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: Upfront Theater;
Bronze: Bellingham Theater Guild
The world-class programming at the Mount Baker Theatre should not surprise us anymore. But it does. With its
Broadway-quality shows, premier dance performances and dazzling concerts, the MBT never disappoints.
104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.733.5793

BEST PICNIC SPOT
Boulevard Park

Silver: Zuanich Park
Bronze: Birch Bay State Park on the beach
Once again our readers chose spectacular Boulevard Park as their favorite picnic spot, and it’s easy to see why; few other places in Bellingham offer Boulevard’s perfect combination of views, trails and location. Close enough to Fairhaven for a stroll, yet offering quiet beaches for contemplation, Boulevard is the perfect place to spread out a blanket and unpack a lunch.

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE
Wild Buffalo

Silver: The Shakedown;
Bronze: Green Frog
Whether you prefer to watch live music from a quiet corner or get up and dance, the Wild Buffalo is a great place to get your groove on. Every night of the week features something worthwhile, with regular dj’ed nights, open mic nights, national acts and local bands.
208 W. Holly St.,
Bellingham, 360.746.8733

BEST ART GALLERY
Jansen Art Center

Silver: Allied Arts;
Bronze: Mindport
Our winner this year is a jewel in downtown Lynden: the Jansen Art Center. Located in the old Lynden City Hall and Firehouse, the newly renovated space now houses practice rooms, studios, a performance space and the Firehouse Café. With regular performances and classes, this newcomer to our area’s art scene is a welcome addition.
321 Front St., Lynden, 360.354.3600

BEST FREE ENTERTAINMENT
Concerts in the Park at Elizabeth Park

Silver: Aladdin’s Antiques;
Bronze: Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema
Every Thursday in the summer months, families and friends gather from all over the county to enjoy local acts like “What the Chelm” and Dana Lyons. Vendors are always there to serve up Thai, Indian, burgers and ice cream to the hungry crowds. Sponsored by the Eldridge Historical Society, the concerts are a summer highlight.

BEST MUSEUM
Whatcom Museum and The Lightcatcher

Silver: Spark Museum;
Bronze: Lynden Pioneer Museum
Whether it’s the permanent collection, the rotating exhibition space or the family play space, the Whatcom Museum complex is an anchor in our local arts community. The historic Whatcom Museum hosts the permanent collection and archive, while The Lightcatcher is a great contemporary space with fascinating shows. It also houses the Family Interactive Gallery for entertaining the little ones on a rainy day. The Syre Center contains a classroom space and historic exhibits on early Whatcom County.
The Lightcatcher, 250 Flora St., Bellingham;
Whatcom Museum, 121 Propsect St., Bellingham, 360.778.8930

BEST LOCAL ARTIST
Studio UFO’s Trish Harding

Silver: The Replacementz;
Bronze: Ben Mann
In warm tones and soft lines, Trish’s paintings reflect the light and color of our local landscape. Whether depicting the old buildings on the former GP Site, the peaks of Mount Baker, or the curve of a shoulder, Trish’s work captures the essence of the Pacific Northwest. Through Studio UFO, she also offers classes in drawing and painting.
301 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.319.6115

BEST SANDWICH
Avenue Bread

Silver: Old World Deli;
Bronze: The Sandwich Odyssey
Avenue’s sandwiches start with the bread — fantastic fresh-baked rolls, buns and English muffins. Add fresh ingredients and imaginative combinations, and you have a great lunch.
Railroad Ave., Bellingham and James St., Bellingham, 360.715.3354×1

BEST SUSHI
Wasabee Sushi

Silver: Kuru Kuru;
Bronze: Blue Fin
With our access to a variety of fresh Pacific seafood, it’s no surprise that sushi is beloved in our region. Bustling, popular Wasabee serves up excellent fresh sushi for very reasonable prices, excellent service and a fresh ambiance.
105 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham, 360.223.9165

BEST BAKERY
Mount Bakery

Silver: Avenue Bread;
Bronze: Lynden Dutch Bakery
Is it that Mount Bakery celebrates the Tour de France every year by opening at dawn for live coverage, or the amazing chocolate croissants or the amazing quiches and omelets that melt in your mouth? There are a million things to love about
this local sweet spot.
308c W. Champion St., Bellingham, 360.715.2195

FOOD & DRINK

BEST STEAK
Silver Reef Steakhouse

Silver: Black Forest;
Bronze: Cliff House
Mention steak to dedicated carnivores in Bellingham, and Chef Tom Hull’s name is likely to come up. A star in this area, he commands the kitchens at Silver Reef Hotel Casino Spa with culinary perfection.
4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale, 360.384.7070

BEST BAR
Poppe’s 360

Silver: Scotty Brown’s;
Bronze: The Temple Bar

BEST COCKTAIL
Poppe’s 360

Silver: Temple Bar;
Bronze Scotty Brown’s
Sleek and stylish, Poppe’s has outdoor seating and a staggering number of mojito recipes. This bar is a favorite of locals and
travelers alike. With tasty snacks and good prices, Poppe’s makes our readers happy.
714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham, 360.746.6476

BEST BURGER
Five Guys
Silver: Boomer’s
Drive-In;
Bronze: Fiamma Burger
After opening one restaurant in 1986 in Arlington, Va. and garnering extravagant praise from the locals, Five Guys has since grown into a nationwide sensation. With fresh patties, freshcut fries and loads of free peanuts, Five Guys is a huge hit for burger fans.
1301 W. Bakerview Rd, Bellingham, 360.734.8300

BEST PLACE TO GET YOUR CAFFEINE FIX
Cruisin’ Coffee

Silver: Woods Coffee;
Bronze: Starbucks
In a town that is serious about coffee, winning this category is an honor. Cruisin’ has friendly service, convenient drive-through locations and strong java. Cruisin’ cruised to the top of our readers’ caffeinated faves.
Multiple locations in Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden, Anacortes, Bow and Mt. Vernon, 360.647.0083

BEST HAPPY HOUR
Hearthfire Grill

Silver: New York Pizza;
Bronze: Scotty Brown’s
Our readers choose Anthony’s Hearthfire over all the stiff competition for the great deals on food and drinks, and a happy hour that extends to seven days a week. Hearthfire also boasts great views and guest moorage.
7 Bellwether Way, Bellingham, 360.527.3473

BEST PLACE TO DINE “SOUTH OF THE BORDER”
Mi Mexico

Silver: Jalapenos;
Bronze: Chihuahua in Ferndale
With our affection for Mexican here in the North Sound, readers loved Mi Mexico most of all. A cheerful interior, friendly staff, zesty salsas and hearty dishes make Mi Mexico the perfect place for a quiet lunch or a fun fiesta.
241 Telegraph Rd., Bellingham, 360.647.0073

BEST BREWERY
Kulshan Brewery

Silver: Boundary Bay;
Bronze: Chuckanut Brewery
The spirited, hoppy beers at Kulshan won the hearts of our readers. Family friendly with ample outdoor seating, Kulshan attracts a crowd day and night. Though the kitchen is limited, the proximity to food trucks and Avenue Bread (which the restaurant fetches) manage to augment the experience.
2238 James St., Bellingham, 360.389.5348

BEST DESSERT
Pure Bliss

Silver: Mount Bakery;
Bronze: Mallard’s Ice Cream
The cakes and goodies at Pure Bliss are all-natural, locally sourced and all of them are baked on-site. These fantastic ingredients aren’t the whole story, though. The amazing cakes (whole or by-the-slice), the absolutely decadent iced shortbread and the incredible cupcakes are three of the many reasons to check out our readers’ favorite.
1424 Cornwall St., Bellingham, 360.739.1612

BEST PLACE TO “GRAB IT AND GO”
Haggen’s Deli

Silver: Boomer’s Drive-In;
Bronze: Manpies
Whether for a lunch break or a dinner for 12, Haggen’s Deli is a great place to stock up on sides and dishes. Haggen’s roast chicken is, without fail, juicy and tender. With an array of salads and sandwiches, Haggen’s Deli is a good one-stop shop for creating a meal or grabbing a snack.
Meridian, Barkley Village, Fairhaven Market

BEST PIZZA
La Fiamma

Silver, Coconut Kenny’s;
Bronze: Goat Mountain
Bellingham mainstay and downtown bright spot, La Fiamma serves up great pizzas with excellent combinations of toppings. The sandwiches, desserts and salads are also worth noting. Fast, family friendly service and a cool, contemporary interior set this readers’ favorite apart.
200 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham, 360.647.0060

BEST WINERY
Mount Baker Winery

Silver: Coach House Cellars;
Bronze: Samson Estates
Producing up to 12,000 cases annually, Mount Baker Vineyards and Winery keeps us happy with both inexpensive wines for everyday quaffing and fine reserves for special events.
4298 Mount Baker Highway, Bellingham, 360.592.2300

BEST INTERNATIONAL CUISINE
On Rice

Silver: Soy House;
Bronze: Busara
Fragrant noodles and sumptuous curries warmed the bellies and hearts of our readers this year. With three convenient locations, excellent service, reasonable prices and generous portions, On Rice set itself apart in a crowded field.
Barkley Village, Samish Way, and Fairhaven

HEALTH & BEAUTY

BEST MANI-PEDI
Jimmy’s Personal Care

Silver: Happy Nails;
Bronze: Chrysalis
Jimmy’s bright smile will lighten even the darkest of Pacific Northwestern winter days, as will your shiny new mani-pedi. Spa services and loads of pampering, Jimmy’s is all about spoiling you rotten.
1327 11th St., Bellingham, 360.933.4268

BEST PLACE TO PAMPER YOURSELF
The Chrysalis

Silver: Salon Belissima;
Bronze: Jimmy’s Personal Care
Clearly, Whatcom County likes its spas. The Chrysalis, with its stone-and-waterfall interior and experienced staff is a reader favorite for full-service pampering.
804 10th St., Bellingham, 360.756.1005

BEST PLACE TO GET A NEW “DO”
Salon Bellissima

Silver: Kaur Lounge;
Bronze: Honey Salon
Salon Bellissima is a fullservice salon offering hair cutting and styling, as well as esthetics and waxing services. The inviting décor and friendly staff will keep you coming back.
1215 Old Fairhaven Pkwy, Bellingham, WA 98225, 360.715.1052

BEST PLACE TO FIND A HEALTHIER YOU
Bellingham Fitness

Silver: Bellingham Athletic Club;
Bronze: Red Mountain Pilates
Our readers chose Bellingham Fitness as their favorite place to get their sweat on. With great facilities, excellent customer service and free classes with your membership, this gym is a standout for our readers.
1307 North State St., Bellingham, 360.733.1600

BEST MASSAGE THERAPIST
Amy Price

Silver: Lise Waugh Thai
Massage, Metta Center;
Bronze: Kerry Gustafson-PRIME Massage Therapy & Sports Medicine
For 12 years, Amy Price has been pounding out kinks and stretching stiff joints for weary, achy Bellinghamsters.
2500 Elm St., Ste. 10, Bellingham, 360.220.2296

BEST YOGA STUDIO
Yoga Northwest

Silver: 3 Oms;
Bronze: Barre3
Our readers’ favorite studio for a little mat time, Yoga Northwest offers a variety of classes for various body types and ability levels.
1440 10th St, Bellingham, 360.647.0712

BEST MEN’S SALON
V’s Barbershop

Silver: Studio Galactica;
Bronze: Argyle Salon
A classic, V’s Barbershop is the place your dad got a good shave and a trim off the top. V’s certified barbers are steeped in the fine tradition of men’s grooming.
414 W. Bakerview, Ste. 107, Bellingham, 360.656.6911

BEST HEALTH FOOD SHOP
Community Food Co-Op

Silver: The Market at Lakeway;
Bronze: Trader Joe’s
An organic bonanza, the Community Food Co-Op is our readers’ choice for whole foods. It’s the perfect place to shop for gluten-free pasta, vegan dairy substitutes and other dietary options. The Co-Op also offers cooking classes, community
events and farm tours.
1220 N. Forest St. and 315 Westerly Rd., Bellingham, 360.734.8158

BEST CHIROPRACTOR
Dr. Eddie Hansen, Natural Way Chiropractic

Silver: Dr. Alan Sheen, Natural Way Chiropractic
A compassionate, careful chiropractor, Eddie Hansen is our readers’ choice for the best in the biz. Not only is Hansen a first-rate practitioner, he is also gives lectures and talks on the art and science of getting your spine aligned.
Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden, Mt. Vernon

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPIST
Ted Molaski, Performance Physical Therapy

Silver: Cindy Diener, CPO, Cascade Prosthetics & Orthotics;
Bronze: John McWilliams, Bellingham Physical Therapy
The downside of our active Northwest life is that occasionally we get into bumps and scrapes, or wear down our joints with our runs and hikes. Luckily for us, Ted Molaski is there to help you rehab a joint or work on your overall injury prevention.
2075 Barkley Blvd., Ste. 200, Bellingham, 360.733.4008

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER
Robert Storman, Forever Fit

Silver: Lenny Olsen, Bellingham Fitness;
Bronze: Josh Martensen, Bellingham Fitness
Robert’s motto “One Goal at a Time” helps his clients reach their milestones and stay with their programs. A Russian Kettleball Instructor, Robert works with seasoned athletes and beginners alike.
2130 Grant St., Bellingham 360.296.6237

BEST OB/GYN
Dr. Lisa Kaepernick, Bellingham OB/GYN

Silver: Julianne Snell, Barkley Women’s Health Care;
Bronze: Dr. Diane Arvin, PeaceHealth
Dr. Kaepernick grew up in the North Sound and had an extensive background in the sciences before becoming an OB/GYN. She is trusted and valued by her patients and our readers.
2980 Squalicum Pkwy, Ste 301, Bellingham, 360.671.4944

BEST PHARMACY
Hoagland Pharmacy

Silver: Haggen;
Bronze: Fairhaven Pharmacy
Anyone who’s had surgery, been injured or needed medication knows that Hoagland is the perfect no-nonsense pharmacy for
medical supplies. Informed pharmacists and employees are always on-hand with deep knowledge about medication, ailments and complications.
2330 Yew St., Bellingham, 360. 734.5413

BEST NATUROPATH
Dr. Emily Sharpe, Natural Health Clinic

Silver: Dr. Joe Wessels, Northwestern Clinic of Naturopathic Medicine;
Bronze: Dr. Laura Shelton, Natural Health Clinic
Dr. Sharpe specializes in allergies, nonspecific fatigue, thyroid disorders, hormonal imbalances and many other areas that are often overlooked by more traditional doctors. Caring and attentive, Dr. Sharpe is a good alternative to traditional medical practitioners.
1707 F. St., Bellingham, 360.734.1560

BEST DENTIST
Randle T. Carr, DDS, CarrDorsch Family Dental

Silver: Faith Bult, DDS;
Bronze: Dr. Richard Todd, DDS, Bellingham Family Dentistry
Our area is lucky to have so many great choices for dental care. Randle Carr rose above the others for his sensitivity and professionalism.
3400 Squalicum Pkwy, Ste 107, Bellingham, 360.734.9926

BEST PEDIATRICIAN
Dr. Greg Welsh, PeaceHealth

Silver: Dr. Monika Mahal, PeaceHealth;
Bronze: Dr. Lessli Putney, PeaceHealth
When it comes to caring for your little ones, few things are more important than having a pediatrician you can trust. Dr. Greg Welsh is our readers’ top choice for bandaging boo-boos and soothing the nerves of anxious parents.
4545 Cordata Way, Bellingham, 360.738.2200

BEST FAMILY PRACTITIONER
Darla Woolman, PAC

Silver: Dr. Brian Patterson, Associates in Family Medicine;
Bronze: Dr. F. John Gunningham, Birch Bay Family Medicine
For good care for your whole family, Darla Woolman is our readers’ choice. Darla has been taking good care of primary and urgent care patients for 13 years.
722 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.752.2865

BEST RETIREMENT FACILITY
Orchard Park

Silver: The Willows;
Bronze: The Leopold
With comfortable suites, homestyle meals and a cozy library, Orchard Park Assisted Living is where peace of mind and quality of life go hand-in-hand.
844 W. Orchard Dr., Bellingham, 360.647.3708

HOME & GARDEN

BEST INTERIOR DESIGN
Tanna By Design

Silver: Biermann-Kennedy Design;
Bronze: Tally Rabitin
“Bellingham Alive’s” own Tanna Barnecut is our readers’ choice this year. Whether you want to transform your living room, stage a house for potential buyers or spruce up your restaurant, Tanna can take you from inchoate ideas to a finished showplace.
Yakima, 509.225.9214; Snohomish, 425.737.1193

BEST KITCHEN AND BATH DESIGNER
Domistyle Design

Silver: Janice Sullivan;
Bronze: Dreammaker Kitchen and Bath
Whether a major renovation or a simple update, Domistyle can handle all kitchen and bath challenges with aplomb. The designers at Domistyle draw inspiration from nature with warm tones and organic curves, creating the best kitchen or bath for you.
511 E. North St., Bellingham, 360.756.0296

BEST LANDSCAPER
Clean Air Lawn Care

Silver: Whatcom Lawns
Clean Air Lawn Care specializes in making sure that your lawn care service isn’t a toxic stew that can harm pets and children. Through their use of sustainable, environmentally friendly products, they ensure a clean green lawn.
2602 Queen Street, Bellingham 360.715.2375


BEST LANDSCAPE DESIGN
Borrowed Ground

Silver: Minergy;
Bronze: Private Garden Design
For your hardscaping or landscaping needs, Borrowed Ground specializes in natural stone walkways, ponds, fencing, retaining walls and other landscape features. They use only sustainable materials to keep your landscape both sprucedup and environmentally friendly.
Bellingham, 360.927.4469

BEST BUILDER
Chuckanut Builders

Silver: Moceri Construction;
Bronze: Renu Remodeling
Chuckanut Builders can meet all of your construction needs and keep you on schedule and on budget. They are a great resource for your next big project.
1326 N. State St., Bellingham, 360. 734.3201

BEST NURSERY
Garden Spot

Silver: Kent’s Garden and Nursery;
Bronze: Van Wingerden Nursery
The cheery Garden Spot Nursery offers a great variety of plants and shrubs with the back yard gardener in mind. Friendly, knowledgeable staff, classes and lots of community events, the Garden Spot is the place for horticultural excellence.
900 Alabama St., Bellingham, 360.676.5480

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT
Lynda Hinton

Silver: Amy Zender;
Bronze: Dawn Durand
A third-generation Whatcom County gal, Lynda knows how to match your buying and selling needs with the market she grew up with. Lynda’s professionalism and hard work will get you into the right home, or get your home sold.
360.303.1023

BEST HOME DÉCOR
Greenhouse

Silver: Pier 1;
Bronze: Re-Feather Your Nest
One of those rare retail experiences in which everything you see is something you’d like to own, Greenhouse manages to stock their space with the perfect furnishings for any home. The kitchen section carries all the best in cookware and necessities.
1235 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham, 360.676.1167

BEST ARCHITECT
Fred Wagner

Silver: Carpenter Architects;
Bronze: Zervas Group
Fred Wagner of Grinstad and Wagner Architects captured our readers’ hearts with his excellent taste, intuitive sense of function within a space and perfect Northwest style. Wagner blends traditional commercial spaces with contemporary design beautifully.
1609 12th St., Bellingham 360.676.9501

BEST HARDWARE STORE
Hardware Sales

Silver: Ace;
Bronze: Lowes
All the convenience and variety of a big-box store with the knowledge and personal touch of locals, Hardware Sales has been a Bellingham mainstay for decades. Family-owned and reliable, Hardware Sales is the perfect place to start your projects.
2034 James St., Bellingham, 360.734.6140

ROMANCE

BEST DATE NIGHT
Temple Bar

Silver: Upfront Theater;
Bronze; Pure Bliss Desserts
With its funky, fun euro chic interior, sophisticated cocktails and tasty menu, Temple Bar is the perfect place to get cozy over a bottle of wine. Happy hour gets you a whole bottle of wine and a cheese plate — a nice start to a lovely evening.
306 W. Champion St., Bellingham, 360.676.8660

BEST PLACE TO PROPOSE
Boulevard Park

Silver: Oyster Dome;
Bronze: Taylor Dock Pavilion
A nice stroll that ends just at the water’s edge is the perfect place to bring out the ring and make it official. With beautiful sunsets, sailboats gliding past and the islands in the distance, who could possibly say no?

BEST WEDDING VENUE
Lairmont Manor

Silver: Evergreen Gardens;
Bronze: Boat House at Squalicum Harbor
Lairmont Manor itself is an architectural gem, and the gardens make it the perfect place to get married and celebrate. The Manor also has a bridal Ste. for wedding day preparations for the whole bridal party.
405 Fieldston Rd., Bellingham, 360.647.1444

BEST FLORAL SHOP
Jensen’s Ferndale Floral

Silver: Floralescents;
Bronze: A New Leaf Flower Shoppe
For bold dahlias or crisp callas, Jensen’s in Ferndale was our readers’ choice this year. With a huge variety of flowers and arrangements, Jensen’s can meet even the pickiest bride’s standards.
2071 Vista Dr., Ferndale, 360.384.1616

PETS

BEST PET STORE
Pet Stop

Silver: Clark’s Feed & Seed;
Bronze: Bow Wow and Woofs
Locally owned and operated since 1993, Pet Stop caters to every pet’s needs. Premium pet food, leashes, bowls, cages and everything in-between, Pet Stop has what you’re looking for to keep your pet happy.
323 36th St. (Sehome Village) Bellingham, 360.738.3663 (360.pet.food.)

BEST VET
Northshore Veterinary Hospital

Silver: Fountain Veterinary Hospital;
Bronze: Fairhaven Veterinary Hospital
A full-service, friendly place to take your sick pet, NorthShore has all the latest technology and the knowledgeable staff to keep your pup or cat in good shape.
1486 Electric Ave., Bellingham, 360.738.6916

BEST DOG TRAINER
Cedarwoods Canine School with Sam and Stephanie

Silver: Thinking Dog by Laura Berger;
Bronze: Hyline Hotel and Training
Cedarwoods is just the place to get your fido to heel. Offering obedience and owner education, daycare and boarding, Cedarwood is our readers’ favorite school for your pooch.
6497 Woodlyn Dr., Ferndale, 360.676.0764

BEST GROOMER
Grooming With Love

Silver: Rover Stay Over;
Bronze: City Dog Grooming
Hard-playing pups deserve a little pampering, too. Pet Sitting/Grooming with Love is the perfect place to get your pooch washed, brushed, polished and picture-perfect.
1733 H. St., Blaine, 360.392.0224

BEST OFF-LEASH DOG PARK
Lake Padden

Silver: Vanderyacht Park in Ferndale;
Bronze: Lynden Bender Park
Beautiful Lake Padden isn’t just a playground for humans. It’s also a great place to let your pups off the leash for a little romp. The surroundings are beautiful, and there are plenty of squirrels to chase, ducks to bark at and water to splash in.

BEST DOGGIE DAYCARE
3 Schips and a Girl

Silver: Rover Stay Over;
Bronze: Hyline Hotel and Training for Dogs
3 Schips gives owners peace-of-mind. With special packages for leash time and puppy sitting, 3 Schips offers everything a pup could want.
4775 Aldrich Rd., Bellingham, 360.927.6033

KIDS

BEST KIDS’ BIRTHDAY PARTY
Perch & Play

Silver: Gabriel’s Art Kids;
Bronze: CreativiTea
Perch & Play offers several party packages from basic to deluxe, from birthdays to special events. Their adorable space and central location make them an ideal spot for a memorable kids’ party.
1707 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.393.4925

BEST AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM
Gabriel’s Art Kids

Silver: The Firs;
Bronze: Boys and Girls’ Club
After a long day at school, kids can blow off a little creative steam and relax in a fun atmosphere at Gabriel’s Art Kids. A sweet little space on Dupont Street close to downtown, Gabriel’s has reasonable rates and a nurturing curriculum.
1415 Dupont St., Bellingham, 360.393.0107

BEST TOY STORE
Fairhaven Toy Garden

Silver: Launching Success
Learning Store;
Bronze: Yeager’s
The wide and eclectic selection of toys makes this a joyous dream world for parents and kiddies alike. Specializes in Waldorf-inspired play.
1147 11th St., Bellingham, 360.714.8552

BEST DAYCARE
St. Francis Childcare Dr. Emily Sharpe, ND

Silver: YMCA;
Bronze: The Treehouse Gang
The waiting list can take months, but for good reason — the individual attention and impeccable pedagogy at St. Francis gives kids a good start on their education. Intergenerational, children at St. Francis are paired with “grand-friends” who are residents of St. Francis Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.
3121 Squalicum Way, Bellingham, 360.734.6760

SERVICES

BEST PLACE TO WORK
North Cascades Institute

Silver: Peoples Bank;
Bronze: Charter College
Among the many programs and outings offered by the North Cascades Institute, the prestigious center also offers a Masters
in Education focused on environmental education. This is a great place to learn about the cultural and ecological history
of our beautiful area, explore our mountains and lakes or head out to sea for adventure.
Main Office: 810 SR 20, Sedro Woolley, 360.854.2599;
Environmental Learning Center, 1940 Diablo Dam Rd., Diablo, 206.526.2599

BEST HOUSE CLEANER
Victoria Cleaning

Silver: Maid4You;
Bronze: Final Touch
For deep cleaning or just a weekly touch-up, Victoria’s Cleaning is our readers’ first choice for destroying cobwebs and slaying dust bunnies.
360.305.4018

BEST TAILOR
Tommy the Tailor

Silver: Amy’s Alterations;
Bronze: Sew & Sew
Everyone’s go to-tailor in Bellingham, Tommy has been stitching hems and taking in seams for years. Tommy is known for his reliable, high-quality service and excellent attention to detail.
1307 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.650.9168

BEST MECHANIC
Harmony Motorworks

Silver: Bellingham Automotive;
Bronze: Marlin’s 76 Auto Service
Harmony’s mechanics are meticulously trained to ensure the very best service and quality. They take pride in what they do,
and it shows.
1922 Grant St., Bellingham, 360.671.2420

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR
Multop Financial Services

Silver: Laurie Lloyd, Spinnaker Financial;
Bronze: Bonnie Packo, Packo Private Wealth Management
It always helps to have someone help you navigate the financial world who has a wealth of experience. Our readers turn to Multop as their top choice for planning and advice on money matters.
2210 Rimland Dr. Ste 101, Bellingham, 360.671.7891

FASHION & RETAIL

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING
Cheeks

Silver: Sojourn;
Bronze: 4Starrs
Your urgent fashion needs can be easily fulfilled at cute Cheeks, a fun and funky boutique dedicated to making you look your best.
105 3rd St., Lynden, 360.778.1849

BEST SPORTING GOODS STORE
Yeager’s

Silver: REI;
Bronze: Sportsman Chalet
For every possible sporting good need you may have, Yeager’s has a great selection, friendly service and fantastic deals. A Bellingham mainstay since the 1920s, Yeager’s is the perfect place to gear up for your camping hunting or fishing
adventures. The basement also has a great selection of kitchen items and toys.
3101 Northwest Ave., Bellingham, 360.733.1080

BEST BOOKSTORE
Village Books

Silver: Henderson Books;
Bronze: Barnes and Noble
As the independent bookstores around the country struggle, Village Books manages to thrive. Village Books has the perfect balance of commercial and literary fiction and periodicals, offers used inventory on the shelf along with new, and hosts readings and signing on a regular basis. More than just a store, Village Books is an important landmark on the literary landscape.
1200 11th St., Bellingham, 360.671.2626

BEST CONSIGNMENT SHOP
Labels

Silver: Plum Chic;
Bronze: Find Your Fashion
For fashionistas on a budget, Labels is the place to get everything from formalwear to yoga pants and everything in-between. Accessorize on a budget with Labels’ shoes, jewelry, handbags and home furnishings.
3927 Northwest Rd., Bellingham;
2332 James St., Bellingham, 360.676.1210

BEST JEWELRY
Ben Bridge

Silver: Megan Lee Designers;
Bronze: Whimsey
For the shiniest of gifts, our readers chose Ben Bridge. The knowledgeable staff will ensure that you get exactly what you want, whether you’re seeking the perfect engagement ring or just getting yourself a little something special.
Bellis Fair Mall, Bellingham, 360.671.6070

BEST APPLIANCE STORE
DeWaard and Bode

Silver: Judd & Black;
Bronze: Lehmann’s
Not only is the buying experience at DeWaard and Bode a smooth one, they also offer excellent service, and an impressive inventory. DeWaard and Bode is a great place to get namebrand as well as hard-to-find exclusive brands of large and small appliances.
Main Showroom: 3944 Meridian St., 360.733.5900

BEST ANTIQUES
Penny Lane Antique Mall

Silver: Aladdin’s Antiques;
Fairhaven Antique Mall
A great place to pick up your vintage Fiesta Ware or the perfect space-age midcentury lamp, Penny Lane is chock full of great finds. The friendly vendors and staggering inventory ensure that whatever you have in mind, they have it.
427 West Holly St., Bellingham

BEST CRAFT STORE
Michaels

Silver: Stampadoodle;
Bronze: JoAnn’s
With hot glue and sparkles, anything can be made better. For all the crafting needs, reasonable prices for framing and a huge selection of every imaginable craft item, Michaels tops the list.
4383 Meridian St., Bellingham, 360.738.7932

BEST SHOE STORE
Hilton’s Shoes

Silver: 12th Street Shoes;
Bronze: Mi Shoes
Specializing in the difficult marriage of style and comfort, Hilton’s has a great selection of durable, comfortable and fashionforward shoes for every occasion.
113 W. Magnolia, Bellingham 360.734.3090

BEST PRODUCE
Youngstock’s

Silver: Joe’s Garden;
Bronze: Haggen
For that apple-on-the go or a quick stop before dinner, Youngstock’s keeps their produce in good, shiny shape. With berries and peaches in the summer, and harvest veggies in the fall, you can count on Youngstock’s to stock your pot.
2237 James St., Bellingham, 360.733.1866

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING
Gary’s Menswear

Silver: Macy’s;
Bronze: Find Your Fashion
For casual elegance, fine men’s furnishings a personal touch, Gary’s is the place for all your men’s clothing needs.
128 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.733.2180

BEST AUTO DEALERSHIP
Wilson Motors

Silver: Northwest Honda;
Bronze: Hinton Motors
Buying a new car can be incredibly stressful, the price points can be obscure and the customer service can be downright
awful. Not so at Wilson Motors, where excellence reigns. If you’re in the market for a Nissan, Mercedes, Scion or
Toyota, look no further.
1100 Iowa St., Bellingham, 360.676.0600

BEST GROCERY STORE
Haggen

Silver: Community Food
Co-op; Bronze: The Market on Lakeway
For four straight years, Haggen has won the honor of first place in this category. The extensive deli with fresh-made food, fresh produce, fresh bread and extensive selection on everything foodie keeps folks coming back for more.
Various location throughout Whatcom and Skagit counties.

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