Wine Pick of the Month | Gulp …

Wine Pick of the Month | Gulp Hablo Orange

GULP HABLO ORANGE With its offbeat, quirky label, Gulp Hablo Orange is an eye-catching, bold-flavored wine that is sure to stand out on anyone’s wine rack. Crafted in the heart of Spain in biodynamic vineyards with chalky clay soils by Bodegas Parra Jimenez, Gulp Hablo offers vinophiles and casual tasters a beautiful blend of equal parts Verdejo and Sauvignon Blanc, a common combination for the white wines of the La Mancha region. In this case, due to a…

8 Great Tastes | Summer 2026

1. The Drive-In Style Cheeseburger at Structures Brewing lives up to the hype. Crispy-edged beef, melty American cheese, onion, pickle, and house sauce on a soft bun that is seriously satisfying. 2. A stop at Storia Cucina always turns into…

A Sustainable Clothing Store …

A Sustainable Clothing Store For Nature Fanatics | Found & Foraged Fibers

THE SHOP Sustainable fashion and a deep-rooted love for nature and the health of our planet go hand-in-hand. Passion for sustainability and everything green is why Founder, Owner, and Artist Kendra Russo decided to start Found & Foraged Fibers seven years ago. Russo’s products are made by eco-printing, which “transfers the pigment…

Outdoor Dining Recipes from …

Outdoor Dining Recipes from Sam’s Kitchen | Little Ferraro Kitchen

When you’re not headed to one of the many waterfront patios, beer gardens, or other outdoor restaurant options in the North Sound this summer, consider hosting! Samantha Ferraro, beloved home chef of Bellingham-based Little Ferraro Kitchen, has a wonderful…

The Mixing Tin | Strawberry …

The Mixing Tin | Strawberry Cheesecake Martini

STRAWBERRY CHEESECAKE MARTINI A mix of sweet, creamy, and fruity, this martini is one of the only cocktails that accurately replicates delicious strawberry cheesecake. The vanilla, simple, and cream create a rich base that the spirits, fresh strawberries, and hints of lemon play off of beautifully! Vibrant and decadent, this drink is best enjoyed…

Under Open Skies: Patio Picks …

Under Open Skies: Patio Picks When the Weather Cooperates

Here in Northwest Washington, outdoor dining isn’t reserved for certain or special occasions. It’s simply how we like to eat whenever the weather cooperates. You know the feeling—someone checks the forecast, the temperature climbs a few degrees, and suddenly dinner plans shift toward anywhere with a table outside. Some evenings call for waterfront views and boats drifting through the harbor. Other times it’s a hillside patio along Chuckanut Drive or a quiet table among vineyard rows in the Skagit. …

Feasting During the Fourth of …

Feasting During the Fourth of July: Sustainable Edition

The feasting of Fourth of July has become its own beast, known worldwide. The sheer amount of hamburgers, fruit, potato salads, hot dogs, and chocolate chip cookies eaten on this day is practically unimaginable. While this is the day to go ham on all of these foods, it’s important to make sure that you’re eating all of the leftovers that you can, whether this means having the same meal over and over…

Summer Fun Guide | 2026

Get ready to make the most of the season with our Summer Fun Guide, packed with exciting community events, local adventures, family activities, and more. Whether you’re looking for outdoor recreation, live entertainment, delicious eats, or hidden gems to explore, there’s something for everyone to enjoy all summer long. Dive in and start planning your best summer today!

Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe

Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe

There are many delicious vegetables in season during the warmer months, including carrots, lettuce, cucumber, and zucchini. We recently made a delectable chocolate zucchini cake from my grandma’s recipe that is the perfect summer sweet treat! This cake is moist…

A Relaxing Gateway to …

A Relaxing Gateway to Holistic Personal Care | The Wildflower Spa

The Wildflower Spa has fully bloomed on Mount Vernon’s bustling 1st Street after expanding their space and services in 2025. Previously known as Bare Boutique, this spa provides healing experiences in…

All Arrows Aim For The …

All Arrows Aim For The Greenhouse | Arrows Aim Greenhouse & Supply Co.

Founder and Ceramicist Leeann Fox started Arrows Aim Greenhouse Supply & Co. with just a website in 2020. Fox built a mobile greenhouse soon afterward, which is now the PNW’s longest-running mobile plant shop, according to their website. In 2025, they opened their first brick-and-mortar in downtown Mount Vernon after six years…

Clock in at The Office | The …

Clock in at The Office | The Office Tavern

While upscale dining is on the rise, The Office Tavern stands out as a casual gathering place designed for returning visitors rather than turning tables. Just off Burlington’s Fairhaven Avenue, this 21-and-over establishment captures the easygoing vibe of a neighborhood bar with a polished environment. Since becoming the sole owner of The Office in 2023,…

World Cup Comes to Seattle

Throughout June and July, the largest ever FIFA Men’s World Cup will feature six matches at Lumen Field, a multi-purpose stadium in Seattle’s SoDo neighborhood. This is a special opportunity for the Emerald City, as Seattle is one of just 16 selected host cities across North America. With an expected 750,000 visitors, King County is in for a $1 billion economic boost. Regarded as the ultimate celebration of the sport, the World…

Since Time Immemorial | Dan …

Since Time Immemorial | Dan Friday

Since Time Immemorial is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by Lhaq’temish, Nooksack, and other Coast Salish peoples is knowledge about how to live in our…

Wine Pick of the Month | …

Wine Pick of the Month | Juggernaut Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

JUGGERNAUT SONOMA COAST CHARDONNAY The great white shark on the bottle label represents the resilience of the grapes that go into this wine. According to Juggernaut’s website, growing conditions on the Sonoma Coast frequently feature fog and intense wind, causing the grapes to ripen less sweetly. Their strong acidic structure withstands the winemaking process and prevails in the glass,…

New Hotel Acts as Gateway to …

New Hotel Acts as Gateway to Sedro-Woolley | The Kulshan Hotel

Traveling workers, families, adventurers, and staycationers have an exciting new place to stay in Sedro-Woolley. The Kulshan Hotel, which opened in March 2025, is a boutique 49-room hotel with all the modern amenities. It’s already brought a noticeable boost to the city’s travel sphere. The Kulshan Hotel is owned…

Stay, Eat, Play | Washington …

Stay, Eat, Play | Washington State Casinos

From coastal escapes along the Pacific to destination resorts east of the Cascades, Washington’s casinos offer far more than gaming alone. Many have grown into full-scale hospitality destinations, blending thoughtfully designed hotels with standout dining, live entertainment, spas, and plenty of ways to unwind beyond the casino floor. Whether you’re planning a fun…

8 Great Tastes | May 2026

1. Golden, crunchy, and downright addictive, Nicki’s Bella Marina’s Deep-Fried Pickles strike the perfect balance between crisp batter and tangy dill bite. 2. The Asian1 Appetizer Combination delivers a satisfying mix of crispy, savory bites just perfect for sharing. It comes with Golden and satay chicken, egg rolls, prawns, and even has…

Spring Cream Pasta with …

Spring Cream Pasta with Smoked Sockeye, Seared Scallops & Spring Vegetables Recipe | Chef Matthew’s Corner

April showers bring May flowers, and here in the Pacific Northwest that also means the beginning of our farming season. Local markets fill with bright greens, sweet peas, tender carrots, and the first real promise of warmer days ahead. This dish is a celebration of that transition. Creamy pasta meets spring vegetables, silky smoked sockeye, and golden‑seared scallops for a…

Shopping for a Day at the …

Shopping for a Day at the Casino

One of the best things about visiting casinos is the wide range of activities that one can indulge in. In addition to restaurants and games, many casinos boast hotels with swimming pools, spas, and gyms. Part of the fun is dressing up for each occasion! You don’t want to end up wearing…

The Mixing Tin | Casino

CASINO Jack’s Bar Ingredients: Gin, lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, orange bitters, Luxardo cherry The Casino cocktail is a simple but sophisticated drink that anyone can enjoy, whether…

The Smaller The Bite, The …

The Smaller The Bite, The Better The Taste

Imagine this: you’re lying outside on a blanket in the sun on bright green grass. The temperature is warm, but not too warm, and…

Mrs. Worldwide: Mother’s …

Mrs. Worldwide: Mother’s Day Around The World

Mother’s Day, as we think of it, was founded in the United States in the early 1900s by Anna Jarvis, the daughter of Ann Reeves Jarvis, a community organizer and social activist during the Civil War era. After her mother’s death, Jarvis created Mother’s Day as…

The Camel’s Watering Hole: …

The Camel’s Watering Hole: Burlington’s Newest Speakeasy | Speakeasy Saloon

Maybe it’s something about reentering the ‘20s, but speakeasies have seen a definite resurgence over the past five to 10 years. Thankfully, history isn’t repeating itself entirely, so we aren’t flocking to these hidden bars and restaurants out of necessity—we’re doing it because they’re so much dang fun. The Speakeasy Saloon in Burlington opened in April 2025, and is the latest restaurant to come from the creators of Railroad Pub & Pizza and Train Wreck Bar & Grill. You…

Cooking with Cannabis

Cooking with Cannabis offers a gentle and customizable way to support relaxation, ease chronic discomfort, and enhance overall well-being. When infused into everyday foods, it allows for steady, predictable effects without smoking—making it an appealing option for those seeking natural relief. With thoughtful ratios and simple preparation methods, cooking with cannabis can become a comforting addition to a balanced, wellness-focused diet. Tips to Get Started…

Every Day is Earth Day in …

Every Day is Earth Day in April Community | Earth Day Events Roundup

Earth Day happens annually on April 22, and the Pacific Northwest is the perfect place to celebrate, with an abundance of community cleanups, parades, and sustainability events. These events are often free and family-friendly. Plus, be sure to head to your favorite state park—Earth Day is a Discover Pass free day! BELLINGHAM Since 2022, Sunnyland Neighborhood has hosted an Earth Day celebration that is perfect for the whole family to enjoy. This year’s event will…

Sawdust and Splendor | Skagit …

Sawdust and Splendor | Skagit Wood Expo and Marketplace

The fourth annual Skagit Wood Expo and Marketplace is going down at The Skagit County Fairgrounds in lovely Mount Vernon on April 18 and 19. This family-friendly event focuses on locally-sourced wood and lumber, with…

Rooted in Rain

If you garden west of the Cascades, you already know this truth: rain isn’t possible to fight—you just have to work with it. Western Washington gardens don’t follow the tidy rules found in seed catalogs or glossy how-to books. They grow sideways, stretch through gray “days”…

Blackened Halibut with Spring …

Blackened Halibut with Spring Succotash, Lemon-Herbed Rice, and Lemon Beurre Blanc Recipe | Chef Matthew’s Corner

Early spring is one of my favorite moments in the kitchen. Winter cooking starts to loosen its grip, the markets brighten up, and seafood takes center stage again. This dish brings together a Louisiana-inspired blackening technique with Pacific Northwest halibut and fresh spring vegetables. Finished simply, it’s clean and balanced. With the addition of a light lemon beurre blanc, it becomes a…

The Mixing Tin | Cassandra’…

The Mixing Tin | Cassandra’s Rapture

CASSANDRA’S RAPTURE Temple Bar | $14 Ingredients: Mezcal, Genepy, lemon juice, Aperol, Firewater bitters This original cocktail is a perfect spring indulgence! Served up in a…

Something Special Skagit | …

Something Special Skagit | Wild Bird Supply

Skagit Wild Bird Supply General Manager Tia Melhus, didn’t always like birds. In fact, she only started paying attention to them after being laid off during 2020. For Melhus, the crisis of being suddenly at home a lot more became an opportunity to learn about the birds all around her. “You start by noticing that first bird, and wondering and learning about it, then the next one and the next one, and it…

The Nomadic Kitchen …

The Nomadic Kitchen Adventures of a Personal Chef | Nourishing Nomad

Not weighed down by restaurant or retainer—a personal chef plans, arrives, cooks, and leaves. Chef Joshua Gatewood, Founder, Owner, and Chef at Nourishing Nomad, has found that it’s the perfect niche for him. Gatewood is a former Marine who used his GI Bill (veteran education benefits) to go to culinary school at the Art Institute of Seattle in 2009. Cooking…

Sometimes You Want To Go …

Sometimes You Want To Go Where Everybody Knows Your Pie Order | Pie Dive Bar

Last September, La Conner was the latest PNW town to welcome family business Pie Dive Bar into the community. This bar and restaurant combines two great American traditions, defined right in the name. What could make a perfectly imperfect, come-as-you-are dive bar better than the addition of delicious, fresh-baked pie? This is the third Pie Dive Bar, with previous locations opening in Snohomish in 2022 and Gold Bar in 2024. It’s also the…

8 Great Tastes | March 2026

1. Samosas are fried, savory pastries that are perfect for a light meal or an on-the-go snack. We love Naan & Brew’s delicious Veggie Samosas, served with a flavor-packed chickpea sauce. 2. If you haven’t been to Hey Dumplin’ in Bellingham yet, this is…

Rooted in the Natural World, …

Rooted in the Natural World, Near and Far | ERTH

THE SHOP Nestled among the storefronts of La Conner’s quaint downtown, ERTH is a quiet and calming oasis brimming with natural clothing and goods. Owner Stephanie…

Wine Pick of the Month | …

Wine Pick of the Month | Pepper Bridge Winery Merlot

PEPPER BRIDGE WINERY MERLOT Pepper Bridge Winery Merlot is the kind of wine that feels like a hug in a glass—rich, smooth, and effortlessly inviting. Aromas of ripe black cherry, plum, and a hint of cocoa draw you in, while balanced acidity and…

The Great Build

Embarking on a custom home build comes with so many questions, considerations, and decisions, it can seem as daunting as climbing Mount Everest. How do you know where to build, what professionals to go with, and which goals to make your top priority? To help demystify the process, we investigated four outstanding local projects—two Pacific Northwest Contemporaries, a Scandinavian Contemporary, and…

Corned Beef with Parsley …

Corned Beef with Parsley Carrots, Cabbage, and Black-Eyed Peas | Chef Matthew’s Corner

There are few meals more comforting or more closely tied to St. Patrick’s Day than corned beef and cabbage. This version keeps things simple, balanced, and deeply satisfying, with tender brisket, buttery parsley carrots, gently cooked cabbage, and a side of black-eyed peas for warmth and good fortune. These dishes are rooted in tradition, affordable ingredients, and shared tables. They’re straightforward to prepare, perfect for feeding a crowd,…

The Mixing Tin | Black & …

The Mixing Tin | Black & Tan

BLACK & TAN The Den | $10 Ingredients: Pale ale, stout Bellingham has a certain affection for beer cocktails—if you’ve ever enjoyed a night at Cap Hansen’s bar, you probably know what we’re talking about. One of the simplest (and tastiest) beer cocktails out there is a Black & Tan, made by floating half a pint of a stout beer (usually Guinness) over half a pint…

Wake Up! Coffee Culture …

Wake Up! Coffee Culture Refresh to Help Welcome in Spring

By March, the rainy skies of winter have long overstayed their welcome and we’re ready to bid the colder months adieu. To combat the gloomy weather, we have put together a list of our favorite coffee providers. A visit to these…

Special, Unique, One-of-a-…

Special, Unique, One-of-a-Kind: Transformative Tailoring | The Town Seamstress

There’s plenty of stressful details to worry about before a wedding, but The Town Seamstress is there to make sure that the dress isn’t one of them. Founded by Master Tailor Kristin Griffith, The Town Seamstress is a bridal and women’s formal wear tailor shop in Downtown Mount Vernon. Although they don’t…

We Stand Tall on the …

We Stand Tall on the Shoulders of the Women Before Us | Women’s History Month

“I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own.” — Audre Lorde In the United States, since 1987, March has been Women’s History Month—the annual celebration of the contributions and accomplishments of women everywhere. The first International…

Hello, Yellow | La Conner …

Hello, Yellow | La Conner Daffodil Festival

Experience nature’s awakening in beautiful La Conner, as the town welcomes the season of renewal with the 12th Annual Daffodil Festival. Skagit County produces more daffodil bulbs than any other county in the United States, and for the entire month of March, the town invites visitors to explore 500 acres of daffodils as they…

A Sustainable Small-Business …

A Sustainable Small-Business Sanctuary | elSage Designs

THE SHOP When you first set foot into elSage Designs’ brick-and-mortar in downtown Mount Vernon, you may already be planning your next visit. The colorful designs and high-quality art are welcoming and mesmerizing. Phoebe Carpenter Eells, the owner and artist at elSage Designs, began selling her art online around 2010, and went full-time in 2012. In the summer of 2019, elSage expanded to the large space they…

Whatcom County Invasive …

Whatcom County Invasive Species Awareness Week

From Feb. 23 to Feb. 27, Whatcom County will present its second annual Invasive Species Awareness Week. This is a very important week for Washingtonians, as it emphasizes just how critical the protection of our beautiful state ecosystems are. As stated by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, “An invasive species is a plant, animal, or other organism introduced to an area outside of its native range, usually by humans, which negatively impacts…

8 Great Tastes | February 2026

1. For a quick and delicious hot lunch, swing by Leaf & Ladle and get yourself a Seasonal Panini. It’s stuffed with thinly sliced apples, a thick layer of ham, and gooey, melted brie cheese. 2. Banh Mi & Bubble Tea might be Bellingham’s favorite food truck, and though the banh mi is delicious, you’ve got to try the Fried BBQ Pork Buns—crispy and fluffy fried buns filled with BBQ pork. 3. For a savory…

Sweetheart Spots | Dining …

Sweetheart Spots | Dining Destinations for Every Kind of Romance

Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of discovering and sharing some of the most memorable restaurants across our region—each one with its own flavor, story, and sense of place. This collection celebrates the passion, creativity, and heart that make dining here such a special occasion. Whether it’s your first date, your forever favorite, or just a friendly night out, these local dining gems set the scene for all kinds of connection, comfort, and even a little romance. Cheers,…

Wine Pick of the Month | …

Wine Pick of the Month | Rombauer Vineyards 2022 Zinfandel

ROMBAUER VINEYARDS 2022 ZINFANDEL The 2022 Rombauer Zinfandel continues the Napa Valley winery’s tradition of bold, fruit-driven reds with broad appeal. This vintage bursts with ripe blackberry, raspberry, and plum,…

A Contemporary Curation of …

A Contemporary Curation of Craftsmanship | Bitters Co.

Sisters Amy and Katie Carson of Bitters Co. have worked closely with craftspeople for over three decades to develop their unique homewares collection. Beyond a direct-to-customer and wholesale business, Bitters Co. is a design and product development…

Steak Oscar | Pan-Seared …

Steak Oscar | Pan-Seared Filet with Asparagus, Warm Crab, and Béarnaise Recipe | Chef Matthew’s Corner

February may be the shortest month, but it’s easily the sweetest. With Valentine’s Day at the center and the first hints of winter shifting toward spring, it’s the perfect time for…

A Classy Place to Eat Steak …

A Classy Place to Eat Steak With Grace | Cask and Cleaver Steakhouse

I’ve got great news for local bourbon and steak lovers! There’s a new, delicious steakhouse in Mount Vernon—Cask and Cleaver! Bill Constantine,…

The Mixing Tin | Love Potion …

The Mixing Tin | Love Potion No. 9

LOVE POTION NO. 9 Sip into something seductive this Valentine’s Day with the Love Potion No. 9, a vibrant cocktail blending vodka, peach schnapps, and cranberry juice. Topped with a splash of sparkle and a raspberry garnish, it’s the perfect drink to toast love, flirtation, or a little mischief in every glass Ingredients 1 ounce vodka 1 ounce peach schnapps 2 ounce cranberry juice Splash of club soda or prosecco Garnish: raspberries or a heart-shaped strawberry Instructions Fill…

Galentine’s Guide

It’s been 16 years since Galentine’s Day first hit the mainstream, thanks to the sitcom “Parks and Recreation.” According to character Leslie Knope, the day before Valentine’s is all about “ladies celebrating ladies” with brunch, heartfelt stories, and showing plenty of love to all your gal-pals. Galentine’s Day has outlived its origins and…

Green Smoothies for Health …

Green Smoothies for Health and Nutrition

Green smoothies are more than just a health trend—they’re a simple, delicious way to boost daily nutrition. Combining leafy greens like spinach or kale with fruits, liquids, and optional superfood boosters, these vibrant drinks provide vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants in every sip. Ideal for busy mornings or a post-workout pick-me-up, green smoothies can be customized to suit any taste, from tropical sweetness to creamy chocolate or zesty citrus. Easy to…

Wine Pick of the Month | …

Wine Pick of the Month | Thomson & Scott Noughty Blanc

THOMSON & SCOTT NOUGHTY NON-ALCOHOLIC BLANC Thomson & Scott Noughty Blanc is a fresh and easygoing non-alcoholic white that’s perfect for light dinners. Made with organic grapes and crafted to keep its character after…

Becoming Our Best Selves, One …

Becoming Our Best Selves, One Organic Veggie at a Time | Cosmic Veggies

These days, I’ve found that hope and community are more important than ever, especially considering the current state of our world. Luckily, we’ve got access to a healthy resource in Skagit County that is more reliable and comprehensible than ever. This is Cosmic Veggies, a vegan and gluten-free eatery in downtown Anacortes founded by charismatic, passionate boss-woman Elizabeth Weaver. Around 13 years ago, Weaver…

Community Health Concerns …

Community Health Concerns Through the Ages

For so many of us, health concerns fall into two camps: “worthy of a doctor appointment” and “I’ll probably wonder about this forever.” But even questions that don’t feel urgent deserve answers! Which is why we’ve…

8 Great Tastes | January 2026

1. It’s not happenstance that Avenue Bread has three separate locations in Bellingham alone. This popular eatery’s Tofu-ggenue breakfast sandwich is a savory tofu, avocado, red pepper, and caramelized onion delight! 2. The Black Cat’s Fried Chicken and Bacon sandwich is the perfect way to end the day! Paired with the ambience of the restaurant, you’re…

Thai Beef Stir Fry | Chef&#…

Thai Beef Stir Fry | Chef’s Corner

These days, it seems every other news story is talking about the merits (or pitfalls) of the low carb, high fat (LCHF) diet, also commonly referred to as the Keto…

Face Your Fears, Save a Life |…

Face Your Fears, Save a Life | What It’s Like to Donate Blood

If you want to go above and beyond with your New Year’s resolutions in 2026, consider adding “saving a life” to the list. The good news is you don’t have to learn CPR or go through years of schooling–it’s as easy as scheduling a blood donation appointment! Don’t think your blood is needed? Think again! Annually, 5 million Americans require a blood transfusion, which amounts to one person every two seconds. These recipients come from…

The Mixing Tin | Immune Boost …

The Mixing Tin | Immune Boost Mule

IMMUNE BOOST MULE Bright, zesty, and brimming with wellness perks, the Immune Boost Mule is a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail. Blending citrus, ginger, and honey, it delivers bold flavor while adding a dose of nutrients perfect for any season. For an alcohol-free version, omit the vodka and add a splash of sparkling water! Ingredients 2 ounces vodka ½ ounce fresh lemon juice…

It’s Never Too Late for …

It’s Never Too Late for Fate | Joe Treat

Tucked away amongst the lush green suburbs of Bow, a menagerie of creatures surrounds a picturesque one-story house. A giant spider resides on the roof, while a full-sized horse, elephant, nesting ostrich, kangaroo with a joey in its pouch, alligator, bulldog, and more share the vast, grassy yard. Joe Treat, a 72-year-old semi-retired insurance agent, is…

We Are All Treaty People

Treaty Day, observed on Jan. 22, is the anniversary of the signing of the Point Elliott Treaty in 1855. While the Treaty is in effect every day of every year, marking this day can provide us with a chance to learn about and reflect…

Skagit’s Wellness Sanctuary …

Skagit’s Wellness Sanctuary | Quantum Health Pilates & Yoga Lounge

Quantum Health Pilates & Yoga Lounge has a natural way of drawing people in. With its relaxed environment, it offers visitors of every ability level a place to recharge and nurture their health. More than just a fitness studio, Quantum is a one-stop wellness destination, bringing movement,…

Wine Pick of the Month | …

Wine Pick of the Month | Ambassador Wines of Washington 2019 Estate Envoy Red Blend

AMBASSADOR WINES OF WASHINGTON 2019 ESTATE ENVOY RED BLEND Several months ago, I was treated to a wine dinner experience at Copperleaf Restaurant & Bar at Cedarbrook Lodge in SeaTac. The…

Meals From the Sea, and the …

Meals From the Sea, and the Heart | Tide & Taste

If you walk down cozy Commercial Street in Anacortes, also known as “restaurant row,” you’ll see the happy faces of diners entering and exiting the many cafes and restaurants of the…

Magic in the Making

Magic can be found in the unlikeliest of places. A slate-gray blob of clay, a blank white canvas, rich brown wood, or even soft beeswax. These materials carry endless potential and can be made into statues of animals, culturally significant totems, and beautiful, bright landscape paintings. Here are just some of the Northwest’s local artists who’ve unlocked the magic within. Yvonne Buijs-Mancuso Encaustic…

The Mixing Tin | Mulled Wine

MULLED WINE ‘Tis the season for steaming drinks in front of a fire with your favorite people with a pot of fragrant, cheerful mulled wine a la Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol!” Originating in ancient cultures, this hot boozy beverage was probably stewed for pleasure, medicine, and as a good way to get all the life out of spices. The Ancient Romans had a…

Art Is All Around | Galleries …

Art Is All Around | Galleries Near You

In pretty much any Northwest Washington town, you’ll often find yourself near local art. Below, you can find just a few of the galleries that showcase the creative work of our area. Allied Arts of Whatcom County In the heart of downtown Bellingham, we’re surrounded by the creative endeavors of the folks who make the town what it…

8 Great Tastes | Winter 2025

1. Fuel up for a big day with the Barnyard Benedict at Sweet Bay Cafe. The poached eggs are served with bacon or ham on an English muffin,…

Shake Up the Season | Winter …

Shake Up the Season | Winter Cocktails to Try at Home

Looking for some fun winter cocktails to brighten the season? These recipes are easy to shake up at home with just a few simple ingredients. A quick grocery run covers the basics, while many garnishes can be found right in the pantry—perfect for adding a personal twist. From sweet to tangy to bold and cozy, there’s something here for…

Light, Warmth, and Joy in …

Light, Warmth, and Joy in Winter’s Night | Winter Celebrations

Winter is a season of contrasts: it’s the darkest, coldest season, representing quiet, solitude, and endings, and it’s also when we come together for festivities around joy, connection, and light. Many winter celebrations pay homage to the struggles of the season while reveling in the…

Holiday Glam | Beauty Looks …

Holiday Glam | Beauty Looks That Wow From Day to Night

Between family gatherings, office celebrations, and last-minute gift runs, the holiday season often demands a look that’s both festive and flexible. For women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s, the key isn’t chasing trends—it’s embracing looks that feel polished, timeless, and tailored to your features. This season, beauty…

Green Bean Casserole and …

Green Bean Casserole and Bourbon Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie | Chef Matthew’s Corner, Recipe

Nothing says “I love you” during the holidays quite like Green Bean Casserole served alongside a Bourbon Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie. Both dishes carry a sense of nostalgia and comfort, and every time I make them, holiday or not, it feels like a celebration. Chances are you’ve tried some version of these dishes before,…

Sweet to Savory

Our home is a bounty of rich, flavorful ingredients. This holiday season, elevate your table with these signature recipes that showcase some of the best locally-sourced ingredients in our region. Whether you enjoy…

A Family Legacy of Giving …

A Family Legacy of Giving Back | Indira Rouw

I first met Indira Rouw through my local Buy Nothing group—she’d put out a call for sturdy grocery bags, and my cupboard was overflowing, so I popped over to her downtown Mount Vernon office with my arms full. I expected to have to explain myself to the person at the front desk, but the minute I opened the front door I saw the piles: grocery bags, yes, but also blankets and sleeping bags, which Rouw was collecting for homeless youth….

Give Something with Buy …

Give Something with Buy Nothing | Buy Nothing

The Buy Nothing Project first began in Bainbridge Island with two friends, Rebecca Rockefeller and Liesl Clark. After venturing through the Kitsap Peninsula, they were unhappy with the amount of waste they saw…

The Mixing Tin | Dark ‘n …

The Mixing Tin | Dark ‘n Stormy

DARK ‘N STORMY The Dark ‘n Stormy is a classic, and the perfect drink to make at home! With only three steps and ingredients including the garnish, it’s also one of the more accessible cocktails to make on a budget….

Boots, Burgers, and Beers: …

Boots, Burgers, and Beers: Bringing Community Back | Conway’s Pub and Eatery

After facing some challenging years, an iconic Skagit County staple is making a comeback as a go-to spot for locals and visitors. Under new ownership, Conway’s Pub and Eatery is being refreshed with a focus on revitalizing the neighborhood atmosphere while preserving the pub’s roots. Long known for its oysters, burgers, and dive bar charm, Conway’s is once again the lively gathering…

8 Great Tastes | October 2025

1. Indulgence is just a sandwich away with Mount Bakery‘s Jambon Buerre! Dijon mustard, cotto ham, smoked prosciutto, triple cream brie, all complemented by a thick layer of Camargue butter—this is a treat and a half. 2. For a casual and filling lunch stop, the Roast Beef on Grilled Focaccia from Caffe Adagio is perfect. Rich focaccia, mozzarella, roast beef, and tomato make this feel both hearty and delectable! 3. Big flavor comes in just…

Best of the Northwest 2025 | …

Best of the Northwest 2025 | Winners Announced!

130 Categories. 78,318 Submissions. 1,212,472 Individual Votes. 390 Winners. A 16-Year Tradition. Each October, we bring you the results of our annual Best of the…

Best of the Northwest 2025 | …

Best of the Northwest 2025 | Winners Announced!

130 Categories. 78,318 Submissions. 1,212,472 Individual Votes. 390 Winners. A 16-Year Tradition. Each October, we bring you the results of our annual Best of the Northwest readers’ choice contest. For the entire…

Indigenous Peoples Day

Indigenous Peoples Day, which falls annually on the second Monday of October, is a chance to celebrate the contributions and living cultures of Indigenous peoples. “Indigenous people” usually refers to a people who are the original inhabitants of a place and whose lifeways, language, and spirituality profoundly connected to their homeland. Here in what we now call Bellingham and the surrounding areas, Indigenous peoples include Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, Upper Skagit Indian Tribe, Samish Indian Nation,…

Preserving Heritage, Feeding …

Preserving Heritage, Feeding Community | Skagit Valley Festival of Family Farms

Every October, Skagit farms open their gates for the annual Skagit Valley Festival of Family Farms, a two-day celebration of agriculture and heritage. This year’s event takes place Oct….

Buried Voices and The Man Who …

Buried Voices and The Man Who Uncovers Them | Northern State Hospital

The grounds look like something one might see in Tuscany—creamy stucco buildings topped with terracotta roofs, with the Cascade mountains as a backdrop. The faces who peered from the windows during the property’s heyday, however, weren’t European vacationers—they were patients struggling with inner demons. Schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. “Exhaustion” and “dementia.” Addiction. The beautiful campus was the “Western State Hospital Farm for the Harmless Insane,” originally established in 1909 to aid the overcrowded Western State Hospital. Patients worked…

Providing a Happy Place to a …

Providing a Happy Place to a Close-Knit Community | WildFibers

“It was my happy place,” WildFibers Owner Brooke Jones says, gazing fondly at the colorful skeins of yarn and beautifully-knitted sample garments that surround us. “My birthday trip would be to come to WildFibers by myself, so I could be here for a long time…and at one point, I just asked [then-owner Sarah Parker]: ‘is there ever any need of someone very part-time?’” So began Jones’ tenure at the downtown Mount…

The Family-Farmed PNW Crop …

The Family-Farmed PNW Crop You Don’t Know About | Holmquist Hazelnut Orchards, Washington Hazelnut

We show a lot of appreciation for our agriculture around here, and everyone knows fall means fresh apples and pumpkins. But there’s another fall crop thriving in the PNW that’s delicious, nutritious, and ready for your holiday recipes: hazelnuts! NUTTY NORTHWEST Hazel trees (which are more like shrubs) pollinate in…

A New Orleans Monday in the …

A New Orleans Monday in the Pacific Northwest | Chef Matthew’s Corner

In New Orleans, Mondays have long carried the scent of simmering red beans and woodsmoke—an aroma woven into the rhythm of the week. Red Beans & Rice isn’t just a dish; it’s tradition, brought to Louisiana in the 1700s by French-speaking Haitian immigrants who blended their Caribbean beans and rice with local ingredients and slow-cooking techniques. The result is a…

The Mixing Tin | Sazerac

SAZERAC Let’s venture back to the early 1800s in New Orleans, when Antoine Peychaud invented the Sazerac. Peychaud worked in an apothecary where he was known for selling…

Dissecting the Cocktail

We usually enjoy cocktails in their completed forms, after they’ve been measured, shaken, and poured. But the process is enjoyable in and of itself—hence the hypnotic effect of sitting at a bar and watching…

Teaching to the Whole Child | …

Teaching to the Whole Child | Burlington Little School

Alexis (Lexi) Hughes, executive director of Burlington Little School (BLS), is serious about play. Passion beams from her face as she shows me around the property, which was a single family home before the school was founded by Bruce Campbell in 1997. “Here at our school, the children do everything through play,” Hughes says, as we start the tour in the large garden out front, surveying the lush plants maintained mostly by teachers,…

Keeping Our Community Moving …

Keeping Our Community Moving for Nearly Half a Century | Skagit Runners

When more than 500 runners gather at Burlington-Edison High School’s track this September to toe the line for the 48th Annual Skagit Flats Marathon, they’ll be carrying on a tradition that’s been a source of pride in Skagit Valley for nearly five decades. The Skagit Flats Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K—which is scheduled for Sunday, September 14—is one of four races organized each year by Skagit Runners, a 100% volunteer-run nonprofit that has built far…

8 Great Tastes | September …

8 Great Tastes | September 2025

1. Go on, be a little bad! The Sin-namon Roll Blondies from Slice of Heaven Bakery blend cinnamon, frosting, and buttery blondies for a repentance-worthy experience. 2. A homemade feel almost always makes a meal better—hop on over to Netos Market & Bakery for a Quesadilla or Carne Asada that you just can’t put down. 3. For a filling breakfast, head to Greene’s Corner in Sunnyland and try their Chicken & Waffles! Fried chicken…

It’s Showtime! | 2025 Fall/…

It’s Showtime! | 2025 Fall/Winter Theatre Season

The Mount Baker Theatre will be hosting a variety of shows throughout their upcoming theatre season, starting with “Mrs. Doubtfire: The New Musical Comedy” on Nov. 19. December will see the MBT taken over by the Tony Award-winning musical “The Book of Mormon,” playing Dec. 29-30. The season will be rounded out by “TINA -The Tina Turner Musical,” playing Jan. 12-13. Written by Pulitzer Prize-winner Katori Hall, the show…

A Beginner’s Guide to …

A Beginner’s Guide to Wine: How to get into the world of this historical beverage

Do you prefer a red? Or a white? Perhaps a rosé? Picking out the right wine—even answering that initial question—can seem like quite the chore, but the wine connoisseurs around you are eager to help with any question you could possibly have. Going back centuries, wine has played an integral part in bringing together the community. Back then, the options were limited. Walk into any grocery store today and you will see an overwhelming selection of fancy-sounding…

The Mixing Tin | Rum Punch

RUM PUNCH If you’re in the mood for a fruity, refreshing drink, rum punch is the one for you! Punch is widely considered to be the first cocktail, from which all other cocktail variations stem, and this version is perfect for a late summer day or a tropical vacay. The taste of the fruit…

Visit the Treasure Trove in …

Visit the Treasure Trove in the Loft of the Skagit Valley Co-op | Skagit Valley Co-op Mercantile

Since 1973 the Skagit Valley Food Co-op has been bringing local, organic, fair trade, and natural grocery items to the residents of Mount Vernon and beyond. But did you know that this philosophy applies to their wearables selection as well? Climb the…

Tomahawk Steak with Grilled …

Tomahawk Steak with Grilled Corn & Peach Salsa | Chef Matthew’s Corner

Long, golden evenings and backyard gatherings are what summer is all about—especially when there’s a perfectly cooked tomahawk steak from Widnor Farms cooking nearby. One of my favorite ways to enjoy the season is cooking outdoors with family, friends, and good music. While my usual go-to is a butter-basted steak in a cast iron skillet with rosemary, garlic, and cracked black pepper, summer often inspires me to take it outside. A Smoked & Grilled Tomahawk Steak is bold, dramatic, and…

Interiors to Satisfy the …

Interiors to Satisfy the Senses

Feeling at home in a space is all about satisfying the senses—not only sight and touch, which are the usual focus of interior design advice, but sound,…

8 Great Tastes | August 2025

1. Red Star Taco Bar’s Philly CheeseSteak and Korean BBQ Beef tacos bring something new to the table! Pair them with a non-alcoholic Afternoon Colada. 2. Recently opened in the old Little Dog Coffee Co….

Derby Derby Do!

The Kiplingcotes Derby originated in 1519 in Britain, earning the title of Britain’s oldest horse race. Now, over 500 years later, this horse derby still takes place annually…

31 Days of Giveaways

It’s time for 31 Days of Giveaways! Enter to win a prize from a local business every day in August, plus a chance to win…

8 Great Tastes | Summer 2025

1. Looking for something lightly sweet to complement your latte? Caffe Adagio’s famously good coffee pairs perfectly with their Marionberry Scone. 2. With crispy pork belly and pickled chilis, the Sweet and Spicy Pork Flatbread at Ferndale’s The Score Sports Bar & Grill is a slam dunk. 3. Mercato delle Bontà does Italian food right; The Star of the Show sandwich spotlights imported mortadella (complete with pistachio), with a supporting…

Seared Sockeye Salmon with …

Seared Sockeye Salmon with Rosemary Fingerlings, Summer Squash & Strawberry-Cucumber Arugula Salad | Chef Matthew’s Corner

June & July in the Pacific Northwest is a time when long days and warm evenings inspire colorful, laid-back meals made from ingredients grown right here in the North Sound. This dish brings together everything I love about a summer dinner in Bellingham: wild sockeye salmon, tender fingerling potatoes, sweet summer squash, and a fresh, unexpected salad made…

Playing Around With Summer’…

Playing Around With Summer’s Favorite Drink | Lemonade Tips & Tricks

Recipe for Simple Perfection Before we talk about anything else, let’s start with the basics: what’s the recipe for lemonade? Start with one part lemon juice, one part sugar, and three parts water, then tweak based on how strong or sweet you like it! Remember to dissolve the sugar into hot water before adding it to the lemon juice. The Main Squeeze You need to squeeze 3-4 lemons…

Boards Beyond the Cheese

Listen, everyone loves a cheese board, but sometimes you just want to break the mold! Boards are a great way to feed…

Five Great Family Fun Stops | …

Five Great Family Fun Stops | Five Faves

Summer is the time of year to create long-lasting family memories. Not sure where to go? Consider checking out these five amazing locations that are fit for all ages! Plan a day, or a full weekend filled with sun and excitement, and don’t hesitate! 1. Boulevard Park Featuring the Bellingham Boardwalk over the water, this location is…

Sweet Relief | Local Ice …

Sweet Relief | Local Ice Cream Spots

As the summer heat kicks in, we all need a little sweet relief. Thankfully for us, the Puget Sound area knows how to do ice cream. From Blaine to La Conner, here are some of our favorite ice cream shops that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Love from London Downtown Bellingham’s newest ice cream shop is bringing a bit of Londoner love to the…

The Mixing Tin | Tom Collins

TOM COLLINS Matthew’s Honest Cocktails: $11.50 Ingredients: 2 ounces gin, ¾ ounces lemon juice, ½ ounce simple syrup, and 2 ounces club soda From rickety lemonade stands to hitting the town, some things never change, including our love for a sweet and sour citrus beverage. The Tom Collins is what I like to think of as grown-up lemonade. A mix of gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and club soda, this drink has all the…

Farm, Garden, U-Pick Guide | …

Farm, Garden, U-Pick Guide | 2025

Introducing our 2025 Farm, Garden, U-Pick Guide; the perfect resource to help you plan your summer activities! Take advantage of the sun and warm weather this season by…

Summer Fun & Camp Guide |…

Summer Fun & Camp Guide | 2025

Don’t miss our 2025 Summer Fun & Camp Guide! From farmer’s markets to art festivals to plain old community fun, our guide has it all. Check our…

New Bistro Opens in Historic …

New Bistro Opens in Historic Mount Vernon Building | Union Block Bistro

Upon entering the Union Block Bistro, you’re immediately greeted by a friendly face. The Union Block Bistro is homey. The interior boasts a variety of colors, from lime green to…

Wine Pick of the Month | …

Wine Pick of the Month | Niccolo Coturri’s High Diving Sparkling 2023

PRODUCER: Niccolo Coturri WINE: High Diving Sparkling 2023 GRAPES: Madeleine Angevine and Siegerrbe from Lopez Island Vineyards We love this wine from our friends at Piquenique and Niccolo Coturri Wines—they’re some of the only natural wines being made in Washington state. Nic and Tess farm this organic vineyard themselves on Lopez Island, using no preservatives or chemicals in the winery and doing everything as sustainably and regeneratively as possible. This…

Mixing Family and Business …

Mixing Family and Business for Delicious Results | Hedlin’s Family Farm

Farming, specifically on the La Conner land his family has owned for four generations, has always been in Kai Ottesen’s blood. But that doesn’t mean he always planned on being a farmer. “I’d just graduated with a degree in English Literature from the University of Alaska…

Spring Spot Prawn & …

Spring Spot Prawn & Asparagus Risotto | Chef Matthew’s Corner

May in the Pacific Northwest is a time of abundance—farmers markets overflow with vibrant produce, and the Salish Sea offers some…

Kickin’ It With the South …

Kickin’ It With the South Fork Country Kickers

The universal appeal of line dancing has led to a recent surge in popularity and frequent appearances at local venues. The South Fork Country Kickers combine rural charm with a mix of musical genres, bringing a vibrant energy to the dance floor while providing instruction on how to line dance. For Founder and Lead Instructor Tari Bussard, it’s not just about learning how to dance—it’s about building self-confidence and…

Countryside Equestrian ‘…

Countryside Equestrian ‘Hipstoric’ Farmhouse Kitchen | TANNA BY DESIGN

With a nod to the English countryside, this farmhouse design combines old and new, mixing modern pieces and antique furniture with rough-and-ready European elements that everyone is gravitating toward—a ‘hipstoric’ farmhouse with a curated maximalist style. What is ‘hipstoric?’ It’s a recent industry buzzword for a place that’s historic in nature and redesigned to look hipster—or a place that’s totally hipster…

8 Great Tastes | May 2025

The Black Cat is known for its vintage, classy atmosphere and it’s delicious Mexican Street Corn Dip. From red brick walls to stained-glass Tiffany lamps, this is the perfect restaurant for fancy dining in historic Fairhaven. Who knows, maybe you’ll even catch a glimpse of the ghost who reportedly roams the halls of the building! Get the night started…

52 Perfect Saturdays

Ever wake up on the weekend and feel a tug to get out of the house and do something fun, but you have no idea what fun thing to do? Sometimes, you can waste a whole beautiful day languishing around trying…

Great Places to Get Flowers …

Great Places to Get Flowers for Mom | Five Faves

Flowers represent spring, which is associated with new life and motherhood—that’s part of what makes them such a popular gift on Mother’s Day. Here are some great local options for sourcing blooms for your mom this spring, because she deserves them! By the way, most of these businesses offer bouquet subscriptions or flower CSAs,…

The Mixing Tin | Blackberry …

The Mixing Tin | Blackberry Jalapeño Margarita

BLACKBERRY JALAPEÑO MARGARITA Red Star Taco Bar: $12 Ingredients: Jalapeño-infused blanco tequila, blackberry jam, lime, and a salt and Tajín-rimmed glass A cold winter’s night, a warm summer’s day, tequila and blackberry have come to say hey. The Blackberry Jalapeño Margarita from Red Star Taco Bar is clean, refreshing,…

Since Time Immemorial | Eliza …

Since Time Immemorial | Eliza Julius

Since Time Immemorial is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by Lhaq’temish, Nooksack, and other Coast Salish peoples is knowledge about how to live in our shared home in a good, life-sustaining way. We live in a time when we need to restore our relationship with Mother…

Teaching Self-Care | Skagit …

Teaching Self-Care | Skagit Alexander Technique

The Alexander Technique, which was created by Frederick Matthias Alexander in the late 1800s, is a method for improving posture and movement through self-awareness, with the aim of decreasing pain and increasing mindfulness. “The way I usually describe it is that it helps you learn to do things that you do every day, but with less tension, less…

8 Great Tastes | April 2025

We love Fairhaven’s Skylark’s Cafe for brunch, but this dinner item blew us away: Flat Iron Certified Angus Steak, marinated and sliced to order, with Yukon Gold garlic mashed potatoes, whiskey cream sauce, and seasonal veg! Want something other than a pretzel or a hot dog for a walking-around-snack in Downtown Bellingham? Grab some Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Skewers from Cafe Akroteri! Get the sides that come with it to-go for later. Hammerhead Coffee’s got a Sunday special that’s worth the…

Planting Joy, Growing …

Planting Joy, Growing Community | Tulip Valley Farms CEO Andrew Miller

In the heart of Skagit Valley, where spring transforms the landscape into a vibrant sea of color, Andrew Miller has carved out a unique space in the region’s storied tulip farming tradition. As the CEO of Tulip Valley Farms, Miller is not only reshaping the way people experience tulips but also championing the future of agritourism in Washington. A Non-Traditional…

Wine Pick of the Month | …

Wine Pick of the Month | Abeja “Beekeeper’s Blend”

ABEJA “BEEKEEPER’S BLEND” | COLUMBIA VALLEY, WASHINGTON Drinking this wine in April makes perfect sense—spring is in full bloom. A perfect day for me is bringing this wine out to the Semiahmoo…

For Love of Local Literature |…

For Love of Local Literature | Spotlight on Our Local Authors

I started my career in book publishing, working at Bloomsbury in London and publishing my first book over there, but when I moved back to the States I figured I’d have to leave that world behind—the great majority…

“If You Have a Garden and a …

“If You Have a Garden and a Library, You Have Everything You Need.” | Little Mountain Books & Botanica

If you’re headed to see the tulips this month, keep your eyes peeled! Just after you cross the river into West Mount Vernon a charming…

Bringing Color and Light to …

Bringing Color and Light to the Dead of Winter | Illuminight Winter Walk

People from all over Skagit and Whatcom converged on Mount Vernon’s Riverwalk Plaza on January 31 for the annual Illuminight Winter Walk. Crowds of families and friends lit the winter sky with lanterns of all shapes and sizes, from enormous salmon- and snail-shaped structures to small, round lanterns made from the free kits handed out throughout the month by the Mount Vernon Parks & Enrichment Services. The event began with music and dancing, including joyful performances by LaVenture…

Water You Waiting For? | …

Water You Waiting For? | Waterfront restaurants you’ll want to dive into!

The Pacific Northwest has some of the best restaurants that serve up some of the most breathtaking views of the Salish Sea. Each city and town has its own story of the waterfront, but the one thing they all have in common is the water views, which never get old. BLAINE & BIRCH…

Since Time Immemorial | Eliza …

Since Time Immemorial | Eliza Julius

Since Time Immemorial is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by Lhaq’temish, Nooksack, and other Coast Salish peoples is knowledge about how to live in our shared home in a good, life-sustaining way. We live in a time when we need to restore…

Brand New Tulip Field Opens …

Brand New Tulip Field Opens for Festival | Skagit Acres

The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is underway, and this year, there’s even more blooms to enjoy! Skagit Acres has become the fifth named farm in the Festival’s official roundup. Skagit Acres is already a South Mount Vernon destination for their nursery, garden center, restaurant, and gift shop. Now…

Be a Tourist in Your Own Town

Looking to check out something new around the Pacific Northwest area? Whether a long time resident or fresh to the northwest, we may be able to help you experience something new. From beaches, parks, and tulips to food and fun walks, let us guide you through being a tourist in your own hometown! TULIPS? TULIPS! If you’ve lived around the Pacific Northwest for long…

Take a Gamble, Just For the …

Take a Gamble, Just For the Halibut | Tunnies Fish & Chips

Tunnies Fish & Chips is a great stop for all seafood lovers! Located at the entrance to downtown La Conner, this restaurant offers crispy and tasty snacks for anyone looking for a quick bite. At Tunnies, they serve seafood in a quick-service…

Hooked by Seaport Books | …

Hooked by Seaport Books | Seaport Books

Nestled along the Swinomish Channel lies Seaport Books—the only bookstore in La Conner. The location in the Seaport Landing Building gives one the illusion of stepping back in time, with its light mint paint color and white trim that has the aesthetic of the early 20th century. While the building may look antique, the bookstore’s co-founders, Marion Melville and Janna Gage, celebrated its eighth year in…

Led by Love | Storia Cucina …

Led by Love | Storia Cucina Chef de Cuisine Helen Lofton + Recipe

Storia Cucina has been serving downtown Bellingham with delicious Italian staples since opening in 2020. The restaurant is known for many things, including its house-made pasta and bread, locally sourced ingredients, and…

Inspirational Designs in …

Inspirational Designs in Kitchen & Bath

Check out our March 2025 feature: Inspirational Designs in Kitchen & Bath!

The Mixing Tin | Irish Coffee

THE IRISH COFFEE In the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day, try an Irish coffee (at Uisce, if you’re in Bellingham)! This warm, comforting drink pays homage to its namesake through…

8 Great Tastes | March 2025

Greene’s Corner is a great spot to grab some food and enjoy local events, from live music to open mics—whatever the entertainment, the Korean Fried Chicken…

Wine Pick of the Month | …

Wine Pick of the Month | Kevin White 2023 “Blue Label”

KEVIN WHITE 2023 “BLUE LABEL” YAKIMA RED, $20.99 Big Blue is back and we’re so happy! We have been enamored with this Woodinville producer since its inception. Kevin brings…

Since Time Immemorial | Na-…

Since Time Immemorial | Na-tak-ul-tan Tino Kurtz

Since Time Immemorial is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge…

8 Great Tastes | February 2025

We all know Redlight for their friendly bartenders and great cocktails, but the food is also excellent. Whether you’re in the mood for slippery, spicy wontons or a crunchy Fried Chicken Bao, they’ve got what you’re craving. While Burgermaster in Mount Vernon is known for, well, their burgers, you’d be doing yourself a disservice if you didn’t get a shake. Their hand-spun…

Down for a B.A.D. Time | …

Down for a B.A.D. Time | Bellingham Aerial and Dance

Bellingham Aerial and Dance (B.A.D.) opened in late September 2024 and has already created waves in the arts community. The business idea came to Max Rodzon, the owner and founder of B.A.D., in July—they could tell Bellingham was in need of aerial dance. “There was such a want for it that I was able to spin it up pretty quickly, start marketing, and get a feel for how many people were interested,” says Rodzon….

“Bringing Joyful Bites to …

“Bringing Joyful Bites to Lynden” | Graze and Gather Charcuterie and Bistro

Among the new businesses Lynden Commons has brought to town is Graze and Gather Charcuterie and Bistro, run by local mother-daughter team Lydia Faber and Kristina Wendt. Faber always enjoyed cooking, especially gravitating toward ‘graze tables’—essentially a giant charcuterie board—which she made for friends and family. Wendt encouraged her mother to turn her passion into a business, and Graze and Gather opened as a charcuterie catering…

Looking for Help Making Your …

Looking for Help Making Your Space More Chic? | Schieck Spaces

Mackenzie Schieck is a one-woman operation at Schieck Spaces, where she offers many different creative services, including interior decorating, prop and food styling, writing, and photography. Given the wide range of services she provides, Schieck says that her business is more of a creative studio, where she…

The Mixing Tin | Pomegranate …

The Mixing Tin | Pomegranate Mimosa

POMEGRANATE MIMOSA (Based on recipes by Sonja Overhiser and The Chunky Chef.) Mimosas originated as Buck’s Fizz, a 50/50 combination of champagne and orange juice invented in 1921 at Buck’s Club in London. The cocktail has a wonderful fizzy taste and is infinitely adaptable—this version combines the citrusy notes of orange juice with tangy pomegranate for a fun spin on the classic! A Few…

A Foodie’s Guide | 2025

It’s here! Check out our February 2025 feature: A Foodie’s Guide.

Cottage Bakeries Throughout …

Cottage Bakeries Throughout the North Sound

Did you know that you could have a bakery right down the street from you and not even know it? Nestled in neighborhoods across Whatcom and Skagit Counties are some unique culinary gems known as cottage bakeries. Cottage bakeries are run by people who follow the specific guidelines to acquire a Washington State Cottage Food Permit. Currently administered by the Washington State Department of Agriculture, the permit allows residents to sell a select range of goods to folks right…

A Global Journey Inspires a …

A Global Journey Inspires a Local Wine Bar | Bryan Holmes of Blackbird Wine & Charcuterie

After years of traveling and cultivating a deep appreciation for food and wine, Bryan Holmes returned to Anacortes seeking to translate his experiences into something he could share with the community. And so, he opened Blackbird Wine & Charcuterie in November 2020. “I want to provide a space where people can build relationships, nurture friendships, and have…

The Whatcom Art Center and …

The Whatcom Art Center and All It Provides | Whatcom Art Center

Are you an aspiring artist, with all the corresponding hopes and dreams, but without the space to properly create? Luckily for you, the Whatcom Art Center is up and running. Located in the charming neighborhood of Fairhaven, the center boasts three art studios, along with space for…

Blending Old and New for an …

Blending Old and New for an Elegant Result | Littlebird Cabinetry

Our client’s Lake Whatcom home was undergoing a major remodel and had a dated kitchen design in need of an update. We had the challenge of combining new elements with the existing cabinetry in a cohesive way. The design called…

Wine Pick of the Month | …

Wine Pick of the Month | Comeluna Rosso

COMELUNA ROSSO New all-time favorite! Deep cherry notes come through on the nose, joined by notes of dried bark, earth and hints of cinnamon and licorice. Intense cherry notes on the palate that are balanced by nicely integrated acidity. Earth and dried bark notes sneak out on the mid palate into the complex and long finish of cherry liqueur, licorice, and hints of chocolate,…

Old Roots, New Blooms | …

Old Roots, New Blooms | Blaine Bouquets

As you drive into the charming city of Blaine, just a few minutes south of the Canadian border, one storefront will catch your eye with its soft pastel colors, artistically designed floral displays, and large, inviting windows. Though it’s been on the map for over two decades, serving…

Creative Seafood Spot Has its …

Creative Seafood Spot Has its Hooks in Bellingham | Roe

Owner-operator Izzi Rehbein and Chef-Owner Dan Rehbein opened Roe last November with their own capital and concept, hoping to give Bellingham the answer to the question, “Where do you go to get seafood?” The restaurant is all about being neighborly, accessible, and offering relaxed excellence….

An Intentional Space for …

An Intentional Space for Gathering Well | LaBelle Bridal Cottage

Nestled in the hilly landscape of the Ferndale countryside, you will find LaBelle Bridal Cottage—a quaint home that Owner Lisa Shumski has turned into a dreamy bridal suite. The warm, vintage environment of the interior is immediately showcased upon entering; a stoic grandfather clock and elegant baby grand piano greet you from across the living room. White furniture is placed throughout…

A Deliciously Romantic Winter …

A Deliciously Romantic Winter Staycation in the San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands are an understandably popular summer destination for travelers from all over the world, but those of us who live in the North Sound are lucky to have year-round access to their beauty. And I’d argue that the low season—late fall through late…

Super Bowl Snacks, With a …

Super Bowl Snacks, With a Twist!

Take your game global this Super Bowl Sunday with a line-up filled with crowd pleasers. These Italian-rooted, Asian inspired, and Hawaiian-style appetizers are sure to score major points with your fans! Add even more international flare by pairing it with some authentic Mexican guacamole and tortilla chips, German Bratwurst bites, and/or Greek bruschetta. The ideas are…

Black History Month

The idea surrounding Black History Month originated in 1915, started by historian and “the father of Black History,” Carter G. Woodson; the idea began during the early stages of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History to combat the lack of information regarding the…

“A Shop for Dreamers” | …

“A Shop for Dreamers” | Indigo Dreams Fiber Studio

The Shop Walking along the charming streets of Edison, you’ll come across an unassuming white and red building labeled ‘Edison Firehouse,’ which isn’t a firehouse at all. Rather, it is home to Indigo Dreams, a fiber arts studio born nine years ago out of a passion…

Since Time Immemorial | …

Since Time Immemorial | Xwesultun Raven Borsey

Xwesultun Raven Borsey is a graduate student in cultural anthropology at Western Washington University, where as an undergraduate he won the 2024 Outstanding Student Award. He is Young Tribal Leader and Culture Keeper at Children of the Setting Sun Productions. He is also a carver. Along with his twin, Free Borsey, he was recently awarded the Bullitt Prize by Washington Conservation Action. He and Free will be using these funds to bring back the Lummi Youth…

Behind the Scenes at Water …

Behind the Scenes at Water Tank Bakery

Flour poofs into the air, rich with the smell of baking bread. Three people stand around a table of thick wooden butcher block, quickly shaping dough into loaves of bread. Behind them, amassive oven radiates heat into the 80-degree room. Every surface is covered in a thin layer of flour. Next to the oven sit racks and racks of loaves, which are in the process of…

Macronutrients: The Maestro …

Macronutrients: The Maestro of Your Metabolism

Beauty Tips for Everyone

The best beauty advice isn’t limited to just women—it’s for all of us! These five timeless tips are worth pursuing to ensure you always look your best! 1. Beauty Rest: Tried and True You probably all know this, but some of you still need to hear it—looking good starts with getting good sleep. While we…

The Mixing Tin | The Classic …

The Mixing Tin | The Classic Manhattan

THE CLASSIC MANHATTAN The Manhattan dates back to the latter half of the 1800’s, first making an appearance at the Manhattan Club in New York City, although many have claimed that this recipe has been around much longer. The first written mention of the Manhattan came from the “Olean Democrat” on Sep. 5, 1882, although the first recipe with exact measurements of the cocktail comes from “The Modern Bartenders Guide,”…

Winter Harvest Healthy Meals

Weather you’re harvesting from your own garden or buying at the store, winter-time produce makes for delicious dishes! And there are more options than you might think. For instance, did you know that certain varieties of pears are a winter fruit in…

The Family That Frames …

The Family That Frames Together | Wilson Picture Framing

Whether you received a new print for the holidays or you’ve had a beloved poster rolled up in the shipping tube for months, let this be…

A New Multi-Use Space Opens …

A New Multi-Use Space Opens in Downtown Mount Vernon | Mount Vernon Library Commons

At the end of last year, a project that was two years and $56 million in the making came to a close: the new Mount Vernon Library Commons is officially open to the public! In addition to a new public library with youth services and a great teen room, the mixed-use space includes a community kitchen, a publicly-accessible conference center, and a three-story parking garage that boasts 76 EV charging spaces and nine…

8 Great Tastes | January 2025

The perfect breakfast to accompany a morning meet-up with a friend? The Soft Boiled Egg on Toast and a Cardamom Latte at Cafe Blue! It’s just filling and indulgent enough without being too heavy and distracting you from the conversation. For Peruvian-cuisine enthusiasts, Cafe Rumba is…

Looking and Feeling Your Best …

Looking and Feeling Your Best at Any Age

No matter who you are or what stage of life you’re in, we all want to look and feel our best. Sometimes it’s easy to get stuck in a rut or feel boxed in by what you’re ‘supposed to’ wear…

Two Years of Since Time …

Two Years of Since Time Immemorial

This month marks two years and 20 instances of one of our favorite recurring Bellingham Alive columns: Since Time Immemorial. The wonderful Julie Trimingham began interviewing indigenous community members for…

Wine Pick of the Month | …

Wine Pick of the Month | Sonder x Sage Rat Carbonic Nebbiolo

SONDER X SAGE RAT CARBONIC NEBBIOLO Keep the winter celebrations going with this rose-colored stunner! Winemakers Sonder and Sage Rat made their Carbonic Nebbiolo in collaboration here in Washington State, from 100% Nebbiolo grapes grown right here in Washington—which is somewhat…

Bringing a Mount Vernon Home …

Bringing a Mount Vernon Home Into the 21st Century | True Bearing Built

The primary goal of this Mount Vernon kitchen remodel was to take the original closed-kitchen layout and turn it into an updated, stylish, and functional open-layout space where the homeowner could host guests and feel connected to the rest of the house. The new design removed the L-shaped dividing wall, opening the floor plan to enhance the kitchen and living spaces. To achieve this, a 20-foot beam was installed, supported by…

Local Rugby | Empowering …

Local Rugby | Empowering Girls Through the Game

According to the Women’s Sports Foundation, girls are dropping out of sports at twice the rate of boys by age 14; this can be due to factors such as lack of access and social stigma. But team sports have many benefits—development…

Since Time Immemorial | Tsx’…

Since Time Immemorial | Tsx’vilum Free Borsey

Since Time Immemorial is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by Lhaq’temish, Nooksack, and other Coast Salish peoples is knowledge about how to live in our shared home in a good, life-sustaining way. We live in a time when we need to restore our…

Going for Gold on a New Stage …

Going for Gold on a New Stage | Chef Doug Elliott

From step stools at the kitchen counter with his mom to a resume full of Executive Chef positions, Doug Elliott has made a name for himself up and down the Pacific Northwest. This two-time Best of the Northwest Gold Winner brings his passion for food to a new setting, the Peace Arch City Café & Bar in Blaine. Originally…

A Farmhouse Renovation That …

A Farmhouse Renovation That Manages to Be Both Rustic and Modern | TANNA BY DESIGN

In the heart of the Yakima Valley, nestled near rolling orchard fields and whispering trees, stood an old farmhouse steeped in history. With its rustic charm, it was a relic of a bygone era, but within its walls lay the potential for transformation. Join us on a captivating journey as we chronicle this remarkable before and after renovation and the process of turning this aged treasure into a stunning rustic modern…

Feel Good About You Every …

Feel Good About You Every Single Day | Wild Hare Beauty Co.

On Peace Portal Drive in Blaine there’s a very cozy, very cool salon where the vibe lies in that relaxed happy space between glam and bohemian. The single styling chair faces a big picture window while happy beats float over the bright and funky decor. “Our logo represents us well. It was designed by our friend named KC Lange who owns X Tattoo in Bellingham. It depicts a hare with the “Aladdin Sane” lightning bolt down its face to…

Mixing Tin

Peppermint Mocha Martini Ingredients: Vodka, cooled Espresso, Baileys Chocolate, Kahlua, Peppermint Extract, Chocolate Syrup, and crushed peppermint Ingredients: 2 ounce Vodka 2 ounce fresh espresso (cooled) You can also leave out. 1 ounce Baileys Chocolate 1/2 ounce Kahlua or other coffee liqueur 1/8 teaspoon Peppermint Extract Rim a glass with chocolate syrup and crushed peppermint. Freeze glass until ready to use. Mix ingredients all together in shaker, shake 30-35 times, strain into martini glass. Merry Christmas!

Gifts for Good: Businesses …

Gifts for Good: Businesses Making a Difference

In the heart of Bellingham, a diverse tapestry of businesses is weaving a narrative of community and compassion. These establishments, from bookstores to breweries, are not only providing goods and services but also actively contributing to the well-being of their community. Village Books and Paper Dreams: A cornerstone of the Bellingham literary scene, Village Books has long been more…

Wine Pick Of The Month

November Van Vino Vineyards 2021 GRENACHE As a writer who represents the wine industry in our region, I must crumple and toss out the complaint of, “Oh, you’re covering too much local!” After all: We Speak to Where You Live. So yes, I…

Winter Warm Up

Nothing brings warmth back to the frigid winter weather like all things soft and snuggly! Whether you’re curled up by the fire or braving the great outdoors, cozy pieces like these are sure to make the…

Giving Local Indigenous …

Giving Local Indigenous Artists and Authors a Showcase | Native Arts 360

Whatcom County is an area awash with artists, galleries, and art festivals. Yet despite the rich tradition of vibrant art in Coast Salish indigenous communities, local artists from these communities have struggled for visibility….

Your New Favorite Evening …

Your New Favorite Evening Hangout | Starla’s

Jordan Koplowitz and Christy Wyble found success in the Seattle food scene with Blotto, a popular pizza joint named by the New York Times as one of Seattle’s 25 best restaurants. But when the…

Where Funky Meets Fabulous | …

Where Funky Meets Fabulous | apse

The Shop Nestled into the Herald Building is apse, a jewelry store looking to subvert the common idea of “jewelry stores.” Small signage with their cattywampus logo denotes where to look if you want something a little outside the jewelry box. The Atmosphere The interior of apse is a cross between an art gallery and your “Interior Design” Pinterest board. The ceilings would allow a giraffe to fully extend its neck, and green plants and blue…

Creating a Tablescape for the …

Creating a Tablescape for the Holidays

The Holidays are here, and whether you’re decorating for Thanksgiving or Christmas the table sets the mood for this special season. Below I have pulled together some ideas to help you on your journey to the perfect table for you. Happy Holidays! Let’s Get Inspired With today’s technology, there are so many options that can help you on your way to creating the perfect setting for your holiday tablescape! It just takes a little…

Joy to the Fishies Down in …

Joy to the Fishies Down in Padden Creek | Padden Creek 24th to 30th Streets Restoration Project

For the past two years, the City of Bellingham has been working on the Padden Creek 24th to 30th Streets Restoration Project—and Phase 2’s construction just wrapped up. The city has been working to restore Padden Creek for over a decade. The two-mile-long lowland stream flows from Lake Padden to Bellingham Bay through mostly city-owned property and has been altered and negatively impacted due to development. It does not meet…

8 Great Tastes

We recently picked up a box of treats from New Whatcom Pastries for the office – we had the Almond…

Raise a Glass to Excellence …

Raise a Glass to Excellence at Bayernmoor Cellars | Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Nestled amidst the vibrant wine country of Woodinville, Washington, Bayernmoor Cellars Tasting Room offers a unique and immersive experience for those seeking a taste of excellence. This charming establishment, founded by…

Family Fun at Mach1 | Mach1 …

Family Fun at Mach1 | Mach1 Speedway & Arcade

Bellingham has a new race track in town, and it’s revving up the fun factor for the whole family! Mach1 Speedway offers an electrifying experience with its state-of-the-art electric go-karts, catering to speed enthusiasts of all ages. But Mach1 is more than just a raceway—it’s a family entertainment destination. While the little ones zoom around the track, parents can relax in the arcade, challenge…

Whatcom Literacy Council Does …

Whatcom Literacy Council Does So Much More Than You Think

Katherine Freimund is on a mission. As executive director of Whatcom Literacy Council she coordinates numerous activities that assist residents of Whatcom County to read and write more fluently. Individual tutoring? WLC does that. Small group classes? WLC can help with that too. They’ve even arranged short seminars at large farms in the area…

Cider Donuts | The Revolution …

Cider Donuts | The Revolution Will Be Well Fed: Recipes for Creating Community

From Skagit-based publisher Raspberry Bow Press, The Revolution Will Be Well Fed features baking recipes for breakfast, snacks, and desserts, as well as essays and history exploring the connections between food, community, and social movements. Author Corrie Locke-Hardy’s recipes are all intended to be scalable and packable, making them easy to bring along to your next potluck or community…

“Poised to Practical” | …

“Poised to Practical” | Copper Knot Co.

Whether you are gift shopping for yourself or a loved one, finding an accessory that is local, sustainable, and unique is always a challenge. Enter: Alyssa Carter, a PNW-based milliner who specializes in creating and teaching others to make one-of-a-kind hats. Carter began her business,…

Since Time Immemorial | …

Since Time Immemorial | Takwiltsa Cheryl Kinley Sanders

Since Time Immemorial is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by Lhaq’temish, Nooksack, and other Coast…

Functionality + History in …

Functionality + History in South Hill | A1DesignBuild

A1DESIGNBUILD just completed a bathroom and kitchen renovation on a historic home built in 1911 in South Hill, Bellingham. The goal…

Everything a Rider Needs, …

Everything a Rider Needs, From Head to Toe -The Bony Pony

Written And Photographed By: Anne Godenham The Shop Out on Old Highway 99 at the south end of Mount Vernon, surrounded by huge agricultural and manufacturing businesses, there’s a sort of horse-riding mecca….

A Feathered Nest for Wine …

A Feathered Nest for Wine Lovers | Blackbird Wine Bar and Charcuterie

Blackbird Wine Bar and Charcuterie in Anacortes is a haven for wine and cheese lovers seeking a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. The bar invites patrons to unwind and savor the moment with its warm lighting, tasteful decor, and cozy interior. Owner Bryan Holmes has infused the space with a personal touch, drawing inspiration from his years of travel to create a truly unique ambiance. A carefully curated…

Since Time Immemorial | tsi …

Since Time Immemorial | tsi sq̓ʷal?alq̓ʷal Lora Pennington

*Interview and Photo by Julie Trimingham Since Time Immemorial is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by Lhaq’temish, Nooksack, and other Coast Salish peoples is knowledge about how to live in our shared home in a…

Best of the Northwest 2024 …

Best of the Northwest 2024 Winners Announced!

31 Days of Voting… 127 Business Categories… 77,419 Submissions… 1,006,837 Individual Votes Cast… YOUR 2024 BEST OF THE NORTHWEST RESULTS ARE IN! Check them out below!

Honoring Nature, Washington, …

Honoring Nature, Washington, and Friendship | Fern & Fog Apothecary

Britta Nelson and Rachel McNulty have known each other for decades and share a love of nature. “We’ve been friends since we were three years old. We are well into our 30s,” laughs Nelson. Having grown up in a small town in Washington, most of their entertainment derived from the outdoors. “We grew up running around in the woods, and with parents and families that are very nature focused. [Our community consists of] botanists, biologists, and naturalists, so…

Embracing Island Life Through …

Embracing Island Life Through Art and Apparel | Slow Loris

On Guemes Island, life tends to move at its own pace. Apparel company Slow Loris strives to weave the island’s unique vibe into the fabric of their business culture. Nestled on the Skagit County isle, the company offers quality T-shirts with original screen-printed designs that capture their appreciation for the natural world. “We love the concept of slow growth; it has made us be very thoughtful in the way…

Mongolian Beef with Oostema …

Mongolian Beef with Oostema Farmstead Wagyu

Tender, sweet, and spicy, this recipe stars Oostema Farmstead ground Wagyu beef, from cows that are born and raised right here in beautiful Whatcom County! Celebrate the local ingredients that we have access to here in the North Sound by adding this recipe for Mongolian Beef to your repertoire. For the Sauce…

Gothic Goods and Delightfully …

Gothic Goods and Delightfully Dark Vibes in Port Townsend | KALMA

The Victorian Seaport of Port Townsend is the perfect October destination for Whatcom and Skagit spooky-enthusiasts, and not only because stepping off the ferry and into their waterfront downtown feels a…

Theatrical, Botanical Circus …

Theatrical, Botanical Circus Embodies the Wonder of Washington’s Wilderness | Cirque Cadia

The moment you walk into a Pacific Northwest forest, you’ll feel magic in the air. It’s hard not to look under toadstools, inside hollow trunks, or around rocky outcroppings just to see if a curious faerie is there looking back at you. One Bellingham performance company strives to create a world where that flight of fancy comes to life. Cirque Cadia is a performance company founded in 2017 by Director Natale Luma, who…

Screamin’ for Fruit Ice …

Screamin’ for Fruit Ice Cream | Scream

Give a shout for Bellingham’s only New Zealand-style ice cream spot! Scream, nestled near the waterfront, offers a taste of the Oceania Islands to the Pacific Northwest, showcasing a dessert bursting with fresh ingredients and fruity flavors. New Zealand-style ice cream, also known as real fruit ice cream, is a little different from your typical American ice cream. At Scream, vanilla ice…

Discover the Enigma of the …

Discover the Enigma of the Skagit BigFoot Fest | A Celebration of Mystery and Community

This Fall, The Skagit County Fairgrounds in Mount Vernon will once again transform into a vibrant haven for enthusiasts of the elusive Bigfoot and fans…

A Deliciously Creative …

A Deliciously Creative Pairing | Sweet Art

Down on Railroad Avenue in Bellingham, there’s an unassuming little shop—so little you might miss it if you blink while driving by. But Sweet Art, a chocolate shop and art gallery owned by Vivian and Jerry Hruska, doesn’t rely on…

Seeing the City From All …

Seeing the City From All Angles | 36 Hours in Seattle

For so many of us, Seattle is a medical or entertainment destination—the kind of place you go for a few hours or a day trip. But one of the benefits of spending a whole weekend there is the opportunity to experience…

Fall Arts Guide

Prost! Oktoberfest is here! | …

Prost! Oktoberfest is here! | Yes, it starts in September

Picture it: you’re on a game show and made it to the last round. The final question asks you when Oktoberfest, the German folk festival, is celebrated. Your hands start to sweat. You have no more lifelines. You slam your buzzer and answer: “October!” It’s time to dust off that good sport…

Bringing Sustainability (and …

Bringing Sustainability (and Color!) to Activewear | Madrona Wear

Madrona Wear is a local business dedicated to giving your activewear new life and keeping torn-up activewear out of the landfill. The name Madrona comes from the Madrona tree which is a sign of a healthy ecosystem for biologists, which Owner West Persons…

Since Time Immemorial | Hy’…

Since Time Immemorial | Hy’oltse Shirley Bob

Since Time Immemorial is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by Lhaq’temish, Nooksack, and other Coast Salish peoples is knowledge about how to live in our shared home in a good, life-sustaining way. We live in a time when we need to restore our relationship with Mother Earth and with one another. We…

Collaborating Through …

Collaborating Through Challenge | Keeping Divorce as Painless as Possible

It’s common to think of divorce in terms of litigation, which often means conflict, court dates, hard feelings, and a great deal of money. There’s also mediation, which still tends to focus on there being a “winner” and a “loser.” However, there’s another option that many people might be unfamiliar with collaborative…

Beauty Defined by Self-…

Beauty Defined by Self-Expression | Cherry Bomb Esthetics and Tattoo

Cherry Bomb Esthetics and Tattoo is a unique beauty collective in downtown Bellingham. Co-Founders Kelli Morones and Tyleranne Armstrong want to break the industry’s mold of a typical beauty studio experience. Morones and Armstrong met as…

Outdoor Patio Refresh | TANNA …

Outdoor Patio Refresh | TANNA BY DESIGN

We transformed a drab, outdated outdoor space into a stylish, inviting patio perfect for relaxation, entertainment, and sun-soaking. By creating distinct zones, we maximized functionality and made optimal use of the expansive area. Comfortable seating areas, a dining section, and a sunbathing spot were strategically placed to enhance usability and flow. We updated the design with modern all-weather furniture, vibrant performance cushions, and lush greenery surroundings, creating a delightful…

Ragù Napoletano al Forno

As Summer fades and the evenings turn chilly, fall is a great time to get back to cooking recipes that take time, encouraging us to…

A Place for Everybody | Gruff …

A Place for Everybody | Gruff Brewing

Gruff Brewing opened in 2016 to the delight of beer enthusiasts all over Whatcom County. The lively taproom and straightforward space have won the hearts of…

Imperial Swine

Jeremiah Leighton grew up in Friday Harbor. He has always been motivated to cook, even from his earliest days getting his first easy bake oven for Christmas when he was three. Outdoor life was always a part of his upbringing: family trips reenacting the French and Indian War, hunting, and raising pigs and sheep with the 4-H club. Cooking on open fire and understanding where your food comes from have always…

Ways to Get out on the Water

As lucky as we are to live surrounded by water, it can be all too easy to forget to stop looking at it from the land and get out on/in it! Whether you prefer to visit a lake, a river,…

An Outdoor Company Created …

An Outdoor Company Created in the Outdoors | Fjällräven

The Shop Located on the edge of downtown Bellingham on West Holly Street is a shop to meet all of your needs, both out in the woods and on your way to work. Fjällräven moved into downtown Bellingham in early spring of this year, and they fit right into…

Empowering Teens, Enriching …

Empowering Teens, Enriching Communities: Inside Triumph Teen Life Center

Children thrive when their own natural desire to learn and grow is activated. This is something that Silvia Alvarez, founder and executive director of Triumph Teen Life Center, believes in wholeheartedly and has spent years dedicating her life to. Located in the heart of Mount Vernon, in Skagit Valley, Triumph Teen Life Center has been a sanctuary for area teens since opening its doors in 2022. By offering an…

Sunny Day Dining | Alfresco …

Sunny Day Dining | Alfresco Restaurants

When grabbing a bite to eat, sometimes all you’re really craving is a place where you can sit outside to enjoy the midsummer heat and smell the faint sea breeze merging with the scents of delicious food emanating from a nearby kitchen….

Braids, Beauty, and Bringing …

Braids, Beauty, and Bringing the Community Together | Miraculous Braidz

Wherever Miracle Jones is, her kids are guaranteed to be within a leg-grabbing distance. As the owner and namesake of Miraculous Braidz, Jones has spent the last four years striking a balance between business owner and mother. Jones began braiding on her dolls when she was 12. Originally from Los Angeles, she moved to Bellingham to be near her mother when she was pregnant with her first child. She…

Since Time Immemorial | Sqw-…

Since Time Immemorial | Sqw-Qual-Ten Kyle Kinley

Since Time Immemorial is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by Lhaq’temish, Nooksack, and other Coast Salish peoples is knowledge about how to live in our shared home in a good, life-sustaining way. We live in a time when we need to restore our relationship with Mother Earth and with one another. We are grateful for…

Seeing a Problem and Finding …

Seeing a Problem and Finding a Solution | EN Valley Farmer’s Market Founder Jesse Johnson

When longtime gardener and homesteader Jesse Johnson came across a YouTube video about starting a farmers market, she was struck with an idea. Her city, Everson, didn’t have a farmers market, despite being surrounded by farms that sold their wares in Bellingham and Lynden. Johnson asked around, and after receiving positive feedback from her neighbors and other locals she jumped in, investing her own money, and the EN Valley Farmer’s Market opened in June of 2022. …

A Community Cornerstone | …

A Community Cornerstone | ROAM Coffee + Beer

Jutting out at an acute angle on the corner of Broadway and Elm Street, where Bellingham’s Columbia, Lettered Streets, and Cornwall Park neighborhoods meet, is a charming, pitch-roofed black and white building. It’s an oasis in both the geographic and figurative senses: ROAM Coffee + Beer offers all comers not only excellent coffee…

Radicchio Caesar Salad | Leah …

Radicchio Caesar Salad | Leah Brooks from “Genuine Skagit Cooking,” Published by Raspberry Bow Press

Leah Brooks is a cooking enthusiast, cookbook author, and former director of a children’s cooking school in San Francisco. By making cooking fun, approachable, and healthy, Leah is changing the way kids (and adults!) see food by weaving seasonal ingredients into flavorful, memorable meals. Leah looks forward to helping the community create delicious meals from the bounty of Skagit Valley farm stands. Radicchio Caesar Salad (Makes…

Staff Picks: Summer Salads

Invited to a picnic or potluck and unsure what to make? Our team put together some of our top picks for crunchy, refreshing, and shareable salads that’ll win over any group of friends! Thai Chicken Salad JENN MIRANDA, OFFICE MANAGER Jenn loves showing off her cooking chops with this show-stopping main course salad! It brings the Euro-Asian fusion flair to your picnic with toothsome vermicelli and tangy green olives. Marinate 1-2 chicken…

Inspiring Creativity | …

Inspiring Creativity | Elisabeth’s Cottage by the Sea

As you approach the Freeland Keystone Building at the corner of Commercial Avenue and Seventh Street in downtown Anacortes, there are signs for all kinds of attractions: Shabby French Market, Elisabeth’s Cottage, Bead Store, Jewelry, Antiques, Vintage, and Furniture. All of these are part of Elisabeth’s Cottage by the Sea,…

A Riverside Retreat With …

A Riverside Retreat With Contemporary Comforts

This A-frame perched on the bank of the Skagit River seamlessly merges vintage aesthetics with contemporary comforts, thanks to a renovation completed in 2023 that has breathed new life into the late 1970s-era full-time residence. The biggest transformations were realized by expanding the house by six feet to enlarge the kitchen, entryway, main floor bathroom, and laundry areas, while also improving the upstairs primary bath nestled in the eaves. Throughout the renovation,…

15 Ways To Fall In Love With …

15 Ways To Fall In Love With Where We Live

A Family-Friendly Cabin With …

A Family-Friendly Cabin With Grown-Up Style

This stunning 1,680-SQUARE FOOT, three bedroom, two-bathroom vacation home was built in 2023 for a Snohomish County family to be able to enjoy all year round. Located in the Mount Baker Rim community in Glacier, the cabin provides access to a host of outdoor activities—and the generous porch along the north wall of the property provides a convenient place to drop skis, boots, and any other less-than clean gear. The…

A Local Legacy | Skin Rhythm …

A Local Legacy | Skin Rhythm Spa

If you were to take a look at the Skin Rhythm Spa website, you’d see there are beautiful products to add to your skincare routine: body butters, hand creams, and facial oils, all made with high-quality ingredients, beautifully photographed, and with outstanding customer reviews. What you wouldn’t find is any information about the maker. I wanted to find out more…

So You Wanna Make a T-Shirt | …

So You Wanna Make a T-Shirt | A Visit to Liet Unlimited

Did you know that T-shirts are an American invention? And the printed T-shirt doubly so? Or that the first known example of using a printed T-shirt as an outer garment is in The Wizard of Oz? Or that the term ‘T-shirt’ comes from the novel “This Side of Paradise,” by F. Scott Fitzgerald? Screen-printed T-shirts are embedded in American culture to the extent that everyone owns at least one and many…

Style and Comfort | Skagit …

Style and Comfort | Skagit River Boutique

The Shop This upscale women’s clothing boutique has been in its current location in downtown La Conner for nearly 20 years, after its origins just across the street in the 1990s. Janet and Ron Foster started their business after years in the retail industry (Ron at the Bon Marche and…

Since Time Immemorial

Since Time Immemorial is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by Lhaq’temish, Nooksack, and other Coast Salish peoples is knowledge about how to live in our shared home in a good, life-sustaining way. We live in a time when we need…

Sampling the Signature City | …

Sampling the Signature City | 36 Hours in Kirkland, WA

Passing signs for Kirkland on the freeway, you’ve no doubt joked about how good the Costco must be there—but the city is so much more than that (and honestly, the Costco is nothing special; you want Issaquah for that). Given its location just across Lake Washington from Seattle, Kirkland is considered by many to be a suburb of the larger city; in fact, Kirkland has a reputation for being its own community, where residents not only live…

The North Sound From the Sky |…

The North Sound From the Sky | Take your sightseeing to new heights

“Fly safe, talk to you soon,” says Jason Douglas, owner of San Juan Airlines, into his green headset as he lands his plane at the…

Burgers and Brews

Urban Jungle | JeKa Plants in …

Urban Jungle | JeKa Plants in Mount Vernon

Walking into Jeka Plants in downtown Mount Vernon is like walking into a small, well-organized jungle. Created by sisters Jeanie Topness and Karen Yarber (whose names combine to create the store name), this houseplant shop is lined with shelves holding calathea, cactus, blooming jasmine, tillandsia, and more. A huge jade plant holds court in the middle of the room and a fine old staghorn fern is mounted on the wall, a specimen from Yarber’s personal collection. JeKa’s…

Samish Solar Sustainable Home

“Living in this house has shown us that efficiency and comfort actually go hand in hand….The quality of my sleep is so much better now that we live in a well-insulated house that stays cool during hot days and has a good ventilation system.” – Homeowners…

It’s No Mirage: Customized …

It’s No Mirage: Customized Spa Care Beyond Relaxation | Little Oasis Wellness Spa

The mom in your life needs a massage. Honestly, everyone in your life probably needs a massage, but I’m willing to bet good money that there’s a mom you know who hasn’t even considered getting body work done, and her body needs it. Enter: Little Oasis Wellness Spa in Fairhaven, a holistic spa where clients can enjoy a relaxing, luxurious atmosphere while getting more than “just” a little indulgence. Owner Kayla McIntyre opened Little Oasis at the end of 2022…

Hyper-Hip, Diverse Market for …

Hyper-Hip, Diverse Market for Young Adults and the Young at Heart | Wonderz Market

If you’re tuned in to happenings in downtown Bellingham, you’ve probably already heard of Wonderz Market. If you’re into curated vintage and thrift, unique handmade clothes and accessories, funky crafts, and indie artists, you’ve probably already been! Fashion-forward crowds have been flocking to these once-a-month markets since they began in February 2023. Wonderz Market grew out of the traveling thrift business of partners and Co-Founders Elijah Ryan and Milton Rosario. As Thrifted Wonderz, they journeyed throughout the PNW,…

PAVÉ Jewelry & Design

The Shop In the heart of Mount Vernon lies PAVÉ Jewelry & Design, a tucked-away gem. The sparkling window displays…

Come Aboard This 100th …

Come Aboard This 100th Birthday Party | Schooner Zodiac Open House

A HOY! One of Bellingham’s oldest ships is turning 100, and you’re invited. The Schooner Zodiac is hosting an open house on May 19 to celebrate the vessel’s centennial birthday. The celebration will be held upstairs of the Bellingham Cruise Terminal and aboard the Zodiac, allowing you to experience…

Since Time Immemorial | …

Since Time Immemorial | Steven Solomon, Sr.

Since Time Immemorial is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by…

Mexican Cuisine Galore | Find …

Mexican Cuisine Galore | Find your new favorite margarita, taco, and birria places

Whatcom and Skagit counties are known for their abundance of delicious Mexican food restaurants. So much so that even our friends from Canada cross the border to experience our local Mexican cuisine. With Cinco De Mayo coming up, it’s…

Innovative Sustainability …

Innovative Sustainability from Eastsound’s Newest Inn | The Village Inn at Eastsound

One of the most important parts of any getaway is your temporary home away from home. The new Village Inn at Eastsound, opened in 2023, is a fantastic home…

Offering Safety and Function …

Offering Safety and Function to Individuals with Disabilities for Two Decades | Brigadoon Service Dogs

Since opening its doors in August 2004, Bellingham-based nonprofit Brigadoon Service Dogs has placed more than 100 trained service dogs within the Pacific Northwest, aiding and enhancing the lives of their handlers who live with diverse abilities. “Every dog that we place is a Whatcom County…

A Playful Revolution Rooted …

A Playful Revolution Rooted in Time, Place, and Memory | Matia Kitchen

Matia Kitchen, reopened in March 2023 after the sudden closure of its previous location that January, is the latest evolution of a culinary project that Co-Owners Chef Avery Adams and Operating Manager Drew Downing have been working on together since 2016. Now in a new location with an adopted sister…

Living Your Golden Years in …

Living Your Golden Years in the North Sound

Whether you’re entering your golden years or have loved ones who are, we’re here to help with resources for aging gracefully in the North Sound.

Timeless Fashion From This …

Timeless Fashion From This Family Business | Faraways Boutique

The Shop Clean, bright, and at the intersection of minimalist aesthetics and maximalist comfort, Faraways Boutique on Orcas Island is a family-owned and -operated business serving locals and visitors alike. Faraways provides fashionable clothing, accessories, body care, and home goods year-round, seven days a week. It was founded by Owner Elizabeth Colman-Schermerhorn and her mother,…

Kona Cares | Kona Bikes

For the folks at Kona, cycling is not just a sport, it’s a whole global community of riders—or that’s how Shae James, of Kona Bikes, explains it. As she speaks, you can tell that she believes it. The bike manufacturer has many locations, but its global headquarters is right here in Ferndale, where James works…

Anacortes Coastal Aging in …

Anacortes Coastal Aging in Place | Patty Koskovich of Koskovich Design Group

Local interior designer Patty Koskovich and her husband began building their Anacortes home with a view of the Guemes Channel in 2017. After two years of careful construction, their Coastal Aging in Place home was completed, perfectly planned for comfortable living— now and for years to come. “I…

Hot Ones is Getting Funky(‘…

Hot Ones is Getting Funky(‘s)!

If you’re a fan of the sauces coming out of Bellingham business Funky’s Hot Sauce Factory, you might want to stock up now, because their sales are about to heat up! Extremely popular YouTube show “Hot Ones”…

Bringing the Odd Fellows to …

Bringing the Odd Fellows to the Orion

The Orion is known for their eccentric artworks and creative house cocktails. When you first walk in, the dark atmosphere hits you and takes you up to space. It‘s…

Chef’s Corner with Chef …

Chef’s Corner with Chef Kelly Stanley | The Great Blue Heron Bar & Grill

Kelly Stanley, Chef de Cuisine at The Great Blue Heron Bar & Grill at Semiahmoo Golf and Country Club, blends her culinary artistry with a commitment to community and sustainability. After receiving training at Bellingham Technical College, she…

On Top of the Trends | Q&…

On Top of the Trends | Q&A with Rhiannon Troutman from Fringe Boutique

Talk to me about the most popular trends you see during spring and summer. How do you implement that into your boutique? Summer is all about dresses…

Since Time Immemorial | …

Since Time Immemorial | Sharayah Lane

Since Time Immemorial is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by Lhaq’temish, Nooksack, and other Coast Salish peoples is knowledge about how to live in our shared home in a good, life-sustaining way. We live in a time when we need to restore our relationship with Mother Earth and with one another….

Beloved Bakery Adds Savory to …

Beloved Bakery Adds Savory to Their Sweets | Barb’s Pies and Pastries

When strolling down Main Street in Ferndale, you might spot a powder-blue bakery sign promising scrumptious treats. Once you step inside, you’ll likely find the namesakes of Barb’s Pies and Pastries: a vast selection of pies and Owner Barb O’Brine. “I’ve been working in Ferndale longer than I care to tell you,” says O’Brine, who founded the business in 1999. “February was our 25th anniversary, I can’t believe…

Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland has been the Scottish Capital since the 15th century. Here you’ll find two distinct UNESCO Heritage sites, Old Town which includes Edinburgh Castle and New Town, whose neoclassical style dates back to the 18th century and whose infrastructure had an influence on European urban planning. When coming into Edinburgh you’ll find Edinburgh Castle hard to miss; its massive structure stands on Castle Rock and overlooks Old Town. The fortress was home…

Irish Pubs of the PNW

GETTING READY TO don your brightest green and honor Irish culture? Join the merriment this St. Patrick’s Day by trying out one of the region’s favored local pubs to get a taste of what a true Irish celebration feels like! Whether you’re looking for a good drink, mouthwatering dishes, or…

Commitment, Collaboration, …

Commitment, Collaboration, and Community

Since Fall 2018, Marc Blake, Founder of Pacific Multisports Network, and his team have helped with just over 200 race events. Marc created an all-encompassing platform for athletes and event coordinators that combines registration, timing services, race organizing,…

Family Business for Family …

Family Business for Family Business

MARCUS MINDLIN SMILES a lot. And not just in a politely professional way. He has the smile of a guy who cares a lot about other people. When I asked him how he joined the arborist trade he explained that it’s just what he’s always done. “My whole life I’ve always done landscaping. My mom always said I just liked playing in the dirt. And I like design. I want everyone to…

Behind These Walls

Whether you’re embarking on a new build, planning a selective remodel, or just looking for ideas for making your home more livable and fun, our March feature article is full of inspirational customizations to…

Discover, Learn, Grow

Local Resources for Garden-Lovers This Spring As March brings us into spring, gardens all over the North Sound are waking up from their winter slumbers….

Since Time Immemorial

SINCE TIME IMMEMORIAL is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by Lhaq’temish, Nooksack, and other Coast Salish peoples is knowledge about how to live in our shared home in a good, life-sustaining way. We live in a time when we need to restore our relationship with Mother Earth and with one another. We are grateful for these stories, told in the words of…

Your Skin’s Best Defense …

Your Skin’s Best Defense Against Age

ALICIA MILLS OF Method Skin Studio offers skin care through Genesis Salon and aims to provide result-driven healing treatments with exceptional plant-based products. Her goal is to guide her clients toward what they can do from home to make a major difference in the health of their skin, as well as its appearance. What’s the single most important thing a person can do to take care of…

Drag Me 2 Church

Sunday nights in downtown Bellingham are usually quiet. After the Friday and Saturday night buzz is over, the streets are still. However, this could not be further from the truth at Rumors Cabaret. Every Sunday at 9:30…

Bayernmoor Cellars Blanc de …

Bayernmoor Cellars Blanc de Pinot Noir Estate Sparkling Wine | 2020 Puget Sound AVA, WA

Stanwood, a burgeoning town west of Interstate 5 and south of Bellingham, is home to the picturesque estate vineyards of Bayernmoor Cellars, an up-and-coming Puget Sound winery. Bringing honor to Washington State’s fourth oldest and second-largest AVA (American Viticultural Area), Bayernmoor Cellars is a humble, family-owned operation producing juice that rivals the likes of…

The Foodie Language of Love | …

The Foodie Language of Love | Bry’s Filipino Cuisine & It’s The Sweet Things

Neither Jennifer Worthley nor Bryan Matamorosa set out to be a chef; it just sort of happened. Coming from different corners of the world—Worthley from Maine and Matamorosa…

How Does She Feel in That …

How Does She Feel in That Photograph? | Astraea Bridal

In the heart of Mount Vernon’s historic downtown there is a shop selling wedding gowns. That’s nothing new. Bridal boutiques are one of the few brick and mortar retailers…

TRAVEL | BUDAPEST

Break out your bucket list; it’s time to imagine UNESCO sites in Europe to explore. Whether you can only dream or have the means to go, our ongoing travel series will take you far away from reality into a time when Kings and Queens ruled, family feuds were deadly, and the countryside was filled with castles and forts that protected against invaders. “UNESCO World Heritage…

THE MIXING TIN | REVIVAL …

THE MIXING TIN | REVIVAL LOUNGE

On a chilly winter night, what better way to spend the evening getting cozy than with a drink? Revival Lounge serves up a Lion’s Tail that is the perfect concoction of bourbon, refreshing citrus, and smooth spice, and will have you savoring every sip. The bourbon in this aromatic drink…

A Midcentury (but Still …

A Midcentury (but Still Modern) Revival in Edgemoor | reachDESIGN llc

The early ’60S house in the Edgemoor Neighborhood had been the client’s family home—it was built for his father’s aunt and her sister, and later the client’s parents had moved in and raised their children there. Now the client was moving back in, along with his wife, and they were ready for a remodel. “They wanted this house to reflect their lifestyle,” says Architect Ric Peterson,…

Q&A with Taylor Mayers, …

Q&A with Taylor Mayers, LMT, CTSS | Vera Massage Studio

Thank you so much for sharing with our readers about your practice! Can you start by telling me a little bit about your massage practice and how you came to it? My name is Taylor Mayers and I’ve been a massage therapist for a little over eight years. I went to Spectrum Massage School in Lake Stevens; I did medical massage for about five years and then kind of transitioned into trauma informed for the last…

Mangiamo! Italian Cuisine

Lovers to the Stage! | “My …

Lovers to the Stage! | “My Circus Valentine”

Go beyond cards and candies! There’s no better way to feel the love this February than by attending Bellingham Circus Guild’s “My Circus Valentine.” “My Circus Valentine” is an…

White Miso and Sake Salmon …

White Miso and Sake Salmon Cakes: Chef Leon Scott of Northwater

Meet the Chef With a background in a variety of cuisines under his belt, as well as experience with hotel banquets, Banquet Executive Chef and Manager Leon Scott was drawn to Northwater’s culinary program and has now been with the…

Truly, One of the Happiest …

Truly, One of the Happiest Places on Earth: Happiest Tees on Earth

Photographs by Ellie Coberly The Shop Along Metcalf Street, through the heart of downtown Sedro-Woolley, sits a bright white shop. A twinkling glow from within invites passersby to take a peek inside. Those who do will…

The Beauty of Ordered Chaos: …

The Beauty of Ordered Chaos: Kathy Bastow

Photograph by Kristen Boehm Art has always been a part of Kathy Bastow’s life. No matter where she is or what she’s doing, she’s always managed to keep her artistic juices flowing. It’s simply a part of who she is. Whether she’s painting, doing collages, constructing…

Restaurants that Go Above and …

Restaurants that Go Above and Beyond

I think we can all agree that going out for coffee or food is already a treat, especially in these times of ever-increasing inflation. But sometimes, we need a little something extra—whether that’s a small freebie, a creative presentation, or even just a kind word. That’s why we’ve polled everyone we know to get the inside scoop on the places that go beyond “service with a smile” to really make their customers’ days. Special…

A Home with History, Artistry,…

A Home with History, Artistry, and Secret Details | Roeder Home

Nestled in a quiet residential neighborhood of central Bellingham, surrounded by early-20th century craftsman homes with inviting porches and manicured…

Since Time Immemorial | …

Since Time Immemorial | Cyaltsa April Finkbonner

Since Time Immemorial is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by Lhaq’temish, Nooksack, and other Coast Salish peoples is knowledge about how to live in our shared home in a good, life-sustaining way. We live in a time when we need to restore our relationship with Mother Earth and with one another. We are grateful for these stories, told in the words of each…

Offering Brightness and Joy …

Offering Brightness and Joy in Dark Times | Soul*drift’s Valentine’s Love Cabaret at Amendment 21

February can be a hard month. All the joy and brightness of the holiday season has passed, and the excitement of the new year is starting to wane (as is your dedication to resolutions, if you’re like most people). Sure, there’s a heart-filled holiday in there, but not everyone wants to spend too much money eating a set menu alongside every other couple in town. Enter: The Valentine’s Cabaret at Amendment 21, an unconventional celebration of love…

HKP Architects: The Skagit …

HKP Architects: The Skagit Bay Residence Renovation

HKP Architects is pleased to announce the completion of an addition and renovation for a residence in La Conner, Washington. The owners of this architecturally designed existing house purchased it several years ago for its views and setting, but…

Creative Passions Brought to …

Creative Passions Brought to Life: Perry and Carlson

Step into this local boutique and art gallery to find yourself transported into a world dreamed up by Owners Christian Carlson and Trina Perry Carlson. With backgrounds in design, the two…

January Feature: Menopause …

January Feature: Menopause and Andropause

The Best Spas for a Little ‘…

The Best Spas for a Little ‘You Time’

After the stress and chaos of the holiday season, we all need a little self-care, and what better way to unwind than by taking some time out at a spa? The mellow lighting, fluffy robes, and relaxing music will begin to calm your nervous system as soon as you step inside, and the treatment will take it from there. We’ve rounded up a handful of the best spas Whatcom and Skagit…

How a Dry January Will Set …

How a Dry January Will Set You Up for Success in 2024

The New Year is all about rebirth, fresh starts, and setting attainable goals. The key word there is “attainable.” Vision-boarding is all well and good, but every successful plan has a first step and a finish line. If one of your resolutions this year is to drink less alcohol, you’re in luck! You can join…

5 Winter Getaways to Warm the …

5 Winter Getaways to Warm the Soul

As the days grow short and the weather turns cold here in the Pacific Northwest, a change of scenery can be just the ticket to help lift spirits and brighten up the season. Whether you’re looking for a fun day trip or a full-on weekend escape, rest assured there’s a whole world of wintry options available right at our doorstep. From towns packed with…

Sexy Pad Thai | Wanida Thai

Since opening its doors in 2015, Wanida Thai has quickly become a go-to bastion of faraway flavor, gaining a loyal customer base and making a name for itself in the local restaurant scene. To feed the cravings of its foodie fandom even more, the popular eatery opened up a second location just north of downtown Bellingham: Wanida Thai Bistro. Photograph Courtesy of Wanida Thai The addition offers up the same…

Baer Winery | ‘Star’ 2015 …

Baer Winery | ‘Star’ 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley

Baer Winery was founded in 2000 by father-son team Lance and Les Baer with the intention of producing exceptional quality Bordeaux-style wines. The veteran owned family operation remains true to just that, generating consistently excellent vintages with the assistance of winemaking consultant Erica Orr, who has also consulted for Mark Ryan Winery (November’s winemaker of Wine…

The Story Behind the North …

The Story Behind the North Sound’s Finest Confections | Forté Chocolate

Experiencing gourmet chocolate can be a life changing experience. Just ask Karen Neugebauer, the founder and master chocolatier behind Forté Chocolate. When she first enrolled in a culinary arts program, she was just out to prove that she could learn to cook– but she found a new passion in the least expected area….

Must-Have Holiday Glam

The holiday party season is upon us. You’ve got places to be, gifts to give, and champagne to drink! While you’re busy hustling from soiree to soiree, you’ll need an outfit that can keep up with you. We’ve put together a classy, festive ensemble that will be just as good at keeping you warm as it will be at lighting up a room. 1 Reversible Sherpa Coat Eleventh St GOODS, $74 1143 11th…

Q&A with Jen Parker of …

Q&A with Jen Parker of ReImagined

Hello! Please introduce yourself and ReImagined. My name is Jen Parker and I began ReImagined in 2018 as a simple hobby. In 2022, I began working in art as my full-time job. With ReImagined, I purchase wood that has…

Empowering Women Against …

Empowering Women Against Adversity | YWCA Bellingham

Since its founding in 1907 by prominent Bellingham clubwoman, Frances Larrabee, YWCA Bellingham has gradually evolved into one of the most impactful nonprofit organizations in the North Sound. Dedicated to its mission to ending racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, and freedom for all, the YWCA is always looking…

Holiday Dinner Redo

Blending American Tradition …

Blending American Tradition with Old World Technique: Doc Swinson’s

It’s no secret that whiskey holds an iconic place in the heart of American libations culture. But have you ever wondered what actually goes into the process of creating that silky smooth, perfectly balanced sip? According to the team behind Ferndale-based craft whiskey label Doc Swinson’s, it’s (almost) all in the…

Not Just a Boutique, A …

Not Just a Boutique, A Destination: Shelley’s Shack

The Shop Located on State Street in the heart of downtown Sedro-Woolley lives Shelley’s Shack, a charming boutique shop that happens to be celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. It is, without question, a one-stop shop destination with everything from vintage and trendy apparel and antique furnishings to baby gifts and locally crafted artisan goods. The unique shopping opportunity is magnified by…

Focus on Northwest Art | Art�…

Focus on Northwest Art | Art’s Alive! in La Conner

The small town of La Conner has been a center for the arts for many years, with its surprising number of galleries and museums. Every November it becomes even more so, when Art’s Alive! makes the town an…

A Captivating Canine …

A Captivating Canine Collection | Laura Landrum’s “The Dog House”

Looking in from the outside, you might never guess that within the walls of Laura Landrum’s 1993 home hides one of our area’s most charming and unusual niche antique art collections. What makes this one so special, you might ask? Well, if you’re a lover of art, antiques, all things furry and four-legged, you’re in for…

Five Faves: Ways to Give Back

Festival of Trees The Skagit Regional Health Foundation hosts this annual festival that goes to support their life-saving medical programs. Families can attend Santa breakfasts, grown-ups can dress to the nines to attend the Gala and Auction, and you can bid on their decorated mini-trees in Downtown Mount Vernon. St. Joseph Center, 215 N. 15th St., Mount Vernon, skagitregionalhealth.org/foundation Holiday Giving Store Now in its 20th year,…

Holiday Shopping Guide

Apse Jewelry Studio & Showroom Downtown Bellingham’s coolest jewelry spot with a colorful selection of rings, chains, and hoops. We…

Five Faves | Metaphysical …

Five Faves | Metaphysical Shops

Sacred Cedar Co. A Native-owned and -operated shop on the Swinomish Channel. Here you’ll find body care, intention candles, healing teas, crystals, books, and self-reflection decks to help you reconnect with yourself and all things sacred. 128 1st St., Ste. 4–5, La…

New Location, Hot Off the …

New Location, Hot Off the Press! | Bison Bookbinding & Letterpress

Bison Bookbinding & Letterpress has served the book arts appreciators of Bellingham with their letterpress printmaking, book-binding, and stationery selection since 2004. Now, we can look forward to a second location situated inside the Granary Building! “Downtown Bellingham has been our home for 19…

Intentional Choices for …

Intentional Choices for Positive Change | Sunchea Phou of YaY Novelty

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. It can sometimes…

Dynasty Cellars 2022 …

Dynasty Cellars 2022 Sauvignon Blanc | Walla Walla Valley

Sometimes we forget about our very own backyard, living in Washington with such abundant, delicious, vibrant, and varied wine options. But, lest you forget! I am here to remind… Some beautiful iterations…

Building Confidence and …

Building Confidence and Community through Outdoor Recreation | Shifting Gears

Have you ever wanted to learn to kayak or mountain bike, but have no idea where to start? You’re not alone. Breaking into outdoor sports can be daunting, especially for women— but Shifting…

The Makings of an Authentic …

The Makings of an Authentic Island Experience | Stay & Sea Lummi Island

A five minute ferry ride is all it takes to visit Lummi Island, but despite its proximity to Bellingham, this seaside escape feels like a world unto itself. From the quirky arts community…

Wholesome Meals from the …

Wholesome Meals from the Heart of the Valley | The Skagit Table

We all want to eat food that makes us feel our best— but finding the time to prepare nutritious meals is easier said than done. Luckily folks in Mount Vernon can rely on the Skagit Table for fresh, seasonal cooking, whether it be for a catered event or a simple yet nourishing weeknight dinner. “We had a child that had cancer, and for those two years, we…

Best of the Northwest 2023 …

Best of the Northwest 2023 Winners Announced!

127 Categories. 381 Winners. 72,809 submissions. 946,062 individual votes. And your 2023 Best of the Northwest winners are…

Salon Owner Merges High-…

Salon Owner Merges High-Fashion Services with a Hometown Vibe | Willow Collective

The term “Breaking boundaries” doesn’t always come to mind when you’re discussing a hair salon, but for Willow Collective Owner Mary Taylor, breaking boundaries is precisely what she envisioned doing when she opened her salon doors in 2022. Situated in the heart of Conway in south Skagit Valley, Willow Collective offers its patrons high-fashion salon and beauty services with a small town feel that is not only professional and on-trend, but welcoming and comfortable. Located just two minutes off I-5,…

A Vegan Family Kitchen …

A Vegan Family Kitchen Keeping Inclusive Food in Downtown Bham | The Fat Beet

When Talia Sorinsin-Allen and her eldest daughter, Melissa Sorinsin, were looking for a place to have lunch in Bellingham, they faced a familiar problem. “It’s really, really hard for our family to be able to go to restaurants,” Sorinsin-Allen says, explaining that her family has dietary restrictions, especially pertaining to dairy. “[Allergens are] in the sauces, in the breads, and those things are not always labeled.” While driving by the now-closed vegan restaurant, Quantum…

Kitchen Tips & Tricks: …

Kitchen Tips & Tricks: Home-Cooked Halloween

Iconic Candy You Can Make Together Halloween doesn’t have to start and end with trick-or-treating. It can be a time for family bonding just as much as the other year-end holidays! Making your own candy corn at home is a great way to get even the little ones interested in helping in the kitchen. Sugar syrup, dried milk, powdered sugar, food coloring, and a few other things join together to make edible dough that you can then mold together…

A Contemporary Wilderness …

A Contemporary Wilderness Retreat in the Shadow of Mount Baker | Bellingham Bay Builders

The Silver Residence stands as a remarkable testament to the integration of contemporary architecture, high-performance buildings, and our connection to the natural world. Nestled in a small meadow next to a picturesque pond and seasonal creek, this award-winning, net-zero energy home fosters a deep relationship to nature. Further enhanced by its outdoor amenities and its proximity to the Mount Baker Wilderness Area, the property invites the inhabitants to spend time outside recreating and visiting with one another….

There’s No Home Cooking …

There’s No Home Cooking Like Yun’s Home Cooking

Tucked away in a cozy nook in the middle of downtown, Bellingham’s only Korean family restaurant offers something that you would otherwise have to head down to Seattle or up to Vancouver to find authentic home-style Korean cooking. Although most popularly associated with tabletop barbecue grilling, Korean cuisine is hugely varied and includes many soups, stews, noodle, and rice dishes along with the famous kimchi side dish (salted, seasoned, and fermented vegetables of…

Spirited Women: Meet the …

Spirited Women: Meet the Women of the North Sound Beverage Industry

Taylor Melim, L&L Libations When it comes to crowd-pleasing cocktail bars, L&L Libations is hard to beat— and this is largely thanks to the efforts of Co-Owner Taylor Melim. Melim co-owns both Leaf and Ladle and L&L Libations and comes from “a long line of restaurant people.” She loves creating cocktails with floral notes, teas, and fresh fruits and herbs, and while her recipes might be unique, they’re never inaccessible— and this is by design. “We…

September Feature: Unexpected …

September Feature: Unexpected Ingredients

Meet Your Mushrooms!

We get it– mushrooms aren’t the easiest niche to break into. There’s no fungi food group in that familiar pyramid, and no, they shouldn’t be lumped in with the veggies! When you look into it, the world of mushrooms is expansive, and the range of flavors, sizes, textures, and uses can seem daunting. But…

Skagit Valley Woman Creates …

Skagit Valley Woman Creates the Change She Wants To See: Marla Chapa

When you are unabashedly unafraid to create the waves necessary to produce change, you are a force to be reckoned with. At first glance, Marla Chapa’s small frame and brilliant, welcoming smile could deceive you into thinking that she’s not this person. Born…

A New Slice of the Sweet Life:…

A New Slice of the Sweet Life: Sugar Mama Cafe

Sugar Mama Cafe might be brand new to Downtown Anacortes, but Owners Natalie and Wendy Clark are aiming to create a welcoming atmosphere that feels like coming home. I sat down with Natalie at Sugar Mama to chat about…

Feature: Find Your Perfect …

Feature: Find Your Perfect Palette

It’s All About the …

It’s All About the Atmosphere: Raven’s Cup Coffee and Reclamation Candle Company

Are you visiting the relaxing small town of La Conner? Don’t forget to stop by Raven’s Cup Coffee, a local coffee shop that also is an art gallery and a candle shop. Co-Owners Greg Whiting and Jenelle Whitton have worked to make the shop multifunctional after buying Reclamation Candles last…

Get Fired Up for Summer …

Get Fired Up for Summer Cookouts

SUMMERTIME IS HERE—don’t miss it, break out the brisket! Jokes aside, there’s no denying that summer is prime time for BBQ chefs and appreciators alike. While you can grab delicious barbecue from restaurants all around the North Sound, these warmer months are the best opportunity for home cooks to get out in the yard and try their hand at using fire and smoke to sizzle up some tasty, home-cooked meals. We got together…

From Surviving to Striving, …

From Surviving to Striving, Then Thriving

WE ALL DREAM of building a community where everyone can belong, especially the most vulnerable among us—and Northwest Youth Services (NWYS) has been…

Meet the Family Behind …

Meet the Family Behind Whatcom’s Most Exciting New Winery

PERCHED ON A steep, four-acre hillside just south of Canada is a vineyard that’s both family-owned and community-minded. The Delooff and Van Wingerden families transformed what was once a dairy farm into a full-fledged winery, even renovating an old milking parlor into a tasting room—but although the property itself is picturesque, the quality of the wines is what makes Van Vino Winery truly memorable. Van…

Thriving in the ‘Ham …

Thriving in the ‘Ham with Place-Based Skincare: Good Graces

I F YOU’VE BEEN shopping the local makers scene for natural skincare over the last few years, you’ve probably seen Good Graces. It was founded in 2019 by Saragrace Wyckoff, who runs her business on three tenets: education, sustainability, and collaboration. Wyckoff herself is an educator, and credits her Montessori training for giving her the tools to pursue the Good Graces journey. Montessori teaches about the heart-hand connection–…

Whales, Birds, and Beers: On …

Whales, Birds, and Beers: On the Water with San Juan Cruises

E VER NOTICED A boat full of happy people cruising around Bellingham Bay at sunset? Chances are it was a San Juan Cruises outing. Founded in 1987 by Drew Schmidt, the company started out as Gray Line Cruises, doing tours out of Semiahmoo. In 1989 they moved to the Bellingham Ferry Terminal in Fairhaven, continuing their tours to San Juan Island but…

A Culinary Paradise on Lopez …

A Culinary Paradise on Lopez Island: Haven Kitchen and Bar

THE WORD “HAVEN” brings about feelings of safety, comfort, and respite—and it’s an apt descriptor for Lopez Island’s Haven Kitchen & Bar. This tranquil, nautical-themed restaurant specializes in cuisine both comforting and gourmet, and patrons enjoy their meals alongsidean unparalleled view of the Salish Sea. Haven was established a decade ago by Owners JK and Mariah Honeywell, both of whom are deeply…

Inspiring Fun Via Fashion: …

Inspiring Fun Via Fashion: Blackberry Lane

The Shop Blackberry Lane’s brick-and-mortar boutique has only been open since 2021, but the venture began in 2018 when Owner Stephanie Bates began selling fun and affordable clothing online. Since then, they’ve grown into a bustling business that’s always got something exciting going on, be it specials, parties, or just another chance to find your new…

Building Queer Community: …

Building Queer Community: From Vision to Reality

PRIDE MONTH MAY only come once a year—but the Bellingham Queer Collective (BQC) celebrates community and togetherness for the LGBTQ+ folks year-round. The social group has only recently gained nonprofit status in Washington State, and while they already serve an important role in Whatcom County, Founder Michelle Harmeier says they’re just getting started. Harmeier is a former educator, and…

High-Quality Ice Cream All …

High-Quality Ice Cream All Rolled Up

“WHATEVER YOU ARE thinking about right now, just do it,” was the text Izaiah Ellis got as he sat on his couch contemplating his plan to start a business. After getting laid off from his job in…

Aquatic Adventures

WHETHER YOU’RE KAYAKING the San Juan Islands, rafting the Skagit River, or doing yoga on a paddleboard at Lake Padden, our region’s waters have something to offer everyone. That’s why we’re bringing you a guide to the local resources you need to make a splash…

A New Space for Ceramics in …

A New Space for Ceramics in Downtown Ferndale

Tell me about how you first began with pottery. How did you turn your art into a profession? I first started doing pottery in high school. It was required to take at least one year of fine arts credits in order to graduate, and the ceramics class was the most hands-on. I had no idea…

Manila Clams Simmered in …

Manila Clams Simmered in White Wine and Harissa

NOTHING SAYS SUMMER quite like fresh seafood, and if you’re craving the flavors of Orcas Island, give this recipe from New Leaf Cafe a go. Chef Andrew Martin’s spin on Manila…

Finding Identity and Starting …

Finding Identity and Starting Conversations: Remy Coutarel

REMY COUTAREL, A Franco-American artist who has lived in Bellingham since 2017, believes that art can be used to open dialogues. After moving to the U.S. in 2011, exploring aspects of artistic and personal identity in Seattle and Bellingham, and experiencing the naturalization process firsthand, they are ready to start conversations with illustrations and comics. Coutarel grew up in France, where comics have persisted as an important cultural institution since the early…

Get Cozy in PNW-Inspired …

Get Cozy in PNW-Inspired Clothing | Q&A with Eliza McElroy, Owner of Absideon Apparel

First of all, tell us a bit about you, your background, and how Absideon Apparel came to be! s Photograph by Dani Winters Photography What does the word “absideon” mean, exactly? “We started by googling “cool words,” discovered “absideon,” and fell in love with the meaning of it. Absideon means “to banish negative thoughts.”” In just a few adjectives, how would you describe the Absideon Apparel brand? “Cozy, soft, minimal,…

The Man Who Made Waves with …

The Man Who Made Waves with Wood and Glass | Greg Klassen

10 years ago, we wrote about an up-and-coming craftsman who was breaking into the national scene for his fine furniture. In the decade since, Greg Klassen fathered a viral sensation, has sent his artwork to every corner of the globe,…

8 GREAT TASTES

The Chicken Ramen at Setsunai Noodle Bar on Lopez Island is some of the North Sound’s best food. Featuring local ingredients, house-made noodles, and a deeply flavorful broth, this is a meal you won’t want to miss. 2. The Vegan Crunchwrap at L&L Libations is late-night food done right. This plantbased take on Taco Bell is stuffed…

Since Time Immemorial: Lucas …

Since Time Immemorial: Lucas Kinley

Since Time Immemorial is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by Lhaq’temish (Lummi), Nooksack, and other Coast Salish peoples is knowledge about how to live in our shared home in…

CASCADIA International Women�…

CASCADIA International Women’s Film Festival

It’s statistically undeniable: Even in 2023, women are sorely underrepresented in the film industry. A 2022 study by USC Annenberg’s Inclusion Initiative showed that just 9% of directors for the year’s 100 top grossing domestic films were women. Moreover, just 2.7% of directors for these top 100 films were women of color. These numbers alone underline the importance of Bellingham’s CASCADIA International Women’s Film Festival, an annual…

Bringing Unique Luxury to …

Bringing Unique Luxury to Bellingham | Neeter House of Luxury

The Shop Looking out onto the waters of Squalicum Harbor is the newly-opened Neeter House of Luxury. Founder and Owner John Neeter opened the business in…

A21 Flatbread | Chef Rey …

A21 Flatbread | Chef Rey Galang of Amendment 21

Not sure what to serve at happy hour? Take a cue from the folks at Amendment 21, one of our favorite Bellingham cocktail bars, and give this Italian-inspired flatbread a try. It’s refined enough to impress dinner party guests, yet simple enough to whip up on a weeknight. The dish is also versatile: Toppings can be mixed and matched…

Connecting Cultures with Art, …

Connecting Cultures with Art, Poetry, and Academia | Q&A with Dr. Sophia Kidd

Dr. Sophia Kidd is an Asia-focused scholar in the humanities, an Associate Research Fellow at Sichuan University, and an Affiliated Researcher at Southwest University. She is the Founder of Nuance Art & Culture and the Publisher of Igneus Press, both of which are Bellingham-based organizations. Read on…

The Sparkly Side of Subdued | …

The Sparkly Side of Subdued | Glitt3r Lyfe

Bellingham might be known as the city of subdued excitement—but if you ask Aireekah Laudert, “subdued” is a relative term. As…

Tools to Elevate Your Cheese …

Tools to Elevate Your Cheese Game

Don’t be intimidated by that 36-month aged Netherlands gouda! There’s a whole world of sophisticated cheeses out there that might seem tricky to get a handle on, but having the right tools for the job makes all the difference. We’ve gathered several suggestions for aspiring cheese aficionados to master any…

Centuries Old Timber Inspires …

Centuries Old Timber Inspires Bellingham Home Design | Skagit Valley Slabhaus

Oftentimes the juxtaposition between two opposites can create a result so masterful that the differences seem to fade. For this 3,395-squarefoot, 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath new home construction project in Bellingham, the outdoors was brought in and man…

WINE PICK OF THE MONTH : …

WINE PICK OF THE MONTH : Alexander Valley Vineyards 2020 Chardonnay Alexander Valley, California $18

For four generations Alexander Valley Vineyards has been family owned and operated, creating award-winning, certified sustainable, and organic wines on their picturesque estate. They are located 75 miles north of San Francisco on a property that…

Living the Dream: Tamales, …

Living the Dream: Tamales, Brews, and Community | Frelard Tamales and El Sueñito Brewing Company

Frelard Tamales began in 2015 at pop-ups and markets, then opened a walk-up window in 2018, sharing authentic Mexican meals with hungry Seattle crowds. Now, Owners…

Jewelry Inspired by Nature | …

Jewelry Inspired by Nature | J and I Design

J and I Design is the creation of Mount Vernon couple Michelle and Jay Barshaw. The Barshaws started their own arts and crafts gallery, The Shop, in Conway in 2013. It featured work by many local artists, as well as their own woodworking and other…

Since Time Immemorial | Dr. …

Since Time Immemorial | Dr. Dakotah Lane

Since Time Immemorial is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by Lhaq’temish (Lummi), Nooksack, and other Coast Salish peoples is knowledge about how…

Tamales to Celebrate Culture, …

Tamales to Celebrate Culture, Kindness, and Community | Frelard Tamales and El Sueñito Brewing Company

Frelard Tamales and El Sueñito Brewing Company are officially open in Sunnyland as of this February—and if you haven’t given their offerings a try yet, you’re missing out on something truly delicious. Frelard has been a Seattle favorite since 2016, but Owners Osbaldo Hernandez and Dennis Ramey are excited to bring their family recipes to the Bellingham community, too. “We know we are walking into an industry filled with talented chefs, cooks, and brewers and we cannot wait to…

That Coffee Guy | Alexarc …

That Coffee Guy | Alexarc Mastema of Maniac Coffee Roasting

When I asked Alexarc Mastema to describe himself he simply said, “I’m just that coffee guy around town,” as if he’d never owned two businesses or been a United…

Mexican Tortilla Soup | Chef …

Mexican Tortilla Soup | Chef Azizi Tookas of Brandywine Kitchen

Not sure what to make for dinner this spring? We suggest whipping up this Mexican tortilla soup, courtesy of Chef Azizi Tookas of Brandywine Kitchen in…

Never Split the Tea Party | D&…

Never Split the Tea Party | D&Tea

Tabletop gaming fans have a new destination to meet, play, and enjoy some tea! Co-owners CEO Travis Peacock and COO Gideon Jones have opened up the first brick-and-mortar location for their tea company, D&Tea. D&Tea was born when Peacock was looking for new avenues to explore after a while of selling Dungeon & Dragons dice at conventions. Their teas are blends that…

Forever Homes for Every Pup | …

Forever Homes for Every Pup | The Pittie Project PNW

According to the ASPCA, roughly 390,000 dogs are euthanized in U.S. kill shelters every year—and a substantial portion of these pups fall under the category of “bully breed.” Luckily,…

Cascades by Train

Whether you go by foot, bike, or car, exploring the PNW is always an adventure – but city-hopping by rail? That’s an entirely…

A Fresh Philosophy on Farm-to-…

A Fresh Philosophy on Farm-to-Table | Nell Thorn Waterfront Bistro & Bar

Sitting on the Swinomish Channel, Nell Thorn Waterfront Bistro & Bar is a must-visit in La Conner. This cozy, sophisticated eatery is co-owned by General Manager Albie Bjornberg and Chef…

Adventure Ready Jewelry by a …

Adventure Ready Jewelry by a Local Artisan | Jo Bird Jewelry

The great thing about Sarah Brockman’s jewelry is that her pieces can be worn anywhere: hiking, running, rock climbing, on vacation, or to the dinner table. This versatility is intentional, as Brockman’s own outdoorsy lifestyle fuels her creativity. ”I’ve always been a big adventurer,” she says. “And so I was making things that I could put on and leave on and wear for six months while swimming, hiking,…

A Weekend-Worthy Wellness …

A Weekend-Worthy Wellness Retreat | Salish Lodge and Spa

Imagine enjoying your morning coffee while overlooking a 268-foot-tall waterfall, with no immediate responsibilities save for a massage treatment or two. If you’re overdue for a mountain escape, a visit to the Salish Lodge and Spa might be in order—and, given the proximity to Bellingham, this getaway can be easily accomplished in a weekend. Photo…

A Sea-to-Plate Love Story | …

A Sea-to-Plate Love Story | Nerka Sea-Frozen Salmon

Salmon – and the ocean that they make their home in—run deep in Tele Aadsen’s blood. Aadsen and her partner, Joel BradyPower, own and operate Nerka SeaFrozen Salmon as fisherfolks who sustainably catch, process, market, and sell wild salmon. Named…

The Gateway to a Sustainable …

The Gateway to a Sustainable Home | GreenCoast Cedarworks

Imagine starting your workday by walking into your shop, “sun angling into the workspace, or rain pattering on the roof, stacks of beautiful cedar stock all around, a new project before you…” That is how Jeff Nelson, owner of GreenCoast Cedarworks, describes the start of his workday. Sounds like a pretty sweet gig to me. GreenCoast Cedarworks has been designing and building stunning garden and entry gates as…

Staying Two Steps Ahead | …

Staying Two Steps Ahead | 12th Street Shoes

Since 1999, locals have been visiting 12th Street Shoes in Fairhaven for excellent service and a quality shoe selection that ranges from heels to hardcore Alegria work slip-ons. But the business’s vintage hasn’t stopped Owner Jody Proctor, who purchased the store in 2003, from keeping up with the times! Her posts, videos, and…

Reduce, Reuse, and Tame Those …

Reduce, Reuse, and Tame Those Split Ends | SeaBar

How much effort do you currently put into cleaning up our world’s polluted oceans? On a totally related note, are you satisfied with your hair care routine? Photo…

Since Time Immemorial | …

Since Time Immemorial | Santana Rabang

Since time immemorial is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by…

Adaptive Recreational Gear …

Adaptive Recreational Gear for All | The AIROW Project

For outdoor recreation enthusiasts, Whatcom County is a national treasure—and the region’s mountains, waters, and trails should be accessible to all. This mentality is the ethos behind the AIROW Project (Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation of Whatcom County), a local nonprofit working to provide adaptive recreation opportunities and gear for individuals with disabilities. AIROW was founded by April Katz, a passionate disability advocate who also provides…

Food, Family, and Fresh …

Food, Family, and Fresh Tortillas | Mariposa Taqueria

The small elbow that makes up Bow-Edison can seem ethereal to the uninitiated. This rural community contains a bevy of artisanal businesses delivering incredible experiences: Have a whiskey or cider at Terramar, visit one of the galleries, catch a game at the Longhorn, or have an absolutely enlightening Mexican brunch at Mariposa Taqueria. At the far end of the elbow lies a small bungalow with a lawn dotted by picnic tables. If you arrive at the…

Go Green in 2023: Gardening …

Go Green in 2023: Gardening Tips and Trends

PNW residents rejoice: Spring is just around the corner, which means longer days, milder weather, and blossoming gardens galore. Whether you’re rethinking your landscape or simply looking to cultivate a green thumb, this season is the perfect time to give your plants some TLC. To gather inspiration, we sourced advice and trends from three local gardening pros: Designer and Grower Annika McIntosh of Hazel Designs (hazeldesigns.com), Owner Paige Lanham of Garden Spot…

Hot Pot is Good for the Soul |…

Hot Pot is Good for the Soul | Soy House

You’d be forgiven for walking into the main entrance of Soy House—a Vietnamese restaurant that’s been a staple in town for almost a decade— instead of the side entrance specifically reserved for hot pot seatings. But once you’re inside, it’s impossible to miss the vibrant decor, warm atmosphere, and enticing aromas of the bubbling dishes. The original Soy House location was opened in 2008 on Bakerview by Tony Nguyen and expanded to its current Downtown Bellingham location in 2013….

Handmade Colombian Artistry …

Handmade Colombian Artistry in Bellingham | PHIA Handmade

Vibrant, intricate, and informed by centuries of tradition—the products sold by PHIA Handmade bring the art of Colombia to Bellingham. Heimy Gonzalez moved to the U.S. in 2021 with her husband, Oscar Quintero, and their three children. They left behind their life in Colombia to follow their dreams, which have taken off as two distinct local businesses: COF&, a Colombian coffee company…

Indoor Jungle Springs Up In …

Indoor Jungle Springs Up In Fairhaven | Babygreens

Babygreens originally opened in Downtown Bellingham in April 2018, started by Owner Nick Meza after a lifetime of appreciating what plants can do for a home. “Plants have always been a really great passion and hobby…

The Mixing Tin | Jack’s …

The Mixing Tin | Jack’s Morning Don

Jack’s Morning Don Ingredients: Mezcal, Génépi liqueur, pear brandy, St-Germaine $12 Photo by Cocoa Laney With its delicate color and crisp finish, the Morning Don is a springtime spin on the classic Negroni. Sweet pear notes combine with a smoky undertone from the Mezcal, resulting in a…

A Brief Guide to Gardening …

A Brief Guide to Gardening Apparel

March marks the beginning of longer days, and those longer days herald the return of spring. As your plants and flowers return to their full splendor, why not renew your gardening wardrobe as well? To jump-start your imagination, we’ve curated some functional-yet-fashionable clothing that’s perfect for getting down and dirty in. Dovetail Bandana in Brown Hatch Texture Clothing, $12 Bellingham, 360.733.3351, textureclothing.com Blue Mint Plaid Button-Up…

Meet the Birds | Wings Over …

Meet the Birds | Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival

With March coming back around and the seasons on the verge of changing over, spring migration is in swing for the birds of Northwest America! With that comes the return of the Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival! The festival, now in its 20th year, will take place March 17–19 around the coastal waters of Drayton Harbor, Birch Bay and Semiahmoo. There are tons…

The Return of Gourmet Pizza …

The Return of Gourmet Pizza That Outshines the Herd | Goat Mountain Pizza

After several years of hiatus, a community favorite for upscale pizza has returned to Holly Street in Downtown Bellingham. Goat Mountain…

Ask a Stylist: Trends and …

Ask a Stylist: Trends and Transformations | Q&A with Danielle Nederhood of Salon Bellissima

As anyone who’s ever gotten a pixie cut can tell you, major hair transformations can be emotional. How can a client be certain that they’re ready to take the plunge? I always like to live by the motto, “If not now, when?” I believe everyone needs to shave their head at least once in their life. If you…

Creating Community for Female …

Creating Community for Female Professionals | Her Connection Hub

It’s safe to say that the Connection Breakfasts at Her Connection Hub are unlike any other networking event I’ve ever been to—and not just because all the attendees are women. There are no awkward introductions or forced exchanging of business cards. Rather, participants engage in genuine conversations about their lives as both professionals and as people. “We just really try to provide this container for … all of the other things that make…

Not Just IPAs: Bellingham’…

Not Just IPAs: Bellingham’s New Home for Farmhouse Style Brews | Darach Brewing Company

If you stop into State Street’s newest brewery expecting West Coast classics, you’ll likely find what you’re looking for—but IPAs are just the tip of the iceberg at Darach Brewing Company. Their diverse beers will please most palates, with offerings including dark beers and even several guest taps. However, the heart and soul of Darach are their farmhouse ales and wild ferments. Darach (pronounced dar-rock) means “oak” in Gaelic, and its name references the spirit barrels used…

Locally Inspired: Fabric Art …

Locally Inspired: Fabric Art by KLT Works | Kristin Loffer Theiss

When Kristin Loffer Theiss started her own business in 2005, she had been looking for a career that would let her use her creativity and would also let her be a parent. She began by making nursery decor, including handmade mobiles, and the fledgling business immediately took off. “I hit it timing-wise with the maker’s movement,” she says. With an MFA in studio art, Theiss has experience in a wide range of art media, so she chose the…

The North Sound’s Most …

The North Sound’s Most Iconic Eats

Breakfast What: Biscuits and Gravy Where: Old Town Cafe Why: As far as cafes go, Old Town Cafe is basically a church—and breakfast is their religion. Any of their dishes would start your day off right, but the Biscuits and Gravy ($12.75)…

Ethical Clothes for On-Trend …

Ethical Clothes for On-Trend Tots: The Minted Method

The Shop Parents and caregivers to little ones in Bellingham can trust Minted Method to have stylish, carefully sourced, and durable products that will keep up with life’s thrills…

Meet Western’s Most Buzzed-…

Meet Western’s Most Buzzed-About New Playwright | Eryn Elyse McVay

“What the gods gave me” is a new horror play by Eryn Elyse McVay that has only been produced twice:…

Since Time Immemorial : Cu-se-…

Since Time Immemorial : Cu-se-ma-at Cathy Ballew

Since Time Immemorial is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by Lhaq’temish (Lummi), Nooksack, and other Coast Salish peoples is knowledge about how to live…

Storybook Tea Parties and a …

Storybook Tea Parties and a Real Life Wonderland

White Branches

Custom Is Key

Maiben Fixtures and Furnishings

Q&A with Jessica Gigot

Author of the Memoir “A Little Bit of Land”

Experiencing the North …

Experiencing the North Cascades from Above

Snowking Aviation

STEAKS, SEAFOOD, AND SIPS

When selected with care, drink pairings have the potential to exchange and extend the flavors of an already-delicious meal.

Budding, Blossoming, Blooming

bLoom

A Multi-Generational …

A Multi-Generational Community Cornerstone

Stowes Shoes & Clothing

Pacific Northwest Health Perks

January 2023 Feature, Keeping your mind and body healthy and active.

Fermented Food with a Focus

Junebug Ferments

Eclectic and Artisan Goods in …

Eclectic and Artisan Goods in Edison

Hedgerow

10 Must-Try Beauty Treatments

Skin and body treatments and what local spas to find them in.

Providing Respite: Art and …

Providing Respite: Art and Connection at Heartful Retreats

Heartful Retreats

Recipes for a Balanced …

Recipes for a Balanced Breakfast

Three recipes for healthy breakfasts!

A Heart-Warming Festival To …

A Heart-Warming Festival To Benefit Cardiac Health

Skagit Regional Health Festival of Trees

Classic Christmas: 40 Ways to …

Classic Christmas: 40 Ways to Give Back, Part 1

Organizations and opportunities to give back to our community.

Classic Christmas: Farm-to-…

Classic Christmas: Farm-to-Table Holiday Feasts

Local farms, producers, and merchants that have everything you need for a locally sourced feast.

Outdoorsy Winter Adventures: …

Outdoorsy Winter Adventures: A 2022 Round-Up

Winter Outdoor Activity Roundup

Classic Christmas: Gifts to …

Classic Christmas: Gifts to Treasure

Under the Tree Presentation (pun intended) is part of the fun when it comes to holiday gifting– and if you’re looking to shop local for gift wrap, Cresswell Boggs is sure to have everything you need and more. If you prefer to get your gifts professionally wrapped, Paper Dreams offers both gift wrap…

Classic Christmas: On the Town

At Home for the Holidays

Ideas to turn your home into an iconic holiday haven

Skagitonian Sourdough from …

Skagitonian Sourdough from PNW-Grown Grains

Water Tank Bakery

Your Fashion Home at House of …

Your Fashion Home at House of Style

House of Style Boutique

Cozy Winter Restaurants: A …

Cozy Winter Restaurants: A Regional Round-Up

When it comes to staving off the PNW winter blues, good food is a great antidote– especially when it’s enjoyed somewhere warm, welcoming, and intimate. Imagine it now: The weather outside is frightful,…

PNW Art in the Heart of …

PNW Art in the Heart of Skagit Valley

Rexville Grange Art Show

Fall Festivities: Pumpkin …

Fall Festivities: Pumpkin Picking and More at Gordon Skagit Farms

Gordon Skagit Farms

The Ultimate Haunted …

The Ultimate Haunted Halloween Road Trip: Your PNW Itinerary

Haunted Road Trip

Behind the Brews

Meet the Inspirations for Your Favorite Local Beers

New Slab Gallery Encourages …

New Slab Gallery Encourages Connection to Design

Stone Pros Inc.

Alfredo Arreguín: Brilliant …

Alfredo Arreguín: Brilliant Abstractions at the Museum of Northwest Art

Museum of Northwest Art

A Beautiful Harbor Town …

A Beautiful Harbor Town Boutique

Ladders Clothing & Co.

Lovely Liqueurs

If liquors are the backbone of the cocktail world, then liqueurs could be thought of as their sweeter, more playful sibling. Unlike standard liquor, these spirits are high in sugar and often (but not always!) lower in alcohol content as a result. Better yet, the options for flavorings and infusions are practically unlimited– you’ll find liqueurs made with everything from fruit to herbs, nuts, spices, flowers, and even flakes of gold. While today’s liqueurs are mostly…

Showcasing the Creative …

Showcasing the Creative Energy of Skagit County

The LIDO Collective

Home Styling by Season

August Feature

A Culinary Oasis in Edison

Slough Food

Working with Willow: Basketry …

Working with Willow: Basketry by Katherine Lewis

Dunbar Gardens

Cheese, Please!

A Guide to the Local Cheese Scene

Home Grown

May 2022 Feature

The Genuine Soul in the Soil

Genuine Skagit Valley

By the Numbers: Skagit Valley …

By the Numbers: Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

Tulip Festival

Continuing Northwestern …

Continuing Northwestern Traditions in Contemporary Art

Smith & Vallee Gallery

Food and Wine from the Land …

Food and Wine from the Land and Sea

Located at the crossroads of Chuckanut Drive and Bow Hill Road stands Cob + Cork, a quaint, small-town restaurant “inspired by the harvest of local soil and water.” After opening its doors in August of this year, Cob + Cork has quickly become a community gem thanks to the work of owners Lisa and Terry Thomson.

Baking Your Dreams Come True

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

Meet the Mushrooms: Fungus …

Meet the Mushrooms: Fungus 101 with Evan Holmstrom

Have you ever wanted to learn more about mushrooms, or maybe you’d like to be more aware of the nature that surrounds you? Now is your chance to do just that. The North Cascades Institute (NCI) is putting on a workshop titled “Meet the Mushrooms” that allows participants to interact with and learn more about fungi.

Providing Support for Those …

Providing Support for Those Who Need It Most

Victim Support Services

New Mount Vernon Design …

New Mount Vernon Design Center Honors Sustainability and Creativity

Pinecone Inc.

This Mother’s Day, say ‘I …

This Mother’s Day, say ‘I Love You’ at Spero Spa

Mother’s Day Specials at Spero Skin Spa Salon

Temperate Habits Brewing

Mount Vernon Gets a New Brewery

Cafe Crawl

According to Encyclopædia Britannica, the first cafe opened in Constantinople in the year 1550. The rise of coffee drinking meant caffeine-lovers needed a place where they could gather in public and enjoy the new buzzy beverage. Over the next decades, cafes spread throughout Europe, becoming nexuses for political discourse, culture, and art. Fast forward a few…

Men Like to be Pampered Too

PURE Skin + Wellness offers Waxings, Lash Lifts, and More

20 Local Gifts Under $20

Whether you’re shopping for your sweetie this Valentine’s Day or just want to spread some love to family and friends, these gifts are sure to satisfy without hurting your wallet. Plus, they’re all from retailers in Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan Counties, so you can keep the love local.

Holiday Stuffing

Roasted Chestnuts & Delicata Squash

Not Your Run-of-the-Mill …

Not Your Run-of-the-Mill Flour Mill

Fairhaven Mill

Flora Perez-Lucatero

One woman’s mission to serve the children of Skagit Valley

Revival Cocktail Lounge

Mount Vernon’s Newest, Oldest-Feeling Bar

Cascadia Jewelry

Cascadia Jewelry offers high-quality jewelry at accessible price points.

Quality Furniture in Anacortes

Tracys Furniture brings quality craftsmanship and customer service to the homeowners of Anacortes.

Lake Neighborhood Guide

Explore the best of Lakeside Living with this month’s feature: a Lake Neighborhood Guide.

Valley Made Market Goes …

Valley Made Market Goes Virtual

Valley Made Market’s digital platform allows you to continue supporting local, with the same handmade products you know and love.

A Tulip Legacy Continues …

A Tulip Legacy Continues Under New Ownership

Tulip Town welcomes new owners, and new tulips.

Terramar Brewing Takes …

Terramar Brewing Takes Locally Sourced to a Tasty New Level

Terramar Brewing, which opened in Edison this past summer, is the area’s newest brewery, pizzeria, and soon-to-be distillery.

For the Love of Wood

Skagit Valley Slabhaus turns salvaged wood into functional art.

International Eats

February’s feature is International Eats! We’ve provided a list of our favorite international cuisine from Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan counties. Discover your favorites now.

A Gem of a Jewelry Shop

La Conner’s Trumpeter Gallery showcases handmade jewelry from artists around the world. Learn about how they got started and the beautiful things to be found inside.

Valentine’s Day AM to PM

Make the most of your Valentine’s Day with this guide on how to keep the party going from morning till night.

The Pop-Up: Mount Vernon’s …

The Pop-Up: Mount Vernon’s New Business Incubator

This pop-up business space aims to provide resources for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Chuckanut Manor: A Historic …

Chuckanut Manor: A Historic Culinary Roadhouse Tradition

Originally built as a residence, Chuckanut Manor has welcomed diners for more than 50 years. Visitors savor Pacific Northwest fare as well as views from one of the most scenic drives in Western Washington.

Celebrating the Creative …

Celebrating the Creative Spirit

Local consignment shop The Lucky Dumpster offers an eclectic mix of handmade goods from more than 200 skilled artisans.

Where and Why to Sauna

Sweat out your toxins and your worries at these featured local saunas.

Beautify Yourself and Your …

Beautify Yourself and Your Home the Natural Way at handmade. la conner

Explore a variety of one-of-a-kind home and beauty items at handmade. la conner, and learn how it all started from owner Robyn Bradley.

A Passion for Style

After inquisitive clients kept asking hairstylist Janet Horton where she found her trendy threads, she realized she could combine her passion for hairstyling and fashion in one place. As such, Three Little Birds Salon & Boutique was born. The store features a full-service hair salon and a women’s boutique; something quite unique to the area. Revitalize Your Look “Our salon and boutique is a one-stop, feel-good place,”says Horton. “I love building relationships with customers and hope they walk…

Get Creative in Skagit Valley

For more than 50 years, Tri Dee Arts has been a fixture in downtown Mount Vernon—in 2018, the newest owners unveiled two renovated sections.

A Passion for the Fiber Arts

Wild Fibers in downtown Mount Vernon has been inspiring fiber artists for nearly 15 years—a one-stop destination for everything fiber and fiber-related.

Best of the Northwest 2019 …

Best of the Northwest 2019 Winner’s Announced!

The results are in. You—readers from Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan counties—cast more than a total half-million votes in 126 categories for your favorite North Sound businesses, places, and people. From Best Date Night to Best Dentist, you made your choices known. Here they are. Thank you to all our readers and followers for participating and voting, and congratulations to all of the winners! Click below…

Over 50 Years of Farming in …

Over 50 Years of Farming in Skagit Valley

Since purchasing their first 80 acres of farmland in 1963, Steve and Susan Schuh have expanded to 250 acres and now manage Schuh Farms with their children.

Time to Treat Yourself

In July 2018, brother and sister team—Jesse Sturgeon and Angie Skorick—opened Indulge Wine & Dessert Bar in historic downtown Anacortes.

Pamper Your Pet

In December 2018, Just 4 Paws Pet Boutique opened in La Conner—A space dedicated to furry friends, where all kinds of pet lovers can stock up on pet food and supplies.

Ten Years of Delicious Eats

Bob’s Chowder Bar & BBQ Salmon in Anacortes—treasured for its fresh and local seafood—is approaching it’s 10-year anniversary, with some changes in store.

Not Her First Rodeo

For some local grass-fed Angus beef, check out Addies Angus Ranch in Mount Vernon—a small, family business run by Nikki Lewis-LeSourd.

Grain to Glass in Skagit …

Grain to Glass in Skagit County

Farmstrong Brewing Co. in Mount Vernon is making use of local grain—All of their beers contain some percentage of barley that was grown and malted locally.

Tea and Tour Rolls In

To the east of Sedro-Woolley, amid Skagit Valley Farmlands, sits Willowbrook Manor—an overnight destination fit with Tea Time events and bike tours.

Skagit Bay Waterfront Home

Architects Dan Nelson and Matt Radach of Designs Northwest worked to transform this Skagit Bay cabin into a classic beachfront home.

Berry Dairy Days

Celebrate Burlington’s history of agricultural and farming communities with the 82nd annual Berry Dairy Days presented by Peoples Bank.

A Place for All Seasons

For those craving some artisan pizza and local beer, drop by Railroad Pub & Pizza—a cozy and cabin-like restaurant in downtown Burlington.

The Mixing Tin

This month’s Mixing Tin is Strawberry Fizz from Valley Shine Distillery. The perfect cocktail to leave winter behind and get in that summertime mood.

Sips and Suds in Sedro

Local 20 Taproom in Sedro-Woolley, owned by Jake Clary, is the first taproom to arrive to the area and will soon be celebrating its two-year anniversary.

A Resource for Boaters in the …

A Resource for Boaters in the Pacific Northwest

Prepare for your next boating adventure at the Waggoner Guide Bookstore, where they offer expert advice, seminars and an array of nautical books.

Cinco de Mayo Hot Spots

Celebrate the Mexican army’s win over France at the Battle of Pueblo with the best Mexican dishes around the North Sound this Cinco de Mayo.

Five Faves

From beer to wine, mead to olive oil and vinegar, this month’s Five Faves takes a look at the best local tasting rooms in Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan.

A Celebration of a Pacific …

A Celebration of a Pacific Northwest Specialty

SeaBear Wild Salmon sells their Pacific Northwest caught smoked salmon in Anacortes. Tom Savidge is the founder, and Mike Mondello is the president and CEO.

Easter Eats

We’ve found the best places if you’re planning to take your family out this Easter. Enjoy a brunch, buffet, or dinner menu at these local spots.

A History of Tulips in the …

A History of Tulips in the Valley

A look at the history behind the beautiful Skagit Valley Tulip Festival shows a vibrant Dutch background. Visit Tulip Town and RoozenGaarde this April!

Five Faves

This month’s Five Faves is a list of five garden centers where you can find everything to make your garden grow beautifully this Spring.

From Hard Knocks to Helping …

From Hard Knocks to Helping Hands

Tina Tate is the exeutive director of Frienship House, a clean and sober shelter that provides food, clothes, and recovery to the homeless in Skagit County.

Kitchens + Spaces

The “Kitchens” part of this feature gives a look at the inspiration behind each design for these six kitchens, and kitchen tech recommended by the experts.

‘Water of Life’

In Ireland, whiskey is known as the ‘water of life.’ Here is a list of a few local spots to find a good Irish whiskey and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day right.

Extraordinary Wood Art for …

Extraordinary Wood Art for Your Home

Mark Carrier is the owner of The Wood Merchant in downtown La Conner. At this gallery, you can find beautiful creations by talented woodworking artists.

Wholesale Seafood in the …

Wholesale Seafood in the North Sound

Our online exclusive this month showcases companies that provide local, fresh wholesale seafood from Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan counties, and Alaska.

Connecting Community with …

Connecting Community with Sustainable Salmon

Drifters Fish is a community supported fishery (CSF). Michael and Nelly Hand wanted to connect their customers with sustainably harvested salmon.

Island Cabin to Year-Round …

Island Cabin to Year-Round Home

This month’s Featured Home is an island cabin near Anacortes. This year-round home has a view of Deception Pass State Park.

Spectacular Seafood

Salmon and shrimp and crab, oh my! February features some of the restaurants and eateries in Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan where you can find the best fresh, local seafood.

How We Met

For Valentine’s Day, we bring you the stories of five local couples. They share how they met and fell in love, and what they are doing now in our community.

Nostalgia, Specialty Foods …

Nostalgia, Specialty Foods and Kitchenware in La Conner

Roberta and Gregg Westover own the Olive Shoppe and Ginger Grater. at their place in La Conner, you can taste a variety of olives, shop for kitchen necessities, and enjoy a cup of coffee.

Reconnecting with Our Food

A community garden helps us build community with our neighbors; reconnect with our food, where it comes from, and how it grows; and stay healthy!

Let the Healing Begin

Eugene Leonard is the owner of Anacortes Cannabis. Many of their products have healing properties to help with symptoms such as anxiety or sleeplessness.

Responsible Hair Care

Alchemika Salon, with owner and stylist Somer-Barnes, is an eco-conscious salon for responsible hair care. Green Circle provides compostable packaging.

The Mixing Tin

December’s Mixing Tin brings you the toasted bourban mocha from the 13moons restaurant at the Swinomish Casino in Anacortes.

New Year’s Eve …

New Year’s Eve Celebrations

We have chosen our top five favorite places celebrate New Year’s Eve around Skagit County, Whatcom County, and Island County.

Swinomish Tribal Leader …

Swinomish Tribal Leader Affects Change Locally and Nationally

Brian Cladoosby, senior tribal leader of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, is enacting national and local change, improving the lives of his tribe.

From Apollo 8 to Flight Museum

This Christmas Eve marks the 50th anniversary of Apollo 8 astronauts entering lunar orbit. Greg Anders runs the Heritage Flight Museum in Burlington.

Tapping into Your Inner Bird …

Tapping into Your Inner Bird Nerd

You can help out your local chapter of the National Audubon Siciety by becoming a citizen scientist and counting birds for the Christmas Bird Count.

Oh, Christmas Tree

As you are preparing for the holidays, here is a list of local, U-cut Christmas tree farms around Whatcom and Skagit counties.

Wildland Firefighter Jordan …

Wildland Firefighter Jordan Pollack

Jordan Pollack has been a fearless wildland firefighter across Whatcom, Skagit, Island, San Juan and Snohomish for over 40 years.

Five Faves

Nothing beats a good Bloody Mary in the morning! Find out who has the best Bloody Marys in town in this month’s Five Faves.

Slow Down, Eat Food, Give …

Slow Down, Eat Food, Give Thanks

Slow Food USA practices slowing down, understanding where food comes from, and enjoying the local bounty in Island and Skagit Counties.

Woodcut Prints, Handmade …

Woodcut Prints, Handmade Crafts In Downtown Mount Vernon

From stickers to mugs to handmade jewelry to screen-printed clothes, it’s all available at elSage Designs in downtown Mount Vernon.

Get Out for Thanksgiving …

Get Out for Thanksgiving Dinner

If you’re looking for a night out for Thanksgiving dinner, we have a list of local restaurants open next Thursday in Whatcom, Skagit, and San Juan counties!

Wellness Centers

Continuing with our series of wellness centers, we bring you a unique type of therapy: hypnosis. Kelley Woods of the Woods Hypnosis Center shares her view.

Best of the Northwest 2018 …

Best of the Northwest 2018 Winners Announced

You voted, and now you can see who is the Best in the Northwest! Here are the Gold, Silver, and Bronze winners in all 126 categories.

Skagit Surprise: Fresh Fish …

Skagit Surprise: Fresh Fish to Eat and Take Home

In Burlington, Tana and Eric Skaugrud are founders of Skagit’s Own Fish Market. They offer fresh, locally caught seafood, seasonings, and a seafood lunch.

Sense of Place, With Plates

Off Chuckanut Drive in Bow lies The Rhododendron Café, run by Lisa Cooney and Jim Kowalski, who use fresh, local Washington ingredients.

Small Bites

Here’s a look at local restaurants and bars where you can get a small bite to eat. Check out what’s available and snacks you should try.

Valley Shine Distillery

Here’s an inside look into Mount Vernon’s Valley Shine Distillery, where prohibition, bootlegging, and Al Capone are a big part of its history.

A’Town Bistro

Take a quick inside look into the A’Town Bistro in Anacortes, plus learn about a few edible garnishes to make your drinks fun and festive.

Bartender Q & As

We did a Q & A with four local bartenders. Here’s what they had to say about their backgrounds, favorite drinks, joys and challenges.

Susan Soltes

Susan Soltes started her second act at 50 years old. She tells her story of how she went from film production to organic blueberry farming.

Five Faves

We are highlighting five of our favorite hikes to take during the fall season, from the North Cascades to the San Juan Islands.

Deception Distilling

In this web exclusive, you can take an inside look into the family-run business in Anacortes, Deception Distilling and get the recipe for Lavender and Lace.

Swinomish Casino Scores

The Sports Bar & Grill at the Swinomish Casino and Lodge has upgraded their menu. Chef O’Neil is responsible for the new delicious additions.

Vibrant Mount Vernon: Not …

Vibrant Mount Vernon: Not Just for Tulips Any More

Downtown Mount Vernon in Skagit County is best known for the tulip fields, but it is growing with new businesses, events, parks, and more!

107th Year, and Counting

The Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden celebrates its 107th year and still maintaining its agricultural roots from when it began in 1911.

Ice Cream Feature | Lopez …

Ice Cream Feature | Lopez Island Creamery

Take a look behind the scenes at the Lopez Island Creamery, where new and classic ice cream flavors are created at this local Anacortes business.

August Ice Cream Main Feature …

August Ice Cream Main Feature | First Scoop

A quick look into the history of ice cream and a list of local ice cream shops in the North Sound that make their own delicious desserts!

Gifts Ahoy in Anacortes

A new gift shop opened in Anacortes. The Johnson Manor is a colorful, unique shop offering fun gifts, furniture, beauty products and more!

Throwback Ice Cream Stand …

Throwback Ice Cream Stand Still A Gem

Ordering is the opposite of Starbucks’ multi-adjective gibberish. Just state size and vehicle. “Small, on a cone” will do.

Baking School and Bread Lab …

Baking School and Bread Lab Rise Together in Burlington

The Skagit Bread Lab is offering classes in their new King Arthur Flour Baking School to educate locals and give back to the community.

Growth Beyond ADU: Handle …

Growth Beyond ADU: Handle with Care

Growth is inevitable. The North Sound region is increasing in population and infrastructure. How is this growth affecting our quality of life?

Military Tourism

Take a tour of a few Washington State Parks and learn about the military history in this area, from the early 1800s to WWII.

Military Bases

A behind-the-scenes look at what goes on at the Naval Air Station on Whidbey Island.

Insole Giant Makes Big Step

Superfeet is emerging as a leader in footbed technology.

Getting Serious About Sunburn

Stay safe this summer and protect your skin from sunburn by learning about UV radiation.

Finding Elbow Room In a …

Finding Elbow Room In a Bathroom Overhaul

Approximately 40 years ago, this bathroom and closet off the master bedroom was a luxury. After much love, it was in desperate need of a makeover. Updating the fixtures and bringing the “look” to the current century was my clients’ first request. Next, they wanted to brighten the space and gain more room without changing the footprint. Last, they wanted a farmhouse feel with clean contemporary lines. Since this bathroom had “almost” lasted the test…

Hamlet Hotel

Downtown, An Old Space Becomes New Again For Fred and Colleen Schacht, the Hamlet Hotel has been a reclamation project, sentimental journey, and business venture wrapped into one century-old downtown building. The Hamlet isn’t really a hotel but a four-suite Airbnb, where guests check themselves in via cellphone and internet (though the Schachts are just a phone call away). The Hamlet’s location,…

Finding Sunshine in a (Beer) …

Finding Sunshine in a (Beer) Can | Sip

Only the most radical (and misguided) beer snob would insist on a glass for every beer-drinking occasion. Smart drinking requires an appreciation of context.

A Love for Food

Seeds honors the area’s culinary traditions not just by curating from local farmers and producers, but by preparing the ingredients in a manner that showcases their flavors.

Final Word | Even If It Ain’…

Final Word | Even If It Ain’t Broke, Fix It!

Humor alert — Loretta reminded me to provide a satire disclaimer. No toes were intentionally stepped on in the writing of this Final Word

Saving Spinach: Plant Doctor …

Saving Spinach: Plant Doctor Upgrades Crop

Plant pathologist Lindsey du Toit and her team are increasing spinach seed production in Skagit County through Fusarium fungus research.

Videographer, Environmental …

Videographer, Environmental Advocate

Michael Dyrland of Dyrland Productions uses photography and multimedia to bring environmental issues to the forefront.

Seeking Perfection on a Knife&…

Seeking Perfection on a Knife’s Edge

Blacksmith Andy Gladish creates beautiful, sharp, and durable knives as owner of Element Fe.

Mixing Tin

Maple and brown sugar? These flavors were made for each other, we all know that. But if you thought they existed only in your morning oatmeal, think again.

Skin Deep in Mount Vernon

Bare Boutique in Mount Vernon provides high-quality skincare products and services in a relaxing and welcoming environment.

Chocolate Duo Turning A Page

Evolve Chocolate has found a new home at Village Books, expanding to include a café and bar, showcasing what Bellingham has to offer.

Five Faves Stunning Scenic …

Five Faves Stunning Scenic Drives

Have a minute? Looking to take advantage of the long summer days? Just trying to get away? Check out our five favorite scenic drives.

What’s in Our Waters?

Giant Pacific Octopus (Entreoctopus dofleini) Where found: In cold oxygen-rich water at depth of up to 6,600 ft. The record size… Click to read more!

Days for Girls Tackles a Taboo

The non-profit organization was founded in 2008 by Celeste Mergens of Lynden who saw the need for feminine hygiene kits while she was working with a family foundation in Kenya.

Marine Life in Anacortes

Women Researchers at Shannon Point Inspire Students Not far down the road from the Anacortes ferry landing is an important marine research center that has studied everything from seaweed to ocean waves to ocean acidification since the 1970s. Once primarily a field station for Western Washington University, it now has community outreach programs along with research and study…

Finishing Touches

THE SHOP Whether your home’s style is farmhouse, nautical or Paris chic, Mount Vernon’s Re-Feather Your Nest has the perfect finishing touches for any well-designed room. In addition to decor accessories and wall hangings, it has one-of-a-kind, reclaimed furniture and…

Is Low-Carb the Way to Go?

Proteins, Fats Give Energy Too These days it seems that every other news story is talking about the merits (or pitfalls) of the low-carb, high-fat (LCHF) diet, also commonly referred to as the Keto Diet. So what is it and should you…

More Than Great Beer

In downtown Anacortes, the 105-year old building at 902 Commercial Ave. has been home to a flooring company, an antique store, a hair salon, and, since January 2016, it’s housed The Union Tavern, the town’s beer-centric bar. Owner…

Five Faves

1. KEENAN’S AT THE PIER …

An Anacortes Home for the …

An Anacortes Home for the Sunset Years

Here is a quick glimpse inside this beautiful home in Anacortes, with amazing detail to design and even more incredible views.

Restoring Marine Habitat, One …

Restoring Marine Habitat, One Crab Pot at a Time

Bryan Dealing yells, “Stand by! Let it go! Twenty-six feet!” and then, splash! The diver, with his hand gripping the weighted rope that leads into the sea below him, steps off from the back of the boat into the cloudy, dark waters of Everett’s Port Gardner. It’s the middle of February. While not raining, the wind…

If Mother America Could Speak

Your forefathers gave me life more than 240 years ago. When most of them first came to this land, many were in search of a new life, free from religious persecution, free from economic…

Lasting Image | Kerry Butowicz

Beltane is celebrated with a maypole dance. This shot was achieved by standing in the middle of the dancers underneath the interwoven ribbons. Feeling the joy of the community surrounding me brought this festival to life in its purest form.

Real Estate

In Whatcom, Skagit and San Juan counties of the North Sound, the real estate industry has grown from a decade ago. No wonder, because people are…

Youth Arts Academy Leader …

Youth Arts Academy Leader Has Theater in His Blood

Ian Bivins As executive director Ian Bivins enters the small children’s theater in downtown Bellingham, he takes a moment and looks at the old fold-up chairs, scuffed wooden floors and creaky stage with a twinkle in his eye, as if he’s standing…

The Ebb & Flow of a Town

Jennifer Mann sold glue for 35 years. The Californian-born Mann worked for a Connecticut-based company that made adhesives and coatings that cured in a certain spectrum of light, ideal for everything from windshield-crack bonding to dental coatings. Mann moved to Anacortes 14 years ago, but still spent 70 percent of her…

Five Faves Outdoor Sculpture …

Five Faves Outdoor Sculpture Gardens

1. WESTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY CAMPUS If you’ve ever strolled the campus situated well above downtown Bellingham, you can’t miss the intriguing, and sometimes befuddling, artwork placed between buildings. (At least one piece even has its own Twitter handle.) The university’s first sculpture was installed in 1960, and the collection has grown to include 36 “interactive” pieces, including the one pictured here—“Skyviewing Sculpture,” by Isamu Noguchi (1969), that allow…

Lasting Image | Pat McDonnell

What is your favorite thing to take pictures of? Street Photography is my favorite thing to shoot, it’s spontaneous, gets me out, and I really get to see the town. I love shooting both film and digital. What do you do when you aren’t taking photos? I help craft micro…

Grabbing Life By the Horns

The first bite transports you to a warm, Mississippi morning. The array of spices paired with a hint of pineapple give a burst of flavor, but the carrots and walnuts provide a smooth finish. Top that all off with cream cheese frosting and a buttermilk glaze, and you’ll find yourself licking the plate clean. This southern carrot cake is a staple of the new Antler Baking…

An Aerial Photographer’…

An Aerial Photographer’s Perspective

Tore Ofteness has been a local photographer for more than 30 years. Born in Norway, Ofteness, 72, lives in Bellingham. Now all but retired, Ofteness recently published the book, “A Higher Perspective: Aerial Photography of the Pacific Northwest,” through Village Books’ Chuckanut Editions. It documents a collection of more than 100 images—almost all from film photography—he captured through open windows in small airplanes or helicopters. To craft his book,…

Hidden Gem

Bellingham Cider Company Bellingham Cider Company’s head chef Dirul Shamsid-Deen has been a chef for more than 17 years, cooking in culinary meccas like New York, L.A., and Chicago. Far from the bustle of those big cities, Shamsid-Deen is making some noise at the new Bellingham Cider Company, tucked away in a downtown location that has quietly become the talk of the culinary community. A couple doors down from the…

Working its way into the …

Working its way into the mainstream

Acupuncture This wellness therapy has become so widespread that people are even taking their dogs in for treatment. But for people, this therapy has been around for eons. Good for helping with: chronic pain, anxiety/depression, high blood pressure, stress management, infertility, sexual dysfunction, asthma, insomnia, menopause, and a variety of other ailments. Theory behind the therapy: Acupuncture is…

Out of This World

Unidentified flying objects are personal for Bellingham artist Trish Harding. A Lummi Island native and Bellingham resident, she says she has seen UFOs twice in her lifetime, once on Lummi as a child and also as a young adult off the island. With that partly in…

Don’t come home without a …

Don’t come home without a mammoth, dear!

Ken (and Loretta) offer their post- Winter Olympic Games thoughts to increase viewership Every two years, we celebrate the world’s athletes, their incredible stories of sacrifice, and the spirit of Olympic competition….

Lasting Image

What is your favorite thing to take pictures of? My favorite subjects are in the sky: stars, comets, eclipses, the sun and moon. But being a night sky photographer in the cloudiest city in the continental United States can be challenging, so I also spend a significant time photographing wildlife. What do you do when you aren’t taking photos? I work as a real estate broker for…

Updating with Charm and Style

When you find the perfect house —it’s got a beautiful view, a great lot, lots of space for three growing girls, and in the desired location —but it’s lacking charm and style,…

Cascadia Womens Film Fest …

Cascadia Womens Film Fest Returns

Last month was Women’s History Month, but we don’t have to stop celebrating just because it’s April. The second annual Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival is April 12–15 at Pickford Film Center in downtown Bellingham. This festival screens films directed exclusively by women, honoring their strides in a predominately…

Friends of the Forest

Many residents in Anacortes are lucky enough to live within walking distance to some of the city’s 2,800 acres of forests. With rapid real estate development engulfing much of the city, we have Friends of the Anacortes Community Forest Lands, more commonly known as Friends of the Forest, to thank…

Good to Grow

Your shovel and spade have been collecting dust in the shed all winter. They’ve been itching to hit the soil for months now, and spring is finally here. Some novice (and not-so-novice) gardeners may be wondering what to plant in their…

French Fundamentals in an …

French Fundamentals in an English-Style Pub

Off La Conner’s main drag and up a hill sits The Oyster & Thistle Restaurant & Pub. Originally a hotel and restaurant (and for a year a barbershop), it was designed in 1976 by architect Glen Bartlett in an English country theme. Going for authenticity, Bartlett salvaged stained glass from a London building that…

Medical Aesthetics, Explained

Doctor Answers Questions About Growing Industry Increasingly, older Americans are looking in the mirror and unhappy with what they see: Scars, skin laxity, wrinkles, moles, liver spots, excess fat, cellulite, unwanted hair, skin discoloration, and spider veins top the list of complaints. As skin worries grow, so have new ways to treat them (think Botox) and new places to seek help. Once mainly the purview of dermatologists and plastic surgeons, only a few…

Hard-to-Kill Plants

So, you’ve never muddied your hands with garden soil. You can never remember what a perennial is. You’ve drowned or deprived all your past plants. Do not despair. Below is a list of some of the hardiest, low-maintenance plants you can put in the ground. These,…

So, You Want a Pond?

So, you’ve decided you want to build a water feature in your back yard That’s a wonderful idea. A pond draws hummingbirds, songbirds, and butterflies. The trickling sound…

Tugging at the Heart

Lil’ Tugs Children’s Boutique 713 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.299.2350 | liltugskids.com THE SHOP Since its opening in July 2016, Lil’ Tugs Children’s Boutique has become a community favorite. The darling shop carries toys and clothing for newborns through eight years old. Inspired by the Anacortes tugboat town culture, the store features a child-sized tugboat perfect for keeping kids busy while grownups browse the shop’s fun inventory. THE ATMOSPHERE A sidewalk chalkboard sign beckons customers into…

April Showers Bring May …

April Showers Bring May Flowers

Hydration ‘Tis that glorious time of year here in the Pacific Northwest in western Washington, where the rain is constant and everything…

Vinostrology Shines As …

Vinostrology Shines As Downtown Bellingham Wine Bar And Lounge

Wine Bar Extraordinaire Bellingham native Katie Bechkowiak had plenty of experience in the restaurant and wine industries when she began toying with the idea of opening up her own wine bar. Then, while wrapping up a visit to the city’s Bloedel Donovan Park, she hopped in her car and turned on the Oprah Station on XM-Satellite Radio. During the program, Oprah asked her listeners, “What’s holding you back?” Katie recalls. That was…

The Mixing Tin – The …

The Mixing Tin – The Brandied Cherry Collins

When you walk into The Blue Abode Bar in Barkley Village, it feels like you are home —even though it’s new to the neighborhood. A cozy spot for cocktails, it has a wood bar, tables are accented with blue paint, and chairs and blue lights line…

A Bubbly Business for …

A Bubbly Business for Downtown Snohomish

Lather & Salt Tucked — almost squeezed — neatly between Antique Warehouse and Roger’s River View Bistro on Snohomish’s main drag is a delicious bath and body shop. Though it only occupies about 75 square feet of space…

Meet the Chef

Chef Todd Alan Martin of Hundred North hosted his German-inspired dinner on Thursday, February 22 at Judd & Black Appliance in Mount Vernon. The four-course meal was full of comfort foods from parsnip soup to chocolate cake, each with its own flair and elegance. Martin’s attitude was laid-back, straight-forward, and far from over the top. His philosophy for cooking stemmed from a love of bringing people together around something they all have to…

A Full Flavor Experience from …

A Full Flavor Experience from Start to Shop

Twin Sisters Creamery The Twin Sisters Creamery and cheese shop is big, bright, and airy, not exactly what you’d expect of a store of its kind, but certainly what you want….

Bad Boys in the Garden

Pesky Plants to Avoid We gave you the best and easiest plants to grow in your Pacific Northwest garden, but it’s also invaluable to know what not to plant. See our list of what plants experts say are the among the worst – invasive, disease-ridden, or just outright annoying – to allow into your garden. How many times have you been given suggestions of what to plant in your garden? Your neighbors will be the first to tell you about…

Platform of Change

Kelli Linville chuckles as she recalls how people occasionally mistake her husband for the mayor of Bellingham—a job she’s held since 2012. White men still predominate in the halls of government from Washington D.C. to Whatcom County, but increasingly women are…

Coast Harbor Towns Feature

For those of us who spent time or grew up in the East, a West Coast road trip has this one, can’t-beat-it novelty: seeing the sun set over the ocean. The following five places — Gig Harbor; Oregon’s Astoria and Cannon Beach; California’s Arcata/ Eureka and Mendocino —…

Lighthouses Feature

If not for the California gold rush, the construction of the first lighthouses on the West Coast would have been far less urgent. The “original eight”—seven on the California coast, one at the mouth of the Columbia River, began sentry duty in the mid-1800s, not…

FIVE FAVES DOCKS & PIERS

THE PIERS AT LA CONNER MARINA The piers at La Conner Marina see all different kinds of boaters from commercial, recreational and marine connected businesses. With bustling downtown La Conner a few steps away—amble over to the Museum of Northwest Art if you have the chance—this pier offers has a little something…

IMMIGRATION Feature

When Does the Failure to Act Become a Moral Issue? Only a handful of issues divide our country like immigration. The debate pits our heritage as a country of immigrants, our compassion for others less fortunate, and fundamental fairness against legitimate concerns over border…

The Art of Forgiveness

Colleen Haggerty Colleen Haggerty lay on the precipice of sleep. The same scene that had visited her countless times before would visit again. She was in a car, sometimes driving, sometimes not. It was dark and raining. Out of the darkness comes a car, barreling straight for her, faster and faster, destined for catastrophic damage. At the last moment, just before impact, Haggerty wakes in terror. For 15 years, Haggerty was haunted by that…

Marking the End of the (…

Marking the End of the (Traditional) Brewing Season

From Spring, Lager Awaits Its Day The older I get, the more I appreciate the seasons. Our lives are always emerging from somewhere, always headed somewhere….

Go with Your Gut – It&#…

Go with Your Gut – It’ll Help Your Brain

Gut instinct. Listen to your gut. What does your gut tell you? In the 1970s through to the 1980s, studies on the…

Skin Esthetician’s Mission: …

Skin Esthetician’s Mission: Empowering Women & Teens

Around age 10, I started going with my mom to get her hair cut. Sitting in the corner and watching the staff, I knew then that I wanted to be a part of the salon industry. I didn’t really have an interest in doing…

Bothell Furniture

Since 1985, Bothell Furniture has been a mainstay in downtown Bothell, and a recent move to a larger building just four blocks away has allowed it to spread its wings. The store’s salespeople have distinguished themselves by their knowledge and expertise. They buy carefully selected individual pieces of furniture rather than container loads of cheap imports, and they pride themselves not only…

Cider House Rules?

Bellingham Cider Company In a region dominated by local beers of all kinds, Bellingham Cider Company boldly enters on the…

Redefine Health Food

Shambala Bakery and Bistro If someone offered you a slice of non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan bread, what would you expect it…

The Mixing Tin: Pina Mas Macho

Redlight- Pina Mas Macho If you’re looking for a tropical treat to steal you away from the cold Bellingham weather, look no further than the Pina Mas Macho drink from the Redlight bar. Rum, infused with guava to give it a sweet exotic, flavor and basil to freshen it. With an ounce of pineapple juice and a splash of coconut milk you might forget that you truly are in Bellingham. This drink is the essence of what a day in the…

Protecting the Treasure of …

Protecting the Treasure of Whatcom County

Whatcom Land Trust From the North Cascade mountains to the Salish Sea, the committed members of the Whatcom Land Trust have made it their mission…

All-Ages Entertainment …

All-Ages Entertainment Downtown

The Ruckus Room Arcade and Fun Center Looking to provide an all-ages space downtown for Bellingham’s under-21 crowd, Collin Topolski and Emmalyn Smith opened the Ruckus Room Arcade and Fun Center in August of 2017. The co-owners designed the space with the basements and bonus rooms of middle-class American families of the 1970s in mind. Orange and green walls house an eclectic assortment of artwork,…

Five Faves: Women’s …

Five Faves: Women’s History Month

HIDDEN FIGURES (2016) Discover the true story of three brilliant African-American female mathematicians—Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, and Katherine Johnson—who played a crucial role in the U. S.’s space race against Russia. IRON JAWED ANGELS (2004) Follow the brave women of the 1917 women’s suffrage movement, particularly feminist Alice Paul. Watch as they sacrifice everything to fight for future generations’ right to vote and run for office. FRIDA (2002) This dramatic biography…

From Italy, With Love

Sempre Italiano Laura and Raffaele Chiusano like to describe events in their lives as “destino!” The two have a zest for life and passion for their work which is bringing hand-painted ceramics from Italian artisans to their store in La Conner. Sempre Italiano opened in 2006, but Laura had the…

Yes in a Dress- Nuu-Muu

Athletic leisure wear is all the rage, but what about a functional athletic garment that looks as pretty as your non-athletic garments? What about telling your daughter she can play basketball in a dress? What about getting dirty without sacrificing…

Pacific Northwest Whimsy

As a Bellingham native, professional painter Ben Mann has spent much of his life capturing the whimsy of the Pacific Northwest. His paintings are bold with color, yet soft with their overall…

Slowing Down Over a Glass

Seifert and Jones Wine Merchants 19 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.393.3271 | sjwinemerchants.com THE SHOP Seifert and Jones Wine Merchants is located…

Muto Ramen and Izakaya

Ramen, Revisited With the closing of the Japanese restaurant, Wasabee Sushi, last spring, it felt as though downtown Bellingham had been hit with a huge loss. Thankfully, Muto Ramen and Izakaya moved into Wasabee’s previous location on East Chestnut Street not long after it closed. The authentic Japanese restaurant caters to many of the same tastes as Wasabee, but with a stronger emphasis…

Fixer-Upper? No Thanks.

In 2018, Seniors and Millennials Will Find Common Ground in New Construction. If we only had a crystal ball. Then we could predict, or at least pretend to predict, the real estate economy and…

Lasting Image

What is your favorite thing to take pictures of? Sunsets are by far my favorite things to take photos of because they are always unique and unpredictable. A bonfire on the beach with friends is one of my favorite settings to photograph. Being the photographer to my closest friends and taking their portraits while watching a sunset is my happy place. What do you…

Wellness Centers

In recent years, health and wellness centers are catering to clients who want far more than feel-good country spas and or challenging…

Vagabond Station

Different and Delicious Imagine a crispy fried-chicken breast atop a fluffy biscuit, covered with melted cheddar cheese, and smothered with gravy. The Yard Bird sandwich is everything you didn’t know you were…

Mixing Tin

EAT Restaurant and Bar The Mon Dieu (My god) Ingredients: Captain Morgan’s rum, maple, lime, topped with BelleWood Acres Cider, $11 Tucked on the corner of East…

Take a Hike: Whatcom Falls …

Take a Hike: Whatcom Falls Park

Whatcom Falls Park is an accessible place for all kinds of activities, even beyond hiking, which makes it one of Bellingham’s most popular destinations regardless of season. Hikers, bikers, fishing enthusiasts, and dog-walkers…

Glorious Winter Greens

In the midst of winter, we are lucky to have some hearty veggies to stave off scurvy. Kale, cabbages, collard greens are the emerald gems of winter eats — packed full of vitamin  A, vitamin C, and fiber — and they are extremely versatile in the kitchen. From soups and salads to smoothies and stir-fries, these green goddesses have got your…

Makeup Tips for the Time-…

Makeup Tips for the Time-Challenged

As a makeup artist, I often get questions/comments about my own beauty routine, somewhere along the lines of “Do you airbrush yourself every day?” or “It must take you forever to do your makeup in the morning!” But the truth is — no — to each of those things! Just like you, I am busy! The last thing I have time to do…

Five Faves

Cinnamon Rolls MOUNT BAKERY CAFÉ & BAKERY Definitely a mountaintop experience. Revel in this devilishly sticky unraveling of a treat nicknamed “cinnamon snail” in Danish pastry. Mount Bakery’s spiral-layered roll recipe originated with a Belgian grandmother from a family of master bakers. The uniqueness: hand-formed, laminated croissant dough — a switch from challah — and baked in a large-cup muffin pan….

Best Breakfasts

All of us do it. Some before dawn cracks a new day, while others prefer to wait until mid-morning. There are even those who do it almost at lunchtime. Doesn’t…

Washington’s Olympic Roots …

Washington’s Olympic Roots Embedded in Slopes of Mount Rainier

Olympians from here have won medals  on both snow and ice — remember soul-patched short-track speedskating phenom Apolo Ohno from Federal Way, who won his first Olympic medal…

Firehouse Glass Gallery

Glassblowing Art When molten glass cools too quickly it explodes. At the Firehouse Glass Gallery in Langley there’s a barrel of discarded blowpipes with leftover nubs of molten glass. A periodic pop pop calls from the barrel, like a gun going off in the glass gallery. To prevent glass creations from exploding, temperature control is key: melting is done in a 2,100-degree Fahrenheit oven and completed pieces cool gradually in a 935-degree…

Lasting Image

What is your favorite thing to take pictures of? Having lived in Whatcom County for 46 years, I’ve seen some beautiful scenery here that still amazes me each time I visit that location. Yearning…

Walla Walla Wines Become a …

Walla Walla Wines Become a Growth Industry

The explosion of wineries in the Walla Walla Valley mirrors the impressive growth of wineries in Washington state. How impressive? Consider this: According to the Washington Wine Commission, there were 163 wineries statewide in the year 2000. Today the state boasts over 900 total wineries… and nearly 125 of those are located in the Walla…

Fighting Food Insecurity With …

Fighting Food Insecurity With Milk

In Whatcom, San Juan, and Skagit counties, Northwest Harvest works with a total 21 food banks, feeding more than 245,000 families.

The Art of Forgiveness

Colleen Haggerty lay on the precipice of sleep. The same scene that had visited her countless times before would visit again. She was in a car, sometimes driving, sometimes not. It was dark and raining. Out of the darkness comes a car, barreling straight for her, faster and faster, destined for…

Quinn & Foster

Keeping it classic When Garys’ Men’s and Women’s Wear closed in the winter of 2016, the Bellingham community mourned. Gary Lupo and his wife Barbara had run the well-loved store since 1978 (preceded by another owner named Gary, hence “Garys’”). Customers enjoyed memorable service and a large selection of classic clothing and shoes for men and women. Thankfully, Chris…

When it Comes to Running: …

When it Comes to Running: Feet First

Skagit Running Company 724 South 1st St., Mount Vernon 360.982.2934 facebook.com/Skagit-Running-Company THE SHOP On a corner at the edge of downtown Mount Vernon sits Skagit Running Company. Operating since 2001, the store has become a go-to in the lives of numerous runners in Skagit County for good reason: They care about runners’ feet. Skagit Running Company’s business cards say, “Proof that a new pair of shoes…

The Power of One

Ken shares his thoughts on the spirit of Valentine’s Day For most males in serious relationships, Valentine’s Day is one of three days each year that strike fear in their hearts, the others being their partner’s…

BeachCastle Sweets

Something Sweet for Your Sweet Rule number one when making chocolate treats is to use good quality chocolate. “You can really tell the difference in taste” explained Linda Lewis, owner of BeachCastle Sweets in Anacortes. Lewis sells…

Western Washington student …

Western Washington student Breezy Johnson Named to Olympic Team and Goes on a Tear

Change skier Breezy Johnson’s status from “Olympic hopeful” to South Korea-bound. In an update to our story in the February edition of Bellingham Alive (p. 68), the Western Washington University…

Opioid Addiction, Why Saying &…

Opioid Addiction, Why Saying “NO” Is So Hard

Many parents may remember Nancy Reagan’s anti-drug slogan, “Just say ‘No’ to drugs”, or the anti-drug campaign that used a frying pan and eggs to highlight the effect of drugs on the brain. The messages were simple and catchy. Neither slogan, however, gave parents the full scope of tools to address the risks of drug abuse with their kids. And that is because the physical effect of drug abuse on the human brain was not yet fully understood, especially for dangerously addictive opioids.

Sustainable Connections Means …

Sustainable Connections Means (Local) Business

Derek Long grew up in a one-stoplight town in Ohio before pursuing a career in business and economics. Much like the Pacific Northwest, Long’s hometown barely saw the sun. However, it wasn’t until after earning his degree from the University of Toledo and traveling around the world for more than a year that Long…

Banking on Two Wheels

Bellingham’s New Pump Track Is a Hit With just a push or two of a pedal, riders weave up, down and around, gathering speed and harnessing it to…

Butcher Shop Bringing the …

Butcher Shop Bringing the Craft Back to Bellingham

Four years ago, Shaun Almassy wasn’t sure that he even wanted to become a butcher. After some convincing from a friend, he decided to try his hand at butchery. Almassy now finds himself up, at times as early as 6 a.m., prepping for the day ahead.

Lynden Dutch Bakery

Beyond inviting visitors in for an afternoon treat or as a stop on their morning commute, Lynden Dutch Bakery caters for events, weddings, and company parties at a reasonable cost.

Alaskan Odysseys

Women in Fishing Find Their Passions, Help Others: Comprising a small group in a large and unforgiving industry that is Alaskan fishing, women persevere through extreme conditions, long hours, little sleep, and little to no contact with the outside world. But they keep returning, summer after summer, to catch what can’t be found on the mainland, something that’s a little different depending on who you’re asking….

A’Town Bistro……

A’Town Bistro…Your New Go-To Restaurant

A’Town Bistro Owner of A’Town Bistro in Anacortes, Timothy Moffitt, spent most of his life working in restaurants so he knew what he’d do differently when he got…

From 3-D Printers to gene …

From 3-D Printers to gene therapies, medicine is changing like never before

From 3-D Printers to gene therapies, medicine is changing like never before Two years ago this month, in a sweeping farewell State of the Union address, President Obama made the startling announcement that the U.S. would drastically ramp up efforts to cure cancer. He compared it to John F. Kennedy’s 1962 “moonshot” challenge — the audacious pledge, spurred by the…

Award-Winning Infant Care In …

Award-Winning Infant Care In Anacortes

Island Hospital Center for Maternal & Infant Care An Anacortes care center is one of just 13 winners of an international award…

Meticulously Made Food in a …

Meticulously Made Food in a Casual Eatery

Dad’s Diner a-Go-Go Dad’s Diner A-Go-Go in Anacortes is the epitome of creative selecting and layering of flavors and textures on a plate. Add in the superior customer service in a comfortable, casual atmosphere, and it’s no wonder so many locals eat here weekly. Best friends Fletcher McLean and Neil Stuchal built the restaurant after having success with their…

Healthy Cooking with EVOO

Anacortes Oil & Vinegar Bar THE SHOP Anacortes Oil & Vinegar Bar is a haven for olive oil and vinegar connoisseurs. It specializes in Ultra Premium extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), the cream of the crop in olive oil standards….

Fall Arts Feature

This feature story appeared in the November 2017 issue of Bellingham Alive Magazine.

The Mixing Tin: 5th Street …

The Mixing Tin: 5th Street Bistro

The Naughty Schoolgirl INGREDIENTS Pama, 360 Raspberry Vodka, lemon juice and splash of Sprite, $7.50 Although the name may make you blush, the Naughty Schoolgirl from Anacortes’s 5th Street Bistro in the Majestic Inn & Spa is perfect for when you’re feeling, well, naughty. The vodka-based raspberry lemon drink is slightly tart…

The Original Farm-to-Table

Nell Thorn Waterfront Bistro & Bar La Conner’s Nell Thorn has been serving locally sourced food before it was trendy. It is one of the original farm-to-table restaurants in the area, thanks to forward-thinking owners, Casey and Susan Schanen. The husband-wife team are natives of Skagit Valley and have extensive food and wine backgrounds. The couple met about 25 years ago at the Wild…

Wonder Woman: There’s …

Wonder Woman: There’s Always a Solution

Meredith McIlmoyle, Anacortes Arts Festival Director Anacortes Arts Festival executive director Meredith McIlmoyle has been event planning for 26 years. She began as a student assistant at Arizona State University, solo planning an event for the first time in 1993. She grew up in Denver, then…

Hometown Pot Shop

Big cities in Washington have seen a boom of new marijuana stores in the last few years. New shops can be found all over Seattle and even Bellingham. But not every store’s goal is to make it big in the big city. Smuggler Brothers in Sedro-Woolley is maintaining a small-town identity in the growing world…

Best of the Northwest 2017

Click below to view the top three businesses in over 120 categories. Congratulations to our 2017 Best Of The Northwest winners!

A Scratch Kitchen Playing …

A Scratch Kitchen Playing With Flavors

Third Street Cafe Earlier this summer, chef Maryna Frederiksen took over the kitchen at Mount Vernon’s Third Street Cafe. The Skagit Co-op off-shoot eatery has flourished under Frederiksen’s leadership and it doesn’t take more than a few bites of any dish to understand why. The locally procured, seasonal menu requires a bit…

Sedro-Woolley Eatery’s …

Sedro-Woolley Eatery’s Hefty Sandwiches a Meal

The Bullpen Sports Bar & Grill Sedro-Woolley, located just 74 miles north of Seattle, has become a bedroom-community of commuters who travel the I-5 corridor to careers in larger cities. Sedro- Woolley’s rather isolated rural setting and evolving demographics have kept home prices affordable while, around the region, they increased. On downtown’s Metcalf Street, new restaurants such as Coconut Kenny’s…

Give Glad Dreams

Bunnies By The Bay THE SHOP At the end of La Conner’s 1st Street, a narrow storefront beckons family members, and expectant mothers in search of baby toys meant to be cherished. Inside Bunnies By The Bay, soft mobiles of sweet peas and friendly looking beets hang from the ceiling. Plush toys line the shelves and whimsical paintings decorate the walls. Walking in, you can’t help but smile. THE ATMOSPHERE Surrounded by personified plush toys, rubber teething toys,…

Salt & Vine

A Charcuterie Lover’s Paradise When a new artisan cheese, wine and charcuterie shop opens in your neighborhood, you say “Yes!” and go there immediately. Located on 6th Street in Anacortes just off Commercial, Salt & Vine is a prime location for a midday snack, or a stop after an evening stroll on the…

Not Just a Bakery, Not Just a …

Not Just a Bakery, Not Just a Boutique

Pies & Such It’s not every day you walk into a shop and find clothing, jewelry, and art alongside decadent desserts. But Pies & Such has done just that in La Conner, and co-owners Jeneé Geoghegan and Mo Jensen couldn’t be happier. Together they keep fresh pies and cakes in the display case and…

Feline Fancy

On a small country road near Sedro-Woolley stands a humble building. Aside from the sign, it might be mistaken for a residence. Inside, however, is a luxurious getaway, with rooms that have nearly every amenity. For…

Endless Possibilities at …

Endless Possibilities at Deception Pass

While it may be one of the busiest Washington parks in the summer, Deception Pass State Park is still accessible and nearly as beautiful throughout the offseason. The second major draw of the park is the variety of landscapes visitors will find. Whether you’re looking to spend a day at the beach, have a picnic on a grassy hill with a view, or take a hike…

More than Quality Pet Food

Bow Wow & Woofs THE SHOP Bow Wow & Woofs is not your ordinary pet store. Instead of the typical…

Appease Your Green Thumb

Bayview Farm & Garden Bayview Farm & Garden, in the seaside village of Langley on Whidbey Island, promoted green gardening before the word “green” meant anything more than a color. Ambitious and industrious owner Maureen Murphy, constantly strives to improve the business while sticking to her philosophy that an industry responsible for growing beauty shouldn’t…

A Clean Dog is a Happy One

Shake & Shine Canine Wash and Deli Shake & Shine Canine Wash and Deli is as close to a day spa as your four-legged-friend will experience. Plus, the myriad bath and grooming options, from self-service washes to full-service grooming, makes it easy for pet owners to keep their pooches clean. The Pacific Northwest climate can make keeping pups clean throughout the year a challenge. With rain comes…

Pet Photographer Diane Padys

Diane Padys wasn’t always on track to become a photographer. “Photography was always a passionate hobby of mine from college,” she said….

Dog Paddle

Pups rehabilitate in the pool Carrie Lane, owner of K9 Lap of Luxury, was first inspired by the powers of canine hydrotherapy at a pool in Fall City. Lane showed her bull mastiff and was looking for a low-impact way to condition him. While she said she wasn’t even sure if he could swim, after just a few sessions she realized…

Making Spaying and Neutering …

Making Spaying and Neutering Accessible

WeSNiP Every Thursday morning, cat owners gather in the parking lot of Bellingham’s Salvation Army, and every Thursday morning, the team at WeSNiP is ready to go. Cats are loaded on to the WeSNiP van and taken to the Northwest Organization for Animal Health (NOAH) Center in Stanwood to be spayed or neutered. They are driven back to the parking lot later that evening, ready to head…

Wonder Woman

Avielle Heath The film community in Bellingham is growing, and its success is in no small part thanks to Avielle Heath. She is a producer and organizer working in a chaotic creative world, making sure films see their day in the cinema. Heath started making films after taking an influential film production course at Fairhaven College. She…

Caring for Animals Since 1902

Whatcom Humane Society It was just 1902 when the Whatcom Humane Society began taking care of animals throughout the county. “I’ve always thought it was pretty amazing that, in 1902, a group of committed citizens in our community gathered together to form the Whatcom Humane Society,” executive director Laura Clark said. In the 115 years since its inception, the organization has grown to be a vital part of Whatcom County, providing not…

Island with Bustle

San Juan County: San Juan Island Samantha Bryner moved to San Juan Island 44 years ago, and has worked in real estate for more than 30 of those. On her first ferry ride into Friday Harbor she remembers being taken aback by the island’s beauty. “Enchanted. I have to live here,” she remembers thinking. This tends to be a sentiment shared by many islanders. It’s an ideal island for people looking for…

Big Island, Small World

San Juan County: Orcas Island Orcas Island, known as the “Gem of the San Juans,” is the largest of the archipelago. It boasts the highest mountains on the islands, most of which are in Moran State Park; waterfalls, and numerous hamlets, with Eastsound the first stop for many tourists. You can choose to live close to a town or far off the beaten path. Homes facing west get the most spectacular sunset views, and many properties are…

“Slo-Pez” …

“Slo-Pez” Neighbors Revel in the Rural

San Juan County: Lopez Island When visitors come to Lopez Island, they feel like they’re part of the neighborhood. Known as the “Friendly Isle,” inhabitants wave to everyone they pass. Rumors claim the kind…

Watching the Neighborhood Grow

Skagit County: Eaglemont When Denise Hewitt and her husband moved to Eaglemont about 20 years ago there were hardly any other homes. Now, it’s become an established neighborhood. “It’s a great community,” she said. “It started out being mostly retired people and then as…

Where the Forest Meets the Sea

Skagit County: Skyline Courtney Blackston and her family moved into the Skyline neighborhood a year and a half ago, and are happy to call it home. The Blackstons are a military family, and they fell in love with Anacortes for the school district, the downtown amenities, and the community feel. They instantly felt welcomed by all the other military families in the neighborhood, and Blackston loves that…

A Seafarer’s Dream

Skagit County: Shelter Bay Danny Hagen grew up in the Shelter Bay house that he now lives in with a family of his own — his…

From Summer Vacation to All-…

From Summer Vacation to All-Year Family Fun

Skagit County: North Big Lake North Big Lake was once a summer vacation destination for Margie Holdt and her family, but now it’s home. When Holdt and her late husband began thinking of retirement about 20 years ago, they opted for an upgrade, rather than a downsize. “We had three adult sons and we decided that we wanted something large enough that they could come and spend…

Coal Mines of Bellingham

Bellingham’s neighborhoods have their own character, but some share a feature you can’t even see: a wide network of underground coal mine tunnels. Hundreds of miles of abandoned coal passageways honeycomb Bellingham’s depths, none bigger than the massive Bellingham Coal Mine beneath the Birchwood and Columbia neighborhoods. The mine, which operated from 1918–1955, was the last to close, ending an era…

A Place to Grow Together

Whatcom County: Columbia The weather is a comfortable middle area, between shedding the last of winter and the opening notes of spring. Residents…

The Ins and Outs of the Top …

The Ins and Outs of the Top Knot

One of the biggest-trending hair styles I see these days is the “high bun,” popularly known known as the “top knot.”…

Polish Food, PNW Style

Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage If you’re looking for a cozy restaurant with live music serving up European food with a Pacific Northwest flair, look no further than Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage in La Conner. Jennifer Ferry grew up in…

Happiest Girls Are The …

Happiest Girls Are The Prettiest

Pearl Buttons Vintage Style THE SHOP Pearl Buttons Vintage Style in Anacortes sells old Hollywood glamour. The ultra-feminine clothing store is decorated with feathers, drop crystal chandeliers, and ruffled tablecloths. The lovely turn-of-the-century-style dressing rooms are complete with plush seats and dressing tables. Don’t be fooled by the name though, their inventory consists of new…

Not A Toy Store, A Game Store

Boxes & Bears You might feel like you’re just passing time when playing a game or working on a puzzle, but there are other cognitive functions at work. In many board…

The Bastion of Brewing

Tucked behind a Shell gas station, right before Highway 20 splits south towards Whidbey Island, is Bastion Brewing Company. Weekday lunchtimes draw the local working crowds. Visit in the evening and you’ll find the barstools filled with patrons sipping well-deserved beers after long days or refilling their growler jugs to take home. The weekends can be a bit louder with bands performing, casual parties…

8 Great Mother’s Day …

8 Great Mother’s Day Brunches

Sedro-Woolley Farmers Market

Take a mid-week break at the Sedro-Woolley Farmers Market. The pint-sized market is ideal for mid-week stocking-up on local ingredients and for an hour or two of relaxing. Their goal to revitalize the community by offering customers locally produced food and artisan products…

Mount Vernon Farmers Market

Going strong for 30 years, the Mount Vernon Farmers Market has been operating since 1987. Today it’s a vibrant event with live music, an array of vendors, and the occasional cooking competition. Known For The strong sense of community. Market-goers are loyal and vendors are especially friendly. It’s so popular and community-oriented that the market opened a second day of the week, Wednesday, outside the Skagit Valley Hospital, to address requests for more shopping. Northwest Touch Known…

Bow Little Market

The Bow Little Market launched in July 2010 with the motto, “Where the little guy is a big deal.” Held in the Belfast Feed Store, the market caters to smaller farmers and producers trying to get their businesses started, which means new and…

Anacortes Farmers Market

The Anacortes Farmers Market has been operating at the Depot since 1989. The market’s goal then holds true today: provide locally produced food and promote healthy eating within the community. Today, between 70 and 75 vendors draw about 3,000…

A Prime Dining Experience

Max Dale’s Steak & Chop House In 1951 Max and Pauline Dale wanted to open a burger place within a sophisticated setting. Max Dale’s Steak & Chop House began serving exceptional burgers in a dining room of white-clothed tables and chandeliers overhead. In 1976…

A Beloved Bookstore Grows

Pelican Bay Books There are numerous places you can go to find a book: the library, a chain bookstore, an independent bookstore, even…

Shelter Bay

Annual visitors to La Conner were in no rush to complete the remodel of this high-bluff waterfront home in Shelter Bay, mulling and tweaking designs on each summer visit over the course of a decade. Dan Nelson of Designs Northwest Architects did a substantial amount of restructuring to modernize what had…

Aged Filet Mignon with Rogue …

Aged Filet Mignon with Rogue River Blue and Bordeaux Demi-Glace – 13moons

INGREDIENTS: • 7 oz filet mignon (USDA prime, aged, center cut) • 1 oz Rogue River blue cheese • 2 oz Bordeaux demi-glace • 1 ea. orange zest • 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil • ½ ea. shallot (minced) • 2 ea. garlic (sliced • 3 ea. asparagus (peeled/trimmed) • 1 ea. parsley • 1 tsp butter • 1 tsp sage butter • 2 oz duck fat • Bulls blood micro herb • Yukon…

Meet the Chef – 13moons …

Meet the Chef – 13moons Restaurant at Swinomish Casino and Lodge

On February 9, guests braved the slushy roads to attend our Meet the Chef event. Held in the test kitchen of Mount Vernon’s Judd & Black, we nibbled, sipped, and learned a thing or two about choosing the ideal steak and why chocolate needs to be melted in a double boiler. Chef Dan Van Norman of 13moons from the Swinomish Casino & Lodge presented plate after…

Eating in Season

Local Food Boxes make for a Healthy You and a Healthy Community When spring comes in northwest Washington, there seems to be a communal sigh exhaled across the land. More rain ahead, yes, but the occasional sunny and almost-warm day gives us the glimmer of hope to keep forging ahead. Spring to me means thinking…

A Gallery for Regional Art …

A Gallery for Regional Art Eye-Candy

THE SHOP When Katherine Khile bought the Scott Milo Gallery in 1994, it served the community as a framing shop. They still offer framing services, but the space has grown into much more. The cozy gallery is divided with wall sectionals, creating dedicated spaces for featured artists’ work. This layout also ensures the utmost wall space for hanging paintings and photography. There is something to look at everywhere: framed work covers…

Spring Break Travel Essentials

In just two days, I’ll be headed out of town, taking the redeye to New York City. In between sitting down to write this article and penning the last of my emails, I’ve been frantically running around trying to pack and figure…

See Skagit Valley Painted …

See Skagit Valley Painted Yellow

La Conner Daffodil Festival Did you know there are more daffodils than tulips in Skagit Valley? The Roozengaarde fields alone feature 450 acres of daffodils and 350 acres of tulips. These yellow beauties are a sight to see against a backdrop of deep green-blue rolling…

Delivering the Goods to Your …

Delivering the Goods to Your Home

Diet-to-Go, ACME Farms and Kitchen, Salt Pepper & Oil It is no secret that current Americans tend to overload their days with endless “to-do lists.” Whether it’s putting in…

Ten Good Places to Watch …

Ten Good Places to Watch March Madness

Sure, you could watch the NCAA men’s and women’s basketball tournaments from the comfort of your own sofa, but what’s the fun in screaming your fool head off in a quiet house? Go find your tribe…

The Steering Column | My …

The Steering Column | My Traffic Man

The Election That Threatened To Steal Christmas: An Intervention Although about half the voting population felt like they collectively woke up…

Thanksgiving and Harvest Wines

The fall and harvest season is upon us, Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and big, indoor feasts will soon be the order of the day. Trying to pull off a near-flawless menu, especially while…

Meet the Chef

K & L Media teamed up again with the great crew at Judd & Black for our Meet the Chef demonstration dinner on September 8. Chef Matthew Romeo from Lombardi’s Restaurant of Everett and…

Five Minutes to Fresh and …

Five Minutes to Fresh and Fabulous

Raise your hand if you have more than an hour a day to do your makeup? Okay, now if your hand is raised, then use it to keep turning pages because this tutorial is not for you. (You’re an everyday “glamazon,” and I completely admire and respect you for that). As for the rest of us, take heart. It’s possible to look fresh and fabulous even if you are short…

The Vegetable that Changed My …

The Vegetable that Changed My Life

The end of summer and journey into fall is a bittersweet time in Northwest Washington. It’s easy to yearn nostalgic for long summer days, but through the falling leaves and impending dampness, there is a certain beauty in the air. And, it’s one of my favorite times of year for food, namely late summer veggies. Local jewels like beets, carrots, onions, potatoes are in their prime, and tasty favorites like tomatoes…

Best of the Northwest 2016 …

Best of the Northwest 2016 Winners Announced

The results are in! Our readers have voted on their favorite businesses, services, restaurants, stores, and spas from Blaine to Anacortes. Looking for the go-to places to get the perfect haircut or find the best dentist? Look no further. >

Mount Vernon’s Chicest …

Mount Vernon’s Chicest Newbie

Situated in the heart of historic downtown Mount Vernon, Ryann Michele & Co. is the chicest newbie in the Pacific Northwest. A home decor and clothing boutique run by a mother-daughter duo, Ryann and Michele provide their…

The Steering Column: The …

The Steering Column: The Heart Of A Local Champion

There’s a new brand of legends racing to the top at the Deming Speedway this year. They aren’t just breaking track records; they are destroying the myths of self-entitlement and selfishness that too often slows down our youth. These young drivers are amp’d with the spirit of service that keeps them in the lead…

Sea To Storefront

Birch Bay, Chuckanut Bay, Semiahmoo, Drayton Harbor, Larrabee State Park, Point Roberts, and South Birch Point are all public oyster and clam beaches.

Found: Leather

The bags are made from high-quality leather and have a very nice hand-made look about them without looking overly done or too rough hewn. They strike a balance.

Red Wine Body Styles

You see it all the time when sifting through the wine section in search of the perfect bottle to serve with tonight’s meal: “body style.” But what does it mean?

The work of Aaron Loveitt

The single most important thing to understand about Aaron Loveitt’s work is that when you encounter a piece, whether it’s a railing or a public sculpture, it was designed and created for that specific space.

Net Zero House – …

Net Zero House – Featured Home

Sean Haven of Haven Design workshop took on the challenge of designing and building a Net Zero house.

National Alliance on Mental …

National Alliance on Mental Illness

All of us have days that are a little less colorful than others—a case of the blahs, a sense of being stuck in our lives, a rough time in relationships around us, the grind of routine.

Eco-friendly design

Considerations like direction of sunlight, storm runoff, window materials, and flooring are all part of the eco package.

Bay View House – …

Bay View House – Featured Home

Natural textures like wood and stone complement the white walls and countertops.

ROOM TO BREATHE Organization …

ROOM TO BREATHE Organization For The New Year

Winter in the Pacific Northwest. The near-constant cloud cover brings the sky low and drapes the landscape in shadows. Often it’s dark when we wake to leave for work and dark once more by the time we return home. For most of us, the colder,…

Portage Creek Wildlife Area

The former dairy farm is now grassland, and the peat mine is gone. Portage Creek Wildlife Area is gradually reverting to wetlands wilderness after years of commercial use.

Aerial Artistry with Terril …

Aerial Artistry with Terril Teran Mire

There are numerous kinds of apparatuses used in aerial acts, some of the most popular being hoop, hammock, rope, and silks.

Chinese Herbal Medicine …

Chinese Herbal Medicine Explored

Accounts differ, deities get in the mix, but according to most sources, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as we understand it began with the Shennong, a demigod known as the Divine Herdsman.

Conscious Cosmetics – …

Conscious Cosmetics – Go Beyond The Label

When reading labels, we should not only be reading our ingredient lists but learning about them.

Fresh Face For Winter

simple solutions and product recommendations to help your beauty shine bright despite the wet, blustery winter weather.

Legal Care: Turning the law …

Legal Care: Turning the law into a language people can understand

It’s a new year, and it’s time for a new way to think of law. Pop culture portrays great lawyers as an all knowing, strategic creatures capable of destroying insurmountable challenges with nothing short of relentless logic and legal acumen. These mere humans transform into sharks, wolves and other predators that the average citizen would instinctually avoid in the wild for…

A Shop Sets Sail

Tucked beneath the South Bay Suites in historic Fairhaven is Bellingham’s newest home decor and gift shop. 1 Paperboat welcomes guests with open doors to Bellingham Bay, creating a new by-the-sea shopping experience. Within its walls, shoppers can find an array of home goods, jewelry, gifts, and clothing. Storeowners Royal and Diane Reinsch, and their dog Chief, are inspired by the closeness…

The Road to Recovery, A …

The Road to Recovery, A Reason to Rise

The day that Jackie found out she was pregnant, her world came into focus. She was 21, homeless, and seeing a man who was being tormented by his own demons. Jackie had seen her own recreational drug use begin to spiral out of control, shifting from casual…

White Rock, B.C

A lone stretch of driftwood-strewn beach, a quiet morning stroll along the boardwalk, a cozy cup of coffee watching a storm roll in over the water — White Rock, B.C. is a great place to spend a little time away. Canada without the rush and bustle of Vancouver, but close enough to home to invest your time in being there rather than getting there, this little city by the sea has a lot to offer. White Rock has a…

A Bold New Vision

When traveling between Seattle and Vancouver, Bellingham tends to be the place to stop on the way. We’re striving to be a place that travelers don’t just pass through, but decide to stay and visit for a weekend. The…

Sips of the Season featuring …

Sips of the Season featuring Signature Cocktails by Keenan’s at the Pier

Keenan ’s at the Pier and The Chrysalis Inn hosted the inaugural Bellingham Alive Sips of the Season event on the restaurant’s open air patio. Gentle ocean breezes, fun people, and remarkable hors d’ oeuvres and fantastic cocktails made for an unforgettable afternoon. Keenan’s staff members presented appetizers paired with each hand -crafted cocktail. They also demonstrated…

Village Books Opens In Lynden

Anyone who lives in Bellingham knows the open, inviting, independent bookstore Village Books and its next-door neighbor, the gift shop Paper Dreams. Village Books is an anchor in the…

Sculpture Northwest Opens …

Sculpture Northwest Opens Gallery

It could be a misnomer to call Sculpture Northwest a sculpture gallery. Yes, they certainly have one in downtown Bellingham on Prospect Avenue,…

Gear Gone Wrong

Gear. It’s where a lot of great hikes and camping trips begin. Laying out the bags to fluff in the sun, trips to the camping store for more stove fuel, gathering up the sleeping pads and tucking them into tight…

Best of the Northwest 2015

The results are in! Our readers have voted on their favorite businesses, services, restaurants, stores, spas and more, from Blaine to Anacortes. Looking for the go-to places to get the perfect haircut or find the best dentist? Look no further. Arts & Entertainment BEST CASINO- Silver Reef Hotel Casino Spa Silver: Skagit Valley Casino Bronze: Swinomish Casino and Lodge From casual to fine dining, from slot machines and one-armed…

The Table’s Herb Dumpling …

The Table’s Herb Dumpling Recipe

Check out this Web Exclusive- The following recipe was omitted from Chef Dave Reera’s Pot Roast at the Meet the Chef event on September 10th, 2015. This is a great Fall or Winter dish to try! Herb Dumplings all purpose flour, 2 cups 1 1/2 tsp of salt 1 1/3 cup of milk 4 Tbsp butter, soft cubes 2 Tbsp of chopped herbs (thyme, sage, rosemary…

Cosmos Bistro

Cosmos Bistro, located in the Herald Building, is destined to become one of Bellingham’s iconic restaurants. Recently opened by Cinnamon Berg, Cosmos Bistro offers guests a relaxing venue filled with good vibes and out-of-this-world cuisine. Berg, the genius executive chef and culinary mastermind behind the menu’s eclectic breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner menus, has taken great care to produce fare made with fresh local ingredients….

The Bravo 369 Flight …

The Bravo 369 Flight Foundation

If your children grow up studying the dramatic U.S.-led mission to deliver planes to Russia through Alaska, you’ll have Whatcom residents Craig Lang and Jeff Geer to thank. In her remarks giving the Bravo 369 Flight Foundation Congressional recognition, U.S. Representative Suzan DelBene read into…

Wine From Washington State

Reds Trust 2012 Cabernet Franc, Walla Walla- trustcellars.com If you like light red wines like Merlot and Pinot Noir, you might enjoy a dive into the deeper, bolder flavor of a Cabernet Franc. The makers of Trust Cabernet Franc describe it as having “refined…

Bon Séjour Home

THE SHOP Step into the welcoming interior of Bon Séjour Home in Bothell’s Country Village, and you will feel right at home. Stylish comfort suffuses the shop, from the…

This Old Shed

For this remodel, my clients wanted to revamp an old shed. Fifty feet from the house, this outbuilding is the perfect place to create a space to entertain friends, have sleep-overs, watch movies, play games, have snacks, make music, and exercise. My clients wanted to maintain the integrity of the original foundation and have it look as if it were an extension of their home all on a conservative budget. They…

Underwater Artists

Wonder what happens when art and science mix? Hop the next ferry over to San Juan Island to find out. Here, the mysterious underwater world of the Puget Sound surfaces in the photographs of two people: local scientist-turned-artist, Adam Summers; and photographer-turned-conservation…

Tasteful Beauty

The Intricate Art of Edible Landscaping Western Washington is a gardener’s haven. With a mild climate, known as Zone 8 to fruit and vegetable growers, many plants thrive, often beyond our…

Trail Running Inspiration

It’s not much of a secret that I enjoy traveling long distances on foot—I’ve through-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail twice. I love the way miles accumulate and push you forward, the way the sheer volume…

Shopping and Sharing Life at …

Shopping and Sharing Life at c’est la Vie

The first words that come to mind when walking into Edmonds’ c’est la Vie (pronounced Say La Vee) are colorful, eclectic, and fun. The entry walkway and surrounding walls are artistically lined with quotes that range from the funny to the heartfelt, setting the perfect mood for what you’ll find in the store. “There’s always something unexpected when you come in here,” c’est la Vie’s owner Colleen Bowman said….

Sun Valley

Take a ten-hour drive southeast—or a twohour flight—and you’ll find yourself at the famed ski destination, Sun Valley, Idaho. Often thought of as a snowy playground for the elite, Sun Valley is actually a welcome vacation area that caters to many types of budgets and activities. In fact, with its spectacular scenery, abundant trails, appealing shops, excellent food and close proximity…

Darrell Hillaire and Setting …

Darrell Hillaire and Setting Suns Productions

It seems reductive to call Darrell Hillaire a playwright, given how much work he has done in his life on behalf of the Lummi Nation, and for Lummi youth in particular. Darrell has served as a coach, mentor, teacher, and leader for the Lummi Nation for more than twenty years. He has served on community boards, on the Lummi Indian Business Council, and as Chair of the Lummi Nation. He founded the visionary Lummi Youth Academy in 2008. His great-grandfather…

Five Faves: Native Blooms

Western Red Columbine (AQUILEGIA FORMOSA) These lovely star-like blooms bob on delicate stems among lacy foliage. Running counter to the claim that native plants aren’t showy, a patch of these in any landscape will catch the eye. Wild Mock Orange (PHILADELPHUS LEWISII) Collected by Lewis and Clark…

Comfort Foods

When I think of food, I think of the various elegant, modern food photographs I see on Instagram, Twitter and other social media sites. Or I think of the carefully plated dishes we make at the restaurant….

Old School Trailer Works

What’s old is new again in entertaining, and the new interest in vintage culture brings with it the welcome return of the Airstream. With four businesses under her belt, Angi Soulier is a driven entrepreneur when it comes to pursuing new and creative ventures. Three years ago she and her husband, Jim Soulier, came up with the fabulous idea to remodel old trailers,…

Wonder Woman: Jenni Cottrell

Jenni Cottrell believes in pooling resources and bringing together a community around the beauty and power of art. To illustrate this point, she tells a story about when she was with a friend at an auction in Alaska they saw a painting they loved. The auction was to benefit the town’s new public library,…

Seeing the world in a whole …

Seeing the world in a whole new way

Inspirational doesn’t begin to describe local resident Jim Stegall, who, at 85 and in company with his guide dog Emilio, celebrates the 20th anniversary of his almost four-month, 12,000- mile trip through South America. By the time he set off, Stegall…

Cleavage Etiquette

Hi there. As a single mother of two pre-school kids, I feel compelled to offer some good natured, but badly needed male guidance in my first ever Final Word. But first I want to thank the magazine, and Ken, for sharing his personal space at the back of each issue with a female. I would say that I have big shoes to fill, but there’s nothing impressive about size…

House in the Field

Built to blend unobtrusively with its landscape, yet maximize views and interior space, the House in the Field takes the lines of a traditional ranch house and explodes them into beautiful angles and fascinating forms. Natural materials and an earthy palette complement the open land surrounding the house.

Wonder Woman: Zsofia Pasztor

Zsofia Pasztor is a busy woman. She is a parent of four, part-time instructor, business owner of Innovative Landscape Technologies,…

Leadership Snohomish County …

Leadership Snohomish County Program

The Leadership Snohomish County Program has a mission—to develop leaders for a lifetime. Geared toward anyone seeking to build and expand their leadership skills, Leadership Snohomish educates people of all ages for a bright future.

Garden Guru: Ciscoe Morris

North End Metro caught up with Ciscoe Morris on a chilly Christmas Eve morning. For those rare few who don’t know him, Ciscoe is a local gardening personality well on his way into the annals of Seattle history. His presence immediately warmed the coffee shop, his laugh is head-turning and infectious. He lives up to his hype—friendly, humble, cheerful, and warm. He…

Hog Wild for Sustainability

The next time you fail a drug test, you might try to blame it on the BB Ranch prosciutto. Nice try,…

Climbing for Kids

Dave Mauro climbed the steep incline, knowing the end was near. He stepped onto the summit, looked out at the twinkling lights of Nepal and Tibet and said to himself, “Thank you.” It was 3:42 a.m. on May 20, 2013, as he reached the top of Mount Everest. A Bellingham resident, Mauro began climbing mountains in…

Ramble On

Remodeling an Era If you are like me, you’ve driven around an older neighborhood at some point in your life, admiring homes with a certain style – long, low profiles with minimal exterior decor. You were probably touring an established…

Creating Sanctuary Space

Find a corner, spruce it up Perhaps you need a spot for yoga, or a place to sit and read in the sun. Maybe you like to knit by the fire…

Creating a simple date night …

Creating a simple date night look

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching and spring just around the corner, there is no question that the air is brimming with love. As women, I think we all can relate to wanting to look our best, especially looking forward to such a fun and fanciful season. Though a quality date night…

Donna Auer – Driven to …

Donna Auer – Driven to Abstraction

She was always a painter, but when Donna Auer joined some friends for a guided painting tour of Italy organized through the former (and much loved) Blue Horse Gallery, she didn’t know that she would actually have to paint, too….

Five Faves: Local Aphrodisiacs

Oysters Packers Oyster Bar Semiahmoo You can’t get fresher or more locally sourced oysters than the farm right outside the bar. These succulent…

Dr. Mitchell Kahn and the …

Dr. Mitchell Kahn and the Skagit Opera

Dr. Mitchell Kahn and the Skagit Opera In January, the Skagit Opera performed at Lairmont Manor in Bellingham for the first time. One of the missions of the Skagit Opera, which…

Wonder Woman: Rose Lathrop

Passionate, community-minded and up for a challenge, Huxley graduate Rose Lathrop has dedicated her career to sustainable planning and design. A former employee at Aiki Homes, which specializes in sustainable, green and co-housing development, Lathrop made a change in 2012 and became the Green Building and Smart Growth program manager at Sustainable Connections. She is also the executive director of the Northwest Washington…

Recycled Art

The impulse to restore old furniture, to find value in the discarded, to resurrect the rusted out, to elevate trash into functionality, maybe even art—is a passionate one. In the old days, the dumpster-divers and junk men were seen as goofy guys in crumbling trucks, typified by Fred Sanford on the hit TV show Sanford and Son.

Forgiving the Unforgiven

As a young boy, age 5 or 6, I used to play in the local woods where the soil was mostly clay and the clay would stick to my PF Flyers — the farther that I walked, the longer that I played, the heavier the build-up of clay. Eventually, the burden became more work than joy and I would head home. I was literally an inch or two taller as…

A Delight-ful Remodel

Homeowners Delight Green and Michael Newlight hired Craig Burling, owner and general contractor of CB Premier Construction, to build an addition onto the master suite of their creative Chuckanut Drive house. The 850 square foot…

Trailblazers

Celebrating the Women of Boeing Be ready. And always have your shoes on. That’s how Nelda Lee, the first female pilot to fly an F-15 Eagle, explained the success of her 35-year long career in…

Recipe: Spring Parsnip soup …

Recipe: Spring Parsnip soup with sauted rosemary apples and fried leeks

Spring Parsnip soup with sauted rosemary apples and fried leeks (Vegan) Serves 8+ Soup Ingredients: • 1/2 cup almond oil • 3 onions peeled and cut into large dice • 5 lbs Parsnips • 3.5 quarts of water • 1 tsp nutmeg, ground • 1/2 cup coconut milk • sea salt and pepper Heat the almond oil in a large stock pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for 10 minutes….

A Master Bath Worth Waiting …

A Master Bath Worth Waiting For

Our master bath remodel had been a long time coming. It started in my head when we bought our 1920s Tudor in Bellingham 13 years ago. The unfinished attic had been remodeled in the 80s, and the bath was added then—good…

Coastal Encounters

The North End’s Best Beaches A day at the beach burns bright in one’s memory. We are drawn to water, because the sea is a master storyteller. Shorebirds squawk and circle. The salt air aches of escape and adventure. Children squeal and giggle…

The Skinny on SPF

If you aren’t intimidated by all of the acronyms associated with sunscreen, then my floppy straw hat is off to you. Even as a…

Five Faves: Hiking Trails

Saint Edward State Park KIRKLAND Located on a forested bluff overlooking the northern end of Lake Washington, several dirt trails wind around 316 acres of moss-wrapped old growth trees and peekaboo stretches of sand and waterfront. An astonishing 3,000 feet of freshwater shoreline, this former Catholic seminary is known for its undeveloped lakeshore and wide variety of birds and sea life. LEVEL Easy-Moderate LENGTH…

Wonder Woman: Molly Helmuth

Each issue, we highlight a woman who is setting a prime example of what success looks like in our local marketplace. This issue we celebrate Molly Helmuth, who calls Monroe’s Evergreen Speedway her home track, and is a rising star on the stock car circuit. Molly Helmuth turns 19 in mid-June. At the age when most girls are trying to figure out which boy would make a good senior prom date,…

Low-impact Exercise, High-…

Low-impact Exercise, High-impact Returns

You haven’t been to the gym in ages. You’re busy, you’re tired, and you have endless work, family and social obligations. You know you…

Husbandcare.gov

Ken’s Valentine’s Day gift for the woman who has everything I am a social scientist at heart. As with most males, I am genetically engineered to offer solutions to life’s challenges, even gender-related relationship problems — and even if the answer may come at my expense. I can’t help myself. I am stupid smart. My social laboratory of late has been the “women behind the magazine” at Bellingham Alive. I am typically outnumbered —…

The Beauty of Bergevin

Riddled with many wonderful wineries, Walla Walla is one of those places where one couldn’t swing a cat without hitting an award-winning wine maker. Annette Bergevin, co-owner of Bergevin Lane Vineyards, is one of those winemakers.

Fabulous Faux

The effect of faux tile finishes once depended on how light fell, how the sun or kitchen lights caught the pattern in the floor, how the tile felt underfoot or how it looked behind the sink. Decades ago, faux was just another word for…

Container Herb Gardens

Herb gardens are perfect for small spaces. They thrive on patios, balconies and even on your kitchen counter. Thyme, parsley, chives,…

Brightening Your Bedroom

The Light Touch With incandescent bulbs disappearing in favor of more long-lasting light bulbs, finding light that has the right…

Vintage Glamour

Makeup How-To: Step 1: Skin Never skip skincare. You want to ensure that you have healthy skin to create a masterpiece from…

Yakima Wine Country: Endless …

Yakima Wine Country: Endless Possibilities

Beneath a brilliant blue sky, an emerald valley of farms, vineyards and orchards rolls out to the horizon of amber hills. At a glance, it could be Napa,…

Poet de la Paz

For many students at Western Washington University, Professor Oliver de la Paz is the amiable and quirky character often seen walking the halls of Humanities building, bobbing his head to his tunes, his large, friendly dog Beau in tow. An encouraging, accessible figure who pushes his students to explore while remaining true to themselves, he amuses his students with funny stories about his children, and once commented in a prose poetry workshop that he might have a “kitten…

Five Faves: Great Dates

Keenan’s at the Pier BELLINGHAM After a nice stroll around Boulevard Park and Taylor Dock, a sunset dinner at Keenan’s at the Pier would be the perfect way to spend a special evening. Located in the intimate and elegant Chrysalis Inn and Spa, Keenan’s offers fine food, a full wine list and great views. thechrysalisinn.com -> Keenan’s at the Pier Chuckanut Drive BELLINGHAM Chuckanut Drive is famous for its heart-stopping curves with dramatic drop-offs and amazing views….

Always on Duty

DANIEL HOWARD Daniel Howard was on his way home after spending time in Oregon last May. He had been in Oregon recovering from an injury he sustained while working for the fire department. Near Tacoma, Howard saw a white…

Wonder Woman: Mimi Osterdahl

In every issue, we will highlight the accomplishments or great careers of women in our area. In this issue, we celebrate Mimi Osterdahl, the…

Getting Clean for Spring

Ahh, it’s almost spring in the Northwest! The birds will fly north and begin singing again, the rain will subside and you will once again see the faint glimmer of sunshine…

Senior Citizens United

Ken pays respect to his elders I have your backs, seniors—and your backsides, open medical gowns and all. So what if you unintentionally embarrass your kids by posting private comments about their childhood to their public Facebook wall? At least you figured out how to log on. It’s the thought that counts, right? And so what if you don’t trust a…

Spring Arrives: Container …

Spring Arrives: Container Gardens for Inspiration

The sun is starting to peek through some of our winter gloom, and springtime is upon us. We called upon the plant experts at Garden Spot Nursery on Alabama St. and Kent’s Garden and Nursery on Northwest Ave. to create beautiful container gardens that harness the hope…

Senior All-Stars: Volunteers …

Senior All-Stars: Volunteers Who Shine

ADRIENNE LEDERER Neighborhood and Parks Activist Energetic, warm, outspoken Adrienne came into volunteerism through a political campaign in 1996, but it was through a notice in the paper about the Guide Meridian-Cordata Neighborhood that she found herself truly engaged. She joined her neighborhood…

Engaging Communities

Retirement Communities That Offer Amenities: When we think of retirement communities, we generally think of endless games of bingo and terrible food. Fortunately, we have retirement communities in our area that offer amenities beyond television reruns and canasta. The Leopold on Cornwall Ave. in downtown Bellingham is on the National Register of Historic Places, and has played host to Clark Gable, President William H. Taft, Prince William of Sweden, among many other luminaries. By virtue of being downtown,…

The Rise of the Village …

The Rise of the Village Movement

In 2001, Boston residents came together and created a model for seniors who want the lifestyle and amenities of living in a senior community, but who wish to stay in their own homes. They call their nonprofit Beacon Hill Village, and it is the next big trend in senior lifestyle. Beacon Hill Village is a group of volunteers and service providers who combine services to aid seniors in…

Staying Engaged: Senior Living

Welcome to the new era of retirement, in which retirees teach part-time, volunteer for nonprofits, mentor young people, doorbell for candidates, organize neighborhood potlucks and run 5Ks. Voted Best Place to Retire many times over by many national publications, Bellingham seems to embody this new feisty spirit of retirement. We are no longer convalescing into old age. We are healthier longer than…

Spring Beauty Trends

GLOW Try mixing Mac’s Strobe Cream with your foundation. Use a damp sponge to apply it to your face, and your face will have a subtle glow. GILDED EYE A fancier way of…

Small Space Growing: …

Small Space Growing: Beautiful Edible Containers

One of the most revelatory moments to be had as a home gardener is realizing the incredible volume of food that can be grown in a small…

Five Faves: Brunch

Homeskillet BELLINGHAM With each pop of a champagne cork, the entire staff yells “opa!” and you know it’s on. Skillets are delicious, but don’t overlook the pancakes and Cinnamon swirl French toast. For serious appetites, the biscuits and gravy are the real deal. homeskilletinsunnyland.com…

Tyree Callahan

Tyree Callahan is probably best known worldwide for his conceptual art piece Chromatic Typewriter, a 1937 Underwood typewriter that has color keys rather than letters. Small paint-laden sponges sit poised to create one of Tyree’s landscapes, a canvas of which is unscrolling from the carriage as if typed into being. Chromatic Typewriter…

Tide Lines Gallery

Nestled in the Alley District is a boutique gallery filled with handcrafted treasures waiting to be discovered. While the mosaic tiled flooring may draw you…

Stopping a Brutal Assault: …

Stopping a Brutal Assault: Sherry and Marlene Rials

Sherry and Marlene Rials were driving down Douglas Rd. toward Grant’s Burgers in Ferndale when they encountered a sight they will not likely forget: In the middle of an intersection, three teenagers were assaulting a young boy. “He looked like about 12 years old, his feet weren’t on the ground, they were throwing him around,” Marlene said. Sherry had her phone out ready to call the police, but her mother feared the authorities would…

THE REPP

The full-meal deal — starting with apps, is worth the calories you’ll put down with a visit to The Repp in Snohomish. Pay special attention to the Beer Battered Mushrooms, nearly free at $3, or an 8-ounce Top Sirloin dinner for a ludicrous $9. The bracing, balsamic Caprese Salad, with basil and mozzarella is light and fresh at $7. The succulent Kobe Burger meets basic saturated fat requirements; add pancetta (Italian bacon),…

Mountain Biking Destinations

Five Faves 1. GALBRAITH MOUNTAIN – WHATCOM The granddaddy of all mountain biking destinations, Galbraith has many challenging but rewarding trails. Maintained by volunteers (many of whom you can meet along the trails), Galbraith isn’t just a…

CALLE

Newly opened, this eatery is already getting attention with a write up in Sunset magazine. Known for their take on Street Tacos — with six meat fillings to choose from and handmade corn tortillas — but that’s certainly not the only mouthwatering option. Try the Carne Asada, Posole or Tortas to name just a few menu options. The Spicy Mango Margarita, made with fresh mango and jalepeno, is…

Assembling Your Bucket List

What’s On Your List? Bucket Lists have made a huge surge in our culture — and somehow it sounds far more appealing than “my list of things to do before I expire.” In fact, you can even create small lists, such as a Bucket List for your 20s, 30s, or a Bucket List before you get married and have kids. The…

Beauty Magic

The New Year is upon us, and with it the desire to look our best. It would be so nice if we could wave a magic beauty wand, spin around and be ready for the ball. But in reality, we do have magic — it just is found at your local medspa and beauty bar. Wrinkles, loose…

Keep your skin healthy

The New Year is a beautiful time to re-fresh, re-start, and focus on what really matters. Although I have never been a person to jump on the “resolution” bandwagon, I always love and relish in the scent of possibility each…

Citrine Health

Women of Whatcom, Skagit and Island counties have an excellent option for healthcare that isn’t well-known up here — Citrine Health. Formerly the Positive Women’s Network, this one-stop wellness and health center has been in operation for 20 years. Executive Director Kerri Mallams said, “We changed the name because we also have programs for men.” There are several programs under Citrine’s umbrella — the Washington Breast and Cervical Health…

Forgiving The Unforgiven

As a young boy, age 5 or 6, I used to play in the woods where Sunset Place is today. The soil was mostly clay and the clay would stick to my PF Flyers — the further that I walked, the longer that I played, the heavier the build-up of clay. Eventually, the burden became more…

SEED’S BISTRO

Seeds Bistro in La Conner is a celebration of the fresh bounty of food offered in Skagit County. It offers simple dishes that highlight the fresh, exciting ingredients found throughout the Pacific Northwest. The menu features local selections rotated with the seasons. The macaroni and cheese features Northwest-favorite Cougar Gold cheese with a butter-crumb crust. Burgers are juicy, cooked perfectly, and served on homemade potato buns with the smallest bit of crunch and…

SAKURA JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE

Professional Teppan Yaki chefs take you on a journey of delicious and interactive dining at Burlington’s Sakura Japanese Steakhouse. Using the freshest ingredients and perfect seasonings, they stir-fry your meal right before your eyes, creating a fabulous feast. Choose from steak and chicken to salmon and shrimp; each meal is served with soup, salad, rice and vegetables. If it’s sushi you crave, they also offer a full sushi bar for even the most discriminating taste…

Aimee Frazier

It starts with a sense of wonder and curiosity. Aimee Frazier opens the door to her deck and walks out into the wilderness. This is her place. She loves the outdoors, and has dedicated her life to encourage the same sense of wonder and curiosity in others.

THE OYSTER BAR

The Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Drive is perched among towering conifers above the oyster beds. The cozy restaurant is housed in a structure dating from the 1920s that has survived many incarnations. According to owner Guy Colbert, the restaurant owes its reputation to its remote, quintessentially Pacific Northwest setting. But people don’t dine at The…

NELL THORN

This small-town gem located in the heart of La Conner brings in tourists and locals alike. They boast well-prepared and locally sourced fresh seafood as well as an extensive wine…

Hope- The Emotional God …

Hope- The Emotional God Particle

I am in mourning. My comic idol is Robin Williams. The tragic loss of Robin should be a dark reminder — the will to live comes from within, even for the most talented amongst us. He had everything and yet he had nothing in his eyes, at least not enough to keep him on this earth. Why? And is his death any more…

A’TOWN BISTRO

Colorful photographs of farm scenes dot the walls of A’Town Bistro, summing up all this restaurant stands for: Fresh, local, seasonal food. Even the inside of this Anacortes restaurant feels farm-like, with simple wooden tables and flooring and no unnecessary flourishes. The kitchen is open, and sends out entrees such as Smoked Salmon Cakes (which contain nothing but king salmon and breadcrumbs and come with…

MI MEXICO

Mi Mexico’s reputation as one of the local favorites among Mexican food lovers is well deserved. The experience starts with a warm, friendly, professional waitstaff in an enjoyable, upbeat atmosphere. And from there, Mi Mexico separates itself from the competition with a choice of traditional and non-traditional Mexican dishes that few Mexican restaurants in the Pacific Northwest offer, all made with the freshest of ingredients available. From your first bite of Mi Mexico’s homemade salsa to…

TRUMPETER PUBLIC HOUSE

high-end, fine dining and English pub variety. Try traditional pub selections like shephard’s pie, fish and chips, or more unique choices like pork tenderloin complimented with an apricot honey glaze or crab mac and cheese with a creamy Gruyere sauce and wild-caught crab. Additionally, the Trumpeter looks to accommodate all tastes with gluten-free dishes, and the option to…

CONWAY PUB & EATERY

Don’t let tiny Conway fool you — this pub packs big flavor. Though the town is unincorporated, business is never slow in this watering hole. Farmers often come here after a hard…

P=mc2: Ken takes Albert …

P=mc2: Ken takes Albert Einstein behind the woodshed

Scientists need to take a chill pill, starting with Albert Einstein. His idea of a good time on a Friday night was to measure the speed of most everything in the physical world…

Five Faves: Summer Fairs

VANCOUVER PNE VANCOUVER AUGUST 16–SEPTEMBER 1 The PNE (Pacific National Exhibition) has been in operation for 101 years, and draws 900,000 visitors during its 17 days. Loaded with cultural demonstrations, performances, rides, fair food and more, the PNE is nonstop fun. Just remember to take cash — the debit machines on the fairgrounds only take Canadian cards. pne.ca NORTHWEST WASHINGTON FAIR LYNDEN | AUGUST 11–16 From cat dioramas to demolition derbies to delightful goats, the…

Hypnosis: Helping You Help …

Hypnosis: Helping You Help Yourself

Are you feeling out of control? Hypnosis can help. Are you feeling out of control in an area of your…

Surviving Menopause- Ken puts …

Surviving Menopause- Ken puts his life at risk

The signs were subtle at first — a wide-open window during a cold snap in January and the perpetual running of Sleepless in Seattle on the Hallmark channel. In hindsight, it is now clear. But at the time, I was simply oblivious. Then came the fireplace blazing 24/7 and extra comforters on the bed, all while the windows were wide open, and the loss of argument after argument on the…

Farm to Table

We are so fortunate for our beautiful, local farms. They feed us with fresh produce — mounds of ripe berries, piles of thick, rich greens, barrels of crisp, sweet apples — and they protect our rolling hills and rural character. Not only do our farmers work hard to grow all this amazing food, they offer their bounty in our local farmers markets, grocery stores, CSAs and restaurants. So next time you pass a farm stand, grab a…

Island Getaways

SAN JUAN ISLAND San Juan Island teems with life in the summer. Friday Harbor is San Juan’s welcome mat, and a cheery one at that: just up the hill from the ferry landing, shops, restaurants and galleries, Friday Harbor awaits the eager visitor. With 8000 residents, it is the only incorporated town in the San Juans….

Summer Fun Guide

Olaf — the lovable snowman in Disney’s Frozen — sings about his affection for summer “Bees will buzz, and kids will blow dandelion fuzz…in summer!” But parents and grandparents aren’t always as thrilled with the extra hours of bored little ones tugging at them for something to do. Those who work during the summer months have it even harder,…

Farming Inspired Design

He’s a little bit country and she is a little bit rock ‘n roll, and the combination is something I call “organic modernism.” We combined the homeowners’ mementos, industrial pieces and warm textures to create…

Annie Crawley: Dive Into Your …

Annie Crawley: Dive Into Your Imagintion

Neon green sea grass and fiery fields of red coral bubble with life. Streams of light dance weightlessly to the sway of a gentle current. Tentacles wrap and release tight circles. Urchins preen and pucker. Mighty mammals travel ancient water routes in search of warmer waters. Life in the ocean is a technicolor masterpiece….

13MOONS AT SWINOMISH CASINO &#…

13MOONS AT SWINOMISH CASINO & LODGE

Located within the casino 13moons is sure to catch your attention. Situated on the waterfront offering a lodge atmosphere which is warm and inviting. The menu offers a wide variety including First Plates, Entree Salads, Seafood and Beef. We started our meal with generous pours of wine. Then moved on to…

Best of the Northwest 2013

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT BEST CASINO Silver Reef Silver: Skagit Valley Casino Bronze: Swinomish If you combine excellent food, great gaming, live national events and a full-service, first-rate spa, you have the makings of a great weekend away that’s right around the corner. 4876 Red River Pedestrian Path, Ferndale, 360.383.0777 BEST LIVE THEATER Mount Baker Theatre Silver:…

5 Faves: Christmas Tree Farms

Check out our 5 favorite Christmas Tree Farms for your festive fir.

Mediterranean Lifestyle: A …

Mediterranean Lifestyle: A Delicious Recipe For Healthy, Happy Living

In Northwest Washington, we have an environment in which we can follow this lifestyle. We have access to a variety of fresh, local foods and farmers who raise animals in healthy environments to provide us with good quality milk, eggs and meat.

Discover Anacortes

On the drive into Anacortes, constant teasing will occur. Just as a glimpse of the beautiful San Juan Islands appears the road meanders, stealing beauty from view. Located on Fidalgo Island, Anacortes is surrounded by water and only accessible by bridge or sea.

Savor the San Juans

For the entire month of October, the San Juan Islands host the annual “Savor the San Juans,” a self proclaimed medley of food, art and culture.

Best of the Northwest 2012

We received more than 30,000 votes within 80 categories for this year’s Best of the Northwest.

5 Faves – Pumpkin …

5 Faves – Pumpkin Patches

Check out our top five favorite Pumpkin Patches around Whatcom and Skagit counties.

Happy Hour Hot Spots

My Mission: Comb Whatcom and Skagit counties for the happiest of happy hours and challenge my discriminating palate for the best these two counties have to offer in the form of inexpensive food and drinks.

Living Green – Plug …

Living Green – Plug Into The Electric Highway

New charging stations include three in Whatcom, Skagit counties… Lines of electric cars decorated the parking lot of Bellingham’s Sehome Village one morning in late May. Excited electric car owners and supporters hovered under informational tents and all around the fascinating vehicles. This was a big day for sustainable transportation in Washington. Thanks to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and the electric charging station partner AeroVironment, this day marked the opening of…

Toast the Winemakers

Meet the men and women behind the craft of wine making at six Washington wineries…

31 Days Of Giveaways – CONTEST OPEN NOW!

Wine Pick of the Month | Gulp …

Wine Pick of the Month | Gulp Hablo Orange

8 Great Tastes | Summer 2026

8 Great Tastes | Summer 2026

A Sustainable Clothing Store …

A Sustainable Clothing Store For Nature Fanatics | Found & Foraged Fibers

Outdoor Dining Recipes from …

Outdoor Dining Recipes from Sam’s Kitchen | Little Ferraro Kitchen

The Mixing Tin | Strawberry …

The Mixing Tin | Strawberry Cheesecake Martini

Under Open Skies: Patio Picks …

Under Open Skies: Patio Picks When the Weather Cooperates

Feasting During the Fourth of …

Feasting During the Fourth of July: Sustainable Edition

Summer Fun Guide | 2026

Summer Fun Guide | 2026

Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe

Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe

A Relaxing Gateway to …

A Relaxing Gateway to Holistic Personal Care | The Wildflower Spa

All Arrows Aim For The …

All Arrows Aim For The Greenhouse | Arrows Aim Greenhouse & Supply Co.

Clock in at The Office | The …

Clock in at The Office | The Office Tavern

World Cup Comes to Seattle

World Cup Comes to Seattle

Since Time Immemorial | Dan …

Since Time Immemorial | Dan Friday

Wine Pick of the Month | …

Wine Pick of the Month | Juggernaut Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

New Hotel Acts as Gateway to …

New Hotel Acts as Gateway to Sedro-Woolley | The Kulshan Hotel

Stay, Eat, Play | Washington …

Stay, Eat, Play | Washington State Casinos

8 Great Tastes | May 2026

8 Great Tastes | May 2026

Spring Cream Pasta with …

Spring Cream Pasta with Smoked Sockeye, Seared Scallops & Spring Vegetables Recipe | Chef Matthew’s Corner

Shopping for a Day at the …

Shopping for a Day at the Casino

The Mixing Tin | Casino

The Mixing Tin | Casino

The Smaller The Bite, The …

The Smaller The Bite, The Better The Taste

Mrs. Worldwide: Mother’s …

Mrs. Worldwide: Mother’s Day Around The World

The Camel’s Watering Hole: …

The Camel’s Watering Hole: Burlington’s Newest Speakeasy | Speakeasy Saloon

Cooking with Cannabis

Cooking with Cannabis

Every Day is Earth Day in …

Every Day is Earth Day in April Community | Earth Day Events Roundup

Sawdust and Splendor | Skagit …

Sawdust and Splendor | Skagit Wood Expo and Marketplace

Rooted in Rain

Rooted in Rain

Blackened Halibut with Spring …

Blackened Halibut with Spring Succotash, Lemon-Herbed Rice, and Lemon Beurre Blanc Recipe | Chef Matthew’s Corner

The Mixing Tin | Cassandra’…

The Mixing Tin | Cassandra’s Rapture

Something Special Skagit | …

Something Special Skagit | Wild Bird Supply

The Nomadic Kitchen …

The Nomadic Kitchen Adventures of a Personal Chef | Nourishing Nomad

Sometimes You Want To Go …

Sometimes You Want To Go Where Everybody Knows Your Pie Order | Pie Dive Bar

8 Great Tastes | March 2026

8 Great Tastes | March 2026

Rooted in the Natural World, …

Rooted in the Natural World, Near and Far | ERTH

Wine Pick of the Month | …

Wine Pick of the Month | Pepper Bridge Winery Merlot

The Great Build

The Great Build

Corned Beef with Parsley …

Corned Beef with Parsley Carrots, Cabbage, and Black-Eyed Peas | Chef Matthew’s Corner

The Mixing Tin | Black & …

The Mixing Tin | Black & Tan

Wake Up! Coffee Culture …