothing compares to listening to an entire Christmas album while you decorate the tree, prepare a meal or wrap gifts. Here’s why you should add a few more holiday albums to your collection this year.

suit every type of occasion, whether it’s a boisterous party or an intimate gathering. YOU’LL HELP SUPPORT LOCAL ARTISTS

The music industry has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, as it YOU’LL CREATE A FESTIVE forced artists to cancel ATMOSPHERE live performances. BuyTraditional carols are an ing a holiday album from ideal way to set the mood a local singer, musician and spark fond memories or band is a great way to of holidays past. Alternatively, you can discover new talent and give the regional choose an album that reimagines Christ- music scene a much-needed boost. mas classics with a country, pop, jazz or Visit a music store in your area or follow techno twist. With options that span every local artists on social media to ﬁnd out style and genre, there’s a holiday album to about new holiday releases.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Support your community! Check out the online grocery marketplace, filled with high quality, local food made & grown here. Shop easily at seasoned-harvest.com/shop & avoid having to drive all over town.Time is more precious than ever. Make life simple & Enjoy Fresh, Local Food, Delivered!

Be safe and save a stop - shop when you visit for an eye exam! • • • •

Unique Pre-Selected Gift Boxes Create-Your-Own-Gift Boxes Fun & Elegant Accessories And Our Own Locally-Designed, Affordable Yet Irresistable Eyewear, Of Course!

• Customizable Baskets, Gift Certificates available • Free Delivery on 1st order! Use Code: freedlvy25 8

Skagit Valley Herald Holiday Guide

November 25, 2020

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Skagit Valley Herald Holiday Guide

November 25, 2020

4 tips for serving a sanitary buﬀet A buffet-style meal is a practical alternative to a sit-down dinner. However, there are several precautions you need to take to ensure your guests remain safe. Here are a few basic tips to follow. 1. PLAN YOUR MENU CAREFULLY Before you decide what you want to serve, ask your guests if they have any allergies or dietary restrictions. Omit or substitute ingredients as needed. For example, you can use chia seeds instead of eggs and swap cow’s milk for a plant-based alternative.

A HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE

as oysters must be kept cool at all times. Use bowls of ice and warming trays to control the Thoroughly wash your hands before and temperature of each dish. after you handle food. You should also use hot, soapy water to clean utensils and coo- 4. ENCOURAGE SAFE SELF-SERVING king surfaces between recipes and after pre- Put a bottle of alcohol-based hand sanitizer paring raw meat. If you need to cough or at each end of the table to ensure everyone sneeze, turn away from the food and cover washes their hands before helping themyour face. selves to the buffet. You should also urge guests to wear a face mask while they serve 3. REGULATE FOOD TEMPERATURE their meal to avoid contaminating the food. Meat needs to be properly cooked to prevent food poisoning caused by salmonella Finally, avoid leaving food out for more than or E. coli. Additionally, certain foods such a few hours. 2. KEEP YOUR PREP SPACE CLEAN

Santa Claus brownies Start to finish: 1 hour (30 minutes active) Servings: 24 brownies Are you looking for the perfect holiday dessert? Children and adults alike will enjoy this playful and seasonal twist on traditional brownies. Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 177 C (350 F). Grease a 22 by 32 centimetre (9 by 13 inch) baking dish. Set aside. 2. Using a whisk or hand beater, blend the butter, sugar and vanilla in a large bowl. Add the eggs and mix well. Incorporate the rest of the brownie ingredients and blend until the mixture is uniform. 3. Pour the brownie mixture into the baking dish and bake in the oven for

A season of SAVINGS

Ingredients For the brownies • 1 cup butter, room temperature • 2 cups sugar • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • 4 eggs • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder • 1 cup flour • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the icing • 1/3 cup butter, room temperature • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • 2 cups icing sugar • 3 tablespoons milk • 1 cup heavy cream • 1/4 cup sugar • 24 strawberries, hulled

at high speed until the whipped cream 30 minutes or until a toothpick is firm. inserted in the centre comes out clean. Set aside to cool. 6. Once the brownies are completely cool, spread a thin layer of the 4. In the meantime, whisk the butter, chocolate icing on top. Cut the cocoa powder, honey and 1 teaspoon brownies into 24 equal portions. Place of vanilla in a large bowl. Slowly add 1 strawberry upside down on each the icing sugar and milk while piece of brownie. Using a piping bag, blending the mixture at low speed create a circle of whipped cream until it reaches the desired texture. Set around the base of each strawberry aside. and top the fruit with a dot of whipped 5. In another bowl, mix the heavy cream, cream. sugar and the rest of the vanilla. Blend

th ar y 5 2 ers v ni n A

GALLERY

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AT THE FRAMEMAKER

fine art & custom framing 221 S. 1st Street, Mount Vernon,WA 360.757.6677 • www.makerscompounding.com

Skagit Valley Herald Holiday Guide

Open Wednesday – Saturday 11am – 5pm 420 Commercial • Anacortes • 360-293-6938 • scottmilo.com November 25, 2020

2037349

AND HALLMARK

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for the kids of Skagit County

The Skagit Valley Herald CHriStmaS Fund is a non-profit, charitable organization that has provided toys, books and holiday meals to needy children and their families in Skagit County for 7 years. Every donation is tax over 60 deductible.To To donate donate,or volunteer, or volunteer, visitsponsor goskagit.com/xmasfund. a family, visit goskagit.com/xmasfund.

1689699 2035998

it’S time For joy • it’S time For toyS • it’S time For giVing

CHriStmaS Fund

Thank you for your tax deductible donation to The Skagit Valley Herald Christmas Fund: ❏ cash

❏ check#_________________ ❏ credit card (see below)

I would like to donate $____________.______ dollars. Name____________________________________________________________________________ Address__________________________________________________________________________ Telephone number__________________________Email:__________________________________ Is this donation given anonymously?

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Name(s) to publish:_________________________________________________________________ Or, you may wish to give your donation in memoriam; if so, name to publish In memory of:_____________________________________________________________________ Credit Card#______________-_______________-_______________-______________

360.419.7261 goskagit.com/xmasfund christmasfund@skagitpublishing.com goskagit.com

Amount to charge card $_____________. _______ Exp. Date____________CVV Code _________ Mail to (and checks payable to): The SVH Christmas Fund • 1215 Anderson Road • Mount Vernon, WA 98274 Skagit Valley Herald Christmas Fund is a 501(c)3 status non-profit organization (Tax ID 91-1304740)

Skagit Valley Herald Holiday Guide

November 25, 2020

Black Frida y

Sale items include:

Grand OpeninG

Led headlights 99 Dollars Rockford Fosgate 500-Watt Amplifiers 159 dollars Subwoofers Starting at 79 dollars

on 11-27, 11-28, 11-30. (Store hours are 9-6) Live remote broadcast KISM on Friday 27th12-3

Speakers Starting at 39 dollars Christmas Stocking Stuffers starting at 19 dollars Remote car starter systems starting at 179* dollars

MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN!

Free hot dogs and Soda on

INSTALLED! *extra parts may be required. See salesperson for details.

Mobile Music now has a FULL line of auto accessories and installation.

Friday 27th 12-3

Now on sale

Free Give a ways all weekend every hour!

(lift kits, fender flares, Steps for trucks, bed covers, exhaust systems, led lighting, bug deflectors, window visors)

(gift cards up to 500.00, led flash lights,

Mobile Music also offers Heated Seats. (turn your factory car seat into a Warm Heated seat) 249 dollars installed.

led head lights, shirts, work lights, car stereos and speakers) All three days

Factory reps from (Jl audio, Rockford Fosgate and Hertz Audison on site) Rockford Fosgate Demo Van on display.

Leather seats (upgrade that old Cloth seats or Old Leather Seats in your car/truck to NEW leather for as little as 1100 installed. Stop by our New Flag Ship store!!! Sale items good at all Mobile Music Stores Bellingham, Burlington and Port Angeles Give -a-ways are only available at the Burlington Store.

Skagit Valley Herald Holiday Guide

November 25, 2020

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